NewzIntel.com

Category: United States House of Representatives

  • MIL-OSI USA: June 12, 2025 Bay Area Congressional Delegation statement on CBP Activities at SFO Reps. Kevin Mullin (CA-15), Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi (CA-11), Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Lateefah Simon (CA-12), Mike Thomspon (CA-04), John Garamendi (CA-08), Jared Huffman (CA-02), Eric Swalwell (CA-14), Sam Liccardo (CA-16), and Ro Khanna (CA-17), issued the following joint statement in… Read More

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

    Reps. Kevin Mullin (CA-15), Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi (CA-11), Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Lateefah Simon (CA-12), Mike Thomspon (CA-04), John Garamendi (CA-08), Jared Huffman (CA-02), Eric Swalwell (CA-14), Sam Liccardo (CA-16), and Ro Khanna (CA-17), issued the following joint statement in response to Customs and Border Protection inexplicably detaining travelers at San Francisco International Airport (SFO).

    “The Trump Administration’s approach to immigration has been utterly chaotic, inhumane, and disruptive to communities across the nation. Last night’s detainment of two Palestinian travelers who flew into SFO with valid visas is yet another example of Trump’s needlessly cruel actions. These visitors arrived here at the invitation of Bay Area interfaith community leaders. They traveled all the way from the West Bank to share their stories and work toward peace.  

    We call upon Customs and Border Protection to immediately respond to Congressional inquiries and provide the justification behind these individuals’ continued detainment and threatened deportation scheduled for later this afternoon. By inexplicably revoking visas, Trump’s CBP is discrediting America’s reputation abroad and breeding further distrust of our immigration system.”  

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: June 12, 2025 Rep. Mullin’s Statement on the Rescissions Act of 2025 Today, House Republicans voted to rip away $9.4 billion in vital federal investments—slashing support for public broadcasting, gutting life-saving global AIDS prevention, and abandoning our commitments to international partners. At a time when families are struggling with the cost of… Read More

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

    Today, House Republicans voted to rip away $9.4 billion in vital federal investments—slashing support for public broadcasting, gutting life-saving global AIDS prevention, and abandoning our commitments to international partners. At a time when families are struggling with the cost of living, House Republicans chose to go after Sesame Street instead of solving real problems.

    Let’s be clear: this isn’t about fiscal responsibility. This is about pushing a deeply unpopular, ideologically extreme agenda. From dismantling the bipartisan President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief—a program that has saved millions of lives—to defunding local PBS and rural radio stations that keep Americans safe and informed, this package is cruel and short-sighted.

    President Trump and his Republican allies continue to target the very programs that support our national security, public health, and democratic values. Rather than standing up for working families, they are codifying the chaos unleashed by an unelected billionaire. These cuts make America more vulnerable, more isolated, and less informed.

    House Republicans have once again chosen political stunts over serious leadership. I will keep fighting back against these attacks and stay focused on delivering for the American people—lowering costs, protecting critical services, and standing up for facts, science, and compassion.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luttrell reintroduces the Veterans Claims Quality Improvement Act

    Source:

    Congressman Morgan Luttrell (R-TX), Chairman of the Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs (DAMA) Subcommittee on the House Veterans Affairs Committee, reintroduced the Veterans Claims Quality Improvement Act.

    “I am proud to reintroduce the Veterans Claims Quality Improvement Act. This legislation ensures that veterans and their families receive the support they have earned and holds the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) accountable by ensuring veterans receive fair and accurate decisions on their benefit claims, “ said Congressman Luttrell. “It is crucial our veterans get the help they deserve, and I will continue to fight for those who served our nation in Congress.

    Background
     This bill would: 

    • Require the VA to create systems that help claims processors learn from their avoidable deferrals.
    • Require the Veterans Board of Appeals to learn from these mistakes through their training programs.
    • Authorize annual performance evaluations for Board judges.
    • Require the VA to develop a plan to decrease unnecessary remands.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Lawler and Riley Introduce Bipartisan Leaps Act to Help Farmers Cut Costs, Conserve Water, and Reduce Emissions

    Source: US Congressman Mike Lawler (R, NY-17)

    Washington, D.C. – 6/12/25… Today, Reps. Mike Lawler (NY-17) and Josh Riley (NY-19)  introduced the Leveraging Efficiency Awareness for Pumping Systems (LEAPS) Act, a commonsense, bipartisan bill to help farmers, ranchers, and aquaculture producers save money on energy costs, conserve water, and reduce carbon emissions by modernizing irrigation and water management systems.

    The legislation directs the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to provide clear, accessible information and tools to farmers on the benefits of upgrading to energy-efficient pumping systems. These systems are essential to agricultural irrigation, livestock watering, aquaculture, and waste management operations across the country.

    The LEAPS Act requires USDA to:

    • Publish user-friendly educational materials on cost and energy savings, water conservation, and emissions reductions achievable through energy-efficient pumping systems.
    • Develop an online pre-assessment tool to help farmers estimate potential energy and cost savings from upgrades.
    • Provide targeted training for USDA energy auditors on pumping system efficiency.
    • Expand USDA’s Conservation Stewardship Program to explicitly include energy-efficient pumping systems.

    According to the bill’s findings, over 600,000 irrigation pumping systems are currently in use across the United States, many of which still rely on outdated and inefficient equipment. Upgrading these systems could save farmers over $1.8 billion annually in energy costs and eliminate more than 8 million metric tons of carbon emissions each year.

    “In today’s economy, farmers are already grappling with rising input costs and increasing weather challenges,” said Congressman Lawler. “This is about using smarter tools to support the people who feed our country. By equipping farmers with the right resources, we can boost productivity, cut waste, and strengthen rural economies—all while protecting our environment.”

    “Farmers know it when their systems are outdated, but figuring out what to upgrade, how much it costs, and where to start is harder than it should be,” said Congressman Riley. “This bill gives farmers the tools they need to make smart decisions—and when they upgrade, it creates work for manufacturers right here in Upstate New York. It’s a win for our farmers, our factories, and anyone who wants Washington to actually get something done.”

    Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York’s 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

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    Full text of the bill can be found HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Letlow Supports Cuts to Federal Spending

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Julia Letlow (LA-05)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. –  Congresswoman Julia Letlow released the following statement on her vote in favor of cutting $9.4 billion in federal spending, implementing certain cuts identified by President Trump.

    “Americans are rightly concerned with how their hard-earned tax dollars are being spent. Just like every Louisiana family has to do, Congress must confront rising debt by cutting back on spending we can’t afford. As an appropriator, I will always fight for Louisiana’s priorities and for a more efficient federal government. Tightening our belt will save taxpayer money and better serve the people I represent.”

                                                         

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Secretary Pete Hegseth: “What’s an AST?”

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

    Vasquez Exposes Secretary Hegseth’s Shocking Ignorance on Border Issues in House Armed Services Hearing

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – During a House Armed Services Committee hearing today, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) confronted Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth for his blatant lack of knowledge about the U.S.-Mexico border, despite the Department of Defense’s growing involvement and massive spending in the region.

    WATCH: VASQUEZ PRESSES SECRETARY HEGSETH IN HOUSE ARMED SERVICES COMMITTEE

    Vasquez’s district includes 180 miles of the U.S.-Mexico border, a fact that Hegseth was unaware of. It also includes some of the country’s most remote, rugged borderlands, and Vasquez pressed Hegseth on basic geography, local conditions, and defense department spending. The result was clear: the Secretary of Defense is dangerously unprepared for the role he’s been entrusted with.

    “Pete Hegseth couldn’t name how many miles of border exist in New Mexico. He couldn’t point to where the wall starts or ends. He couldn’t say whether there are roads in critical terrain. And he had no meaningful answer when I asked about surveillance technologies despite their clear value as modern, cost-effective alternatives to a border wall,” said Vasquez. “This is not just concerning—it’s disqualifying. The military doesn’t belong on our border.”

    Vasquez repeatedly highlighted the disconnect between the Department of Defense’s policies and the realities of life on the border, challenging Hegseth’s cookie-cutter rhetoric and false claims about the effectiveness of the administration’s strategy.

    “I have serious concerns with your fundamental lack of knowledge about the U.S.-Mexico border, considering the billions of dollars that DOD is slated to spend on this mission,” said Vasquez. “I would encourage you to do some homework on my region and learn what will actually make our border more secure and safer.”

    Hegseth had no response when asked about the Bootheel, a highly remote and strategically significant stretch of southern New Mexico. When pressed on terrain features like the Animas Mountains or local infrastructure, he dodged. When confronted with data showing the DOD diverted over $1 billion from troop housing and modernization to border deployments, he deflected.

