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Category: United States House of Representatives

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Young Kim Leads Bill to Give North Tustin Zip Code

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

    Washington, DC – U.S. Representatives Young Kim (CA-40) and Lauren Boebert (CO-04) introduced H.R. 3095, a bill to direct the United States Postal Service to designate single, unique ZIP Codes for certain communities that do not currently have one, including the unincorporated area of North Tustin in California’s 40th District. 

    “North Tustin has long been a pillar of Orange County, but its status as an unincorporated area causes confusion for taxes and USPS. A unique zip code would provide certainty for residents who have called North Tustin home for decades,” said Congresswoman Kim. “I thank Rep. Boebert for working with my team to include North Tustin in this important bill, and I will keep working to get this across the finish line for North Tustin residents.” 

    “I am pleased to see this zip code change moving ahead and thank Congresswoman Kim for working with my office to prioritize this issue facing our shared constituency,” said Orange County Supervisor Don Wagner (Third District). “For far too long, our constituents in North Tustin have been subjected to excess local taxes solely because of their zip code. They never voted for the taxes, raising a constitutional concern of taxation without representation. I appreciate Congresswoman Kim’s persistent work to solve this problem through legislation.” 

    “The residents of North Tustin, CA are very grateful to Congresswoman Young Kim for co-sponsoring a bill that will create a unique ZIP code for North Tustin. Until 1996, North Tustin had a unique ZIP code. Expanding the area of the ZIP code into neighboring communities created many problems and confusion. We really applaud our Congresswoman for supporting our community,” said Richard Nelson, President, Foothill Communities Association. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Don Davis Joins Global Security Leaders at the London Defence Conference 2025

    Source: US Congressman Don Davis (NC-01)

    London, U.K. — Congressman Don Davis (NC-01), a U.S. Air Force veteran and the vice ranking member of the House Armed Services Committee, participated in a panel at the London Defence Conference 2025 entitled “Facing China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea (CRINK),” focused on emerging threats to the post-World War II global order and the strengthening alliance between CRINK nations. The conference took place during the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day marking the end of World War II.

    With its theme of “Alliances,” the London Defence Conference 2025 comes at a crucial moment in global affairs. The U.S.-led network of alliances is facing internal strains and threats to its continued existence. The panel discussions on these topics took place among former heads of state, members of the U.S. Congress, members of the British Parliament, and non-government foreign policy experts.

    “The importance of these discussions is growing as we face emerging global threats. Our shared defense remains essential for safeguarding democracies around the world,” said Congressman Don Davis. “As we commemorate the 80th anniversary of VE Day, we are reminded of the enduring value of our allies. We must maintain unity in addressing threats posed by countries such as China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, and other global extremists.”

    During the “Facing CRINK” panel, participants addressed emerging threats  to the post-World War II global order and emphasized the importance of reinforcing alliances such as North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).

    Specific topics included Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, belligerence from the People’s Republic of China in the Indo-Pacific, and Iran’s malign actions in the Gulf. Panelists discussed best practices for uniting the free world and ensuring internal political divisions do not divide the West against common foes.

    Congressman Don Davis serves as the vice ranking member of the House Armed Services Committee and sits on the Subcommittees on Tactical Air and Land Forces and Readiness. He graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy in 1994, a co-chair of the For Country Caucus and is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Nick Langworthy Releases Statement Supporting House Energy and Commerce Committee’s Budget Reconciliation Legislation

    Source: US Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today,Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23) released the following statement regarding the House Energy and Commerce Committee’s reconciliation bill text. This legislation will be marked up tomorrow, May 13 at 2:00 pm. 

     

    “After five months of tough negotiations and in-depth discussions with key stakeholders, the House Energy and Commerce Committee has delivered a bold reconciliation bill that achieves our top priorities: protecting Medicaid for those who genuinely need it, advancing American energy independence, and ending the hemorrhaging of taxpayer dollars through waste, fraud, and abuse.

     

    “From day one, I made it clear that I would fight relentlessly to protect rural hospitals and safeguard access to care—and as the only Republican from New York serving on the Energy and Commerce Committee, I was proud to help lead that charge alongside my colleagues and the White House.

     

    “This bill strengthens the social safety net while restoring fiscal responsibility. Its passage marks a critical step toward delivering on a pro-growth, pro-taxpayer agenda that puts America’s working and middle class first.

     

    “Let’s be clear: if we do nothing, the system goes broke. Medicaid and other essential programs will collapse under the weight of wasteful spending, fraud, and abuse. For too long, these programs have operated with little accountability—broken systems with no safeguards for taxpayers. That’s unacceptable. We have a duty to protect both the people who depend on these services and the taxpayers who fund them.

     

    “That’s why this legislation includes commonsense work requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents—just as President Bill Clinton enacted in the 1990s. It was one of the most popular and effective policies of his presidency, helping lift millions out of poverty and into the workforce. We are building on that bipartisan legacy to ensure assistance is tied to opportunity, not lifelong dependency.

     

    “We are also removing illegal aliens from the Medicaid rolls. American taxpayers should never be forced to subsidize healthcare for those who have broken our immigration laws. These benefits are meant for American citizens and lawful residents—not for those who enter the country illegally and exploit the system. This reform is about restoring fairness, accountability, and the rule of law.

     

    “Unfortunately, powerful Democrats like Chuck Schumer are already resorting to lies, fear-mongering, and deception to protect the failed status quo. They’d rather mislead the public than admit that change is urgently needed. But we know the truth—and the American people are demanding action.

     

    “While Democrats and their special interest allies cling to bloated bureaucracy and broken programs, we are delivering real solutions, restoring integrity to our institutions, and honoring the clear mandate voters gave us to put America back on the right track.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Mfume, Maryland Congressional Delegation Members Meet on Defending Federal Investments, Services for Maryland

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Thursday, members of Maryland’s Congressional Delegation met to discuss their efforts to defend federal investments for Maryland’s priorities and ensure constituents can continue to access essential public services. Their meeting came as Congress moves into appropriations season and following the Trump Administration’s release of its “skinny” budget proposal the week before last.

     “It is important for Marylanders to know that their Congressional Delegation hears and shares in their disbelief about what is happening to this nation under Donald Trump and Elon Musk,” said Congressman Mfume. “From the attacks on federal workers, to potential Medicaid cuts, to the vile economic policies and uncertainty of tariff wars that threaten the Port of Baltimore, longshoremen, small businesses, and everyday Americans – this Delegation will continue to stand up for all who call our state home. We will resist, push back, and resist again as we demand accountability from this White House.” 

    “Federal Team Maryland has always been laser-focused on delivering for the people of our state. Even as this Administration works to dismantle critical programs for working families and our communities, we’re committed to working together to defend investments for Maryland and to support our federal workers who provide vital services to the American people,” said Senator Van Hollen.

    “Maryland has suffered disproportionately by this President’s callous cuts. Team Maryland sees and hears from our constituents suffering every day: in the halls of Congress, at our grocery stores, in our communities, at our churches. To our civil servants and to all Marylanders struggling under this Administration — we hear you, and we are in this fight for you,” said Senator Alsobrooks.

    “Team Maryland is working every day on behalf of federal employees and Maryland families impacted by Republicans’ proposed cuts to Medicaid, SNAP, and other essential services,” said Congressman Hoyer. “Just as we worked to ensure the rebuilding of Francis Scott Key Bridge was fully covered, we are working to protect investments in our state from the Trump Administration and we will continue to advocate for the health and well-being of Marylanders and our nation.”

    “Team Maryland is working together to oppose the Trump regime’s slash-and-burn tactics against federal workers and federal programs,” said Representative Raskin. “We know that Maryland families are paying the price for the president’s rogue actions, from his mass firings of public servants to the ‘Trump Tariffs’ that are raising the prices of essential goods. We’ll keep fighting to defend the rule of law, the honor of the civil service and the programmatic achievements of American democracy.

    “This Administration has been all chaos and no strategy. They cut federal funding to test rape kits, they cut support to our food banks, and they cut a small agency that investigates every line of duty firefighter death in this country. These cuts are not just deeply cruel, they are also shortsighted,” said Congresswoman Elfreth.

    “We cannot forget that one in nine families in Maryland’s 6th District depend on SNAP—and half of them are children,” said Representative McClain Delaney. “As Maryland’s voice on the House Agriculture Committee, I’m proud to represent our state and ensure that Maryland families and farmers remain at the heart of the fight to protect SNAP and other essential federal programs from cruel and senseless cuts.”

    “Team Maryland is united in our effort to defeat the Trump Administration’s assault on democracy in Congress, the courts and in our communities. The reckless cuts of skilled workers and essential services are bad for the country, but disproportionately so for Maryland, which is home to so many federal agencies, research universities and a Port just getting back on its feet after a tragic bridge collapse. I am proud to be in this fight with my patriotic and committed colleagues on behalf of our constituents,” said Congressman Olszewski.

    Video of the members’ press availability following the meeting is available here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Sorensen Leads Bipartisan Bill to Increase Resources for Disabled Veterans

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

    Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17), Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11), and House Veterans Affairs Committee Ranking Member Mark Takano (CA-39) reintroduced the Autonomy for All Disabled Veterans Act, which will provide veterans with additional federal funding to make accessibility improvements to their homes. 

    Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) introduced similar companion legislation in the Senate. 

    “The last thing a veteran should worry about is red tape that prevents them from living the life they deserve,” said Congressman Eric Sorensen. “It’s time to finally increase the federal funding available to help disabled veterans make accessibility improvements to their homes with this bipartisan legislation.” 

    “Every veteran deserves to live in a home that works for them. But right now, VA’s HISA program is not meeting the needs of disabled veterans struggling with higher costs,” said Ranking Member Mark Takano. “That’s why Congressman Sorensen and I are reintroducing the Autonomy for All Disabled Veterans Act—to raise the amount of help veterans can get and make sure more of them can live safely and independently. If we ask people to serve our country, we owe it to them to take care of them when they come home.” 

    “I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing this bipartisan legislation to increase the funding available for veterans through the VA’s Home Improvements and Structural Alterations (HISA) program,” said Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis. “This critical program helps disabled veterans make essential home modifications such as ramps, widened doorways, and accessible bathrooms and by raising the grant cap to $10,000, we’re ensuring that more veterans can live safely and independently in their homes after having served our nation.” 

    “Arkansas veterans have sacrificed tremendously in service to our nation,” said Senator John Boozman. “One of the most important ways we can support our former servicemembers is to ensure those living with a disability feel safer in an accessible home with a greater sense of independence and quality of life. I am pleased to champion commonsense improvements that will better serve those who have worn our nation’s uniform.” 

    “After making countless sacrifices in service to our country, disabled veterans deserve to live in their own home with more freedom and dignity,” said Senator Catherine Cortez Masto. “That’s why I’m proud to work alongside my colleagues to provide them the resources they need to make improvements to their homes for accessibility and safety. I will continue working across the aisle to stand up for Nevada veterans and their families.” 

    “VA’s Home Improvements and Structural Alterations grant program provides medically necessary improvements and structural changes to a veteran or service member’s home,” said Heather Ansley, Chief Policy Officer of Paralyzed Veterans of America. “Unfortunately, grant rates haven’t been increased since 2010, despite rising construction costs, minimizing the purchase power of this important program. We are grateful to Representative Sorensen, Representative Takano, and Representative Malliotakis for introducing this important legislation which will not only increase the grant amount but also tie the grant to an inflation formula to allow it to keep up with rising costs.” 

    “The quality and self-governing of one’s life means having the freedom to make one’s own decisions and act independently,” said Gary Hall, Service Officer at American Legion Post #2. “This is what every veteran wants in life and when you have a condition that limits an individual’s ability to perform physical tasks or functions, impacting mobility, dexterity or stamina. Veterans with physical disabilities resulting from their military service should be thanked for their service by helping them cope with the physical and emotional challenges that come with living with what has happen to them because of serving their country.” 

    “The Home Improvement and Structural Alterations (HISA) Grant is one of the most important grant programs for veterans with disabilities that the Veterans Health Administration administers,” said Dan Smith, Veterans Service Office at the Peoria County Veterans Assistance Commission. “It allows disabled veterans to make improvements to their homes in areas that present obstacles to their ability to live independently. The Autonomy for All Disabled Veterans Act is vital to offsetting the overwhelming cost increases in the construction industry over the past years, which directly reduce the necessary improvements these Disabled Veterans can make to their homes.” 

    “During my tenure of being a member of a couple of Military Veteran Organizations I have come across several veteran comrades that have physical disabilities,” said Gary Holmes, Col. Thomas G. Lawler VFW Post 342 Commander. “Some of these veterans mention that they have issues in their current living quarters that don’t meet their needs or provide a better quality of life. With the passage of this bill, it will help them reside in their homes and improve their current home situation.” 

    “There is no bad time to increase the grant ceiling to help veterans improve their homes and implement structural alterations. The best time, however, is to do so when the demand for needed support is at its highest. That time is now,” said Eric Willard, Secretary/Treasurer of Chapter 984 of Vietnam Veterans of America. “For the past several years our team of veterans has been helping disabled and other veterans with home improvements that accommodate their needs for adaptive and assistive living in their own homes and apartments. I see the greatest needs of the past decade happening today. Our volunteers and non-profits continue to provide free labor, but we have no funds to purchase the items and supplies to help our disabled peers. The proposed House bill will provide the funds needed by veterans to pay for the ramps, grab bars, and dozens of other accommodations that will make them more independent than otherwise possible. We stand ready to do the work, but our veterans need the money to make it happen.” 

    The Department of Veteran Affairs Home Improvements and Structural Alterations program (HISA) offers funds to help eligible disabled veterans alter their homes to better accommodate their needs. This bipartisan bill will increase the amount available under this program to up to $10,000 for veterans with both service-connected and non-service-connected conditions. This raises the current ceiling offered from $6,800 for those with service-connected conditions and $2,000 to those with non-service-connected conditions. 

    The Autonomy for All Disabled Veterans Act is supported by the Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA), the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), and AMVETS. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Lawler and Chairman Hill Applaud the Release of American-Israeli Hostage Edan Alexander

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

    Pearl River, NY – 5/12/2025… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee’s Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee, and Congressman French Hill (AR-2), Chairman of the House Hostage Task Force, praised the return of Edan Alexander, an American-Israeli hostage held by Hamas since the October 7th terrorist attack. 

    On Friday, Reps. Lawler and Hill led a letter with a bipartisan coalition of lawmakers urging the Trump Administration to exert maximum diplomatic pressure in order to return all of the hostages still being held in Gaza. 

    “I’m thrilled by the news that Edan Alexander has returned home. I applaud President Trump for his tireless diplomatic work in securing the release of these hostages. As we continue forward in securing the release of Americans being held hostage abroad, I remain steadfast in my commitment to bring them all home. God be with the families who are still awaiting the release of their loved ones. I stand with you and will not relent until every American abroad is returned home,” stated Chairman Lawler. 

    “I am overjoyed to hear that Edan Alexander is finally coming home after enduring nearly 600 days of unimaginable hardship and suffering. His release is a moment of great relief and joy for his family and for all Americans who have kept him in their prayers. We are deeply grateful to all those whose tireless efforts made this homecoming possible. As Co-Chair of the Hostage Task Force in the House, I know that while we celebrate Edan’s release, we must continue our work to secure the freedom of every American held abroad and to bring home the remains of every American who died at the hands of Hamas,” concluded Chairman Hill. 

    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: Malliotakis Rallies in Brooklyn for Support for Senior Tax Relief Ahead of Budget Deal

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

    (BROOKLYN, NY) – Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis was joined by local senior citizens at the Bay Ridge Center to rally support for her effort to reduce taxes on Social Security income for seniors. As a member of the House Ways & Means Committee, Malliotakis has played a key role in negotiations and is working to build momentum in Washington to pass this big, beautiful bill as part of the upcoming budget reconciliation tax package.

     

    The Ways & Means Committee is scheduled to meet this week for a markup of the bill text—a critical step toward advancing these tax relief provisions through Congress. The legislation is expected to include a provision that mirrors Malliotakis’ existing legislation and provide a bonus deduction for seniors, offering $4,000 for individuals earning $75,000 or less and $8,000 for married couples earning $150,000 or less.

     

    Congresswoman Malliotakis has been a leading advocate for raising the SALT cap, which is currently set at $10,000 and has disproportionately impacted seniors and middle-class families in high-tax states like New York. Tripling the cap to $30,000 would provide much needed relief for middle-class families—covering 98% of households in her district. She is also pushing to increase the standard deduction to deliver meaningful relief to hardworking taxpayers and prevent the return of the Alternative Minimum Tax.

     

    “As Ways & Means meets this week to debate and vote on the tax portion of the reconciliation package, I am excited that key provisions of legislation I’ve introduced will be included to reduce the tax burden on working Americans, senior citizens and middle-class families in our community,” said Rep. Nicole Malliotakis. “Today I joined Brooklyn seniors to rally support for needed tax relief because too many seniors are being forced to stretch their retirement savings further than ever before. After a lifetime of hard work and paying taxes, they deserve to keep more of their Social Security and retirement income without Uncle Sam reaching into their pockets again.”

    Malliotakis is also sponsoring other measures to ease the burden on seniors, including:

     

    • H.R. 1129, The Tax Relief Unleashed for Seniors by Trump (TRUST) Act, would increase the amount of income that is tax exempt and index the threshold to inflation, allowing seniors to keep more of their benefits. Malliotakis’ legislation would double current exempt income from $25,000 to $50,000 for single filers and from $32,000 to $64,000 for married couples age 65 and older.

    • H.R. 2266, The Reducing Excessive Taxation and Inefficiencies by Reforming Elder Exemptions to Support Fairness, Inflation Relief, and Simpler Taxes Act (RETIREES FIRST Act) aimed at modernizing outdated Social Security tax thresholds to deliver tax relief to middle-class retirees.

     

    Today, nearly 56% of retirees pay taxes on their Social Security benefits, compared to less than 10% in 1984 when the Social Security exemptions were first established. As this figure is projected to rise further, Malliotakis is taking action having introduced legislation to raise the provisional income thresholds to $34,000 for single filers and $68,000 for married filers—up from the current levels of $25,000 and $32,000, respectively. The legislation would exempt most middle-class retirees from paying taxes on their Social Security benefits by reducing their tax burden.

    The income thresholds for taxation of benefits have remained unchanged since first established by Congress in 1984. At the time, less than 10 percent of beneficiaries paid federal income tax on their benefits, but because wages have increased, the proportion of beneficiaries who must pay federal income tax on benefits has risen over time.

    LINKS TO LEGISLATIVE TEXTS

    H.R. 1130 HERE

    H.R. 1129 HERE

    H.R. 2266 HERE

     

    In addition to reducing the tax burden on America’s seniors, Malliotakis as a member of the House Committee on Ways & Means and is acutely focused on increasing the State and Local Tax Deduction (SALT), and increasing domestic production by incentivizing companies to bring their manufacturing facilities and supply chains home.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Robert Garcia Releases Oversight Report on Lessons From Kenneth Fire False Alerts

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Robert Garcia California (42nd District)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Robert Garcia (CA-42) released a report with key findings on the causes of false evacuation warnings during the Kenneth Fire on January 9, 2025, and policy recommendations to improve emergency warning alerts. The full report can be found here.

    “The Kenneth Fire false alert was a wake-up call,” said Congressman Robert Garcia. “It showed the consequences of software failures, vague message wording, and a lack of federal standards. We must modernize our emergency alert systems to ensure that warnings are accurate, timely, and targeted. The public’s trust is at stake.”

    On February 13, 2025, Congressman Garcia and thirteen Members of Congress representing Los Angeles County sent oversight letters seeking answers to why evacuation warnings were accidentally sent to nearly 10 million L.A. County residents during the Los Angeles fires, why individuals received delayed warnings, or why individuals received multiple warnings.

    Responses were received from Genasys, Inc., the software company used by the County for issuing wireless emergency alerts, Los Angeles County, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

    The Kenneth Fire serves as a critical reminder of the importance of robust emergency communication systems. Congress and federal agencies must act swiftly to close identified gaps and ensure the public receives accurate and life-saving information when disaster strikes.

    The report’s key findings noted:

    • The initial false alert was caused by a software failure in Genasys, Inc.’s system. The correct evacuation area polygon was not uploaded to the IPAWS wireless alert channel, which Genasys believes was due to a network disruption. Genasys’ system failed to warn the LA County Office of Emergency Management that the polygon was missing, and the alert was to be sent county-wide. Genasys has since added safeguards to its software to address this issue.
    • LA County responded quickly, canceling the alert within 2 minutes and 47 seconds, and issued a corrected message 20 minutes later. The County temporarily transitioned to CalOES’ Onsolve CodeRed alert system and resumed use of Genasys on January 30, 2025.
    • LA County could improve the wording of alert messages. The wording of the original alert was vague and lacked geographic specificity. Improved language and inclusion of timestamps would have helped avoid confusion, especially for individuals outside the evacuation zone.
    • Duplicate and delayed alerts were not caused by downed cell towers, as initially thought, but by technical issuessuch as network overload, lack of unique message identifiers, and long alert durations.

    Policy recommendations included:

    1. Increase funding for IPAWS systems – Federal support is needed for planning, equipment, training, exercises, and system maintenance.
    2. Finalize FEMA’s IPAWS requirements – Five years after Congress mandated improvements, FEMA has yet to fully implement certification programs for users and third-party software providers.
    3. The FCC should ensure mobile providers include location-aware maps by the December 2026 deadline – Last October, the FCC passed a requirement for wireless services providers to include links to maps that show the emergency incident and your location relative to the incident by December 2026.
    4. The FCC should establish performance standards – The FCC should develop measurable goals and monitoring for Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA) performance, including reliability, accuracy, and speed.

    By addressing these challenges, emergency alerting can become more accurate, reliable, and effective in future crises.

    Congressman Garcia is dedicated to ensuring that government operations are efficient, effective, and safe, especially during emergencies. After the devastating LA wildfires in January, he led a letter with LA colleagues to Genasys Inc., Los Angeles County, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) demanding answers regarding accidental emergency alerts. Individuals received delayed evacuation warnings, some received the same message multiple times, and millions received unnecessary warnings. As Mayor of Long Beach, Congressman Garcia helped establish the AlertLongBeach system to provide those who live or work in the city with text alerts containing important information before, during, and after a major emergency or disaster. Congressman Garcia’s leadership on the Oversight Committee ensures that government operations are effective and responsive to crises. Congressman Garcia led dozens of his colleagues in calling on FEMA to honor their commitment to reimbursing California cities and counties for providing shelter options for individuals experiencing homelessness during the pandemic. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: The Office of Congressman Don Davis to hold Mobile Office Hours in 19 Counties in May

    Source: US Congressman Don Davis (NC-01)

    Goldsboro, N.C. — Congressman Don Davis (NC-01) announced Thursday that his district staff will host Mobile Office Hours from May 12 to May 16 at multiple locations across North Carolina’s 1st Congressional District.

    Mobile office hours give constituents the opportunity to meet directly with caseworkers for help with federal agencies, including Social Security, Medicare, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the IRS, and passport services. Residents may also share their concerns about federal legislation.

    No appointment is needed, and all residents are welcome to attend.

    *Please note: Congressman Davis will not be in attendance at these events. 

    WHO:

    Office of Congressman Don Davis (NC-01)

    WHAT:

    Mobile Office Hours (Two hours per location)

    WHEN:

    Monday, May 12, 2025

    • Vance County: 10 AM to 12 PM, Henderson City Hall, 134 Rose Ave., Henderson, NC 27536
       
    • Granville County: 1 PM to 3 PM., Oxford City Hall, 300 Williamsboro St., Oxford, NC 27565
       
    • Camden County: 10 AM to 12 PM, Camden County Library (Conference Room), 118 N.C. Highway 343 N, Camden, NC 27921
       
    • Currituck County: 1 PM to 3 PM, Currituck Chamber of Commerce, 111D Currituck Commercial Drive, Moyock, NC 27958

    Tuesday, May 13, 2025 

    • Perquimans County: 10 AM to 12 PM, Hertford Community Center, 305 W. Grubb St., Hertford, NC 27944
       
    • Chowan County: 1 PM to 3PM, Edenton Municipal Building (Conference Room), 504 S. Broad St., Edenton, NC 27932
       
    • Martin County: 10 AM to 12 PM, Martin Memorial Library, 200 N. Smithwick St., Williamston, NC 27892
       
    • Bertie County: 1 PM to 3 PM, Windsor Town Hall, 128 S. King St., Windsor, NC 27983

    Wednesday, May 14, 2025

    • Lenoir County: 10 AM to 12 PM, Kinston City Hall (Council Chambers), 207 E. King St., Kinston, NC 28501
       
    • Greene County: 1 PM to 3 PM, Greene County Public Library, 229-G Kingold Blvd., Snow Hill, NC 28580
       
    • Tyrrell County: 10 AM to 12 PM, Columbia Town Hall, 103 Main St., Columbia, NC 27925
       
    • Washington County: 1 PM to 3 PM, Roper Community Building, 301 Buncombe St., Roper, NC 27970

    Thursday, May 15, 2025 

    • Edgecombe County: 10 AM to 12 PM, Tarboro Town Hall (Council Chambers), 500 N. Main St., Tarboro, NC 27886
       
    • Wilson County: 1 PM to 3 PM, Wilson Senior Center, 1808 S. Goldsboro St., Wilson, NC 27893
       
    • Warren County:10 AM to 12 PM, Warren County Memorial Library, 119 S. Front St., Warrenton, NC 27589
       
    • Halifax County: 1 PM to 3 PM, Halifax County Library, 33 S. Granville St., Halifax, NC 27839

    Friday, May 16, 2025

    • Northampton County: 10 AM to 12 PM, Conway Town Hall, 301 W. Main St., Conway, NC 27820
       
    • Gates County: 10 AM to 12 PM, Gatesville Town Hall, 127 Main St., Gatesville, NC 27938
       
    • Hertford County: 1 PM to 3 PM., Roanoke-Chowan Community College (Community Room), 109 Community College Rd., Ahoskie, NC 27910

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Luttrell Introduces the Justice for Victims of Illegal Alien Murders Act

    Source:

    WASHINGTON – Congressman Morgan Luttrell (R-TX) introduced the Justice for Victims of Illegal Alien Murders Act, legislation that will allow the federal government to prosecute illegal aliens who commit murder in the United States. If convicted of first-degree murder under this statute, offenders could face the death penalty or life in prison.

    Under current law, federal jurisdiction over murder cases is limited and often depends on where the crime takes place or whether it involves federal officials or facilities. The Justice for Victims of Illegal Alien Murders Act creates a new federal offense for non-citizens who are inadmissible or deportable and commit murder, giving federal prosecutors the clear authority to bring charges regardless of the location of the crime.

    “In America, we are a nation of laws, and that means justice has to be non-negotiable,” said Congressman Luttrell. “If you’re in this country illegally and you murder an innocent American, you will be held fully accountable no matter where the crime happens. This bill gives us the authority to deliver justice when local prosecutors simply don’t have the tools, manpower, or funding to take on a high-profile death penalty case. Too many American families have suffered unbearable loss at the hands of individuals who never should have been in this country in the first place.”

    “I am proud to support Congressman Luttrell’s Justice for Victims of Illegal Alien Murders Act to make sure illegal alien murderers are brought to justice,” said Congressman Pfluger. “This legislation would ensure that the federal government has the authority to prosecute ANY illegal alien who has committed murder inside the jurisdiction of the United States, despite what a local or state liberal activist judge might decide. No one is above the law. Violent criminals who commit the most heinous act of all, murder of an innocent victim, will be prosecuted, and their families will get the justice they deserve.”

    “If you’re in our country illegally and you kill a U.S. citizen, expect us to come after you with the full extent of the law. If I had it my way, Laken Riley’s killer and every illegal who has taken an American life would be hung from the Southern border wall,” said Rep. Mike Collins. “I’m proud to support Rep. Luttrell’s Justice for Victims of Illegal Alien Murders Act to provide more resources to hold these illegal criminals accountable for their crimes.”

    “When an American life is taken by someone who should not have been in this country to begin with, justice must be swift, certain, and uncompromising. The Justice for Victims of Illegal Alien Murders Act ensures that these horrific crimes are treated with the full weight of federal law—especially in states where soft-on-crime policies deny families true justice. No sanctuary policy or so-called ‘restorative justice’ program should shield convicted murderers from the consequences of their actions. This bill sends a clear message: if you murder an American citizen while unlawfully in this country, the federal government will pursue the harshest penalties available,” said Congressman Bergman.

    “When Biden opened our borders, he opened our country to a world of crime previously thought unimaginable on American soil. The families of Laken Riley, Edwin Jackson, Jeffrey Monroe, and more would not be mourning today if illegal aliens were restricted from entering our country. Unfortunately, this legislation is needed in America today because Biden and his handlers cared more about their reckless open border beliefs than the lives of Americans,” said Congressman Stutzman.

    “American families deserve to know that justice will be served—no matter where a crime takes place. If someone is in this country illegally and commits murder, the federal government should have the authority to prosecute them to the fullest extent of the law. This bill sends a clear message: if you take an innocent life on American soil, you will be held accountable,” said Congressman Ezell.

    “Thank you to Rep. Luttrell for leading the Justice for Victims of Illegal Alien Murders Act. This bill ensures that illegal aliens who commit the most heinous crime of all, murder, are fully prosecuted without placing a burden on local communities. Justice must be swift, certain, and uncompromising for those who take innocent lives,” said Congressman Babin.

    “Due to the failures of the Biden Administration, American citizens have lost their lives at the hands of illegal aliens,” said Congressman Nehls. “I am proud to cosponsor my Texas colleague, Congressman Luttrell’s bill to hold illegal alien murderers fully accountable with death penalty eligibility or to spend the rest of their lives in prison.”

    The bill intends to close a dangerous loophole and ensure that those who are unlawfully in the U.S. and commit heinous crimes do not slip through the cracks of the legal system due to jurisdictional challenges.

    Additionally, President Donald Trump signed an Executive Order calling for the mandatory death penalty for illegal immigrants convicted of murdering American citizens or law enforcement officers. 

    This bill is cosponsored by Representatives August Pfluger (R-TX), Jack Bergman (R-MN), Troy Nehls (R-TX), Mike Collins (R-GA), Brian Babin (R-TX), Mike Ezell (R-MS), and Marlin Stutzman (R-IN).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Rep. Pfluger’s ACES Act Passed the House

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

    The passage of Rep. Pfluger’s legislation was celebrated by several veteran organizations and advocacy groups, who released the following statements:

    Vince Alcazar, COL, USAF, ret., MACH Coalition Founder & Director, said, “The Military Aviator Coalition for Health (MACH) celebrates the passage of H.R. 530, the Aviator Cancer Examination Study (ACES) Act. With three major Department of Defense studies in the last four confirming and quantifying significantly elevated cancer rates among U.S. military flyers, the ACES Act goes the next step. This bill would ask the National Academy of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine to apply their extensive Veteran health study capacity to determine what in the operating environments of military aviation is likely causing cancer. This study is essential. Without the ACES Act, military medicine will have no practical way of mitigating risk, and Veteran flyers will have no basis to correlate their service to potential cancer. This day was five years in the making. We recognize and praise the leadership of Congressman August Pfluger in leading this bill through three Congresses to today. Congressman Pfluger is an amazing champion of this work.”

    Jose Ramos, Vice President of Government and Community Relations, Wounded Warrior Project, said, “Wounded Warrior Project is grateful to Rep. Pfluger and his fellow Members of Congress for passing the ACES Act in the House of Representatives by an overwhelming majority. This legislation represents a critical step toward safeguarding the long-term health and well-being of military aviators and support personnel. These groups are routinely exposed to unique occupational hazards, and collaborative research across the federal government will help inform cancer prevention and veteran health strategies.We urge the Senate to take up this legislation as soon as possible.”

    Rye Barcott, Co-Founder & CEO of With Honor Action, said, “With Honor Action congratulates Reps. August Pfluger and Jimmy Panetta in securing House passage of the ACES Act—comprehensive legislation that will advance research into potential links between aviator service and increased cancer rates,” said Rye Barcott, Co-Founder & CEO of With Honor Action. “As members of the For Country Caucus, Reps. Pfluger and Panetta built strong bipartisan support among their fellow veteran lawmakers that led to a full caucus endorsement. We look forward to seeing this critical legislation become law.”

    Theo Lawson, Assistant Director, Legislative Programs, Fleet Reserve Association, said, “The Fleet Reserve Association (FRA) wholeheartedly celebrates the passage of the ACES Act in the House and extends our sincere congratulations to Congressman August Pfluger, his staff, and the bill’s cosponsors for their incredible dedication in advancing this vital legislation. Understanding cancer is the first step to defeating it, and this bill brings us closer to uncovering the critical links between aircrew service and cancer risks. Their leadership ensures our sea service aviators and all aircrew members are better equipped to identify and combat this silent enemy. We look forward to continuing the fight alongside them until the ACES Act becomes law–honoring the sacrifices of our servicemembers and safeguarding future generations.”

    Mario Marquez, Executive Director of Government Affairs, The American Legion, said, “On behalf of the 1.5 million veterans nationwide, The American Legion proudly supports the ACES Act. Research is critical to our understanding of the impacts of toxic exposures, from Agent Orange to harmful chemicals on aircraft. We applaud Representative Pfluger for prioritizing this critical issue and thank the House of Representatives for passing the ACES Act with resounding support. The American Legion urges the Senate to vote on this bill and continue to invest in research surrounding the impacts of toxic exposures.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Dan Goldman Demands AG Bondi Release Promised Jeffrey Epstein Files, Share Whether President Trump Has Intervened in Case to Hide Extensive Relationship with Epstein

    Source: US Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10)

    DOJ’s Extended Delay Raises Serious Questions Over Whether President Trump is Burying Files Due to His Well-Documented Association with the Child Sex Offender 

    Promised Report is Now 2 Months Late, Despite FBI Assigning Dozens of Agents to Process It 

    Read the Letter Here 

    Watch Rep. Goldman’s Exclusive Interview Here 

    Washington, D.C – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) sent a letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi today demanding that she promptly release the Jeffrey Epstein Files in full, as well as inform Congress whether President Trump has intervened or delayed the release of the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) report due to his well-documented and extensive relationship with Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell. 

    “I write to express my grave concern about what appears to be a concerted effort by you to delay and even prevent the release of the Jeffrey Epstein Files in their entirety – potentially at the direction of the sitting President of the United States, Donald J. Trump,” Congressman Goldman wrote. 

    Following the broadly ridiculed release of The Epstein Files: Part 1 on February 27, 2025, AG Bondi demanded that the FBI deliver the complete Epstein Files within 24 hours to DOJ, as well as a comprehensive report from FBI Director Patel within 14 days. It has now been 74 days since Bondi issued those directives, yet the Department has not released the report despite months-old reporting that the FBI Field Office in New York has delayed other investigations to review and redact information for public release. The Congressman questioned if this delay may be related to President Trump’s long-running relationship with Jeffrey Epstein. 

    “The convergence of your unexplained delay in releasing the Epstein Files, the reporting nearly two months ago that numerous FBI agents were working overtime to redact the materials, President Trump’s well-documented affiliation with Epstein, and his view that the Department of Justice is his personal law firm raises serious questions about whether President Trump has intervened to prevent the public release of the Epstein Files in order to hide his own embarrassing and potentially criminal conduct,” Congressman Goldman continued. 

    Attorney General Bondi’s oath of office requires her to represent the United States’ interest without fear or favor, not protect the President’s embarrassing or even criminal behavior from being made public. Congressman Goldman requested that Attorney General Bondi inform Congress of whether the White House or Donald Trump himself has sought to intervene in the case in any way, as well as to provide a detailed timeline for the release of the Epstein Files. 

    “I look forward to your response to this matter of intense public interest. Both Congress and the American people are eager for you to follow through on your promise of transparency about the Epstein Files,” the Congressman concluded. 

    Read the full letter here or below: 

    Dear Attorney General Bondi, 

    I write to express my grave concern about what appears to be a concerted effort by you to delay and even prevent the release of the Jeffrey Epstein Files in their entirety – potentially at the direction of the sitting President of the United States, Donald J. Trump.  

    On February 27, 2025, to much fanfare, the Department of Justice under your leadership released a trove of already-public documents related to the Jeffrey Epstein 

    case titled The Epstein Files: Phase 1. This document dump, which was redacted ostensibly to “protect victims,” was sold to the American people as a fulfillment of President Trump’s promise of government transparency. It was rightly met, however, with widespread ridicule from across the political spectrum as a ham-handed attempt to gaslight the American people. 

    Shortly after the underwhelming ‘Phase 1’ release, you sent a letter to FBI Director Kash Patel attempting to pin blame on the FBI’s New York field office for the missing material. In that letter, also dated February 27, 2025, you demanded that the FBI deliver, within 24 hours, “the full and complete Epstein files…including all records, documents, audio and video recordings, and materials related to Jeffrey Epstein and his clients, regardless of how such information was obtained.” You went on to clearly state that, “[t]here will be no withholdings or limitations to my or your access.” You further demanded a “comprehensive report” from the FBI Director “within 14 days.” Director Patel subsequently indicated his intent to comply with your request in a post on X: “There will be no cover-ups, no missing documents, and no stone left unturned.” 

    It is now 74 days past the issuance of both your 24-hour demand and 14-day deadline for a comprehensive report, yet you have provided no additional materials nor an explanation for the delay. Reporting from March 21, 2025, indicates that the FBI field office in New York, presumably at your direction, delayed other investigations in order to work around the clock to review and redact information contained in the Epstein Files for release.3 Although you stated on May 8, 2025, that “[t]here are thousands of videos of Epstein with children or child porn,” which would require redaction to protect the victims’ identities, it simply cannot take this long for dozens of agents working around the clock to make the necessary redactions. 

    Further, extensive reporting has revealed that President Donald Trump had a lengthy and close relationship with both Jeffrey Epstein and Epstein’s co-conspirator Ghislaine Maxwell, including being named in Jeffrey Epstein’s flight logs as having flown on Epstein’s private jet at least seven times between 1993 and 1997. In 2002, President Trump was quoted as saying, “I’ve known Jeff for fifteen years. Terrific guy… He’s a lot of fun to be with. It is even said that he likes beautiful women as much as I do, and many of them are on the younger side.”5 Moreover, Epstein’s personal address book, leaked in 2009 by an Epstein employee, contained 14 phone numbers for President Trump, his wife, Melania, and members of his staff. 

    The convergence of your unexplained delay in releasing the Epstein Files, the reporting nearly two months ago that numerous FBI agents were working overtime to redact the materials, President Trump’s well documented affiliation with Epstein, and his view that the Department of Justice is his personal law firm raises serious questions about whether President Trump has intervened to prevent the public release of the Epstein Files in order to hide his own embarrassing and potentially criminal conduct. 

    As a former 10-year DOJ prosecutor, I remind you that, as Attorney General, your oath of office requires you to represent the United States’ interest without fear or favor, not President Trump’s personal interest. That obligation to the American people requires the immediate release in their entirety of the Epstein Files in your possession, subject to appropriate redactions related to victims and minors. To be clear, there is no proper basis to redact the name, identify, or likeness of President Trump. 

    If you have been directed to redact instances of President Trump’s name or likeness that are included in the Epstein Files, then your oath of office and your commitment to transparency requires you to inform the American people of that directive. As part of Congress’ oversight authority provided by the Constitution of the United States, I request that you respond, in writing, to the following questions no later than June 2, 2025: 

    1. Are you or the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) in possession of all of the Epstein Files in the FBI’s custody and control? 

    1. Have the necessary redactions of victims’ identities and likenesses been completed? If not, why not?  

    1. Has the name, identity or likeness of President Donald Trump been redacted? If so, why?  

    1. Have you, OAG, or any other member of the DOJ been contacted by President Trump, anyone working in the White House, or another agent of President Trump’s about the Epstein Files?  

    1. If so, did they request that you or your staff prevent the release of the Epstein Files? 

    1. Did they request that you redact the name, identity or likeness of President Trump from the Epstein Files prepared to be released publicly pursuant to your previous promise?  

    1. If not, why haven’t you released the Epstein Files as you promised to do in February?  

    1. If you do still intend to release the Epstein Files, please provide a detailed timeline of your plan to do so. 

    I look forward to your response to this matter of intense public interest. Both Congress and the American people are eager for you to follow through on your promise of transparency about the Epstein Files. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Deluzio Announces 2025 Congressional Art Competition Winner

    Source: US Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA)

    Highlands High School Senior Carrah Scardina’s “American Beauty” to be Displayed in U.S. Capitol for a Year

    CARNEGIE, PA — Today, Congressman Chris Deluzio announced the winner of his third annual Congressional Art Competition. Each spring, the House of Representatives sponsors a visual art competition for high school students. Young people from across the nation are invited to showcase their art and highlight their home congressional districts. This year, Congressman Deluzio is serving as the Democratic co-chair of the Congressional Art Competition. 

     Congressman Chris Deluzio’s office received many submissions from talented high school students across Pennsylvania’s 17th Congressional District. This year, the first-place prize goes to Carrah Scardina of Natrona Heights, a Senior at Highlands High School. Ms. Scardina’s artwork is titled American Beauty. It is a hand-painted fuchsia rose and rose bud on a 100% silk canvas.  

    “The creative energy of these students is inspiring” said Congressman Deluzio. “I’m grateful to everyone who submitted their work and put their imagination on display for all of us to see. Congratulations to Carrah Scardina and the other 2025 winners of the Congressional Art Competition across the country. I look forward to seeing their art displayed in the Capitol when I’m down in Washington for votes this year!”  

    “For my painting, I chose the American Beauty Rose, the official flower of our nation’s capital. This classic fuchsia rose captures the essence of America, and my passion all in one. This unique medium of silk painting helped me discover more techniques I love in art,” said Carrah Scardina. Thank you to Congressman Deluzio for the honor of picking my art to be displayed in the U.S. Capitol—it inspires me to keep creating and exploring my passion for art.” 

    A photo of Ms. Scardina is available here for use by the press. 

    This summer, Carrah will be honored at an event in Washington, D.C. alongside the other art competition winners from congressional districts across the country. The student art will be featured in a gallery in the United States Capitol for a full year. This gallery decorates one of the busiest corridors in the U.S. Capitol Complex, giving Members of Congress and visitors from across the nation the chance to enjoy Ms. Scardina’s work. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Lawler Reacts to the News of the Expected Release of Edan Alexander

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

    Pearl River, N.Y. – 5/11/2025… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee’s Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee, reacts to the news of the expected release of Edan Alexander. This comes after leading a bipartisan letter to President Trump on Friday, urging him to do everything within his power to bring all the hostages home. 

    “On Friday, I led a bipartisan letter to the Trump administration asking President Trump to continue exerting maximum diplomatic pressure in order to return all of the hostages still being held in Gaza,” wrote Chairman Lawler.

    “Today, I’m thrilled by the news that we may soon have Edan Alexander return home. I applaud President Trump for his tireless work in securing the release of the hostages. We must not relent until they’re all brought home,” 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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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Lawler, Wasserman Schultz, Hill, Gottheimer, and Suozzi Urge Trump to Bring Home American Hostages Held in Gaza

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

    Washington, D.C. – 5/10/25… Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17), joined by Reps. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), French Hill (AR-02), Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), and Tom Suozzi (NY-03) led 45 of their House colleagues in a bipartisan letter to President Trump urging his administration to continue prioritizing the immediate release of the five American citizens who remain in captivity in Gaza following the October 7, 2023, terrorist attacks on Israel.

    The coordinated terrorist attacks carried out by Hamas and other Palestinian terrorist groups that killed over 1,200 people, including more than 40 Americans. On that day, they took into Gaza over 250 hostages, twelve of whom were American. Five U.S. citizens Edan Alexander, Omer Neutra, Itay Chen, Gadi Haggai, and Judi Weinstein Haggai remain in captivity, with Edan as the only hostage who is believed to be alive. 

    “Securing the release of all five American hostages is critical as every additional moment in captivity is a matter of life or death,” wrote the lawmakers. “We urge you to avail yourself of all available options and diplomatic channels to achieve a deal for their release.”

    “Our government’s most solemn responsibility is to keep Americans safe. With that responsibility in mind, we urge you to use all diplomatic tools at your disposal, in concert with our regional allies and partners, to ensure Edan’s release and the release of the remains of the deceased American hostages as soon as possible. Every day in captivity adds to the nightmare for the hostages and their families. We must bring them home now,” concluded the lawmakers. 

    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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    The full letter can be found HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Garbarino, Kiggans, Valadao, Newhouse, Amodei Fight to Secure America’s Energy Future

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Andrew Garbarino (R-NY)

    WASHINGTON, D.C.  – Today, Congressman Andrew R. Garbarino (R-NY-02) joined Congresswoman Jen Kiggans (R-VA-02) to introduced the Certainty for Our Energy Future Act, a bill to strengthen America’s energy independence and national security. Specifically, this legislation would responsibly reform clean energy tax credits by phasing out subsidies for advanced renewable technologies, while bolstering national security by imposing restrictions on foreign adversaries like China, Russia, and Iran. This bill would maintain investment certainty during the transition, promote innovation in emerging energy sectors, and support American manufacturers. This bill was introduced alongside Representatives David Valadao (R-CA-22), Mark Amodei (R-NV-02), and Dan Newhouse (R-WA-04).

    “Certainty for the energy industry is essential to securing American energy dominance, driving innovation, and lowering costs for consumers,” said Rep.Garbarino. “The Certainty for Our Energy Future Act provides the predictability businesses need to invest with confidence while protecting taxpayers from foreign threats. I look forward to working with my colleagues to responsibly deliver on the President’s energy agenda and meet our nation’s growing energy demand with a stronger, more secure energy future.”

    “The Certainty for Our Energy Future Act is a critical step toward aligning our clean energy priorities with today’s economic and national security realities,” said Rep. Kiggans. “By responsibly phasing out subsidies for technologies like wind and solar and ensuring foreign adversaries like China and Russia can’t exploit American tax benefits, we are safeguarding both our energy independence and our taxpayers. Energy security is national security, and the bottom line is that in order to increase American energy dominance, we need to protect as much production and innovation as possible. I am proud to introduce this legislation and help secure America’s energy future!”

    “The Central Valley is leading the way in renewable energy production, and our communities deserve policies that provide stability and certainty for the future,” said Rep.Valadao. “The Certainty for our Energy Future Act preserves the clean energy tax credits farmers and energy producers rely on, while phasing out long-term subsidies for technologies that can now stand on their own. I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing this bill to expand domestic energy production and keep the door open for new technologies to grow and compete.”

    “America’s path to energy independence must involve an all-of-the-above clean energy approach that puts American manufacturers at the center,” said Rep. Amodei. “By excluding foreign adversaries from tax benefits and prioritizing American innovation, we are one step closer to a more secure and self-reliant energy future.”

    “The United States has the opportunity to lead the world in clean energy production while lowering costs for consumers,” said Rep.Newhouse. “By phasing out tax incentives supporting wind and solar projects, Congress can provide long-term certainty to utilities and investors. This legislation provides critical protections to ensure federal investments are not being utilized by foreign adversaries, including Communist China. I thank Rep. Kiggans for her leadership as we work to ensure American clean energy is safe, reliable, and affordable as new forms of energy emerge.

    “CRES is grateful for the leadership of Reps. Kiggans, Garbarino, Valadao, Newhouse and Amodei on introducing the Certainty for Our Energy Future Act,” said Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions. “Right sizing policies in parallel with offering business and investment certainty is both critical and commonsense.  As America seeks to beat China in the global AI race, legislation like this strengthens our nation’s competitive edge while also ensuring American energy remains abundant and affordable.”

    “As electric companies work to meet growing customer demands for electricity and to strengthen our nation’s energy security, we must have policy certainty. We are grateful to Reps. Kiggans, Amodei, Garbarino, Newhouse, and Valadao for their ongoing leadership and for recognizing that clear timelines for tax credits and access to tools like transferability support investment in critical energy infrastructure, while helping to keep costs to customers as low as possible,” said Edison Electric Institute interim President and CEO Pat Vincent-Collawn. “We look forward to continuing to work with Reps. Kiggans, Amodei, Garbarino, Newhouse, Valadao, and other leaders in Congress as they deliberate on tax policy changes that could impact the costs customers pay for electricity.”

    “We commend Rep. Kiggans for introducing the Certainty for our Energy Future Act,” said Frank Macchiarola, Chief Advocacy Officer, American Clean Power Association. “The Act ensures that we protect business certainty for projects currently under planning and development and offers a very constructive starting point for discussions on the clean energy tax credits. With electricity demand projected to increase by up to 50% over the next 15 years, we need an all-of-the-above energy strategy. This legislation helps provide a roadmap to lawmakers as they continue to address this important issue.”

    The full bill text can be found here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Ramirez & Lieu, Senator Durbin Meet with Business Owners, Call to Protect Diverse Small Businesses’ Funding

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

    CHICAGO, IL — Today,  Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03) hosted Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL), House Democrats Vice-Chair Congressman Ted Lieu (CA-36), and Cook County Commissioner Jessica Vásquez for a business crawl of the Milwaukee Avenue’s business corridor to commemorate National Small Business Week. During the crawl, the members of Congress heard directly from business owners about the impact that the Trump Administration’s funding cuts and service reductions will have on diverse small businesses and local economies. 

    After the announcement of Trump’s record-breaking proposed defunding of federal services and programs, the Members of Congress held a press conference to demand that the Administration restore the funding for diversity and equity programs and reopen the Small Business Administration (SBA) offices in jurisdictions that protect immigrants’ rights, and end the trade war. 

    “The Milwaukee Ave Business Corridor is not only a reminder of how our communities’ small businesses grow our local and national economies, but also of how interconnected they are to global markets. From Poland to Puerto Rico, from China to Colombia, countless immigrant families have chosen Milwaukee Avenue to set up shop and share their culture, cuisine, and craft,” said Congresswoman Ramirez. “While the Trump Administration turns its back on small business owners, I’m standing in coalition with Senator Durbin, Congressman Ted Lieu, Commissioner Jessica Vasquez, and local leaders and business owners to fight back for our local, diverse, equitable, and inclusive economies.”

    “Small businesses are the backbone of our communities and economies,” said Senator Durbin. “Illinois is home to more than 1.2 million small businesses, which should be something to celebrate this National Small Business Week. Instead, our local store owners, like the ones I was fortunate to visit today, find themselves facing worker shortages and chaos caused by Trump’s trade war. I’ll continue to do all I can, alongside members of the House like Representatives Ramirez and Lieu, to fight for our local businesses at the federal level and lower costs for the American people.”

    “Trump’s indiscriminate tariffs make no sense. Now, small businesses and consumers are paying more for food and products. We had a growing economy at the end of 2024. Unfortunately, Trump’s policies have led us to negative GDP growth,” said Congressman Lieu. “Today, we are here to highlight the difficulties small businesses are facing and to tell the Trump administration they need to stop the indiscriminate tariffs. They are hurting our economies, American consumers, and businesses. Thank you, Congresswoman Ramirez, for your representation.”

    During the crawl, the public officials visited multiple businesses, including Magnífico Coffee Roasters & Coffee Shop  (Colombian-owned family business), Friendship Chinese (Asian-American owned restaurant, Michelin-recommended), the RCM Studios (Black-owned recording studio), and Kurowski’s Sausage Shop (staple Polish market).

    For photos and videos of the event, CLICK HERE.

    For a live stream of the press conference, CLICK HERE.

    BACKGROUND:

    The Trump Administration’s 30% cuts to SBA are expected to negatively impact local communities’ access to Small Business Development Centers, reducing resources for local business owners. Under the Trump Administration, 15 SBA Entrepreneurial Development programs have been eliminated, including the Veterans’ Business Outreach Program, the National Women’s Business Council, and Women’s Business Centers. 

    More than 90% of small businesses rely on imported goods for everything from products to construction materials. Trump’s tariffs will raise prices for businesses and are expected to cost families an extra $3,800 a year. In a recent poll, 70% of small business owners said they believe the country is headed towards a recession.

    The Trump Administration’s anti-immigrant agenda is also affecting business. Beyond the persecution of immigrant workers, 1 in 5 businesses are started by immigrant families, including undocumented immigrants and mixed-status families. The Trump Administration’s decision to close the offices in sanctuary jurisdictions and limit the funding for immigrant businesses will hurt local economies. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Salazar, Soto, and Wasserman Schultz Introduce Legislation to Designate TPS for Venezuelans

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

    strong>WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representatives Maria Salazar (FL-27), Darren Soto (FL-09),  and Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25) introduced the bipartisan Venezuela TPS Act of 2025, with Salazar serving as the Republican co-lead on the legislation. The bill provides Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuelans currently in the United States. Specifically, this act automatically designates TPS for Venezuelans for 18 months after enactment of this bill, with the option of renewal. This will protect approximately 600,000 Venezuelans in the United States from deportation. 

    “The oppression of the Maduro regime and the total failure of socialism of the 21st century has created dangerous conditions in Venezuela and a constant threat of political persecution,” said Congresswoman Salazar.  “That’s why I am proud to co-lead the Venezuela TPS Act of 2025 – to ensure law-abiding Venezuelans currently in the United States can stay here until conditions improve and they are not forcibly returned to a brutal dictatorship. I will continue fighting for a free and prosperous Venezuela, led by its legitimate President Edmundo Gonzalez and the Iron Lady Maria Corina Machado.”

    “We are concerned by the Trump Administration’s actions to strip Venezuelans of Temporary Protected Status, parole, and other critical protections during a time of major instability in their country. In Central Florida, thousands of Venezuelans have fled political violence and joined family members already living in the United States, contributing to our economy, and working hard to help our community grow,” said Congressman Darren Soto. “It is insulting to turn our backs on this group. Now more than ever, we need to come together to protect our community from unjust treatment and unconstitutional deportations.”  

    “It is simply wrong to subject law-abiding Venezuelan families to a criminal, murderous regime that openly and flagrantly violates human rights,” said Congresswoman Wasserman Schultz. “TPS recipients are not criminals—they are here legally and nobody with a criminal record is eligible for protection. I’m proud to join this bipartisan effort to prevent Venezuelan families in my district from being unjustly torn apart while we continue to fight for a free and prosperous Venezuela under democratic leadership.” 

    BACKGROUND:

    Political instability caused by Nicolas Maduro’s authoritarian regime in Venezuela has led to massive food and medicine shortages, half of the population living in poverty, many suffering from food insecurity, and a crippled economy. Venezuela’s economy has contracted by more than 80% since 2014 which is more than twice the magnitude of the Great Depression in the United States. Venezuela has also experienced some of the highest homicide and crime victimization rates in Latin America and the Caribbean. 

    Congresswoman Salazar represents approximately 40,000 Americans of Venezuelan descent in Florida’s 27th congressional district. Salazar has been at the forefront of the push to protect Venezuelans from deportation until the Maduro regime falls.  

    The legislation automatically designates eligible Venezuelans for TPS for an initial period of 18 months, with the option of renewal. Under TPS, Venezuelans would be shielded from deportation and granted work authorization, allowing individuals to pay taxes and contribute to their communities. This bill would not protect any criminals, and all eligible individuals must pass a stringent background check. The Venezuela TPS Act of 2025 also provides for individuals to travel abroad for emergencies and extenuating circumstances. 

    Venezuelan nationals will be eligible for TPS if they are: 

    • Physically present in the United States on the date of enactment;
       
    • Do not have a criminal record and, 
       
    • Properly register for TPS with the Secretary of Homeland Security. 

    You can read the full bill here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fitzgerald Co-Leads Legislation to Protect Wisconsinites and the Most Vulnerable from Obamacare’s Medicaid Discrimination

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Scott Fitzgerald (WI-05)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Scott Fitzgerald (WI-05) co-introduced the Ending Medicaid Discrimination Against the Most Vulnerable Act, to allow Medicaid to work best for those who need it most by:

    • Stopping Obamacare’s discrimination of the most vulnerable by phasing out enhanced Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP) for able-bodied adults.
    • Making it easier for states to adopt a healthcare model like Wisconsin’s BadgerCare Plus by reducing Medicaid expansion eligibility from 138% to 100% of the federal poverty level (FPL).
    • Protecting taxpayers from footing the bill for a program they do not use.
    • Ending the additional 5-percentage-point FMAP bonus for late expansion states.

    “For too long, taxpayers in Wisconsin and other states that made a conservative choice to not fully expand Medicaid under Obamacare have been forced to subsidize a program they do not use. It’s time to address this unfair funding structure,” said Congressman Scott Fitzgerald. “We must also address waste, fraud, and abuse within the program and ensure its long-term sustainability for those who need it most.”

    “Obamacare’s Medicaid expansion perpetuates a scam in which states get seven times as much money from the federal government for able-bodied adults than the traditional Medicaid population including, pregnant women, children, disabled people, and the elderly,” said Congressman Chip Roy.

    BACKGROUND: In 2010, Obamacare mandated states expand Medicaid coverage to childless, able-bodied adults with incomes up to 133% of the FPL. Following a 2012 Supreme Court decision, states were rightfully allowed to choose whether to expand Medicaid. Wisconsin, along with nine other states, made a principled choice not to expand, curbing welfare dependency, preventing government overreach, and saving taxpayer money. Despite this, hardworking taxpayers in Wisconsin and other non-expansion states are being taken advantage of by being forced to subsidize a program they do not use while other states reap in billions of federal funding.

    Wisconsin uniquely uses BadgerCare Plus to provide health insurance to certain populations below 100% of the FPL. BadgerCare Plus is a highly regarded state-level program that saves federal tax dollars and provides low-income individuals with a safety net.

    Obamacare’s Federal Medicaid expansion is also harming the most vulnerable among us. Traditional Medicaid populations – the disabled, children, pregnant women, and seniors – are being kicked to the back of the line for care because states are incentivized to prioritize able-bodied adults compared to the traditional populations. This occurs because Obamacare’s enhanced FMAP results in states needing to pay 10% of care for able-bodied adults compared to 23-50% for the most vulnerable. The FMAP disparity has come at the expense of those who rely on critical Medicaid benefits, specifically disabled individuals and children.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Valadao Reintroduces Legislation to Expand Child Care for Local Law Enforcement

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

    WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) joined Reps. Scott Peters (CA-50), Josh Harder (CA-09), and Darrell Issa (CA-48) to reintroduce the Providing Child Care for Police Officers Act. This bipartisan bill aims to address the nationwide police staffing shortages by making it easier for parents to enter the field. Police shortages have been especially harmful to rural communities, like the Central Valley, who have struggled to recruit and retain enough qualified officers.

    “Our Central Valley police departments continue to face staffing shortages, and we need real solutions to support the people who put their lives on the line to keep us safe,” said Congressman Valadao. “By making childcare more accessible for officers working long, irregular hours, this bipartisan bill reduces a major barrier for working parents in law enforcement and helps improve public safety in our communities.”

    “Access to quality, reliable childcare is essential to recruitment and retention of the best, most representative police force we can have,” said Rep. Peters. “Our officers go out every day and ensure our children are safe — the least we can do is make sure there is someone to watch their kids when they are on duty. San Diego is leading the way to expand childcare opportunities for police officers, and I am working to support those efforts at the federal level.” 

    “This is a no brainer – keeping our families safe starts by recruiting and retaining top-tier police officers,” said Rep. Harder. “Making sure our officers have access to quality, affordable child care means we increase the pool of talented, diverse recruits and keeps officers on the streets helping our communities.” 

    “We have a responsibility to provide our police officers with the tools, training, and equipment they need to safeguard our streets and protect our communities,” said Rep.  Issa. “This bill represents a creative and innovative approach to not only advance law and order everywhere it is needed, but allowing these brave men and women on the front lines to be both parents and police.” 

    Supporting organizations include: 30×30 Initiative, International Union of Police Associations (IUPA), National Association of Police Organizations, Fraternal Order of Police, and Peace Officers Research Association of California (PORAC).

    The Providing Child Care for Police Officers Act would:

    • Establish a pilot program under the Administration for Children and Families to supply grants to law enforcement agencies to provide child care benefits to their officers. 
    • Authorize $24 million in funding for each of the next five fiscal years. Law enforcement agencies will be able to use this funding to construct or operate new center for police departments’ exclusive use, offer scholarships to subsidize the cost of care, or provide assistance for care for children with disabilities.  
    • Allow law enforcement agencies, local governments, and child care providers to determine each of their responsibilities while requiring local entities to contribute a scaled matching requirement over a three-year grant period. 
    • Set aside 20% of the total grant funding for police departments employing fewer than 200 officers. 
    • Require HHS to report to Congress the grant recipients, corresponding law enforcement agencies, employee retention and recruitment data, and the unmet child care needs of other first responder sectors. 

    Read the full bill here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Bice Applauds President Trump’s Signing of Her Legislation to Overturn Burdensome Refrigeration Regulations 

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Stephanie Bice (OK-05)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Bice joined President Donald J. Trump at the White House as he signed her legislation H.J.Resolution 24, into law. The resolution permanently nullifies restrictive Biden-era regulations on walk-in coolers and freezers, which placed significant financial strain on small businesses and highlighted blatant federal overreach. 

    “Today is a victory for America’s small businesses,”said Congresswoman Bice. “I was honored to stand with President Trump as he signed my legislation into law. From pharmacies and food banks to restaurants and convenience stores, industries that rely on commercial refrigeration will no longer be burdened by this regulation. By overturning this rule, we are protecting economic freedom, preserving consumer choice, and ensuring businesses aren’t forced to bear unnecessary costs. I’m grateful to my colleagues in Congress who recognized the need to act decisively. With the President’s signature, we’ve taken a meaningful step to rein in bureaucracy, keep costs low, and restore commonsense to federal rulemaking.” 

    The now-signed resolution was introduced by Rep. Bice under the Congressional Review Act to stop the Biden Administration’s Department of Energy’s December 2024 rule, which would have imposed costly new energy efficiency mandates on commercial refrigeration units. The rule, with an estimated compliance cost of nearly $1 billion, was widely criticized by businesses, manufacturers, and consumer advocacy groups for increasing operational costs while delivering minimal energy savings. Rep. Bice’s legislation received bipartisan support in the House, reflecting broad concern over the regulatory overreach. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

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

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

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) announced the winners of the 2025 Congressional Art Competition. The first place winner for Virginia’s Fourth is Journi Marlow with her acrylic painting, In Our Hands. Journi is an eleventh grader who attends Henrico High School. Her art has been featured in live interviews and community exhibitions, and she has served as a youth panelist speaking on the power of art for personal and collective change. Her work will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol later this year.

    “I’m thrilled to congratulate Journi on her winning acrylic submission to this year’s Congressional Art Competition! Her piece is a beautiful representation of the American justice system, its fragility, and the promise held by the American people to uphold it,” said Congresswoman McClellan. “It is an honor to host this art competition and provide an opportunity for students across the district to showcase their work. Thank you to all the young artists who participated and shared your artistic vision with us. I can’t wait to see what you all do next in pursuing your love of art.”

    Congresswoman McClellan also announced the following finalists:

    • Olivia Price, a tenth grader from Hermitage High School, took second place with her pencil and acrylic drawing, New Form of Life.
    • Chloe Stamper, a tenth grader from Brunswick High School, took third place with her acrylic painting, Journey for Water.

    Below is a full list of submissions for this year and honorable mentions in each category.

    Overall Congressional Art Competition Winners:

    • 1st Place: In Our Hands / Journi Marlow of Henrico High School
    • 2nd Place: New Form of Life / Olivia Price of Hermitage High School
    • 3rd Place: Journey for Water / Chloe Stampher of Brunswick High School

    Digital Art:

    • 1st Place: Like a Moth to a Flame / Lina Lloyd of Petersburg High School
    • 2nd Place: Sandman’s Sheep Prowl the Night / Carra Wynn of Petersburg High School

    Photography:

    • 1st Place: Reality TV / Lily Frantz Laferriere of Clover Hill High School
    • 2nd Place: Place- Spring in Town / Dayanara Gonzalez-Hernandez of Petersburg High School

    Mixed Media:

    • 1st Place: Green and Gentle Waterway / Minhan Zhao of Clover Hill High School
    • 2nd Place: The Fire in My Eyes / Elizabeth Smith-Branzella of Petersburg High School
    • 3rd Place: Maristella / Navaeh Edwards of Petersburg High School

    Drawings:

    • 1st Place: New Form of Life / Olivia Price of Hermitage High School
    • 2nd Place: Dining Dolls / Gabrielle Williams of Thomas Dale High School
    • 3rd Place: A Hap of Laughter: The Memory of Papa Hay / Hazel Grace Bittenbender of Colonial Heights High School
    • 4th Place: Colored Over, Still Me / Grace Miao-Xuan Zheng of Maggie Walker Governor’s School
    • Honorable Mention: Backyard Chase / Jeremiah Adkins of Varina High School
    • Honorable Mention: Under Freedom’s Wing / Cadence Penelope Martin of Colonial Heights High School

    Paintings:

    • 1st Place: In Our Hands / Journi Marlow of Henrico High School
    • 2nd Place: Journey for Water / Chloe Stamper of Brunswick High School
    • 3rd Place: Pride / Lindsey Keatley of Thomas Dale High School
    • Honorable Mention: Wally’s Red Moon / Jeilyn Munoz of Hopewell High School
    • Honorable Mention: Salvation Mountain / Juliet Chanelle Torres of Colonial Heights High School
    • Honorable Mention: Look of Love / Mia Salinas Santiago of Petersburg High School

    The judging panel consisted of the following people: Sara Johnson Ward, S. Ross Browne, Taekia Glass, and Allie Sarinana.

    You can view all of the winning submissions and honorable mentions here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Barry Moore announces monthly remote office hours throughout AL01

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Barry Moore

    Washington, D.C.– Today, Representative Barry Moore (R-AL) announced the following dates, times, and locations for his 2025 monthly remote office hours throughout Alabama’s First Congressional District.

    These remote office hours are a chance for Rep. Moore’s team to serve constituents in cities not located near a district office. The team can assist with federal agencies such as the VA, IRS and Social Security, as well as services such as passport processing.

    Below is the monthly schedule for remote office hours:

    1st Thursday of Every Month – Dale County

    County Ag Plex, 202 AL-123 Ozark, Alabama 36360 – 1-3 PM

    2nd Tuesday of Every Month – Mobile County

    Dauphin Island Town Hall Council Chambers – 1011 Bienville Blvd. Dauphin Island, AL. 36528 – 9a-11 AM

    Saraland Chamber of Commerce – 939 Saraland Blvd S, Saraland, Alabama 36571 – 1-3 PM

    2nd Tuesday of Every Month – Baldwin County

    Daphne Public Library – 2607 US-98 Daphne, AL 36526 – 9-11 AM

    Fairhope Chamber of Commerce – 327 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL 36532 1-3 PM

    2nd Wednesday of Every Month – Coffee County

    American Legion Post 73 – 701 E. Lee Street, Enterprise, Alabama 36330 – 9-11 AM

    Elba City Hall – 200 Buford Street, Elba, Alabama 36323 – 1-3 PM

    2nd Thursday of Every Month – Escambia County

    Brewton City Hall – 1010A Douglas Ave. Brewton, AL. 36426 – 10a-12 PM

    Atmore City Hall – 201 E Louisville Ave. Atmore, AL. 36502 – 2p-4 PM

    3rd Tuesday of Every Month – Henry County

    Abbeville Public Library – 301 Kirkland Street Abbeville, Alabama 36310 – 10-12 PM

    City of Headland – 25 Grove Street Headland, Alabama 36345 – 1-3 PM

    3rd Thursday of Every Month – Coffee County

    Enterprise DAV Office – 704 Crawford Street Enterprise, AL 36330 – 9-11 AM

    4th Friday of Every Month – Geneva County

    Geneva County Courthouse – 200 N. Commerce Street, Geneva, Alabama 36340 – 9-11 AM

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: At Local VFW, Deluzio Tears Apart Trump VA for Stalling Cancer Trials, Putting Western PA Veterans at Risk

    Source: US Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA)

    Following reporting from ProPublica, Navy and Iraq War Veteran is joined by members of his Veterans Advisory Council to highlight how the Trump Administration is hurting veterans’ care in Western PA

    SHARPSBURG, PA — Today, Navy and Iraq War veteran Congressman Deluzio joined with members of his Veterans Advisory Council at a VFW Post in Sharpsburg to highlight how the Trump Administration is putting veteran lives at risk and hiding it from the American people. This was recently reported by ProPublica. Especially concerning is the reporting that VA clinical trials for multiple types of cancer treatment in Western Pennsylvania were stalled due to staffing cuts and an ongoing hiring freeze at the Department. 

    “This Administration is putting veteran lives at risk in Western Pennsylvania and all across the country—and they are hiding it from the American people,” said Congressman Deluzio. “What else do you call staffing disruptions so intense that they are stalling cancer treatment clinical trials and disrupting suicide prevention work? These are real life, dangerous impacts on America’s veterans—all of whom signed a blank check to serve or even die for this country. The American people expect our government to pay the cost of war and that means delivering the care and benefits that my fellow veterans earned.” 

    The ProPublica article went into detail about the impacts that the Trump Administration’s actions are having within the VA Pittsburgh Health System (VAPHS). Specifically, internal emails from Pittsburgh VA highlighted that the January hiring freeze impacted seven clinical trials. This included treatment for metastatic head and neck cancer, lung cancer, kidney transplantation, cardiovascular disease and opioid overdose. Planned enrollment for these trials and treatments was for 500, and since the hiring freeze, enrollment was frozen at 75. VAPHS has lost 20 research staff so far, and estimated they will lose more than 100 additional staff over the next 6 months. VA research studies on suicide prevention and veteran toxic exposure were also impacted.  

    Today, Congressman Deluzio sent a letter to the VA Pittsburgh Director asking questions about the status of these clinical trials as well as the ways that mental healthcare may have been impacted by the Trump Administration’s actions. Recent reporting from the New York Times has uncovered how VA staffing cuts and mandate to end remote work has negatively impacted mental healthcare at the VA. 

    At the press conference, Congressman Deluzio was joined by fellow veteran and Veterans Advisory Council member, Curtis Lloyd, as well as American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) National Vice President for District 3, Phil Glover. 

    Photos of the event are here and a recording of the presser is here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Garbarino Introduces Pro-Law Enforcement Bills Ahead of National Police Week

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Andrew Garbarino (R-NY)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Ahead of National Police Week, Congressman Andrew R. Garbarino (R-NY-02) introduced two key pieces of legislation to support law enforcement officers and reaffirm his commitment to the men and women who serve and protect our communities. The bills—the Law Enforcement Officer Bill of Rights Resolution and the Law Enforcement Officers Equity Act—aim to strengthen protections for officers and ensure fair retirement benefits for federal law enforcement professionals.

    “As we approach Police Week, I’m proud to introduce legislation that supports law enforcement officers both in their service today and in their futures,” said Rep. Garbarino. “Whether it’s affirming their rights on the job or ensuring they receive the benefits they’ve earned, we must continue standing with the men and women who put themselves in harm’s way to keep us safe. Our officers deserve not only our gratitude, but real action—and that’s what these bills deliver.”

    The Law Enforcement Officer Bill of Rights Resolution reaffirms the rights of local law enforcement officers and condemns efforts to defund, dismantle, or disband police departments. The resolution outlines several core protections, including:

    • Local law enforcement officer’s right to self-defense against physical threats
    • Local law enforcement officer’s right to legal recourse if a civilian attempts to assault the local law enforcement officer
    • Local law enforcement officer’s right to be protected from physical harassment
    • Local law enforcement officer’s right to equipment necessary for personal protection
    • Local law enforcement officer’s right to counsel or a representative present at any interview conducted as part of an investigation

    This resolution is supported by the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), the National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO), and the Sergeants Benevolent Association (SBA) and is cosponsored by Representatives Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY-11), Claudia Tenney (R-NY-24), Mike Lawler (R-NY-17), Nick Langworthy (R-NY-23), Nick LaLota (R-NY-01), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01), Pete Stauber (R-MN-08), Randy Weber (R-TX-14), Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL-26), and Elise Stefanik (R-NY-21).

    The Law Enforcement Officers Equity Act, introduced alongside RepresentativesGerry Connolly (D-VA-11) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01), seeks to expand the federal definition of a “law enforcement officer” under the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS). The bill would ensure that qualified federal employees—including IRS officers, VA police, Postal Inspectors, and seized-property specialists—receive the same retirement benefits currently afforded to other law enforcement personnel.

    Specifically, the Law Enforcement Officers’ Equity Act would:

    • Provide federal officers with 6(c) retirement benefits and the ability to retire after 20 years of service at the age of 50, or after 25 years of service at any age
    • Allow incumbent law enforcement officers federal service after the enactment of this Act to be considered service performed as a law enforcement officer for retirement purposes
    • Expand the definition of “law enforcement officer” for retirement benefits to include all GS-0083 officers. That change would grant law enforcement officer status to:
      • employees who are authorized to carry a firearm and whose duties include the investigation and/or apprehension of suspected criminals
      • employees of the Internal Revenue Service whose duties are primarily the collection of delinquent taxes and securing delinquent returns
      • employees of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs who are department police officers

    Rep. Garbarino has consistently championed legislation that supports law enforcement and their families and has worked to ensure officers receive the resources, respect, and recognition they’ve earned.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Pfluger Hosts U.S. Interior Secretary Burgum at RSC Members Meeting

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

    Rep. Pfluger Hosts U.S. Interior Secretary Burgum at RSC Members Meeting

    Washington, May 9, 2025

    WASHINGTON, DC — As Chairman of the Republican Study Committee (RSC), Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) hosted the Secretary of the Interior and Chairman of the newly formed National Energy Dominance Council Doug Burgum, on Capitol Hill for this week’s RSC members meeting. During the meeting, Secretary Burgum outlined his goals to unleash all forms of American energy, including oil, gas, and coal. He also spoke on his work to streamline permitting and bolster American energy production.

    “As the representative for the most prolific oil and gas producing region in the country, I remain committed to working alongside the administration to advance pro-growth, energy policies,” said Congressman Pfluger. “Under the leadership of Secretary Burgum, America will once again be energy dominant.”

    Background:

    Rep. Pfluger was elected by his colleagues in November of 2024 to serve as the Chair of the Republican Study Committee (RSC) for the 119th Congress. He previously served as Chair of the RSC House Energy Action Team for the 118th Congress, leading energy policy on Capitol Hill.

    The Republican Study Committee is the oldest and largest conservative caucus in the U.S. House and represents the leading voice for conservative values in Congress. The RSC is home to 189 strong conservative members, representing congressional districts from across the country.

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Cammack Joins Colleagues In Introducing MOMS Act To Support Expectant Mothers & Their Families

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Kat Cammack (R-FL-03)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Rep. Cammack proudly joined Rep. Michelle Fischbach (R-MN-07) and her colleagues in reintroducing the More Opportunities for Moms to Succeed (MOMS) Act, which will provide critical support to new moms during and after their pregnancy, empower women to choose life, and help them to raise happy, healthy babies. 

    “For many women, finding out you are unexpectedly pregnant comes with fear, and for some, abortion may feel like the only option. I am committed to empowering all women and ensuring they feel supported in choosing life,” said Congresswoman Fischbach (MN-07). “The MOMS Act supports women before, during, and after they give birth. It improves access to resources and makes sure women have everything they need right at their fingertips to help them confidently carry to term and raise their child. As we go into Mother’s Day weekend, I am so proud to introduce legislation that supports new mothers and their children.”

    “I’m glad to join Rep. Fischbach and my colleagues in support of the MOMS Act,” said Rep. Kat Cammack (FL-03). “As a first-time mom myself, I’m thankful for the resources and support I’ve received, but know not all women have the same access to pre- and post-natal services. Providing more opportunities for mothers to receive the care and support necessary to deliver healthy babies is critical.”

    This legislation has the support of a number of outside groups:

    “The MOMS Act is a vital step toward ensuring that expectant and new mothers receive the comprehensive support they need during one of life’s most transformative moments,” said Penny Nance, CEO and President of Concerned Women for America Legislative Action Committee (CWALAC). “This bill’s focus on improving maternal health care access, expanding resources for postpartum care, and promoting family-centered policies is a testament to the GOP’s commitment to the well-being of mothers and their babies. We wholeheartedly support the MOMS Act and thank Representative Fischbach for championing this critical legislation.”

    “We’re grateful to Rep. Fischbach for reintroducing the More Opportunities for Moms to Succeed (MOMS Act). By supporting women through every stage of motherhood and expanding access to vital resources, this legislation is key to strengthening the pro-life safety net and building a culture that empowers women and supports their families,” said Hon. Marilyn Musgrave, Vice President of Government Affairs, Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America.

    “As we approach Mother’s Day, March for Life Action is grateful for the Representatives reintroduction of the More Opportunities for Moms to Succeed Act (MOMS Act), which recognizes the gift of motherhood with concrete steps to equip moms with the resources, information, and support they need to choose life confidently and care for their growing families. At March for Life Action, we remain committed to working alongside lawmakers to build a culture of life—one in which both mother and child are valued, protected, and empowered to thrive,” said Jennie Bradley Lichter, President, March for Life Action.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ranking Members Mfume, Connolly Issue Statement on Appointment of New Postmaster General

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Rep. Kweisi Mfume, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Government Operations, and Rep. Gerald E. Connolly, Ranking Member of the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, issued a joint statement following the announcement of David Steiner, a FedEx board member and former Waste Management CEO, as the next Postmaster General of the United States by the U.S. Postal Board of Governors:

    “The American people deserve and expect an independent, fair, and accessible Postal Service that operates without prejudice or political influence.  It is our sincere hope that as Postmaster General, Mr. Steiner will put the interests of the American people and the U.S. Postal Service ahead of any whims or demands of an Administration that has failed to respect the independence of this trusted institution and has instead worked to undermine and privatize America’s mail service. The Oversight Committee will be keeping a very close eye on the actions of the new Postmaster, especially considering DOGE’s infiltration of the agency, and it is our hope that Mr. Steiner will commit to a productive and collaborative relationship with Congress,” said the lawmakers.   

    Ranking Members Mfume and Connolly are leading Congressional oversight and investigations into the Trump Administration’s relentless attacks on the U.S. Postal Service and DOGE’s infiltration of the agency:

    • On March 31, Ranking Members Mfume and Connolly sent a letter to Amber F. McReynolds, Chair of the United States Postal Service’s Board of Governors (the Governors), escalating Congress’s concerns that DOGE is attempting to actively undermine the stability and integrity of the Postal Service.
       
    • On March 18, Ranking Member Connolly sent a letter to Postmaster General Louis DeJoy demanding a copy of the agreement the Postmaster General signed with DOGE, allowing Elon Musk to infiltrate the independent U.S. Postal Service, gain access to its data and systems, and make drastic cuts to the service.
       
    • On March 17, in response to the agreement between Postal Service and DOGE, Rep. Kweisi Mfume, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Government Operations, Ranking Member Connolly, and Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Health Care and Financial Services led Committee Democrats in sending a letter to Chairman James Comer demanding an immediate public hearing on the Trump Administration and DOGE’s plans for the Postal Service. 
       
      • Later that day, Ranking Member Connolly issued a statement after Postmaster General DeJoy sent a letter to Congress trying to explain why he entered the Postal Service into an agreement with the General Services Administration and DOGE representatives.
         
    • On March 13, Ranking Member Connolly released a statement after Postmaster General Louis DeJoy sent a letter to Congress admitting he “signed an agreement with the General Services Administration and DOGE representatives” and is allowing Elon Musk to infiltrate the U.S. Postal Service. DeJoy’s letter suggested alarming actions for DOGE to pursue that would easily lead to the privatization and politicization of the Postal Service.
       
    • On February 22, Ranking Member Connolly led Committee Democrats in sending a letter to President Trump demanding he immediately abandon any plans that would either dismantle or privatize the U.S. Postal Service or undermine its independence in any way.  The letter followed reporting from the Washington Post that the Trump Administration is preparing a plan to fire the bipartisan Postal Board of Governors and absorb the Postal Service into the Department of Commerce, “potentially throwing the 250-year-old mail provider and trillions of dollars of e-commerce transactions into turmoil.”  The Members also cited subsequent reporting from CNN showing “the White House was silent on the question as to whether it is interested in privatizing the service, which is something that Trump has voiced support for in the past.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Fallon Leads Letter Calling for Clarity on Army Depot Modernization

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Pat Fallon (TX-04)

    Washington, DC — Rep. Pat Fallon (TX-04) led a letter today to Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll asking for greater clarity regarding the services’ plan for army depot modernization.

    Rep. Fallon commented: “To support President Trump’s peace through strength vision, modernizing our depots is vital.” 

    “Red River Army Depot in my district, employing 3,500 workers, sustains key tactical vehicles, ensuring readiness across military branches,” said Rep. Fallon. “As a critical logistical hub, Red River, as well as depots across the country, need a clear modernization plan to avoid reduced capacity.”

    “I urge the Army to provide details on funding, workforce training, AI integration, and inter-service coordination in order to enhance our capabilities.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Scholten Introduces Bipartisan Bill to End Tax Breaks for Drug Ads, Focus on Affordability and Innovation

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

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (MI03), alongside Reps. Greg Murphy, M.D., Angie Craig, and Nick Begich, introduced the bipartisan No Handouts for Drug Advertisements Act, which would no longer allow for-profit drug companies to receive special tax breaks for the advertising of their products.

    “I’m committed to rooting out waste and abuse in our budget at every turn, and this is a big one,” said Rep. Scholten. “This bill alone would cut our federal deficit by billions annually. Families in West Michigan and across the country are feeling the pinch of rising health care and prescription drug costs, and every dollar spent on TV ads is a dollar not going to lowering drug prices or funding life-saving research. The No Handouts for Drug Advertisements Act is a smart, bipartisan step to lower health care costs and rein in waste in our budget.” 

    By removing the tax deduction for ads, the No Handouts for Drug Advertisements Act would help curb wasteful spending and increase federal tax revenue—an estimated $1.5 to $1.7 billion annually from just ten of the largest pharmaceutical companies. These are the kinds of bipartisan solutions that should be considered by Congress, rather than the proposed drastic cuts to Medicaid. For nearly one in four Americans, affording medication is a struggle. While drug companies rake in tens of billions, millions of Americans are forced to decide whether to skip doses or stop taking their medications altogether, simply because they cannot afford the prescriptions they need.

    The United States is one of only two countries in the world that even allows direct-to-consumer pharmaceutical advertising at all. These marketing campaigns drive up consumer demand for costly, brand-name medications—often when cheaper or more appropriate alternatives are available—without improving health outcomes. In 2023 alone, pharmaceutical spending in the U.S. rose 13.6% compared to the previous year, reaching a staggering $722.5 billion. Drug companies currently spend around $6 billion per year on advertising.

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