NewzIntel.com

Category: United States House of Representatives

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement from U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez on Supreme Court Ruling Endangering Birthright Citizenship

    Source: US Representative Gabe Vasquez’s (NM-02)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) issued the following statement in response to the Supreme Court’s ruling on nationwide injunctions, which could help pave the way for the Trump administration to erode birthright citizenship in the U.S.: 

    “Today, the Supreme Court failed in their basic duty to uphold our Constitution. The 14th Amendment guarantees that anyone born on U.S. soil is a citizen, period. That promise has been a cornerstone of our democracy for more than 150 years, and this decision opens the door for extreme politicians to rewrite our country’s most sacred documents to fit their political agendas.

    I’ll continue to stand against this dangerous push and fight to ensure every child born in this country is recognized as American, no matter their background, zip code, or family story.”

    Vasquez is a cosponsor of the Born in the USA Act to protect birthright citizenship. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement from U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez on Supreme Court Ruling Endangering Birthright Citizenship

    Source: US Representative Gabe Vasquez’s (NM-02)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) issued the following statement in response to the Supreme Court’s ruling on nationwide injunctions, which could help pave the way for the Trump administration to erode birthright citizenship in the U.S.: 

    “Today, the Supreme Court failed in their basic duty to uphold our Constitution. The 14th Amendment guarantees that anyone born on U.S. soil is a citizen, period. That promise has been a cornerstone of our democracy for more than 150 years, and this decision opens the door for extreme politicians to rewrite our country’s most sacred documents to fit their political agendas.

    I’ll continue to stand against this dangerous push and fight to ensure every child born in this country is recognized as American, no matter their background, zip code, or family story.”

    Vasquez is a cosponsor of the Born in the USA Act to protect birthright citizenship. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Miller-Meeks Hosts Capitol Hill Briefing Showcasing Breakthroughs in Healthcare AI

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks’ (IA-02)

    Washington, D.C. – On Wednesday afternoon, June 25, 2025, Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks, M.D. (IA-01), convened a bipartisan Capitol Hill briefing to spotlight how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming clinical practice and patient care. Members of Congress, staff, and healthcare leaders heard from innovators using AI to improve outcomes, streamline workflows, and expand access—especially in underserved areas.

    The discussion emphasized the importance of responsible AI that supports, rather than replaces, clinical judgment, while upholding privacy and ethics and expanding access to quality care. The event included a robust Q&A covering regulatory challenges, liability protections, reimbursement hurdles, and the role of venture capital in scaling AI tools.

    “Artificial intelligence holds tremendous potential to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of healthcare delivery, and as a Member of Congress and the Energy and Commerce Committee, I believe the federal government can learn a lot from the pioneers of AI in healthcare,” said Rep. Miller-Meeks. “During our roundtable, we heard from innovators who developed AI that is detecting heart disease and vision-threatening conditions associated with diabetes earlier and more cost-effectively—preserving vision and even saving lives.”

    “We are living through a moment of major societal transition, and AI is already touching nearly every aspect of how we prevent, diagnose, and manage disease,” said Dr. Jesse Ehrenfeld, Immediate Past President of the American Medical Association. “Two-thirds of U.S. physicians are using AI tools today—not to replace clinical judgment, but to offload routine tasks and improve workflow efficiency.”

    “Only about 20% of patients with diabetes complete their recommended annual eye exams, leaving most at risk of preventable vision loss,” said Dr. Michael Abramoff, Founder of Iowa-based Digital Diagnostics. “Autonomous AI helps close this care gap by enabling early detection in primary care—supported by CPT reimbursement and national policy to expand access while lowering cost.”

    “AI tools like HeartFlow’s coronary CT technology give physicians vital insights into blood flow and plaque characteristics,” said Dr. Campbell Rogers, Chief Medical Officer of HeartFlow. “We need AI-specific reimbursement frameworks to ensure these innovations are available to patients who need them most.”

    “As investors, we operate at the intersection of business, government, and society,” said Todd Klein, Partner at Revolution Growth. “Our unique access to policymakers, paired with deep national networks, helps startups scale transformative technologies like healthcare AI responsibly and effectively.”

    Key Takeaways:

    • Aligning FDA clearance and CMS payment is imperative to ensure access to care through federal and state reimbursement.
    • AI focused on outcomes enhances—rather than replaces—physician work and enables top-of-license practice.
    • Healthcare startups are crucial drivers of AI innovation and should be engaged as resources by Congress, FDA, CMS, and OSTP.
    • A transparent, consistent regulatory pathway is needed for autonomous AI approval in healthcare.

    The briefing underscored the critical opportunity for the United States to lead in safe, ethical, and scalable AI healthcare deployment—if the regulatory and reimbursement environment is designed to support it.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Mfume, Maryland Delegation Urges President Trump to Approve Disaster Declaration for Allegany, Garrett Counties Following Destructive Floods

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the Maryland Congressional Delegation – U.S. Congressman Kweisi Mfume, Senators Chris Van Hollen and Angela Alsobrooks and U.S. Representatives April McClain Delaney, Steny Hoyer, Andy Harris, Jamie Raskin, Glenn Ivey, Sarah Elfreth, and Johnny Olszewski (all Md.) – urged President Donald Trump to exercise his authority under the Stafford Act to approve the State of Maryland’s request for a presidential disaster declaration in response to damage from the flash flooding that occurred in Allegany and Garrett Counties on May 13, 2025. The flash floods drove water levels at the North Branch of the Potomac River and two creeks in Western Maryland to rise rapidly, leading to extensive damage in the communities of Midland, Lonaconing, Barton, and Westernport.

    Governor Wes Moore has requested a major disaster declaration for Public Assistance for Allegany and Garrett Counties and the availability of the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) for all jurisdictions in Maryland. A federal disaster declaration would unlock Public Assistance funds from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to help reimburse emergency response efforts during and after the floods as well as necessary repairs to damaged public infrastructure and facilities. Hazard Mitigation Grant Program funds would support efforts to prevent or reduce long-term risk to life and property from future flooding and other similar natural disasters.

    “We are writing as the Maryland Congressional Delegation to express our strong support for and urge your favorable consideration of Maryland Governor Wes Moore’s request for the declaration of a major disaster for the State of Maryland as a result of the impacts from flash flooding on May 13, 2025,” Team Maryland began. “Given the tremendous impact that this flooding has had on state and local resources in Maryland, we respectfully request that you expeditiously approve the provision of supplementary federal assistance, pursuant to the Stafford Act.

    The lawmakers noted the severe extent of the flooding, writing, “Emergency Service personnel responded from 24 agencies in nine counties across three states to carry out recovery efforts. By boat, EMS units successfully evacuated 200 students and personnel who had been trapped at Westernport Elementary School and provided shelter until they could be picked up by family members. Students from two other schools in Georges Creek were evacuated by EMS units in vehicles to Mountain Ridge High School in Frostburg until they could be picked up by family members. Twelve students remained sheltered at Mountain Ridge overnight into Wednesday morning.” 

    They went on to note the costs of recovery will be significant, stating, “Recovery efforts will include debris removal and permanent work to repair infrastructure damaged by flooding. Allegany and Garrett Counties bore the brunt of the storm, with an estimated $15,831,417 in damages in those two counties as a result.”

    “We agree with Governor Moore that supplementary federal assistance is necessary and warranted under the Stafford Act. Therefore, we urge you to expeditiously review and approve the State of Maryland’s request for a major disaster declaration for the flooding of May 13, 2025,” they concluded.

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

    Dear Mr. President:

    We are writing as the Maryland Congressional Delegation to express our strong support for and urge your favorable consideration of Maryland Governor Wes Moore’s request for the declaration of a major disaster for the State of Maryland as a result of the impacts from flash flooding on May 13, 2025. Given the tremendous impact that this flooding has had on state and local resources in Maryland, we respectfully request that you expeditiously approve the provision of supplementary federal assistance, pursuant to the Stafford Act.

    On May 13, 2025, heavy rains began in the morning hours with more than five inches of rainfall causing the water level in Georges Creek to rise more than six feet by mid-afternoon to reach Major Flood Stage of 12 feet. In Cumberland, Wills Creek rose eight feet and the North Branch of the Potomac River rose nearly 15 feet after 3:00 p.m. and crossed into Major Flood Stage just before midnight. Flash flooding heavily impacted significant portions of Garrett and Allegany Counties in Maryland and, in particular, the communities of Midland, Lonaconing, Barton, and Westernport sustained extensive damage to roads, water and sewer infrastructure, utilities, and property. On May 15, Governor Moore declared a state of emergency in response to the historic flooding.  

    Emergency Service personnel responded from 24 agencies in nine counties across three states to carry out recovery efforts. By boat, EMS units successfully evacuated 200 students and personnel who had been trapped at Westernport Elementary School and provided shelter until they could be picked up by family members. Students from two other schools in Georges Creek were evacuated by EMS units in vehicles to Mountain Ridge High School in Frostburg until they could be picked up by family members. Twelve students remained sheltered at Mountain Ridge overnight into Wednesday morning. 

    Recovery efforts will include debris removal and permanent work to repair infrastructure damaged by flooding. Allegany and Garrett Counties bore the brunt of the storm, with an estimated $15,831,417 in damages in those two counties as a result.  

    Individual Assistance Joint Preliminary Damage Assessments conducted in both Allegany and Garrett Counties found numerous destroyed and damaged structures, including public facilities, schools, public libraries, businesses, and homes. These assessments support the need for the requested declaration and assistance.

    We agree with Governor Moore that supplementary federal assistance is necessary and warranted under the Stafford Act. Therefore, we urge you to expeditiously review and approve the State of Maryland’s request for a major disaster declaration for the flooding of May 13, 2025. Thank you for your timely consideration of this request, and we look forward to your response. 

    Sincerely,

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Kweisi Mfume Statement on Oversight and Government Reform Ranking Member Vacancy

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07) issued the following statement regarding his candidacy for the Oversight and Government Reform Ranking Member vacancy:

    “The preservation of the institution and the success of the Democratic Caucus are paramount to me. With an insurmountable task ahead and for the unity of our Party, I will not seek the position of Ranking Member on the Oversight and Government Reform Committee. Steve Lynch and Robert Garcia are friends who I have the utmost respect for, either of which will lead our Party well as we move forward to blunt the Trump administration and to fight for justice and civil rights for all Americans,” said Congressman Kweisi Mfume. 

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ranking Member Mfume’s Opening Remarks at Subcommittee Hearing on the Trump Administration’s Politicization of the U.S. Postal Service

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. —Below is Rep. Kweisi Mfume’s opening statement, as prepared for delivery, at today’s Subcommittee on Government Operations hearing on President Trump’s efforts to undermine the independence of the Postal Service and the failure of Trump-appointed Former Postmaster General’s “Delivering for America Plan.”