    Hegseth notably admitted that a border wall is not always the most effective border security tool despite the administration’s stance on the issue, “I’m aware that there are places where walls are not as much as effective as other places, and I get that.”

    Vasquez continues to advocate for modern surveillance infrastructure, expanded port-of-entry capacity, and smarter, humane approaches to immigration. He has introduced bipartisan legislation to realign border security investments with what works on the ground, not what plays best on cable news.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Moran, House Republicans Codify $9.4 Billion in DOGE Spending Cuts

    Source: Congressman Nathaniel Moran (R-TX-01)

    Congressman Nathaniel Moran (R-TX-01) released the following statement after House Republicans voted to pass $9.4 billion in spending cuts targeting waste, fraud, and abuse identified by President Trump and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE):

    Washington, D.C. — Congressman Nathaniel Moran (R-TX-01) released the following statement after House Republicans voted to pass $9.4 billion in spending cuts targeting waste, fraud, and abuse identified by President Trump and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE):

    “As a fiscal conservative and budget hawk, I believe Congress must prioritize rooting out radical and reckless spending, and use those savings to reduce our national debt,” said Congressman Moran. “By passing this rescissions package, we can cut government spending without harming active programs or services. This is a strong step forward in restoring fiscal responsibility and complements our broader efforts through the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. But this must only be the beginning—Congress must continue identifying and eliminating wasteful spending wherever it exists.”

    Background:

    Rescission packages allow the President and Congress to eliminate unnecessary federal spending. Under the Congressional Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974, rescissions must be initiated by the White House and apply only to funds previously appropriated. The White House officially sends a request to Congress which has the opportunity to approve, disapprove, or amend the request. Once passed by the House, the measure becomes privileged in the Senate—allowing it to bypass the 60-vote threshold and pass with a simple majority. The Rescissions Act of 2025 fulfills President Trump’s request to cut $9.4 billion in unobligated spending, targeting wasteful programs and bloated accounts while preserving essential services for the American people.

    Yet every single Democrat in the House voted against it, choosing to protect wasteful spending on drag queen programming for children and films celebrating child gender transitions, rather than stand up for American taxpayers.

    The package passed the House on a vote of 214–212 and now moves to the Senate for consideration.

    Examples of waste, fraud, and abuse eliminated in the package include:

    • PBS-produced documentary arguing the case for reparations.
    • PBS-aired children’s program featuring drag queens.
    • PBS-produced film celebrating the sex change of a child.
    • NPR feature on “queer animals.”
    • NPR coverage arguing that “fat-phobia” is racist.
    • NPR piece lamenting that animals require pronouns.

    Questionable foreign aid and international programs:

    • $158 million from the UN Peacekeeping Mission.
    • $83 million from the UN Development Program.
    • $33 million from the UN Population Fund.
    • $8 million for the UN Human Rights Council.
    • $3 million for Iraqi Sesame Street.
    • $6 million for “Net Zero Cities” in Mexico.
    • $6 million to support media organizations and civic life of Palestinians.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Tenney Leads Legislation Reaffirming Her Commitment to Protecting Social Security

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

    Washington, DC – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today reintroduced the Social Security Protection Act, reaffirming her unwavering commitment to safeguarding Social Security for current beneficiaries and future generations.

    Additional cosponsors of this legislation include Representatives Rob Wittman (VA-01), Mike Flood (NE-01), Juan Ciscomani (AZ-06), Mike Kelly (PA-16), Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11), Clay Higgins (LA-03), and Abraham Hamadeh (AZ-08). 

    This resolution underscores the importance of maintaining the integrity of Social Security, a vital program that millions of Americans rely on for their retirement and financial security. As a member of the Ways and Means Committee, Congresswoman Tenney is dedicated to ensuring that Social Security remains a stable and reliable program for those who have contributed to it throughout their working lives.

     “Social Security is a lifeline for many hardworking families and seniors in New York’s 24th District. By reintroducing this legislation today, it highlights my advocacy and continued focus on safeguarding, preserving, and strengthening Social Security benefits for our seniors, retirees, and future generations. I am committed to protecting this program and ensuring it remains a dependable source of income for those who have earned it,” said Congresswoman Tenney.  

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Tenney Stands with President Trump to Defund NPR, PBS, and Wasteful Foreign Aid

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

    Washington, DC – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today voted in favor of H.R. 4, the Rescissions Act of 2025, which will eliminate $9.4 billion in wasteful foreign aid spending and funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, which finances NPR and PBS.

    This legislation passed the House by a vote of 214-212. 

    “H.R. 4, the Rescissions Act, is a bold step toward restoring fiscal sanity in Washington. By slashing billions in wasteful and woke spending, including $1.1 billion for left-wing propaganda outlets like NPR and PBS, $3 million for Iraqi Sesame Street, and $6 million for so-called ‘Net Zero Cities’ in Mexico, we are cutting waste, fraud, and abuse to build a more efficient federal government. With our national debt soaring to nearly $37 trillion, we must get our fiscal house in order and ensure taxpayer dollars are spent in the best interest of the American people, not foreign pet projects or left-wing activism. By passing this legislation, House Republicans are delivering on President Trump’s America First mandate and returning hard-earned taxpayer dollars back to the American people,” said Congresswoman Tenney.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Van Orden Votes to Codify Federal Spending Cuts, Save Billions in Taxpayer Dollars

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Derrick Van Orden (Wisconsin 3rd)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Derrick Van Orden (WI-03) voted to pass H.R. 4 – the Rescissions Act of 2025. This bill codifies a rescissions request from the White House to eliminate $9.4 billion in unobligated, wasteful federal spending. Following his vote, Rep. Van Orden stated:

    “There is not a single scenario in the world where using Americans’ hard earned tax dollars to fund radical, left-wing social programs in other countries makes sense. Passage of today’s rescissions package is a prime example of what it means to cut waste, fraud, and abuse in the federal government’s spending. The people I represent in Wisconsin’s Third District work too hard to have their money thrown away, and President Trump and I are both working to make sure it is not.”

    Examples of past spending that resulted in the rescissions include:

    • $35 million to address ‘vasectomy messaging frameworks’ and ‘gender dynamics’ in Ethiopia
    • $6 million for “Net Zero Cities” in Mexico
    • $4 million for “sedentary migrants” in Colombia
    • $3 million for Iraqi Sesame Street
    • $3 million for circumcision, vasectomies, and condoms in Zambia
    • $800,000 for “transgender people, sex workers, and their clients and sexual networks” in Nepal

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DMV Lawmakers Call on Department of Transportation, Army To Investigate Deadly January 29th Plane Crash

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (Virginia 4th District)

    Lawmakers urge DOT and Army Inspectors General to investigate actions leading up to and after the tragic crash

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (D-VA-04) joined U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), and Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD) and U.S. Reps. Don Beyer (D-VA-08), Sarah Elfreth (D-MD-03), Glenn Ivey (D-MD-04), Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA-10), and Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) to write to the Inspectors General (IGs) of the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and the U.S. Army pushing for respective investigations into Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Army policies and procedures that may have contributed to the January 29, 2025 mid-air collision at Ronald Reagan National Airport that took 67 lives.

    In their letters the lawmakers highlighted the need for a deeper investigation into potential organizational failures that may have contributed to the tragedy.
     
    To the Department of Transportation, the lawmakers wrote, “Any lapses in internal accountability, interagency coordination, and safety oversight must be uncovered and addressed swiftly for the families of those lost that day, for the safety of the flying public and residents of the National Capital Region, and for the integrity of the National Airspace System.”

    In their letter to the DOT, the lawmakers requested an investigation into:

    1. FAA training and operations in the National Capital Region;
    2. The concurrent use of helicopter routes and runways at DCA;
    3. Pre-January 29, 2025 safety incidents at DCA between airplanes and helicopters, and FAA risk pattern identification, escalation and sufficiency of policy responses;
    4. Post-January 29, 2025 safety incidents at DCA between airplanes and helicopters, and FAA risk identification, escalation, and sufficiency of responses to those incidents and the January 29 crash;
    5. FAA Air Traffic Controller staffing, training, and real-time responses at DCA, including on January 29; and
    6. U.S. Army, federal law enforcement, and FAA interagency communication, including effectiveness of established working groups, and FAA follow-through.

    To the U.S. Army, they wrote, “While the National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the immediate actual and proximate causes of the January 29, 2025 DCA aviation incident, the Department of the Army Inspector General has the authority to uncover the deeper institutional failures that enabled this tragedy. Emerging evidence points to longstanding lapses in internal accountability, safety oversight, safety culture, and interagency coordination.”

