NewzIntel.com

Category: United States House of Representatives

  • MIL-OSI USA: McClellan Announces 2025 Women of Excellence Award Winners

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

    Washington, D.C. –Today, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) announced the winners of the Second Annual Women of Excellence Awards. The awards recognize outstanding women or women’s organizations residing, studying, working, or serving Virginia’s Fourth District that have made a profound impact on the district and have meaningfully contributed to their communities. 

    “I am excited to recognize the work these incredible women have done to make Virginia’s Fourth District a better place,” said Congresswoman McClellan. “Women shaped our Commonwealth — and our nation — from the beginning, even when they have gone unseen and unnoticed. This year’s award recipients uplift our communities every day. They inspire me and remind us all that women can achieve.”

    Businesswoman of the Year – Monica Mueller

    Monica Mueller is Chief Strategy Officer of Softensity, a leading provider of software development and IT consulting services. As Softensity’s EVP, she spent five years transforming multiple departments, leveraging technology to streamline operations and improve performance.

    Non-Profit of the Year – Little Hands VA

    Little Hands Virginia’s mission is to ensure children in Central Virginia have essentials from birth to improve outcomes for life. They support families by providing items, like diapers, pack n’ plays for safe sleep, and strollers, to children newborn to three years old in need in Central Virginia.

    The Women of Impact in Education Award – Kayla Diaz

    Kayla Diaz is a Spanish-language interpreter for Colonial Heights Public Schools. While serving as a family resource coordinator at Colonial Heights Public Schools, she successfully advocated for the creation of a dedicated interpreter position translating conversations between school staff and families with developing English skills.        

    Women in Action Volunteer Award – Fatima Smith

    Fatima M. Smith is the founder of FMS Speaks, LLC, a platform through which she facilitates crucial conversations within institutions, government, and educational settings. She has committed herself to interpersonal violence prevention, child advocacy and more.

    The Dr. Gladys West Women in STEM Award – Pamela Bingham

    Pamela R. Bingham is a “social impact” environmental engineer and currently the Operations Manager for The Health, Environmental, and Economic Justice Lab in the University of Maryland School of Public Health.

    Law and Government Champion Award – Gray Montrose

    Gray Montrose is currently the Deputy Director of Land Conservation with the Capital Region Land Conservancy, a nonprofit land trust currently stewarding over fifteen thousand acres of priority forest, farm, and park land in central Virginia. Her role involves providing legal counsel to the organization and providing critical support to the development of new projects.

    Media and Communications Champion Award – Claudia Massey

    Claudia R. Massey is the co-founder of Patience for Patients, LLC, a non-medical homecare agency that provides personal care and companionship services to the geriatric population. She is a columnist for Diva Dynasty Magazine, a best-selling author, a radio host, and a TV host at Preach the Word Worldwide Network where she serves as their brand ambassador.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Malliotakis Applauds Agreement to Preserve Aviator Sports Complex Access

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

    (BROOKLYN, NY) – Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis released the following statement in response to today’s announcement at Brooklyn’s Aviator Sports Complex.

     

    “We’re pleased to hear that the National Park Service (NPS) has reached an agreement with Aviator Sports and Events Center to continue operating the outdoor facilities— including the sports fields, Green Meadows Farm, and golf—through April 14, 2026. Additionally, Chris Werstine of Aviator Hockey & Ice Figure Skating will take over operations of the interior facilities dedicated to hockey and figure skating programs, which are set to resume on Monday, April 28.

     

    This announcement ensures continued access to the facility for both our community and the youth sports leagues that have long utilized Aviator. We thank Aviator Sports and Events Center and Aviator Hockey & Ice Figure Skating for their cooperation and partnership with the National Park Service, and we appreciate the unified efforts of parents and local elected officials who helped make this possible.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Office of Mike Lawler Closes Over 6,000 Cases, $27.2 Million Returned to Constituents

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

    Pearl River, N.Y. – 4/25/2025… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) announced a significant milestone for his district offices’ casework team, which has now closed over 6,000 constituent cases and returned more than $27.2 million to residents of New York’s Hudson Valley since he took office in January 2023.

    Year-to-date in 2025 alone, Lawler’s office has closed 1,082 cases and brought back $2.65 million for constituents. Since the start of his first term in January 2023, the office has now closed 6,000 cases and returned a total of $27,208,510.15 to the district.

    “Helping constituents navigate federal agencies is one of the most important parts of our job, and I couldn’t be prouder of the work my team has done,” said Congressman Lawler (NY-17). “Whether it’s veterans’ benefits, Social Security checks, passports, tax returns, or FEMA assistance, we’ve worked every day to cut through the noise and get real results for folks in the district.”

    “I am writing to express my sincere gratitude to you and your team for the invaluable assistance I received in resolving my IRS issue. Navigating tax-related challenges can be incredibly stressful, and I genuinely appreciate the time and effort that your office dedicated to helping me,” wrote constituent Michael from Dutchess County in a March 2025 email to members of Lawler’s staff. “Their professionalism, responsiveness, and dedication made a significant difference in resolving the matter efficiently. They were knowledgeable and incredibly supportive throughout the process, ensuring that I received the guidance I needed.”

    “This is what public service is all about, being there for people when they need help the most,” Congressman Lawler concluded. “Whether it’s a delayed tax refund, a missing VA benefit, or a stalled immigration case, we fight to make sure our constituents aren’t left behind.”

    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.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressmen McGarvey, Womack Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Support American Whiskey Manufacturers

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

    April 25, 2025

    Today, Congressman Morgan McGarvey (KY-03) – Co-Chair of the Congressional Bourbon Caucus – and Congressman Steve Womack (AR-03) introduced the Duty Drawback Clarification Act, a bipartisan bill that would level the playing field for American whiskey distillers. The bill would allow American whiskey distillers to participate in the duty drawback program, which refunds duties and fees paid by importers when they export equivalent amounts of the same product. Beer, wine, and other spirit makers in the United States are already eligible for this program.

    “Bourbon is America’s signature spirit, yet bourbon and other whiskeys are excluded from the duty drawback program — a benefit enjoyed by nearly every other beer, wine, and spirit. It’s time to level the playing field,” said Congressman McGarvey. “I am honored to join Congressman Steve Womack in introducing the Duty Drawback Clarification Act to strengthen and grow the American-made spirit industry, especially bourbon.”

    “Promoting U.S. exports is integral to a successful pro-growth American agenda. Duty drawback is an extremely successful program for domestic beer, wine, and spirit producers, and treating American whiskey producers—including those manufacturing right here in the Third District of Arkansas—the same as other American alcohol producers is simply common sense,” said Congressman Womack. “I’m proud to introduce this bill with Rep. McGarvey and continue working to implement policies that support Arkansas businesses.”

    Duty drawback is an export promotion program that supports American jobs by incentivizing exports through a refund of duties paid at the time of import when similar goods are exported. American beer, wine, and spirits producers all currently utilize the program, but American whiskey is not currently eligible for drawback due to the unique way it is listed in the Harmonized Tariff Schedule. This bill clarifies that all whiskey products are commercially interchangeable and, therefore, eligible for the drawback program.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Dan Goldman Urges Supreme Court to Protect Access to Reproductive Health Care

    Source: US Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10)

    Medina v. Planned Parenthood of South Atlantic Case Could Restrict Health Care Access for Millions of Low-Income Women  

     

    Millions Rely on Planned Parenthood as an Approved Health Care Provider for a Variety of Services 

      

    Read the Amicus Brief Here 

    Washington, DC – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) joined Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Congresswoman Diana Degette (CO-01), and 235 of their Democratic colleagues in filing an amicus brief with the U.S. Supreme Court in support of protecting the right of millions of Americans to receive reproductive health care from the provider of their choosing. The case, Medina v. Planned Parenthood of South Atlantic, challenges South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster’s attempt to block in-state Medicaid program beneficiaries from accessing reproductive health care at the Planned Parenthood South Atlantic (PPSAT) affiliate’s health centers. 

    The case concerns whether individuals can privately enforce the “free-choice-of-provider provision” in the Medicaid statute, which gives Medicaid beneficiaries the right to choose among any qualified health care provider that agrees to participate in Medicaid. A loss at the Supreme Court would pave the way for states to arbitrarily exclude Planned Parenthood from the Medicaid program and deny tens of millions of Americans the ability to receive comprehensive, essential reproductive health care from the provider of their choosing. 

