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Category: United States House of Representatives

  • MIL-OSI USA: Feenstra Votes to End DHS Funding for American Universities that Host Confucius Institutes

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) voted for, and the U.S. House of Representatives passed, the DHS Restrictions on Confucius Institutes and Chinese Entities of Concern Act.

    This legislation would end funding from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to any U.S. university that hosts a Confucius Institute or maintains relationships with Chinese entities of concern.

    “From buying up our farmland to surveilling our military bases, the Chinese Communist Party is leading an aggressive campaign to destabilize the United States and undermine our national security. The establishment of so-called Confucius Institutes is an alarming way that the CCP is infiltrating our universities, targeting our students, and spreading misinformation on college campuses,” said Rep. Feenstra. “The CCP poses a serious threat to our country, which is why I voted to permanently end DHS funding for American universities that host Confucius Institutes or maintain questionable relationships with other Chinese entities of concern. We should not be encouraging – and taxpayers certainly should not be funding – CCP propaganda on our college campuses or anywhere in our country. This legislation puts taxpayers and our national security first while holding China accountable for its deceptive actions.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Pfluger Delivers Remarks on Confucius Institutes

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

    Watch his remarks here or read them as prepared for delivery below.

    Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of my bill, H.R. 881, the DHS Restrictions on Confucius Institutes and Chinese Entities of Concern Act. I have long been concerned about the threats the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) poses to our homeland.

    In the Homeland Security Committee and on my Subcommittee on Counterterrorism and Intelligence, we have heard from a wide array of national security experts and law enforcement officials who have continuously raised alarms about the CCP’s increasing subversive activities inside our country through organizations like the CCP’s Confucious Institutes, the Thousand Talents Program, and other CCP-affiliated groups.

    While Confucius Institutes are presented as centers for promoting Chinese language and culture, it is proven that they 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.

    Another example is the CCP’s Thousand Talents Program, which the FBI has listed as the most prolific sponsor of state-sponsored talent recruitment programs that bring outside knowledge and innovation back to China, often through stealing trade secrets, breaking export control laws, or violating conflict-of-interest policies. These talent recruitment programs are a win-win for China. China wins twice. First, U.S. taxpayers are funding this research, not China. Second, China then uses the research it would not otherwise have to advance its own economic and military interests.

    Today, we are debating H.R. 881, my legislation that would prohibit DHS from funding American universities that host a Confucius Institute or Thousand Talents Program or maintain relationships with Chinese entities of concern. H.R. 881 also ensures that universities prioritize the education of their students over any partnerships with these institutes.

    This legislation passed the House last year with bipartisan support, and this year, H.R. 881 passed through the Committee on Homeland Security with unanimous bipartisan support. I want to thank Chairman Green, Ranking Member Thompson, my counterpart on the Subcommittee on Counterterrorism and Intelligence, Ranking Member Magaziner, and the Committee on Homeland Security staff for moving this critical legislation forward.

    The DHS Restrictions on Confucius Institutes and Chinese Entities of Concern Act would play a vital role in protecting our students, intellectualproperty, and national security. Together, this effort demonstrates a unified, bipartisan way to protect our nation from the insidious influence of the CCP and that our students, our intellectual property, and our national security are all protected from the malign influence of the CCP.

    I urge all of my Republican and Democrat colleagues to support this legislation. Thank you, and I reserve the balance of my time.


    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.

    Chairman Pfluger has led this legislation since the 117th Congress. Earlier this year, he 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.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CONGRESSWOMAN HAGEMAN INTRODUCES NO STUDENT VISAS FOR SANCTUARY CITIES ACT

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

    Washington, D.C. – Earlier today Congresswoman Hageman introduced the No Student Visas for Sanctuary Cities Act, an action which will hold sanctuary cities accountable for their violation of federal law and for their aiding of illegal aliens. The bill seeks to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to prohibit student visas for educational institutions in sanctuary jurisdictions. 

    “Leftist proponents of open borders, or no borders at all, have infiltrated many of our states, cities, and counties and caused the so- called leaders within them to completely undermine the rule of law. Instead of protecting their citizens, sanctuary city officials have chosen those here unlawfully – many of them members of international cartels and other transnational criminal organizations – over their constituents.” She stated. “Prohibiting student visas is an accountability measure to pressure obstructors of justice to take action in complying with the rules set forth by Congressional representatives of the American people.”  

    Original co-sponsors of the bill include Brandon Gill (TX-26), Paul Gosar, (AZ-9), and Troy Nehls, (TX-22).  

    This legislation fortifies the President’s Executive Order issued last week holding sanctuary cities liable for obstruction of justice.  

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Valadao Joins Bipartisan Group of Members to Reintroduce the Farm Workforce Modernization Act

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

    WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) joined Reps. Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Dan Newhouse (WA-04), Mike Simpson (ID-02), Jim Costa (CA-21), and Adam Gray (CA-13) to reintroduce the Farm Workforce Modernization Act. This bill, which passed the House of Representatives with strong bipartisan support in the 116th and 117th Congresses, updates the H-2A agricultural guest worker program and is a compromise solution that provides needed stability for farmers and farmworkers. Congressman Valadao was a co-lead of the bill in the 118th Congress and a co-sponsor in the 117th Congress.

    “Central Valley farmers are the backbone of our nation’s agricultural industry, but they continue to face serious challenges finding and retaining a reliable workforce,” said Congressman Valadao. “The current H-2A program doesn’t meet the labor needs of many producers, but the Farm Workforce Modernization Act is a positive step to addressing our agriculture workforce needs and securing our food supply chain. Food security is national security, and I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to find long-term solutions that support our farmers and strengthen our food supply chain.”

    “The men and women who work America’s farms feed the nation. However, in the past few years, we’ve seen labor shortages contribute to high food prices,” said Rep. Lofgren. “As economic chaos and confusion continues, it is essential we provide stability to this critical workforce. The Farm Workforce Modernization Act would do so, which will protect the future of our farms and our food supply. It is well-past time we get this bipartisan legislation twice passed by the House of Representatives to the President’s desk.”

    “The workforce crisis has come to a boiling point for farmers across the country. Reintroducing the Farm Workforce Modernization Act sends a clear message to farmers that we are working hard to find solutions that ease the burdens brought on by the current state of the H-2A program. This legislation is necessary to lay the groundwork for continued negotiations, and I am committed to working closely with my colleagues to enact long-term, durable reforms to our agriculture guest worker programs. This issue has been, and remains, my top priority and unified Republican government is an opportunity to deliver for our farmers and ranchers,” said Rep. Newhouse.

    “The workforce crisis is the most important issue facing agriculture in our country,” said Rep. Simpson. “Supporting American agriculture means providing a stable, reliable, and legal workforce, and this legislative solution addresses one of the most pressing concerns our farmers and ranchers face. Now that we finally have an administration taking the border crisis seriously, Congress must address this issue and enact necessary reforms. It is well past time we solve this problem. I look forward to working with my colleagues and getting this critical legislation across the finish line to President Trump’s desk for his signature.”

    “American agriculture depends on a reliable workforce and nowhere is that more true than in California’s San Joaquin Valley, where farmworkers are the backbone of our economy. This legislation is a common-sense, bipartisan solution that provides stability for our farmers and dignity for the workers who feed America. If President Trump is serious about fixing our broken immigration system, he should work with us to get this bill across the finish line,” said Congressman Costa. 

    “Farm workers and the larger agricultural community are the backbone of the Central Valley’s economy,” said Congressman Gray. “Labor shortages on our farms could lead to higher food prices across the country and the Valley cannot afford to be shorthanded. This commonsense bipartisan bill would stabilize our vital workforce and make sure Valley farmers can continue to feed families across the country.”

    The Farm Workforce Modernization Act would:

    • Reform the H-2A program to provide more flexibility for employers, while ensuring critical protections for workers.
    • Establish a program for agricultural workers in the United States to choose to earn legal status through continued agricultural employment and contribution to the U.S. agricultural economy.
    • Focus on modification to make the program more responsive and user-friendly for employers and provides access to the program for industries with year-round labor needs.

    Read the full bill here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Vasquez: DEA Drug Bust Underscores Urgent Need to Resource Border, Fight Cartels

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Following a major federal operation that dismantled a Sinaloa Cartel-linked drug trafficking ring in New Mexico, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) is renewing his call for a fully resourced border and bipartisan action to combat fentanyl and transnational criminal networks. 

    “The takedown of a cartel-linked drug ring in southeastern New Mexico is a major win in the fight to keep fentanyl and organized crime off our streets,” said Vasquez. “These are the targeted operations that save lives and protect our communities. But to stay ahead, we need a fully resourced border with proper staffing, cutting-edge technology, and modern infrastructure at our ports of entry. This bust proves that when we work together, we can disrupt the cartels and defend our neighborhoods. I’ll keep pushing for real, bipartisan solutions that stop the flow of deadly drugs and keep New Mexico families safe.”

    The bust, which resulted in dozens of arrests and the seizure of dangerous narcotics, highlights the ongoing threat cartels pose to New Mexico communities and the need for smart, coordinated enforcement strategies.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Clyde Introduces Constitutional Hearing Protection Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Andrew S. Clyde (R-GA)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Andrew Clyde (GA-09) introduced the Constitutional Hearing Protection Act (CHPA) to remove the unconstitutional taxation, registration, and regulation of suppressors under the National Firearms Act (NFA).

    “Burdensome regulations and unconstitutional taxes shouldn’t stand in the way of protecting American gun owners’ hearing,” said Clyde. “As an ardent defender of our Second Amendment liberties, I’m working to remove all infringements on our God-given right to keep and bear arms. By deregulating suppressors, eliminating the costly $200 tax stamp on these firearms, and avoiding additional taxation, my legislation offers a constitutional solution to increase Americans’ access to suppressors. Congress must advance this commonsense measure to preserve our Second Amendment rights and protect the hearing of millions of gun owners.”

    Bill text of the Constitutional Hearing Protection Act is available HERE.

    Original cosponsors include (31): Representatives Nick Begich (AK-At-Large), Josh Brecheen (OK-02), Eric Burlison (MO-07), Eli Crane (AZ-02), Troy Downing (MT-02), Ron Estes (KS-04), Brad Finstad (MN-01), Brandon Gill (TX-26), Paul Gosar (AZ-09), Andy Harris (MD-01), Mark Harris (NC-08), Diana Harshbarger (TN-01), Kevin Hern (OK-01), Clay Higgins (LA-03), Thomas Massie (KY-04), Tom McClintock (CA-05), John McGuire (VA-05), Mary Miller (IL-15), Barry Moore (AL-01), Ralph Norman (SC-05), Andy Ogles (TN-05), Scott Perry (PA-10), Guy Reschenthaler (PA-14), Michael Rulli (OH-06), Keith Self (TX-03), Lloyd Smucker (PA-11), Greg Steube (FL-17), Marlin Stutzman (IN-03), Claudia Tenney (NY-24), Tony Wied (WI-08), and Ryan Zinke (MT-01).

    The Constitutional Hearing Protection Act is also supported by Gun Owners of America (GOA), the National Association for Gun Rights (NAGR), and the National Rifle Association (NRA).

    “Gun Owners of America is fully supportive of Rep. Clyde’s Constitutional Hearing Protection Act — which eliminates all unconstitutional excise taxes on firearm suppressors. GOA urges the House Committee on Ways and Means to swiftly advance this legislation to restore the right of the People and protect the hearing of millions of gun owners,” said GOA’s Director of Federal Affairs Aidan Johnston.

    “The National Association for Gun Rights supports the full deregulation of suppressors, as they should be classified just like any other accessory. Congressman Andrew Clyde’s Constitutional Hearing Protection Act would remove suppressors from the NFA’s burdensome regulations, and eliminate the egregious $200 tax stamp. These are great first steps. We thank Congressman Clyde for being a leader on this issue and on the Second Amendment,” said NAGR President Dudley Brown.