    Additionally, the lawmakers requested that the Army investigate the following:

    1. TAAB training activities and operations in the National Capital Region, including whether training standards, operational planning decisions, risk identification, or compliance with routes or equipment contributed to operational risk;
    2. Army and TAAB policy and practice on aircraft collision-avoidance systems, including the rationale for and coordination around the August 2024 ADS-B Out directive, and whether longstanding near-miss patterns were adequately identified, escalated, and addressed;
    3. Army, federal law enforcement, and Federal Aviation Administration interagency communication; and
    4. Army actions taken in response to the January 29, 2025 crash, including any policy changes, coordination efforts, transparency with oversight bodies, and measures to prevent further incidents.
       
      Sens. Warner and Kaine have been closely involved with the in the investigation of the January 29th collision, meeting with first responders and offering condolences to the families and loved ones of the 67 lives lost immediately following the tragedy. Last week, Sens. Warner and Kaine introduced comprehensive aviation safety legislation in response to the tragic mid-air collision. The senators also saw through passage of a legislation to remember the victims of the crash. Sens. Warner and Kaine also requested answers from FAA on its plans to protect the flying public in the wake of the January 29 collision. In March of this year, the senators responded to the preliminary National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) report on the crash. The senators have also sounded the alarm for years about the need for increased safety for the flying public, including fighting against additional flights out of DCA that contribute to overcrowding. 
       
      A copy of the letter to the DOT is available here. A copy of the letter to the Army is available here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Dan Goldman, Co-Chair of the Public Broadcasting Caucus, Statement on House Republicans Voting to Eliminate the Corporation for Public Broadcasting

    Source: US Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10)

    “As part of Donald Trump’s rescissions bill that House Republicans just rubber stamped, they voted to eliminate all federal funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, betraying their own constituents who rely on public media and educational and emergency resources provided by CPB.

    “In voting to strip all funding from independent media, Republicans have once again caved to Donald Trump’s fragile ego and authoritarian attacks on the free press and the First Amendment.

    “While Republicans can gaslight their voters by feigning outrage when objective facts shed a poor light on President Trump, local stations around the country — especially in rural America — provide communities with essential local news, emergency alerts, and children’s education that will now be eliminated.

    “I know many of my colleagues on the other side of the aisle recognize the importance of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, and it is a shame that they have once again chosen to bend the knee to President Trump rather than stand up for their constituents.

    “I hope Republican Senators can find the necessary spine to do the right thing and reject Donald Trump’s baseless assault on the First Amendment. An independent free press is the bedrock of any democracy, and it is up to every American, and every elected official, to uphold and protect it.” 

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  • MIL-OSI USA: President Trump Signs James’ Legislation Into Law Rolling Back California’s Harmful Green New Deal Mandates

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John James (Michigan 10th District)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, President Donald J. Trump signed into law legislation authored by U.S. Congressman John James (MI-10) marking a major victory for America’s trucking industry, small business owners, and working families. The Clean Truck Congressional Review Act (CRA) overturns extreme Biden-Era Green New Deal mandates that threaten to crush America’s trucking industry, kill good-paying jobs, and hike prices for America’s families.

    Rep. James’ Clean Truck CRA strikes down the Environmental Protection Agency’s heavy-handed emissions rule that would have added up to $42,000 to the cost of a single diesel truck — a price tag that would have bankrupted independent truckers and driven mom-and-pop businesses off the road. The settling of the Advanced Clean Trucks rule with the state of California was part of the Biden Administration’s broader attempt to push Green New Deal-style mandates through the back door of federal regulation.

    “This is what leadership looks like,” Congressman James stated. “Washington Elites said it couldn’t be done, but with President Trump’s signature we’ve made good on our promise to protect our jobs, lower prices, defend our supply chains, and keep Democrats’ radical Green New Deal agenda out of the driver’s seat.”

    The CRA passed the House on April 30th and cleared the Senate on May 22nd, despite intense pressure from radical, far-left environmental groups and D.C. bureaucrats desperate to preserve the mandate. Passage of the CRA marks the first successful Republican reversals of Biden-era policy, underscoring the growing momentum under Republican leadership in Congress to codify President Trump’s agenda.

    “My father got his start fighting harmful government regulation on trucking. Now, his son has defeated harmful government regulation on trucking. This is a huge win for the men and women who don’t get days off, who get behind the wheel before sunrise and keep this country running,” James continued. “America’s workers don’t need coastal elites from California to Washington, D.C. telling them how to do their jobs — they need the freedom to compete, the infrastructure to deliver, and the respect they’ve earned. I’m proud that my legislation can deliver just that.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Nick Langworthy Rips Governor Hochul For Sanctuary Policies Like New York’s Green Light Law During Oversight Committee Hearing

    Source: US Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23) ripped New York Governor Hochul for her dangerous Green Light Law that has allowed criminal illegal immigrants to be shielded from federal immigration officials. Mr. Langworthy correctly pointed out the absurdity that New York officials share DMV data with Canadian officials but America’s own law enforcement officers are unable to access the information, putting the safety of officers and the public at risk. He also cited the case of Peruvian national Gianfranco Torres-Navarro, wanted for 23 murders, who was in the country illegally, hiding in plain sight in Upstate New York thanks to New York’s sanctuary status.

    NL: Governor Hochul, yes or no? Do you think someone who’s committed murder or rape in this country, in that they’re here illegally, should have tools at their disposal to avoid deportation?

     

    KH: As the governor, it’s my primary responsibility is to protect the people of New York. Those crimes are abhorrent.

     

    NL: Whatever response you prepared to give today dwarfs in comparison to your actions as governor. I would like to remind you of someone named Gianfranco Torres Navarro, an illegal alien and suspected leader of a violent Peruvian gang. He was tied to 23 murders in Peru and came to this country illegally across the southern border. He had his victims’ faces tattooed on his body, and he was hiding in plain sight in Endicott, New York for an extended period of time where ICE could not locate him. And why did it take so long to find him?

     

    Because policies like your Green Light Law, which blocks ICE and US Border Patrol from accessing critical DMV databases. In fact, it threatens the badges and threatens to charge with felonies any officer that shares that DMV data with federal agents. These agents rely on data to be able to know who they’re pulling over on the side of the road. They’re taking their lives into their hands every time they’re trying to, you know, keep our street safe. The really sick irony here is that your government in New York, my home state freely shares that same DMV data with the government of Canada at our bridges in you and my hometown, but it doesn’t share that data with your American federal government. Why governor?

     

    KH: You’re misstating the Green Light Law because we are able to cooperate with federal authorities when there’s a crime involved.

     

    NL: Why do you shield the database, Governor?

    KH: Anything they want from us related to investigating a crime is available.

     

    NL: This is data that’s needed in real time to enforce the laws on the streets. They can’t subpoena these records from your government. I’ve had these conversations with my county sheriffs. All across the state of New York State, state police, they want to work with the federal officials. They want to clean up these messes, but they can’t because they were being threatened by you and our Attorney General, that they’ll take away their badge and end their careers. 

    KH: There have been countless, countless instances where we’ve cooperated with federal law enforcement, happens on a daily basis. And so, your characterization is just incorrect of how we provide information to people who ask for it. 

    NL: You share the database in its entirety with Canada, but you don’t share it with the federal government. It’s beyond belief. I mean, this is denial and excuses. Governor you know damn well that. The New York State Sheriff’s Association, the State Association of Chiefs of Police, have both condemned the Green Light Law. Sheriffs from Erie County, Niagara County, Monroe, Albany, Broome, Duchess, and Oneida Counties. Multiple parties represented here, not just Republicans, have warned that your law ties their hands. It puts officers’ lives in danger, and it shields criminals from accountability. When you refuse to work with law enforcement, when you refuse to hand over data that can protect communities and save lives, you are actively aiding the illegal alien criminals who have crossed our borders and committed violent crimes, and the consequences are not hypothetical.

     

    Your bail reform law is the reason that Laken Riley is dead. He should have been in jail in New York, and he wasn’t. He went to Georgia. He fled our state. Because he should have been in prison. These are tragic and real circumstances. In Buffalo, a Venezuelan illegal immigrant hacked his wife to death with an ax. In Syracuse, an Ecuadorian national strangled, a young woman on her birthday and dumped her body in a park. In Irondequoit, in Monroe County, a Dominican National slaughtered his, an entire family, including two toddlers, and he set their house on fire.

     

    Governor Hochul, you took an oath to serve the citizens of the state of New York, and you’ve allowed violent criminals who came here illegally to hide in plain sight and to avoid federal officials because of your support for the Green Light Law. I mean, this is an abomination. This is not keeping New Yorkers safe.

     

    KH: We turn over the information you’re referring to all the time, you’re misstating, the, the laws and its purpose. We cooperate all the time. 

    NL: As much as I want to believe you, governor, I believe the cops more. I believe the cops that I know and I trust in our, in our same hometown that are out there in the streets every single day. Your laws put lives in danger. Your laws have led to people being murdered. 

    KH: My job is to protect the people of New York, and I fight hard every single day.

    NL: You’re doing a very lousy job of it, Governor. 

    KH: Murder rates are down to historic lows, and we’re working hard to make sure one crime is one too many. I take this very seriously, but we do cooperate when anytime they need help with law enforcement and you’re just refusing the facts… I can’t help you.

     

    NL: I trust the professionals. You and I aren’t police officers. I trust the people out in the field that wear a badge that are honorable, decent, hardworking people, and you, you have a, a record of disrespect to law enforcement. Just like you disrespected every corrections officer in the State of New York. You have a lot of gall to come here and criticize the President for using the National Guard to actually bring law and order to the streets of our country. When you sent those same National Guard officers to become corrections officers, after you destroyed the lives of so many of the hardworking corrections officers of the state, when you broke their union.

     

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Feenstra Applauds President Trump for Signing Legislation Ending California EV Mandates

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Randy Feenstra (IA-04)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) issued the following statement thanking President Donald J. Trump for signing legislation overturning California’s electric-vehicle mandates:

    “I thank President Trump for signing legislation ending California’s radical EV mandates and restoring consumer choice. This decisive action will lower costs for American families, protect homegrown liquid fuels, support our farmers, and reduce our reliance on China and foreign supply chains. President Trump is keeping his promises to the American people by overturning egregious EV mandates and preventing liberal California policies from spreading nationwide.”

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Mrvan Announces Winner of 2025 Congressional Art Competition

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Frank J. Mrvan (IN)

    Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Frank J. Mrvan announced that Adam Tenbarge II of Chesterton High School is the winner of the 2025 Congressional Art Competition.  Adam used paint and colored pencils to create his winning artwork, “Journey Through Indiana,” which captures the varied landscapes of Northwest Indiana. 

    Congressman Mrvan stated, “Thank you to all of the creative students across Indiana’s First Congressional District who participated in the Congressional Art Competition and showcased their artistic ability.  Congratulations to Adam from Chesterton High School on creating such a moving piece of artwork representing our region.” 

    Adam Tenbarge II stated, “I wanted viewers of this piece to get a feel for Northwest Indiana. I hope people are inspired to visit our region after seeing my artwork.”

    Colin May, Art Department Chair at Chesterton High School, stated, “Adam’s powerful creativity is on full display in this piece!  Adam is known for his outstanding technical skill and I had absolute confidence he could pull off such an ambitious piece.  It has stunning color, strong composition and a knowing homage to our beloved northwestern region.  He captured the beauty, serenity and charm of our great state.  I’m so proud of the perseverance he showed to make this happen.  Well done, Adam!”

    Brent Martinson, Principal of Chesterton High School, stated, “We are incredibly proud of Adam Tenbarge II for being named the winner of the Congressional Art Competition.  His talent and dedication to his craft are inspiring, and it’s an honor to see his work recognized at the national level.”

    Dr. Chip Pettit, Superintendent of Duneland School Corporation, stated, “Adam Tenbarge II’s recognition as the winner of the Congressional Art Competition is a tremendous honor for him, his family, and the entire Duneland community.  His artistic talent reflects the excellence we strive for in our schools, and we’re thrilled to see his work showcased in our nation’s capital.”

    Janet Bloch, Executive Director of the Lubeznik Center for the Arts and Judge of the Congressional Art Competition, stated, “It was a privilege to jury the competition this year. The dunes, Lake Michigan and the steel mills define our surroundings.  This landscape impacts the way people in our region think, what we value, what we do recreationally, and how we define beauty.  The winning submission depicts these various settings under one unified sky.” 

    To learn more about the Congressional Art Competition, click here.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Valadao Reintroduces Legislation to Improve VA Claims Processing Times

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman David G. Valadao (California)

    WASHINGTON – Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) reintroduced the Modernizing All Veterans and Survivors Claims Processing Act. This bill would standardize the software the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) uses to process benefit claims and streamline the process to ensure no veterans or survivors are left behind when seeking the benefits they have earned.

    “Our veterans have made great sacrifices fighting for our freedom, and when they return home, they shouldn’t be waiting months to receive their benefits because of outdated technology at the VA,” said Congressman Valadao. “I’m proud to reintroduce this bill which will expand the use of automation tools for processing VA claims to ensure veterans get the benefits they deserve in a more timely and efficient matter.”

    The Modernizing All Veterans and Survivors Claims Act would:

    • Require the VA to develop a plan to provide automation tools for purposes of claims processing, information sharing between federal agencies, and generating correspondence to VA program offices other than Compensation Service.
    • Require the VA to implement a plan to provide an automated letter-drafting tool to program offices that process veterans’ pension claims and survivors’ benefits claims. 
    • Require the VA to implement policies, processes, and technological capabilities to ensure that when a veteran or school-age child is awarded benefits based on a child attending school, VBA’s Compensation Service and Education Service are each automatically updated so that timely action can be taken to decrease overpayments of dependent benefits.
    • Require the VA to develop a plan to ensure that documents in VA’s electronic claims processing system are correctly labeled when they are uploading into that system, including when they are automatically labeled using AI technology.

    Background:

    The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has several offices that handle different types of benefits claims. The Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) processes claims, the Board of Veterans’ Appeals reviews denied claims, and the Debt Management Center handles debts caused by VA overpayments. Throughout the claims and appeals process, VA employees gather evidence, send letters to veterans and survivors, and make decisions based on the evidence. To speed up disability claims, the VA has used AI tools to draft letters and gather key documents. However, these tools haven’t been extended to other claims like pensions or survivors’ benefits which leads to long delays—sometimes years—for those decisions. Claims processing is also slowed by mislabeled documents in VA’s electronic system which can cause delays or even missed evidence that could support a veteran’s claim.

    Read the full bill here.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Vasquez Secures Key Commitments from Ag Secretary Rollins on Rural New Mexico Priorities

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – On June 11, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) secured key commitments from Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins to address urgent issues affecting rural New Mexico — including frozen food security funding, wildfire readiness, and broken federal contracts. She also committed to visiting New Mexico and meeting with Rep. Vasquez’s Agriculture Advisory Group. 

    WATCH: REP. VASQUEZ SECURES COMMITMENTS FROM SECRETARY ROLLINS IN HOUSE AGRICULTURE COMMITTEE

    “I represent one of the largest and most rural districts in the country — a district that elected both me and President Trump,” said Vasquez. “Farmers, ranchers, food banks, and wildfire crews in my district rely on a functioning USDA — not just for support, but for survival.”

    Vasquez raised the abrupt funding freeze to Frontier Food Hub in Silver City, which serves as the only food pantry for hundreds of miles and the only organization supporting small-scale rural producers in the region. Secretary Rollins committed to reviewing the matter and working with Vasquez on food insecurity issues.

    On wildfire preparedness, Vasquez described how essential USDA trail crews responsible for cutting fire lines and maintaining forest access have been laid off ahead of peak fire season in New Mexico. He secured a commitment from Secretary Rollins to assess staffing cuts and their impact on New Mexico’s wildfire response capabilities.

    Vasquez also called on USDA to honor existing agreements with producers and nonprofits and urged support for his Honor Farmers Contracts Act, which would ensure the agency follows through on executed contracts.

    Secretary Rollins accepted Vasquez’s invitation to visit New Mexico’s 2nd District to hear directly from his Agriculture Advisory Group, which consists of producers, hunger advocates, local business owners, and land conservationists throughout NM-02.  

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Malliotakis Announces Winners of 2025 Congressional Art Competition

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

    (NEW YORK, NY) – Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis has announced the winners of the 2025 Congressional Art Competition for New York’s 11th Congressional District. Tammy Liang, a student at Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts, was selected as this year’s Washington DC winner. Her artwork titled “Thank You Mother,” will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year alongside artwork from each Congressional District across the nation.

     

    This year’s district winner, Chen Xi He of Brooklyn’s Evergreen Art Studio, has been recognized for her artwork titled “Meringue,” which will be proudly displayed at one of Congresswoman Malliotakis’ District Offices for the next year.

     

    Each spring, the Congressional Institute sponsors this nationwide high school visual art competition to recognize and encourage artistic talent in the nation and in each congressional district. Since the competition’s inception in 1982, more than 650,000 high school students have participated with over 10,000 works of art exhibited.

