NewzIntel.com

Category: United States House of Representatives

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Dan Goldman’s Statement After Witnessing and Confronting Masked ICE Agents Detaining Immigrants in the Lobby of His 290 Broadway Manhattan District Office

    Source: US Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10)

    Video and Photos of the Confrontation Here 

    “For the past several days in New York’s 10th Congressional District in Lower Manhattan, masked, plain-clothes Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers have been stationed in the lobby of the federal building that houses immigration court in order to arrest immigrants coming out of court so they can be deported on an expedited basis. These arrests are part of a coordinated effort within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) where DHS lawyers move to dismiss deportation proceedings against these immigrants – most of whom do not speak English nor have legal representation — in order to place them in a different, “expedited” deportation proceeding.  

    “In effect, instead of targeting convicted criminals as the Trump Administration has repeatedly said, DHS is using these immigrants’ good faith efforts to appear in court and follow proper procedures to surprise them with an end-run around the law to tear them away from their families and communities via immediate detention and deportation.  

    “The immigrants attending their court hearings are doing exactly what the law asks of them: they are showing up, complying with the process, following our laws and going through the immigration system the right way, often asserting their legal right to seek asylum – which is a lawful pathway to enter this country. However, it appears DHS is exploiting a procedural technicality to fast-track deportations far away from the border where this authority is primarily used.  

    “Today, I confronted these masked ICE officers after they detained multiple immigrants in the lobby of the federal building that also contains my Manhattan District Office. These officers were carrying printed-out papers with immigrants’ names and faces, wearing masks, and attempting to intimidate reporters on site – all while avoiding questions I asked them as a duly-elected Member of Congress carrying out my oversight responsibilities as a member of the Homeland Security Committee. 

    “We are a nation of immigrants, founded by successive waves of people from across the world seeking the American dream and the promise it offers. These egregious, authoritarian tactics by the Trump administration stand in stark contrast to our values as a nation, founded upon the rule of law and due process for all.” 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Video, Photos, and Rush Transcript: Rep. Dan Goldman Calls Emergency Press Conference After Observing and Confronting Masked ICE Agents Detaining Immigrants Coming in for Routine Court Appearances

    Source: US Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10)

    See Video and Photos of the Press Conference HERE
    See Video of Goldman Confronting ICE Officers HERE

    Congressman Goldman: “This is Gestapo-like behavior where plain-clothed officers, wearing masks, are terrorizing immigrants who are doing the right thing by going to court, following up on their immigration proceedings, and trying to come into this country lawfully, which is through asylum.”

    Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) today held an emergency press conference after witnessing and confronting masked ICE agents detaining immigrants attending routine immigration court appearances in the lobby of his 290 Broadway Manhattan district office. The press conference followed Congressman Goldman attending an immigration court proceeding this morning at the Executive Office for Immigration Review New York – Broadway Immigration Court in Manhattan where ICE agents have been detaining both immigrants and observers, including a pastor from Queens.

    VIDEO: The event is available to stream on Youtube and can be downloaded HERE
    PHOTOS: Photos of the event can be found HERE

    A rush transcript of the Congressman’s remarks is available below:

    Dan Goldman: We’re standing in front of 290 Broadway, which is a federal building where my district office is and where immigration court is. Today, I had the opportunity to both observe immigration court and observe plainclothes officers wearing masks, arresting and detaining immigrants who were here to appear in front of a judge as part of their court case.

    The Department of Homeland Security has implemented, over the last week, a coordinated effort to do an end run around our legal system in order to remove nonviolent, non-criminal immigrants trying to come into this country through a lawful pathway of immigration proceedings, and in many cases, asylum proceedings.

    By recommending dismissal of their cases, the Department of Homeland Security is essentially taking jurisdiction away from the court, removing the asylum application from going forward, and then allowing the immigration agents to arrest these people and put them in a deportation proceeding under a different authority than the one that they just dismissed, which has fewer rights and applies in very few circumstances. 

    This is Gestapo like behavior where plain-clothed officers, wearing masks, are terrorizing immigrants who are doing the right thing by going to court, following up on their immigration proceedings, and trying to come into this country lawfully, which is through asylum. 

    I observed the courtroom today, where there was one proceeding where the Department of Homeland Security moved to dismiss the case judge granted dismissal. The gentleman left the courtroom and then was arrested.

    As I was leaving the courtroom, there were about 15 other people there, and I asked if anyone spoke English. There wasn’t a single person who spoke English. There did not appear to be a single lawyer there representing them.

    These are routine appearances. They’re updates. They’re administrative. There is no reason for anyone to have expected anything unusual to happen today. And yet they’re ripped away from their families, from their communities, even though they’re trying to do the right thing and pursue the American dream as so many of us and our ancestors have. 

    I was a federal prosecutor for ten years right there. I worked with the Department of Homeland Security. I worked with ICE agents. I worked with Homeland Security Investigations. I have never seen any plainclothes officer wearing a mask.

    And, when I asked them, ‘Why are you wearing a mask?’ One person told me, ‘Because it’s cold.’ I asked him if he would testify to that under oath, and he walked away and wouldn’t respond to me.

    Another person admitted that they were wearing masks so that they are not caught on video. And my question to them is: ‘if what you are doing is legitimate, is lawful, is totally aboveboard, why do you need to cover your face?’ 

    Law enforcement officers do not cover their faces. And in fact, the Trump administration is cracking down on universities for allowing protesters to wear masks. So, apparently it is not okay to wear a mask if you are protesting the government, but it is okay if you are the government.

    This is not America. This is not who we are. And if you are a violent criminal, if you’re a convicted criminal, then you should be deported. I 100% agree with that. But these people are doing it the right way. They’re not criminals. They’re not murderers. They’re not rapists. They’re trying to seek a better life. They’re trying to escape horrific conditions at home and come to this great democracy and pursue the American dream. This is not who we are.

    This is not how our government should behave. And we will continue to demand answers from the Department of Homeland Security about what they are doing, why they are doing it, and why they are doing this end run around the legal process.  

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ciscomani Pushes for Increased Transparency in Medicare Billing Codes

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Juan Ciscomani (Arizona)

    ‘As we continue the meaningful work of safeguarding these vital benefits while reducing waste and increasing efficiency, we need to understand CMS’ processes and what is driving up Medicare costs and premiums’

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Congressman Juan Ciscomani reintroduced legislation to increase transparency with the Center for Medicare and Medicaid’s (CMS) billing codes.  

    Specifically, Ciscomani’s legislation, the Oversight of Medicare Billing Code Cost Act (H.R. 3580) directs the Office of Inspector General within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to conduct a study of the processes and procedures used by CMS when determining Medicare billing codes. This would help identify inefficiencies, increase transparency, and provide patients, physicians, and policy makers greater insights into how billing decisions by CMS impact healthcare costs.  

    “Seniors in my district, and across the U.S., who are on Medicare deserve full transparency about their healthcare costs and coverage,” said Ciscomani. “As we continue the meaningful work of safeguarding these vital benefits while reducing waste and increasing efficiency, we need to understand CMS’ processes and what is driving up Medicare costs and premiums. My bill is a commonsense solution to identify trends and inefficiencies, reduce waste, and provide greater transparency to CMS’ process and the factors they consider when altering, removing, or approving new billing codes.” 

    Ciscomani is joined by Reps. Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) and Lloyd Smucker (R-PA) in this effort. 

    “We can’t allow unaccountable federal bureaucrats to jeopardize the well-being of Medicare beneficiaries,” said Harshbarger. “Even as Medicare faces financial instability, CMS has been expanding services without input from Congress—driving costs sky-high. The Oversight of Medicare Billing Code Cost Act is a practical solution that will help control runaway spending, bring much-needed transparency to the billing system, and ensure that Medicare patients and their benefits remain protected.” 

    “Congress and the American public deserve greater transparency into how the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) modify billing codes,” said Smucker. “Understanding what drives program costs is essential—especially as Medicare faces insolvency in just over a decade. We must act urgently to shed light on CMS’s billing and coding processes, delivering an accountable system that the American people can fully trust.” 

    Find the full text of the bill here.  

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ogles Launches Investigation Into Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell, Files Official Request for Documents

    Source:

    Columbia, TN — Today, Congressman Andy Ogles, alongside the House Homeland Security and Judiciary Committees, has formally launched an investigation into Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell. The letter requires Mayor O’Connell to provide Congress with all communications, documentation, and materials relating to:

    • His amendment of Executive Order 30, which involves coordination between local authorities and federal immigration officials;
    • Any contact or correspondence with Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) regarding immigration enforcement, sanctuary policies, or the handling of criminal aliens;
    • Any internal or external communications concerning the activities of ICE, DHS, or other federal law enforcement operating in Nashville or Davidson County;
    • All financial records and documentation pertaining to taxpayer-funded programs and funds distributed to illegal aliens, including but not limited to the Nashville “Belonging Fund.”

    “Instead of defending our state, Mayor Freddie O’Connell is sabotaging it. He’s weaponized his office to dox and surveil federal agents who are trying to stop violent criminals — and worse, he’s embraced those criminals by creating a taxpayer-funded program to aid illegal aliens The recipients of these funds are untraceable, and the purpose seems crystal clear: help illegal foreigners evade the law,” said Congressman Ogles.

    “I refuse to sit back while our communities are overrun, our neighborhoods are destroyed, and our daughters are assaulted. And I absolutely refuse to stay silent while blue city mayors aid and abet this invasion.”

    “Today, with the full support of Judiciary Chairman Jim Jordan and Homeland Security Chairman Mark Green, we’re taking action. If Mayor O’Connell wants to spy on federal agents doing their job, then Congress is going to investigate him for obstruction,” Congressman Ogles said.

    Official Documentation Request Here

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ranking Member Don Davis Jointly Leads Digital Asset Market Clarity (CLARITY) Act of 2025

    Source: US Congressman Don Davis (NC-01)

    WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Commodity Markets, Digital Assets, and Rural Development Subcommittee Ranking Member Don Davis (D-NC-01) and House Agriculture Committee Ranking Member Angie Craig (D-MN-02) introduced the bipartisan Digital Asset Market Clarity (CLARITY) Act of 2025 as original cosponsors, alongside House Financial Services Committee Chair French Hill (R-AR-02), House Agriculture Committee Chair Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA-15), Commodity Markets, Digital Assets, and Rural Development Subcommittee Chair Dusty Johnson (R-SD-AL), Representatives Tom Emmer (R-MN-06), Bryan Steil (R-WI-01), Ritchie Torres (D-NY-15), and Warren Davidson (R-OH-08).

    “Families, entrepreneurs, and small businesses across our country, including rural areas in eastern North Carolina, seek ways to engage in the modern economy. Digital assets present a chance for a more inclusive financial future, but we need clear rules and fair oversight for innovation to thrive. Congress must ensure that America shapes digital finance, creates opportunities, protects consumers, and supports overlooked communities,” said Congressman Davis, the ranking member of the Commodity Markets, Digital Assets, and Rural Development Subcommittee.

    The CLARITY Act establishes a new regulatory framework for the issuance and trading of digital assets by outlining specific criteria for when a digital asset is regulated by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) or the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Under the legislation’s regulatory framework, the CFTC would be given regulatory authority over the “digital commodities” market. This market would include digital assets related to blockchain systems deemed “mature,” or largely decentralized. While the bill provides clarity regarding what types of digital assets would fall under the “digital commodity” definition, it directs the CFTC and SEC to define several key terms through agency rulemakings. Notably, the bill would give the CFTC authority over most secondary market crypto transactions where investors buy and sell previously issued crypto assets. 

    As with Financial Innovation and Technology for the 21st Century Act from the previous Congress, the bill would grant CFTC new authorities, generally providing it exclusive jurisdiction over “cash” or “spot” market digital commodity transactions (with some exceptions) and requiring CFTC registration for entities (including exchanges, brokers and dealers) offering trade in digital commodities. The bill would impose certain requirements on intermediaries, including ensuring trading is not susceptible to manipulation, requiring disclosures, customer fund segregation and addressing market integrity and recordkeeping requirements.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Mfume Formally Announces Bid for Oversight Committee Ranking Member Seat

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

    BALTIMORE, MD – Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07) issued the following statement regarding his decision to formally pursue the role of Ranking Member on the United States House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. 

    “I am formally announcing my candidacy for Ranking Member of the U.S. House Oversight and Government Reform Committee,” said Congressman Kweisi Mfume. 

    Click here to access my full “Dear Colleague” letter to Democratic members of the U.S. House of Representatives announcing my bid.  

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Alford Reintroduces American Land and Property Protection Act

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

    Today, Congressman Mark Alford (MO-04) reintroduced the American Land and Property Protection Act. This commonsense legislation will prevent foreign adversaries from purchasing real estate of any kind in the United States.

    The American Land and Property Protection Act would specifically prohibit nonresident aliens, foreign businesses, an agent, trustee, or fiduciaries associated with China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea, as well as designated Foreign Terrorist Organizations, from purchasing land in America.

    “Our foreign adversaries have no business owning American land,” said Congressman Alford. “Unfortunately, we continue to see concerning reports of people associated with China and Russia purchasing U.S. real estate. We need real action to end these transactions once and for all. The American Land and Property is a commonsense step toward protecting the homeland.”

    Read the full text of the legislation here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Rep. Pfluger Joined Mornings with Maria on Fox Business

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

    Watch the full interview HERE or read highlights of the conversation below.

    Maria Bartiromo: You did your work in the House. You passed this bill before Memorial Day. What are you thinking when you hear your colleagues in the Senate talk like this?

    Rep. Pfluger: Number one, we got it done on time, and that gives the predictability to the business community that they know they can plan for next year, that they know they can take the biggest tax cuts that President Trump extended and has enhanced and in many cases made permanent, and plan for next year. And number two, we are saving over a trillion and a half dollars, $1.6 trillion, that’s the largest amount of savings ever garnered in 250 years of this country. So it’s not perfect. Nobody argues for that, but it is an incredible bill, and we need it to be done quickly. That’s the most important thing.

    Maria Bartiromo: What about all these green subsidies from the Inflation Reduction Act? You know, that’s what some people are complaining about as well. I mean, you represent the largest capacity in America for oil and gas drilling in the Permian Basin, and we’ve talked about the incredible opportunity for oil and gas. Why all of these subsidies for other things, these green energy subsidies? Is it because your colleagues complained about job losses? Why are they still in there?

    Rep. Pfluger: It’s a great question. I think many of us tried to get to a point where we had a level playing field, a transparent playing field, where we are not just picking winners and losers. We want energy to work on its own. Of course, representing the Permian Basin, we believe that natural gas, we believe that nuclear, and things that are reliable, that have baseload capacity, are the best way to go, and we’re going to keep standing up for that.

    Maria Bartiromo: What do you want to say about the President’s energy agenda, “the drill, baby drill,” and the permitting easing, which the deregulation part of the agenda cannot be underestimated, with permitting easing, right?

    Rep. Pfluger: He is right. We need to unleash American energy. We need to have energy dominance, and it’s important that we get rid of that regulatory posture that Biden tried to kill the industry with. He tried to use every tool possible in every agency and every way to do that. But we’re resilient. The President now understands, President Trump understands that American energy, producing it here, unleashing our domestic potential, is the foundation for every business in this country, including national security issues.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: The 40: Pfluger Interview, No Tax on Tips, and DOJ v. Democrats

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

    A Conversation with Pfluger

    While in the midst of ongoing negotiations for the budget reconciliation bill and other general chaos in Washington, D.C., Congressman August Pfluger (R-TX-11) graciously took time for a phone call with The Texan last week. 

    Among the topics we discussed was one I’ve noodled on throughout various editions of The 40 since January: how has Trump impacted the dynamic of the 119th Congress? 

    Of course, no president has come and gone without leaving behind a signature mark on the legislature during his term — but Trump takes a unique position, as folks on either party would agree, but not on whether it’s been a positive impact. He’s been vocal in sharing how he would like Congress to legislate, which members he wants to see ousted (complete with colorful epithets and descriptions), and his perception of Congress members’ duty to fulfill his agenda.  

    Pfluger said that Trump has indeed “impacted it in every way, shape and form.” He acknowledged that “We look at the election on November 5 as a mandate, for the things that 77 million people who voted for him demanded needed to be changed.”

    Pfluger said Trump’s influence spans over “the whole gamut of issues,” following a Congress that was “under a  government that we lost trust and faith in, a government that was bloated and insanely expensive … Overreaching agencies that were overreaching into Americans lives, an energy landscape where the Biden administration wanted to basically assault fossil fuels — it spans over the entirety of it.”

    “Trump has brought a real sense of urgency to change the way that we do business,” Pfluger added, “to hit the reset button in Washington, D.C., to hit the reset button button in the international system, to hit the reset button with our military.”

    He added that Trump’s urgent tone “has prompted and prodded Congress to move quickly.”  

    “You see that with this ‘One Big, Beautiful Bill’ (OBBB) that just passed this morning on the House floor, that he is driving an agenda to get our country back on track, and Congress is legislating to codify many of the executive actions that he has taken,” Pfluger concluded.

    Pfluger’s legislative record over the past few months is emblematic of this prodding from Trump for haste — as Pfluger has passed the most legislation in the House of Representatives since the start of the 119th Congress. 

    Stay posted next week for an update on the OBB’s inclusion of border security reimbursement provisions and Pfluger’s inside analysis of it.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Fry Leads Push for State-Led Management of South Atlantic Snapper-Grouper Fishery

    Source:

    Congressman Fry Leads Push for State-Led Management of South Atlantic Snapper-Grouper Fishery

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Russell Fry (SC-07) led a letter from Republican members of the South Carolina delegation to U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick, urging the Department of Commerce to adopt a new state-led framework for managing the snapper-grouper fishery in the South Atlantic. The letter calls for putting a stop to heavy-handed federal restrictions and letting states like South Carolina take the lead in managing and tracking their own fisheries.

    Earlier this month, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster signed a similar bill giving more control of the red snapper industry to the state.

    The South Carolina lawmakers expressed strong concerns over the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) reliance on flawed Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP) data, which has driven severe restrictions, including extremely short recreational red snapper seasons and expansive bottomfishing closures.

    South Carolina’s recreational fishing and boating economy generates over $6.5 billion annually and supports more than 27,000 jobs. Local anglers and business owners—from Murrells Inlet to Hilton Head—depend on fair and effective fisheries management to sustain their way of life.

    In their letter, the lawmakers urged the Department of Commerce to:

    1. Pause implementation of Amendment 59 and similar federal closures

    2. Support a cooperative, state-led fisheries management approach modeled after the successful Gulf red snapper program

    3. Empower states to collect better data and deliver more balanced, accountable management

    “For too long, federal mismanagement has hurt our coastal communities and undermined trust in the system,” said Congressman Fry. “South Carolina anglers deserve better than critical decisions based on bad data. It’s time to follow the successful model we’ve seen in the Gulf of America and let states lead the way, just like we did under the first Trump administration in the Gulf.”

    This letter was signed by South Carolina Senators Lindsey Graham and Tim Scott, as well as South Carolina Representatives Sherri Biggs, Nancy Mace, Ralph Norman, William Timmons, and Joe Wilson.

    Read the full letter here.

    Congressman Fry serves on both the House Energy and Commerce Committee and the House Judiciary Committee. To stay up to date with Congressman Fry and his work for the Seventh District, follow his official Facebook, Instagram, and X pages and visit his website at fry.house.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Salinas Reintroduces Bill to Create Scholarship Program for Future Behavioral Health Workers

    Source: US Representative Andrea Salinas (OR-06)

    Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Andrea Salinas (OR-06) reintroduced a bill to grow and strengthen America’s mental and behavioral health workforce. The Substance Use Disorder Treatment and Recovery (STAR) Plus Scholarship Act would create a new scholarship program for students of diverse backgrounds pursuing a degree in the mental health, behavioral health, or substance use disorder treatment professions.

    “We have a drastic shortage of behavioral health workers in America – a shortage that is partly due to the high price tag that comes with obtaining a behavioral health degree,” said Rep. Salinas. “That is why I am proud to reintroduce the STAR Plus Scholarship Act, which would create a new scholarship program for students in the mental and behavioral health fields. My bill would prioritize students from underrepresented backgrounds to ensure that our future workforce is both highly qualified and reflective of the communities they serve. Ultimately, my legislation will break down barriers and encourage more students to pursue this critical line of work.”

    It is estimated that about one in five adults – or about 50 million Americans – struggle with mental illness, many of whom receive no treatment. Meanwhile, 17.1% of Americans report suffering from a substance use disorder, and 96.6% receive no treatment. While the prevalence of mental and behavioral health problems is growing, there are simply not enough providers to meet demand, especially for those living in rural areas or people seeking a provider who looks like them or speaks their primary language.

    However, a significant barrier to entry for mental and behavioral health providers is the cost of attending school. The average graduate with a master’s in social work had $67,000 in debt in 2019. Students pursuing graduate degrees in psychology take on an average debt load between $95,000-$160,000. These figures are even higher for Black and Latino students.

    The STAR Plus Scholarship Act would help address the mental and behavioral health workforce shortage by:

    • Creating a scholarship program for students pursuing a degree to provide substance use disorder treatment, mental health and behavioral health services;
    • Students would be eligible for non-taxable scholarships to cover the costs of their programs;
    • Requiring students to fulfill their obligations in a mental health shortage area or an area where the mean drug overdose rate exceeds the national average;
    • This bill also includes provisions to recuperate funds from students who do not fulfill their obligations;
    • Prioritizing students from groups or populations that are underrepresented in the substance use disorder treatment, behavioral and mental health workforce.

    ​​​​​​​In addition to Rep. Salinas, the STAR Plus Scholarship Act is cosponsored by Reps. Paul Tonko (NY-20) and Dan Goldman (NY-10).

    The legislation is also endorsed by the following organizations: American Association of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, American Association of Psychiatric Pharmacists (AAPP), American Counseling Association (ACA), American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), American Psychiatric Association (APA), American Psychological Association (APA), NAADAC — The Association for Addiction Professionals, National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), NAMI Oregon, National Association of Social Workers (NASW), National Council for Mental Wellbeing, Oregon Council of Behavioral Health (OCBH), Young Invincibles.

    “There are simply not enough clinicians to address the mental health crisis in this country,” said American Psychiatric Association CEO and Medical Director Marketa M. Wills, M.D., M.B.A. “The APA applauds Rep. Salinas for introducing The STAR Plus Scholarship Act. This critical legislation would help alleviate the behavioral health care shortage and diversify our workforce to enhance access to much needed care.”

    “The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) applauds Rep. Andrea Salinas for her vision to introduce the STAR Plus Scholarship Act. NASW supports opportunities to grow the social work workforce in a way that allows social workers to afford their education. This legislation would help social workers and other mental health professionals complete their education with the knowledge that they have financial support. This is a step in the right direction to meet the needs of individuals in a mental health professionals shortage area and help bolster the social work workforce,” said Anthony Estreet, PhD, MBA, LCSW-C, Chief Executive Officer, NASW. 

    “The American Psychological Association applauds Congresswoman Salinas for introducing the STAR Plus Scholarship Act. This important legislation would help alleviate the cost of education, which often serves as a barrier to growing the behavioral health workforce, as more prospective psychologists are forced to rely on student loans,” said Arthur C. Evans Jr., PhD, CEO of the American Psychological Association. “By creating a scholarship program for students pursuing a career as a mental health services or substance use disorder treatment provider, the STAR Plus Scholarship Act would ensure that more qualified professionals are trained to meet the needs of underserved communities without having to take on additional student debt.”

    “Access to mental health care cannot be achieved without a skilled and diverse workforce, yet our country faces a severe shortage of mental health and substance use providers,” said Hannah Wesolowski, Chief Advocacy Officer, National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). “There is an urgent need to expand and diversify the mental health and substance use workforce to meet the cultural and linguistic needs of people seeking care. Expanding and sustaining scholarship programs is a critical strategy to recruit and retain professionals in this field. NAMI strongly supports Representative Salinas’ STAR Plus Scholarship Act as an investment in building the workforce needed to ensure timely and equitable access to mental health care.”

    “NAADAC is excited and proud to support the STAR Plus Scholarship Act, as creation of these scholarship opportunities is an essential step towards building a more robust and well-trained addiction workforce. NAADAC applauds Representative Salinas for her leadership and recognition of the meaningful difference this policy solution will make in countless lives,” said Terrence Walton, MSW, Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer, NAADAC — The Association for Addiction Professionals.

    To read the full text of this legislation, click here.

    To download a one-page description of this legislation, click here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Young Kim Pushes to Cap Medicare Late Enrollment Fees

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

    Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representatives Young Kim (CA-40) and Nikema Williams (GA-05) introduced the Medicare Economic Security Solutions Act, a bipartisan bill that would lower Medicare costs for seniors by capping late Medicare enrollment fees. 

    Under current law, American seniors who defer enrollment in Medicare may unexpectedly find themselves with a higher bill due to late enrollment charges. This bill would cap the fee amount and duration for late Medicare Part B enrollment and lift penalties for COBRA, retiree, and Veterans Affairs (VA) enrollees who delay Medicare coverage.  

    Rep. Kim also co-led this bill in the 118th Congress. 

    “Seniors shouldn’t be punished for working later in life. Unfortunately, Americans can face higher fees for delaying Medicare enrollment,” said Congresswoman Kim. “The Medicare Economic Security Solutions Act will cap these unnecessary, burdensome fees hurting seniors already struggling on fixed income.” 

    “Seniors in Georgia’s Fighting Fifth and across the country are finding themselves hit with surprise fees simply because they didn’t know all the rules about signing up for Medicare. It doesn’t have to be this way. The Medicare Economic Security Solutions Act makes sure seniors who continued to work are not unnecessarily punished for missing confusing deadlines. This bill is about protecting our seniors and helping them get the care they’ve earned,” said Congresswoman Williams. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: John James Introduces Securing America’s Critical Minerals Supply Act

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman John James (MI-10) introduced the Securing America’s Critical Minerals Supply Act to the U.S. House of Representatives. The legislation redefines “critical energy resource” to empower the Department of Energy with a clear mandate: to secure the supply of minerals essential to our energy sector. The bill is being co-led by Rep. Jay Obernolte (R-CA) and Rep. Mariannette Miller Meeks (R-IA).

    From manufacturing to AI, the demand for critical minerals is skyrocketing. Yet, for too long, misguided policies have left the United States reliant on foreign adversaries for these resources, jeopardizing our energy security and economic potential.

    Rep. James issued the following statement regarding his legislation:

    “This bill is a bold step toward ensuring the United States leads in energy innovation, security, and independence. We cannot be the ‘land of the free’ if we choose to rely on critical mineral supply chains that are dependent on child and slave labor. This is about unleashing American energy—powering our factories, fueling innovation, and securing our future. The Securing America’s Critical Minerals Supply Act is a cornerstone for reshoring manufacturing, reducing dependence on foreign dictators and despots, and building an energy-independent America. I urge my colleagues to support this bill and unleash the full potential of American energy.”

    Specifically, the bill would:

    • Amend the Department of Energy (DOE) Organization Act to require the Secretary of Energy to conduct an ongoing assessment of the nation’s supply of critical energy resources, the vulnerability of the critical energy resource supply chains, and the energy security considerations of critical energy resources in the development of energy technologies.
    • Direct the Secretary to strengthen critical energy resource supply chains by diversifying sourcing and increasing domestic production, refining, and processing of resources.
    • Redefine the term “critical energy resource” to mean any energy resource that is essential to the energy sector and energy systems of the United States and the supply chain of which is vulnerable to disruption.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Lawler, Riley Introduce Bill to Support Veterans Exposed to PFAS

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

    Washington, D.C. – 5/29/25… Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) and Congressman Josh Riley (NY-19) introduced the VET PFAS Act today, bipartisan legislation that ensures veterans and their families exposed to toxic per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) at military installations receive the health care and disability benefits they have earned through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

    The VET PFAS Act will:

    • Designate PFAS exposure as a service-connected condition for affected veterans;

    • Require the VA to provide health care and benefits for medical conditions associated with PFAS exposure;

    • Ensure military families have access to the care and support they need.

    “Our veterans have sacrificed so much in defense of our freedoms. We must honor that sacrifice with concrete action to support them once they’ve come home,” said Congressman Lawler, a member of the Bipartisan Congressional PFAS Task Force. “Too many of our brave veterans were stationed at military facilities where they were unknowingly exposed to toxic PFAS chemicals. The VET PFAS Act will deliver long-overdue care to those who have already given this nation so much.”

    “In Upstate New York’s 19th District, we have over 30,000 veterans who answered the call to serve our nation, and we owe them more than just our thanks; we owe them the care they need,” said Congressman Josh Riley. “The VET PFAS Act is about stepping up and ensuring these servicemembers and veterans finally get the healthcare and benefits they’ve earned, without further delay.”

    Studies have linked PFAS exposure to serious health risks, including cancer, liver and kidney disease, high cholesterol, hypertension, thyroid disorders, and other chronic conditions. With PFAS contamination documented at more than 700 military bases across the globe, the burden falls disproportionately on veterans and their families.

    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: Congressman Taylor Introduces Connor’s Law, Requiring English Proficiency for CDL Drivers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Wyoming Congresswoman Harriet Hageman

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Dave Taylor (OH-02) and Representative Harriet Hageman (WY-AL) today announced the introduction of Connor’s Law, which will codify President Trump’s Executive Order requiring CDL drivers to maintain a basic proficiency in English in order to be licensed to drive on American roads. This bill includes an out-of-service provision, which will revoke CDL licensure from any current license holders who fail to adhere to language requirements. Representatives Mike Collins (GA-10), Paul Gosar (AZ-08), Beth Van Duyne (TX-24), and Brad Finstad (MN-01) joined Congressman Taylor in the introduction of this bill.

    In 2017, an 18-year-old named Connor Dzion was killed in an automobile accident in Northern Florida by a distracted truck driver who was found unable to speak English or read signs warning of upcoming traffic. Although English standards were initially included in the qualification process for commercial drivers, previous Democratic administrations removed violations of English Language Proficiency (ELP) from the out-of-service criteria. This action made CDL requirements more lax and increased the risk of accidents on the road, like the one that resulted in Connor’s death. Due to this, Congressional action is needed to restore proper CDL requirements and ensure safety on American roads. 

    “It’s Ohio common sense that if you want to drive trucks on our Nation’s roads, you should be able to read the road signs,” said Congressman Taylor. “Tragic deaths like Connor’s are absolutely preventable, and it starts with ensuring drivers operating large and heavy commercial vehicles are capable of being alerted to hazards and updates on the road. President Trump demonstrated leadership through his executive order requiring CDL drivers to speak English, which paved the way for driver safety, and I’m proud to introduce this bill to codify it and do the same.”

    “Requiring truck drivers to be proficient in reading and speaking the English language is just common sense,” said Rep. Harriet Hageman. “Driving some of the biggest rigs on our highway systems, often in inclement weather, creates risk enough, but this liability is exacerbated when truck drivers can neither read our highway signs nor clearly communicate with others on the road, thereby putting everyone in danger. I’ve heard from our trucking community and law enforcement officers alike emphasizing the need for this legislation, so today I am proud to join Congressman Taylor in its introduction.”

    “Families are being torn apart, the trucking industry is suffering, and the American people are less safe with non-English speakers behind the wheel. The motoring public deserves to know that the folks they share the road with can comprehend English and understand our rules,” said Rep. Mike Collins. “As a trucker, I applaud Rep. Taylor for his work to reverse this terrible Obama-era rule and make our roads safer.”

    “The ability to read road signs, understand the rules of the road, and communicate with law enforcement officials is vital to ensuring the safety of all motorists. That’s why English proficiency is a requirement for operating a commercial motor vehicle,” said Henry Hanscom, Senior Vice President of Legislative Affairs for the American Trucking Association. “ATA has raised concerns that conflicting guidance and uneven enforcement have sparked confusion over this law that has been in place since the 1930s.  We welcomed President Trump’s recent executive order that provides much-needed clarity, and we commend Reps. Taylor and Hageman’s effort to codify an objective, consistent, and effective standard.”

    “OOIDA and the 150,000 truckers we proudly represent strongly support the enforcement of English proficiency requirements for commercial drivers because it saves lives,” said Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association President Todd Spencer. “Basic English skills are essential for reading critical road signs, understanding emergency instructions, and interacting with law enforcement. Road signs are effective—but only when they’re understood. We thank Representative Taylor for his leadership on this issue because English proficiency is not optional—it’s crucial for keeping America’s roads safe for the entire traveling public.”

    If enacted, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, part of the Department of Transportation, will establish guidelines and enforcement mechanisms for the English proficiency of CDL drivers. 

    Initially enacted in 1937 with the establishment of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs), 49 CFR §391.11(b)(2) created general qualifications for commercial motor vehicle drivers. Among these qualifications was a requirement stating that drivers must be able to “read and speak the English language sufficiently to converse with the general public, to understand highway traffic signs and signals in the English language, to respond to official inquiries, and to make entries on reports and records.”

    However, in 2016, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration released guidance titled “English Language Proficiency Testing and Enforcement Policy MC-ECE-2016-006,” which removed the requirement to place drivers out of service for ELP violations.

    Specifically, Connor’s Law would:

    • Codify ELP into law as a requirement for individuals issued a commercial driver’s license, and;
    • Put CDL drivers violating the ELP requirement out of service.

    The American Trucking Association (ATA), Small Business in Transportation Coalition (SBTC), and Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) are supporting organizations of this bill.

    Congressman Taylor serves on the Highways and Transit Subcommittee of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. 

    The full text of Connor’s Law is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ciscomani Leads Effort to Improve the Veteran Readiness and Employment Program

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Juan Ciscomani (Arizona)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Congressman Juan Ciscomani introduced a new, bipartisan effort to increase oversight and improve of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program. 

    The Veterans Readiness and Employment Program Integrity Act (H.R. 3579) would ensure veterans are receiving the proper support and resources they need from the VR&E program to successfully transition back to civilian life while also adding needed oversight of taxpayer dollars. It does so by requiring the VA to report: 

    • Employment numbers and annual wages of VR&E participants to ensure veterans are achieving meaningful employment in successful careers. 

    • Average wait times between a veteran’s application submission until their first meeting with a counselor to address reported multi-month wait times. 

    Additionally, this bill will require a third-party review of each VR&E track and provide recommendations on ways to improve and modernize each track.  

    “When our veterans hang up their uniform, they deserve to receive the support, opportunities, and trainings they need to successfully transition back to civilian life and beyond,” said Ciscomani, who represents nearly 80,000 veterans in AZ-06. “This includes improving job training programs, educational opportunities, and employment accommodations to empower our veterans and set them up for success in their new careers. I am proud to lead this bipartisan effort to increase accountability and ensure that the VR&E program provides a good return on investment and adequately serves America’s heroes – our veterans.” 

    The VR&E program helps veterans with job training, educational opportunities, and employment accommodations. Currently, the VR&E program lacks performance measures and employment outcomes, which makes it difficult to assess whether the program provides a good return for our veterans. 

    Ciscomani is joined by Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL) in this effort.  

    “Any hero who fought for our country should be supported as they transition back to civilian life. That starts with making veterans’ job training, education, and employment accommodations more efficient,” said Cherfilus-McCormick. “This is a bipartisan solution that will help ensure the VR&E program is providing a good return on investment and is fully serving the brave men and women who served us.” 

    Find the full text of the bill here.  

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Bean Announces Launch of Congressional App Challenge to Inspire the Next Generation of Innovators

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

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Congressman Aaron Bean (FL-04) today announced the launch of the 2025 Congressional App Challenge (CAC) for Florida’s Fourth Congressional District. 

    The annual competition challenges students to create an original software application.  The winner will be eligible to have their app displayed in the U.S. Capitol, featured on the U.S. House of Representatives website, and will be invited to attend the #HouseofCode Capitol Hill reception.

    “The Congressional App Challenge is an exciting opportunity for students to explore the world of coding, creativity, and innovation. By participating, young innovators can develop original apps that solve real-world problems, sharpen their STEM skills, and become the tech leaders of tomorrow. I encourage all eligible students to take part in this competition and turn their ideas into reality. The future of innovation starts with you,” said Congressman Bean.

    OVERVIEW

    The Congressional App Challenge is an opportunity for students to test their abilities in coding and computer science, hone their skills in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) disciplines, and begin exploring potential future career paths.

    The Congressional App Challenge is open to all middle and high school students in the Fourth Congressional District.  Students may begin registering for the event today on the Congressional App Challenge website. The deadline to submit an original app is October 30, 2025.

    For complete details about the rules and requirements, please click HERE.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Don Davis Tours Lowe’s Distribution Center in Northampton County

    Source: US Congressman Don Davis (NC-01)

    GARYSBURG, NC — Congressman Don Davis (NC-01) received a tour of the Lowe’s Distribution Center in Garysburg, NC to gain insights into its operations, workforce, and role in supporting the regional economy. 

    “With a dedicated workforce of 500 employees, Lowe’s is a pillar of northeastern North Carolina, and we are thankful for their contributions to our community,” said Congressman Don Davis. “Businesses like Lowe’s Distribution Center #1420 play a vital role in creating a brighter future for eastern North Carolina.” 

    Lowe’s has been recognized as a 2025 Military Friendly Employer, emphasizing its commitment to supporting veterans and military families. Through its partnership with the Department of Defense’s SkillBridge program, Lowe’s offers a 12-week fellowship providing transitioning servicemembers with hands-on training, mentorship, and career opportunities in various roles, including store management and supply chain operations. 

    Lowe’s plays a critical role in disaster preparedness and response, especially in storm-prone regions like eastern North Carolina. Through its Emergency Command Center, the company pre-positions essential supplies, supports rapid store recovery, and partners with organizations like the American Red Cross to aid local communities.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: May 29, 2025 Lawmakers Introduce Bill to Help Communities Build Affordable Homes on Empty Lots Near Public Transit   Washington, D.C. – Amidst a severe housing crisis, a bipartisan coalition of lawmakers led by Rep. Kevin Mullin (CA-15) introduced the Empty Lots to Housing Act to help spur construction of transit-oriented housing development that includes affordable units.  May is National… Read More

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

    Washington, D.C. – Amidst a severe housing crisis, a bipartisan coalition of lawmakers led by Rep. Kevin Mullin (CA-15) introduced the Empty Lots to Housing Act to help spur construction of transit-oriented housing development that includes affordable units. 

    May is National Affordable Housing Month and families across America are facing challenges as the market is short 4.9 million homes, and one in four renters spends more than half of their income on rent. One way to help tackle America’s housing crisis is to repurpose underused land to build new homes – especially in areas near high-quality transit. Throughout the United States, there are an estimated 276,000 acres of government-owned land in transit-rich urban areas that could be repurposed for much-needed housing. Local governments often seek to leverage publicly owned land to create affordable housing, yet may face regulatory barriers on parcels that were previously purchased with federal funds. 

    The Empty Lots to Housing Act would help cut bureaucratic red tape that has prevented local communities from developing housing on land previously acquired with funds from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) that is no longer needed for its original purpose. In 2021, the Federal Transit Administration was granted this authority, and now lawmakers are seeking to provide the FHWA with parallel authority.  

    “Families across America are experiencing the detrimental effects of America’s housing shortage. We know this crisis all too well here in the Bay Area, where we have huge discrepancies in wealth, and the amount of land available for redevelopment is extremely limited,” said Rep. Kevin Mullin (CA-15). “It is reassuring to see bipartisan support for my Empty Lots to Housing Act. This bill would remove unnecessary hurdles and empower local governments that are striving to create much-needed housing in walkable communities with great access to public transit.” 

    The bill was inspired by a real-world case in the San Francisco Bay Area, where the San Mateo County Transit Authority (SamTrans) is seeking to redevelop an underused parking lot into transit-oriented housing. But the agency has faced regulatory barriers due to the site having been originally purchased with grant funding from FHWA, which is currently unable to easily allow grantees to repurpose property for housing development.  

    “Congressman Mullin has been a steadfast advocate for cutting through red tape to make housing development more accessible on publicly-owned land near transit,” said SamTrans General Manager/CEO April Chan. “We’re grateful for his strong leadership and commitment to real solutions.” 

    Specifically, this bill would: 

    • Enable state and local governments to transfer underutilized properties that were purchased with FHWA funds to nonprofits or other qualified organizations to build housing near public transit 
    • Require at least 40 percent of the housing units to be set aside for those earning up to 60 percent of the area median income, of which at least 20 percent would be reserved for very-low income families earning up to 30 percent of the area median income 

    “Part of solving our nation’s housing crisis means using the land we already have, especially near public transit hubs, to build homes people actually need,” said Rep. Robert Garcia (D-CA-42). “The bipartisan Empty Lots to Housing Act cuts through outdated red tape that’s held up progress for too long and helps create neighborhoods where families can afford to live and get around easily. As co-chair of the YIMBY Caucus, I’m proud to support this straightforward, commonsense fix we desperately need.” 

    “One of the biggest obstacles to housing growth is space, which is why finding ways to repurpose unused land is a great way to address housing shortages,” said Rep. Chuck Edwards (R-NC-11). “Federal law is currently getting in the way of efficient housing growth by forcing prime real estate, near highways and public transportation, to sit vacant simply because of the money that was used to purchase the land. The Empty Lots to Housing Act will fix that problem by allowing state and local governments to transfer vacant properties purchased by FHWA money to qualified entities to build housing in these desirable, transit-accessible areas. It’s a win, win for economic and population growth.” 

    The bill has been endorsed by YIMBY Action, Up For Growth, American Planning Association, National Association of Realtors, and Grounded Solutions Network, Parking Reform Network, and Asian Real Estate Association of America. 

    “Addressing the nation’s housing supply and affordability crisis demands smart policy solutions that build effective partnerships with local communities,” said Sue Schwartz, FAICP, President, American Planning Association. “The Empty Lots to Housing Act ensures that federal transit investments are fully leveraged to meet local needs. The American Planning Association supports this measure to give local agencies the authority they need to meet the moment, advance housing plans, and turn well-located, underused public assets into housing solutions.” 

    The full text of the bill can be found here. 

    The Empty Lots to Housing Act is cosponsored by Representatives Chuck Edwards (NC-11), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Kevin Mullin (CA-15), Scott Peters (CA-50), and Shri Thanedar (MI-13).  

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Stansbury, Luján Hold Town Hall in Albuquerque on GOP Attacks on Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security, and SNAP

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Melanie Stansbury (N.M.-01)

    Albuquerque, N.M. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) and U.S. Representative Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) held a town hall in Albuquerque on Tuesday to sound the alarm on Republican-led efforts to gut critical federal programs that New Mexicans rely on, including Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security, and SNAP. 

    The town hall followed a House vote advancing legislation that would slash billions from health care and food assistance programs while delivering trillions in tax giveaways to the wealthiest Americans. New Mexicans packed the event to hear directly from Senator Luján and Representative Stansbury and to raise concerns about the devastating impact these Republican-led proposals would have on New Mexico families. Senator Luján and Representative Stansbury denounced the Republican proposal and warned that the legislation would impose the biggest cut to Medicaid and nutrition assistance in American history. 

    “We are in the fight of our lives for our communities, our democracy, and to make life better for our people. Every day, I am deeply honored to be in this fight for New Mexico alongside Senator Luján and our entire congressional delegation. Together we are working to defend our rights and Constitution and to tackle our biggest challenges from healthcare, housing and education to caring for our veterans and protecting our lands and waters,” said Representative Melanie Stansbury (NM-01). “I am grateful to everyone who showed up to our Town Hall and who is speaking up and speaking out against the GOPs disastrous reconciliation bill which will gut Medicaid and food assistance for millions of Americans. As this bill heads to the Senate and the GOP continues to gut programs, we need you in this fight.” 

    “This Republican-led bill is a total rip-off for New Mexicans – all to line the pockets of people like President Trump and Elon Musk,” said Senator Ben Ray Luján. “The Republicans’ priorities couldn’t be more clear: tax handouts for billionaires and massive corporations, paid for by cutting health care, food assistance, and benefits for New Mexicans. We are not backing down. In the Senate, I’m going to keep fighting for our seniors, our children, and the future of New Mexico.” 

    Impacts of the House GOP legislation include: 

    • Cuts to SNAP, reducing food assistance for children, families, and seniors; 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Abbott Responds to Rep. Pfluger’s Work on Securing Texas Reimbursements

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

    WASHINGTON, DC — Governor Abbott (TX) released the following statement in response to the $12 billion in border reimbursements for states that stepped up, including Texas, that Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) and others fought to secure in the One Big Beautiful Bill.

    “Texas thanks the U.S. House and the Texas Congressional Delegation for including $12 billion in the reconciliation package that will help Texas in its response to the unprecedented illegal immigration in Texas,” said Governor Greg Abbott. “This is a national issue that Texas was proud to address, and we are grateful for the allocation that reduces the financial burden that Texas incurred.”

    “The devastating impact of the previous administration’s open border policies has been felt nationwide—but no state has carried the burden more than Texas. Texas spent $11.1 billion on border security, including $5.87 billion on personnel costs and $4.75 billion on border wall and barriers. When the federal government failed to secure our border and protect our communities, Texans stepped up. Throughout my time in Congress, I’ve fought tirelessly to get our state the reimbursements it’s owed, and now, that fight is finally paying off,” said Rep. Pfluger.

    Background:

    Texas had to take on a massive financial burden to protect our communities when the previous administration failed to do so. Throughout his time in Congress, Rep. Pfluger has fought to reimburse Texas for securing the southern border, including

    • Lone Star Reimbursement Act (2022)
    • This bill aimed to pay the State of Texas back for the costs of Operation Lone Star incurred in FY21 and FY22, which total $1.43 billion.
    • Co-led with Rep. Fallon
    • FY24, FY25, and FY26 Appropriations Requests (2023, 2024, 2025) 
    • FY24: Led a letter to the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security to reimburse Texas for $5.1 billion.
    • FY25: Led a letter with 18 signers urging the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security to reimburse Texas $11.26 billion.
    • FY26: Led a letter with 19 signers urging the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security to reimburse Texas $11.2 billion.
    • Efforts to Reimburse Texas through Supplemental Funding Vehicle
    • Although the measure failed, Rep. Pfluger led the charge on including Texas reimbursement through supplemental funding packages in the spring of 2024.
    • Rep. Pfluger has also consigned H.R. 424 and H.R. 1222, and H.R. 3464 to reimburse Texas 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Hoyle Announces 2025 Congressional Art Competition Winner

    Source: US Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04)

    May 28, 2025

    For Immediate Release: May 28, 2025 

    WASHINGTON, D.C.  –  Today, Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04) announced Teakki Rain Legg from Florence as Oregon’s Fourth District’s winner of the 2025 Congressional Art Competition. Winners have their artwork featured in the U.S. Capitol for one year and receive a round-trip ticket to Washington, D.C. for themselves and a guardian to be recognized at an annual awards ceremony when the art is displayed.

    “Teakki Legg’s artistry and attention to detail stood out with his entry into this year’s competition, Shining Light, which depicts the rugged beauty of the Oregon Coast,” Rep. Hoyle said. “His work will hang in the U.S. Capitol for the next year, representing the best of our district. Beyond his artwork, Teakki is a model student giving back to his community, serving on the board of the Florence Regional Arts Alliance and teaching art classes. I also want to commend his teachers, Lauren Suveges of Siuslaw High School and John Leasure at the Florence Regional Arts Alliance, for nurturing Teakki’s talents and pushing him to enter this competition. I look forward to meeting Teakki and his parents, Roanne and Brandt, and welcoming them to our office in Washington, D.C.”

    ‘Shining Light’ by Teakki Rain Legg

    A Word from the Artist

    My name is Teakki Legg and I’m a 16 year-old artist raised in Oregon. My piece, Shining Light, was heavily inspired by the Oregon coast where I live, which is populated by many lighthouses, such as Heceta Head and Yaquina. The lighthouse is a metaphor to illuminate possibilities and connection in the world, which sometimes can feel dark, but there’s always a light to go toward. As an artist, I simply can’t help but be inspired by the beauty of Oregon, in particular the coast. 

    I mainly work in watercolor and ink, but my painting was done in oil, a relatively new medium I’ve been experimenting with. I’ve had a great oil teacher, John Leasure, as well as my wonderful High School art teacher, Lauren Suveges, who also encouraged me to enter the Congressional art competition. Oil allows me to be more expressive with my colors and strokes, due to the fact that oil paint is so much thicker. 

    I’m so excited for the opportunity to go to Washington DC to see my painting hanging in the Capitol.  Thank you!

    Teakki Rain Legg

    Teakki Rain Legg, 16, was born in the art colony of Taos, New Mexico into a creative family filled with artists and writers. Home-schooled since birth, Teakki completed his first commissioned work at age 13. 

    Teakki’s work has won him multiple recognitions, including an Artist’s Choice Award. At age 15, Teakki began serving on the board of the Florence Regional Arts Alliance (FRAA). In his spare time, he teaches classes in watercolor, and pen and ink. 

    Some of his favorite artists include M. C. Escher, Rob Gonsalves, Bob Ross, Mark Kistler, and his grandfather, Martin Goldman. He enjoys and is inspired by comics, such as Calvin and Hobbes, and plans to pursue a career as an artist.

    You can see more of Teakki’s work here.

    The Congressional Art Competition

    The Congressional Art Competition is a bipartisan initiative to incentivize arts education for high school students across America. Every district that chooses to participate selects one winner annually. More information can be found on Rep. Hoyle’s website. 

     

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Dan Goldman Leads Bipartisan Effort to Protect Federal Judges From Doxxing and Threats

    Source: US Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10)

    Bipartisan Appropriations Letter Urges Congress to Fund Grant to Scrub Judges’ Personal Information from the Internet 

     

    Threats Against Judges Have Risen Over 100% in the Last 6 Weeks, Coinciding with Harsh Rhetoric from Trump Administration 

     

    Read the Letter Here 

    Washington, D.C – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) and Congresswoman Mikie Sherill (NJ-11) led a bipartisan group of 39 of their colleagues in writing to the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, and Science Chairman Hal Rogers (KY-05) and Ranking Member Grace Meng (NY-06) requesting that they provide $10 million for a program within the bipartisan Daniel Anderl Judicial Security and Privacy Act of 2022 for state and local governments to remove the personal information of federal judges and their families from the internet, such as property tax records that would list addresses. 

    “As Donald Trump has escalated his attacks on federal judges, their safety and security are increasingly at risk. If judges alter their decisions out of fear for the safety of themselves and their families, then we no longer live under the rule of law,” Congressman Dan Goldman said. In order to enhance the security of federal judges, it is vital for Congress to fund this essential grant program and ensure that sensitive personal information, including home addresses, financial records, and details about family members, is kept private.” 

    Between 2015 and 2021, threats against federal judges rose by more than 450%, from 926 incidents in 2015 to 4,511 in 2021. The Trump administration’s recent rhetoric against individual judges who have rendered unfavorable rulings has only supercharged that trend, with threats against judges rising over 100% in the last six weeks alone. 

    “Time is of the essence in implementing the Anderl Act’s protections for our federal judges and their families, as members of the Federal judiciary have been exposed to an increased number of personal threats in connection to their role,” the Members wrote. 

    Named after Daniel Anderl—the son of a federal judge who was murdered by a disgruntled attorney who obtained the judge’s home address online—the law’s provisions authorizing anti-doxxing grants for state and local governments have never been funded. 

    “The importance of the Anderl Act to our federal judiciary and to our federal legal system cannot be overstated. It is critical that Congress take action to protect all our public servants on the federal bench and prevent this type of violence and threats in the future. Our judiciary, and by extension, our democracy, cannot continue to bear this burden alone,” the Members concluded. 

    Read the letter here or below:

    Dear Chair Rogers and Ranking Member Meng: 

    As you begin consideration of the Fiscal Year 2026 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies appropriations bill, we ask that within the accounts funding the Department of Justice State and Local Law Enforcement Assistance account, you provide $10 million for the state and local government grant program authorized in Section 5934(c) of the Daniel Anderl Judicial Security and Privacy Act of 2022 (Public Law 117-263). 

    This program permits the Attorney General to make grants to States or units of local governments so they can remove personal information about federal judges and their families from their websites, such as property tax records that would list federal judges’ addresses. 

    Time is of the essence in implementing the Anderl Act’s protections for our federal judges and their families, as members of the Federal judiciary have been exposed to an increased number of personal threats in connection to their role.  Testifying before the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime and the Federal Government in February of this year, U.S. Marshals Service Director Ronald Davis said that threats against federal judges have doubled in the past 3 years. In fact, from 2015 to 2021, threats against federal court personnel jumped more than 450 percent, from 926 incidents recorded in 2015 to 4,511 incidents in 2021. 

    Among the incidents demonstrating the unfortunate urgency of these measures is the 2020 murder of Daniel Anderl, for whom the legislation was named. The 20-year-old son of New Jersey District Judge Esther Salas, Daniel was shot and killed at home by a disgruntled lawyer who found the judge’s address on the internet and also critically wounded Judge Salas’ husband. 

    After Judge James Robart’s 2017 decision to block former President Trump’s travel ban, critics posted the judge’s home phone and address online. Judge Robart received 40,000 messages, 1,100 of which were serious enough to be investigated, and so many death threats that U.S. marshals set up camp around his house. Additionally, in 2022, a California man was indicted for attempting to assassinate Justice Brett Kavanaugh. An FBI affidavit stated that the would-be assassin found Justice Kavanaugh’s address online. 

    In his annual year-end report in December, Chief Justice Roberts warned about the rising number of threats to the judiciary’s independence, including calls for violence against judges and “dangerous” suggestions by elected officials to disregard court rulings they disagree with. This warning was followed by another by the U.S. Marshals to federal judges indicating an “unusually high threat level” in March. The importance of the Anderl Act to our federal judiciary and to our federal legal system cannot be overstated. It is critical that Congress take action to protect all our public servants on the federal bench and prevent this type of violence and threats in the future. Our judiciary, and by extension, our democracy, cannot continue to bear this burden alone. 

    Thank you for your consideration of this important request. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lawler, Castro, Salazar, and Cherfilus-McCormick Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen U.S.-Caribbean Relations

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

    Washington, D.C. – 5/27/25… Last week, Reps. Mike Lawler (NY-17), Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Ranking Member of the Western Hemisphere Subcommittee, María Elvira Salazar (FL-27), Chair of the Western Hemisphere Subcommittee, Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Ranking Member of the Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee, Chairman of the Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee, introduced the Strengthening US-Caribbean Partnership Act. 

    This bipartisan bill would improve the relationship between the United States and the Caribbean by designating the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) as an international organization with diplomatic privileges and immunities consistent with the International Organization Immunities Act.  

    The International Organization Immunities Act, enacted in 1945, governs how the United States extends the rights and treaties generally accorded to embassies of countries that have diplomatic relations with the United States to international organizations like CARICOM.  

    “The presence of Caribbean-American communities in the Hudson Valley is felt in everything from the food we enjoy to the churches, schools, and small businesses that keep our neighborhoods thriving,” said Congressman Mike Lawler. “By extending privileges and immunities to our partner countries in CARICOM, we can strengthen U.S. ties in the region. I’m eager to support legislation that promotes a foreign policy that reflects the lived experiences of the people I represent.”  

    “Today’s introduction of this bill demonstrates the bipartisan commitment to a strong U.S.-Caribbean relationship,” said Congressman Joaquin Castro. “This is an important step forward to engage more deeply with the Caribbean and offer our support through CARICOM. We share common interests — by strengthening U.S. ties in the Caribbean, we strengthen our nation’s security, economic well-being, and prosperity.”  

    “I am proud to support this bipartisan legislation extending full diplomatic privileges and immunities to the Caribbean Community (CARICOM),” said Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar. “As the Representative for Miami, the gateway to the Caribbean and home to one of the nation’s largest Caribbean American communities, I witness daily how our island partners’ success powers Miami’s commerce and tourism enriches our culture. Strengthening these bonds is not only good diplomacy; it is sound economic and national security policy. When the Caribbean thrives, the United States prospers!” 

    “The countless contributions of the Caribbean-American community can be felt and seen in communities across South Florida,” said Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick. “By strengthening our diplomatic engagement with CARICOM, we’re laying the necessary foundation for enhanced economic, security, and cultural ties that will yield long-term, strategic benefits.” 

    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: Malliotakis Celebrates SALT Relief in House Tax Package

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

    “I’m proud to be delivering long-overdue tax relief to working Americans, middle-class families and senior citizens,” said Rep. Nicole Malliotakis. “As our Mayor and Governor continue to tax us to death year after year, our community is in desperate need of SALT relief. This package also includes key provisions like expanding the Child Tax Credit, funding to secure our borders, upgrading our nation’s air traffic control systems, and jumpstarting domestic energy production to help lower energy costs. Together, these measures will provide the critical relief New Yorkers need and deserve.”

     

    “If you look across Staten Island and Southwest Brooklyn, that’s what you have homeowners living in one, two, and three family homes. We want to make sure that as the cost of living continues to rise that we are able to help homeowners keep a bit more money in their pockets, and that is what this SALT deduction restoration is going to be doing. It is going to allow folks to better afford the homes they already have and maybe for some of our aspiring homeowners who are looking to put down that down payment, get a mortgage, it is going to be a little easier knowing that property tax bill is going to be deducted on their federal income taxes,” said Councilman David Carr.

     

    “Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis is a tireless, principled, passionate voice for the people of Staten Island and Brooklyn. She doesn’t just talk about helping the middle class — she actually does it. This bill builds on the 2017 Trump tax cuts, and it goes even further — cutting taxes, cutting red tape, and cutting through the nonsense that’s been hammering families like mine for years,” said Councilman Frank Morano.

     

    “Rep. Nicole Malliotakis has consistently fought to ease the financial burden on hard-working families in New York, one of the most heavily taxed states in the nation. Recognizing how unfair the 2017 cap on the State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction was to middle-class homeowners, especially in high-tax states like New York, she led the charge in advocating for its restoration and reform. By working to lift the SALT cap, Rep. Malliotakis helped deliver real tax relief to families who were being penalized simply for living and working in their home state. Her efforts not only put more money back into the pockets of New Yorkers but also helped make the region more affordable and economically competitive — a critical step toward preventing the outmigration of residents and businesses,” said Assemblyman Michael Tannousis.

     

    “Raising the SALT cap is a huge win that delivers BIG savings for Staten Island families and seniors. But this is not the end of the road for us here in New York: Albany Democrats are likely already finding ways to snatch those savings right back with more taxes, fees, and reckless policies. That’s what they do best: take, spend, and then cry broke. I will be there to fight them – for you – every step of the way. I am incredibly grateful to have an unrelenting partner in Congresswoman Malliotakis who will go to bat and deliver for Staten Islanders at all costs,” said Assemblyman Sam Pirozzolo.

     

    “The Congresswoman’s successful push to quadruple the SALT deduction to $40,000 is a big win for our community. It eases the financial strain on middle-class homeowners caused by New York’s high property taxes. We appreciate her commitment to our economic well-being,” said the Port Richmond North Shore Alliance.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ezell, Carter Introduce the Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program to Support Small Communities

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mike Ezell (Mississippi 4th District)

    Congressman Mike Ezell (R-MS4) and Congressman Troy Carter (D-LA2) introduced the Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program Act to increase technical assistance to organizations assisting small communities who are trying to increase business through The United States Economic Development Administration (EDA) Research and National Technical Assistance (RNTA) grant program.

    “The Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program is a smart investment in the people and organizations that power local economies,” Ezell said. “By strengthening the operational and technical abilities of business district organizations, we’re laying the foundation for job creation, local wealth building, and an improved quality of life in underserved areas of South Mississippi. Through targeted technical assistance and better access to the U.S. Economic Development Administration’s RNTA grant program, we’re making sure small communities have the tools they need to build stronger, more competitive business districts and achieve lasting economic growth.”

    “Small businesses are the backbone of our economy. This bipartisan legislation will help grow capacity in our business districts and create more equitable economic opportunities in Louisiana. It would increase vital resources for many organizations in my district that conduct critical, on-the-ground work to uplift small, local businesses. I’m proud to co-lead this effort again this Congress with Rep. Ezell,”  Carter said.

    “We applaud the introduction of the Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program and are grateful for Rep. Carter’s co-sponsorship of this important legislation and his continued support to Main Street districts and organizations across New Orleans and Louisiana,” Dasjon S. Jordan, Executive Director, Broad Community Connections said.

    “By strengthening existing place-making efforts and serving as a catalyst for economic growth and development by creating a sense of place and pride for the community, the Downtown Hattiesburg Association is improving the quality of life in Hattiesburg. Added resources for capacity and technical assistance to expand our work will increase our impact. We are grateful for Rep. Ezell’s support to make that vision a reality,” Marlo Dorsey, Board Member, Mississippi Main Street Association and Hattiesburg Downtown Association said.

    “Sankofa Community Development Corporation is excited about the Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program to offer opportunities to strengthen economic development initiatives. We initiated the Lower Ninth Ward Main Street project in alliance with a network of organizations, community stakeholders, and local businesses. We look forward to seeing its positive impact on the growth of small businesses and revitalization of our historic commercial corridor,” Rashida Ferdinand, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Sankofa Community Development Corporation said.

    “As an organization dedicated to promoting, enhancing, and supporting our community’s downtown district, Main Street Pascagoula is incredibly thankful for Representative Mike Ezell’s support of the Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program. We are confident that this Program will prove tremendously impactful for our community and other districts engaged in revitalization efforts, and we look forward to what the future holds,” Susannah Northrop, Director, Main Street Pascagoula said.

    “Picayune Main Street’s mission is to preserve the historic character and integrity of our community’s downtown commercial and residential district, as well as to enhance the culture and quality of life through active community involvement. While we have seen successes, the additional support enabled through the Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program would equip our organization to take this mission to new heights, facilitating small business growth, job creation, and enhanced quality of place for our community,” Reba Beebe, Director, Picayune Main Street, Inc. said.

    “The Mississippi Main Street Association is thankful for Representative Ezell’s leadership of this legislation. As Mississippi’s leading organization for preservation-based community and economic development, we are excited about the potential of this funding to strengthen our network of organizations committed to supporting our downtowns and small businesses,” Jim Miller, Executive Director, Mississippi Main Street Association said.

    ‘We applaud Representatives Ezell and Carter for introducing the Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program. This program will provide critical resources to locally based, non-profit organizations that support small business ownership and economic revitalization in urban neighborhoods and rural communities across the country,” Matthew Josephs, Senior Vice President for Policy, Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) said.

    “We believe Main Streets are the backbone of the small business economy. Main Street America is pleased to support the Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program. We thank Representatives Ezell and Carter for recognizing the critical role that business district organizations, such as Main Street programs, play in creating thriving local economies,” Erin Barnes, President and CEO, Main Street America said.

    “The Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program represents a powerful opportunity to support local leaders in rural America who are working hard to build vibrant local economies. By enabling the U.S. Economic Development Administration to collaborate with trusted national nonprofits to direct federal resources, we would be taking an important step to drive sustainable economic growth, and revitalize places, like rural communities, that are often overlooked and underfunded,” Matt Dunne, Founder and Executive Director, Center on Rural Innovation said.

    “This legislation represents overdue investment in the community development organizations that help so many business districts adapt and thrive. By giving them access to the flexible capital and technical support they need, it strengthens these organizations’ ability to serve local entrepreneurs, revitalize neighborhood corridors, and meet the business needs of the communities they know best,” Frank Woodruff, Executive Director of Community Opportunity Alliance (formerly NACEDA) said.

    Background:

    Currently, grants under RNTA are not used for capacity-building assistance and pass-through funds to local entities. Additionally, there is no EDA resource dedicated to business district organizations or business districts that are already assisting these entities.

    The Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program Act is expected to benefit small businesses and underserved communities by providing them with the expertise necessary to apply for RNTA grants. These grants will enable communities to fund projects that boost local economies, foster innovation, and strengthen their overall business infrastructure.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Zinke Nominates 15 Western Montana Projects for Federal Funding totaling $64,619,833

    Source: US Congressman Ryan Zinke (Western Montana)

    Zinke prioritizes infrastructure, law enforcement, and rural development across 13 Counties

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Ryan Zinke announced that he requested federal funding for 15 projects in Western Montana to improve infrastructure, economic development, and law enforcement capabilities. The requests were submitted to the House Appropriations Committee of which he is a member. The projects would benefit communities in the following counties: Beaverhead, Flathead, Gallatin, Granite, Lake (2), Lincoln (2), Missoula (2), Mineral (2), Powell, Ravalli (3), and Sanders (3). The projects are posted on Congressman Zinke’s website for public inspection here and listed below.

    “Rural America’s infrastructure needs have been ignored for too long, as a member of the Appropriations Committee I can ensure our tax dollars are spent on projects that directly support our communities,” said Zinke. “With the help of county commissioners, mayors, and sheriffs, we’ve identified and nominated strong, shovel-ready projects that reflect real community needs and deliver the highest return to Montana taxpayers. These investments will support our law enforcement, expand access to clean water, repair failing infrastructure, and spur economic growth across Western Montana. This is about building a stronger Montana by making sure our families have access to housing, clean water, and safe streets for generations to come.”

    The submissions were made through the U.S. House of Representatives Community Project Funding program, which allows Congress to direct appropriations from specific grant accounts to eligible projects. All projects must meet the published grant requirements and pass a series of legislative hurdles. Every project must be approved by the House Appropriations Committee, the full House of Representatives and be included in the joint funding package approved by the House and Senate and signed by the President. In Fiscal Year 2024, Zinke successfully secured $35 million in funding for Western Montana.  

     

    Proposed projects include:

    *Projects listed by county in alphabetical order 

    Beaverhead, Lake, Lincoln, Mineral and Sanders Counties, $2,889,500 – Five-County Law Enforcement Resilience Project

    Provides a funding level of $2,889,500 for Mineral County, located at P.O. Box 99, 310 River Street, Superior, MT 58972. To reduce cost to the taxpayer and promote equipment continuity in the event of a multi-county response to an incident, Mineral, Lake, Beaverhead, Lincoln, and Sanders counties have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to purchase much needed vehicles and equipment in bulk for bolstered law enforcement and public safety. The 2021-2025 crisis at the southwest border turned every state into a border state -including Montana. Five rural counties with a combined population of less than 80,000 are experiencing the lingering effects of the border crisis with criminal aliens still at large. These five counties have formed a joint purchasing agreement to purchase desperately needed equipment and vehicles in bulk to save tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars per county. The funding will purchase patrol vehicles, body scanners, radios and telecom equipment, rifles, vests, and fund safety upgrades.

    Flathead County, $1,936,170 – North Fork Road Guardrails

    The significance of the North Fork Road cannot be overstated. It provides crucial access for residents, U.S. Customs and Border Protection operations along the Canadian border, year-round recreational activities, and timber industry operations. It also serves as the route for approximately 150,000 annual visitors to Glacier National Park that access the park through the Camas and Polebridge entrances. The North Fork Road plays a pivotal role in the economic and recreational vitality of the region. Despite its significance, the North Fork Road poses safety concerns. Composed of a mostly gravel surface and winding in nature, it has numerous roadside hazards, including sections of roadway with steep side slopes descending to the river below. The existing guardrail along this section of road have surpassed their service life and due to their poor condition, have reduced ability to function as intended. The project will add or replace guardrail to improve safety along 3.71 miles of roadway.

    Gallatin County, $906,660 – Sheriff’s Office Rapid DNA Capabilities and Patrol Vehicles

    Provides a funding level of $906,660 for Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office, located at 615 South 16th Street, Bozeman, MT 59715. The Gallatin County Sheriff’s Department and Belgrade Police Department have formed an MOU to combine their purchasing power and coordinate complementary technology. This funding request will fund the purchase of all necessary equipment, software, warranties, consumables, and technical DNA support for the county sheriff’s office and all other municipal law enforcement agencies. This comprehensive Rapid DNA program will be open to all law enforcement agencies within the county, and hopefully beyond. The state crime lab is facing an overwhelming number of DNA evidence items awaiting processing. To manage this caseload, they have created strict guidelines prioritizing certain crimes and limiting the number of DNA samples that can be processed. To help ease the burden on the state crime lab and enable them to focus on more complex and high-priority cases, the Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office will be able to process DNA samples that can lead to immediate investigative leads. Additionally, the Belgrade Police Department will acquire fully outfitted patrol sport utility cruisers to enhance the safety of the citizens of Belgrade. Belgrade is one of the fastest growing municipalities in Western Montana and budgets are stretched thin across city government to support that growth.

    Granite County, $5,000,000 – Clean Water Infrastructure Project “Phase 1”

    Provide a funding level of $5,000,000 for the town of Phillipsburg, Montana, located at 104 South Sansome St. Philipsburg, MT 59858, to construct a new water transmission line. The town of Phillipsburg derives over 82% of its municipal water supply from the Fred Burr Reservoir, a high mountain lake located approximately 7 miles from the town. The dependability of the Fred Burr supply hinges on the reliability of the 7-mile-long transmission main that connects the lake to the town. The transmission line recently experienced a catastrophic failure. The pipeline traverses through rugged, forested, mountainous terrain at high elevations. Replacement of this transmission line is critical for the community to ensure clean and plentiful drinking water.

    Lake County, $730,000 – Ronan Volunteer Fire Department Replacement of 30 Year Old Type 1 Fire Truck 

    Support $730,000 for the purchase of a Type 1 Structure Engine to replace the current vehicle which is over 30 years old. The purchase would replace aging equipment and improve emergency response capacity. This funding will directly strengthen emergency response capacity in Montana’s First Congressional District, where many rural and tribal communities face long response times and limited firefighting resources. By equipping the Ronan Fire Department with a modern, NFPA-compliant Type 1 engine, we not only enhance local fire protection but also regional mutual aid support across Lake County and surrounding areas. This project promotes public safety, supports rural infrastructure, and aligns with congressional priorities to invest in underserved communities. Additionally, it strengthens partnerships between local, tribal, and federal entities in protecting critical infrastructure and natural resources.

    Lincoln County, $820,319 – Rural Airport Reconstruction and Emergency Services Expansion  

    The Troy Airport runway is in poor condition at-best, requiring extensive runway restoration and repair. This rural airport is vital to search and rescue, wildland firefighting efforts and medical flights within Northwest Montana. With the wildland fire trend in NW Montana, the need for a central location for deploying firefighting aircrafts and for a well-maintained runway is essential and cannot be overstated. The Troy Airport is situated close to many forested regions that are susceptible to wildland fire allowing for quick response time to extinguish fires before they spread further. A poorly maintained runway can have significant negative effects on airport operations and safety including the delay of firefighting efforts. Additionally, the 797 residents of Troy rely on the airport for air ambulance service as the closest trauma center is located more than 2 hours away in Kalispell.

    Missoula County, $1,400,000 – Lolo Wastewater Treatment Plant

    The community of Lolo is deficient in the water supply requirements for having the largest well out of service and meeting the max day water demand for the system. The community currently operates a public water supply system through an RSID and requires an upgrade to Well No. 1 and Well No. 2, to increase the water supply for the community. The water rights exist, and the wells can easily be upgraded to increase their capacity. The project was bid last year, and the community didn’t have enough money to award the bid. The benefit is that the project is shovel-ready and already approved by DEQ to move forward as soon as funds are available for the community to use.  The community is concerned about having enough water for the citizens, but particularly concerned during the summer months when the fire season is imminent.  The lack of redundancy for the water system is a great concern for the community and upgrading these two wells would provide that necessary capacity and surety.

    Missoula County, $21,134,250 – Seeley Lake Wastewater Treatment Plant  

    The largest employer in Seeley Lake and one of the largest in Missoula County announced it was closing after 75 years in business citing it was “crippled” by labor shortages driven by a lack of affordable housing, inflation, and lumber prices. The mill employed roughly 250 employees. The town of Seeley Lake is very rural and unable to build additional housing because it does not have a municipal water system to support additional housing and the existing septic system is at capacity and contaminating the groundwater. Building a water system will allow developers to invest in affordable workforce housing to support reopening the mill and growing jobs and economic activity in the region.

    Mineral County, $1,000,000 – Alberton Water Tower 

    Currently, the storage volume for Alberton is inadequate. The proposed Water Storage Improvements Projects will add 200,000 gallons of drinking water storage in order to provide adequate water volume to satisfy maximum day demands and also to deliver sufficient fire flow/volume. The Town is implementing a major improvements project to its distribution system in ’24-’25 and the storage tank project is the next highest priority project according to the Town’s 2020 Preliminary Engineering Report. 

    Powell County, $1,009,934 – Equipment for Volunteer Fire Departments

    Provides a funding level of $1,009,934 to Powell County, Montana located at 409 Missouri Ave, Suite 203, Deer Lodge, MT 59722. Powell County is larger than the entire state of Delaware, and large sections of the County are very remote. First responders are responsible for responding to more than 800 miles of county road, 90 miles of state highway, and 36 miles of Interstate. Volunteer departments respond to hundreds of interstate accidents every year in addition to countless search and rescue operations on millions of acres of rugged wilderness. This request would fund the acquisition of equipment for EMS, fire department and search and rescue operations. This will help both Granite and Powell Counties, as both Gold Creek and Drummond’s Valley Fire work together per a mutual aid agreement, which further extends the impact of this request. 

    Ravalli County, $1,143,000 – Bridge Replacement, Groff Lane 

    Ravalli County is one of the fastest growing counties in Montana. Groff Lane provides access to larger agricultural tracts in Ravalli County and a future potential public access.  The narrow bridges need to be replaced to allow for safer passage and also to ensure that irrigation water delivery can continue to some larger agricultural water users in the Bitterroot Valley.

    Ravalli County, $5,500,000 – Old Corvallis Road Repair 

    The funding would be used for repair of the Old Corvallis Road in the critical north-south transportation corridor of the greater Hamilton area. The Project is an appropriate use of taxpayer funds because Old Corvallis Road serves as a crucial transportation artery in the greater Hamilton area, connecting the Corvallis community with essential services and employment opportunities in the City of Hamilton, notably a large pharmaceutical facility as well as a soon-to-be residential development that will consist of 140 units. The road suffers from poor pavement conditions and lacks dedicated non-motorized facilities, making walking hazardous. Traffic counts from 2023 reveal an average daily traffic of 2,705 vehicles with an anticipated increase of nearly 50% once the residential development is completed. Addressing these infrastructure challenges is crucial to ensuring safe and efficient travel along Old Corvallis Road. 

    Ravalli County, $10,000,000 – Wastewater Treatment Plant 

    Ravalli county is currently one of the most rapidly developing counties in Montana and one of the greatest in need of affordable housing. One of the greatest barriers to that is the lack of water and sewage treatment capacity. Ravalli county until recently has been forced to send its raw sewage by truck to Missoula county for disposal and treatment. Recently this arrangement was terminated due to Missoula counties own issues with sewage treatment capacity. Currently all sewage pumped from septic tanks in Ravalli county is being deposed of on National Forest lands. This is a concern both environmentally and economically due to the capacity barriers this creates. Septic seepage levels are reaching a dangerous level and because of this the county is limited in new septic permits it can issue to build new homes and dwellings. This new facility if funded would protect drinking water, ease capacity restrictions inhibiting development, and protect environmental quality by keeping septic seepage and human waste out of critical groundwater siphons and the Bitterroot river.

    Sanders County, $10,000,000 – Noxon Bridge Replacement Project Phase 1

    This funding would replace a failing 102-year-old bridge that is on an important emergency service, school bus, and commodity transportation route. The 102-year-old structure is now facing serious structural concerns, leading to its indefinite closure. This is the only bridge which links Highway 200 to the town of Noxon, and has developed cracks in its foundation and holes in the roadbed have opened, prompting urgent safety evaluations. The Sanders County Commissioners commissioned a study to assess the bridge’s condition, with findings recommending full replacement rather than rehabilitation. The closure has already disrupted daily life, affecting food deliveries, emergency services, and local businesses. School busses fully loaded are unable to traverse the bridge. Due to budget constraints of a small taxbase, the county is unable to fund the project alone. With its historical significance and essential role in local infrastructure, restoring the Noxon Bridge remains a top priority for both county and state officials. Securing the necessary funding remains a challenge, leaving the community in limbo as they await further action.

    Sanders County, $1,150,000 – Repaving Marten Creek Road 

    This project aims to rehabilitate and upgrade a surface transportation asset that if left unimproved threatens the mobility of people, delivery of services to residents, economic growth from tourism and vital national forest access. This project will improve the lifespan of Marten Creek Road, reduce future maintenance costs and allow more time, money and resources to be spent on other roads in the county. Sanders County proposes to hire a contractor to overlay 4.5 miles of Marten Creek Road with 2.5″ thick asphalt 22′ wide. Estimated cost of the project is $1,150,000.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Mfume, Former COVID Select Committee Democrats’ Statement on Trump Admin’s New COVID-19 Vaccine Policy

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07), Ranking Member Raul Ruiz (CA-25) and Representatives Deborah Ross (NC-02), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Debbie Dingell (MI-12), Ami Bera (CA-06), Robert Garcia (CA-42), and Jill Tokuda (HI-02), formers Members of the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic, released the following statement: 

    “As former ranking member, and members of the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic, we express our deep concern over the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) recent decision to limit the approval of updated COVID-19 vaccines primarily to older adults and individuals with underlying health conditions.

    “We find it perplexing that this new guidance undermines the foundational principles of Operation Warp Speed, a program initiated under the Trump administration, which successfully accelerated the development and distribution of COVID-19 vaccines, saving millions of lives. The current policy appears to disregard the proven benefits of widespread vaccination and may hinder our nation’s ability to respond effectively to future COVID-19 variants.

    “Furthermore, the decision to require extensive clinical trials for low-risk populations could delay the availability of updated vaccines, potentially leaving millions without timely access to necessary protection. 

    “We urge the FDA to reconsider this policy change and to prioritize a science-based approach that ensures equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines for all Americans, regardless of age or health status. Maintaining robust vaccination efforts is essential to safeguarding public health and preventing future outbreaks.

    “We stand ready to work with the FDA and other stakeholders to uphold the integrity of our nation’s public health initiatives and to ensure that the lessons learned from Operation Warp Speed continue to guide our response to the ongoing pandemic.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ogles Leads “Stop the Invasion” Press Conference at Tennessee State Capitol

    Source:

    Nashville, TN – Congressman Andy Ogles (TN-5) led officials from across law enforcement and federal, state, and local government in a press conference today at the Tennessee State Capitol. During the press conference, Congressman Ogles called for immediate action to defend Tennessee communities from rising illegal alien crime and for government officials to support federal immigration enforcement.

    “Ending the illegal alien invasion unleashed by Democrats and kept alive by obstructionist, activist mayors like Freddie O’Connell. That’s why I brought together patriots from every level of Tennessee’s government—from city councilmen to state legislators to federal law enforcement officials,” said Congressman Ogles. “The only way to secure our streets from the violence of illegal alien criminals is to stand with President Trump and support the efforts of ICE. Anyone who stands in the way of ICE is aiding foreign enemies and should be held accountable. It’s time to take back our country, secure Tennessee, and make America safe again.”

    Speakers Included:
    Congressman Andy Ogles (TN-05)
    Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson, Tennessee State Senate (District 27)
    Rep. Gino Bulso, Tennessee House of Representatives (District 61)
    Rep. Lee Reeves, Tennessee House of Representatives (District 65)
    Rep. Kip Capley, Tennessee House of Representatives (District 71)
    Councilman Dave Benton, Metro Nashville Councilman (District 28)
    Deborah Newitz, Nashville mother and victim of illegal alien gang violence

    Also in attendance on stage were Acting  Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) New Orleans Field Office Director Brian Acuna and Assistant Field Office Director Larry Adams, whose area of operation includes Tennessee.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pfluger Fly-By: May 23, 2025

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

    Pfluger Fly-By: May 23, 2025

    Washington, May 23, 2025

    May 23, 2025

    Friend,

    Welcome back to the weekly Pfluger Fly-By, a roundup of events and updates to keep you informed on everything I am doing week by week to represent you in Congress.

    I am thrilled to report that after months of hard work, we officially passed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act this week to advance President Trump’s America First Agenda. This bill is headed to the Senate and includes historic tax cuts for American families, funding to reimburse Texas for the border crisis, support for our farmers and ranchers, and much more.

    In addition to passing this historic legislation this week, I attended the signing of the TAKE IT DOWN Act at the White House, hosted the National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett at this week’s RSC members meeting, participated in an Energy & Commerce hearing with EPA Administrator Zeldin, spoke with Midland Classical Academy students, and more.

    I have included some photos and highlights from the week. You’ll also find information on how my office can assist you with any federal issues you may be facing. As always, please do not hesitate to contact my office if we can ever be of assistance.

    Best,

    One Big Beautiful Bill Act Passes Out of the U.S. House

    I am proud that House Republicans united to pass the One Big Beautiful Bill Act this week. In November, 77 million Americans demanded change, and this vote will go down in history as promises made, promises kept. This legislation reverses four years of failed Democrat policies – restoring American energy dominance, delivering vital support to our farmers and ranchers, securing historic tax cuts for hardworking families, reining in wasteful government spending, and making the strongest investment in border security in decades. This legislation delivers all that – and more – for every American.

    It also includes $12 billion to reimburse the great state of Texas for costs it should never have had to bear during the previous administration’s border crisis. For four years, Texas was forced to protect its border when the federal government failed to. Those days are now over, and I was proud to spearhead this effort. You can read about my efforts to secure this win in San Angelo LIVE HERE.

    Immediately following its passage, I joined ‘Wake Up America’ on Newsmax. Watch my full interview HERE.

    RSC Members Meeting with National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett

    As Chairman of the Republican Study Committee (RSC), I had the pleasure of hosting National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett at this week’s RSC members meeting. Hearing from Director Hassett was critical and timely as Republicans worked tirelessly to finalize negotiations on the One Big Beautiful Bill.

    E&C Hearing With EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin

    This week, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin appeared before the Energy and Commerce Committee’s Environment Subcommittee for a hearing titled, “The Fiscal Year 2026 Environmental Protection Agency Budget.” During the hearing, I thanked Administrator Zeldin for coming to West Texas, commended his efforts to rein in the EPA’s regulatory overreach, and asked about the status of several key policies.

    Under the previous administration, the EPA was weaponized against American energy producers in the Permian Basin and across the country. In stark contrast, the Trump Administration and Administrator Zeldin are rolling back burdensome regulations and ensuring that the EPA works with Congress and industry leaders to advance commonsense policies. These policies aim to protect our environment while supporting robust energy production.

    Watch my full exchange with Administrator Zeldin here or by clicking the image below.

    TAKE IT DOWN Act Signed into Law

    I was honored to join President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump at the White House this week to witness the TAKE IT DOWN Act signed into law. As a father to three young girls, I join many parents in being deeply concerned about the rise of deepfakes and nonconsensual intimate images.

    I was proud to co-lead this legislation in the U.S. House to protect victims of this harmful act while restoring online accountability. You can read more about the TAKE IT DOWN Act here.

    Discussing the One Big Beautiful Bill and the Golden Dome on Fox Business

    I joined Varney & Co. on Fox Business this week to discuss the One Big Beautiful Bill Act before its passage in the House, and President Trump’s push for the “Golden Dome.”

    Watch my full interview HERE or by clicking the image below.

    2025 Congressional Art Competition Winner

    This week, I was also proud to announce Korbin Jastrow, a Senior at San Angelo Central High School, as the winner of the 2025 Congressional Art Competition for her piece titled ‘The Exception.’ Her winning piece will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for the next year.

    For yet another year, I was completely blown away by the incredible talent of students across Texas’s 11th Congressional District. In a blind selection process, the committee selected Korbin’s piece for its unique take on Texas agriculture.

    In her submission, Korbin explained how she created the piece, stating, “The cow was drawn with pencil, then stamped with handmade stamps representing the Indian paintbrush and bluebonnets. The background was done with acrylic paint, and the shadows behind the cow were done with tissue paper.”

    Congratulations, Korbin!

    2025 Congressional Art Competition Winner: Korbin Jastrow’s ‘The Exception’

    Midland Classical Academy Students in Washington

    I had a fantastic time speaking with students from Midland Classical Academy during their trip to Washington, D.C. this week. Gaining an understanding of our legislative process is invaluable for students, which is why visiting with them when they come to D.C. is a top priority of mine. I am always inspired by the next generation of leaders, and want to thank the chaperones, parents, and teachers who made their visit possible.

    If you are visiting Washington, D.C. this summer, my office would be thrilled to book a tour of the U.S. Capitol building for you and your group. My office can also assist in requesting White House tours and tours of other iconic buildings around DC.

    Visit https://pfluger.house.gov/forms/tourrequest/to book your tour today. The earlier you can get your request in the better.

    REMINDER: If you are in need of assistance with a federal agency, my office is here to help. For more information, please visit our website HERE.

    Thank you for reading. It is the honor of my lifetime to serve you in Congress. Please follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter) for daily updates.

    MIL OSI USA News –