    Click here to watch the video.

    Opening Statement 
    Ranking Member Kweisi Mfume
    Subcommittee on Government Operations
    “The Route Forward for the U.S. Postal Service: A View from Stakeholders”

    June 24, 2025

    Thank you, Chairman Sessions, for calling a hearing on this important topic.  I appreciate your interest in bringing us together for a thoughtful conversation about how the Postal Service can chart a better path forward under new leadership.

    The Postal Service has an immense duty dating back to its creation—it powers communities and businesses, it keeps Americans healthy, it reinforces democracy, and it bridges geographical, economic, and cultural divides.  Importantly, its universal service obligation ensures equitable access to prompt, reliable and efficient mail services—whether you live in a rural Maryland county or my constituents in the City of Baltimore and Baltimore County.

    With Mr. David Steiner starting his tenure next month as the 76th Postmaster General, this is our first hearing on the Postal Service since the departure of former Postmaster General Louis DeJoy.  I hope Mr. Steiner heeds our calls to protect the service that millions of Americans rely on to send and receive critical items—from financial statements and mail-in ballots to life-saving medicines and personal letters.

    In doing so, he must defend against any threats to the Service’s independence and ensure the Postal Service remains a public good—which will not be easy under this Administration.  Donald Trump has repeatedly questioned its independence and wrongly suggested privatization or merging it with the Commerce Department, despite the Postal Service being a self-supporting, independent agency.

    To be clear: unilateral restructuring efforts would not only be illegal, but could jeopardize the delivery of critical items, especially in rural communities and hard-to-reach areas where the Postal Service serves as a lifeline.

    Let us be reminded that our nation’s first Postmaster General, Benjamin Franklin, advocated for the security and privacy of the mail—not privatization.  A commitment to security and privacy that our former Postmaster General upheld after refusing to allow DOGE officials, that have no experience with the Postal Service, broad access to the Postal Service’s data systems.

    I urge the incoming Postmaster General to continue blocking any efforts to compromise the Postal Service’s data in order to maintain the historical status as one of the most trusted American institutions. Because for American families and businesses to continue to trust the USPS with their precious mail, they require certain assurances.

    Americans deserve a true universal service—with reliable and efficient delivery times, affordable pricing, and low risk of theft.

    Sadly, letter carriers are being robbed at gunpoint or chased by criminals with bats and no concern for the life or safety of these patriotic men and women.  These criminals are desperately trying to obtain arrow keys, which are master keys, to steal mail in bulk—from low- and high-income communities alike.

    The former Postmaster General, Louis DeJoy, proposed a seven rate hikes of postage that would mark a 41.8percent increase in the price of First-Class Mail Forever stamps since 2021—all while the Postal Service continues to serve the American public well below its 95% on time delivery standard.  

    That’s asking Americans to pay higher prices for worse service.  Slower delivery times and concerning rates of mail theft and fraud do nothing to attract and retain the Postal Service’s customer base.

    The Postal Service must be efficient, reliable, and stable to ensure its long-term survival.  Now that we’re more than four years into the Delivering for America plan, it’s clear that the incoming Postmaster General, the Board of Governors, and Congress must be brave enough to protect this vital institution without compromising good service.

    In the past, I supported the Inflation Reduction Act’s $3 billion in funds to replenish and modernize its vehicle fleet and invest in electric infrastructure.

    Yet, instead of building on this progress to deploy safer and current vehicles, Senate Republicans are supporting a $1 billion rescission in these funds, costing the Postal Service a total of $1.5 billion—despite the American people already paying for a modern fleet replacement. 

    The rescission would not only be environmentally irresponsible, but also immensely wasteful.

    Let us also recognize the incredible work the postal workforce continues to do for the American people.

    The Postal Service’s workforce delivered ballots during the last election cycle reliably and efficiently, and employees weathered the storm of high volume during the holiday season.

    The positive relationship between the Postal Service and Inspector General, Tammy Hull, has been crucial in identifying and resolving areas of waste and improving efficiency and identifying cost savings for the Postal Service.

    There have also been notable efforts to renovate facilities in dire need of repair, expansion, and relocation.

    Collectively, I think we can all agree that there must be a better way to address the frustrations of our constituents, of fellow Members, and of critical partners, and to build back Americans’ trust in the Postal Service.

    As we partner to remedy those frustrations, let’s also make clear that the Postal Service is not for sale, not to be sidelined, and not be weakened.

    It is a pillar of American life, and we owe it to the American people to protect and improve it.

    I look forward to this discussion on how we can all work together to put this essential institution on firmer ground.

    I yield back.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ranking Member Mfume’s Opening Remarks at Subcommittee Hearing on the Trump Administration’s Politicization of the U.S. Postal Service

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. —Below is Rep. Kweisi Mfume’s opening statement, as prepared for delivery, at today’s Subcommittee on Government Operations hearing on President Trump’s efforts to undermine the independence of the Postal Service and the failure of Trump-appointed Former Postmaster General’s “Delivering for America Plan.”

    Click here to watch the video.

    Opening Statement 
    Ranking Member Kweisi Mfume
    Subcommittee on Government Operations
    “The Route Forward for the U.S. Postal Service: A View from Stakeholders”

    June 24, 2025

    Thank you, Chairman Sessions, for calling a hearing on this important topic.  I appreciate your interest in bringing us together for a thoughtful conversation about how the Postal Service can chart a better path forward under new leadership.

    The Postal Service has an immense duty dating back to its creation—it powers communities and businesses, it keeps Americans healthy, it reinforces democracy, and it bridges geographical, economic, and cultural divides.  Importantly, its universal service obligation ensures equitable access to prompt, reliable and efficient mail services—whether you live in a rural Maryland county or my constituents in the City of Baltimore and Baltimore County.

    With Mr. David Steiner starting his tenure next month as the 76th Postmaster General, this is our first hearing on the Postal Service since the departure of former Postmaster General Louis DeJoy.  I hope Mr. Steiner heeds our calls to protect the service that millions of Americans rely on to send and receive critical items—from financial statements and mail-in ballots to life-saving medicines and personal letters.

    In doing so, he must defend against any threats to the Service’s independence and ensure the Postal Service remains a public good—which will not be easy under this Administration.  Donald Trump has repeatedly questioned its independence and wrongly suggested privatization or merging it with the Commerce Department, despite the Postal Service being a self-supporting, independent agency.

    To be clear: unilateral restructuring efforts would not only be illegal, but could jeopardize the delivery of critical items, especially in rural communities and hard-to-reach areas where the Postal Service serves as a lifeline.

    Let us be reminded that our nation’s first Postmaster General, Benjamin Franklin, advocated for the security and privacy of the mail—not privatization.  A commitment to security and privacy that our former Postmaster General upheld after refusing to allow DOGE officials, that have no experience with the Postal Service, broad access to the Postal Service’s data systems.

    I urge the incoming Postmaster General to continue blocking any efforts to compromise the Postal Service’s data in order to maintain the historical status as one of the most trusted American institutions. Because for American families and businesses to continue to trust the USPS with their precious mail, they require certain assurances.

    Americans deserve a true universal service—with reliable and efficient delivery times, affordable pricing, and low risk of theft.

    Sadly, letter carriers are being robbed at gunpoint or chased by criminals with bats and no concern for the life or safety of these patriotic men and women.  These criminals are desperately trying to obtain arrow keys, which are master keys, to steal mail in bulk—from low- and high-income communities alike.

    The former Postmaster General, Louis DeJoy, proposed a seven rate hikes of postage that would mark a 41.8percent increase in the price of First-Class Mail Forever stamps since 2021—all while the Postal Service continues to serve the American public well below its 95% on time delivery standard.  

    That’s asking Americans to pay higher prices for worse service.  Slower delivery times and concerning rates of mail theft and fraud do nothing to attract and retain the Postal Service’s customer base.

    The Postal Service must be efficient, reliable, and stable to ensure its long-term survival.  Now that we’re more than four years into the Delivering for America plan, it’s clear that the incoming Postmaster General, the Board of Governors, and Congress must be brave enough to protect this vital institution without compromising good service.

    In the past, I supported the Inflation Reduction Act’s $3 billion in funds to replenish and modernize its vehicle fleet and invest in electric infrastructure.

    Yet, instead of building on this progress to deploy safer and current vehicles, Senate Republicans are supporting a $1 billion rescission in these funds, costing the Postal Service a total of $1.5 billion—despite the American people already paying for a modern fleet replacement. 

    The rescission would not only be environmentally irresponsible, but also immensely wasteful.

    Let us also recognize the incredible work the postal workforce continues to do for the American people.

    The Postal Service’s workforce delivered ballots during the last election cycle reliably and efficiently, and employees weathered the storm of high volume during the holiday season.

    The positive relationship between the Postal Service and Inspector General, Tammy Hull, has been crucial in identifying and resolving areas of waste and improving efficiency and identifying cost savings for the Postal Service.

    There have also been notable efforts to renovate facilities in dire need of repair, expansion, and relocation.

    Collectively, I think we can all agree that there must be a better way to address the frustrations of our constituents, of fellow Members, and of critical partners, and to build back Americans’ trust in the Postal Service.

    As we partner to remedy those frustrations, let’s also make clear that the Postal Service is not for sale, not to be sidelined, and not be weakened.

    It is a pillar of American life, and we owe it to the American people to protect and improve it.

    I look forward to this discussion on how we can all work together to put this essential institution on firmer ground.

    I yield back.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: The Tiffany Telegram: June 27, 2025

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

    Dear Friend,

    A lot has been happening in Washington these past few weeks, and I will update you on all of it in this edition of the Tiffany Telegram.

    But first, I ask you to join me in praying for the two Milwaukee police officers who were shot in the line of duty last night. We need the power of prayer to uplift them and their families as they recover from their injuries. You can read more about the incident here. 

    Since our last Telegram, President Trump authorized a successful airstrike in Iran, eliminating key components of their nuclear weapons capability. Iran’s rulers have been vowing “Death to America” for decades, and peace cannot coexist with a nuclear-armed Iran.

    These types of actions fall squarely under the President’s powers as commander-in-chief. But in typical D.C. fashion, Democrats immediately filed articles of impeachment against President Trump. These are the same people who stayed silent when Presidents Biden, Obama, and Clinton used military force in similar situations.

    We saw this same double standard during President Trump’s first term. When they couldn’t defeat him at the ballot box, and their bogus lawfare campaign failed, they turned to political stunts. Thankfully, a bipartisan majority – including 128 House Democrats – joined Republicans in rejecting the latest impeachment proposal.