    “It’s a pleasure to congratulate Tammy and Chen, two incredibly talented artists, on winning this year’s Congressional Art Competition,” said Congresswoman Malliotakis. “Their pieces not only showcase exceptional skill through delicate brushwork, but also reflect the creativity and excellence of our community.”

     

    For the latest information on the process for next year, visit the link HERE.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Tenney Welcomes Winner of 2025 Congressional Art Competition to the Capitol

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

    Washington, DC – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today welcomed Graciana Allen from Red Creek Central School to the nation’s Capital to witness the unveiling of her artwork, Inevitable, in the halls of Congress. 

    As this year’s winner of the Congressional Art Contest, Graciana Allen was flown to Washington, DC, to attend the Congressional Art Competition Reception and will have her artwork displayed in the halls of the United States Capitol for a full year. 

    This year, Tenney’s office received 30 submissions from 12 different schools for the Congressional Art Contest. Additional awardees include Ayden Kaufman, Phung Cao, and Kaitlyn Dougherty.

    “It was a pleasure to welcome this year’s Congressional Art Contest winner, Graciana Allen, to the United States Capitol to see her artwork displayed in the halls of Congress. Inevitable is a three-dimensional artwork crafted from intricately coiled paper, showcasing the young artist’s remarkable talent. Congratulations to Graciana, and thank you to the NY-24 High Schoolers who participated in this year’s competition, as well as the teachers who supported these young artists,” said Congresswoman Tenney.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Issa Introduces Valor Has No Expiration Act; Heroes to be Recognized Past Time Limits

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Darrell Issa (CA-50)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Congressional Medal of Honor may be awarded for acts of valor above and beyond the call of duty that occurred decades ago because of new legislation authored by Congressman Darrell Issa (CA-48).

    The Valor Has No Expiration Act extends and expands a key provision from the 1996 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that waived the five-year limitation for Medal of Honor consideration—but only for actions occurring between 1940 and 1990, and only for classified “intelligence activities.” Rep. Issa’s bill specifically removes this arbitrary end date and expands the criteria to include acts that were classified or withheld from public record. Current law states that service members must be recommended and awarded within five years.

    “Valor never expires – and neither should the opportunity for our bravest heroes to be recognized with our highest honor,” said Rep. Issa. “There is no reason why those who went above and beyond are ineligible for the Medal of Honor due to an arbitrary time standard, when their true account may not be known or was kept classified for decades.”

    Rep. Issa specifically cited his friend and constituent Royce Williams as both the inspiration and example of why the Act is necessary.

    In 1952 during the Korean Conflict, then-Lieutenant Williams engaged in one of the most dramatic and heroic dogfights in U.S. history, single-handedly taking on and downing multiple Soviet MiG-15 fighters. His action, however, was kept classified for more than 50 years before becoming public, which made Williams ineligible for the Medal of Honor.

    “Captain Royce Williams – now 100 years young — is an American hero of the highest order. Every American should know his story and what he did on that day nearly 73 years ago should go unrecognized no longer,” said Rep. Issa. “With this reform legislation, America’s heroes – whether undiscovered, unknown, or unrevealed – can be honored as they should. Acts of valor have no expiration date.”

    Full text of the Valor Has No Expiration Act can be found here. 

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Mann Advocates for U.S. Trade Promotion, Global Food Programs in House Agriculture Committee Hearing with Secretary Brooke Rollins

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Tracey Mann (Kansas, 1)

    [embedded content]

    CLICK HEREto download Rep. Mann’s questioning

    CLICK HERE to watch Rep. Mann’s exchange with Secretary Rollins on YouTube.

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) questioned U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins during her first appearance before the House Agriculture Committee. During Rep. Mann’s questioning, he thanked Secretary Rollins and President Trump for their leadership and advocacy on behalf of American farmers, ranchers, and agricultural producers and highlighted the need for sound federal policy that promotes trade opportunities for American agriculture and recognizes international food aid as a tool for U.S. national security that supports domestic producers.

    Excerpts:

    [Opening Statement]:Secretary Rollins, thank you for being here today and thank you for your leadership in supporting farmers, ranchers, and ag producers across America. It was an honor to have you visit the Big First District of Kansas your first week on the job back in February, right after you were confirmed. We had the chance to participate in a roundtable discussion with ag producers, stakeholders, and toured Finney County Feeders and the Ponderosa Dairy. We even met with some local FFA students, which was a huge highlight of mine and I know it’s something that’s near and dear to your heart as well.  In one of my first meetings with President Trump, I distinctly remember him telling me of his love for American farmers and I appreciate that you share that passion. Over the past few months, you and President Trump have led the way in supporting rural America, and I look forward to continuing to work with you for the next four years as we Make Agriculture Great Again. 

    [On trade opportunities for Kansas farmers]: The One Big Beautiful Bill Act is a major step forward for the future of American agriculture. We were able to strengthen crop insurance, raise reference prices, and really help our producers. We were also able to include historic landmark investments in funding for trade promotion programs in the House version. After the last administration’s failure to act on expanding international markets, I have been really encouraged at your efforts to rebalance trade to support American farmers and ranchers. In particular, I appreciate that you will be traveling on a trade mission to India here in the next few weeks, where greater market access for crops like sorghum would be a game changer for Kansas producers and a clear win for both the United States and India. With this significant upgrade in trade promotion resources, can you share what you and Ambassador Greer will be pursuing to unlock opportunities for U.S. exports of commodities, like sorghum, as part of the ongoing trade negotiations with India?  

    Rollins: India is reflective to your point on sorghum and a lot of our row crops; there is just so much opportunity there. I think we have talked a lot this morning about national security—agriculture security is national security. A lot of that is opening markets with our friends like India and moving away from other markets that clearly are not aligned with us on a value-by-value basis. What I have found with Ambassador Greer, Secretary Lutnick, with Secretary Bessent, and the ultimate dealmaker, President Trump, is they are—we are—relentless. I think I have mentioned this a couple of times, but I think it is worth repeating: the few countries that have already visited me—everyone is so anxious to support this vision of opening up more American products and decreasing the tariffs while working on the non-tariff trade barriers. There is a lot more to come, and would love to work with you, though, as we are working with India and other countries specific to sorghum and other row crops. 

    Mann: I’d love to.I think India is a huge opportunity for sorghum and other commodities as well. Thank you for that.

    [On Food for Peace]:Earlier this year, I introduced legislation to move back to USDA a program that is not only dear to the people of Kansas, but also vital to our ag producers in the country. Food for Peace is a program that I have long supported, and it supports American agriculture while helping feed millions of people around the world. It was originally housed with the USDA when it was created over 70 years ago; a Kansan came up with the idea years ago. My bill would return it back to its roots, to return it home to the USDA, ensuring its long-term sustainability. I’m optimistic that Congress will soon act to codify this move, realigning Food for Peace with USDA where it began. If and when that transition takes place, can you commit that the Department will continue to fund and operate Food for Peace as robustly as it is currently being administered? I welcome any thoughts about Food for Peace.

    Rollins: Sure, and understanding that it is moving through the system and not wanting to get ahead of President Trump specifically, but we stand ready if that is the Congressional direction. We will work with you and your partners to ensure the continued sustainability and success, and make changes if necessary. 

    Mann: A great program, right? We are shipping commodities grown here in bags that say, “A free gift from the American people.” It is good for our farmers, good for our shippers, good for the mouths that receive it. 

    Four days after Secretary Rollins was confirmed as U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, Rep. Mann welcomed the Secretary to the Big First District to tour National Beef Packing Plant, High Plains Ponderosa Dairy, and Finney County Feeder in southwest Kansas. Rep. Mann has applauded Secretary Rollins’ decisive leadership on combatting the Highly-Pathogenic Aviation Influenza (HPAI). Following the decision to halt imports of Mexican livestock to protect livestock from the New World Screwworm, Rep. Mann commended the announcement from USDA.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Sorensen Honors Navy Veteran Harvey Milk in House Armed Services Committee Hearing

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

    Congressman Sorensen: “Harvey Milk, Like Every Veteran Who Served Our Nation, Deserves Our Thanks”

    Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) honored U.S. Navy veteran and LGBTQ+ icon Harvey Milk, who served on a submarine as a diving officer in the Korean War, during a House Armed Services Committee hearing. Congressman Sorensen questioned U.S. Navy Secretary John Phelan and demanded to know why the U.S. Navy decided to scrub Harvey Milk’s name from a ship named in his honor. 

    “Harvey Milk was a courageous American who served our country in the Navy just like my grandfather and millions of other veterans,” said Congressman Sorensen. “Every veteran deserves to be thanked for their service. It’s wrong and un-American for this Administration to remove Harvey’s name from a ship named in his honor after he defended our freedoms in the Korean War.” 

    You can watch the full exchange with Secretary Phelan HERE.

    Congressman Sorensen is the only LGBTQ+ member on the House Armed Services Committee. He recently joined a letter objecting to the renaming of the Harvey Milk U.S. Navy ship and calling on Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to rescind his order renaming the ship. 

     

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Amo, Beyer, Subramanyam Lead Bipartisan Request for an Independent Review of DCA Airspace in Transportation Funding Bill

    Source: US Congressman Gabe Amo (Rhode Island 1st District)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Representatives Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA-10), Don Beyer (D-VA-8), and Gabe Amo (D-RI-1) led 16 of their colleagues in requesting that the Department of Transportation (DOT) facilitate an independent review of Washington, DC airspace as part of the Appropriations Committee’s Fiscal Year 2026 transportation funding bill. Such a review is warranted following the collision that occurred between an Army UH-60L Black Hawk helicopter and American Airlines Flight 5342 near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) on January 29, 2025 that resulted in the deaths of sixty-seven individuals. The request asks for the review to be conducted by an independent panel and that the results of that review be released and made available to Congress. 

    “We’re deeply grateful to Congressmen Subramanyam, Beyer, and Amo, along with their colleagues, for advancing this bipartisan request to help ensure DCA is safer for the public. Our family group developed this independent review of DCA as one of our seven reform priorities because we believe that public trust can only be rebuilt through transparency, accountability, and a willingness to learn from the systemic failures that led to the January 29 crash,” said Families of Flight 5342, a group formed by family members of those lost aboard Flight 5342 to advance aviation safety reform. “We strongly urge the Subcommittee to adopt this request. It represents a critical step in the broader effort to honor the loved ones we lost and make our skies safer for all.”

    The members highlighted that the airspace above and around our nation’s capital is highly complex, with large volumes of commercial, law enforcement, and military aircraft operating in close proximity. DCA has the busiest runway in the country, and the members specifically requested that the review evaluate DCA’s current total flight volume.

    They emphasized that the review should be conducted by an independent panel of experts in aviation safety, airspace operations, and civil-military coordination selected by the Department of Transportation in consultation with the National Transportation Safety Board, and the relevant congressional committees.

    Their request asked the review assess: historical and ongoing risks associated with DCA airspace design and usage, including historical incidents relevant to current protocols and whether DCA’s current flight volume exceeds the airport’s operational capabilities within normal operating hours; the adequacy of coordination protocols between the FAA, Department of Defense, and other entities involved in or affected by airspace coordination; patterns of near-miss incidents involving military aircraft; and structural, cultural, or procedural barriers to risk identification and accountability.

    In the letter, the Members wrote: “While the National Transportation Safety Board’s (NTSB) investigation into the collision is ongoing, there are other sources of expertise that can contribute to the safety of this airspace, military service members, and the traveling public. We believe that an independent review of the airspace, coordination between civil and military air traffic, and operational safety, including whether DCA’s current total flight volume exceeds the airport’s operational capabilities within normal operating hours, could provide valuable insight to Congress and the relevant federal agencies as they develop policies to improve airspace safety.”

    The panel’s findings and recommendations would be required to be published online and shared with the relevant congressional committees within 180 days of the panel’s formation.

    The letter was signed by Ranking Member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Rick Larsen as well as Reps. André Carson, Sharice L. Davids, Cleo Fields, Steny H. Hoyer, Glenn Ivey, John B. Larson, Seth Magaziner, Jennifer L. McClellan, Seth Moulton, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Jamie Raskin, Shri Thanedar, William Timmons, Jill Tokuda, and Paul Tonko.

    The letter can be read and downloaded here.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: 148 Democrats back noncitizen voting in DC as GOP raises alarm about foreign agents

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11)

    Originally Published in Fox News on June 10, 2025.

    The majority of House Democrats voted in favor of allowing non-citizens to participate in Washington, D.C. elections on Tuesday.

    The House of Representatives passed a bill led by Rep. August Pfluger, R-Texas, to prohibit non-U.S. citizens from voting in elections in the nation’s capital.

    It passed 266 to 148, with 56 Democrats joining Republicans in passing the measure. One Democrat voted “present,” while 148 voted against the bill.

    “I believe strongly in not having federal overreach, but we have jurisdiction, Congress has jurisdiction over Washington, District of Columbia…and we don’t like to utilize our jurisdiction and our authority, but in this case, they’ve gone too far,” Pfluger told Fox News Digital in an interview before the vote.

    D.C.’s progressive city council passed the Local Resident Voting Rights Amendment Act in 2022, granting non-U.S. citizens the ability to vote in local elections if they’ve lived in the district for at least 30 days.

    Noncitizens can also hold local elected office in the D.C. government.

    The local measure has been a frequent target of GOP attacks, with Republican national security hawks raising alarms about the possibility of hostile foreign agents participating in D.C. elections.

    But progressive Democrats like Rep. Maxwell Frost, D-Fla., who spoke out against the bill on Tuesday afternoon, have dismissed that as an implausible scenario. 

    “Republicans claim that Congress has a constitutional duty to legislate on local D.C. matters, but this is historically and legally incorrect. Republicans legislate on local D.C. matters only when they think they can score political points, such as by demonizing immigrants,” Frost said during debate on the House floor.

    “They only bring it up to the floor when they think they can score political points, taking away the democratic rights of people here in D.C. and home rule.”

    Frost also argued that it was “highly unlikely” foreign officials would vote in those elections, claiming they would have to “renounce their right to vote in their home country” and because “D.C. has no authority in federal matters.”

    But Pfluger, who spoke with Fox News Digital before the vote, was optimistic that it would get at least some Democratic support.

    He noted that 52 Democrats voted for the bill when it passed the House in the previous Congress. It was never taken up in the formerly Democrat-controlled Senate, however.

    “It’s hard to go back to your district as a Democrat and say, yeah, I want foreign agents to be able to vote in our elections – ‘Oh yeah, it’s not federal elections,’ some may say. But it has an impact on the way the city is run,” Pfluger said.

    “This could be Russian embassy personnel, they could be Chinese embassy personnel – a number of folks. It’s just wrong. It goes against the fabric of our society,” he added.

    Another bill receiving a vote on Tuesday is legislation that would grant D.C. police the ability to negotiate punishments via collective bargaining, and would help shield the capital’s police force from at least some liability by installing a statute of limitations against the Metropolitan Police Department. 

    That legislation was introduced by New York Republican Rep. Andrew Garbarino.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: GOP bill seeks to ban and deport visa holders who support Hamas amid wave of antisemitic violence in America

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11)

    Originally Published in Fox News on June 11, 2025.

    FIRST ON FOX: New legislation would broadly ban any visa holders who support Hamas or other designated terror groups from remaining in the U.S. 

    The Terrorist Inadmissibility Codification Act, led by Rep. August Pfluger, R-Texas, expands current law under the Immigration and Nationality Act to ban any members of Hamas, Hezbollah, al Qaeda, ISIS and Palestine Islamic Jihad from entering or remaining in the U.S. – in addition to anyone who endorses or espouses the activity of these groups. 

    “There is no place in America for foreign adversaries or terrorist sympathizers. As our nation faces a disturbing rise in antisemitic and illegal alien terror attacks, along with increasing pro-Hamas sentiment on our college campuses,” Pfluger said in a statement. “We must take action to ensure our borders are secure from those wishing harm against Americans.”

    The bill comes after a wave of antisemitic attacks in light of Israel’s offensive campaign in Gaza that followed Hamas’ Oct. 7 attacks. 

    The Trump administration has started revoking student visas of those who engage in pro-Gaza protest activity. The State Department paused new student visa interviews late last month while it restructures the vetting process. 

    The Immigration and Nationality Act already bars individuals who engage in terrorist activity, are members of designated Foreign Terrorist Organizations or who provide material support to such groups. However, much of this is interpreted on a case-by-case basis, often requiring evidentiary thresholds such as proof of direct involvement or financial or material aid. It is subject to the whims of administrative designations. 

    The Terrorist Inadmissibility Codification Act seeks to broaden these standards by codifying that mere endorsement or espousal of terrorist groups’ ideology could be grounds for inadmissibility or deportation. 

    This could signal a shift from conduct-based immigration enforcement to speech- or association-based scrutiny: even those who are not formal members of foreign terrorist organizations could have their speech scrutinized for support of such groups. 

    An attack in Boulder, Colorado, on June 1 on a group gathered to raise awareness about hostages gathered in Gaza was the latest in a string of violence believed to be antisemitic in nature. 

    The suspect, Mohammed Sabry Soliman, told police he wanted to “kill all Zionist people” and is accused of throwing Molotov cocktails at demonstrators. 

