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Category: United States House of Representatives

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Young Kim Joins Bipartisan Push to Protect Forests and Wildland Firefighter Safety

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

    Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Young Kim (CA-40) joined fellow California Reps. Doug LaMalfa (CA-01) and Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) to introduce the Forest Protection and Wildland Firefighter Safety Act. 

    This bipartisan bill ensures that federal, state, local and tribal firefighting agencies can use fire retardant, a vital tool used to contain or slow the spread of wildfires, without restraints from burdensome permitting regulations.  

    “We need all hands on deck and all the tools in our arsenal during a wildfire,” said Rep. Kim. “Fire retardant has proven to be safe and effective for containing and mitigating wildfires, and I’m proud to join Reps. LaMalfa and Panetta to ensure its continued use. As the representative of many wildfire-prone areas, including in the canyon communities of Orange County, I will keep fighting to support commonsense policies to protect our communities.”  

    “Fire retardant is one of the most effective tools we have to stop wildfires from turning into disasters—especially in the West,” said Rep. LaMalfa. “Trying to ban its use during fire season isn’t just ridiculous, it’s dangerous. These extremist environmental groups are more worried about trace amounts of retardant than the real damage caused by out-of-control fires. Entire forests, homes, wildlife, and human lives are at stake. The smoke alone from one major wildfire can choke the air for hundreds of miles. We should be focused on stopping fires early, not tying firefighters’ hands with red tape.” 

    “With nearly 9 million acres burned nationwide in 2024, the threat of wildfire is only growing,” said Rep. Panetta.  “This bipartisan legislation would make clear that fire retardant must remain a critical part of our wildfire response strategy.  Protecting our homes, our forests, and those on the front lines keeping us safe remains our top priority.” 

    Reps. David Valadao (CA-22), Ken Calvert (R-CA), Darrell Issa (CA-48), Tom McClintock (CA-05), Vince Fong (CA-20), Adam Gray (CA-13), and Jim Costa (CA-21) also cosponsor this bipartisan bill. 

    Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) introduced a companion bill in the Senate. 

    Background 

    In 2022, an environmental group sued the Forest Service over its use of aerial fire retardant, arguing it should be regulated under the Clean Water Act. A federal court ruled in 2023 that the Forest Service must obtain a NPDES permit from the EPA, but declined to issue an injunction that would have halted the use of retardant during fire season. The permitting process is expected to take years, and if future litigation results in a successful injunction, firefighters could be forced to ground aircraft or fly them with only water—putting lives, forests, and property at serious risk. 

    The Forest Service has made clear in testimony that aerial retardant is a critical part of its integrated wildfire strategy and that current operations already prohibit discharge into waterways or buffer zones. Over the past decade, less than 1% of fire retardant drops have affected waterways. 

    The bill builds on existing exemptions in the Clean Water Act for fire control activities and ensures continued use of fire retardants that are approved and listed on the Forest Service’s Qualified Products List. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Young Kim Leads REPORT Act to Restore Congressional Authority on Tariffs

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

    Washington, DC – As first reported in Spectrum News, today, U.S. Representative Young Kim (CA-40) introduced the Reviewing Economic and Protection Objectives for the Reciprocal Tariffs Act (REPORT) Act to restore Congressional oversight of the executive branch’s tariff authority.  

    The REPORT Act would:  

    • Require the President to notify Congress and provide a justification report of the economic and security objectives of an increase or decrease in tariff authority 48 hours before it takes effect; 
    • Direct the U.S. Trade Representative to testify to relevant committees once the tariffs take effect; and, 
    • Apply to future presidential administrations, regardless of political affiliation. 

    Rep. Jeff Hurd (CO-03) joined as an original cosponsor of the bill. 

    “While tariffs can be an important strategic tool to help level the playing field between the United States and other countries, long-term tariffs can be a tax that hike prices and hurt the bottom line for American families and small businesses,” said Rep. Young Kim. “The American people deserve certainty, which is why I’m proud to lead the REPORT Act to ensure the executive branch is transparent with the American people on the intended economic and security objectives behind enacting tariffs, especially in the long-term.” 

    “During my time in Congress, I have been a consistent advocate for Congress’s Article I, Section 8 authority when it comes to tariffs”, said Rep. Hurd. “I’m proud to support Rep. Kim’s REPORT Act, which ensures that Congress is notified and briefed on any tariff changes so that we can fulfill our constitutional oversight duties.” 

    Read the bill HERE. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Labor Caucus Members Blast First Trump Administration’s First 100 Days, Join Labor Union Leaders to talk about Impacts on Working Families

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Glenn Ivey – Maryland (4th District)

    Congressman Glenn Ivey, Rep. Debbie Dingell and Rep. Steven Horsford and labor leaders held a press conference in front of the Capitol today.  They talked about the first 100 days of the Trump Administration and its impact on working families. 

    U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell said:

    “As we mark the first 100 days of the Trump presidency, we are facing an unprecedented attack on the federal workforce. Federal employees do some of the most critical work that, frankly, too many people take for granted. They are nurses, food inspectors, doctors, transportation safety workers, law enforcement officers, scientists, VA workers, and beyond. Their work keeps us safe and keeps our daily lives running smoothly. I’ve heard countless stories from my constituents who are frustrated and scared of being a federal employee right now. An attack on workers’ rights anywhere is an attack on workers’ rights everywhere. That’s why we are standing in strong solidarity with federal employees and will not stop fighting to protect workers’ rights.”

    U.S. Rep. Steven Horsford said:

    “One hundred days into this presidency, working Nevadans can’t afford this president’s economic chaos. Tourism is buckling with consumer confidence at a 50-year low and international travel down 20 percent – at the same time, we’re being tariff-taxed on everything from food to lumber to toilet paper. Serving billionaires at the expense of working people is the opposite of leadership, which is exactly why Trump’s presidency is failing.”

    U.S. Rep. Glenn Ivey said:

    “President Trump said he would support working people.  Instead, he’s spent 100 days finding new ways to lower wages and make workplaces less safe.  He’s slashed worker safety protections, stripped collective bargaining rights, and crippled the National Labor Relations Board.  Workers deserve better and that’s why my colleagues in the Labor Caucus and I are fighting back.”

    Democracy Forward President Skye Perryman said:

    “Our nation’s civil servants are the backbone of our democracy – and they’re under attack for doing their jobs.  Democracy Forward is committed to working alongside partners to defend these workers and the public institutions they serve.”

    National Federation of Federal Employees President, Randy Erwin said:

    “President Trump’s first 100 days in office have been a disaster for federal workers and the American people. Hundreds of thousands of dedicated civil servants have been fired or intimidated into resignation, diminishing the critical services that communities across the country depend on every day. It is shameful that the President has celebrated firing veterans and weakening their healthcare, the erosion of public safety, and undermining our national security.”

    American Federation of Government Employees, District 14 National VP Ottis Johnson said:

    “AFGE is proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with the House Labor Caucus to fight for the collective bargaining rights of more than one million federal employees who are being retaliated against for standing up for their rights. We are calling on all members of Congress to stand up for federal workers by cosponsoring the Protect America’s Workforce Act and defeating the GOP leadership’s punitive reconciliation package.”

    International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers, President Matthew Biggs said:

    “This Administration’s attacks on federal workers, on their civil service protections and union rights, and on their careers and livelihoods hurt all Americans and the services and government functions Americans count on in every part of the country. IFPTE members who work for the Navy, Army Corps of Engineers, NASA, EPA, DOJ, SSA, NOAA, and so many other agencies chose their careers in the federal government because they are invested in and dedicated to the work they do on behalf of the American public. The Trump Administration that keeps finding new and illegal ways to harass, exhaust, and disrespect the federal workforce, but our union and our federal membership is working with labor, legal and civil society partners, and with allies in Congress to protecting our democracy, our nonpartisan merit-based civil service, and our commitment to all Americans.

    Additional Photos of press conference available upon request.

     

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Ivey Joins Maryland Delegation & Alsobrooks in Demanding Back Education Dollars Cut by Trump

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Glenn Ivey – Maryland (4th District)

    WASHINGTON, DC – As reported in The Washington Post, Senator Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.) led the Maryland Democratic Delegation – U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen and Representatives Steny Hoyer, Kweisi Mfume, Jamie Raskin, Glenn Ivey, Sarah Elfreth, April McClain Delaney, and Johnny Olszewski (all D-Md.) in demanding that the Trump Administration release the $98 million promised for education funding in the state and urging the Department to work with the delegation to ensure Maryland receives this vital funding. 

    “Earlier this year, [Secretary McMahon testified that the President] wants to ‘return education to the states where it belongs.’ We believe that approving Maryland’s application for late liquidation of relief funds would do just that. We appreciate your offer to conduct a thorough review of the ESSER funds rescinded from Maryland and look forward to reaching a resolution in the best interest of the more than 860,000 students in our state who are depending on these Congressionally appropriated funds,” said the lawmakers. 

    “We stand ready to partner with the Department in ensuring the disbursement of this key funding to Maryland,” continued the lawmakers. 

    You can read the full letter to Secretary McMahon here or below:

    Dear Secretary McMahon:

    We write with deep concern regarding the Department of Education’s (the Department) recent letter to State Chiefs of Education, which modified the time period for states to liquidate obligations under the Education Stabilization Fund. The loss of these dollars would be catastrophic for the state of Maryland and its students. We appreciate the fact that the Department did leave an opportunity open for collaboration with states, affording them the chance to appeal for an extension to the liquidation period on a project-specific basis. As such, the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) has applied for an extension. We strongly support MSDE’s application and urge the Department to approve MSDE’s requests for full reimbursement.

    As you know, on January 22, 2025 – after President Trump was sworn into office – the Department approved MDSE’s late liquidation plan for American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds through March 28, 2026. Similarly, on March 17, 2025, the Department approved a late liquidation plan for the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRRSA) from MSDE through March 31, 2025. Yet on March 28, 2025, the MSDE received notice from the Department that the liquidation period for all pandemic recovery resources authorized in the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) fund was rescinded. This sudden reversal has caused a great deal of confusion and would hinder Maryland’s efforts to address pandemic learning loss.

    The impact of this reversal by the Department will indeed be devastating for Maryland schools. Pandemic relief funds were set to go towards capital projects including school heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning repair and replacement that have been delayed because of supply chain and construction issues, as well as new curricula and instructional materials that Maryland Local Education Agencies (LEAs) are still awaiting.

    As such, Maryland has submitted a late liquidation request to the Department for $98,706,860, which includes $42 million spent by LEAs that have not been submitted to the State for reimbursement, as well as $56.7 million remaining to liquidate. The remaining funding is obligated toward projects to provide temporary housing and mental health support for students experiencing homelessness; community school mental health services; tutoring and technology for students; professional development for staff; Grow Your Own projects, including tuition reimbursement programs for staff to attain teacher certifications; the replacement of older and non-working windows and doors; restroom repairs; and security camera updates to keep students safe. 

    MSDE and the state’s LEAs have utilized ESSER funds to recover reading scores, sustainably address the teacher shortages exacerbated by the pandemic, support student mental and emotional health, and fortify other key ingredients in learning. The state’s reapplication in compliance with the Department’s guidance issued on March 28, 2025, also includes key details of our educational systems’ efforts to modernize classroom infrastructure to mitigate the threat of infectious diseases. 

    We proudly represent a state that places tremendous emphasis on high-quality education and MSDE’s implementation of federal funds is fundamental to that mission. We urge the Department to approve MSDE’s latest reapplication for late liquidation of this vital funding. Like students across the country, the COVID-19 pandemic set young Marylanders back substantially on key metrics of student achievement. As your office has noted, recent National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) results have revealed that “gaps are growing between higher-performing and lower-performing students.” Further, chronic absenteeism still is too high with the latest data indicating “a majority of students still attended schools with 20% or higher levels of chronic absence… in stark contrast to 2019, when slightly over a quarter of schools experienced such high levels of chronic absence.” Years after the COVID-19 pandemic, our schools and communities still have much work to do to help students recover.

    Again, we want to continue to be collaborative and work together to improve Maryland schools. As you noted in your testimony to the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee earlier this year, President Trump wants to “return education to the states where it belongs.” We believe that approving Maryland’s application for late liquidation of relief funds would do just that. We appreciate your offer to conduct a thorough review of the ESSER funds rescinded from Maryland and look forward to reaching a resolution in the best interest of the more than 860,000 students in our state who are depending on these Congressionally appropriated funds. 

    We welcome a further conversation between the Department and the Maryland Congressional delegation on this process and would be happy to help support engagements between the Department and MSDE. We stand ready to partner with the Department in ensuring the disbursement of this key funding to Maryland.

    Sincerely, 

     

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Miller-Meeks, Grassley Reintroduce Bill to Equip Students with Full Loan Info Before Borrowing

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

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01), alongside Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA), has reintroduced the Know Before You Owe Federal Student Loan Act of 2025, legislation that ensures students are fully informed before taking on federal student loans.

    The bill strengthens pre-loan counseling and requires students to manually confirm the amount they choose to borrow. It also mandates clear, updated disclosures throughout the borrowing period—including estimated monthly payments, projected income, and personalized financial comparisons—so students can make informed decisions and avoid over-borrowing.

    “Borrowing for college is a serious commitment, not something that should be rushed into with little guidance or transparency,” said Congresswoman Miller-Meeks. “This bipartisan bill ensures students and families understand the true cost of borrowing and have the tools to make smart financial decisions before debt piles up. It’s about transparency, responsibility, and protecting future borrowers from being blindsided.”

    “When it comes to college costs, we ought to focus on fixing the process on the front-end before students get in over their heads. The federal government should be offering commonsense resources to better prepare borrowers.” Said Senator Grassley. “Our Know Before You Owe Federal Student Loan Act will enhance current loan counseling requirements for higher education institutions. It will also help students decide how much they want to borrow, not just accept the maximum possible loan that’s offered. In the Senate, I’m working to help America’s next generation pursue higher education opportunities without breaking the bank.” 

    “Our experience requiring applicants to complete the Student Loan Game Plan tool has shown that when students are equipped with clear, accurate information, they make smarter financial decisions,” said Steve McCullough, President and CEO of Iowa Student Loan Liquidity Corporation. “Congresswoman Miller-Meeks’ Know Before You Owe bill takes that principle nationwide, empowering students to make informed choices and achieve better outcomes from college. We commend her for reintroducing this important legislation.”

    The legislation comes at a time when student loan debt in the U.S. has surpassed $1.7 trillion. While some politicians push sweeping forgiveness plans, this bill focuses on up-front clarity to prevent future debt crises—giving students real numbers, not false promises.

    The Know Before You Owe Act also requires quarterly loan statements even when repayment is not due, helping students track debt accumulation and understand the impact of interest over time.

    Senator Grassley is leading the companion bill in the Senate. The bill is supported by members of Iowa’s congressional delegation and national advocates for student financial literacy.

    Background:

    The Know Before You Owe Federal Student Loan Act of 2025 will:

    • Require institutions to provide personalized pre-loan counseling every year, not just once.
    • Include clear comparisons of debt-to-income based on a student’s field of study.
    • Require borrowers to manually confirm their loan amount before funds are disbursed.
    • Provide quarterly loan updates during school and deferment to track total borrowing and interest accrual.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Nick Langworthy Announces $128,436 Grant for Wellsville Municipal Airport

    Source: US Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23) announced that the Town of Wellsville has been awarded $128,436 by the Department of Transportation for the Wellsville Municipal Airport. 

     

    Specifically, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) awarded this grant for Wellsville Municipal to conduct a new airport-wide obstruction survey. This is an evaluation that would determine if there is any object that may affect the national airspace, air navigation facilities, or airport capacity. 

     

    “As the chairman of the House Aviation Safety Caucus, I am pleased that the FAA is investing in small local airports such as Wellsville Municipal,” said Congressman Langworthy. “This funding will be used to ensure that the airspace and facilities at Wellsville Municipal are of the highest standard – because when it comes to aviation safety, everyone’s lives are on the line.” 

     

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Tenney Attends Event at White House to Celebrate Military Mothers

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

    Washington, DC – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today joined President Donald J. Trump and First Lady Melania Trump at the White House for a celebration of Military Mothers. 

    Rep Tenney is the mother of U.S. Naval Academy graduate Trey Cleary, who is an active-duty Major in the U.S. Marine Corps.

    “Thank you to President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump for welcoming military mothers to the White House today. It is encouraging to see this administration’s strong support for our military and their families, recognizing their sacrifices and ensuring they receive the respect and resources they deserve. As the mother of an active-duty Marine, it is a true honor to stand among so many who share that bond. I am deeply grateful for my son, Trey, and his service to our country,” said Congresswoman Tenney. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Rep. Pfluger’s Legislation to Keep the CCP Out of American Classrooms and Universities Passes the House

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

    ICYMI: Rep. Pfluger’s Legislation to Keep the CCP Out of American Classrooms and Universities Passes the House

    Washington, May 8, 2025

    WASHINGTON, DC — In Case You Missed It (ICYMI): Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11), Chairman of the House Committee on Homeland Security’s Subcommittee on Counterterrorism and Intelligence, had legislation pass through the U.S. House of Representatives.

    Chairman Pfluger’s “DHS Restrictions on Confucius Institutes Act“ will defend American students from the Chinese Communist Party by prohibiting any Department of Homeland Security (DHS) funding from flowing to universities that host a Confucius Institute or maintain a relationship with a Chinese entity of concern.

    In an exclusive interview on the House steps, Chairman Pfluger spoke with the Daily Mail about this legislation. Read more HERE or by clicking the image below.

    Additionally, watch Chairman Pfluger’s remarks on the House floor in support of his legislation HERE and read even more about it in the Daily Caller HERE.

    WHAT THEY ARE SAYING ON X:

    Click the images below to view the post.

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Morgan McGarvey Statement on Pope Leo XIV

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Morgan McGarvey (Kentucky-03)

    May 08, 2025

    Today, Congressman Morgan McGarvey released the following statement: 

    “Congratulations Pope Leo XIV, the first Pope from the United States.

    “I hope Pope Leo XIV will guide us with moral clarity and unite us in the pursuit of peace, justice, and compassion.

    “We must continue to lift up all of our neighbors, especially those on the margins.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: McClellan, Bacon, Merkley, Hyde-Smith Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Bill to Address Mental Health Treatment Shortages

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

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Representatives Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) and Don Bacon (NE-02) and Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS) introduced legislation to address mental health and substance use disorder facility shortages during a growing mental health crisis.

    About one in five American adults live with mental illness, and over 75 percent of adults who needed substance use treatment in the past year did not receive that care. From shortages in inpatient beds to intensive outpatient programs to behavioral health providers, treatment availability has not kept up with growing demand. As a consequence, many patients go without care or are boarded in emergency departments for days to weeks until psychiatric beds become available, which can have deeply harmful impacts on patient well-being. 

    H.R. 3266, the Mental Health Infrastructure Improvement Act would:

    • Establish a new loan and loan guarantee program within the Department of Health and Human Services to build or renovate mental health or substance use disorder treatment facilities.
    • Reserve at least a quarter of the funding for pediatric- and adolescent-serving facilities.
    • Prioritize facilities located in high need, underserved or rural areas and able to provide integrated care for patients with complex needs.

    “We face a mental health crisis in this country, but have yet to meet that crisis with the necessary avenues of support that our neighbors, friends, and family members need to battle a mental health or substance use disorder,” said Congresswoman McClellan. “Those bravely seeking support shouldn’t have to jump through hoops to get it, and addressing these facility shortages now will help ensure that care is there when patients need it. I urge my colleagues to support the Mental Health Infrastructure Improvement Act to invest in our nation’s well-being and ensure every American, especially our nation’s youth and underserved communities, get the care they need.”

    “At a time when one in every five U.S. adults report experiencing mental illness, we need to be investing in mental health care,” said Rep. Bacon. “The Mental Health Infrastructure Improvement Act will expand mental health infrastructure and ensure we have the capability to treat those experiencing a mental health crisis. There is a significant shortage of available treatment, and it is crucial that we address this gap.”

    “Mental health care is essential health care,” said Senator Merkley. “This legislation is about ensuring that communities in Oregon and across the nation have the infrastructure they need to provide critical mental health and substance use disorder services. By investing in mental health care facilities, we can make meaningful progress in addressing the mental health crisis affecting so many of our friends, neighbors, and loved ones.”

    “This legislation recognizes that our nation faces a growing crisis in not having enough infrastructure and workforce to treat people with mental health and substance abuse disorders.  We struggle with this in Mississippi,” Senator Hyde-Smith said.  “Our goal is to use loans and loan guarantees to increase the number of facilities to provide quality mental health and substance abuse care, while lessening the burdens now placed on law enforcement and local hospitals.”

    This legislation is endorsed by the American College of Emergency Physicians, American Association of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, American Hospital Association, American Psychiatric Association, American Psychological Association Services, Children’s Hospital Association, Clinical Social Work Association, National Alliance on Mental Illness, National Association for Behavioral Healthcare, National Association of Social Workers, National Rural Health Association, The Trevor Project, and Virginia Hospital and Healthcare Association.
     
    Read the full bill text here. Read the one-pager here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman De La Cruz Announces Winners of 2025 Congressional Art Competition

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Monica De La Cruz (TX-15)

    Congresswoman De La Cruz (TX-15) announced the winner of the 2025 Congressional Art Competition for Texas’s 15th District, Alina Ozuna from Edinburg North High School. Alina’s piece, “In America, We Believe,” was selected from among 55 entries submitted by talented young high school artists across her district.

    As the district winner, Alina’s piece will be displayed for one year in the U.S. Capitol alongside winning artwork from other districts across the country.

    “I am thrilled to congratulate Alina on this incredible achievement. Her work beautifully captures the ideas of the American Dream, and it will be an inspiring addition to the halls of the nation’s Capitol for all to enjoy. I am proud of all the students who participated, and I hope you all continue to share your passion for creativity.” – Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz

    Congresswoman De La Cruz honored Briana Olvera from Edinburg High School with second place for her piece, “I Thank the Women in My Life for Giving Me a Choice,” and Cassandra Pedraza from Edinburg North High School with third place for her piece, “Hard Work, Tender Care”. 

    “In America, We Believe” by Alina Ozuna

     
    Background:
    Every spring, the Congressional Institute sponsors a nationwide high school visual art competition to recognize and encourage artistic talent in the nation and each Congressional District. Since the competition began in 1982, more than 650,000 high school students have participated.
     
    This year’s competition was judged by a panel of local educators from UTRGV’s School of Art and Design, including Director Ed Pogue and Art Instructors Rosie Kane and Ashley Gonzalez.
     
    For more information about the annual art competition, please visit our website here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: May 08, 2025 Mullin, Schakowsky & Blumenthal Call on Trump Administration to Reserve Plans to Eliminate Consumer Product Safety Commission [1] H.R. Rep. No. 92-1153, at 25 (1972) (“The Commission’s decisions under this legislation will necessarily involve a careful meld of safety and economic considerations. This delicate balance, the committee believes, should be struck in a setting as far removed as… Read More

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

    “Without the dedicated oversight of the CPSC, American families, especially children, will be left vulnerable in their own homes.”

    [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and U.S. Representatives Jan Schakowsky (D-IL) and Kevin Mullin (D-CA) today led 21 members of the Senate and 27 members of the House in calling on Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought to reverse plans to eliminate the bipartisan, independent Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The CPSC is the only government entity tasked with developing and enforcing product safety standards, facilitating recalls of unsafe products, and educating consumers and businesses about product hazards and best practices. The proposal to absorb some of CPSC’s core functions into a nonexistent division within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), as HHS’ budget is being cut, is unrealistic and threatens public safety.

    “Since its inception, the CPSC has played a vital role safeguarding American families, and in particular infants, children, and older Americans. Thanks to the CPSC’s critical work, residential fires and fire-related deaths have decreased by over 40 percent. Crib deaths and child poisonings have dropped by 80 percent. The Commission’s work continues today, identifying emerging threats and protecting Americans from dangerous and banned imported products,” the Members wrote.

    The Members continued, “With the rapid growth of e-commerce and imported consumer products, especially from countries with less stringent safety regulations, CPSC plays a critical role to prevent unsafe and counterfeit goods from entering the U.S. market unchecked.”

    “We strongly oppose any attempt to eliminate, defund, or weaken the CPSC and demand that you immediately roll back any efforts to dissolve the agency. Americans rightfully expect that the products they bring into their home are safe, and only the CPSC has the authority and expertise to ensure that expectation is met,” the Members concluded.

    Blumenthal, Schakowsky, and Mullin’s letter comes as more than 150 consumer protection and trade groups warned that eliminating the CPSC would undermine product safety, weaken enforcement actions, consumer education campaigns, and data collection initiatives that protect Americans.

    U.S. Senators Amby Klobuchar (D-MN), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Tammy Baldwin (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Peter Welch (D-VT), Angus King (I-ME), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Ron Wyden (D-WA), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Martin Heinrich (D-MN) signed onto the letter.

    U.S. Representatives Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Kim Schrier, M.D. (D-WA), Julia Brownley (D-CA), Al Green (D-TX), Danny Davis (D-IL), Frederica S. Wilson (D-FL), Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), Paul D. Tonko (D-NY), Jonathan L. Jackson (D-IL), Delia C. Ramirez (D-IL), Rick Larson (D-CT), Marcy Kaptur (D-OH), Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), Lori Trahan (D-MA), Kathy Castor (D-FL), Jamie Raskin (D-MD), Ritchie Torres (D-NY), Diana DeGette (D-CO), Rashida Talib (D-MI), Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA), Darren Soto (D-FL), Robin L. Kelly (D-IL), Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY), Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA), André Carson (D-IN), Becca Balint (D-WA), and J. Luis Correa (D-CA) also joined the letter.

    The full text of Blumenthal, Schakowsky, and Mullin’s letter is available here and below.

    Dear Director Vought:

                We write today on behalf of American consumers to express outrage that the Administration’s draft budget includes plans to eliminate the bipartisan, independent Consumer Product Safety Commission (CSPC) and absorb some of its functions and staff into a currently nonexistent staff division within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The CPSC develops and enforces commonsense product safety standards, facilitates recalls of unsafe products, and educates consumers and businesses on product hazards and best practices.  Eliminating the agency will put the physical safety of all Americans at risk. 

    Congress created the CPSC almost 50 years ago to protect Americans from unreasonable risks of injury or death associated with consumer products.  The Administration does not have the authority to eliminate a Commission established by Congress, as doing so would exceed its constitutional powers and undermine the principles of the legislative process.

                The establishment of the CPSC as an independent five-member commission reflected the House Interstate and Foreign Commerce Committee’s understanding that product safety should be “as far removed as possible from partisan influence.”[1] Since its inception, the CPSC has played a vital role safeguarding American families, and in particular infants, children, and older Americans. Thanks to the CPSC’s critical work, residential fires and fire-related deaths have decreased by over 40 percent.[2] Crib deaths and child poisonings have dropped by 80 percent.[3] The Commission’s work continues today, identifying emerging threats and protecting Americans from dangerous and banned imported products. With the rapid growth of e-commerce and imported consumer products, especially from countries with less stringent safety regulations, CPSC plays a critical role to prevent unsafe and counterfeit goods from entering the U.S. market unchecked. These protections for American families have led to a comprehensive set of product safety standards, recall processes, data collection, and public education, which cannot be transferred to a new agency by executive action.

                HHS lacks the statutory authority to carry out the CPSC’s critical functions. Moreover, HHS already carries a broad mandate, overseeing food and drug regulation, communicable disease prevention, public health emergency preparation and responses, medical research, and the administration of Medicare, Medicaid, and the Children’s Health Insurance Program. Yet, your Administration’s proposed budget plans would reduce HHS’s discretionary budget by one-third and eliminate 20,000 staff positions. Adding product safety to HHS’s already vast and demanding mandate, all while slashing the department’s budget and staff, would jeopardize the lives and physical safety of American families.

                We strongly oppose any attempt to eliminate, defund, or weaken the CPSC and demand that you immediately roll back any efforts to dissolve the agency.  Americans rightfully expect that the products they bring into their home are safe, and only the CPSC has the authority and expertise to ensure that expectation is met. The CPSC’s continued existence is essential to protecting Americans from preventable injury and death. Without the dedicated oversight of the CPSC, American families, especially children, will be left vulnerable in their own homes.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Deluzio, Democratic Veterans Tear Apart Trump VA for Stalling Cancer Trials, Hurting Veterans Healthcare

    Source: US Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA)

    Following reporting from ProPublica, Democratic veterans in Congress highlight how much the Trump Administration is hurting veterans’ care across the country

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Navy and Iraq War veteran Congressman Deluzio and a group of congressional Democratic veterans came together to highlight how the Trump Administration is putting veteran lives at risk and hiding it from the American people, as reported most recently by ProPublica. Especially concerning is the fact that VA clinical trials for multiple types of cancer treatment have been 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. My fellow veterans in Congress are here to crank up the heat on Secretary Collins: veterans see this betrayal for what it is.”

    At the press conference in Washington, Congressman Deluzio was joined by fellow veteran Members of Congress Ted Lieu (CA-36), Mike Thompson (CA-04), Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06), Salud Carbajal (CA-24,) and Maggie Goodlander (NH-02). 

    Photos of the event are here, and a video recording of the press conference is here.  

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene’s Gulf of America Act PASSES House of Representatives

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene (GA, 14)

    Today, Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene’s Gulf of America Act passed the House of Representatives.

    Following the passage of Congresswoman Greene’s bill, she issued the following statement:

    “I’m proud to have passed my Gulf of America Act through the House.

    This bill codifies President Trump’s executive order permanently renaming the rightful Gulf of America.

    The American people are footing the bill to protect and secure the Gulf’s maritime waterways for commerce to be conducted.

    Our U.S. armed forces protect the area from any military threats, from foreign countries and from the Mexican cartels, who use the Gulf to traffic humans, drugs, and weapons into our communities.

    It’s our gulf.

    The rightful name is the Gulf of America and it’s what the entire world should refer to it as.”

    Since January 20, 2025, the U.S. Coast Guard has seized over 100,000 pounds of cocaine and over 10,000 pounds of marijuana, much of it trafficked through these waters.

    Democrat policies have fueled this crisis. They opened our borders, defunded border enforcement, and prioritized illegal aliens and MS-13 gang members over American families. These same Democrats are now outraged over the idea of renaming a body of water that we protect, we patrol, and we pay for.

    Certainly, it is not controversial to rename landmarks within the United States. During the Obama administration, the EPA headquarters was renamed after President Clinton in 2013. President Obama renamed Mount McKinley to Denali in 2015.

    They’re not upset about geography. They’re upset because their America Last agenda is being exposed.

    The gulf is rightfully ours, we must make this change permanent.

    Congresswoman Greene urges all of her colleagues in the Senate to quickly pass this bill so it can be sent to President Trump’s desk.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Harshbarger Reintroduces Legislation to Support Women and Encourage Life

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger reintroduced the Pregnancy.Gov Act, legislation to create a national web application — Pregnancy.gov — that would provide comprehensive, zip code-specific information on public and private resources available to expectant mothers. This initiative can be implemented at no net cost to the federal government, using existing infrastructure and the credibility of a “.gov” domain.

    Congresswoman Harshbarger issued the following statement:

    “When you’re blessed with a pregnancy — whether expected or unexpected — you shouldn’t have to scramble for help. This bill ensures women have easy access to life-affirming resources, including prenatal care, alternatives to abortion, transportation assistance, support for victims of domestic or sexual violence, and much more.

    “This legislation has the potential to save countless unborn lives while helping families welcome God’s greatest gift into the world. I’m proud to lead this effort and continue standing as a strong voice for life.”

    Kristin Hawkins, President of Students for Life of America & Students for Life Action said the following.

    “Many people who advocate for abortion claim the pro-life movement does not care about the woman in the unexpected pregnancy nor the child after they are born. Well, this is clearly far from the truth. The Pregnancy.Gov bill would give all women who find themselves in unexpected pregnancies that there are life-affirming resources for them. According to the Guttmacher Institute, (the think tank arm for Planned Parenthood) shows that 67% of women who seek abortion were pressured or forced into an abortion. This Pregnancy.Gov site is one way to greatly reduce the number of abortions and traumatized mothers who thought they had no other option than to end the life of their own child.”

    Penny Nance, CEO and President of Concerned Women for America LAC, the nation’s largest public policy women’s organization, added the following.

    “Women facing an unexpected pregnancy need information and they need resources to know they are not alone and have the ability to choose life. 

    “Pregnancy.Gov will be a one-stop-shop listing everything from the local pregnancy resource centers to food and nutrition assistance, education opportunities, and adoption and legal services. We are delighted Rep. Harshbarger has championed this legislation and will work to help gain widespread support for women.”

    Vice President of Government Affairs for SBA Pro-Life America, Hon. Marilyn Musgrave, stated the following.

    “No mother should ever feel alone when she faces an unplanned pregnancy. There are thousands of pregnancy centers, maternity homes, and other organizations nationwide that stand ready to support her before, during, and after pregnancy. These centers provide hope and encouragement as well as practical material, medical, and educational support to millions of families every single year. We thank pro-life champion Representative Harshbarger and her colleagues for supporting moms in need by working to get them access to these critical life-affirming resources.”

    Original cosponsors include: Representatives Brian Babin (R-TX), Dan Crenshaw (R-TX), Rich McCormick (R-GA), Sheri Biggs (R-SC), Scott Fitzgerald (R-WI), and John Rose (R-TN).

    Learn more about the legislation by clicking HERE.

    View the bill text HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Scholten, James Introduce Bill to Grant Federal Recognition to Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians

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

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03) reintroduced the bipartisan Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians Restoration Act alongside Rep. John James (R-MI-10). This bill would give the tribe official recognition from the federal government, and help tribal members receive important services, such as health care, tuition, and housing assistance. 

    “The Grand River Bands are a central part of our state’s history, culture, and community, and it’s long overdue that we officially recognize them as a sovereign tribe,” said Rep. Scholten. “They are foundational to the identity of West Michigan, and for nearly 30 years, the Grand River Bands have been advocating for federal recognition. I’m committed to ensuring they get the resources and respect they deserve.”

    “I am proud to support the Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians Restoration Act, a critical and long-overdue measure to grant federal recognition to a tribal nation with deep historical roots in Michigan and an enduring legacy of service, community, and resilience,” said Rep. James. “For generations, the Grand River Bands have made meaningful contributions to our state and country – and yet, they have remained unjustly excluded from the federal recognition they deserve. Without federal recognition, they are denied access to the same opportunities available to other federally recognized tribes including health care, housing assistance, and educational support. This bill fixes that and I’m honored to support it.”

    “On behalf of the Grand River Bands, I extend a heartfelt thank you to Reps. Scholten and James, along with the Michigan Congressional delegation, for helping champion federal recognition for our tribe,” said Ron Yob, chairman of the Grand River Bands. “For more than three decades, we have advocated for acknowledgement by the federal government to give our tribal members access to resources they have long deserved. This bill brings us a step closer to recognition, which will help us continue to grow and preserve our traditions for generations to come.” 

    The Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians (GRB) is a sovereign Native nation with a history of agreements with the United States Government dating back to 1795. Historically, the GRB was made up of 19 bands of Ottawa people who lived along the Grand River and surrounding waterways in southwest Michigan. Today, many members of the Grand River Bands live in communities across Kent, Muskegon, and Oceana counties, and stay connected to the same region their ancestors have called home for generations.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Virginia Delegation Blasts Trump Administration’s Attacks on CDC Programs That Address America’s Maternal Health Crisis

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

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) joined U.S. Senators Tim Kaine and Mark R. Warner (both D-VA) and U.S. Representatives Bobby Scott (D-VA-03), Gerry Connolly (D-VA-11), Don Beyer (D-VA-08), Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA-10) and Eugene Vindman (D-VA-07) in a letter to Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. expressing their grave concerns about President Donald Trump’s efforts to undermine the mission of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which have resulted in the dismantling of CDC programs aimed at addressing America’s maternal health crisis. In the letter, the members urge the Trump Administration to protect these vital programs and to strengthen the CDC’s public health efforts. 

    In 2022, the United States maternal mortality rate was 22.3 deaths per 100,000 live births. In Virginia, it was 32.7 deaths per 100,000 live births. According to the CDC, more than 80 percent of pregnancy-related deaths are preventable.

    “The agency has historically played a vital role in promoting quality maternal health care and improving birth outcomes through surveillance, evidence-based awareness campaigns, and federal-state partnerships. Collecting and maintaining data on maternal morbidity and mortality is key to improving this care and targeting interventions,’” the members wrote. “Yet the Trump Administration has terminated or placed on leave senior scientists and staff with deep institutional knowledge, imposed nearly $3 billion in spending cuts, and demanded a complete overhaul and reorganization of the agency’s programming.”

     “These actions have resulted in an abrupt halting of programs critical to maternal health which will set back the progress we have made to protect America’s moms and babies,” the members continued. “…Since the announced [Reductions in Force] (RIF), centers like the National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion and the National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities have been gutted, with most or all staff terminated and most of their maternal health activities stopped or significantly scaled back – putting moms and babies at risk.”

    “Although the Administration previously stated that the RIF and subsequent restructuring at HHS would be aimed toward administrative roles and would increase efficiency, it is clear that the Administration’s actions are already harming America’s moms and babies,” the members wrote. “Under your leadership, these indiscriminate terminations and spending cuts have destabilized the CDC and limited the capability of the agency to provide critical, quality maternal health guidance and surveillance to Americans building families… We urge you to protect these vital programs and to support the strengthening of public health efforts at the CDC, especially for America’s moms and babies.”

    In light of HHS’ harmful actions, the members demanded the Secretary:

    1. Provide an official number of terminations across the CDC, including a breakdown by center. Such information should also specify the job title of each employee and a description of the programs they contributed to, including maternal health programming.
    2. Provide an updated organizational chart that outlines programs run by each center at the CDC, including which programs will be terminated or shifted to another center as a result of the RIF and reorganization.
    3. Provide a list of programs previously run out of the CDC that will be transferred to a new agency or under a new authority and provide the rationale for such a move, including the relevant experience and expertise that the new agency or authority has to run such a program, including as it specifically pertains to the CDC’s maternal and child health programs.
    4. Provide a list of all maternal health programs across HHS, indicating which programs have been cut and which programs are duplicative and have therefore been combined.
    5. Explain how the administration will ensure continued collection of high-quality data for programs that are being shifted to a new agency or authority while protecting data security—given the CDC has unique data authority and infrastructure to protect sensitive information, ensuring that reported data is not identifiable. Other agencies under HHS do not have the same infrastructure, which the CDC has spent years developing.

    Full text of the letter can be found here and below.

    Dear Secretary Kennedy:

    We write to express our concern regarding recent efforts to undermine the mission of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC is the premier public health agency in the country, leading the charge in protecting the health of nearly 350 million Americans through critical public health research, data collection, and evidence-based initiatives to address and prevent infectious and chronic diseases. Yet on March 27, 2025, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced massive staffing cuts to align with President Trump’s executive order, “Implementing the President’s ‘Department of Government Efficiency’ Workforce Optimization Initiative.” These cuts – made through Reductions in Force (RIF) at agencies across HHS – include reducing the CDC workforce by 2,400 employees, or 18 percent of its total employment. President Trump’s efforts to undermine the mission of the CDC have resulted in the dismantling of vital CDC programs, including those aimed at addressing America’s maternal mortality crisis.

    Ensuring moms have access to quality health care, including prenatal and postpartum services, is a critical component to supporting moms and addressing pregnancy-related deaths. In 2022, the national maternal mortality rate was 22.3 deaths per 100,000 live births. In Virginia, it was 32.7 deaths per 100,00 live births. According to the CDC, more than 80 percent of pregnancy-related deaths are preventable. The agency has historically played a vital role in promoting quality maternal health care and improving birth outcomes through surveillance, evidence-based awareness campaigns, and federal-state partnerships. Collecting and maintaining data on maternal morbidity and mortality is key to improving this care and targeting interventions. Yet the Trump Administration has terminated or placed on leave senior scientists and staff with deep institutional knowledge, imposed nearly $3 billion in spending cuts, and demanded a complete overhaul and reorganization of the agency’s programming.[5] These actions have resulted in an abrupt halting of programs critical to maternal health which will set back the progress we have made to protect America’s moms and babies.

    As directed by Congress, the CDC is statutorily required to carry out multiple activities to address maternal health. Since the announced RIF, centers like the National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion and the National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities have been gutted, with most or all staff terminated and most of their maternal health activities stopped or significantly scaled back – putting moms and babies at risk. This undermining of CDC programs harms public health agencies across the Commonwealth that utilize CDC data and funding to support local initiatives to increase access to care and reduce maternal mortality.

    • As required by statute, the Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring Systems (PRAMS) is a surveillance system designed to reduce infant morbidity and mortality through education and support for moms. Running continuously since 1987, PRAMS is a partnership between the federal government and state and local public health agencies. PRAMS is the only public health survey system that provides state-specific, population-based data from women about their pregnancy and the months after birth. This unique data system is critical for informing efforts to reduce infant and maternal morbidity and mortality through interventions before, during, and shortly after pregnancy. This multi-decade-long program is on an indefinite pause, hurting states, moms, and babies. In Virginia, despite receiving a notice of award for the fifth year of their PRAMS grant cycle, public health officials have not been able to move forward with regular grant activities and may be forced to shut down operations at the end of their grant cycle should additional funding not become available.
    • As also required by statute, the CDC monitors pregnancy success rates for Assisted Reproductive Technologies, including in-vitro fertilization (IVF), at clinics across the nation. This program helps ensure families are able to make an informed decision regarding their choice to start or build their family. Yet recent executive actions have resulted in the termination of CDC staff who ran this program, impeding the ability of the CDC to fulfill its congressional mandates and harming American families. Virginia has a long-standing history of supporting access to IVF: the first person born in the U.S. via IVF was born in Virginia over 40 years ago.

    The CDC also coordinates across agencies to administer programs that support the safety and surveillance of maternal health and birth outcomes at a state and local level. The CDC provides valuable resources that enable state and local officials to conduct targeted outreach to improve maternal health outcomes.

    • In coordination with the Health Resources and Services Administration, the CDC administers the Maternal and Child Health Epidemiology Program (MCHEP). Through MCHEP, the CDC places senior epidemiologists in state, local, and Tribal public health agencies to support projects to improve maternal health outcomes. These highly qualified and experienced epidemiologists often serve in public health agencies that, without the help of the CDC, would not otherwise be able to support such a position. Historically, 26 states have benefitted from the MCHEP, yet because of actions by the Trump Administration, seven of the current 10 epidemiologists have been placed on leave. The critical work of MCHEP cannot continue without these epidemiologists and any disruption in programs will lead to devastating consequences.
    • In coordination with HHS’s Office of Women’s Health, the CDC has historically been a leader in supporting state surveillance on stillbirth incidence. The PRAMS Study of Associated Risks of Stillbirths (SOARS) survey was developed through a partnership between the CDC and the Utah Department of Health. This survey gathered essential data for monitoring stillbirth and other relevant factors while also raising awareness on the prevalence of the issue and combatting the stigma around stillbirth. Prior to the Administration’s recent actions, the CDC intended to expand this work and begin implementation of task force recommendations to address stillbirth. The future of this work is in jeopardy due to the Administration’s actions.
    • In coordination with state and local public health agencies, the CDC has historically supported a coordinated response to public health emergencies that could have an impact on pregnant and postpartum women. For example, during the 2016 Zika virus outbreak, Virginia public health officials utilized PRAMS data to target communications and surveillance for pregnant women, as they were recognized as a highly vulnerable population, and report to the CDC’s U.S. Zika Pregnancy Registry for future monitoring and follow-up of birth outcomes. The recent reduction in staffing levels will undoubtedly impede the CDC’s ability to coordinate a swift response to future public health emergencies that could impact moms and babies.

    Although the Administration previously stated that the RIF and subsequent restructuring at HHS would be aimed toward administrative roles and would increase efficiency, it is clear that the Administration’s actions are already harming America’s moms and babies. Under your leadership, these indiscriminate terminations and spending cuts have destabilized the CDC and limited the capability of the agency to provide critical, quality maternal health guidance and surveillance to Americans building families. In light of your harmful actions, please respond to the following questions by May 23, 2025:

    1. Provide an official number of terminations across the CDC, including a breakdown by center. Such information should also specify the job title of each employee and a description of the programs they contributed to, including maternal health programming.
    2. Provide an updated organizational chart that outlines programs run by each center at the CDC, including which programs will be terminated or shifted to another center as a result of the RIF and reorganization.
    3. Provide a list of programs previously run out of the CDC that will be transferred to a new agency or under a new authority and provide the rationale for such a move, including the relevant experience and expertise that the new agency or authority has to run such a program, including as it specifically pertains to the CDC’s maternal and child health programs.
    4. HHS has justified the RIF and subsequent reorganization by stating that “18% of notices were at duplicative programs, primarily maternal health (and HIV) programs”. Provide a list of all maternal health programs across HHS, indicating which programs have been cut and which programs are duplicative and have therefore been combined.
    5. The CDC has unique data authority and infrastructure to protect sensitive information, ensuring that reported data is not identifiable. Other agencies under HHS do not have the same infrastructure, which the CDC has spent years developing. For programs that are being shifted to a new agency or authority, how will the administration ensure the continued collection of high-quality data while protecting data security?

    A healthy nation starts and ends with healthy moms and babies. Recent administrative actions have disrupted maternal health care and will only contribute to the maternal mortality crisis in Virginia and our country. We urge you to protect these vital programs and to support the strengthening of public health efforts at the CDC, especially for America’s moms and babies.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Lauren Boebert Introduces the American Energy Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Lauren Boebert (Colorado, 3)

    WASHINGTON, DC– Congresswoman Lauren Boebert (CO-04) this week introduced the American Energy Act, a bill to streamline the permitting process for oil & gas producers and allow American energy companies to focus on creating jobs and lowering costs instead of bureaucratic red tape. Rep. Boebert introduced similar legislation in 2023, which passed through the House as part of H.R. 1 in the 118th Congress.

    “Our American oil & gas producers need to get back to what they do best: creating jobs, lowering energy costs for American families and small businesses, and producing the cleanest natural gas in the world,”said Congresswoman Boebert.“The days of bureaucracy and red tape under the Biden Administration are done; my American Energy Act streamlines the permitting process and allows energy companies to move forward instead of being held up by endless layers of government and malicious litigation from progressive advocacy groups.”

    The full text of Congresswoman Boebert’s American Energy Act can be found HERE.

    BACKGROUND:

    The American Energy Act ensures that the Department of Interior continues to process Applications for Permits to Drill (APDs) under a valid existing lease regardless of any unrelated civil action and extends the term of an APD from 2 years to 4 years.

    A backlog of thousands of APD’s were still waiting approval under the Biden Administration’s Department of Interior, freezing the ability of oil & gas producers to create well-paying jobs and engage in responsible energy exploration.

    In addition to bureaucratic red tape, lawsuits filed by radical progressive lawfare groups held up the approval process for many of the APDs under consideration by the DOI. The American Energy Act requires courts to remand lease sale Environmental Impact Studies to agencies to remedy when necessary, rather than allowing judges with a political agenda to simply vacate these leases.

    Cosponsors of the legislation include: Rep. Jeff Hurd (CO-03), Rep. Andy Ogles (TN-05), Rep. Ryan Zinke (MT-01), Rep. Byron Donalds (FL-19), Rep. Troy Nehls (TX-22), Rep. Pete Stauber (MN-08), Rep. Andy Biggs (AZ-05), Rep. Paul Gosar (AZ-09), Rep. Jeff Crank (CO-05), Rep. Barry Moore (AL-01), Rep. Pat Harrigan (NC-10), Rep. Julie Fedorchak (ND-AL), Rep. Ben Cline (VA-06), and Rep. Michelle Fischbach (MN-07).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: RI Delegation Announces Unfrozen Federal Transportation Funding

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

    Washington, DC – U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse and U.S. Representatives Seth Magaziner and Gabe Amo today announced that the Trump administration unfroze $251 million in previously announced federal funding to support critical transportation projects across Rhode Island’s I-95 corridor.

    “Transportation investment should be driven by need and merit – not partisanship.  The Trump Administration is legally required to provide these funds — which were authorized and appropriated by Congress and awarded by the previous administration – and never should have been frozen in the first place.  We’re talking about overdue, needed upgrades and maintenance to bridges along our interstate highway system.  We have seen the exponential cost of allowing bridges to fail,” said Reed, a member of the Appropriations Committee.  “I appreciate Senator Whitehouse’s bipartisan efforts at EPW and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy for approaching this issue with commonsense and reaching the right decision. Going forward, the Trump Administration needs to work with Congress and states to wisely invest in our infrastructure, enhance the safety and reliability of our transportation network, and strengthen our economy.”

    “Through the Environment and Public Works Committee, I have successfully pushed to release significant funds for major Rhode Island infrastructure projects.  Chair Capito has helped me, and I am grateful for her effort and support.  As a result, USDOT is freeing a quarter billion dollars we had secured for the I-95 bridge repairs on top of our previously announced $221 million emergency Washington Bridge funding,” said Whitehouse, the top Democrat on the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee.  “That’s more than half a billion dollars kicked loose for Rhode Island infrastructure.  I’ll continue pressing to free and secure federal funding for Rhode Island’s job-creating infrastructure investments.”

    “This funding will improve safety and commute times for thousands of Rhode Islanders every day,” said Magaziner.  “Along with the rest of the Rhode Island Congressional Delegation, I will continue to advocate for our state to get our share of federal funding to improve our infrastructure and quality of life.” 

    “I’m thrilled that our state will be receiving federal infrastructure funds that we helped secure for critical upgrades in the Ocean State,” said Amo.  “As we continue to translate these federal dollars into improvements to better connect communities in Rhode Island, I look forward to working in close coordination with our delegation, state, local, and federal partners, to deliver safe, reliable, and sustainable infrastructure for generations to come.”

    The most recent unfrozen federal funding includes $251.1 million for the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) to address the condition of 15 bridges located along nearly 10 miles of National Highway System pavement.  These bridges provide key neighborhood connections throughout the cities of Providence and Cranston, and also serve 180,000 vehicles daily, including roughly 9,000 truck and heavy freight vehicles.  This federal funding will allow RIDOT to take a major step in addressing the I-95 corridor holistically while maintaining the safe and efficient movement of freight and multimodal users to arterial roads carried over interstates.  RIDOT plans call for replacing 11 bridges and eliminating four.  The project will improve vertical clearances on I-95 and reduce bridge strikes.

    The federal funds will flow to Rhode Island through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Bridge Investment Program (BIP).  Senators Reed and Whitehouse helped create BIP in 2021 through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provided federal funding for bridge replacement, rehabilitation, preservation, and protection with the goal of improving safety, efficiency, and reliability.

    An additional $549,770 will be unfrozen for the City of East Providence to support the City’s traffic circulation improvements project.

    In late March, the delegation announced significant progress to unfreeze federal funding for reconstruction of the westbound Washington Bridge, as the state gained access to the first $30 million wave of funds from over $220.9 million in federal grants for the Interstate-195 Washington Bridge, which has been partially closed since December 2023 due to a catastrophic failure.

     On a national level, the American Society of Engineers’ most recent report found that underinvestment in infrastructure could cost American households and businesses nearly $2 trillion over 20 years, or as much as $625 per household per year. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: RI Delegation Demands Reinstatement of National Endowment for the Humanities Grants for Ocean State Organizations

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

    WASHINGTON, DC – Yesterday, U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse, along with Congressmen Seth Magaziner and Gabe Amo, demanded the Acting Chairman of the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH), Michael McDonald, reinstate active grants in Rhode Island. Combined with the cancellation of upcoming awards for Fiscal Year 2025, the congressional delegation outlined the harms of cancellation, including the devastating effects on the Rhode Island Council for the Humanities and the Providence Clemente Veterans Initiative.

    “Rhode Island organizations will be devastated by NEH grant cancellations. The NEH’s cancellation of the $530,000 Rhode Island Council for the Humanities General Operating Support grant may force the organization to pause programs that provide civic education programs for young people, serve veterans, and support historical sites,” wrote the lawmakers. “We urge you to promptly reinstate all NEH grants to Rhode Island organizations and reverse the decision to end grants for Fiscal Year 2025.

     

    FULL TEXT OF LETTER:

    Dear Acting Chairman McDonald:

    We are alarmed the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) has terminated active grants in RhodeIsland and stated there will be no upcoming awards for Fiscal Year 2025. These actions will force organizationsin our state to make drastic cuts to programs. In our state, federal funding distributed through NEH benefitsmuseums, schools, libraries, historic sites, and Rhode Island Council for the Humanities (RICH).

    The NEH plays a vital role in supporting America’s cultural fabric. In Fiscal Year 2024, Congress appropriated$207 million dollars to the NEH to support humanities across the United States. From Fiscal Year 2019 toFiscal Year 2023, the NEH provided over $9 million in federal funding to support 45 projects in Rhode Island,supporting local jobs and enriching the state’s culture. One example of the benefits of NEH funding to RhodeIsland is the support provided to the Providence Clemente Veterans Initiative (PCVI), which uses federal fundsto provide free humanities courses and workshops to veterans.

    Rhode Island organizations will be devastated by NEH grant cancellations. The NEH’s cancellation of the$530,000 RICH General Operating Support grant may force the organization to pause programs that providecivic education programs for young people, serve veterans, and support historical sites. Additionally, the NEHcancelled a Dialogues on the Experience of War grant awarded to the PCVI. This will prevent PCVI fromoffering a free art workshop and field trips for veterans.

    We urge you to promptly reinstate all NEH grants to Rhode Island organizations and reverse the decision to end grants for Fiscal Year 2025.

     Sincerely,

     

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Strickland Leads Bipartisan Bill to Expand Midwifery Care for Servicemembers and Their Families

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10)

    Washington, D.C. – Earlier this week, on International Day of the Midwife, Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), reintroduced the Maternal and Infant Delivery: Wellness, and Integration with Vital Expertise Support (MIDWIVES) for Servicemembers Act.

    U.S. Representatives Emily Randall (WA-06), Juan Ciscomani (AZ-06), and Jen Kiggans (VA-02) co-led the bipartisan midwifery legislation.

    The bill would increase access to maternity care for servicemembers and their families by extending midwifery care to those enrolled in TRICARE through a 5-year pilot program. This legislation expands access to midwifery care and gives the Department of Defense the option to permanently expand coverage if the pilot program is successful. 

    “It is our job to support our servicemembers, and this includes providing help before, during and after childbirth,” said Strickland. “This bill expands midwifery care options, giving servicemembers and their families the care that they deserve.”

    “As our troops and their families serve our nation, they deserve access to the very best care, especially if they are looking to start or expand their family,” said Ciscomani. “As a dad of six I can tell you, planning to welcome a child to your family is an exciting time. However, serving in the military or having a spouse in uniform can pose additional difficulties for mothers-to-be. This is why I once again joined Rep. Strickland in a bipartisan effort to expand access to midwifery care for military spouses and women in uniform who are enrolled in TRICARE to ensure they can receive the care they need.”

    “Sexual and reproductive health care is essential, and we have a responsibility to ensure that service members and their families can access the care they deserve,” said Randall. “Expanding midwifery services through TRICARE is a critical step toward closing the dangerous gaps in maternal health care that too many people — especially those who serve our nation— are forced to navigate.”

    “As a Navy veteran and former nurse practitioner, I know firsthand the importance of high-quality, accessible maternal care for our military families,” said Kiggans. “The MIDWIVES for Service Members Act is a commonsense, data-driven solution that expands care options under TRICARE, improves outcomes for mothers and babies, and helps reduce strain on military healthcare systems. I’m proud to help lead this bipartisan effort to better support those who serve by delivering the care they and their families deserve.”

    The MIDWIVES for Servicemembers Act is endorsed by: American Association of Birth Centers (AABC), American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM), National Association of Certified Professional Midwives (NACPM), Birth Center Equity (BCE), Policy Institute for Community Birth and Midwifery (PICBM), True North Birth Center, and the National Partnership on Women and Families.

    “As a retired military spouse, a mother who relied on TRICARE during my own pregnancies, and a midwife who has supported countless families, I know firsthand the unique challenges military families face. Being restationed—sometimes well into pregnancy—often means starting over and scrambling to find a new provider in areas already facing serious shortages. For the past year and a half, I’ve been advocating for a solution which has become The MIDWIVES for Service Members Act. Midwives provide safe, evidence-based, and compassionate care that meets families where they are. This bill will not only improve continuity of care for military families—it will expand access to high-quality maternity care nationwide. I’m deeply grateful to Representatives Strickland, Ciscomani, Randall, and all the supporters of this bill for recognizing the urgent need to better serve our nation’s heroes and their loved ones—no matter where duty takes them,” said Ashley Jones, Licensed Midwife and Executive Director of True North Birth Center please.

    “The MIDWIVES for Servicemembers Act directly addresses a critical gap in maternity care for military families by expanding TRICARE to include all credentialed midwives. By recognizing Certified Professional Midwives and Certified Midwives as authorized providers, this bill not only increases access to care, especially in underserved areas, but also affirms the right of military families to choose safe community-based care. With over half of U.S. birth centers staffed by CPMs, this legislation will dramatically expand access to midwifery-led birth center services. NACPM strongly supports this bill as a meaningful, evidence-based solution that honors the dignity, autonomy, and well-being of our nation’s servicemembers and their families,” said Cassaundra Jah, Executive Director of the National Association of Certified Professional Midwives.

    “The National Partnership for Women & Families applauds the reintroduction of the MIDWIVES for Servicemembers Act, which would provide more care options for servicemembers, especially ones that reside in rural or maternity care shortage areas,” said Amani Echols, Senior Manager for Maternal & Infant Health at the National Partnership for Women & Families. “Research shows that midwifery care provides equal or better care and outcomes compared to physician care on many fronts. For example, midwifery care results in higher rates of spontaneous vaginal birth, higher rates of breastfeeding, higher satisfaction with care, and lower overall costs. Passage of the MIDWIVES for Servicemembers Act is an integral step towards improving maternal and infant health.”

    “Expanding midwifery coverage for service members is a lasting investment in families,” says Leseliey Welch, Co-Founder and CEO of Birth Center Equity. “Evidence shows that the midwifery model of care leads to excellent outcomes including lower rates of interventions like cesarean sections and episiotomies, and increased patient satisfaction. Midwifery care also emphasizes a personalized, relationship-centered approach, fostering trust and empowerment for the birthing person.” With this bill, says Welch, “we hope that more and more service members will gain access to birth centers, the only health care facilities based in the midwifery model of care.”

    “The American Association of Birth Centers is proud to support the Midwives for Servicemembers Act. Expanding coverage to include certified professional midwives and certified midwives will significantly improve access to midwifery-led birth center care. We commend Rep. Marilyn Strickland, Rep. Emily Randall, Rep. Juan Ciscomani, and Rep. Jen Kiggans for their leadership in advancing high-quality maternity care for our service members and their families,” said Trinisha Williams, President of AABC.

    “Certified Professional Midwives and Certified Midwives at freestanding birth centers stand ready to serve military families, but Tricare doesn’t currently reimburse for their care. The Policy Institute for Community Birth and Midwifery is deeply grateful to Congresswoman Strickland for introducing the Midwives for Service Members Act, which would ensure these nationally certified providers are reimbursed. As military hospitals close maternity units and care deserts grow, midwives and birth centers are vital to filling the gap and ensuring military families aren’t left without options, said Mary Lawlor, CPM, Executive Director, Policy Institute for Community Birth and Midwifery.”

    “The American College of Nurse-Midwives urges policymakers to support the Midwives for Service Members Act to ensure that military families have access to the full range of high-quality maternity care options, including midwifery services. Expanding access to certified midwives and certified professional midwives within the Military Health System is a cost-effective, evidence-based strategy to improve maternal health outcomes, enhance patient satisfaction, and address longstanding disparities in access to care for those who serve our country,” said Michelle Munroe, retired Army Colonel, and CEO of the American College of Nurse-Midwives

    You can read the full bill text here.

    Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. She is Whip of the New Democrat Coalition, Secretary of the Congressional Black Caucus, and is one of the first Korean-American women elected to Congress.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswomen Tenney and Fischbach Reintroduce the MOMS Act

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

    Washington, DC – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today alongside Congresswoman Fischbach (MN-7), reintroduced 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.

    “Being pro-life means supporting mothers and their babies during every phase of life. The MOMS Act offers vital resources and assistance during pregnancy and the earliest stages of motherhood and childhood to ensure mothers and babies receive the care and support they deserve. We must ensure that all mothers receive the physical, emotional, and financial support necessary to carry their pregnancies to term, support themselves and their newborn babies, and ultimately choose life,” said Congresswoman Tenney.

    “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. “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.” 

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  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Congressman Sorensen Demands the Department of Defense Protect Critical National Security Jobs at the Rock Island Arsenal

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

    Congressman Sorensen During House Armed Services Committee Hearing: “To Maintain Our Country’s Readiness, I Strongly Oppose Civilian Workforce Cuts to the Rock Island Arsenal”

    Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) fiercely advocated for protecting essential jobs at the Rock Island Arsenal during a House Armed Services Committee hearing amidst news reports suggesting the Department of Defense is planning a significant reduction in force at the Arsenal. 

    The Arsenal plays a critical role in maintaining our country’s military readiness to combat threats around the globe and any potential layoffs threaten to hurt our national security. 

    “Our mission here at the Arsenal is essential,” said Congressman Eric Sorensen. “At a time when we face all kinds of threats all across the globe, we need a strong civilian workforce that is supporting the Department of Defense and its readiness to maintain our country’s readiness. I strongly oppose civilian workforce cuts to the Rock Island Arsenal and across the Department of Defense.” 

    Congressman Sorensen has taken advantage of his new position on the House Armed Services Committee to advocate for the Rock Island Arsenal. He recently led a bipartisan effort with Senators Chuck Grassley, Dick Durbin, and Tammy Duckworth to ensure the Department of Defense would not be jeopardizing our country’s military readiness with large job cuts. Earlier this year, he introduced the Arsenal Workload Sustainment Act, which would ensure the Rock Island Arsenal can remain competitive, create good-paying jobs, and sustain the regional economy. 
    You can watch the full remarks from Congressman Sorensen HERE. 

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

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

    Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) announced today that Sara Jorgensen, a senior at Peoria Notre Dame High School, is the winner of the 2025 Congressional Art Competition for Illinois’ 17th District. Sara’s piece, Humility & Acceptance, will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol building for one year. 

    “Sara’s artwork truly reflects the incredible talent and creativity of young artists across our district,” said Congressman Eric Sorensen. “Her piece, ‘Humility & Acceptance,’ is a beautiful reminder of how small moments can have a big impact. It’s an honor to help showcase the next generation of artists and give them a platform to share their vision with the entire country.” 

    Jorgensen’s winning piece will be displayed in the halls of the U.S. Capitol for one year. 

    As the district winner, Sara’s artwork will be displayed for one year in the U.S. Capitol alongside winning pieces from Congressional Districts across the nation. Her work will also be featured on the U.S. House of Representatives’ Congressional Art Competition website. 

    Sara Jorgensen created her piece inside her Art class at Peoria Notre Dame High School 

    The Congressional Art Competition began in 1982 and has accepted more than 650,000 pieces of art from high schoolers across the country. This is a nationwide program that highlights and encourages the artistic talent of high school students. Each spring, students from every district submit original pieces for the chance to have their work displayed in Washington, D.C. 

    You can view and download a video highlighting Sara Jorgensen’s artwork here.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Sorensen Leads Push to Expand Rural Broadband Access with Two Bills

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

    Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) announced the reintroduction of two bipartisan bills — the Rural Broadband Assistance Act and the ReConnecting Rural America Act — to expand access to affordable, high-speed internet in rural communities across Illinois and the country. 

    “Every hometown in Illinois deserves the necessary tools to stay connected and grow,” said Congressman Eric Sorensen. “Whether it’s helping our neighbors get the support they need to apply for broadband funding or strengthening programs that bring faster internet to places that need it most, these bills are about making sure rural America isn’t left behind.” 

    The Rural Broadband Assistance Act will make it easier for small towns, local governments, nonprofits, and rural businesses to access expert support when applying for broadband funding — making sure communities have the help they need to get connected. 

    The ReConnecting Rural America Act, introduced alongside Congressman Zach Nunn (IA-03) and co-led by Representative Gabe Vasquez (D-NM), strengthens the USDA’s successful ReConnect Program by reauthorizing it, improving service speed requirements, and ensuring communities most in need are prioritized for funding. 

    Both bills reflect Congressman Sorensen’s ongoing commitment to bridging the digital divide and delivering real results for rural Illinois. Congressman Sorensen is hoping to include both pieces of legislation in the Farm Bill. 

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Pfluger’s “DHS Restrictions on Confucius Institutes” Act Passes the House

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

    WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11), Chairman of the House Committee on Homeland Security’s Subcommittee on Counterterrorism and Intelligence, had legislation pass through the U.S. House of Representatives. Chairman Pfluger’s “DHS Restrictions on Confucius Institutes Act“ will defend American students from the Chinese Communist Party by prohibiting any Department of Homeland Security (DHS) funding from flowing to universities that host a Confucius Institute or maintain a relationship with a Chinese entity of concern.

    Following the legislation’s passage, Rep. Pfluger released the following statement:

    “The Chinese Communist Party has proven to be an untrustworthy, adversarial actor by continually undermining American interests at every turn – in no world should they have a front-row seat in our classrooms funded by our own taxpayer dollars,” said Rep. Pfluger. “The bipartisan passage of my legislation today sends a clear message: America’s universities and research labs will no longer be used to steal critical research, recruit talent for Military-Civil fusion enterprises, conduct espionage, commit transnational repression, and influence academic institutions to the benefit of the CCP. This is a victory for our national security and future generations of Americans.”

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

    Speaker of the House Mike Johnson said, “House Republicans will not tolerate adversarial regimes, like the Chinese Communist Party, using propaganda to manipulate students, undermine academic institutions, and compromise national security. Higher education in America must remain free from foreign malign influence. I commend Rep. Pfluger for his leadership in protecting students and ensuring taxpayer dollars are not used to fund institutions that host Confucius Institutes or maintain ties to Chinese entities supporting CCP interests.”

    House Committee on Homeland Security Chairman Mark Green said, “Beijing’s malign influence should never have been allowed to reach American campuses. Chairman Pfluger’s legislation will protect our universities from the CCP’s efforts to steal American research and innovation, which Xi uses to undermine our nation’s sovereignty,” Chairman Green said. “After years of hard work by Chairman Pfluger, I look forward to getting this bill to the Senate and signed into law by President Trump. We must prevent American taxpayer dollars from funding our greatest geopolitical adversary’s sinister ambitions.”

    Majority Leader Steve Scalise said, “For years, the Chinese Communist Party targeted the United States and our institutes of higher education in attempts to influence and exploit American classrooms and research. Specifically, Confucius Institutes were extensions of the CCP’s influence network meant to conduct espionage in the U.S., impact academic institutions’ decisions, push propaganda, and steal intellectual property and trade secrets. We cannot allow foreign adversaries to infiltrate U.S. education, participate in shaping the minds of America’s future leaders, or allow them access to steal intellectual property. That is why we must ensure American institutions of higher education fully cut ties with these hostile entities or face consequences.  I’m grateful to Rep. Pfluger for his leadership on this issue and for bringing legislation to protect our best and brightest.”

    House GOP Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain said, “There’s no place for Chinese propaganda in America. House Republicans are ending CCP influence on college campuses and ensuring taxpayer dollars are not funding foreign agendas. My colleague Rep. Pfluger has done a great job getting this bill to the finish line, and I’m proud to have voted YES to pass this bill and defend our students from harmful CCP influence.”

    Majority Whip Tom Emmer said, “We cannot allow the Chinese Communist Party to infiltrate and influence American schools without consequence—especially schools that are funded by taxpayer dollars. I thank Rep. Pfluger for leading a bill that rightly restricts federal funding to any institution of higher education that chooses to align with the CCP’s anti-American agenda.” 

     

    Background:

    Confucius Institutes have historically been presented as centers for promoting Chinese language and culture, but unfortunately, they have proven to be far from that. Confucius Institutes have been used to steal critical research, recruit talent for Military-Civil fusion enterprises, conduct espionage, commit transnational repression, and influence academic institutions to the benefit of the CCP. 

    At their peak, the United States hosted approximately 118 Confucius Institutes, primarily at colleges and universities. There are fewer than 14 active Confucius Institutes today, but the danger remains. Many of these programs have rebranded themselves within universities with the same mission as before: to subvert national security and expand CCP influence operations. 

    Prior to its passage, Chairman Pfluger delivered remarks on the House floor highlighting these dangers and more to outline the critical need for this legislation.

    Chairman Pfluger has led this legislation since the 117th Congress, reintroduced the “DHS Restrictions on Confucius Institutes Act, and held a CTI Subcommittee hearing to combat threats posed by the Chinese Communist Party to U.S. National Security. During the hearing, Chairman Pfluger had experts agree with the need for his legislation, stating that federal funding should be restricted from universities with Confucius institutes. 

    Following the hearing, Chairman Pfluger’s legislation passed through the House Committee on Homeland Security’s legislative markup with bipartisan support. 

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Feenstra Leads Legislation to Help Iowa Farmers Buy Precision Agriculture Equipment

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Reps. Randy Feenstra (R-IA) and Jimmy Panetta (D-CA) introduced the Precision Agriculture Loan Program Act, which would establish the first-ever federal precision agriculture loan program in the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency. 

    “In 2022 and 2024, I attended the Farm Progress Show in Boone, Iowa to meet with our farmers, producers, equipment manufacturers, and ag innovators. On both occasions, I was impressed by the cutting-edge advancements in farm technology that help lower input costs for our farmers, increase farm productivity and profitability, and strengthen Iowa’s ability to feed and fuel our country and the world. However, we need to make precision agriculture equipment accessible to producers across our state and around the nation,” said Rep. Feenstra. “That’s why I introduced the Precision Agriculture Loan Program Act to ensure that our producers can secure low-interest loans to invest in precision agriculture tools and make their operations more efficient. This legislation will help our farmers save precious dollars, increase yields, and compete with countries like China on a more level playing field.”

    “Despite the promise of precision agriculture, the high cost of this advanced equipment continues to put it out of reach for too many farmers,” said Rep. Panetta.  “Our bipartisan Precision Agriculture Loan Program Act would provide a practical solution by offering targeted financing to help producers purchase and adopt this technology.  By expanding access to these tools, we can strengthen farm operations, boost sustainability, and enhance our long-term food and climate security.”

    “Access to cutting-edge technology is not a nice-to-have but a must-have for farmers, ranchers, and foresters across the country. Equipment manufacturers applaud U.S. Representatives Randy Feenstra and Jimmy Panetta for championing the first-ever federal precision agriculture loan program in the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency. The Precision Agriculture Loan (PAL) Act will allow more farmers to leverage precision agriculture technologies to remain competitive and operate more efficiently,” said Kip Eideberg, Senior Vice President of Government and Industry Relations at the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM).

    More specifically, this legislation would offer loans up to $500,000 between 3 and 12 years in length at interest rates of less than 2% and create a list of acceptable precision agriculture technologies approved by the Farm Service Agency and covered by the USDA. This funding would also allow farmers to retrofit existing equipment with new technologies.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Application Period Open for Service Academy Nominations for Class of 2030

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Lauren Boebert (Colorado, 3)

    EATON, CO—The Office of Congresswoman Lauren Boebert (CO-04) has officially opened the application process for Class of 2030 nominations to a U.S. Service Academy.

    “Last year I had the privilege of nominating 12 of the Third District’s best and brightest to the U.S. Service Academies,” stated Congresswoman Boebert. “These patriotic young men and women who care deeply about the future of America and public service have committed to serving at least five years in the military following graduation. I look forward to the selection process this year and can’t wait to meet our district’s applicants who are willing to serve our great country!”

    Background:

    If you are a high school student interested in serving our country by attending a military academy, or if you know of a high school student who might be interested, the Service Academy Nomination application is now open for the Class of 2030. The Fall 2025 deadline for applications is September 12, 2025. 

    Interested applicants should review information posted on the Service Academy Nomination website prior to applying.

    Members of Congress are able to nominate candidates for appointment to four of the five U.S. Service Academies: U.S. Military Academy (USMA), West Point, NY; the U.S. Naval Academy (USNA), Annapolis, MD; the U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA), Colorado Springs, CO; and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA), Kings Point, NY. The fifth service academy, the U.S. Coast Guard Academy (USCGA), New London, CT, does not require a congressional nomination for appointment.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Lauren Boebert Statement on HNR Reconciliation Package

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Lauren Boebert (Colorado, 3)

    WASHINGTON, DC– Congresswoman Lauren Boebert (CO-04) provided the following statement on the passage of the House Natural Resources Committee reconciliation package:

    “I was proud to vote for the House Natural Resources Committee package, which saves taxpayers $18.5 billion and gets us one step closer to passing President Trump’s One Big, Beautiful Bill. This effort aligns with President Trump’s mission of unleashing American energy by utilizing our federal lands for energy exploration, streamlining our burdensome permitting process to help Colorado’s oil & gas producers, investing in water infrastructure, and stopping the implementation of Resource Management Plans in the West that have been created by D.C. bureaucrats and placed ideology ahead of Americans.”

    Congresswoman Boebert’s remarks from the House Natural Resources reconciliation hearing can be viewed HERE.

    The language for Congresswoman Boebert’s American Energy Act was included within the HNR reconciliation package, which will generate revenue by streamlining the permitting process and prohibits malicious lawsuits from holding up energy exploration projects.

    BACKGROUND:

    As part of the House Reconciliation process, the House Natural Resources Committee was tasked with passing a budgetary package to assist in cost savings for the American taxpayer. The following background information on the package is courtesy of HNR Committee Chairman Bruce Westerman (AR-04), who highlighted the following provisions:

    • Reinstating quarterly onshore oil and gas lease sales, generating $12 billion in revenue.
    • Mandating at least 30 lease sales in the Gulf of America over the next 15 years and six in the Cook Inlet, generating billions of dollars in new revenue.
    • Returning to reasonable oil and natural gas royalty rates.
    • Requiring geothermal lease sales, generating $23 million in new revenue.
    • Resuming leasing for energy production in the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska and the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, generating over $1 billion in new revenue and savings.
    • Resuming coal leasing on federal lands.
    • Increasing timber sales on federal lands and requiring long-term timber contracts.
    • Rescinding various wasteful slush funds established under the Biden administration in agencies such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the National Park Service, and the Bureau of Land Management.
    • Investing in water infrastructure in the West.
    • Providing funding to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, including by establishing the National Garden of American Heroes.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Moran Votes to End CCP Infiltration of U.S. College Campuses

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

    Congressman Moran Votes to End CCP Infiltration of U.S. College Campuses

    Washington, D.C., May 7, 2025

    Washington, D.C. ­– Congressman Nathaniel Moran (R-TX-01) – a member of the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) – voted to support Congressman August Pfluger’s (R-TX-11) legislation that would put an end to CCP infiltration of American college campuses.

    “Today, House Republicans took a decisive stand against the Chinese Communist Party by passing Congressman Pfluger’s legislation to safeguard our college campuses from the growing influence of the CCP,”     said Congressman Moran. “Confucius Institutes threaten not only academic freedom but also our national security. This legislation ensures that taxpayer dollars do not go toward funding CCP-aligned organizations associated with U.S. universities, and reaffirms our commitment to protecting students, preserving academic integrity, and defending American values against the harmful influence of the CCP.”

    Specifically, the DHS Restrictions on Confucius Institutes and Chinese Entities of Concern Act would prohibit the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) from providing funds to any higher education institution that hosts Confucius Institutes, which are nonprofit cultural and educational centers funded by the CCP.

    That prohibition would also apply to institutions that have financial relationships with Chinese universities or colleges that meet other criteria such as receiving funding from or providing support to elements of the CCP.

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