    President Trump has made it clear that he is not seeking a “regime change” in Iran, and I agree. No reasonable person wants to see American servicemen and women pulled into another endless ground war in the Middle East. What we need is peace through strength. If there is one president who can achieve that, it’s Donald Trump, just as he proved through the Abraham Accords in his first term.

    We also have problems here at home that require urgent attention. A report this week revealed that over the past four years, the Biden administration released more than 700 illegal Iranian nationals into our country.

    And those are just the ones we know about.

    Many more may have entered undetected across our wide-open southern border. Thankfully, the Trump administration took action this week by arresting over 100 of them this week. One of them even had ties to Iran-backed Hezbollah and was living less than 30 minutes from the Seventh District, in St. Paul. You can read more about that here. 

    We must put America first, and that means removing people who never should be here to begin with. The House-passed reconciliation bill takes major steps toward securing our border, and I will keep you updated as the Senate works through it this weekend. 

    As we approach Independence Day, I hope you enjoy time with your family and loved ones but also take a moment to honor the heroes who have made this freedom possible. Thanks again for starting off your weekend with us! We will be back in two weeks with more.

    Sincerely,
    Tom Tiffany
    Member of Congress

    Click here or on the video above to watch me discuss Democrats cheapening impeachment on Meg Ellefson’s Show.

     WHO’s in charge of U.S. pandemic policy?

    That’s a question many Americans were asking during the last administration, when former President Biden bent over backwards to funnel hundreds of millions of dollars to the scandal-plagued World Health Organization (WHO) while quietly working behind the scenes to negotiate a controversial “pandemic accord.” Telegram readers will recall that I responded by drafting a bill to put the brakes on this dangerous effort by classifying it as a treaty, and requiring any such “agreement” to be presented to the Senate for ratification, where it would require a two-thirds supermajority vote. While I wasn’t able to get my legislation enacted into law last Congress, it did clear the House. The good news is that President Trump is back in the Oval Office, and has moved quickly to withdraw the U.S. from the WHO. The bad news, however, is that a future president more friendly to shady organizations like the United Nations and WHO may try to pick up where the Biden administration left off. That’s why this week I reintroduced the No WHO Pandemic Preparedness Treat Without Senate Approval Act. I’m hopeful that in the coming weeks and months, I can work with the Senate sponsor, Sen. Ron Johnson, and President Trump to get this bill across the finish line to protect American sovereignty today – and well into the future. You can read more about the effort here.

    Protect our streets, deport criminal illegal aliens

    After being trapped for four years with a president who allowed and encouraged millions of illegal aliens to flood the United States with little to no vetting, American citizens were forced to pay the price of an open border – sometimes even with their lives. In 2023, Jorge Sanchez, who was in the U.S. illegally, was convicted of a DUI. But instead of being deported, he was released back onto the streets. Then, just a year later, Sanchez was driving drunk again when he struck and killed Wisconsin father Steven Nasholm. This tragedy didn’t have to happen. That’s why yesterday, House Republicans passed the Protect Our Communities from DUIs Act. This bill will deport any illegal alien convicted of driving under the influence, and prevents any future president from skirting their deportation, as we saw with the Biden-Harris administration. Sadly, 160 Democrats opposed the measure. You can see how lawmakers voted on the bill here.

     

    Putting American veterans first

    Our veterans have made the ultimate sacrifice to this great nation, and honoring those men and women is crucial. That is why this week, the House passed legislation to protect our service members and veterans. This legislation ensures that veterans’ healthcare and benefits are fully funded, including critical support for mental health and President Trump’s Bridging Rental Assistance for Veteran Empowerment (BRAVE) program to combat homelessness. It defends constitutional rights by preventing the VA from sharing veteran information without a judge’s consent and blocks federal funding for DEI, gender procedures, and illegal alien services at VA facilities. You can read more about the package here, and see how lawmakers voted on it here. 

    Join me and Congressman Scott Fitzgerald in celebrating 50 years of a Wisconsin favorite – happy anniversary, Miller Lite!

    Committee Update

    Judiciary

    The devastation caused by illegal migration 

    On Thursday, during a Judiciary Immigration Subcommittee hearing, I questioned witnesses on the effects of mass illegal migration on the American people. As we know, the impacts have been widespread and often tragic. During the Biden administration, we saw stories ranging from Laken Riley in Georgia, Jocelyn Nungaray in Texas, and two children in our very own Seventh District where destructive open borders policies shattered American families, terrorized American communities, and killed innocent Americans. And it doesn’t stop there. The tidal wave of illegal immigration flooding American neighborhoods has also reduced job opportunities and lowered wages, especially for blue-collar workers. We’ve also seen more than 250,000 Americans killed by fentanyl almost solely sourced from Communist China and smuggled in through the open southern border by Mexican cartels. That’s why it was deeply troubling to hear one witness blame victims who are unintentionally poisoned, rather than targeting those pumping this deadly drug into our communities. Strengthening border security and interior enforcement is a critical step to turning the tide, and I let the witness know that. You can watch our exchange here.

    Natural Resources

    Fixing our forests with modern tech 

    Yesterday, we had an exciting hearing in the Federal Lands Subcommittee on advancing innovative technologies to improve forest management and prevent wildfires. The private sector has developed some compelling technology in this space, and now we just need federal agencies to use it. Despite spending an average of $2.5 billion per year on wildfires, this crisis is only getting worse. That’s because instead of investing in proactive prevention, we’re spending all that money on reactive suppression. A lot of fires can be prevented with stronger federal integration with the private sector, proactive forest management, and faster responses enabled by modern technology. Whether it’s drones that fly through thick smoke and high winds, AI models that predict fire behavior in real-time, or remote sensors and camera networks that detect ignitions before they become infernos, each of these technologies plays a complementary role in confronting the wildfire crisis. With all the technology we have at our disposal, there is no excuse for the situation to remain the same. It is also timely that this week, the USDA repealed the Clinton-era roadless rule that has prevented the proper management of nearly 59 million acres of Forest Service land. This Congress and this administration will continue to enact commonsense reforms for how we manage our public lands, so that we have safer communities and a healthier environment. You can watch my questions from the hearing here.

    District Update 

    Photo of the week

    I might be biased, but Wisconsin has some of the best wildlife. This week’s photo of the week features a white-tailed deer beneath a tree in full bloom. If you have a favorite photo of Wisconsin that you’d like to share, email it to comms.tiffany@gmail.com with your name and location. You could be featured in the next Telegram.

    “Nature’s duo” – Submitted by Wayne near Park Falls

    Resources  

    Vacation is meant to be relaxing, so don’t let renewing or applying for your passport stress you out. The current processing time is 4 to 6 weeks, so we recommend getting this done as soon as possible. For more information, click here.

    FEMA is accepting applications for the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant program. For more information on the program, click here. Additionally, the Small Business Administration (SBA) announced that Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) are available in Wisconsin due to economic losses caused by excessive moisture. Click here to see if you are eligible to apply. 

    If a friend forwarded you this newsletter, and you would like to receive it in the future, you can subscribe here for weekly updates and connect with me on X, Facebook, and Instagram. 

    As always, you are welcome to visit my website or to contact my offices in Washington, DC or Wisconsin, which remain open for service, if you have any questions or need assistance. 

    Good News from Wisconsin’s 7th District and Congress

    State Champs

    Congratulations to all the athletes in the Seventh District who took home state championship titles this spring sports season. Keep up the hard work! 

     ACSA Young Snowmobiler of The Year

    Derek Andres of Conrath was named the 2025 American Council of Snowmobile Association Young Snowmobiler of the Year. Congratulations!  

    100th Birthday

    Plymouth resident and World War II veteran Walter Gorlewski is turning 100 years old this weekend. Happy birthday and thank you for your service! 

    Condemning the LA riots

    This week, the House passed bipartisan legislation condemning the violent riots in LA and expressing gratitude to law enforcement officers.

    Ending Birthright Citizenship

    Today, the Supreme Court ruled that rogue district courts cannot block President Trump’s order to end birthright citizenship and restore the 14th Amendment to its original intent.

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Harshbarger Applauds U.S. Supreme Court Ruling Affirming Parental Rights in Education

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Diana Harshbarger (R-TN)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (TN-01) released the following statement today after the U.S. Supreme Court set a precedent across the country that parents have the right to opt their children out of classroom instruction on LGBTQ topics that conflict with their deeply held religious beliefs:

    “Today’s ruling from the U.S. Supreme Court affirms that parents, not the government, have the fundamental right to make decisions consistent with their religious beliefs about the upbringing, education, and welfare of their children. For years, we have watched as classrooms became battlegrounds for political and cultural agendas, often at the expense of parents’ voices. This decision sends a clear message: schools exist to educate, not indoctrinate.” – Rep. Harshbarger

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Pettersen Votes Against GOP Legislation Justifying Trump Immigration Raids, Weaponization of Law Enforcement

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Brittany Pettersen (Colorado 7th District)

    Rep. Pettersen Votes Against GOP Legislation Justifying Trump Immigration Raids, Weaponization of Law Enforcement

    Vote follows Los Angeles ICE protests

    Washington, June 27, 2025

    Today, U.S. Representative Brittany Pettersen (CO-07) voted against Republican-backed legislation – H.Res. 516 – that spreads falsehoods about the immigration protests in Los Angeles, California, and legitimizes Trump’s ICE raids and deployment of the military to communities across the country. 

    “Let’s be clear: every American has the right to peacefully take to the streets and speak out against the horrific actions of this administration,” said Pettersen. “This resolution is just Republicans giving Trump a green light to weaponize law enforcement and target immigrant communities. He deployed the military on civilians for doing exactly what we should all be doing right now: raising our voices against this brazen lawlessness.”

    Pettersen supports legislation introduced by Representative Nanette Barragán (CA-44) and Representative Zoe Lofgren (CA-18) that:

    • Recognizes the right to peacefully protest;
    • Condemns any acts of violence by agitators; 
    • Opposes the deployment of federal military against civilians without legal justification; 
    • Commends local law enforcement for their work to ensure public safety and protect peaceful protest.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Ramirez Statement on SCOTUS Decision to Limit National Injunctions, Enabling Trump’s Plan to End Constitutional Birthright Citizenship

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

    Washington, DC— Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), proud daughter of Guatemalan immigrants and citizen by birthright, released the following statement after the Supreme Court limited the power of lower courts, allowing the Trump administration to temporarily implement its proposal to end birthright citizenship. The legal case against Trump’s plan has not been heard by the Supreme Court:

    “I agree, Judge Sotomayor, no right is safe under the new regime, not even the ones clearly guaranteed under our Constitution. For more than 100 years, the 14th Amendment has reaffirmed that all people born in the U.S. are U.S. citizens, with equal rights under the law.  It has been and is the law of the land, consistently upheld by courts and scholars across the political spectrum. But in limiting nationwide injunctions, Trump’s loyalists have decided to – once again – put him above the rule of law, our Constitution, and the principles of our nation. 

