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Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Offers Disaster Relief to Oregon Small Businesses, Private Nonprofits and Residents Affected by the Harney County Flooding

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans to Oregon small businesses, private nonprofits and residents to offset physical and economic losses from the Harney County flooding occurring March 12-April 15.

    The declaration covers the Oregon counties of Crook, Deschutes, Grant, Harney, Lake and Malheur as well as the Nevada counties of Humboldt and Washoe.

    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 damage, 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.

    SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to eligible small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries and private nonprofit (PNP)organizations impacted by financial losses directly related to this disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. They 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 businesses, 3.62% for PNPs, 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 sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    “When disasters strike, SBA’s Disaster Loan Outreach Centers play a vital role in helping small businesses and their communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “At these centers, SBA specialists assist business owners and residents with disaster loan applications and provide information on the full range of recovery programs available.”

    Beginning Friday, June 27, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the following Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC) to answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help each individual complete their application. Walk-ins are accepted, but you can schedule an in-person appointment in advance at appointment.sba.gov.

    The DLOC hours of operation are as follows:

    HARNEY COUNTY
    Disaster Loan Outreach Center
    Harney County Senior Center
    17 S. Alder Ave.
    Burns, OR  97720

    Opens at 12 p.m., Friday, June 27

    Mondays – Fridays, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

    Closed Friday, July 4 for Independence Day

    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 deadline to return physical damage applications is Aug. 25, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is March 25, 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 Australia: Australian Gas Networks in Court over alleged greenwashing in renewable gas campaign

    Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development

    The ACCC has launched Federal Court action against gas distributor Australian Gas Networks Limited alleging it made false and misleading representations in its ‘Love Gas’ TV and digital advertising campaign.

    The ACCC alleges Australian Gas Networks misled millions of consumers when it represented, in ads that ran during 2022 and 2023, that the gas it distributes to households on its network will be renewable within a generation.

    Australian Gas Networks did not have reasonable grounds for making the unqualified claim about the future of gas, which featured in advertisements run on free-to-air television, streaming services and on YouTube, the ACCC alleges.

    “We allege that Australian Gas Networks engaged in greenwashing in its ‘Love Gas’ ad campaign,” ACCC Chair Gina Cass-Gottlieb said.

    “We allege that the ads overstated the likelihood of Australian Gas Networks overcoming significant technical and economic barriers to distribute renewable gas to households within a generation.”

    “It is not currently possible to distribute renewable gas at scale and at an economically viable price, and throughout 2022 and 2023 it was highly uncertain whether, and if so when, this would be possible,” Ms Cass-Gottlieb said.

    “We allege that even though Australian Gas Networks knew the future of renewable gas was uncertain, it made an unqualified representation to consumers that it would distribute renewable gas to households within a generation.”

    “We say these ads were intended to encourage consumers to connect to, or remain connected to, Australian Gas Networks’ distribution network and to purchase gas appliances for their homes, based on the misleading impression they would receive ‘renewable gas’ within a generation,” Ms Cass-Gottlieb said.

    “We consider that consumers were deprived of the opportunity to make fully informed choices, in accordance with their values, about the most appropriate energy sources for use in their homes, the household appliances they should invest in, and the steps they could take to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”

    The claims by Australian Gas Networks were contained in four advertisements which all featured a young girl and her father using gas appliances in the home for cooking, bathing or heating. The advertisements then fast-forward in time to show the girl, now portrayed as a young adult, engaging in the same household activities.

    The ads featured a voiceover stating the following, or similar:

    • Some things never change, but the flame we use will.
    • It’s becoming renewable.
    • Controllable, reliable gas.
    • For this generation and the next.

    The final frame of each ad featured the company’s logo next to a green flame, and the words; “Love gas. Love a renewable gas future”; or just “Love Gas”.

    The ads did not contain any qualifications, fine print or disclaimers.

    “Businesses that make false or misleading environmental claims make it harder for consumers to support businesses that are genuinely working to reduce their environmental impact,” Ms Cass-Gottlieb said.

    “Businesses that make environmental claims about the future must have reasonable grounds for those claims, or they will be taken to be misleading under the Australian Consumer Law. Businesses must take care when they promote emissions-reduction measures that their claims can be backed up with evidence, and that they are realistic about emerging energy technologies and when changes are likely to be achieved. Misleading claims not only break the trust of consumers, they also breach the Australian Consumer Law.”

    The ACCC is seeking declarations, penalties, costs and other orders.

    Background

    The “Love Gas” advertising campaign ran between 20 March 2022 to 2 October 2022 and again from 1 August 2023 to 15 October 2023.

    Australian Gas Networks is one of Australia’s largest gas infrastructure businesses. It owns and operates gas transmission and distribution pipelines.

    Australian Gas Networks distributes natural gas to around 1.3 million homes and businesses, principally in Victoria and South Australia, as well as in Queensland, New South Wales and the Northern Territory.

    The ACCC commenced this investigation after receiving complaints about Australian Gas Networks from consumers and the Australian Conservation Foundation.

    In December 2023, the ACCC published its guidance for businesses on making environmental and sustainability claims. It sets out what the ACCC considers to be misleading conduct and good practice when making such claims, to help businesses provide clear, accurate and trustworthy information to consumers about the current and future environmental performance of their business.

    Images from the Love Gas Advertisements

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: AG Brown applauds court order against the Trump administration for blocking funds for electric vehicle chargers

    Source: Washington State News

    SEATTLE — Attorney General Nick Brown and 13 other attorneys general have won a court order blocking the Trump administration’s attempt to withhold about $1 billion in funding for electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure directed by Congress to the plaintiff states.

    U.S. District Court Judge Tana Lin said the Trump administration must restore the states’ Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Deployment Plans to their previous legal status and stop withholding previously authorized National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) funds. She stayed the order for seven days, saying it would go into effect on July 2 if the defendants do not file an appeal.

    “Congress invested in forward-looking, clean electric vehicle infrastructure – exactly the future that Washington wants,” Brown said. “The court has now confirmed that Donald Trump can’t just wish that future away because he likes fossil fuels.”

    Lin opened her order by quoting a 1995 episode of The Simpsons, in which “Homer must cut short a tearful goodbye with his long-lost mother after her traveling companions protest that their `electric van only has 20 minutes of juice left!’” That episode foretold the “range anxiety” many drivers of electric vehicles feel when trying to figure out where to charge their cars.

    In the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), Congress appropriated $5 billion for the NEVI Formula Program to fund states’ nationwide deployment of electric vehicle charging infrastructure to improve reliability for the public. The plaintiff states moved forward with developing plans to identify sites, solicit bids, and begin building EV charging stations.

    On Jan. 20, President Trump mandated federal agencies pause disbursement of all funds appropriated under the IIJA and the Inflation Reduction Act, including NEVI program funding. Despite being mandated by Congress to fund the NEVI program, the Federal Highway Administration notified states in February the agency was unlawfully revoking previous state plan approvals and withholding NEVI program funds from the states.

    On May 7, Brown and a coalition of attorneys general from 15 other states and the District of Columbia sued the Trump administration for illegally withholding NEVI funding, arguing the administration engaged in overreach and violated the Constitution, which grants the power of the purse to Congress. Brown co-led the lawsuit along with attorneys general from California and Colorado.

    Lin, of the Western District of Washington, said that even beyond the matter of EV charging stations, the case centers on the “bedrock doctrines of separation of powers and agency accountability, as enshrined in Constitution and statute.”

    “When the Executive Branch treads upon the will of the Legislative Branch, and when an administrative agency acts contrary to law, it is the Court’s responsibility to remediate the situation and restore the balance of power,” she wrote.

    Lin granted the preliminary injunction to the states of Arizona, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Washington, and Wisconsin.

    Lin said she excluded the District of Columbia, Minnesota, and Vermont from her preliminary injunction because they did not submit declarations that attested to the Federal Highway Administration’s approval and re-approval of their state deployment plans.

    A copy of Lin’s order can be found here.

    -30-

     

    Washington’s Attorney General serves the people and the state of Washington. As the state’s largest law firm, the Attorney General’s Office provides legal representation to every state agency, board, and commission in Washington. Additionally, the Office serves the people directly by enforcing consumer protection, civil rights, and environmental protection laws. The Office also prosecutes elder abuse, Medicaid fraud, and handles sexually violent predator cases in 38 of Washington’s 39 counties.

    Visit www.atg.wa.gov to learn more.

    Media Contact:

    Email: press@atg.wa.gov

    Phone: (360) 753-2727

    General contacts: Click here

    Media Resource Guide & Attorney General’s Office FAQ

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Pan-Asia Pacific Regional Congress on Military Medicine opens in Beijing

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

    BEIJING, June 25 — The sixth Pan-Asia Pacific Regional Congress on Military Medicine opened on Wednesday in Beijing, bringing together the heads of military health departments and medical experts from more than 20 countries, as well as representatives of five international organizations, including the United Nations, the World Health Organization and the International Committee of Military Medicine.

    Themed “Innovation, Cooperation, Development, Together for a Shared Future,” the event features discussions and exchanges on innovations in health services and administration, improvements in combat casualty care, and other topics.

    The congress aims to enhance regional public health security capabilities, collaboratively promote pragmatic cooperation and innovative development in military medicine, and promote the construction of a global community of health for all.

    It also features exhibitions related to combat casualty care, training injury prevention, traditional medicine, and medical equipment.

    The medical equipment exhibition zone highlights dual-use technologies and equipment, while other sections make use of interactive demonstrations and immersive experiences to showcase the Chinese military’s medical capabilities and traditional medicine expertise.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Next phase of Dellows Bluff slip repairs about to begin

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    Contractors will be back at the site of an overslip on State Highway 6 at Dellows Bluff next week.

    Rob Service, System Manager for Nelson/Tasman, says work is about to resume at the overslip site, which occurred during heavy rain in October last year.

    “Contractors have already done work here, with rock blasting and tree removal done in February this year.”

    “However, during this work, site investigations revealed the slip was far more complex, larger, and more fragile than originally thought,” Mr Service says.

    SH6 Dellows overslip site, October 2024

    He says the work was put on hold and plans for a fix were revised.

    “We now have a plan in place and the first phase of it will begin next week.”

    “Contractors will build a new access track south of the slip site, remove some trees, and build a landing from which further work can be done. We expect this to take about a month to complete,” Mr Service says.

    To ensure both workers and drivers are kept safe while the tree-felling is underway and the new access track is being built, Mr Service says there will be  intermittent road closures during the day.

    “We do not want to put traffic at risk from falling debris. So, there will be periods when we will have to stop traffic during the day between 7 am and 5.30 pm.”