    “Gun owners should not have to pay a tax, ask governmental permission, and endure wait times that can be over a year, just to protect their hearing while exercising their constitutionally protected rights,” said John Commerford, Executive Director of NRA-ILA. “Suppressors do not silence firearms, but they are proven to mitigate hearing damage from shooting. On behalf of our millions of members, the NRA thanks Representative Andrew Clyde for introducing the Constitutional Hearing Protection Act.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Dan Goldman Blasts Hill Republicans for Exacerbating Violence and Disorder at Metropolitan Detention Center

    Source: US Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10)

    17 Inmates Have Died at the Metropolitan Detention Center Since 2020, Largely Due to Staffing Shortages and Poor Wages 

     

    Trump Admin Has Terminated Retention Bonuses for Bureau of Prison Correctional Officers and Cancelled Their Collective Bargaining Agreements 

     

    President’s FY26 Budget Does Not Include Funding for Law Mandating Meaningful Oversight of Federal Prisons 

     

    Rep. Dan Goldman: We must be living in Fantasyland. We’re trying to have a normal hearing doing oversight of the Bureau of Prisons when the President and Elon Musk are taking a hatchet to the Bureau, canceling the collective bargaining agreement for all of the correctional officers, eliminating retention bonuses for the correctional officers while making sure that every masked undercover Gestapo agent with ICE gets a $40,000 bonus.” 

     

    Rep. Dan Goldman: “My colleagues sit over there acting as if they’re really interested in correcting the Bureau of Prisons and all the problems that we have there. Then put some money where it is, because we all know that’s how you correct the problem. That’s how you implement the First Step Act. That’s how you implement and fund the Federal Prison Oversight Act, a bipartisan bill that we passed last Congress that has not been funded and can’t do anything. 

     

    Watch Full Committee Remarks Here 

    Washington, DC – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) today at a House Judiciary Committee hearing condemned the impact of the Trump administration’s policies on the Brooklyn Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) in his district, where 17 inmates have died since 2020, in large part due to correctional officers’ inability to effectively oversee the prison due to staffing shortages. The Congressman highlighted how the Trump administration is undermining the safety and security of both prison inmates and staff by eliminating corrections officers’ collective bargaining agreements and staff retention bonuses. 

    A rush transcript of Congressman Goldman’s committee remarks is below: 

    Congressman Goldman: Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman. And I would ordinarily appreciate this hearing very much, because the Bureau of Prisons is a critical component of the Department of Justice that is woefully underfunded and struggling to implement their mission.  

    But we must be living in Fantasyland. We’re trying to have a normal hearing doing oversight of the Bureau of Prisons when the President and Elon Musk are taking a hatchet to the Bureau, canceling the collective bargaining agreement for all of the correctional officers, eliminating retention bonuses for the correctional officers while making sure that every masked undercover Gestapo agent with ICE gets a $40,000 bonus. In fact, the bill you passed last week, that Republicans passed last week would give $12 billion in pay increases and bonuses to ICE and CBP, and nothing to the Bureau of Prisons. 

    And yet my colleagues sit over there acting as if they’re really interested in correcting the Bureau of Prisons and all the problems that we have there. Then put some money where it is, because we all know that’s how you correct the problem. That’s how you implement the First Step Act. That’s how you implement and fund the Federal Prison Oversight Act, a bipartisan bill that we passed last Congress that has not been funded and can’t do anything. 

    You are passing a partisan reconciliation bill. You have the purse strings. And yet we’re supposed to sit here thinking that you’re really serious about making sure that we’re helping the corrections officer. It’s just bogus.  

    And let’s take the Metropolitan Detention Center in my district in Brooklyn. Since 2020, there have been 17 inmates that have been killed, and the staffing shortages are devastating and have been devastating. 

    There have been numerous, numerous lockdowns simply because there is not enough staff. So, inmates are kept in isolation for multiple days at a time because of staffing shortages. There was a crackdown by the FBI and the Department of Justice in March. 25 inmates were arrested for all sorts of various smuggling efforts, violent assaults with scalpels. And, as my colleague from Florida said, smuggling cell phones.  

    There’s not enough staff to actually monitor what is going on. So, what did they do at MDC? Well, under President Biden, they implemented a retention bonus of 35% that enabled them to hire 87 additional people for that one location, the most in years and years. And it decreased lockdowns. 

    Since August of 2024, there have only been three days of lockdowns due to staff shortages. So, you would think that’s a productive way of boosting employment, boosting staffing, which I think every single one of our witnesses has said is an essential part of addressing the problems in the Bureau of Prisons.  

    So, what does President Trump do? Gets rid of the retention bonuses – gone. Gets rid of the collective bargaining agreement. How on earth do you think you are going to increase staffing by taking away all of the correction officers’ benefits, by taking away their retention bonus, which proved to be successful and is necessary.  

    And yet we’re here talking about implementing recidivism programs. It’s a joke. So, Mr. Biggs, you asked for some action items. 

    I’ll give you some action items.  

    Rep. Andy Biggs (AZ-05): Can I ask you a question? 

    Congressman Goldman: After I give you the action items, I’m happy to have a colloquy. One: restore the retention bonuses so that we can hire more corrections officers to implement all of the laws that we want to implement in a bipartisan way, and so we can keep the inmates safe. 

    Two:  restore the collective bargaining agreement rather than unilaterally canceling a negotiated collective bargaining agreement that gives the corrections officers very important protections.  

    And three: let’s fund the First Step Act. Let’s fund the Federal Prison Oversight Act, which has not been funded. There are three action items that you can take back to Mr. Trump to try to actually address the issues at the Bureau of Prisons. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Amid Trump Tariff Uncertainty, Oregon’s Entire Democratic Delegation Rallies Behind West Coast Seafood Industry

    Source: US Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04)

    May 07, 2025

    After devastating order cancellations due to tariffs, Wyden, Merkley, Bonamici, Bynum, Dexter, Hoyle and Salinas ask USDA to buy West Coast pink shrimp

    For Immediate Release: May 7, 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S Representative Val Hoyle, along with U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley and U.S. Representatives Suzanne Bonamici, Janelle Bynum, Maxine Dexter, and Andrea Salinas today rallied behind the West Coast seafood industry by asking the U.S. Department of Agriculture to buy Oregon pink shrimp as soon as possible to help lessen the damage from Donald Trump’s tariffs. 

     “Commercial fishing, seafood processing, and distribution is an integral part of the numerous small ports and rural communities that dot America’s Pacific coast,” the legislators wrote in a letter to Bruce Summers, USDA Agricultural Marketing Services Administrator. “The industry contributes hundreds of millions of dollars and thousands of jobs to the region’s economy, all while providing the nation with domestic, high-quality seafood that is caught, processed, and distributed by hardworking Americans.”

    The West Coast seafood industry is struggling as chaotic tariff decisions create uncertainty and devastation in Oregon’s vital seafood industry. Reports of major order cancellations paired with a prolific pink shrimp harvest have set up Oregon’s rural, coastal communities for potentially ruinous losses without support from the USDA. 

    The request asks the USDA to use a legal authority known as “Section 32” to stimulate demand during challenging economic times by buying surplus foods, which are then distributed to schools, childcare centers, and food banks in need.

     “As the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) continues its work to develop a national seafood strategy that provides economic opportunity to rural communities, promotes production that better nourishes Americans, and secures a robust domestic food supply, we urge USDA to extend support and relief at the earliest opportunity,” the Oregon lawmakers wrote.

    “The loss of this significant market, coupled with the United Kingdom’s recent denial of the industry’s request for the United Kingdom to suspend its existing 20% tariff on imports of U.S. Pacific pink shrimp, poses a serious threat to the industry as supply increases rapidly with no viable outlet,” the legislators cautioned. “We urge you to use your Section 32 purchase authority to support these hardworking Americans and businesses at every point along the supply chain, and to mitigate the economic impact from the loss of these foreign markets to our coastal communities.”

    The West Coast seafood industry has voiced its urgent need for timely federal support.

    “We are incredibly grateful to Senator Wyden and the Oregon delegation for supporting the pink shrimp industry during these tumultuous and uncertain times,” West Coast Seafood Processors Association Director Lori Steele said. “A Section 32 purchase from USDA would help offset some of the major losses we are seeing in our global markets and provide an outlet for our product in the U.S. just as the 2025 season ramps up. We appreciate our delegation’s understanding of how important this is to Oregon’s coastal communities.”

    Full text of the letter is here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Zinke and Vasquez Launch Bipartisan Public Lands Caucus to Champion Conservation and Access

    Source: US Congressman Ryan Zinke (Western Montana)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Ryan Zinke (R-MT-01) and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.-02) announced the launch of the bipartisan Public Lands Caucus, a bipartisan congressional coalition focused on conserving America’s public lands and expanding access for all Americans. The caucus will build upon the trusted working relationship between Vasquez and Zinke, forged over the past two years partnering on conservation legislation, along with the momentum of a new Congress and a new generation of Western lawmakers to bring a new voice to the conversation around public lands.

    The Public Lands Caucus is founded on the belief that public lands are “for the benefit and enjoyment of the people.” It will bring lawmakers from both sides of the aisle to advance practical, consensus-driven public lands policy that conserves natural resources while supporting recreation, local economies, and public access. Caucus members are committed to bridging ideological divides and advancing pragmatic solutions to protect and manage public lands.

     

    “I follow the Theodore Roosevelt motto that public lands are ‘for the benefit and enjoyment of the people,’ and that means making sure we both conserve and manage those lands to ensure public access for the next generation,” said Rep. Ryan Zinke. “Public lands aren’t red or blue issues, it’s red white and blue. The bipartisan Public Lands Caucus brings together lawmakers who don’t agree on much, but we agree on and are ready to work together to promote policies that advance conservation and public access. I look forward to working with Co-Chair Vasquez, the vice chairs, and all the members of this caucus so future generations can enjoy the same opportunities to hunt, hike, fish, make a living and enjoy our uniquely American heritage.”

    “Public lands are where I learned to fish, hunt, and connect with my family and culture—and those experiences shaped who I am,” said Vasquez. “These lands don’t belong to one party or one group of people; they belong to all of us. The Public Lands Caucus is about protecting that birthright—bringing Democrats and Republicans together to preserve access, defend conservation, and invest in the outdoor economy that powers rural communities like mine in southern New Mexico. This is personal for me, and I’m proud to lead this bipartisan effort to keep our public lands in public hands.” 

    “We should be focusing on expanding public access to federal lands, not auctioning them off,” said Rep Dingell. “And we should be investing in our National Parks System and National Wildlife Refuges, not making it harder for Americans to visit these special places. I’m proud to be Vice-Chair of the bipartisan Public Lands Caucus because conservation has historically been, and should continue to be, a priority regardless of party. I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to protect our precious natural resources, federal lands, and beloved species.” 

    “Idahoans live in Idaho because we love our public lands,” said Rep. Simpson. “This trend is common across the West, where public lands are a part of our daily lives. As a lifelong Idahoan and Chairman of the House Interior and Environment Appropriations Subcommittee, I remain committed to preserving access to our public lands and defending our way of life. Being named Vice Chair of the Public Lands Caucus is an honor, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to ensure future generations can enjoy the same benefits that we do today. I’m thankful to Rep. Zinke for his leadership here.”

    “As someone born and raised in the Coachella Valley, I know how sacred our public lands are. Places like Joshua Tree and the new Chuckwalla National Monument are more than landscapes—they’re part of our identity, history, and culture,” said Rep. Raul Ruiz (D-CA-25) Conserving public lands means protecting cultural heritage, preserving critical ecosystems, and expanding access to nature’s healing power, especially for underserved communities. I’ll continue fighting to ensure every family—no matter where they live—can experience the beauty, health, and enjoyment that public lands offer.”

    “Public land access is integral to Montana,” said Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02). “Montanans rely on the Treasure State’s more than 30 million acres of public lands to hunt, fish, recreate, graze their livestock, and so much more. I applaud Co-Chairs Zinke and Vasquez for their efforts and look forward to working with my colleagues to find common sense solutions that preserve my constituents’ access to this fundamentally American resource.”

    “As a representative of Coastal Virginia, I know how vital our public lands and waters are to our economy, our culture, and our quality of life – from supporting tourism and outdoor recreation to sustaining jobs and protecting natural habitats,” said Congresswoman Kiggans. “I’m proud to join the bipartisan Public Lands Caucus to bring a balanced, commonsense approach to protecting these resources. From our shorelines to our forests, we must ensure that future generations can enjoy and benefit from healthy and accessible public lands across the country for years to come.”

     “Having served as Chairman of the Congressional Western Caucus for four years, I understand firsthand the importance of common-sense conservation policies that protect our precious lands while guaranteeing public access,” said Congressman Newhouse. “The bipartisan Public Lands Caucus will elevate practical land management policies that support our shared commitment to unlocking our natural resources, boosting surrounding local economies, and supporting safe recreation for all to enjoy. I thank Reps. Zinke and Vasquez for their leadership, and I look forward to working closely with the caucus this Congress.”

     

    Caucus Leadership

    Co-Chairs

    • Rep. Gabe Vasquez (D-NM-02)
    • Rep. Ryan Zinke (R-MT-01) 

    Vice Chairs

    • Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06)
    • Rep. Mike Simpson (R-ID-02)

    Members Include

    • Rep. Raul Ruiz (D-CA-25)
    • Rep. Chuck Edwards (R-NC-11)
    • Rep. Joe Neguse (D-CO-02)
    • Rep. Jen Kiggan (R-VA-02)
    • Rep. Emily Randall (D-WA-06)
    • Rep. Troy Downing (R-MT-01)
    • Rep. Steven Horsford (D-NV-04)
    • Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA-04)
    • Rep. Susie Lee (D-NV-03)
    • Rep. Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ-06)

     

    Organizational Support

    “Public lands are the backyard of the little guy, demonstrating our commitment to leaving the world a better place for our children than the one we inherited from our parents,” said Chris Wood, President and CEO of Trout Unlimited. “On behalf of Trout Unlimited members across the nation, I thank Congressmen Zinke and Vasquez and the members of the newly minted bipartisan Public Lands Caucus for their leadership upholding our legacy of public lands. Preventing large-scale transfer or sale of federal public lands helps to maintain access to some of the best places to fish and hunt on the planet. We look forward to working with the caucus to keep it that way.” 

    “On both sides of the aisle, Americans cherish our public lands,” said Joel Pedersen, president and CEO of the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership. “From the Northern Rockies of Montana to the Gila Mountains of New Mexico, these lands and waters provide invaluable opportunities to millions of hunters and anglers. We join our nation’s sportsmen and women in thanking Representatives Zinke and Vasquez for their leadership in forming the bipartisan Public Lands Caucus which will continue to advance America’s outdoor legacy.”

    Whitney Potter Schwartz, Senior Vice President, Outdoor Recreation Roundtable: “The creation of the Public Lands Caucus is a significant and welcome step forward in protecting and expanding access to our public lands and waters that power America’s $1.2 trillion outdoor recreation economy and enrich the lives of millions of Americans. Keeping public lands public is a business imperative. There couldn’t be a more important time to stand up for America’s best return on investment and keep public land selloff out of reconciliation. ORR thanks Representatives Gabe Vasquez and Ryan Zinke for their leadership and all the bipartisan members of the Caucus who have come together to champion public lands access, stewardship, and infrastructure investments. We look forward to working with the Caucus to ensure that public lands remain public and continue to be a foundation for outdoor experiences, local economies, and healthy communities for generations to come.” 

    “Public lands are essential to the emotional and economic well-being of our nation,” said Phil Ingrassia, President of the national RV Dealers Association. “RVDA applauds the creation of the Public Lands Caucus and its commitment to enhancing access and expanding the infrastructure that supports millions of Americans who enjoy these shared spaces.” 

    “America Outdoors applauds Representatives Vasquez and Zinke for their leadership in launching the bipartisan Public Lands Caucus,” said Caryn Short, America Outdoors. “Continued access to our public lands is vital to the health of the outfitting industry, rural economies, and the millions of Americans who rely on these landscapes for connection, livelihood, and adventure.” 

    Public lands are part of the shared national identify of Americans,” said Rachel Franchina, Executive Director, Society of Outdoor Recreation Professionals. “They are treasured places – both close to home and in iconic protected areas – for people to spend time with family and friends, recharge themselves and reconnect with nature. The Society of Outdoor Recreation Professionals supports Representatives Ryan Zinke (R-MT) and Gabe Vasquez (D-NM)’s Bipartisan Public Lands Caucus. High-quality experiences on public lands are something the vast majority of American value and their commitment to ensuring access to our shared heritage is more important now than ever.” 

    “Public lands make hunting, fishing, and other outdoor recreation activities accessible for millions of Americans,” said Kellis Moss, Managing Director of Federal Affairs for Ducks Unlimited. “Some of our most critical conservation programs, such as NAWCA, invest in habitat on public lands. We’re glad to see Congress prioritize conserving America’s natural places for the next generation of outdoorsmen and women, and we’re happy to support the Public Lands Caucus in this effort.”

    “The NWTF extends deep gratitude to Congressmen Vasquez and Zinke for their leadership in founding the bipartisan Public Lands Caucus,” said Jason Burckhalter, Co-CEO, National Wild Turkey Federation. “This crucial effort bolsters the unique American public trust, ensuring our public lands—vital habitats for wildlife, cornerstones of our hunting heritage, and cherished spaces for outdoor recreation—remain a shared resource, held in trust for all citizens, preserving their accessibility and stewardship for future generations.”

    “America’s upland hunters and grassland advocates applaud today’s launch of the bipartisan Public Lands Caucus,” said Ariel Wiegard, Vice President of Government Affairs, Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever. “We stand ready to work with Reps. Vasquez, Zinke, and the other Caucus members to advance public land conservation policies, increase and improve habitat and access, and energize and engage the upland conservation community. America’s grassland and sagebrush shrub-steppe ecosystems are among the most at-risk environments in the world. We are confident this Caucus will help ensure our treasured public lands deliver the promise of more wildlife and more hunters, alongside other natural resource and quality of life benefits, to the American people.”

    “Backcountry Hunters & Anglers strongly supports the creation of the Public Lands Caucus and thanks Representatives Vasquez and Zinke for bringing together a bipartisan force to defend against ongoing threats to sell or transfer our wild public lands,” said Devin O’Dea, Western Policy & Conservation Manager, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers. “Our public lands define who we are as Americans — places where anyone, regardless of background, can hunt, fish, camp or explore. The Public Lands Caucus is a crucial step in ensuring our wild public lands, waters, and wildlife endure.”

    “According to the American Horse Council’s latest economic impact study, 39 million U.S. households include a horse enthusiast, with recreational trail riders representing the largest segment of the equine industry — underscoring the critical need for access to public lands,” said Julie M. Broadway, President, American Horse Council & American Horse Council Foundation. “Conserving public lands, supporting local economies, and ensuring access for all Americans is essential to the equine community, and we strongly applaud the creation of this congressional caucus as a step toward protecting these shared resources.”

    “The Western Landowners Alliance applauds the formation of the bipartisan Public Lands Caucus to protect our public lands and thanks Representatives Vasquez and Zinke for their leadership on this issue,” said Lesli Allison, Chief Executive Officer, Western Landowners Alliance. “Care for our public lands is a priority across party lines and fence lines in the West. Western Landowners Alliance members steward tens of millions of acres of private and public land, and recognize the challenges facing federal land management and budgets. We are also acutely aware of the nation’s real housing deficit. But disposal of federal land is not a practical solution to either problem.”

    “Public lands are the source of clean drinking water for millions of Americans,” said Tom Kiernan, CEO, American Rivers. “The rivers that flow across our national parks, forests, and rangelands provide recreation and awesome scenic beauty to our country. We are excited to continue working with Congress to support the protection of these lands and rivers on behalf of all Americans. Thank you to Representatives Vasquez and Zinke for launching this caucus.”

    Watch the full launch event here.

    Access photos from the event here.

    ###

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Vasquez and Zinke Launch Bipartisan Public Lands Caucus to Champion Conservation and Access

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Gabe Vasquez (D-NM-02) and Ryan Zinke (R-MT-01) announced the launch of the bipartisan Public Lands Caucus, a bipartisan congressional coalition focused on conserving America’s public lands and expanding access for all Americans. The caucus will build upon the trusted working relationship between Vasquez and Zinke, forged over the past two years, partnering on conservation legislation, along with the momentum of a new Congress and a new generation of Western lawmakers to bring a new voice to the conversation around public lands.

     

    The Public Lands Caucus is founded on the belief that public lands are “for the benefit and enjoyment of the people.” It will bring lawmakers from both sides of the aisle to advance practical, consensus-driven public lands policy that conserves natural resources while supporting recreation, local economies, and public access. Caucus members are committed to bridging ideological divides and advancing pragmatic solutions to protect and manage public lands.

     

    WATCH: Public Lands Caucus Press Conference

     

    “Public lands are where I learned to fish, hunt, and connect with my family and culture—and those experiences shaped who I am,” said Rep. Gabe Vasquez (D-NM-02). “These lands don’t belong to one party or one group of people; they belong to all of us. The Public Lands Caucus is about protecting that birthright—bringing Democrats and Republicans together to preserve access, defend conservation, and invest in the outdoor economy that powers rural communities like mine in southern New Mexico. This is personal for me, and I’m proud to lead this bipartisan effort to keep our public lands in public hands.”

     

    “I follow the Theodore Roosevelt motto that public lands are ‘for the benefit and enjoyment of the people,’ and that means making sure we both conserve and manage those lands to ensure public access for the next generation,” said Rep. Ryan Zinke (R-MT-02). “Public lands aren’t red or blue issues, it’s red white and blue. The bipartisan Public Lands Caucus brings together lawmakers who don’t agree on much, but we agree on and are ready to work together to promote policies that advance conservation and public access. I look forward to working with Co-Chair Vasquez, the vice chairs, and all the members of this caucus so future generations can enjoy the same opportunities to hunt, hike, fish, make a living and enjoy our uniquely American heritage.”

     

    “We should be focusing on expanding public access to federal lands, not auctioning them off. And we should be investing in our National Parks System and National Wildlife Refuges, not making it harder for Americans to visit these special places,” said Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06). I’m proud to be Vice-Chair of the bipartisan Public Lands Caucus because conservation has historically been, and should continue to be, a priority regardless of party. I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to protect our precious natural resources, federal lands, and beloved species.” 

     

    “Idahoans live in Idaho because we love our public lands,” said Rep. Mike Simpson (R-ID-02). “This trend is common across the West, where public lands are a part of our daily lives. As a lifelong Idahoan and Chairman of the House Interior and Environment Appropriations Subcommittee, I remain committed to preserving access to our public lands and defending our way of life. Being named Vice Chair of the Public Lands Caucus is an honor, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to ensure future generations can enjoy the same benefits that we do today. I’m thankful to Rep. Zinke for his leadership here.”

     

    “As someone born and raised in the Coachella Valley, I know how sacred our public lands are. Places like Joshua Tree and the new Chuckwalla National Monument are more than landscapes—they’re part of our identity, history, and culture,” said Rep. Raul Ruiz (D-CA-25) Conserving public lands means protecting cultural heritage, preserving critical ecosystems, and expanding access to nature’s healing power, especially for underserved communities. I’ll continue fighting to ensure every family—no matter where they live—can experience the beauty, health, and enjoyment that public lands offer.”

     

    “Public land access is integral to Montana,” said Rep. Troy Downing (R-MT-02). “Montanans rely on the Treasure State’s more than 30 million acres of public lands to hunt, fish, recreate, graze their livestock, and so much more. I applaud Co-Chairs Zinke and Vasquez for their efforts and look forward to working with my colleagues to find common sense solutions that preserve my constituents’ access to this fundamentally American resource.”

     

    “As a representative of Coastal Virginia, I know how vital our public lands and waters are to our economy, our culture, and our quality of life – from supporting tourism and outdoor recreation to sustaining jobs and protecting natural habitats,” said Rep. Jen Kiggans (R-VA-02). “I’m proud to join the bipartisan Public Lands Caucus to bring a balanced, commonsense approach to protecting these resources. From our shorelines to our forests, we must ensure that future generations can enjoy and benefit from healthy and accessible public lands across the country for years to come.”

     

    Caucus Leadership

    Co-Chairs

    • Rep. Gabe Vasquez (D-NM-02)
    • Rep. Ryan Zinke (R-MT-01)

     

    Vice Chairs

    • Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06)
    • Rep. Mike Simpson (R-ID-02)

     

    Members Include

    • Rep. Raul Ruiz (D-CA-25)
    • Rep. Chuck Edwards (R-NC-11)
    • Rep Joe Neguse (D-CO-02)
    • Rep. Jen Kiggans (R-VA-02)
    • Rep. Emily Randall (D-WA-06)
    • Rep. Troy Downing (R-MT-01)
    • Rep. Steven Horsford (D-NV-04)
    • Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA-04)
    • Rep. Susie Lee (D-NV-03)
    • Rep. Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ-06)

     

    Organizational Support

     

    “On both sides of the aisle, Americans cherish our public lands,” said Joel Pedersen, president and CEO of the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership. “From the Northern Rockies of Montana to the Gila Mountains of New Mexico, these lands and waters provide invaluable opportunities to millions of hunters and anglers. We join our nation’s sportsmen and women in thanking Representatives Zinke and Vasquez for their leadership in forming the bipartisan Public Lands Caucus which will continue to advance America’s outdoor legacy.”

     

    Whitney Potter Schwartz, Senior Vice President, Outdoor Recreation Roundtable: “The creation of the Public Lands Caucus is a significant and welcome step forward in protecting and expanding access to our public lands and waters that power America’s $1.2 trillion outdoor recreation economy and enrich the lives of millions of Americans. Keeping public lands public is a business imperative. There couldn’t be a more important time to stand up for America’s best return on investment and keep public land selloff out of reconciliation. ORR thanks Representatives Gabe Vasquez and Ryan Zinke for their leadership and all the bipartisan members of the Caucus who have come together to champion public lands access, stewardship, and infrastructure investments. We look forward to working with the Caucus to ensure that public lands remain public and continue to be a foundation for outdoor experiences, local economies, and healthy communities for generations to come.” 

     

    Phil Ingrassia, President of the national RV Dealers Association (RVDA): “Public lands are essential to the emotional and economic well-being of our nation. RVDA applauds the creation of the Public Lands Caucus and its commitment to enhancing access and expanding the infrastructure that supports millions of Americans who enjoy these shared spaces.” 

     

    Julie Sutton, Senior Director Government Affairs, VF Corporation: VF Corporationand our portfolio of iconic outdoor brands applaud Representatives Ryan Zinke (R-MT) and Gabe Vasquez (D-NM) for their bipartisan leadership in establishing the Public Lands Caucus. This caucus has an opportunity to improve management of public lands, protect and conserve our natural resources and maintain access for everyone to enjoy the outdoors. We thank you for your commitment to our public lands. 

     

    Myke Bybee, Senior Director of Federal Relations, Trust for Public Land: “Trust for Public Land strongly commends Representatives Ryan Zinke (R-MT) and Gabe Vasquez (D-NM) for their bipartisan leadership in launching the Public Lands Caucus and introducing legislation — The Public Lands in Public Hands Act — which affirms the importance of our shared national landscapes. With Congress and the Administration considering proposals to sell off federal land, and as Americans visit public lands in record numbers—to hike, hunt, and connect with nature—their leadership could not come at a more critical time.” 

     

    Jenn Dice, President & CEO, PeopleForBikes: “Public lands are an important part of the American experience and critical to the outdoor recreation economy, including the bicycle industry. We applaud the leaders of the Public Lands Caucus who are committed to protecting, managing, and staffing our most treasured natural spaces that are a source of our national pride.” 

     

    Caryn Short, America Outdoors: “America Outdoors applauds Representatives Vasquez and Zinke for their leadership in launching the bipartisan Public Lands Caucus. Continued access to our public lands is vital to the health of the outfitting industry, rural economies, and the millions of Americans who rely on these landscapes for connection, livelihood, and adventure.” 

     

    Rachel Franchina, Executive Director, Society of Outdoor Recreation Professionals: “Public lands are part of the shared national identify of Americans. They are treasured places – both close to home and in iconic protected areas – for people to spend time with family and friends, recharge themselves and reconnect with nature. The Society of Outdoor Recreation Professionals supports Representatives Ryan Zinke (R-MT) and Gabe Vasquez (D-NM)’s Bipartisan Public Lands Caucus. High-quality experiences on public lands are something the vast majority of American value and their commitment to ensuring access to our shared heritage is more important now than ever.” 

     

    Mary Ellen Sprenkel, President & CEO, The Corps Network: “Americans love our public lands. Hundreds of millions of people visit our national parks, forests, and grasslands every year, helping drive local economies. The Corps Network proudly represents 150 Corps programs across the country that work with resource management agencies on critical maintenance projects that keep our public lands safe and open for all to enjoy. Through service on public lands, thousands of Corps participants every year gain invaluable work experience for the modern workforce. We appreciate the goal of the Public Lands Caucus to ensure Americans have access to the Great Outdoors.” 

     

    Julie M. Broadway, President, American Horse Council & American Horse Council Foundation: “According to American Horse Council’s latest economic impact study, 39 million U.S. households include a horse enthusiast, with recreational trail riders representing the largest segment of the equine industry — underscoring the critical need for access to public lands. Federal data supports this: the Bureau of Land Management estimates three million annual horseback riding visitors, along with 46,000 participating in pack use; the U.S. Forest Service cites 206,000 horseback riders, and the National Park Service reports 1.6 million. Conserving public lands, supporting local economies, and ensuring access for all Americans is essential to the equine community, and we strongly applaud the creation of this congressional caucus as a step toward protecting these shared resources.” 

     

    Dan Mahoney, Government Affairs Manager, American Prairie: “American Prairie applauds Representatives Ryan Zinke and Gabe Vasquez for launching this bipartisan caucus to protect our country’s public lands. These lands are a cherished piece of America’s heritage, and one that American Prairie is committed to conserving and expanding access to in Montana. This new caucus’s dedication to the same is worth celebrating and so are the members of Congress leading the way to do so.” 

     

    Jordan Schreiber, Director of Government Relations, The Wilderness Society: “The Wilderness Society celebrates this bipartisan caucus’s commitment to protecting public lands and access to them, which starts with keeping them in public hands. We look forward to working with members to ensure that any future efforts to sell off these national treasures to the highest bidder are defeated.” 

     

    Tom Cors, Senior Director of Legislative Affairs, The Nature Conservancy: “Public lands need to be kept in public hands. They are not just picturesque selfie backdrops. People across America depend on them for jobs, to recharge their internal batteries, and to clean our water and air. Also, wildlife depend on them for food and shelter. Through this caucus, Representatives Ryan Zinke and Gabe Vasquez are ensuring our public lands will last forever, giving life to us all.” 
     

    David Feinman, Vice President of Government Affairs, Conservation Lands Foundation: “Conservation Lands Foundation applauds Representatives Gabe Vasquez and Ryan Zinke for working across the aisle to launch the bipartisan Public Lands Caucus, which will hold Congress accountable to protect access to America’s public lands and ensure they remain in public hands. Our nation’s public lands contain remarkable and irreplaceable ecological, historical and cultural resources that reflect thousands of years of human connection to lands and waters, and we look forward to the Public Lands Caucus reflecting the overwhelming bipartisan support across America for keeping public lands in public hands.” 

     

    Maite Arce, President and CEO, Hispanic Access Foundation: “Hispanic Access Foundation applauds the launch of the bipartisan Public Lands Caucus and the leadership of Representatives Vasquez and Zinke. Public lands are essential to our way of life—they support local economies, provide space for recreation and reflection, and contribute to the health and well-being of communities across the country. This caucus is an important step toward protecting these treasured places and ensuring they remain accessible and well-managed for future generations.” 

     

    Chris Wood, President and CEO, Trout Unlimited: “Public lands are the backyard of the little guy, demonstrating our commitment to leaving the world a better place for our children than the one we inherited from our parents. On behalf of Trout Unlimited members across the nation, I thank Congressmen Zinke and Vasquez and the members of the newly minted bipartisan Public Lands Caucus for their leadership upholding our legacy of public lands. Preventing large-scale transfer or sale of federal public lands helps to maintain access to some of the best places to fish and hunt on the planet. We look forward to working with the caucus to keep it that way.” 

     

    Athan Manuel, Director of Sierra Club’s Lands Protection Program: “Our public lands are part of what makes this country great. They preserve critical habitat, provide our communities with clean air and water, and exploring these places has been a rite of passage for countless generations of Americans. It is more critical than ever that these treasured landscapes remain in the hands of we the people. The Public Lands Caucus will play an important – and bipartisan – role in ensuring Congress does its part to keep it that way.” 

     

    Tom Kiernan, CEO, American Rivers: Public lands are the source of clean drinking water for millions of Americans. The rivers that flow across our national parks, forests, and rangelands provide recreation and awesome scenic beauty to our country.  We are excited to continue working with Congress to support the protection of these lands and rivers on behalf of all Americans. Thank you to Representatives Vasquez and Zinke for launching this caucus. 

     

    Joel Pedersen, President and CEO, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership: “On both sides of the aisle, Americans cherish our public lands. From the Northern Rockies of Montana to the Gila Mountains of New Mexico, these lands and waters provide invaluable opportunities to millions of hunters and anglers. We join our nation’s sportsmen and women in thanking Representatives Zinke and Vasquez for their leadership in forming the bipartisan Public Lands Caucus which will continue to advance America’s outdoor legacy.” 

     

    Lesli Allison, Chief Executive Officer, Western Landowners Alliance: “The Western Landowners Alliance applauds the formation of the bipartisan Public Lands Caucus to protect our public lands and thanks Representatives Vazquez and Zinke for their leadership on this issue. Care for our public lands is a priority across party lines and fence lines in the West. Western Landowners Alliance members steward tens of millions of acres of private and public land, and recognize the challenges facing federal land management and budgets. We are also acutely aware of the nation’s real housing deficit. But disposal of federal land is not a practical solution to either problem.”  

     

    Paul Hendricks, Executive Director, The Conservation Alliance: “Conservation has been supported by folks from both political parties and nearly all demographics for generations – America’s best and most durable public lands protections have come from members of Congress working together across party lines. Yet many of those places are now at risk of losing those protections, which would be detrimental to our nation’s economy. Safeguarding nature creates jobs, supports local economies as well as the $1.2 trillion outdoor recreation economy, and ensures these benefits exist for future generations. The Conservation Alliance and our 200 business members are excited to see the launch of the Public Lands Caucus and thank Representative Vasquez and Representative Zinke for taking the lead.” 

     

    Devin O’Dea, Western Policy & Conservation Manager, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers: “Backcountry Hunters & Anglers strongly supports the creation of the Public Lands Caucus and thanks Representatives Vasquez and Zinke for bringing together a bipartisan force to defend against ongoing threats to sell or transfer our wild public lands. Our public lands define who we are as Americans — places where anyone, regardless of background, can hunt, fish, camp or explore. The Public Lands Caucus is a crucial step in ensuring our wild public lands, waters, and wildlife endure.” 

     

    Ariel Wiegard, Vice President of Government Affairs, Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever: “America’s upland hunters and grassland advocates applaud today’s launch of the bipartisan Public Lands Caucus, and we stand ready to work with Reps. Vasquez, Zinke, and the other Caucus members to advance public land conservation policies, increase and improve habitat and access, and energize and engage the upland conservation community. America’s grassland and sagebrush shrub-steppe ecosystems are among the most at-risk environments in the world, resulting in the decline of our most cherished grassland species and fewer places to hunt on high-quality habitat—we are confident this Caucus will help ensure our treasured public lands deliver the promise of more wildlife and more hunters, alongside other natural resource and quality of life benefits, to the American people.” 

     

    Jason Burckhalter, Co-CEO, National Wild Turkey Federation: “The NWTF extends deep gratitude to Congressmen Vasquez and Zinke for their leadership in founding the bipartisan Public Lands Caucus. This crucial effort bolsters the unique American public trust, ensuring our public lands—vital habitats for wildlife, cornerstones of our hunting heritage, and cherished spaces for outdoor recreation—remain a shared resource, held in trust for all citizens, preserving their accessibility and stewardship for future generations.”  

     

    Louis Geltman, Vice President for Policy and Government Relations, Outdoor Alliance: “Outdoor Alliance is grateful to Representatives Gabe Vasquez and Ryan Zinke for their leadership in creating the Public Lands Caucus. Public lands need champions, and we look forward to working with members of the caucus to protect public lands and waters and outdoor recreation experiences. Outdoor recreation is a bipartisan value and benefits the millions of Americans who get outside each year. We look forward to building momentum for the caucus’s work to support outdoor recreation, public lands and waters, and conservation.” 

     

    Caroline Gleich, professional athlete, advocate and former candidate for U.S. in Utah: “As someone who has spent my life exploring and advocating for public lands, I’m thrilled to support the launch of the Public Lands Caucus. These lands are more than lines on a map—they’re where we connect with nature, with each other, and with something larger than ourselves. I applaud Representative Vasquez for his leadership in creating a space in Congress to prioritize conservation, recreation, and access for all. At a time when public lands are under threat from extractive industries and political indifference, this caucus sends a clear message: our lands are not for sale. They belong to the people—and we’re here to protect them.” 

     

    America Fitzpatrick, Conservation Program Director, League of Conservation Voters: “We applaud the establishment of the bipartisan Public Lands Caucus led by Representatives Vasquez and Zinke. The bipartisan nature of this caucus underscores how public lands unite us. Public lands across the country provide countless recreational, cultural, health, and economic opportunities. Proposals like the dark-of-night amendment to sell-off public lands in Utah and Nevada during last night’s House Natural Resources Committee markup have no place in the Budget Reconciliation process and we look forward to working with the caucus to ensure our lands and waters are protected for generations to come.” 

     

    Kellis Moss, Managing Director of Federal Affairs for Ducks Unlimited: “Public lands make hunting, fishing, and other outdoor recreation activities accessible for millions of Americans. Some of our most critical conservation programs, such as NAWCA, invest in habitat on public lands. We’re glad to see Congress prioritize conserving America’s natural places for the next generation of outdoorsmen and women, and we’re happy to support the Public Lands Caucus in this effort.” 

     

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lawler, Garbarino, LaLota, and Malliotakis Release Joint Statement on Status of World Trade Center Health Program

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

    Lawler, Garbarino, LaLota, and Malliotakis Release Joint Statement on Status of World Trade Center Health Program

    Washington, D.C. , May 7, 2025

    Washington, D.C. – 5/7/2025… Today, Representatives Mike Lawler (NY-17), Andrew R. Garbarino (NY-02), Nick LaLota (NY-01), and Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11) released the following joint statement regarding the status of the World Trade Center Health Program:
     
    “After extensive conversations with the Administration, HHS has said that it is reinstating all 15 WTCHP workers and that Dr. Howard is fully empowered as program Administrator. While we appreciate this development, their employment should have never been in question. We remain in constant contact with advocates to ensure the program remains fully functional in service to our 9/11 responders and survivors, and we stand ready to take immediate and decisive action at the first sign that this is not the case.”
     
    Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York’s 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Garbarino, Lawler, LaLota, and Malliotakis Release Joint Statement on Status of World Trade Center Health Program

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representatives Andrew R. Garbarino (R-NY-02), Mike Lawler (R-NY-17), Nick LaLota (R-NY-01), and Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY-11) released the following joint statement regarding the status of the World Trade Center Health Program:

    “After extensive conversations with the Administration, HHS has said that it is reinstating all 15 WTCHP workers and that Dr. Howard is fully empowered as program Administrator. While we appreciate this development, their employment should have never been in question. We remain in constant contact with advocates to ensure the program remains fully functional in service to our 9/11 responders and survivors, and we stand ready to take immediate and decisive action at the first sign that this is not the case.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Amo Slams Republican Proposals to Tarnish Fiscal State of the Nation

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

    Congressman exposes hypocrisy of Trump’s budget bill that would explode national debt by $14 trillion

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, in a House Committee on the Budget hearing, Congressman Gabe Amo (RI-01) called out the cynical Republican proposal that would slash Medicaid by $880 billion and cut the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by $230 billion just to give more tax breaks to the wealthiest Americans. The Congressional Budget Office has confirmed that the Republican plan to slash Medicaid would lead to millions of Americans losing health coverage — hurting children, people with disabilities, seniors, new moms, and working families — while increasing the national debt by $14 trillion.

    “Republicans are convinced they have to hurt vulnerable Americans to offset tax breaks for the richest one percent of Americans… [they] think it’s right to cut health care and nutrition assistance for the vulnerable in order to make the rich even richer,” said Congressman Amo. “It doesn’t pass the smell test. The Republican plan will add $14 trillion to the national debt. That’s fiscal insanity.”

    WATCH CONGRESSMAN AMO’S REMARKS HERE

     

    BACKGROUND

    According to estimates prepared by the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office, a gross decrease of $860 billion in federal Medicaid spending would kick 2.4 million people off their health insurance by 2034.

    The extreme Republican budget is just the latest chapter in decades of Republican fiscal recklessness. Tax cuts by Presidents Bush and Trump, and their extensions, have added an astronomical $10 trillion to the national debt.

     

    REMARKS AS PREPARED FOR DELIVERY

    Thank you, Chair Arrington, for holding today’s hearing on the fiscal state of the nation.

    Republicans claim our nation is in poor fiscal health but refuse to look into the mirror to see the real problem.

    Republicans are the ones pursuing a reckless plan that adds $14 trillion to the national debt!

    Why are you hell-bent on making our nation’s fiscal state even worse?

    I’m reminded of the budget resolution markup three months ago. It’s not fiscal responsibility to slash Medicaid by $880 billion and cut SNAP by $230 billion to shovel tax breaks into the pockets of the wealthiest in our country.

    Medicaid delivers health care to a third of America and SNAP helps feed 1 in 5 Americans. But this is what Republicans are tripping over themselves to cut.

    No messaging will cover up this scheme. Republicans claim they don’t want to rip away health care from vulnerable Americans.

    Yet, the Congressional Budget Office has confirmed that the only way to find $880 billion in spending cuts is to cut Medicaid to the bone.

    This will hurt children, people with disabilities, seniors, new moms, and working-class families struggling to make ends meet.

    If you really want to protect Medicaid, sign onto Ranking Member Boyle’s discharge petition — let’s prevent draconian cuts to Medicaid and SNAP.

    Republicans are convinced they have to hurt vulnerable Americans to offset tax breaks for the richest one percent of Americans.

    You heard that right, Republicans think it’s right to cut health care and nutrition assistance for the vulnerable in order to make the rich even richer.

    It doesn’t pass the smell test. The Republican plan will add $14 trillion to the national debt.

    I’ll say that again — $14 trillion to the national debt.

    That’s fiscal insanity.

    Thank you, I yield back.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Morgan McGarvey Defends Medicaid in Congressional Hearing, Shares Story of 10-Year-Old Louisvillian

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

    May 07, 2025

    Today, Congressman Morgan McGarvey delivered passionate remarks in defense of Medicaid during a House Budget Committee hearing, sharing the story of a 10-year-old Louisvillian named June who has Quadriplegic Cerebral Palsy and receives health insurance and treatment through Medicaid. 

    As a member of the House Budget Committee, Congressman McGarvey has been fighting tooth and nail against the Republican budget that will cut Medicaid by up to $880 billion, which would be devastating to Louisville. Over 200,000 Louisvillians rely on Medicaid for health care coverage, including 103,000 children under the age of 19 and 17,000 seniors over 65.

    DOWNLOAD VIDEO AND PHOTOS HERE

    TRANSCRIPT:

    [2:48] They swear they aren’t touching Medicare, so that only leaves Medicaid. 

    I know, we’ve heard: “Waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicaid.” You know what? I agree. Let’s get rid of it. Let’s get rid of all of it. I will help you. Every dollar we get rid of that is waisted or is fraudulent in Medicaid can go to someone who needs it.

    So now that we’ve gotten rid of the waste, fraud, and abuse, where are you going to come up with the other hundreds of billions of dollars in cuts?

    There is only one option. It is taking health care away from people who use Medicaid. People like the 30 million children, the 8 million disabled Americans, the 7 million seniors – even 10% of our veterans participate in the Medicaid program.

    [3:35] It’s going to hurt people like my constituent, June.

    June is a 10-year-old, a 10-year-old with Quadriplegic Cerebral Palsy, the most serious form of the disease. She’s wheelchair bound. She’s epileptic. She has visual and hearing impairments. She requires 24/7 care. 

    I met June and her mom, Meg, at a Medicaid town hall in my district just last month. Medicaid provides June with a therapist for PT, for OT, for speech therapy. It allows her to live at home and get care at home from not just trained professionals, but from a mother who loves her and is the only person who can make her smile.

    She’s medically fragile. She had three surgeries last week. Her mother’s worked four jobs, but nobody can afford care like this. She’s covered by Medicaid. Now, it’s on the chopping block.

    Republicans refuse to craft a sensible budget, but state legislators still have to, so if these cuts go through, a state like mine is going to be devastated. It’ll blow a massive hole in Kentucky’s budget, leaving people like June without insurance.

    She’s just a kid. She likes her brothers when they’re silly. She likes her dogs. She likes YouTube and Chappell Roan, just like my daughter does. 

    She deserves better than this budget.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Salinas, Colleagues Launch Bipartisan Mental Health Caucus for the 119th Congress

    Source: US Representative Andrea Salinas (OR-06)

    Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Andrea Salinas (D-OR) joined her fellow Co-Chairs of the Bipartisan Mental Health Caucus – including Reps. Don Bacon (R-NE) and Donald Beyer (D-VA) – at a press conference to officially launch the Caucus for the 119th Congress. The Members, standing side-by-side with representatives from leading mental health advocacy organizations, delivered remarks about the state of mental health and addiction in America and the potential for bipartisan progress on this issue. Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-TX) also serves as Caucus Co-Chair along with Reps. Salinas, Bacon, and Beyer.

    Click here to watch a recording and here for usable photos from today’s press conference

    “Mental health is an issue where bipartisan consensus is still possible. I remain very hopeful. We’ve seen how these problems have affected our own families, neighborhoods, and communities – and we all share a similar goal: Putting an end to the mental health and addiction crisis once and for all,” said Rep. Salinas. “I am optimistic and excited about the road ahead. Because we have partners, parents, providers and yes – even politicians – who want to see change and are ready to roll up our sleeves and get to work on commonsense solutions. 

    “We do have a mental health crisis in our country, and I think it’s pretty clear to all of us that we have underfunded mental health care,” said. Rep. Bacon. “I look forward to working with our Co-Chairs and all of you to improve our mental health capabilities in this country. We know the problem. That means we can find the solution.” 

    “We want this to be the largest Caucus on the Hill. We should have every Democrat and every Republican in it because every family, if you look just hard enough, you’ll find that they’re dealing with some kind of mental health concern… and I think we all agree that the health system is failing,” said Rep. Beyer. “We do a very poor job at dealing with serious mental illness in this country. That’s why I’m so grateful that my colleagues [Reps. Salinas, Bacon, and Gonzales], and the many, many other Democrats and Republicans who have signed up to be part of this [Caucus], have come together with our mental health professionals and our industry leaders to really try to make a difference.”

    Several mental health professionals and advocates also spoke at the press conference, including Theresa Miskimen Rivera, M.D., President-Elect of the American Psychiatry Association (APA), Michael Linskey, Director of Congressional Affairs at the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), Laurel Stine, Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy and Policy Officer at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), and Tim Clement, Vice President of Federal Government Affairs at Mental Health America (MHA).

    Chaired by Reps. Salinas, Bacon, Beyer, and Gonzales, the Bipartisan Mental Health Caucus serves as a bipartisan forum where Members of Congress and their staff can work together to raise awareness and find solutions to the mental and behavioral health crisis in America. A full list of Caucus Members can be found here.

    To receive updates and learn more about the Bipartisan Mental Health Caucus, you can visit the Caucus’ website or follow the Caucus on Bluesky, X, Facebook, and Instagram.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Salinas, Lofgren, Padilla, Bennet Reintroduce Legislation to Provide Disaster Relief for Farmworkers

    Source: US Representative Andrea Salinas (OR-06)

    Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Andrea Salinas (OR-06), the daughter of a former farmworker and a leader in the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, and Rep. Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), along with U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-CA) and Michael Bennet (D-CO), reintroduced the Disaster Relief for Farm Workers Act. This legislation would provide compensation for farmworkers who lose out on wages due to extreme weather, public health emergencies, and other disasters beyond their control. The bill was first introduced in the 118th Congress.

    “Extreme weather and natural disasters are only getting worse with climate change. Unfortunately, many of the hardworking individuals who grow and harvest our food do not receive direct financial support when they are forced to miss work and lose wages as a result of these disasters,” said Rep. Salinas. “My legislation would finally correct this injustice by providing federal disaster relief for farmworkers. This change is well-deserved and long-overdue, and I will continue to advocate for the brave men and women who help feed America.”

    “When extreme weather occurs, farmworkers across our country continue to feed the nation. And yet, these essential workers and their families face great uncertainty when unexpected disasters harm their communities and livelihood. For example, hundreds of farmworkers in my congressional district faced displacement and lost wages after severe flooding devastated the Pajaro community in early 2023. We owe them – and all farmworkers – more. The Disaster Relief for Farm Workers Act ensures America’s indispensable farmworkers can receive disaster relief funding they need and have earned,” said Rep. Lofgren.

    “California’s farm workers often work under extreme conditions to help put food on the table for hundreds of millions of Americans,” said Sen. Padilla. “But increasingly frequent natural disasters, including historic flooding in Pajaro, have devastated California’s agricultural communities. We must protect the heart of our nation’s food supply by providing critical emergency assistance to these essential workers.”

    “Agriculture is the backbone of Colorado’s economy and central to our Western way of life, but as climate-fueled disasters become increasingly common, our state’s farm workers are paying the price,” said Sen. Bennet. “Our bill will help ensure the people that grow America’s fruits, vegetables, and other crops get the assistance they need in the wake of emergencies like drought, wildfires, and other natural disasters.”

    Oregon is home to over 100,000 farmworkers, many of whom live and work in the Willamette Valley and power the state’s $42 billion agriculture economy. Yet despite their importance to our food systems, the average farmworker family in Oregon earns less than $25,000 per year. Ninety-six percent reported living in overcrowded housing and about thirty percent are living below the poverty line. When farmworkers cannot work due to extreme weather or other unexpected disasters, they can lose wages and even their jobs—pushing them deeper into housing and food insecurity.

    The Disaster Relief for Farm Workers Act would address this problem by providing direct relief funding for farmworkers. Specifically, this bill would:

    • Make grants available to eligible farmworker organizations to provide emergency relief to farm workers affected by a disaster.
    • Ensure USDA develops and executes a promotional plan prior to and throughout the distribution of the relief grants to increase awareness of the assistance available.
    • Require USDA to work with eligible farmworker organizations.
    • Provide definitions for a covered disaster, eligible farmworker organization, and migrant or seasonal farmworker.
    • Amend Section 2281 of the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 to allow for emergency assistance for farmworkers.

    In addition to Reps. Salinas and Lofgren, the Disaster Relief for Farm Workers Act is cosponsored by Reps. Nanette Barragán (CA-44), André Carson (IN-07), Judy Chu (CA-28), Jim Costa (CA-21), Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Lloyd Doggett (TX-37), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Jared Huffman (CA-02), Kevin Mullin (CA-15), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Paul Tonko (NY-20), and Juan Vargas (CA-52).

    The legislation is endorsed by the following organizations, in alphabetical order: A Better Balance, Alianza Americas, Alianza Nacional de Campesinas, Association of Farmworker Opportunity Programs (AFOP), Borderlands Resource Initiative, California Human Development, Campesinos Sin Fronteras, Care in Action, CASA of Oregon, Center for Employment Training, Central Coast Alliance United for a Sustainable Economy (CAUSE), Central Valley Opportunity Center, Centro de los Derechos del Migrante, Inc (CDM), Child Labor Coalition, CHILDREN AT RISK, CIERTO, Civic Empowerment Coalition, Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA), Columbia Legal Services, CRLA Foundation, Davidson County Local Food Network, El Futuro es Nuestro, Farm Worker Ministry Northwest, Farmworker and Landscaper Advocacy Project-FLAP, Farmworker Housing Development Corporation (FHDC), Farmworker Justice, Food Empowerment Project, GALEO Impact Fund, Hand in Hand/Mano en Mano, Hispanic Affairs Project, Hispanic Federation, Houston Immigration Legal Services Collaborative, Immigrant Defenders Law Center, La Union del Pueblo Entero (LUPE), Latino Outdoors, League of Conservation Voters, Make the Road CT, Make the Road NJ, Make the Road NV, Make the Road NY, Make the Road PA, Make the Road States, Michiganders for a Just Farming System, National Association of Social Workers, National Association of Social Workers – Florida and Virgin Islands Chapter, National Consumers League, National Domestic Workers Alliance, National Employment Law Project, National Migrant and Seasonal Head Start Association, NC FIELD, Inc., NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice, North Carolina Council of Churches, North Carolina Farmworker Advocacy Network, North Carolina Justice Center, Nourish Up, Opportunity Arizona, Oregon Human Development Corporation, Organización en California de Lideres Campesinas, Inc, PCUN, Oregon’s Farmworker Union, Pesticide Action and Agroecology Network (PAN), Popular Democracy, Presente.org, Progress Michigan, Proteus Inc., Puente de la Costa Sur, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF), Slow Food USA, Student Action with Farmworkers, Sur Legal Collaborative, TODEC Legal Center, Toxic Free North Carolina, UFW Foundation, Unidos Yamhill County, United Farm Workers, Voces Unidas de las Montañas.

    “Farm workers are always on the front lines of fires, floods, and storms — yet are too often excluded from federal disaster relief programs,” said Teresa Romero, President of United Farm Workers (UFW). “If the federal government can provide emergency support to farm owners who lose crops in natural disaster, then the federal government can emergency provide support to farm workers who lose work in that same disaster. The Disaster Relief for Farm Workers Act will ensure that farm workers who put food on all our tables can continue to put food on their family’s table when disaster strikes.”

    “Every year we see an alarming number of natural disasters that drastically and disproportionately impact the farm worker community. As climate change gets worse, these types of disasters will only worsen and farm workers are the ones who are affected the most by these calamities. Just last year, we saw heavy California rains flooding Ventura County farm areas and Hurricane Helen devastating Georgia’s farm worker communities, leading to organizations like ours stepping up to do what we can. But that is not enough. We must have a federal response to these kinds of disasters. From wildfires to tornadoes to hurricanes, farm workers have little to no safety net to help them recover from unexpected disasters,” said Erica Lomeli Corcoran, Chief Executive Officer at UFW Foundation. “This is exactly why the UFW Foundation is supporting the Disaster Relief for Farm Workers Act. It would provide resources and aid to those who truly need it and would ensure that those responsible for our nation’s food supplies are not overlooked, as they have been in the past. Farm workers have been largely ignored and neglected by the law, shut out from basic protections provided to all workers. It is time that Congress acts and ensures that our nation’s farm workers are given the support they need to overcome times of emergencies and to provide equity to all workers.” 

    “Farmworkers are frontline workers, which means they are the hardest hit by the impacts of extreme weather conditions across the country. Many farmworkers feel that they are risking their health with extreme heat and colder days, but losing even one day of work is not an option for their families’ economic situation. Outdoor protections are important, yet there are days that are becoming too extreme to even be outside. Our vision is to be a resilient workforce for the agricultural industry. Disaster relief means we can start investing in addressing the issues that workers are facing today by building resilience for climate change in the future, without sacrificing the economic well-being of farmworkers,” said Reyna Lopez, Executive Director of Pineros y Campesinos Unidos del Noreste (PCUN).

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

     

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement from Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson on Tensions Between India and Pakistan

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Jonathan Jackson – Illinois (1st District)

    As tensions rise between India and Pakistan, I feel compelled to speak; Not only as a Member of Congress, but as a man who has walked the streets of both nations, embraced their people, and listened to their hopes and fears firsthand.

    I had the honor of visiting both India and Pakistan on congressional and humanitarian missions. In Delhi, I met with educators, students, and faith leaders who are working tirelessly to bridge divides and build a future of innovation and inclusion. In Islamabad, I sat with mothers who shared stories of generational pain, but also expressed dreams of peace for their children. What struck me most on both sides of the border was the shared humanity; the deep desire for dignity, stability, and progress.

    These are not abstract foreign policy issues to me. The Indian and Pakistani communities in Chicago are part of my extended family. I have broken bread in their homes, celebrated their holidays, attended weddings and funerals. These are people who carry dual loves — for their countries of origin and for the American dream they are building here. They are watching these developments with heavy hearts, and so am I.

    My father, Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, Sr., always said that peace is not just the absence of war but the presence of justice. He traveled the world to help mediate conflict, whether in the Middle East, Central America, or apartheid South Africa. His mission lives on in my work today: to seek understanding over escalation and diplomacy over destruction.

    It is imperative that both India and Pakistan step back from the brink. Nuclear-armed neighbors cannot afford the cost of war. Not in lives, not in global stability, and not in the futures of their youth. I urge both governments to recommit to dialogue, mutual respect, and a long-term vision for peace in South Asia.

    I will continue to advocate for peace, justice, and the human dignity of all people. Let us rise above the cycles of history and choose a path forward — together.

    Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson
    U.S. Representative, Illinois’s 1st Congressional District

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kean, Dingell Reintroduce Bipartisan Legislation to Reduce PFAS Risks for Firefighters

    Source: US Representative Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07)

    Contact: Riley Pingree

    (May 7, 2025) WASHINGTON, D.C. — This week, Representatives Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07), Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Sam Graves (MO-06), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Dina Titus (NV-01), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Glenn Ivey (MD-04), and Glenn “GT” Thompson (PA-15), reintroduced the bipartisan Protecting Firefighters and Advancing State-of-the-Art Alternatives Act (PFAS Alternatives Act), to support development of next-generation PFAS-free turnout gear for firefighters and better protect firefighters from the dangers of their work. 

    Sunday, May 4 was International Firefighters’ Day.  

    Studies have shown that all three layers of firefighter turnout gear contain Per and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS), a class of fluorinated chemicals known as “forever chemicals.” PFAS chemicals are persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic, and are linked to harmful human health effects, including reproductive and developmental harms, weakened immune systems, and cancer – the leading cause of firefighter death.

    “Our firefighters put their lives on the line to keep our communities safe, and their health and safety must remain a top priority,” said Kean. “That starts with ensuring their gear is free from harmful chemicals that pose serious long-term health risks. I’m pleased to once again co-lead the PFAS Alternatives Act to eliminate toxic substances from firefighter equipment and support the long-term well-being of these brave men and women.”

    “Firefighters’ jobs are already dangerous enough without worrying about the long-term health risks of being exposed to dangerous PFAS in their turnout gear,” said Dingell. “The PFAS Alternatives Act will remove this unnecessary occupational hazard and help protect firefighters as they work every day to protect us.”

    “Firefighters risk enough without being exposed to cancer-causing chemicals in the very gear meant to protect them,” said Fitzpatrick. “The PFAS Alternatives Act takes targeted, bipartisan action to eliminate these toxic substances and accelerate safer solutions. It’s time we matched our gratitude with real protections—as Co-Chair of the PFAS Task Force, I am committed to leading efforts like this to do exactly that.” 

    “Firefighters risk their lives every day to keep us safe,” said Bonamici. “The dangers they face shouldn’t come from the gear meant to protect them. I’m grateful to join several of my colleagues to introduce this bipartisan legislation that will spur the development of turnout gear free from dangerous PFAS chemicals and improve the long-term health of the country’s firefighters.” 

    “America’s firefighters charge into danger to save the lives of others,” said Graves. “This bipartisan legislation will help develop the next generation of firefighting gear to keep them safe—while they work to protect our families, our communities, and our country.”

    “Firefighters put their health and safety on the line every day to protect our communities. They run in as others run out,” said Titus. “They shouldn’t have to worry about hazardous substances in their own turnout gear. I’m working with my colleagues to support the development of next-generation gear that is more resistant to soot and other chemicals while eliminating exposure to dangerous toxins like PFAS.”

    “First responders deserve first rate gear.  They put their lives on the line every day to save ours.  We must not make those who risk their lives wear even riskier equipment and handle even more dangerous materials,” said Ivey. “PFAS are directly linked to cancer.  And as a kidney cancer survivor, I know the hardship, uncertainty and fear any family would experience being exposed to cancer causing materials.  I want to thank my colleagues for this bipartisan effort.”

    “Firefighters risk their lives to protect the community and in many cases they are exposed to toxic chemicals,” said Thompson. “The PFAS Alternatives Act is commonsense legislation that invests in safer, more effective equipment to better protect our first responders from these toxins.”

    The PFAS Alternatives Act would:

    • Accelerate the development of PFAS-free turnout gear through research, development, and testing of PFAS-free turnout gear materials.
    • Facilitate the development of safer turnout gear materials that reduces the dangers firefighters face, including enhanced protection against primary and secondary exposure to particulates and byproducts of combustion; reduced maintenance that includes contamination resistance and greater ease of cleaning; visible warning indicators to alert firefighters to hazardous exposures or the need for decontamination; and consideration of body composition in turnout gear design.
    • Support guidance and training for firefighters on best practices for reducing harmful exposures through the proper wearing, cleaning, and caring for next-generation turnout gear.
    • Involve the firefighting industry in the development process by requiring grant applicants to utilize the leadership, experience, and knowledge of firefighters to ensure the next-generation turnout gear will be both effective and practical for the everyday demands of firefighting. 

    The PFAS Alternatives Act would authorize $25 million annually for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029 to support the development of new materials, and an additional $2 million annually to support guidance and training.

    The PFAS Alternatives Act is endorsed by the International Association of Fire Fighters. 

    “The science is clear. Exposure to toxic PFAS chemicals is driving alarming rates of cancer in the fire service,” said IAFF General President Edward Kelly. “The PFAS Alternatives Act is critical legislation that will help introduce next-generation, PFAS-free gear to better protect fire fighters and ensure we have a voice in developing the very products we rely on for safety. The IAFF is grateful to Rep. Dingell for championing this legislation, and we urge Congress to swiftly pass this bill.” 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Van Orden Office Statement

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the office of Congressman Derrick Van Orden (WI-03) released the following statement:

    “Rep. Van Orden will be missing votes tomorrow and rescheduling his upcoming town hall due to a credible threat made against his wife, children, and grandchildren. The threat was delivered via a letter to his D.C. office and has been reported to the appropriate authorities.

    “No elected official, regardless of political party affiliation, should have to worry about the safety of their family while serving the American people. Threats of political violence are not just dangerous — they are anti-American.

    “This type of behavior is the direct result of increasingly radical and violent rhetoric fueled by far-left Democrats who encourage hatred rather than healthy discourse. It is a poison on our nation and every Member of Congress — Republican or Democrat — should fully condemn it when they see it.

    “The Congressman looks forward to returning to D.C. to do the job the people of Wisconsin’s Third District elected him to do. “

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: HAGEMAN’S HOUSE NATURAL RESOURCE COMMITTEE SETS AMERICA ON A PATH OF INCREASED ENERGY AND MINERAL PRODUCTION AND WORKS TO BLOCK THE BUFFALO AND ROCK SPRINGS RMPs

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

    Washington, D.C. – In a House Natural Resource Committee markup yesterday, as part of the budget reconciliation process, Congresswoman Hageman worked with her colleagues to generate $18.5 billion in revenue for the United States by bolstering the extraction of energy and mineral resources in states like Wyoming. Now passed by the Committee, the next step is consideration by the Budget Committee.  
     

    “America is $36 trillion and counting in debt, and Congressional Republicans are working to reconcile the budget to advance reforms which put us back on the right track. Wyoming can generate extensive revenues through our rich energy portfolio, but has long been stifled by bad actors peddling a crazed ‘green energy’ political agenda rather than leveraging our energy capital to better the lives of everyday Americans. Through this markup, we are answering President Trump’s call to unleash American energy through a litany of proposals that will mandate oil, gas, and coal leasing, lower coal royalty rates to pre-Inflation Reduction Act levels, promote federal mineral leasing, mandate coal lease sales and stipulate the requirements for such lease sales, roll-back the federal coal moratorium, and more.” Hageman said, “Included in this package, of incredibly high importance to Wyomingites, is the prohibition of the implementation of the Buffalo and Rock Springs Resource Management Plans.” 
     

    Congresswoman Hageman worked with local County Commissioners from across Wyoming who submitted letters expressing the disparate impact of the Resource Management Plans on their counties and the communities within. Hageman delivered the letters to the Committee as part of the hearing and to serve as direct evidence from her constituents that this action must take place.  
     

    She concluded, “I could not be more proud of my colleagues on the Natural Resources Committee who took a stand today to allow for a more prosperous tomorrow. Our future is promising and by getting government out of the way, we can expect affordable, reliable and dispatchable energy resources and a robust mineral portfolio – mined right here in America – long into the future.”  
     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ezell Applauds House Natural Resources Committee for Advancing Pro-Energy, Pro-America Budget Measures

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

    Ezell Applauds House Natural Resources Committee for Advancing Pro-Energy, Pro-America Budget Measures

    Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) released the following statement after the House Committee on Natural Resources advanced provisions in the budget reconciliation process aimed at unleashing American energy dominance—answering President Donald Trump’s call to restore commonsense, science-based energy policies.

    “South Mississippi understands the value of energy and forestry jobs—and the importance of managing our natural resources responsibly,” Ezell said. “From the Gulf’s offshore rigs to our longleaf pine forests, American energy and timber mean American jobs, lower costs, and stronger national security. That’s why I’m proud to support the Natural Resources Committee’s efforts to restore American resource dominance. These policies are rooted in science, backed by sound economics, and focused on unlocking the full potential of what our land and waters provide—safely and responsibly. This is the kind of leadership hardworking Americans have been waiting for.”

    Through this reconciliation package, the Committee is advancing policies that will:

    • Expand access to domestic energy production, including oil, gas, and minerals;
    • Reduce burdensome regulations that hold back job creators and energy producers;
    • Promote proper forest management and generate revenue through long-term leasing of federal lands for sustainable timber harvesting;
    • Generate more than $18.5 billion in federal savings and new revenue;
    • Strengthen America’s position as a global energy leader.

    Ezell remains committed to supporting policies that unlock economic growth, promote energy innovation, and reduce dependence on foreign adversaries.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Malliotakis Leads Push Back on Social Security Staffing and Service Cuts

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

    (WASHINGTON, DC) – Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis along with 14 of her Republican colleagues sent a letter to newly confirmed Commissioner of the Social Security Administration, Frank Bisignano, detailing concerns regarding potential changes to services provided at local SSA offices, the SSA website, and the SSA 1-800 number.

     

    The Members took proactive action by writing to Commissioner Bisignano to express their concerns over recent staffing cuts and proposals that can further deteriorate customer service that has been subpar in recent years. While the Social Security Administration (SSA) has publicly stated that it does not plan to permanently close field offices, its draft service delivery plan includes “field office consolidation.” Additionally, 47 locations are currently listed on the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) website as potential closure candidates. 

     

    The agency initially planned to end over-the-phone verification, but later revised its decision, opting instead to implement anti-fraud technology while continuing to allow phone-based certification. The Members also emphasized ensuring uninterrupted services for seniors and individuals with disabilities who rely on SSA benefits, especially as the elderly population continues to grow with all Baby Boomers reaching age 65 by 2030.

     

    Signers of the letter include:

    • Rep. Jeff Hurd (R-CO-3)

    • Rep. Ryan Mackenzie (R-PA-7)

    • Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-1)

    • Rep. Don Bacon (R-NE-2)

    • Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ-2)

    • Rep. Gabe Evans (R-CO-8)

    • Rep. David Valadao (R-CA-22)

    • Rep. Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ-6)

    • Rep. Jen Kiggans (R-VA-2)

    • Rep. Mike Ezell (R-MS-4)

    • Rep. Michael Turner (R-OH-10)

    • Rep. Rob Bresnahan, Jr. (R-PA-8)

    • Rep. Zach Nunn (R-IA-3)

    • Rep. Mike Lawler (R-NY-17) 

     

    READ THE FULL LETTER HERE

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Cliff Bentz Announces Winner of the 2025 Congressional Art Competition

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Cliff Bentz (R-Ontario)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Cliff Bentz (OR-O2) announced that Talula Heckendorf, a junior from Phoenix High School, has been selected as the winner of OR-02’s 2025 Congressional Art Competition out of a record number of 38 amazing submissions! 

    Talula’s artwork, “Man Walking Through an Alaskan Town”, was selected by a panel of five judges who praised the piece as having ‘great depth, detail and perspective’. Talula may travel to Washington, D.C. to see her artwork displayed in the national student art exhibit in the U.S. Capitol and attend a reception in her honor.

    “I am pleased to congratulate Talula on this terrific achievement. I look forward to seeing Man Walking Through an Alaskan Town each day over the up-coming year, as I walk to and from the House Chamber. I thank her for her incredible work. Congratulations, Talula!” Congressman Bentz said.

    Bentz also announced three regional winners from Oregon’s Second District. Regional winners will have their art displayed in one of Congressman Bentz’s offices in either Medford, OR, Ontario, OR or Washington, D.C.

    These three winners are: 

    • Oregon: Wild and Beautiful by Avery McLean, Crater High School, Grade 12
    • Mangoes by Lesly Alvarado Perez, McLoughlin High School, Grade 10
    • Colorful Desert Sunset with Huge Cacti by Talula Heckendorf, Phoenix High School, Grade 11

    Congressman Bentz thanked the judges for their work in judging the 2025 competition. “Thank you to the judges who volunteered their time and expertise to our district’s art competition,” Bentz said. “They helped make this year’s competition not just memorable but also a great success.” 

    Judges for the 2025 Congressional Art Competition in Oregon’s Second Congressional District included:

    • Kelly Wick, Kelly’s Gallery at Joseph
    • Rick Steber, Author from Prineville
    • Pamela Claflin, Pamela Claflin Fine Art from Prineville
    • Judy Phearson, Favell Museum from Klamath Falls
    • Pam Helfrich, Art Teacher from Ontario

    The Congressional Art Competition is a nationwide program for students to showcase their artistic abilities and to highlight the importance of art education. Since its start in 1982, more than 700,000 high school students from around the country have participated.

    More information about this annual competition can be found, here. 

    “Man Walking Through an Alaskan Town” by Talula Heckendorf

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sheriffs Ezell, Nehls Reintroduce Resolution Honoring Local Law Enforcement Ahead of Police Week

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

     Today, Sheriffs Mike Ezell (MS-04) and Troy Nehls (TX-22) announced the reintroduction of a House resolution formally recognizing the essential role that local law enforcement officers play in protecting communities, enforcing the law, and maintaining public safety across the United States. The resolution comes in advance of National Police Week, which begins May 12, 2025.

    “As a former sheriff, I know firsthand the courage, professionalism, and selflessness that our law enforcement officers bring to the job every single day,” Ezell said. “These men and women are the backbone of public safety in our communities. They run toward danger, not away from it—and they do it to protect people they may never meet. As we approach Police Week, I am proud to stand alongside officers who put on the badge each morning, not knowing what the day may bring. They deserve our respect, our gratitude, and our unwavering support.”

    “Every day, law enforcement officers put their lives on the line to protect and defend the communities they serve,” Nehls said. “As a former Texas Sheriff, I am proud to support my colleague, Congressman Ezell’s resolution, showing our unwavering support for the men and women in blue. Our nation’s law enforcement officers deserve our utmost respect and gratitude. I will always back the blue.”

    The resolution expresses strong support for local law enforcement agencies and officers, emphasizing:

    • The bravery shown by officers in the face of danger;

    • The professionalism required to enforce the law with fairness and integrity;

    • And the personal sacrifice officers and their families make to keep others safe.

    Ezell’s resolution also encourages Americans to take time during Police Week to reflect on the service and sacrifice of law enforcement personnel, including those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson Statement on Appeals Court Decision Protecting TPS Holders

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Jonathan Jackson – Illinois (1st District)

    Today’s ruling by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals is more than a legal decision—it is a moral vindication for hundreds of thousands of our neighbors, friends, and fellow Americans in all but paperwork. I stand with the families protected under Temporary Protected Status (TPS), and I celebrate this moment with them.

    For years, these communities—mothers, fathers, students, nurses, faith leaders—have lived under a cloud of fear and uncertainty, targeted not just by policy, but by deeply hurtful rhetoric. President Trump once called countries like Haiti and nations in Africa “shithole countries”—a phrase not only vile, but steeped in ignorance and racism. Too many in the right-wing media and political class have echoed and amplified those sentiments, portraying TPS recipients as burdens, criminals, or outsiders who don’t belong. That is a lie.

    TPS holders are not faceless statistics. They are the home health aide caring for your aging parent. They are the teacher guiding your child through their first language. They are the worker harvesting your food, the technician repairing your streets, the entrepreneur revitalizing your local economy. Many have lived here for decades. They have children who are U.S. citizens. They pay taxes. They contribute. They believe in the American dream, even when America has not always believed in them.

    To revoke their legal status would not only have been cruel—it would have been catastrophic for our economy and unjust by every moral measure. The conditions in Haiti are nothing short of catastrophic. Entire communities are trapped by gang violence, unable to access food, clean water, or medical care. Mothers are forced to choose which child eats. Hospitals have shut down or been overrun, and schools lie in ruins. Kidnappings, rape, and extortion are rampant. The streets are ruled not by law but by fear. For many, there is no shelter, no security, and no hope on the horizon. What’s happening in Haiti would spark global outrage if it were occurring in any Western nation—but here, the world turns its eyes away. The courts have rightly rejected an attempt to turn back the clock on compassion and legality.

    But let us be clear: the damage of the past administration’s words and actions still lingers. No one who has lived in the shadow of deportation after building a life here forgets how fragile dignity can feel in the face of hate. This ruling is a step toward healing, but we must do more.

    We need permanent protections. We need immigration reform that centers humanity, justice, and economic reality—not political scapegoating. And we must call out racist language and policies for what they are: attacks on the soul of our nation.

    To the families affected by TPS: I see you. I stand with you. And I will fight with you until your place in this country is not just tolerated, but recognized and protected under the law.

    Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson (D-IL 01)
    Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee
    Member of the Congressional Black Caucus

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Mann, Vasquez Lead Bipartisan Legislation to Support Rural Communities Through Regional Airport Expansion

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representatives Tracey Mann (KS-01) and Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) introduced the bipartisan Expanding Regional Airports Act. The bill aims to increase funding opportunities for regional airports to conduct critical upgrades of security systems, runway and hangar infrastructure, and passenger facilities. 

    “Rural communities like those in the Big First District depend on regional airports to connect them with the rest of the world,” said Rep. Mann. “The Expanding Regional Airports Act provides necessary updates to strengthen the reliability regional airports offer their communities, drive economic growth, and equip these airports to maintain the livelihoods of small communities and their surrounding areas. I look forward to working with my colleagues to advance our bill and give our regional airports the resources they deserve.”

    “In a state as large as New Mexico, regional airports are a way to ensure our state is fully connected,” said Rep. Vasquez. “However, without dedicated funding, these airports can’t expand to serve the needs of our growing communities. That’s why I am introducing the Expanding Regional Airports bill to promote expanded tourism and business travel to Las Cruces and other similar communities, improving the entire economy.”

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    For more information on Rep. Mann visit www.mann.house.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Cammack Introduces App Store Freedom Act To Promote Competition & Protect Consumers

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Rep. Cammack introduced the App Store Freedom Act, which seeks to promote competition and protect consumers and developers in the mobile app marketplace by prohibiting certain anticompetitive practices by dominant app store operators. 

    The bill supports interoperability and consumer choice by requiring large app store operators (100M+ U.S. users) to allow users to set third-party apps or app stores as default; install apps or app stores outside of the dominant platform; and remove or hide pre-installed apps. Additionally, the bill directs companies provide developers equal access to interfaces, features, and development tools without cost or discrimination. 

    “We must continue to hold Big Tech accountable and promote competition that allows all players to enter the field. For too long, consumers and developers have borne the brunt of anti-competitive practices on major app store marketplaces,” said Rep. Cammack. “Dominant app stores have controlled customer data and forced consumers to use the marketplaces’ own merchant services, instead of the native, in-app offerings provided by the applications and developers themselves. The results are higher prices and limited selections for consumers and anti-competitive practices for developers that have stifled innovation.”

    The bill additionally prohibits app stores from forcing developers to use the company’s in-app payment system, imposing pricing parity requirements, and punishing developers for distributing their apps elsewhere. 

    “At its core, this bill seeks to promote a competitive marketplace for consumers and developers, ensuring U.S. mobile users can choose the applications, payment methods and platforms that are best for them without unduly forcing developers to comply or the pay the price—both literally and figuratively—for straying from the dominant marketplaces’ preferences,” Rep. Cammack added.

    “The App Store Freedom Act could be a game-changer for American consumers by giving them more choice and control over their devices than ever before. We applaud Representative Kat Cammack for introducing common-sense rules of the road to permanently open up the app economy, unlock new opportunities for businesses and creators, and encourage even stronger tech innovation in the United States,” said Dustee Jenkins, Spotify Chief Public Affairs Officer.

    “CAF applauds Congresswoman Cammack for introducing the App Store Freedom Act, legislation that will establish a fair and competitive mobile app marketplace. This is a vital step towards empowering developers and consumers by ensuring a level playing field for all participants in the app ecosystem,” shared the Coalition for App Fairness (CAF).

    Read the text of the bill here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Malliotakis Co-Leads Legislation to Ban Non-Essential Helicopters in NYC

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

    (WASHINGTON, DC) – Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis along with Congressmen Rob Menendez (D-NJ) and Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), introduced H.R. 3196, the Improving Helicopter Safety Act, bipartisan legislation that would ban all non-essential helicopter flights within 20 miles of the Statue of Liberty. The bill is cosponsored by Congresswomen Grace Meng (D-NY), Nydia Velázquez (D-NY), and LaMonica McIver (D-NJ), and is supported by Stop the Chop NY/NJ.

     

    This bipartisan effort comes in response to a recent tragic helicopter crash over the Hudson River that claimed six lives, following decades of helicopter-related incidents in and around New York City. Beyond safety concerns, tourist helicopters continue to disrupt residential communities, particularly throughout Staten Island, due to their frequent low-altitude flights over densely populated neighborhoods at all hours of the day.

     

    “The tragic crash that claimed six lives in the Hudson River isn’t an isolated event, it’s the clearest sign yet of an industry that has operated without meaningful oversight for far too long and continues to pose an unacceptable public safety threat,” said Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis. “Congress must take action, which is why I’m joining my colleagues to introduce this bipartisan legislation to ban non-essential helicopter traffic within a 20-mile radius of the Statue of Liberty and finally rein in these helicopter tour companies.”

     

    “While we have consistently worked to address the impact of non-essential helicopters on our communities, last month’s tragic crash should be a clarion call for every level of government to take action on helicopter safety,” said Congressman Rob Menendez. “Rising congestion of non-essential helicopters, coupled with concerning safety records of air tourism operators, are causing a direct threat to public safety. Along with my colleagues from New Jersey and New York, we’re doing what is necessary to prevent tragedies like this from happening again.” 

     

    “The tragic helicopter crash last month on the Hudson River was not an isolated incident; it was the latest in a long line of preventable tragedies in the New York metropolitan region’s increasingly crowded and poorly regulated airspace,” said Congressman Jerrold Nadler. “For far too long, non-essential helicopter flights have endangered public safety and shattered the peace of our neighborhoods. I am proud to introduce the bipartisan Improving Helicopter Safety Act with my colleagues Rob Menendez and Nicole Malliotakis to finally put an end to these dangerous flights in our region. We owe it to the victims, and to every resident living beneath these flight paths, to put safety first and prevent future disasters.”

     

    “Stop the Chop NY/NJ commends Representatives Jerry Nadler, Rob Menendez, and Nicole Malliotakis for today’s introduction of the ‘Improving Helicopter Safety Act of 2025’ – common sense federal legislation that will, when passed, finally put an end to the dangerous helicopter conditions in the New York metropolitan area. For too long, tax-paying New Yorkers and Jerseyites have been subjected to excessive noise and air pollution, as well as the safety risks, of endless sightseeing and commuter helicopters flying, often at extremely low altitudes, over our homes, parks, and schools. We have sounded the alarm each time one of these nonessential helicopters has crashed while traversing our densely populated urban areas. However, the FAA has still not addressed the community’s concerns, harms, and pleas for relief. The multiple recent fatal crashes involving helicopters, coupled with the alarming shortage of air traffic controllers, demonstrate the need for immediate reform of the current Wild West-like conditions over NYC and surrounding communities. We also thank the additional Congressional co-sponsors: Representatives Grace Meng, Nydia Velázquez, and LaMonica McIver. This non-partisan issue negatively impacts all who live or work near the NYC and NJ heliports and/or along the helicopter flight paths. It is heartening to see our elected officials joining forces across state lines and party affiliations to end this public harm,” said Stop The Chop NY/NJ. 

     

    At her April 24 press conference, Congresswoman Malliotakis shared that her office has been in contact with the FAA, having met with FAA Eastern Region Administrators last year, and with Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy to relay ongoing concerns from Staten Island residents regarding low-flying helicopter flights with some occurring every 10 to 15 minutes. Malliotakis previously called for tighter regulations, including a ban on non-essential helicopter flights over residential areas in cities with over 5 million people, stricter altitude requirements, enforceable no-fly zones, and a reduction in non-essential flights.

    VIEW THE BILL TEXT HERE

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Morgan McGarvey Announces Congressional Art Competition Winner

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

    May 06, 2025

    Today, Congressman Morgan McGarvey recognized Gwyneth McMahon of Atherton High School as the winner of the Congressional Art Competition. McMahon’s submission – Illuminous – is a composition of colored pencil and acrylic paint that depicts a girl practicing mindfulness as she concentrates on a flame. Illuminous will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for the next year.

    DOWNLOAD ILLUMINOUS HERE

    “Congratulations to Gwyneth for sharing such a beautiful and deeply contemplative piece of art. Thousands of visitors to the U.S. Capitol will get the privilege of enjoying this piece for the next year as it hangs in the U.S. Capitol, seeing for themselves how creative and inspiring the next generation of Louisvillians are,” said Congressman McGarvey.

    “We are pleased to partner with Congressman McGarvey and offer a substantial tuition scholarship in the amount of $10,000 to this year’s winning artists from our district,” said KyCAD President Moira Scott Payne. “We feel that this both recognizes the talent and skills of these awardees and is an investment in the artistic talent of Kentucky. The amount attained through the Kentucky College of Art + Design Congressional Art Award Scholarship can be applied to the first year of study at Kentucky College of Art + Design should the winners also meet the requirements for admission to KyCAD.”

    Each spring, the U.S. House of Representatives and the Congressional Institute sponsor a nationwide high school visual art competition to recognize and encourage artistic talent in the nation and in each congressional district. More than 650,000 high school students have participated since the Artistic Discovery competition began in 1982.

    Winners are recognized both in their district and at an annual awards ceremony in Washington, DC. The winning works are displayed for one year at the U.S. Capitol.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Rep. Gabe Vasquez Presses Military Officials for Improved Housing in Military Communities

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) called out the urgent need for housing improvements at Holloman Air Force Base and White Sands Missile Range during a House Armed Services Readiness Subcommittee hearing. 

    WATCH: Vasquez Advocates for Housing Improvements on Military Installations

    Vasquez, whose district is home to both installations, highlighted the severe housing shortage at Holloman and the outdated, World War II-era housing still in use at White Sands. 

    “Housing is one of the biggest challenges that we face, especially in places like Alamogordo, and Las Cruces, New Mexico, and if folks don’t have a safe, affordable place to live, it impacts not only their well being, but their ability to do their jobs, and that affects our readiness as a nation,” said Vasquez. 

    Vasquez directed sharp questions at military leadership during the hearing on what steps the Air Force is taking in FY26 to meet housing needs at rural installations like Holloman and on why roughly $7 million in Army housing funds slated for White Sands and Fort Bliss last summer never materialized despite dire infrastructure needs.

    He stressed that failing to invest in adequate housing threatens military readiness and the well-being of service members. He also highlighted the essential role New Mexico’s bases play in national defense, noting that infrastructure investments are key to sustaining success.

    Vasquez concluded by reaffirming his commitment to securing federal resources that enhance both the operational strength of New Mexico’s military installations and the quality of life for service members and their families.

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    MIL OSI USA News –