    “Congress enacted the free-choice-of-provider provision nearly sixty years ago to ensure that Medicaid beneficiaries would have the right to select among healthcare providers. The right to select one’s own healthcare provider has been a core promise of the program ever since. And for decades, Congress has approved of—indeed, relied on—private enforcement in federal court as a critical means of protecting that right,” the Members wrote.  

    As a qualified health care provider covered by Medicaid, Planned Parenthood serves millions of patients nationwide with a broad range of essential health services.  Close to 70% of Planned Parenthood’s health centers are located in communities with a shortage of primary care services and unmet health care needs. A loss at the Supreme Court would pave the way for states to arbitrarily exclude Planned Parenthood from the Medicaid program and deny tens of millions of Americans the ability to receive comprehensive, essential reproductive health care from the provider of their choosing. 

    “Congress intentionally established Medicaid beneficiaries’ right to receive health care services from the provider of their choice when it enacted the free-choice-of-provider provision nearly sixty years ago. That promise to Medicaid beneficiaries should be honored,” the Members concluded. 

    Congressman Dan Goldman is committed to protecting women’s access to reproductive services and expanding Medicaid. 

    This Spring, Congressman Goldman re-introduced the ‘Abortion Care Awareness Act,’ which would increase access to medically accurate information about abortion, including medication abortion. Additionally, this bill would ensure people have access to accurate information about where and how to obtain abortion services across the country, how to avoid anti-abortion centers intended to deceive patients, and how to identify misinformation about abortion care.  
    In March of 2023, the Congressman cosponsored the ‘Women’s Health Protection Act,’ which establishes a federal right for healthcare professionals to provide abortion care and the right for their patients to receive care, free from bans and medically unnecessary restrictions that single out abortion care. The ‘Women’s Health Protection Act’ codifies and expands upon the rights established in Roe v. Wade. 
    Congressman Goldman is a member of the Pro-Choice Caucus. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Magaziner & Whitehouse Introduce Bipartisan New England Offshore Drilling Ban

    Source: US Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02)

    Bill would protect ocean and coastal resources responsible for over $17.5 billion annually in the region

    Washington, DC – On Earth Day, Congressman Seth Magaziner (D-RI)  and U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI)  are leading bipartisan group of New England members of Congress in announcing the introduction of legislation to bar offshore drilling along the New England coast.  The New England Coastal Protection Act is cosponsored by Senators Jack Reed (D-RI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Susan Collins (R-ME), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Angus King (I-ME), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA).  In the House, the legislation is cosponsored by Representatives Gabe Amo, Jake Auchincloss (D-MA), Joe Courtney (D-CT), Jared Golden (D-ME), Jahana Hayes (D-CT), Jim Himes (D-CT), Bill Keating (D-MA), John Larson (D-CT), Jim McGovern (D-MA), Seth Moulton (D-MA), Richard Neal (D-MA), and Chellie Pingree (D-ME).

    “Rhode Islanders take pride in being the Ocean State, and in our clean waterways that support good jobs and quality of life,” said Magaziner. “The New England Coastal Protection Act will help safeguard our environment by preventing new offshore drilling that would threaten the coastline that is so essential to our state.”

    “Offshore drilling would enrich the fossil fuel industry at the expense of the Ocean State’s coastal economy and the health of our Narragansett Bay,” said Whitehouse, who originally introduced the legislation during the first Trump administration.  “With President Trump scrambling to grant the looters and polluters swarming around his administration every item on their wish list, I’m committed to doing everything in my power to stop reckless oil and gas drilling off Rhode Island’s coast.”

    “Offshore drilling in the Atlantic Ocean poses tremendous risks for the Ocean State’s environment and economy. This legislation is about protecting critical natural resources and the livelihoods of New Englanders in countless industries who rely on a clean, healthy Atlantic Ocean,” said Reed.

    “Offshore drilling has no place in the Atlantic Ocean — thanks to the New England Coastal Protection Act, it won’t,” said Amo, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Environment. “On Earth Day, I am thankful to partner with Senator Whitehouse and Congressman Magaziner to generate bipartisan momentum to protect our ocean from the harms of offshore drilling.”

    According to NOAA Fisheries, ocean and coastal industries, including tourism, fishing, and recreation, generate more than $17.5 billion in New England annually.  Expanding drilling in the Atlantic would harm New England’s key industries, and significantly increase the chance of environmental disaster in the region.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Young Kim Leads Bipartisan Push to Support Violence Against Women Act Resources 

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

    Washington, DC – This week, U.S. Representatives Young Kim (CA-40), Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), Debbie Dingell (MI-12), and Gwen Moore (WI-04) led a bipartisan group of more than 100 Members of Congress in a letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi to support funding opportunities through the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW).  

    The OVW, established through the bipartisan Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), administers critical grant programs that provide lifesaving support to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking. For decades, OVW grants have helped law enforcement agencies, legal service providers, crisis centers, and local organizations protect survivors and prevent abuse. 

    “VAWA grants support law enforcement and nonprofit organizations uplifting domestic violence survivors and their loved ones, which is why I voted in favor of VAWA reauthorization in 2021. Reining in federal spending is a good thing, but we cannot pull the rug out from under organizations relying on this funding to support domestic violence victims,” said Rep. Young Kim. “I urge the Department of Justice to clarify guidance during this time.”  

    Rep. Kim supported House passage of the VAWA Reauthorization Act of 2021 (H.R. 1620) and of the Family Violence Prevention and Services Improvement Act (H.R. 2119). She has been a steadfast champion in Congress for policies that uplift domestic violence survivors and empower women and mothers. 

    The full letter can be found here.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Miller-Meeks Urges Army Secretary to Protect Rock Island Arsenal

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

    Davenport – Amid reports of a potential reduction in force at the Rock Island Arsenal, Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks today urged U.S. Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll to protect the military site. A member of the Veterans Affairs Committee, Miller-Meeks is a proud 24-year Army veteran advocating for those who served our nation.

    According to the Quad Cities Chamber of Commerce, the Rock Island Arsenal supports upwards of 54,000 active & reserve components, retired military, civilian employees, and family members within a 150-mile radius. It impacts over 15,000 jobs and has a $1.2 billion impact on the local economy.

    A full text of the letter is below:

    Dear Secretary Driscoll:

    I write to you today to express my strong support for the continued investment in Rock Island Arsenal and have serious concerns with proposed changes to the workforce. Rock Island Arsenal is a key component in our national defense and is a key pillar of the Quad Cities region. It has recently come to my attention that RIA Joint Munitions Command (JMC) and the Army Sustainment Command (ASC) will be consolidated under the ASC. It is my understanding that this consolidation could lead to a reduction of force at Rock Island Arsenal, resulting in the loss of hundreds of vital jobs. 

    Rock Island Arsenal plays a unique role for our nation’s defense. As a command post for integral units such as Army Contracting, Army Corps of Engineers, and Army Sustainment Command, Rock Island Arsenal is a key player in sustainment and procurement. Changes or reduction in force would be a net negative to our nation’s defense overall. This base is a significant weapons manufacturing arsenal for our military, and its role has been amplified with the recent depletion of our armaments. It is also a major player in military manufacturing, especially in 3-D printing supporting our forces deployed abroad. The Rock Island Arsenal plays a critical role in ensuring the readiness and resilience of the United States Armed Forces. 

    Rock Island Arsenal is a significant presence for the Quad Cities, having a $1.2 billion impact on the local economy. With around half of the more than 5,000 Arsenal employees calling Iowa home, the Arsenal has been the lifeblood of the Quad Cities community for many years. Many of these employees are veterans who have continued serving our nation as civilians.

    I have heard directly from concerned constituents on potential reductions. Furthermore, such concerns have been amplified by multiple media outlets on both sides of the Mississippi. As the representative for southeast Iowa and a 24-year Army veteran, it is imperative I relay this issue to the highest echelons of the U.S. Army. 

    All Americans depend on the safety, strength, and stability that the Arsenal helps provide. While you consider the reorganization of JMC and ASC, I urge you to consider the positive impact Rock Island Arsenal plays in our nation’s defense, as well as the crucial role it plays in Iowa’s economy. I will continue to lead the efforts to strengthen Rock Island Arsenal in the upcoming National Defense Authorization Act. I look forward to continuing our shared mission on military readiness and advocating for America’s service members and their families.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Ramirez, Housing Advocates Say “Hands Off” Affordable Housing

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

    CHICAGO, IL — Yesterday, Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), local advocates, and public housing residents demanded the Trump Administration abandon actions that deepen the housing affordability crisis, reverse its layoffs of 50% of U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) staff, and reinstate more than $52.5 million in frozen HUD funds for Illinois.  During a press conference, the Congresswoman also announced the reintroduction of critical housing legislation that would expand affordable housing funding and protect tenants’ rights to organize. The legislative package includes her Tenants’ Right to Organize Act and a bill to expand permanent housing for veterans through the Veterans Affairs Grant Per Diem Program. 

    “In the midst of an affordable housing crisis, the Administration is putting in motion a cruel plan to rob working families of the resources we need to thrive and prosper in order to pad the pockets of their billionaire friends. But that won’t deter us. We are standing strong in the plan we unveiled for the future of housing, a progressive vision of affordable, sustainable housing for all, by tenants and for tenants,” said Congresswoman Ramirez, referencing her legislative package for affordable housing unveiled in April 2024. “We believe that HOUSING IS A HUMAN RIGHT. That is why I am using every tool at my disposal to fight back in DC and support our communities organizing for affordable housing for all.”

    “We are pleased to welcome Congresswoman Ramirez to 65th Infantry Borinqueneers Apartments, which Hispanic Housing constructed in 2016 to provide supportive housing to veterans with incomes as low as 30% of the area median income,” said Tony Hernandez, President & CEO of Hispanic Housing Development Corporation. “These 48 units are a testament to how a public-private partnership like the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit can combine with dedicated rental subsidies through HUD and the VA to help build homes for those who have served our country. This development could not have been built and could not operate without the HUD and VA programs that Congresswoman Ramirez is fighting to preserve and without the LIHTC, which she is working to expand.“

    “Housing is a basic human right—-and that right is under threat as federal housing programs and funding are threatened with cuts and staff are let go,” said Joy Arugete, CEO of Bickerdike Redevelopment Corporation. “But this isn’t just about housing, it’s also about the economy. According to the National Association of Home Builders, building 1000 apartments generates 1250 jobs and $55.9 million in tax and other revenue for local, state, and federal governments. We must come together to ensure everyone has a place to call home, so our communities can truly thrive.”

    “Without federal funding sources and the people who make them possible, families will not be able to save or leverage their homes for education, receive lifesaving healthcare, or pass down a home to build generational wealth,” said Amanda Zahorak, Senior Advocacy & Communications Manager for DuPage and Chicago South Suburbs DuPage Habitat for Humanity. “HUD cuts are an injustice to the very magic of being able to show the world what can happen when the government, private, and nonprofit sectors come together to provide the resources our communities need to thrive.”

    “As this new administration quietly pulls back support from HUD, low-income families are already suffering. Rent keeps rising, but housing assistance is shrinking while over 10 million renters nationally pay more than half their income just to stay housed,” said Catherine Serpa, CHA resident and Local Advisory Council President for North Central and North West Scattered Sites. And now, programs like Section 8 are being scaled back, leaving families in crisis. Housing is a human right—not a budget cut. If we let this continue, we’re not just losing homes. We’re losing lives.”

    “The Administration is turning its back on low-income tenants. It is thus especially important that renters are able to turn towards each other. The Tenants’ Right to Organize Act expands protections to ensure that more renters can come together to advocate for better living conditions –windows that keep out the cold, consistently running water –  without fear of reprisal,” said tenants’ rights attorney Eric Sirota.

    To watch the full press conference, CLICK HERE. 

    For photos, CLICK HERE.

    Background:

    Since coming to Congress, Congresswoman Ramirez has built a coalition with progressives in Congress, local housing leaders, and national organizations to advance a bold vision for the future of housing. Congresswoman Ramirez is centering tenants’ vision and power as a cornerstone of our housing future. Her legislation empowers tenants, especially low-income, women, Black, Brown, and immigrant tenants, to transform the housing landscape in our country.

    Ramirez’s multisectoral focus on housing responds to the current national housing crisis, worsened by Trump’s policies. According to the National Housing Coalition, there is a staggering 7.1 million shortage of affordable homes, with over 293,000 just in Illinois. The National Alliance to End Homelessness estimates 771,480 people are experiencing street and shelter homelessness on any given day, setting new records. In addition, tens of thousands of Illinois families live doubled-up with family and friends. It is estimated that the expansion of tariffs on steel, aluminum, lumber, and other construction materials will increase the cost to build affordable, quality housing. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: McClellan Statement on Federal Judge Blocking Trump Voter Suppression Measures

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

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) issued the following statement after Senior District Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly blocked parts of President Trump’s executive order to restrict voter registration, threatening millions of Americans’ fundamental right to vote:

    “Today’s decision affirms that Congress and the States, not the President, regulate federal elections and determines eligibility to vote therein. I applaud Judge Kollar-Kotelly for blocking President Trump’s effort to change voter registration requirements by Presidential fiat. Today’s order is a victory for separation of powers in a larger battle against President Trump’s efforts to ignore his responsibilities to preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States.” 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Strickland Reintroduces Bill to Help Servicemembers Access Fertility Care

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

    Washington, DC – Today, during National Infertility Awareness Week, Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), led the reintroduction of the Expanding Access to Fertility Care for Servicemembers and Dependents Act, which would expand TRICARE coverage to make assisted reproductive services, including IVF, available to all active-duty servicemembers (including the Reserve and National Guard) and dependents – regardless of service-connection requirements, sex, gender, sexual orientation, or marital status of the servicemember or their dependent.

    This bill has been endorsed by RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association, American Society for Reproductive Medicine, the Center for Reproductive Rights, and the Modern Military Association of America.

    “Answering the call to serve often means making a great number of sacrifices for your country. Being able to start a family should not be one of them. This bill removes current barriers in TRICARE and helps ensure that all servicemembers can access the fertility care they deserve to start a family,” said Strickland.

    “Our nation’s servicemembers and their families make incredible sacrifices every day, and they deserve access to the full spectrum of medical care to build their families. The majority of Americans — 85% — support access to IVF, one of the most effective medical treatments for those struggling to build their family. Expanding TRICARE coverage to include IVF and fertility care is not just the right thing to do—it’s a critical investment in the health and well-being of military families. RESOLVE stands strongly in support of this long-overdue change, and we urge Congress to act swiftly to ensure that no one who serves our country is denied the chance to become a parent,” said Barbara Collura, President/CEO of RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association

    “For decades, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) has been a leader in promoting policies that expand access to fertility treatments like IVF for military families, who face unique family building challenges due to the nature of their work in service to our country,” said Sean Tipton, ASRM Chief Advocacy & Policy Officer. “We thank Congresswoman Strickland, Delegate Norton, Congressman Takano, and Congresswoman Pressley for calling attention to the fact that current Department of Defense (DoD) policy – which limits TRICARE coverage for fertility treatments to only service members with a service-connected illness or injury – fails to provide our military families with adequate access to care. It’s about time we address this shortcoming so that our brave men and women in uniform do not have to juggle the out-of-pocket costs for treatment with their service, end their military careers to access health care, or forego their dreams of having a family.”

    “The Expanding Access to Fertility Care for Servicemembers and Dependents Act is a critical piece of legislation. By removing legal barriers that currently exclude from insurance coverage servicemembers whose infertility is not directly service-related, and safeguarding against discrimination in coverage of this care, the Act gets us closer to ensuring that all servicemembers and their dependents can have equitable and non-discriminatory access to the fertility health care they need to build their families,” said Karla Torres, Senior Human Rights Counsel, Center for Reproductive Rights

    The legislation is cosponsored by Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Rep. Mark Takano (CA-39), and Rep. Ayanna Pressley (MA-7).

    Read the full bill text here.

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

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Feenstra Visits 12 Counties on 36 County Tour This Week

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

    HULL, IOWA — Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) released the following statement after finishing a three-day stint on his 36 County Tour that took him to 12 counties in Iowa’s 4th Congressional District:

    “Since I was first elected to Congress, I pledged that I would travel to all 36 counties in our district at least twice each year. This week, I upheld that promise by meeting with Iowans in 12 different counties. 

    I toured Maintainer Corporation in Sheldon, held a roundtable discussion with local businesses impacted by last summer’s floods in Spencer, surveyed damage from last Thursday’s storms in Storm Lake, stopped by the Britt Area Food Bank, checked out new housing developments in Fonda, and visited the Iowa Veterans Home in Marshalltown. I also spoke at the Boone County Economic Development breakfast, toured Mid-States Millwright and Builders in Nevada, checked out Omnium Manufacturing in Hampton, visited Silgan Containers in Fort Dodge, met with a State Farm Insurance agent in Eagle Grove, and toured ARKO Labs in Jewell and Best Veterinary Solutions in Ellsworth.

    Serving on the House Ways and Means Committee and the House Agriculture Committee, I will continue to be a strong voice for our families, farmers, businesses, and rural communities.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Don Davis Introduces Bill to Strengthen Federal Government-to-Government Relationship with the Haliwa Saponi Indian Tribe

    Source: US Congressman Don Davis (NC-01)

    Washington, D.C. — Congressman Don Davis (NC-01) introduced H.R. 2929, the Haliwa Saponi Indian Tribe of North Carolina Act, legislation that extends the full measure of the federal government-to-government relationship between the United States and the Haliwa Saponi Indian Tribe. This bill represents a step forward in the recognition and support of the Haliwa Saponi Tribe, which has long been a vital part of North Carolina’s cultural heritage.

    “The Haliwa Saponi Indian Tribe deserves federal recognition, and we must respect their deep-rooted heritage and vibrant traditions. We must validate the historical significance and pay tribute to their ongoing contributions,” said Congressman Don Davis. “Their rich legacy, intertwined with incredible ancestral stories, truly merits the honor of federal recognition.”

    Congressman Davis introduced this legislation during the 60th Annual Haliwa Saponi Tribal Powwow, a vibrant celebration of the Tribe’s heritage, culture, and community spirit. Congressman Davis joined community leaders and members of the Tribe in celebrating this significant milestone.

    “This is truly another historic moment for our Tribe, and we are so grateful,” said Dr. Brucie Ogletree Richardson, Chief of the Haliwa Saponi Indian Tribe. “We are thankful for the continued support of Congressman Don Davis and others who have helped our Tribe reach this milestone.”

    The Tribe has over 4,000 members and resides in eastern North Carolina, where its strong relationship with its non-Indian neighbors stretches back countless generations. Halifax and Warren Counties strongly support full federal recognition for the Tribe.

    “This is a historic moment for our Tribe, and we are so grateful to Congressman Don Davis and for the support of Halifax and Warren counties,” said Gideon Lee, Chairman of the Haliwa Saponi Indian Tribe. “Our forefathers have waited for this moment for a long, long time.”

    Congressman Davis’ legislation ensures that the historic North Carolina American Indian Tribe will finally be treated equally under federal law with other federally recognized American Indian tribes in other parts of the country.

    The Haliwa Saponi Indian Tribe of North Carolina Act seeks to:

    • Extend full federal government-to-government relations to the Tribe, allowing them to access all laws, services, and benefits provided to other federally recognized Indian Tribes.
       
    • Ensure eligibility for federal services including education, healthcare, and housing programs, in line with services provided to other recognized Tribes, with a focus on North Carolina’s Halifax, Warren, Nash, Franklin, Vance, and Granville counties.
       
    • Authorize land to be taken into trust for the Tribe, enabling them to establish a reservation and secure their lands for future generations.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Don Davis Introduces Bill to Ensure U.S. Coast Guard Veterans Receive Earned Benefits

    Source: US Congressman Don Davis (NC-01)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. —U.S. Representative Don Davis (D-NC) and U.S. Representative Don Bacon (R-NE) introduced H.R. 2973, the Coast Guard Combat-Injured Tax Fairness Act, which ensures U.S. Coast Guard veterans receive the full benefits they earned through their service. The legislation would close a loophole in an existing law that failed to provide U.S. Coast Guard servicemembers with the same tax break afforded to other active duty personnel. 

    “It is essential that we prioritize the well-being of our U.S. Coast Guard combat-injured veterans, closing this loophole and ensuring they receive full benefits,” said Congressman Don Davis. “We must not stop advocating passionately for our U.S. Coast Guard veterans, who have devoted their lives to serving our country. Together, we must work to ensure no veteran is left behind.”

    “In 2016, the Combat-Injured Veterans Tax Fairness Act returned taxes that were improperly withheld from combat-injured veterans of the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps. However, Coast Guard personnel injured while serving in combat were not included in that legislation,” said Congressman Bacon. “The Coast Guard Combat-Injured Tax Fairness Act would ensure that combat-injured Coast Guard veterans receive their full benefits as combat-injured veterans in their sister services and will prevent similar oversight in the future.”

    Without H.R. 2973 Coast Guard veterans are not able to access the same tax refund on disability severance payments. 

    In 2018, the U.S. Department of Defense and Internal Revenue Service (IRS) estimated that there were 130,000 non-U.S. Coast Guard veterans eligible for an estimated $280 million in tax refunds for disability severance payments.

    As of 2023, there are an estimated 4,860 U.S. Coast Guard veterans with service-connected disabilities, who may be eligible for an estimated $11 million in refunds. 

    However, many of the veterans had taxes withheld. The Combat-Injured Veterans Tax Fairness Act of 2016 remedies that. The law directed the U.S. Secretary of Defense to identify disability severance payments paid after Jan. 17, 1991, that were included as taxable income. The 2016 law required the U.S. Secretary of Defense to notify servicemembers about their eligibility for tax refunds under that law, but it left out ex-U.S. Coast Guard personnel. Therefore, H.R. 2973 expands the tax refund eligibility to former members of the Coast Guard by closing a loophole that made them ineligible for such benefits.

    The deadline to file for the refund is one year from the date of the U.S. Defense Department notice, or three years after the due date for filing the original return for the year the disability severance payment was made, or two years after the tax was paid for the year the disability severance payment was made, according to the IRS.

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Don Davis Remarks at Press Conference on First 100 Days of the 119th Congress

    Source: US Congressman Don Davis (NC-01)

    ROCKY MOUNT, N.C. — Congressman Don Davis delivered the following remarks at his press conference on the first 100 days of the 119th Congress:

    Hi, everybody! It is always great to be back home, in eastern North Carolina. I have worked to share the stories, concerns, and issues impacting eastern North Carolina families. Our district now spans 22 incredible counties, from the coastlines of Currituck and Camden counties through the farmland of Lenoir and Wayne counties to the heart of Oxford and everywhere between. My vision for NC-01 is: “We must meet our constituents where they are, ensuring they are seen and heard in Washington, D.C., to make life better for all families and provide hope and assurance they are not forgotten.” We work to achieve this daily.

    We’ve opened three new offices: 1. Rocky Mount, 2. Goldsboro, and 3. Elizabeth City. We held listening sessions in Camden, Currituck, Granville, Wayne, and Lenoir counties. Due to an increased interest in town halls, we hosted a telephone town hall with nearly 13,000 participants. So far this year, we helped close more than 240 constituent cases and returned over $821,000 to eastern North Carolina families, cutting through bureaucracy to return money directly to our neighbors. Our District Outreach Team has made over 156 visits to meet with constituents across the district, showing up, listening, attending events and meetings, and responding to issues. 

    During the 119th Congress, 11,750 constituents have reached out to the office. In comparison, during the 118th Congress, 8,745 constituents reached out to the office through April 14. The top three campaigns during the 119th Congress have been: 1) Protect Social Security, 2) Oppose the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and Elon Musk, and 3) Support the Ensuring Pathways to Innovative Cures (EPIC) Act.

    I have introduced 14 bills in the 119th Congress, including:

    1. H.R. 1060, Modern Authentication of Pharmaceuticals (MAP) Act of 2025: The first bill we introduced was the Modern Authentication of Pharmaceuticals Act, legislation that seeks to secure the United States drug supply chain and close vulnerabilities that allow counterfeit controlled substances, including lethal fentanyl, into our communities;
    2. H.R. 1244, Reducing Drug Prices for Seniors Act, legislation that reduces out-of-pocket expenses for Medicare patients by calculating the coinsurance cost at the pharmacy counter based on the drug’s net, or actual price, rather than its list price;
    3. H.R. 1298, Veterans Jobs Opportunity Act, legislation that sets a new business-related tax credit for the start-up expenses of a veteran-owned small business in an underserved community;
    4. H.R. 1363, Honor and Remember Flag Recognition Act of 2025, legislation that designates the Honor and Remember Flag, created by Honor and Remember, Inc., as a national symbol to honor service members who died in the line of duty;
    5. H.R. 1377, Sarah Keys Evans Congressional Gold Medal Act in recognition of her achievements relating to the desegregation of passengers on interstate buses in the 1950s. Before there was Rosa Parks, there was Sara Keys Evans;
    6. H.R. 1672, Maintaining New Investments in New Innovation (MINI) Act ensures lifesaving genetic treatments remain accessible;
    7. H.R. 1858, Flooding Prevention, Assessment, and Restoration Act would strengthen flood prevention measures and provide support for rural communities facing flood risks;
    8. H.R. 1985, Promoting Precision Agriculture Act, ensuring our growers have access to the cutting-edge precision agriculture technologies and broadband services necessary to do what they do best — feed, fuel, and clothe the American people;
    9.  H.R. 2043, Agricultural Commodities Price Enhancement Act, legislation that increases the reference price for seed cotton, peanuts, corn, soybeans, and wheat;
    10.  H.R. 2109, Cybersecurity for Rural Water Systems Act, ensures our water systems that rural communities and farmers rely on have the necessary protections to successfully guard against cyber-attacks;
    11.  H.R. 2541, Nuclear Medicine Clarification Act of 2025, legislation that would close a loophole that currently allows patients to be unintentionally exposed to high levels of radiation without reporting or disclosure. The legislation would improve care and ensure transparency for patients and simplify federal rules coming from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC);
    12.  H.R. 2542, Old Drugs, New Cures Act, legislation to improve access to innovative, affordable medication and tackle health disparities in rural and low-income communities across America;
    13. H.R. 2625, Veterans Employment Readiness Yield (VERY) Act, which updates outdated language. The VERY Act makes changes to let our disabled vets know that they are receiving the respect and dignity they have rightfully earned; and 
    14.  H.R. 2707, Protecting American Families and Servicemembers from Anthrax Act, ensuring the U.S. Department of Defense and Department of Health and Human Services develop a long-term stockpiling strategy that leverages the Strategic National Stockpile to enhance national preparedness.

    I am committed to: 

    1. Fighting for our farmers by advocating for a temporary pause on the Adverse Effective Wage Rate and pushing for a comprehensive Farm Bill that enhances commodity pricing. We also need continued support for agricultural assistance for farmers hurt by difficult times;
    2. Protecting Seymour Johnson Air Force Base. We are working to protect Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, including two visits and annual defense priorities focusing on F-15EX procurement, Child Development Center upgrades, maintenance dollars for F-15E aircraft, and $41 million in Combat Arms Training & Maintenance funds; 
    3. Building our local economy, by creating good-paying jobs in shipbuilding with Newport News Shipyard and the Global TransPark, a critical hub for jobs, logistics, and innovation, while addressing local government infrastructure needs.We are also working to address our Interstate, broadband, and housing needs;
    4. Enhancing our healthcare outcomes is vital. I support Martin County’s efforts to enhance its healthcare system and advocate for a new Health Sciences facility at Barton College by advocating for $10 million through Barton’s application to the Golden LEAF Foundation;
    5. On border security, I will continue supporting a secure border and meaningful immigration reform that respects our values. I have visited the ICE facility that services eastern North Carolina in Alamance County Detention Center and traveled as part of an Armed Services Committee CODEL to Naval Station Guantanamo Bay to gain firsthand insight into the role these facilities play in our border security strategy. Next week, I will travel to Lumpkin, Georgia to tour a regional ICE facility; 
    6. I will be filing key legislation that addresses federal recognition for the Haliwa Saponi Indian Tribe, support for the Southeast Crescent Regional Commission, and tax fairness for combat-injured Coast Guard veterans.

    Together, these efforts will contribute to a brighter future for our region. We’re not sitting on the sidelines. We are working hard every day on healthcare, agriculture, defense, and working families. 

    An early victory during the Trump Administration includes the decision by the Food and Drug Administration to formally withdraw and end the effort by the agency to consider a ban on menthol cigarettes and flavored cigars. As the Ranking Member of the Commodity Markets, Digital Assets, and Rural Development Subcommittee of the House Agriculture Committee, I am working on regulatory framework legislation for the crypto and digital assets industry that is a priority of the Administration.

    I also know that people are currently nervous about the state of the country and the world. 

    Specific concerns include: 1. Helene and agriculture assistance, 2. education funding reductions, and 3. tariffs.

    I voted in support of disaster assistance for Helene in the West and drought in the East. I am glad that economic assistance was included. But we are way short. We are a billion short for agricultural assistance alone.

    I visited North Lenoir High School in Lenoir County just this morning, one of the four public school districts in North Carolina that no longer has access to COVID-19-related funding that they had been promised because the U.S. Department of Education terminated their ability to liquidate those federal dollars.

    On Friday, I visited Halifax County Schools to discuss the same issue. 

    We are: 

    1. Sending a letter to the U.S. Department of Education Secretary Linda McMahon; 
    2. Seeking to schedule a meeting with the Secretary; 
    3. Reaching out to other North Carolina delegation members to consider a joint letter; and 
    4. Communicating our findings to the White House.

    For tariffs, eastern North Carolina cannot afford to be collateral damage in a trade war. We need tough and targeted trade policies, but our policies must also protect jobs, lower input costs, and keep our communities strong.

    Previously, I voted in support of the SAVE ACT. After speaking with North Carolina State Board of Election officials, I voted against it based on the concern that the bill cannot be implemented as drafted. While I support the intent of the SAVE Act that makes crystal clear only U.S. citizens should vote in elections, N.C. election officials have shared serious concerns about its implementation. The limited time for modernizing our information systems, uncertain taxpayer costs, and the need for clear standards to verify U.S. citizenship pose risks to administering federal elections. I remain committed to improving this bill and ensuring free and fair elections.

    We are meeting residents where they are. We read “Pete the Cat and His Magic Sunglasses” at St. Stephens Daycare. Federal funds for early childhood education remain important. I visited International Paper at Manson, spoke with quilters in Warrenton, and held a meeting with the Global TransPark. This morning, I traveled to N. Lenoir High School to look at their roof. 

    I plan to visit Pine Gates Renewables, Freedom Industries, and the Boys and Girls Club of the Tar River Region later today. Over the course of the next week, I will attend the 60th Annual Haliwa Saponi Blooming of the Dogwood Powwow, visit Airbus and Collins Aerospace, Barton College, Davita Kidney Care in Wilson, and Wilson Community College.

    I plan to meet with the Albemarle Area United Way, break ground at Elizabeth City State University for an aviation building, visit U.S. Coast Guard Elizabeth City, visit the Food Bank of Albemarle, and meet with the Perquimans County EMS director to discuss recovery efforts.

    As this is Holy Week, I wish everyone a wonderful Easter. Meanwhile, we will keep looking for opportunities to work with the Administration. Tax filing deadline was extended to May 1 for federal and state for all NC residents due to Helene. I encourage residents to file their taxes or an extension. We will keep advocating for our families, our farmers, our veterans, our students, and the future we believe in. May God bless eastern North Carolina, and our nation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Sara Jacobs, Michael McCaul Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Reauthorize Global Fragility Act

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

    April 24, 2025

    Rep. Sara Jacobs (CA-51) and Rep. Michael McCaul (TX-10), Chairman Emeritus of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, introduced bipartisan legislation to reauthorize and strengthen the Global Fragility Act – a landmark initiative to prevent and minimize violent conflict and promote stability around the world. The legislation saves U.S. taxpayer dollars by proactively addressing the root causes of conflict, rather than waiting and spending more to address the consequences of conflict.

    The Global Fragility Reauthorization Act would reauthorize the Prevention and Stabilization Fund (PSF) and the Complex Crises Fund (CCF) – to prevent violence, stabilize conflict-affected areas, and prevent or respond to new or unexpected conflicts – until 2029. It enables the PSF and Economic Support Fund (ESF) to be used for cross-cutting monitoring, evaluation, and learning across diplomatic, development, and security sectors to identify the most effective foreign assistance programs and diplomatic approaches. The legislation also requires an annual senior Global Fragility Act Steering Committee meeting on policy alignment. In 2022, the Biden Administration selected four priority countries and one priority region to apply 10-year strategies pursuant to the Global Fragility Act: Mozambique, Haiti, Papua New Guinea, Libya, and Coastal West Africa (Ghana, Benin, Togo, Côte d’Ivoire, and Guinea).

    Rep. Sara Jacobs said: “We should all be united in promoting data-driven, cost-effective ways to reform U.S. foreign policy. Since its inception, the Global Fragility Act has done exactly that – pioneering a new, innovative, and whole-of-government approach to prevent, minimize, and respond to conflict and instability around the world. This initiative saves American lives and taxpayer dollars and prevents us from being drawn into forever wars. I’m proud to introduce bipartisan legislation to reauthorize the Global Fragility Act to invest in conflict prevention tools and enable a more stable and secure world.”

    Rep. Michael McCaul said: “As our adversaries around the world become more aggressive, protecting U.S. national security requires intentional work to prevent malign regimes and extremist groups from fostering and exploiting instability in their regions to expand their influence. That’s why I’ve reintroduced the Global Fragility Reauthorization Act with Rep. Sara Jacobs — to ensure the State Department has the long-term tools it needs to prevent conflicts before they erupt, keeping Americans safe at home and abroad.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Malliotakis, Local Leaders Call for Tour Helicopters to Be Reined In

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

    (STATEN ISLAND, NY) – Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis was joined by local residents and leaders of civic associations to address growing concerns over the frequency of helicopter tours following a recent tour helicopter crash in the Hudson River. Malliotakis called for stricter regulations on non-essential helicopter tours, which frequently fly at low altitudes over densely populated residential neighborhoods including those on Staten Island.

     

    Malliotakis shared that her office has been in regular contact with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) including having met with FAA Eastern Region Administrators since last year, and with U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy to relay ongoing concerns from residents about low-flying helicopters over Staten Island, with some reported as frequently as every 10 to 15 minutes.

     

    She emphasized that the recent fatal helicopter crash underscores the urgent need for tighter regulations and proposed a ban on non-essential helicopter flights over residential communities in municipalities of 5 million residents or more.

     

    At a minimum, Malliotakis says the FAA must impose strict altitude requirements, enforceable no-fly zones to protect residential neighborhoods, and a reduction in non-essential helicopter flights.

     

    “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’s operated without meaningful oversight for too long. Helicopter tour companies are flying low and often over our neighborhoods, disturbing daily life in ways that are simply unacceptable,” said Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis. “This a public safety issue, and it needs to be addressed. I will continue to work with Secretary Sean Duffy and the FAA to keep pushing for stronger protections until our communities are no longer under constant aerial assault.”

     

    “We should not feel like we’re living on an airport runway. No one should have to retreat to their basement just to escape the relentless noise. Our neighborhoods are not just homes — they are living history, with landmarks that predate the American Revolution. These historic treasures, like our peace of mind, are being threatened by the constant barrage of low-flying helicopters. This is not sustainable, and it is not acceptable. We are a residential community — not an airport terminal,” said Carol Donovan, President of Richmondtown & Clarke Avenue Civic Association.

     

    “Historic Richmond Town stewards the largest collection of the oldest houses in all of New York State. These precious landmark buildings are important not just to our borough, city and state but to the nation. When I hear from our local residential neighbors that they have possible structural damage to their homes because of the commercial helicopters that fly over our neighborhood every 15 minutes, it gives my cultural organization great cause for concern regarding the long term safety of these 38 historic structures,” said Jessica Baldwin Philips, Executive Director, and CEO of Historic Richmond Town.

     

    “This is not just one tragic accident, this is one of many accidents that has happened already, and some we don’t even know about. This has to stop now. We kindly ask the FAA cease and to strip all operations of helicopters flying over Staten Island and over our residential homes, it needs to stop now,” said Joe McAllister, President of South Beach Civic Association.

     

    “The Port Richmond North Shore Alliance stands with our community in demanding an end to low-flying tour helicopters over Staten Island’s residential neighborhoods. After the recent crash in the Hudson, it’s clear these flights pose a serious risk. Staten Island is densely populated and must be recognized as the congested area it is — not a flight path for tourism. Thank you to Congresswoman Malliotakis for standing with us in this fight,” said Mario Buonviaggio, President of Port Richmond North Shore Alliance.

     

    “Westerleigh is not a backdrop for tourist entertainment — it’s a robust neighborhood where people live, work, and raise families. Tour operators are terrorizing our communities with relentless, low-flying helicopters that shatter our peace and endanger our safety. This reckless disregard for our well-being must end now,” said Mark Anderson, President of Westerleigh Improvement Society.

     

    “These helicopter tour operators have turned our neighborhoods into playgrounds for tourist excursions. For years now, tourist helicopters have descended on our area, flying low, rattling our homes and windows, and disrupting what used to be peaceful evenings. There’s been some nights where my family and I could observe helicopters passing overhead every 5 minutes for hours at a time. We are very concerned about safety now following the incident in the Hudson this month. These helicopters fly low over our neighborhoods— who’s to say the next incident doesn’t involve a helicopter plunging into one of our homes or businesses,” said James Tonrey, Richmondtown Resident.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ciscomani Marked Earth Day at Santa Cruz Watershed Collaboration

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

    TUCSON, AZ – On Earth Day, U.S. Congressman Juan Ciscomani joined Audubon Southwest, the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership and Business for Water Stewardship, and other key local water stakeholders while visiting a desert riparian area in Pima County.  

    Ciscomani, a consistent champion of the Cooperative Watershed Management Program (CWMP), a unique federal resource administered through the Bureau of Reclamation that provides critical funding to local stakeholders for the development, planning and design of watershed management programs, has worked to secure and increase critical federal funding for the Santa Cruz Watershed Collaborative’s conservation projects.  

    “Water is our most precious resource, especially living here in the Sonoran Desert,” said Ciscomani. “In Congress, water has been a top priority for me, and I have led in several areas to secure our region and our state’s water security. Projects, like the ones the Santa Cruz Watershed Collaborative are working on to mitigate the effects of drought, are a prime example of the importance of supporting locally driven conservation efforts. I am proud to have fought for increased funding for the CWMP after several years of the program not receiving any increases.”

    The Santa Cruz Watershed Collaborative is funded by the Cooperative Watershed Management Program (CWMP), a grant program administered by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation. The CWMP is a unique federal resource that provides critical funding to local stakeholders for the development, planning, and design of watershed management programs.  

    Congressman Ciscomani advocated for an increase in the CWMP in the Appropriations Committee, which partially funds the Santa Cruz Watershed Collaborative. On April 10th, 2023, Ciscomani testified to the Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee on the importance of the CWMP and the need to increase its funding. Prior to Ciscomani’s advocacy, the program was flat-funded at $5 million, and since FY24, it has received $8 million in funding from the E&W subcommittee.  

    Congressman Ciscomani is the Co-Chair of the bipartisan Colorado River Caucus with Rep Joe Neguse (D-CO-2) and was recently named the Vice-Chair of Conservative Climate Caucus.  

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Laurel Lee Announces 2025 Congressional Art Competition Winners

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Laurel Lee – Florida (15th District)

    Tampa, F.L. – Today, Congresswoman Laurel Lee (FL-15) announced Nishant Sailesh Shah from Carrollwood Day School as the winner of the 2025 Congressional Art Competition for Florida’s 15th District. His piece, “Calm Before the Storm,” will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. for the next year, alongside artwork from other winners from congressional districts across the country.

    “I’m thrilled to congratulate Nishant Sailesh Shah as the winner of this year’s Congressional Art Competition for Florida’s 15th District,” said Congresswoman Laurel Lee. “Nishant’s piece, Calm Before the Storm, truly captures the spirit of this competition, and I am excited to see it proudly on display in the U.S. Capitol. Every year, I am inspired by the heart and vision our local students bring to this opportunity, and I thank all of the students who participated in this year’s competition.”

    The other finalists’ artwork will be displayed on the walls of Congresswoman Lee’s district office.

    Each spring, the House of Representatives and the Congressional Institute sponsor a nationwide art competition to highlight talented high school artists from across the country. The winner from each district will have their artwork displayed in the Capitol for one year. The competition first began in 1982 and more than 650,000 high school students have participated.

    1st Place Winner: Nishant Sailesh Shah, “Calm Before the Storm,” Carrollwood Day School

    2nd Place Winner: Brylie Davidson, “Remembrance,” Strawberry Crest High School

    People’s Choice Winner: Raina Kim, “Open Book,” Strawberry Crest High School

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: De La Cruz Expresses Support for Additional Disaster Relief for South Texas

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

    Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) sent a letter to President Trump expressing support for Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s request for additional federal support for disaster relief. This relief would be critical to addressing the damage caused by the recent severe flooding in several South Texas counties, including Hidalgo County.

    In the letter, De La Cruz writes: 

    “Dear President Trump,

    I understand that the State of Texas has requested an emergency disaster declaration through the Office of the Governor in response to the severe weather conditions that have impacted several counties in South Texas, including Hidalgo County.

    Governor Abbott and local authorities have concluded that the scale of this storm has exceeded the capacity of both local and state emergency resources. As a result, additional federal support is urgently needed to protect public health and the livelihoods of many South Texans displaced by the storms. The lingering damage to property and critical infrastructure continues to cause severe problems for South Texas residents.

    I am thankful for your attention to this situation and respectfully urge you to approve all available federal resources to aid Texas in a timely manner. I stand ready to work with relevant agencies, including FEMA, to ensure aid is delivered to our communities that need it most.

    Thank you for your leadership and immediate attention to this matter.

    Sincerely, 

    Monica De La Cruz

    Member of Congress

    15th District of Texas”

    Read the full letter here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: PHOTOS: De La Cruz Tours Rio Grande Valley Food Bank, Hosts Roundtable for South Texas Farmers

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

    PHOTOS: De La Cruz Tours Rio Grande Valley Food Bank, Hosts Roundtable for South Texas Farmers

    Washington, April 16, 2025

    PHOTOS: De La Cruz Tours Rio Grande Valley Food Bank, Hosts Roundtable for South Texas Farmers

    WASHINGTON –This week,Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) toured the Rio Grande Valley Food Bank and hosted a roundtable with South Texas farmers to discuss the impacts and challenges of the H-2A visa program.

    Congresswoman De La Cruz toured the Rio Grande Valley Food Bank – the 7th largest food bank in Texas – and met with their team to discuss their work to help South Texans through food assistance, nutrition education, and access to community services.

    De La Cruz hosted a roundtable for South Texas farmers and producers to discuss the H-2A visa program which allowsU.S. employers to bring foreign nationals to the United States to fill temporary agricultural jobs.On the House Agriculture Committee, De La Cruz is committed to supportingpolicies that are critical to supporting farmers, farmworkers, ranchers, and South Texas communities.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bean Announces Congressional Art Competition Winners

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

    WASHINGTON—Last night, U.S. Congressman Aaron Bean (FL-04) announced the winners of the 2025 Congressional Art Competition for Florida’s Fourth Congressional District during an awards ceremony held at Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) Downtown Campus. Students from across the district submitted artwork for the competition pertaining to the theme “Service and Sacrifice of our Armed Forces.” 

    “Who knew Florida’s Fourth District was full of Picassos? These young artists submitted creative and impressive artwork that showcased just how talented our Northeastern Florida high school students are,” said Congressman Bean. “Congratulations, Emma, on your winning entry. I look forward to seeing your artwork displayed in the U.S. Capitol Building.”

    The winners of the 2025 Congressional Art Competition are listed below: 

    Grand Prize Winner: Emma Kruthoff, The Medals, Fernandina Beach High School

    CLAY COUNTY
    Winner: Hayden Gorneault, In The Shade of Heroes, Middleburg High School
    Runner-Up: Kalena Parris, A Nation’s Lament, Ridgeview High School

    DUVAL COUNTY
    Winner: Katherine Zickuhr, The Legacy of Our Armed Forces, Stanton College Preparatory School
    Runner-Up: Lauryn Taylor, Honoring our Armed Forces, William Raines High School

    NASSAU COUNTY
    Winner: Em Alexander, Blue Depths, Red Horizons, Fernandina Beach High School
    Runner-Up: Emily Moore, Fierce Relations, Fernandina Beach High School 

    BACKGROUND

    Each spring, the House of Representatives and the Congressional Institute sponsor a nationwide competition as an opportunity for high school students to showcase their talents. Students from Clay, Duval, and Nassau counties submitted their artwork for the competition, and local artistic professionals judged the pieces. 

    The winning artwork will be displayed for one year in the Cannon Tunnel at the U.S. Capitol Building. Additional student artwork will be featured as part of a Student Gallery at the Jacksonville International Airport and will be displayed from May 13th through July 31st.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ciscomani Reiterates Support for Medicaid at Arizona Chamber Event

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

    Phoenix, AZ – U.S. Congressman Juan Ciscomani reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to preserving Medicaid benefits for those who rely on it, like single mothers, the working poor, individuals with disabilities, and the elderly. 

    “We’ve got to make sure that we protect Medicaid for people the program was intended to serve,” said Ciscomani at the Arizona Chamber of Commerce’s annual Update from Capitol Hill Lunch. 

    Earlier this month, Ciscomani and twelve Republican colleagues sent a letter to House Republican Leadership and Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Brett Guthrie reiterating their support on Medicaid and making clear the lawmakers would not vote for legislation that reduces Medicaid coverage for vulnerable populations.  
    The Congressman also told the audience that there is no question that the federal government can, and must, do more to reduce waste and safeguard the long-term financial viability of Medicaid. You can watch Ciscomani’s remarks here. 

    “As the federal government has grown, so have inefficiencies and unnecessary bureaucracies,” said Ciscomani. “I have been crystal clear that I do not support reducing Medicaid coverage for those the program was intended to serve. What I do support are targeted reforms, such as implementing work requirements for able-bodied adults with no dependents and strengthening eligibility verification to ensure that every dollar is maximized and spent on vulnerable individuals who rely on Medicaid.” 

    The Congressman also told audiences that while we have made great strides to secure the southern border, Mexican drug cartels are regrouping as border security has ramped up under the Trump administration.  

    “The threat is still real, Mexican drug cartels aren’t going to surrender their multi-billion dollar businesses easily,” he said. “The fight is not over and there is still a lot of work that needs to be done to codify the administration’s border security efforts into law.” 

    In March, Ciscomani, who serves as Vice Chair of the House Appropriations Homeland Security Subcommittee, hosted nine freshman Republican lawmakers on a tour of the Arizona – Mexico border. Here, they learned about the cartel’s effort to use unmanned aerial drones to carry out their illicit operations and threaten our national security. As a result, Ciscomani and Rep. John McGuire (VA-05) penned a letter to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, and Federal Aviation Administrator Chris Rocheleau about countering drones at the southern border. You can watch NewsNation’s coverage here. 

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Important Update: Community Conversations with Congressman Frank J. Mrvan

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Frank J. Mrvan (IN)

    Merrillville, IN – We regret to announce that, due to an unexpected health issue, Congressman Mrvan will be unable to participate in today’s scheduled Community Conversations events.

    We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.  However, staff members from the Congressman’s office will be present at the scheduled locations to assist with casework inquiries and collect any messages or concerns that constituents wish to share.  Congressman Mrvan will review all messages and respond in writing.

    The Congressman is expected to make a full and speedy recovery, and we will work to reschedule these events as soon as possible.

    Thank you for your understanding and continued support.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. Chamber, Quad Cities Chamber Host Miller-Meeks for Roundtable on Tax Reform

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

    DAVENPORT – Today, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the Quad Cities Chamber of Commerce hosted Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA) for a roundtable discussion in Davenport, Iowa with local business leaders on the need to extend pro-growth business tax provisions before portions of President Trump’s 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) expire at the end of the year. Doing so will create new opportunities for American workers and businesses to thrive.

    Absent Congressional action, the country will see the largest automatic tax increase in American history. Miller-Meeks is on the frontlines, working to ensure that the constituents of the 1st District of Iowa will not face this massive tax increase at the end of 2025.

    “I was delighted to be with local business owners as we advocate together for an extension of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act,” said Miller-Meeks. “Starting in 2026, failure to extend these tax cuts would be a devastating 25% average tax hike on Iowa families, farmers, and small businesses, the backbone of our economy and community. Thank you to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce for being an advocate for our small businesses. Together, we will continue to champion policies that foster growth, and help southeast Iowa thrive!”

    “With congress passing budget language earlier this month, the hard work of developing a tax package that avoids a historic tax hike on small business is underway”, said Peter Tokar III, President and CEO of the Quad Cities Chamber of Commerce. “We are proud to work with Congresswoman Miller-Meeks and are thankful for her support of common-sense pro-growth, pro-business tax policy that ensures small businesses can do what they do best, run their business and invest in their employees.” 

    The U.S. Chamber’s tax roundtables and business tour are the latest effort in its Growing America’s Future campaign, an education and advocacy blitz in support of maintaining a pro-growth tax code to foster a robust U.S. economy that benefits all Americans. These events will continue over the coming months in communities across the country.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressmen Auchincloss, Krishnamoorthi Request Investigation into Possible Sanctions Violations by Yantai iRay Technology Co.

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Jake Auchincloss (Massachusetts, 4)

    April 01, 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Jake Auchincloss (D-MA) and Ranking Member Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) of the House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the U.S. and the CCP sent a letter to Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent and Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick, requesting both departments investigate whether Yantai iRay Technology Co., Ltd. (“iRay”), a company in the People’s Republic of China (PRC) sanctioned by the Treasury Department, may be committing sanctions violations via a network of subsidiaries and directly related companies in the United States.

    Among these subsidiaries is iRayUSA, who after iRay’s sanctioning in May 2024 for supplying Russia-based end users with controlled, dual-use technology claimed to its U.S. distributors that “iRayUSA’s manufacturing partner is a separate entity” from iRay. However, government filings along with other publicly available information strongly suggest that iRayUSA’s contention is false and that it, along with InfiRay Outdoor, Visir Inc. (brand name RIX Optics), and Inlumen Technologies (brand name Nocpix) may be violating U.S. sanctions by continuing to sell and distribute iRay products in the United States. 

    Reps .Auchincloss and Krishnamoorthi write in the letter, “Given their subsidiary or other close relationship with iRay, InfiRay Outdoor, iRayUSA, Visir Inc., and Inlumen Technologies appear to potentially be in violation of U.S. sanctions. Your agencies should also consider whether the operations of these entities pose a national security risk to the United States given the dual-use nature of their products and the sensitive data obtained through them. Thermal technology is a critical enabler of lethality and capability on the modern battlefield, and PLA access to U.S. thermal sensor data could allow it to refine its own capabilities while degrading U.S. leadership in this field.”

    The Treasury Department imposed sanctions on iRay on May 1, 2024 for operating in the technology sector of the Russian Federation, including by supplying Russia-based end users with items like telescopic thermal sights and military thermal imagers controlled by the Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security Common High Priority List. 

    “It is highly concerning that iRay, a company sanctioned for supporting Russia’s brutal and illegal invasion of Ukraine, appears to still be peddling its products in the United States through a shell game of U.S.-based subsidiaries,” said Ranking Member Krishnamoorthi. “In addition, iRay’s potential access to data from American users of its advanced targeting technologies could allow China’s military to dominate these capabilities at U.S. expense. We urge the Treasury and Commerce Departments to investigate this activity and appropriate enforcement actions.”

    “Federal authorities must enforce sanctions against Chinese & Russian military cooperation,” said Congressman Auchincloss. “Appeasement of one is weakness to another.”

    The members request the Treasury Department and Commerce Department provide them with a briefing on any information available to the departments regarding iRay and its subsidiaries by no later than April 11, 2025.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Auchincloss and Senator Warren Call on SEC to Explain Legal Loophole for Trump’s Meme Coins

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Jake Auchincloss (Massachusetts, 4)

    March 21, 2025

    Washington, DC – Representative Jake Auchincloss (D-Mass.-04), Member of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, and Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ranking Member of the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee, sent a letter to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) demanding answers about a new SEC Division of Corporate Finance Staff Statement that could shield President Donald Trump’s recently launched meme coins from regulatory scrutiny. The lawmakers’ letter comes as the SEC’s Crypto Task Force hosts its first roundtable in a series purportedly designed to determine the extent of the SEC’s authority to police crypto markets for fraud and scams. 

    “[T]he U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) Division of Corporate Finance (Division) released a Staff Statement asserting that ‘persons who participate in the offer and sale of meme coins’ are not subject to federal securities laws. The Staff Statement comes just weeks after President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump launched their own meme coins, $TRUMP and $MELANIA, and conveniently presents a legal interpretation that could shield the President’s and First Lady’s coins from regulatory scrutiny,” wrote the lawmakers. 

    In the letter the lawmakers raise concerns about the timing and implications of this policy shift, which asserts that individuals who participate in the offer and sale of meme coins are not subject to federal securities laws. The statement, released by the agency just weeks after Donald and Melania Trump debuted their own meme coins, comes amid a broader pattern of SEC actions that benefit cryptocurrency firms at the expense of retail investors.  

    “The Staff Statement is, notably, just one of many recent SEC actions aiming to arbitrarily deregulate the cryptocurrency industry. In just the past two months, for example, the SEC has dropped ten major lawsuits and investigations against cryptocurrency platforms such as Coinbase, Binance, and Kraken,” wrote the lawmakers. 

    The SEC Staff Statement declaring that the SEC will not enforce the law against crypto coins like President Trump’s  comes ahead of the first SEC-hosted roundtable on cryptocurrency of the Trump Administration.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Auchincloss, Turner Release Statement Concerning Current Situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Jake Auchincloss (Massachusetts, 4)

    March 14, 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Jake Auchincloss (MA-04) and Mike Turner (OH-10), co-chairs of the Congressional Bosnia Caucus, issued the following statement regarding the current situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina:
     
    “Milorad Dodik’s ongoing efforts to dismantle the Dayton Peace Accords and undermine three decades of fragile peace in the Balkans are deeply concerning. His turn to Vladimir Putin for support only further destabilizes the region, threatens Bosnia and Herzegovina’s sovereignty, and defies the rule of law.
     
    “The United States and our allies cannot allow these actions to go unchecked. As Co-Chairs of the Congressional Bosnia Caucus, we remain committed to advancing peace and stability in BiH, and we will continue working with our European allies to counter malign influence and uphold the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity in the Balkans.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Jake Auchincloss Announces Guest for President Trump’s Joint Address to Congress

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Jake Auchincloss (Massachusetts, 4)

    March 03, 2025

    Washington, D.C. – Congressman Jake Auchincloss (D, MA-04) is announcing former Assistant Administrator for Global Health at the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), Dr. Atul Gawande, MD, MPH, as his guest for President Trump’s address to a Joint Session of Congress on Tuesday, March 4th. 

    Dr. Gawande is a renowned surgeon, writer, and public health leader. Prior to leading global health at USAID, he was a practicing general and endocrine surgeon at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and a professor at Harvard Medical School and the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. He was the founder and chair of Ariadne Labs, a joint center for health systems innovation, and of Lifebox, a nonprofit organization working to make surgery safer globally.

    At USAID, Dr. Gawande oversaw global health efforts, providing access to preventative treatment and care. Since taking office on January 20, Trump has dismantled USAID and eliminated over ninety percent of 6,300 USAID awards, including health programs that help millions battling diseases such as malaria, tuberculosis, and HIV.

    “The global vaccination efforts of Dr. Gawande and the public health officials at USAID have saved millions of lives and prevented unnecessary suffering. For the first time since 2003, a child in the U.S. has died from measles. Trump’s dismantling of USAID and his promotion of anti-vaccine conspiracy theorist Robert F. Kennedy Jr. – who refuses to unequivocally recommend the measles vaccine – as our nation’s top health officer is reversing decades of progress in eradicating the world’s deadliest diseases,” said Congressman Jake Auchincloss

    “The experience of USAID shows what doing surgery with a chainsaw on the US government looks like. It is a bloodbath. The dismantling of USAID is costing tens of thousands of American jobs, massive loss of life, and mismanagement of billions of taxpayer dollars — the exact opposite of addressing fraud, waste, and abuse. The American people deserve to hear an explanation for why he’s firing public servants who keep America secure and cutting programs that save lives,” said Dr. Atul Gawande.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kamlager-Dove Statement on Rubio’s State Department Concession to DOGE

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager California (37th District)

    LOS ANGELES, CA – Today, Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on South and Central Asia, issued the following statement on Secretary Rubio’s proposed reorganization of the U.S. State Department:

    “The U.S. funds diplomacy and development through the State Department and USAID because when you buck soft power, you court war. And we promote democracy, human rights, women’s equality, accountability for war crimes, and anti-extremism because it makes the United States–not our adversaries–countries’ partner of choice. 

    Gutting the values-based bureaus that make us competitive, setting arbitrary personnel quotas regardless of national security needs, and cutting the department’s budget by a reported 50% will not make the State Department more effective or efficient.

    Rubio’s proposed reorganization caves to pressure from radicals like Elon Musk who fundamentally reject these American values at home and abroad. It is unsurprising but still unacceptable that this restructuring plan was developed with zero input from Congress. That’s why I preemptively introduced the Defending American Diplomacy Act, which would require Congressional approval before any reorganization of the State Department.

    A substack essay isn’t going to cut it. Rubio must testify before Congress to justify how these changes will actually enhance U.S. foreign policy and aren’t just a self-preserving concession to the MAGA culture warriors who are hungry to destroy our government from the inside.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –