NewzIntel.com

Category: United States House of Representatives

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Valadao Urges DOT to Reinvest $4 Billion from High-Speed Rail to Infrastructure Improvements

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

    It’s been over 10 years since the California High-Speed Rail Authority began construction, and after wasting billions of taxpayer dollars, missing numerous deadlines, and forcing the Central Valley to suffer due to neglect, they have zero miles of operational track to show for it.

    WASHINGTON – Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) joined Reps. Vince Fong (CA-20), Ken Calvert (CA-41), Darrell Issa (CA-48), Tom McClintock (CA-05), Doug LaMalfa (CA-01), Young Kim (CA-40), Jay Obernolte (CA-23), and Kevin Kiley (CA-03) to send Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Sean Duffy a letter applauding the Federal Railroad Administration’s decision to terminate funding for California’s High-Speed Rail project. The letter urges DOT to redirect the $4 billion in recovered federal funds to critical infrastructure priorities across California.

    “It’s been over 10 years since the California High-Speed Rail Authority began construction, and after wasting billions of taxpayer dollars, missing numerous deadlines, and forcing the Central Valley to suffer due to neglect, they have zero miles of operational track to show for it,” said Congressman Valadao. “This project has been overfunded and grossly mismanaged from the start, and it’s past time we refocus our efforts and resources on infrastructure projects our region needs.” 

    The letter recommends funds be redirected to:

    • Expanding State Route 99, Interstate 15, Interstate 5, Interstate 395, Interstate 80, and State Route 65.
    • Supporting repairs on roadways designated as farm-to-market roads.
    • Shifting State Route 152 and modify a bridge on Interstate 5 to accommodate for needed reservoir capacity improvements.
    • Improving a bypass on State Route 70.
    • Repairing roads damaged by the Los Angeles wildfires.
    • Supporting infrastructure improvements needed for the 2028 Olympics.

    Read the full letter here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Andrea Salinas Leads Colleagues in Letter Opposing Trump Administration’s Attacks on the Forest Service

    Source: US Representative Andrea Salinas (OR-06)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Andrea Salinas (OR-06), joined by ten of her colleagues on the House Agriculture Committee, sent a letter to President Trump highlighting the harm his administration has done to the U.S. Forest Service.

    The letter demonstrates that the Trump administration’s actions – which include firing thousands of fire-qualified personnel, slashing funding, and moving forward an ill-conceived reorganization plan – will undermine wildfire preparedness and response across the country. The letter calls on President Trump to reverse course to undo the damage his administration has already caused.

    Click here or see below for the full letter:

    Dear President Trump,

     As we move deeper into wildfire season, we write to express our grave concern regarding your administration’s sustained attacks on the U.S. Forest Service (USFS). Widespread staff reductions, irresponsible budget proposals, and harmful organizational changes undermine the agency’s ability to effectively manage public lands, mitigate the risk of extreme wildfire, and protect the safety of communities across the country. 

    In early 2025, USFS undertook large-scale staffing reductions. More than 3,400 probationary employees were terminated, and thousands more departed under early retirement and separation incentives. The agency lost qualified wildfire response staff, as well as personnel specializing in fuels and forest management. These staff also conducted essential forest restoration work in the wake of wildfires to help critical ecosystems recover quickly and effectively. The loss of this expertise directly impairs the agency’s ability to reduce wildfire risk and respond effectively when fires occur moving forward. Despite what DOGE may claim, these employees were not part of some imagined bureaucratic fraud, they were dedicated public servants working to protect our public lands and our communities.

    In recent months your administration has advanced plans to shift many wildland fire responsibilities away from USFS and into a new entity housed within the Department of the Interior. This proposal has raised serious concerns among experts in fire response and forest management who warn it would create unnecessary disruption, fragment coordination, and delay urgently needed fuels reduction treatments during a time of escalating wildfire threats. For instance, the National Association of Forest Service Retirees has raised concerns that such an entity would take billions of dollars and many years to establish, even if done in an effective manner that preserves federal firefighting capabilities and minimizes chaos. There is also concern that such a new entity would ignore the critical role rank-and-file USFS workers play in fire preparedness and response and the inherent connection between wildfire and ongoing forest health and management. Moreover, as we move away from having a definable fire season and towards year-round risk of severe fire behavior, it is hard to imagine reorganizing our nation’s federal wildland firefighting responsibilities without creating unnecessary confusion and stress while attempting to protect vulnerable communities.

    Unfortunately, based on your administration’s track record, these concerns are well founded. From the chaotic mass firings of USFS personnel and the disruption caused by DOGE’s unfounded allegations of “waste, fraud, and abuse,” to the implementation of ill-conceived funding freezes and issuance of repetitive and vague Executive Orders, your Administration has repeatedly demonstrated an inability to execute complex plans efficiently or in good faith. It should come as no surprise, then, that your budget request included no funding to assist with any reorganization effort – nor did it request funds to replace the loss of personnel critical to the USFS’s wildfire preparedness and response capabilities.

    We would be remiss not to also mention our concern with the USFS budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2026. Slashing support for state, tribal, and private forestry programs that provide technical and financial assistance to landowners and resource managers to help sustain the nation’s forests and grasslands, protect communities from wildland fire, and restore forest ecosystems is downright dangerous. For example, eliminating funding for the Forest Service’s Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration program, one of the agency’s most popular and effective programs, will actively hinder our ability to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfire and support economic revitalization in rural communities.

    The USFS is also currently withholding funding from critical state, tribal, and private forestry programs, which are essential to preparing for and responding to wildfire on non-federal lands. We are deeply concerned by reports that program funding is being redirected to pay for the unauthorized and ill-conceived Deferred Resignation Program (DRP). Reallocating funding from its congressionally authorized purpose in order to pay employees to not work is an absurd, illegal, and irresponsible use of taxpayer dollars. If additional resources are desired to pursue DRP or other reorganization efforts, USFS should formally request and justify the need for these resources.

    Moving forward, we urge you to direct USFS to rectify the harm it has already done to wildfire preparedness and response. That means re-hiring or replacing terminated employees and resuming the distribution of state, tribal, and private forestry grants. It also means dropping ill-conceived reorganization plans until meaningful planning has occurred and required funds have been secured.

    The wildfire crisis is not going away. We should work together to reverse the dangerous course USFS is on, and bolster our wildfire preparedness and response capacity through collaborative, interagency efforts with a proven track record of success. Failure to do so will have catastrophic consequences.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Merkley and Hoyle Introduce Columbia River Clean-Up Act to Reauthorize Columbia River Basin Restoration Program

    Source: US Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04)

    July 23, 2025

    For Immediate Release: July 23, 2025 

    WASHINGTON, D.C.  – Today, Oregon’s U.S.Senator Jeff Merkleyand U.S. Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04) introduced the Columbia River Clean-Up Act to reauthorize the Columbia River Basin Restoration Program. Sen. Merkley created the Columbia River Basin Restoration Program in 2016 to focus federal attention on reducing toxics and pollution through voluntary efforts in the Columbia River Basin. However, funding for the program is set to expire next year. The Columbia River Clean-Up Act would ensure the program can be funded for another five years, through 2030.

    “Our rivers and waterways are the lifeblood of communities across Oregon and the rest of the Pacific Northwest,” said Sen. Merkley. “The Columbia River Basin Restoration Program—which I created in 2016—is vital to preventing toxic pollutants from accumulating in our environment. Our bill reauthorizes this critical program, ensuring federal dollars will continue to support a cleaner, healthier Columbia River for Tribal communities, wildlife, ecosystems, and the economy.”

    “The Columbia River Basin is one of our most important watersheds — supporting communities, economies, and ecosystems across the Pacific Northwest,” said Rep. Hoyle. “Reauthorizing the Columbia River Basin Restoration Program is critical to continuing the progress we’ve made in cleaning up toxic pollution and protecting public health. This voluntary program is a proven, bipartisan success, and I’m proud to join Senator Merkley in leading the effort to ensure it continues delivering results for Oregonians, Tribal Nations, and future generations.”

    The Columbia River Basin is the second-largest watershed in the United States, stretching across parts of Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana, and beyond. Home to 8 million people and more than 15 Tribal Nations, the Basin is central to the cultural, economic, and ecological identity of the Pacific Northwest. 

    For decades, industrial pollution, toxic runoff, and habitat degradation have threatened the health of the river and the communities that depend on it. The Columbia River Basin Restoration Program, first authorized in 2016, was the first federal initiative specifically designed to address toxic contamination in this critical watershed. Since its inception, the program has helped fund on-the-ground restoration projects, empowered Tribal and community-led efforts, and strengthened the scientific foundation for long-term recovery. 

    The Columbia River Clean-Up Act is endorsed by the Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians, Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission, The Freshwater Trust, Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership, National Wildlife Federation, The Nature Conservancy, Oregon Association of Clean Water Agencies, Pacific Northwest Waterways Association, and Trout Unlimited. 

    The Freshwater Trust – Joe Witworth, President & CEO:

    “The Columbia River Basin Restoration program incentivizes effective and collaborative conservation effort with public and private partners across Idaho, Montana, Oregon and Washington. We strongly support the reauthorization of this funding.”

    Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership – Elaine Placido, Executive Director:

    “The Columbia River Basin Restoration Program unites Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington to reduce toxic pollution in the Columbia River Basin through coordinated, community-driven solutions. This program is a transformative resource for the Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership. With its support, we are implementing locally designed stormwater projects at schools and community centers. We’ve also leveraged program funding to secure over $1 million in additional investments, significantly amplifying the program’s reach and impact.”

    The National Wildlife Federation – Alicia Marrs, Director of Wester Water:

    “The health and resilience of the Columbia River Basin is critical to the more than 8 million people that depend on it for their drinking water. Reducing contaminants is essential to maintaining a healthy water supply so that fish, wildlife, and communities and economies in the Basin can thrive.?With the future of EPA funding uncertain, reauthorizing the Columbia River Basin Restoration Program ensures previous investments are not wasted and we continue to leverage collaborative, voluntary efforts with tribes and states that protect communities and ecosystems from toxic pollution. We are grateful for Representative Hoyle’s sustained leadership on this critical issue and look forward to continued collaborations to build resilience for the entire region.”

    The Nature Conservancy – Sammy Mastaw Jr., Columbia Basin Program Director:

    “Salmon are facing a myriad of threats, including pollution and contamination of vital habitat. The introduction of the Columbia River Clean-Up Act — reauthorizing the Columbia River Basin Restoration Program — is a practical, science-based investment in the resilience of the Basin, and an important step toward healing for salmon and people.” Said Sammy Matsaw Jr, Columbia Basin Program Director with The Nature Conservancy.

    Oregon Association of Clean Water Agencies – Jerry Linder, Executive Director:

    “Columbia Basin Restoration Funds enabled EPA to provide grant funds to the Oregon Association of Clean Water Agencies to complete work aimed at toxics reduction, specifically reducing PFAS and Phthalates through public education, low toxicity institutional purchasing guidelines, assessment of PFAS and Phthalate sources, and industrial pollution prevention information and assistance. The products of this effort are on the Oregon ACWA website and there have been 5111 downloads, so the information is making a difference to reduce toxics in the Columbia Basin and elsewhere. There is still much work to be done and the Columbia River Basin Clean-Up Act is essential to continuing the progress that has been made so far.”

    Pacific Northwest Waterways Association – Neil Maunu, Executive Director:

    “The Pacific Northwest Waterways Association (PNWA) was proud to support the?original?legislation that created this voluntary program to aid in the clean up and prevention of toxins that are harmful to the Columbia River ecosystem, listed species, and people. PNWA supports the reauthorization of?the?program?under the Columbia River Clean Up Act?to continue the?valuable?collaborative work being done by local communities, organizations, and Tribes to improve water quality and the environment on the Columbia River,”?said Neil Maunu, Executive Director of the PNWA.

    Trout Unlimited – Chrysten Rivard, Oregon Director:

    “For nearly a decade, the successful Columbia River Basin Restoration Program has made key investments across the Columbia River Basin to reduce toxins and improve water quality. Trout Unlimited applauds Congresswoman Hoyle’s leadership to ensure that this program continues to support Tribal, state and local governments, and non-profit groups throughout the basin who are working to make a difference for our waters and communities.”

    This bill is co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Wyden (D-Ore) and Murray (D-Wash.)

    The text of the Columbia River Clean-Up Act is available here.

    Background

    The Columbia River Basin Restoration Program

    • Officially designates the national importance of the Columbia River Basin, which includes Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and Montana. 

    • Authorized the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish the Columbia River Basin Restoration Working Group to understand and reduce toxics across the basin. It includes representatives of states, local governments, Tribal governments, ports, and non-profit organizations.

    • Directed the EPA to develop the Columbia River Basin Restoration Funding Assistance Program, which is a voluntary, competitive grants program for environmental protection and restoration programs throughout the Basin.

    • In 2021, the EPA awarded more than $79 million in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding through this program to reduce toxics in fish and water throughout the Basin. Awardees in past years have included:

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ezell’s Bipartisan Bill to Reauthorize the Integrated Ocean Observing System Passes Out of Natural Resources Committee

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

    Today, the House Natural Resources Committee passed legislation introduced by Representative Mike Ezell (R-MS-04) to reauthorize the Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS) for five more fiscal years. The bill maintains the program’s funding level at $56 million annually, ensuring continued support for critical ocean and coastal monitoring efforts that benefit fisheries, maritime industries, and coastal communities nationwide.

    Cosponsors of the legislation include Reps. Bonamici, Weber, Dingell, Radewaggen, Davis, Harder, Casten, Case, Rutherford, Smith, Webster, Haridopolos, Rokuda, Amo, Pallone, Pingree, Stevens, Castor, McBride, Begich, Elfreth, DelBene, Magaziner.

    IOOS is a nationally coordinated network of regional observation systems that provides real-time data on ocean conditions, helping to safeguard economic activities, public safety, and environmental health. The reauthorization also includes updates to improve the program’s effectiveness and modernization efforts to meet evolving scientific and operational needs.

    “IOOS is essential to keeping coastal economies strong and resilient, especially in Mississippi,” Ezell said. “This reauthorization ensures we maintain vital ocean monitoring resources while modernizing the program to maximize its impact. Enhanced ocean data collection also improves hurricane forecasting and severe weather preparedness, which can save lives and reduce costly storm damage. I’m proud to lead this legislation as it will support jobs, commerce, and our nation’s leadership in ocean science. I look forward to seeing it come to the House floor for a vote in the near future.”

    “Congressman Ezell’s bill will reauthorize the Integrated Coastal and Ocean Observation System Act of 2009,” House Natural Resources Chairman Westerman said. “This will ensure that near real-time data is available to manage our nation’s coasts and marine waters. I applaud Rep. Ezell for his work on this legislation and look forward to working with him to help usher this bill through the legislative process.”

    “As the Representative for Texas’ Gulf Coast, I know firsthand how critical reliable ocean monitoring is to protecting our coastal communities, supporting maritime jobs, and strengthening our national economy,” Weber said. “The IOOS Reauthorization bill helps us do just that, by improving weather forecasting and ensuring the safety of the hardworking men and women along our shores.”

    “The Integrated Ocean Observing System provides vital weather data that supports fishermen and other hard working Americans who make their living from the ocean,” Magaziner said. “I am proud to help lead this bipartisan effort to reauthorize IOOS and ensure that this critical program continues to serve coastal communities across the country.”

    Background on the IOOS Reauthorization Act of 2025:

    • Clarifying the nature of operational oceanographic data provided by IOOS.

    • Updating statutory references to align with current law, including replacing the National Ocean Research Leadership Council with the Ocean Policy Committee.

    • Enhancing the role of the Interagency Ocean Observation Committee to maximize IOOS’s integration and capabilities.

    The bill’s passage out of committee marks a significant step toward continued federal support for ocean observation infrastructure that underpins economic, environmental, and public safety benefits across the nation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Lawler Applauds Decision To Release Funding For Vital Education Program Following His Advocacy

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

    Pearl River, NY – 7/18/25… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) issued the following statement celebrating the Trump Administration’s decision to release funding for 21st Century Community Learning Centers. This follows Congressman Lawler’s direct advocacy to the Administration last week, urging the release of funds prior to the beginning of the school year.

    “Today is a great day for students, families, and educators across New York and nationwide,” said Congressman Lawler. “The 21st Century Community Learning Centers program is a valuable investment with proven results,  providing students with the academic tools they need to succeed.”

    Congressman Lawler personally wrote to President Trump last week after concerns were raised by local educators and parents about potential disruptions to these essential services. He emphasized the need to release these funds to support communities that heavily rely on these programs. 

    “I would like to thank President Trump for responding promptly to our request, as well as recognizing the importance of these programs for our children’s futures. As always, I remain committed to ensuring students have every opportunity for success,” concluded Congressman Lawler. 

    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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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lawler Introduces Legislation Modernizing Post-Assad Syria Sanctions Policy

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

    Washington, D.C. – 7/17/25… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Middle East and North Africa and House Financial Services Committee member, introduced the Syria Sanctions Accountability Act, legislation to modernize U.S. sanctions policy for a post-Assad Syria.

    “This bill modernizes the existing sanctions regime on Syria, requires assessments on existing sanctions relief provisions, and sets out goals for the Syrian government to meet anti-money laundering and anti-corruption standards. As the Trump Administration is already reviewing sanctions policy, we must ensure they have the tools to do so that reflect the current security environment,” said Chairman Lawler. 

    The Syria Sanctions Accountability Act:

    • Directs the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network to provide a briefing to Congress on the exceptive relief for the Commercial Bank of Syria.
    • Instructs U.S. representatives to the IMF and World Bank to support regular economic monitoring in Syria, processes to improve financial connectivity in Syria, and priorities related to anti-money laundering, weapons non-proliferation, and anti-corruption policies in Syria.
    • Requires a formal assessment from the Export-Import Bank on the appropriateness of current country limitations concerning Syria.
    • Updates the Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act by updating conditions to lift sanctions. This includes requiring the Syrian government to take verifiable steps to combat illicit proliferation of Captagon, ensuring the Syrian government is not engaged in the targeting or extrajudicial detention of religious minorities, and removing references to Russia and Iran that were originally placed in the law due to Assad’s relationship with these adversarial regimes.

    “The al-Sharaa Administration certainly has a lot of work to do to reintegrate Syria with the U.S. and our allies. While this job should be difficult given the circumstances, it shouldn’t be impossible,” concluded Chairman Lawler. 

    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: Rep. Lawler Introduces MAMDANI Act to Examine Risks of Government-Run Grocery Stores

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

    Washington, D.C. – 7/23/25… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) introduced the Measuring Adverse Market Disruption And National Impact (MAMDANI) Act, legislation that directs the Federal Trade Commission to conduct a comprehensive study into the competitive, economic, and supply chain impacts of government-owned grocery stores.

    As municipalities across the country, including some in New York, entertain proposals to open public grocery stores, this legislation calls on the FTC to investigate potential consequences of using taxpayer dollars to compete against local, private-sector grocers. 

    The MAMDANI Act requires the FTC, in coordination with USDA agencies, to evaluate the downstream effects these government-run entities could have on food prices, consumer access, farmers, charitable food organizations, and the long-term health of the retail grocery market.

    “Government-run grocery stores raise serious questions about market fairness and taxpayer accountability,” said Congressman Lawler. “The MAMDANI Act ensures we carefully assess the potential impacts of such proposals before public funds are committed, or they risk undermining local businesses and disrupting supply chains, ultimately leaving consumers worse off,” said Congressman Lawler. 

    By mandating an analysis of how public grocery stores might affect prices received by producers, purchasing power in food supply chains, and whether these initiatives actually address food deserts or simply create a new layer of government-run inefficiency, the bill aims to ensure that policymakers fully understand the potential consequences before embracing such proposals.

    The FTC’s findings will be submitted in a public report to Congress and updated annually with recommendations for legislative or regulatory action.

    “Zohran Mamdani’s push for government-owned grocery stores is straight out of the Marxist playbook, and history shows exactly how this experiment ends. New Yorkers deserve solutions, not socialist fantasies that have failed spectacularly every time they’ve been tried,” concluded Congressman Lawler.

    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: Bicameral Legislation Introduced to Restore Abruptly Cancelled Program Supporting Students with Disabilities

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

    July 23, 2025

    Representatives Sara Jacobs (CA-51), Lucy McBath (GA-06), Juan Vargas (CA-52), Eugene Vindman (VA-07),  and Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10) have introduced the Charting My Path to Future Success Act, legislation to restore an abruptly discontinued federal program designed to help students with disabilities succeed in adulthood. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Edward Markey (D-MA) have introduced companion legislation in the Senate.

    The bill directs the U.S. Department of Education to reissue the solicitation and award the contract for the “Charting My Path for Future Success Program,” a $45 million, ten-year initiative originally launched in 2019 during the first term of the Trump Administration. The program was abruptly canceled in February 2025 after more than $25 million had already been spent and just as participating students began receiving services.

    Rep. Sara Jacobs said, “It’s a big step from high school to adulthood – whether that’s college, job training, or employment – and it’s an even bigger step for students with disabilities, who may need a little extra support. That’s why the Charting My Path for Future Success Program provided students with disabilities with support and resources during this crucial transition. But unfortunately, DOGE’s abrupt cancellation of this program has abandoned these students, stifling their opportunity and limiting their potential. I’m proud to support this bill to restore this program, initially created by the first Trump Administration, and help students with disabilities during one of the most important times in their lives.”

    “Seeing your child grow up to thrive is the goal for every parent, and that takes on another level of significance when your child has a condition that makes learning more difficult. After years of recruiting families to participate and training teachers to be part of this program, the sudden cancellation abandoned students and families who rely on these services,” said Rep. Lucy McBath.

    “The President and Secretary McMahon claimed that students with disabilities would not be negatively affected by their plans to gut the Department of Education, but they already are. Now, students and their families are being left behind and being forced to reckon with the possibility of a lifetime on disability assistance instead of a path to a stable job. I’m grateful to my House and Senate colleagues for joining me on this legislation. We won’t leave America’s students behind.”

    “This program was created to better support teens with disabilities and help them plan for college, a career, and independence. Participating students reported feeling empowered and hopeful about their futures. Then, DOGE and Trump pulled the rug out from under these kids and families and cancelled the program with no warning in the middle of the school year,” said Rep. Juan Vargas. “The over 1,600 students enrolled in this program – including students in my district – deserve better. I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing the Charting My Path for Future Success Act to restore this funding and support.”

    “Students across Virginia’s Seventh District and our country deserve a real chance to thrive after high school. And yet, the Trump Administration just recklessly cut the ‘Charting My Path for Future Success’ program from Spotsylvania County Public Schools and I cannot let that stand,” said Rep. Eugene Vindman. “That’s why I am proud to introduce this bill – we owe it to students and families to re-start this program and prohibit the Administration from canceling it without Congressional approval.” 

    “As a staunch advocate for the disability community throughout my decades in public service and as a senior member of the Education Committee, I am proud to support this bill to bring back funding that the Department of Education recklessly eliminated for the Charting My Path for Future Success Program. The Administration’s ill-conceived contract cancellations brought needless uncertainty to school districts across the country, including Mt. Diablo Unified School District in the community I represent. This bill will help us to stand up for students with disabilities and their right to a quality education and the opportunity to reach their full potential,” said Rep. Mark DeSaulnier.

    “Ripping away critical funding and resources for disabled students is cruel and hurts America’s future,” said Senator Kaine. “The Charting My Path for Future Success Program was established during Trump’s first term, but now Trump and DOGE have cancelled funding with no warning. Not only does this harm disabled students who are depending on this support, it also hurts the teachers and Spotsylvania schools whose jobs and school budgets depend on this funding. I’m proud to introduce the Charting My Path for Future Success Act to immediately reissue this funding and ensure all students are set up for success.”

    “Yet again, the Trump administration has ripped away education funding that students, families, and communities were relying on. In Massachusetts and nationwide, students with disabilities and their families were thriving in the Charting My Path for Future Success program. Now, the Trump administration has abandoned those students,” said Senator Markey. “I am proud to join my colleagues in introducing the Charting My Path for Future Success Act to ensure we provide students with disabilities the support they need to thrive.”

      

    Designed to support students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) across a wide range of disabilities, the program provided one-on-one and small group sessions, mentoring, and year-round tutoring. Thirteen school districts in 11 states were participating in the pilot, which had enrolled over 1,600 high school juniors and seniors and their families.

        

    Participating districts include school systems in Georgia, Utah, Virginia, Massachusetts, California, Alaska, and New York.

     

    The bill is endorsed by a coalition of disability advocacy organizations, including the Consortium for Constituents with Disabilities Education Task Force, the National Center for Learning Disabilities, The Arc of the United States, the Autism Society of America, the National Disability Rights Network, and the Council of Administrators of Special Education.

    Full text of the legislation is available here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hinson Introduces the Save Our Bacon Act to Block California’s Radical Prop 12, Protect Interstate Commerce

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (IA-01)

    Bill ensures all Americans can continue to enjoy Iowa Ag Products & blocks blue-state bacon bans

    Washington, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (IA-02) introduced the Save Our Bacon Act to protect access to interstate commerce for Iowa family farmers and lower grocery prices for consumers. California and Massachusetts have proposed arbitrary mandates on production practices for farmers in other states. The Save Our Bacon Act would alleviate this overregulation by prohibiting state and local governments from interfering with the production of livestock in other states. 

    “California’s Proposition 12 and Massachusetts’ Question 3 pose a major threat to family farms and food security—both in Iowa and across the country. The Save Our Bacon Act reaffirms livestock producers’ right to sell their products across state lines, without interference from arbitrary mandates. This legislation will stop out-of-touch activists—who don’t know the first thing about farming—from dictating how Iowa farmers do their job.

    “Since day one in Congress, I’ve fought to keep food affordable and protect local producers. Under the Trump Administration, rural America will continue to be at the forefront of policy conversations that impact producers’ ability to feed and fuel the world—and there will be no bacon ban on my watch.” – Congresswoman Ashley Hinson

    “With Proposition 12, California has set out-of-touch, arbitrary requirements for how producers should operate their farming businesses. California activists now claim to know what’s best for the producers who have raised livestock from generation to generation. The Save Our Bacon Act will allow Iowa’s farmers to continue doing what they do best – feeding our country and the world.” – Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds

    “California needs to keep its hands off our bacon. No other state should dictate how Iowans farm, let alone California’s bureaucrats. The Save Our Bacon Act stops California’s overreach, protects hog farmers, and lets states like Iowa regulate how their own farmers raise livestock. I want to thank Representative Hinson for her work on this important legislation, and I urge Congress to pass it and stand up for livestock producers across the nation.” – Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird
     
    “I applaud Congresswoman Hinson for introducing legislation to address the overreach of California’s Prop 12 and restore robust interstate commerce. As the nation’s leading pork-producing state, Iowa plays a critical role in maintaining the safest, most abundant, and most affordable food supply in the world. Allowing states like California to dictate farming practices only creates a patchwork of requirements that drive up production costs and food prices for consumers. This important legislation, which previously earned bipartisan support in the House Agriculture Committee’s passage of last year’s Farm Bill, is essential to safeguarding Iowa’s agriculture and preventing any single state from setting a precedent that undermines the foundation of our food supply. This legislation would protect Iowa’s farmers from burdensome out-of-state regulations that threaten our rural economies and communities, and I urge the House and Senate to send this legislation to President Trump for his signature.” – Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig
     
    “We sincerely appreciate Representative Hinson for consistently engaging with family farmers and championing legislation that provides the certainty we need to pass along our farms to the next generation. Without legislation to shield America’s 60,000+ pork-producing family farms from heavy-handed, multi-state regulations, many producers otherwise would be faced with business-crushing decisions.” – National Pork Producers Council President Duane Stateler, a pork producer from McComb, Ohio
      
    “We appreciate Rep. Hinson’s leadership in fighting to protect Iowa pig farmers, who work hard every day to care for their animals and produce safe, high-quality pork. The Supreme Court made it clear the best option is for Congress to address California’s Prop 12 to prevent a patchwork of conflicting state regulations. Since Prop 12 took effect, the law has negatively impacted both consumers and producers. We urge Congress to act this year and support Rep. Hinson’s efforts to stop this burdensome mandate.” – Aaron Juergens, a pig farmer from Carroll County who serves as president of the Iowa Pork Producers Association. 
     
    “Iowa Farm Bureau members are thankful for Rep. Hinson’s unwavering support for Iowa agriculture and being a champion for fair interstate commerce through the introduction of the Save Our Bacon Act. When states enact laws that restrict or ban the sale of any type of goods from other states, they hinder market access for both farmers and businesses. This creates a negative ripple effect, as these entities struggle with arbitrary business standards and increased costs. Farm families and consumers are grappling with record-high prices, and without congressional action to strengthen the Interstate Commerce Clause, consumers will face fewer choices and higher costs at the grocery store.” – Iowa Farm Bureau Federation

    Background: 

    • In 2018, California passed Proposition 12, which prohibits the sale of certain meat and poultry products unless they are produced in compliance with the state’s arbitrary animal housing requirements.
    • In May 2023, the US Supreme Court upheld Proposition 12 in a 5 – 4 decision, with the Court noting that Congress has the authority to determine how states may interfere with interstate commerce.
    • California makes up nearly 15% of the national market for pork, leading many Iowa livestock producers to choose between complying with another state’s mandate and losing access to a major market for their products. Similar state-level mandates – such as Massachusetts’ Question 3 – create further uncertainty for livestock producers and risk an unworkable patchwork of state regulations for American farmers.  
    • Research from economists has shown that mandates like Prop 12 come at a significant cost to both producers and consumers. Following the implementation of Prop 12, the cost per pound of pork loin in California increased by 41%. Estimates also show that pork producers face costs of up to $4,000 per sow to comply with California’s arbitrary mandate.
    • Rep. Hinson has been a tireless champion for Iowa pork producers against this overreach.   
      • In December 2023, Rep. Hinson testified before the House Agriculture Committee to share stories from farmers in Iowa about the negative impact that mandates like Prop 12 would have on their operation.
      • In a recent House Appropriations Committee hearing, Hinson asked USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins about the potential consequences of laws like Prop 12. Secretary Rollins called mandates like Prop 12 “unsustainable.”
    • On July 9, the Trump Administration’s Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against the State of California over state laws that have caused grocery prices to skyrocket, including Prop 12.

    This bill was introduced with Representatives Feenstra, Nunn, Miller-Meeks, Sam Graves, Rouzer, Murphy, Messmer, Adrian Smith, Flood, LaMalfa, Alford, Dusty Johnson, Bost, Newhouse, Mark Harris, Finstad, Wied, and Rose.

    The bill text can be found here. Click here to read exclusive reporting by Bloomberg News. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pettersen, Rulli Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Improve Retirement Savings for Young Working Americans

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

    Today, U.S. Representative Brittany Pettersen (CO-07) and Congressman Mike Rulli (OH-06) introduced the bipartisan Helping Young Americans Save for Retirement Act to help more Americans ages 18 to 20 years old access employer-sponsored retirement plans. Companion legislation has been introduced in the Senate by Senators Bill Cassidy (R-LA) and Tim Kaine (D-VA). 

    Currently, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) only requires employers who offer 401(k) plans to make the plans available to employees who are 21 years old and over. While a company can offer a 401(k) plan to their employees under 21 years old, many do not due to high costs and excessive red tape. The Helping Young Americans Save for Retirement Act will require employers to offer 401(k) plans to employees as young as 18 and will reduce regulatory burdens that price out employers from offering these retirement plans to workers under 21.

    “I started working at a young age and worked throughout middle school, high school, and college,” said Pettersen. “But like many Coloradans, I didn’t have the chance to start saving for retirement until much later. We need to update our financial systems to reflect the real lives of working people and ensure that every young American has a fair shot at long-term financial security. Thank you to Congressman Rulli for joining me in this effort to help more young people reach their full financial potential.” 

    “If you’re old enough to fight for your country at 18, you should be able to fight for your financial future too,”said Rulli. “In the face of the largest generational wealth gap in American history, it’s time we give young people every tool to get ahead. Let them start saving, investing, and building real security. The sooner they start, the stronger America’s future becomes.”

    A 2021 report showed that of employers who offer retirement plans, 40% of workplaces have a minimum age of 21 to participate in the plans. Employees between the ages of 18 and 21 are missing out on additional savings and three years of compound interest. The earlier young people can begin saving, the more time their money has to grow, potentially resulting in thousands of extra dollars and greater financial security in retirement.

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    To access downloadable, high-quality photos, click here. To stay up-to-date on what Pettersen is doing in Congress, follow her on Twitter here, Facebook here, or Instagram here. Residents can also sign-up for her e-newsletter subscription here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Nick Langworthy Introduces Reliable Federal Infrastructure Act to Cut Costs and Modernize Construction Standards

    Source: US Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23) introduced the Reliable Federal Infrastructure Act, legislation to eliminate outdated and burdensome federal building mandates that no longer align with modern construction realities.

     

    “Taxpayers should not be on the hook for radical policies that only drive up the cost of constructing federal infrastructure while harming reliability. This bill would ensure Federal agencies to tailor building design and construction to their specific needs, rather than aiming to hit arbitrary efficiency targets,” said Congressman Langworthy. “It will help rein in inflated construction costs, accelerate project timelines, and foster innovation by removing rigid, top-down mandates. The Reliable Federal Infrastructure Act is a part of my broader effort to inject common-sense back into government.”

     

    Currently, federal agencies must comply with strict energy efficiency standards set forth in Section 305(a)(3)(D) of the Energy Conservation and Production Act and reinforced in theEnergy Independence and Security Act of 2007. These one-size-fits-all mandates—enacted during an aggressive federal climate policy push—create unnecessary cost burdens, slow down construction timelines, and limit design flexibility for new federal buildings.

     

    The Reliable Federal Infrastructure Act would repeal these outdated requirements, allowing agencies to pursue energy-efficient solutions where appropriate, while also prioritizing practicality, cost-effectiveness, and mission-readiness.

     

    The full text can be found here.

     

    Original cosponsors of this legislation include Rep. Diana Harshbarger (R-TN), Rep. Troy Balderson (R-OH), Rep. Michael Rulli (R-OH), Rep. Julie Fedorchak (R-ND), and Rep. Pat Harrigan (R-NC).  

     

    Groups that support this legislation include the American Gas Association, American Public Gas Association, GPA Midstream Energy Equipment and Infrastructure Alliance, Independent Petroleum Association of America, American Petroleum Institute, National Gas Supply Association, MEA Energy Association, GO-WV, Northwest Gas Association, Tennessee Gas Association, Energy Association of Pennsylvania, Natural Gas Association of Georgia, Northeast Gas Association, Carolinas Natural Gas Coalition. 

     

    “We commend Congressman Langworthy and all of the cosponsors who recognize natural gas is the most reliable and affordable form of energy in the United States today – it’s our nation’s strategic advantage,” said AGA President and CEO Karen Harbert. “The Reliable Federal Infrastructure Act would preserve vital resiliency in our national infrastructure to ensure operability in high-stakes moments, protect our national security and deliver life essential energy to mission critical federal and military facilities across our nation.”

     

    “GPA Midstream applauds Rep. Nick Langworthy (NY-23) for introducing the Reliable Federal Infrastructure Act, which aims to allow federal buildings in America the ability to use the appropriate energy source, which often is natural gas or propane,” said Stuart Saulters, VP, Federal Affairs, GPA Midstream. “Unfortunately, previous legislation imposed prescriptive federal building energy performance standards, which often disallow the use of natural gas or propane. These one-size-fits-all requirements on the design, construction, and operation of new federal buildings often result in unnecessary cost increases, inflexible compliance burdens, and construction delays. The federal government, just like American citizens, should be able to use the most reliable and affordable energy source. GPA Midstream hopes the House of Representatives will pass the Reliable Federal Infrastructure Act soon.”

     

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Keith Self Introduces Legislative Package to Codify President Trump’s Executive Orders

    Source:

    Congressman Keith Self has introduced a strong legislative package aimed at codifying four of President Donald Trump’s executive orders. This package advances the America First agenda by securing long-term victories in education reform, biological research safety, public service loan forgiveness, and curriculum standards.

    “These executive orders by President Trump reflect commonsense governance and clear priorities. Now more than ever, public accountability, educational integrity, and national security are vital,” Congressman Self said. “To preserve the integrity of these accomplishments, we must protect them from being reversed by the radical left and cement these wins into law.”

    The four bills include:

    • Reinstating Common Sense School Discipline Policies: Returns authority to teachers and school administrators, empowering them to maintain order in classrooms without fear of federal overreach.

    • Improving the Safety and Security of Biological Research: Establishes strict oversight for high-risk biological experiments, enhancing transparency and risk mitigation in federally funded research labs and institutions.

    • Restoring Public Service Loan Forgiveness: Strengthens the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program by ensuring clear and consistent eligibility for borrowers who commit to careers in public service—delivering on the federal government’s promises.

    • Restoring Truth in American History: Promotes a factual approach to U.S. history instruction, focusing on foundational principles, civic virtue, and the unifying aspects of the American experience.

    “Each of these executive orders was designed to correct imbalances, protect taxpayer interests, and restore public trust,” Self added. “We cannot waste the opportunity to make them permanent.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Nathaniel Moran Reintroduces Constitutional Amendment to Balance the Federal Budget

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

    Congressman Nathaniel Moran (TX-01) today reintroduced the Principles-Based Balanced Budget Amendment, a constitutional amendment designed to end Washington’s cycle of reckless spending and restore fiscal responsibility to the federal government.

    “For too long, Congress has ignored its constitutional duty to responsibly steward taxpayer dollars. As a result, we are now staring down a national debt that exceeds $36 trillion, a burden that will crush future generations unless we act,” said Congressman Moran. “This amendment takes a practical approach: it requires Congress to balance the federal budget over a 10-year window, while giving lawmakers the flexibility to determine how we get there. It is a practical, principles-first step toward reining in inflation, restoring confidence in our economy, and ensuring a stable future for the American people.”

    Moran previously filed this amendment on July 6, 2023, during the last Congress. It was given significant attention during a hearing of the House Constitutional Subcommittee in September 2023, chaired at the time by Speaker Mike Johnson. That hearing underscored the importance of embedding clear fiscal principles in the Constitution before moving to detailed policy debates.

    Background on the PBBA:

    • Provides a 10-year deficit phase-out once ratified by the states.
    • Allows for emergency deficit spending only with two-thirds support in both the House and Senate.
    • Empowers Congress to determine specific policies for achieving balance.

    Support for the PBBA:

    “We are thrilled to support Representative Moran’s principles-based balanced budget amendment. This BBA is like existing constitutional provisions: broadly appealing principles that can stand the test of time and that empower Congress to write the details in statute. Rep. Moran’s BBA and related legislation can help Congress eliminate waste and restore sound governance, and we urge all members to support it.” — Kurt Couchman, Senior Fellow in Fiscal Policy, Americans for Prosperity

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: McClellan and Tonko Send Letter to Administrator Zeldin Urging EPA to Retract Proposal to Weaken Pollution Standards

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

    Today, Representatives Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) and Paul Tonko (NY-20) led 73 House Members in sending a letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin urging EPA to immediately retract its harmful proposal to weaken the Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS). 

    “It is the mission of EPA to protect human health and the environment,” wrote the Members. “To achieve these goals, Congress gave EPA authority under the Clean Air Act to regulate hazardous air pollutants, like mercury and arsenic from power plants. Rolling back the MATS rule is a cruel abandonment of the agency’s statutory obligations that will endanger children’s health, harm communities, and let the worst industrial polluters off the hook.”

    Coal-fired power plants emit mercury and other toxic pollutants that poison the air and water. This pollution impacts those living on the fenceline and downwind of these facilities, particularly communities of color and low-income communities, who are more likely to live near coal-fired power plants and be exposed to dangerous pollution. 

    “The standards set by the 2024 rule for mercury and air toxics pollution are not only achievable, but the majority of power plants were either already meeting them or only required small changes to comply,” the Members continued. “Weakening these commonsense standards would allow for the worst of the worst industrial polluters to ratchet up their hazardous emissions. The Trump Administration is already giving out free passes for power plants to pollute and concealing the process for granting exemptions from the public, allowing some of the biggest corporate polluters to increase toxic air pollution into nearby communities without accountability.”

    Strong standards have successfully limited mercury pollution by 90% and decreased other dangerous air pollutants. A recent study estimated that eliminating more than 30 EPA protections that protect our air, water, and climate would cost $275 billion dollars and more than 30,000 lives lost each year.

    “By rolling back the MATS rule, the Trump Administration is choosing corporate polluters over the health and lives of everyday Americans across the country,” the Members concluded. “We implore you to keep our communities and the environment safe from health-harming pollution by stopping this reckless rollback, extending the comment period to 75 days to allow for meaningful public engagement, and committing to holding multiple public hearings to allow affected fenceline communities ample opportunities to be heard in this process.”

    Read the full letter here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hearing Wrap Up: Congress Must Act to Advance Nuclear Energy

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Eric Burlison (R-Missouri 7th District)

    WASHINGTON—The Subcommittee on Economic Growth, Energy Policy, and Regulatory Affairs today held a hearing titled “The New Atomic Age: Advancing America’s Energy Future.” During the hearing, members heard from witnesses about the advent of small and micro modular nuclear reactors and how their development and deployment will advance the use of safe, clean and reliable nuclear energy in the United States. Members emphasized the importance of expanding nuclear energy because of its efficiency and low cost compared to other energy sources.  

    Click here to watch the hearing. 

    Key Takeaways:

    Small and micro modular reactors (SMRs and MMRs) promise to redefine the future of U.S. electricity generation through increases in safe, affordable and accessible nuclear energy. Government overregulation, however, has been holding back the development and deployment of these reactors.  

    • Alex Epstein, President and Founder of the Center for Industrial Progress, stated in his opening testimony that “Whenever we talk about abundant nuclear energy, including SMRs, we need to recognize that the first step is for government to stop doing the immense harm it’s actively doing. And this harm is harm that probably gutted nuclear’s potential for decades. It’s important to recognize that in the 70s, clean, safe nuclear power – and it was very safe, it was the safest form of energy in history, even back then, -became affordable and it quickly grew to 20 percent of American electrical power with the potential to get far more affordable and plentiful. But crushing irrational regulation, including the way the N[uclear] R[egulatory] C[omission] was set up, made nuclear expensive or impossible to build.”

    Supply-chain issues and cultural misconceptions of nuclear energy adversely affect its propagation in the U.S.

    • Joshua Smith, Energy Policy Lead at the Abundance Institute, stated in his opening testimony that “For decades, American engineers built nuclear swiftly, cheaply, and safely…Nuclear’s struggles today aren’t inherent to the technology. They’re the product of outdated, unfit, and counterproductive regulations. Major barriers include [As Low and Reasonably Achievable] and [Linear No-Threshold] standards which impose costs above any kind of offsetting safety benefits, inflexible [Nuclear Regulatory Commission] frameworks that prevent innovation and nuclear’s risk being widely understood. For example, there is no radiation caused deaths associated with Three Mile Island’s release. The Chernobyl disaster is impossible with modern reactor designs and measured in deaths per terawatt hours of electricity production, nuclear is about 800 times safer than coal and 100 times safer than gas generation.” 

    The United States must modernize its approach to electrical grid licensing, permitting and the nuclear industry generally if we want to maintain leadership in the global race for energy efficiency.

    • Joshua Smith said in his opening testimony that “Nuclear entrepreneurs can’t succeed in a system that blocks entry before shovels hit the dirt. Licensing, permitting, and interconnection are all clogged arteries in need of reform alongside nuclear regulations. The core lesson is that we need to not just improve nuclear regulations, but streamline permitting and grid interconnection to enable nuclear power and ensure an affordable and reliable energy supply.”
    • Alex Epstein testified that “[The] NRC should open nuclear innovation zones on federal land. So, the recent [executive orders] rightly encouraged the testing of nuclear reactors on federal lands, which would allow private developers to quickly iterate designs and run safety tests without waiting years. What [the Department of Energy] and [the Department of Defense] can do is formally designate nuclear innovation zones on federal land, and specifically the NRC can issue guidance confirming the data collected on these sites will satisfy what’s called performance-based safety testing requirements of the regulatory code Part 53, and this can dramatically expedite things.”

    Member Highlights:

    Subcommittee Chairman Burlison (R-Mo.) inquired about companies being held back from developing nuclear energy in the United States, and how states are better suited for regulating nuclear energy than the federal government.

    Subcommittee Chairman Burlison: “I was recently told by one company based here in the United States that they will have a fully functioning MMR abroad in the next year. They specifically stated that they couldn’t accomplish that in the United States, that they’d have to go on foreign soil to demonstrate to the American public and the government that their technology is ready. What’s holding back companies like that from doing this in the United States?” 

    Mr. Smith: “Thank you. Fundamentally, the problem is we have too many barriers between people who want to build and their ability to put shovels on the ground and put up structures. So, take one example, it’s important that we do continued modeling. It’s important that we continue doing extensive testing, but we also need to do real life testing rather than just rely on the data that we currently use.”

    …

    Subcommittee Chairman Burlison: “I’m [going to] jump to one of my questions then, regarding the states. How would they be better suited than the federal government for regulating this?” 

    Mr. Smith: “One of the key differences between the designs of the 60s and 70s is today, they’re very, very different, so there’s little need for containment structures in some of these new designs. And part of the problem with having a lot of expertise at the NRC is simply that they have a hammer, they see everything as a nail, and so we have a problem where new companies come in, they don’t need a containment chamber or containment facility for their design, and yet the NRC prescriptive regulations say ‘thou shalt have one.’ And so state level interest can develop new rules that avoid this kind of old problem, and we could do some of this at the federal level of course. There’s room for Congress to get involved and spin off new agencies within the NRC or separately entirely to pursue these new designs. States have already taken the right kinds of steps. Texas has been developing an advanced nuclear working group. Utah similarly has an office of an energy development official who’s purely devoted to nuclear now, in addition to extensive legislative efforts within the state congress.”

    Subcommittee Chairman Burlison also inquired about overbearing regulations and the cultural discussion of nuclear stifling U.S. energy innovation.
     

    Subcommittee Chairman Burlison: “[Can you] speak to how the regulatory process for [technological innovators] who are doing very creative, very innovative stuff might be stifling to that mindset?”

    Mr. Epstein: “I admire these guys for trying because it’s just, so difficult to do things. I mean, for all the reasons I mentioned, the licensing process, it could be difficult to test things, the whole Linear No-Threshold and As Low As Reasonably Achievable. So this, all these dogmas, as I said, can be changed and it’ll just radically open the frontier for innovation where companies like these can go very quickly from idea to action. Right now, there’s just an enormous gap between idea and action. One other thing that needs to change, I think, is the cultural discussion of nuclear we heard from Ranking Member Frost, and I think some others, that Three Mile Island was the problem. But as Scott Perry pointed out, like Three Mile Island, is not fundamentally a problem. [The] fact that the worst nuclear accident we’ve had is something that killed nobody, that should be celebrating nuclear. So we need to stop demonizing nuclear like the Simpsons did. We need to recognize it’s fundamentally safe. It’s not safe primarily because of regulation, it’s safe because the material cannot explode like combustion can.”

    Rep. Scott Perry (R-Pa.) inquired about how the nuclear energy industry is more profitable and cost-efficient for taxpayers than other non-traditional energy industries.

    Rep. Perry: “[Mr. Epstein], if you could just briefly explain how not doing the same thing over and over again for the same kind of design is going to be helpful to the industry, save the industry money, and, in turn, save my bosses, citizens of America—my constituents—money?” 

    Mr. Epstein: “For sure. So, I think it’s really important that you raise the issue of profit, because we absolutely want nuclear energy companies to be able to make a profit by competing to provide the lowest cost, most reliable energy, just like we want phone manufacturers to be able to make a profit providing the most effective phones. AI providing people the most cost-effective AI. There are two kinds of problems that arise. One is when you restrict the ability of profit-making entities to compete by not allowing them to do their jobs, which things like having a new environmental impact statement for every nuclear power plant, even if it’s the exact same thing, that just dramatically increases costs. The other thing that you raised is that when you subsidize inferior forms of energy, that also raises costs…So they take money away from the reliable power plants, reliable power plants get defunded, can’t make a profit. This is why we have a shortage of gas turbines. One of the reasons why nuclear is in bad shape, but we cannot build dispatchable capacity profitably, because we’ve screwed up the markets with subsidies. So, the Big Beautiful Bill, by far the best thing about it, in my opinion, was dramatic cuts to these grid destroying, price increasing solar and wind subsidies.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Scholten Blocks Trump Cuts, Delivers Millions for Michigan Manufacturers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Hillary Scholten – Michigan

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (MI03) announced a major win for West Michigan, successfully securing more than $4.9 million in federal funding for the Manufacturing Extension Partnership Program (MEP) and The Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center (MMTC) after it was announced the Department of Commerce would not be renewing their cooperative agreement that provided these funds. This victory will allow manufacturers and working-class families in West Michigan and beyond to thrive. 

    “I fought back against an attack on Michigan manufacturing and won. Michigan’s manufacturers are the backbone of our economy, and I refuse to sit back while political games threaten their future,” said Rep. Scholten. “West Michigan’s manufacturers deserve a partner in Washington who shows up and delivers–and that’s exactly what I did. I’ll always fight to protect the working families and businesses that keep West Michigan running.”

    At the beginning of the year, the Trump Administration notified several MEP Centers that they would not be renewing their cooperative agreements, risking MMTC’s funding. In April, the MMTC discussed how defunding this program would harm the 157 American manufacturers and 16,513 employees in Michigan’s Third District that have worked with them. Across the state, the MMTC created 4,949 manufacturing jobs. On June 9th, Rep. Scholten called on Secretary Lutnick and Acting Director Burkhart to support MMTC’s cooperative agreement. 

    After pushing Rep. Scholten’s calls, the National Institute of Standards and Technology announced that MMTC would receive a year of federal funding. They emphasized the aim of the funding is to empower Michigan’s small and medium-sized manufacturers (SSMs) by providing essential resources, expert knowledge and collaborative support. Additionally, employees within these manufacturing companies will benefit from workforce development programs, equipping them with essential skills for career advancement. 

    The broader Michigan economy will also see positive impacts through increased manufacturing output, investment, and job creation. Scholten’s advocacy ensured that the Trump Administration could not get in the way of Michigan’s manufacturing.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Van Orden, Salinas Introduce Legislation to Level the Playing Field for the Cider Industry

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Derrick Van Orden (WI-03) and Congresswoman Andrea Salinas (D-OR) introduced the Bubble Tax Modernization Act, which will lower the tax rate for lower-alcohol wine, cider, and mead made with fruit.

    Currently, the tax code dictates that if a sparkling cider, wine, or mead is made with fruits other than apples and pears, then it can only be minimally carbonated, often to the point that it tastes flat to most consumers. If cidermakers want to carbonate their fruited drinks to the same level as other, non-fruited ciders, taxes on these fruited ciders triple, often referred to as the ‘bubble tax’. 

    Most craft beverage entrepreneurs can’t afford to carbonate these products at the level the market wants. The result is that an important American agricultural sector is falling flat. The Bubble Tax Modernization Act will allow cidermakers to create and carbonate fruited beverages without this higher tax burden, granting them more freedom to produce drinks to match public demand.

    “Cidermakers should not be limited to just pears and apples in order to avoid a massive, unnecessary tax hike on their products,” said Rep. Van Orden. “This bill works for everyone – farmers, cidermakers, and consumers – by allowing any type of fruit to be added to cider and taxed at the standard rate.”

    “Oregon has some of the highest quality fruit in the country, but red tape in our tax code makes it nearly impossible to use these products to make the fruited wines, ciders, and meads that people want,” said Rep. Salinas. “My bill levels the playing field for the cider industry and makes it more affordable to produce the sparkling, fruited drinks consumers want.”

    “The Bubble Tax Modernization Act is a critical, overdue fix that will finally bring fairness to how cider is taxed in the U.S.,” said Monica Cohen, CEO of the American Cider Association. “It eliminates outdated penalties on carbonated, fruit-forward ciders and gives small cidermakers the freedom to innovate without being punished. This bill supports American agriculture, strengthens rural economies, and helps keep cider accessible to consumers. It’s common-sense legislation and we applaud Representatives Salinas and Van Orden for moving this forward.”

    The Bubble Tax Modernization Act is endorsed by the American Cider Association, Northwest Cider Association, North Carolina Cider Association, New York Cider Association, and Pennsylvania Cider Guild.

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

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  • MIL-OSI USA: LaLota Honors Bytyqi Brothers, Presses Serbia to Prosecute Their Killers

    Source: US Representative Nick LaLota (NY-01)

    HAMPTON BAYS, NY — Marking the solemn anniversary of their execution, Congressman Nick LaLota (R-NY-01) last week reintroduced H. Con. Res. 41, a bipartisan resolution in the House of Representatives demanding long-overdue accountability for the brutal murders of Ylli, Agron, and Mehmet Bytyqi—three American citizens from Hampton Bays—killed during the Kosovo War. LaLota’s resolution renews the call for justice and urges the U.S. government to press Serbia to investigate and prosecute those responsible.

    “We honor the memory of Ylli, Agron, and Mehmet Bytyqi—with heavy hearts and unshaken resolve. To mark the solemn anniversary of their tragic loss, I am reintroducing H. Con. Res. 41 to reaffirm Congress’s commitment: those responsible for the execution of three young American brothers must be held to account,” said LaLota. “Justice delayed is justice denied—but today, we send a clear message: we will not rest until the Bytyqi family receives the truth, the accountability, and the closure that has been too long withheld.”

    To read the full text of H. Con Res. 41, click HERE.

    Background:

    In 1999, brothers Ylli, Agron, and Mehmet Bytyqi—proud residents of Hampton Bays—traveled overseas to provide humanitarian assistance in the aftermath of the Kosovo War. While on a humanitarian mission, unarmed and in plain clothes, the brothers accidentally crossed an unmarked border into Serbian-controlled territory, where they were arrested by Serbian authorities on July 8, 1999, and later executed.

    Despite over two decades of promises and investigations, no one has been held accountable for their murders. In 2018, the U.S. State Department sanctioned Serbian official Goran Radosavljevic under Section 7031(c) for his role in the gross human rights abuses, including the murders of the Bytyqi brothers.

    LaLota’s resolution expresses the sense of Congress that:

    • Those responsible for the murders of U.S. citizens Ylli, Agron, and Mehmet Bytyqi must be brought to justice;

    • It is unacceptable that no one has ever been charged or convicted for these heinous crimes;

    • The Serbian government, including its War Crimes Prosecutor’s Office, must make investigating and prosecuting those involved a top priority;

    • The United States should continue to dedicate resources to assist and monitor Serbia’s efforts to bring those responsible to justice; and

    • Progress on this case should remain a critical factor in the future of U.S.-Serbia relations.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Pfluger, Colleagues Reintroduce Legislation to Protect American Assets From Unlawful Seizure by Foreign Governments

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

    WASHINGTON, DC — As first reported in The Blaze, Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) and Congresswoman Terri Sewell (AL-07) reintroduced critical bipartisan, bicameral legislation to protect American companies operating abroad. The Defending American Property Abroad Act would impose retaliatory prohibitions to deter and punish any nation in the Western Hemisphere that unlawfully seizes American assets.

    The need for this legislation has been exemplified by the Mexican government’s ongoing efforts to seize a deep-water port owned by U.S.-based Vulcan Materials Company, which is in direct violation of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) governing trade between our two nations. This violation poses a direct threat to American economic interests.

    Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN) and Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) introduced companion legislation in the Senate.

    “American companies operating abroad should not have to fear arbitrary government actions that undermine their property rights,” said Rep. Pfluger. “The Defending American Property Abroad Act will ensure that such actions do not go unchecked and that American businesses are protected from unjust expropriation. The protection of American property rights abroad is essential for fostering economic growth and maintaining our national security. I urge my colleagues in Congress to support this critical legislation and send a clear message that the United States will not tolerate unjust actions against American companies.”

    “U.S.-based companies with operations overseas should be able to conduct business without the fear of any government asserting any wrongful actions against employees or property,” said Congresswoman Sewell. “The Defending Americans Abroad Act will ensure that the United States has the ability to thwart any threats to both national security and economic endeavors.”

    “I strongly condemn the Mexican government’s threats against Vulcan Materials Company, and I am pleased to see this bipartisan and bicameral rebuke from the United States Senate,” said Senator Hagerty. “Under the leadership of Mexico’s previous president, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, and now the current president, Claudia Sheinbaum, the Mexican government is committing a blatant theft against a major American company and, by extension, the United States itself. No nation should be allowed to bully an American firm without consequences. Our legislation will counter any attempt by the Mexican government to profit from illegal moves to expropriate, nationalize, or otherwise seize U.S. assets.”

    “The Mexican government’s unfair targeting of Vulcan Materials Company, a U.S.-based company that employs over 1,000 people in Virginia, is harmful to the relationship between our two countries and severely undermines investor confidence,” said Senator Kaine. “That’s why I’m joining my colleagues in introducing this bipartisan legislation to deter the illegal seizure of U.S. assets.”

    Key provisions of the bill include:

    ·     Prohibiting trade partners in the Western Hemisphere from engaging in certain activities, such as docking vessels and importing goods, if they have expropriated or otherwise seized property owned by American entities.

    ·     Expanding Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 to treat property expropriation as an unreasonable trade practice

    ·     Empowering the President to implement and enforce prohibitions against offending countries

    ·     Mandating publication of prohibited property designations in the Federal Register

    The bill is co-sponsored in the House by Representatives David Rouzer (NC-07), Aaron Bean (FL-04), Dale Strong (AL-05), Julia Brownley (CA-26), Mike Collins (GA-10), Vicente Gonzalez (TX-34), John Carter (TX-31), Addison McDowell (NC-06), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), Buddy Carter (GA-01), Barry Moore (AL-01), Gary Palmer (AL-06), Robert Aderholt (AL-04), Chuck Edwards (NC-11), Craig Goldman (TX-12), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), John McGuire (VA-05), Tim Moore (NC-14), Tim Burchett (TN-02), Morgan Luttrell (TX-08), Maria Salazar (FL-27), Thomas Kean (NJ-07), John Rutherford (FL-05), Ben Cline (VA-06), Beth Van Duyne (TX-24), Shomari Figures (AL-02), and Greg Steube (FL-17).

    The bill is co-sponsored in the Senate by Senators Katie Britt (R-AL), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Ted Budd (R-NC), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), and Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD).

    Read the full text of the legislation here.

    Background:

    In May 2022, then-Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO) abruptly shut down Vulcan Materials Company’s operations with false claims that the firm was violating its contract, and his government subsequently waged an unceasing pressure campaign against Vulcan, including multiple lawsuits and sending military and law enforcement to its facilities.

    In December 2023, Rep. Pfluger led a bipartisan letter to the Mexican Ambassador demanding answers about Mexico’s actions against the American company.

    Earlier this year, Rep. Pfluger also led a letter commending President Trump’s commitment to this issue by protecting American industries and jobs, which was first reported in The Blaze.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pfluger Participates in Energy Subcommittee Hearing on Pipeline Safety

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

    Pfluger Participates in Energy Subcommittee Hearing on Pipeline Safety

    Washington, July 22, 2025

    WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11), a member of the U.S. House Energy and Commerce Committee, participated in an Energy Subcommittee Hearing titled “Strengthening American Energy: A Review of Pipeline Safety Policy.”

    During the hearing, Rep. Pfluger emphasized the critical need for natural gas pipelines and their purpose for powering homes across the country. Rep. Pfluger pointed out that as energy demand rises, natural gas will continue to be the backbone of a reliable energy grid.

    Rep. Pfluger then questioned witnesses on how Congress can address burdensome federal oversight of natural gas pipelines while not compromising safety.

    Watch his full line of questioning HERE or by clicking the image below.

    Read highlights from the interaction below:

    Rep. Pfluger: “Mrs. Miller, I’ll stick with you. And I’ll start with the gas gathering rule. As you’re aware, this significantly expanded PHMSA’s jurisdiction, bringing more than 400,000 additional miles of gathering lines under federal oversight, and they’re located in districts like mine in the Permian Basin, where there’s a heavy presence of production that is very important. And the scope and implementation of this rule could have major implications for how the gathering systems are built and operated going forward. So, we want to get this right. We want to be reasonable, and safety is important. It is a major concern, and there are other concerns as well. But from your perspective, what implementation challenges are operators currently facing on the ground, and how can PHMSA better distinguish between high-risk and then lower-risk areas?”

    Mrs. Miller: “I appreciate that question very much. Yes, we do very much value the opportunity to have a risk-based assessment of safety concerns there. For example, a pipeline may have two different pipelines may have similar diameters or similar pressure, and there are other circumstances to consider in order to make sure that we’re assessing what the risk is. Appropriately, including, for example, proximity to populations, length of pipeline. One of the things I also wanted to make sure that this subcommittee is familiar with is the differences that exist between gathering pipelines and transmission pipelines, not only physically, but commercially. So, it’s important to remember that the interstate pipelines are subject to regulated rates with uniform tariffs. Versus gathering pipelines are subject to market-based negotiated compensation and negotiated commercial terms. So very different application.”

    Rep. Pfluger: “In your view, is there any realistic path to a reliable grid without natural gas playing a role as the backbone?”

    Mr. Moriarty: “Yes, I would agree with that natural gas pipelines are the safest way to move the energy that this nation needs, and there’s ever more demand for energy across our service territories, which is in United States, and to meet those demands, we need to construct and safely operate pipelines as well as LNG storage facilities.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Amo Calls Out Trump’s Cuts to Vital Weather Services After Tragic Texas Floods

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

    Trump’s Cuts to the NOAA and the NWS Undercut American Disaster Readiness in the Midst of Atlantic Hurricane Season

    Washington, D.C. – TODAY, Ranking Member Gabe Amo (D-RI) of the House Science, Space, and Technology Subcommittee on the Environment highlighted the devastating impact of  President Trump ’s cuts to the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration and National Weather Service.

    “Dedicated public servants work around the clock, ensuring our communities are warned and protected in real time. These experts are the backbone of America’s weather enterprise. But this Administration is taking a sledgehammer to that backbone,” said Ranking Member Gabe Amo (D-RI). “We need a fully staffed and well-resourced National Weather Service and continued funding for the critical research capacities at NOAA. Not just to help predict storms, but to help communities prepare, coordinate emergency response, and warn Americans when minutes matter.”

     

    Watch Congressman Amo’s Opening Remarks Here

     

    Background

    Congressman Amo, serves as the Ranking Member for the Subcommittee on Environment on the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology. This subcommittee has jurisdiction over the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), which administers the National Weather Service.

    Ranking Member Amo, Science, Space, and Technology Ranking Member Zoe Lofgren (D-CA), Transportation and Infrastructure Ranking Member Rick Larsen (D-WA), and Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Economic Development, Public Buildings and Emergency Management Subcommittee Ranking Member Greg Stanton (D-AZ) sent a letter to the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) and NOAA seeking answers on federal activity in preparation for and in response to the tragic floods in Texas.

    Amo and Ranking Member Lofgren alsosent a letter calling on Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick to testify before the Committee about the staffing shortages at the National Weather Service and their potential impact on the Texas flash floods.

    Amo and CongresswomanEmilia Sykes (D-OH) led 64 Democratic colleagues in calling on the Acting NOAA Administrator Laura Grimm to reinstate the Billion Dollar Weather and Climate Disasters Report to ensure America has a record of the increasing number of storms that cause catastrophic financial damage to communities.

    On Earth Day, April 22nd 2025, Amo led colleagues on the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee to express alarm over Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and NOAA Acting Administrator Laura Grimm’s proposal to slash NOAA’s budget and cripple the agency.

     

    Ranking Member Amo’s Remarks as Delivered

    Thank you, Chair Franklin, for convening today’s hearing on how innovative technologies can strengthen weather forecasting and protect communities across the country. I also want to thank our witnesses for joining us, especially given the rescheduling of this hearing.

    As we all know, this hearing comes at a devastating time. Just last week, catastrophic flooding struck Texas, New Mexico, and North Carolina. Texas lost at least 134 lives, 37 of whom were children, and at least 101 people remain missing. In New Mexico, a man and two children, ages 7 and 4, were killed. Tropical Storm Chantal, and at least 2 tornadoes, hit North Carolina with one woman confirmed dead.

    Entire families were lost. Livelihoods destroyed. Communities shattered. To the families grieving unimaginable loss, and to the first responders still working through the wreckage, our hearts are with you.

    Unfortunately, this won’t be the last disaster we face. Climate change is accelerating extreme weather, and we must do more to prepare our communities.

    We need to confront a hard truth: the United States cannot lead in weather prediction, cannot harness innovation, and cannot protect lives and property — without people.

    Meteorologists who issue forecasts and warnings.

    Hydrologists who model flood risks.

    Climate scientists who analyze long-term trends.

    Data analysts and modelers who improve forecast accuracy.

    Emergency managers who translate forecasts into action.

    Dedicated public servants, many represented here today, who work around the clock, ensuring our communities are warned and protected in real time. These experts are the backbone of America’s weather enterprise. But this Administration is taking a sledgehammer to that backbone.

    On May 2nd, five former directors of the National Weather Service wrote to President Trump with a warning: “Our worst nightmare is that forecast offices will be so understaffed that there will be needless loss of life.”

    This Administration has already haphazardly gutted 15% of the National Weather Service’s workforce. These were career public servants. Scientists and forecasters. People who devoted their lives to keeping Americans safe.

    Now the remaining staff are being asked to do the impossible: operate at full capacity, with reduced numbers, during an above-average Atlantic hurricane season. It’s unacceptable. We are flying blind into the eye of the storm, quite literally.

    We’re already seeing the consequences. While it’s too early to draw final conclusions about the tragic flooding in Texas, early reporting suggests that staff shortages in local weather forecasting offices may have impaired coordination with local officials.

    In the San Angelo forecasting office, critical positions were vacant, including the meteorologist-in-charge, senior hydrologist, and staff forecaster. Nearby, San Antonio’s forecasting office lacked a warning coordination meteorologist and science officer. These aren’t optional roles. These are lifesaving roles.

    We need a fully staffed and well-resourced National Weather Service, full stop. Not just to help predict storms, but to help communities prepare, coordinate emergency response, and warn Americans when minutes matter.

    And yet, even in the face of growing disasters, Trump’s proposed 2026 budget would:

    Eliminate funding for NOAA’s Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research, including climate, weather, and ocean labs and cooperative institutes, such as those serving on our witness panel today, lash NOAA’s workforce by an additional 17%, and extract over $1.8 billion from its current budget, weakening the core services Americans rely on.

    Thankfully, it seems like Congressional appropriators care more about protecting Americans from extreme weather than we’ve seen from the Trump administration.

    This is playing out in real time back in Rhode Island. Last year, we celebrated the groundbreaking of the new Marine Operations Center, a nearly $150 million investment in NOAA’s research fleet and Rhode Island’s blue economy. But with the hiring freeze still in place, there’s no guarantee it will be staffed when it opens. That’s not efficiency – its waste, fraud, and abuse of taxpayer dollars.

    That’s why last week, Ranking Member Lofgren and I demanded Secretary Lutnick testify before this Committee. Come and give answers. The staffing crisis at the National Weather Service is a public safety threat. We need answers, and more importantly, we need a plan, not concepts of a plan.

    Today, let’s not talk about innovation in the abstract. Let’s talk about what it takes to make that innovation real: investment in data, commitment to people, and trust in science.

    Let’s protect lives and property, not just in name. Let’s protect in practice.

    Thank you. I yield back.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Amo Slams Republicans for Stripping Funding from America’s Global Leadership and Public Media Programming

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

    “Congressional Republicans once again are breaking promises — while hurting national security and the next generation by stripping more than $9 billion dollars from NPR, Daniel Tiger, Sesame Street, and lifesaving humanitarian aid across the world.  

    Congressional Republicans reneged on the funding scheme they voted into law earlier this year, just because President Trump told them to. 

    Trump and Republicans are leaving American communities without the public media they rely on and leaving a vacuum of aid and leadership on the global stage. Americans without a local public radio station won’t get emergency alerts, America’s children will lose access to the PBS shows that help them learn, under-resourced refugee camps will be vulnerable to terrorism, and countless innocent people will die of starvation and preventable disease. 

    Once again, Congressional Republicans have opened the door to our adversaries’ international dominance, while leaving Americans less educated and less informed. 

    I voted no and will fight to reinstate funding for these vital programs at every opportunity.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Amo, Huffman Lead 62 Members in New Bill Blocking Trump’s Assault on NOAA Facilities

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

    The Stop NOAA Closures Act prevents Trump from arbitrarily closing National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) facilities, keeping communities safe from natural disasters.

    WASHINGTON, DC–  Today, House Science, Space, and Technology Environment Subcommittee Ranking Member Gabe Amo (D-RI) and House Committee on Natural Resources Ranking Member Jared Huffman (D-CA) led 62 representatives in introducing the Stop NOAA Closures Act, which would block President Trump’s dangerous plans to close NOAA facilities across the country. NOAA facilities predict extreme weather, protect New England fisheries, and help communities understand and adapt to climate change. 

    “From fishermen to farmers, Rhode Islanders rely on NOAA to respond to severe weather and predict and prepare for climate change,” said Ranking Member Gabe Amo (D-RI). “I introduced the Stop NOAA Closures Act, alongside Ranking Member Huffman,  to prevent Trump from shuttering the NOAA facilities that track developing disasters, protect our natural resources, and help communities get ready for the next storm. As Ranking Member of the Science, Space, and Technology Environment Subcommittee, I will keep fighting to make sure NOAA and the National Weather Service can continue their vital work protecting the lives, livelihoods, and property of the American people.”

    “Let’s call this what it is: a full-blown assault on science and public safety. President Trump’s reckless plans to shutter NOAA facilities are dangerously irresponsible — especially as climate-fueled disasters grow more extreme, more frequent, and more costly,” said Ranking Member Jared Huffman (D-CA). “NOAA is on the frontlines of forecasting hurricanes, tracking wildfires and floods, and issuing life-saving warnings before the next storm hits. Slashing NOAA’s capacity would mean slower warnings, less reliable forecasts, and more American families put in danger. I’m proud to co-lead the Stop NOAA Closures Act to stop this madness in its tracks and protect the science and services millions of Americans rely on every single day.”

    This bill is co-sponsored by Representatives Zoe Lofgren (D-CA), Danny K. Davis (D-IL), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), Sarah Elfreth (D-MD), Adriano Espaillat (D-NY), Nydia Velazquez (D-NY), Kevin Mullin (D-CA), Julia Brownley (D-CA), Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ), Yassamin Ansari (D-AZ), Adam Smith (D-WA), Haley Stevens (D-MI), Seth Magaziner (D-RI), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), Sylvia Garcia (D-TX), Lateefah Simon (D-CA), Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Stacey Plaskett (D-VI), Debbie Dingell (D-MI), Joe Neguse (D-CO), Stephen Lynch (D-MA), Jill Tokuda (D-HI), Emilia Strong Sykes (D-OH), Jimmy Panetta (D-CA), Timothy Kennedy (D-NY), Marilyn Strickland (D-WA), Marcy Kaptur (D-OH), Sara Jacobs (D-CA), Nanette Barragán (D-CA), Bill Keating (D-MA), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL), Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), John Garamendi (D-CA), Kathy Castor (D-FL), Deborah Ross (D-NC), Hank Johnson (D-GA), Greg Stanton (D-AZ), Cleo Fields (D-LA), Andrea Salinas (D-OR), Lou Correa (D-CA), Mary Gay Scanlon (D-PA), Don Beyer (D-VA), Salud Carbajal (D-CA), Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA), Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Valerie Foushee (D-NC), Glenn Ivey (D-MD), George Latimer (D-NY), Paul Tonko (D-NY), Lizzie Fletcher (D-TX), Dina Titus (D-NV), Mark Takano (D-CA), Ed Case (D-HI), Lois Frankel (D-FL), Maxine Dexter, MD (D-OR), Kim Schrier, MD (D-WA), Maxwell Frost (D-FL), Sarah McBride (D-DE), Greg Landsman (D-OH), and Steve Cohen (D-TN). 

    This legislation is endorsed by the Sierra Club, Oceana, the Environmental Defense Fund, the Union of Concerned Scientists, the League of Conservation Voters, Azul, Save the Bay, Climate Action Rhode Island, the Conservation Law Foundation Rhode Island, Clean Water Action Rhode Island, the Eastern Rhode Island Conservation District, the Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council, the Turtle Island Restoration Network, Chesapeake Climate Action Network (CCAN) Action Fund, ISciences, L.L.C., and the Woodwell Climate Research Center. 

    For additional quotes, click HERE.

    Background

    Congressman Amo, serves as the Ranking Member for the Subcommittee on Environment on the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology with jurisdiction over the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Amo, Pocan, Krishnamoorthi, 49 Colleagues Slam Rubio’s Decision to Incinerate Food Aid

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

    WASHINGTON, DC – Friday, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI), Congressman Mark Pocan (D-WI), Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) led a letter with 49 of their colleagues to Secretary of State Marco Rubio opposing his decision to withhold nearly 500 metric tons of emergency food aid and instead incinerate those supplies once they expire.

    “As you know, these rations were designed to nourish vulnerable children in conflict-affected regions such as Afghanistan and Pakistan,” the Members wrote. “This action is not only morally indefensible, but also wasteful, strategically shortsighted, and completely counter to the entirety of your work while in the Senate.”

    “We understand that instead of delivering this emergency assistance to malnourished children as originally intended, the State Department will destroy the biscuits at an additional cost to the taxpayer of $130,000,” the Members continued. “According to reporting in the Atlantic, USAID employees and inventory data say this food could have fed 1.5 million children for a week. Given the alarming rates of food insecurity and famine in regions like Gaza and Sudan, the decision to burn lifesaving aid produced by American farmers and paid for by American tax dollars amounts to a tragic abdication of our global humanitarian responsibilities and hurts our own global interests.”

    “The United States has long led the world in humanitarian assistance, not only as a matter of compassion but also as a cornerstone of global stability and diplomacy,” the Members concluded. “Destroying aid that could save lives undermines that legacy and damages our standing in the international community. We urge you to immediately prioritize the distribution of all remaining and viable food assistance stockpiles. American leadership demands nothing less.”

    A full copy of the letter can be found here.

    The list of signers includes Representatives Gabe Amo (D-RI), Mark Pocan (D-WI), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), Nannete Barragán (D-CA), Donald Beyer (D-VA), Suzanne Bonamici (D-WA), Julia Brownley (D-CA), Shontel Brown (D-OH), André Carson (D-IN), Greg Casar (D-TX), Ed Case (D-HI), Joaquin Castro (D-TX), Steve Cohen (D-TN), Jason Crow (D-CO), Danny Davis (D-IL), Diana DeGette (D-CO), Lloyd Doggett (D-TX), Dwight Evans (D-PA), Valerie Foushee (D-NC), Laura Friedman (D-CA), John Garamendi (D-CA), Jonathan Jackson (D-IL), Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), Julie Johnson (D-TX), Marcy Kaptur (D-OH), Ro Khanna (D-CA), George Latimer (D-NY), Seth Magaziner (D-RI), Lucy McBath (D-GA), Sarah McBride (D-DE), Betty McCollum (D-MN), Gwen Moore (D-WI), Seth Moulton (D-MA), Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Ilhan Omar (D-MN), Scott Peters (D-CA), Brittany Pettersen (D-CO), Delia Ramirez (D-IL), Jamie Raskin (D-MD), Mary Gay Scanlon (D-PA), Janice Schakowsky (D-IL), Lateefah Simon (D-CA), Eric Sorensen (D-IL), Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA), Mark Takano (D-CA), Mike Thompson (D-CA), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), Nydia Velázquez (D-NY), Eugene Vindman (D-VA), and Nikema Williams (D-GA). 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Passes Four Amo Amendments to Strengthen Rhode Island’s Defense Workforce and Blue Economy

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

    Amo amendments bolstering Rhode Island’s cutting-edge defense innovation and our nation’s readiness included in the Department of Defense Appropriations Act passed through the House.

    WASHINGTON, DC – TODAY, House Foreign Affairs Committee Vice Ranking Member Gabe Amo (D-RI) authored four amendments that passed the House as part of the Fiscal Year 2026 Department of Defense Appropriations Act. The amendments support and encourage Rhode Island’s premier defense manufacturers like VATN Systems in Portsmouth, Composite Energy Technologies in Bristol, Textron Inc. in Providence, and G-Form in North Smithfield — national leaders in developing underwater drones for the United States Navy.

    “Rhode Island is leading our nation in developing cutting-edge technology that should be utilized to strengthen and modernize the U.S. military,” said Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI). “The amendments I pushed for that were included in this year’s Defense Department appropriations bill will support good paying jobs at home in Rhode Island while advancing our national security.”

     

    Background

    Ranking Member Amo’s first amendment provides $10 million in funding for testing and adoption across the U.S. Navy fleet of underwater drone battery technology developed in RI.

    Amo’s second amendment provides $8 million in funding to develop underwater drones utilizing cutting edge composite materials technology developed by companies like Composite Energy Technologies in Bristol, RI.   

    The third amendment authored by Amo provides $10 million to upgrade the fuel tanks of military helicopters to increase servicemember safety and maintenance affordability while providing good-paying jobs in Rhode Island. 

    Amo’s fourth amendment provides $5 million in improvements to the safety and functionality of servicemembers helmets in extremely cold conditions using state of the art materials like those developed by G-Form in North Smithfield, RI.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Mann Introduces Legislation to Strengthen Agricultural Supply Chain

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. –  Today, U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) led 16 of his colleagues in introducing legislation to remove regulatory roadblocks for heavy vehicle operators when renewing their commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs). The Seasonal Agriculture CDL Modernization Act enables seasonal drivers to renew their CDL online while providing greater flexibility in the types of commercial vehicles they can operate. As the American Trucking Association estimates a national truck driver shortage of 115,000 by the end of 2025, Rep. Mann’s legislation reforms the Farm-Related Restricted Commercial Driver’s License program by allowing states to develop an online registration and renewal system for farm-related service providers, enabling drivers to more easily renew their seasonal license.

    “Successfully feeding, clothing, and fueling the world doesn’t stop when crops are harvested,” said Rep. Mann. “The entire agriculture supply chain relies on timely and reliable delivery every step of the way from production to consumption. If our nation’s farmers, ranchers, and agricultural producers can’t access the machinery they need to operate their farms or transport their products to storage, it would be impossible for them to fulfill their calling or deliver products to consumers. Our bill strengthens the entire agricultural supply chain by enacting commonsense reforms that make it easier for farm-service drivers to simply do their jobs and serve customers and consumers. Food security is national security that we can and should protect by removing regulatory burdens.”

    Joining Rep. Mann in introducing the Seasonal Agriculture CDL Modernization Act are Reps. Jeff Hurd (CO-03), Ron Estes (KS-04), Randy Feenstra (IA-04), Brad Finstad (MN-01), Mark Messmer (IN-08), Derek Schmidt (KS-02), Buddy Carter (GA-01), Troy Nehls (TX-22), Jack Berman (MI-01), John Rose (TN-06), Adrian Smith (NE-03), Mike Flood (NE-01), David Kustoff (TN-08), Craig Goldman (TX-12), Tim Burchett (TN-02), and Bruce Westerman (AR-04).

    “This bill delivers commonsense wins that will make it easier for the ag sector to keep essential goods moving,” said Rep. Flood. “By streamlining the CDL process and clarifying federal definitions, we’re reducing red tape without compromising safety. This is a smart step toward strengthening our nation’s ag supply chain.”

    “The work of Hoosier farmers never stops as they feed Americans and the world,” said Rep. Messmer. “I am proud to support Congressman Mann’s bill to get government red tape out of the way and let farmers do what they do best!”

    The Seasonal Ag CDL Modernization Act is supported by the Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Corn Growers Association, Kansas Grain and Feed Association, Kansas Farm Bureau, Kansas Sorghum Producers, Kansas Soybean Association, Agribusiness Association of Iowa, Agribusiness Association of Kentucky, Agribusiness Council of Indiana, Agricultural Council of Arkansas, Agricultural Retailers Association, Agriculture Transportation Coalition, American Cotton Shippers Association, American Farm Bureau Federation, American Feed Industry Association, American Honey Producers Association, American Malting Barley Association, Council of Producers & Distributors of Agrotechnology, Far West Agribusiness Association, Farm Credit Council, Florida Fertilizer & Agrichemical Association, Georgia Agribusiness Council, Idaho Grain Producers Association, Kansas Agribusiness Retailers Association, Michigan Agri-Business Association, Minnesota Crop Production Retailers, Mississippi Agricultural Industry Council, Missouri Agribusiness Association, Montana Agricultural Business Association, National Aquaculture Association, National Association of Wheat Growers, National Barley Growers Association, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, National Corn Growers Association, National Cotton Council, National Council of Farmer Cooperatives, National Grain and Feed Association, National Grange, National Farmers Union, National Milk Producers Federation, National Pork Producers Council, National Sunflower Association, National Sorghum Producers, Nebraska Agri-Business Association, Nebraska Cooperative Council, North American Millers’ Association, North American Renderers Association, North Carolina AgriBusiness Council, North Dakota Agricultural Association, North Dakota Grain Dealers Association, Louisiana Ag Industries Association, Ohio AgriBusiness Association, Pet Food Institute, Rocky Mountain Agribusiness Association, South Dakota Agri-Business Association, Southern Crop Production Association, Texas Ag Industries Association, Texas Grain & Feed Association, The Fertilizer Institute, USA Rice, U.S. Canola Association, US Rice Producers Association, Virginia Agribusiness Council, Washington Association of Wheat Growers, Wisconsin Agri-Business Association, Wyoming Ag Business Association and the Wyoming Wheat Growers Association.

    “This important legislation, championed by Representative Tracey Mann and the original co-sponsors, provides critical support for agricultural retailers who deliver essential products and services to our farms and livestock operations,” said Richard Gupton, the Senior Vice President of Public Policy for the Agricultural Retailers Association. “By modernizing outdated regulations, this bill empowers retailers to operate more efficiently and reliably, strengthening the entire agricultural supply chain and helping our rural communities thrive. Additionally, by allowing for increased load capacities, the proposal helps alleviate the industry’s chronic driver shortage, enabling businesses to make fewer trips with the same workforce and ensuring that essential goods reach their destinations in a timely manner.”

    “The Agriculture Transportation Coalition has long recognized that there is nothing we produce in agriculture in the United States that cannot be sourced somewhere else in the world,” said Peter Friedmann, Executive Director of the Agriculture Transportation Coalition. “If we are unable to transport and deliver affordably and dependably, our international customers will buy from those other countries, and US farmers, ranchers, processors will lose those sales. The international agriculture supply chain begins at the farms here in the United States. The need to enhance transport efficiency at the very beginning of the supply chain, namely the harvest at the field, has never been greater. The Seasonal Agriculture CDL Modernization Act, will advance this essential component of the domestic and international export supply chain, to keep our agriculture competitive in the global and domestic marketplace. The AgTC strongly supports this bill.”

    “As America’s oldest grassroots agriculture and rural life advocacy organization, the National Grange appreciates Representative Mann taking the lead on the Seasonal Ag CDL Modernization Act,” said Burton Eller, Executive Director of National Grange. “The seasonal ag CDL is a critical link in the success of our harvest chain in rural America.”

    “The Seasonal Ag CDL Modernization Act is a major win for the Wisconsin Agri-Business Association and its members,” said Grace Howe, Executive Director of the Wisconsin Agri-Business Association. “By extending the restricted seasonal CDL period and aligning licensing with the calendar year, it provides agribusinesses with more flexibility during peak planting and harvest seasons. This change reduces administrative burdens, streamlines compliance with federal and state rules, and ensures a more reliable seasonal workforce, and ultimately saving time, cutting costs, and supporting smoother operations across Wisconsin’s ag supply chain.”

    “The Pet Food Institute (PFI), whose members make the vast majority of dog and cat food and treats in the U.S., supports Rep. Tracey Mann (R-Kan.) in proposing updates to the Farm-Related Service Industries Restricted CDL program that will set a new federal definition for implements of husbandry,” said PFI’s president and CEO, Dana Brooks. “U.S. pet food is predominantly made with ingredients produced on American farms, and pet food manufacturing is a major contributor to agricultural and rural economies. We recognize that modern agriculture depends on a broad array of vehicles and equipment to operate efficiently, to innovate and to continue producing safe, quality food for people and pets.”

    “Montana agricultural businesses and producers already face major challenges, from weather and drought to delays getting product across our borders,” said Tanner Hoversland, Montana Agricultural Business Association Board Chair. “Legislation like the Seasonal Ag CDL Modernization Act is good government policy that makes improvements to this essential licensing process, and removes burdens instead of throwing up more roadblocks, especially for our rural operators. The Montana Agricultural Business Association and its members are grateful to Rep. Mann for introducing this commonsense proposal.”

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    For more information about Representative Mann, visit: www.mann.house.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Young Kim Initiative to Support U.S. Leadership in Indo-Pacific Passes Markup

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

    Washington, DC – Today, the House Foreign Affairs Committee passed out of markup H.R. 4490, the Providing Appropriate Recognition and Treatment Needed to Enhance Relations (PARTNER) Act. 

    U.S. Representative Young Kim (CA-40), chairwoman of the House Foreign Affairs East Asia and Pacific Subcommittee, helped introduce H.R. 4490. Included in the bill are the PARTNER with ASEAN Act and Pacific Partnership Act, which Rep. Kim helped work on to elevate U.S. cooperation with our Indo-Pacific allies.  

    “When the United States shows up as the partner of choice for our Indo-Pacific allies and partners, we win,” said Congresswoman Kim. “The PARTNER Act sends a clear and needed message that the United States will stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our friends, including our Indo-Pacific partners, from the Philippines to Palau, to promote a free, open, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tiffany’s Legislation to Help Wabeno Small Business Clears House

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

    WASHINGTON, DC –Today, Congressman Tom Tiffany’s (WI-07) Wabeno Economic Development Act passed the U.S. House of Representatives with overwhelming bipartisan support. H.R. 3937 will expedite the conveyance of 14 acres of land in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest to Tony’s Wabeno Redi-Mix for fair market value.

    After years of not making progress with the U.S. Forest Service, Tony—the owner of Tony’s Wabeno Redi-Mix—turned to Congressman Tiffany’s office for help. His business is running out of nearby aggregate materials like stone, sand, and gravel, and they will exhaust supply in approximately 2 years. The adjacent parcel is critical for the business’s future and ability to stay in operation.

    “This conveyance will deliver long-term economic growth and protect local jobs for the people of Wabeno and Forest County,” said Congressman Tiffany. “It will ensure Tony’s Wabeno Redi-Mix stays open and continues serving the community for years to come.”

    Background:

    Tony’s Wabeno Redi-Mix has been serving the community for 25 years and currently employs 17 people. The company provides concrete for both contractors and homeowners across a 50-mile radius. Projects include large-scale work for the Forest County Potawatomi Community, local fire and rescue stations, town shops and offices, agricultural projects for local farmers, and residential construction and remodeling.

    Tony first began working with the Forest Service on this land exchange more than eight years ago. However, the agency made it clear the project was not a priority and lacked the resources to complete it. With much of Forest County under federal ownership as part of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, there is limited private land available for small business expansion.  

    This legislation is supported by the Wabeno Area Chamber of Commerce, the Forest County Economic Development Partnership, and the Town of Wabeno. Tom Tallier, Forest County Board Supervisor for District 8, offered key testimony in favor of the bill last year.

    You can view Rep. Tiffany’s comments on the House floor here, and Rep. Debbie Dingell’s (MI-06) floor statement of support here. You can read the full text of the bill here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tiffany’s Legislation to Help Wabeno Small Business Clears House

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

    WASHINGTON, DC –Today, Congressman Tom Tiffany’s (WI-07) Wabeno Economic Development Act passed the U.S. House of Representatives with overwhelming bipartisan support. H.R. 3937 will expedite the conveyance of 14 acres of land in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest to Tony’s Wabeno Redi-Mix for fair market value.

    After years of not making progress with the U.S. Forest Service, Tony—the owner of Tony’s Wabeno Redi-Mix—turned to Congressman Tiffany’s office for help. His business is running out of nearby aggregate materials like stone, sand, and gravel, and they will exhaust supply in approximately 2 years. The adjacent parcel is critical for the business’s future and ability to stay in operation.

    “This conveyance will deliver long-term economic growth and protect local jobs for the people of Wabeno and Forest County,” said Congressman Tiffany. “It will ensure Tony’s Wabeno Redi-Mix stays open and continues serving the community for years to come.”

    Background:

    Tony’s Wabeno Redi-Mix has been serving the community for 25 years and currently employs 17 people. The company provides concrete for both contractors and homeowners across a 50-mile radius. Projects include large-scale work for the Forest County Potawatomi Community, local fire and rescue stations, town shops and offices, agricultural projects for local farmers, and residential construction and remodeling.

    Tony first began working with the Forest Service on this land exchange more than eight years ago. However, the agency made it clear the project was not a priority and lacked the resources to complete it. With much of Forest County under federal ownership as part of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, there is limited private land available for small business expansion.  

    This legislation is supported by the Wabeno Area Chamber of Commerce, the Forest County Economic Development Partnership, and the Town of Wabeno. Tom Tallier, Forest County Board Supervisor for District 8, offered key testimony in favor of the bill last year.

    You can view Rep. Tiffany’s comments on the House floor here, and Rep. Debbie Dingell’s (MI-06) floor statement of support here. You can read the full text of the bill here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Russell Fry (SC-07) Introduces Legislation to Codify President Trump’s Executive Order on Showerheads

    Source:

    Congressman Russell Fry (SC-07) Introduces Legislation to Codify President Trump’s Executive Order on Showerheads

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Russell Fry (SC-07) introduced the Saving Homeowners from Overregulation With Exceptional Rinsing (SHOWER) Act, a bill to codify President Trump’s clear and consistent definition of “showerhead” and put an end to the federal government’s overregulation of household water fixtures.

    Under the 2016 Trump Administration, the Department of Energy (DOE) rightly clarified that each nozzle in a multi-head shower system could be treated as a separate showerhead, each allowed to flow at up to 2.5 gallons per minute (GPM), consistent with the original intent of the 1992 Energy Policy Act.

    But in 2021, the Biden Administration reversed course, reinstating a burdensome interpretation that limited the combined flow of all nozzles in a system to 2.5 GPM—effectively reducing water pressure and restricting consumer choice. That rule was widely criticized as overreach and emblematic of a broader regulatory agenda targeting everyday household appliances.

    President Trump issued an Executive Order in April of 2025 directing DOE to eliminate the Biden-era rule, and DOE followed through in May by repealing the restrictive definition entirely. The SHOWER Act now ensures this rollback is enshrined in law and cannot be reversed by future administrations.

    Specifically, the bill:

    • Codifies the definition of “showerhead” using the ASME A112.18.1–2018 industry standard.

    • Clarifies that each individual nozzle in a multi-nozzle unit may operate independently at up to 2.5 GPM.

    • Excludes safety showerheads used for emergency purposes.

    • Directs the DOE to revise existing regulations within 180 days to reflect the updated statutory definition.

    • Prevents future reinterpretations that would restrict water flow and limit consumer options.

    “Washington bureaucrats have gone too far in dictating what happens in Americans’ own homes,” said Congressman Fry. “The SHOWER Act is a smart fix that reaffirms each shower nozzle is just that—its own showerhead—and should be treated accordingly under the law. This is about defending consumer choice, pushing back on regulatory overreach, and standing up for commonsense policy.”

    “For far too long federal regulations and red tape have limited consumer choice and forced Americans to live with limited water pressure,” said Chairman Guthrie. “Low pressure showers waste time and increase water usage. By codifying how different nozzles are categorized, the SHOWER Act offers a commonsense fix that will allow households to choose what meets their needs, not what Washington mandates.  Thank you to Representative Fry for leading this legislation and for your work to deliver results for consumers across the country.” 

    Full text of the bill can be found 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 –