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Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI USA: Trahan, Huffman Demand Answers on DOGE’s Unchecked Access to Sensitive DOI Data Amid Growing Security Concerns

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Lori Trahan (D-MA-03)

    LOWELL, MA – Today, Congresswoman Lori Trahan (MA-03) and House Natural Resources Committee Ranking Member Jared Huffman (CA-02) urged Department of Interior Secretary Burgum to revoke DOGE officials’ access to his agency’s critical technology systems and sensitive data.
    “We are deeply concerned by recent reports that you provided at least three DOGE-affiliated individuals—Tyler Hassen, Stephanie Holmes, and Katrine Trampe—with unfettered access to the IBC’s FPPS system,” the lawmakers wrote. “These reports indicate that you granted this access despite significant concerns expressed by senior career DOI officials, including the Chief Information Officer and Chief Information Security Officer, who raised alarms in a risk assessment memorandum. According to the memorandum, DOGE’s access requests were unprecedented and posed significant cybersecurity, operational, and legal risks–including potential violations of the Privacy Act of 1974, which may carry criminal penalties. Rather than addressing these concerns, you reportedly placed these officials on administrative leave and later terminated them.”
    In March, public reporting indicated that staffers affiliated with DOGE received access to critical technology systems at DOI. Secretary Burgum decided to grant unprecedented access to at least three DOGE officials against the objections of senior career staffers, who were summarily placed on administrative leave and later terminated. One of these systems is the Federal Personnel and Payroll System (FPPS), which stores troves of sensitive personnel data and supports the payroll operations of more than 50 agencies.
    In the lawmakers’ letter, they warn about the major cybersecurity and privacy risks that access to systems including FPPS needlessly creates. They also call attention to the risk of imperiling the operations of dozens of agencies that rely on shared software systems built and maintained by DOI.
    “That level of access, reportedly exceeding even that of DOI’s Chief Information Officer (CIO), is
    deeply troubling. It creates exactly the kind of cybersecurity, operational, and privacy vulnerabilities that the experienced civil servants warned about in their risk assessment memo and sought to prevent. These individuals now have access that could allow, among other things, the exfiltration of data to unknown and unprotected destinations, the deletion of records and logs, the modification of system code or data, and the ability to grant the same capabilities to others,” the lawmakers warned.
    A copy of the letter sent today can be accessed HERE.
    This request builds on Trahan’s investigation into the Trump Administration’s unprecedented attempt to centralize Americans’ personal data, including information held by federal agencies like the Treasury Department and the National Labor Relations Board as well as state-held data used to administer benefits programs like SNAP and Medicaid. In March, Trahan announced that she will be introducing legislation to rewrite the Privacy Act for the first time since its passage in 1974.
    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Trahan, Huffman Demand Answers on DOGE’s Unchecked Access to Sensitive DOI Data Amid Growing Security Concerns

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Lori Trahan (D-MA-03)

    LOWELL, MA – Today, Congresswoman Lori Trahan (MA-03) and House Natural Resources Committee Ranking Member Jared Huffman (CA-02) urged Department of Interior Secretary Burgum to revoke DOGE officials’ access to his agency’s critical technology systems and sensitive data.
    “We are deeply concerned by recent reports that you provided at least three DOGE-affiliated individuals—Tyler Hassen, Stephanie Holmes, and Katrine Trampe—with unfettered access to the IBC’s FPPS system,” the lawmakers wrote. “These reports indicate that you granted this access despite significant concerns expressed by senior career DOI officials, including the Chief Information Officer and Chief Information Security Officer, who raised alarms in a risk assessment memorandum. According to the memorandum, DOGE’s access requests were unprecedented and posed significant cybersecurity, operational, and legal risks–including potential violations of the Privacy Act of 1974, which may carry criminal penalties. Rather than addressing these concerns, you reportedly placed these officials on administrative leave and later terminated them.”
    In March, public reporting indicated that staffers affiliated with DOGE received access to critical technology systems at DOI. Secretary Burgum decided to grant unprecedented access to at least three DOGE officials against the objections of senior career staffers, who were summarily placed on administrative leave and later terminated. One of these systems is the Federal Personnel and Payroll System (FPPS), which stores troves of sensitive personnel data and supports the payroll operations of more than 50 agencies.
    In the lawmakers’ letter, they warn about the major cybersecurity and privacy risks that access to systems including FPPS needlessly creates. They also call attention to the risk of imperiling the operations of dozens of agencies that rely on shared software systems built and maintained by DOI.
    “That level of access, reportedly exceeding even that of DOI’s Chief Information Officer (CIO), is
    deeply troubling. It creates exactly the kind of cybersecurity, operational, and privacy vulnerabilities that the experienced civil servants warned about in their risk assessment memo and sought to prevent. These individuals now have access that could allow, among other things, the exfiltration of data to unknown and unprotected destinations, the deletion of records and logs, the modification of system code or data, and the ability to grant the same capabilities to others,” the lawmakers warned.
    A copy of the letter sent today can be accessed HERE.
    This request builds on Trahan’s investigation into the Trump Administration’s unprecedented attempt to centralize Americans’ personal data, including information held by federal agencies like the Treasury Department and the National Labor Relations Board as well as state-held data used to administer benefits programs like SNAP and Medicaid. In March, Trahan announced that she will be introducing legislation to rewrite the Privacy Act for the first time since its passage in 1974.
    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Broselow Pediatric Emergency Rainbow Tape Recall: AirLife Removes Certain Broselow Pediatric Emergency Rainbow Tapes due to Misprinted Information

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

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

    What to Do
    On May 15, AirLife sent all affected customers a letter recommending the following actions:

    Examine your inventory for affected product.
    Quarantine all affected product in inventory. 
    Immediately stop use of affected product or product that has been removed from the outer bulk labeling (e.g. included on a Broselow Color-code Cart) with version “AirLife brand, 2025 Edition, and 36-23446 Rev 2 Print Version.”  
    If you have further distributed this product, please identify your customers/consignees and notify them of this product removal. 
    Please make sure that all affected personnel in your organization are informed of this removal notice. 

    Reason for Recall
    AirLife stated that certain lots of Broselow Rainbow Tapes have been manufactured with incorrect information on the tape. Incorrect values are printed in the Red zone, Orange zone, and Grey zone.
    Incorrect joules in the cardioversion and defibrillation section are printed in the Red zone of the tape. Using the incorrect information in this section for cardioversion and defibrillation could lead to shocking a patient with an excessive dose of joules, causing potential significant harm including burns, heart damage, and cardiac arrest.
    Incorrect sodium bicarbonate concentration information is printed in the Orange zone of the tape. Using the incorrect information in this section may lead to overdosing the patient and may cause metabolic alkalosis, electrolyte imbalances, tissue damage, and potentially worsen respiratory status.
    Incorrect sodium bicarbonate concentration information is printed in the Grey zone of the tape. Using the incorrect information in this section may lead to underdosing the patient and may cause reduced myocardial contractility, decreased response to vasopressors, and increased risk of dysrhythmia.
    AirLife has not reported any serious injuries or deaths associated with this issue.
    Device Use
    The Broselow Rainbow Tape is a color-coded length-based tape measure. A child’s height, measured on the tape, corresponds to a color zone and a weight range. This color zone provides pre-calculated information for medication dosages, equipment sizes, and other relevant emergency procedures. It reduces the time needed to calculate dosages and equipment sizes in a critical emergency.
    Contact Information
    Customers in the U.S. with adverse reactions, quality problems, or questions about this recall should contact AirLife at productquality@myairlife.com or 1-800-433-2797.
    Additional FDA Resources (listed in order of most to least recent):

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

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

    Content current as of:
    07/09/2025

    Regulated Product(s)

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Infant Breathing System Recall: AirLife/Vyaire Removes Infant Heated Wire Circuits Due to Risk for Inadvertent Adapter Disconnection During Ventilation

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

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

    Image A: Adaptors provided in the accessory bag of the AirLife Infant Heated Wire Circuit.

    Product Description
    Individual UDI
    Case UDI

    AirLife Infant Heated Wire Circuit dual-limb dual-heat, highflow circuit (>4L/min)/AH165 (AirLife)
    10889483595862
    30889483595866

    AirLife Infant Heated Wire Circuit dual-limb dual-heat, highflow circuit (>4L/min)/AH165 (Vyaire)
    10190752145139
    50190752145137

    0004240347000424034800042520210004253194000425347000042551760004260100000426218300042629870004263371000429207700043000920004301668

    Product Description
    Individual UDI
    Case UDI

    AirLife Infant Heated Wire Circuit Kit Dual-limb, Dual-heat, high-flow circuit (>4 L/min), Contains AH165 and Circuit, AH290 Chamber/AH265 (AirLife)
    10889483595909
    30889483595903

    AirLife Infant Heated Wire Circuit Kit Dual-limb, Dual-heat, high-flow circuit (>4 L/min), Contains AH165 and Circuit, AH290 Chamber/AH265 (Vyaire)
    10190752145160
    50190752145168

    0004247924000424792500042529400004252941000425629200042562930004256294000425629500042723250004272868000427897800042791560004280036000428530400042880360004289514

    What to Do

    Do not use affected devices with the adapter connections from the accessory bag of the AirLife Infant Heated Wire Circuit. 
    Immediately stop using any devices that are connected using these adapters.
    If the adapter connection is not being used with the device, you may continue to use it. 

    On April 10, 2025, AirLife and legal manufacturer Vyaire sent all affected customers an Urgent Medical Device Recall letter recommending the following actions: 

    Examine inventory for affected lots. 
    Quarantine all affected product. 
    Make sure all affected personnel are aware of this recall notification. 
    For in-use products: 

    Stop use of affected product if adapter connections are used in the circuit.
    Continue using affected product if the adapter connections are NOT being used with the device. 
    Perform frequent checks on ventilator settings, tubing, and connections to ensure they are firmly tight, secure, and functioning properly. 
    Make sure all alarms for pressure, flow, and disconnection are activated and monitor the patient’s respiratory parameters closely. 
    Keep backup ventilation and/or manual resuscitation devices should be available at the bedside for emergent situations.
    Monitor oxygen saturation (Sp02), heart rate, and respiratory rate to make sure clinicians are alerted to any adverse event. 

    Before use:

    Test the circuit by blocking the patient connection port and pressure testing it to ensure that there are no leaks.

    Complete and return the Response Form attached to the letter. 
    Notify any customers/consignees who may have received affected product.
    Call AirLife directly at 1-800-433-2797 if replacement products are needed urgently. 

    Reason for Recall
    AirLife and legal manufacturer Vyaire are recalling certain Infant Heated Wire Circuits due to the risk that accessory adapters provided with the product may unintentionally disconnect during setup or use when the circuit reaches operating temperature.
    Use of the affected product may cause serious adverse health consequences, including lack of oxygen to the body (hypoxia), carbon dioxide build-up in the blood (hypercapnia), organ failure and death.  
    To date, Airlife and Vyaire have reported no serious injuries or deaths associated with this issue.
    Device Use
    AirLife Infant Heated Wire Circuits are used during ventilation support to warm breathing gases before they enter a patient’s airway. They are used in neonatal and infant patients and function as a conduit for respiratory gas between the patient and a ventilator.
    Contact Information
    Customers in the U.S. with questions about this recall should contact AirLife at 1-800-433-2797 or productquality@myairlife.com. 
    Additional FDA Resources (listed in order of most to least recent):

    FDA’s Enforcement Report

    Medical Device Recall Database

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

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

    Content current as of:
    07/09/2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Kehoe Signs Education and Workforce Development Bills into Law

    Source: US State of Missouri

    JULY 9, 2025

    Jefferson City — Today, during a bill signing ceremony at the Missouri State Capitol, Governor Mike Kehoe signed eight bills into law: House Bills (HB) 296 and 419, and Senate Bills (SB) 49, 63, 68, 150, and 160, and Senate Concurrent Resolution (SCR) 3.

    “From implementing distraction-free classrooms to expanding school safety efforts, the legislation signed into law this afternoon impacts both K-12 students and Missourians pursuing higher and career technical education,” said Governor Kehoe. “We are proud to join the General Assembly in supporting these wins for Missouri schools, students, and teachers.”

    HB 296, sponsored by Representative Jim Kalberloh and Senator Rusty Black, modifies provisions relating to school personnel.

    • Expands substitute teaching eligibility for retired teachers.
    • Requires background checks to be conducted on all personnel employed by charter schools, consistent with public school requirements.
    • Raises the age for driver’s license renewal exams for school bus-endorsed drivers from 70 to 75 and adjusts the renewal requirements from annual to biennial.

    HB 419, sponsored by Representative Don Mayhew and Senator Sandy Crawford, modifies several provisions relating to education.

    • Requires the Missouri State High School Activities Association to waive the minimum practice requirement for all students who are active-duty military, including active-duty Army National Guard and Army Reserve.
    • Establishes a separate custodial account with the State Treasurer to deposit the moneys from the University of Missouri’s Seminary Fund to support agricultural programs at the University and general operations at Missouri University of Science and Technology.
    • Expands healthcare workforce recruitment by giving the Department of Health and Senior Services flexibility to approve more medical training programs for loan repayment

    SB 49, sponsored by Senator Rusty Black and Representative Brad Banderman, authorizes school districts and charter schools to employ or accept chaplains as volunteers.

    SB 63, sponsored by Senator Ben Brown and Representative Dirk Deaton, allows homeschool students to participate in school activities within their respective district, requires an intent to homeschool declaration, and exempts Family Paced Education from background clearance check requirements.

    SB 68, sponsored by Senator Mike Henderson and Representative Bill Allen, creates, repeals, and modifies provisions relating to elementary and secondary education.

    • Directs all school districts and charter schools to implement a written policy, starting in the 2025-26 school year, banning the use or display of students’ electronic personal communication devices throughout the day – including during class, meals, breaks, and study hall.
    • Improves school safety measures including:
      • Requires cardiopulmonary resuscitation training.
      • Requires school districts and charter schools to adopt a comprehensive emergency operations plan covering school safety, emergency response, prevention, and recovery.
      • Directs districts to designate a primary and secondary school safety coordinator and defines the job duties, trainings, and expectations for this position.
      • Requires local educational agencies report all school safety incidents and credible threats to DESE. DESE will maintain a regularly updated database of these incidents and threats and share this data with DPS.
    • Expands the Teacher Recruitment and Retention Scholarship to cover educational costs related to teacher preparation.

    SB 150, sponsored by Senator Jill Carter and Representative Ann Kelley, creates, repeals, and modifies provisions relating to workforce development initiatives.

    • Creates a temporary license that allows childcare providers currently licensed and in good standing to expand their current operations while the additional licensure requirements are being completed.
    • Raises the Access Missouri financial assistance award for students attending public two- and four-year institutions.
    • Expands the eligible use of the A+ Scholarship program to include career-technical education certificates offered outside traditional higher education settings, effective for the 2026-2027 school year.

    SB 160, sponsored by Senator Brad Hudson and Representative Darin Chappell, establishes provisions relating to educational institutions.

    • Establishes the Missouri Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair (CROWN) Act to prevent discrimination based on a person’s hair texture or protective hairstyle if commonly associated with a particular race or origin in elementary and secondary educational institutions.
    • Prohibits higher education institutions from taking adverse action against a student group due to the group’s beliefs or of its leaders.
    • Establishes Danny’s Law, which provides limited immunity to individuals who participated in hazing when they contacted authorities, sought immediate medical attention, provided necessary information to authorities, and remained on scene to assist the victim until authorities arrived.
    • Authorizes Missouri State University to offer research PhDs degrees in disciplines other than engineering and Bachelors of Science in Veterinary Medicine.

    SCR 3, sponsored by Senator Jill Carter and Representative Cathy Lo Joy, expands the mission of Missouri Southern State University from operating as a statewide institution of international or global education to also include health and life sciences and immersive learning experiences.

    For more information on the legislation and additional provisions signed into law, visit house.mo.gov and senate.mo.gov. Photos from the bill signing will be uploaded to Governor Kehoe’s Flickr page. Additional bill signings will continue to take place over the next several days. For more information on the bill signings, view Governor Kehoe’s schedule.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Thirsty future: Australia’s green hydrogen targets could require vastly more water than the government hopes

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Madoc Sheehan, Adjunct Associate Professor in Chemical Engineering, James Cook University

    totajla/Shutterstock

    Green hydrogen is touted by some as the future – a way for Australia to slowly replace its reliance on fossil fuel exports. The energy-dense gas has the potential to reduce emissions in sectors challenging to decarbonise, such as steelmaking and fertiliser manufacturing.

    The Albanese government wants it to be a massive new export industry and has laid out a pathway through its National Hydrogen Strategy.

    Unfortunately, there’s a real gap between rhetoric and reality. Despite ambitious plans, no green hydrogen project has yet succeeded in Australia. The technology’s most prominent local backer, billionaire miner Twiggy Forrest, has dialled down his ambition. Globally, just 7% of announced green hydrogen projects are up and running.

    Economic viability is one problem. But there’s a much larger issue flying under the radar: water. Hitting the 2050 target of 15 million to 30 million tonnes of hydrogen a year would use 7–15% of the amount Australia’s households, farms, mines and black coal power plants use annually. That’s simply not sustainable.

    Splitting water

    Green hydrogen uses renewable energy to power electrolyser machines, which split water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen.

    On the surface, this is an appealing use of clean energy, especially during solar peak periods.

    But what the government hasn’t properly accounted for is the water cost for green hydrogen. The strategy states water use is likely to be “considerable but not prohibitive”.

    This is questionable. For every kilogram of hydrogen produced through electrolysis, nine litres of water are directly consumed.

    That’s not all. The water needed to make hydrogen has to be extremely pure. Salt water has to be desalinated, and even fresh water needs purification. Equipment also needs cooling, which consumes even more water.

    All these processes incur substantial indirect water losses, such as the water used for industrial processes and cooling. The volumes used are highly uncertain. They can be up to 20 times greater than the direct water use.

    A key input value for the government’s hydrogen strategy modelling is taken from a 2015 report by the Argonne National Energy Laboratory in the United States, which assumes each kilogram of green hydrogen produced requires just over 30 litres of water.

    The Australian hydrogen strategy suggests 30 litres per kilogram of hydrogen would cover “all system losses including purification processes and cooling water required”. But it’s not clear if this figure covers other uses of water in making hydrogen, such as water treatment.

    Green hydrogen could help industrial sectors transition from fossil fuels. The problem is the water use.
    Audio und werbung/Shutterstock

    How much water would this use?

    According to the government’s modelling, making 15 million tonnes would require 740 billion litres of water. That would be about 7% of the 10,450 billion litres used by all of Australia’s households, farms, mines and black coal power plants.

    The government’s National Hydrogen Strategy shows the water use by major industries. Their total water use is 10,450 gigalitres annually.
    Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water

    That’s substantial. One and a half Sydney Harbours worth, every year. But it might be a major underestimate. After all, estimates on indirect water use differ widely. The government’s figures are at the very bottom of the range.

    For instance, the latest research gives water consumption figures of about 66 litres per kilogram – more than twice as large. Other sources give values between 90 and 300 litres per kilogram of hydrogen – three to ten times higher.

    Uncertainty in modelling is normal. But the wide research suggesting much higher water use should give rise to real concern.

    If we take a middle-of-the-range figure of 95 litres per kilogram, this would mean that making 15 million tonnes of green hydrogen would use up 22% of the 10,450 billion litres used by households, farms, mines and black coal power plants annually by 2050.

    If hydrogen was even thirstier at 310 litres per kilogram, that would translate to 72% of that figure.

    These estimates are enormous. Even under the most optimistic scenario, the draw on Australia’s scarce freshwater resources would simply be too much. Where would this water come from? Farmers? Groundwater? Environmental flows from rivers?

    As the Queensland Farmers Federation pointed out in its response to the hydrogen strategy, the figures on water use “beg the question if they are in fact sustainable”.

    The Water Services Association of Australia has called for much greater attention to the water demands of green hydrogen, which it says are “often seriously underestimated”.

    What about saltwater? Australia has no shortage of oceans. The problem here becomes energy and wastewater. Desalination is still very energy intensive. Converting saltwater to fresh also produces large volumes of super-salty brine, which must then be managed as waste.

    Which way forward?

    Does this mean green hydrogen is a non-starter? Not necessarily. Improved electrolyser technology might offer ways to slash water use, while circular economy approaches such as resource recovery from brine could also reduce losses.

    But these concerns about water must be front and centre in future discussions about the shape and size of the industry in Australia.

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

    – ref. Thirsty future: Australia’s green hydrogen targets could require vastly more water than the government hopes – https://theconversation.com/thirsty-future-australias-green-hydrogen-targets-could-require-vastly-more-water-than-the-government-hopes-252044

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: We interviewed 205 Australians convicted of murder and manslaughter. Alcohol’s role was alarming

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Li Eriksson, Senior Lecturer, School of Criminology and Criminal Justice, Griffith University

    We’ve long known there’s a link between alcohol and violence, but when it comes to homicide the stories behind the statistics are harder to grasp.

    Our study sheds rare light on what actually happens when drinking precedes killing, because it draws not just on police or court records but on the first-hand accounts of convicted offenders.

    We interviewed 205 Australian men and women across Australia aged between 15 and 65 at the time of homicide and 20 to 71 when interviewed.

    Nearly half (43%) said they’d been drinking immediately before committing the act. While levels of intoxication varied, many described being heavily under the influence at the time.

    One man, when asked about his alcohol consumption, stated he had drunk “shitloads” before the incident occurred, adding he intended to “write (himself) off” that night.

    The study offers a disturbing but important window into the realities of alcohol-involved homicide.

    What do we know about alcohol and homicide?

    Most of our knowledge about homicide and alcohol comes from police reports, forensic toxicology and court proceedings. These are useful but limited. They often lack detail about how much was consumed, when and in what context.

    Self-report data – what offenders themselves say about their state of mind and substance use – add depth to this picture.

    While not without its flaws (memory and honesty being obvious concerns), such data helps us understand the psychological and situational dynamics of homicide better than numbers alone.

    What the study found

    Of the 205 homicide offenders interviewed, those who had been drinking prior to the offence shared some distinct characteristics.

    Alcohol-involved homicides were more likely to occur at night, happen in public places such as pubs or parks, involve older offenders, and be committed with knives.

    Interestingly, these cases weren’t necessarily the result of long-planned acts.

    Rather, they had many markers of impulsivity – spontaneous, emotionally charged and often reactive violence.

    Alcohol’s impact here could have played a role, as our study found drinkers and non-drinkers had similar self-control levels.

    Self-control is the ability to manage impulses, emotions and actions in pursuit of long-term goals and is typically seen as a buffer against offending.

    This suggests alcohol may overpower people’s behaviour even if they boast moderate impulse control.

    Why chronic alcohol problems matter

    The strongest predictor of alcohol-involved homicide wasn’t age, gender, or criminal history. It was whether the offender had ongoing problems with alcohol misuse.

    This points to the deeply entrenched nature of alcohol dependence and its capacity to fuel extreme violence. It also has clear implications for prevention.

    Tackling long-term alcohol abuse isn’t just a health issue – it’s a public safety issue.

    The data suggest that had some of these people received support or intervention earlier, lives may have been saved.

    More than a disinhibitor?

    We often think of alcohol as a “disinhibitor” – something that lowers self-control and makes people do things they wouldn’t otherwise do.

    That’s true to an extent but this study highlights the story is more complex.

    Many of these homicides didn’t happen because someone simply “lost control”, they happened in a context shaped by years of alcohol misuse, patterns of violence and social disadvantage.

    In some cases, alcohol didn’t cause the violence, it gave it an opportunity.

    What can we do?

    Understanding the characteristics of alcohol-involved homicide can help shape more effective crime prevention strategies.

    Some takeaways include:

    • Early intervention: addressing problem drinking before it escalates into chronic misuse is critical. This includes better screening, treatment programs and community-based support services.

    • Night-time and public place policing: since these homicides are more likely to happen in public at night, there may be a role for targeted interventions in high-risk locations—especially around bars, clubs and events where alcohol flows freely.

    • Knife crime prevention: the strong association with knife use suggests we also need to examine how accessible knives are in public settings and educate people about the risks of carrying them.

    Looking to the future

    This research doesn’t offer easy solutions but it does reinforce a vital truth: preventing homicide isn’t just about catching violent people, it’s about understanding the conditions that make violence more likely.

    By listening to those who’ve committed the ultimate crime, we might just learn how to help better prevent it from happening in the first place.

    Anna Hartley, science communicator at Griffith University, contributed to this article.

    Li Eriksson has received research funding from the Australian Institute of Criminology, Queensland Corrective Services, and Queensland Police Service.

    Paul Mazerolle received funding from the Australian Research Council to support research which informed this article..

    Richard Wortley and Samara McPhedran do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. We interviewed 205 Australians convicted of murder and manslaughter. Alcohol’s role was alarming – https://theconversation.com/we-interviewed-205-australians-convicted-of-murder-and-manslaughter-alcohols-role-was-alarming-259794

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China, Egypt should continuously simplify trade and investment procedures: Chinese Premier

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    CAIRO, July 9 (Xinhua) — China and Egypt should continuously simplify bilateral trade and investment procedures, strengthen industrial connectivity and market connectivity, and strive for higher-level mutually beneficial and win-win cooperation, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said in Cairo on Wednesday.

    Li Qiang made the remarks during a meeting with Hanafi Ali El-Gebali, Speaker of the Egyptian House of Representatives (lower house of parliament). The Chinese premier is on an official visit to Egypt at the invitation of Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly.

    Although China and Egypt are geographically far from each other, the friendship between the two countries has a long history, Li Qiang pointed out.

    According to him, since the establishment of bilateral diplomatic relations, the traditional Chinese-Egyptian friendship remains unchanged no matter how the international situation changes, and the dynamics of bilateral ties and cooperation continue to grow, demonstrating powerful internal energy.

    China is willing to further develop the traditional friendship with Egypt, strengthen political mutual trust, firmly support each other on issues related to the two sides’ core interests and major concerns, continuously elevate China-Egypt relations to new heights and achieve new results in bilateral cooperation, bringing more benefits to the peoples of both countries, Li Qiang stressed.

    He also called on both sides to maintain friendly exchanges between the legislative bodies of the two countries, strengthen political communication, share experiences in public administration and continuously improve mutual understanding.

    Noting that China is willing to deepen the alignment of development strategies with Egypt, the Chinese premier said the two sides should carry out high-quality cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative and utilize the Forum on China-Arab States Cooperation and the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation to steadily improve the quality of economic and trade cooperation between the two countries.

    Li Qiang pointed out that the two sides should cooperate in ensuring the sustainable operation of major bilateral projects, continuously simplify bilateral trade and investment procedures, strengthen industrial connectivity and market connectivity, and expand cooperation in emerging areas such as the digital economy and green development, so as to achieve a higher level of mutual benefit and win-win results.

    China hopes to maintain close communication and coordination with Egypt within the framework of mechanisms such as the UN, BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, promote joint efforts by all parties to safeguard the basic norms of international relations and the multilateral trading system, so as to inject more positive energy into world peace and development, the Chinese leader added. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Drug Treatment Court Proceedings are Officially Underway in North Battleford

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on July 9, 2025

    The Battlefords Drug Treatment Court is now in Session 

    This June, the first sitting of drug treatment court was held in North Battleford Provincial Court. The program, an expansion of the existing drug treatment courts in Regina and Moose Jaw, will serve the Battlefords and west central Saskatchewan. 

    “Drug treatment courts offer individuals a pathway in recovery rather than incarceration,” Provincial Court of Saskatchewan Chief Judge Shannon Metivier said. “This model of therapeutic justice provides an opportunity to address the underlying issues that bring people into conflict with the law and support lasting change that benefits not only the participants, but their families and communities.” 

    To participate in drug treatment court, offenders must plead guilty to their criminal charges. As an alternative to serving a sentence in custody, participants are instead required to complete 12-18 months of individualized programming with wrap-around services covering addiction, cultural and spiritual guidance, anger management, education, parenting, employment and more. This programming allows participants to overcome obstacles, find sustained sobriety and reunite with loved ones.  

    “The opening of the Battlefords Drug Treatment Court represents another step forward for the strong partnership that the courts and province have built to support residents in overcoming addictions and mental health challenges,” Justice Minister and Attorney General Tim McLeod, K.C., said. “Together we can promote proactive and transformative change that gives individuals the skills they need to create a successful and sustainable future for themselves.” 

    Drug treatment court is just one of three models of therapeutic court in Saskatchewan. There are also domestic violence courts in Regina, Saskatoon and the Battlefords, and mental health courts in Regina and Saskatoon. 

    The drug treatment courts in Moose Jaw and Regina have had over 156 graduates since the program started in 2006.

    “This model has been successful in southern Saskatchewan for almost 20 years, and the Provincial Court is very pleased to now expand the reach to the Battlefords and surrounding communities,” Chief Judge Metivier said.

    Judicial leaders and community stakeholders in the communities of North Battleford and Battleford have been instrumental in building the framework for the new Battlefords Drug Treatment Court. 

    “The Battlefords are full of caring and compassionate leaders,” Health Minister and MLA for the Battlefords Jeremy Cockrill said. “Today, we acknowledge the hard work of a community that has brought us a therapeutic court program that will improve the lives of individuals, families and our entire community for years to come.” 

    The federal government reimburses the province up to $850,000 annually for costs associated with the operation of drug treatment courts.

    “Substance use is a complex social and economic issue,” Federal Minister of Justice and Attorney General Sean Fraser said. “When someone is struggling, they deserve support and the right resources. By investing in the Battlefords Drug Treatment Court, we are strengthening our justice system and helping people get the care they need to recover, break the cycle of drug use, and prevent criminal reoffending. This ongoing support for drug treatment courts not only promotes healing but helps build healthier and safer communities.”

    The province is investing $624 million in mental health and addiction services in the 2025-26 Budget. 

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash, Whitiora

    Source: New Zealand Police

    One person has died following a serious two-vehicle crash at the intersection of Willoughby Street and Mill Street yesterday afternoon.

    Police were called to crash involving a car and dirtbike at around 3:25pm.

    Sadly, the rider of the dirtbike received critical injuries and was transported to hospital where they later died.

    Two young people in the car were transported to hospital with moderate injuries.

    The road was closed while the Serious Crash Unit conducted a scene examination.

    Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Road closed, Otara Road, Opotiki

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Otara Road, Opotiki, is closed following a serious crash.

    At around 7:50am emergency services received reports of the single vehicle crash.

    Motorists are asked to avoid the area.

    Updates will be provided proactively.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Paving project set to start mid-July in Coles Corner area of US 2 near Leavenworth

    Source: Washington State News 2

    LEAVENWORTH – A stretch of US 2 that is a gateway to popular tourist destinations east of Stevens Pass will be repaved starting on Monday, July 14.

    The project will stretch from milepost 78, west of the junction of US 2/State Route 207 Coles Corner, to milepost 89 near Chiwaukum Creek trailhead, west of Leavenworth. Contractor crews working for the Washington State Department of Transportation will resurface the highway’s driving lanes to prevent further deterioration of the pavement. Crews also will perform bridgework near Nason Creek at milepost 81.

    Travelers will encounter single-lane closures and flagger-controlled traffic with a pilot vehicle during working hours.

    Work will occur from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday, July 14. It will switch to nighttime hours from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. beginning Tuesday, July 15, to avoid interfering with a slope-stabilization project on four stretches of US 2 between mileposts 60 and 98 scheduled to begin the same day.

    The paving project is expected to finish in mid-October.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Two Former West Virginia Correctional Officers Sentenced on Federal Civil Rights Charges in Connection with Death of Inmate

    Source: US State of California

    Two former correctional officers from the Southern Regional Jail in Beaver, West Virginia, were sentenced today for their roles in an assault that resulted in the death of a pretrial detainee, identified by the initials Q.B., on March 1, 2022. Mark Holdren, 41, was sentenced to 20 years in prison. Johnathan Walters, 33, was sentenced to 21 years in prison.

    Holdren and Walters had each pleaded guilty to conspiring with other officers to violate inmate Q.B.’s civil rights, resulting in Q.B.’s death. According to court documents filed in connection with the guilty pleas, Holdren responded to a call for officer assistance after Q.B. tried to push past another correctional officer and leave his assigned pod. When Holdren arrived, officers were engaged in restraining Q.B. Holdren began using force against Q.B., including multiple knee-strikes that he knew were unreasonable.

    Holdren and other officers then conspired to violate Q.B.’s civil rights by unlawfully assaulting him as punishment for his attempt to leave the pod. As a part of the conspiracy, Holdren and other officers brought Q.B. to an interview room, where Walters joined them. In the interview room, Holdren and other officers used unreasonable force against Q.B., including striking Q.B. in the head multiple times, kicking, knee-striking him, pulling and twisting his fingers, and using pepper spray, all while Q.B. was restrained, handcuffed and posed no threat to anyone.

    After assaulting Q.B. in the interview room, officers transported him to another pod. During the transport, Q.B. became limp and was unable to walk on his own. Walters and other officers then carried Q.B. by his arms and legs to the pod’s entryway door, where Walters admitted he used unreasonable force to swing Q.B.’s head into the metal door to open the door. Walters and other officers then carried Q.B. into a cell, where they dropped the unresponsive and handcuffed Q.B. onto the concrete floor. Shortly thereafter, responding emergency medical personnel declared that Q.B. was deceased.

    With their guilty pleas, Holdren and Walters each further admitted knowing that the interview room to which officers brought Q.B. was a “blind spot” – meaning, there were no surveillance cameras to record what happened there. Holdren and Walters were aware that, prior to the assault of Q.B. on March 1, 2022, officers would bring inmates, including pretrial detainees, who had engaged in misconduct to “blind spots” in the jail, so that officers could use unreasonable force without being captured on video, thereby avoiding accountability for their actions. Holdren and Walters each further admitted knowing that officers could not use unreasonable force to punish inmates, including pretrial detainees such as Q.B. 

    Holdren and Walters are two of six correctional officers who were indicted in this case. In November 2024, defendant Corey Snyder pleaded guilty in connection with the use of unreasonable force against Q.B., resulting in his death. Jacob Boothe pleaded guilty in August 2024 to failing to intervene to protect Q.B. from the officers’ assault. Sentencing hearings for Snyder and Boothe are scheduled for July 10.

    In August 2024, Ashley Toney pleaded guilty to failing to intervene to protect Q.B. from the officers’ assault. On June 9, U.S. District Court Judge Joseph R. Goodwin sentenced Toney to 78 months in prison.

    On Jan. 27, a federal jury returned a guilty verdict at trial for the sixth indicted defendant, Chad Lester, a former Lieutenant at the Southern Regional Jail, finding him guilty on three obstruction of justice charges for his role in conspiring to cover up the death of Q.B. On May 15, Judge Goodwin sentenced Lester to 210 months in prison.

    Prior to the indictment of the above six defendants, former correctional officers Steven Nicholas Wimmer and Andrew Fleshman each pleaded guilty to conspiring to use unreasonable force against Burks. On May 8, Chief U.S. District Court Judge Frank W. Volk sentenced Wimmer to 108 months in prison. Fleshman is scheduled for sentencing before Judge Volk on July 14.

    Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa G. Johnston for the Southern District of West Virginia made the announcement.

    The FBI Pittsburgh Field Office investigated the case.

    Deputy Chief Christine M. Siscaretti and Trial Attorney Tenette Smith of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division prosecuted the case in partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Department of Justice Subpoenas Doctors and Clinics Involved in Performing Transgender Medical Procedures on Children

    Source: US State of California

    WASHINGTON — Today, the Department of Justice announced that it has sent more than 20 subpoenas to doctors and clinics involved in performing transgender medical procedures on children.

    The Department’s investigations include healthcare fraud, false statements, and more.

    “Medical professionals and organizations that mutilated children in the service of a warped ideology will be held accountable by this Department of Justice.” — Attorney General Pamela Bondi

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Former West Virginia Correctional Officers Sentenced on Federal Civil Rights Charges in Connection with Death of Inmate

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    Two former correctional officers from the Southern Regional Jail in Beaver, West Virginia, were sentenced today for their roles in an assault that resulted in the death of a pretrial detainee, identified by the initials Q.B., on March 1, 2022. Mark Holdren, 41, was sentenced to 20 years in prison. Johnathan Walters, 33, was sentenced to 21 years in prison.

    Holdren and Walters had each pleaded guilty to conspiring with other officers to violate inmate Q.B.’s civil rights, resulting in Q.B.’s death. According to court documents filed in connection with the guilty pleas, Holdren responded to a call for officer assistance after Q.B. tried to push past another correctional officer and leave his assigned pod. When Holdren arrived, officers were engaged in restraining Q.B. Holdren began using force against Q.B., including multiple knee-strikes that he knew were unreasonable.

    Holdren and other officers then conspired to violate Q.B.’s civil rights by unlawfully assaulting him as punishment for his attempt to leave the pod. As a part of the conspiracy, Holdren and other officers brought Q.B. to an interview room, where Walters joined them. In the interview room, Holdren and other officers used unreasonable force against Q.B., including striking Q.B. in the head multiple times, kicking, knee-striking him, pulling and twisting his fingers, and using pepper spray, all while Q.B. was restrained, handcuffed and posed no threat to anyone.

    After assaulting Q.B. in the interview room, officers transported him to another pod. During the transport, Q.B. became limp and was unable to walk on his own. Walters and other officers then carried Q.B. by his arms and legs to the pod’s entryway door, where Walters admitted he used unreasonable force to swing Q.B.’s head into the metal door to open the door. Walters and other officers then carried Q.B. into a cell, where they dropped the unresponsive and handcuffed Q.B. onto the concrete floor. Shortly thereafter, responding emergency medical personnel declared that Q.B. was deceased.

    With their guilty pleas, Holdren and Walters each further admitted knowing that the interview room to which officers brought Q.B. was a “blind spot” – meaning, there were no surveillance cameras to record what happened there. Holdren and Walters were aware that, prior to the assault of Q.B. on March 1, 2022, officers would bring inmates, including pretrial detainees, who had engaged in misconduct to “blind spots” in the jail, so that officers could use unreasonable force without being captured on video, thereby avoiding accountability for their actions. Holdren and Walters each further admitted knowing that officers could not use unreasonable force to punish inmates, including pretrial detainees such as Q.B. 

    Holdren and Walters are two of six correctional officers who were indicted in this case. In November 2024, defendant Corey Snyder pleaded guilty in connection with the use of unreasonable force against Q.B., resulting in his death. Jacob Boothe pleaded guilty in August 2024 to failing to intervene to protect Q.B. from the officers’ assault. Sentencing hearings for Snyder and Boothe are scheduled for July 10.

    In August 2024, Ashley Toney pleaded guilty to failing to intervene to protect Q.B. from the officers’ assault. On June 9, U.S. District Court Judge Joseph R. Goodwin sentenced Toney to 78 months in prison.

    On Jan. 27, a federal jury returned a guilty verdict at trial for the sixth indicted defendant, Chad Lester, a former Lieutenant at the Southern Regional Jail, finding him guilty on three obstruction of justice charges for his role in conspiring to cover up the death of Q.B. On May 15, Judge Goodwin sentenced Lester to 210 months in prison.

    Prior to the indictment of the above six defendants, former correctional officers Steven Nicholas Wimmer and Andrew Fleshman each pleaded guilty to conspiring to use unreasonable force against Burks. On May 8, Chief U.S. District Court Judge Frank W. Volk sentenced Wimmer to 108 months in prison. Fleshman is scheduled for sentencing before Judge Volk on July 14.

    Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa G. Johnston for the Southern District of West Virginia made the announcement.

    The FBI Pittsburgh Field Office investigated the case.

    Deputy Chief Christine M. Siscaretti and Trial Attorney Tenette Smith of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division prosecuted the case in partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Department of Justice Subpoenas Doctors and Clinics Involved in Performing Transgender Medical Procedures on Children

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    WASHINGTON — Today, the Department of Justice announced that it has sent more than 20 subpoenas to doctors and clinics involved in performing transgender medical procedures on children.

    The Department’s investigations include healthcare fraud, false statements, and more.

    “Medical professionals and organizations that mutilated children in the service of a warped ideology will be held accountable by this Department of Justice.” — Attorney General Pamela Bondi

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján, Boozman Reintroduce Legislation to Prevent Physical Therapy Interruptions

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-Ark.) reintroduced the Prevent Interruptions in Physical Therapy Act to prevent the interruption of physical therapy services nationwide. For many senior Medicare patients, physical therapy services can help restore mobility and patient’s ability to function and live independently with a higher quality of life. But too often, services can be interrupted if a practitioner is not available leaving seniors without care.

    The Prevent Interruptions in Physical Therapy Act builds on previous legislation passed into law in the 21st Century Cures Act that enables physical therapists in rural, medically underserved, and health professional shortage areas to ensure their patients continue to receive quality care during a temporary absence. This bill would extend the same flexibility to all physical therapists and patients nationwide. 

    “Nationwide, there are millions of Americans, myself included, who have benefited from physical therapy and received the care they needed to get stronger and better,” said Senator Luján. “As patients embark on their journey to recovery, any interruption in physical therapy can be damaging to a patient’s long-term recovery and health. I’m proud to reintroduce bipartisan legislation to bridge those interruptions and allow physical therapists and patients the flexibility that benefits the provider and the patient.”

    “Physical therapy is an important part of the care seniors in Arkansas and around our country rely on, but disruptions in treatment can hinder recovery as well as compound burdens and costs,” said Senator Boozman. “I am pleased to work on a bipartisan solution to help ensure Medicare patients can continue receiving this essential care conveniently from qualified providers while keeping their healing process on track.”

    This bill is endorsed by the American Physical Therapy Association. 

    Full text of the bill is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján, Boozman Reintroduce Legislation to Prevent Physical Therapy Interruptions

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-Ark.) reintroduced the Prevent Interruptions in Physical Therapy Act to prevent the interruption of physical therapy services nationwide. For many senior Medicare patients, physical therapy services can help restore mobility and patient’s ability to function and live independently with a higher quality of life. But too often, services can be interrupted if a practitioner is not available leaving seniors without care.

    The Prevent Interruptions in Physical Therapy Act builds on previous legislation passed into law in the 21st Century Cures Act that enables physical therapists in rural, medically underserved, and health professional shortage areas to ensure their patients continue to receive quality care during a temporary absence. This bill would extend the same flexibility to all physical therapists and patients nationwide. 

    “Nationwide, there are millions of Americans, myself included, who have benefited from physical therapy and received the care they needed to get stronger and better,” said Senator Luján. “As patients embark on their journey to recovery, any interruption in physical therapy can be damaging to a patient’s long-term recovery and health. I’m proud to reintroduce bipartisan legislation to bridge those interruptions and allow physical therapists and patients the flexibility that benefits the provider and the patient.”

    “Physical therapy is an important part of the care seniors in Arkansas and around our country rely on, but disruptions in treatment can hinder recovery as well as compound burdens and costs,” said Senator Boozman. “I am pleased to work on a bipartisan solution to help ensure Medicare patients can continue receiving this essential care conveniently from qualified providers while keeping their healing process on track.”

    This bill is endorsed by the American Physical Therapy Association. 

    Full text of the bill is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • India aims for energy independence by 2047 and net-zero by 2070: Hardeep Singh Puri

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India has outlined a bold roadmap for energy security and a sustainable future at the 9th OPEC International Seminar held in Vienna, Austria. Addressing global energy leaders and industry experts, Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Hardeep Singh Puri, emphasized India’s commitment to achieving energy independence by 2047 and net-zero emissions by 2070.

    Speaking on the theme ‘Oil Markets: Energy Security, Growth & Prosperity’, Puri detailed India’s extensive plans to expand hydrocarbon exploration. Under the Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP) Round-10, the government has opened 2.5 lakh sq km for exploration, with the target to scale this up to 0.5 million sq km by 2025 and 1 million sq km by 2030. He also highlighted India’s potential breakthrough in discovering a Guyana-scale oilfield in the Andaman Sea, positioning the country for major upstream growth under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

    Key policy reforms are driving this momentum. India has transitioned from a Production Sharing Contract regime to a Revenue Sharing Model under the Hydrocarbon Exploration and Licensing Policy (HELP) and has amended the Oilfields (Regulation and Development) Act, 1948 to improve lease management, safety and dispute resolution.

    Notably, 99% of previously designated ‘No-Go’ areas have been opened, freeing over 1 million sq km for exploration. This expansion is underpinned by large-scale national data initiatives, including the National Seismic Program, the Andaman Offshore Project, Mission Anveshan, and the Extended Continental Shelf Survey.

    Highlighting India’s growing role in global energy markets, Puri noted that as the world’s third-largest energy consumer with daily demand of about 5.4 million barrels, India is both a structural growth engine and a stabilizing force in the oil market. “India will contribute nearly 25% of the incremental global energy demand growth in the coming years,” he said.

    To strengthen its energy security, India is diversifying its crude oil import sources from 27 to 40 countries, ramping up domestic production, advancing alternative fuels, and expanding its refining capacity to 310 MMTPA by 2028. The country also aims to boost its petrochemical sector, targeting a USD 300 billion industry by 2030.

    Despite global geopolitical tensions, Puri highlighted India’s success in ensuring affordable energy for its citizens. “India is the only major economy to reduce fuel prices even as global oil prices rose,” he pointed out.

    On the clean energy front, the Minister underlined the role of biofuels in India’s decarbonization pathway. The Global Biofuels Alliance — initiated by India — now has the support of over 29 countries and 14 international organisations. Domestically, the country is accelerating the use of ethanol, compressed biogas (CBG), biodiesel and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). “India firmly believes the global energy transition must be just, inclusive and equitable. For 1.4 billion Indians and billions across the Global South, development must go hand in hand with dignity,” he said.

    He also shared the success of the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY), the world’s largest clean cooking programme. Since its launch, over 103 million LPG connections have been provided to women from economically weaker households, raising LPG coverage from 55% in 2014 to near-universal access today. Despite a 58% rise in global LPG prices, PMUY beneficiaries pay only $6–7 for a standard 14.2 kg cylinder — about 39% less than the international market price last year — supported by significant government subsidies and oil marketing companies absorbing $4.7 billion in losses.

  • MIL-OSI USA: FDA Encourages Industry Leaders to Streamline, Enhance Product Recall Communications to Safeguard Foods for Infants and Children

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    For Immediate Release:
    July 09, 2025

    The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today called for increased attention to product recall communications from industry leaders involved in the manufacturing and distribution of infant formula, baby foods, and foods intended for children.
    As food production and distribution systems continue to advance alongside new communication technologies, the FDA is encouraging industry to examine how they communicate with the public, and continue to work with the Agency, whenever a product is recalled.
    “Today I am asking food industry leaders to join me in my commitment to radical transparency, with a focus on ensuring the safety and wellbeing of infants and children,” said FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, M.D., M.P.H. “Protecting our most vulnerable is not just a moral duty—it is our responsibility. For many children, infant formula is their only source of nutrition. That’s why it’s vital that we use every tool at our disposal to enhance recall communication about these products and other foods for children.”
    This outreach to industry leaders amplifies and supports the FDA’s priorities and recent efforts, including Operation Stork Speed, an FDA Expert Panel on Infant Formula, and increased stakeholder engagement.
    “By issuing this letter, we are taking concrete steps to help protect our nation’s children. We look forward to working with industry to increase public awareness of recalls involving infant formula, baby foods, and other foods intended for children,” said FDA Deputy Commissioner for Human Foods Kyle Diamantas. “We will also be creating a centralized, consumer-oriented webpage on FDA.gov focused on these products, ensuring that parents and caregivers can easily access the information necessary to protect the health and wellbeing of their kids.”
    These enhancements, which require increased public-private partnerships, and sufficient resources and time, will provide increased information to parents and caregivers about the foods they rely on to nourish their children.
    The initiative reflects a commitment to increased collaboration with industry leaders, focused on placing the public’s needs first, empowering parents, protecting our children, and fostering a healthier future for generations to come.

    Consumer:888-INFO-FDA

    ###

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    The FDA, an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, protects the public health by assuring the safety, effectiveness, and security of human and veterinary drugs, vaccines and other biological products for human use, and medical devices. The agency also is responsible for the safety and security of our nation’s food supply, cosmetics, dietary supplements, radiation-emitting electronic products, and for regulating tobacco products.

    Content current as of:
    07/09/2025

    Regulated Product(s)

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Lexington Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Distribution of Meth, Repeat Gun Charge

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    COLUMBIA, S.C. — Curtis Hill, III, 36, of Columbia, has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to drug conspiracy and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

    Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that on three different occasions, Hill sold methamphetamine to confidential sources. On one of these occasions, Hill was in possession of firearms. In a separate incident, following these drug buys, Hill ran from officers following traffic stop, where he tossed methamphetamine during the chase. These drugs were ultimately recovered by law enforcement and a firearm was found in his vehicle.

    At the time of these offenses, Hill was on federal supervised release. Hill has previous convictions for assault and battery, common law robbery, assault battery of a high and aggravated nature, and a federal conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm.

    United States District Judge Sherri A. Lydon sentenced Hill to 180 months imprisonment, to be followed by a five-year term of court-ordered supervision.  There is no parole in the federal system. Judge Lydon further sentenced him to 24 months imprisonment for violation of his supervised release, which is to run concurrent with his 15-year sentence.

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Homeland Security Investigations, the West Columbia Police Department, and the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elle E. Klein is prosecuting the case.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Salem Man Sentenced to More Than Three Years in Prison for Drug Conspiracy and Possession Charges

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – A Salem, Mass. man was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston for his participation in a North Shore-based drug trafficking organization (DTO) that distributed tens of thousands of counterfeit prescription pills containing fentanyl and methamphetamine and laundered the proceeds.  

    Gino Castillo, 35, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge F. Dennis Saylor IV to 37 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. In April 2025, Castillo pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances and one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine.

    Castillo was among 27 individuals charged, beginning in October 2022, in connection with a wide-ranging conspiracy to traffic counterfeit prescription pills. Castillo was charged, by indictment, on April 24, 2024. All 27 individuals have pleaded guilty; 22 have been sentenced.

    The DTO distributed counterfeit pills containing fentanyl and methamphetamine, among other drugs, to individuals in the Lynn area. In May 2022, Castillo bought 500 pills containing fentanyl from members of the DTO for redistribution to others. In October 2022, Castillo was observed assisting a DTO leader, Lawrence Michael Nagle Jr., with moving into an apartment on Phillips Street in Salem where drugs would be stored. During a search at the Salem location on Oct. 25, 2022 counterfeit pills were located in a safe in the bedroom and  hidden in the tank of a toilet.  

    Lawrence Michael Nagle, Jr. pleaded guilty in April 2025 and is scheduled to be sentenced on Aug. 5, 2025.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Division; and Colonel Geoffrey D. Noble, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Beverly, Everett, Peabody, Revere, Salem, Saugus and Swampscott Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys K. Nathaniel Yeager, Samuel R. Feldman, John O. Wray and Alexandra Amrhein of the Criminal Division prosecuted the case.
            
    This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ohio County Man Admits to Role in Ohio Valley Drug Trafficking Operation

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Steven Aldridge, 27, of Wheeling, West Virginia, has admitted to conspiring to sell large quantities of fentanyl and cocaine.

    Aldridge entered a guilty plea today to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and 500 grams or more of cocaine. According to court documents, Aldridge was working with others in a drug trafficking operation that spanned from Las Vegas, Nevada to the Ohio Valley.

    Aldridge faces at least 5 and up to 40 years in federal prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Carly Nogay is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.

    The Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, Marshall County Drug Task Force, and the Hancock-Brooke-Weirton Drug Task Force, all HIDTA-funded initiatives; Drug Enforcement Administration; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms; West Virginia State Police; Wheeling Police Department; Ohio County Sheriff’s Office; and the Belmont County Sheriff’s Office investigated.

    U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.

    Press release on the associated case: www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/federal-grand-jury-indicts-twenty-six-drug-trafficking

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Miami-Dade Transit Supervisor and Wife Sentenced for Roles in Metrorail Bribery Scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Dale Robinson, a former Miami-Dade Transit Track and Guideway Supervisor, and Marcia Robinson, his wife, were sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge K. Michael Moore after pleading guilty to federal charges.  Dale Robinson pleaded guilty to soliciting a bribe from a contractor for Miami-Dade Transit in connection with the issuance of Metrorail repair and maintenance contracts. Marcia Robinson pleaded guilty to misprision of a felony for helping her husband cover up the bribery scheme. 

    Dale Robinson was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment to be followed by 3 years of supervised release.  In addition, a forfeiture judgment of $75,956 was previously entered against Dale Robinson, which he has already paid to the United States.  Marcia Robinson was sentenced to 3 years of probation for her lesser role.

    According to the facts admitted at the change of plea hearings, Dale Robinson was the acting General Superintendent and lead Rail Structure and Track Supervisor in the Track and Guideway unit of Miami-Dade Transit. His responsibilities included making recommendations for the selection of contractors to do Metrorail track maintenance and repair work for the transit unit and overseeing the work done by those contractors, including Jessie Bledsoe.  Bledsoe was the co-owner and operator of JB Railroad Contracting, Inc. (JB Railroad), a North Dakota-based company that did railroad track and rail replacement, repair, and maintenance work throughout the United States.   

    In or around January 2021, while JB Railroad was working on a previously obtained contract for the removal and replacement of Metrorail track fasteners and was in the process of seeking an additional contract to perform welding work on the Metrorail system for Miami-Dade Transit, Dale Robinson requested a large bribe from Bledsoe. Bledsoe agreed to pay Robinson that bribe, which was intended to influence Robinson’s selection of a contractor for the upcoming welding project. Bledsoe also agreed to conceal the payment by making it to a company specified by Dale Robinson.

    After this, in late January 2021, Dale Robinson directed Marcia Robinson, who lived in Maryland, to create a company and open a company checking account on which she would serve as the sole signatory.  Marcia Robinson formed Tailored Railroads & Consulting LLC (Tailored Railroads), filing the company paperwork in the State of Maryland.

    Between February 2021 through February 2022, Dale Robinson directed Marcia Robinson to send a total of four invoices from Tailored Railroads to JB Railroad. When Marcia Robinson sent each of these invoices, she knew that Tailored Railroads had not provided any goods or services to JB Railroad. Bledsoe then caused JB Railroad to issue four checks to Tailored Railroads to pay the invoices, which were actually payments for the bribe solicited by Dale Robinson.   Bledsoe ultimately provided $75,956 to Tailored Railroads for Dale Robinson’s personal benefit as part of Dale Robinson’s bribe solicitation.

    While not knowing all the details of her husband’s illegal bribery agreement with Bledsoe, Marcia Robinson knew that the four checks were being paid by Bledsoe for Dale Robinson’s recommendation to select JB Railroad to perform work for Miami-Dade Transit. Despite this, she did not inform authorities of her husband’s crime, and her actions helped conceal his criminal activity.   

    In a related case, Bledsoe pled guilty to paying a bribe to Dale Robinson in connection with his contracts with Miami-Dade Transit. Bledsoe’s sentencing hearing before U.S. District Judge Beth Bloom is set for October 3, 2025.

    U.S. Attorney Hayden P. O’Byrne for the Southern District of Florida, Special Agent in Charge Brett D. Skiles of FBI Miami, and Inspector General Felix Jimenez of the Miami-Dade County Office of Inspector General (MDC-OIG) made the announcement.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward N. Stamm prosecuted the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Marx Calderon is handling forfeiture matters.     

    You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida at www.usdoj.gov/usao/fls.

    Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case number 25-cr-20168.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Cuban National Pleads Guilty to Stealing More Than $800,000 From Elderly Victim’s Bank Account

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MIAMI – Michel Duarte Suarez, 50, a Cuban national, pleaded guilty for his role in a scheme he directed from his residence in Panama to obtain control over an elderly victim’s bank account, steal more than $800,000 from the victim’s account, and then launder the proceeds with the assistance of co-conspirators in South Florida.

    Suarez was initially indicted in September 2023 but resided in Panama City, Panama at the time. In January 2025, Suarez was arrested in Panama and brought to South Florida to face the charges.

    According to court documents, in March 2022 Suarez explained to a confidential informant that he had access to the bank of account of an elderly victim, who was 82 years old at the time.  To carry out the fraud conspiracy, Suarez created and mailed fraudulent checks from Panama to South Florida with directions to cash the checks and return 50% of the fraud proceeds to Suarez by wiring the money to Suarez’s Miami-based company, Online Electronics.  The fraudulent checks contained forged signatures designed to resemble that of the victim’s signature on his/her signature card for that same bank account.

    In total, Suarez and his co-conspirators stole approximately $803,000 from the elderly victim’s bank account during a four-month period.

    Sentencing is set for September 29, 2025, in Miami before United States District Court Judge Kathleen M. Williams.  Suarez pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud and mail fraud (Count 1) and one count of aggravated identity theft (Count 4). Suarez faces up to 30 years in prison on Count 1, and an additional mandatory two years in prison, to run consecutive to any term of imprisonment imposed on Count 1.

    U.S. Attorney Hayden P. O’Byrne for the Southern District of Florida; Special Agent in Charge Brett Skiles of the FBI Miami Field Office; Special Agent in Charge Jason Scalzo of the FDIC-OIG Electronic Crimes Unit; and Special Agent in Charge Rafael Barros of the US Secret Service Miami Field Office made the announcement.

    Assistant United States Attorney Alexander Thor Pogozelski is prosecuting the case.  Assistant United States Attorney Marx Calderon is handling asset forfeiture proceedings.

    You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida at www.usdoj.gov/usao/fls.

    Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case number 23-CR-20359-WILLIAMS.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Multi-State Methamphetamine Trafficker Sentenced to Over 15 Years in Federal Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOISE – Rito Salazar, 59, of Nampa, was sentenced to 182 months in federal prison for distribution of methamphetamine, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced today. Chief U.S. District Judge David C. Nye also ordered Salazar to serve five years of supervised release following his prison sentence.

    According to court records, Salazar was sending a courier to California monthly to purchase large quantities of methamphetamine and transporting them to Idaho. He would then redistribute the methamphetamine to local street dealers in Idaho for further distribution. Salazar has an extensive criminal history and has previously been convicted of drug trafficking crimes at the state level.

    “This investigation is an excellent example of the success achieved when local law enforcement and the U.S. Attorney’s Office partner to disrupt multi-state drug traffickers.” said Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott. “As our population grows, so does drug traffickers’ access to larger supplies of drugs. Ensuring drug traffickers are held accountable for bringing these dangerous drugs to Idaho is among the highest priorities of Idaho’s local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies.”  

    Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the collaborative investigation efforts of the Boise Police Department’s Boise Area Narcotic Drug Interdiction Team (BANDIT), the Canyon County City and County Narcotics Unit (CCNU), and the Federal Bureau of Investigation Sacramento Field Office’s Fresno Resident Agency, which led to the charges. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelsey A. Manweiler prosecuted the case.

    This case was prosecuted by the Special Assistant U.S. Attorney hired by the Treasure Valley Partnership and the State of Idaho to address gang crimes. The Treasure Valley Partnership is comprised of a group of elected officials in southwest Idaho dedicated to regional coordination, cooperation, and collaboration on creating coherent regional growth. For more information, visit www.treasurevalleypartners.org.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: July 9th, 2025 N.M. Congressional Delegation Calls on President Trump to Grant State’s Major Disaster Declaration Request in Response to Severe Flooding

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich

    N.M. Delegation: “It is imperative that the federal government provides full support needed for New Mexico communities to respond and recover. Anything less would leave families vulnerable and prolong the suffering of those already facing unimaginable loss”

    RUIDOSO, N.M. — As families mourn the loss of the three lives taken in severe flash flooding, and as many New Mexicans are being forced to evacuate their homes and businesses, U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) are calling on President Donald Trump to approve a Major Disaster Declaration request from Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham.

    In a letter to President Trump, New Mexico’s Congressional delegation wrote, “We respectfully request that you take immediate action on the recent request for a major disaster declaration from the State of New Mexico in response to the severe weather system that produced unprecedented monsoonal rain statewide, causing severe thunderstorms and devastating flash flooding across multiple jurisdictions.

    “Yesterday and throughout the night, we watched Ruidoso leaders and staff, National Weather Service-Albuquerque staff, utility crews, first responders, medical providers, and rescue teams rally to save lives and help New Mexicans affected by the devastating flash flooding. We are immensely grateful for their heroic efforts.  

    “The scale of this disaster demands an immediate and robust response. Lives, homes, and critical infrastructure have been upended by this devastation, and New Mexico should not have to face it alone. We urge you to act without delay and approve the State of New Mexico’s request for a major disaster declaration.”

    A Major Disaster Declaration would open up access to Public Assistance and Individual Assistance funds from FEMA. Public Assistance supports the restoration and reconstruction of public infrastructure and lands. Individual Assistance supports families from losses suffered due to the flash flooding.

    The State is requesting Public Assistance, Category A through G, including Direct Federal Assistance for Lincoln County, Chaves County, Otero County, and Valencia County, as well as Individual Assistance, including Housing Assistance, Small Business Administration Disaster Assistance, Disaster Case Management, Transitional Sheltering Assistance, Serious Needs Assistance, Crisis Counseling, Disaster Legal Services, Disaster Unemployment, and Displacement Assistance for Lincoln County and Valencia County. The State is also requesting Hazard Mitigation statewide, as facilitated by New Mexico’s Natural Disaster Hazard Mitigation Plan.

    The lawmakers added, “It is imperative that the federal government provides full support needed for New Mexico communities to respond and recover. Anything less would leave families vulnerable and prolong the suffering of those already facing unimaginable loss.”

    Read the full text of the letter below or by clicking here.

    Dear President Trump,  

    We respectfully request that you take immediate action on the recent request for a major disaster declaration from the State of New Mexico in response to the severe weather system that produced unprecedented monsoonal rain statewide, causing severe thunderstorms and devastating flash flooding across multiple jurisdictions. 

    Yesterday and throughout the night, we watched Ruidoso leaders and staff, National Weather Service-Albuquerque staff, utility crews, first responders, medical providers, and rescue teams rally to save lives and help New Mexicans affected by the devastating flash flooding. We are immensely grateful for their heroic efforts. 

    The scale of this disaster demands an immediate and robust response. Lives, homes, and critical infrastructure have been upended by this devastation, and New Mexico should not have to face it alone. We urge you to act without delay and approve the State of New Mexico’s request for a major disaster declaration.

    The State is requesting Public Assistance, Category A through G, including Direct Federal Assistance for Lincoln County, Chaves County, Otero County, and Valencia County, as well as Individual Assistance, including Housing Assistance, Small Business Administration Disaster Assistance, Disaster Case Management, Transitional Sheltering Assistance, Serious Needs Assistance, Crisis Counseling, Disaster Legal Services, Disaster Unemployment, and Displacement Assistance for Lincoln County and Valencia County. The State is also requesting Hazard Mitigation statewide, as facilitated by New Mexico’s Natural Disaster Hazard Mitigation Plan. We ask that you expeditiously grant the declaration and make this federal assistance available as soon as possible for the State to have all the resources they need to mitigate and recover from the devastation of this weather system. 

    Beginning on June 23, 2025, a weather system swept across New Mexico, producing monsoonal rain patterns and causing overwhelming damage across the state. Exacerbated by the severe to exceptional drought conditions across much of the state, as well as the number of interacting burn scars in much of the impacted area, the heavy rains and thunderstorms led to devastating flash flooding. Since this weather system started, it has impacted approximately 675 homes, with hundreds more under immediate threat of ongoing flooding in burn scars, and tragically caused at least three fatalities. Additionally, 70 distinct pieces of critical infrastructure have been damaged, including roads and bridges having been blown out by the floods and debris flow and drainage systems, water control facilities, and at least eight public buildings being destroyed or receiving severe damage. Many New Mexicans have been forced to evacuate their homes and businesses, often with livestock and pets.

    It is imperative that the federal government provides full support needed for New Mexico communities to respond and recover. Anything less would leave families vulnerable and prolong the suffering of those already facing unimaginable loss. 

    Thank you for your consideration of this important request. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Opens Disaster Loan Outreach Centers in Myrtle Creek and Drain

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced today the opening of Disaster Loan Outreach Centers (DLOC) in Douglas County to assist small businesses, private nonprofit (PNP) organizations and residents affected by severe storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides occurring March 13-20.
    Beginning Monday, July 14, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the Disaster Loan Outreach Centers in Myrtle Creek and Drain to answer questions and assist with the disaster loan application process. No appointment is necessary, walk-ins are welcome. Those who prefer to schedule an in-person appointment in advance can do so at appointment.sba.gov.

    The centers’ hours of operation are as follows:

    DOUGLAS COUNTY
    Disaster Loan Outreach Center
    Myrtle Creek Community Center
    425 NW Second Ave.
    Myrtle Creek, OR  97457
    Opens at 9:00 a.m., Monday, July 14
    Monday, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
    Tuesday, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
    Permanently closes at 4:00 p.m.,
    Tuesday, July 15

    DOUGLAS COUNTY
    Disaster Loan Outreach Center
    Drain Civic Center Meeting Room
    205 West A Ave.
    Drain, OR  97435
    Opens at 9:00 a.m., Wednesday, July 16
    Wednesday, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
    Thursday, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
    Permanently closes at 4:00 p.m.,
    Thursday, July 17

    The following DLOC locations are open on the days and times as shown below:

    COOS COUNTY
    Disaster Loan Outreach Center
    Myrtle Point City Hall
    Conference Room
    424 Fifth St.
    Myrtle Point, OR  97458
    Opens at 9:00 a.m., Thursday, July 10
    Thursday, 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
    Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
    Permanently closes at 4:30 p.m.,
    Friday, July 11

    DOUGLAS COUNTY
    Disaster Loan Outreach Center
    Roseburg Public Safety Center
    Third Floor – Salmon Conference Room 303
    700 SE Douglas Ave.
    Roseburg, OR  97470
    Mondays – Fridays, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

    “When disasters strike, SBA’s Disaster Loan Outreach Centers perform an important role by assisting small businesses and their communities,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the U.S. Small Business Administration. “At these centers, our SBA specialists help business owners and residents apply for disaster loans and learn about the full range of programs available to support their recovery.”

    Businesses and nonprofits are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans and may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.

    Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for home and personal property loans and may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property, such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances. Homeowners may apply for up to $500,000 to replace or repair their primary residence.

    Applicants may be eligible for a loan increase of up to 20% of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements include insulating pipes, walls and attics, weather stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows to help protect property and occupants from future disasters.

    The SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and private nonprofit organizations impacted by financial losses directly related to these disasters. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.
    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    Interest rates are as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.625% for nonprofits, and 2.75% for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA determines eligibility and sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is Aug. 25, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is March 24, 2026.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration
    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn Discusses Catastrophic Floods in Central Texas, Holds Moment of Silence on Senate Floor

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn

    WASHINGTON – Today on the floor, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) discussed the catastrophic floods that have devastated communities across Central Texas and taken more than 100 lives thus far, highlighted some of the heroic rescue and recovery efforts after seeing the damage firsthand during his visit to Kerrville on Saturday, and held a moment of silence with Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) to honor the lives lost and those still unaccounted for. Excerpts of Sen. Cornyn’s remarks are below, and video can be found here.

    “As most Texans were sleeping on the morning of July the 4th, a 100-year flood event caused the waters of the Guadalupe River to rise an astonishing 26 feet in 45 minutes, and the loss of life was horrific.”

    “More than 100 people died in Central Texas from this flooding, including 27 young campers, young girls ranging down to the age of eight years old, as well as counselors at Camp Mystic.”

     “This is a sad time for Texas, and it’s brought the Lone Star State to our knees in grief and in prayer.”

     “When I was in Kerrville this last Saturday, I participated in an aerial tour, as I mentioned, and a car tour of the flooded areas. The damage I witnessed was nothing short of devastating.”

    “I’m beyond grateful to the efforts of Governor Abbott, President Trump, and Secretary Noem for their quick response… approving a Federal Disaster Declaration and ensuring that every available resource is being put forward in the rescue and recovery efforts throughout Central Texas.” 

    “As a father of two daughters myself, my heart breaks. My heart breaks for all those who are grieving, and especially those who are holding out hope that somehow, some way their loved one may still be found.” 

    “While we try to wrap our heads around this heart wrenching disaster, we can find some solace, some encouragement in the bravery exhibited by the heroes – some of whom died to help saving these young girls.”

     “Among these is Dick Eastland, who was the Director of Camp Mystic with his wife for many decades. Dick died while trying to save the lives of his young campers.” 

    “We can find hope and strength in the stories of those who gave their all to help their fellow Texans and the first responders who’ve miraculously saved 850 lives in high-water rescues.”

    “One of those Coast Guard responders was a young man named Scott Ruskan, a rescue swimmer with the United States Coast Guard, who single-handedly saved nearly 170 people.”

    “As Texans, we are all united in offering our prayers and support for all of the families who have lost loved ones and those who still remain unaccounted for. My wife and I, Sandy, will especially keep the parents grieving the loss of their precious children in our prayers.” 

    “I would now invite the Senate to observe a moment of silence in honor of the flooding victims, their families, all who died, suffered injuries, or are still unaccounted for after these terrible floods.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn Discusses Catastrophic Floods in Central Texas, Holds Moment of Silence on Senate Floor

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn

    WASHINGTON – Today on the floor, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) discussed the catastrophic floods that have devastated communities across Central Texas and taken more than 100 lives thus far, highlighted some of the heroic rescue and recovery efforts after seeing the damage firsthand during his visit to Kerrville on Saturday, and held a moment of silence with Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) to honor the lives lost and those still unaccounted for. Excerpts of Sen. Cornyn’s remarks are below, and video can be found here.

    “As most Texans were sleeping on the morning of July the 4th, a 100-year flood event caused the waters of the Guadalupe River to rise an astonishing 26 feet in 45 minutes, and the loss of life was horrific.”

    “More than 100 people died in Central Texas from this flooding, including 27 young campers, young girls ranging down to the age of eight years old, as well as counselors at Camp Mystic.”

     “This is a sad time for Texas, and it’s brought the Lone Star State to our knees in grief and in prayer.”

     “When I was in Kerrville this last Saturday, I participated in an aerial tour, as I mentioned, and a car tour of the flooded areas. The damage I witnessed was nothing short of devastating.”

    “I’m beyond grateful to the efforts of Governor Abbott, President Trump, and Secretary Noem for their quick response… approving a Federal Disaster Declaration and ensuring that every available resource is being put forward in the rescue and recovery efforts throughout Central Texas.” 

    “As a father of two daughters myself, my heart breaks. My heart breaks for all those who are grieving, and especially those who are holding out hope that somehow, some way their loved one may still be found.” 

    “While we try to wrap our heads around this heart wrenching disaster, we can find some solace, some encouragement in the bravery exhibited by the heroes – some of whom died to help saving these young girls.”

     “Among these is Dick Eastland, who was the Director of Camp Mystic with his wife for many decades. Dick died while trying to save the lives of his young campers.” 

    “We can find hope and strength in the stories of those who gave their all to help their fellow Texans and the first responders who’ve miraculously saved 850 lives in high-water rescues.”

    “One of those Coast Guard responders was a young man named Scott Ruskan, a rescue swimmer with the United States Coast Guard, who single-handedly saved nearly 170 people.”

    “As Texans, we are all united in offering our prayers and support for all of the families who have lost loved ones and those who still remain unaccounted for. My wife and I, Sandy, will especially keep the parents grieving the loss of their precious children in our prayers.” 

    “I would now invite the Senate to observe a moment of silence in honor of the flooding victims, their families, all who died, suffered injuries, or are still unaccounted for after these terrible floods.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –