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Category: United States House of Representatives

  • MIL-OSI USA: REPORT: Report: National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology Urges Swift Action to Protect U.S. National Security

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

    Washington, D.C. – Today, the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology (NSCEB) delivered its major report and action plan to Congress. Representative Bice (R-OK-05) serves as one of the Commissioners.  

    The Commission’s top assessment is that urgent Congressional action is needed to bring the full weight of American innovation to bear on the biotechnology challenge and maintain U.S. global leadership in this transformative area. 

    For decades, the U.S. has been the global leader in biotechnology innovation. Now, the Commission finds that the U.S. is dangerously close to falling behind China. 

    “The United States is locked in a competition with China that will define the coming century. Biotechnology is the next phase in that competition. It is no longer constrained to the realm of scientific achievement. It is now an imperative for national security, economic power, and global influence. Biotechnology can ensure our warfighters continue to be the strongest fighting force on tomorrow’s battlefields, and reshore supply chains while revitalizing our manufacturing sector, creating jobs here at home,” said NSCEB Chair Senator Todd Young (R-IN). 

    The Commission reports that the United States’ growing dependence on China for numerous critical supply chain elements is a national security vulnerability. Biotechnology can be the key to increasing supply chain security, resilience, and scalability, by allowing the U.S. to control its own access to critical components. 

    “Technology is not inherently good or bad, but who uses it matters. Biotechnology can have tremendous potential for good or tremendous potential for harm. The Chinese government has made biotechnology a strategic national priority for 20 years. The U.S. must reassert our global leadership to remedy this strategic weakness. We must be the ones driving the standards for how biotechnology is developed and used,”said NSCEB Vice Chair Dr. Michelle Rozo. 

    The Commission finds that emerging biotechnology is rapidly advancing, and the impact of biotechnology innovation already extends far beyond health, touching industries from agriculture and infrastructure, to manufacturing and defense. The intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and biotechnology is accelerating this impact. 

    “Biotechnology holds immense potential to transform numerous key sectors of our economy and will create good paying jobs at all skill levels in agriculture, health care, defense, industrial manufacturing, and more. I am proud to be part of this commission that is ensuring the United States maintains our national security and economic competitive advantages as biotechnology grows across industries,”said NSCEB Commissioner Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA). 

    The Commission reports that biotechnology will drive the next wave of battlefield innovation, used to secure supply chains, enhance readiness, streamline logistics, improve resilience, and counter biological threats before they emerge. 

    “As emerging technologies transform the national security landscape, both the United States and our adversaries are gaining new capabilities. The United States must take the lead in biotechnology and propel us ahead of China in the 21st century,”said NSCEB Commissioner Representative Stephanie Bice (R-OK-5). 

    The Commission’s assessment is that the future of American biotechnology leadership is only possible through strategic federal action that encourages innovation by spurring private investment. This includes targeted investments and strategic government reforms to reduce regulatory bottlenecks. 

    “We must embolden the best and brightest in biotechnology to innovate boldly. American ingenuity is stifled by outdated regulations in this sector. Only Congress can open the door to the American-led biotechnological future,”said NSCEB Commissioner Representative Ro Khanna (D-CA-17). 

    The Commission’s report lays out six pillars for action and makes 49 recommendations. 

    Pillar 1: Prioritize biotechnology at the national level 

    Pillar 2: Mobilize the private sector to get U.S. products to scale 

    Pillar 3: Maximize the benefits of biotechnology for defense 

    Pillar 4: Out-innovate our strategic competitors 

    Pillar 5: Build the biotechnology workforce of the future 

    Pillar 6: Mobilize the collective strengths of our allies and partners 

    Background on NSCEB: 

    The National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology is a time-limited, high-impact legislative branch advisory entity whose purpose is to advance and secure biotechnology, biomanufacturing, and associated technologies for U.S. national security and to prepare the United States for the biorevolution. NSCEB published a comprehensive report in April 2025, including recommendations for action by Congress and the federal government. The bipartisan Commission is composed of Congressionally-appointed Commissioners with members from both the Senate and the House of Representatives as well as experts from industry, academia, and government. For more information about the Commission and to view the report, visit biotech.senate.gov. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Nick Langworthy Releases Statement After Supporting House Budget Resolution

    Source: US Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23)

    WASHINGTON D.C.— This afternoon, Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23) released the following statement regarding the passage of H. Con. Res. 14 which passed the House by a vote of 216 – 214.

     

    “Today, the House passed the budget resolution as amended by the Senate, bringing us one step closer to implementing President Trump’s economic agenda. This bill provides a blueprint for delivering historic savings of taxpayer dollars that eliminates waste, fraud, and abuse while protecting essential programs like Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security for those who truly need it.

     

    “Now that we’ve cleared these hurdles, the committees will get to work developing legislation that aligns with our goals of providing critical tax cuts for working and middle-class Americans, spurring job growth, and reducing our deficit.

     

    “While the Democrats have spent their time obstructing, lying, and misleading the public about cuts, we are already seeing the positive results of the President’s economic agenda with inflation and energy prices dropping and a March jobs report that exceeded expectations. Today’s vote gives us the momentum we need to keep building toward our new Golden Age.”

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Hinson: Illegal Immigrants Should Never Vote in U.S. Elections

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

    Washington, DC – Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (IA-02) released the following statement after voting for the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act, legislation she cosponsored that prevents noncitizens from registering to vote in U.S. federal elections.

    “Voting in our elections is a sacred right for American citizens. After years of Biden allowing millions of illegal aliens into our country, Democrats are trying to maintain loopholes that allow illegal immigrants to register to vote. We must fight back against this transparent political ploy and sign the SAVE Act into law to protect the integrity of our elections.” – Congresswoman Ashley Hinson

    Background:

    The Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act will prevent illegal immigrants and non-citizens from voting in U.S. elections by:

    • Requiring state election officials to ask about citizenship before providing voter registration forms.
    • Requiring an individual to provide proof of citizenship in order to register to vote in federal elections.
    • Expanding the variety of documents accepted by state election officials to allow a citizen to register to vote.
    • Providing state election officials with access to federal agency databases to confirm citizenship and remove noncitizens from voter rolls.
    • Requiring the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to notify state chief election officials of recently naturalized citizens and directing DHS to remove noncitizens who are registered to vote.

    For individuals who need to update their documentation to reflect a name change, the SAVE Act explicitly directs states to establish a process for them to register to vote, irrespective of those discrepancies. Like other areas of the law, citizens will be able to use combinations of existing identification documents, certificates of birth from the state, and other similar documentation to demonstrate citizenship. No one will be left unable to register to vote due to a name change.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Clyde Introduces Bill to Enhance USPS Oversight Following Botched Consolidation Process in Georgia

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Andrew Clyde (GA-09) introduced the Postal Service Transparency and Review Act to bolster oversight of the U.S. Postal Service’s (USPS) decision-making processes.

    The legislation seeks to address the lack of sufficient oversight of significant changes to postal services following the USPS’s decision to transition and consolidate local Processing & Distribution Centers across North Georgia to the Regional Processing & Distribution Center (RPDC) in Palmetto, Georgia. The agency’s poor planning and mishandling of this transition has extensively disrupted mail delivery operations throughout the region.

    “The U.S. Postal Service’s botched transition and consolidation operation in North Georgia highlights the dire need for oversight reform,” said Clyde. “If the USPS had fulfilled its legal obligation to seek an advisory opinion from the Postal Regulatory Commission, I believe Georgians would not have been forced to bear the loss of revenue, immense pain, and hardships brought on by mail delays caused by the disastrous transition. I’m hopeful that by strengthening oversight of the Postal Service’s decision-making processes, my legislation will ultimately prevent large scale postal service changes from negatively impacting Americans in the future.”

    Postal Transparency and Review Act

    Currently, under 39 U.S.C. 3661, the Postal Service is required to request an advisory opinion from the Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC) before making any nationwide or substantially nationwide service changes. However, the USPS has broad discretion which allows the agency to determine whether a proposed change warrants a PRC review. Additionally, since there is no explicit deadline for the Postal Service to submit changes for review, the agency can delay submission until changes have already been implemented. 

    This has resulted in the Postal Service bypassing necessary oversight, as evidenced by its unilateral decision to implement significant changes to the RPDC network in major metropolitan areas without seeking input from the PRC.

    The Postal Transparency and Review Act addresses this issue by:

    • Requiring the USPS to submit significant proposed changes to the PRC for review no later than 180 days prior to the proposed effective date of such changes.
    • Expanding the submission requirement to include changes that impact service not only at the national level but also at the postal district level, which typically align with state boundaries.
    • Authorizing the PRC to suspend any changes if the Postal Service fails to seek the required advisory opinion under the amended requirements.
    • Mandating that any postal operations changes suspended by the PRC be reverted to their previous state before the implementation of the suspended changes until an advisory opinion is published.
    • Allowing Congress to intervene and disapprove of changes through a fast-tracked joint resolution pursuant to the Congressional Review Act after receiving the PRC’s advisory opinion.

    By strengthening this oversight process, Rep. Clyde’s Postal Transparency and Review Act aims to prevent the Postal Service from bypassing accountability and ensure that changes with significant service impacts undergo thorough review and evaluation. 

    Original cosponsors include Representatives Rick Allen (GA-12), Buddy Carter (GA-01), Brian Jack (GA-03), Barry Loudermilk (GA-11), Rich McCormick (GA-07), and Austin Scott (GA-08). 

    Text of the Postal Transparency and Review Act is available HERE.

    Background

    On August 13th, 2024, Rep. Clyde led the Georgia Congressional Delegation in sending a letter to then-USPS Postmaster General Louis DeJoy demanding that he immediately fulfill his legal obligation to seek an advisory opinion from the PRC for the agency’s recent consolidation process in the Peach State.

    On August 22nd, the Postal Service responded to this letter by announcing the agency would finally seek an advisory opinion from the PRC on its “Delivering for America” plan, which encompassed the changes made in Georgia.

    On January 31st, 2025, the PRC published its advisory opinion, which found that the Postal Service’s plan depends on “defective modeling” and does not appear ready for implementation. Additionally, the opinion notes that the USPS’s proposal relies on “overly optimistic financial projections for cost savings” and has “significant negative impacts on rural communities throughout the United States.”

    Related

    Rep. Clyde Demands Audit & Investigation of USPS Mail Delays

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Vasquez Opposes the SAVE Act, Calls It a Dangerous Attempt to Suppress the Right to Vote

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

    Bill Would Disenfranchise Rural Voters, Veterans, Seniors, Women, and Native Communities Ahead of 2026 Elections

    WASHINGTON, D.C. –Today, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) issued the following statement ahead of the House vote on the Republican-led SAVE Act:

    “Let’s call this bill what it is: a voter suppression bill. The SAVE Act would make it harder for veterans, seniors, rural residents, married women, and Tribal members to vote—all under the false pretense of election security. This is a direct attack on the rights of the very people I represent in southern New Mexico. I will be voting no, just like I did last Congress. Our democracy works best when all citizens can participate in an inclusive voting process.”

    Background on the SAVE Act

    The SAVE Act would require voters to present a narrow set of government-issued documents to prove citizenship before registering to vote in federal elections. Critics, including voting rights and civil liberties organizations, say the bill would disenfranchise millions of eligible U.S. citizens—particularly:

    • Veterans whose military paperwork does not include proof of citizenship,
       
    • Tribal members who rely on sovereign ID forms are not recognized under this law,
       
    • Women and seniors whose legal documents may not match due to marriage or name changes,
       
    • And rural or colonia residents who face geographic and financial barriers to accessing documentation services.
       

    In New Mexico’s 2nd Congressional District, which includes large rural and Tribal populations, the impact would be especially severe.

    Rep. Vasquez voted against the SAVE Act when it was first introduced in 2023 and has continued to oppose efforts to restrict ballot access under the guise of election security.

     

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Pfluger Statement on Passage of Budget Resolution

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

    Rep. Pfluger Statement on Passage of Budget Resolution

    Washington, April 10, 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) released the following statement following the House passage of the budget resolution.

    “I voted in favor of the budget resolution that will allow Republicans to continue moving forward. While the measure was not perfect, it was a necessary step to implement President Trump’s agenda, and it gives us the ability to move legislation soon to cut government spending and prevent the largest tax hike in history for American families. We have to look the American public in the eye and give them the confidence that we are committed to ensuring tax relief for working families and small businesses, reining in reckless federal spending, unleashing energy dominance, and making America safe again for this generation and the next – and continuing our momentum by passing the budget resolution today does exactly that.”

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Pfluger Votes to Prevent Noncitizens from Voting in U.S. Elections

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) released the following statement after voting YES to pass the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act to require states to obtain proof of U.S. citizenship for individuals to register to vote in a federal election.

    “Free and fair elections are the cornerstone of our democracy, which is why protecting them at a federal level from foreign influence is essential to our nation’s sovereignty and will ensure America flourishes for decades to come. Voting for the SAVE Act today should have been a simple, bipartisan, ‘yes’ vote from all Members of Congress, but unfortunately, that was not the case. The overwhelming majority of Democrats voted against this bill, proving that they will never stand for commonsense election reforms such as requiring proof of U.S. citizenship to vote. You have to show an ID to open a bank account, get on a plane, drive a car, and much more – why would the standard be any less to vote for our elected officials? I was proud to VOTE yes on the SAVE Act today and urge its swift passage in the Senate.”

    Background:
     Rep. Pfluger has been a strong advocate for election reform throughout his time in Congress. Earlier this year, Rep. Pfluger introduced a package of election security bills to prohibit noncitizen residents of Washington, D.C. from voting in local elections, a bill to block noncitizens from helping administer elections, and a constitutional amendment to prevent noncitizens from voting.

    Read more about his election security package in Fox News HERE. 

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Laurel Lee Introduces Bill to Protect American Broadband Consumers

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

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Laurel Lee (R-FL) and Congressman Marc Veasey (D-TX) introduced the Stopping the Theft and Destruction of Broadband Act. This bill will impose penalties for those who damage or steal broadband lines.

    “American consumers use broadband for a wide range of uses and expect to have uninterrupted service. Broadband providers, in collaboration with government agencies, work tirelessly to defend against a constant barrage of external threats. However, when it comes to the intentional theft or damage of communications facilities, weak and ineffective laws often allow perpetrators to escape justice,” said Rep. Laurel Lee. “To safeguard critical infrastructure and protect consumers, we need stronger, clearer laws and enhanced enforcement, ensuring that those who maliciously harm our networks face severe criminal penalties. That is why I introduced the Stopping the Theft and Destruction of Broadband Act to impose strict penalties on those who seek to damage or steal broadband lines.”

    “I am proud to introduce this bill to address the growing problem of broadband cable theft, which disrupts essential services for communities and businesses across the country. This legislation ensures stronger protections for vital infrastructure and enhances access to reliable internet for all Americans,” said Rep. Veasy.

    “We applaud Reps. Lee and Veasey for introducing the Stopping the Theft and Destruction of Broadband Act, which addresses the growing threat of vandalism to critical communications infrastructure. These networks are essential to public safety, national security, and daily life, yet increasing copper theft and sabotage are disrupting emergency services, damaging key sectors, and resulting in consumers losing service. By strengthening our federal laws to meet this growing threat, we can leverage stronger deterrents and harsher penalties to better protect the networks that keep Americans connected and safe,” said NCTA – The Internet & Television Association.

    Read the bill text here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Oregon Delegation Demands Immediate Restoration of Critical FEMA Program

    Source: US Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04)

    April 10, 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley led his Democratic colleagues in the Oregon delegation—Senator Ron Wyden and U.S. Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Val Hoyle (OR-04), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), and Janelle Bynum (OR-05)—in calling for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to immediately restore Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) grants. These federal grants are critical to ensuring that Oregon’s communities—especially in frontier, rural, and coastal regions of the state—can withstand the increasing threat of natural disasters. But, on April 4th, FEMA decided to cancel all current and future awards under the BRIC program.

    “Terminating the BRIC program, including the terminations of projects that are already underway, is not only wasteful and makes us less safe, but will make our communities bear a higher cost for repairs and recovery when disaster inevitably strikes. The Department should immediately restore this program,” the Oregon lawmakers demanded.

    The Oregon delegation made it clear to U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and FEMA Acting Administrator Cameron Hamilton the Trump Administration’s shortsighted cancellation comes with a disastrous economic impact, as every $1 spent on preparedness and resilience saves communities $13 in damages, cleanup costs, and economic impacts. The lawmakers also noted the BRIC program itself was signed into law in 2018 by President Trump as part of the Disaster Recovery Reform Act. At the time, this legislation had wide bipartisan support to enhance the resiliency of communities against natural disasters, including floods, tornadoes, and other severe weather events that are increasing in both frequency and severity.

    “The abrupt termination of this program is not only counterproductive to the goals of disaster risk reduction, but also undermines the commitment made by Congress to mitigate the devastating impacts of climate chaos,” the lawmakers continued.

    Since the first round of BRIC funding went out the door in 2020, over $5 billion in grants have funded hundreds of important projects that have been instrumental in reducing disaster damage and protecting vulnerable communities across states, localities, and Tribes. BRIC is so popular that the need for these funds continually surpasses currently authorized levels. In fact, FEMA has rejected nearly 2,000 applicants seeking an additional $13 billion in grants.

    In Oregon, these funds are having an immense impact, particularly in rural communities. Disrupting projects designed to reduce hazard risk now—especially many of the projects already in progress—could do lasting damage.

    For example, Mapleton in Lane County, with a population of about 530 people, was preparing to buy a water storage tank using a BRIC grant to protect against flooding and improve drinking water supply for their city and the surrounding area. And in Clatsop County, Columbia Memorial Hospital had already begun work under a $20 million award for upgrades to existing facilities and a hospital expansion to construct the North Coasts’ only vertical evacuation shelter. This would ensure that patients can continue to get care and over 1,900 people can seek refuge in the event of a disaster.

    The lawmakers asserted that the abrupt cancellation of BRIC funding seems to be part of a broader and troubling trend of decisions made by the Trump Administration to undermine FEMA’s effectiveness and shift disaster preparedness responsibilities solely to state and local governments, without the proper federal support needed to ensure a comprehensive and coordinated response.

    “This action risks leaving already underserved communities without the necessary tools to mitigate the long-term impacts of climate change, particularly as the Trump administration appears to prioritize state-level efforts without sufficient federal backup,” the lawmakers said. “To cancel funding for projects mid-way will cause catastrophic setbacks for these communities, and place lives and property art unnecessary risk from increasingly frequent and severe natural disasters.”

    The lawmakers are pushing the federal government to honor its commitments to our communities. Together, they are urging FEMA to restore the BRIC program and funding for projects that are already in progress or have been fully approved.

    “Given the broad support BRIC has garnered from Congress and local stakeholders, and the growing risks posed by our changing climate and natural disasters, it is essential for FEMA to continue to support these efforts,” the lawmakers closed.

    Full text of the letter can be found HERE.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Hageman’s Statement on the Budget Resolution Vote

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

    Washington, DC – “Voters gave us a mandate to act on the America First Agenda, and reconciliation is key to delivering on the promises that we made. Before deciding to vote in favor of this budget, I met with President Trump to discuss Wyoming’s priorities in relation to the budget process, and we are in agreement on the best path to implement lasting change. I voted today to move forward in the budget reconciliation process, because this will allow us to draft legislation to pursue those priorities and pass laws that will benefit not only Wyoming, but the country as a whole. We’re building a stronger future where energy independence, economic freedom, and American values thrive,” said Rep. Hageman. 

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    Contact: Esteban Elizondo, Communications Director

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Cherfilus-McCormick, Bell Introduce CAST Act to Curb U.S.-Carribean Firearms Trafficking

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-Florida 20th district))

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representatives Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL) and Wesley Bell (D-MO) introduced the Caribbean Anti-Smuggling of Trafficked Arms (CAST) Act , legislation that would help curb illicit arms trafficking from the United States to the Caribbean by requiring the Department of Defense (DOD) to report on expanding the mandate of Joint Interagency Taskforce South (JIATF-South) to include combatting illicit firearms trafficking. 

    “Weapons trafficking by way of the United States is a major contributor to crime in the Caribbean and Haiti’s growing gang crisis, driving the ongoing instability that plagues the country,” said Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL). “All potential options must be on the table to effectively curtail the flow of arms. Our nation’s national security depends on it.” 

    “As a former prosecutor, I’ve seen how illegal guns can devastate neighborhoods and fuel violence,” said Rep. Wesley Bell (D-MO). “Too many of those weapons are being trafficked out of the U.S. and into the hands of gangs in the Caribbean. This bill strengthens our ability to stop that flow at the source—so fewer families, whether in St. Louis or Port-au-Prince, have to live in fear.”

    JIATF-South’s mandate is to conduct detection and monitoring (D&M) operations to curtail drug trafficking and dismantle Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs) in the Caribbean region. The CAST Act will require the Department of Defense to evaluate the potential expansion of JIATF-South’s mission to include combating the illegal trafficking of firearms from the United States to the Caribbean.

    Illicit arms trafficking from the United States to the Caribbean is a regional and national security threat. While Caribbean countries do not manufacture firearms or ammunition, nor do they import either on a large scale, they account for half of the world’s top ten highest national murder rates. 

    Last Congress, Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick led the release of a new report from the nonpartisan Government Accountability Office (GAO) that examines the role of U.S. firearms in Caribbean arms trafficking. The report found that nearly three-quarters of firearms recovered from the Caribbean and traced by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) could be sourced back to the United States, with many originating from U.S. retail sales. 

    The full text of the bill can be found here. 

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Feenstra Leads Legislation to Support Cutting-Edge Research into Corn Genetics and Yields

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) introduced the Genome to Phenome Initiative Reauthorization Act, which would support continued agricultural research to expand knowledge of crop and animal genetics and phenomics. This includes critical research taking place at Iowa State University to increase crop yields while keeping costs low for Iowa farmers and producers.

    More specifically, this legislation reauthorizes the National Institute of Food and Agriculture’s Genome to Phenome Initiative (AG2PI) – which was included in the 2018 Farm Bill as a competitive grant program – at $40 million to fund research concerning genomes and phenomes of both crops and animals critical to American agriculture. Investing in this research will ensure that our producers can reach their full potential through more efficient and secure agricultural production. 

    “Last year, I invited House Agriculture Committee Chairman G.T. Thompson to Iowa to meet with our farmers, producers, and agricultural community. In addition to attending the Farm Progress Show in Boone to see the newest advancements in farm technology, we had the opportunity to learn more about research taking place at Iowa State University through the Genome to Phenome Initiative. In part, this initiative studies plant genetics – particularly corn – to determine how to increase yields and make crops more resilient,” said Rep. Feenstra. “Investments in agricultural research are critical to our farm economy and the long-term strength of Iowa agriculture. It’s why I introduced legislation to reauthorize the Genome to Phenome Initiative and ensure that this program receives funding to continue this cutting-edge research. Representing the second largest agricultural-producing congressional district in the nation, increasing yields, lowering input costs, and supporting our farmers are important priorities for agriculture and our rural communities.”

    “In Iowa, we continue to grow more with less and this progress is largely due to our ongoing efforts to enhance corn’s resilience against various environmental challenges through Genomes to Phenomes research,” said Stu Swanson, Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) President and farmer from Galt, Iowa. “Genomes to Phenomes funding plays an important role as we continue advancing corn research and production, ensuring it meets the needs of both farmers and consumers in an ever-changing world. ICGA appreciates Congressman Feenstra’s continued leadership on this important issue.”

    Sitting on the House Agriculture Subcommittee for Conservation, Research, and Biotechnology, promoting critical investment in agricultural research has been a priority for Feenstra. Recently, Feenstra helped introduce the Future Funding for Agricultural Research, Mentorship, and Education Reauthorization (Future FARMER) Act, which includes funding for the Food and Agricultural Sciences Education account in the Farm Bill, helping to promote several agricultural research and education priorities.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Feenstra Votes to Unlock Process to Deliver Tax Relief for Americans

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) voted for a budget resolution unlocking the ability to extend the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and deliver President Trump’s full America First agenda.

    “At the end of this year, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act expires, which would result in a massive tax hike on Americans. That’s why I voted for a budget resolution to unlock the process of extending these tax cuts and delivering tax relief for our families, farmers, workers, and small businesses. This resolution will also allow us to enact President Trump’s entire agenda of border security, energy independence, and fiscal responsibility. We have an obligation to the American people to restore U.S. energy dominance, support our border patrol agents, grow our economy, and deliver on our full Republican agenda.”

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Mann Upholds U.S. Election Integrity

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) voted to advance H.R. 22, the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act. The bill would amend the National Voter Registration Act of 1993 to require proof of United States citizenship to register to vote in elections for federal office. 

    “Integrity in our elections is the bedrock of our democracy and Americans deserve to know that our elections are safe and secure,” said Rep. Mann. “After President Biden refused to enforce the law at our borders, the least Congress should do is pass measures that strengthen our nation’s election security and prevents illegal immigrants from voting. It should not be controversial, only U.S. citizens should vote in U.S. elections. Period. These are the commonsense policies America voted for in November, and I was proud to advance this bill.” 

    Rep. Mann supportedthe SAVE Act in July 2024. H.R. 22 passed in the U.S. House of Representatives by a vote of 220-208. The bill will now go to the U.S. Senate for further consideration. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Mann Votes to Deliver President Trump’s Agenda

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) voted to advance H. Con. Res. 14, which sets revenue and spending targets for fiscal years 2026 through 2036 and instructs committees in the U.S. House of Representatives to draft legislation to meet those targets. The bill, which passed in the U.S. House of Representatives by a vote of 216-214, is the next step in the budget reconciliation process to implement President Trump’s full legislative agenda. 

    “On November 5, 2024, 77 million Americans, including myself, gave Washington, D.C. a mandate to secure the border, lower taxes, and get our country back on track,” said Rep. Mann. “The budget resolution passed by the House instructs our committees to find savings for the American taxpayer, finish the border wall, make America safe again, invest in and bolster our national defense, unleash American energy dominance, and most importantly, prevent taxpayers from seeing an average tax hike of $2,200 next January. These are the commonsense policy solutions that the Big First District overwhelmingly voted for last November.”

    “I was proud to advance this legislation and set the foundation for Congress to implement President Trump’s agenda. I look forward to working with my committees in the coming weeks to identify even more savings for the American taxpayer and deliver the one big, beautiful bill Americans have asked for. ”

    In February 2025, Rep. Mann voted to advance H. Con. Res 14. The U.S. Senate amended the resolution on Friday, April 4, 2025 and sent it back to the House for final passage. Instructed committees will now begin drafting legislation to meet the revenue and spending targets laid out in the framework and submit them to the Budget Committee.

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Barry Moore supports No Rogue Rulings Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Barry Moore

    Washington, D.C.- Today, Rep. Barry Moore voted in favor of the No Rogue Rulings Act, sponsored by Rep. Darrell Issa (R-CA). This legislation amends Chapter 85 of Title 28, United States Code to restrict the ability of federal district courts to apply specific court rulings to groups not directly involved in a case.

    This legislation is a necessary response to the judicial overreach being seen by district judges who wield undue influence by issuing nationwide injunctions over national policies.

    “Judges across the nation are using their influence and power to issue injunctions over policies set by the President. Simply put, the role of the judiciary is not to legislate from the bench but instead be an independent voice that interprets the law as it is written,” said Rep. Moore. “I am proud to support Rep. Issa’s No Rogue Rulings Act to rein in judges who are abusing their power.”

    Read the bill here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Moore supports FY2025 House Budget Resolution

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Barry Moore

    Washington D.C. – Today, Rep. Barry Moore released the following statement after voting in favor of the Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Resolution. This resolution is the first step in restoring economic prosperity for the American people and helping President Trump deliver on his America First agenda.

    “The American people gave House Republicans a mandate to secure the border, restore energy independence, and make America wealthy again. This budget resolution allows the House to instruct committees on spending levels, so we can deliver on these promises,” said Moore. “This vote on the budget resolution is an opportunity for us to show the American people we are united and ready to enact President Trump’s America First agenda.”

    Key Takeaways:

    • Extends tax cuts for working families and small businesses.
    • Restores America’s energy dominance while lowering costs and creating jobs.
    • Reins-in reckless spending through large spending cuts; and
    • Gives President Trump the critical resources needed to secure our border and strengthen our national security.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Lawler Celebrates Enhanced Iran Sanctions Act Passing House Foreign Affairs Committee

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

    Washington, D.C. – 4/9/2025… Today, Chairman Mike Lawler (NY-17) of the Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee released the following statement in response to the Enhanced Iran Sanctions Act passing the House Foreign Affairs Committee by voice vote. 

    The Enhanced Iran Sanctions Act expands secondary sanctions on foreign entities that facilitate Iran’s illegal oil trade, making it clear that the U.S. will not tolerate those who enable the Iranian regime’s dangerous activities. Chairman Lawler and Ranking Member Sheila Cherfilus–McCormick (FL-20) introduced the bipartisan bill in the 119th Congress this past February.

    “Today’s passage of the Enhanced Iran Sanctions Act in Committee marks a critical step toward holding Iran accountable for its destabilizing actions and curbing its access to the funds that go toward terrorism and undermine global security. This bill is a direct response to Iran’s exploitation of weak spots in the global sanctions framework and its continued attempts to skirt international efforts to limit its malign influence,” said Chairman Mike Lawler. 

    “I am proud that this bipartisan legislation has received strong support in the committee and is on its way to being debated and voted on in the full House. Our allies in the Middle East, including Israel, are depending on us to take decisive action to stop Iran from further destabilizing the region and advancing its nuclear ambitions. This bill is an important step in that direction,” concluded Chairman Lawler.

    Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York’s 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

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    Full text of the bill can be found HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Becca Balint Votes No on Budget with Hundreds of Billions in Cuts to Medicaid and Food Assistance

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Becca Balint (VT-AL)

    Washington, D.C – Today, Rep. Becca Balint (VT-AL) voted no on the Republican Budget. The Republican budget provides trillions in tax cuts for the rich but does nothing to lower costs for American families. It increases the deficit while inflicting pain on the most vulnerable, while raising the debt limit by $5 trillion. 

    This budget slashes at least $230 billion from food assistance programs at a time when grocery prices remain high. It cuts at least $880 billion from Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act (ACA), threatening coverage for nearly 20 million Americans who rely on the ACA and more than 72 million people who depend on Medicaid—including children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. These kinds of cuts risk the stability of rural hospitals who depend on Medicaid reimbursements to keep their doors open. 157,471 Vermonters enrolled in Medicaid and Chips in 2024, putting nearly a quarter of the state at risk of losing their health care. 

    “This Republican budget is yet another giveaway to billionaires at the expense of working Americans. They control the House, the Senate and the White House and they could be passing legislation to make your life more affordable,” said Rep. Becca Balint. “But they’d rather kiss up to the billionaire class while shutting down vital programs that Vermonters rely on. All while driving up the deficit by trillions.”

    “House Republicans had opportunities to take things like social security and Medicaid cuts off the table. But they can’t help themselves. They are intent on making deep cuts that risk the healthcare of millions. It’s truly sickening, and I won’t stand for it,” concluded Rep. Balint who spoke in opposition to the Republican budget during floor debate last night. 

    Rep. Becca Balint is a member of the House Budget Committee. Throughout the budget resolution consideration, Rep. Balint has offered amendments to protect Social Security and reduce health insurance costs. This week, her amendment to prevent the House of Representatives from considering legislation that would cut Social Security benefits, increase the retirement age, or privatize Social Security was rejected by Republicans in the Rules Committee.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Malliotakis Introduces Bipartisan Eastern Mediterranean Security Bill

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

    (WASHINGTON, D.C.) – Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11), along with Congressman Thomas Kean (NJ-07), Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), and Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10), introduced the American-Hellenic-Israeli Eastern Mediterranean Counterterrorism and Maritime Security Partnership Act of 2025. This bipartisan bill establishes a security-focused ‘3+1’ framework among the United States, Israel, Greece, and the Republic of Cyprus to enhance counterterrorism and maritime security in the Eastern Mediterranean. 

     

    To enhance security in the Eastern Mediterranean, the bill establishes two cooperative bodies: a parliamentary group and an executive-level group that includes the U.S., Israel, Greece, and Cyprus. Additionally, the bill introduces two security training programs: CERBERUS, which focuses on counterterrorism training at the Cyprus Center for Land, Open-seas, and Port Security, and TRIREME, which provides maritime security training at the Greek Souda Naval Base. 

     

    “I am proud to join my colleagues in introducing this bipartisan legislation, ” said Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis. “Enhancing cooperation in counterterrorism and maritime security between the United States, Greece, Israel, and Cyprus is vital, and we must continue to strengthen this partnership.” 

     

    “The strategic partnership among the United States, Israel, Greece, and the Republic of Cyprus is a cornerstone of regional stability and international security in the Eastern Mediterranean. This bipartisan effort enhances our collective ability to combat terrorism and further advances America’s long-term interests in defense, strategic cooperation, and the safeguarding of shared democratic values,” said Congressman Tom Kean.

     

    “I am proud to join my colleagues in introducing this important piece of bipartisan legislation that seeks to strengthen cooperation with our democratic allies in the Eastern Mediterranean and promote regional security. In an increasingly complex global landscape, this bill reinforces our counterterrorism efforts and ensures that the United States and its allies are better equipped to detect emerging threats and respond swiftly in defense of our shared democratic values,” said Congressman Dan Goldman.

     

    “The American Hellenic Institute has been a longtime advocate of the importance of the “3+1” partnership between Greece, the Republic of Cyprus, Israel, and the United States. “3+1” is a powerful regional cooperation structure that should be utilized to the fullest extent to protect America’s interests, secure its international commerce, and to provide peace, stability, and safety in an area of great geopolitical importance. By initiating this new bill, AHI and congressional leaders on this issue aim to see the “3+1” partnership grow to the next level, especially in terms of security cooperation. AHI will continue its work in Washington, D.C. to push forward the passage of this critical next step,” said the American Hellenic Institute (AHI).

     

    This bill removes restrictions on defense articles and security assistance to the Republic of Cyprus and mandates the development of comprehensive strategies for counterterrorism and maritime security cooperation. It allocates funds for facilities and equipment at the Cyprus Center for Land, Open-Seas, and Port Security, the Greek Souda Naval Base, and all training programs. Additionally, this bill increases IMET funding for all three partner nations. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Scholten Votes No on SAVE Act That Threatens Voting Rights for Millions

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

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (MI03) voted against the SAVE Act, legislation passed by House Republicans that, despite its name, would make it harder for millions of eligible Americans to vote—especially women, service members, Native Americans, and rural voters.

    “Let me be clear: only United States citizens should be deciding our elections. Republicans are trying to sell the SAVE Act as a way to stop non-citizens from voting, but we know that’s already illegal. What this bill really does is make it harder for citizens to vote, especially women,” said Rep. Scholten. “This bill doesn’t solve a real problem—it creates one. A busy working mom juggling a job, kids, and everything else life throws at her shouldn’t have to jump through bureaucratic hoops just to exercise her fundamental right to vote. That’s not election security. That’s voter suppression.”

    The SAVE Act would hit married women particularly hard as it requires the name on one’s birth certificate to match the driver’s license exactly. As many as 69 million women could be impacted simply because they changed their last name when they got married. Under this bill, those women could be blocked from registering to vote without a passport, which costs $130. 

    In addition, Military and Tribal IDs would no longer be valid, which would put a steep burden on Native Americans and service members who would be required to submit sensitive military records just to cast a ballot. 

    West Michigan, in particular, is also home to many individuals who were born in the South and came North to find freedom during the Great Migration, who changed their names upon arrival to start a new, more liberated life. Many haven’t been back to the counties they were born in for decades. Under the SAVE Act, they would be forced to track down their original birth certificate from their birth county and jump through unnecessary hoops.  

    Scholten voted no to stand up for every American’s fundamental right to vote—no matter their name, background, or ZIP code. 

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Laurel Lee’s Statement on House Passage of the SAVE Act

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

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Laurel Lee (FL-15) released the following statement after the House of Representatives passed the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act. This bill will support state and local elections officials by providing them with data and tools necessary to help them verify the accuracy of voter rolls. Additionally, it will strengthen current law by requiring documentary proof of U.S. citizenship to register to vote in federal elections

    “Ensuring Americans have confidence in our election system is a top priority of mine, and one of the most effective ways we can do that is by guaranteeing that only citizens are voting in federal elections because the vast majority of Americans believe that only U.S. citizens should vote in our elections. Congress must commit to supporting elections officials and voters by making voting accessible and secure for American voters,” said Rep. Laurel Lee. “The SAVE Act will support state and local elections officials by providing them with data and tools necessary to help them verify the accuracy of voter rolls to help protect our elections and ensure that only American citizens are casting ballots. As someone who has worked in elections at both the state and national levels, I am proud to see this bill pass the House, and I look forward to working with President Trump to safeguard the integrity of our elections.”

    Watch Rep. Lee’s House Floor speech on the SAVE Act. 

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Deluzio Statement on House Passage of Republican Budget

    Source: US Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA)

    Today’s Deluzio put out the following statement after the passage of the House GOP Budget:

    President Trump and Republicans in Congress are already starting trade wars and driving up costs for people. Now, their budget would pillage our government and target peoples’ healthcare—all to gift $7 billion in tax giveaways to huge corporations and billionaires. It’s a cruel, fiscally reckless grift. I voted ‘no.’

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Salinas on Republican Budget: “A Gift to Billionaires at the Expense of Hardworking Families”

    Source: US Representative Andrea Salinas (OR-06)

    Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Andrea Salinas (OR-06) issued the following statement after voting against the Republican budget bill that would cut health care, food assistance, and other critical benefits to give $7 trillion in tax breaks to billionaires:

    “Any way you square it, this Republican budget bill is a gift to billionaires at the expense of hardworking families. This disastrous legislation paves the way for Republicans to cut health care for 1.4 million Oregonians, slash food assistance for thousands of seniors and veterans in my district, and decimate Social Security and Medicare – all so they can give massive tax breaks to their mega rich donors. My Democratic colleagues and I stood united in our opposition to this cruel and shameful legislation, and we will keep fighting to protect our constituents’ hard-earned money and benefits from the ongoing Republican Rip Off.” 

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Hoyle Introduces Vote at Home Act to Improve Americans’ Access to the Ballot Box

    Source: US Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04)

    April 10, 2025

    Introduction comes as House Republicans bring forward the SAVE Act, which threatens to jeopardize millions of Americans’ ability to vote

    For Immediate Release: April 10, 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C.  – Today, Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04) introduced the Vote at Home Act to provide a new path forward on voting that makes elections more accessible, more secure, and more affordable. Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) also intends to introduce a companion bill in the Senate.

    House Republican leadership also brought the SAVE Act to the floor for a vote today – a bill that threatens to put at risk the ability for millions of Americans to register to vote. This includes 69 million married women who have changed their last name, and 140 million Americans who do not have a passport.

    Conversely, the Vote at Home Act expands vote by mail initiatives which several states, including Oregon, have found successfully increases voter participation. This was also the case nationally in 2020, when despite a global pandemic, the general election had record high turnout as a result of more vote by mail options. Vote by mail also lowers the cost of holding elections. For example, after the state of Oregon adopted vote by mail, the cost of administering an election dropped nearly 30 percent.

    “Oregon was the first state to enact full vote by mail in 1995, an effort led by both Democratic and Republican Secretaries of State,” said Rep. Hoyle. “We have seen the positive impact that mail in voting has had in Oregon – not only does it improve access for eligible voters, but every ballot has a paper copy making it the most secure form of voting. Voting is a Constitutionally protected right and I’ll fight to make sure every eligible voter can make their voice heard. I am proud to introduce legislation that does exactly that.”

    “For years, Oregonians have been casting their ballot right from the comfort of their own home,” Sen. Wyden said. “Voting at home is not only efficient and secure, but it also gives working Americans who can’t afford to go off the clock the ability to exercise their fundamental right to vote. With Trump and his MAGA pals trying to take away voting rights for millions of Americans, it’s more important than ever for Congress to do right by the American people by ensuring they can make their voices heard in the 2026 elections and have a government that represents them.”

    The Vote at Home Act is endorsed by the National Vote at Home Institute, Stand Up America, End Citizens United/Let America Vote Action Fund, and the Institute for Responsive Government Action.

    Barbara Smith Warner, the Executive Director of the National Vote at Home Institute: “If you want to support and strengthen our democracy, there’s no better way than to support Vote at Home election systems. When every active registered voter automatically receives a mailed out paper ballot, several weeks before every election; can return them by postage-free mail or in person to a wide range of accessible, convenient and secure locations; and can track them online, in real time, to ensure their vote is counted, we all win.”

    Brett Edkins, Managing Director of Policy and Political Affairs at Stand Up America: “Voting by mail is essential for millions of Americans––including working people, college students, rural residents, and seniors––who rely on it to make their voices heard. It provides a secure and convenient way to cast our ballots, especially for those who face challenges getting to the polls due to long distances, hectic work schedules, and other barriers. The Vote at Home Act is a crucial step toward strengthening our democracy by ensuring every voter has the option to cast their ballot from home, return it with a pre-paid envelope, and be automatically registered at their local DMV. We are grateful to Senator Wyden and Representative Hoyle for continuing to champion the freedom to vote in Congress.”

    Tiffany Muller, President of End Citizens United Action Fund: “While Republicans in Congress and across the country try to make it harder for women, seniors, and young voters to cast a ballot, Congresswoman Hoyle and Senator Wyden are fighting to protect every American’s ability to vote without unnecessary barriers. The Vote at Home Act meets this moment by expanding access, increasing security, and making the voting process more convenient. This commonsense solution will ensure that more Americans can make their voices heard in government. We thank Congresswoman Hoyle and Senator Wyden for their continued leadership in defending our Constitutional right to the ballot box.”

    This bill is co-sponsored by 13 of Rep. Hoyle’s colleagues, including Reps. Bonamici (OR-01), Carson (IN-07), Chu (CA-28), Deluzio (PA-17), Dexter (OR-03), (Hank) Johnson (GA-04), Norton (DC-AL), Salinas (OR-06), Schakowsky (IL-09), Tlaib (MI-12), Tonko (NY-20), Veasey (TX-33), and Watson Coleman (NJ-12).

    The text of the Vote at Home Act is available here.

    Background

    The Vote at Home Act

    • Ensures all voters have a chance to research their ballots. By sending all registered voters their ballot weeks before Election Day, voters will have the opportunity to carefully study the candidates and issues before casting their ballots. 

    SAVE Act

    • Under the SAVE Act over 20 million Americans would become ineligible to vote and those who have changed their name, for example in marriage, could also be purged from voter rolls.

    • Last month, President Trump issued an Executive Order that included many of the SAVE Act’s prescriptions which makes it more difficult to vote and requires onerous additional verification when registering.

    • Many of the SAVE Act’s provisions can be found in a similar New Hampshire law that took effect this year. Under this law, women who had changed their name in marriage were forced to re-register to vote and provide proof of their name change before obtaining their registration.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Companion legislation was introduced in the Senate by Sens. Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and John Kennedy (R-LA).  

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

    Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Reps. Young Kim (CA-40) and Summer Lee (PA-12) introduced the Fair College Admissions for Students Act, a bipartisan bill which seeks to end higher education institutions’ preferential treatment of children of alumni and donors and ensure students are admitted based on their merit, not their family connections or financial contributions. 

    The Fair College Admissions for Students Act would prohibit colleges and universities across the nation from participating in federal student aid programs if they give admissions preference to students with legacy or donor status.   

    Legacy admissions can account for up to 10 to 25 percent of available slots at elite schools, according to The Century Foundation.  

    “As a first-generation college graduate, I have seen firsthand how education unlocks new doors for students and believe all students should have the ability to achieve their American Dream. For too long, colleges and universities have admitted students based on family connections or background instead of merit. It’s past time we level the playing field,” said Rep. Young Kim. “This bill will ensure a fair college admissions process that assesses every student, regardless of background, on their merit. I will keep fighting to ensure the promise of America — where we are judged on our actions and can achieve success through hard work — remains alive for future generations.” 

    Companion legislation was introduced in the Senate by Sens. Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and John Kennedy (R-LA).

    “Access to higher education should be based on merit, not money and connections,” said Senator Jeff Merkley. “Our bipartisan Fair College Admissions for Students Act is a common-sense solution to help ensure fairness in college admissions by preventing donors and legacy families from using their influence to get a leg up in this complicated and highly competitive process. Discrimination exercised on behalf of students from the already best-off families is an unacceptable assault on fair opportunities for all.” 

    “Louisiana’s students work hard for an opportunity to get into their dream college. However, the practice of legacy admissions undermines good academic performance. The Fair College Admissions for Students Act would make sure that higher education institutions make decisions about who can attend their schools based on merit,” said Senator John Kennedy.

    Read the bill HERE.

    Rep. Kim has long been an advocate for promoting educational opportunities for students of all backgrounds. Read her July 2023 op-ed in the Hill HERE.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Finstad Votes to Advance Fiscally Responsible Budget

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) issued the following statement after voting in support of the Senate’s amendment to the House-passed budget resolution:

    “By passing today’s resolution, we have opened the door for House and Senate committees to begin drafting legislation that aligns with the Trump administration’s overall goal of reducing our massive deficit,” said Rep. Finstad. “The budget blueprint that the House voted on today is the next step in advancing a fiscally responsible budget and allows us to continue our work to identify the necessary investments and savings that will ultimately put us on track to get our financial house in order.”

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Bean Issues Statement in Support of Senate Budget Resolution

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

    WASHINGTON—Member of the House Ways and Means Committee, U.S. Congressman Aaron Bean (FL-04) released the following statement regarding his vote in favor of the Senate Amendment to H.Con.Res.14. 

    “Our body has a historic opportunity to deliver tax relief to hardworking families and to restore our nation’s prosperity. Today’s vote restores the border, secures energy dominance, backs peace through strength, rebuilds our military, and most importantly, it is the first step to preventing the largest tax hike in U.S. history. 

    I am committed to achieving these historic tax cuts while cutting spending. I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues to restore fiscal sanity and rein in the runaway spending that threatens to bankrupt our country.”

    OVERVIEW

    The Senate Amendment to H.Con.Res.14 establishes a budgetary framework for fiscal year 2025 and sets appropriate budgetary levels for fiscal years 2026 through 2036.

    Key priorities in this bill include: 

    • Delivering resources to secure the border.
    • Making a generational investment in America’s defense.
    • Unleashing America’s energy potential to lower costs, create jobs, and protect national security.
    • Strengthening, securing, and sustaining Medicaid for the most vulnerable Americans.
    • Avoiding the largest tax increase in American history. 

    The bill passed 216-214.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick Statement on Harmful Budget Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-Florida 20th district))

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL) issued the following statement after voting against Republicans’ budget resolution. 

    “This budget proposal is a complete disaster for working families in South Florida and across the entire country. Republicans who claim that the bill doesn’t impact the programs that Americans depend on to survive couldn’t be further from the truth. 

    “Not only does it make massive cuts to the Medicaid funding and food assistance that Florida families need, but it also slashes Pell Grants for low-income students looking to go to college while giving massive tax breaks to billionaires.

    “Any proposal that inflicts pain on families who can least afford it is a “NO” for me.” 

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Carter Statement on SAVE Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Troy A. Carter Sr. (LA-02)

     

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) released the following statement:

     

    “My fellow Americans,

     

    “Let me be abundantly clear: the so-called SAVE Act is not about security. It is not about election integrity. It is about suppression — pure and simple. This bill is a modern-day poll tax cloaked in patriotic rhetoric, and it represents one of the most dangerous assaults on the right to vote in a generation.

     

    “As we sit on the House floor debating this bill — which attempts to make it more difficult for Americans to vote — I am reminded of the generations before us who bled, marched, and died to secure the right to the ballot. And now, in the year 2025, we are being asked to consider legislation that would undo that progress.

     

    “This legislation is not only unnecessary — it is un-American. It demands burdensome documentation under the false pretense of preventing a problem that does not exist. What it will actually do is disenfranchise millions of eligible voters — particularly the poor, the elderly, students, and communities of color.

     

    “One of the most outrageous elements of this bill is the requirement that eligible voters, who cannot readily produce certain forms of ID, may be forced to obtain a U.S. passport — at a cost of at least $130 — just to cast their ballot. Let that sink in: a $130 price tag to participate in democracy. That’s not security. That’s a poll tax. And we’ve seen it before.

     

    “Let’s not mince words: this is the return of Jim Crow in a tailored suit.

     

    “We have seen these tactics before. Literacy tests. Grandfather clauses. Intimidation at the ballot box. And now, voter ID mandates so stringent and convoluted that they effectively lock the ballot box for countless Americans. The SAVE Act is not saving anything. It is silencing voices.

     

    “This bill does not protect democracy — it perverts it. It weaponizes bureaucracy to block access to the most fundamental right in a free society: the right to vote.

     

    “Every American — regardless of party, race, or region — should rise up against this legislation. We must call it what it is: a blatant attempt to resurrect the discriminatory practices of our past and to roll back the hard-fought progress we’ve made.

     

    “I urge my colleagues in Congress to reject this legislation with the urgency it demands. I call on the American people to remain vigilant — to speak out, organize, and vote against those who would take us backward.

     

    “The right to vote is not a privilege for the few. It is a right for all. And we must defend it — not just for ourselves, but for the generations to come.

     

    “This is not just a policy debate. This is a moral fight. And we cannot — we must not — lose it.”

     

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