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  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Capito Opening Statement at Hearing to Consider McMaster, Busterud, Telle Nominations

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito
    To watch Chairman Capito’s opening statement, click here.
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, led ahearing on the nominations of Sean McMaster to be Administrator of the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), John Busterud to be Assistant Administrator for the Office of Solid Waste of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and Adam Telle to be Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works.
    Below is the opening statement of Chairman Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) as delivered.
    “This morning, we will hear from three of President Trump’s important nominees. I want to first welcome Mr. Sean McMaster, President Trump’s nominee to serve as Administrator of the Federal Highway Administration or better known as FHWA.
    “FHWA is an operating administration within the U.S. Department of Transportation, responsible for providing technical support, we lean on them a lot, and funding to states and local entities. The funding provided by FHWA is critical to facilitating the design and construction of improvements to our surface transportation network.
    “These improvements enable the safe and reliable movement of people and goods, which enhances our quality of life and supports economic growth. Mr. McMaster’s relevant professional experience makes him well-qualified to serve as Administrator. He brings more than 10 years of government service, working in the U.S. House of Representatives and at federal agencies, including the U.S. Department of Transportation.
    “Since mid-2020, Mr. McMaster has worked for two private sector transportation companies. First, he served as a National Practice Consultant and Vice President at HNTB and most recently, he served as the Vice President for Commercial Aviation and Transportation at The Boeing Company.
    “One challenge that the FHWA Administrator must quickly tackle is the significant backlog of announced grants that do not have signed grant agreements in place. This inherited workload will require diligence and collaboration to resolve. I am hopeful that Mr. McMaster is confirmed, his experience and leadership at FHWA will accelerate this process. This Committee also looks forward to working with FHWA and others on the long-term, bipartisan surface transportation reauthorization bill.
    “Next, I want to welcome Mr. John Busterud, President Trump’s nominee to lead the EPA’s Office of Land and Emergency Management, better known as OLEM. Mr. Busterud’s exceptional experience has prepared him to lead OLEM and tackle some of our nation’s most pressing environmental challenges.
    “Following a 31-year environmental legal career, he served as Regional Administrator of the EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. Mr. Busterud also served our country with distinction as an officer in the U.S. Army, deploying many times, and retiring as a decorated Colonel after 23 years of service.
    “OLEM’s statutory responsibilities place it at the center of EPA’s core mission: protecting our air, land, and water. If confirmed, Mr. Busterud will oversee programs that directly impact Americans’ health and the environment, such as remediating PFAS contamination, cleaning up Superfund sites, and revitalizing brownfields.
    “Addressing PFAS contamination, which affects communities in my state of West Virginia and across this country, is a priority of mine. The EPA recently announced an agency-wide PFAS strategy and OLEM will play a major role in ensuring its success. OLEM is also responsible for cleaning up Superfund sites, which are some of our nation’s most contaminated sites.
    “This Committee recently heard about the challenges with cleaning up Superfund sites and there is bipartisan support to improve the program’s efficiency. I look forward to working with Mr. Busterud to implement key reforms to ensure faster, and more cost-effective Superfund cleanups.
    “Finally, I want to welcome Mr. Adam Telle, President Trump’s nominee to be the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works. Mr. Telle is well-suited to lead the Army Corps of Engineers’ Civil Works program based on his two decades of public service in the United States Senate, including as my clerk for the Homeland Security Subcommittee and as a Special Assistant to the President in the first Trump Administration.
    “Mr. Telle has seen firsthand how the Army Corps’ response to natural disasters can help communities withstand significant weather events and then recover from them. The Army Corps does critical work across the nation through its navigation, flood risk management, and ecosystem restoration missions.
    “This work protects the lives and livelihoods of millions of Americans and facilitates commerce throughout our country and internationally. If confirmed, Mr. Telle will also play an integral role in implementing biennial water resources development legislation, better known to all of us on committee as WRDA.
    “WRDA authorizes numerous feasibility studies and projects, and directs the Army Corps to carry out various activities to address our nation’s water resources needs. I look forward to working with Mr. Telle to ensure the timely implementation of these laws consistent with congressional intent.
    “And I look forward to hearing from our nominees about their experiences and the issues they will prioritize if confirmed to lead these agencies.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch, Merkley, Sanders, Dingell Team Up to Introduce Bill to Lower Prescription Drug Prices for All Americans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) today joined Senator Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), and U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) in introducing the End Price Gouging for Medications Act.
    The bicameral bill would lower prescription drug costs for all Americans and end pharmaceutical price gouging by requiring drug companies to offer medications in the United States at no more than the lowest price per drug in twelve other similarly developed countries—Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.
    “No one should ever be forced to choose between paying for the prescriptions they need or putting food on the table. It’s unacceptable, and for too many Americans it’s a reality because of Big Pharma’s price gouging,” said Welch. “The End Price Gouging for Medications Act would put an end to this bad practice and help more Vermonters access the medications they need. I’m proud to join Sen. Merkley to introduce this bill and help Vermonters get the care they need.”
    “Americans pay the highest prices in the world for prescription drugs, even though we invest the most in cutting-edge research and development. That is unconscionable,” said Merkley. “In my town halls across every corner of Oregon, I’ve heard time and again from Oregonians about how sky-high prescription drug prices are pushing their budgets to the limit. The End Price Gouging for Medications Act will crack down on Big Pharma’s greed.”
    Merkley continued, “If President Trump is serious about lowering prescription drug costs for families and seniors across America, he should work with Congress to ensure we get the best prices, not the worst.”
    “In the wealthiest nation on earth, no one should have to choose between buying groceries and affording the medications they need to survive,” said Dingell. “There’s no reason we should be spending more on prescriptions than any other country. This legislation will help to bring down the cost of prescription drugs, hold drug companies accountable for their unchecked greed, and provide much-needed relief to American families.”
    On average, Americans spend over $1,400 on prescription drugs every year—the highest per capita drug spending in the world—largely because the pharmaceutical industry is hiking up the cost of drugs to make billions in profits each year. The American people want action, and lowering prescription drug prices to levels obtained in nations similar to the United States has strong bipartisan support. This includes medication such as:
    Ozempic, which costs Americans nearly $13,000 annually to treat type 2 diabetes compared to roughly $820 in Japan; and
    Humira, which costs Americans with Crohn’s disease more than $100,000 per year compared to roughly $3,320 per year in Austria.
    Unlike Trump’s recent executive order (EO) on international reference pricing, which only applies to Medicare and Medicaid, the End Price Gouging for Medications Act goes further by requiring drug companies to offer prescription drugs at the established reference price to all individuals in the U.S. market, regardless of insurance or health care status. That includes individuals utilizing all federal health programs, uninsured individuals, individuals covered under a group health plan, or individuals who have purchased their own health insurance coverage.
    In addition to Welch, Merkley, Sanders, and Dingell, the End Price Gouging for Medications Act is co-sponsored by U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL). The bicameral bill is endorsed by Public Citizen, Center for Health and Democracy, Just Care USA, Center for Medicare Advocacy, and Social Security Works.
    “American consumers pay far too much for drugs, not because it is costly to manufacture them, or even because of the expense of research and development. We pay too much because the U.S. government grants patents and other monopolies to brand-name drug corporations and then does far too little to rein in Big Pharma’s exploitation of those monopolies to price gouge consumers and the government itself. If President Trump were serious about bringing U.S. drug prices down to levels in other countries, he would embrace this legislation and use the bully pulpit to urge legislators to support it instead of retrograde proposals to take away health care from millions of people to give tax cuts to billionaires and corporations. We applaud Senators Merkley, Sanders and Welch for their leadership,” said Peter Maybarduk, Director of Public Citizen’s Access to Medicines Program.
    “There’s no good reason Americans should be forced to pay as much as four times more for our drugs than people in France, Japan and Canada. Senator Merkley, Senator Welch, Ranking Member Sanders, and Representative Dingell’s ‘End Price Gouging for Medications Act’ legislation recognizes that monopoly pricing by drug corporations is killing tens of thousands of Americans each year and driving countless more into medical debt. It rightly calls for fair drug pricing, which is essential to our health and well-being,” said Diane Archer, President of Just Care USA.
    “The reason Americans pay higher prescription drug prices than other countries is because big drug and insurance companies, and their armies of lobbyists, work overtime to ensure their monopolies are protected and their CEOs continue to get massive compensation packages. It is far past time that Congress acts to rein in the out-of-control cost of what Americans have to pay for life-saving medications. The End Price Gouging for Medications Act is an important step,” said Wendell Potter, President of the Center for Health and Democracy.
    Full text of the End Price Gouging for Medications Act can be found by clicking here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Caveman method skincare: how neglecting skincare completely can give you ‘cornflake’ build-up

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Adam Taylor, Professor of Anatomy, Lancaster University

    Gorodenkoff/Shutterstock

    Social media has done it again – this time reviving a minimalist skincare trend known as the caveman method. Think of it as the paleo diet for your face: no cleansers, no moisturisers, no water. Just your skin, left completely to its own devices.

    Supporters claim it helps reduce breakouts, arguing that overuse of products is irritating their skin. But while simplifying your routine might have some short-term benefits, going completely product free, and especially water free, can put you at risk of a lesser known condition: dermatitis neglecta.

    Dermatitis neglecta was first described in a medical journal in 1995. It’s a skin condition that doesn’t involve inflammation but rather occurs when skin isn’t cleaned adequately over time. It’s most commonly seen in people with neurological or psychological conditions, or in people avoiding cleaning surgical wounds, skin sensitivity, or even poor hygiene.

    It often shows up on the face, chest and limbs, but can appear anywhere on the body. The hallmark? A pigmented, scaly build-up that looks like cornflakes.

    But what’s actually building up?

    Your skin is constantly renewing itself. As new skin cells form underneath, older ones are pushed up and eventually die due to lack of oxygen from the blood supply beneath.

    We shed about 500 million dead skin cells per day – roughly two grams’ worth. That’s not much, but if you’re not washing your face, even this small daily build-up can quickly lead to visible debris and dullness.

    This often overlooked layer of built-up skin can sometimes conceal underlying medical conditions, including cancer, that only become apparent once the excess is removed.

    Skin cancers are less common in people with darker skin tones but they often have worse outcomes, primarily due to delayed diagnosis, which makes the cancer harder to treat. In such cases, conditions like dermatitis neglecta may further obscure signs of disease, making early detection even more challenging.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    But it’s not just dead cells at play. Your skin’s natural secretions, sweat and sebum, also contribute to this protective barrier.

    Sebum is an oily substance produced by sebaceous glands all over the body. It helps keep moisture in and has antimicrobial properties. The nose is the area with the highest sebum production, which explains its reputation for shininess. Sebum also plays a role in skin pH, helping keep the skin slightly acidic to ward off harmful bacteria.

    Sweat, meanwhile, also contains antimicrobial peptides that helps defend against pathogens. But if these secretions can’t reach or function properly at the skin’s surface – either because they’re blocked by build-up or not spread through cleansing – your natural defences may weaken, making it easier for bacteria or fungi to thrive.

    Skipping all skincare might sound natural, but it may disrupt these finely balanced systems. If the skin becomes overwhelmed, it can’t do its job – leading not just to clogged pores, but potential infection.

    Thankfully, dermatitis neglecta is relatively easy to treat. Mild cases clear up with warm soapy water. More stubborn build-up may require gentle cleansing with isopropyl alcohol. In extreme cases, dermatologists may prescribe keratolytics, creams that help break down and remove the thickened outer layers.

    Back to basics

    Let’s get one thing straight: you don’t need a ten-step routine. But, as well as keeping the skin clean, a few basic skincare practices go a long way.

    First, hydrate. Drinking water can improve skin hydration, especially if your intake has been low.

    Next, moisturise. A simple moisturiser with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin helps lock in moisture and support the skin’s natural barrier. You’ll often spot hyaluronic acid on product labels: it’s known for its ability to bind water to the skin.

    High molecular weight hyaluronic acid can help hydrate the surface of the skin and support it’s barrier function. But only low molecular weight hyaluronic acid can penetrate into the deeper layers, where it can help improve hydration more comprehensively and help reduce the appearance of fine lines. A blend of high and low molecular weight hyaluronic acid can offer both deep hydration and surface moisture retention.

    Humectants like sodium PCA also draw moisture from the air into the skin, helping to keep it soft and supple. This is particularly important for darker skin tones, which are more prone to transepidermal water loss, meaning they can lose moisture more quickly and may need extra hydration support.

    Finally, wear sunscreen – every day – no matter your skin tone. While melanin can offer some natural protection against UV damage, it’s not enough to prevent skin cancer, premature ageing, or pigmentation issues. Daily use of sunscreen is essential for everyone. UV rays damage collagen, the protein that keeps skin firm. They cause collagen to cross-link, making it stiff and contributing to wrinkles and sagging. Collagen has a half-life of around 15 years, so once it’s damaged, your skin takes a long time to recover.

    To maintain the skin’s young, fresh and healthy appearance collagen and other molecules need to be replaced and allowed to mature. But UV also physically damages the collagen formation and maturation process, making it more difficult for new collagen to form properly, further contributing to the aged appearance of skin. Sunscreen helps prevent this long-term ageing effect.

    Cheesy varnish

    If you think your skin has never been coated in build-up, think again. In the womb, your sebaceous glands produced a substance called vernix caseosa, Latin for “cheesy varnish”. This waxy coating, visible on many newborns, is made of sebum and dead skin. It moisturises, insulates and protects infants during birth – and it’s proof that build-up on your skin isn’t as unnatural as it might seem.

    Going back to basics can feel appealing, especially in a world overflowing with products. But your skin is a complex, hardworking organ that benefits from a little support.

    More research is needed to understand how skincare affects different people: factors like biological sex, skin tone, environment and genetics all play a role. But simple steps like drinking water, applying moisturiser, and wearing sunscreen can help your skin function at its best.

    So before you ditch everything in your bathroom, remember that “natural” doesn’t always mean “better”. Your skin evolved to protect you – but it still needs a little help now and then.

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

    – ref. Caveman method skincare: how neglecting skincare completely can give you ‘cornflake’ build-up – https://theconversation.com/caveman-method-skincare-how-neglecting-skincare-completely-can-give-you-cornflake-build-up-256362

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Post-sepsis syndrome: when the body recovers but the brain doesn’t

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Steven W. Kerrigan, Professor of Precision Therapeutics, School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences

    A 3D rendering of the life-threatening condition sepsis Love Employee/Shutterstock

    Sepsis is a life-threatening condition triggered by the body’s extreme response to infection. It causes widespread inflammation, which can lead to tissue damage, organ failure and death.

    Thanks to modern medicine, survival rates have improved dramatically. But for many who survive, the battle isn’t over when they leave hospital. Instead, they enter a new and often overlooked phase of recovery marked by lingering, life-altering effects.

    Post-sepsis syndrome (PSS) affects up to half of all sepsis survivors and can persist for months or even years. It’s a complex mix of physical, cognitive and psychological symptoms. People may seem physically recovered yet struggle with overwhelming fatigue, chronic pain, muscle weakness and disrupted sleep.

    The most profound impacts, however, often show up in the brain. Many sepsis survivors experience cognitive problems that mirror those seen in traumatic brain injury or early dementia. These can include memory lapses, difficulty concentrating, slower thinking and impaired decision-making.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    For some, these challenges are manageable. For others, they’re severe enough to interfere with work, education or independent living.

    One major culprit appears to be the body’s own inflammatory response. During sepsis, the immune system floods the body with inflammatory molecules – a so-called “cytokine storm”. This can damage the blood-brain barrier, allowing harmful substances and immune cells into the brain. The resulting neuroinflammation and oxygen deprivation can injure brain cells and disrupt normal function.

    Hidden psychological toll

    Anyone who survives sepsis can develop PSS, but some are more vulnerable than others. Risk factors include: older age, which increases the likelihood of cognitive decline; long ICU stays or the use of a ventilator, which can contribute to physical and mental complications; pre-existing mental health or cognitive conditions; and more severe inflammatory responses during sepsis, which are linked to lasting damage.

    Children are also at risk, as they may experience developmental or emotional challenges that affect their learning and social development for years.

    Many sepsis survivors go on to experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety or depression. These issues can be triggered by the trauma of a near-death experience, prolonged sedation, invasive treatments, or time spent in intensive care units (ICUs) – often while cut off from family and friends.

    In fact, “ICU delirium”, which affects up to 80% of patients on ventilators, has been strongly associated with long-term cognitive and psychological impairment. Sepsis survivors who experience this often recall vivid, terrifying hallucinations during their ICU stay. These memories can haunt them more than the physical illness itself.

    The recovery gap

    One of the biggest challenges for sepsis survivors is the lack of follow-up care. Unlike heart attack or stroke recovery, which typically involves coordinated rehabilitation, post-sepsis care is often fragmented. Patients can be discharged without a recovery plan and left to navigate a confusing and lonely road back to health.

    What’s needed are multidisciplinary post-sepsis clinics, where patients can access neurologists, psychologists, rehab specialists and social workers all under one roof. Early support, both psychological and cognitive, can dramatically improve long-term outcomes.

    Sepsis doesn’t just take a toll on survivors – it affects families, communities and healthcare systems. Many survivors cannot return to work, require ongoing care, and face financial hardship. In the US, sepsis costs an estimated US$60 billion annually (£50.8 billion), much of it spent on post-acute care and readmissions.

    A 2016 film inspired by the true story of Tom Ray, who lost his arms, legs and part of his face to sepsis.

    There’s also a growing concern that sepsis may raise the risk of long-term neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. More research is needed, but the links between inflammation, brain damage and cognitive decline are becoming harder to ignore.



    Read more:
    Thirty years on, our research linking viral infections with Alzheimer’s is finally getting the attention it deserves

    Globally, there is progress in helping people survive sepsis. But we must also ensure that sepsis survivors thrive afterwards.

    Here’s what I believe needs to happen now: encourage greater awareness of PSS among clinicians, patients and families; integrate post-sepsis care into chronic disease and rehabilitation programs; and generate more funding to research how and why PSS develops – and how to prevent or treat it.

    People recovering from sepsis often rely heavily on loved ones who need better support themselves. Survivors also need clearer, kinder help to get back to work and school, or just back to the everyday routines that once felt normal.

    Surviving sepsis is a triumph of modern medicine – but what comes after is still a neglected frontier. For too many, life after sepsis means battling invisible wounds that affect the brain, body and soul. Recognising, researching and responding to PSS isn’t just a clinical need – it’s a moral obligation. Survivors deserve more than survival. They deserve a chance to truly recover.

    Steven W. Kerrigan receives funding from Research Ireland, Health Research Board of Ireland, Irish Research Council and Enterprise Ireland. The author wishes to thank Liam Casey, a sepsis survivor, for his contribution to this article and for sharing his lived experience of PSS.

    – ref. Post-sepsis syndrome: when the body recovers but the brain doesn’t – https://theconversation.com/post-sepsis-syndrome-when-the-body-recovers-but-the-brain-doesnt-256139

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Arizona National Guard Soldiers support drug interdiction at the southern border

    Source: US National Guard (video statements)

    Arizona National Guard Soldiers assigned to the Arizona Counterdrug Task Force inspect railcars at the Rio Rico train station near Nogales, Ariz., April 30, 2025. The rail teams work alongside U.S. Customs and Border Protection under Task Force Stopping Arizona Fentanyl Epidemic (Task Force SAFE) to help detect and deter the smuggling of narcotics at the southern border. (U.S. Army video by Sgt. 1st Class Christy Sherman)

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WqCpK0EVvwY

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto Joins Push Urging the Trump Administration to Drop its Anti-Voter Policies that will Disenfranchise Tribal Communities

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) joined Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) and 10 of her Senate colleagues in sounding the alarm on the devastating impacts of President Trump’s anti-voter “election integrity” executive order and the SAVE Act on Native American voting rights.

    “Enactment of new voter registration policies under the Executive Order and the SAVE Act would lead to mass disenfranchisement of eligible Native voters and further depress the Native vote,” wrote the Senators. “Tribal IDs generally lack place of birth information required by the legislation, and the vast majority of these IDs lack the specific U.S. citizenship documentation required by the Executive Order. And the SAVE Act’s in-person requirement would exacerbate existing barriers, such as requiring IDs that list residential mailing addresses, by forcing many Native voters to travel great distances, including costly flights or multi-hour drives, to reach their local elections office or polling place.”

    “As Secretary of the Interior, you have a special moral and legal responsibility to uphold our nation’s trust and treaty obligations,” continued the Senators. “If implemented, the sweeping federal mandates included in the Executive Order and the SAVE Act would disenfranchise eligible Native voters who are following state laws. We encourage your active engagement with the White House and the Department of Justice to ensure that Native communities are able to exercise the franchise fully and have their voices heard at the ballot box.”

    Tribal IDs are currently an acceptable form of documentation to register to vote in nearly every state, but the SAVE Act and Trump executive order require that an ID must show place of birth and citizenship, which the majority of Tribal IDs lack, adding another barrier to the ballot box for many Native American communities. The Senators underscored that if enacted, these provisions would force Tribal voters who live in rural and remote locations to travel significant distances to prove their citizenship in order to register to vote.

    The Senators also emphasized the disproportionate impact the vote-by-mail restrictions would have on Native communities, which often rely more on mail-in voting because of a lack of infrastructure and transportation access. Trump’s executive order penalizes states that accept absentee or mail-in ballots received after Election Day, harming Native voters in states like Nevada, Alaska, North Dakota, Oregon, and California that process ballots as long as they are postmarked by Election Day.

    Only 66 percent of Native Americans eligible to participate in elections are currently registered to vote, leaving more than 1 million eligible voting-age Native Americans unregistered. Creating further obstacles to register to vote would likely reduce these numbers even further.

    Senator Cortez Masto has long been a champion for Tribal communities. Last year, the Senate passed both her legislation to make it easier for Indian Health Services to recruit and retain doctors and her legislation to strengthen Tribal public safety. She repeatedly called on the Biden administration to do more to address the epidemic of violence against Native women and girls, including securing federal funding to protect Native communities, urging the administration to draft a plan to address this issue, and requesting the Government Accountability Office (GAO) investigate the federal response to this crisis.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: New CBO Analysis Shows 10.3 Million Americans Would Lose Health Coverage to Off-set Republicans Billionaires-First Tax Break

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed

    WASHINGTON, DC — The non-partisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) released an estimate today highlighting that the Medicaid portions of the House Republican billionaires-first tax bill would lead to 10.3 million Americans losing coverage under the health safety net program and 7.6 million people going uninsured.

    U.S. Senator Jack Reed stated:

    “Congress should be working together to make heath care better and more affordable.  Instead, Republicans are working on a partisan plan to take it away from low-income children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities.

    “Millions of Americans rely on Medicaid for health care coverage.  This CBO report shows that reckless Republican cuts would have devastating consequences for families, communities and states nationwide.  It would leave millions without insurance and cut off access to the care they need.

    “The Republican plan would literally take from the working poor, undermining people’s health and financial stability in order to give bigger tax breaks to the wealthiest.” 

    Medicaid is a federal program that provides health care to about 70 million low-income Americans in partnership with state governments.

    Senator Reed also noted that any so-called ‘savings’ from Republican Medicaid cuts would ultimately drive up the cost of care and lead to higher future spending on more expensive care down the road.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner, Kaine, Van Hollen, Alsobrooks & Connolly Lead Colleagues in Letter to OPM Opposing Trump Administration’s Revival of Schedule F

    US Senate News:

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

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA), Chris Van Hollen and Angela Alsobrooks (both D-MD) and U.S. Rep. Gerald E. Connolly (D-VA-11) led their colleagues in a letter to Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Acting Director Charles Ezell opposing President Trump’s move to revive ‘Schedule F.’ Schedule F, now called Schedule Policy/Career, is a policy Trump pursued during his first term to reclassify federal workers, stripping them of their protections and making it easier for the Administration to carry out politically motivated firings.

    “The proposed rule will allow agencies to reclassify thousands of dedicated federal workers from the competitive service into the excepted service and therefore strip them of their civil service rights and protections,” wrote the members. “The impacts of this proposed rule will upend decades of reforms which have strengthened the federal workforce.”

    The members continued, “More than 2.2 million federal employees work every day to conduct life-saving research, defend our national security, uphold food and drug standards, monitor air and water quality, ensure flight safety and so much more. Nonpartisan, career civil servants, who make up the vast majority of our federal workforce, take an oath to defend the Constitution regardless of which political party occupies the White House.”

    “The Trump Administration has made clear its ambitions to undercut the nonpartisan civil service through the Schedule Policy/Career directive. Reclassifying civil service positions into the excepted service removes virtually all protections and rights currently afforded to civil servants,” the members wrote. “Coupled with the Trump Administration’s efforts to relocate and terminate wide swaths of the federal workforce, Schedule Policy/Career reclassifications will negatively affect recruitment and retention efforts for federal workers.”

    “As Members of Congress, we understand the vital role of our nonpartisan, highly-skilled civil servants and strongly oppose efforts to dismantle and politicize our country’s competitive federal workforce. Civil servants remain steadfast in their commitment to serving the public interest, not political agendas and deserve the full support of their government in that effort,” the members concluded.

    In addition to Sens. Warner, Kaine, Van Hollen, Alsobrooks, and Connolly, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Patty Murray (D-WA), Tina Smith (D-MN), Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Ed Markey (D-MA), and Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and U.S. Representatives Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC-At-Large), Ro Khanna (D-CA-17), Suhas Sabramanyam (D-VA-10), Stephen Lynch (D-MA-08), Robert Garcia (D-CA-42), Ayanna Pressley (D-MA-07), Jasmine Crockett (D-TX-30), Melanie Stansbury (D-NM-01), Greg Casar (D-TX-35), Maxwell Frost (D-FL-10), and Kweisi Mfume (D-MD-07).

    Sens. Warner, Kaine, Van Hollen, Alsobrooks, and Connolly have been leading voices in Congress against efforts to dramatically reduce and politicize the federal workforce. Among other steps, Kaine and Connolly led the introduction of the Saving the Civil Service Act to protect the merit-based federal workforce system and prevent any position in the competitive service from being reclassified to Schedule F.

    Full text of the letter is available here and below.

    Dear Acting Director Ezell:

    We write in strong opposition to the Office of Personnel Management’s (OPM)’s Proposed Rule – Improving Performance, Accountability, and Responsiveness in the Civil Service [OPM-2025-00041]. The proposed rule will allow agencies to reclassify thousands of dedicated federal workers from the competitive service into the excepted service and therefore strip them of their civil service rights and protections. The impacts of this proposed rule will upend decades of reforms which have strengthened the federal workforce. Rescheduling nonpartisan positions undermines the ability of federal agencies to fulfill their vital missions and ignores over 140 years of civil service precedent beginning with the Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act of 1883.

    More than 2.2 million federal employees work every day to conduct life-saving research, defend our national security, uphold food and drug standards, monitor air and water quality, ensure flight safety and so much more. Nonpartisan, career civil servants, who make up the vast majority of our federal workforce, take an oath to defend the Constitution regardless of which political party occupies the White House. Furthermore, these individuals have the unique credentials and institutional experience required to ensure continuity and impartiality within the federal government. The American public benefits from a strong federal workforce supported by a nonpartisan civil service to conduct their critical work.

    On January 20, 2025, President Trump issued Executive Order 14171 which claimed to immediately rescind regulations protecting civil servants and the merit system, reinstated Schedule F, and simultaneously directed OPM to engage in the rulemaking process to create a regulation supporting the reclassification order. Now known as Schedule Policy/Career, any positions that influence policy are directed to be reclassified into the excepted service. In accordance with EO 14171, OPM issued a proposed rule on Schedule Policy/Career which directs agencies to reclassify any position categorized as “confidential, policy-determining, policymaking or policy-advocating character” into the excepted service. 

    The Trump Administration has made clear its ambitions to undercut the nonpartisan civil service through the Schedule Policy/Career directive. Reclassifying civil service positions into the excepted service removes virtually all protections and rights currently afforded to civil servants. This includes due process and appeals rights that help ensure civil servants can conduct their duties without fear of politically-motivated removal or retaliatory measures. Removing these protections will make civil servants at-will employees and more susceptible to political pressures. Coupled with the Trump Administration’s efforts to relocate and terminate wide swaths of the federal workforce, Schedule Policy/Career reclassifications will negatively affect recruitment and retention efforts for federal workers.

    OPM’s directive to reschedule agency positions that have any involvement in policy will have devastating impacts not only on career civil servants and their families, but the communities that they serve. OPM estimates that 50,000 positions, which accounts for approximately 2% of the civil service, will ultimately be moved into Schedule Policy/Career. However, OPM’s failure to adequately define what factors constitute “confidential, policy-determining, policymaking or policy-advocating character” leaves interpretation largely up to each agency and risks the policy being much more broadly implemented than initially disclosed.   

    Already, agencies have begun taking the broadest approach to evaluating which positions to reclassify into Schedule Policy/Career. The Social Security Administration (SSA) reportedly has directed staff to prepare for large swaths of the agency to be reclassified. Internal documentation obtained by Government Executive indicates that Acting Administrator Lee Dudek recently instructed across-the-board reclassifications for senior leaders and over a half dozen offices within SSA. These positions encompass researchers and other supporting positions that do not set or impact policy decisions. The maximalist approach outlined by SSA foreshadows the wide-reaching implications of Schedule Political/Career which will negatively alter the federal workforce for decades to come.

    As Members of Congress, we understand the vital role of our nonpartisan, highly-skilled civil servants and strongly oppose efforts to dismantle and politicize our country’s competitive federal workforce. Civil servants remain steadfast in their commitment to serving the public interest, not political agendas and deserve the full support of their government in that effort. In that vein, we urge OPM to immediately rescind this proposed rule and collaborate with Congress to effectively manage government operations. 

    Sincerely,

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Virginia, Maryland Senators Urge House to Pass D.C. Budget Fix

    US Senate News:

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

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) and Chris Van Hollen and Angela Alsobrooks (both D-MD) urged House Republican leadership to take up and pass the bipartisan legislation, passed previously by the Senate, to allow the District of Columbia to use its own local funding. Today marks two months since that bill, authored by Sen. Van Hollen and Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME) – and cosponsored by Sens. Warner, Kaine, and Alsobrooks – passed the Senate unanimously.

    “It’s been two months since the Senate passed, with bipartisan support, a simple fix that allows the District of Columbia the ability make its own funding decisions, yet the House still refuses to act. Each day that this legislation stalls, we are leaving D.C. in the lurch, threatening the District’s schools, public safety, and emergency response operations. It’s well past time for the House to act,” Sen. Warner said.

    “Republican House leadership’s decision to stall a bipartisan bill—which even President Trump supports—to allow D.C. to spend its own money is ridiculous and wrong,” said Sen. Kaine. “Law enforcement officers’ salaries and the quality of D.C.’s public schools and transportation have hung in the balance for months because of the House’s failure to act. It’s time for Speaker Johnson to do his job, and bring this bill up for a vote like he promised.”

    “The District of Columbia should be able to spend its own revenue without Congress getting in the way. Yet by freezing over $1 billion of D.C.’s own funds through their sham funding bill in March, House Republicans are holding the District hostage – threatening the operations of local law enforcement, fire departments, schools, and more. This is all pain for D.C. residents, and no gain for federal taxpayers who aren’t saving a single cent as a result of this pointless provision. Two months ago today, the Senate unanimously passed the bill Senator Collins and I authored to fix this issue, and President Trump has urged the House to do the same. It’s time for Speaker Johnson to let this bill move forward and release D.C.’s funds,” said Sen. Van Hollen.

    “I worked with my fellow DMV Senators to pass a bipartisan solution to the $1.1 billion budget cuts in the disastrous CR. It has been waiting on the House’s vote for two months. At a time when our neighbor D.C. is experiencing economic hardship and hundreds of civil servants, many of whom are Marylanders, are losing their jobs in the district, we need to make sure this budget fix gets passed,” said Sen. Alsobrooks.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Liz Saville Roberts MP: ‘Starmer’s PMQs outburst shows he knows I’m right’

    Source: Party of Wales

    ‘The only principle the PM defends is whichever he last heard in a focus group’ – Plaid Cymru

    Plaid Cymru Westminster Leader Liz Saville Roberts MP today challenged Prime Minister Keir Starmer over his shifting stance on migration, accusing him of abandoning principles for political convenience.

     

    Keir Starmer responded by attacking Ms Saville Roberts for “talking rubbish”. The Plaid Cymru MP said the Prime Minister’s response showed she had “struck a nerve”, and that the faces of Labour MPs in the chamber suggested that “plenty of them know [she] was right”.

     

    Liz Saville Roberts MP:

    “This Prime Minister once spoke of compassion and dignity for migrants, and defending free movement. Now he talks of ‘islands of strangers’ and ‘taking back control’.

    “Somebody here has to call this out, Mr Speaker. It seems the only principle he consistently defends is whichever he last heard in a focus group.

    “So I ask him: is there any belief he holds which survives a week in Downing Street?”

     

    Keir Starmer responded:

    “Yes – the belief that she talks rubbish. Mr Speaker, I want to lead a country where we pull together and walk into the future as neighbours and as communities, not as strangers. The loss of control of migration by the last government put all that at risk – that’s why we’re fixing the system based on principles of control, selection and fairness.”

     

    Speaking after the session, Liz Saville Roberts MP added:

    “The Prime Minister’s outburst showed that my question struck a nerve. The expressions on the faces of many Labour MPs told their own story – plenty of them know I was right. If his convictions change with the political weather, it’s no surprise that support for Labour in Wales, as across Britain, is falling through the floor.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • India’s Operation Sindoor draws global support as new front against cross-border terrorism

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    In the wake of the tragic terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22, which claimed the lives of 26 innocent civilians, India has mounted a decisive and strategic response aimed at dismantling cross-border terrorism. The attack, which drew widespread condemnation and grief across the country, prompted immediate and firm action by the Government of India, with the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) approving a range of diplomatic and military measures targeting Pakistan’s continued support for terrorism.
     
    Among the key diplomatic actions taken, India placed the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960 in abeyance until Pakistan verifiably ceases its support for cross-border terror activities. The Integrated Check Post at Attari was closed, and Pakistani nationals were barred from entering India under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme. Defence, Naval, and Air Advisors posted at the Pakistani High Commission in New Delhi were declared persona non grata, while the strength of both High Commissions was halved from 55 to 30 personnel.
     
    As part of a precise military strategy, India launched “Operation Sindoor,” a calibrated campaign designed to neutralize key terror camps across the border. Based on multi-agency intelligence, nine significant terror infrastructure sites, including those in Bahawalpur and Muridke, were identified and targeted through coordinated air and ground strikes. The operation was executed with high operational ethics, focusing exclusively on terrorist camps while taking all precautions to prevent civilian casualties.
     
    Indian strikes successfully eliminated more than 100 terrorists and destroyed 11 air bases within Pakistan. Among those neutralized were high-value individuals linked to the 1999 IC-814 hijacking and the 2019 Pulwama terror attack, including Yusuf Azhar, Abdul Malik Rauf, and Mudassir Ahmad.
     
    The strikes marked a shift in India’s strategy by targeting deep into Pakistani territory, including critical radar installations in Lahore and Gurjanwala. Additionally, coordinated missile attacks were carried out on terror hubs in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), including Muzaffarabad and Kotli. Military bases housing Pakistan’s F-16 and JF-17 fighter jets at Sargodha and Bholari were hit, leading to the destruction of nearly 20 percent of Pakistan’s air force infrastructure.
     
    India’s retaliatory operations were launched in response to not only the Pahalgam attack but also subsequent Pakistani provocations, including drone and missile attacks on Indian civilian and religious areas on the nights of May 7, 8, and 9. Indian forces successfully intercepted and neutralized these threats, reinforcing the country’s operational readiness and commitment to defending its sovereignty.
     
    In a televised address on May 12, Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscored the resolve behind Operation Sindoor, calling it not just a military campaign but a reflection of the collective sentiment of the Indian people. He reiterated that terrorism would be met with decisive force, rejecting any possibility of dialogue or trade with Pakistan until terrorism is addressed. He stated unequivocally that water and blood cannot flow together and emphasized that the only issue India is willing to discuss is the return of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
     
    As Pakistani forces continued mortar shelling across the Line of Control (LoC), India responded forcefully, targeting terrorist bunkers and Pakistani army positions. Unable to withstand the Indian response, Pakistan sought a ceasefire, with its Director General of Military Operations contacting his Indian counterpart. A ceasefire was declared on May 10, but Pakistan violated it soon after, sending drones into Indian territory, which were swiftly countered by Indian forces.
     
    Despite the ceasefire at the borders, Operation Sindoor remains ongoing. The Indian Armed Forces remain on high alert to counter any future threats, with field commanders granted operational freedom to respond to provocations.
     
    India’s robust and restrained response has garnered wide support from the international community. World powers have condemned the Pahalgam attack and endorsed India’s right to self-defense. The United Kingdom, Russia, Israel, the United States, France, Japan, and key Gulf countries including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar expressed solidarity with India. European Union member states, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, Panama, and even Palestine joined the chorus of condemnation.
     
    Each expressed their support for India’s fight against terrorism, with many recognizing Operation Sindoor as a legitimate and proportionate response. Iran’s President personally conveyed condolences to Prime Minister Modi, and global leaders have emphasized the need for stronger international cooperation to combat terrorism.

  • MIL-OSI Security: St. John’s — Four drivers arrested by RCMP NL for impaired driving offences this past weekend

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Over this past weekend, RCMP NL arrested four individuals for impaired driving offences. Drivers were stopped in Harbour Grace, Roddickton, Marystown and Philips Head.

    Shortly before 10:00 p.m. on Friday, May 9, 2025, Harbour Grace RCMP responded to the report of a suspected impaired driver. The described vehicle was located and stopped on Water Street in Harbour Grace. The driver, a 67-year-old woman, showed signs of alcohol impairment and was arrested. Back at the detachment, the woman refused to provided breath samples. She now faces charges of impaired operation and refusing to provide a breath sample.

    Approximately 40 minutes later, Roddickton RCMP stopped a vehicle in front of the detachment on Cloud Drive in Roddickton. The driver, a 56-year-old man, showed signs of drug impairment. The man performed poorly on roadside field sobriety tests and was arrested for drug impaired driving. He was transported to White Bay Central Health Centre in Roddickton where a blood sample was obtained. Police await the results of the testing to determine if charges of drug impaired driving are appropriate.

    Shortly after 2:00 a.m. on Sunday, May 11, Burin Peninsula RCMP stopped a vehicle on Columbia Drive in Marystown. The vehicle was uninsured and had expired registration. The driver, 44-year-old man, showed signs of alcohol impairment and failed a roadside breath test. He was arrested and was transported to the detachment where he provided further breath samples that were above the legal limit. He faces charges of impaired operation and was ticketed under the Highway Traffic Act for operating a vehicle without insurance and registration.

    Later that day, at approximately 12:30 p.m., Grand Falls-Windsor RCMP responded to the report of a suspected impaired driver. The described vehicle was located and stopped on Route 352 in Philips Head. The driver, a 51-year-old man, failed a roadside breath test and was arrested. At the detachment, the man provided further breath samples that were more than twice the legal limit. He faces charges of impaired operation.

    All drivers were released from custody and those who are set to face charges are scheduled to appear in court at later dates. Licence suspensions and vehicle seizures occurred where appropriate.

    This week, during Canada Road Safety Week, RCMP NL remain focussed on road safety, including the enforcement of those who choose to drive while impaired. If you suspect a driver is impaired, please contact your local detachment or 911 to make a report.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Youtech Deepens Texas Roots with Dallas-Area Talent Expansion Across Key Local Sectors

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Youtech’s growing Dallas team to drive digital success for Texas’s leading industries, including home services, healthcare, legal services, and beyond
    • Building on national strength, Youtech enhances local expertise and client outcomes in the Dallas-Fort Worth area

    DALLAS, May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Youtech, a leading global full-service digital marketing agency, today announced a significant phase of national growth fueled by the expansion of its talented workforce, including a growing team right here in Dallas. As part of its 120-strong national team, Youtech is actively hiring to increase its impact, focusing on building its presence in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. This strategic initiative will enhance the agency’s service capabilities and support its expanding client base, both locally and nationwide.

    Youtech’s growing Dallas team will provide specialized support to key local industries such as home services (HVAC, roofing, plumbing), healthcare, legal services (personal injury, divorce, corporate), and more. By leveraging its deep understanding of the Dallas market and these specific sectors, Youtech aims to deliver highly effective and locally relevant digital marketing solutions.

    Looking ahead, Youtech projects substantial long-term growth nationally, including its expanded presence in Dallas. This reflects the team’s proven track record in understanding and serving local businesses, complementing its national success in meeting the increasing demand for data-driven digital marketing expertise. This includes optimizing local online visibility through innovations like Google Ads, backed by its status as a Google Premier Partner (top 3% of U.S. agencies), and crafting compelling web design and branding tailored to target audiences.

    “This national growth, with a significant focus on expanding our team in Dallas, marks an exciting chapter for Youtech,” said Wilbur You, CEO and Founder of Youtech. “Strengthening our presence here allows us to better serve our valued local clients across vital Texas industries while attracting top-tier talent from the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Our focus remains on delivering exceptional results, and this strategic growth, including the launch of our innovative YouRank GEO service, will enable us to elevate the marketing performance of businesses in Dallas and nationwide in the age of AI.”

    As one of the largest digital marketing agencies in the nation, Youtech continues to set new benchmarks in the industry, driving measurable results for businesses across various sectors through its comprehensive suite of services.

    About Youtech
    Youtech & Associates Inc. (“Youtech”) is a leading, full-service digital marketing agency providing solutions to brands of all sizes. Bootstrapped in 2012 with an investment of just $600, the agency has since become an award-winning powerhouse serving over 2,000 clients, completing over 10,000 projects, and generating over $10 billion in client sales worldwide. With a strong and expanding presence in Scottsdale, alongside offices in Chicago and Dallas, Youtech is one of the fastest-growing digital marketing firms in the country. Learn more about Youtech at https://www.youtechagency.com/.

    Company Contact
    Michael Norris
    mnorris@youtechagency.com

    Media Contact
    Jessica Starman
    media@elev8newmedia.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Results of the Annual General Meeting of GAM Holding AG

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Zurich: 14 May 2025

    PRESS RELEASE

    Results of the Annual General Meeting of GAM Holding AG

    • All proposals, as recommended by the Board of Directors, were approved with large majorities
    • Chairman and all members of the Board of Directors re-elected

    At the Annual General Meeting held on 14 May 2025, the shareholders of GAM Holding AG approved all the proposals put forward by the Board of Directors.

    Shareholders who were unable to attend the Annual General Meeting could give their voting instructions to an independent proxy; 83% of the total 1,065,257,891 shares (as registered in the commercial register) were represented in comparison with 53% in 2024. The management report, the annual company’s and consolidated financial statements were approved, and shareholders discharged the members of the Board of Directors elected at the AGM on 15 May 2024 and the Group Management Board for the financial year 2024. The compensation report for 2024 was approved in a non-binding consultative vote.

    Increase in conditional capital and amendment to the Articles of Incorporation approved

    The Board of Directors proposed an increase in conditional capital and a corresponding amendment of the Articles of Incorporation to meet its obligations under various Board of Director and employee incentive plans. These proposals were approved.

    Re-elections and elections to the Board of Directors

    Antoine Spillmann was re-elected as Chairman of the Board of Directors and Anthony Maarek, Jeremy Smouha, Carlos Esteve, Inès de Dinechin, Anne Empain and Donatella Ceccarelli as members of the Board of Directors. All members of the Board of Directors were elected for a term of office until the end of the Annual General Meeting 2026.

    Compensation decisions

    Shareholders also approved all the compensation proposals, including retrospective share-based compensation for the Board of Directors and Group Management Board.

    Antoine Spillmann, Chairman of the Board of Directors, said: “On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to our shareholders for their unwavering trust and support. GAM entered a phase of renewed stability and strategic momentum during 2024 and with the successful conclusion of today’s Annual General Meeting and the approval of all proposals, we have made significant strides in our journey towards transformation. As we look ahead to 2025 and beyond, we remain fully committed to delivering sustainable growth, strong investment performance, and lasting value for our clients, and all our stakeholders.”

    The complete voting results, biographies of the elected Board of Directors and further information on the Annual General Meeting can be found on the company’s website here: www.gam.com/agm2025.

    Additional information

    AGM Portal |  2024 Sustainability Report  |  GAM corporate calendar

    For further information please contact:

    Investor Relations       
    Magdalena Czyzowska  
    T +44 (0) 207 917 2508     		 Media Relations           
    Colin Bennett                
    T +44 (0) 207 393 8544

    Visit us: www.gam.com
     Follow us: X and LinkedIn

    About GAM

    GAM is an independent investment manager that is listed in Switzerland. It is an active, independent global asset manager that delivers distinctive and differentiated investment solutions for its clients across its Investment and Wealth Management Businesses. Its purpose is to protect and enhance its clients’ financial future. It attracts and empowers the brightest minds to provide investment leadership, innovation and a positive impact on society and the environment. Total assets under management were CHF 16.3 billion as of 31 December 2024. GAM has global distribution with offices in 14 countries and is geographically diverse with clients in almost every continent. Headquartered in Zurich, GAM Investments was founded in 1983 and its registered office is at Hardstrasse 201 Zurich, 8037 Switzerland. For more information about GAM Investments, please visit www.gam.com

    Other Important Information

    This release contains or may contain statements that constitute forward-looking statements. Words such as “anticipate”, “believe”, “expect”, “estimate”, “aim”, “project”, “forecast”, “risk”, “likely”, “intend”, “outlook”, “should”, “could”, “would”, “may”, “might”, “will”, “continue”, “plan”, “probability”, “indicative”, “seek”, “target”, “plan” and other similar expressions are intended to or may identify forward-looking statements.

    Any such statements in this release speak only as of the date hereof and are based on assumptions and contingencies subject to change without notice, as are statements about market and industry trends, projections, guidance, and estimates. Any forward-looking statements in this release are not indications, guarantees, assurances or predictions of future performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the person making such statements, its affiliates and its and their directors, officers, employees, agents and advisors and may involve significant elements of subjective judgement and assumptions as to future events which may or may not be correct and may cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any such statements. You are strongly cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and no person accepts or assumes any liability in connection therewith.

    This release is not a financial product or investment advice, a recommendation to acquire, exchange or dispose of securities or accounting, legal or tax advice. It has been prepared without taking into account the objectives, legal, financial or tax situation and needs of individuals. Before making an investment decision, individuals should consider the appropriateness of the information having regard to their own objectives, legal, financial and tax situation and needs and seek legal, tax and other advice as appropriate for their individual needs and jurisdiction.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Gabelli Multimedia Trust Reinforces Maintenance of $0.88 per Share Annual Distribution Continues Monthly Distributions

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    RYE, N.Y., May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Board of Directors of The Gabelli Multimedia Trust Inc. (NYSE:GGT) (the “Fund”) approved the continuation of its policy of paying fixed monthly cash distributions. The Board of Directors declared cash distributions as set forth below for each of July, August, and September 2025.

     Distribution Month  Record Date  Payable Date  Distribution Per Share
     July  July 17, 2025  July 24, 2025  $0.07
     August  August 15, 2025  August 22, 2025  $0.07
     September  September 16, 2025  September 16, 2025  $0.08

    Under its monthly distribution policy, the Fund will continue to pay a $0.22 per share quarterly distribution, with $0.07 per share paid for each of the first two months of the quarter and $0.08 per share paid in the third month of each quarter.

    In light of the above policy, the Fund previously declared a $0.14 per share cash distribution (covering the months of April and May) payable on May 22, 2025 to common stock shareholders of record on May 15, 2025, and a $0.08 per share cash distribution payable on June 23, 2025 to common stock shareholders of record on June 13, 2025. The distributions reflect an annualized distribution of $0.88 per share.

    The Fund previously paid quarterly distributions in accordance with a “managed distribution policy” adopted pursuant to an exemptive order granted to the Fund by the Securities and Exchange Commission, which permitted the Fund to distribute long-term capital gains more frequently than the limits provided in the Investment Company Act and the rules and regulations thereunder. The Fund no longer intends to rely on this exemptive relief to maintain a managed distribution policy in connection with its monthly distributions.

    The Fund currently intends to make monthly cash distributions of all or a portion of its investment company taxable income (which includes ordinary income and realized net short term capital gains) to common shareholders. The Fund also intends to make annual distributions of its realized net long term capital gains, if any. The Fund, however, may make more than one capital gain distribution to avoid paying U.S. federal excise tax. A portion of each distribution may be a return of capital. Various factors will affect the level of the Fund’s income. To permit the Fund to maintain more stable distributions, the Fund may from time to time distribute more or less than the entire amount of income earned in a particular period. The Fund’s distribution policy may be modified from time to time by the Board as it deems appropriate, including in light of market and economic conditions and the Fund’s current, expected and historical earnings and investment performance. Because the Fund’s monthly distributions are subject to modification by the Board at any time and the Fund’s income will fluctuate, there can be no assurance that the Fund will pay distributions at a particular rate or frequency.

    Based on the accounting records of the Fund currently available, each of the distributions paid to common shareholders in 2025 would be deemed 100% from paid-in capital on a book basis. This does not represent information for tax reporting purposes. The estimated components of each distribution are updated and provided to shareholders of record in a notice accompanying the distribution and are available on our website (www.gabelli.com). The final determination of the sources of all distributions in 2025 will be made after year end and can vary from the monthly estimates. Shareholders should not draw any conclusions about the Fund’s investment performance from the amount of the current distribution. All individual shareholders with taxable accounts will receive written notification regarding the components and tax treatment for all 2025 distributions in early 2026 via Form 1099-DIV.

    Investors should carefully consider the investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses of the Fund before investing. For more information regarding the Fund’s distribution policy and other information about the Fund, call:

    Carter Austin
    (914) 921-5475

    About The Gabelli Multimedia Trust
    The Gabelli Multimedia Trust Inc. is a non-diversified, closed-end management investment company with $194 million in total net assets whose primary investment objective is long-term growth of capital. The Fund is managed by Gabelli Funds, LLC, a subsidiary of GAMCO Investors, Inc. (OTCQX: GAMI).

    NYSE: GGT
    CUSIP – 36239Q109

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Carter Austin
    (914) 921-5475
    caustin@gabelli.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Youtech Fuels National Growth with Chicago-Area Talent Expansion Across the Midwest’s Core Industries

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Youtech’s expansion unleashes digital success for Illinois’ foundational industries
    • Solidifying its position as one of the nation’s largest digital marketing agencies, Youtech demonstrates unyielding momentum for future growth

    CHICAGO, May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Youtech, a leading full-service digital marketing agency with a significant local presence in the Chicago area and recognized as one of the largest in the United States, today announced a substantial phase of national growth, powered in part by the expansion of its team right here in the heart of the Midwest. This strategic initiative will enhance the agency’s ability to serve its growing client base both locally and across the country, supporting the very backbone of the region’s economy.

    Building upon its established Chicago team, a crucial part of its national workforce, Youtech is actively hiring to increase its employee count to over 150 by the end of 2025. This growth will significantly strengthen the Chicago office, enhancing its ability to deliver exceptional results for Illinois, the Midwest, and national clients. Their local expertise supports vital regional sectors, including food security for non-profits and sustainability for environmental services. The agency also drives growth for the gaming and brewery industries, home services industry (HVAC, roofing, plumbing), construction material suppliers, and more.

    Looking ahead, Youtech projects substantial long-term growth, with a clear trajectory to exceed 250 employees nationally within the next three years. This ambitious forecast reflects the Lisle office’s consistent contributions to the agency’s success in driving results for Illinois and Midwest businesses across diverse industries, its client-focused approach, and the increasing demand for its data-driven digital marketing expertise. This includes optimizing local online visibility for businesses, crafting captivating web design, and creating branding that resonates with local target audiences, whether they are looking to find sustainable environmental solutions vital for the region’s future, enjoy entertainment that drives local economies, or improve their homes and communities.

    “This rapid growth marks an exciting chapter for Youtech, and our Chicago-area team is a cornerstone of our national success, deeply connected to the industries that form the backbone of the Midwest,” said Wilbur You, CEO and Founder of Youtech. “Strengthening our physical presence in key markets like Chicago allows us to even better serve our valued local clients across vital Illinois and regional industries while also attracting top-tier talent from the greater Chicago area to our growing team. Our focus remains on delivering exceptional results, and this strategic growth, including the launch of our innovative YouRank GEO service, will enable us to elevate the marketing performance of businesses right here in the Midwest and across the nation in the age of AI.”

    As one of the largest digital marketing agencies in the nation, with a significant and expanding team right here in Chicago serving a diverse portfolio of Illinois and Midwest-based clients in sectors like non-profit, environmental services, healthcare, entertainment, home improvement, hospitality, and construction, Youtech continues to set new benchmarks in the industry, generating measurable results for businesses across a wide range of sectors through its comprehensive suite of services, supporting the economic vitality of the region.

    About Youtech
    Youtech & Associates Inc. (“Youtech”) is a leading, full-service digital marketing agency providing solutions to brands of all sizes. Bootstrapped in 2012 with an investment of just $600, the agency has since become an award-winning powerhouse serving over 2,000 clients, completing over 10,000 projects, and generating over $10 billion in client sales worldwide. With a strong and expanding presence in Scottsdale, alongside offices in Chicago and Dallas, Youtech is one of the fastest-growing digital marketing firms in the country. Learn more about Youtech at https://www.youtechagency.com/.

    Company Contact
    Michael Norris
    mnorris@youtechagency.com

    Media Contact
    Jessica Starman
    media@elev8newmedia.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth, Murray, Blumenthal Introduce Resolution to Celebrate VA Researchers and to Commemorate the 100th Anniversary of Veteran-Focused Research at VA

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth
    May 13, 2025
    [WASHINGTON, DC] – To honor our nation’s Veterans Affairs (VA) researchers and commemorate the 100th anniversary of Veteran-focused research beginning at what is now known as the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), along with U.S Senators Murray (D-WA) and Blumenthal (D-CT)—member and Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs (SVAC), respectively—introduced a resolution to designate May 12th to 16th as Veterans Affairs Research Week. Her resolution recognizes the vital, lifesaving and cutting-edge research conducted by the department that improves the lives of Veterans, people in the United States and individuals worldwide. Duckworth is a combat Veteran and a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs (SVAC).
    “The scientists and researchers at the VA are incredible public servants who work relentlessly to improve the care and services our Veterans have earned,” said Duckworth. “I’m proud to introduce this resolution to commemorate this important milestone and celebrate the researchers who help improve our Veterans’ lives. The least we can do is recognize and celebrate the innovation that helps keep our Veterans and those worldwide healthy.”
    “Our veterans made tremendous sacrifices for our country, and as a nation we make a promise to take care of them when they come home. VA research is at the forefront of innovation and care for our veterans—from advancements in treating cancers from burn pit exposure to developing new artificial limb technology,” said Murray. “This week we celebrate the 100th anniversary of VA research, but all of that progress is at risk as the Trump administration is mass firing VA employees and researchers and taking an axe to medical research across the board. I will keep fighting back as hard as I can to make sure every veteran has access to the care they need—and that VA researchers can continue their important work.”
    “As the Trump/Musk regime slashes health research funding, we should stand strongly with VA researchers and the incredible work they do for veterans and all Americans,” said Blumenthal. “VA research has led to life-changing medical innovations benefiting millions across the globe— including CT scans, the pacemaker, the first liver transplant, and many more. Our resolution rightfully honors these researchers, their groundbreaking contributions, and this remarkable milestone for VA research.” 
    In 1925, the Veterans’ Bureau, the predecessor to the Department of Veterans Affairs, established the Medical Research Section. Just a few years later, in 1933, the Hines VA Medical Center in Chicago became home to the VA’s first research laboratory to receive direct funding from VA Central Office, leading to early breakthroughs like advancements in skin cancer research. Since then, VA scientists and medical researchers have contributed to a vast range of critical breakthroughs. These include the first effective treatments for tuberculosis, the development of an implantable cardiac pacemaker, the first large clinical trials of hearing aids, the first successful transplantation of a liver and the discovery of a hormone that paved the way for the development of GLP–1 agonist medications. These advancements may become some of the most consequential health advances of the 21st century.
    A copy of the resolution is available on Senator Duckworth’s website.
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth, McClain, Delaney, Moylan Introduce Legislation to Expand Leave Benefits for Military Families

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth
    May 12, 2025
    [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of both the U.S. Senate Armed Services (SASC) and Veterans’ Affairs Committees (SVAC)—and U.S. Representatives April McClain Delaney (D-MD-06) and James Moylan (R-GU-AL) introduced legislation to modernize the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) in order to help ensure that military caregiver benefits are available to more people who selflessly care for their servicemember or Veteran family member in medical need. The Making it Likely for Families of the Military to Live with Leave Access (MIL FMLA) Act would expand FMLA leave benefits for military family members who aren’t currently covered under the FMLA.
    “It’s long overdue that Congress expands leave benefits for the selfless Americans who care for their servicemember or Veteran loved ones—who often have complex and unique medical needs as a result of their service,” said Senator Duckworth. “No servicemember should ever have to worry whether they and their loved ones will have the benefits needed to care for them after their service—it hurts our military readiness and recruiting. Supporting caregivers isn’t just about doing something humanitarian. It’s about the safety and security of our nation.”
    “Over 14 million Americans care for injured servicemembers and veterans, yet current law leaves too many behind,” said Congresswoman McClain Delaney. “The bipartisan MIL FMLA Act, which I’m proud to lead with Congressman Moylan, ensures all military caregivers—including domestic partners and extended family—can access the leave they deserve, without arbitrary restrictions. This bill is a step toward truly honoring the service and sacrifice of those who care for our nation’s heroes.”
    “I am proud to co-lead the bipartisan MIL FMLA Act with Rep. McClain Delaney, which will address inequities that our veterans, servicemembers, and their families face every day,” said Congressman Moylan. “As the representative of the district with the highest level of enlistments per capita, and as a veteran myself, this bill addresses the countless underlying issues that affect our ability and willingness to serve. I look forward to working with Rep. McClain Delaney to deliver for those in our country who have served and currently serve our country.”
    The MIL FMLA Act would address the gaps in FMLA that have left many military caregivers without adequate leave access by:
    Adding reserve components and domestic deployments as covered active duty for family members;
    Eliminating the requirement that military caregiver protections only apply to Veterans who served within the last five years;
    Allowing military caregivers to utilize special military caregiver FMLA leave more than once;
    Expanding military caregiver provisions to cover domestic partners and other close family members like aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces, grandparents, grandchildren and other loved ones; and
    Creating a new form of leave, specifically for Veterans who need extended time to address serious injuries or illnesses related to their service.
    Along with Duckworth, the legislation is cosponsored in the Senate by U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT).
    Along with McClain Delaney and Moylan, the legislation is cosponsored in the House by U.S. Representatives Don Bacon (R-NE-02), Nikki Budzinski (D-IL-13), André Carson (D-IN-07), Troy Carter (D-LA-02), Gil Cisneros (D-CA-31), Cleo Fields (D-LA-06), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01), Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ-05), Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA-06), Steny Hoyer (D-MD-05), Greg Landsman (D-OH-01), Summer Lee (D-PA-12), Sam Liccardo (D-CA-16), Sarah McBride (D-DE-AL), Joe Neguse (D-CO-02), Johnny Olszewksi (D-MD-02), Chellie Pingree (D-ME-01), Jamie Raskin (D-MD-08), Shri Thanedar (D-MI-13) and Rasihda Tlaib (D-MI-12).
    The legislation is endorsed by the Elizabeth Dole Foundation, National Military Family Association, American Legion, Vietnam Veterans of America, Center for American Progress (CAP), Service Women’s Action Network (SWAN), Caregiver Action Network, National Partnership for Women & Families, VoteVets, Caring Across Generations, Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP), MomsRising, Family Values @ Work, Common Defense, A Better Balance, Truman National Security Project, Secure Families Initiative and Agency for Community EmPOWERment (ACE) of NEPA.
    “The Making It Likely for Families of the Military to Live with Leave Access Act is a crucial step forward in helping those who make countless sacrifices for their country,” said Molly Weston Williamson, Senior Fellow at the Center for American Progress. “Service members, veterans, and their loved ones deserve the time they need to respond to the effects of service. No one should have to risk their job in order to ensure they or their family can get the care they need or to address the impacts of deployment.”
    Full text of the legislation is available on Senator Duckworth’s website.
    Duckworth has long been a leader in pushing for better benefits and support for members of the armed and uniformed services and their family members. In April, she introduced legislation that would help expand leave benefits for the millions of devoted health professionals serving in the U.S. Public Health Service (PHS) Commissioned Corps. Last year, she helped secure $2.9 billion to support family caregivers of disabled Veterans and $2.4 billion to expand benefits and services for military and Veteran caregivers to include health care and mental health services, among other things. Last month, she renewed her push to ensure IVF treatment costs are covered on servicemembers’ and military families’ health care plans. Last December, Duckworth helped pass the bipartisan Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that gave servicemembers a pay raise and included a Duckworth-led provision to improve access to high-quality medical care for servicemembers and their families in the Indo-Pacific region, among other wins for military families.
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sinaloa cartel leaders charged with narco-terrorism, material support of terrorism and drug trafficking in ICE, FBI investigation

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    SAN DIEGO – An indictment unsealed May 13 is the first in the nation to charge alleged leaders of the Sinaloa Cartel with narco-terrorism and material support of terrorism in connection with trafficking massive amounts of fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine and heroin into the United States. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the FBI are investigating this case.

    “These charges highlight the unwavering efforts of transnational criminal organizations like the Sinaloa Cartel to flood our communities with deadly drugs,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations San Diego Special Agent in Charge Shawn Gibson. “HSI and our law enforcement partners will not allow cartel-driven drug trafficking to threaten the safety and stability of our neighborhoods. We are all lasered focused on a unified effort to dismantling these networks and their factions in bringing those responsible to justice.”

    Pedro Inzunza Noriega and his son, Pedro Inzunza Coronel, are charged with narco-terrorism, drug trafficking and money laundering as key leaders of the Beltran Leyva Organization, a powerful and violent faction of the Sinaloa Cartel that is believed to be the world’s largest known fentanyl production network. Five other BLO leaders are charged with drug trafficking and money laundering. The indictment is a direct result of President Trump’s Executive Order 14157 which designated the Sinaloa Cartel as a Foreign Terrorist Organization and the Secretary of State’s subsequent designation of the same on February 20, 2025.

    “The Sinaloa Cartel is a complex, dangerous terrorist organization and dismantling them demands a novel, powerful legal response,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Their days of brutalizing the American people without consequence are over — we will seek life in prison for these terrorists.”

    “Operation Take Back America initiatives reflect the reality that narco-terrorists operate as a cancer within a state,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon. “They metastasize violence, corruption and fear. If left unchecked, their growth would lead to the death of law and order. This indictment is what justice looks like when the full measure of the Department of Justice along with its law enforcement partners is brought to bear against the Sinaloa Cartel.”

    “BLO, under the leadership of Inzunza Noriega, is allegedly responsible for some of the largest-ever drug seizures of fentanyl and cocaine destined for the United States,” said FBI San Diego Acting Special Agent in Charge Houtan Moshrefi. “Their drugs not only destroy lives and communities, but also threaten our national security. The law enforcement efforts against the Noriegas reaffirms our commitment to dismantling and disrupting this very dangerous narco-terrorist group and combating narco-trafficking.”

    According to court documents, since its inception the Beltran Leyva faction has been considered one of the most violent drug trafficking organizations to operate in Mexico, engaging in shootouts, murders, kidnappings, torture and violent collection of drug debts to sustain its operations. The Beltran Leyva faction controls numerous territories and plazas throughout Mexico – including Tijuana – and operates with violent impunity, trafficking in deadly drugs, threatening communities, and targeting key officials, all while making millions of dollars from their criminal activities.

    Pedro Inzunza Noriega works closely with his son, Pedro Inzunza Coronel, to produce and aggressively traffic fentanyl to the United States, the government has alleged. Court documents indicate that together the father and son lead one of the largest and most sophisticated fentanyl production networks in the world. Over the past several years, they have trafficked tens of thousands of kilograms of fentanyl into the United States. On December 3, 2024, Mexican law enforcement raided multiple locations in Sinaloa that are controlled and managed by the father and son and seized 1,500 kilograms (more than 1.65 tons) of fentanyl – the largest seizure of fentanyl in the world.

    These indictments follow a notable tradition in the Southern District of California for targeting leadership and operations of powerful Mexican cartels – from the dismantling of the Arellano Felix Cartel to major strikes against today’s most dangerous, powerful and violent cartels, including the Sinaloa Cartel, Jalisco New Generation Cartel and now the Beltran Leyva Organization. It is the first indictment from the newly formed Narco-Terrorism Unit which was established upon the swearing in of U.S. Attorney Gordon on April 11, 2025.

    The indictment of Pedro Inzunza Noriega reflects the Southern District of California’s pursuit of the Sinaloa Cartel. Federal drug trafficking indictments are pending against all alleged leaders of its Beltran Leyva faction, including:

    • Fausto Isidro Meza Flores aka “Chapo Isidro,” case number: 19-CR-1272 in the Southern District of California and 12-116BAH in the District of Columbia
    • Oscar Manuel Gastelum Iribe aka “El Musico,” case number 19-CR-3736 in the Southern District of California; 09-CR-00672 in the Northern District of Illinois; 15-CR-00195 in the District of Columbia, and
    • Pedro Inzunza Noriega aka “Sagitario,” case number 25cr1505.

    The Southern District of California also has indictments pending against other leaders of the Sinaloa Cartel, including:

    • Ivan Archivaldo Guzman Salazar aka “El Chapito,” case number 14-cr-00658 in the Southern District of California and 09-CR-383 in the Northern District of Illinois
    • Ismael Zambada Sicairos aka “Mayito Flaco,” case number: 14-cr-00658 in the Southern District of California; and
    • Jose Gil Caro Quintero aka “El Chino,” case number 22-cr-00036 in the District of Columbia

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua Mellor and Matthew Sutton.

    Defendants for Case Number 25cr1505

    Name Age Location
    Pedro Inzunza Noriega | aka “Sagitario,” aka “120,” aka “El De La Silla” 62 Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico
    Pedro Inzunza Coronel | aka “Pichon,” Aka “Pajaro”, aka “Bird” 33 Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico
    David Alejandro Heredia Velazquez | aka “Tano,” aka “Mr. Jordan” 50 Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico and Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico
    Oscar Rene Gonzalez Menendez | aka “Rubio” 45 Guatemala City, Guatemala
    Elias Alberto Quiros Benavides 53 San Jose, Costa Rica
    Daniel Eduardo Bojorquez | aka “Chopper” 47 Nogales, Sonora, Mexico
    Javier Alonso Vazquez Sanchez | aka “Tito”, aka “Drilo” 31 Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico

    Summary of Charges

    • Title 21, U.S.C., Secs. 960a and 841 – Narco-Terrorism
      Maximum penalty: Life in prison, mandatory minimum 20 years in prison; $20 million fine
    • Title 18, U.S.C. Sec. 2339B – Providing Material Support to Terrorism
      Maximum penalty: Twenty years in prison and $250,000 fine
    • Title 21, U.S.C., Sec. 848(a) -Continuing Criminal Enterprise
      Maximum penalty: Life in prison, mandatory minimum 20 years; $10 million fine
    • Title 21, U.S.C., Secs. 952, 959, 960, and 963 – International Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances
      Maximum penalty: Life in prison, mandatory minimum 10 years; $10 million fine
    • Title 21, U.S.C., Secs. 841(a)(1) and 846 – Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances
      Maximum penalty: Life in prison, mandatory minimum 10 years in prison; $10 million fine
    • Title 21, U.S.C., Secs. 952, 960 and 963 – Conspiracy to Import Controlled Substances
      Maximum penalty: Life in prison, mandatory minimum 10 years; $10 million fine
    • Money Laundering Conspiracy – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1956(h)
      Maximum penalty: Twenty years in prison and a fine of the greater of $500,000 or twice the value of the monetary instrument or funds involved

    The charges and allegations contained in an indictment or complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.

    This case is the result of ongoing efforts by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force, a partnership that brings together the combined expertise and unique abilities of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, dismantle and prosecute high-level members of drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations and enterprises.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Track Group Reports 2nd Quarter Fiscal 2025 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NAPERVILLE, Ill., May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Track Group, Inc. (OTCQB: TRCK), a global leader in offender tracking and monitoring services, today announced financial results for its fiscal quarter ended March 31, 2025 (“Q2 FY25”). In Q2 FY25, the Company posted (i) total revenue of $8.4 Million (“M”), a decrease of approximately 7% over total revenue of $9.0M for the quarter ended March 31, 2024 (“Q2 FY24”); (ii) Q2 FY25 gross profit of $4.1M representing an increase of approximately 4% over Q2 FY24 of $4.0M; (iii) Q2 FY25 operating income of $0.04M compared to Q2 FY24 operating loss of ($0.96M); and (iv) net loss attributable to common shareholders of ($0.5M) in Q2 FY25 compared to ($1.9M) in Q2 FY24.

    FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS 

    • Total Q2 FY25 revenue of $8.4M was down 7% compared to Q2 FY24 revenue of $9.0M. Revenue for the six months ended March 31, 2025 (“6M FY25’) of $17.0M was down approximately 5% compared to revenue of $18.0M for the six months ended March 31, 2024 (“6M FY24”). The decrease in monitoring revenues is driven principally by a decrease in people assigned to monitoring for clients in Virginia, and due to our recently sold Chilean subsidiary. This decrease was partially offset by revenue increases for clients in Illinois, Puerto Rico and the Bahamas who experienced increases in the number of people assigned to monitoring.
    • Gross Profit of $4.1M rose by 4% ($0.1M) in Q2 FY25 compared to Q2 FY24. Gross profit for 6M FY25 was $8.5M compared to gross profit of $8.2M for 6M FY24. This improvement stems from factors including reduced monitoring center costs, partly offset by a decrease in revenue. 
    • Operating income in Q2 FY25 of $0.04M was up approximately 105% compared to an operating loss of ($0.96M) in Q2 FY24. Operating income for 6M FY25 of $0.2M was up approximately 115% compared to operating loss of ($1.1M) for 6M FY24. This rise in operating income is primarily due to a decrease in cost of revenue and a decrease in operating expense, partially offset by a decrease in revenue. Operating expenses were down $0.8M in Q2 FY25 compared to Q2 FY24, primarily due to a decrease in general and administrative payroll, benefits, and payroll taxes of $0.5M due to the sale of our Chilean subsidiary on November 1, 2024 and a settlement expense related to a contract dispute of $0.5M in Q2 FY24.
    • Adjusted EBITDA for Q2 FY25 was $1.3M compared to $0.8M for Q2 FY24. Adjusted EBITDA for 6M FY25 was $2.6M compared to Adjusted EBITDA for 6M FY24 of $1.9M primarily due to negative currency exchange rate movements of $0.6M in Q2 FY25 compared to Q2 FY24. Adjusted EBITDA in 6M FY25 as a percentage of revenue increased to 15.1%, compared to 10.3% for 6M FY24.
    • Cash balance of $3.4M at March 31, 2025 declined 4% compared to $3.6M at September 30, 2024.  The modest decrease in cash position was due to increases in inventory purchases and payments to vendors, partially offset by an increase in accrued liabilities.
    • Net loss attributable to shareholders in Q2 FY25 was ($0.5M) compared to ($1.9M) in Q2 FY24, a decrease of $1.4M. Net loss attributable to shareholders in 6M FY25 was ($2.5M), compared to ($1.9M) for 6M FY24, a change principally attributable to negative currency exchange rate movements, partially offset by an increase in operating income.

    “In the quarter ended March 31, 2025, we achieved strong gains in profitability, with both gross profit and operating income showing robust growth and Adjusted EBITDA surpassing Q2 FY24 results,” said Derek Cassell, Track Group’s CEO. “Gross profit rose by 4% year-over-year ($4.1M vs $4.0M in Q2 FY24), marking a clear indication of our operational resilience and focus on delivering higher-value, higher-margin business. Adjusted EBITDA also climbed to $1.3M in Q2 FY25, a 63% increase from $0.8M in Q2 FY24, reflecting our focus on cost management and strategic execution over the last six months.”

    Business Outlook

    Despite previous challenges from supply chain delays, the impact of the Coronavirus, and the phase-out of our 3G-based cellular devices in the U.S., Track Group stands resilient. The demonstrated financial growth evidenced in Q2 FY25 reinforces our confidence in the strategic reinvestment in technology and the implementation of new programs initiated in late FY24. These endeavors position us well for a sustained return to growth throughout FY25. Our outlook for FY25 is as follows: 

      Actual     Outlook
      FY 2023     FY 2024     FY 2025
    Revenue (in millions): $ 34.5 M   $ 36.9 M   $34.5 – 35.5M
                           
    Adjusted EBITDA Margin:   11.1 %     14.6 %    13.5 – 16.5%
                           

    About Track Group, Inc.

    Track Group designs, manufactures, and markets location tracking devices; as well as develops and sells a variety of related software, services, and accessories, networking solutions, and monitoring applications. The Company’s products and services are designed to empower professionals in security, law enforcement, corrections, and rehabilitation organizations worldwide with single-sourced offender management solutions that integrate reliable intervention technologies to support re-socialization and monitoring initiatives.

    The Company currently trades under the ticker symbol “TRCK” on the OTCQB exchange. For more information, visit www.trackgrp.com. 

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Any statements contained in this document that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements as defined in the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “forecast,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “project,” “predict,” “if”, “should” and “will” and similar expressions as they relate to Track Group, Inc., and subsidiaries (“Track Group”) are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These statements are only predictions and reflect Track Group’s current beliefs and expectations with respect to future events and are based on assumptions and subject to risks and uncertainties and subject to change at any time. Track Group may from time-to-time update these publicly announced projections, but it is not obligated to do so. Any projections of future results of operations should not be construed in any manner as a guarantee that such results will in fact occur. These projections are subject to change and could differ materially from final reported results. For a discussion of such risks and uncertainties, see “Risk Factors” in Track Group’s annual report on Form 10-K, its quarterly report on Form 10-Q, and its other reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. New risks emerge from time to time. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the dates on which they are made.

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    This release includes financial measures defined as “non-GAAP financial measures” by the Securities and Exchange Commission including non-GAAP EBITDA. These measures may be different from non- GAAP financial measures used by other companies. The presentation of this financial information, which is not prepared under any comprehensive set of accounting rules or principles, is not intended to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for the financial information prepared and presented in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Reconciliations of these non-GAAP financial measures are based on the financial figures for the respective period.

    Non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA excludes items included but not limited to interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, impairment charges, gains and losses, currency effects, one-time charges or benefits that are not indicative of operations, charges to consolidate, integrate or consider recently acquired businesses, costs of closing facilities, stock based or other non-cash compensation or other stated cash and non-cash charges (the “Adjustments”).

    The Company believes the non-GAAP measures provide useful information to both management and investors when factoring in the Adjustments. Specific disclosure regarding the Company’s financial results, including management’s analysis of results from operations and financial condition, are contained in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2023, and other reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Investors are encouraged to carefully read and consider such disclosure and analysis contained in the Company’s Form 10-K and other reports, including the risk factors contained in such Form 10-K.

    James Berg
    Chief Financial Officer
    jim.berg@trackgrp.com 

    TRACK GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
                   
        (Unaudited)          
        March 31,     September 30,  
        2025     2024  
    Assets                
    Current assets:                
    Cash   $ 3,416,045     $ 3,574,215  
    Accounts receivable, net of allowance for credit losses of $396,667 and $432,904, respectively     5,085,595       4,428,535  
    Prepaid expense and deposits     432,520       638,293  
    Inventory, net of reserves of $88,024 and $82,848, respectively     915,816       582,481  
    Assets held for sale     –       969,481  
    Total current assets     9,849,976       10,193,005  
    Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $300,052 and $430,003, respectively     392,423       317,206  
    Monitoring equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $5,295,826 and $5,982,972, respectively     4,367,904       4,598,864  
    Intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization of $20,460,576 and $19,699,966, respectively     13,337,224       13,959,571  
    Goodwill     7,859,645       7,941,190  
    Other assets     1,160,885       660,170  
    Total assets   $ 36,968,057     $ 37,670,006  
                     
    Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity (Deficit)                
    Current liabilities:                
    Accounts payable   $ 2,398,228     $ 3,082,467  
    Accrued liabilities     3,318,453       2,639,318  
    Liabilities held for sale     –       732,028  
    Total current liabilities     5,716,681       6,453,813  
    Long-term debt, net of current portion     42,680,070       42,639,197  
    Long-term liabilities     631,709       186,407  
    Total liabilities     49,028,460       49,279,417  
                     
                     
                     
    Stockholders’ equity (deficit):                
    Common stock, $0.0001 par value: 30,000,000 shares authorized; 11,863,758 and 11,863,758 shares outstanding, respectively     1,186       1,186  
    Preferred stock, $0.0001 par value: 20,000,000 shares authorized; 0 shares outstanding     –       –  
    Series A Convertible Preferred stock, $0.0001 par value: 1,200,000 shares authorized; 0 shares outstanding     –       –  
    Paid in capital     302,600,546       302,600,546  
    Accumulated deficit     (315,791,294 )     (312,691,811 )
    Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)     1,129,159       (1,519,332 )
    Total stockholders’ equity (deficit)     (12,060,403 )     (11,609,411 )
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity (deficit)   $ 36,968,057     $ 37,670,006  
                     
    TRACK GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME/(LOSS)
    (Unaudited)
                 
        Three Months Ended     Six Months Ended  
        March 31,     March 31,     March 31,     March 31,  
        2025     2024     2025     2024  
    Revenue:                                
    Monitoring and other related services   $ 7,867,975     $ 8,758,650     $ 16,309,282     $ 17,433,136  
    Product sales and other     484,345       232,570       711,366       525,057  
    Total revenue     8,352,320       8,991,220       17,020,648       17,958,193  
                                     
    Cost of revenue:                                
    Monitoring, products and other related services     3,515,023       4,230,498       7,023,784       8,204,487  
    Depreciation & amortization included in cost of revenue     723,331       793,887       1,458,556       1,583,351  
    Total cost of revenue     4,238,354       5,024,385       8,482,340       9,787,838  
                                     
    Gross profit     4,113,966       3,966,835       8,538,308       8,170,355  
                                     
    Operating expense:                                
    General & administrative     2,127,145       3,173,866       4,558,263       5,931,753  
    Selling & marketing     964,743       810,441       1,865,932       1,516,972  
    Research & development     750,650       701,183       1,420,040       1,383,646  
    Depreciation & amortization     227,385       236,524       454,938       476,284  
    Loss on sale of subsidiary     –       –       (66,483 )     –  
    Total operating expense     4,069,923       4,922,014       8,365,656       9,308,655  
                                     
    Operating income (loss)     44,043       (955,179 )     172,652       (1,138,300 )
                                     
    Other income (expense):                                
    Interest expense, net     (565,844 )     (428,868 )     (1,134,804 )     (866,791 )
    Currency exchange rate gain (loss)     34,830       (519,933 )     (1,464,432 )     19,013  
    Other income (expense), net     –       (3,443 )     –       (3,443 )
    Total other income (expense)     (531,014 )     (952,244 )     (2,599,236 )     (851,221 )
    Income (loss) before income taxes     (486,971 )     (1,907,423 )     (2,426,584 )     (1,989,521 )
    Income tax expense (benefit)     30,145       (4,348 )     101,381       (86,907 )
    Net income (loss) attributable to common shareholders     (517,116 )     (1,903,075 )     (2,527,965 )     (1,902,614 )
    Release of cumulative translation adjustment for sale of subsidiary     –       –       1,390,913       –  
    Equity adjustment for sale of subsidiary     –       –       571,518       –  
    Foreign currency translation adjustments     (85,709 )     (36,754 )     686,060       (143,456 )
    Comprehensive income (loss)   $ (602,825 )   $ (1,939,829 )   $ 120,526     $ (2,046,070 )
                                     
    Net income per share – basic                                
    Net income per common share   $ (0.04 )   $ (0.16 )   $ (0.21 )   $ (0.17 )
    Weighted average common shares outstanding     11,863,758       11,863,758       11,863,758       11,863,758  
    Net income per share – diluted                                
    Net income per common share   $ (0.04 )   $ (0.16 )   $ (0.21 )   $ (0.17 )
    Weighted average common shares outstanding     11,863,758       11,863,758       11,863,758       11,863,758  
                                     
    TRACK GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
    NON-GAAP ADJUSTED EBITDA MARCH 31 (Unaudited)
    (amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)
                 
        Three Months Ended
    March 31,    		     Six Months Ended
    March 31,    		  
        2025     2024     2025     2024  
    Non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA                                
    Net Income (loss) attributable to common shareholders   $ (517 )   $ (1,903 )   $ (2,528 )   $ (1,903 )
    Interest expense, net     566       432       1,135       870  
    Depreciation and amortization     951       1,030       1,913       2,060  
    Income taxes (1)     30       (4 )     101       (87 )
    Board compensation and stock-based compensation     75       50       150       103  
    Foreign exchange (gain)/loss     (35 )     520       1,464       (19 )
    Loss on sale of subsidiary     –       –       66       –  
    Other charges, net (2)     249       663       267       826  
    Non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA   $ 1,319     $ 788     $ 2,568     $ 1,850  
    Non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA, percent of revenue     15.8 %     8.8 %     15.1 %     10.3 %
    Weighted average common shares outstanding – basic     11,863,758       11,863,758       11,863,758       11,863,758  
    Non-GAAP earnings per share   $ 0.11     $ 0.07     $ 0.22     $ 0.16  
    Weighted average common shares outstanding – diluted     11,863,758       11,863,758       11,863,758       11,863,758  
    Non-GAAP earnings per share   $ 0.11     $ 0.07     $ 0.22     $ 0.16  
    (1 ) Currently, the Company has significant U.S. tax loss carryforwards that may be used to offset future taxable income, subject to IRS limitations. However, the Company is still subject to certain state, commonwealth, and other foreign based taxes.
    (2 ) Other charges include expenses related to the board of directors, severance, a settlement related to a contract dispute, and other Chile monitoring center costs for our recently sold subsidiary.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Oak Valley Community Bank Named One of Central Valley’s Best Places to Work

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    OAKDALE, Calif., May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Oak Valley Community Bank, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Oak Valley Bancorp (NASDAQ: OVLY) is pleased to announce that it was named by Best Companies Group as one of 2025 Best Places to Work: Central Valley. At the same time, OVCB was recognized by Opportunity Stanislaus for “Growing the Economy” by increasing their workforce by 10% or more throughout 2024.

    “Being named one of the Best Places to Work in the Central Valley for the second time is a true honor and a meaningful reflection of who we are as an organization. This recognition speaks to the environment we’ve worked hard to create: one that prioritizes growth, values each individual, and fosters a culture of excellence from the inside out. What truly sets us apart is our deep-rooted service culture. Our team consistently goes beyond expectations, creating experiences that build trust, strengthen relationships, and turn customers into lifelong advocates. That level of care doesn’t just happen – it’s driven by a team that believes in our mission and takes pride in their work every day. I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to our employees. Your commitment to our customers, our communities, and to one another is the reason we continue to grow and succeed. This award belongs to each of you,” stated Chris Courtney, CEO.

    Best Places to Work: Central Valley is a survey and recognition program dedicated to celebrating those employers locally who excel at creating quality jobs and environments where employees are happy to work. As a research-driven program from Best Companies Group, Best Places to Work examines a company’s practices, programs, and benefits and surveys employees for their perspective. All companies that participated in the 2025 Best Places to Work: Central Valley program receive an in-depth evaluation identifying strengths and weaknesses according to their employees. In turn, this report can be used in developing or enhancing employee retention and recruitment programs.

    We are honored to be recognized with this year’s Best Places to Work recipients; Black Water Consulting Engineers, DeHart Plumbing, Heating & Air, E- Technologies Group, Grimbleby Coleman, Haggerty Construction, IT Solutions/Currie, One Digital, Reed Family Companies, Stanislaus County Office of Education, The Wonderful Company, and Westwood Professional Services.

    Best Places to Work: Central Valley is brought to you by Opportunity Stanislaus. For more information on Best Places to Work: Central Valley visit www.bestplacestoworkcentralvalley.com.

    About Opportunity Stanislaus
    Opportunity Stanislaus is a local economic development organization focused on improving the economic vitality of Stanislaus County. To do so, they help local entrepreneurs start and grow businesses and work to attract innovative companies to the county. For more information visit www.opportunitystanislaus.com.

    About Oak Valley Community Bank
    Oak Valley Bancorp operates Oak Valley Community Bank & their Eastern Sierra Community Bank division, through which it offers a variety of loan and deposit products to individuals and small businesses. They currently operate through 18 conveniently located branches: Oakdale, Turlock, Stockton, Patterson, Ripon, Escalon, Manteca, Tracy, Sacramento, Roseville, two branches in Sonora, three branches in Modesto, and three branches in their Eastern Sierra division, which includes Bridgeport, Mammoth Lakes, and Bishop. The company will open its 19th branch location in Lodi later this year. For more information visit www.ovcb.com.

    Contact: Chris Courtney/Rick McCarty
    Phone: (209) 848-BANK (2265)
    Toll Free (866) 844-7500
    www.ovcb.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: The GDL Fund Declares Second Quarter Distribution of $0.12 Per Share

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    RYE, N.Y., May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Board of Trustees of The GDL Fund (NYSE:GDL) (the “Fund”) declared a $0.12 per share cash distribution payable on June 23, 2025 to common shareholders of record on June 13, 2025.

    The Board of Trustees will continue to monitor the Fund’s distribution level, taking into consideration the Fund’s net asset value and the financial market environment. The distribution rate should not be considered the dividend yield or total return on an investment in the Fund.

    The Fund makes annual distributions of its realized net long-term capital gains and quarterly cash distributions of all or a portion of its investment company taxable income to common shareholders. A portion of the distribution may be a return of capital and various factors will affect the level of the Fund’s income, such as its asset mix and use of merger arbitrage strategies. To permit the Fund to maintain more stable distributions, the Fund may distribute more than the entire amount of income earned in a particular period. Because the Fund’s current quarterly distributions are subject to modification by the Board of Trustees at any time and the Fund’s income will fluctuate, there can be no assurance that the Fund will pay distributions at a particular rate or frequency.

    If the Fund does not generate sufficient earnings (dividends and interest income, less expenses, and realized net capital gain) equal to or in excess of the aggregate distributions paid by the Fund in a given year, then the amount distributed in excess of the Fund’s earnings would be deemed a return of capital. Since this would be considered a return of a portion of a shareholder’s original investment, it is generally not taxable and would be treated as a reduction in the shareholder’s cost basis.

    Short-term capital gains, qualified dividend income, investment company taxable income, and return of capital, if any, will be allocated on a pro-rata basis to all distributions to common shareholders for the year. Long-term capital gains, if any, are distributed in the final distribution of the year. Based on the accounting records of the Fund currently available, each of the distributions paid to common shareholders in 2025 would include approximately 5% from net investment income, 3% from net capital gains and 92% would be deemed a return of capital on a book basis. This does not represent information for tax reporting purposes. The estimated components of each distribution are updated and provided to shareholders of record in a notice accompanying the distribution and are available on our website (www.gabelli.com). The final determination of the sources of all distributions in 2025 will be made after year end and can vary from the quarterly estimates. Shareholders should not draw any conclusions about the Fund’s investment performance from the amount of the current distribution. All individual shareholders with taxable accounts will receive written notification regarding the components and tax treatment for all 2025 distributions in early 2026 via Form 1099-DIV.

    Investors should carefully consider the investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses of the Fund before investing. For more information regarding the Fund’s distribution policy and other information about the Fund, call:

    Laurissa Martire
    (914) 921-5399

    About The GDL Fund
    The GDL Fund is a diversified, closed-end management investment company with $131 million in total net assets whose investment objective is to achieve absolute returns in various market conditions without excessive risk of capital. The Fund is managed by Gabelli Funds, LLC, a subsidiary of GAMCO Investors, Inc. (OTCQX: GAMI).

    NYSE – GDL
    CUSIP – 361570104

    THE GDL FUND
    Investor Relations Contact:
    Laurissa Martire
    (914) 921-5399
    lmartire@gabelli.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaine, Warner, Van Hollen, Alsobrooks, & Connolly Lead Colleagues in Letter to OPM Opposing Trump Administration’s Revival of Schedule F

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), and Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD) and U.S. Representative Gerald E. Connolly (D-VA-11) led their colleagues in a letter to Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Acting Director Charles Ezell opposing President Trump’s move to revive ‘Schedule F.’ Schedule F, now called Schedule Policy/Career, is a policy Trump pursued during his first term to reclassify federal workers, stripping them of their protections and making it easier for the Administration to carry out politically motivated firings. 

    “The proposed rule will allow agencies to reclassify thousands of dedicated federal workers from the competitive service into the excepted service and therefore strip them of their civil service rights and protections,” wrote the members. “The impacts of this proposed rule will upend decades of reforms which have strengthened the federal workforce.”

    The members continued, “More than 2.2 million federal employees work every day to conduct life-saving research, defend our national security, uphold food and drug standards, monitor air and water quality, ensure flight safety and so much more. Nonpartisan, career civil servants, who make up the vast majority of our federal workforce, take an oath to defend the Constitution regardless of which political party occupies the White House.”

    “The Trump Administration has made clear its ambitions to undercut the nonpartisan civil service through the Schedule Policy/Career directive. Reclassifying civil service positions into the excepted service removes virtually all protections and rights currently afforded to civil servants,” the members wrote. “Coupled with the Trump Administration’s efforts to relocate and terminate wide swaths of the federal workforce, Schedule Policy/Career reclassifications will negatively affect recruitment and retention efforts for federal workers.”

    “As Members of Congress, we understand the vital role of our nonpartisan, highly-skilled civil servants and strongly oppose efforts to dismantle and politicize our country’s competitive federal workforce. Civil servants remain steadfast in their commitment to serving the public interest, not political agendas and deserve the full support of their government in that effort,” the members concluded.

    In addition to Kaine, Warner, Van Hollen, Alsobrooks, and Connolly, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Patty Murray (D-WA), Tina Smith (D-MN), Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Ed Markey (D-MA), and Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and U.S. Representatives Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC-At-Large), Ro Khanna (D-CA-17), Suhas Sabramanyam (D-VA-10), Stephen Lynch (D-MA-08), Robert Garcia (D-CA-42), Ayanna Pressley (D-MA-07), Jasmine Crockett (D-TX-30), Melanie Stansbury (D-NM-01), Greg Casar (D-TX-35), Maxwell Frost (D-FL-10), and Kweisi Mfume (D-MD-07).

    Kaine, Warner, Van Hollen, Alsobrooks, and Connolly have been leading voices in Congress against efforts to dramatically reduce and politicize the federal workforce. Among other steps, Kaine and Connolly led the introduction of the Saving the Civil Service Act to protect the merit-based federal workforce system and prevent any position in the competitive service from being reclassified to Schedule F.

    Full text of the letter is available here and below.

    Dear Acting Director Ezell:

    We write in strong opposition to the Office of Personnel Management’s (OPM)’s Proposed Rule – Improving Performance, Accountability, and Responsiveness in the Civil Service [OPM-2025-00041]. The proposed rule will allow agencies to reclassify thousands of dedicated federal workers from the competitive service into the excepted service and therefore strip them of their civil service rights and protections. The impacts of this proposed rule will upend decades of reforms which have strengthened the federal workforce. Rescheduling nonpartisan positions undermines the ability of federal agencies to fulfill their vital missions and ignores over 140 years of civil service precedent beginning with the Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act of 1883.

    More than 2.2 million federal employees work every day to conduct life-saving research, defend our national security, uphold food and drug standards, monitor air and water quality, ensure flight safety and so much more. Nonpartisan, career civil servants, who make up the vast majority of our federal workforce, take an oath to defend the Constitution regardless of which political party occupies the White House. Furthermore, these individuals have the unique credentials and institutional experience required to ensure continuity and impartiality within the federal government. The American public benefits from a strong federal workforce supported by a nonpartisan civil service to conduct their critical work.

    On January 20, 2025, President Trump issued Executive Order 14171 which claimed to immediately rescind regulations protecting civil servants and the merit system, reinstated Schedule F, and simultaneously directed OPM to engage in the rulemaking process to create a regulation supporting the reclassification order. Now known as Schedule Policy/Career, any positions that influence policy are directed to be reclassified into the excepted service. In accordance with EO 14171, OPM issued a proposed rule on Schedule Policy/Career which directs agencies to reclassify any position categorized as “confidential, policy-determining, policymaking or policy-advocating character” into the excepted service. 

    The Trump Administration has made clear its ambitions to undercut the nonpartisan civil service through the Schedule Policy/Career directive. Reclassifying civil service positions into the excepted service removes virtually all protections and rights currently afforded to civil servants. This includes due process and appeals rights that help ensure civil servants can conduct their duties without fear of politically-motivated removal or retaliatory measures. Removing these protections will make civil servants at-will employees and more susceptible to political pressures. Coupled with the Trump Administration’s efforts to relocate and terminate wide swaths of the federal workforce, Schedule Policy/Career reclassifications will negatively affect recruitment and retention efforts for federal workers.

    OPM’s directive to reschedule agency positions that have any involvement in policy will have devastating impacts not only on career civil servants and their families, but the communities that they serve. OPM estimates that 50,000 positions, which accounts for approximately 2% of the civil service, will ultimately be moved into Schedule Policy/Career. However, OPM’s failure to adequately define what factors constitute “confidential, policy-determining, policymaking or policy-advocating character” leaves interpretation largely up to each agency and risks the policy being much more broadly implemented than initially disclosed.   

    Already, agencies have begun taking the broadest approach to evaluating which positions to reclassify into Schedule Policy/Career. The Social Security Administration (SSA) reportedly has directed staff to prepare for large swaths of the agency to be reclassified. Internal documentation obtained by Government Executive indicates that Acting Administrator Lee Dudek recently instructed across-the-board reclassifications for senior leaders and over a half dozen offices within SSA. These positions encompass researchers and other supporting positions that do not set or impact policy decisions. The maximalist approach outlined by SSA foreshadows the wide-reaching implications of Schedule Political/Career which will negatively alter the federal workforce for decades to come.

    As Members of Congress, we understand the vital role of our nonpartisan, highly-skilled civil servants and strongly oppose efforts to dismantle and politicize our country’s competitive federal workforce. Civil servants remain steadfast in their commitment to serving the public interest, not political agendas and deserve the full support of their government in that effort. In that vein, we urge OPM to immediately rescind this proposed rule and collaborate with Congress to effectively manage government operations. 

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Baldwin, Cornyn Introduce Bill to Support U.S. Manufacturing, Bar Taxpayer Funds on Chinese-Made Buses and Rail Cars

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and John Cornyn (R-TX) led a bipartisan group of their colleagues in introducing the Safeguarding Transit Operations to Prohibit (STOP) China Act to support American manufacturing and workers and stop the U.S. government from buying Chinese buses and rail cars. The bill will protect domestic transit supply chains from malign Chinese influence by preventing any U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) funds from being awarded for the purchase of Chinese government transit buses or rail cars.

    “When we invest American taxpayer dollars, we should be supporting our Made in America economy and American workers, not opening our checkbook to adversaries like China,” said Senator Baldwin. “I’m proud to work with Republicans and Democrats to support our workers and companies, keep the United States safe, and close a loophole that Chinese companies are exploiting to win government contracts and undercut American workers.”

    “It is China’s mission to infiltrate and dominate every aspect of American society, including our transit systems, and we cannot let them succeed,” said Senator Cornyn. “By preventing American tax dollars from being used to purchase Chinese government transit buses or rail cars, our legislation would help protect U.S. transportation infrastructure from the CCP.”

    “Companies controlled by the Chinese Communist Party have no business receiving a penny of American federal taxpayer dollars,” said Teamsters General President Sean M. O’Brien. “The STOP China Act strengthens federal law meant to ensure that our transportation programs don’t fund these corporations and will help protect the jobs of hardworking Teamsters who manufacture buses against unfair state-sponsored competition.”

    Congress passed the Transportation Infrastructure Vehicle Security Act (TIVSA), which prohibits companies with ties to China’s government from receiving taxpayer-funded contracts from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) to build U.S. rail cars and buses, as part of the Fiscal Year 2020 National Defense Authorization Act.

    However, China has taken advantage of other government funds in the law to continue competing for transit business in the U.S. The STOP China Act would prevent any appropriated funds to the DOT from being awarded to grantees for the purchase of Chinese government transit buses. It would also require the United States Trade Representative (USTR), in consultation with the U.S. Attorney General, to produce a list of prohibited entities headquartered or affiliated with China.

    In addition to Senator Baldwin, the bill is cosponsored by Senators Rick Scott (R-FL), Tina Smith (D-MN), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Gary Peters (D-MI) and Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV).

    The legislation is endorsed by Alliance for American Manufacturing, Steel Manufacturers Association, International Brotherhood of Teamsters, United Steelworkers, International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, and Transport Workers Union of America.

    Full text of the bill is available here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Fear and Fascination: a Gothic Exhibition A new exhibition at the University of Aberdeen invites visitors to meet ghosts, vampires and the supernatural as they step into a world of Gothic terror and explore how Gothic literature used fear to both terrify and excite readers.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    Frankenstein artworkA new exhibition at the University of Aberdeen invites visitors to meet ghosts, vampires and the supernatural as they step into a world of Gothic terror and explore how Gothic literature used fear to both terrify and excite readers.
    Opening in the Sir Duncan Rice Library on May 19, 2025, the exhibition explores why we are so intrigued and excited by things that scare us. Using the rich collection of eighteenth and nineteenth century Gothic literature cared for by University Collections, the exhibition highlights how the genre explores transgressive themes through their tales of monsters and villains.
    Visitors will see early editions of key Gothic novels including Castle of Otranto (first published 1764), The Picture of Dorian Gray (1890), and M. R. James’s Ghost Stories of an Antiquary (1904). These texts, and many more on display, are used to explore how fields such as queer theory and Postcolonial readings have brought new meanings to these stories that have fascinated audiences since their publication.
    An immersive space highlights the tropes used by authors to evoke a sense of fear in readers and will allow those who visit to get creative and explore the darker side of their imaginations, creating Gothic plots and stories. A cosy Victorian reading provides space to settle down and enjoy a good book, while Old Aberdeen Library will also have a selection of Gothic writing available to check out and read at home.
    Curator Christina Mackenzie said: “Gothic literature has an enduring appeal as shown by the popularity of many of these texts centuries after they were written.
    “This has been such a fun and revealing exhibition to work on and we’ve really tried to explore that throughout – the way these texts tell scary stories on the surface, but have been reinterpreted over time to question the monstrosity of the ‘monsters’.”
    ‘Fear & Fascination’ will be accompanied by a rich events programme, kicking off with Sophie Coulombeau’s talk Brothers & Lovers: Frances Burney and the Gothicon 29 May.
    ‘Fear and Fascination: A Gothic Exhibition’ will be open in the Sir Duncan Rice Library Gallery, Bedford Road, Aberdeen AB24 3AA, 11am-7pm Mon-Fri, 1pm-4pm Sat & Sun, from 19 May to 7 December 2025.
    Enquiries: uoacollections@abdn.ac.uk
    See https://www.abdn.ac.uk/collections/whats-on/ for further details of the exhibition and events programme.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • Akash Missile, IACCS and Drones drive India’s defence success in Operation SINDOOR

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Operation SINDOOR has emerged as a major milestone in India’s pursuit of self-reliance in national security, demonstrating the country’s growing technological and operational capabilities in countering asymmetric warfare. In the wake of the terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam in April, the Indian Armed Forces responded with precision and strategic restraint, targeting terrorist infrastructure without crossing the Line of Control or international boundaries. 
     
    On the night of 7–8 May 2025, multiple attempts were made by Pakistan to target military installations across Northern and Western India—including Awantipura, Srinagar, Jammu, Pathankot, Amritsar, Kapurthala, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Adampur, Bhatinda, Chandigarh, Nal, Phalodi, Uttarlai, and Bhuj—using drones and missiles. These threats were effectively neutralised by India’s Integrated Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Grid and Air Defence mechanisms. The network of radars, control centres, low-level air defence guns, and both ground- and aircraft-launched missiles provided a coordinated and impenetrable shield, ensuring minimal damage.
     
    In retaliation, on the morning of May 8, Indian forces targeted and disabled several Pakistani air defence systems, including a radar site in Lahore. This marked a significant operational success, achieved without loss of Indian assets. Indigenous systems, particularly the Akash Surface-to-Air Missile system, played a crucial role in neutralising threats. Designed to protect strategic locations from aerial attacks, the Akash system operated effectively in both autonomous and group modes, with the ability to simultaneously engage multiple targets. The system, fully mounted on mobile platforms, includes advanced electronic counter-countermeasure capabilities.
     
    The Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS) of the Indian Air Force provided the backbone for real-time coordination, enabling synchronized responses across multiple units of the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Offensive operations also saw the effective deployment of loitering munitions, also known as “suicide drones,” to target high-value Pakistani assets, including airbases at Noor Khan and Rahimyar Khan. These precision strikes were completed within 23 minutes, highlighting the efficacy of India’s surveillance, planning, and jamming technologies, which successfully bypassed Chinese-origin Pakistani air defence systems.
     
    Following the operation, Indian forces recovered debris from neutralised threats, including Chinese-origin PL-15 missiles, Turkish-origin UAVs, long-range rockets, quadcopters, and commercial drones, showcasing India’s ability to counter advanced foreign-supplied weaponry with indigenous air defence and electronic warfare systems.
     
    In a press briefing on May 12, Director General of Military Operations, Lt Gen Rajiv Ghai, outlined the layered defence architecture deployed during the operation. He noted that while strikes were carried out within Indian territory, Pakistan’s retaliatory response was anticipated. A combination of counter-UAS systems, shoulder-fired weapons, legacy air defence systems, and modern platforms was used to protect strategic and logistic assets. This multi-tiered approach ensured civilian and military infrastructure remained secure during attempted air incursions by Pakistan on the night of May 9–10.
     
    India’s satellite capabilities also played a key role in the operation. On May 11, ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan stated that at least ten satellites were deployed round-the-clock to support strategic operations and national security. These systems provided constant monitoring of India’s 7,000-km coastline and its northern borders.
     
    The success of Operation SINDOOR also reflects the growing strength of India’s drone ecosystem. The Drone Federation of India (DFI), representing over 550 companies and 5,500 drone pilots, has played a key role in promoting indigenous development, manufacturing, and deployment of drone and counter-drone technologies. Indian companies such as Alpha Design Technologies, Tata Advanced Systems, Paras Defence & Space Technologies, and IG Drones are at the forefront of defence-focused drone innovation.
     
    The Indian drone market is expected to grow to $11 billion by 2030, representing over 12 percent of the global share. This growth has been supported by policy reforms, including the 2021 ban on imported drones and the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for drone and component manufacturing. The PLI scheme, with an outlay of ₹120 crore across three financial years, has accelerated domestic R&D and industrial output.
     
    India’s broader defence manufacturing sector continues to expand under the Make in India initiative. In financial year 2023–24, indigenous defence production reached a record ₹1.27 lakh crore, while exports soared to ₹23,622 crore in 2024–25—a 34-fold increase since 2013–14. Strategic reforms and robust private-sector participation have led to the development of advanced platforms such as the Dhanush and ATAGS artillery systems, Arjun tanks, Light Specialist Vehicles, LCA Tejas, ALH, LUH, Akash missile systems, and various naval assets including indigenous aircraft carriers and submarines.
     
    The government has also implemented initiatives such as iDEX, SRIJAN, and established Defence Industrial Corridors in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu to encourage innovation and facilitate production. Major acquisitions including the Prachand Light Combat Helicopters and the ATAGS artillery system reflect India’s commitment to indigenisation.
     
    With defence exports surpassing ₹24,000 crore in FY 2024–25, the government now aims to reach ₹50,000 crore by 2029. India continues to work towards becoming a global defence export leader by 2047, supported by record procurement contracts and ongoing investment in innovation.

  • MIL-OSI USA: Trahan Rips GOP Giveaway to Big Tech Billionaires in Reconciliation Package

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

    WASHINGTON, DC – During today’s House Energy and Commerce Committee markup on the Republican reconciliation legislation, Congresswoman Lori Trahan (MA-03) railed against a massive giveaway to Big Tech companies that would harm consumers and kids online. The provision buried in the bill would prohibit state-level protections on AI, allowing tech companies to deploy this emerging technology without restriction.
    “A ban on state regulations of AI for ten years shows where Republicans’ loyalty is: to Big Tech and the wealthy. Dismantling states’ regulations on technology amounts to a financial windfall of epic proportions, consistent with tax cuts for the rich that the Ways & Means Republicans marked up today,” Congresswoman Trahan said. “This provision absolves companies of any responsibility to protect consumers from the harms of AI. It is also drafted so broadly as to implicate states’ privacy and online safety laws, directly harming our kids.”
    CLICK HERE or the image below to view Trahan’s remarks during the Committee’s consideration of reconciliation legislation. A transcript is embedded below.

    The House Energy and Commerce Committee is currently marking up House Republicans’ reconciliation package that, according to the Congressional Budget Office, would cut $715 billion from Medicaid and eliminate health coverage for at least 13.7 million Americans. Included in that bill is a provision that would ban states from creating or implementing laws to limit potential harms of AI, effectively allowing Big Tech companies to deploy a rapidly changing technology without any accountability for its negative impacts.
    During debate over the legislation, Trahan spoke in support of an amendment filed by House Energy and Commerce Committee Ranking Member Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) to strike the 10-year moratorium on state AI regulation.
    “This handout for big tech and ultra-wealthy tech barons in the same reconciliation bill that guts healthcare for millions is what people hate about Washington. It’s lop-sided and it’s insulting,” Congresswoman Trahan continued. “If Republicans had chosen to start this hearing with the faces and stories of who they are advocating for, you wouldn’t see everyday Americans like us Democrats held up. We’d be looking at posters of Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, and Jeff Bezos.”
    Following debate on the amendment, every House Republican on the committee voted No, preserving the provision in the legislation.
    ———————————————

    Congresswoman Lori Trahan
    Remarks As Delivered
    House Energy and Commerce Committee Markup – AI Moratorium Amendment
    May 14, 2025
    I move to strike the last word.
    Very soon, this Committee will be debating the biggest cuts to Medicaid in our nation’s history. Cuts that will strip health insurance from over 13 million Americans all to pay for tax cuts that disproportionately benefit the wealthiest in our country.
    Republicans will say that they aren’t cutting Medicaid – that they are simply implementing quote “sensible” work requirements. But please stay skeptical.
    Republicans are implementing cumbersome requirements because added paperwork will lead to less compliance and ultimately, less people enrolled, conveniently giving them enough space to fill the pot for their super-rich friends. A group of friends that, we should note, is headlined by the same big tech CEOs who stood behind President Trump at his inauguration. A group of friends who will say they want a federal privacy policy, a national AI framework while spending millions of dollars to make sure those bills never see the House Floor.
    A ban on state regulations of AI for ten years shows where Republicans’ loyalty is: to Big Tech and the wealthy. Dismantling states’ regulations on technology amounts to a financial windfall of epic proportions, consistent with tax cuts for the rich that the Ways & Means Republicans marked up today.
    This provision absolves companies of any responsibility to protect consumers from the harms of AI. It is also drafted so broadly as to implicate states’ privacy and online safety laws, directly harming our kids. Simply put, this provision, this single paragraph snuck into a massive budget bill, would undermine digital rights duly provided to millions of Americans by their state legislatures. 
    States have taken the lead in regulating technology while Congress has stalled out amidst a barrage of endless lobbying. If privacy and kids’ online safety are any indication, this Congress will not pass meaningful, comprehensive regulation of AI.
    And I ask my colleagues: what gives you so much optimism that Congress can pass meaningful protections for AI, privacy, or online safety? You claim that states have created a patchwork of regulations – why do you think state lawmakers have done that? You think they want to be legislating on difficult questions of technology policy?
    No. No, state lawmakers have stepped up because their federal counterparts – we – have consistently failed to act. Americans are fed up, and instead they’re asking state legislatures to protect them and their kids online.
    Make no mistake: this provision is a product of big tech lobbying. Companies including Meta and Google have long asked for it, and trade associations for big tech rejoiced when Republicans included it in this bill. Because what this provision represents is the biggest gift to the tech industry in its history.
    Put in context, however, this ban on tech regulation is not just bad policy, it’s morally bankrupt. We can work together on modernizing our systems, leveraging our data and our analytics. But Mr. Chairman, think about it: Republicans are effectively eliminating requirements on technology companies to make their products safe and trustworthy while, at the same time, adding requirements for Americans to receive lifesaving healthcare. 
    Under their bill, Americans will have to jump through hoops and complete mounds of paperwork to prove that they are working. Technology companies, on the other hand, won’t have to show their work at all. This handout for big tech and ultra-wealthy tech barons in the same reconciliation bill that guts healthcare for millions is what people hate about Washington. It’s lop-sided and it’s insulting.
    If Republicans had chosen to start this hearing with the faces and stories of who they are advocating for, you wouldn’t see everyday Americans like us Democrats held up. We’d be looking at posters of Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, and Jeff Bezos.
    Requirements, compliance, and paperwork for busy, working class Americans, but not for billionaire big tech donors. That’s the Republican way, according to this legislation.
    But I’d love to be proven wrong. So vote yes on the amendment. I yield back.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Smarter Wearables: Gemini Is Coming to Galaxy Watch and Buds

    Source: Samsung

    Your Galaxy wearables are about to get even smarter, starting this winter. The Gemini app is set to debut on the Galaxy Watch6 series and later models, making its first integration into the Galaxy wearable lineup. Moreover, activating Gemini will be smoother than ever when paired with the Galaxy Buds3 series. This update will extend AI functionalities—previously exclusive to smartphones—across the entire Galaxy ecosystem, creating a more cohesive and intelligent user experience.
     
    Galaxy Watch: Your Routine, Made Effortless
    With Gemini on your Galaxy Watch, your daily routine is a breeze. If you’re working out and remember you need to send yesterday’s meeting notes, simply ask Gemini to find the relevant email using natural voice commands such as “Where’s the latest email about yesterday’s board meeting?” Then tell Gemini to send a summary of the email in a text message to your team. When you’re carrying heavy shopping bags and need to take a break, simply activate Gemini on your Galaxy Watch and ask to find a nearby café—all without breaking stride to use your phone.
     
    With Gemini, Galaxy Watch users can stay productive on the move
     
    Galaxy Buds: Seamless Device Interaction 
    When used with Galaxy Buds, the Gemini experience becomes even more seamless. By using voice or pinch and hold controls, you can activate Gemini on your Galaxy Buds and smoothly interact with your Galaxy smartphone. With Gemini, a more intelligent Galaxy experience is at your fingertips.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lee Honors Law Enforcement Officers for National Police Week

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Utah Mike Lee
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) honored Utah’s law enforcement officers this week supporting two resolutions recognizing their service and the observance of National Police Week.
    “The courageous men and women of law enforcement put their lives on the line every day to protect our families and our communities,” said Senator Mike Lee. “In the face of outrageous attacks against these American heroes, we salute them, we thank them, and we pray for them.”
     
    Badges from each of Utah’s police departments are displayed in honor of National Police Week.
    Senator Lee cosponsored two pieces of legislation honoring the work of law enforcement officers. A resolution introduced Tuesday recognizes the sacrifices and impact made by police officers across the country – particularly those whose lives were lost in the line of duty – and calls for increased support for officers’ work and wellbeing. Another resolution passed unanimously on Tuesday with a large bipartisan coalition calling for the observance of National Police Week on May 11-17, 2025.
    Approximately 800,000 law enforcement officers in the United States – and over 5,000 in Utah – risk their lives every day to protect and serve their communities. Utah’s dedicated police departments have decreased the rates of violent crime, homicide, property crime, and vehicle theft at a faster pace than the national average since 2020. Yet while police forces have successfully brought crime rates down, increasing partisan hostility puts them in more danger than ever. Over the past 10 years, over 2,500 American law enforcement officers have died in the line of duty, with assaults peaking in 2023 as 79,000 officers suffered attacks by criminals. These resolutions reaffirm Congress’s commitment to support law enforcement officers in their service to Americans.
    Read the resolution in support of law enforcement here.
    Read the resolution on National Police Week here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Gabelli Global Small and Mid Cap Value Trust Declares Second Quarter Distribution of $0.16 Per Share

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    RYE, N.Y., May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Board of Trustees of The Gabelli Global Small and Mid Cap Value Trust (NYSE:GGZ) (the “Fund”) declared a $0.16 per share cash distribution payable on June 23, 2025 to common shareholders of record on June 13, 2025.

    The Fund intends to pay a quarterly distribution of an amount determined each quarter by the Board of Trustees. In addition to the quarterly distributions, and in accordance with the minimum distribution requirements of the Internal Revenue Code for regulated investment companies, the Fund may pay an adjusting distribution in December which includes any additional income and net realized capital gains in excess of the quarterly distributions for that year.

    Each quarter, the Board of Directors reviews the amount of any potential distribution from the income, realized capital gain, or capital available. The Board of Directors will continue to monitor the Fund’s distribution level, taking into consideration the Fund’s net asset value and the current financial market environment. The Fund’s distribution policy is subject to modification by the Board of Directors at any time, and there can be no guarantee that the policy will continue. The distribution rate should not be considered the dividend yield or total return on an investment in the Fund.

    All or part of the distribution may be treated as long-term capital gain or qualified dividend income (or a combination of both) for individuals, each subject to the maximum federal income tax rate for long term capital gains, which is currently 20% in taxable accounts for individuals (or less depending on an individual’s tax bracket). In addition, certain U.S. shareholders who are individuals, estates or trusts and whose income exceeds certain thresholds will be required to pay a 3.8% Medicare surcharge on their “net investment income”, which includes dividends received from the Fund and capital gains from the sale or other disposition of shares of the Fund.

    If the Fund does not generate sufficient earnings (dividends and interest income, less expenses, and realized net capital gain) equal to or in excess of the aggregate distributions paid by the Fund in a given year, then the amount distributed in excess of the Fund’s earnings would be deemed a return of capital. Since this would be considered a return of a portion of a shareholder’s original investment, it is generally not taxable and would be treated as a reduction in the shareholder’s cost basis.

    Long-term capital gains, qualified dividend income, investment company taxable income, and return of capital, if any, will be allocated on a pro-rata basis to all distributions to common shareholders for the year. Based on the accounting records of the Fund currently available, each of the distributions paid to common shareholders in 2025 would include approximately 17% from net capital gains and 83% would be deemed a return of capital on a book basis. This does not represent information for tax reporting purposes. The estimated components of each distribution are updated and provided to shareholders of record in a notice accompanying the distribution and are available on our website (www.gabelli.com). The final determination of the sources of all distributions in 2025 will be made after year end and can vary from the quarterly estimates. Shareholders should not draw any conclusions about the Fund’s investment performance from the amount of the current distribution. All individual shareholders with taxable accounts will receive written notification regarding the components and tax treatment for all 2025 distributions in early 2026 via Form 1099-DIV.

    Investors should carefully consider the investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses of the Fund before investing. For more information regarding the Fund’s distribution policy and other information about the Fund, call:

    Bethany Uhlein
    (914) 921-5546

    About The Gabelli Global Small and Mid Cap Value Trust
    The Gabelli Global Small and Mid Cap Value Trust is a diversified, closed-end management investment company with $136 million in total net assets whose primary investment objective is to achieve long-term capital growth of capital. Under normal market conditions, the Fund will invest at least 80% of its total assets in equity securities (such as common stock and preferred stock) of companies with small or medium sized market capitalizations. The Fund is managed by Gabelli Funds, LLC, a subsidiary of GAMCO Investors, Inc. (OTCQX: GAMI).

    NYSE – GGZ
    CUSIP – 36249W104

    THE GABELLI GLOBAL SMALL AND MID CAP VALUE TRUST

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Bethany Uhlein
    (914) 921-5546
    buhlein@gabelli.com

    The MIL Network –