    In May, a young Washington, D.C., couple was killed outside the Capital Jewish Museum by a suspect who shouted “free Palestine” following the shooting.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Young Kim Leads BUDS Act to Promote Bipartisan Collaboration in Congress

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

    Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representatives Young Kim (CA-40) and Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05), along with Reps. William Timmons (SC-04), Scott Peters (CA-50),  Mike Carey (OH-15), and Kevin Mullin (CA-15) introduced the Building Unity Through Dual Sponsors (BUDS) resolution to bolster bipartisan collaboration in Congress.  

    While current rules of the House of Representatives only allow for one lawmaker to serve as a sponsor of legislation, the BUDS Resolution would formally change the rules of the House of Representatives to authorize two Members of the chamber to serve as joint sponsors of a bill, resolution, or joint resolution if they are from opposing political parties. 

    “Bipartisanship isn’t a bad word. In fact, it’s more important than ever to find common ground to improve the lives of the American people and move this country forward. That’s why I’m proud of my record and to be ranked the most effective federal lawmaker from the state of California,” said Congresswoman Kim. “I hope the BUDS Act can encourage more collaboration in Congress that will advance more impactful policy solutions.” 

    “In these deeply polarizing times, it is important that lawmakers help bridge the divides in our nation by focusing on bipartisan solutions that will benefit hardworking families in every community across the country,” said Congressman Cleaver. “As a member of the former Modernization Committee, I’ve seen firsthand that bipartisanship is still possible if we foster the environment that enables it to grow. That’s why I’m proud to join my friend Rep. Kim in reintroducing the BUDS Resolution to incentivize more cross-party collaboration in the House of Representatives.” 

    “In today’s hyper-partisan environment, the BUDS Act represents a refreshing and necessary modernization of how Congress operates. By empowering lawmakers from both sides of the aisle to serve as joint sponsors, we are structurally reinforcing our commitment to collaboration—something the American people overwhelmingly support. As a co-lead on this resolution, I am proud to stand alongside colleagues to send a clear message: delivering results for our constituents means working together, not working apart,” said Rep. Timmons. 

    “The BUDS Act will encourage members to reach across the aisle and find bipartisan solutions to the toughest challenges facing Americans,” said Fix Congress Caucus Co-Chair, Rep. Scott Peters. “We know that great ideas often come from collaboration, and by simply allowing dual sponsorship, Congress will generate a lot more of those ideas and modernize an outdated system. At a time of hyper-partisanship and record low congressional approvals, we should be doing everything we can to boost bipartisanship and Americans’ trust in the legislature.”   
     

    “Delivering for my constituents is my biggest priority in Congress, and that often stems from bipartisan cooperation. For that reason, I re-launched and serve as Co-Chair of the Civility and Respect Caucus in the House,” Rep. Carey said. “This legislation will make it easier to identify bipartisan measures and build support for their passage. That means real results for our constituents, and I am proud to support it.” 
     
    “We need to rebuild a politics of the common good, where actual bipartisan progress is possible to meet our most serious challenges.” said Rep. Mullin. “That’s exactly what the BUDS Resolution is about — modernizing our Congressional rules so we can value cooperation over conflict. The American people are tired of dysfunction. They want to see their representatives working together to solve real problems. The BUDS Resolution is a practical step toward that goal, and I’m proud to support it.” 
     

    The BUDS Resolution is endorsed by the American Governance Institute, Bipartisan Policy Center Action, Demand Progress, Foundation for American Innovation, and Issue One. 
     
    “There is much more bipartisan collaboration in Congress than Americans see on the news, but it flies under the radar partly because there is no way for members to share equal credit for working together. This resolution from Rep. Cleaver (D-MO) and Rep. Kim (R-CA) fixes that by amending House rules to allow bills to have two sponsors, provided that each is from a different political party. With this change, it will be much clearer to constituents when their representatives put divisive politics aside to achieve bipartisan legislative wins. Bipartisan co-sponsorship was a key recommendation from the House Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress and this resolution will make it a reality,” said Michele Stockwell, President, Bipartisan Policy Center Action. 
     
    “We commend Representative Cleaver for recognizing the need for legislation that fosters greater bipartisanship in Congress. At a time when public trust in Congress is at historic lows, the Joint Sponsorship legislation charts a path toward consensus by encouraging cross-party collaboration — helping ensure that Congress fulfills its Article I responsibilities on behalf of the American people,” said Jamie Neikrie, Legislative Director, Issue One. 
     
    “This is an obvious solution to a needless hurdle blocking genuine bipartisanship in Congress,” said Sean Vitka, Executive Director, Demand Progress. “This relatively simple, commonsense rule change would go a long way towards helping lawmakers showcase needed policy solutions with broad political support from the get-go. We thank Reps. Cleaver and Kim for introducing this resolution and modeling the kind of bipartisanship that the American people deserve.” 
     
    “Tackling our nation’s pressing fiscal and governance challenges demands both bipartisan cooperation on fact-finding oversight and legislation. I commend Representatives Cleaver and Kim for working across the aisle and sponsoring this important resolution,” said Dan Lips, Senior Fellow, Foundation for American Innovation. 

    “Congress runs on collaboration and the BUDS resolution facilitates collaboration among members of all political stripes,” said Daniel Schuman, Executive Director, the American Governance Institute. 

    Read the resolution HERE.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Jacobs, Sens. Hirono and Wyden Reintroduce Bill to Protect Reproductive and Sexual Health Data

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sara Jacobs (D-CA-53)

    June 11, 2025

    Rep. Sara Jacobs (CA-51) and Senators Mazie Hirono (D-HI) and Ron Wyden (D-OR) reintroduced the landmark My Body, My Data Act, which would create a new national standard to protect reproductive and sexual health data. 

    The weaponization of private reproductive and sexual health data has increased in recent years, especially since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. In 2017, police used web searches and text messages to charge Latice Fisher with second-degree murder after a stillbirth at home. Facebook messages were also a key piece of evidence in an abortion-related investigation of a Nebraska mother and daughter in 2022. A data broker shared cell phone and geo-location data with an anti-abortion political group that then dispensed disinformation about reproductive health to people who visited 600 abortion clinics in 48 states. Earlier this year, police investigated a Pennsylvania mother and daughter after receiving text messages about her pregnancy. 

    Rep. Sara Jacobs said: “Like millions of young people, I use a period tracking app – and the information in these apps, search history, location data, and so much more, has been collected, shared, and sold without our consent and even used to investigate and prosecute abortion cases. These threats are even scarier and more real in the second Trump Administration. That’s why I’m proud to reintroduce the My Body, My Data Act to ensure that bodily autonomy extends to our online lives and our private data. Our bicameral legislation provides the highest level of protection for our most sensitive data – reproductive and sexual health data – and I will keep fighting to pass it.”

    “As apps and devices that collect reproductive and sexual health information—like period and fertility trackers—become increasingly popular, everyone should be able to trust that their personal health data is safe and secure,” said Senator Hirono. “I am proud to reintroduce this legislation to protect people’s reproductive and sexual health data and prevent this information from being used against them. As Republicans continue their assault on our bodily autonomy and reproductive rights, I will continue doing everything in my power to ensure people have the freedom to make decisions about their own bodies and futures.”

    Sen. Ron Wyden said: “Anti-abortion Republicans are restricting abortion state-by-state, and they’re not going to stop until they get a national abortion ban,” Wyden said. “The way MAGA prosecutors and politicians enforce their cruel assault on women’s rights is by going after their privacy and abusing their personal data to track down and punish women for their personal reproductive health choices. Congress has to draw a line. I’m proud to partner with Rep. Jacobs and Sen. Hirono on the My Body, My Data Act to set the toughest protections ever for reproductive health data.”

    CEO and President of Reproductive Freedom for All, Mini Timmaraju, said: “Everyone deserves the freedom to make personal decisions about their bodies, lives, and health without the fear of surveillance or criminalization. The ‘My Body, My Data Act’ is a critical step toward protecting our most private health information—including abortion and pregnancy care—from being weaponized against us. We’re grateful to Representative Jacobs and Senator Hirono for their leadership in introducing this bold federal action. We are committed to working with them to fight back as Trump and Republicans continue to attack our fundamental freedoms.”

    “In a chaotic and dangerous post-Roe landscape, no one seeking an abortion should have to fear that their health information will be used to criminalize them,” said Jocelyn Frye, President of National Partnership for Women & Families. “Many women, including many women of color and those with low incomes, already face over-surveillance and heightened barriers to accessing abortion care. This bill is an important step in protecting data privacy surrounding abortion care, and we thank Rep. Jacobs and Senators Hirono and Wyden for their leadership on this issue.”

    “Americans’ health data is constantly used in ways that they do not expect. The My Body, My Data Act protects the privacy and safety of people seeking reproductive care but putting strict limits on when reproductive and sexual health information can be collected and how it can be used. Health care and privacy go hand in hand, and EPIC commends Rep. Jacobs for introducing this important bill,” said Caitriona Fitzgerald, Deputy Director, Electronic Privacy Information Center (EPIC).

    Andrew Crawford, Senior Counsel, Center for Democracy & Technology, said: “It’s been nearly three years since the Supreme Court decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, and we continue to see states hostile to reproductive rights seeking access to health data. The My Body My Data Act contains critical privacy protections that limit the data companies collect and retain about their customers while providing people clear ways to access and delete their health data when they want. When companies don’t collect and keep people’s health data, they won’t have anything to turn over if folks come asking for it.”

    “As a physician, I know how critical it is for the personal information of the patients I care for to be protected. Too often, data related to reproductive health care is used to target and criminalize people seeking essential care. I am thankful to Senators Wyden and Hirono and Representative Jacobs for introducing the My Body, My Data Act of 2025. Ensuring the health and well-being of patients includes protecting the privacy of personal reproductive health information,” said Dr. Ghazaleh Moayedi, Physicians for Reproductive Health Board Chair and OB/GYN in Texas. 

    The My Body, My Data Act would:

    • Limit the personal reproductive and sexual health data that can be collected, retained, used, or disclosed to only what is needed to deliver a product or service.
    • Protect personal data collected by entities not currently covered under HIPAA, including data collected by apps, cell phones, and search engines.
    • Require regulated entities to develop and share a privacy policy outlining how they collect, retain, use, and disclose personal reproductive health information.
    • Direct the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to enforce the law and to develop rules to implement the statute.
    • Create a private right of action to allow individuals to hold regulated entities accountable for violations. 
    • Provide additional consumer protections, including the right of an individual to access, delete, or correct their personal data if they choose to.

    The legislation is supported by Center for Democracy and Technology, Electronic Privacy Information Center, Electronic Frontier Foundation, National Partnership for Women & Families, Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Reproductive Freedom for All, Physicians for Reproductive Health, National Women’s Law Center, National Abortion Federation, Catholics for Choice, National Council for Jewish Women, Power to Decide, United for Reproductive & Gender Equity, Indivisible, Guttmacher, and National Network of Abortion Funds, All* Above All.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Pfluger’s Bill to Block Noncitizens from Voting in DC Elections Passes the House

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11)

    WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Congressman August Pfluger’s (TX-11) bill to prohibit non-citizens from voting in D.C. and to repeal the Local Resident Voting Rights Amendment of 2022 passed the U.S. House of Representatives in a bipartisan fashion by a vote of 266-148.

    It’s common sense: Only American citizens should be able to vote in U.S. elections. Prior to its passage, Rep. Pfluger delivered remarks on the House floor in support of his legislation. Watch his full remarks here.

    Read the full text of the legislation here.

    Rep. Pfluger released the following statement following passage of his legislation:

    “The radical D.C. Council decided to allow noncitizens—including illegal aliens and foreign agents—to vote in local elections. Even worse, they then proceeded to encourage noncitizens to vote for Mayor, Attorney General, and more. It’s no secret that local elections determine critical matters, and allowing noncitizens to vote in them opens Pandora’s box to D.C.’s already radical local policies, diluting the voting power of citizen voters. Today, the House took action to defend that power and restore the sanctity of the voting process by passing my legislation to block noncitizens from voting in D.C. elections. Let me be clear: anyone who voted against my bill voted for the transfer of political power away from legal voters,” said Rep. Pfluger.

    Several leaders in the U.S. House of Representatives also praised the passage of Rep. Pfluger’s legislation:

    House Judiciary Committee Chairman James Comer said, “It’s common sense that only American citizens should have the right to vote. Allowing noncitizens to vote in D.C. elections undermines the defining privilege of American citizenship and dilutes the right of American citizens to elect the candidates who best represent them. By passing H.R. 884, the House took a crucial step toward empowering American citizens in D.C. to vote in local elections and restoring the rule of law in our nation’s capital. The House Oversight Committee is proud to support Rep. Pfluger’s important bill and is committed to defending Americans’ fundamental right to vote and responsible governance in D.C. The Senate must now follow the House’s lead and do the same,”

    Majority Leader Steve Scalise said, “The D.C. Council’s law allowing noncitizens, including illegal immigrants, to vote in D.C. local elections is blatantly against federal law and inherently unjust, disenfranchising American voters and diluting their voice in their government. Making matters worse, the law makes no exception for foreign nationals or diplomats, meaning representatives from other countries, such as agents of the Chinese Communist Party, could potentially vote in D.C. elections–even though their interests are often separate or opposed to American interests. It’s common sense: only American citizens should be able to vote in U.S. elections. I’m thankful to Rep. August Pfluger for standing up for American voters and bringing legislation to prevent individuals who are not U.S. citizens from voting in elections in the District of Columbia.”

    House GOP Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain said, “House Republicans passed legislation to restore trust in our election system, particularly in our nation’s capital. Unlike Democrats, we will not allow illegal immigrants to dilute the votes of actual Americans. Only Americans should be able to vote in U.S. elections. It’s as simple as that.”

    Majority Whip Tom Emmer said, “The District of Columbia has defied federal law for too long by allowing illegal aliens to vote in local elections. Representative Pfluger’s bill rightly puts an end to this insanity by enacting what should be common sense: American elections should only be decided by American citizens.”

    Background:

    As first reported in Fox News, earlier this year, Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) introduced a package of bills to strengthen election integrity and restore American confidence in our elections. The package included Rep. Pfluger’s bill to prohibit noncitizens from voting in D.C.

    This bill follows a nearly unanimous vote by the D.C. City Council to advance a bill that would allow noncitizens to vote in local elections, even if they have only resided in D.C. for 30 days. This law is unjust and against federal law.

    Last year, this bill passed the House by a bipartisan vote of 262-143. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pfluger Participates in Energy Hearing with Secretary Wright

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11)

    Pfluger Participates in Energy Hearing with Secretary Wright

    Washington, June 11, 2025

    WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11), a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, participated in the Committee’s Energy Subcommittee hearing entitled “The Fiscal Year 2026 Department of Energy Budget.”

    Secretary of Energy Chris Wright testified before the subcommittee. During the hearing, Rep. Pfluger asked Secretary Wright about his top priorities for the year, for an update on the Mexico Pacific LNG export site, and how we can legislatively protect the Strategic Petroleum Reserve.

    Click HERE or the image below to watch their full exchange.

    Watch their full exchange HERE or read highlights below.

    Rep. Pfluger: You have extreme expertise about how energy in this country works. I am worried about everybody who has testified here, especially those who have recently talked about data centers and the demand that we are going to see—rising demand for electricity consumption, and how we’re going to keep up with manufacturing. Just big picture priorities that you have set out that will enable us as a country to set the conditions for private industry to meet that demand with adequate supply. Love to hear your thoughts.

    Secretary Wright: Look, as you know, over the years, we’ve created huge regulatory burdens on building infrastructure, on building pipelines, on building power plants, on building transmission lines. If you make it harder and harder and more and more expensive to do things, well, guess what? You get less of them. And that’s what’s happened in the United States. I heard a comment earlier that U.S. oil and natural gas production were at all-time highs in 2023, which was true, but that’s because it’s dominantly on private land and state land, and it’s not on federal land. We’ve had huge federal obstruction efforts. They haven’t been entirely effective on oil and gas that’s produced on private lands and on state lands. But when you restrict the ability to build pipelines and grow the transportation, you ultimately restrict the growth of it. Power plants with the Clean Power Plan, if you build a new power plant today, you have to have carbon capture and sequestration injected underground, like 11 years from now. That’s a technology we don’t have at a commercial scale. A massively expensive parasitic load of maybe a third of the power plant has to go to that thing. People aren’t going to invest money and build power plants with constrictions like that. There are a lot of reasons we haven’t built as much new capacity as we should. And it’s critical for this administration and this Congress that we work together to remove these obstacles and barriers that chill investment. Because we need to lead in AI. We need to win in AI. We can lead and we can win in AI. But to do that, we need to get overly burdensome, truly not focused on the environment, regulations out of the way so that capital will flow and things will be built. We need some simplification with permitting. We need to make FERC move more efficiently. But I will tell you, in this administration, and I know in this Congress, there are many people working tirelessly to achieve just that, so I’m optimistic, but yes, big changes need to be made.

    MIL OSI USA News –