    Let’s be clear: While Trump is posing the question of who the “right” people are to be an American, Birthright Citizenship is still a right affirmed in our Constitution. Today’s decision does not end birthright citizenship; it creates a two-tier system for those born in states that uphold and defend the Constitution versus those born in states willing to undermine the Constitution to bow before Trump’s regime. Some Americans– sons and daughters of immigrants– will be born with citizenship, and other Americans will be born without the rights that constitutionally belong to them by birthright. The decision is not only deplorable, it is dangerous and confusing. It will result in chaos and violence, subjecting newborns and their families to the terror of ICE. 

    At the same time, the Supreme Court has weakened the Judicial Branch’s ability to serve as a co-equal branch of government. It rolls back the court’s ability to protect our communities from the Trump Administration’s attacks. Without the checks and balances ensured in the Constitution, an unaccountable executive branch is nothing less than an authoritarian government.

    As a birthright citizen myself who swore an oath to the Constitution — not to Trump — I believe in and fight for a land of freedom, checks and balances, and equality for all. To live into that promise, we must stand against white nationalism and the authoritarianism threatening our country and its people. As we continue to support litigation against Trump’s plan to end birthright citizenship, NOW is the moment for members of both parties to uphold their oath. Let’s pass my Born in the USA Act to stop Trump from moving forward with his white supremacist plan, uphold the Constitution, and fight against a regime threatening the very soul of our nation.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Ramirez Statement on SCOTUS Decision to Limit National Injunctions, Enabling Trump’s Plan to End Constitutional Birthright Citizenship

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

    Washington, DC— Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), proud daughter of Guatemalan immigrants and citizen by birthright, released the following statement after the Supreme Court limited the power of lower courts, allowing the Trump administration to temporarily implement its proposal to end birthright citizenship. The legal case against Trump’s plan has not been heard by the Supreme Court:

    “I agree, Judge Sotomayor, no right is safe under the new regime, not even the ones clearly guaranteed under our Constitution. For more than 100 years, the 14th Amendment has reaffirmed that all people born in the U.S. are U.S. citizens, with equal rights under the law.  It has been and is the law of the land, consistently upheld by courts and scholars across the political spectrum. But in limiting nationwide injunctions, Trump’s loyalists have decided to – once again – put him above the rule of law, our Constitution, and the principles of our nation. 

    Let’s be clear: While Trump is posing the question of who the “right” people are to be an American, Birthright Citizenship is still a right affirmed in our Constitution. Today’s decision does not end birthright citizenship; it creates a two-tier system for those born in states that uphold and defend the Constitution versus those born in states willing to undermine the Constitution to bow before Trump’s regime. Some Americans– sons and daughters of immigrants– will be born with citizenship, and other Americans will be born without the rights that constitutionally belong to them by birthright. The decision is not only deplorable, it is dangerous and confusing. It will result in chaos and violence, subjecting newborns and their families to the terror of ICE. 

    At the same time, the Supreme Court has weakened the Judicial Branch’s ability to serve as a co-equal branch of government. It rolls back the court’s ability to protect our communities from the Trump Administration’s attacks. Without the checks and balances ensured in the Constitution, an unaccountable executive branch is nothing less than an authoritarian government.

    As a birthright citizen myself who swore an oath to the Constitution — not to Trump — I believe in and fight for a land of freedom, checks and balances, and equality for all. To live into that promise, we must stand against white nationalism and the authoritarianism threatening our country and its people. As we continue to support litigation against Trump’s plan to end birthright citizenship, NOW is the moment for members of both parties to uphold their oath. Let’s pass my Born in the USA Act to stop Trump from moving forward with his white supremacist plan, uphold the Constitution, and fight against a regime threatening the very soul of our nation.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Becca Balint Statement on Ruling on Judicial Powers and Birthright Citizenship

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Becca Balint (VT-AL)

    Today, Rep. Becca Balint (VT-AL), member of the House Judiciary Committee, reacts to the Supreme Court decision in the case of Trump v. CASA. The court ruled 6-3 to restrict federal judges from stopping the nationwide enforcement of blatantly unconstitutional laws. Justice Sonia Sotomayor called the majority’s decision “a travesty for the rule of law.” The ruling does not address the constitutionality of birthright citizenship. The Trump Administration continues to evade the question of the obvious violation of our constitution in trying to end birthright citizenship. 

    “Trump seeks unrestrained, unchecked power. By carefully choosing to go after birthright citizenship in this way, his administration has made it easier to continue to violate the constitution. And the court’s conservative majority is conveniently allowing it by limiting the lower courts’ checks on the President, further emboldening Trump to rule like a king. Today, they avoided the question of birthright citizenship to allow Trump to continue his assault on our rights, on immigrants, and the constitution. Let me be clear today: if you’re born in America, you are American. Anything to the contrary is a blatant violation of our constitutional rights. 

    “This is not only another attack on birthright citizenship, it is an attack on our democracy, making it more difficult for people to individuals their rights. The American people need a judiciary that puts the constitution and the rule of law before anything else.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Becca Balint Statement on Ruling on Judicial Powers and Birthright Citizenship

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Becca Balint (VT-AL)

    Today, Rep. Becca Balint (VT-AL), member of the House Judiciary Committee, reacts to the Supreme Court decision in the case of Trump v. CASA. The court ruled 6-3 to restrict federal judges from stopping the nationwide enforcement of blatantly unconstitutional laws. Justice Sonia Sotomayor called the majority’s decision “a travesty for the rule of law.” The ruling does not address the constitutionality of birthright citizenship. The Trump Administration continues to evade the question of the obvious violation of our constitution in trying to end birthright citizenship. 

    “Trump seeks unrestrained, unchecked power. By carefully choosing to go after birthright citizenship in this way, his administration has made it easier to continue to violate the constitution. And the court’s conservative majority is conveniently allowing it by limiting the lower courts’ checks on the President, further emboldening Trump to rule like a king. Today, they avoided the question of birthright citizenship to allow Trump to continue his assault on our rights, on immigrants, and the constitution. Let me be clear today: if you’re born in America, you are American. Anything to the contrary is a blatant violation of our constitutional rights. 

    “This is not only another attack on birthright citizenship, it is an attack on our democracy, making it more difficult for people to individuals their rights. The American people need a judiciary that puts the constitution and the rule of law before anything else.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Becca Balint Statement on Ruling on Judicial Powers and Birthright Citizenship

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Becca Balint (VT-AL)

    Today, Rep. Becca Balint (VT-AL), member of the House Judiciary Committee, reacts to the Supreme Court decision in the case of Trump v. CASA. The court ruled 6-3 to restrict federal judges from stopping the nationwide enforcement of blatantly unconstitutional laws. Justice Sonia Sotomayor called the majority’s decision “a travesty for the rule of law.” The ruling does not address the constitutionality of birthright citizenship. The Trump Administration continues to evade the question of the obvious violation of our constitution in trying to end birthright citizenship. 

    “Trump seeks unrestrained, unchecked power. By carefully choosing to go after birthright citizenship in this way, his administration has made it easier to continue to violate the constitution. And the court’s conservative majority is conveniently allowing it by limiting the lower courts’ checks on the President, further emboldening Trump to rule like a king. Today, they avoided the question of birthright citizenship to allow Trump to continue his assault on our rights, on immigrants, and the constitution. Let me be clear today: if you’re born in America, you are American. Anything to the contrary is a blatant violation of our constitutional rights. 

    “This is not only another attack on birthright citizenship, it is an attack on our democracy, making it more difficult for people to individuals their rights. The American people need a judiciary that puts the constitution and the rule of law before anything else.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Becca Balint Statement on Ruling on Judicial Powers and Birthright Citizenship

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Becca Balint (VT-AL)

    Today, Rep. Becca Balint (VT-AL), member of the House Judiciary Committee, reacts to the Supreme Court decision in the case of Trump v. CASA. The court ruled 6-3 to restrict federal judges from stopping the nationwide enforcement of blatantly unconstitutional laws. Justice Sonia Sotomayor called the majority’s decision “a travesty for the rule of law.” The ruling does not address the constitutionality of birthright citizenship. The Trump Administration continues to evade the question of the obvious violation of our constitution in trying to end birthright citizenship. 

    “Trump seeks unrestrained, unchecked power. By carefully choosing to go after birthright citizenship in this way, his administration has made it easier to continue to violate the constitution. And the court’s conservative majority is conveniently allowing it by limiting the lower courts’ checks on the President, further emboldening Trump to rule like a king. Today, they avoided the question of birthright citizenship to allow Trump to continue his assault on our rights, on immigrants, and the constitution. Let me be clear today: if you’re born in America, you are American. Anything to the contrary is a blatant violation of our constitutional rights. 

    “This is not only another attack on birthright citizenship, it is an attack on our democracy, making it more difficult for people to individuals their rights. The American people need a judiciary that puts the constitution and the rule of law before anything else.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Becca Balint Statement on Ruling on Judicial Powers and Birthright Citizenship

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Becca Balint (VT-AL)

    Today, Rep. Becca Balint (VT-AL), member of the House Judiciary Committee, reacts to the Supreme Court decision in the case of Trump v. CASA. The court ruled 6-3 to restrict federal judges from stopping the nationwide enforcement of blatantly unconstitutional laws. Justice Sonia Sotomayor called the majority’s decision “a travesty for the rule of law.” The ruling does not address the constitutionality of birthright citizenship. The Trump Administration continues to evade the question of the obvious violation of our constitution in trying to end birthright citizenship. 

    “Trump seeks unrestrained, unchecked power. By carefully choosing to go after birthright citizenship in this way, his administration has made it easier to continue to violate the constitution. And the court’s conservative majority is conveniently allowing it by limiting the lower courts’ checks on the President, further emboldening Trump to rule like a king. Today, they avoided the question of birthright citizenship to allow Trump to continue his assault on our rights, on immigrants, and the constitution. Let me be clear today: if you’re born in America, you are American. Anything to the contrary is a blatant violation of our constitutional rights. 

    “This is not only another attack on birthright citizenship, it is an attack on our democracy, making it more difficult for people to individuals their rights. The American people need a judiciary that puts the constitution and the rule of law before anything else.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Malliotakis Leads Push to Eliminate Burdensome IRS Paperwork for Online Sellers

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

    (WASHINGTON, D.C.) – This week, Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11) renewed her call to eliminate the burdensome paperwork for online sellers earning at least $600. As a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, she is actively working to cut red tape and protect casual sellers from unnecessary and excessive reporting requirements by raising the threshold to $20,000 for those completing a minimum of 200 transactions.

     

    “I will continue working to cut red tape from burdensome 1099-K reporting requirements so they can stop wasting time on unnecessary paperwork and instead use their energy to create new opportunities for their small businesses,” said Rep. Nicole Malliotakis. “As more Americans turn to resold, refurbished, and repaired items, I applaud the efforts of leading industry platforms to create trusted spaces for buying and selling in the growing secondhand economy, but despite this progress, casual sellers continue to face increasing bureaucratic hurdles under the current 1099-K threshold making it urgent for Congress to take action.”

     

    Malliotakis was recently joined at the Capitol by Vivian Vassar, a Staten Island small business owner and founder of “Hey Viv,” an online retro clothing store that’s been in business for over 35 years. The two advocated for this change to the Biden-era policy and attended the launch of a caucus dedicated to supporting these online small businesses. 

     

    “As a Staten Island business, I’m encouraged to see the Recommerce Committee focusing on policies that support and strengthen online businesses, helping to keep US e-commerce strong and competitive,” said Vivian Vassar, Owner of Hey Viv.

     

    The growing impact of 1099-K reporting on casual sellers highlights how tax requirements are burdening the rapidly growing recommerce economy. Recommerce is the resale, repair, and refurbishment of goods is revitalizing the American commerce economy, and is projected to reach $1.04 trillion globally by 2035. In 2024, 58% of consumers purchased secondhand apparel, with 56% of those transactions occurring online. Language to increase the thresholds and number of transactions to trigger reporting was included in the House’s tax bill which Malliotakis helped craft and can become law as early as next week.

     

    As part of this effort, Rep. Malliotakis joined Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37) in launching the bipartisan Recommerce Caucus. The caucus aims to empower small sellers and entrepreneurs by advocating for policies that support income through resale, repair, and refurbishment; promote a sustainable, circular economy by extending product life and reducing waste; and expand access to digital marketplaces by lowering barriers and increasing digital inclusion for all Americans.

     

    “As a lifelong thrifter and advocate for sustainable business practices, I’m proud to partner with Rep. Malliotakis to launch the bipartisan Recommerce Caucus,” said Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove. “Recommerce is more than a trend — it’s a growing economic engine that provides consumers with affordable, high-quality goods and gives entrepreneurs, small businesses, and resellers access to trusted, thriving marketplaces. Together, we’re committed to advancing policies that support the circular economy, reduce waste, and empower buyers and sellers nationwide. ”

     

    The Recommerce Caucus is endorsed by a growing coalition of leading platforms and advocates, including eBay, Etsy, Mercari, OfferUp, Pinterest, Poshmark, Red Bubble, and the PASS Coalition.

     

    Read the Wall Street Journal’s Exclusive on the launch of the Recommerce Caucus HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Malliotakis Leads Push to Eliminate Burdensome IRS Paperwork for Online Sellers

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

    (WASHINGTON, D.C.) – This week, Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11) renewed her call to eliminate the burdensome paperwork for online sellers earning at least $600. As a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, she is actively working to cut red tape and protect casual sellers from unnecessary and excessive reporting requirements by raising the threshold to $20,000 for those completing a minimum of 200 transactions.

     

    “I will continue working to cut red tape from burdensome 1099-K reporting requirements so they can stop wasting time on unnecessary paperwork and instead use their energy to create new opportunities for their small businesses,” said Rep. Nicole Malliotakis. “As more Americans turn to resold, refurbished, and repaired items, I applaud the efforts of leading industry platforms to create trusted spaces for buying and selling in the growing secondhand economy, but despite this progress, casual sellers continue to face increasing bureaucratic hurdles under the current 1099-K threshold making it urgent for Congress to take action.”

     

    Malliotakis was recently joined at the Capitol by Vivian Vassar, a Staten Island small business owner and founder of “Hey Viv,” an online retro clothing store that’s been in business for over 35 years. The two advocated for this change to the Biden-era policy and attended the launch of a caucus dedicated to supporting these online small businesses. 

     

    “As a Staten Island business, I’m encouraged to see the Recommerce Committee focusing on policies that support and strengthen online businesses, helping to keep US e-commerce strong and competitive,” said Vivian Vassar, Owner of Hey Viv.

     

    The growing impact of 1099-K reporting on casual sellers highlights how tax requirements are burdening the rapidly growing recommerce economy. Recommerce is the resale, repair, and refurbishment of goods is revitalizing the American commerce economy, and is projected to reach $1.04 trillion globally by 2035. In 2024, 58% of consumers purchased secondhand apparel, with 56% of those transactions occurring online. Language to increase the thresholds and number of transactions to trigger reporting was included in the House’s tax bill which Malliotakis helped craft and can become law as early as next week.

     

    As part of this effort, Rep. Malliotakis joined Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37) in launching the bipartisan Recommerce Caucus. The caucus aims to empower small sellers and entrepreneurs by advocating for policies that support income through resale, repair, and refurbishment; promote a sustainable, circular economy by extending product life and reducing waste; and expand access to digital marketplaces by lowering barriers and increasing digital inclusion for all Americans.

     

    “As a lifelong thrifter and advocate for sustainable business practices, I’m proud to partner with Rep. Malliotakis to launch the bipartisan Recommerce Caucus,” said Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove. “Recommerce is more than a trend — it’s a growing economic engine that provides consumers with affordable, high-quality goods and gives entrepreneurs, small businesses, and resellers access to trusted, thriving marketplaces. Together, we’re committed to advancing policies that support the circular economy, reduce waste, and empower buyers and sellers nationwide. ”

     

    The Recommerce Caucus is endorsed by a growing coalition of leading platforms and advocates, including eBay, Etsy, Mercari, OfferUp, Pinterest, Poshmark, Red Bubble, and the PASS Coalition.

     

    Read the Wall Street Journal’s Exclusive on the launch of the Recommerce Caucus HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Malliotakis Leads Push to Eliminate Burdensome IRS Paperwork for Online Sellers

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

    (WASHINGTON, D.C.) – This week, Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11) renewed her call to eliminate the burdensome paperwork for online sellers earning at least $600. As a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, she is actively working to cut red tape and protect casual sellers from unnecessary and excessive reporting requirements by raising the threshold to $20,000 for those completing a minimum of 200 transactions.

     

    “I will continue working to cut red tape from burdensome 1099-K reporting requirements so they can stop wasting time on unnecessary paperwork and instead use their energy to create new opportunities for their small businesses,” said Rep. Nicole Malliotakis. “As more Americans turn to resold, refurbished, and repaired items, I applaud the efforts of leading industry platforms to create trusted spaces for buying and selling in the growing secondhand economy, but despite this progress, casual sellers continue to face increasing bureaucratic hurdles under the current 1099-K threshold making it urgent for Congress to take action.”

     

    Malliotakis was recently joined at the Capitol by Vivian Vassar, a Staten Island small business owner and founder of “Hey Viv,” an online retro clothing store that’s been in business for over 35 years. The two advocated for this change to the Biden-era policy and attended the launch of a caucus dedicated to supporting these online small businesses. 

     

    “As a Staten Island business, I’m encouraged to see the Recommerce Committee focusing on policies that support and strengthen online businesses, helping to keep US e-commerce strong and competitive,” said Vivian Vassar, Owner of Hey Viv.

     

    The growing impact of 1099-K reporting on casual sellers highlights how tax requirements are burdening the rapidly growing recommerce economy. Recommerce is the resale, repair, and refurbishment of goods is revitalizing the American commerce economy, and is projected to reach $1.04 trillion globally by 2035. In 2024, 58% of consumers purchased secondhand apparel, with 56% of those transactions occurring online. Language to increase the thresholds and number of transactions to trigger reporting was included in the House’s tax bill which Malliotakis helped craft and can become law as early as next week.

     

    As part of this effort, Rep. Malliotakis joined Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37) in launching the bipartisan Recommerce Caucus. The caucus aims to empower small sellers and entrepreneurs by advocating for policies that support income through resale, repair, and refurbishment; promote a sustainable, circular economy by extending product life and reducing waste; and expand access to digital marketplaces by lowering barriers and increasing digital inclusion for all Americans.

     

    “As a lifelong thrifter and advocate for sustainable business practices, I’m proud to partner with Rep. Malliotakis to launch the bipartisan Recommerce Caucus,” said Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove. “Recommerce is more than a trend — it’s a growing economic engine that provides consumers with affordable, high-quality goods and gives entrepreneurs, small businesses, and resellers access to trusted, thriving marketplaces. Together, we’re committed to advancing policies that support the circular economy, reduce waste, and empower buyers and sellers nationwide. ”

     

    The Recommerce Caucus is endorsed by a growing coalition of leading platforms and advocates, including eBay, Etsy, Mercari, OfferUp, Pinterest, Poshmark, Red Bubble, and the PASS Coalition.

     

    Read the Wall Street Journal’s Exclusive on the launch of the Recommerce Caucus HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Malliotakis Leads Push to Eliminate Burdensome IRS Paperwork for Online Sellers

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

    (WASHINGTON, D.C.) – This week, Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11) renewed her call to eliminate the burdensome paperwork for online sellers earning at least $600. As a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, she is actively working to cut red tape and protect casual sellers from unnecessary and excessive reporting requirements by raising the threshold to $20,000 for those completing a minimum of 200 transactions.

     

    “I will continue working to cut red tape from burdensome 1099-K reporting requirements so they can stop wasting time on unnecessary paperwork and instead use their energy to create new opportunities for their small businesses,” said Rep. Nicole Malliotakis. “As more Americans turn to resold, refurbished, and repaired items, I applaud the efforts of leading industry platforms to create trusted spaces for buying and selling in the growing secondhand economy, but despite this progress, casual sellers continue to face increasing bureaucratic hurdles under the current 1099-K threshold making it urgent for Congress to take action.”

     

    Malliotakis was recently joined at the Capitol by Vivian Vassar, a Staten Island small business owner and founder of “Hey Viv,” an online retro clothing store that’s been in business for over 35 years. The two advocated for this change to the Biden-era policy and attended the launch of a caucus dedicated to supporting these online small businesses. 

     

    “As a Staten Island business, I’m encouraged to see the Recommerce Committee focusing on policies that support and strengthen online businesses, helping to keep US e-commerce strong and competitive,” said Vivian Vassar, Owner of Hey Viv.

     

    The growing impact of 1099-K reporting on casual sellers highlights how tax requirements are burdening the rapidly growing recommerce economy. Recommerce is the resale, repair, and refurbishment of goods is revitalizing the American commerce economy, and is projected to reach $1.04 trillion globally by 2035. In 2024, 58% of consumers purchased secondhand apparel, with 56% of those transactions occurring online. Language to increase the thresholds and number of transactions to trigger reporting was included in the House’s tax bill which Malliotakis helped craft and can become law as early as next week.

     

    As part of this effort, Rep. Malliotakis joined Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37) in launching the bipartisan Recommerce Caucus. The caucus aims to empower small sellers and entrepreneurs by advocating for policies that support income through resale, repair, and refurbishment; promote a sustainable, circular economy by extending product life and reducing waste; and expand access to digital marketplaces by lowering barriers and increasing digital inclusion for all Americans.

     

    “As a lifelong thrifter and advocate for sustainable business practices, I’m proud to partner with Rep. Malliotakis to launch the bipartisan Recommerce Caucus,” said Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove. “Recommerce is more than a trend — it’s a growing economic engine that provides consumers with affordable, high-quality goods and gives entrepreneurs, small businesses, and resellers access to trusted, thriving marketplaces. Together, we’re committed to advancing policies that support the circular economy, reduce waste, and empower buyers and sellers nationwide. ”

     

    The Recommerce Caucus is endorsed by a growing coalition of leading platforms and advocates, including eBay, Etsy, Mercari, OfferUp, Pinterest, Poshmark, Red Bubble, and the PASS Coalition.

     

    Read the Wall Street Journal’s Exclusive on the launch of the Recommerce Caucus HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Tenney Demands Answers from Governor Hochul on Sanctuary State Policies and Costs to New Yorkers

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

    Washington, DC – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today sent a letter to Governor Kathy Hochul demanding answers to critical questions she failed to address during her recent testimony before the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.

    On June 12, 2025, the Oversight Committee held a hearing examining the impact of sanctuary state policies. During the hearing, Rep. Tenney directly questioned Governor Hochul about the number of illegal aliens currently held in New York State’s prison system, the associated costs to taxpayers, and the effects of New York’s dangerous Green Light Law. Despite repeated inquiries, Governor Hochul has left these questions unanswered and failed to follow up as promised.

     “Governor Hochul continues to fail the people of New York by prioritizing illegal aliens over the safety, security, and financial well-being of law-abiding citizens. She couldn’t provide basic information about how many illegal aliens are in our prisons or the cost to New York taxpayers. She also failed to provide the total amount of taxpayer dollars spent on services for illegal aliens during her tenure as Governor. It’s time for Hochul to reverse New York’s reckless sanctuary policies that endanger our communities and drain public resources. I will continue to advocate for policies that put New Yorkers first,” said Congresswoman Tenney.

     Read the full text of the letter here.

     

     ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Tenney Demands Answers from Governor Hochul on Sanctuary State Policies and Costs to New Yorkers

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

    Washington, DC – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today sent a letter to Governor Kathy Hochul demanding answers to critical questions she failed to address during her recent testimony before the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.

    On June 12, 2025, the Oversight Committee held a hearing examining the impact of sanctuary state policies. During the hearing, Rep. Tenney directly questioned Governor Hochul about the number of illegal aliens currently held in New York State’s prison system, the associated costs to taxpayers, and the effects of New York’s dangerous Green Light Law. Despite repeated inquiries, Governor Hochul has left these questions unanswered and failed to follow up as promised.

     “Governor Hochul continues to fail the people of New York by prioritizing illegal aliens over the safety, security, and financial well-being of law-abiding citizens. She couldn’t provide basic information about how many illegal aliens are in our prisons or the cost to New York taxpayers. She also failed to provide the total amount of taxpayer dollars spent on services for illegal aliens during her tenure as Governor. It’s time for Hochul to reverse New York’s reckless sanctuary policies that endanger our communities and drain public resources. I will continue to advocate for policies that put New Yorkers first,” said Congresswoman Tenney.

     Read the full text of the letter here.

     

     ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: June 27, 2025 Rep. Mullin Announces Transportation Bills to Advance Transit Accessibility, Public Safety and Affordable Housing Washington, D.C. – To improve traffic and pedestrian safety, increase transit accessibility, and modernize transportation infrastructure, Rep. Kevin Mullin (CA-15) introduced eight bills representing his key legislative priorities for inclusion in next year’s Surface Transportation Reauthorization. Each of Rep. Mullin’s… Read More

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Kevin Mullin California (15th District)

    Washington, D.C. – To improve traffic and pedestrian safety, increase transit accessibility, and modernize transportation infrastructure, Rep. Kevin Mullin (CA-15) introduced eight bills representing his key legislative priorities for inclusion in next year’s Surface Transportation Reauthorization.

    Each of Rep. Mullin’s bills reflect a commitment to a more accessible, equitable, and sustainable transportation future. The multi-year omnibus Surface Transportation bill is up for reauthorization in 2026, and outlines federal highway, roadway safety, transit, and rail programs.

    “Congress has a responsibility to advance common-sense policies that would improve safety, boost sustainability, and make public transit work better for everyone,” Rep. Mullin said. “Communities across America benefit from federal investments in transportation systems and I’m proud to submit these proposals that reflect real-world transit and infrastructure needs.”

    In addition to these bills, Rep. Mullin asked the Transportation & Infrastructure Committee, which will ultimately finalize the Surface Transportation bill, to maintain key funding programs that support SamTrans, SFMTA, Caltrain, BART, and San Francisco Bay Ferry. He’s also advocating to maintain support for highway and pedestrian safety improvement programs.

    Rep. Mullin’s Surface Transportation bills:

    Empty Lots to Housing Act

    This bipartisan bill would give the Federal Highway Administration the authority to allow state and local governments to repurpose underutilized land acquired with federal highway funds for transit-oriented affordable housing. It would help unlock urgently needed housing supply near public transit without requiring any new federal spending.

    Driver Technology and Pedestrian Safety Act

    This legislation directs the Department of Transportation to study how emerging driver technologies, such as in-vehicle touchscreens and interface design, are impacting pedestrian safety. With pedestrian injuries and fatalities at record highs, the bill responds to the need for better data and understanding of the evolving driving environment.

    SAFE Cross Act

    According to the Federal Railroad Administration, there were 2,252 collisions at rail crossings in 2024. The SAFE Cross Act would require a study on the use of AI-enabled sensors to improve safety at rail crossings, building on successful local pilot projects like Caltrain’s low-cost deployment in California’s 15th District. This legislation explores a promising, cost-effective interim measure to reduce rail-related accidents, which is especially helpful for communities that aren’t yet able to complete a full grade separation.

    Forging Ahead on Rail Electrification (FARE) Act

    The recent electrification of Caltrain has led to better service, improved air quality, and higher ridership. The FARE Act seeks to promote these advancements across the country by establishing an advisory committee to identify technical, regulatory, and economic barriers to railroad electrification. Building on a recent Department of Energy report, this bill promotes coordination among freight railroads, utilities, and federal agencies to accelerate electrification in the rail sector.

    Battery and Regenerative Braking Act

    Regenerative braking is a virtually untapped resource in the rail sector that could recoup up to 50% of the energy used by trains. This bill would expand eligibility under the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) grant program to include commuter rail projects that use regenerative braking and energy storage projects. Harnessing this technology could cut rail energy usage, making passenger service more sustainable and efficient.

    Language Access in Transit Act

    This bill would codify requirements for public transit agencies to provide meaningful access to individuals with limited English proficiency. These protections for individuals who primarily speak a language other than English are at risk following President Trump’s Executive Order that overturned longstanding requirements to provide language access to federally-funded programs. This bill would ensure continued language access in transit programs regardless of actions the current or a future administration may take.

    Transit Captions Innovations Act

    This proposal would fund a pilot program to deploy real-time captioning and translation services for transit riders who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have limited English proficiency. It would promote the testing of AI-driven technology solutions to eliminate communication barriers that leave many riders behind during unexpected schedule or route changes.

    Rail and Highway Transmission Planning Act

    This proposal calls for a comprehensive study to evaluate the feasibility of installing high-voltage transmission lines within existing highway and rail corridors. With energy demand rising and siting new transmission infrastructure becoming increasingly difficult, this study would help modernize the power grid while maximizing land use.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Laurel Lee Introduces Bill to Help Holocaust Survivors and Families Reclaim Stolen Art

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Laurel Lee – Florida (15th District)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Laurel Lee (FL-15) introduced the Holocaust Expropriated Art Recovery (HEAR) Act Improvements of 2025, a bipartisan bill that will help Holocaust survivors and their families reclaim artwork stolen by the Nazis. The bill removes the upcoming 2026 expiration date from the original law and makes key updates to ensure that survivors’ claims are heard fairly in court.

    Congresswoman Lee is joined by Scott Fitzgerald (WI-05), Jerrod Nadler (NY-10), Maggie Goodlander (NH-2), and Jamie Raskin (MD-08). Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) is leading the companion legislation in the Senate.

    “The Nazi regime stole not only lives but legacies, including cultural and family treasures that carry deep personal and historical meaning,”said Congresswoman Lee. “This bill ensures that families who lost everything during the Holocaust are given a fair shot at justice. These claims should be decided on the truth, not on legal loopholes or paperwork deadlines. With this legislation, we reaffirm our commitment to standing with Holocaust survivors and their families. They deserve to have their stories heard and their property returned. It’s never too late to do the right thing.”

    “Justice delayed should not be justice denied, especially for Holocaust survivors and their families,” said Congressman Scott Fitzgerald. “This bill ensures they can continue seeking justice in U.S. courts, without being blocked by procedural loopholes. We have a responsibility to uphold the rule of law and stand with those still fighting to recover what was wrongfully taken during one of history’s darkest chapters.”

    “During the Holocaust, the Nazis stripped Jewish families of countless works of art, culture, and heritage. The effects of these atrocities are still being felt today by survivors and their families,” said Rep. Jerry Nadler (NY-12). “I was proud to be a lead sponsor of the HEAR Act when it passed in 2016 and am proud to help lead my colleagues in reintroducing the bill today. As a matter of principle, we affirm that in the United States, everyone who has a credible claim deserves to have their day in court. This bill realizes that principle and ensures that every family has the right to a fair and just process based solely on the merits of their claim. We cannot fix the past, but this bill is a promise to the victims of the Holocaust that the United States is committed to creating a fair judicial process for the return of property that was wrongfully stolen during the darkest period of human history.” 

    “The Nazis murdered more than 6 million Jews, including 1.5 million children under the age of 12.  Looting art and other possessions from Jewish families was an essential part of Hitler’s concerted plan to annihilate the Jewish people. To allow museums here and in Europe, and foreign governments to keep Nazi looted art perpetuates the crimes of the Nazi regime, and demeans the memory of six million Jewish souls.  We applaud Congress for making sure that families can recover their treasured legacies, and that the true history of the Nazis’ brutal campaign of murder and theft cannot be erased or trivialized by the scoundrels who refuse to return looted art,”David Schaecter, Holocaust survivor and President of the Holocaust Survivors Foundation USA. 

    “This legislation renews and strengthens the HEAR Act, which is set to expire, by closing critical loopholes and addressing key oversights. It reaffirms our commitment to ensuring that rightful owners of Nazi-looted art—and their families—receive the restitution they are owed. Any museum that knowingly retains stolen works is complicit in perpetuating the injustice inflicted on Holocaust victims. We have both a moral and legal obligation to correct these wrongs and to ensure the crimes of the Holocaust are neither forgiven nor forgotten,”Joel Greenberg, President of Art Ashes.

    “We strongly support this legislation.  Each artwork or object taken during the Holocaust is more than property – it holds the memory of a life, a family, a community culture. Restituting these items is not simply about returning possessions; it is about restoring history, identity, and a measure of justice to those who lost everything,”said Gideon Taylor, President of World Jewish Restitution Organization (WJRO).

     

    Background: 

    The original HEAR Act was passed in 2016 to provide families with a fair opportunity to recover art looted by the Nazis during World War II. It created a six-year window for legal claims, starting from the time a family discovers where their stolen art is located. The law was meant to ensure that cases are decided based on facts, not thrown out due to complicated legal deadlines. However, in recent years, some courts have dismissed these claims using time-based technical defenses, which goes against the original purpose of the law. 

    The new bill eliminates the 2026 “sunset clause,” which would have ended the protections offered by the HEAR Act. It also makes clear that as long as a family files within six years of discovering their artwork’s location, their case cannot be dismissed simply because of how much time has passed. This change is especially important as the number of living Holocaust survivors continues to decline.

    The bill also responds to a 2021 Supreme Court ruling (Federal Republic of Germany v. Philipp) that made it harder to sue foreign governments involved in looting or holding art stolen during the Holocaust. Under this legislation, families will be able to bring claims in U.S. courts as long as the foreign government or museum has ties to the United States. The bill also blocks other legal defenses that could be used to avoid facing the facts in court and allows families to sue foreign defendants if they have any significant contact with the U.S., not just in one state.

    The bill is supported by a wide range of respected organizations, including: Art Ashes, Agudath Israel of America, American Jewish Committee (AJC), Anti-Defamation League (ADL), Bet Tzedek – House of Justice, Christians United for Israel (CUFI) Action Fund, Creative Community for Peace, Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum, Florida Holocaust Museum, Holocaust Center for Humanity (Seattle), Holocaust Museum Houston, Holocaust Museum LA, Holocaust Survivors Foundation USA, Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center, Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA), Jewish Women International (JWI), Museum of Jewish Heritage – A Living Memorial to the Holocaust (New York), Nancy & David Wolf Holocaust & Humanity Center (Cincinnati), Raoul Wallenberg Centre for Human Rights, StandWithUs, The Jewish Council for Public Affairs (JCPA), Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History, World Jewish Congress, and the World Jewish Restitution Organization (WJRO).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Langworthy’s Statement on 6-3 Supreme Court Ruling Limiting Nationwide Injunctions

    Source: US Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Langworthy released the following statement:

    “Today is a monumental victory for the Constitution, for common sense, and for the American people. The Supreme Court has finally slammed the brakes on the outrageous practice of a single activist judge derailing the will of the American people by blocking federal policies nationwide.

    “This ruling is long overdue, and I’m thrilled the Court has restored balance and sanity to our judicial system. No more will one judge in one district get to act like a super-legislator for the entire country. No more judicial tyranny. This decision reins in the judicial overreach that has paralyzed our government for far too long.

    “The days of rogue judges grinding national policy to a halt from their personal chambers are over.

    “This is a huge win for the rule of law, for our separation of powers, and for any future president who wants to govern without being handcuffed by unelected ideologues in robes. Let this be a message: our republic is back in the hands of the people and their elected representatives—not the whims of a single radicalized federal judge.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Miller-Meeks Reintroduces Legislation to Protect Energy Manufacturers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks’ (IA-02)

    Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks has reintroduced the Limiting Liability for Critical Infrastructure Manufacturers Act, legislation to protect American energy manufacturers from wildfire-related lawsuits that threaten the reliability of our power grid and the strength of our domestic supply chain. Representatives Thomas Tiffany (WI-07) and Robert Latta (OH-05) joined her in introducing the legislation.

    “No manufacturer should be driven out of business for building the components that power our homes, hospitals, and national defense,” said Miller-Meeks. “This bill protects the men and women who make the grid work, from transformers to transmission lines, and ensures they’re not punished for natural disasters beyond their control. It strengthens domestic manufacturing, secures our energy future, and sends a clear message: America will not let baseless lawsuits cripple the industries that keep this country running.”

    Background:

    As wildfires grow more severe, energy infrastructure manufacturers, who build essential components like transformers, switchgear, and high-voltage lines, face mounting legal risk, even when they follow all safety protocols. Without protection, these companies could shut down or move production overseas, weakening America’s grid and driving up energy costs.

    The Limiting Liability for Critical Infrastructure Manufacturers Act shields manufacturers from wildfire-related lawsuits unless there is clear evidence of willful misconduct. It applies to companies in the “critical manufacturing sector” as defined by federal cybersecurity law and references the definition of critical infrastructure established under the USA PATRIOT Act.

    The legislation was first introduced in the 118th Congress as H.R. 9608.

    Industry Support:

    “The United States is making significant progress to reshore manufacturing of critical grid components that will ensure a safe, reliable, and resilient supply of electricity for our homes, businesses, and industries. However, frivolous lawsuits stemming from the increased threat of wildfires could disrupt this vital domestic supply chain,” said Wes Smith, President and CEO of NAED. “The Limiting Liability for Critical Infrastructure Manufacturers Act will help sustain this momentum by providing U.S. manufacturers with greater certainty and protection from these claims.NAED is grateful for the leadership of Representatives Mariannette Miller‑Meeks, Thomas Tiffany, and Robert Latta in introducing this important legislation, and we are happy to support their efforts to secure our nation’s critical infrastructure”

    “The increasing frequency and severity of wildfires not only impact our nation’s power grid—they also pose legal challenges for manufacturers of critical grid components,” said Spencer Pederson, Senior Vice President, Public Affairs, NEMA. “This legislation will provide much-needed liability protection from frivolous claims, greater risk management, and increased business certainty to American manufacturers that produce switchgears, transmission and distribution wires, transformers, and other critical grid infrastructure that is vital to providing on-demand energy to customers. NEMA thanks Reps. Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA), Thomas Tiffany (R-WI), and Robert Latta (R-OH) for their leadership and is proud to support this legislation at a time when the electrical industry most needs business certainty.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Auchincloss questions Kennedy on the corruption of Trump Administration healthcare officials

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Jake Auchincloss (Massachusetts, 4)

    June 24, 2025

    Washington, D.C. — Today, Congressman Jake Auchincloss (D-MA) questioned Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. about conflicts of interest stemming from the Trump Administration’s use of special government employees who still run and own their own health care companies. Earlier this month, Auchincloss sent letters calling on the boards of health companies True Medicine (TrueMed) and Main Street Health to provide information about conflicts of interest regarding their founders’ roles as special government employees overseeing health policy for the Trump administration: Calley Means of TrueMed, and Brad Smith of Main Street Health.

    Mr. Means currently serves as a White House Advisor and as a Special Government Employee detailed to Secretary Kennedy. As a leading policy-maker behind the Trump Administration’s “Make America Healthy Again” (MAHA) initiative, Mr. Means has significant influence in both regulation and legislation. Mr. Means’ TrueMed creates partnerships with businesses to sell health and wellness products, many of which are not FDA-regulated. TrueMed offers “letters of medical necessity” (LMNs) that enable patients to use pre-tax dollars from their Health Savings Accounts (HSA) to purchase these products. The Executive Order establishing the MAHA commission ordered health agencies to promote this application of HSAs, ultimately suggesting increased revenue for companies like TrueMed. The ‘One Big, Beautiful Bill’ also promotes the use of HSAs. 

    Mr. Smith served as the head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) until his reported departure on May 29, 2025. In this position, Mr. Smith was reportedly the primary official responsible for planning and implementing the major reduction-in-force (RIF) at HHS. Mr. Smith’s Main Street Health’s biggest investors are regulated by or transact with the Center for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS), including the largest Medicare Advantage Organizations (MAOs): UnitedHealthcare, Centene, CVS Health Ventures, Elevance, and Humana. These MAOs benefited from the Administration’s reduction in oversight and increase in reimbursement, as well as from Mr. Smith’s ability to win favor with CMS by protecting personnel from RIFs. 

    As Special Government Employees, neither Mr. Means nor Mr. Smith were required to recuse themselves from their private business interests or obtain ethics waivers. Please find below portions of Auchincloss’ questioning of Secretary Kennedy: 

    Auchincloss: Good afternoon, Secretary. You’ve emphasized throughout your career concerns about corruption and conflicts of interest in health care, yes? 

    Secretary Kennedy: About corruption and health care? 

    Rep. Auchincloss: Yes.

    Secretary Kennedy. Yeah. 

    Rep. Auchincloss: And you’ve pledged during your confirmation hearing and then again today, quote. Radical transparency, yes? 

    Secretary Kennedy. Yes.

    Rep. Auchincloss: And you explained to my colleague from New York that you divested yourself, yes?

    Secretary Kennedy. Yes. 

    Rep. Auchincloss:: And you fired the 17 members of ACIP because you think they have conflicts of interest? 

    Secretary Kennedy: Yes. 

    Rep. Auchincloss:: And do you think that everybody within Health and Human Services at a senior level should hold themselves to a standard of radical transparency and divestment? 

    Secretary Kennedy: Well, I’m going to hold them to that standard but–

    Rep. Auchincloss: So not everybody should hold themselves to a standard…?

    Secretary Kennedy. Well, everybody, and OGE makes them all divest. 

    “Rep. Auchincloss:: So, everybody should divest and everybody should be radically transparent–who works for you? 

    Secretary Kennedy: Yes. 

    Rep. Auchincloss: Yes. And, does that include people who have involvement in Health and Human Services policymaking, even if they’re not in your department, would you want them to be radically transparent as well? 

    Secretary Kennedy: I don’t have any control over anybody except those in my department.

    Rep Auchincloss: Well, I think you do. Let’s talk, though, about how radically transparent you have been to date, because I want to ensure for the American public that they’re getting what you pledged. Mr. Calley Means is a Special Government Employee. He’s also a White House adviser, you know him well, he actually introduced you to Donald Trump. And he’s the founder and the owner of TrueMed.

    Now, TrueMed is a company that sells saunas and supplements, and maybe medical devices that you describe, to people using pre-tax dollars. And he has described his mission as routing federal funds away from health insurance programs towards these Health Savings Accounts. 

    Now, Mr. Means has tremendous influence over Medicare and Medicaid. Based on the executive order on Making America Healthy Again and the One Big Beautiful Bill, which both call for the expansion of HSA usage for these wellness and supplement products – so that’s a direct revenue stream for his company while he’s working in the government.”

    Please find the full video of Rep. Auchincloss’ exchange with Secretary Kennedy on Mr. Smith and Mr. Means here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Auchincloss questions Kennedy on the corruption of Trump Administration healthcare officials

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Jake Auchincloss (Massachusetts, 4)

    June 24, 2025

    Washington, D.C. — Today, Congressman Jake Auchincloss (D-MA) questioned Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. about conflicts of interest stemming from the Trump Administration’s use of special government employees who still run and own their own health care companies. Earlier this month, Auchincloss sent letters calling on the boards of health companies True Medicine (TrueMed) and Main Street Health to provide information about conflicts of interest regarding their founders’ roles as special government employees overseeing health policy for the Trump administration: Calley Means of TrueMed, and Brad Smith of Main Street Health.

    Mr. Means currently serves as a White House Advisor and as a Special Government Employee detailed to Secretary Kennedy. As a leading policy-maker behind the Trump Administration’s “Make America Healthy Again” (MAHA) initiative, Mr. Means has significant influence in both regulation and legislation. Mr. Means’ TrueMed creates partnerships with businesses to sell health and wellness products, many of which are not FDA-regulated. TrueMed offers “letters of medical necessity” (LMNs) that enable patients to use pre-tax dollars from their Health Savings Accounts (HSA) to purchase these products. The Executive Order establishing the MAHA commission ordered health agencies to promote this application of HSAs, ultimately suggesting increased revenue for companies like TrueMed. The ‘One Big, Beautiful Bill’ also promotes the use of HSAs. 

    Mr. Smith served as the head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) until his reported departure on May 29, 2025. In this position, Mr. Smith was reportedly the primary official responsible for planning and implementing the major reduction-in-force (RIF) at HHS. Mr. Smith’s Main Street Health’s biggest investors are regulated by or transact with the Center for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS), including the largest Medicare Advantage Organizations (MAOs): UnitedHealthcare, Centene, CVS Health Ventures, Elevance, and Humana. These MAOs benefited from the Administration’s reduction in oversight and increase in reimbursement, as well as from Mr. Smith’s ability to win favor with CMS by protecting personnel from RIFs. 

    As Special Government Employees, neither Mr. Means nor Mr. Smith were required to recuse themselves from their private business interests or obtain ethics waivers. Please find below portions of Auchincloss’ questioning of Secretary Kennedy: 

    Auchincloss: Good afternoon, Secretary. You’ve emphasized throughout your career concerns about corruption and conflicts of interest in health care, yes? 

    Secretary Kennedy: About corruption and health care? 

    Rep. Auchincloss: Yes.

    Secretary Kennedy. Yeah. 

    Rep. Auchincloss: And you’ve pledged during your confirmation hearing and then again today, quote. Radical transparency, yes? 

    Secretary Kennedy. Yes.

    Rep. Auchincloss: And you explained to my colleague from New York that you divested yourself, yes?

    Secretary Kennedy. Yes. 

    Rep. Auchincloss:: And you fired the 17 members of ACIP because you think they have conflicts of interest? 

    Secretary Kennedy: Yes. 

    Rep. Auchincloss:: And do you think that everybody within Health and Human Services at a senior level should hold themselves to a standard of radical transparency and divestment? 

    Secretary Kennedy: Well, I’m going to hold them to that standard but–

    Rep. Auchincloss: So not everybody should hold themselves to a standard…?

    Secretary Kennedy. Well, everybody, and OGE makes them all divest. 

    “Rep. Auchincloss:: So, everybody should divest and everybody should be radically transparent–who works for you? 

    Secretary Kennedy: Yes. 

    Rep. Auchincloss: Yes. And, does that include people who have involvement in Health and Human Services policymaking, even if they’re not in your department, would you want them to be radically transparent as well? 

    Secretary Kennedy: I don’t have any control over anybody except those in my department.

    Rep Auchincloss: Well, I think you do. Let’s talk, though, about how radically transparent you have been to date, because I want to ensure for the American public that they’re getting what you pledged. Mr. Calley Means is a Special Government Employee. He’s also a White House adviser, you know him well, he actually introduced you to Donald Trump. And he’s the founder and the owner of TrueMed.

    Now, TrueMed is a company that sells saunas and supplements, and maybe medical devices that you describe, to people using pre-tax dollars. And he has described his mission as routing federal funds away from health insurance programs towards these Health Savings Accounts. 

    Now, Mr. Means has tremendous influence over Medicare and Medicaid. Based on the executive order on Making America Healthy Again and the One Big Beautiful Bill, which both call for the expansion of HSA usage for these wellness and supplement products – so that’s a direct revenue stream for his company while he’s working in the government.”

    Please find the full video of Rep. Auchincloss’ exchange with Secretary Kennedy on Mr. Smith and Mr. Means here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Strong Leads Alabama Delegation in Celebrating Marshall Space Flight Center 65th Anniversary

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

    WASHINGTON – Today, Representative Dale Strong, with the support of Alabama’s entire Congressional delegation, led a resolution commemorating the 65th anniversary of the Marshall Space Flight Center and reaffirming continued support for the Center’s mission, programs, and workforce.  

    “Marshall Space Flight Center is a pillar of North Alabama, and the road to space runs straight through the Rocket City,” said Rep. Dale Strong (AL-05). “From the Apollo missions to the Shuttle program, and now to the Space Launch System and everything in between, the United States’ leadership in space cannot happen without Marshall Space Flight Center.” 

    On July 1, 1960, nearly 4,000 employees from the Army Ballistic Missile Agency at Redstone Arsenal swapped their Army badges for NASA credentials, joining the space race to beat the Soviet Union to the moon. At the same time, Redstone transferred roughly 1,900 acres to NASA, and the Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) was born.  

    Since then, MSFC has led the development of every NASA rocket designed to carry humans into space and continues to lead efforts to return Americans to the Moon. The center has played a pioneering role in propulsion systems and hardware development, space and materials science research, advanced manufacturing, and life support systems, advancing nearly every aspect of space exploration. 

    “For 65 years, the Marshall Space Flight Center has led the way in American space innovation — from launching Saturn V to powering Artemis and beyond. We’re proud to call Huntsville, Alabama our home, and we’re deeply grateful to Congressman Strong and our entire congressional delegation for their steadfast support. Together, we are making history, driving American excellence, and reaching for the stars — and we’re just getting started,” said Marshall Space Flight Center Director Joseph Pelfrey.  

    “I’m proud to join my Alabama colleagues in recognizing the 65th anniversary of the Marshall Space Flight Center. For over six decades, the Marshall Space Flight Center has propelled America’s leadership in space,” said Rep. Barry Moore (AL-01). “From putting a man on the Moon to pioneering the next chapter of deep space exploration through the Space Launch System and the Artemis program, the Marshall Space Flight Center continues to embody the best of American ingenuity and innovation. The men and women at Marshall represent the kind of commitment and excellence that make our state and nation great, and I’m proud to join this resolution recognizing them for their help in advancing the future of human spaceflight.” 

    “Marshall Space Flight Center represents the very best of American innovation and engineering. It also stands as a powerful example of the contributions Alabama makes to our nation and the world,” said Rep. Shomari C. Figures (AL-02). “I am proud to join Rep. Strong and my colleagues in the delegation in honoring the legacy of this institution and the extraordinary men and women whose work continues to shape the future of space exploration.”  

    “I was proud to join my colleagues and all Alabamians in celebrating the Marshall Space Flight Center’s 65th anniversary,” said Rep. Mike Rogers (AL-03). “The Marshall Space Flight Center has played a pivotal role in establishing Alabama as a cornerstone of space innovation. In its 65 years, this center has played key roles in the Apollo Program, the Hubble Space Telescope, the International Space Station, and the Artemis program, among many others. As Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee and a proud Alabamian, I cannot express how much this center has contributed to this country and this state.” 

    “For 65 years, the Marshall Space Flight Center has stood as a symbol of American ingenuity, exploration, and innovation. From the earliest days of the space race to today’s cutting-edge advancements, this center has played a vital role in our nation’s space story,” said Rep. Robert Aderholt (AL-04). “It continues to inspire future explorers and stands as a testament to what America can achieve when we reach for the stars.” 

    “For 65 years, the Marshall Space Flight Center has played a pivotal role in U.S. space flight research and innovation. From developing the Saturn V rocket, leading the Skylab project, supporting the International Space Station, the Hubble Space Telescope, and spearheading development of the Space Launch System and NASA’s most powerful rocket since Saturn V, the Marshall Space Flight Center has made itself indispensable and placed Alabama on the map as a headquarters for space exploration,” said Rep. Gary Palmer (AL-06). “Congratulations to the engineers, scientists, technicians, and support staff who have made the Marshall Space Flight Center what it is today. I look forward to seeing how the center continues to advance NASA’s mission. Thank you to Representative Strong for his leadership on this resolution.” 

    “The Marshall Space Flight Center has been at the core of American aeronautics and space exploration for the past 65 years,” said Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07). “MSFC continues to be a point of pride for our state from the creation of the Apollo program to today’s low-orbit technology impacting every American’s daily life.” 

    “From helping put the first man on the moon to the Artemis I mission, Huntsville’s Marshall Space Flight Center has led the way in space exploration for the last 65 years. This is because of the talented scientists, technicians, and support staff who’ve poured their heart and soul into earning Huntsville the title of “Rocket City,” said Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL). “I’m tremendously proud to represent a state that’s home to this world-renowned facility, and I look forward to seeing MSFC continue to lead the way in space exploration as we look to Artemis II and beyond.”  

    “I couldn’t be prouder to recognize the 65th anniversary of Marshall Space Flight Center along with our entire Alabama delegation. The U.S. space program is vitally important, and Alabama and MSFC continue to play an integral role in redefining the boundaries of human imagination and the heights of human achievement,” said Senator Katie Britt (R-AL).  “As the incredible men and women at MSFC continue to make historic leaps that fuel a new age of American excellence in space exploration, I will continue to ensure that this groundbreaking work is supported now and long into the future.” 

    The bipartisan, bicameral resolution was led in the Senate by Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL). 

    MIL OSI USA News –