    “They will be no longer than 15-minutes and work crews will do their best to ensure drivers and the community aren’t too disrupted. Access for emergency services, school buses, and other critical transport will be prioritised,” Mr Service says.

    Phase One work schedule

    • Monday 30 June to Friday 25 July. Monday to Friday, 7:00am–5.30pm (weather permitting)
    • Stop/Stop traffic management – expect delays of up to 15 minutes

    Next steps

    Mr Service says once the tree-felling is complete and the access track built, contractors will be able to resume stabilising the slip site.

    “It is expected this will take one to two months to complete.”

    We will have to put shipping containers back at the site to ensure the highway and traffic are protected from rockfalls, and work crews will do as much work as possible within the road shoulder,” Mr Service says.

    However, he says there may be times when traffic will have to be stopped.

    “If there are large boulders or other debris at risk of falling and endangering traffic, we will put safety first and use stop/go traffic management at the site. Though, this will be for short periods only.”

    “We understand we are doing this work during winter, but it is time critical and cannot be delayed. This is a critical section of State Highway 6 and, with no local road detours, or alternative highway alignments available, it is essential the slip is stabilised and fixed as soon as possible,’ Mr Service says.

    These works are weather-dependent, and schedules may change. Updates will be provided as the project progresses.

    Project schedule

    30 June–Late July: Tree felling and access track construction
    Late July–August/September: Slope stabilisation
    September: Pavement repair, including roadside drainage and shoulder works
    Mid-October: Road reopened and back to normal level of service

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Southland commercial fishers and seller fined $36,900 for black-market seafood sales

    Source: NZ Ministry for Primary Industries

    Thousands of dollars of black-market seafood sales have cost 3 Southland commercial fishers and another man fines of $36,900.

    Commercial fishers Michael Noel Hawke (61), Stuart Teiwi Ryan (48) and Peter George Fletcher (32) were sentenced in the Invercargill District Court having pleaded guilty to multiple charges under the Fisheries Act. Another man, Duncan William Davis (39) was sentenced on 2 charges under the Fisheries Act for illegally selling a large amount of kina, some pāua, and blue cod, following a successful prosecution by the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI).

    Mr Hawke was fined $6,000, Mr Ryan $13,000, Mr Fletcher $3,900, and Mr Davis $14,000.

    The prosecution was part of a larger 2023 investigation into illegal sales of kina, pāua, crayfish, blue cod, and oysters. Fishery officers gathered evidence of the illegal sales by studying seafood landing records and electronic communications between the fishers, black-market suppliers and potential buyers.

    “Our investigation found Mr Hawke sold about 1,000 dredge oysters during the 2023 season that were not part of his allowable commercial take. They were his allowable recreational take and should have been in his landing report.

    “Based on 2023 prices of $37 a dozen, the oysters were valued at more than $3,000. Bluff is the only wild oyster fishery in the world and selling fish illegally has a serious effect on sustainability,” says Greg Forbes, Fisheries New Zealand district manager.

    The investigation found a deckhand aboard the fishing vessel was also selling his allowable recreational catch.

    “Mr Ryan was found to have sold 114 crayfish and about 40 blue cod. Crayfish retails at about $140 a kilogram and blue cod $75 a kilogram. Mr Ryan made around $2,250 in illegal earnings.

    “Most commercial fishers follow the rules because they want their fishery to remain sustainable into the future – black-market sales of recreational catch is a slap in the face to the majority of commercial fishers who do the right thing.”

    Electronic evidence found Mr Davis, who is not a commercial fisher, sold seafood including up to 400 punnets of kina roe, some pāua, and blue cod on the black market he had either caught, or bought from Mr Ryan to resell.

    “This was up to $5,000 of kina that was sold illegally and finfish valued at about $2,000. This was deliberate and the motivation was simply to make money.

    Meanwhile, fishery officers found the third commercial fisher, Mr Fletcher, sold about 200 dredge oysters illegally on about 6 occasions.

    “None of these fishers held permits allowing them to sell fish, nor were they licensed fish receivers or fish farmers. When we find evidence of deliberate illegal sales of seafood – we will take action.

    “Poachers steal from everyone because the shared resources belong to all New Zealanders. Their behaviour also undermines the Quota Management System and our reputation for sustainable kaimoana,” Mr Forbes says.

    MPI encourages people to report suspected illegal activity through the ministry’s 0800 4 POACHER number (0800 476 224)

    For further information and general enquiries, call MPI on 0800 00 83 33 or email info@mpi.govt.nz

    For media enquiries, contact the media team on 029 894 0328.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Thousands more to get the tools they need to start construction careers

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

    Press release

    Thousands more to get the tools they need to start construction careers

    Thousands of people are set to benefit from on-the-job training and career opportunities in the construction sector.

    • Deputy Prime Minister and Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall attend inaugural Construction Skills Mission Board attended by CEOs from across the sector, launching industry commitment to recruit 100,000 more construction workers per year by the end of the Parliament.
    • Partnership between Jobcentres and the industry to give more people the skills they need to start fulfilling careers.
    • Marks a significant step in delivering the Plan for Change commitment to build 1.5 million new homes, which is underpinned by £39 billion for affordable and social housing over ten years announced at Spending Review.

    Roles ranging from project managers to bricklayers will be made available to jobseekers thanks to the agreement, which will mean Jobcentres working more closely with the construction industry to offer work experience and tailored placements to meet the need of employers and people looking to start a fulfilling career.

    The agreement signed earlier this week at the newly-launched Green Plant Academy at the Earl’s Court Skills Centre, by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and the Department for Work and Pensions, is a major step in the government’s drive to get Britain building and get Britain working as part of its Plan for Change.

    More than 40,000 industry placements will be funded through a further £100 million from the government, alongside a £32 million contribution from the CITB.

    This comes alongside a £1 billion employment support package to support more disabled people and those with health conditions back into work. This is a quadrupling of the level of annual spend on supporting sick and disabled people into work, from the £275 million in 2024/25 we inherited, to over £1 billion in 2029/30.

    It comes as the Deputy Prime Minister will co-chair the first Construction Skills Mission Board with Mark Reynolds, Co-Chair of the Construction Leadership Council today, where, alongside Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall, Skills Minister Baroness Jacqui Smith, Minister for Industry Sarah Jones, and several CEOs and sector leaders, they will launch an industry commitment to recruit 100,000 more construction workers per year by the end of the Parliament. This will be a step-change for the construction sector, creating good jobs across the country to deliver on government’s housing and infrastructure commitments, including building 1.5 million homes over this Parliament and delivery of the 10-year infrastructure strategy.

    Ministers will highlight major reforms to transform Jobcentres as well as the £625 million investment to tackle skills shortages in the construction sector – expected to create up to 60,000 more jobs for engineers, electricians and joiners by the end of the parliament. 

    Deputy Prime Minister and Housing Secretary Angela Rayner said:

    Building 1.5 million homes takes investment, skills, and a government that’s ready to roll up its sleeves to deliver. And that is exactly what we are doing. 

    Our Plan for Change commits to delivering the biggest boost for affordable and social housing in a generation, which we’ve backed with a £39 billion investment over ten years. 

    We’re working hand-in-hand with industry to recruit thousands more workers into skilled construction jobs, and thanks to our Make Work Pay reforms we will ensure these jobs are more secure and better rewarded.

    Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall said:

    I am determined that our young people have the best start in life. To do this we must give them the tools they need to get ahead.

    This agreement, alongside our record funding will do just that. Our welfare reforms will see the biggest investment in a generation to support disabled people into secure, well-paid work.

    Our Plan for Change will deliver the jobs, homes and opportunities we need to build a stronger and more prosperous Britain.

    Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said:

    The construction sector is on the frontline in our mission to grow the economy, giving more people skilled jobs building the homes and infrastructure we need. 

    Through our Plan for Change we are determined to break the link between background and success, so that more young people can get on in well paid careers. 

    The Construction Skills Mission Board will make sure we hear directly from employers about what their skills needs are, driving our reforms and helping more young people achieve and thrive.

    Tim Balcon, CEO, CITB said:

    Opportunities in construction are for everybody, whatever their background. By working together, we can widen the talent pool, bring in more diverse voices, and encourage more people to consider a career in construction. 

    Every year, over 100,000 people receive construction training. I want many more of them to forge lasting careers in the sector. This is why the partnership with DWP is so vital, as it helps ensure individuals are not just trained but truly prepared for careers in construction.

    The government commitment to addressing the housing shortage, improving the country’s infrastructure, and investing in construction skills mean this is a real boom time for our industry.

    This industry commitment follows the biggest boost to social and affordable housing investment in a generation, with the Chancellor committing £39 billion for the Affordable Homes Programme. This is the first time in living memory affordable housing funding has been committed over a 10-year period.

    From August, new construction foundation apprenticeships, backed by an additional £40 million, will provide young people at the start of their career with a route into construction.The scheme comes as part of the governments Youth Guarantee to ensure every young person is either earning or learning and will give youngsters skills in a range of specialist occupations, such as brick laying and carpentry, as well as employability skills and behaviours.

    Mark Reynolds, Co-Chair of the Construction Leadership Council and Co-Chair of the Construction Skills Mission Board, said:

    The Construction Skills Mission Board represents a new partnership between industry and government, working together to find industry-led, collaborative solutions to delivering the workforce of the future.

    I am delighted that we have seen such strong support from Ministers and some of the most important leaders in our sector – and I hope everyone will play their part in the delivery of this essential mission.

    Construction will be essential to delivering growth and investment across the UK; and so it is vital that we now step up as a sector.

    Jason Poulter, Unite National Officer for Construction, who attended the Mission Board on behalf of Unite the Union, said:

    We are proud to represent workers voices and the pride they hold in their skills and trades on the construction skills mission board. We welcome the governments focus on a job-outcomes approach. 

    This is the largest investment in skills for a generation and the CSMB is a clear demonstration of industries commitment to supporting the skilled construction workforce of tomorrow.

    In attendance at the signing of the agreement in West London earlier this week was Millie, whose bricklaying apprenticeship with The Skills Centre enabled her to gain meaningful, long-term work in the sector. She now works on live sites, putting her training into practice and has discovered her passion for the industry; “I really enjoy learning brickwork and then doing it for real on site. I would really recommend an apprenticeship in construction — it’s open to all.”

    The government is already expanding workplace training through Sector-based Workplace Academy Programmes (SWAPs), with over 100,000 SWAPs expected to take place this financial year. The placements offer jobseekers the opportunity to kickstart a new career by providing training, workplace placements and a guaranteed interview with an employer.

    SWAPs are proven to help people to stay in work for longer and boost their pay, while getting businesses loyal staff with the right skills, with the scheme to be boosted even further, giving even more people access to these life-changing.

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Environment Agency launches clean-up operation at Hoad’s Wood

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

    News story

    Environment Agency launches clean-up operation at Hoad’s Wood

    Waste management experts drive first batches of harmful material away from nationally significant nature site

    Drone footage of harmful waste being removed from Hoad’s Wood into a lorry

    Lorries have begun to remove tonnes of harmful waste from Hoad’s Wood in Kent as part of a major operation to aid the recovery of the woodlands, the Environment Agency announced today (26 June 2025). 

    The huge operation, co-ordinated by the Environment Agency and carried out by approved contractors Acumen Waste Services Ltd, will see more than 30,000 tonnes of household and construction waste removed.  

    More than 50 specialist workers have been deployed to dig up the harmful waste and carefully transport it for safe disposal at approved facilities. The whole operation is expected to take more than one year to complete.  

    Organised criminals dumped the lorry loads of waste, piled up to 15 feet high in certain areas, in 2023. Hoad’s Wood is a Site of Special Interest, home to rare plants and wildlife, and a popular beauty spot for nearby communities.  

    Emma Viner, Enforcement and Investigations Manager at the Environment Agency, said:  

    The damage caused by these shameless criminals rocked the community of Ashford and robbed residents of an important habitat which holds a special place in their hearts.  

    Today marks an important step in the journey of bringing Hoad’s Wood back as a sanctuary for both wildlife and people.  

    Our efforts are now focused on removing all the waste and bringing those behind this heinous crime to justice. Complex investigations like this take time but we are using our specialist enforcement resources to make sure this type of crime does not pay.

    Waste Minister Mary Creagh said:  

    Illegal dumping is a serious criminal offence which blights communities and damages our natural environment.  

    The community in Ashford shouldn’t have to put up with the disgusting actions of these criminal gangs. I would like to thank the Environment Agency and its partners for their clean-up efforts, which will allow residents to once again enjoy this vital green space.  

    This Government is determined to crack down on waste criminals, which is why we recently announced plans to ensure vehicles involved in waste crime are seized and crushed.

    The Environment Agency continues to progress the criminal investigation into the illegal tipping of waste at Hoad’s Wood. In February, three individuals were arrested by the Environment Agency, Kent Police and the Joint Unit for Waste Crime, marking an important moment in securing justice for the local community.   

    Evidence obtained during these arrests is now being used to support the next stages of the investigation. 

    Sergeant Darren Walshaw, of Kent Police’s Rural Task Force, said:  

    We are fully supportive of the Environment Agency’s ongoing efforts to tackle waste crime across Kent, and it is great that work has now begun to restore Hoad’s Wood to its former beauty. 

    The illegal dumping of large volumes of waste is often linked to other forms of criminal activity and we play our part by making arrests, gathering evidence and carrying out preventative activities including spot checks of vehicles seen in areas where such offences are common. 

    We will continue to work closely with the Environment Agency and local authorities to send a clear message to fly-tippers that they are not welcome in Kent and will be dealt with accordingly.

    Ian Rickards, Area Manager at Kent Wildlife Trust, said:  

    We are pleased to see the start of the clean-up process proceeding at Hoad’s Wood. Restoring this ancient woodland to its former state will be a mammoth undertaking, but we are hopeful that today is a step in the right direction.

    The Environment Agency will continue to monitor the site for any effect on air or water quality as the harmful waste is safely removed. Work is being carried out with the agreement of Natural England, the Forestry Commission and Ashford Borough Council.  

    To prevent criminals getting their hands on waste, the public are urged to use only waste carriers listed on the public register to take away their rubbish.  

    If a member of the public has any information that may assist with the Hoad’s Wood investigation, they should call the Environment Agency’s 24-hour hotline on 0800 807060. They can also report it anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or the Crimestoppers website.

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: On track and online: landmark deal to end mobile dead zones

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

    Press release

    On track and online: landmark deal to end mobile dead zones

    Project Reach deal signed to boost connectivity and remove mobile signal blackspots on the rail network.

    • ground-breaking public-private partnership delivers on the government’s Plan for Change mission to kickstart economic growth with ultra fast fibre optic cable across 1,000 kilometres of major rail lines
    • new deal will also eliminate mobile signal blackspots in tunnels on key rail routes up and down the country
    • smart investment approach saves taxpayers £300 million while boosting productivity for commuters and creating an improved digital backbone for the country’s rail network

    Commuters will soon be able to work seamlessly and stay connected with loved ones as the Transport Secretary lands a landmark deal to eliminate mobile blackspots on Britain’s busiest rail routes.

    The breakthrough agreement will transform daily journeys for millions of passengers who currently face the frustration of dropped calls and interrupted streaming on key routes between London, Manchester, Newcastle and Cardiff.

    The deal, named Project Reach and signed today (26 June 2025) between Network Rail, and telecoms companies, Neos Networks and Freshwave marks the end of passengers having to pause important work calls or cut short conversations with family members when trains enter notorious signal blackspots.

    The project’s innovative commercial model brings together public and private sector investment and infrastructure and is expected to save taxpayers around £300 million while creating a high-performing digital connectivity backbone for businesses, supporting the UK’s digital ambitions.

    Project Reach will initially see Neos Networks deploy 1,000 kilometres of ultra-fast fibre optic cable along the East Coast Main Line, parts of the West Coast Main Line and the Great Western Main Line, with ambition to expand beyond 5,000 kilometres in the near future.

    In addition to this, Freshwave will tackle signal blackspots in 57 tunnels, covering almost 50 kilometres, including the 4-kilometre-long Chipping Sodbury tunnel near Bristol.

    As part of the deal, mobile network operators will also invest in new 4G/5G infrastructure at 12 of the biggest Network Rail stations across the country including Birmingham New St, Bristol Temple Meads, Edinburgh Waverley, Euston, Glasgow Central, King’s Cross, Leeds, Liverpool Lime Street, Liverpool Street, Manchester Piccadilly, Paddington and Waterloo.

    Heidi Alexander, Secretary of State for Transport, said:

    This is a game changer for passengers up and down the country and will revolutionise journeys from Paddington to Penzance and Edinburgh to Euston.

    By boosting connectivity and tackling signal blackspots, we are also ensuring a more reliable and efficient service.

    This means better journeys for passengers while supporting our broader Plan for Change goals of economic growth and digital innovation.

    This is a multi-year project with the first installation of mobile infrastructure expected to begin in 2026 and fully rolled out by 2028.

    The enhanced network will also enable better monitoring of railway assets and facilitate new technologies that rely on improved connectivity, paving the way for more reliable train services and improved safety for railway workers.

    Jeremy Westlake, Network Rail’s Chief Financial Officer, said:

    I’m delighted that we have now signed this innovative deal with our partners Neos Networks and Freshwave.

    This investment model will deliver the necessary upgrades to our telecoms infrastructure faster whilst offering significant value-for-money for the taxpayer and stimulating wider economic benefits across the country.

    As we move towards becoming a unified railway with the formation of Great British Railways, the enhanced telecoms infrastructure will play a key role in our ambition to provide a data-driven railway of the future, delivering better connectivity and a better, more reliable train service for our passengers.

    Lee Myall, CEO of Neos Networks, said:

    Project Reach will support the upgrade of the UK’s connectivity infrastructure, creating new data superhighways that will drive the UK’s digital ambitions forward.

    Jacqueline Starr, Executive Chair and Chief Executive Officer of Rail Delivery Group, said: 

    We know how much customers value good mobile connections when they travel and we’re delighted that a digitally connected railway will soon become a reality. Travelling by rail drives economic growth by connecting businesses and communities, improving productivity, and supporting the transition to net zero.

    This vital upgrade to telecoms across the network will give everyone the opportunity to stay connected, wherever they’re headed.

    This partnership marks a major stride towards improved performance and better services for passengers as part of Great British Railways, as the Transport Secretary continues to deliver the government’s Plan for Change with a more connected, efficient, and passenger-focused railway fit for the future.

    It also builds on £41 million confirmed in the government’s National Infrastructure Strategy to introduce low-earth-orbit satellite connectivity on all mainline trains, significantly improving both the availability and internet data connection speeds for wifi connected passengers.

    Rail media enquiries

    Media enquiries 0300 7777878

    Switchboard 0300 330 3000

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Veterans in North of England set to benefit from Government’s new support network

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Press release

    Veterans in North of England set to benefit from Government’s new support network

    Veterans across northern England will benefit from VALOUR, the Government’s new £50m support system giving former members of the Armed Forces greater access to tailored support.

    • Thousands of veterans in the north of England will be the first to access streamlined support through new VALOUR network.   

    • Announcement of pilot region will help ensure no veteran falls through the gaps, delivering on Government’s Plan for Change.  

    • The first VALOUR network, set up in the North, will serve as a blueprint for future networks across the UK, recognising regional differences and requirements.  

    Veterans across northern England will benefit from VALOUR, the Government’s new £50m support system giving former members of the Armed Forces greater access to tailored support.  

    Veterans in the North will be able to use the pilot service to access the help they need, such as housing, mental and physical health and employment guidance and services.  

    The pilot is being launched by the Government’s Office for Veterans’ Affairs (OVA) in partnership with Greater Manchester, Liverpool City Region, West Yorkshire, and South Yorkshire.  

    It will develop and test a networked system of connected services including local authorities, public services and the third sector to ensure veterans are better supported – helping deliver the Government’s Plan for Change and commitment to renewing the nation’s contract with those who serve.  

    The northern pilot will collect data across local government, service providers, the NHS and charities focused on veterans’ needs to continuously improve the VALOUR service, shape policy and create a blueprint for national rollout in 2026.  

    The launch comes as new YouGov research reveals the majority of veterans in the UK believe local support is insufficient, with 73% preferring coordinated services across government and charities, highlighting a clear mandate for concerted action.  

    Minister for Veterans and People, Al Carns, said:  

    This Armed Forces Week, we are renewing our contract with those who serve and have served, by ensuring no veteran falls through the gaps.  

    From South Yorkshire to Liverpool City Region, I am delighted that veterans across the North of England will be the first to benefit from VALOUR and get better access to the tailored support they need.  

    By opening this pilot, we’re creating the blueprint that will transform veteran support nationwide, delivering on this Government’s Plan for Change.

    Veterans will be central to the development of VALOUR and can sign up to participate in research that will shape the network on Gov.uk.  

    VALOUR will create a network of recognised centres across all UK nations and regions, with Regional Field Officers connecting charities, local government and service provider – while harnessing the power of data to shape improved services.  

    Development funding will soon be available for existing and new veteran centres to gain VALOUR accreditation and help signpost those requiring support to the right place. Further information on development funding for the VALOUR support centres will be released in the coming months, including eligibility and timelines.   

    The partnership will enhance data collection to shape better services, and the VALOUR network will have central oversight, providing even greater support to our veterans. This is the first time that the Government will draw on local expertise and collaborate across regions in enhancing support provision for veterans.  

    Greater Manchester Mayor, Andy Burnham, said:  

    For too long veterans have not been properly looked after despite their service to this country. So it is great that the government has launched the VALOUR network to give former members of the Armed Forces the tailored support they deserve.

    In Greater Manchester we are proud of our Armed Forces Covenant which brings together our local authorities to support veterans in their area. The VALOUR pilot will give us even more resources to support our Armed Forces community with our Live Well model. 

    This scheme also highlights how improving lives in local communities can be done through further devolution, and we look forward to working alongside colleagues in the three other Combined Authorities to make this pilot successful.

    Alongside VALOUR, the Government has invested £3.5m in homelessness services, launched free career support through Op ASCEND, and extended employer National Insurance relief. Veterans will be first to benefit from the GOV.UK wallet by applying for digital Veteran Cards later this year.

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Tauranga Eastern Link Toll Road blocked

    Source: New Zealand Police

    At around 9:50am emergency services received reports of a two-vehicle crash on Tauranga Eastern Link Toll Road.

    One person is critically injured.

    The road is partially blocked and motorists are advised to avoid the area.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Closing the gate on Mangapurua winter damage

    Source: NZ Department of Conservation

    Date:  26 June 2025

    Department of Conservation Supervisor Joshua Kilmister says the gate closure affects only larger powered vehicles and the track will remain open for walking and hunting during the winter months.

    “In wet winter weather, larger vehicles damage track surfaces and drainage channels, affect visitor safety, and make it harder for us to manage the track for visitors.

    “We already close this track to cyclists each winter, and now access will also be closed to quad bikes and light utility vehicles from the Mangapurua Trig.”

    The Mangapurua Cycle Trail is a popular destination for visitors seeking to connect with the biodiversity, history, and culture of Whanganui National Park.

    “We want to ensure a safe, quality experience for trampers through winter and we’re asking people to leave their powered vehicles behind. This is a seasonal closure, and full access will be restored in September,” says Joshua.

    A lockable gate will be installed south of Mangapurua Trig closing Mangapurua Track to large, powered vehicles from Monday 30 June 2025. The track will reopen in September.

    Contact

    For media enquiries contact:

    Email: media@doc.govt.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: OEM Director Visits Wasco County to Support Rowena Fire Recovery

    Source: US State of Oregon

    strong>ROWENA, Ore. – On June 18, Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) Director Erin McMahon visited Wasco County to meet with local officials and community members impacted by the Rowena Fire. The visit included a tour of fire-damaged areas and a stop at the Multi-Agency Resource Center (MARC), where displaced residents are receiving critical recovery support.

    In addition to the tour, Director McMahon met with Wasco County Emergency Manager Sheridan McClellan to discuss local needs and ongoing coordination efforts. She also joined a fire impact tour led by Mid-Columbia Fire and Rescue Fire Chief David Jensen, where she witnessed firsthand the destruction caused by the Rowena Fire, including destroyed homes, scorched landscapes and community infrastructure loss.

    To date, the Rowena Fire has destroyed more than 50 residences, nearly 91 nonresidential commercial properties, and 18 additional minor structures. Director McMahon heard powerful stories from evacuees who shared their experiences of evacuation and loss.

    “I was deeply impressed by the coordination and tireless efforts of our first responders, local officials and state agency partners who are working around the clock to support the community impacted by the Rowena Fire. The level of dedication and collaboration on display in Wasco County is a true testament to Oregon’s emergency response system. Hearing stories of how quickly people were able to evacuate thanks to timely OR-Alert notifications was a powerful reminder of how critical preparedness and communication are during an emergency.”

    The Oregon Department of Forestry and the Oregon State Fire Marshal have been key partners in providing firefighting support. OEM extends its deepest gratitude to all firefighters, first responders, emergency personnel, and recovery workers who have responded to this devastating event and continue to support the community in the days ahead.

    A special thank you to Fire Chief David Jensen and Emergency Manager Sheridan McClellan for their time, leadership, and for providing the tour of the impacted areas.

    All Oregonians are encouraged to sign up for local emergency notifications at www.oralert.gov to receive alerts about evacuations, hazards, and other critical information in their area.

    If you would like to support those affected by the Rowena Fire, please consider donating to relief and recovery efforts here:
    https://uwcg.ejoinme.org/RowenaFireReliefRecoveryFund

    Photo Captions for attachments:

    Photo-001

    Fire Chief David Jensen and OEM Director Erin McMahon speak with a Wasco County resident who was able to evacuate with his dog just in time. We’re grateful he is safe—and thankful for the swift work of first responders!

    Photo-002

    Pictured at the Multi-Agency Resource Center (MARC) in The Dalles: OEM Regional Coordinator Tabetha Daugherty, OEM Director Erin McMahon and Fire Chief David Jensen, working together to support wildfire recovery efforts in Wasco County.

    Photo-003

    This image shows the devastating aftermath of the Rowena Fire—what was once a residential area, now reduced to rubble alongside a burned vehicle. Our hearts are with all those affected. If you’re able, please consider donating to support relief and recovery efforts: https://uwcg.ejoinme.org/RowenaFireReliefRecoveryFund

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Alford Applauds House Passage of Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Funding Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mark Alford (Missouri 4th District)

    Alford Applauds House Passage of Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Funding Bill

    Washington, June 25, 2025

    Today, Congressman Mark Alford (MO-04), the Vice Chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies, issued the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 3944, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2026.

    Watch Rep. Alford’s remarks on the House floor in support of H.R. 3944 here or by clicking the image above.

    “The House took the first of twelve steps to restore strong, responsible governance under the Golden Age of the Trump Administration,” said Congressman Alford. “This bill is a win for our veterans, service members, and their families. Despite constant gaslighting by the left, Republicans are fully funding veterans’ healthcare, benefits, and programs. We are also expanding funding for community care and improving the Veterans Crisis Line. Our veterans fought for us, and this bill delivers for them. I was proud to support it.”

    Background:

    H.R. 3944 champions our veterans by:

    • Fully funding veterans’ health care programs.
    • Fully funding veterans’ benefits and VA programs.
    • Supporting President Trump’s efforts to combat veteran homelessness by investing in the new Bridging Rental Assistance for Veteran Empowerment program.
    • Maintaining funding levels for research, mental health programs and other programs relied upon by veterans.

    H.R. 3944 supports the Trump Administration and the mandate of the American people by:

    • Protecting the 2nd Amendment rights of veterans, preventing the VA from sending information to the FBI about veterans without a judge’s consent.
    • Syncing up with President Trump’s Executive Orders on no funds for DEI, gender affirming care, and protecting Hyde-like language at the VA.
    • Prohibiting the VA from processing medical care claims for illegal aliens.

    H.R. 3944 bolsters U.S. national security and border protections by:

    • Providing robust funding for military construction, enabling continued investment in the Indo-Pacific region and infrastructure necessary to support United States advanced weapons systems.
    • Maintaining the prohibitions on the closure of Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba and the use of military construction funds to build facilities for detainees on U.S. soil.
    • Prohibiting the VA from purchasing resources directly or indirectly from the People’s Republic of China.

    ###

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Alford Applauds House Passage of Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Funding Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mark Alford (Missouri 4th District)

    Alford Applauds House Passage of Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Funding Bill

    Washington, June 25, 2025

    Today, Congressman Mark Alford (MO-04), the Vice Chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies, issued the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 3944, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2026.

    Watch Rep. Alford’s remarks on the House floor in support of H.R. 3944 here or by clicking the image above.

    “The House took the first of twelve steps to restore strong, responsible governance under the Golden Age of the Trump Administration,” said Congressman Alford. “This bill is a win for our veterans, service members, and their families. Despite constant gaslighting by the left, Republicans are fully funding veterans’ healthcare, benefits, and programs. We are also expanding funding for community care and improving the Veterans Crisis Line. Our veterans fought for us, and this bill delivers for them. I was proud to support it.”

    Background:

    H.R. 3944 champions our veterans by:

    • Fully funding veterans’ health care programs.
    • Fully funding veterans’ benefits and VA programs.
    • Supporting President Trump’s efforts to combat veteran homelessness by investing in the new Bridging Rental Assistance for Veteran Empowerment program.
    • Maintaining funding levels for research, mental health programs and other programs relied upon by veterans.

    H.R. 3944 supports the Trump Administration and the mandate of the American people by:

    • Protecting the 2nd Amendment rights of veterans, preventing the VA from sending information to the FBI about veterans without a judge’s consent.
    • Syncing up with President Trump’s Executive Orders on no funds for DEI, gender affirming care, and protecting Hyde-like language at the VA.
    • Prohibiting the VA from processing medical care claims for illegal aliens.

    H.R. 3944 bolsters U.S. national security and border protections by:

    • Providing robust funding for military construction, enabling continued investment in the Indo-Pacific region and infrastructure necessary to support United States advanced weapons systems.
    • Maintaining the prohibitions on the closure of Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba and the use of military construction funds to build facilities for detainees on U.S. soil.
    • Prohibiting the VA from purchasing resources directly or indirectly from the People’s Republic of China.

    ###

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Warren Raises Concerns On Risks of Endless War Against Iran, Presses Commander Nominee for Answers on Military Preparations

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    June 25, 2025
    Warren: “Donald Trump is once again playing red light, green light. This time, war with Iran.” 
    Warren: “Only Congress can declare war, and the Senate must vote immediately to prevent another endless war.”
    Video of Exchange (YouTube)
    Washington, D.C. – At a hearing of the Senate Armed Services Committee, U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) expressed her concerns to Vice Admiral Charles B. Cooper II, nominee for Commander of United States Central Command (CENTCOM), regarding President Trump’s dragging the United States into a war with Iran without Congressional approval. 
    On June 21, President Trump ordered strikes against three nuclear facilities in Iran, warning that there were “many targets left to strike” and threatening “tragedy” if Iran did not surrender immediately. Prior to the strikes, the U.S. intelligence community was in agreement that Iran did not pose an imminent threat to the United States and that Iran was not close to building a nuclear weapon. The president is claiming the war is “over,” but the ceasefire continues to change every few hours. 
    Senator Warren questioned Vice Admiral Cooper on if President Trump has communicated any plans for American troops in Iran, pressing for an answer on whether plans for troop deployment are being made and if the U.S. is preparing for a protracted war. Vice Admiral Cooper refused to provide specific answers but confirmed that the military is always prepared for various contingencies.
    President Trump and his administration initially stated that the goal was to end Iran’s nuclear program, not regime change, and declared victory while providing no evidence to support that claim. On Sunday, the president reversed course, posting, “If the current Iranian regime is unable to make Iran great again, why wouldn’t there be regime change?” 
    “Our service members who volunteer to give so much have a right to know that the President of the United States values their lives and sends them into harm’s way only when we clearly have a plan to understand how this protects the United States of America,” said Senator Warren. 
    “I’m very concerned about the president’s on-again, off-again explanations of why this bombing has taken place and that he’s doing it with no constitutional authority,” continued Senator Warren. 
    Senator Warren also criticized reports that the current Trump administration is considering dismantling all institutions that mitigate and reduce civilian harm. Vice Admiral Cooper committed to prioritizing preventing civilian harm, saying failing to do so “risks degrading our credibility and trust and puts troops at risk,” and if confirmed, “I’ll continue to take an organization that has moved, I believe, from compliance to having civilian harm risk mitigation as part of our culture.” 
    Senator Warren reaffirmed that only Congress can declare war and called on her colleagues in the Senate to vote against another endless war.
    Transcript: Hearings to examine the nominations of Vice Admiral Charles B. Cooper II, USN, to be admiral and Commander, United States Central Command, and Lieutenant General Alexus G. Grynkewich, USAF, to be general and Commander, United States European Command and Supreme Allied Commander, Europe, both of the Department of DefenseSenate Armed Services CommitteeJune 24, 2025
    Senator Elizabeth Warren: Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and congratulations to both of you on your nominations. So, it seems like Donald Trump is once again playing red light, green light. This time, war with Iran. 
    Three nights ago, he bombed three sites and warned of, quote, “many targets left to strike” and threatened, quote, “tragedy,” if Iran did not immediately capitulate. Last night, he declared the war is over. But now the ceasefire seems to be changing every few hours, and no one seems to know if it will hold. Now, no one wants Iran to have a nuclear weapon, but experts in intelligence have told us time and time again, Iran’s nuclear program cannot be bombed out of existence. 
    So, the question is, what is President Trump’s plan? Another endless war in the Middle East? 
    Vice Admiral Cooper, you are currently the Deputy Commander of U.S. Central Command. You are nominated to be commander, but you’re already there. You don’t decide policy. Obviously, you carry out the president’s orders. So today, I just want to ask you, if you have any clarity from President Trump, the commander in chief who chose this war, on what comes next. 
    So, Vice Admiral Cooper, has President Trump communicated to you whether or not he could contemplate American troops fighting in Iran?
    Vice Admiral Charles B. Cooper II: Senator, as we sit here today, as has been well described, a very dynamic time, literally right now, as we’re sitting here. The military’s number one priority is the safety and security of our men and women in the Middle East. That remains our priority. As I look to the future with the prospect of confirmation, my obligation, and in fact, my duty, would be to provide the Secretary of Defense and the President a range of options to deal with policies that he would lead.
    Senator Warren: So, are you working on plans to deploy troops if the president orders it? 
    Vice Admiral Cooper: Senator, as you well know, we are working on plans every single day. I think this forum isn’t the appropriate forum to talk about specific plans on force posture or what we’re doing today. Certainly could capture that in a classified environment that, I understand, is later this afternoon.
    Senator Warren: So, I’m just trying to get whether or not there are plans. I’m not asking for what the plans are in particular, but I take it from what you’re saying the president has not ruled out American boots on the ground in Iran?
    Vice Admiral Cooper: Senator, I think from a military perspective, it’s critically important today that we provide the maximum latitude and decision space to the Secretary of Defense and the president to decide on key plans and directions, and we’ll be standing by to execute those as is our duty to do.
    Senator Warren: So, on Saturday, President Trump and his administration claimed that the goal was to end Iran’s nuclear program, not regime change, and declared complete victory with no evidence to support that. And then on Sunday, the president reversed course, posting, quote, that, “If the current Iranian regime is unable to make Iran great again, why wouldn’t there be regime change?” And yesterday, he congratulated everyone on a ceasefire and said, quote, “God bless Iran.” 
    Vice Admiral Cooper, has President Trump communicated to you how long he intends this war could go on if the ceasefire breaks? 
    Vice Admiral Cooper: Senator, our role, from a military perspective, is to remain ready for a wide range of contingencies and protect our people, and that’s exactly what we’re doing. 
    Senator Warren: So that means you’re preparing for a protracted war. Is that right?
    Vice Admiral Cooper: I think it would be inappropriate to comment on any specific action, but we’re prepared for a wide range of contingencies, which is what would be expected.
    Senator Warren: Well, I’m just asking about your preparations. I’m not asking what actions you will take. Our service members who volunteer to give so much have a right to know that the President of the United States values their lives and sends them into harm’s way only when we clearly have a plan to understand how this protects the United States of America. I’m very concerned about the president’s on-again, off-again explanations of why this bombing has taken place and that he’s doing it with no constitutional authority. Only Congress can declare war, and the Senate must vote immediately to prevent another endless war. 
    So, I want to raise one more question, and that is reports that the Trump administration now wants to dismantle reforms developed under the first Trump administration to prevent civilian harm. Killing civilians is not only wrong, it threatens national security. General Stanley McChrystal called it insurgent math, meaning that for every civilian you kill, you create 10 new enemies. 
    Vice Admiral Cooper, why is it important to U.S. national security to prevent civilian harm?
    Vice Admiral Cooper: Well, Senator, first, thank you for your advocacy and passion on this issue. I share your same passion. I think it’s a national security issue. It risks degrading our credibility and trust and puts troops at risk. And if confirmed, I’ll continue to do what I do today, which is take an organization that has moved, I believe, from compliance to having civilian harm risk mitigation as part of our culture. It’s important.
    Senator Warren: I appreciate that. Thank you.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Newhouse Votes to Fully Fund VA, Veterans Services

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Dan Newhouse (4th District of Washington)

    Headline: Newhouse Votes to Fully Fund VA, Veterans Services

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (WA-04) released the following statement upon passage of the Fiscal Year 2026 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, Related Agencies Appropriations Act by the House of Representatives. 

    “Our veterans represent the best of us as Americans. My colleagues and I are keeping our promise to support the brave men and women who have served our country. We owe them a strong VA for health care, mental health services, and resources needed to end veteran homelessness,” said Rep. Newhouse.  

    Newhouse continues, “We also make strategic investments into our military infrastructure and provide critical funding to the Indo-Pacific region to counter the growing threat from the Chinese Communist Party.” 

    “I thank Subcommittee Chairman Carter and Full Committee Chairman Cole for their leadership as we continue to provide resources for our veterans through the Appropriations Committee.” 

    The Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act provides a total discretionary allocation of $152.091 billion, which is nearly $5 billion (3%) above the Fiscal Year 2025 enacted level. 

    The bill includes critical investments in military infrastructure that support readiness and the military families that utilize them. In addition, the bill provides $300 billion for mandatory programs, for a total of $453 billion in overall funding.

    Department of Veterans Affairs 

    • Provides $452.64 billion for the Department of Veterans Affairs, which is $82.6 billion above the FY25 enacted level.
    • Fully funds veterans’ medical care at $131.4 billion, which is equal to the FY26 Budget
      Request.
    • Fully funds veterans’ benefits and toxic exposures-related needs for FY26. $52.67
      billion for the Toxic Exposures Fund (TEF).
    • Includes $970 for the Bridging Rental Assistance for Veteran Empowerment
      program, an innovative effort to end veteran homelessness. 

    Department of Defense (Military Construction and Family Housing)  

    Provides $18 billion for the Department of Defense (DoD) military construction and family housing, which is $480 million above the FY25 enacted level.  

    • $75 million above the enacted level for planning and design of future barracks to address 
      barrack deficiencies identified by the Government Accountability Office.
    • $110 million above the enacted level for construction improvements in DoD laboratories, 
      supporting United States technological superiority and DoD innovation.
    • $75 million above the enacted level for the demolition of excess and obsolete infrastructure, saving taxpayers money and lowering long-term facility maintenance costs at DoD.
    • Continues robust prior year funding of the INDOPACOM minor military construction program and increases funding for INDOPACOM planning and design.
    • Continues support for the Guard and Reserve with over $1.2 billion for Guard and Reserve facility construction.
    • $2 billion for Military Family Housing.
    • $75 million above the enacted level for child development centers to improve the quality of life of military families.

    See full bill text here. 

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rutherford Statement on FY26 MilCon-VA Appropriations Act House Passage

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Rutherford (4th District of Florida)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Wednesday, U.S. Congressman John H. Rutherford (FL-05), member of the Houe Appropriations Committee, released the following statement on the House passage of H.R. 3844 – Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies (MilCon-VA) Appropriations Act, 2026:

    “President Trump promised the American people that over the next four years we would refocus our fighting force on keeping our country safe, champion our veterans, support military families, and honor our American heroes. I was proud to vote for this year’s MilCon-VA Appropriations bill in the House to deliver on our promises to combat veteran homelessness, protect Second Amendment rights of veterans, eliminate woke policies from our military, invest in critical military infrastructure, and improve military housing.

    “As appropriators, we are focused on delivering real results for the American people by eliminating waste, demanding accountability, and funding American priorities to keep our country strong and promote fiscally responsible. This legislation is worthy of the sacrifices made by our men and women in uniform, our veterans, and their families and should make all Americans proud.”

    Included in the bill are Rutherford’s priorities to:

    • Fully fund veteran health care programs and benefits

    • Provide investment for military construction, specifically in the Indo-Pacific region, and improve military family housing

    • Support President Trump’s efforts to combat veteran homelessness

    • Protect the Second Amendment rights of our veterans

    • Codify President Trump’s Executive Orders by removing DEI and gender affirming care and protecting Hyde Amendment-like language at the VA

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Advocacy – Southland Momentum Grows: Environment Southland Considers Action on Illegal Israeli Settlements after Invercargill Declines – PSNAA

    Source: Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa (PSNA) Invercargill

    Environment Southland agreed today (Wednesday 25th) to commission a staff report considering a procurement policy change to exclude companies involved in illegal Israeli settlements on occupied Palestinian land.

    The step follows a request by local residents and members of Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa. It places Environment Southland on a growing list of local councils responding to New Zealand’s co-sponsorship of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2334, which declared the settlements a “flagrant violation under international law” and a “major obstacle” to peace.

    “New Zealand helped write this in 2016,” said the speakers. “We can’t promote it abroad and ignore it at home. This is a strong first step to ensure ratepayer money doesn’t fund human rights abuses.”

    The decision comes just a day after Invercargill City Council narrowly rejected the same change — a 6–6 vote decided by Nobby Clark — despite staff advice to the contrary. Speakers say Invercargill’s position is out of step with national policy and public demand. “Councils are simply being asked to align with what NZ agreed to years ago. This isn’t about ranking suffering, it’s about acting where there’s black and white legal clarity and political mandate.”

    In July 2024, the International Court of Justice confirmed Israel’s 57-year occupation breaches international law on apartheid and racial segregation. Countries including New Zealand voted that states “ensure they do not render aid or assistance” to it.

    The group also expressed concern that unlike at Dunedin’s recent vote, where councilors heard from supporting voices including local Palestinians and Israelis during the public forum, today saw those refused by the chair.

    “This is a narrow step – excluding companies listed by the highest authority on human rights, the UNHRC” said the group, “Since the current Israeli government came to power, the building of settlements and violence against Palestinians in the West Bank has rocketed. International law protects all of us.”

    Other councils — including Christchurch City, Nelson City, and Environment Canterbury — have already taken action, and a formal vote on adopting the policy is expected following the staff report. PSNA says the window is still open: “Southland still has an opportunity to lead — and to stand on the right side of history.”

    Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa (PSNA) Invercargill

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoyer Statement on U.S. Strike on Nuclear Facilities in Iran

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

    WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) released the following statement today after the United States carried out a strike on nuclear facilities in Iran:

    “The U.S. strike on Iranian nuclear facilities at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan yesterday was essential to preventing Iran from developing a nuclear weapon.

    “Every American president since Jimmy Carter, regardless of party, as well as multiple generations of both Democratic and Republican leadership in Congress, articulated the bipartisan policy that allowing Iran to develop nuclear weapons was unacceptable. They made it clear that the United States would take whatever action necessary to prevent that outcome and counter the dire threat a nuclear-armed Iran would pose to the world, the Middle East, and directly to America and Israel.

    “In the past few weeks, the International Atomic Energy Agency censured Iran for continuing its nuclear weapons program. Iranian leaders sent a clear message that they were ignoring our longstanding policy. Israel believed that Iran was on the verge of achieving its goal and struck Iranian nuclear sites. Yesterday, the United States did the same, bombing Iranian nuclear facilities at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. That was in keeping with our stated position against Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

    “I am relieved that our service members were able to conduct this limited, one-time operation safely, and I thank them for their courage. These strikes were designed to dismantle Iran’s nuclear program, but neither the U.S., nor Israel, nor any other nation wants to go to war with the Iranian people, or Iran itself. We don’t know what the coming days will hold, but we must do everything possible to protect U.S. and allied forces from Iranian retaliation.

    “Sadly, the threat of a nuclear-armed Iran became this dire because the Trump Administration chose to back out of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action in 2018. Yesterday’s operation helped counter that threat, but America must continue working to close Iran’s path to nuclear weapons permanently.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoyer Leads Hospital Roundtable to Highlight Damage of Trump’s Cuts to Medicaid and Health Care Services

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

    PRINCE FREDERICK, MD — As part of House Democrats’ Save Our Hospitals Week of Action, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) hosted a roundtable with doctors, medical professionals, and hospitals to discuss the implications of Trump and House Republicans’ cuts to Medicaid and health care services. Congressman Hoyer and roundtable participants highlighted how nearly 17 million Americans stand to lose their health care coverage and millions more will pay higher premiums, copays, and deductibles under the reconciliation bill that House Republicans passed. Experts predict over 21,000 people in the MD-05 alone will lose coverage by 2034 because of this bill. That includes over 8,000 people losing ACA coverage and 13,000 losing Medicaid coverage in MD-05.

    The discussion took place at the Calvert Health Medical Center in Calvert County. Participants included the CalvertHealth Medical Center, Maryland Department of Health, Maryland Hospital Association, MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital, MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center, Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Center, and the University of Maryland Medical System.

    “Donald Trump and his Republican allies in Congress are laser focused on making health care unaffordable for millions of Americans in order to give a tax break to the wealthiest 0.1% of Americans,” Congressman Hoyer said. “As Trump’s administration decimates federal health care services and fires the federal employees providing those services, more pain will befall Maryland households. Seniors might have to ration medications; families with disabled children may have to forgo treatment; hospitals will be squeezed; and the number of uninsured Americans will rise. That’s why I will not stop working to protect Americans’ access to quality, affordable health care.”

    “The Maryland Department of Health was proud to join Congressman Hoyer to hear directly from hospitals on how changes at the federal level will impact Maryland’s health care delivery system. Maryland has been a national model for innovation and population health improvement, paving the way for other states to learn from our system that has both improved health and reduced overall health care costs,” said Ryan Moran, Deputy Secretary of Healthcare Financing and Medicaid Director, Maryland Department of Health.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoyer, Neal, Thompson Convene Former IRS Commissioners and Taxpayer Advocates to Highlight Trump Administration’s Cuts

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

    WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Financial Services and General Government, co-led a briefing with Ranking Member of the Ways and Means Committee Richard E. Neal (MA-01) and Ranking Member of the House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Select Revenue Measures Mike Thompson (CA-04) to highlight the continued attacks on the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) by the Trump Administration. 

    The Members heard testimony from ​Former IRS Commissioners John Koskinen, Fred Goldberg, Danny Werfel, as well as Natasha Sarin, President of the Yale Budget Lab, and Nina E. Olson, Executive Director of the Center for Taxpayer Rights, as they discussed the consequences that IRS cuts have on law enforcement and America’s fiscal responsibility.

    WATCH THE LIVESTREAM HERE

     

    “For years, the IRS has been desperately underfunded and understaffed, leading hundreds of billions of dollars in legally owed taxes to go uncollected each year,” Ranking Member Hoyer said. “An attack on the IRS is an attack on America’s fiscal health.”

    “The Trump Administration’s relentless effort to gut the IRS is nothing short of sabotage,” said Ranking Member Neal. “When the IRS works, America works, but Republicans are intent on tearing it down to protect the wealthy few. Their cuts mean fewer audits for millionaires, more burdens for honest taxpayers, and billions in lost revenue that could be invested in workers and families.”

    “The President’s decision to underfund the IRS is no accident. This administration is ensuring that the IRS can’t carry out audits of corporations and high-income earners, handing a free pass to their wealthy donors and guaranteeing billions of dollars lost in unpaid taxes. Meanwhile, the services ordinary Americans rely on will be worse. My constituents, and all Americans, deserve a government that works for them, not one that caters to the wealthy and the well-connected,” Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-04) said.

    “I spent 20 years in the private sector helping to turn around large, failed enterprises.  And it never occurred to us to starve the accounts receivable operations of any company to see how they did.  The goal was to protect revenues, not lose them.  I think it is nonsensical to maintain, on the one hand, that you’re concerned about the size of the deficit and, on the other hand, to undermine the agency charged with collecting taxes owed,” ​​​Fmr. IRS Commissioner John Koskinen said.

    “Any executive – whether they are from a public company, a large of small private company, or from the government – will tell you that there is no way to effectively run an enterprise when each year’s budget is completely unknown and unknowable in advance. Good management and strategic direction requires forward planning. You simply cannot do that if you do not have any idea what the budget outlook will be from year to year,” ​​​Fmr. IRS Commissioner Fred T. Goldberg, Jr., said

    “This is a critical time for the tax agency – and the nation. While the brave men and women of our armed services stand in harm’s way across the globe and members of both parties have concerns about the deficit, there should be no political disagreement that the success of the IRS is vital to the short-term and long-term success of our country, whether it’s serving taxpayers or collecting revenue critical to the health and safety of the United States and our citizens,” ​​​Fmr. IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel said.

    “The combination of staffing cuts, seriously damaged employee morale, technology starts and stops, replacement of human intervention with digital tools and decision-making, and erosion of the confidentiality of tax return and taxpayer return information – none of this bodes well for US taxpayers and the protection of their fundamental rights under the Taxpayer Bill of Rights,” said Nina E. Olson, Executive Director, Center for Taxpayer Rights.

    “The IRS interacts with every household and every business, and its dedicated civil servants take that responsibility seriously. Its workforce must grow and evolve, not indiscriminately be ransacked. It is unfortunate that the IRS has found itself under siege and without the tools its employees need to do the work they care so deeply about. I hope the testimony today, from a group of bipartisan tax experts across the ideological spectrum, can help to encourage course correction. If the IRS is not adequately funded we will be leaving significant revenue on the table and eroding our democracy,” said Natasha Sarin, President, Yale Budget Lab.

    A recording of the full meeting is available here. Witnesses’ prepared remarks can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Allen Votes to Deliver Funding for Veteran Care and National Security

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Rick Allen (R-GA-12)

    Today, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 3944, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2026. H.R. 3944 provides Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations for military construction projects, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), and related agencies that honor our commitment to veterans and servicemembers, fund critical military construction, and support a strong national security. After voting in support of the bill, Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12) issued the following statement:

    “It is fitting that our first appropriations bill for Fiscal Year 2026 provides for our veterans, servicemembers, and national security. We owe everything to those who have answered the call to defend our great nation, and it is our duty to ensure they are cared for in the manner they deserve. This legislation prioritizes these heroes by fully funding veterans’ health care, investing in military housing to enhance the quality of life for military families, and supporting critical military construction projects across the country. I am proud to support this bill and remain grateful to our men and women in uniform, both past and present.”

    More specifically, H.R. 3944:

    • Fully funds veterans’ health care.
    • Provides an advance for the Toxic Exposures Fund.
    • Includes $943 million for medical and prosthetic research.
    • Addresses the longstanding concerns of mental health and homelessness among veteran populations.
    • Includes nearly $18 billion for military construction, a $470 million increase over Fiscal Year 2025.
    • Increases investments to address barrack deficiencies, bolsters investments in DoD laboratories, assists in demolishing obsolete infrastructure, and provides $2 billion in military housing. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: García, Ocasio-Cortez, DeGette Send Letter Urging HHS Secretary Kennedy to Immediately Cease Sharing Non-citizen Medicaid Data with Immigration Enforcement Officials

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Jesús Chuy García (IL-04)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representatives Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), and Diana DeGette (CO-01), who serves as ranking member for the Subcommittee on Health on the Energy and Commerce Committee, led 28 colleagues in a letter to Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. regarding the reported sharing of non-citizen Medicaid enrollee data with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for immigration enforcement purposes.

    “We write to urge CMS to immediately cease any data sharing with DHS and to direct DHS to destroy any individually identifiable health information transmitted by CMS to DHS,” wrote the lawmakers. “We are particularly concerned that these latest actions will have a chilling effect and jeopardize access to services for those who rely on Medicaid and other public programs for lifesaving care, including the 5.5 million U.S. citizen children in mixed status families.”

    Reporting from the Associated Press (AP) details new efforts by the Trump administration to access and share the private, personally identifiable information of individuals residing in the U.S. According to the AP, top advisors at HHS ordered the release of Medicaid enrollees’ sensitive personal information to DHS despite nonpartisan expert officials’ reported concerns that sharing such data would raise considerable ethical concerns and could violate federal law, including the Social Security Act and the Privacy Act of 1974.

    At the end of the letter, the lawmakers posed the following questions: 

    1. Please detail any and all communication with state Medicaid officials regarding the Trump administration’s efforts to obtain this data, including the exact information requested from state Medicaid agencies subject to the audit described in “SUBJECT: Ending Taxpayer Subsidization of Open Borders.”13 In addition: 

      a. Please include the parameters outlining for which Medicaid applicants or enrollees CMS requested information (i.e., did CMS obtain data specifically on individuals for whom emergency Medicaid payments were made to hospitals, individuals who received statefunded health benefits, individuals who are lawfully present and eligible for Medicaid and/or Children’s Health Insurance Program benefits);

      b. Please specify if such requested information included personally identifiable information such as name and address and, if so, what such information; and c. 

      c. As of the date of your response, please specify which states have provided such information as well as which states have received inquiries.

    2. Please provide copies of any data sharing agreements between CMS and any state for which CMS has provided data to DHS.

    3. What, if any, data was requested from HHS by DHS and for what purpose?

      a. On what date did DHS request such data?

    4. What, if any, data was shared by HHS with DHS and in what format?   
    5. What legal authority, if any, is CMS citing for the release of this personally identifiable information to DHS?

    6. Please share the below correspondence:

      a. Any and all communication from HHS and CMS to DHS regarding the transfer of this data.

      b. Any and all communication within HHS about sharing this data, including the memo prepared by CMS staff detailing their objections to the sharing of personal information of non-citizen enrollees.

    7. Did HHS and DHS enter into a data sharing agreement or any other memorandum of understanding pertaining to the use of Medicaid data or resources for the purposes of immigration enforcement? If so, please provide a copy of that agreement. If not, please explain why the agencies did not enter into a data sharing agreement or other memorandum and describe what, if any, policies and practices are in place regarding the storage, retrievability, access controls, retention, and disposal of the data, as required by the Privacy Act of 1974.

    They requested that Secretary Kennedy provide written responses by no later than Monday, July 21, 2025.

    In addition to Reps. García, Ocasio-Cortez, and DeGette, the letter was signed by Reps. Nanette Barragán (CA-44), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05), Danny K. Davis (IL-07), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Cleo Fields (LA-06), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Robin Kelly (IL-02), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Doris Matsui (CA-07), James McGovern (MA-02), Gregory Meeks (NY-05), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Jerrold Nadler (NY-12), Eleanor Norton (DC), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Emily Randall (WA-06), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Norma Torres (CA-35), Ritchie Torres (NY-15), Lori Trahan (MA-03) and Nydia Velázquez (NY-07). 

    The full text of the letter can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Tech – Avast Makes AI-Driven Scam Defense Available for Free Worldwide

    Source: Botica Butler Raudon Partners & Passion – for Avast

    Avast debuts Avast Scam Guardian and Scam Guardian Pro as data breaches and scams soar.

    Auckland, 26 June 2025 – Driven by a commitment to make cutting-edge scam protection available to everyone, Avast, a leader in digital security and privacy and part of Gen (NASDAQ: GEN), has unveiled Avast Scam Guardian, a new AI-powered offering integrated into its award-winning* Avast Free Antivirus.

    Cybercriminals continue to abuse AI to craft increasingly convincing scam attacks at an alarming rate. Available at no cost, the new service marks a significant step forward in democratising AI scam protection. A premium version, Avast Scam Guardian Pro, has also been added to Avast Premium Security, giving customers an enhanced layer of AI protection against email scams.

    “Today’s scams aren’t crude or obvious – they’re tailored, targeted, and AI-enhanced, making it harder than ever to tell the difference between truth and deception,” said Leena Elias, Chief Product Officer at Gen. “As scammers take advantage of rising data breaches and leaked personal information, anyone anywhere can become a victim of scams. That’s why it’s never been more important to make powerful AI-powered scam protection available to everyone, everywhere. We’re levelling the playing field with world class scam defense that helps people strengthen their digital and financial safety.”

    According to the recent Q1/2025 Gen Threat Report, breached records of individuals surged by more than 186% between January and March 2025, revealing sensitive information such as passwords, emails, and credit card details. Over the same timeframe, reports of phishing scams rose by 466% compared to the previous quarter, making up almost a third of all scam submissions observed by Gen.  

    As data breaches rise, so do the opportunities for attackers to exploit leaked information to launch targeted, hyper-personalised scam campaigns that are harder than ever to spot. Like a seasoned scam investigator, Avast Scam Guardian uses proprietary AI trained on scam data from Gen Threat Labs to go beyond just detecting malicious URLs – it also analyses context and language to more effectively identify signs of deceptive or harmful intent. Avast Scam Guardian also helps to pull back the curtain on hidden threats in website code and neutralises them to keep people safer as they browse and shop online.  

    Key features available in Avast Scam Guardian for Avast Free Antivirus, include:

    Avast Assistant: Provides 24/7 AI-powered scam protection guidance on suspicious websites, SMS messages, emails, links, offers, and more. Allows people to engage in open dialogue when they’re unsure about a potential scam and uses natural language to better understand queries and deliver clear advice on what to do next. Available on Windows and Mac.

    Web Guard: Uses the collective power of Gen Threat Labs telemetry and AI trained on millions of frequently visited websites to continuously analyse and detect hidden scams in content and code** – offering unique visibility into dangerous URLs. Available on Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS**.

    Avast Scam Guardian Pro includes everything in Avast Scam Guardian, plus:

    Email Guard: Uses AI to understand the context of emails and the meaning of words to detect scams. Scans and flags safe and suspicious emails before you open them, helping to protect your email wherever you check it, no matter what device you use to log in. Available on Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS***.

    Avast Scam Guardian and Scam Guardian Pro are available to download now as part of Avast Free Antivirus and Avast Premium Security. Later this year, additional AI-powered tools will be added to Avast Scam Guardian Pro for greater protection against sophisticated scams targeting other communication channels, including SMS and phone calls.

    For more information, please visit www.avast.com.  

    *AV-Comparatives, “Top-Rated Product 2024 Award” & AV-Comparatives, “Real-World Protection 2024 Award” – Jan-Dec 2024.

    **Content and code scanning is only available on Windows and Mac.

    **Email Guard is included, but mobile platforms do not have the Scam Guardian user interface.

    About Avast

    Avast is a leader in digital security and privacy, and part of Gen (NASDAQ: GEN), a global company dedicated to powering Digital Freedom with a family of trusted consumer brands. Avast protects hundreds of millions of users from online threats, for Mobile, PC or Mac, and is top-ranked and certified by VB100, AV-Comparatives, AV-Test, SE Labs and others. Avast is a member of the Coalition Against Stalkerware, No More Ransom and Internet Watch Foundation. Learn more at Avast.com.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Annual report updates collective efforts to advance reconciliation

    The 2024-25 Declaration Act Annual Report showcases the collaborative effort being made by the Province and Indigenous Peoples to implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UN Declaration) in B.C. and build a better future.

    The report, which covers the period between April 1, 2024, and March 31, 2025, details work underway on 78 of 89 specific Declaration Act Action Plan actions, as well progress to align provincial laws with the UN Declaration.

    The Province is working shoulder to shoulder with Indigenous governments and organizations on partnerships that support healthy communities, improve the education system, create economic opportunities, strengthen sustainable stewardship of the land, water and resources, and improve services and community safety.

    Highlights found within the report include:

    • Launching a new co-governance structure with 17 First Nations and Canada to protect and conserve marine wildlife and habitats in the Great Bear Sea, and support stewardship efforts led by First Nations (learn more on page 36 of the report).
    • Creating partnerships between Indigenous knowledge holders and the Province on cultural and prescribed fires. This includes expanding the number of engaged, knowledgeable and experienced people who can safely and collaboratively use fire as a tool for land stewardship, while working to remove existing barriers to Indigenous uses of fire (page 46).
    • Putting a new graduation requirement in place for the 2023-24 school year ensures all students complete Indigenous-focused coursework before they graduate from B.C.’s K-12 education system. More than 45,000 graduates have completed at least four Indigenous-focused courses since implementation of the new requirement. Prior to implementation, fewer than 5% of graduates had taken any Indigenous-focused courses at the secondary-school level (page 61).
    • Ensuring children have the best start by supporting the creation of 483 Métis-led child care spaces throughout B.C. and 2,200 free Aboriginal Head Start child care spaces with culturally relevant programming (page 114).
    • Recognizing the integral role First Nations-mandated post-secondary institutes play in supporting First Nations learners and providing these centres with ongoing funding through new legislation (page 130).

    Learn More:

    Read the sixth Declaration Act Annual Report to learn more about the cross-government efforts to advance reconciliation – guided by the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act and in meaningful consultation and co-operation with Indigenous Peoples:
    https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/british-columbians-our-governments/indigenous-people/aboriginal-peoples-documents/2024_2025_declaration_act_annual_report.pdf

    Explore the refreshed Declaration Act website and reporting from the first three years of the Declaration Act Action Plan: https://declaration.gov.bc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Appropriations Committee Approves FY26 Homeland Security Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-02)

    Washington, D.C. – The House Appropriations Committee approved the Fiscal Year 2026 Homeland Security Appropriations Bill introduced by Homeland Security Subcommittee Chairman Mark Amodei.

    “The American people sent us here to clean up the chaos at the border, address the crime in our communities, and restore the law and order that was abandoned under the last administration. This bill delivers on that mission by fully funding the Department that protects the Homeland, and refocuses where necessary, to make sure this Department is only doing the job that Congress has authorized it to do — keep the American people safe.

    None of this would matter without the brave men and women on the frontlines, our agents and officers, who have been unfairly demonized simply for doing the hard work of defending our homeland, but we will not turn our backs on them.

    When I was entrusted with chairing this subcommittee, I knew we had both an opportunity and a responsibility to make our country safer and to push back against a status quo that too often bent a knee to violence, drug trafficking, and infiltration in our communities.

    Thank you to Chairman Cole, members of the committee, and staff for their dedication and urgency in moving this priority down the field, and to the Trump Administration for putting the safety of American citizens first. I look forward to its arrival on the House floor.”

    The Fiscal Year 2026 Homeland Security Bill

    The Homeland Security Appropriations Bill provides a total discretionary allocation of $66.36 billion. The defense portion of the allocation is $3.29 billion, which is $41 million (1.22%) below the Fiscal Year 2025 enacted level. The non-defense portion of the allocation is $63.08 billion, which is $1.37 billion (2.05%) above the Fiscal Year 2025 enacted level.

    The bill includes $6.3 billion in discretionary appropriations that are offset by fee collections and $26.47 billion as an allocation adjustment for major disaster response and recovery activities.

    Key Takeaways

    Champions public safety and homeland preparedness by: 

    • Upholding the America First vision by realigning the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) priorities around its fundamental mission: defending the nation against the threat posed by terrorists, criminals, and foreign adversaries and ensuring the safety and security of every American.
    • Prioritizing border security and the detention and swift removal of criminal aliens.
    • Enhancing resources to detect and counter the spread of deadly fentanyl that poisons our communities.
    • Partnering with state and local law enforcement to enhance immigration enforcement and homeland defense capabilities.
    • Protecting vulnerable children by strengthening exploitation investigations.
    • Refocusing cybersecurity capabilities to address critical infrastructure threats from criminals and nation-state actors.
    • Strengthening disaster preparedness, response, and recovery efforts for U.S. communities.

    Supports the Trump Administration and mandate of the American people by: 

    • Prohibiting funding for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and Critical Race Theory.
    • Prohibiting the government from labeling Americans’ constitutionally protected speech as “misinformation” and imposing a penalty of termination for such action.
    • Prohibiting funding for providing or facilitating abortions for ICE detainees.
    • Prohibiting gender-affirming care, including hormone therapy and surgery for ICE detainees.

    Bolsters U.S. national security and border protections by: 

    • Providing $613 million to sustain 22,000 Border Patrol agents.
    • Providing $346 million for border security technology.
    • Providing $300 million for Non-Intrusive Inspection equipment.
    • Providing $4.4 billion for custody operations to fund 50,000 ICE detention beds.
    • Providing $1 billion to fund transportation and removal operations for criminal and/or removable aliens.
    • Providing $1.6 billion to modernize Coast Guard cutters and aircraft to help secure our border.

    Safeguards American taxpayer dollars and preserves core functions by: 

    • Ending programs that incentivized more illegal migration, such as:
    • Eliminating the Shelter and Services Program for aliens, providing $650 million savings compared to Fiscal Year 2025 enacted level.
    • Eliminating the Case Management Pilot Program for aliens, providing $20 million savings compared to Fiscal Year 2025 enacted level.
    • Eliminating funding for costly soft-sided facilities used to process aliens, $1.7 billion less than Fiscal Year 2025 enacted level.
    • Eliminating the duplicative Office of the Immigration Detention Ombudsman, saving $28.6 million from the Fiscal Year 2025 enacted level.

    A summary of the bill is available here.

    Bill text is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Moore Votes “Yes” on First Appropriations Bill, Which Significantly Increases Funding to the VA

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

    Washington, D.C. – This afternoon, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 3944, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2026. Congressman Riley M. Moore, who is a member of the House Appropriations Committee, voted “Yes” on the bill.

    This legislation provides $452.64 billion for the Department of Veterans Affairs, which is $82.6 billion above the previous Fiscal Year 2025 enacted level.

    The legislation also includes several of Congressman Moore’s priorities, such as language prohibiting the VA from buying Chinese tech equipment, as well as language that restricts the Department from sharing veterans’ names with the FBI NICS system.

    Congressman Moore issued the following statement:

    “Today’s bill is a win for veterans, and I was proud to vote ‘Yes.’ West Virginia has a rich history of military service, and those veterans deserve the very best care available. Our legislation significantly increases funding for the VA, fully funds veterans’ medical care, provides over $52 billion for the Toxic Exposure Fund, and protects our veterans against Chinese spying.

    “I’m also grateful to Chairman Tom Cole for the opportunity to serve on the House Appropriations Committee, and look forward to securing wins for West Virginia as the annual appropriations process continues.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bipartisan, Bicameral Health Leaders Introduce Bill to Strengthen Veteran Health Care & Stop Waste

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Lloyd Doggett (D-TX)

    Contact: Alexis.Torres@mail.house.gov

    Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Representatives Lloyd Doggett (D-TX), Ranking Member of the House Ways & Means Health Subcommittee, Greg Murphy, M.D. (R-NC), member of the House Ways & Means Health Subcommittee, Mark Takano (D-CA), Ranking Member of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, David Schweikert (R-AZ), Chair of the House Ways & Means Oversight Subcommittee, John Joyce, M.D. (R-PA), member of the House Energy & Commerce Health Subcommittee, along with Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), member of the Senate Finance Health Subcommittee, Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Chair of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Ranking Member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, introduced the bicameral Guarantee Utilization of All Reimbursements for Delivery of (GUARD) Veterans’ Health Care Act.

    The legislation will permit the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) to recoup health care costs for dually enrolled veterans in private insurance Medicare Advantage (MA) and Medicare Prescription Drug (Part D) plans. Thereby removing a longstanding statutory loophole that results in taxpayers paying twice for veterans’ health care while private insurers profit and resources are diverted away from the VHA. 

    “Big health insurers have found a nifty way to make an estimated $357 billion profit off veterans and taxpayers: they collect premiums, but taxpayers cover the cost of care. These wasted double payments mean veterans are missing out on critical resources that could be reinvested in delivering more and better care at the VA, such as hiring more providers, purchasing medical equipment, surgical supplies, and devices, and expanding available services at VA clinics,” said Rep. Doggett. “To obtain genuine savings and improve veterans’ health, Congress and the Administration must tackle the insurance lobby. Taxpayers, our veterans, and those at the VA dedicated to serving them deserve better.”

    “It’s a mistake to let Medicare Advantage plans exploit a costly loophole and pocket taxpayer money at the expense of veteran care,” said Sen. Warren. “Instead of ripping away health care from millions of Americans, Congress should crack down on the genuine waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare Advantage.”

    “Our veterans deserve to receive accessible, high-quality care, and their benefits are meant to cover the services they receive, not line the pockets of insurers who double-dip in the process,” said Rep. Murphy. “For too long, inefficiencies within the system have resulted in a lack of coordinated benefits for veterans dually enrolled with Medicare Advantage and can result in excess payments to insurance companies. I’m proud to join the effort to close the loophole that has allowed insurers who provide Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D supplemental plans to receive duplicative Medicare payments while the Veterans Health Administration foots the bill.”

    “Insurance companies are capitalizing on a loophole that allows them to make billions of dollars off the backs of veterans while taxpayers are paying twice—both in the form of Medicare’s monthly payments to the insurers, which happen regardless of whether veteran enrollees are using the Medicare plans’ benefits, and in our annual appropriations to the Veterans Health Administration,” said Rep. Takano. “I look forward to ending this predatory practice with the help of Senator Warren, Senator Cassidy, Senator Blumenthal, Representative Doggett, Representative Murphy, Representative Schweikert, and Representative Joyce, and reinvesting these funds into VA’s healthcare system.”

    “Congress must modernize Medicare Advantage and Close the loopholes that allow Medicare Advantage insurers to bill for veteran care they didn’t provide,” said Rep. Schweikert. “From 2018 to 2021, these duplicative payments earned insurers an estimated $44 billion, just a fraction of what companies in this $450 billion-a-year industry have extracted. There is more to uncover and much more to fix. Now is the time to realign incentives in favor of patients.”

    “For too long, private insurers have shaken down the government and taxpayers for care veterans receive at VA hospitals,” said Sen. Blumenthal. “This legislation gives VA the power to claw back these payments and use those funds to provide more quality health care to those who served.” 

    For years, a loophole has allowed MA insurers to pocket billions in taxpayer money through upfront fixed payments from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services for enrolled veterans, despite some veterans never using their benefits, and the VHA shouldering most costs for those who do. As a result, taxpayers are paying twice for the same services, and veterans are losing critical resources that could be reinvested in improving and expanding veterans’ health care. Recognizing the opportunity to profit, insurers deploy disingenuous marketing practices to entice more enrollees for their own lucrative benefits. From 2011 to 2020, dual enrollment in MA plans grew by 63%.

    The GUARD Veterans’ Health Care Act would save American taxpayers an estimated $12.1 billion in a single year, and $357 billion over a decade, by allowing VHA to recover payments for any health care items or services provided to veterans dually-enrolled in an MA or Part D plan. The bill also strengthens VHA’s ability to recover payment from third party insurers for care furnished to veterans.

    Endorsing organizations include the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), National Committee to Protect Social Security and Medicare, Medicare Rights Center, Center for Medicare Advocacy, Justice in Aging, National Nurses United (NNU), Public Citizen, and American Economic Liberties Project.

    View the bill text here, and a one-page fact sheet here.

    A 10-year savings estimate from the Center for Advancing Health Policy through Research (CAHPR) is here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Williams Introduces Two Bills to Restore Economic Freedom, Regulatory Certainty, and Energy Market Integrity

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Roger Williams (25th District of Texas)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Roger Williams (TX-25), introduced the Fuel Emissions Freedom Act and the Stop the Subsidized Green Energy Scam Act. These bills will restore regulatory sanity, protect taxpayers, and defend free-market principles in both the automotive and energy sectors.

    “These bills are about economic liberty, energy independence, and relief from government overreach,” said Congressman Williams. “As we usher in the Golden Age of America, we must return power to the American people, not bureaucrats or special interests. Whether it’s letting manufacturers innovate or ending taxpayer-funded green giveaways, it’s time to cater to Main Street and let the market, not Washington, decide what powers America’s future.”

    Background:

    Fuel Emissions Freedom Act

    • Overturns all federal and state fuel emissions regulations, including California’s special authority under the Clean Air Act.
    • Eliminates EPA vehicle emission limits, CAFE standards, and state-imposed tailpipe emissions rules.
    • Restores regulatory certainty to the U.S. automotive sector and empowers manufacturers to innovate freely without costly compliance barriers.
    • Trump signed H.J.Res. 87 into law, overturning California’s biased waivers that allow them to create their own emissions regulations.
    • The Fuel Emissions Freedom Act will finish the job.

    Cosponsors: Representative Brandon Gill and Representative Michael Cloud.

    Read the bill text here.

    Stop the Subsidized Green Energy Scam Act

    • Immediately ends federal tax credits for wind, solar, and battery storage projects started after enactment.
    • Repeals provisions such as the Energy Credit, Clean Electricity Production Tax Credit, and Clean Electricity Investment Tax Credit.
    • Puts an end to taxpayer-funded subsidies that prop up politically favored green industries.

    Read the bill text here.

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    Congressman Roger Williams is the Chairman of the House Small Business Committee and member of the House Financial Services Committee. He proudly represents the 25th Congressional District of Texas.

    MIL OSI USA News –