NewzIntel.com

Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI Security: Alleged Members of Potomac Gardens Drug Trafficking Conspiracy Arrested and Charged with Distributing Fentanyl, Cocaine, and Methamphetamine

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

                WASHINGTON – This morning, six people were arrested on charges connected to a wide-ranging conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, cocaine base, cocaine, and methamphetamine, in the Potomac Gardens Housing Project in Southeast Washington D.C., announced U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves and FBI Acting Special Agent in Charge David Geist of the Washington Field Office.  

               Arrested were Robert Hunt, 40, Garrett Isley, 42, Maurice Tutt, 50, Vera Jackson, 74, all of Washington, D.C., Michael Augment, 36, of Lorton, Virginia, and Lawrence Smith, 54, of Fairfax, Virginia. Each made their initial appearance this afternoon in U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. 

         “This is the latest federal indictment charging a D.C.-based crew with narcotics and firearms offenses” said U.S. Attorney Graves. “Drug trafficking operations, like the one alleged in the indictment, not only peddle poison, but they are also magnets for gun violence.  We will continue to aggressively prosecute these crews that are undermining community safety.”

              “Fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine have no place in our community,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Geist. “Today’s arrests stem from a yearslong investigation by the FBI and our law enforcement partners and mark a step forward in our efforts to reduce drug trafficking in the nation’s capital.”

               The multi-agency law enforcement operation included members of the FBI’s Washington Field Office, the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), the Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD), District of Columbia Housing Authority Police, Virginia State Police, and Fairfax County and City police departments.   

               According to the indictment, between January and October of 2024, the defendants engaged in a conspiracy to distribute narcotics in and around the District of Columbia. It is further alleged that Hunt unlawfully distributed fentanyl and carried a gun in furtherance of drug trafficking. Isley is charged with unlawful possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, cocaine, cocaine base, and methamphetamine.

               The indictment arises from a long-term investigation by the FBI, MPD, and the Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD) into drug and firearms trafficking in Potomac Gardens. In December 2023, MCPD learned that defendant Hunt regularly was selling fentanyl from an apartment in the housing complex.  An undercover officer (UC) purchased narcotics, in particular fentanyl, from Hunt. Hunt initially used “runners” to deliver the narcotics to the UC. However, after a few buys, Hunt began to deal directly with the undercover officer. From approximately January 2024 through September 2024, the UC purchased approximately 215.87 grams of fentanyl powder and approximately 2,950 fentanyl pills from Hunt.  The UC also purchased a .357 “ghost gun” from Hunt.  

               Through a court-authorized wiretap on Hunt’s phone, agents learned of several of his co-conspirators and the roles they each played. Agents also placed a camera outside Hunt’s apartment and outside the apartment of one of his supplier’s, defendant Isley. Through a wiretap on Isley’s phone, agents learned of additional members of the conspiracy. MPD stopped Isley in a traffic stop on June 19, 2024, during which they recovered 468 blue, suspected fentanyl pills, about 37.4 grams of cocaine base, approximately 24.5 grams of cocaine, and about 60 grams of methamphetamine and other narcotics.

              On October 16, 2024, law enforcement executed search warrants at various stash houses and residences of the co-conspirators. Agents recovered five firearms, approximately $31,000 in cash, approximately 500 grams of suspected fentanyl and smaller amounts of other narcotics, two money counters, and additional drug paraphernalia. 

               This operation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

               This case is being investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office. Valuable assistance was provided by the DEA Washington Field Office, District of Columbia Housing Authority Police, Virginia State Police, and Fairfax County and City police departments.   

               It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nihar Mohanty and Solomon Eppel of the Violence Reduction and Trafficking Offenses section. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the District of Maryland and the Eastern District in Virginia in helping to coordinate search warrants and arrests.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: RM of Russell-Binscarth — Russell RCMP lay charges in illegal bison hunt

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On October 14, 2024, at approximately 1:55 pm, Russell RCMP received a report of 6 bison having been shot and removed from a farm property, located in the RM of Russell-Binscarth.

    Officers attended and met with the victim who advised he noticed the locks to the gates of his pasture were removed and replaced with locks that did not belong to him. A further check of the pasture revealed that 6 bison were missing.

    A review of the numerous trail cameras setup in the area revealed that four trespassers, who drove in with a pickup and several off-road vehicles, had shot the bison and removed them from the property.

    The following day, RCMP were notified by the victim that they had located a social media ad online which had been advertising a bison hunt for $1000 per animal at this location. The victims, who were the legal owners of the bison, did not place this ad. The victim did state that they had posted to social media advising of the theft and received numerous responses, including from several of those who had shot the bison.

    Investigators were contacted by the three parties, who had originally responded to the add and attended for the hunt, who advised they were under the impression that the hunt was legitimately organized by the suspect. All three witnesses are cooperating with police.

    On October 16, 2024, Russell RCMP issued a Warrant of Arrest out for Gerald Sean Gebler, 52, from Portage la Prairie, who was charged with Theft over $5000 and Mischief over $5000 in relation to this incident. Additional charges are likely. Later that day, Gebler turned himself in to the Portage la Prairie RCMP where he was later released for court scheduled for January 22, 2025, in Russell.

    Russell RCMP continue to investigate.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: North Carolina Health and Human Services Secretary Kody H. Kinsley Travels to Buncombe and Henderson Counties

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: North Carolina Health and Human Services Secretary Kody H. Kinsley Travels to Buncombe and Henderson Counties

    North Carolina Health and Human Services Secretary Kody H. Kinsley Travels to Buncombe and Henderson Counties
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    North Carolina Health and Human Services Secretary Kody H. Kinsley traveled to Henderson and Buncombe counties Thursday to survey damage and meet with people impacted by Hurricane Helene. Secretary Kinsley was joined by Senators Jim Burgin and Julie Mayfield and began the day meeting with people who have relocated to one of the state-operated shelters in Fletcher, N.C. The group then traveled to the Henderson County Department of Public Health and spoke to Health Director Dave Jenkins and Social Services Director Lorie Horne. The visit to Henderson County concluded with a stop by the Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Center in the Blue Ridge Commons Shopping Center. Beginning tomorrow, people impacted by Hurricane Helene who are not currently an FNS participant will be able to apply for assistance to buy food for their families. 

    The Secretary then traveled to Asheville to meet with people impacted by the catastrophic damage Hurricane Helene left behind. He toured BeLoved Asheville, which is a community-based organization that provides assistance to those who need it.  During the visit, Secretary Kinsley highlighted the following points in storm recovery:  

    The health and well-being of people impacted by Hurricane Helene continue to be a top priority for NCDHHS as it works to ensure communities have access to food, infant formula, medical care and life-saving medication. 

    • 400,000 gallons of water supplied to Buncombe County and 140,000 gallons to Henderson County.  
    • 98,000 hot meals provided to Buncombe County and 50,000 hot meals provided to Henderson County.  
    • More than 1 million meals ready to eat supplied to Buncombe County and 304,000 meals ready to eat supplied to Henderson County.
    • Eight pallets (between 120-144 cases of formula per pallet) of formula sent to 34 feeding sites across impacted counties. 
      • 6,411 cases of infant formula received in Buncombe County 
      • 2,805 cases of infant formula received in Henderson County 
    • More than 11 million diapers distributed to impacted counties through partnership with Diaper Bank of NC. 
    • Worked in partnership with the NC Medical Board to track all open community medical practices. 
      • More than 100 are open in Buncombe County 
      • 37 are open in Henderson County 
    • Each of the 25 counties with major damage and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Tribal Area have at least one pharmacy open and filling prescriptions. Visit http://www.ncdhhs.gov to search for open pharmacies and medical practices. 

    Whether directly or indirectly, millions of people in North Carolina have been impacted by Hurricane Helene. Natural disasters are traumatic for individuals, families and communities, and there is no right or wrong way to feel.   

    • NCDHHS has ramped up staffing at the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Folks in immediate crisis or contemplating self harm should not hesitate to call.    
    • The Disability Disaster Hotline, 800-626-4959, provides information, referrals and guidance to people with disabilities and their families during disasters.    
    • The Disaster Distress Helpline specializes in post-disaster trauma and provides counseling services 24/7. If you would like to speak with someone, please call or text 1-800-985-5990.   
    • People can walk into a clinic for mental health or substance use care the same way urgent care clinics help people with immediate physical health needs. Blue Ridge Health in Brevard, N.C., is open and accepting patients.  
    • Mobile Crisis teams can send trained clinicians to a home, community or shelter to respond to an urgent need. To get connected with a mobile crisis team, you can call Vaya Health at 1-800-849-6127.   

    More than 300,000 people in or near flood-impacted areas in western North Carolina are estimated to rely on private wells, and the number on septic systems is estimated to be slightly higher. 

    • Wells that were damaged or submerged in flood waters require disinfection first and then must be tested to ensure the water is safe to use.  
    • Individuals can contact their local health department for assistance with disinfection or to get a well testing kit.  
      • NCDHHS has distributed more than 1,900 free private well water collection kits to local health departments. 
      • NCDHHS is working with FEMA and the EPA to establish certified mobile testing laboratories in high-need locations to support local testing efforts.  

    Individuals in 25 western counties and EBCI households who reside in the 28719 zip code impacted by Hurricane Helene can apply for help buying food through the Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP).  

    • D-SNAP is open to individuals and households not currently receiving FNS benefits who were impacted by the storm. There are some income requirements, but it varies depending on impact, so we encourage everyone to apply.   
    • A family of four may be eligible to receive up to $975. 
    • On Oct. 18, people can apply by phone, online or in person. For more information, go to http://www.ncdhhs.gov/dsnap. If you think you may be eligible, please call the D-SNAP Virtual Call Center at 1-844-453-1117.   
    • The application period will close on Oct. 24, 2024.  

    Other SNAP Flexibilities:  

    • People who have EBT cards have more time to report a food loss as a result of Hurricane Helene.    
    • EBT cards can be used to purchase hot prepared foods from retailers that accept EBT. This applies to all 100 counties in North Carolina and the nearly 700,000 households enrolled in the program.    
    • EBT cards had 70% of the previous month’s benefits automatically reloaded onto their EBT card due to losing food from sustained power outages.    

    “My heart goes out to everyone who has lost a loved one or is facing the devastating impacts of this storm. Seeing the western North Carolina communities come together to care for and support each other is inspiring. We will continue to work hard now and over the coming weeks, months and years to help rebuild.” — NC Health and Human Services Secretary Kody H. Kinsley. 

    Photos available HERE.

    Oct 17, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Cooper Joins United States Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg in Western North Carolina to Survey Storm Damage and Receive Briefings on Recovery Efforts

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Governor Cooper Joins United States Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg in Western North Carolina to Survey Storm Damage and Receive Briefings on Recovery Efforts

    Governor Cooper Joins United States Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg in Western North Carolina to Survey Storm Damage and Receive Briefings on Recovery Efforts
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    Today, Governor Roy Cooper joined United States Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg in Western North Carolina for a briefing on recovery efforts with federal officials and view damaged areas in Asheville and Canton. The Governor and Secretary Buttigieg also visited a damaged section of I-40.

    “Today I spent time on the ground in Asheville, Canton and at a damaged portion of I-40, helping federal, state and local recovery efforts to open up roadways and help communities recover,” said Governor Cooper. “I’m grateful for the efforts of Secretary Buttigieg and the Biden-Harris Administration to provide critical federal funding and resources to Western North Carolina as we recover from this storm.”

    In Asheville, the Governor and Secretary Buttigieg received a storm recovery briefing from federal officials and then joined Asheville Mayor Esther Manheimer for a briefing on the River Arts District, which sustained significant damage from Helene. In Canton, the Governor and Secretary Buttigieg joined Mayor Zeb Smathers for a walking tour of damaged areas in the town. Lastly, the group traveled to a damaged I-40 site near the North Carolina-Tennessee border where they received a briefing from federal and state transportation officials regarding ongoing efforts to reopen the interstate with the help of federal funding.

    Yesterday, Governor Cooper issued an emergency Executive Order authorizing the North Carolina Department of Commerce, Division of Employment Security, to increase the amount of weekly unemployment payments available to North Carolinians in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. As a result of this Order, weekly unemployment benefits will increase from a maximum of $350 a week to a maximum of $600 a week. Prior to the executive order, many low-income and part-time workers would have received less than the $350 weekly maximum. To ensure that these workers receive necessary benefits in the wake of Helene, the order will also increase benefits by $250 a week (up to the $600 cap) for all eligible workers. This order is tied to the State of Emergency for Hurricane Helene, and will remain in effect until the end of the Emergency or until it is rescinded.

    North Carolina National Guard and Military Response

    Over 3,500 Soldiers and Airmen are working in Western North Carolina. Joint Task Force- North Carolina, the task force led by the North Carolina National Guard is made up of Soldiers and Airmen from 12 different states, two different XVIII Airborne Corps units from Ft. Liberty, a unit from Ft. Campbell’s 101st Airborne Division, and numerous civilian entities are working side-by-side to get the much-needed help to people in Western North Carolina.

    The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is helping to assess water and wastewater plants and dams. Residents can track the status of the public water supply in their area through this website.

    FEMA Assistance

    Nearly $107 million in FEMA Individual Assistance funds have been paid so far to Western North Carolina disaster survivors and approximately 187,000 people have registered for Individual Assistance. Approximately 2,100 households are now housed in hotels through FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance.

    Approximately 1,400 FEMA staff are in the state to help with the Western North Carolina relief effort. In addition to search and rescue and providing commodities, they are meeting with disaster survivors in shelters and neighborhoods to provide rapid access to relief resources. They can be identified by their FEMA logo apparel and federal government identification.

    North Carolinians can apply for Individual Assistance by calling 1-800-621-3362 from 7am to 11pm daily or by visiting www.disasterassistance.gov, or by downloading the FEMA app. FEMA may be able to help with serious needs, displacement, temporary lodging, basic home repair costs, personal property loss or other disaster-caused needs.

    Help from Other States

    More than 1,600 responders from 38 state and local agencies have performed 145 missions supporting the response and recovery efforts through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC). This includes public health nurses, emergency management teams supporting local governments, veterinarians, teams with search dogs and more.

    Beware of Misinformation

    North Carolina Emergency Management and local officials are cautioning the public about false Helene reports and misinformation being shared on social media. NCEM has launched a fact versus rumor response webpage to provide factual information in the wake of this storm. FEMA also has a rumor response webpage.

    Efforts continue to provide food, water and basic necessities to residents in affected communities, using both ground resources and air drops from the NC National Guard. Food, water and commodity points of distribution are open throughout Western North Carolina. For information on these sites in your community, visit your local emergency management and local government social media and websites or visit ncdps.gov/Helene.

    Storm Damage Cleanup

    If your home has damages and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386.

    Power Outages

    Across Western North Carolina, approximately 9,500 customers remain without power, down from a peak of more than 1 million. Overall power outage numbers will fluctuate up and down as power crews temporarily take circuits or substations offline to make repairs and restore additional customers.

    Road Closures

    Some roads are closed because they are too damaged and dangerous to travel. Other roads still need to be reserved for essential traffic like utility vehicles, construction equipment and supply trucks. However, some parts of the area are open and ready to welcome visitors which is critical for the revival of Western North Carolina’s economy. If you are considering a visit to the area, consult DriveNC.gov for open roads and reach out to the community and businesses you want to visit to see if they are welcoming visitors back yet.

    NCDOT currently has approximately 2,000 employees and 900 pieces of equipment working on approximately 7,100 damaged road sites.

    Fatalities

    Ninety-five storm-related deaths have been confirmed in North Carolina by the Office of Chief Medical Examiner. This number is expected to rise over the coming days. The North Carolina Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will continue to confirm numbers twice daily. If you have an emergency or believe that someone is in danger, please call 911.

    Volunteers and Donations

    If you would like to donate to the North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund, visit nc.gov/donate. Donations will help to support local nonprofits working on the ground.

    For information on volunteer opportunities, please visit nc.gov/volunteernc.

    Additional Assistance

    There is no right or wrong way to feel in response to the trauma of a hurricane. If you have been impacted by the storm and need someone to talk to, call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990. Help is also available to anyone, anytime in English or Spanish through a call, text or chat to 988. Learn more at 988Lifeline.org.

    If you are seeking a representative from the North Carolina Joint Information Center, please email ncempio@ncdps.gov or call 919-825-2599.

    For general information, access to resources, or answers to frequently asked questions, please visit ncdps.gov/helene.

    If you are seeking information on resources for recovery help for a resident impacted from the storm, please email IArecovery@ncdps.gov.

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    Oct 17, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: A new Western State Hospital breaks ground, and a promise is kept

    Source: Washington State News

    Story Body

    On Thursday morning, state leaders gathered in Lakewood to break ground on a new hospital to be built on the Western State Hospital campus. The hospital will be a secure facility with 350 beds to serve forensic patients (those accused of a crime and ordered by a court to receive treatment before trial).

    Construction of the new Forensic Center of Excellence will complete by 2029.

    This project turns a page in state history. Washington state is a different place than it used to be. Western State Hospital is a different place than it used to be. And under the direction of Gov. Jay Inslee, the state’s approach to behavioral health care is different than it used to be.

    It’s all change for the better.

    Read the full story on Gov. Jay Inslee’s Medium

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Maryland Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Charge of Traveling to Engage in Illicit Sexual Conduct

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

    Defendant Arranged to Sexually Abuse a Six-Year-Old Girl in D.C.

                WASHINGTON – Nathaniel Lamar Nelson Scott, 36, of Bowie, Maryland, pleaded guilty today to a federal charge of traveling with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves, FBI Acting Special Agent in Charge David Geist of the Washington Field Office Criminal and Cyber Division, and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).

               Scott pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia to one count of travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct. The Honorable Dabney L. Friedrich scheduled a sentencing hearing for January 28, 2025.

                According to the government’s evidence, in May 2024, Scott began communicating via an encrypted messaging application with a man he met on a fetish website. Scott believed the man to be a pedophile who was sexually abusing his six-year-old daughter. Unbeknownst to Scott, the man was an undercover officer with the MPD–FBI Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force. Over the next several days, Scott engaged in graphic conversations about sexually abusing the child. On June 5, 2024, Scott arranged with the undercover officer to meet for the purpose of engaging in sexual acts with the child. He traveled from Maryland to a pre-arranged meeting place in Washington, D.C., and was arrested. Scott has remained in custody since his arrest.

               Scott faces a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The statutory sentences for federal offenses are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes. Any sentence will be determined by the Court based on the advisory Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. In addition, Scott will be required to register as a sex offender following any prison term.

                This case is being brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc.

                This case was investigated by the FBI Washington Field Office and MPD’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force. The task force is composed of FBI agents, along with other federal agents and detectives from northern Virginia and the District of Columbia. The task force is charged with investigating and bringing federal charges against individuals engaged in the exploitation of children and those engaged in human trafficking.

                The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul V. Courtney.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall Visits KCK Community College EMT and Paramedics Program

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Senator Marshall Visits KCK Community College EMT and Paramedics Program
    Salina, KS – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. visited Kansas City Kansas Community College (KCKCC) to tour their EMT and Paramedics Program.
    KCKCC serves a diverse student population in Wyandotte County, with over 50% of their students being the first in their families to attend college. KCKCC’s EMT and Paramedics Program are at the heart of the college’s health science program, preparing students for fast-paced, life-saving careers in emergency medical services. KCKCC provides an entry-level EMT program for those seeking certification, as well as an advanced paramedic program that builds up certified EMTs and equips first responders with higher-level skills. 
    “First responders are vital to Kansas’ success and safety,” said Senator Marshall. “KCKCC’s state-of-the-art EMT and paramedics programs are doing a great job teaching our next generation of first responders and equipping them with the necessary skills they need to keep Kansans safe.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: La Ronge — Saskatchewan RCMP Major Crimes: male charged with manslaughter

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On September 16, 2024 at approximately 5 a.m., La Ronge RCMP received a report of a seriously injured 29-year-old male outside an apartment building on Bedford Drive in La Ronge, Saskatchewan. The male was transported to hospital and later died. He has been identified as Darris Sanderson from Pinehouse Lake, SK.

    As a result of continued investigation, officers from Saskatchewan RCMP Major Crimes and the Warrant Enforcement Suppression Team (WEST) arrested an adult male in La Ronge, Saskatchewan on October 16, 2024. 25-year-old Tyrell Dumais of La Ronge is charged with one count, manslaughter, Section 236(a), Criminal Code.

    He is scheduled to appear in La Ronge Provincial Court on October 17, 2024.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall on RFD-TV: Agriculture has Never Been a Priority for Harris-Biden

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall
    Salina, KS – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D joined RFD-TV to discuss the Farm Bill – which still has not been renewed – and emphasized the importance of writing a high-quality Farm Bill that puts the needs of America’s farmers FIRST. 
    Additionally, Senator Marshall slammed the Biden-Harris Administration for their policies that plummeted incomes for farmers to record lows, restricted agriculture production with extreme environmental regulations, and led to record-high inflation grocery bills for Americans. 
    You may click HERE or on the image above to watch Senator Marshall’s full interview.
    Highlights from Senator Marshall’s interview include: 
    On an update on the Farm Bill:
    “We’re going to put the farm back in the Farm Bill. We’ve been stuck on two issues that the Democrats refuse to yield on. We need a little bit more help with crop insurance, need a little bit more help on the reference prices…I think what needs to happen is a Republican majority in the Senate, and we’ll follow up with what the Republicans did on the House side, where they put farm back in the Farm Bill, and they took care of crop insurance.”
    “If we don’t pass a new Farm Bill, we’re going to get an extension done one way or the other. We’ll get it done, but remember, this is a five-year bill, and I’ve got to get it right. What the Democrats are offering to me now actually hurts the reference prices for wheat and for milo. Kansas is a wheat state – I can’t take a Farm Bill that’s going to hurt wheat, let alone the milo industry. ”
    On the state of the agriculture economy under Kamala Harris and Joe Biden:
    “The number one concern in farmland is not the Farm Bill – it’s the record increases in input costs, it’s the interest rates, it’s the fact that the Harris Administration has not done one trade agreement. That’s what’s killing agriculture right now.” 
    “Have you heard the words ‘biofuels’ come out of the Biden-Harris Administration? There’s no support for the biofuels industry. They don’t do trade agreements. They refuse to put the farm back in the Farm Bill. We need new leadership in the White House.”
    “We need a Republican majority in the Senate to go along with that in the House, and then we’ll give you a good Farm Bill. But remember, even reference prices – think about this – the reference prices created in 2018 are only worth 80% of what they were worth five years ago because of inflation.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Announces Criminal Charges Against Southern California Dentist for Medi-Cal Fraud

    Source: US State of California

    Thursday, October 17, 2024

    Contact: (916) 210-6000, agpressoffice@doj.ca.gov

    Husam Aldairi, along with five other individuals, were charged for defrauding the state’s healthcare program of nearly $900k

    SAN DIEGO – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today announced the filing of criminal charges against Southern California dentist, Husam Aldairi, along with five employees of his dental practice, for their allegedly fraudulent billing scheme that allegedly defrauded the state Medi-Cal program of nearly $900,000.

    Husam Aldairi, Rawaa Attar, Lilyan Krikorian, Inci Narin, Laith Alani, and Fadi Shammas, have been charged with conspiracy to commit a crime and Medi-Cal fraud, both felonies. 

    “When providers defraud Medi-Cal, it not only undermines the integrity of the program, but it also poses a significant threat to the patients who rely on its critical services for their health and well-being,” said Attorney General Bonta. “At the California Department of Justice, we will continue to hold accountable those who perpetuate Medi-Cal fraud. We must ensure that the program remains reliable and accessible in providing quality healthcare to those who need it most.”

    Aldairi’s clinics contracted with Borrego Community Health Foundation, a Federally Qualified Health Center that serves Medi-Cal patients, to provide dental services to underserved populations and communities. Aldairi was entitled to reimbursement for each patient visit, rather than the specific services performed. However, Aldairi allegedly fraudulently billed for services that were either not rendered, or not rendered over multiple days, as was claimed to maximize profit from Medi-Cal reimbursements. Aldairi and his employees allegedly fraudulently billed more than $847,000 between 2016 and 2020.

    It is important to note that criminal charges must be proven in a court of law. Every defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

    The Division of Medi-Cal Fraud and Elder Abuse receives 75 percent of its funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services under a grant award totaling $69,244,976 for Federal fiscal year (FY) 2025. The remaining 25 percent is funded by the State of California. FY 2025 is from October 1, 2024 through September 30, 2025.

    A copy of the criminal complaint is available here. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Helping early childhood educators to upskill

    Source: Australian Ministers for Education

    The Albanese Government is helping early childhood educators gain the valuable on-the-job experience they need to complete qualifications and upskill. 

    Minister for Early Childhood Education Dr Anne Aly today launched a new Practicum Exchange Network to help early learning providers participate in prac exchanges with other services. 

    “This will help early childhood educators complete prac requirements for early learning qualifications,” Minister Aly said.

    “The new Practicum Exchange Network website will enable early learning services and educators to find and organise prac exchanges with other services and educators.  

    “Prac exchanges help students learn from experienced educators and teachers, gaining a wealth of experience and knowledge in a variety of settings.

    “From January 2025, educators who undertake prac in a rural or remote location, away from home, will be able to apply for a living allowance to assist with relocation costs.”

    The new website is part of the Government’s $72.4 million Early Childhood Education Workforce package which is helping to build and retain a highly skilled early learning workforce.  

    The package is also helping existing educators upskill through a paid prac wage subsidy, supporting educators to complete placements.

    The funding also enables positions to be backfilled while early childhood educators, teachers and centre directors undertake professional development opportunities.

    Shaped by engagement with the sector, the workforce package is another way the Albanese Government is recognising the professionalism of early childhood educators.

    The Government is also delivering a historic 15 per cent wage rise for the critical early childhood education and care workforce, helping to retain the current workforce while also attracting new people to the sector. 

    A sustainable and high-quality early childhood education and care workforce is a vital step towards building a universal early learning and care system that works for children and families.

    To learn more or to join the Practicum Exchange Network visit prac.education.gov.au.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Readout of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement meeting with CoreCivic

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    October 17, 2024Washington, DC, United StatesStatement

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Chief of Staff Michael Lumpkin met with CoreCivic leaders today to discuss detained noncitizens’ needs and the agency’s unflagging commitment to maintaining the highest standards in detained noncitizen care.

    CoreCivic, like many other contracting companies, plays an integral role within ICE’s detention system. ICE is bound by law to detain noncitizens who meet certain criteria, including those who pose public safety or national security threats. The agency must also detain noncitizens in other circumstances, such as when doing so is required by law or an order from an immigration judge. Regardless of the reasons the U.S. government is required to detain noncitizens, ICE detention is not punitive. The agency and its public- and private-sector partners strive to provide appropriate care for those in custody.

    ICE is committed to remaining transparent with the American public. The agency regularly engages with stakeholders, including government officials and other law enforcement agencies, private-sector entities, faith-based and activist organizations, and colleges and universities. The agency fosters these relationships to ensure that its future decisions are fact-based, data-driven, humane and effective.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Nowhere to hide: Five in custody following flees

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police in Counties Manukau South have taken four teenagers into custody following a fleeing driver incident overnight.

    At about 1.30am, officers attempted to stop a Nissan Wingroad driving at excessive speed along Grove Road, Takanini.

    Counties Manukau South Area Prevention Manager, Inspector Matt Hoyes, says the vehicle failed to stop and the unit elected not to pursue.

    “Enquiries with the registered owner confirmed the vehicle had been stolen.

    “Ten minutes later the vehicle was sighted travelling on Dominion Road, Papakura.”

    Inspector Hoyes says the Police Eagle helicopter quickly got overhead and followed the vehicle as it drove to Tilbrook Place where it was abandoned and the group fled on foot.

    “The youths were seen running into a property on Hethdale Crescent where they attempted to hide in the garage, but were taken into custody without incident.

    “This was a great outcome from our staff last night and another great example of multiple Police resources successfully working together.”

    Four youths, aged 13-14, have been referred to Youth Aid Services.

    Meanwhile, Police in Pakuranga attempted to stop a speeding vehicle travelling on Pakuranga Road at about 3.18am.

    Counties Manukau East Area Commander, Inspector Rod Honan, says Police did not pursue the vehicle and instead called on air support to assist.

    “Eagle located the vehicle parked in the driveway of a Hillside Road, Mt Wellington address.

    “A male was then observed hiding in a construction site, where officers have quickly taken him into custody.

    “Police are often being called to incidents of this nature, however we hope the public are reassured that we are continuously holding those involved to account.”

    A 32-year-old man will appear in Manukau District Court today charged with unlawfully getting into a motor vehicle, failing to stop, unlicensed driver failing to comply with probation and failing to carry out obligations in relation to a computer search.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Murder charge laid after man found critically injured in Whangamarino dies

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    To be attributed to Detective Senior Sergeant Kristine Clarke:

    A 32-year-old Auckland man has been charged with murder, following the death of a man found critically injured on Hampton Downs Road, Whangamarino earlier this week.

    The victim, a 43-year-old man, had been transported to Auckland Hospital in a critical condition and tragically has since passed away.

    A 32-year-old man was arrested in Papakura last night (17 October) and will be appearing in Manukau District Court today.

    Police would still like to hear from anyone who was travelling on Hampton Downs Road between 10pm on Sunday 13 October and 1am on 14 October, particularly if you have dashcam footage.

    If you can help, please update us online now or call 105.

    Please use the reference number 241014/2225.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Justice Department Announces Charges Against Indian Government Employee in Connection with Foiled Plot to Assassinate U.S. Citizen in New York City

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    Vikash Yadav Directed Plot to Murder U.S.-Based Leader of Sikh Separatist Movement

    Note: View the second unsealed superseding indictment here.

    The Justice Department today announced the filing of murder-for-hire and money laundering charges against Indian government employee, Vikash Yadav, 39, also known as Vikas, and Amanat, in connection with his role in directing a foiled plot to assassinate a U.S. citizen in New York City. Yadav is charged in a second superseding indictment unsealed today in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. Yadav’s alleged co-conspirator, Nikhil Gupta, 53, was previously charged and extradited to the United States on the charges contained in the first superseding indictment. Yadav remains at large.

    “The Justice Department will be relentless in holding accountable any person — regardless of their position or proximity to power — who seeks to harm and silence American citizens,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “As alleged, last year, we foiled an attempt by Vikash Yadav, an Indian government employee, and his co-conspirator, Nikhil Gupta, to assassinate an American citizen on U.S. soil.  Today’s charges demonstrate that the Justice Department will not tolerate attempts to target and endanger Americans and to undermine the rights to which every U.S. citizen is entitled.”

    “The defendant, an Indian government employee, allegedly conspired with a criminal associate and attempted to assassinate a U.S. citizen on American soil for exercising their First Amendment rights,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “The FBI will not tolerate acts of violence or other efforts to retaliate against those residing in the U.S. for exercising their constitutionally protected rights. We are committed to working with our partners to detect, disrupt, and hold accountable foreign nationals or others who seek to engage in such acts of transnational repression.”

    “Today’s charges are a grave example of the increase in lethal plotting and other forms of violent transnational repression targeting diaspora communities in the United States,” said Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. “To the governments around the world who may be considering such criminal activity and to the communities they would target, let there be no doubt that the Department of Justice is committed to disrupting and exposing these plots and to holding the wrongful actors accountable no matter who they are or where they reside.”

    “DEA foiled this assassination attempt last year and has continued to trace this case back to an employee of the Indian government whom we charge was an orchestrator of this intricate murder-for-hire scheme. DEA did not relent, and today’s indictment names Vikash Yadav as an alleged mastermind,” said Administrator Anne Milgram of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). “We charge that Yadav, an employee of the Indian government, used his position of authority and access to confidential information to direct the attempted assassination of an outspoken critic of the Indian government here on U.S. soil. This case was led by the DEA New York Division’s Drug Enforcement Task Force, which is comprised of DEA, the New York State Police, and the New York City Police Department, and is a true testament to the tenacity and determination of our team.”

    “Last year, this office charged Nikhil Gupta for conspiring to assassinate a U.S. citizen of Indian origin on U.S. soil,” said U.S. Attorney Damian Williams. “But, as alleged, Gupta did not work alone. Today, we announce charges against an Indian government employee, Vikash Yadav, who orchestrated the plot from India and directed Gupta to hire a hitman to murder the victim. The right to exercise free speech is foundational to our democracy, and predicated on the notion that we can do so without fear of violence or reprisal, including from beyond our borders. Let this case be a warning to all those who would seek to harm and silence U.S. citizens: we will hold you accountable, no matter who and where you are.” 

    As alleged in the second superseding indictment and other public court documents, in 2023, Yadav, working together with others, including Gupta, in India, and elsewhere, directed a plot to assassinate on U.S. soil an attorney and political activist who is a U.S. citizen of Indian origin residing in New York City (the victim). The victim is a vocal critic of the Indian government and leads a U.S.-based organization that advocates for the secession of Punjab, a state in northern India that is home to a large population of Sikhs, an ethnoreligious minority group in India. The victim has publicly called for some or all of Punjab to secede from India and establish a Sikh sovereign state called Khalistan, and the Indian government has banned the victim and his separatist organization from India.

    During times relevant to the second superseding indictment, Yadav was employed by the Government of India’s Cabinet Secretariat, which houses Indian’s foreign intelligence service, the Research and Analysis Wing. Yadav has described his position as a “senior field officer” with responsibilities in “security management” and “intelligence.” Yadav also has referenced previously serving in India’s Central Reserve Police Force and receiving “officer[] training” in “battle craft” and “weapons.” Yadav is a citizen and resident of India, and he directed the plot to assassinate the Victim from India.

    In or about May 2023, Yadav recruited Gupta to orchestrate the assassination of the victim in the United States. Gupta is an Indian national who resided in India and has described his involvement in international narcotics and weapons trafficking in his communications with Yadav and others. At Yadav’s direction, Gupta contacted an individual whom Gupta believed to be a criminal associate, but who was in fact a confidential source (the CS) working with the DEA, for assistance in contracting a hitman to murder the victim in New York City. The CS introduced Gupta to a purported hitman, who was in fact a DEA undercover officer (the UC). Yadav subsequently agreed, in dealings brokered by Gupta, to pay the UC $100,000 to murder the victim. On or about June 9, 2023, Yadav and Gupta arranged for an associate to deliver $15,000 in cash to the UC as an advance payment for the murder. Yadav’s associate then delivered the $15,000 to the UC in Manhattan.

    In or about June 2023, in furtherance of the assassination plot, Yadav provided Gupta with personal information about the victim, including the victim’s home address in New York City, phone numbers associated with the victim, and details about the victim’s day-to-day conduct, which Gupta then passed to the UC. Yadav directed Gupta to provide regular updates on the progress of the assassination plot, which Gupta accomplished by forwarding to Yadav, among other things, surveillance photographs of the victim. Gupta directed the UC to carry out the murder as soon as possible, but Gupta also specifically instructed the UC not to commit the murder around the time of the Indian Prime Minister’s official state visit to the United States, which was scheduled to begin on or about June 20, 2023.

    On or about June 18, 2023, approximately two days before the Indian Prime Minister’s state visit to the United States, masked gunmen murdered Hardeep Singh Nijjar outside a Sikh temple in British Columbia, Canada. Nijjar was an associate of the victim, and, like the victim, was a leader of the Sikh separatist movement and an outspoken critic of the Indian government. On or about June 19, 2023, the day after the Nijjar murder, Gupta told the UC that Nijjar “was also the target” and “we have so many targets.” Gupta added that, in light of Nijjar’s murder, there was “now no need to wait” on killing the Victim. On or about June 20, 2023, Yadav sent Gupta a news article about the victim and messaged Gupta, “[i]t’s [a] priority now.”

    Yadav and Gupta of India have been charged with murder-for-hire, which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison; conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire, which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison; and conspiracy to commit money laundering, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The DEA New York Division and the FBI New York Field Office’s Counterintelligence Division are investigating the case, with valuable assistance provided by the DEA Special Operations Division, DEA Vienna Country Office, FBI Prague Country Office, Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs, and Czech Republic’s National Drug Headquarters.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Camille L. Fletcher, Ashley C. Nicolas, and Alexander Li for the Southern District of New York are prosecuting the case with assistance from Trial Attorney Christopher Cook of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section and Trial Attorney A.J. Dixon of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Former Tennessee Mental Health Center Owner Charged with Employment Tax Crimes

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    A federal grand jury in Nashville returned an indictment yesterday charging a former business owner with willfully failing to account for and pay over employment taxes to the IRS.

    According to the indictment, from at least 2011 through 2023, Mari Alexander, of Columbia, South Carolina, was the owner and president of Ross Behavioral Group, a mental health counseling center with multiple locations in middle Tennessee. Alexander controlled Ross Behavioral Group’s financial affairs and was responsible for withholding Social Security, Medicare and federal income taxes from employees’ wages and paying them over to the IRS. From at least 2015 through 2020, Alexander allegedly withheld these taxes from her employees’ wages, but did not fully pay the withheld taxes over to the IRS.

    Each year, from at least 2015 through 2020, Alexander allegedly issued IRS Forms W-2, Wage and Tax Statements and paystubs to the employees that showed taxes taken out of their pay, which falsely implied that the withheld taxes were paid over to the IRS.

    In total, Alexander is alleged to have caused a tax loss to the IRS of more than $1 million.

    Alexander is charged with 11 counts of willfully failing to account for and pay over employment taxes. If convicted, she faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison on each count. She also faces a period of supervised release, restitution and monetary penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Acting U.S. Attorney Thomas J. Jaworski for the Middle District of Tennessee made the announcement.

    IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case with assistance from the Social Security Administration’s Office of the Inspector General.

    Trial Attorney Ashley J. Stein of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Mitchell T. Galloway for the Middle District of Tennessee are prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 7311, Combatting International Drug Trafficking and Human Smuggling Partnership Act of 2024

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    H.R. 7311 would allow Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to participate in joint operations with foreign governments abroad to prevent illicit drug trafficking and terrorist threats. The bill also would authorize CBP to pay certain claims for monetary damages, loss of personal property, or injury brought against the United States that arise from such operations. Under current law, CBP can settle claims for those purposes that arise within the United States under the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA), but not those that originate in a foreign country. H.R. 7311 would require CBP to report to the Congress within 90 days of paying such a claim. Under the bill, all claims would be paid from discretionary funds and the authority to pay those claims would expire five years after enactment. 

    Based on similar FTCA claims, CBO estimates that very few claims would be paid under the bill and the average claim would be small. As a result, CBO estimates the implementing H.R. 7311 would cost less than $500,000 over the 2025-2029 period. Any spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 9722, CATCH Fentanyl Act

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    H.R. 9722 would require Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to establish a pilot program to test technology enhancements for inspecting vehicles and cargo at land ports of entry. The bill would require CBP to evaluate the effectiveness of at least five technologies, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, and quantum information sciences, to detect contraband and increase the efficiency of inspections. H.R. 9722 also would require CBP to report to the Congress on the effectiveness of the technologies in the program and their effect on privacy and civil rights and liberties.

    Using information from CBP, CBO estimates that the agency currently deploys three technologies that are compliant with the bill’s requirements and would need to purchase two additional types of technologies. Based on the costs of similar projects, CBO estimates that CBP would incur an additional cost of about $8 million annually to procure, deploy and evaluate those technologies. Additionally, CBO estimates that it would cost less than $500,000 to comply with the bill’s reporting requirements. In total, CBO estimates that implementing H.R. 9722 would cost $40 million over the 2025-2029 period. Any related spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Department of State Daily Press Briefing – October 17, 2024

    Source: United States of America – Department of State (video statements)

    Spokesperson Matthew Miller leads the Department Press Briefing, at the Department of State, on October 17, 2024.

    ———-
    Under the leadership of the President and Secretary of State, the U.S. Department of State leads America’s foreign policy through diplomacy, advocacy, and assistance by advancing the interests of the American people, their safety and economic prosperity. On behalf of the American people we promote and demonstrate democratic values and advance a free, peaceful, and prosperous world.

    The Secretary of State, appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate, is the President’s chief foreign affairs adviser. The Secretary carries out the President’s foreign policies through the State Department, which includes the Foreign Service, Civil Service and U.S. Agency for International Development.

    Get updates from the U.S. Department of State at http://www.state.gov and on social media!
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/statedept
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/StateDept
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/statedept
    Flickr: https://flickr.com/photos/statephotos/

    Subscribe to the State Department Blog: https://www.state.gov/blogs
    Watch on-demand State Department videos: https://video.state.gov/
    Subscribe to The Week at State e-newsletter: http://ow.ly/diiN30ro7Cw

    State Department website: https://www.state.gov/
    Careers website: https://careers.state.gov/
    White House website: https://www.whitehouse.gov/
    Terms of Use: https://state.gov/tou

    #StateDepartment #DepartmentofState #Diplomacy

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BTWHP4RjIpw

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Planned closure SH35 Rotokautuku (Waiapu) Bridge, Ruatoria next week

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    |

    The first planned closure of State Highway 35 at Rotokautuku (Waiapu) Bridge will take place next Wednesday 23 October between midday and 12.30pm.

    During the closure, the highway will be closed in both directions between Bridge Rd and Thatcher Rd.

    While the bridge remains structurally sound, repairs to the bearings and cross bracing are needed to restore the damage caused by Cyclone Gabrielle and to improve its strength.

    Transport Rebuild East Coast (TREC) crews, on behalf of NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA), will be raising the bridge by a few millimetres to carry out this work.

    Repair work beneath the bridge has been underway for a number of weeks and will continue through to Christmas. Further 30-minute bridge closures are required with the dates and times to be communicated in the next few weeks. Outside of the planned closures, minimal impact on traffic is expected.

    There are no viable detours. NZTA is reminding road users on this stretch of SH35 to plan for this delay or avoid travelling at these times.

    Tags

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: New critical minerals strategy to attract clean energy investment and create thousands of jobs

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 18 October 2024

    Released by: The Premier, Minister for Industry and Trade, Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces

    The Minns Labor Government will create a $250 million royalty deferral initiative for critical minerals projects and will examine the implementation of a rapid assessment framework for minerals mining projects.

    The initiatives are the first actions of the NSW Government’s new Critical Minerals and High-Tech Metals Strategy, which sets a vision for NSW to become a global leader in critical minerals.

    Currently there are 12 critical minerals mining and processing projects in NSW that are ready for investment. They need around $7.6 billion in capital investment value and are expected to generate about 4,600 jobs during construction and 2,700 ongoing jobs.

    High initial investment costs for critical minerals projects are a barrier for the industry. The royalty deferral scheme will assist new projects in the early stages of development, ease financial pressures, attract investment to NSW and enhance the economic viability of the sector.

    Another immediate action from the strategy is a joint Department of Planning Housing and Infrastructure and NSW Resources assessment to deliver greater certainty to the sector around the planning process for critical minerals projects.

    NSW has globally significant resource deposits and 21 of the 31 nationally declared critical minerals. The strategy identifies priority minerals and metals for NSW – including rare earths, scandium, cobalt, copper and silver – which have important uses in the electrification of the economy and the manufacturing of clean energy products like solar panels and batteries.

    The strategy outlines the vital role of critical minerals in supporting broader government priorities, including in the clean energy transition and driving domestic manufacturing.

    The International Energy Agency estimates that over the next 20 years, the world will need six times the amount of critical minerals currently mined to reach global net-zero carbon emissions. The energy transition will need double today’s copper production, triple today’s rare earth elements and cobalt production, and thirty times more nickel – all these minerals can be found in NSW.

    Fully realising the opportunity of the state’s critical minerals and high-tech metals deposits means moving further down the supply chain and beyond only extracting and exporting resources. Examples of this in the strategy include investigating opportunities to pilot common-user refineries and supporting investment in domestic manufacturing.

    The new Critical Minerals and High-Tech Metals Strategy focuses on five key pillars:

    • Encouraging exploration by minimising investment risk in greenfield exploration and promoting exploration in new areas,
    • Incentivising production by creating an attractive investment environment and removing barriers to help projects move from exploration to production,
    • Developing future-ready skills by providing training and education pathways to encourage careers in critical minerals mining,
    • Establishing resilient supply chains by examining local processing facilities, driving research and development, and investigating critical minerals recycling, and
    • Engaging local communities by ensuring responsible mining.

    The royalty initiative will be an opt-in scheme where the first five years of royalties are deferred. It will apply to critical minerals projects which can start production between 1 July 2025 and 30 June 2030, predominantly mine commodities listed on the Commonwealth Government’s Critical Minerals List and where the proponent has a market capitalisation under $5 billion.

    The full Critical Minerals and High-Tech Metals Strategy, and a two-page summary of the strategy, can be viewed on the NSW Resources website https://www.nsw.gov.au/criticalminerals.

    Quotes attributable to NSW Premier Chris Minns:

    “We’ve got the metals and minerals the world needs, and NSW is open for business.

    “We are sending a clear message to Aussie and global miners: invest in NSW.

    “This is about backing regional jobs and manufacturing jobs, and taking advantage of the critical minerals boom.

    “We want to make sure we fully realise the opportunities that critical minerals and high-tech metals have for NSW.”

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully:

    “To be a global leader in critical minerals, it is vital that the NSW planning system operates efficiently and provides certainty and transparency to the critical minerals sector and communities.

    “The strategy identifies a number of improvements we can make to help enhance the system. These will provide greater guidance to the industry and improve collaboration between government agencies and departments in project assessment.

    “We’re also investigating further ways to improve decision-making to make sure we fully realise the opportunity before us.”

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Natural Resources Courtney Houssos:

    “Our vision for NSW is to be a global leader in critical minerals and high-tech metals, generating economic prosperity through exploration, mining, processing and advanced manufacturing.

    “NSW critical minerals projects typically have long lead times for development, and higher capital investment. The new royalty deferral scheme will assist mine proponents to attract investment and move faster to production.

    “The new strategy sets out a clear vision for NSW to be a leader in critical minerals and high-tech metals, generating economic prosperity through responsible exploration, mining, processing, recycling and advanced manufacturing.

    “We want NSW to be moving further down the supply chain. Extracting minerals is a critical first step, but we can generate strong economic returns and support more jobs by getting into processing and advanced manufacturing.”

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Industry and Trade Anoulack Chanthivong:

    “The new Critical Minerals and High-Tech Metals Strategy forms a key part of the NSW Government’s approach to Industry policy, which seeks to invest and promote home-grown products and services not only for NSW, but for export right around the world.

    “This strategy provides a long-term vision and commitment to the critical minerals and high-tech metals mining industry so that businesses can feel confident to invest and grow in NSW, as we seize the investment opportunities of the renewable energy economy, both here and across the globe.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: NSW Government commits $75 million to deliver much-needed infrastructure for Western Sydney homes

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 18 October 2024

    Released by: Deputy Premier, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Minister for Western Sydney

    The Minns Labor Government is investing $75 million to build roads, parks, infrastructure and improved town centre access for more than 42,000 new homes across Western Sydney.

    Special Infrastructure Contributions fund critical supporting infrastructure for homes such as state and regional roads, primary and secondary schools and emergency, health and bus services.

    For more than a decade, fast-growing communities in Western Sydney have not received their fair share of infrastructure. Delivering on its commitment to support essential infrastructure for the communities taking the most housing, the Minns Labor Government is delivering new grant funding to help build better communities.

    The $75 million in round 6 of the Special Infrastructure Contribution grant funding targets councils in specific local government areas in the Western Sydney Growth Centres such as Blacktown, Camden, Campbelltown, Hawkesbury, The Hills and Liverpool.

    The grant funding aligns with the National Housing Accord target of 377,000 new, well-located homes across NSW by 2029.

    Previous grant rounds have supported long-awaited projects for growing communities, including:

    • More than $34 million toward the Memorial Avenue Road Upgrade at Kellyville in North West Sydney, which is currently underway.
    • More than $20 million toward the new Edmondson Park primary and high schools. Approvals have now been received for the high school, with construction set to get underway in the near future.

    The key driver of these projects has been the significant population growth experienced by Western Sydney, which has not been matched by the infrastructure these communities need.

    The Minns Labor Government is committed to building a better NSW with more homes, paired with vital infrastructure, as we take action to address the housing crisis.

    This grant is also open to state agencies including Communities and Justice, Education, Transport for NSW, NSW Health, NSW Police, Fire and Rescue NSW and the Planning Ministerial Corporation.

    The grant funding for the Special Infrastructure Contributions $75 million Round 6 will open for nominations at 9am on Friday 18 October and close midnight on Monday 16 December 2024.

    The Special Infrastructure Contributions will continue to apply until 30 June 2026 when the Housing and Productivity Contribution will apply to the current area of the Western Sydney Aerotropolis.

    For more information visit: https://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/plans-for-your-area/infrastructure-funding/special-infrastructure-contributions/western-sydney-growth-area-sic

    Deputy Premier and Minister for Western Sydney Prue Car said:

    “Western Sydney is one of the largest growth areas in our state but is lacking the infrastructure to support vibrant and well-connected communities.

    “New roads, open spaces, active transport and town centre access will make housing across these six LGAs possible, especially in Blacktown and The Hills.

    “Western Sydney was left behind by the previous government, we are not only building new homes but we are building the infrastructure to support better communities.”

    Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

    “The Minns Government is committed to delivering new, well-located homes where they are needed most.

    “In order to build a community, residents need access to a local school, connecting roads and critical services.

    “This funding means supporting infrastructure is being delivered alongside new homes.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen, Cortez Masto Secure More Than $275 Million to Improve and Expand I-80 Corridor, Reduce Congestion in Northern Nevada

    US Senate News:

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

    RENO, NV – Today, U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) announced that the Nevada Department of Transportation will receive more than $275 million in federal funding to widen I-80 from Vista Boulevard to USA Parkway between the Reno-Sparks metro area and Tahoe-Reno Industrial Center. The improvements funded by this award include an additional lane in each direction, shoulder widening, bridge reconstruction, new pavement, and intelligent transportation system facilities. Senators Rosen and Cortez Masto advocated specifically for this project, and the funding was made possible thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law they helped pass.
    “I’m proud to have worked across the aisle to secure more than $275 million in federal funding to widen I-80, which will help reduce traffic and support local economic growth,” said Senator Rosen. “This funding was made possible thanks to the landmark Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that I helped write and pass. I’ll keep working with Senator Cortez Masto and our bipartisan Congressional delegation to deliver real results for Nevadans.”
    “Interstate 80 is a critical corridor for so many Nevadans—that’s why Senator Rosen and I worked in a bipartisan way to help secure these federal dollars coming to Northern Nevada to ease congestion, drive economic growth, and save lives along the corridor,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “This investment is essential for our communities, and it was made possible thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Senator Rosen and I fought to pass. I commend her steady partnership in improving transportation access for hardworking Nevadans, and we’ll keep fighting to deliver the infrastructure investments that Nevada needs.”
    Senators Rosen and Cortez Masto worked to pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to create good-paying jobs and upgrade road infrastructure in Nevada. Both Senators have secured funding to improve pedestrian safety, expand clean energy public transit, and modernize and expand critical roadways to shorten commute times and improve driver safety. Last month, they announced $4.7 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to enhance road safety in Northern Nevada.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: New program to shape future of regional rail infrastructure

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 18 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for Regional Transport and Roads

    The Minns Labor Government has greenlit development of a new strategy that will lay out the pathway to a better regional rail network in NSW for passengers and freight.

    Representing a fresh approach to how rail infrastructure investment is determined, the Regional Network East/West Uplift (RNEW) Program has been established to create a 10-year investment pipeline and strategic plan for rail infrastructure in regional NSW.

    Under the former government, regional rail infrastructure investment was determined on an ad-hoc basis without proper regard for the needs of the regional rail network in its entirety. Industry partners and other major stakeholders were also not always properly consulted, with initiatives like Fixing Country Rail and the Main West Capacity Enhancement Program lacking a holistic, strategic focus and projects often stuck in development limbo for years.

    The RNEW Program will take a fresh look at where regional rail infrastructure investment is needed, while putting proper evidence-based decision making at the forefront of planning work and giving industry, the Government and the public a clear vision for the future of the network.

    Through comprehensive data analysis, research into reliability and future capacity requirements, extensive evaluation of existing assets and wide-ranging consultation — the RNEW Program will ensure the NSW Government better understands, manages, forecasts and delivers upgrades to regional rail network.

    The Program will also have a key focus on opportunities to improve the Country Regional Network (CRN) which includes over 2,300 kilometres of operational rail lines and is vital for transporting 2.7 billion gross tonnes of freight annually and delivering more than 120 passenger services per week.

    Linkages between the broader regional rail network and existing projects such as Inland Rail, the Freight Policy Reform and Regional Level Crossing programs will also be explored by the Program team, with potential efficiency improvements to be identified and considered.

    Once developed, the final investment strategy will complement Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plans being developed across the nine regional areas in the state. 

    The RNEW Program team will commence engagement with freight industry, rail operators and users, and local government will begin in 2025, with the final strategy to be delivered in 2026.

    Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said:

    “The NSW Government is committed to providing rail networks across the state that are effective, efficient and reliable for all users – freight and passengers.

    “The RNEW Program will allow us to better understand, manage, forecast, and deliver improvements on the state’s regional rail network, bringing projects under one banner to ensure a holistic and strategic approach.

    “Regional communities have been calling for investment in rail infrastructure in the regions. This program will ensure any investment is made on the basis of robust planning and development to enrich our state.

    “The program will enable the NSW Government to develop a long-term pipeline of infrastructure investment initiatives whilst being flexible and agile enough to address emerging network issues.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Markey Statement on Study Showing Methadone is More Effective Than Other Drugs to Treat Opioid Use Disorder

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    Senator Markey’s Modernizing Opioid Treatment Access Act (MOTAA) would expand access to methadone for the treatment of opioid use disorder (OUD)

    Washington (October 17, 2024) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), chair of the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Subcommittee on Primary Health and Retirement Security, today released the following statement after the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) released a study showing methadone is more effective than buprenorphine and naloxone for opioid use disorder (OUD).

    “The study released today demonstrates that methadone is an essential and effective treatment for opioid use disorder. In fact, more people stayed in treatment when on methadone compared to buprenorphine and naloxone. Amid tens of thousands of people dying every year from opioid overdose, this study reiterates that it is unacceptable to keep this evidence-based, life-saving medication behind antiquated guardrails. My Modernizing Opioid Treatment Access Act would take a carefully considered step forward in expanding access to this medication by allowing the most highly trained addiction physicians in the country prescribe methadone to their patients that could be picked up at a pharmacy. To stand in the way of its passage is to keep in place outdated guardrails that cost people’s lives. Congress must pass the Modernizing Opioid Treatment Access Act.”

    In March 2023, Senators Markey and Rand Paul (R-Ky.), along with Representatives Norcross and Bacon, introduced their bipartisan and bicameral MOTAA, which would represent the first major reform to methadone in half a century and is supported by hundreds of clinicians and medical organizations. In December 2023, MOTAA passed the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee. In December 2022, Senator Markey secured his bipartisan Opioid Treatment Access Act (OTAA)—legislation that reduces wait times for patients qualifying for methadone medication treatment and expands access to methadone clinics—into the end-of-year omnibus spending package. That same month, Senator Markey also applauded proposed changes by the Department of Health and Human Services to remove barriers to OUD treatment, such as allowing people to take home doses of methadone medication, which are key provisions included in the OTAA.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canadian tourism ministers join forces to propel tourism forward

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Tourism is a key industry and economic driver in every province and territory, supporting over 2 million jobs, or about 10 percent of all employment in Canada in 2023.

    October 17, 2024 – Banff, Alberta

    Tourism is a key industry and economic driver in every province and territory, supporting over 2 million jobs, or about 10 percent of all employment in Canada in 2023. In several jurisdictions, tourism is the top or one of the top service exports. Today, the federal, provincial and territorial ministers responsible for tourism participated in the 2024 Canadian Council of Tourism Ministers (CCTM) meeting in Banff National Park. The meeting was held in Alberta with the Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec, as well as the Honourable Joseph Schow, Alberta Minister of Tourism and Sport, co-chairing and recognizing the traditional Treaty 7 territory.

    In 2023, tourism industries represented nearly 6 percent of Canada’s total economy and almost 8 percent of the Canadian service economy. Tourism revenues reached $113.4 billion in 2023 and the positive experiences international tourists have in Canada enhance the country’s brand abroad. Tourism has strong growth potential in every province and territory, and ministers recognized that strategic and collaborative actions will propel the sector forward.

    Throughout the meeting, ministers heard from tourism stakeholders on the areas of destination development, investment attraction, workforce development and retention, air access, parks and recreation, and emergency management. Ministers acknowledged the importance of having consistent dialogue with experts in these fields to capitalize on trends, glean critical operational insights, and work collaboratively with industry partners to find solutions for the most pressing challenges facing the sector. Ministers sought an international perspective by inviting a speaker from the Government of Australia to discuss experiences and best practices in attracting workers to careers in tourism. Ministers also heard from Alberta officials about their successes in supporting the recovery and relaunch of the tourism sector, while bringing attention to ambitious strategic plans for the future, which aim to more than double the size of the province’s visitor economy within the next decade. Alberta demonstrated leadership within Canada’s overall tourism economy, ushering in a return to pre-pandemic levels of visitor spending two years ahead of schedule.

    Ministers also acknowledged the economic impact of this summer’s wildfires across Canada, particularly in the Municipality of Jasper and Jasper National Park, as well as the critical importance of effective emergency management and disaster preparedness. Ministers also noted that emergency management is paramount for all jurisdictions as, like other countries, Canada faces the potential of a range of emergency events year-round. Maintaining Canada’s brand and reputation are important components of the collaborative work of jurisdictions to respond to events as they arise.

    Ministers were pleased with the work accomplished by the CCTM Working Groups throughout 2024 to address the topics of destination access and economic growth, as well as the important connections forged with external organizations. Ministers took the opportunity to discuss areas that impact the growth of tourism in Canada, such as limited transportation connectivity in some regions, barriers to raising private capital for investments, fees and regulations impacting the competitiveness of domestic air travel, and associated challenges including the seasonal nature of tourism. Recognizing the critical importance of the link between tourism and transportation, there was a desire to invite the Federal Minister of Transport to next year’s CCTM meeting.

    In 2025, the CCTM will seek to refresh the mandates of the Working Groups to ensure their work addresses emerging priorities while effectively leveraging inter-governmental collaboration. To that end, jurisdictions will be focusing on the responsiveness and preparedness of the sector to emergency events, and ensuring capacity for strong economic growth of the industry. Efforts will be made to look at new mandate areas from different angles, while also engaging broadly across the sector to ensure CCTM priorities align with industry.

    Canada’s provinces and territories continue to showcase their diverse tourism offerings globally, ranging from parks and attractions in the great outdoors, to major festivals and events, and Indigenous tourism. Successes are evident with Canada’s overall position on the World Economic Forum’s Travel & Tourism Development Index improving to 11th place in the 2024 ranking, up from 13th place in 2021. Going forward, ministers are keen to work collaboratively to tackle persistent issues and showcase Canada’s leadership in tourism on the world stage. 

    Marie-Justine Torres
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec
    613-327-5918
    marie-justine.torresames@ised-isde.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
    media@ised-isde.gc.ca

    Amber Edgerton
    Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Tourism and Sport
    Government of Alberta
    780-222-6113
    amber.edgerton@gov.ab.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Q&A: Breast Cancer – 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed in her lifetime

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
    Q: Is early detection and treatment for breast cancer moving in the right direction?
    A: As a lead sponsor of the bipartisan Breast and Cervical Cancer Treatment Act of 2000, I’m glad to see measurable strides indicating early detection and breast screenings are helping to lower female death rates from breast cancer. The 24-year-old federal law expanded on earlier legislation that directed the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to create the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP). Our bill allowed states to offer patients diagnosed with cancer under this federal program to access treatment services through Medicaid. It provides a lifeline of hope for tens of thousands of patients who otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford timely access to cancer screening, diagnostics and treatment. In 2023, the federal program provided cancer screening and diagnostic services to 273,989 women, diagnosing 1,761 invasive breast cancers. Although we’ve made progress in the battle against breast cancer, more work remains. The National Cancer Institute estimates 310,720 Americans will be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2024 and 42,250 people will lose their battle to the disease. The CDC says breast cancer is still the second most common cancer among women in the United States, following skin cancer diagnoses. Breast cancer also is the second leading cause of cancer death among women, following only lung cancer. Raising public awareness is central to advancing strides for life-saving prevention, detection and treatment.
    Losing a beloved mother, wife, aunt or sister to breast cancer is a devastating loss to families in communities across the country. I encourage Iowans to check in with their loved ones. Take advantage of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month to prompt a friend or family member to make their screening appointment. Non-invasive mammography screenings can alert health care providers long before symptoms arise. A recent FDA rule requires mammography facilities to include a breast density assessment as part of a patient’s medical report. Having this information can help lead to better patient outcomes. My wife Barbara is a 37-year breast cancer survivor. She credits early detection for putting her on the road to healing and recovery.
    Q: What efforts have you led to help cancer patients survive and thrive?
    A: From my consistent support for breast cancer research, including the Department of Defense Breast Cancer Research Program, I also steered bipartisan legislation across the finish line to enact the Lymphedema Treatment Act that closes a coverage gap for Medicare patients for physician-prescribed compression therapy items, including for breast cancer survivors. I’m a vocal champion for rural health care initiatives to ensure patients in Rural America aren’t left behind, such as expanded medical residency positions to grow Iowa’s health care workforce and efforts to strengthen stability and security for rural hospitals and clinics that are the safety net providers for millions of Americans. From the Senate Finance Committee, which has jurisdiction over federal health care programs, I champion policies to help ensure rural hospitals, local pharmacies and health care clinics keep their doors open for the community. I also keep the spotlight shining on market-driven solutions to reduce drug costs and lower barriers to care, such as expanding telehealth services and cutting red tape for kids with complex medical needs. Oncology patients can avoid the expense and tiring experience of a long road trip by seeing health care providers via the convenience and flexibility provided by a telehealth appointment. The bipartisan infrastructure law I supported is helping expand internet access needed for rural health clinics to provide telehealth services, including diagnosis and prescribing medicine. I’ve also joined a bipartisan effort to push for an expansion of Medicare coverage for telehealth services and make permanent pandemic-era telehealth flexibilities. I’ll continue pushing to lower barriers to care and raise awareness so that the one in eight women diagnosed with breast cancer survives and thrives to enjoy a high quality of life for years to come.
    October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Free or low-cost screening services are available for eligible recipients, learn more at https://www.cdc.gov/breast-cervical-cancer-screening/about/screenings.html#IA

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Natural Gas Producer Agrees to Settlement to Reduce Emissions in New Mexico

    Source: United States Attorneys General 7

    Settlement Includes $9.4M Civil Penalty and Compliance Measures that Will Result in Reduction of Over 113,000 Tons’ Worth of CO2 Pollution

    The Justice Department, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) today announced a settlement with Hilcorp Energy Company resolving Clean Air Act and New Mexico state law violations at the company’s oil and gas production operations in New Mexico.

    Under the settlement, Hilcorp agreed to pay a civil penalty of $9.4 million for violations resulting from Hilcorp’s failure to reduce emissions during well completion operations. The civil penalty will be split between the U.S. and the State of New Mexico. In addition, the company must employ an EPA-approved third-party auditor to ensure compliance with all applicable Clean Air Act and New Mexico Air Quality Control Act requirements.

    Hilcorp is further directed to account for the excess volatile organic compound (VOC) and methane emissions released through improper well completions by replacing, on a faster timeline than federal regulations require, old process control equipment with equipment that does not emit air pollution. This mitigation project will occur on Tribal lands of the Jicarilla Apache Nation Reservation, in Rio Arriba County, and on Navajo Nation Off-Reservation Trust Land in San Juan and Sandoval counties; all of these areas have potential environmental justice concerns.

    The work that Hilcorp will do under this agreement will result in the equivalent of over 113,000 tons of reduced carbon dioxide emissions over the next three years, similar to the number of reductions achieved by taking 24,000 cars off the road for one year. The settlement will also eliminate nearly 583 tons of VOC emissions annually.

    The case is the first to address violations of the Clean Air Act New Source Performance Standards covering well completions following hydraulic fracturing, commonly referred to as “fracking.”

    “Hilcorp is a large, sophisticated natural gas producer and should know better than to violate Clean Air Act requirements to capture and control gas produced as a result of fracking,” said Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “We are committed to upholding the rule of law and holding industry accountable. Today’s settlement importantly includes commitments to make infrastructure upgrades that will result in significant reductions of methane and VOC emissions.”

    “Oil and gas production results in significant air pollution, including emissions of methane that are one of the leading sources of near-term climate change, which makes today’s settlement with Hilcorp Energy a huge win for the environment and the planet,” said Assistant Administrator David M. Uhlmann of EPA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “EPA is requiring Hilcorp to pay a $9.4 million penalty and make substantial investments in Clean Air Act compliance, which will reduce climate damaging emissions and improve air quality for all New Mexico residents, including communities with environmental justice concerns.”

    “This settlement holds one of the San Juan Basin’s largest polluters accountable for their contribution to climate change and ozone pollution,” said Secretary James Kenney of the New Mexico Environment Department. “If we want to make New Mexico’s air safe for future generations then Houston-based Hilcorp Energy Corporation executives need to step up their game and comply with federal and state rules.”

    Federal Clean Air Act and New Mexico state air regulations require oil and gas producers to capture gas that flows back to the surface following fracking using equipment that can accommodate flowback and to implement a reduced emission completion control, commonly referred to as a green completion. Producers have several green completion options to choose from. If none are technically feasible, producers may route the captured gas to a pollution control device like a flare.

    Based on EPA’s and NMED’s investigations, the U.S. and the state allege that Hilcorp conducted at least 192 well completion operations in Rio Arriba and San Juan counties from Aug. 2, 2017, through Aug. 1, 2019.

    At 145 of these well completions, Hilcorp captured none of the gas and instead released into the atmosphere all gas that flowed back following fracking. At the remainder of well completions, Hilcorp captured a portion of the gas and directed it to a flare but did not demonstrate that all green completion options were infeasible. Hilcorp’s actions resulted in thousands of tons of harmful methane and VOC emissions being released into the environment. Methane is a climate super pollutant and potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change, and VOCs adversely affect human health in multiple ways, including being involved in the formation of ground level ozone.

    Hilcorp is one of the nation’s largest privately-owned oil and gas exploration and production companies, and a top producer of natural gas in New Mexico from 2018-2021. New Mexico is one of the top ten producing states for natural gas in the United States for 2018-2023. In 2022, on-shore oil and gas industry data reported to EPA showed that Hilcorp’s San Juan Basin operation emitted the most methane in the U.S. among all oil and gas operations.

    The settlement is part of EPA’s Mitigating Climate Change National Enforcement and Compliance Initiative, which focuses, in part, on reducing methane emissions from oil and gas and landfill sources. Like all EPA’s national enforcement initiatives, the Mitigating Climate Change initiative prioritizes communities already overburdened by pollution and other potential environmental justice concerns.

    More information on the settlement agreement is available on EPA’s Hilcorp Energy Company webpage.

    The consent decree was filed with the U.S. District Court for the District of New Mexico and is subject to a 30-day comment period. Information on providing public comment and the complaint and proposed consent decree are available on the Justice Department’s website at http://www.justice.gov/enrd/consent-decrees.

    EPA and NMED investigated the case.

    Attorneys of the Environment and Natural Resources Division’s Environmental Enforcement Section are handling the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth Visits Chicago State University to Discuss Efforts to Support Student Parents

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth
    October 17, 2024
    [CHICAGO, IL] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today visited Chicago State University (CSU) to tour their campus child care center and meet with Chicago Alderwoman Michelle Harris, Illinois State Representative Marcus Evans Jr. (IL-HD-33), CSU leadership and parents. Last month, Duckworth reintroduced her Child Care Access Means Parents in Schools (CCAMPIS) Reauthorization Act, legislation which builds on her previous efforts to help increase access to on-campus child care for the more than 4 million parenting students currently enrolled in postsecondary education programs. Duckworth and University leadership also discussed funding for CSU, including $800,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending Duckworth secured for the University. Photos from today’s visit are available on the Senator’s website. “As college costs continue to skyrocket, we can’t simply stay on the sidelines as it gets even harder for parenting students to afford higher education,” said Duckworth. “The more than 4 million college students who are also raising children already have enough to worry about—child care should not be one of them. It was great to visit Chicago State today and see the University’s efforts to support its students to help them provide a better, stronger future for their families.”  The CCAMPIS Reauthorization Act would help increase the rate of parenting students attending postsecondary education by reauthorizing and fully funding the only federal program that exclusively supports on-campus child care services and ensure the U.S. Department of Education is meeting the needs of parenting students. Duckworth originally introduced this legislation when she was in the U.S. House of Representatives. In Fiscal Year 2023, Duckworth secured $800,000 in federal funding through a Congressionally Directed Spending Request for Chicago State University. This federal investment supported redesigning the CSU curriculum and increasing access to the internet by improving and expanding computer facilities. In August, Duckworth and U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) secured $22.7 million for the Strengthening Predominately Black Institutions (PBI) program as a part of their Illinois priorities for FY25 advancing through the Senate Appropriations Committee. This funding will support the Strengthening PBIs program by helping to expand their capacity to serve low- and middle-income students, especially Black students. Chicago State University is a PBI. Chicago State University is a predominantly black public university in Chicago. It includes an honors program for undergraduates, and offers bachelors and masters degrees in the arts and sciences. CSU was founded in 1867 as the Cook County Normal School, an innovative teachers college. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Q&A: Breast Cancer – 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed in her lifetime

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
    Q: Is early detection and treatment for breast cancer moving in the right direction?
    A: As a lead sponsor of the bipartisan Breast and Cervical Cancer Treatment Act of 2000, I’m glad to see measurable strides indicating early detection and breast screenings are helping to lower female death rates from breast cancer. The 24-year-old federal law expanded on earlier legislation that directed the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to create the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP). Our bill allowed states to offer patients diagnosed with cancer under this federal program to access treatment services through Medicaid. It provides a lifeline of hope for tens of thousands of patients who otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford timely access to cancer screening, diagnostics and treatment. In 2023, the federal program provided cancer screening and diagnostic services to 273,989 women, diagnosing 1,761 invasive breast cancers. Although we’ve made progress in the battle against breast cancer, more work remains. The National Cancer Institute estimates 310,720 Americans will be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2024 and 42,250 people will lose their battle to the disease. The CDC says breast cancer is still the second most common cancer among women in the United States, following skin cancer diagnoses. Breast cancer also is the second leading cause of cancer death among women, following only lung cancer. Raising public awareness is central to advancing strides for life-saving prevention, detection and treatment.
    Losing a beloved mother, wife, aunt or sister to breast cancer is a devastating loss to families in communities across the country. I encourage Iowans to check in with their loved ones. Take advantage of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month to prompt a friend or family member to make their screening appointment. Non-invasive mammography screenings can alert health care providers long before symptoms arise. A recent FDA rule requires mammography facilities to include a breast density assessment as part of a patient’s medical report. Having this information can help lead to better patient outcomes. My wife Barbara is a 37-year breast cancer survivor. She credits early detection for putting her on the road to healing and recovery.
    Q: What efforts have you led to help cancer patients survive and thrive?
    A: From my consistent support for breast cancer research, including the Department of Defense Breast Cancer Research Program, I also steered bipartisan legislation across the finish line to enact the Lymphedema Treatment Act that closes a coverage gap for Medicare patients for physician-prescribed compression therapy items, including for breast cancer survivors. I’m a vocal champion for rural health care initiatives to ensure patients in Rural America aren’t left behind, such as expanded medical residency positions to grow Iowa’s health care workforce and efforts to strengthen stability and security for rural hospitals and clinics that are the safety net providers for millions of Americans. From the Senate Finance Committee, which has jurisdiction over federal health care programs, I champion policies to help ensure rural hospitals, local pharmacies and health care clinics keep their doors open for the community. I also keep the spotlight shining on market-driven solutions to reduce drug costs and lower barriers to care, such as expanding telehealth services and cutting red tape for kids with complex medical needs. Oncology patients can avoid the expense and tiring experience of a long road trip by seeing health care providers via the convenience and flexibility provided by a telehealth appointment. The bipartisan infrastructure law I supported is helping expand internet access needed for rural health clinics to provide telehealth services, including diagnosis and prescribing medicine. I’ve also joined a bipartisan effort to push for an expansion of Medicare coverage for telehealth services and make permanent pandemic-era telehealth flexibilities. I’ll continue pushing to lower barriers to care and raise awareness so that the one in eight women diagnosed with breast cancer survives and thrives to enjoy a high quality of life for years to come.
    October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Free or low-cost screening services are available for eligible recipients, learn more at https://www.cdc.gov/breast-cervical-cancer-screening/about/screenings.html#IA

    MIL OSI USA News –