NewzIntel.com

Category: United States House of Representatives

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Keith Self Reintroduces Bill to Rename Highway in Honor of U.S. Congressman and POW Sam Johnson

    Source:

    Congressman Keith Self has reintroduced legislation to rename a portion of U.S. Highway 75 as the “U.S. Congressman and Prisoner of War Sam Johnson Memorial Highway.”

    “Sam Johnson was a hero long before he ever served in Congress,” Congressman Self said. “From surviving nearly seven years as a prisoner of war in Vietnam to serving three decades in the House of Representatives, Sam Johnson’s life exemplified courage, sacrifice, and service.”

    The bill designates the portion of U.S. Highway 75 between the President George Bush Turnpike and U.S. Highway 380 for renaming, and directs that all federal maps, signs, and official references be updated to reflect the new title. 

    In renaming this stretch of highway, we honor not only Sam Johnson’s name, but the values he represented–duty, resilience, and a devotion to country.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Tenney Introduces the Better Straws Act to Codify President Trump’s Agenda

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-22)

    Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today introduced the Better Straws Act to restore consumer freedom and eliminate burdensome federal mandates on everyday products. This bill codifies President Trump’s Executive Order 14208, which bans the federal requirement for paper straws and protects Americans’ right to choose practical, affordable alternatives, such as plastic straws. 

    “Soggy paper straws that disintegrate mid-sip are not just an inconvenience; they’re a symbol of how far the Left is willing to go to impose its radical climate agenda. Paper straws often cost more, function worse, and can carry a larger carbon footprint than plastic straws. The Better Straws Act upholds President Trump’s commitment to common sense by banning federally mandated paper straws and putting consumers back in charge,” said Congresswoman Tenney.  

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Young Kim Holds Hearing on Breaking China’s Chokehold on Critical Mineral Supply Chains 

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Young Kim (CA-39)

    Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Young Kim (CA-40), chairwoman of the House Foreign Affairs East Asia and Pacific Subcommittee, delivered opening remarks at a subcommittee hearing titled, “Breaking China’s Chokehold on Critical Mineral Supply Chains.” 

    Watch her remarks HERE or read her opening statement below. 

    Good afternoon and welcome to the East Asia and Pacific Subcommittee’s hearing titled, “Breaking China’s Chokehold on Critical Mineral Supply Chain.” I want to thank our witnesses for joining us this afternoon.  

     Critical minerals—lithium, cobalt, rare earth elements, and others—are the building blocks of modern technology, powering electric vehicles, microchips, and advanced defense systems. Global demand for these minerals is surging, with lithium demand alone growing nearly 30% annually from 2021 to 2024, driven by rising electric vehicle battery production. 

     Yet, the People’s Republic of China or PRC controls 92% of global rare earth element processing and dominates the manufacturing of battery and magnet components. This chokehold, reinforced by China’s tens of billions in global mining investments and tactics like price manipulation and export restrictions, poses a direct threat to the United States and our allies.   

     While the U.S. possesses significant mineral resources, domestic production alone cannot meet the speed or scale of this demand. U.S. mines face high operational costs and significant regulatory burdens. It often takes decades to permit a new mine in America. Moreover, the federal government lacks the financial capacity to fully subsidize the level of investment needed to drive large-scale private sector expansion of domestic production. Relying solely on domestic solutions is insufficient; we need a bold, global strategy to secure resilient, diversified supply chains free from Chinese control. 

    The current geopolitical landscape offers an opportune window to act. Recent developments, such as President Trump’s critical minerals agreement with Ukraine and the U.S.-facilitated peace deal in the Democratic Republic of Congo, open new opportunities to access vital resources. We’ve also seen coordination like the recently announced Quad critical minerals initiative underscore the importance of critical minerals to broader regional engagement. As the administration renegotiates trade relationships, we can strengthen partnerships with allies to build non-Chinese supply chains, enhancing both economic and national security. 

     Today’s hearing will explore these challenges and opportunities. We will examine how to build a proactive global strategy to establish supply chains free from Chinese dominance. Our goal is clear: to ensure the United States and its allies have secure, reliable access to the critical minerals that will define the future of technology and security. I look forward to a productive discussion. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoyle, Wyden, Merkley, Salinas, Dexter Announce $5.15 Million for Airports Across Oregon

    Source: US Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04)

    July 15, 2025

    Federal funds coming to airports in Aurora, Portland, Newport, Salem, John Day and Brookings.

    For Immediate Release: July 15, 2025 

    WASHINGTON, D.C.  – Yesterday, U.S. Representative Val Hoyle along with, U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, and Reps. Andrea Salinas and Maxine Dexter announced $5.15 million combined in federal infrastructure investments at airports in Newport, Brookings, Aurora, Portland, Salem, and John Day.

    “Reliable, modern airport infrastructure is essential for the safety and economic vitality of our coastal communities,” said Rep. Hoyle. “These grants provide almost $750,000 in federal funding for the Newport and Brookings airports to input a new weather monitoring system, lighting upgrades, and essential safety equipment that will improve operations for pilots, emergency responders, and travelers alike. These investments are a win for public safety, regional connectivity, and the long-term resilience of Oregon’s South Coast.”

    “Airports big and small are critical to keeping communities across the state connected and prepared to respond to natural disasters that include wildfires, winter weather and more,” Senator Wyden said. “These federal investments will help bolster local economies, improveservice and enhance safety. I applaud these investments and will continue to fight for similar investments for Oregon airports in the future.”

    “Oregon’s regional airports serve as vital hubs for our communities and economies – supporting local businesses, connecting travelers to world-class recreational opportunities, and providing essential lifelines during natural disasters,” Senator Merkley said. “This federal funding will allow Oregon regional airports to make critical infrastructure improvements that will benefit our communities and economy.? I’ll fight to protect the efficiency and safety of Oregon’s airports and the folks who rely on them for business, travel, and so much more.”?

    “As the Willamette Valley continues to grow and economic opportunities expand, we must ensure Oregon has alternative and safe transportation routes,” said Rep. Salinas. “I’m proud to have helped secure this federal grant funding, which will improve the structural integrity of the tarmac so that the airport can continue safely serving our local community for years to come.”

    “Investments in airport infrastructure are investments in public safety, regional resilience, and economic vitality,” said Rep. Dexter. “Portland was recently named the top airport in the nation and this funding will only further help keep Oregonians safe and our communities connected.” 

    The $5.15 million in grants from the Federal Aviation Administration will be distributed as follows:

    • $696,721 to Portland International to rebuild 550 feet of existing east curtain wall in the main terminal entrance, including six revolving doors. 

    • $244,500 to McNary Field in Salem to rehabilitate 1,350 feet of existing paved taxiway to maintain its structural integrity and to extend its useful life.

    • $99,286 to Brookings Airport to install a new airport rotating beacon to enhance safety, rebuild a precision approach path indicator system and runway end identifier lights, and acquire and install a new wind cone navigational aid.

    “We are thankful to be awarded an FAA grant to help fund a vital upgrade of the automated weather observing system (AWOS) at Newport Municipal Airport. Weather conditions on the Oregon coast can change within minutes, and it is essential that our airport is able to continue to provide accurate data and information that keeps pilots and passengers safe on their journey to and from Newport. We are also grateful for the continued support of our Oregon legislators in helping us to secure funding for critical infrastructure and safety projects and equipment to support the needs of our community and the over 2 million annual visitors to Newport,” said Nina Vetter, Newport City Manager.

    Wyden, Merkley, Hoyle, Salinas and Dexter have all consistently supported airport infrastructure across Oregon. In June, Wyden, Merkley and Hoyle announced $9.7 million for rural airports across Oregon, in addition to another $1 million for airports on the Oregon Coast and Willamette Valley including Brookings and Aurora. In May, the Oregon delegation announced $22 million for airport infrastructure investments across the state. In September 2024, Wyden and Merkley announced $10 million in federal grants for airports in Medford and Prineville. In July 2024, Merkley, Wyden and Hoyle announced $17 million from the federal Airport Improvement Program for airports across Oregon.

    A web version of the release is here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoyle, Wyden, Merkley, Salinas, Dexter Announce $5.15 Million for Airports Across Oregon

    Source: US Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04)

    July 15, 2025

    Federal funds coming to airports in Aurora, Portland, Newport, Salem, John Day and Brookings.

    For Immediate Release: July 15, 2025 

    WASHINGTON, D.C.  – Yesterday, U.S. Representative Val Hoyle along with, U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, and Reps. Andrea Salinas and Maxine Dexter announced $5.15 million combined in federal infrastructure investments at airports in Newport, Brookings, Aurora, Portland, Salem, and John Day.

    “Reliable, modern airport infrastructure is essential for the safety and economic vitality of our coastal communities,” said Rep. Hoyle. “These grants provide almost $750,000 in federal funding for the Newport and Brookings airports to input a new weather monitoring system, lighting upgrades, and essential safety equipment that will improve operations for pilots, emergency responders, and travelers alike. These investments are a win for public safety, regional connectivity, and the long-term resilience of Oregon’s South Coast.”

    “Airports big and small are critical to keeping communities across the state connected and prepared to respond to natural disasters that include wildfires, winter weather and more,” Senator Wyden said. “These federal investments will help bolster local economies, improveservice and enhance safety. I applaud these investments and will continue to fight for similar investments for Oregon airports in the future.”

    “Oregon’s regional airports serve as vital hubs for our communities and economies – supporting local businesses, connecting travelers to world-class recreational opportunities, and providing essential lifelines during natural disasters,” Senator Merkley said. “This federal funding will allow Oregon regional airports to make critical infrastructure improvements that will benefit our communities and economy.? I’ll fight to protect the efficiency and safety of Oregon’s airports and the folks who rely on them for business, travel, and so much more.”?

    “As the Willamette Valley continues to grow and economic opportunities expand, we must ensure Oregon has alternative and safe transportation routes,” said Rep. Salinas. “I’m proud to have helped secure this federal grant funding, which will improve the structural integrity of the tarmac so that the airport can continue safely serving our local community for years to come.”

    “Investments in airport infrastructure are investments in public safety, regional resilience, and economic vitality,” said Rep. Dexter. “Portland was recently named the top airport in the nation and this funding will only further help keep Oregonians safe and our communities connected.” 

    The $5.15 million in grants from the Federal Aviation Administration will be distributed as follows:

    • $696,721 to Portland International to rebuild 550 feet of existing east curtain wall in the main terminal entrance, including six revolving doors. 

    • $244,500 to McNary Field in Salem to rehabilitate 1,350 feet of existing paved taxiway to maintain its structural integrity and to extend its useful life.

    • $99,286 to Brookings Airport to install a new airport rotating beacon to enhance safety, rebuild a precision approach path indicator system and runway end identifier lights, and acquire and install a new wind cone navigational aid.

    “We are thankful to be awarded an FAA grant to help fund a vital upgrade of the automated weather observing system (AWOS) at Newport Municipal Airport. Weather conditions on the Oregon coast can change within minutes, and it is essential that our airport is able to continue to provide accurate data and information that keeps pilots and passengers safe on their journey to and from Newport. We are also grateful for the continued support of our Oregon legislators in helping us to secure funding for critical infrastructure and safety projects and equipment to support the needs of our community and the over 2 million annual visitors to Newport,” said Nina Vetter, Newport City Manager.

    Wyden, Merkley, Hoyle, Salinas and Dexter have all consistently supported airport infrastructure across Oregon. In June, Wyden, Merkley and Hoyle announced $9.7 million for rural airports across Oregon, in addition to another $1 million for airports on the Oregon Coast and Willamette Valley including Brookings and Aurora. In May, the Oregon delegation announced $22 million for airport infrastructure investments across the state. In September 2024, Wyden and Merkley announced $10 million in federal grants for airports in Medford and Prineville. In July 2024, Merkley, Wyden and Hoyle announced $17 million from the federal Airport Improvement Program for airports across Oregon.

    A web version of the release is here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoyle, Wyden, Merkley, Salinas, Dexter Announce $5.15 Million for Airports Across Oregon

    Source: US Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04)

    July 15, 2025

    Federal funds coming to airports in Aurora, Portland, Newport, Salem, John Day and Brookings.

    For Immediate Release: July 15, 2025 

    WASHINGTON, D.C.  – Yesterday, U.S. Representative Val Hoyle along with, U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, and Reps. Andrea Salinas and Maxine Dexter announced $5.15 million combined in federal infrastructure investments at airports in Newport, Brookings, Aurora, Portland, Salem, and John Day.

    “Reliable, modern airport infrastructure is essential for the safety and economic vitality of our coastal communities,” said Rep. Hoyle. “These grants provide almost $750,000 in federal funding for the Newport and Brookings airports to input a new weather monitoring system, lighting upgrades, and essential safety equipment that will improve operations for pilots, emergency responders, and travelers alike. These investments are a win for public safety, regional connectivity, and the long-term resilience of Oregon’s South Coast.”

    “Airports big and small are critical to keeping communities across the state connected and prepared to respond to natural disasters that include wildfires, winter weather and more,” Senator Wyden said. “These federal investments will help bolster local economies, improveservice and enhance safety. I applaud these investments and will continue to fight for similar investments for Oregon airports in the future.”

    “Oregon’s regional airports serve as vital hubs for our communities and economies – supporting local businesses, connecting travelers to world-class recreational opportunities, and providing essential lifelines during natural disasters,” Senator Merkley said. “This federal funding will allow Oregon regional airports to make critical infrastructure improvements that will benefit our communities and economy.? I’ll fight to protect the efficiency and safety of Oregon’s airports and the folks who rely on them for business, travel, and so much more.”?

    “As the Willamette Valley continues to grow and economic opportunities expand, we must ensure Oregon has alternative and safe transportation routes,” said Rep. Salinas. “I’m proud to have helped secure this federal grant funding, which will improve the structural integrity of the tarmac so that the airport can continue safely serving our local community for years to come.”

    “Investments in airport infrastructure are investments in public safety, regional resilience, and economic vitality,” said Rep. Dexter. “Portland was recently named the top airport in the nation and this funding will only further help keep Oregonians safe and our communities connected.” 

    The $5.15 million in grants from the Federal Aviation Administration will be distributed as follows:

    • $696,721 to Portland International to rebuild 550 feet of existing east curtain wall in the main terminal entrance, including six revolving doors. 

    • $244,500 to McNary Field in Salem to rehabilitate 1,350 feet of existing paved taxiway to maintain its structural integrity and to extend its useful life.

    • $99,286 to Brookings Airport to install a new airport rotating beacon to enhance safety, rebuild a precision approach path indicator system and runway end identifier lights, and acquire and install a new wind cone navigational aid.

    “We are thankful to be awarded an FAA grant to help fund a vital upgrade of the automated weather observing system (AWOS) at Newport Municipal Airport. Weather conditions on the Oregon coast can change within minutes, and it is essential that our airport is able to continue to provide accurate data and information that keeps pilots and passengers safe on their journey to and from Newport. We are also grateful for the continued support of our Oregon legislators in helping us to secure funding for critical infrastructure and safety projects and equipment to support the needs of our community and the over 2 million annual visitors to Newport,” said Nina Vetter, Newport City Manager.

    Wyden, Merkley, Hoyle, Salinas and Dexter have all consistently supported airport infrastructure across Oregon. In June, Wyden, Merkley and Hoyle announced $9.7 million for rural airports across Oregon, in addition to another $1 million for airports on the Oregon Coast and Willamette Valley including Brookings and Aurora. In May, the Oregon delegation announced $22 million for airport infrastructure investments across the state. In September 2024, Wyden and Merkley announced $10 million in federal grants for airports in Medford and Prineville. In July 2024, Merkley, Wyden and Hoyle announced $17 million from the federal Airport Improvement Program for airports across Oregon.

    A web version of the release is here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Strickland Tackles Extreme Heat and Modernizes Transit Corridors 

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) and Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) introduced the Cool Corridors Act of 2025. The bipartisan legislation focuses on mitigating extreme heat in urban areas by investing in tree canopies and shade infrastructure along transit corridors, sidewalks, bus stops, school zones, and underserved neighborhoods. 

    “As temperatures climb and heatwaves become more severe, we must ensure our communities are equipped to stay cool, safe, and livable,” said Strickland. “My bill promotes smart investments to improve public health, improve our infrastructure, make our communities more walkable and resilient.” 

    “In the Lower Hudson Valley, extreme heat causes serious damage to our roads, sidewalks, and public spaces, impacting families’ daily routines and expenses during the hottest months of the year. This bill will cool down our streets and transit corridors, helping protect our infrastructure and create safer, more comfortable neighborhoods for everyone. By investing in public works projects now, we will save taxpayers’ money in the long run and improve the quality of life for our communities,” said Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17), Co-Chair of the Extreme Heat Caucus. 

    “At Trust for Public Land, we know that access to nature isn’t a luxury — it’s a lifeline. That’s why we support this effort to reauthorize the Healthy Streets Program,” said Dr. Carrie Besnette Hauser, President and CEO of Trust for Public Land. “Through our work with communities across the country, we’ve witnessed the transformative power of trees, and how planting them in urban and rural neighborhoods alike results in added shade along with cleaner air, improved health outcomes, more local jobs, and documented protection from extreme temperatures and climate events.” 

    “Extreme heat is now the deadliest weather-related hazard in the U.S., and it’s only getting worse. Trees are one of our most effective defenses—especially in the places where people are most exposed, like sidewalks, transit corridors, and bus stops. The Cool Corridors Act delivers smart, science-based investments in shade where people need it most. It’s a practical, proven way to protect public health and create safer, more connected neighborhoods. Led by Representatives Strickland and Rep. Lawler, this is bipartisan leadership turning down the temperature on extreme heat. We thank them for the coolest legislation of the summer and for championing life-saving, locally driven solutions that communities urgently need,” said Joel Pannell, Vice President of Urban Policy, American Forests. 

    The Cool Corridors Act aims to improve public health outcomes by addressing urban heat islands, reducing air and noise pollution, and decreasing stormwater runoff. Additionally, it promotes local workforce development through urban forestry job training, preserves existing roadside vegetation, and strengthens long-term maintenance and climate resilience strategies.  

    The bill also calls for interagency coordination across the Departments of Transportation, Energy, Agriculture, Housing and Urban Development, and the Environmental Protection Agency. It ensures accountability through community engagement and robust data reporting on environmental and public health outcomes. 

    House Co-Sponsors include: Rep. Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Rep. Alma Adams (NC-12), Rep. Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Rep. Dina Titus (NV-01), Rep. Doris Matsui (CA-07), Rep. Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05), Rep. Steven Cohen (TN-09), Rep. Greg Stanton (AZ-04), Rep. Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03), Rep. Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), Rep. Raul Ruiz (CA-25), Rep. Timothy Kennedy (NY-26), Josh Harder (CA-09). 

    You can read the full legislation here. 

    Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. She is Whip of the New Democrat Coalition, Secretary of the Congressional Black Caucus, and is one of the first Korean-American women elected to Congress. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Deluzio Announces $1 Million Federal Grant to Support Western PA Seniors, Kids

    Source: US Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA)

    CARNEGIE, PA – Today, Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) announced new senior positions in his congressional office in Pennsylvania’s 17th Congressional District. The positions are key to serving the people of Western Pennsylvania, with responsibilities for managing Congressman Deluzio’s district offices and overseeing a team of constituent services representatives.

    Seron Cox, District Director. Seron is a native of Beaver County and is stepping into this role after having previously served as Congressman Deluzio’s Deputy District Director and Director of Constituent Services. Before that, she worked in the offices of Congressmen Conor Lamb and Jason Altmire, as well as an Executive Administrative Assistant at the Shell cracker plant in Monaca, PA. She holds an associate’s degree in paralegal studies.

    Victoria Adamson, Director of Constituent Services. Victoria is moving into the position of Director of Constituent Services for Congressman Deluzio, having previously served the office as a Constituent Services Representative. She has also served as a Constituent Services Representative with the PA House of Representatives. Victoria is a native of Beaver County and attended the Community College of Beaver County. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Deluzio Introduces Bill to Limit Presidential Power to Deploy Troops on American Soil under the Insurrection Act

    Source: US Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) introduced a new bill to check presidential authority under the centuries-old Insurrection Act. The new Insurrection Act of 2025 would reform legislation from 1807 that provides the President broad and vague authority to deploy troops—with or without the request of a state—to suppress “any insurrection, domestic violence, unlawful combination, or conspiracy.” Presidents have rarely used the current law, recognizing the long American tradition of keeping the military out of domestic law enforcement.

    “No President should have such wide-ranging power to deploy American troops against the American people,” said Congressman Deluzio. “This President has threatened to use the United States military to crush dissent among the American people, and Congress should act to reform and update the law that governs deployment of our troops for law enforcement in the United States. We need these urgent reforms to the centuries-old Insurrection Act so that no President has such expansive power to use military force against Americans.”

    Rep. Sara Jacobs (CA-51) said, “The troubling scenes unfolding in Los Angeles give us a glimpse of what could happen nationwide if President Trump tries to invoke the Insurrection Act and turn U.S. troops on civilians. We’ve already seen him twist the law for political gain, so Congress must leave zero ambiguity about when—and for how long—any president can deploy the military for domestic law-enforcement purposes. That’s why I was relieved that last month, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Dan Caine agreed with me that there’s currently no military invasion on our southern border that would justify invoking this law. Now we must go a step further by passing the Insurrection Act Reform Act of 2025—modernizing the 1807 statute for the 21st century to narrow this authority and mandate transparency, accountability, and consultation with Congress.”

    The new Insurrection Act of 2025 would:

    • Narrow and clarify the criteria for the domestic deployment of military troops for law enforcement purposes.
    • Specify that the use of the military is a last resort and is authorized only if the use of civilian law enforcement authorities would be insufficient.
    • Clarify that the law cannot be used to suspend habeas corpus, impose martial law, or deputize private militias to act as soldiers.
    • Require the President to consult with Congress prior to invoking the Insurrection Act and receive Congressional approval if the President seeks to exercise authority under the Act for longer than 7 days.
    • Require a report to Congress providing an explicit justification for the use of the Insurrection Act’s authority, as enumerated in this legislation, and a full description of the scope and duration of its use.
    • Provide for judicial review to ensure that individuals, or a state or local government, may bring a civil action if the President’s authority under the Insurrection Act is misused or abused.

    Full bill text of the version introduced in the House is available here. It is co-sponsored by Congresswoman Sara Jacobs (CA-51). U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Alex Padilla (D-CA) introduced the Senate version of the bill in June.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Deluzio: “Hardworking Western Pennsylvanians Need Healthcare More Than Billionaires Need Tax Giveaways”

    Source: US Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA)

    Outside of a Local Nursing Home, Homecare Worker & Mom Whose Kids with Disabilities Rely on Medicaid Joined Congressman in Slamming Trump’s “Big Ugly Bill”

    HARMAR TOWNSHIP, PA – Today, Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) spoke out against Donald Trump’s and Congressional Republicans’ “Big Ugly Bill” that will hurt Western Pennsylvania. Deluzio emphasized how it slashes healthcare for millions of hardworking Americans while giving tax handouts to the ultra rich—calling it “class warfare” and “fiscally reckless.” 

    Congressman Deluzio held his event outside of a local nursing home in Harmar Township. This is a sector where people count on Medicaid funding to pay for nursing home care for their loved ones, and businesses count on it as a revenue stream to fund their nursing home services and keep the doors open. At the press conference, a healthcare worker and a Pennsylvania mother whose kids rely on Medicaid shared their stories of how Medicaid is a lifeline for them that is now at risk.  

    “I was elected to do everything I can to make life better and less of a rip-off for my constituents. That’s exactly why I voted against this dangerous and unpopular bill that will rip away healthcare from hardworking Americans to pay for fiscally reckless tax giveaways to the richest and most powerful corporations and people to have ever walked our planet. Hardworking Western Pennsylvanians need healthcare more than billionaires need tax giveaways,” said Congressman Deluzio. “D.C. Republicans talk a lot about class warfare: they’re waging it against working class Americans.” 

    “I’m an Independent who voted for Trump, but these Medicaid cuts are a direct attack on the health of my family and my community,” said Denise Siters, a home care worker who lives in Beaver Falls. “I quit my job to become a full-time home care worker for my son David, who has schizoaffective disorder, autism and other health issues. His care is funded through Medicaid, and he also receives food support through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Medicaid and SNAP cuts will put his life in danger and make it much harder for us just to get by. I am terrified about my son’s future. The fact that Pennsylvania Senator McCormick and nine of our Republican Congress members voted to sell out our healthcare just to fund huge tax giveaways to billionaires is sickening, it’s disgusting.” 

    “Medicaid is health coverage. But it is also so much more. Medicaid sustains our struggling hospitals, reduces levels of uncompensated care, and keeps insurance rates lower for everyone. Medicaid helps small businesses by covering low wage workers and ensuring that the local community is economically strong enough to support their local businesses,” said Erin Gabriel, Government Affairs Representative with the Pennsylvania Health Access Network, and the mother of children with disabilities who rely on Medicaid for care. “Ultimately, Medicaid means families like mine can stay together, seniors like my parents can age in place with the people they love, and people with disabilities can participate in their communities and live their lives – just like every other American.” 

    The “Big Ugly Bill”, which was signed into law by President Trump on July 4th, will: 

    Congressman Deluzio will continue to fight back against the efforts of this Administration and Congressional Republicans to hurt the hardworking people of Western PA.  

    Photos from the event are available here. Video/audio is available upon request.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Donalds Announces Personal Safety Workshop in Fort Myers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Byron Donalds (R-FL)

    Donalds Announces Personal Safety Workshop in Fort Myers

    Washington, July 14, 2025

    FORT MYERS, Fla. – Congressman Byron Donalds (R-FL) has released the following information announcing an in-person personal safety workshop in collaboration with the Lee County Sheriff’s Office.

    Congressman Donalds is co-hosting this free, personal safety workshop, to offer constituents of Florida’s 19th Congressional District an opportunity to stay informed on key safety issues, while also showcasing proactive measures for self-protection in various scenarios.


    WHO    :

    • Congressman Byron Donalds (R-FL)
    • Constituents of Florida’s 19th Congressional District


    WHERE    :

    • Fort Myers Regional Library – 2450 First St. Fort Myers, FL 33901


    WHEN    :

    • Thursday, July 17th, 2025
    • Event begins: 11:30 AM
    • Event ends: 1:00 PM

    HOW:

    • No RVSP required
    • Suitable for all ages
    • For additional information, call (239) 599-6033 or (239) 252-6225

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Donalds Announces Personal Safety Workshop in Fort Myers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Byron Donalds (R-FL)

    Donalds Announces Personal Safety Workshop in Fort Myers

    Washington, July 14, 2025

    FORT MYERS, Fla. – Congressman Byron Donalds (R-FL) has released the following information announcing an in-person personal safety workshop in collaboration with the Lee County Sheriff’s Office.

    Congressman Donalds is co-hosting this free, personal safety workshop, to offer constituents of Florida’s 19th Congressional District an opportunity to stay informed on key safety issues, while also showcasing proactive measures for self-protection in various scenarios.


    WHO    :

    • Congressman Byron Donalds (R-FL)
    • Constituents of Florida’s 19th Congressional District


    WHERE    :

    • Fort Myers Regional Library – 2450 First St. Fort Myers, FL 33901


    WHEN    :

    • Thursday, July 17th, 2025
    • Event begins: 11:30 AM
    • Event ends: 1:00 PM

    HOW:

    • No RVSP required
    • Suitable for all ages
    • For additional information, call (239) 599-6033 or (239) 252-6225

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Cliff Bentz Statement Regarding FEMA Authorizing Funds to Fight Highland Fire in Oregon

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Cliff Bentz (R-Ontario)

    Washington, D.C.– I am pleased to announce that the White House has authorized FEMA to provide funding to help fight the Highland Fire currently burning in Crook County, Oregon. We must protect the homes, infrastructure, and natural resources threatened by this dangerous wildfire. This authorization will help the Crook County Community. I will continue to work with FEMA and other agencies as they respond to wildfires.

    Read FEMA press release below. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Malliotakis, Suozzi Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Expand Housing Opportunities

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11)

    (WASHINGTON, DC) – Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11) and Congressman Tom Suozzi (NY-03) introduced bipartisan legislation that would direct the eventual proceeds from the release of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac into a housing revolving loan fund aimed at expanding homeownership and rental opportunities for middle-class and working families.

     

    Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have been under federal conservatorship since the 2008 financial crisis. President Trump has proposed releasing both entities from conservatorship to return them to the private market, allowing shareholders to regain the value of their investments.

     

    The legislation introduced by Representatives Malliotakis and Suozzi would build on this proposal by creating a housing revolving loan fund. Proceeds from the release of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac would be directed to this fund, which would provide states with resources to issue loans for the construction of new owner-occupied or rental housing, or to rehabilitate existing housing. The goal is to expand homeownership and rental opportunities for middle-class and working families while allowing them to benefit from the value generated by the sale of shares. Estimates of the projected federal proceeds would be $250 billion according to Housing for US. 

     

    “I join Rep. Suozzi in introducing bipartisan legislation that, should Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac be released from conservatorship, would assign the proceeds toward a new housing revolving loan fund to expand homeownership and rental opportunities for working- and middle-class Americans including police officers, firefighters, teachers, carpenters, and tilers who often earn too much to qualify for affordable housing but not enough to afford market rates. This is a chance to deliver critical assistance to hardworking Americans,” said Rep. Malliotakis.

     

    “We have a once-in-a-generation chance to tackle America’s housing crisis while creating good-paying, union jobs for working families,” Rep. Suozzi said. “The housing crisis is crushing the American Dream — young people, carpenters, cops, teachers, nurses, first responders, and middle-class families are being priced out of homeownership. This isn’t a red state or blue state issue — every community is feeling it. And that’s why I’m proud to introduce this legislation with my fellow New Yorker from across the aisle. When we work together, we can get things done.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Obernolte, Whitesides, Fong, Correa Introduce Bill to Improve Forecasting of Severe Storms

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jay Obernolte (R-Hesperia)

    This week, Representatives Jay Obernolte (R-CA), George Whitesides (CA-27), Vince Fong (CA-20), and Lou Correa (CA-46) reintroduced the Improving Atmospheric River Forecasts Act, aimed at enhancing the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) ability to track and predict atmospheric rivers—massive storm systems that can cause extreme flooding, heavy snowfall, and dangerous conditions. California continues to face the growing threat of these powerful storms, which resulted in billions of dollars in damage and multiple deaths in recent seasons. 

    “Better forecasting saves lives and protects our communities,” said Rep. Jay Obernolte. “We’ve seen firsthand how destructive atmospheric rivers can be, especially when they catch families and emergency responders off guard. This bill equips NOAA with the tools and knowledge it needs to improve forecasting models and give our communities more time to prepare.” 

    “In Southern California, we’re no stranger to the threat of natural disasters, including atmospheric rivers,” said Rep. George Whitesides. “I’m proud to co-lead this legislation that has the backing of the Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency, which will help us reduce the risks that come from flooding. Taking steps to bolster our emergency preparedness efforts is critical to keeping families across the Santa Clarita Valley, Antelope Valley, and Northern San Fernando Valley safe.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Obernolte Visits Adelanto ICE Processing Facility, Pushes Back on Misinformation

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jay Obernolte (R-Hesperia)

    Washington, DC – Congressman Jay Obernolte (CA-23) recently visited the Adelanto ICE Processing Facility to tour the grounds, speak with facility leadership, and see firsthand the conditions under which detainees are housed. Following his visit, the Congressman emphasized the importance of facts and transparency in the face of increasing misinformation surrounding the facility. 

    “Facilities like Adelanto exist to help ICE enforce our immigration laws and keep our communities safe,” said Congressman Obernolte. “The vast majority of detainees housed here have committed serious crimes in addition to being present in our country illegally. They are being processed quickly, fairly, and humanely.” 

    During his visit, Congressman Obernolte observed the intake process, medical facilities, immigration courts, and housing areas, and received briefings on how detainees are classified and managed. He noted that those in custody are provided with access to medical care, legal counsel, meals, and the full rights guaranteed under federal law. 

    The Adelanto ICE Processing Facility continues to operate under federal oversight and remains a key part of our nation’s immigration enforcement system. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tiffany Announces 2025 Congressional App Challenge

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Tom Tiffany (WI-07)

    WAUSAU, WI – Today, Congressman Tom Tiffany (WI-07) announced that his office is now accepting submissions for the 2025 Congressional App Challenge. All middle and high school students (6th-12th grades) in the Seventh Congressional District are welcome to participate.   

    “It is my pleasure to invite all middle and high school students with a passion in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) to participate in this year’s Congressional App Challenge,” said Congressman Tiffany. “Each year, I become more impressed by the young intellectuals in the Seventh District, and I can’t wait to review this year’s submissions.”

    The winner from the Seventh Congressional District will be chosen by a panel of judges and will be eligible to have their app on display in the U.S. Capitol. 

    Since 2015, the Congressional App Challenge has allowed STEM-driven students to compete against their peers by creating an application (also known as an “app”) for desktop/PC, web, tablet, mobile, Raspberry Pi, or other devices. We accept any programming language, such as C, C++, Java, JavaScript, Python, Ruby, or “block code.”   

    All apps must be submitted by Thursday, October 30, 2025, at 11:00 AM CST. More information on competition guidelines can be found on Congressman Tiffany’s website. For any questions, please contact Dylan Anderson at (715) 298-9344 or by email at Dylan.Anderson2@mail.house.gov. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Video, Photos, Transcript: Rep. Dan Goldman, State Senator Gounardes Call for End to ICE Detention at Notorious Federal Prison

    Source: US Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10)

    VIDEO, PHOTOS, TRANSCRIPT: REP. DAN GOLDMAN, STATE SENATOR GOUNARDES CALL FOR END TO ICE DETENTION AT NOTORIOUS FEDERAL PRISON 

     

    Rep. Goldman: “The Trump Administration is now sending non-criminal, non-charged, nonviolent immigrants, many of whom have ongoing asylum cases, to be detained in this place where federal judges will not send convicted criminals.” 

     

    MDC Brooklyn is Notorious for Violence, Understaffing, Power Outages, Extended Lockdowns, and Solitary Confinement 

     

    Watch the Press Conference Here 

    Washington, D.C. — Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10), State Senator Andrew Gounardes, and Assemblymember Bobby Carroll today hosted a press conference outside the Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) in Brooklyn to call for an end to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) usage of the facility to detain over 100 immigrants. Federal judges have recently called the prison ‘barbaric’ and refused to send convicted criminals there, citing its chronic understaffing, extended use of solitary confinement, unsanitary conditions, routine power outages, and lack of access to medical care and legal counsel.  

    Last week, the Congressman sent an oversight letter of inquiry to the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) demanding answers on their interagency agreement with ICE to house more than 100 immigration detainees at the Brooklyn MDC. 
    Watch the press conference here or read a rough transcript below: 

    Rep. Dan Goldman:  Thank you all for joining us today. I’m Congressman Dan Goldman, and I’m here with my colleagues in the State Senate and State Assembly, Andrew Gounardes and Bobby Carroll, as well as our friends from Mixteca.  

    We are here to bring attention to what is an increasingly urgent and dangerous situation now that relates entirely to the militarized ICE efforts to arrest immigrants who are here lawfully, and to whisk them down south for expedited deportation. That would break the law. 

    One of the things that this new policy has done is create a shortage of places to hold these non-criminal, nonviolent civilians who are trying to immigrate to this country, as so many have before. So what we have learned is that ICE and the federal government, in coordination with the Department of Justice and the Bureau of Prisons, are relocating immigration detainees here to MDC. 

    Now, this is not the first time we’ve been out in front of the MDC, which has a very well-established record of being incredibly unsafe, inhumane, cruel – even to the point where federal judges call the conditions in the MDC barbaric and have refused to send convicts and criminals here because those conditions are so bad. And yet the Trump Administration is now sending non-criminal, non-charged, nonviolent immigrants, many of whom have ongoing asylum cases, to be detained in this place where federal judges will not send convicted criminals. 

    They’re doing this because there is no room anywhere else for this disgusting mass deportation policy that once again, is not targeting convicted criminals, but is targeting so many community members, spouses of citizens, parents of citizens, people trying to immigrate to this country to pursue the American dream and trying to do it the right way under the law.  

    Last week, I wrote a letter to the head of the Bureau of Prisons demanding answers and asking for an immediate suspension of all transfers of ICE detainees to the MDC and to any other federal prison. And to understand what exactly the agreement is between ICE and the Bureau of Prisons. Who is paying for the staffing for these ICE detainees?  

    Part of the reason why the MDC has been in such terrible, terrible condition is that it is grossly understaffed. And because it’s understaffed, it is unable to keep everyone safe. It has required numerous lockdowns just simply because of a shortage of staffing. 

    The Biden Administration added a 35% retention bonus at the end of that administration, to increase the staffing significantly here and made the conditions much better. When Donald Trump came in, his administration yanked that retention bonus, and staffing has now gone down.  

    So, who’s paying? Because the Bureau of Prisons doesn’t have money to pay for its own staff, for its own detainees, much less ICE detainees? 

    We want answers to those questions, and we want to know where the money will be coming from now that the Republicans jammed through a bill that takes health care and food benefits from millions and millions of Americans, but increases ICE’s budget for detention by $45 billion.  

    Who is going to pay for this? This is just yet another example of ICE’s lawless, un-American, inhumane treatment of people trying to seek the American dream, trying to immigrate to this country like so many of New Yorkers have – 40% – and so many of our ancestors and descendants have. This is dangerous. It’s lawless and it’s unacceptable. So we are here out in front of the MDC to demand answers from the Bureau of Prisons, from the Department of Justice, from the Department of Homeland Security. They owe us answers. They owe me, as a member of Congress, answers as I conduct oversight, both constitutionally authorized and statutorily obligated oversight. 

    But they mostly owe answers to New Yorkers and to the American people for what they are doing, why they are doing it, and how they are doing it.  

    Let’s remember. Immigrants are our neighbors. They are parents, they are workers working here with work authorization, paying taxes, paying into the Social Security fund, and they are community members who deserve to be treated with dignity. 

    If immigrants have committed a crime, they should be deported. But that is not what is happening. These are our community members being yanked from their families, unsuspectingly and deceptively. And it must stop.  

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Malliotakis Applauds NYCEDC for Moving Staten Island–Brooklyn Ferry Closer to Reality

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11)

    July 14, 2025

    (NEW YORK, NY) – Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11) today issued the following statement regarding news that plans to launch a new ferry route reconnecting Staten Island and Brooklyn have moved one step closer to becoming a reality.

     

    “As a member of the Congressional Ferry Caucus and one of the lawmakers who voted for the 2021 bipartisan infrastructure law which has invested in our infrastructure, ports, and waterways, I’m pleased that today’s announcement reflects a top priority of mine to strengthen, modernize, and expand our maritime transportation and ferry network.

     

    For years, we’ve urged the city to better utilize our waterways to ease traffic and expand transportation options for Staten Islanders and Brooklynites. Now, for the first time in decades, the city is one step closer to reconnecting Staten Island and Brooklyn by ferry. If there is enough positive response during the upcoming public comment period, this long-awaited route could become a reality as soon as this winter. When the feedback period opens, we urge Staten Islanders and Brooklynites to weigh in so both boroughs have greater access to reliable and affordable ferries.”

    Earlier this year, Malliotakis launched the Bipartisan Congressional Ferry Caucus, aiming to advocate for the needs of communities that rely on ferry transportation, highlight the benefits of ferry systems, and secure long-term federal investments to strengthen marine operations, shoreside infrastructure, and workforce development.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Malliotakis Applauds NYCEDC for Moving Staten Island–Brooklyn Ferry Closer to Reality

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11)

    July 14, 2025

    (NEW YORK, NY) – Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11) today issued the following statement regarding news that plans to launch a new ferry route reconnecting Staten Island and Brooklyn have moved one step closer to becoming a reality.

     

    “As a member of the Congressional Ferry Caucus and one of the lawmakers who voted for the 2021 bipartisan infrastructure law which has invested in our infrastructure, ports, and waterways, I’m pleased that today’s announcement reflects a top priority of mine to strengthen, modernize, and expand our maritime transportation and ferry network.

     

    For years, we’ve urged the city to better utilize our waterways to ease traffic and expand transportation options for Staten Islanders and Brooklynites. Now, for the first time in decades, the city is one step closer to reconnecting Staten Island and Brooklyn by ferry. If there is enough positive response during the upcoming public comment period, this long-awaited route could become a reality as soon as this winter. When the feedback period opens, we urge Staten Islanders and Brooklynites to weigh in so both boroughs have greater access to reliable and affordable ferries.”

    Earlier this year, Malliotakis launched the Bipartisan Congressional Ferry Caucus, aiming to advocate for the needs of communities that rely on ferry transportation, highlight the benefits of ferry systems, and secure long-term federal investments to strengthen marine operations, shoreside infrastructure, and workforce development.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Malliotakis Applauds NYCEDC for Moving Staten Island–Brooklyn Ferry Closer to Reality

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11)

    July 14, 2025

    (NEW YORK, NY) – Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11) today issued the following statement regarding news that plans to launch a new ferry route reconnecting Staten Island and Brooklyn have moved one step closer to becoming a reality.

     

    “As a member of the Congressional Ferry Caucus and one of the lawmakers who voted for the 2021 bipartisan infrastructure law which has invested in our infrastructure, ports, and waterways, I’m pleased that today’s announcement reflects a top priority of mine to strengthen, modernize, and expand our maritime transportation and ferry network.

     

    For years, we’ve urged the city to better utilize our waterways to ease traffic and expand transportation options for Staten Islanders and Brooklynites. Now, for the first time in decades, the city is one step closer to reconnecting Staten Island and Brooklyn by ferry. If there is enough positive response during the upcoming public comment period, this long-awaited route could become a reality as soon as this winter. When the feedback period opens, we urge Staten Islanders and Brooklynites to weigh in so both boroughs have greater access to reliable and affordable ferries.”

    Earlier this year, Malliotakis launched the Bipartisan Congressional Ferry Caucus, aiming to advocate for the needs of communities that rely on ferry transportation, highlight the benefits of ferry systems, and secure long-term federal investments to strengthen marine operations, shoreside infrastructure, and workforce development.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Representatives Sorensen, Kaptur, and Doggett Call for Investigation into Deadly Texas Floods

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17)

    In a Letter to President Trump, NOAA Leadership, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Representatives Want Answers to What Contributed to the Deaths of More Than 100 Americans

    Representatives Eric Sorensen (IL-17), Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), and Lloyd Doggett (TX-37) are demanding answers from President Donald Trump, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) leadership, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on why hundreds of Americans were unprepared to evacuate from the deadly Texas floods. In a letter they sent to the current Administration, the representatives are calling for an urgent review of the disaster to determine if staffing shortages, stalled forecasting improvements, or insufficient flood preparedness contributed to the deaths of more than 100 people.

    “As someone who has reported on dangerous floods for my neighbors as a meteorologist in my local community, I know how critical it is for NWS meteorologists, local media, and emergency management coordinators to work together seamlessly and quickly to share urgent warnings,” said Congressman Sorensen. “The deadly toll of the flash floods that hit Texas last week beg the question of what went wrong with the warning systems in place and what more could have been done to prevent this tragedy. The Trump Administration’s cuts to NOAA and the NWS are already having a real impact on the accuracy of our nation’s weather forecasting, creating cause for major concern. That is why I am calling on President Trump, NOAA, and the Army Corps of Engineers to undertake a full-scale investigation into what went wrong and what can be done to prevent catastrophes like this in the future.”

    “This flood was not just a natural disaster but a failure of foresight and leadership,” said Congresswoman Kaptur. “A changing climate is rewriting the rules of weather, and our federal agencies must keep pace. The American people deserve a weather warning system that does more than sound the alarm. It must be fully staffed and ready to act to ensure that everyone in harms way receives it. This letter is a demand for accountability, but more importantly, it’s a demand for lives to be protected anywhere severe weather strikes.”

    “As Texans in my state are faced with much pain and uncertainty, we cannot wait to ask the hard questions,” said Congressman Doggett. “Effective oversight saves lives. That is why we need a full account of the ways in which the Trump administration’s recent actions have undermined the federal response, both before and after this catastrophe. Learning from these failures and recognizing that weather intensification driven by climate change increasingly endangers lives will help prevent more tragedies.”

    You can read the full letter HERE.

    Since President Trump took office, there has been a 15% reduction in National Weather Service (NWS) staffing that has begun to degrade forecasting capabilities and operational capacity at NWS offices across the country. 

    As the only meteorologist in Congress, Congressman Sorensen has been a fierce advocate for protecting and strengthening NOAA and the NWS from cuts. Starting last year, he has been warning about the impact of Project 2025’s plans to dismantle and privatize NOAA and the NWS. As the Department of Government Efficiency began making cuts to the agencies, Congressman Sorensen has been speaking out, introducing legislation, and calling on the Administration to bring a stop to the disastrous cuts. He recently introduced the Weather Workforce Improvement Act to help the NWS fully staff critical positions at their offices and the Rural Weather Monitoring Systems Act to help strengthen weather forecasting in rural America. 
     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Representatives Sorensen, Kaptur, and Doggett Call for Investigation into Deadly Texas Floods

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17)

    In a Letter to President Trump, NOAA Leadership, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Representatives Want Answers to What Contributed to the Deaths of More Than 100 Americans

    Representatives Eric Sorensen (IL-17), Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), and Lloyd Doggett (TX-37) are demanding answers from President Donald Trump, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) leadership, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on why hundreds of Americans were unprepared to evacuate from the deadly Texas floods. In a letter they sent to the current Administration, the representatives are calling for an urgent review of the disaster to determine if staffing shortages, stalled forecasting improvements, or insufficient flood preparedness contributed to the deaths of more than 100 people.

    “As someone who has reported on dangerous floods for my neighbors as a meteorologist in my local community, I know how critical it is for NWS meteorologists, local media, and emergency management coordinators to work together seamlessly and quickly to share urgent warnings,” said Congressman Sorensen. “The deadly toll of the flash floods that hit Texas last week beg the question of what went wrong with the warning systems in place and what more could have been done to prevent this tragedy. The Trump Administration’s cuts to NOAA and the NWS are already having a real impact on the accuracy of our nation’s weather forecasting, creating cause for major concern. That is why I am calling on President Trump, NOAA, and the Army Corps of Engineers to undertake a full-scale investigation into what went wrong and what can be done to prevent catastrophes like this in the future.”

    “This flood was not just a natural disaster but a failure of foresight and leadership,” said Congresswoman Kaptur. “A changing climate is rewriting the rules of weather, and our federal agencies must keep pace. The American people deserve a weather warning system that does more than sound the alarm. It must be fully staffed and ready to act to ensure that everyone in harms way receives it. This letter is a demand for accountability, but more importantly, it’s a demand for lives to be protected anywhere severe weather strikes.”

    “As Texans in my state are faced with much pain and uncertainty, we cannot wait to ask the hard questions,” said Congressman Doggett. “Effective oversight saves lives. That is why we need a full account of the ways in which the Trump administration’s recent actions have undermined the federal response, both before and after this catastrophe. Learning from these failures and recognizing that weather intensification driven by climate change increasingly endangers lives will help prevent more tragedies.”

    You can read the full letter HERE.

    Since President Trump took office, there has been a 15% reduction in National Weather Service (NWS) staffing that has begun to degrade forecasting capabilities and operational capacity at NWS offices across the country. 

    As the only meteorologist in Congress, Congressman Sorensen has been a fierce advocate for protecting and strengthening NOAA and the NWS from cuts. Starting last year, he has been warning about the impact of Project 2025’s plans to dismantle and privatize NOAA and the NWS. As the Department of Government Efficiency began making cuts to the agencies, Congressman Sorensen has been speaking out, introducing legislation, and calling on the Administration to bring a stop to the disastrous cuts. He recently introduced the Weather Workforce Improvement Act to help the NWS fully staff critical positions at their offices and the Rural Weather Monitoring Systems Act to help strengthen weather forecasting in rural America. 
     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bean, Hern Introduce “Apples to Apples” Act to Bring Medicare Transparency for Seniors

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Aaron Bean Florida (4th District)

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Congressman Aaron Bean (FL-04) and U.S. Congressman Kevin Hern (OK-01) recently introduced H.R. 4093, the Apples to Apples Comparison Act, so that consumers have accurate data when deciding between Medicare Advantage (MA) and Fee-for-Service (FFS) for their healthcare coverage.

    With Medicare spending projected to reach a staggering $1.3 trillion this year and a majority of Medicare beneficiaries now enrolled in Medicare Advantage, the stakes have never been higher. Flawed data leads to flawed decisions—and getting it wrong could jeopardize access, benefits, and the quality of care for millions of seniors. The Apples to Apples Act will require the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) to more accurately compare costs and health outcomes to ensure that seniors are able to select healthcare policies that best reflect their needs. 

    Upon introduction, Congressman Bean said: “Healthcare decisions are complicated enough, and seniors shouldn’t have to compare apples to oranges in order to make good choices. The Apples to Apples Act ensures that seniors have accurate and comparable information when choosing which Medicare program works best for their lifestyle and budget.”

    “Greater transparency is needed in all aspects of the healthcare market, because transparency helps patients. The Medicare market has long needed new transparency measures. This bill will do the job. It’s important for us to understand how the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) uses their cost data, and ensure they are bringing fair market prices to seniors across this country. Our seniors deserve the best care at the lowest price, and I’m proud to cosponsor this bill to help us get there,” said Congressman Hern.

    The text of this legislation can be found HERE.

     

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Strong Ceremony to Honor Vietnam Veterans

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Dale Strong (Alabama)

    WASHINGTON —This August, Congressman Dale W. Strong will host a 50th anniversary pinning ceremony for Vietnam War veterans who live in Alabama’s Fifth Congressional District. The event will honor those who served in any branch of the U.S. Armed Forces between November 1, 1955, and May 15, 1975.   

    “We owe a debt of gratitude to the brave men and women who answered our nation’s call and served with honor in the United States Armed Forces during the Vietnam War. These courageous Americans stood firm in the face of danger and unimaginable hardship to ensure that freedom, democracy, and the values we hold dear would triumph over the evils of communism. This ceremony will honor them not merely as veterans, but as true American heroes who risked everything in the defense of freedom,” said Congressman Strong. 

    In 2024, Congressman Strong personally pinned 200 Vietnam Veterans who reside in Alabama’s 5th Congressional District. His office will be hosting another pinning ceremony this fall.  

    “I am proud to participate in the Vietnam Veterans 50th Anniversary Pin Program, a meaningful initiative to express our nation’s gratitude to those who served with courage and distinction. North Alabama is home to a large and vibrant veteran community whose sacrifices have strengthened the very foundation of our freedom. This program offers us an important opportunity to publicly recognize their service and to present them with a small token of appreciation for their sacrifice,” said Strong.  

    To request a 50th Commemoration pin for yourself or on behalf of a family member, please complete the Vietnam Veterans Anniversary Pin Program form on Strong.House.gov. Pins may be requested regardless of in-person ceremony attendance.   

    2025 Vietnam Veteran Lapel Pinning Ceremony  

    WHEN: August 15, 2025, at 10:00 AM  

     WHERE: Auburn University Research & Innovation Campus 
    345 Voyager Way NW, Huntsville, AL 35806 

    BACKGROUND:  

    The 2008 National Defense Authorization Act approved a program to honor Vietnam War veterans and any other members of the Armed Forces. Any Vietnam veteran living in Alabama’s Fifth Congressional District who served in any branch of the U.S. Armed Forces between November 1, 1955, and May 15, 1975, is eligible for a commemorative pin and congressional recognition. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ivey, Van Hollen, Klobuchar Lead Over 70 Members in Pressing Administration on Conflicting Orders Fueling Uncertainty Among Afghans Living in U.S.

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Glenn Ivey – Maryland (4th District)

    WASHINGTON – Congressman Glenn Ivey (D-Md.), .S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.),, and Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) led 73 of their colleagues in pressing U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio for answers on the Trump Administration’s inconsistent policies regarding Afghanistan and the legal status of Afghan nationals living in the U.S. – many of whom played important roles in supporting American servicemembers during the war in Afghanistan over two decades. In the letter, the lawmakers point out that the justifications for the decisions to implement a large-scale travel ban, which applies to Afghanistan, and terminate Temporary Protected Status conflict with one another. The lawmakers ask Secretary Rubio how the State Department arrived at these determinations and whether it can guarantee that Afghans who may be forced to leave the U.S. will not face danger upon their return to their home country – should the termination of Afghanistan’s TPS designation be upheld. 

    The lawmakers’ concerns over the safety of Afghan nationals who may be forced to leave the U.S. stem from a recent State Department human rights report covering Afghanistan finding that the Taliban has increased restrictions on freedom of expression and significantly eroded women’s rights. Additionally, Afghanistan remains gripped by violence and instability; the Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP), the Afghan affiliate of the Islamic State (ISIS), continues to launch attacks against ethnic and religious minorities and against the Taliban, leading to innocent civilian casualties. If Afghan nationals are forced to return to Afghanistan, many risk being caught in the crossfire between the Taliban and ISKP, threatening their human rights and freedoms. These risks are on top of those already incurred by the men and women who have previously assisted the United States military and face retribution for their support to our armed forces. 

    “We write to you with deep concern over President Donald Trump’s recently announced so-called travel ban and its striking inconsistency with the Department of Homeland Security’s justification for termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Afghanistan. We respectfully request that you provide detailed information regarding the State Department’s assessment of the conditions in Afghanistan to clarify the Trump Administration’s position,” the lawmakers began.

    They quoted the determination that Secretary Rubio made upon consultation over the decision to include Afghanistan in the Administration’s travel ban proclamation, writing, “Specifically, the proclamation bans most entry into the United States from Afghanistan, stating the following as justification: ‘The Taliban, a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) group, controls Afghanistan. Afghanistan lacks a competent or cooperative central authority for issuing passports or civil documents and it does not have appropriate screening and vetting measures.’

    “As you know, the U.S. visa vetting system is a multi-layered process involving extensive background checks, biometric data collection, interagency information sharing, and screening against a range of national security databases that works to keep residents of our country safe,” the lawmakers continued. “According to the Brennan Center for Justice, “[m]ore than 40 national security experts from across the political spectrum have unequivocally told courts that travelers to the U.S. should not be vetted on religious or national stereotypes, but rather on specific threat information.” Categorically banning foreign nationals from coming to the United States based on their country of origin is discriminatory and harmful to our nation’s international relations and security interests. 

    Highlighting the inconsistencies between the reasoning for including Afghanistan in the travel ban and ending the country’s TPS designation, they wrote, “This [travel ban] determination appears to be at odds with the Trump Administration’s stated position just weeks ago. May 12, 2025, Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Kristi Noem announced that DHS was ending TPS for Afghanistan. The basis offered in the Federal Register notice for this decision was ‘notable improvements in the security and economic situation such that requiring the return of Afghan nationals to Afghanistan does not pose a threat to their personal safety due to armed conflict or extraordinary and temporary conditions.’

    “As you are aware, many Afghan allies that received TPS stood shoulder to shoulder with American servicemembers for nearly two decades during the war in Afghanistan. Many fled to the United States out of fear of persecution by the Taliban or retaliation for such cooperation with the United States. It is unsafe for political targets of the Taliban to be forced to return against their will. TPS protections must be maintained for Afghan nationals in the United States,” they went on to write.

    They asked Secretary Rubio to address the following questions:

    1. Please provide detailed reports or information that the State Department is relying upon in advising the Department of Homeland Security and the White House as to the conditions in Afghanistan.
    2. How can you assure Afghan nationals fearing persecution in Afghanistan that the Taliban will not retaliate against them based upon their relationship with the United States?

    In addition to Congressman Ivey, Senator Van Hollen, and Senator Klobuchar, the letter was signed by Senators Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Angus King (I-Maine), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), and Peter Welch (D-Vt.) and Representatives Becca Balint (D-Vt.), Ami Bera (D-Calif.), André Carson (D-Ind.), Troy Carter (D-La.), Yvette Clarke (D-N.Y.), Diana DeGette (D-Colo.), Suzan DelBene (D-Wash.), Lizzie Fletcher (D-Texas), Bill Foster (D-Ill.), John Garamendi (D-Calif.), Robert Garcia (D-Calif.), Sylvia Garcia (D-Texas), Daniel Goldman (D-N.Y.), Josh Gottheimer (D-N.J.), Chrissy Houlahan (D-Pa.), Jonathan Jackson (D-Ill.), Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.), Hank Johnson (D-Ga.), Julie Johnson (D-Texas), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-Calif.), Timothy Kennedy (D-N.Y.), Rick Larsen (D-Wash.), Zoe Lofgren (D-Calif.), Stephen Lynch (D-Mass.), Doris Matsui (D-Calif.), Jennifer McClellan (D-Va.), Betty McCollum (D-Minn.), Jim McGovern (D-Mass.), Robert Menendez (D-N.J.), Grace Meng (D-N.Y.), Seth Moulton (D-Mass.), Kevin Mullin (D-Calif.), Jerry Nadler (D-N.Y.), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.), Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif.), Chellie Pingree (D-Maine), Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.), Kim Schrier (D-Wash.), Lateefah Simon (D-Calif.), Adam Smith (D-Calif.), Greg Stanton (D-Ariz.), Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.), Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.), Mike Thompson (D-Calif.), Dina Titus (D-Nev.), Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.), Paul Tonko (D-N.Y.), Lori Trahan (D-Mass.), Juan Vargas (D-Calif.), Marc Veasey (D-Texas), and Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-N.J.).

     

    The full text of the letter is available here and below.

    Dear Secretary Rubio:

    We write to you with deep concern over President Donald Trump’s recently announced so-called travel ban and its striking inconsistency with the Department of Homeland Security’s justification for termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Afghanistan. We respectfully request that you provide detailed information regarding the State Department’s assessment of the conditions in Afghanistan to clarify the Trump Administration’s position. 

    On June 4, 2025, President Trump announced via a proclamation entitled “Restricting the Entry of Foreign Nationals to Protect the United States from Foreign Terrorists and Other National Security and Public Safety Threats” that he was imposing travel restrictions for foreign nationals entering the United States. Among the countries included in this proclamation is Afghanistan. Specifically, the proclamation bans most entry into the United States from Afghanistan, stating the following as justification: 

    “The Taliban, a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) group, controls Afghanistan. Afghanistan lacks a competent or cooperative central authority for issuing passports or civil documents and it does not have appropriate screening and vetting measures.” 

    As you know, the U.S. visa vetting system is a multi-layered process involving extensive background checks, biometric data collection, interagency information sharing, and screening against a range of national security databases that works to keep residents of our country safe. According to the Brennan Center for Justice, “[m]ore than 40 national security experts from across the political spectrum have unequivocally told courts that travelers to the U.S. should not be vetted on religious or national stereotypes, but rather on specific threat information.” Categorically banning foreign nationals from coming to the United States based on their country of origin is discriminatory and harmful to our nation’s international relations and security interests.

    The proclamation further states that you, as the Secretary of State, were directed to make this determination, in consultation with other members of the President’s Cabinet including the Secretary of Homeland Security. Per the proclamation, you ultimately determined that “a number of countries remain deficient with regards to screening and vetting,” including the country of Afghanistan. Placing a blanket ban on another country’s citizens is a severe action, and the title of the proclamation states that it is being done “to protect the United States from foreign terrorists and other national security and public safety threats.” This determination appears to be at odds with the Trump Administration’s stated position just weeks ago. On May 12, 2025, Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Kristi Noem announced that DHS was ending TPS for Afghanistan. The basis offered in the Federal Register notice for this decision was “notable improvements in the security and economic situation such that requiring the return of Afghan nationals to Afghanistan does not pose a threat to their personal safety due to armed conflict or extraordinary and temporary conditions.” Specifically, the notice points to:

    1. the totality of Taliban rule and lessening overt presence of ISIS-K and other various terrorist organizations;
    2. a decrease in large-scale violence and humanitarian need;
    3. a growing economy; and
    4. increased tourism, with tourists “sharing their experiences on social media, highlighting the peaceful countryside, welcoming locals, and the cultural heritage.”

    Further, Secretary Noem found that “permitting Afghan nationals to remain temporarily in the United States is contrary to the national interest of the United States.” The Federal Register notice cited consultation with your Department in making this determination.

    These seemingly incompatible recent decisions indicate a troubling lack of consistency in the Administration’s analysis of country conditions in Afghanistan. Either Afghanistan is safe for the return of Afghan refugees and nationals that fled following the return of the Taliban to power or it is not. 

    According to Human Rights Watch, in 2024, Taliban authorities intensified their crackdown on human rights, especially against women and girls, who are banned from attending secondary school or university and are unable to move freely. The Taliban also continues to detain and torture journalists, curtailing free speech and media. The 2023 U.S. State Department Human Rights Report covering Afghanistan found that women’s rights rapidly declined and restrictions on freedom of expression increased. The horrific human rights conditions in Afghanistan are unsafe for Afghan nationals to return to and returning would put their personal safety at immediate risk. Additionally, the Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP), the Afghan affiliate of the Islamic State (ISIS), continues to launch attacks against ethnic and religious minorities and against the Taliban, leading to innocent civilian casualties. If Afghan nationals are forced to return to Afghanistan, they will be caught in the crossfire between the Taliban and ISKP.  

    As you are aware, many Afghan allies that received TPS stood shoulder to shoulder with American servicemembers for nearly two decades during the war in Afghanistan. Many fled to the United States out of fear of persecution by the Taliban or retaliation for such cooperation with the United States. It is unsafe for political targets of the Taliban to be forced to return against their will. TPS protections must be maintained for Afghan nationals in the United States. 

    We would request that you immediately provide answers to the following questions:

    1. Please provide detailed reports or information that the State Department is relying upon in advising the Department of Homeland Security and the White House as to the conditions in Afghanistan.
    2. How can you assure Afghan nationals fearing persecution in Afghanistan that the Taliban will not retaliate against them based upon their relationship with the United States?

    Congress has a strong interest in understanding what information the Trump Administration is using to carry out its policies and how it is making national security decisions that impact all of our constituents. We look forward to receiving your response.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Dan Goldman Introduces Bill to Close Loopholes Allowing Pre-Trial Defendants to Access Firearms

    Source: US Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10)

    Delays in Background Check Reporting Mean Those on Pre-Trial Release Are Oftentimes Still Able to Buy Firearms Despite Court Prohibition

     

    Patchwork State Background Check Laws Create Dangerous Loopholes for Gun Purchases 

    Read the Bill Here 

    Washington, DC – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) today introduced the ‘Preventing Pretrial Gun Purchases Act,’ a bill that would close a critical loophole in the federal background check system and prevent individuals on pretrial release who are deemed a public safety risk from obtaining firearms. Senator Cory Booker (NJ-D) has introduced a companion bill in the Senate. 

    “Improving our background check system and closing loopholes that allow potentially dangerous individuals to access firearms is a commonsense step we can take to address America’s tragic gun violence crisis,” Congressman Dan Goldman said. “I am proud to be jointly re-introducing the Preventing Pretrial Gun Purchases Act in the House, which will close a dangerous loophole in our background check system by flagging individuals on pretrial release who are legally barred from purchasing firearms as a condition of their release. Congress must stop twiddling our thumbs and start taking decisive steps to close these deadly loopholes and prevent weapons from falling into the wrong hands.” 

     

    Senator Cory Booker said, “We must close the existing loopholes in the background check system, especially when individuals who are known risks to public safety are still able to buy a firearm,” said Senator Booker. “This legislation will ensure that individuals subject to a pretrial release court order cannot walk into a gun store and buy one. We must act to close the dangerous gaps in our background check system so we can save lives and keep our communities safe.” 

    Current federal law requires licensed gun dealers to conduct a background check of a firearm buyer using the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) to ensure that the buyer is not legally prohibited from purchasing a firearm. Unfortunately, differences between various state and federal background check processes have exposed numerous vulnerabilities in this system. One vulnerability is that jurisdictions are unable to effectively and accurately report the pretrial status of individuals who, as a condition of their pretrial release, are prohibited by a court from purchasing or possessing a firearm.  

    The Preventing Pretrial Gun Purchases Act would: 

    • Amend federal law to prevent firearm sales to any person subject to a pretrial releasecourt order that prohibits the person from purchasing to possessing a firearm before trial.  

    • Prohibit any person from providing firearms to individuals in this category. 

    • Provide $25 million in funding to aid states in paying for timely and accurate reporting of pretrial orders involving firearms restrictions to NICS 

    The Preventing Pretrial Gun Purchases Act has been endorsed by Brady: United Against Gun Violence, Everytown for Gun Safety, and GIFFORDS. 

    Congressman Dan Goldman remains committed to protecting families and communities by ensuring firearms do not end up in the hands of those who pose a threat to public safety. He is currently the Vice-Chair of the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force. 

    In January of 2024, the Congressman also cosponsored the ‘Bolstering Security Against Ghost Guns Act’ to strengthen the United States Department of Homeland Security’s response to the growing threat of untraceable firearms, which can be bought online without a background check. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Dan Goldman Probes ICE Agreement with Bureau of Prisons to House Over 100 Immigrants At the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn

    Source: US Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10)

    Prison is Notorious for Violence, Understaffing, Power Outages, Extended Lockdowns, and Solitary Confinement 

     

    Federal Judges Have Refused to Send Convicted Criminals to MDC in Recent Years, Calling it ‘Barbaric’ and ‘Contemptuous of Human Dignity’ 

     

    Read the Letter Here 

    Washington, D.C. — Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) sent an oversight letter of inquiry to the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) today demanding answers on their new interagency agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to house more than 100 immigration detainees at the Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) in Brooklyn, which has long been plagued by violence, chronic understaffing, inadequate medical treatment, and inmate deaths. 

    The Congressman demanded that the BOP immediately suspend all transfers to MDC and any other facility with a documented history of unsafe conditions, detail current conditions at the MDC and how the influx of new immigrants has impacted them, as well as how the Bureau intends to use the new funding from the Republican’s reconciliation bill to address staffing shortages and issues across BOP managed sites. 

    “This interagency agreement, reportedly part of a broader expansion involving the use of eight BOP facilities nationwide, is especially concerning in light of the MDC’s inability to provide proper care and staffing for the existing inmates under your jurisdiction. Adding dozens of new detainees to a facility that is already overburdened will inevitably exacerbate the already deplorable conditions at MDC for both detainees and personnel. In fact, according to reports, lockdowns, which often occur due to staffing shortages and unsafe conditions, have already increased since the new ICE population arrived,” Congressman Goldman wrote. 

    The transfer of over 100 immigrants to the facility, many of whom lack any criminal record, comes after the Trump administration has already paused and rolled back several initiatives aimed at improving conditions at MDC. Under the Biden administration, BOP implemented a 35 percent retention pay policy which resulted in the hiring of 87 new personnel—the highest staffing increase at MDC Brooklyn in years. Despite these modest improvements, Associate Director Toomey confirmed that the Trump administration has since paused consideration of any new pay incentives and eliminated some existing retention incentives and programs at facilities across the country. 

    “Now, individuals who may pose no public safety threat are being detained in a facility that has consistently failed to provide basic care for its current population. It is neither ethical nor safe for BOP to divert limited resources and space at the MDC facility to house noncriminal individuals to further the Trump administration’s mass deportation agenda, when your agency has so glaringly failed to meet safety standards prior to the added strain of these new detainees,” Congressman Goldman wrote. 

    Read the full letter here or below: 

    Dear Director Marshall:  

    I write to express deep concern about the Federal Bureau of Prisons’ (BOP) new interagency agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to house more than 100 immigration detainees at the Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) Brooklyn facility. 

    As you well know, MDC Brooklyn has long been plagued by many troubling issues, including numerous incidents of violence (and even death), significant understaffing leading to excessive and extended lockdowns and solitary confinement, inadequate medical care for inmates, frequent power outages, and unsanitary conditions. In recent years, federal judges have described the jail as “barbaric” and “contemptuous of human dignity,” even refusing to send convicted criminals there due to fear for their safety. These conditions have been well documented by legal advocates and journalists and have been highlighted in judicial rulings over the years.  

    The Biden administration began to address some of these issues last year. On February 26, 2025, BOP Associate Director Kathleen Toomey testified before the House Appropriations Committee, describing MDC Brooklyn as a “good example” of how effective retention pay and salary incentives can improve conditions.4 Under the Biden administration, BOP implemented a 35 percent retention pay policy which resulted in the hiring of 87 new personnel—the highest staffing increase at MDC Brooklyn in years. Despite these positive developments, Associate Director Toomey confirmed that the Trump administration has since paused consideration of any new pay incentives and eliminated some existing retention incentives and programs at facilities across the country.   

    Despite MDC Brooklyn’s dangerous dearth of resources, your agency has now agreed to house ICE detainees in MDC Brooklyn’s East Building, many of whom are individuals with no criminal record. This interagency agreement, reportedly part of a broader expansion involving the use of eight BOP facilities nationwide, is especially concerning in light of the MDC’s inability to provide proper care and staffing for the existing inmates under your jurisdiction. Adding dozens of new detainees to a facility that is already overburdened will inevitably exacerbate the already deplorable conditions at MDC forboth detainees and personnel. In fact, according to reports, lockdowns, which often occur due to staffing shortages and unsafe conditions, have already increased since the new ICE population arrived. Lockdowns can severely restrict inmate access to common areas, medical care, legal counsel, and communication with loved ones—further isolating inmates and increasing the risk of neglect.  

    Now, individuals who may pose no public safety threat are being detained in a facility that has consistently failed to provide basic care for its current population. It is neither ethical nor safe for BOP to divert limited resources and space at the MDC facility to house noncriminal individuals to further the Trump administration’s mass deportation agenda, when your agency has so glaringly failed to meet safety standards prior to the added strain of these new detainees.  

    Accordingly, I request that you take the following actions as soon as possible:  

    1. Suspend all transfers to MDC Brooklyn and any other BOP facilities with a documented history of understaffing and unsafe conditions.   

    2. Provide a detailed explanation of the criteria utilized to select BOP facilities under the interagency agreement, including why MDC Brooklyn was deemed appropriate to house ICE detainees despite its history of problematic conditions and violence.  

    3. Provide a detailed assessment of the conditions at MDC both before and after the additional detainees were moved to the facility. Please include how this agreement will affect MDC BOP staffing schedules and resource allocation.  

    4. Ensure that any facility being used to house ICE detainees is meeting minimum standards of medical care and access to legal counsel.  

    5. Provide a detailed plan outlining how your agency intends to use funding allocated through the reconciliation bill to address staffing shortages and the maintenance of BOP facilities, including whether BOP will receive any of the $170 billion allotted for DHS/ICE for immigration-related matters.  

    I look forward to your prompt response no later than July 18, 2025. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Salazar Sends Letter Raising Concerns for Freedom Leader José Daniel Ferrer

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar’s (FL-27)

    span>WASHINGTON, DC – Rep. Maria Salazar sent a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighting her concern that the situation of freedom leader José Daniel Ferrer has become dire. The letter asks that the Secretary of State to use the full weight of his office to fight for José Daniel. José Daniel Ferrer is not just any dissident; he is the most important and credible leader of the opposition on the island today.

    “Please do whatever is possible to achieve the liberation of José Daniel before his health gets any worse,” said Rep. Salazar. “The regime in Cuba is a paper tiger and it will fall with just a flick of the finger. Let this serve as a warning: if anything happens to José Daniel Ferrer, there must be serious consequences. The United States and its allies cannot allow another Cuban hero to die in silence.”  

    Background

    The regime thugs at Mar Verde prison in Santiago de Cuba have beaten José Daniel multiple times in two weeks. Conditions at the concentration camp are horrendous and his life is in danger. 

    The United States is the only country in the world that has the power to protect freedom fighters like José Daniel. Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar urges the Secretary to do everything possible to secure the liberation of José Daniel before his health gets any worse.  

    You can read the full letter here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps Ramirez, Lee, Frost Introduce Legislation to Ensure Congress’ Constitutional Duty to Conduct Oversight of the Executive Branch

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Delia Ramirez – Illinois (3rd District)

    Chicago, IL— Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), member of the Homeland Security Committee, joined  Representatives Summer L. Lee (PA-12) and Maxwell Frost (FL-10) to introduce the Congressional Oversight Access Act. The timely legislation would protect Members of Congress from violence, obstruction, and retaliation when conducting oversight of the executive branch. The bill comes in response to recent disturbing incidents where Members of Congress, including Rep. LaMonica McIver and Senator Alex Padilla, were arrested while performing their constitutional oversight duties, and other members suffered obstructions by ICE agents. 

    On June 18, Congresswoman Ramirez and members of the Illinois delegation, Danny K. Davis (IL-07), Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04), and Jonathan Jackson (IL-01), were unlawfully denied entry to a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Processing Center in Broadview, Illinois. 

    “As Members of Congress, it is our Constitutional obligation to conduct oversight and ensure the Executive Branch is held accountable for their actions, especially actions we fund through appropriations. Yet, the Administration has not only broken the law by obstructing our ability to do our job, they have persecuted those who dared to fulfill their constitutional oath,” said Congresswoman Ramirez. “It goes without saying that the Administration must ensure Members of Congress can safely execute the duties of our positions, whether we are conducting oversight of an ICE detention facility or federal offices. That is why I am joining my colleague Congresswoman Summer Lee to introduce the Congressional Oversight Access Act, to remind the Administration that they will not deter us from our duty through bullying and intimidation.” 

    “It is not only our right but our constitutional duty as Members of Congress to conduct oversight of the executive branch—whether that’s a federal prison, an ICE facility, or any agency receiving public funds,” said Rep. Lee. “When Members are met with force, arrests, or retaliation for fulfilling that responsibility, it represents a dangerous abuse of power and a direct threat to our democratic institutions. These attempts to silence us, to make examples out of Members like Rep. LaMonica McIver, are meant to intimidate and suppress dissent, especially from younger, Black, and outspoken voices. But we will not normalize executive overreach, we will not stay silent in the face of injustice, and we will fight back every time, because our democracy depends on it.” 

    “From immigration detention centers to federal agencies, Members of Congress have a duty and responsibility to oversee and conduct oversight across the government,” said Rep. Maxwell Frost. “This is about ensuring our laws and human rights remain intact no matter who is sitting the in the Oval Office. Members will not be bullied or intimidated out of doing our jobs for the American people.”  

    The Congressional Oversight Access Act makes it illegal for executive branch officials to use force or obstruct a Member of Congress acting in their official oversight capacity. The bill explicitly defines protected oversight activities to include reviewing, monitoring, supervising, investigating, or visiting federal programs, facilities, or agencies to ensure compliance with laws, court orders, and the proper administration of federal policies.  Overview of the Congressional Oversight Access Act: 

    • Protects     Members of Congress from the use of force,     arrest, or retaliation while conducting oversight in their official capacity. 
    • Defines covered oversight activities to include investigations,     monitoring, visitation, and supervision of federal entities and operations. 
    • Responds to recent incidents where Members were arrested or obstructed during lawful oversight. 
    • Reasserts the constitutional role of Congress and the necessity of maintaining checks and balances between branches of government. 

    The bill is cosponsored by Rep. Stephen Lynch (MA-8), Rep. Jonathan L. Jackson (IL-1), Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Rep. Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03), Rep. Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Rep. Suzanne Bonamici (OR-1), Rep. Lateefah Simon (CA-12), Rep. Troy Carter (LA-2), Rep. Andrea Salinas (OR-6), Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-8), Rep. Jill Tokuda (HI-2), Rep. Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Rep. Pablo José Hernández (PR-At-Large), Rep. Maxine Dexter (OR-7), Rep. Nikema Williams (GA-5), Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), and Rep. Greg Casar (TX-35). 

     The bill is endorsed by Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW) and Public Citizen. 

    For the full text of the bill, CLICK HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –