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Category: United States House of Representatives

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Mann, Neguse Reintroduce Legislation to Address Health Care Shortage

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Tracey Mann (KS-01) and Joe Neguse (CO-02) led 11 of their colleagues in reintroducing legislation to address the nation’s health care workforce shortage. The States Handling Access to Reciprocity for Employment (SHARE) Act of 2025 would require the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) to provide criminal record history information to state agencies conducting a background check for the purposes of an interstate compact. This technical amendment would improve the current licensing process for health care providers and increase the number of licensed providers able to serve communities across state lines. 

    “We need flexibility in our health care systems to ensure rural communities like those in the Big First have access to good, quality care,” said Rep. Mann “As hospitals and care giving facilities across rural America navigate the challenges of recruiting and retaining health care providers, Congress should correct this technical error and remove processes that only make that challenge harder. Our bill expedites the licensure process for providers by allowing the FBI to share background checks across state lines and empower health care providers to serve rural communities where care is most needed without being handcuffed by where a state ends or begins. If we want to improve the health of those in the Big First, and in rural areas and communities around the country, we must expand employment opportunities for our rural health care providers.”

    The SHARE Act would make a technical correction to modernize a vital component of the licensure process for health care providers by: 

    • Removing red tape and reducing administrative burden: This legislation authorizes the FBI to share criminal history record information between states for licensure purposes.
    • Maintaining states’ rights to determine provider eligibility: This legislation allows cooperation between states while protecting each state’s authority to determine whether a provider is eligible to practice in the state.
    • Addressing the workforce shortage: This legislation extends the reach of health care professionals, eliminating the time necessary for state-to-state checks, improving access to medical specialists, and leveraging the use of new medical technologies like telehealth. 

    Joining Reps. Mann and Neguse in introducing the SHARE Act are Reps. Don Davis (NC-01), Doug LaMalfa (CA-01), Dan Crenshaw (TX-02), Dan Meuser (PA-09), Sam Graves (MO-06), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL), Lauren Boebert (CO-04), Michael McCaul (TX-10), Stephanie Bice (OK-05), Tony Wied (WI-08), and Derek Schmidt (KS-02).  

    The SHARE Act is supported by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, The Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant, Inc. (ARC-PA), ACPE: The Standard for Spiritual Care & Education, Alliance for Connected Care, American Academy of Audiology, American Academy of Physician Associates, American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology, American Association for Respiratory Care, American Counseling Association, American Dental Association, American Healthcare Association, American Medical Association (AMA), American Occupational Therapy Association, American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), APTA Tennessee, American Psychological Association, American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, American Telemedicine Association & ATA Action, Ascension, Association of Community Mental Health Centers of Kansas, Association of Dental Support Organizations, Association of Social Work Boards, Avera Health, Bellin+Gunderson Health System, BJC HealthCare, Bon Secours Mercy Health, Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care, Council of State Governments, Counseling Compact Commission, EMS Compact Commission, Essentia Health, Federation of Podiatric Medical Boards, Federation of State Medical Boards, Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy, Healthcare Leadership Council, Interstate Commission for EMS Personnel Practice, Interstate Commission of Nurse Licensure Compact Administrators, Interstate Healthcare Collaborative, Interstate Medical Licensure Compact Commission, Kansas Association of Nurse Anesthetists, Kansas Psychological Association, Marshfield Clinic Health System, Mercy, National Academies of Practice (NAP), National Association of School Psychologists, National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL), National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants, National Council of State Boards of Nursing, National Rural Health Association, Occupational Therapy Compact Commission, Physical Therapy Compact Commission, Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact Commission, Pyramid Healthcare, Rural Wisconsin Health Cooperative, Sanford Health, School Social Work Association of America, SSM Health, Talkiatry, Trinity Health, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, UnityPoint Health, Vermont Board of Medical Practice, and Wyoming Medical Society.  

    “The EMS Compact strongly supports the SHARE Act as a critical measure to enhance public safety and strengthen the EMS workforce,” said Donnie Woodyard, MAML, NRP, Executive Director of the United States EMS Compact. “It is essential for public protection that state licensing officials have the ability to review criminal history records for all applicants. This fundamental safeguard ensures that only qualified and vetted EMS clinicians are entrusted with patient care, reinforcing the integrity and reliability of our nation’s emergency medical services.”

    “The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) stands in strong support of the SHARE Act and looks forward to the 119th Congress’s consideration of this important legislation,” said Phil Dickison, PhD, RN, Chief Executive Officer of NCSBN. “The SHARE Act represents a critical step forward in facilitating greater access to care for patients across the country. The legislation will ensure state boards of nursing can vet applicants for multistate licensure to promote safe cross-border practice.”

    “The Occupational Therapy Compact Commission (OTCC) supports the SHARE Act because it is a crucial step toward ensuring public safety across states that participate in interstate occupational compacts,” said Amanda Perry, OTCC Executive Director. “This act fosters a more secure and trustworthy collaboration while strengthening the integrity of professional licensing, promoting accountability, and protecting citizens from potential harm. For the purposes of making informed licensing decisions, state licensing authorities should be afforded timely and relevant information regarding potential licensees’ criminal history that would affect safe practices within professions.”

    “APTA-Tennessee endorses the SHARE Act, and we hope the 119th Congress will approve this bipartisan legislation,” said Sarah Suddarth, APTA Tennessee President. “The SHARE Act will provide Tennesseans in medically underserved areas with greater access to physical therapy care by ensuring that PTs and other healthcare providers are quickly enabled to treat patients in multiple states.”  

    “The Council of State Governments has worked to develop professional licensure compacts in coordination with numerous state, federal, and professional partners,” said Dan Logsdon, Director, National Center for Interstate Compacts. “These combined efforts have contributed to states gaining greater access to qualified professionals across the nation and the essential services they provide. 52 states and territories have enacted at least one of these compacts with each state enacting at least 6, on average. CSG recognizes the importance of passage of the SHARE Act to ensure states can fully operationalize the licensure compacts they have enacted. The states clearly realize the need for improved licensure portability and increasing their healthcare workforce and as a result recognize the importance of the SHARE Act. CSG stands in support of the SHARE Act and the efforts across the nation to ensure its successful passage by Congress.” 

    “The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) strongly supports the SHARE Act,” said Katie Jordan, CEO of the American Occupational Therapy Association. “Occupational therapy practitioners are vital to helping individuals live independent, meaningful lives. The SHARE Act will allow practitioners to bring their expertise where it is needed most, ensuring timely access to care for patients and families. We applaud this legislation as a step toward a more flexible and modern healthcare system.”   

    “The American Academy of Physician Associates strongly supports the SHARE Act,” said AAPA CEO Lisa M. Gables, CPA. “By removing the red tape and administrative burdens on licensure compacts, this legislation will promote workforce development and strengthen the labor market. It will also improve consumer access to highly qualified practitioners and leverage the use of new medical technologies, such as telehealth. The SHARE act would have a major impact on increasing access to healthcare while allowing states to protect their authority to determine who is eligible to practice in the state.”

    “The Interstate Commission of Nurse Licensure Compact Administrators (ICNLCA) encourages enactment of the SHARE Act,” said Pam Zickafoose, EdD, MSN, RN, Chair of ICNLCA. “The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) enables nurses in compact states to hold a multistate license which authorizes practice in 43 jurisdictions currently. This model of licensure makes it possible for nurses to assist in other jurisdictions without any impediments or delays. Federal criminal background checks are the gold standard for public protection in occupational licensure and are a requirement for a nurse to obtain a multistate license. The SHARE Act will enable states to continue to implement and advance the NLC, therefore bringing vital nursing services to patients in need.”

    “The Interstate Medical Licensure Compact Commission (IMLCC) strongly supports the SHARE Act. The Act is needed so that the FBI will have clear guidance about how the information provided enhances public safety, while supporting the public protection mission of the IMLCC member boards. Our member boards depend on reliable access to the criminal background information, which at times in the past and currently for 4 of our member boards, that access has been denied. Our member boards have been maintaining and protecting the information they receive for over 7 years.”

    “The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association thanks Representatives Mann and Neguse for reintroducing the SHARE Act, and Senators Blackburn and Welch for introducing companion legislation in the Senate for the first time,” said 2025 ASHA President Bernadette Mayfield-Clarke, PhD, CCC-SLP. “ASHA strongly supports the implementation of the Audiology & Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact (ASLP-IC), which is currently adopted by 34 states and 1 territory to allow licensed audiologists and speech-language pathologists to obtain a privilege to practice across state lines in other ASLP-IC member states. As the ASLP-IC anticipates beginning to issue compact privileges to practice later this year, the SHARE Act is vital to ensuring that participating states can receive important information such as background check status and results so practice privileges can be issued. This will help increase access to care in underserved or geographically isolated populations through telepractice, as well as facilitate continuity of care when clients, patients, and/or students relocate or travel to another compact state. ASHA looks forward to working with the sponsors to pass the SHARE Act.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ANNOUNCEMENT: Staff Office Hours

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ronny Jackson (TX-13)

    AMARILLO, TX — Today, the Office of Congressman Ronny Jackson (TX-13) announced upcoming mobile office hours for April in Bowie, Quanah, Silverton, Bridgeport, Saint Jo, and Pampa hosted by congressional staff. Constituents are encouraged to attend if they need assistance with a federal agency or to learn more about the office’s services. Please bring all documentation if you require assistance with a federal agency case. No appointment is necessary. Additional questions should be directed to Congressman Jackson’s Amarillo office at (806) 641-5600.

    Bowie (Montague County)

    Monday, April 7th, 2025

    10:00AM – 2:00PM CT

    Bowie City Hall

    307 N. Mason St.

    Bowie, TX 76230

    Quanah (Hardeman County)

    Monday, April 7th, 2025

    10:00AM – 2:00PM CT

    City of Quanah Ballroom Foyer

    216 S. Main St.

    Quanah, TX 79252

    Silverton (Briscoe County)

    Monday, April 7, 2025

    10:00AM – 2:00PM CT

    Silverton Public Library

    405 Broadway

    Silverton, TX 79257

     Bridgeport (Wise County)

    Wednesday, April 9th, 2025

    10:00AM – 2:00PM CT

    Law Enforcement Center – Walter Dale Conference Room

    1000 Thompson St.

    Bridgeport, TX 76426

     

    Saint Jo (Montague County)

    Wednesday, April 9, 2025

    10:00AM – 2:00PM CT

    Saint Jo City Hall

    220 E. Howell St.

    Saint Jo, TX 76265

    Pampa (Gray County)

    Thursday, April 10, 2025

    10:00AM – 2:00PM CT

    Pampa City Hall Conference Room

    200 W Foster Ave

    Pampa, Texas 79065

     

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Dan Goldman Joins Assemblymembers Mitaynes, Lee, González-Rojas, State Senator Gounardes, Local Elected Officials, Community Advocates to Demand State and Federal Response to SNAP EBT Theft

    Source: US Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10)

    House Republicans’ Refusal to Reauthorize State’s SNAP Reimbursement Authority Have Left Fraud Victims With No Recourse  

     

    At Least $40 Million in SNAP Benefits Have Been Stolen from New Yorkers in Recent Years, Accounting for 20% of Nationwide Claims 

     

    View Pictures and Video of Press Conference Here 

    New York, NY – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) today, alongside Assemblymember Marcela Mitaynes, Senator Andrew Goundares, Assemblymember Grace Lee, Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas, local elected officials, advocates, and impacted New Yorkers, hosted a press conference to demand a comprehensive change to state and federal law to address the urgent issue of stolen EBT benefits. Since House Republicans terminated states’ ability to use federal money to reimburse victims of SNAP fraud on December 20th, 2024, Red Hook Initiative, a local community-based organization, has filed 85 individual claims for reimbursement, totaling over $40,000 of benefits stolen. 

    During the press conference, Congressman Goldman announced his intent to introduce the ‘Enhanced Cybersecurity for SNAP Act’ in the coming months, which will require USDA to update its cybersecurity regulations and ensure EBT cards feature anti-fraud technology. 

    “Each year, tens of millions of dollars in essential food benefits are stolen from New Yorkers—benefits that families rely on to put food on the table,” Congressman Dan Goldman said. “Yet House Republicans have refused to renew the only way for New Yorkers to be reimbursed for SNAP theft, leaving seniors, working families, and children to go hungry. The Red Hook community, in particular, has been hit hard by the rise in SNAP theft. I will soon be introducing federal legislation to strengthen SNAP cybersecurity to prevent this problem from occurring in the future, but in the meantime, I call on New York Republicans to pass legislation to reimburse victims of theft. 

    Assemblymember Marcela Mitaynes said, “Recent news has made it clear, the Trump Administration plans to put the wants of a few billionaires over the needs of the rest of the country. It is time New York step up, and provide the critical relief our vulnerable populations desperately need. Every week I have seniors, mothers, and fathers coming into my office seeking help with food insecurity. We need to transition to chip-enabled cards for SNAP benefits and provide an avenue for reimbursement for those impacted by SNAP theft; this is how we provide for the working class. The bills we have re-introduced this year, A3578 and A0699, both aim to address that.” 

    State Senator Andrew Gounardes said, “Neighbors in Red Hook and across the city have been the victim of EBT theft, a particularly cruel crime that’s literally taking food out of the mouths of seniors and children. And thanks to misguided changes in federal policy, Washington is no longer reimbursing victims of EBT theft for stolen benefits, leaving our most vulnerable neighbors hanging without money to pay for groceries. That’s unacceptable. Ensuring our neighbors don’t go hungry is the bare minimum. We need to work at all levels of government to give victims the support they need and ensure EBT cards are secure.” 

    Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas said, “For all of their supposed concerns about public safety, New York House Republicans have said nothing about Elon Musks’ removal of funding to address public benefits theft in the last House spending bill. They would rather advance tax breaks for billionaires than address food insecurity among New Yorkers. I am glad Congressman Goldman will attempt to address this in the House and here in the state we cannot wait for Congress to act. California, Oklahoma, and other states are moving forward and implementing chip-enabled EBT cards, which our state Department of Labor is using already. New York is run by Democrats and it is time we address this by passing and funding my bill to switch to more secure chip-enabled cards and Assembly Member Mitaynes’ bill to establish a compensation fund. New Yorkers need relief. We must act” 

    Assemblymember Grace Lee said, “Trump and Republicans don’t care if families go hungry as they threaten to cut SNAP benefits. In New York, we believe no family should go hungry. That’s why we’re asking for $50mm in this year’s budget to create a reimbursement fund for victims of SNAP theft. We also know that by investing $40mm in the budget for modernizing EBT technology we can drastically reduce theft and keep food on New Yorker’s tables.” 

    Assemblymember Khaleel Anderson said, “The time to act is now! Too many families have suffered due to SNAP skimming, and it’s time for New York to take action. Families relying on SNAP should not have to live in fear of losing benefits and should not have to worry about funds not being returned to them. No one should lose the ability to feed their families because of preventable fraud.  That’s why we’re pushing for the passage of A3578/S403 to create a compensation fund for victims, A0699/S1465 to implement secure chip technology, and the federal Enhanced Cybersecurity for SNAP Act. As chair of the Task force on Food, Farm and Nutrition Policy– and as someone who has relied on SNAP- I know how vital these benefits are, and we must ensure families are protected. We must modernize EBT security now.” 

    Council Member Alexa Avilés said, “EBT theft is an urgent issue for our local community and it’s only grown more prevalent. Red Hook residents have had tens of thousands of dollars in benefits stolen from them without any reimbursement. This has left working-class New Yorkers without food security for themselves and their families. Our state must fill the gap where our federal government has failed. That’s why I’m joining Assembly Member Mitaynes and Red Hook Initiative to demand that New York State allocate $50 million for a SNAP and cash assistance fraud victims compensation fund and $4 million towards preventing this type of fraud in the future.” 

    Michael Partis, Executive Director of Red Hook Initiative,said, “Red Hook Initiative is proud to join our State leaders in demanding comprehensive action in response to EBT theft. EBT theft has left dozens of Red Hook residents without critical food resources for their families. As protections at the federal level have ended, those impacted by EBT theft are left with no safety net. Urgent action is needed to protect critical food resources for families in need.” 

    Wayne Ho, President & CEO of the Chinese American Planning Council (CPC), said, “The Chinese-American Planning Council sees first-hand how SNAP and public benefits sustain countless New York families, particularly those from immigrant and low-income backgrounds. According to the Mayor’s Center for Economic Opportunity, Asian American Pacific Islander New Yorkers have the highest rate of poverty in New York City. Benefits skimming devastates AAPI families and their ability to put food on the table. We call for the quick passage of this package of legislation along with the deep investment required to protect our communities and ensure they receive the food assistance they desperately need.”

    Wai Yee Chan, President & CEO of Homecrest Community Services, said, “Preventing SNAP skimmingand protecting our community’s benefits is a top priority—no one should have their assistance stolen by criminals. We are grateful to Congressman Dan Goldman and Assembly Member Marcela Mitaynes for leading the fight against these scams and working to ensure that vital food assistance reaches those who need it most. With Brooklyn experiencing the highest number of SNAP fraud claims—51,774 in total—this is a pressing issue for Homecrest. We strongly support creating a fraud victims’ compensation fund, transitioning New York State to chip-enabled benefit cards to prevent future theft, and advancing the federal Enhanced Cybersecurity for SNAP Act”. 

    The coalition called for the final New York State Budget to include allocations of: 

    $50 Million – A3578 to establish a SNAP and cash assistance fraud victims compensation fund 
    $4 Million – to fund A0699, which would transition New York State to the use of chip cards for public benefits to prevent this theft from occurring. 

    Congressman Goldman is committed to protecting victims of SNAP EBT theft and ensuring families have access to SNAP and other nutrition programs.  

    In August 2024, the Congressman cosponsored the ‘SNAP Theft Protection Act,’ which aims to update the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to allow states to use existing SNAP funding to refund stolen benefits to victims of SNAP-related scams.   
    In July 2024, Goldman held a Summer Nutrition Town Hall to discuss food insecurity, share information about New York State’s Summer EBT program and its rollout, and provide resources to residents who would like to apply. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressmen Goldman, Crow Lead Letter Demanding Trump Administration Reinstate Funding for Unaccompanied Minors’ Legal Representation

    Source: US Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10)

    Defunding of Bipartisan Program Forces 26,000 Unaccompanied Children to Navigate Immigration System Alone   

     

    Move Leaves Children as Young as 2 Open to Abuse, Human Trafficking and Other Bad Actors 

      

    Read the Letter Here  

    Washington, DC – Congressmen Dan Goldman (NY-10) and Congressman Jason Crow (CO-06) led 96 of their colleagues in sending a letter to Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum urging them to immediately reinstate legal services for over 26,000 unaccompanied migrant children in the United States. 

    The Trump administration’s decision effectively denies tens of thousands of unaccompanied minors, many as young as two or three, a fair legal process and leaves them far more vulnerable to abuse, human trafficking, and harm. 

    “We write with great concern over the Administration’s decision to eliminate key federally-funded legal services for over 26,000 unaccompanied children in the United States. We urge immediate and full reinstatement of these services under the federal contract that provides for this longstanding, bipartisan program. The safety of these children hangs in the balance,” the Members wrote. 

    Eliminating legal services for unaccompanied minors is in clear violation of the Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act (TVPRA), a bipartisan law mandating the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) provide all unaccompanied children who are or were in HHS custody with proper legal representation to the greatest extent practicable. 

    “As the TVPRA reflects, it is all but impossible for these children – one of the world’s most vulnerable groups – to receive a fair legal process in complex and adversarial immigration proceedings without legal representation. The termination of services means that all too many two- and three-year-old children who do not comprehend what those proceedings even are will nonetheless face them alone,” the Members continued. 

    Attorneys play a critical role in safeguarding unaccompanied minors from trafficking and exploitation–notifying authorities of abuse, addressing safety needs, and investigating and prosecuting perpetrators. Eliminating legal services removes these safeguards and opens up unaccompanied minors to widespread harm. Additionally, attorneys make the immigration system far more efficient by lowering the number of required court hearings and expediting voluntary removal proceedings.  

    “With the safety of over twenty-six thousand unaccompanied children against traffickers, abusers, and other bad actors on the line, prompt renewal is imperative. Thank you for your consideration of this pressing matter,” the Members concluded. 

    Congressman Dan Goldman has worked tirelessly to ensure unaccompanied minors receive proper legal representation when navigating the U.S. immigration system. 

    Last Congress, Goldman helped push the Biden Administration’s Executive Office for Immigration Review’s (EOIR) to release new guidance for children’s immigration proceedings that ensured specialized children’s dockets in each immigration court that were held separate from adult cases and were overseen by dedicated judges.   
    The Biden Administration’s decision followed the introduction of Goldman’s Children’s Court Act to combat the immigration court backlog and strengthen due process rights for children. 
    Read the Letter Here or Below: 

     

    We write with great concern over the Administration’s decision to eliminate key federally-funded

    legal services for over 26,000 unaccompanied children in the United States. We urge immediate

    and full reinstatement of these services under the federal contract that provides for this

    longstanding, bipartisan program. The safety of these children hangs in the balance.

    Cancellation of vital legal services for unaccompanied children squarely conflicts with the

    Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act (TVPRA). That Act, which passed Congress

    on an overwhelmingly bipartisan basis, mandates that the Department of Health and Human

    Services (HHS) ensure counsel to the greatest extent practicable for unaccompanied children

    who are or were in HHS custody to “represent them in legal proceedings or matters and protect

    them from mistreatment, exploitation, and trafficking.” Stripping away attorneys from children

    in local communities will have the opposite effect as Congress directed and intended.

    As the TVPRA reflects, it is all but impossible for these children – one of the world’s most

    vulnerable groups – to receive a fair legal process in complex and adversarial immigration

    proceedings without legal representation. The termination of services means that all too many

    two- and three-year-old children who do not comprehend what those proceedings even are will

    nonetheless face them alone.

    The TVPRA also recognizes the critical importance of legal services to safeguarding

    unaccompanied children from trafficking and exploitation. Attorneys help identify indicators of

    such mistreatment in the first place, notify authorities as appropriate, and address immediate

    safety needs. Importantly, attorneys can aid children in serving as victim-witnesses in the

    investigation and prosecution of perpetrators. In many cases, unaccompanied children’s attorneys

    may be the only adults to whom those children feel safe disclosing information about abuse and

    other harm. Hollowing out the legal services contract therefore renders unaccompanied children

    significantly more vulnerable to human traffickers and other bad actors.

    As the Trump Administration moves to place unaccompanied children into removal proceedings

    on a substantially expanded scale,1 it is important to emphasize that attorneys are necessary to

    ensure that those children understand and meet associated legal requirements. Lacking counsel,

    many children will be unable to comprehend Notices to Appear for immigration court or how,

    when, and where to make their appearances. By contrast, 98 percent of migrant children with

    attorneys show for their hearings.2 Attorneys also ensure that unaccompanied children submit

    address update forms to the immigration court system and other immigration agencies upon

    changes of residence so that those agencies can properly send notifications to and remain in

    communication with these children.

    Amid a deeply backlogged immigration court system, attorneys cut down on the volume of

    needed court hearings and furnish explanations to children that optimize the efficiency of those

    hearings and other legal processes. Similarly, when unaccompanied children wish to return to

    their countries of origin, attorneys help them expeditiously undergo voluntary departure. Absent

    legal representation, such children may instead remain in the United States at length.

    We are gravely concerned that, despite the above considerations, the Administration recently

    terminated in substantial part the legal services contract for unaccompanied children, including

    the contract’s provision of legal representation to children otherwise on their own. With the

    safety of over 26,000 unaccompanied children against traffickers, abusers, and other bad actors

    on the line, prompt and full reinstatement of services under this contract is imperative. Thank

    you for your consideration of this pressing matter. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Russell Fry’s Federal Law Enforcement Officer Service Weapon Purchase Act Passes out of House Judiciary Committee

    Source:

    Rep. Russell Fry’s Federal Law Enforcement Officer Service Weapon Purchase Act Passes out of House Judiciary Committee

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Russell Fry (SC-07) announced that his Federal Law Enforcement Officer Service Weapon Purchase Act passed out of the House Judiciary Committee. Under current law, federal agencies are required to destroy retired firearms so they are rendered inoperable and incapable of being reused. This process costs the federal government millions of dollars and trickles down to American taxpayers.

    Allowing current and retired federal law enforcement officers in good standing to purchase retired firearms is a commonsense, cost-saving measure that benefits both law enforcement and American taxpayers.

    “The Federal Law Enforcement Officer Service Weapon Purchase Act not only saves American taxpayers millions of dollars but also creates a system in which law enforcement officers in good standing can exercise their Second Amendment rights by purchasing their retired service weapons,” said Congressman Fry. “This legislation is a practical measure that recognizes the service of our federal officers while also encouraging responsible use of government resources.”

    This bill is endorsed by the National Association of Police Organizations, the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association, the National Treasury Employees Union, and the FBI Agents Association.

    “This bill is a common-sense measure with numerous benefits. Allowing federal officers and agents to buy back their service weapons serves as a force multiplier in our communities, reduces material waste, and saves taxpayer dollars,” said Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association President Mathew Silverman. “Many agencies have already implemented similar buyback programs, and officers across other agencies have long advocated for this initiative. We commend Representative Fry for his leadership in advancing this effort in advance of National Police Week.”

    “The Federal Law Enforcement Officer Service Weapon Purchase Act establishes a commonsense program that allows federal law enforcement officers to purchase retired service weapons,” said Bill Johnson, Executive Director of the National Association of Police Organizations. “These weapons would otherwise be unnecessarily destroyed at a great cost to the federal taxpayer. NAPO thanks Congressman Fry for his leadership on this bill.”

    “The National Treasury Employees Union, which represents frontline Customs and Border Protection Officers at ports of entry around the country, endorses the Federal Law Enforcement Officer Service Weapon Purchase Act,” said Doreen Greenwald, National President of NTEU. “We commend Rep. Russell Fry and other cosponsors for this commonsense legislation that would allow federal law enforcement officers to purchase their retired service handguns, under certain conditions, and save the government the cost of destroying them. Bringing this bill up for debate during Police Week is especially appropriate, as it shows these highly trained officers a level of respect and professionalism that they have earned and deserve.”

    “The FBIAA is pleased that the Federal Law Enforcement Officer Service Weapon Purchase Act has been introduced and we hope Congress will move swiftly to pass the bill into law,” said Natalie Bara, President of the FBI Agents Association. “Federal law enforcement officers should be allowed to purchase retired service weapons, and the bill is recognition of the responsibility, professionalism and commitment to public safety that is required of FBI Special Agents and other federal law enforcement officers. Congress should enact this legislation as soon as possible.”

    In addition, the following groups sent a letter to the House Judiciary Committee in support of the bill:

    • Association of State Criminal Investigative Agencies

    • Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association

    • Major Cities Chiefs Association

    • Major County Sheriffs of America

    • National Association of Police Organizations

    • National Narcotics Officers’ Associations’ Coalition

    • Sergeants Benevolent Association NYPD

    Full text of the Federal Law Enforcement Officer Service Weapon Purchase Act can be found here.

    Congressman Fry serves on both the House Energy and Commerce Committee and the House Judiciary Committee. To stay up to date with Congressman Fry and his work for the Seventh District, follow his official Facebook, Instagram, and X pages and visit his website at fry.house.gov.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kean Calls on Governor Murphy to Submit Disaster Declaration for Small Businesses Affected by I-80 Closure

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

    (March 28, 2025) Bernardsville, NJ – Today, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) sent a letter to New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy urging him to submit an official disaster declaration request to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) in response to the I-80 sinkhole-related road closures. If submitted and approved, this SBA declaration would unlock federal assistance for qualifying small businesses that have suffered economic hardship due to the closure. Congressman Kean has received outreach from impacted businesses and constituents throughout Morris, Sussex, and Warren counties.

    Last weekend, Congressman Kean joined U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy and Governor Murphy at the site of the I-80 sinkholes to assess the New Jersey Department of Transportation’s repair efforts. During their visit, they examined the severe congestion caused by the closure and its significant impact on local businesses.

    Under SBA guidelines, state governors must formally request an SBA disaster declaration before affected small businesses can apply for certain federal relief programs. 

    “Small businesses are struggling due to the I-80 closure,” said Congressman Kean. “I appreciate Governor Murphy’s decision to declare a State of Emergency earlier this month, but we must act now to secure crucial federal resources. Delaying is not an option – local businesses are at risk of deep revenue losses, reduced operating hours, and possible layoffs. We need action now.”

     “The SBA appreciates Congressman Kean’s leadership on this issue,” said SBA Regional Administrator Matt Coleman. “The U.S. Small Business Administration stands ready to assist impacted small business owners affected by the disruptions caused by the sinkholes along the I-80 corridor in New Jersey, if and when a disaster declaration is sought by Governor Murphy.”  

    The full text of Congressman Kean’s letter to Governor Murphy is available HERE.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lawler Leads Bipartisan Group Urging State Department to Enforce Military Assistance Prohibitions on Azerbaijan

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

    Washington, D.C. – 3/27/2025… Today, a bipartisan coalition of representatives, led by Reps. Mike Lawler (NY-17), Frank Pallone (NJ-06), Gus Bilirakis (FL-12), and Gabe Amo (RI-01), sent a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio pressing for the continued enforcement of Section 907 of the FREEDOM Support Act. Section 907 pauses U.S. military assistance to Azerbaijan until Baku stops its ongoing aggression against Armenia, occupation of Armenian territory, and human rights violations, including the detention and abuse of Armenian prisoners of war (POWs). While assistance remains paused at the moment, conditions in Azerbaijan and Armenia necessitate a continuation of this. 

    The letter highlights Azerbaijan’s 2023 military assault on Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh), which forcibly displaced 120,000 Armenians in an act that is widely recognized as ethnic cleansing. The letter also condemns Azerbaijan’s destruction of ancient Armenian Christian heritage and its deepening ties with Russia and Iran, which run counter to U.S. national security interests.

    “Amid the persistent threat of authoritarian expansionism throughout the region and across the world, it is imperative that the Trump Administration makes clear to governments that undermine U.S. interests that their actions will not be met with impunity – much less material financial support,” wrote the lawmakers. 

    The Armenian Assembly of America praised the effort, stating: “The Assembly welcomes this bipartisan initiative spearheaded by Congressman Lawler. As long as Azerbaijan continues unjustly to hold Christian Armenian hostages and evade accountability for its hostile acts against Armenians, including the violent ethnic cleansing of Armenians from Nagorno-Karabakh, it is imperative that Section 907 remain firmly in place,” said Mariam Khaloyan, Congressional Relations Director of the Armenian Assembly of America. 

    “The ANCA welcomes this bipartisan Congressional call on Secretary Rubio to enforce Section 907 – ending U.S. military aid to Azerbaijan,” stated Aram Hamparian, Executive Director of the Armenian National Committee of America. “In the wake of Azerbaijan’s genocidal ethnic cleansing of the indigenous Armenian Christians of Artsakh – amid its ongoing occupation of sovereign Armenian territory and illegal detention of Armenian hostages – we cannot ask U.S. taxpayers to subsidize this oil-rich, violent, and corrupt foreign dictatorship.  We thank Representatives Lawler, Pallone, Bilirakis, and Amo – and each of the Representatives who joined with them – for their moral clarity and strong pro-peace leadership.”

    The letter garnered 60 bipartisan signatures and specifically urges the Secretary to enforce Section 907 and refrain from using waiver authority to send aid to Azerbaijan while the government continues to engage in this malign behavior. This letter also serves as a follow-up to the leading members’ Armenian Protection Act of 2024, which aimed to prevent the Executive Branch from exercising this waiver authority.

    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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    A copy of the full letter can be found HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lawler Reintroduces Legislation Holding October 7th Terrorists Accountable

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

    Washington, D.C. – 3/27/2025… This week, Middle East Subcommittee Chairman Mike Lawler (NY-17), Reps. Brad Sherman (CA-32), Congressman David Kustoff (TN-08), House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Emeritus Michael McCaul (TX-10), Congressman Brad Schneider (IL-10), and Congresswoman Sarah McBride (DE-At large) reintroduced legislation to finally sanction the Popular Resistance Committees (PRC). The bill was also introduced for the first time in the Senate by Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA), demonstrating the growing momentum to finally sanction the Popular Resistance Committees.

    The Popular Resistance Committees (PRC) are the third-largest terror group in Gaza and, since their founding in 2000 during the Second Intifada, have carried out terror attacks against Israelis, Americans, and Palestinians. The two largest terrorist groups in Gaza are Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), which have long been sanctioned. It is past time that the PRC, whose ranks include former operatives from Hamas and PIJ, join their ranks on the U.S.’s list of designated terrorist groups.

    The Popular Resistance Committees participated in Hamas’s horrific October 7th massacre, which resulted in the deaths of 1,200 Israelis, Americans, and others, as well as widespread torture and sexual violence as well as the abduction of some 250 hostages. The PRC proudly boasted about their involvement on their social media channels, issuing a statement on October 7th claiming joint responsibility for the massacre. The PRC’s posts showed that the group killed and took hostage a number of innocent people on October 7th. 

    The Popular Resistance Committees have a long history of carrying out terror attacks across Israel and the Palestinian territories. In 2003, the PRC bombed a United States diplomatic convoy which injured a U.S. diplomat and killed 3 American security guards. In 2004, PRC terrorists murdered pregnant Israeli woman Tali Hatuel and her 4 daughters, 11-year-old Hila, 9-year-old Hadar, 7-year-old Roni, and baby Meirav who was only 2 years old. The PRC has even targeted Palestinians in terror attacks, including the 2005 assassination of Palestinian Security Services chief Moussa Arafat.

    Despite multiple State Department reports identifying terror attacks committed by the Popular Resistance Committees, the group has never faced U.S. sanctions. This legislation would finally hold the PRC accountable for its long history of heinous terror attacks by applying long-overdue sanctions on the group. This commonsense bill picked up significant momentum in the 118th Congress, including a unanimous passage through the House Foreign Affairs Committee, in a demonstration of widespread support for this long overdue measure.

    Under the Accountability for Terrorist Perpetrators of October 7th Act, the PRC would be designated as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) organization. This designation would create criminal and civil penalties for anyone willfully providing support to the PRC, including up to 20 years in prison, civil fines, and property forfeitures. In addition, the legislation would subject the Popular Resistance Committees and their members to financial asset-blocking sanctions in any financial institution connected to the U.S. financial system as well as visa-blocking sanctions. 

    “The Popular Resistance Committees have long been a dangerous and violent force in Gaza, committing heinous acts of terrorism and destabilizing the region. It is long overdue that we take decisive action to hold them accountable. The passage of this bill through the House Foreign Affairs Committee last Congress was a critical first step, and I am committed to ensuring that the PRC faces the sanctions they have long deserved in the 119th Congress,” said Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17).

    “Every day that we fail to sanction the terrorist Popular Resistance Committees – which have murdered Americans and Israelis for decades, and participated in the barbaric October 7th massacre, including by taking hostages – is another day that we fail to secure justice for their victims. It is long overdue that the Popular Resistance Committees are designated as a terrorist organization and sanctioned, alongside Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad,” said Congressman Brad Sherman (CA-32). “I’m proud to reintroduce my legislation to finally hold these monsters accountable for the terror they have wreaked on innocents in the region.”

    “The Popular Resistance Committees (PRC) is the third-largest terrorist organization in Gaza and another puppet of Iran,” said Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE). “Despite decades of attacks against Americans and Israelis, including on October 7th, the PRC has yet to be properly sanctioned for its barbarism. This bill will help hold accountable every terrorist that participated in the October 7th attacks.”

    “For years, the Popular Resistance Committees have carried out terrorist attacks against Israelis, Americans, and Palestinians. They were willing and cruel participants with Hamas during the horrific October 7th massacre, killing innocent Israelis and taking and holding hostages after that terrible attack. Any organization engaging in this level of violence should be sanctioned under U.S. law and officially designated as a terrorist group. The United States stands with Israel, and this is an important step to holding those responsible for October 7th accountable,” said Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA).

    “The terrorists responsible for the barbaric October 7th attack on Israel must be held accountable for their abhorrent actions against innocent men, women, and children,” said Congressman David Kustoff (TN-08). “For years now, the Popular Resistance Committees, the third largest terror group in the Gaza strip, have terrorized Israelis and Americans in the region. Enough is enough. I am pleased to join Rep. Sherman to introduce this crucial legislation that will sanction the PRC.”

    “The horrific attacks of October 7 were a brutal assault on innocent civilians, and all perpetrators must be held accountable. The Accountability for Terrorist Perpetratorsof October 7 Act ensures the U.S. stands firmly against all groups involved – including Hamas. We will continue to support Israel and pursue justice for the victims of these barbaric acts,” said Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Emeritus Michael McCaul (TX-10).

    “For far too long, the Popular Resistance Committees have evaded the consequences of their terrorist attacks against Israelis, Americans, and Palestinians. Their involvement in the barbaric October 7th massacre makes it even more urgent that the United States impose long-overdue sanctions on this terrorist organization. With this legislation, we are taking a critical step toward ensuring that the PRC is held accountable and cut off from the global financial system, just like Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad,” said Congressman Brad Schneider (IL-10).

    “The Popular Resistance Committees have committed heinous acts of terror against Israelis and Palestinians for decades but have evaded any accountability. Their role in the October 7th massacre, the murder of American citizens, and their ongoing role in the hostage crisis demands immediate action. I am proud to join Rep. Brad Sherman in leading this bipartisan, bicameral effort to finally sanction this brutal terror group and cut off its access to our financial networks. We must remain unwavering in our commitment to holding all perpetrators of terrorism accountable,” said Congresswoman Sarah McBride (DE-At large). 

    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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    A copy of the full bill text can be found HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Issa Encourages Students to Participate in the 2025 Congressional Art Competition

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Darrell Issa (CA-50)

    ESCONDIDO, CA – Congressman Darrell Issa (CA-48) is accepting submissions for the 2025 Congressional Art Competition, a contest for high school students in the 48th Congressional District to showcase their artistic creations to be displayed in the U.S. Capitol Building in Washington, D.C.

    Issa said, “The annual Congressional Art Competition is a great opportunity for local high-school students to highlight their incredible artistic talents on a national platform.  The winning artistic entry will be displayed at the U.S. capitol for visitors to see. And, the second-place entry will be highlighted for guests in my local California office.” 

    The full list of submission parameters can be found on issa.house.gov.

    High school students must submit a high-resolution photo of the artwork (jpeg or png format) and the 2025 Student Release Form to Issa staff member Steven Farmer at Steven.Farmer@mail.house.gov by Noon, Friday, April 25, 2025.

    With questions, please contact Steven Farmer at Steven.Farmer@mail.house.gov or 760-304-7575.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps Issa, Hudson and Senator Risch Introduce Bicameral Legislation to Stop Improper State Taxes on Firearms

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Darrell Issa (CA-50)

    WASHINGTON – This week, Congressman Darrell Issa (CA-48), Congressman Richard Hudson (NC), and Senator Jim Risch (ID), introduced the Freedom from Unfair Gun Taxes Act. This bill would prohibit states from implementing excise taxes on firearms and ammunition to fund gun control programs.

    “For too many years, extreme state policies — including from my home state — have targeted our fundamental Second Amendment rights and the American citizens who exercise them,” said Issa. “The latest attack is California’s imposition of a ‘sin tax’ on firearms and ammunition. This outrageous and unfair burden on law-abiding citizens is why Sen. Risch, Rep. Hudson, and I are working to stop this and other attempts to penalize our people and put the price of self-defense out of reach of any American.”

    “Far-left politicians will stop at nothing to undermine the Second Amendment,” said Hudson. “Their latest scheme is an unconstitutional tax that seeks to price you out of your right to keep and bear arms, and this legislation will put a stop to it.”

    “Blue states that implement an excessive excise tax to fund gun control initiatives are exploiting the Second Amendment,” said Risch. “The Freedom from Unfair Gun Taxes Act ensures states do not place a significant financial burden on law-abiding gun owners to advance their anti-Second Amendment agenda.”

    In 2024, California implemented a new 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition to discourage the purchase of firearms and fund gun control programs. Colorado is set to implement a 6.5% excise tax in April 2025. Maryland, Vermont, New York, Massachusetts, Washington, and New Mexico have proposed similar taxes. 

    Issa, Hudson and Risch are joined by Congressman Doug LaMalfa (CA), U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), John Hoeven (R-Mont.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Jim Justice (R-W.Va.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), and Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.) in introducing the legislation.

    The Freedom from Unfair Gun Taxes Act has received support from the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation, National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), and National Rifle Association (NRA).

    “There is a growing effort among states to levy excise taxes to discourage firearm ownership. California and Colorado have already implemented a gun tax to fund their gun control efforts and dismantle the Second Amendment,” said John Commerford, Executive Director of the NRA Institute for Legislative Action. “Senator Risch’s bill would prevent these blatant and egregious attacks on the rights of Americans, and the National Rifle Association is proud to support this legislation.”

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Issa Leads California Call to Restore Essential Pest Inspections for Imported Avocados

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Darrell Issa (CA-50)

    Escondido – This week, Congressman Darrell Issa (CA-48) led a letter to USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins calling for the reinstatement of essential USDA pest inspections on avocados bound for U.S. import. 

    In 2024, USDA-certified pest inspections in Mexico were abruptly canceled by USDA’s APHIS.  As a result, a greater number of destructive weevils have been detected at packing facilities which has increased the likelihood of pest infested avocados slipping into the United States threatening California’s avocado industry.  

    California is the top state producer for avocados, with Issa’s district representing large constituencies of growers.

    Congressman Issa was joined by Congressman Ken Calvert, Congressman Doug LaMalfa, Congressman David Valadao, and Congresswoman Young Kim.

    Congressman Issa recently held an avocado and citrus industry roundtable in San Diego County to hear directly from constituents on their challenges.

    Read the full letter here. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Recognizing Veteran Service Organizations, Veteran Advocacy Groups and Their Volunteers – Issa Introduces Congressional Legislation

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Darrell Issa (CA-50)

    Escondido, CA – Congressman Darrell Issa (CA-48) introduced a resolution in the House of Representatives to recognize the historic contributions and patriotism of our nation’s Veterans Service Organizations, Veteran Advocacy Groups and their dedicated volunteers. 

    Issa stated:

    “Millions of devoted Americans volunteer with Veterans Service Organizations and advocacy groups each year, acting as indispensable partners in delivering for our military, our veterans and their families. Without their work, necessary services including key financial support, vital personal arrangements, and critical awareness advocacy would not be the same. This resolution marks Congress’s formal recognition of their tireless dedication on behalf of veterans.”

    The resolution is also supported by:

    The American Legion:
    “Veterans of The American Legion serve their country not for recognition but out of a sense of patriotism and love for the freedom provided by the greatest nation on earth. Even so, the recognition conveyed in H. Res. 222 is appreciated by The American Legion. We are also grateful to the House of Representatives for recognizing the outstanding work of VSO Auxiliaries. The American Legion Family is a much stronger force due to the dedicated volunteerism of not just Legionnaires, but of the American Legion Auxiliary and the Sons of The American Legion.”

    VFW:
    “The members of the VFW faithfully served our country in uniform and continue to serve in their communities every single day. Since 1899 the men and women of the VFW have carried on the tradition of still serving by volunteering in towns and cities across the United States, its territories, and abroad. The VFW is honored to be among the many organizations recognized by this bipartisan resolution and will strive to continue living up to the standards set by those who came before us, and endeavor to leave behind a legacy for those who come after us.”

    AMVETS, National Executive Director Joe Chenelly:
    “For generations, AMVETS and fellow veterans service organizations have been steadfast in supporting veterans and their families. We proudly support this resolution, which honors the dedication of those who serve and advocate for our nation’s heroes.”  
     
    SOAA, Executive Director David Cook:

    “Our nation owes so much to its Veterans. Our Freedoms, yes, but also not living in fear of an invasion or threat of violence from abroad. Veteran Service Organizations, Advocates, and Volunteers, who are often themselves Veterans, work tirelessly to give back to our Troops. Thank you, Rep. Issa for recognizing this important community of champions and the impact they have in honoring our heroes.”
     
    Independence Fund
    “The Independence Fund thanks Congressman Issa and the bipartisan Members who cosponsored H.Res. 642, to recognize the patriotism and contributions of Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs), veteran advocacy groups, and volunteers,” said The Independence Fund CEO, Sarah Verardo. “As a VSO who serves catastrophically wounded Veterans and their Caregivers, we work tirelessly to support our Nation’s heroes and constantly strive to enhance the quality of life for those who served. We are grateful for the acknowledgement and recognition by Congressman Issa, and his longstanding support of the Veteran community.”
     
    Paralyzed Veterans of America, Cal-Diego Chapter
    “Paralyzed Veterans of America, Cal-Diego Chapter wholeheartedly supports Representative Darrell Issa – sponsored H.Res.642 – Recognizing the patriotism and contributions of veterans’ service organizations, veteran advocacy groups, and volunteers. Recognizing their contributions is a first-class bipartisan initiative.
    H.Res.642 aims to give homage to those sometimes forgotten yet some of the most deserving.”

    Paralyzed Veterans of America

    Blinded Veterans of America

    Enlisted Association of the National Guard

    Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS)

    Non Commissioned Officers Association

    Moral Compass Foundation

    Fleet Reserve Association

    Marine Corps Reserve Association

    USCG Chief Petty Officer Association (USCG CPOA)

    Issa is a veteran of the U.S. Army. The 48th Congressional District is adjacent to Camp Pendleton Marine Corps Base, near multiple Southern California military bases, and home to thousands of veterans and their families.

    Issa is a lead Congressional supporter of veterans’ initiatives.  Issa previously held Vietnam Veteran Recognition ceremonies throughout the 48th Congressional District.  He also held the first in the nation Kabul Gold Star Families Forum in Escondido in 2023.

    Read the full resolution H.Res. 222 text here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sorensen Leads Bipartisan Effort to Secure Continued Support for Defense Communities

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

    WASHINGTON, DC – Congressmen Eric Sorensen (IL-17) and Blake Moore (UT-01) and Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) led a bipartisan letter urging Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth to maintain support for the Department of Defense’s Office of Local Defense Community Cooperation (OLDCC). 

    The OLDCC administers crucial programs, including the Defense Community Infrastructure Program (DCIP), the Defense Manufacturing Community Support Program (DMCSP), the Community Noise Mitigation Program, and the Public Schools on Military Installations (PSMI) program. These initiatives provide important resources to state and local communities, helping to repair infrastructure, strengthen the defense industrial base, and support military readiness. 

    “I am committed to making sure our local communities and military families have what they need,” said Congressman Eric Sorensen. “Communities that support military installations, like my hometown of Moline, are vital to our defense missions. By investing in programs that upgrade infrastructure and strengthen local economies, we are protecting our national security.” 

    “The Association of Defense Communities (ADC) has been a long time and staunch advocate for the Office of Local Defense and Community Cooperation (OLDCC),” said Karen Holt, President of the Alliance of Defense Communities. “This office serves as the critical link between the Department of Defense and defense communities across the country. OLDCC programs are instrumental in maintaining the readiness of our military installations, missions, service members, and the communities they call home. ADC greatly appreciates the leadership of Senator Dick Durbin, Senator Lisa Murkowski, Congressman Eric Sorensen and Congressman Blake Moore for leading this effort to advocate for maintaining OLDCC funding levels. OLDCC programs are core to the idea that national security starts at home.” 

    Since its inception, the OLDCC has provided technical and financial assistance to nearly every U.S. state and territory. In the last year alone, grants have funded projects such as sewer system upgrades, emergency backup generators, runway rehabilitation, and workforce development in the defense manufacturing sector.  

    Joining Congressman Sorensen in signing the letter were Senators Michael Bennet (D-CO), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Angus King (I-ME), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Mark Warner (D-VA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Peter Welch (D-VT), and Ron Wyden (D-OR). 

    Also included were Representatives Ed Case (HI-01), Gerald Connolly (VA-11), John Garamendi (CA-08), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), Jennifer Kiggans (VA-02), Jennifer McClellan (VA-04), James McGovern (MA-02), Jay Obernolte (CA-23), Johnny Olszewski (MD-02), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Deborah Ross (NC-02), Robert Scott (VA-03), Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Michael Turner (OH-10), Gabe Vasquez (NM-02), and Delegate James Moylan (Guam). 

    You can view the letter HERE. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Brecheen Introduces SNAP Reform and Upward Mobility Act with Senator Mike Lee

    Source: US Congressman Josh Brecheen (2nd District)

    Washington D.C. – Congressman Josh Brecheen introduced the SNAP Reform and Upward Mobility Act. This legislation would tackle grossly mismanaged SNAP by closing loopholes, expanding work requirements for able-bodied adults, enforcing federal accountability, and giving states more responsibility for program management.

    Washington D.C. – Congressman Josh Brecheen introduced the SNAP Reform and Upward Mobility Act. This legislation would tackle grossly mismanaged SNAP by closing loopholes, expanding work requirements for able-bodied adults, enforcing federal accountability, and giving states more responsibility for program management.

    “For decades, the federal government has grossly mismanaged SNAP, loosening eligibility requirements, allowing more recipients to be totally exempt from work requirements, and overseeing massive fraud and abuse. This has created a culture of dependency instead of opportunity. That’s why our office is introducing the SNAP Reform and Upward Mobility Act, a plan to tackle these problems by closing loopholes, expanding work requirements for able-bodied adults, enforcing federal accountability, and giving states more responsibility for program management. I’m grateful to work with Senator Lee to bring much-needed reform to SNAP. It’s time to return to commonsense policies that promote our American values of hard work and individual responsibility,” said Congressman Brecheen. 

    Daily Caller wrote an exclusive story on the bill, which you can read here.

    Read the full bill text here.

    Original Cosponsors include Representatives Glenn Grothman (R-WI) and Mike Kennedy (R-UT).

    Press Inquiries: darren.dershem@mail.house.gov

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Carter Statement on Trump Executive Order Eviscerating Union Rights

    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 after President Trump signed an executive order ending collective bargaining rights for many federal workers:

     

    “President Trump’s executive order to dismantle collective bargaining rights for federal employees is a blatant and dangerous assault on working people—and an attack on the very foundation of the labor movement in America.

     

    “Let me be clear: This is not just a policy dispute. It’s an ideological crusade to weaken the voice of workers, undermine unions, and chip away at the progress generations of labor leaders and public servants have fought to achieve.

     

    “Unions are the backbone of the middle class. They built this country. They’ve stood up for fair wages, safe workplaces, and dignity on the job—not just for federal workers, but for all workers. And when you go after unions, you go after every working family that depends on the strength of collective action to fight for a better life.

     

    “I stand in unwavering solidarity with our union brothers and sisters. We will not be silent. We will not stand by. We will fight back—in the courts, in the streets, and in the halls of Congress—because when labor is under attack, democracy is under attack.

     

    “To every union member across this nation: We see you. We value you. And we will stand with you on the right side of history.”

     

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Miller-Meeks Introduces Legislation to Codify Trump Executive Order Designating English as the Official Language of the U.S.

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

    Washington, D.C. – Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01) has introducedlegislation that would continue President Trump’s Executive Order designating English as the Official Language of the United States.

    “Since the inception of our republic almost 250 years ago, the English language has guided our nation. It was in English that our Founding Fathers wrote the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. It was in English that Abraham Lincoln issued the Gettysburg Address as he preserved our nation.” said Miller-Meeks. “By making English the official language, we will build cohesion in America united by a common language and reap economic benefits. I am proud to stand with President Trump and codify his Executive Order Designating English as the Official Language of the United States. Together, we will continue to push the America First agenda!”

    Background:

    Over 180 countries have an official language, yet the United States has never formally recognized one—until now. On March 1st, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order designating English as the official language of the United States, reinforcing a shared national identity and strengthening civic engagement.

    This Order also rescinds a Clinton-era mandate requiring extensive language assistance while allowing agencies to provide services in other languages as needed. With more than 30 states and give U.S. territories already recognizing English as their official language, this move ensures a unified approach that fosters economic opportunity and national cohesion.

    To read the bill text, click HERE.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Jackson Reintroduces a Bill to Defund NPR and PBS

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ronny Jackson (TX-13)

    WASHINGTON — Yesterday, Congressman Ronny Jackson (TX-13) reintroduced the No Partisan Radio and Partisan Broadcasting Services Act or the NPR and PBS Act to eliminate all federal funding for both National Public Radio (NPR) and the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS).

    “For decades, radical Democrats have funneled taxpayer dollars to NPR and PBS under the guise of ‘serving the public,’ despite both organizations abandoning their founding missions to provide non-biased content and instead promoting the same radical-left propaganda as any other fake news outlet,” said Rep. Ronny Jackson. “If these organizations want to push partisan agendas, they do not deserve another dime of federal support.”

    “I’m proud to cosponsor Ronny Jackson’s bill to defund PBS and NPR,” said DOGE Subcommittee Chairwoman Marjorie Taylor Greene. “As my DOGE subcommittee hearing showed, these taxpayer-funded PR arms of the Democrat Party don’t deserve the American people’s hard-earned money. NPR and PBS hate President Trump, his supporters, and the majority of Americans who sent us a mandate in 2024. They can hate us on their own dime.”

    Additional background from Fox News Digital can be found here and the bill text can be found here.

    Cosponsors include DOGE Subcommittee Chairwoman Marjorie Taylor Greene (GA-14) and Representatives Jodey Arrington (TX-19), Andy Biggs (AZ-05), Tim Burchett (TN-02), Michael Cloud (TX-27), Mike Collins (GA-10), Neal Dunn (FL-02), Paul Gosar (AZ-09), Troy Nehls (TX-22), Chip Roy (TX-21), Keith Self (TX-03), and Randy Weber (TX-14).

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Miller-Meeks Joins Legislation to Prohibit Illegal Immigrants from Voting in Federal Elections

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

    Washington, D.C. – Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01) has joined Rep. Chip Roy (TX-21) in supporting H.R. 22, the SAVE Act, which strengthens election integrity by ensuring only American citizens can vote in federal elections. This legislation requires states to verify proof of citizenship before registering voters and mandates the removal of non-citizens from existing voter rolls, providing states with the necessary tools to enforce these safeguards.

    “American elections should be decided by American citizens, and that’s exactly what the SAVE Act ensures.” said Miller-Meeks. “This legislation will help protect the integrity of our elections by requiring proof of citizenship before registration and removing non-citizens from voter rolls. I’m proud to support this commonsense bill that will secure the future of our democracy and restore confidence in our electoral system.”

    The SAVE Act passed the House with bipartisan support last Congress, only to be blocked by Senate Democrats. With President Trump back in the White House, House Republicans are committed to ensuring this commonsense legislation reaches his desk and is signed into law.

    Background:

    The threat to election integrity is real. Millions of illegal immigrants remain in the country, and with Democrat-led policies weakening voter registration safeguards, the risk of foreign interference in our elections has never been higher. While Democrats push to erode election security and flood voter rolls with non-citizens, House Republicans are taking action to restore public trust in our electoral system.

    The SAVE Act would:

    • Require proof of citizenship for voter registration in federal elections.
    • Ensure states remove non-citizens from existing voter rolls.
    • Provide states the tools necessary to verify voter eligibility.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Burlison and Golden Introduce Bipartisan Guidance Clarity Act to Support Small Businesses

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Eric Burlison (R-Missouri 7th District)

    Washington, D.C. – Representatives Eric Burlison (R-MO-07) and Jared Golden (D-ME-02) introduced the Guidance Clarity Act, a bipartisan bill to protect Americans from being misled by unclear government guidance.

    Federal agencies often issue guidance documents to help explain rules and regulations. However, many businesses and individuals mistakenly believe that this guidance carries the weight of law – leading to unnecessary compliance burdens, fear of penalties, and added costs. The Guidance Clarity Act ensures that federal agencies clearly state that their guidance is just advice and not legally binding.

    The bill requires that any guidance document from a federal agency prominently include:

    A statement that it does not have the force of law and is not legally binding on the public.

    A clarification that the document is only meant to explain existing laws or agency policies—not create new ones.

    Congressman Burlison explained the importance of the bill, saying:

    “Unelected bureaucrats have abused guidance documents to impose backdoor regulations without following the formal rulemaking process. They create confusion to intimidate businesses into thinking suggestions on how to comply with federal regulations are themselves legal requirements. The Guidance Clarity Act will put a stop to this deception and make sure every American knows the difference between actual law and bureaucratic overreach.”

    Representative Golden echoed these concerns, adding:

    “Small businesses don’t have an army of consultants to navigate the confusing and rapidly changing guidance that comes from federal agencies. I’m happy to co-lead the Guidance Clarity Act again with Rep. Burlison to ensure agencies are clear to small businesses that federal guidance is just a suggestion – not legally binding regulation.”

    The Guidance Clarity Act builds on bipartisan efforts to promote regulatory transparency and protect small businesses from bureaucratic overreach. The bill was previously introduced in the 118th Congress and garnered strong support.

    Co-Sponsors: Representatives James Comer (R-KY-01) and Don Davis (D-NC-01)

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Ramirez Statement on Cuts to Illinois Federal Funding for Health, Housing, Food Assistance

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

    Chicago, IL — Today, Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), Vice Chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, released the following statement condemning the Trump Administration’s decisions to cut $125 million from the Illinois Department of Public Health and local health departments. The cuts also jeopardize $52.5 million in HUD-funding for housing developments, and put 1.9 million Illinoisans at risk of losing their food assistance. 

    “For anyone trying to make ‘Make America Healthy Again,’ let’s be clear: this ain’t it. The Musk-Trump Administration’s decision to fund tax breaks for billionaires by cutting the essential federal programs working people rely on will have devastating consequences. We know that housing is health care and nutritious food is medicine. The Trump-Musk administration does not care that families will be left on the street, forced to go hungry, and deprived of necessary care. 

    The taxpayers of Illinois pay roughly $156 billion in federal taxes each year, making our state one of only nine in the nation that pay MORE in federal taxes than we receive in direct benefits. These cuts, when coupled with the Administration’s intent to cut billions from Medicare and Medicaid, have deadly consequences for our communities. At a time when working families are already struggling with high costs, we should be expanding healthcare, not cutting it. We need Medicare for All!”

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Gabe Vasquez Condemns Attacks on Social Security

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) condemned the Trump Administration’s reckless assault on the Social Security Administration (SSA), warning that mass layoffs and service cuts will devastate seniors and working families across New Mexico and the country, particularly seniors in rural communities.

    Under Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), the administration has proposed firing thousands of SSA employees, closing field offices, and not allowing seniors to access services over the phone, making it harder for seniors and people with disabilities to access the benefits they’ve earned. These cuts come despite strong bipartisan support for strengthening Social Security.

    “Social Security isn’t a handout—it’s a promise we’ve made to every American who has paid into the system,” said Vasquez. “Yet, Trump and Musk are gutting the agency, leaving seniors and vulnerable communities stranded. This isn’t about ‘efficiency’—it’s about dismantling a program that millions rely on.”

    Vasquez’s office has received multiple calls from seniors concerned about the Las Cruces social security office closed and potential barricades. 

    A Manufactured Crisis

    The administration’s latest move requires seniors to come in person to apply for or update their benefits. This could bar people who qualify for Social Security from applying, including people with disabilities, seniors in rural areas, and people who do not have internet access. At the same time, Musk has publicly called Social Security a “Ponzi scheme,” while the administration falsely claims that widespread fraud is draining the program.

    “Seniors in New Mexico rely on Social Security to pay for health care and medication, pay their rent, and put food on the table. Trump and Musk want to destroy Social Security because as billionaires, they’re completely out of touch with the struggles New Mexico’s seniors face to make ends meet,” said Vasquez. “I will not let them fund a tax cut for billionaires on the backs of seniors, the disabled, and the working class.”

    Impact on New Mexico and Rural America

    The proposed cuts would hit rural communities hardest, where SSA field offices already struggle with long wait times and limited staff. In New Mexico’s Second District alone, thousands of seniors rely on in-person SSA services to receive their benefits, appeal wrongful denials, or update their records.

    Holding the Administration Accountable

    In early March, Vasquez led House Democrats in urging the administration to end its harmful assault on the SSA and reverse its decision to close field offices and lay off more than 7,000 workers. 

    Now, furthering this advocacy, Vasquez is demanding that Acting Administrator Dudek abandon his misguided policy that forces seniors and disabled New Mexicans to enroll online or in person at the very field offices the administration is trying to shut down – rather than allowing them to enroll over the phone. This policy does nothing to reduce fraud or save taxpayer money. Instead, it serves as a de facto benefit cut, making it harder for New Mexicans to access the Social Security benefits they have earned and rely on.

    You can read Rep. Vasquez’s oversight letter here. The full letter is below: 

    Dear Acting Commissioner Dudek,
     

    I am writing to express my strong opposition to recent changes by the Social Security Administration (SSA) that are making it more difficult for seniors and other beneficiaries in New Mexico to receive the benefits they have earned. Despite strong bipartisan support for Social Security, these indiscriminate staffing cuts, office closures, and ending phone services will cut off seniors from their benefits. I urge you to immediately reverse course and instead work to strengthen Social Security and fulfill the promises made to seniors.  

    At the direction of Elon Musk, who has called Social Security a “Ponzi scheme,” the SSA announced that it would cut nearly 7,000 jobs and close multiple field offices this year. These indiscriminate cuts have already raised concerns about delayed benefits and increased errors – the opposite of increasing efficiency. Additionally, the SSA recently announced that it is ending phone verification services for new applications, despite no reports of widespread fraud or abuse.  These changes are forcing seniors to travel long distances in person just to access their guaranteed benefits. It is unconscionable that, while SSA demands more in-person visits, it is simultaneously cutting staff and closing offices, making it nearly impossible for seniors to receive the support they’ve earned through a lifetime of hard work.
     

    Across New Mexico, Social Security is the difference between dignity and despair. Over 365,000 New Mexico seniors rely on these benefits to pay for food, rent, and medication.  Shrinking the SSA workforce will further erode already strained customer service and delay benefits when seniors in my district already face hours-long phone wait times. The new identity verification rules, which will add up to 85,000 additional weekly visitors to field offices, will only worsen delays – especially in rural areas where in-person access is limited. Downsizing staff while increasing in-person requirements is a recipe for disaster. For seniors in rural areas, this is an assault on their financial security. 
     

    Social Security is a promise, one that must not be broken or eroded through administrative neglect. I urge you to immediately halt workforce reductions and office closures and reconsider the in-person verification rule. Instead, I call on you to expand in-person services, invest in rural field offices, and ensure that seniors and all beneficiaries have access to timely, effective support.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Hoyle Calls for Secretary Hegseth’s Resignation

    Source: US Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04)

    March 27, 2025

    For Immediate Release: March 27, 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C.  – Today, Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04) joined 69 other House Democrats in calling for the immediate resignation of Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, after new reporting from The Atlantic made clear he shared classified information on Signal, an unapproved and unsecured communications platform.

    The letter was addressed to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, and National Security Advisor Michael Waltz.

    The full text is available here and below.

    Letter Text

    Dear Secretary Hegseth, Secretary Rubio, Director Gabbard, and Mr. Waltz,

    We write to express grave concern over your handling of sensitive information regarding military operations in Yemen and potential risks to our servicemembers carrying out this mission. The Atlantic reported that their Editor-in-Chief Jeffrey Goldberg was added to a Signal group chat on March 13 titled “Houthi PC small group.” Fortunately, an American journalist was added and not anyone who could have used this information to cause significant harm to the United States.

    As more evidence has come to light, the misconduct in the group chat has become further undefendable and inexcusable. You all jeopardized the lives of servicemembers. There must be accountability starting with the immediate resignation of Secretary Hegseth.

    The degree of incompetence, carelessness, and irresponsibility is difficult to underscore. It is incomprehensible that the heads of the world’s most powerful government were unknowingly sharing secret military plans and knowingly using an unsecure communications method to do so. A bad actor or foreign contact could have easily been added to this Signal group instead of Mr. Goldberg. This experience was so absurd that Mr. Goldberg thought it more likely to be a disinformation campaign or artificial intelligence than several key members of our government, many who sit on the National Security Council.

    This encounter calls into question the way in which this operation was discussed. It was reported that classified or highly sensitive information was being shared over Signal. Information that if leaked to the wrong sources could have resulted in dire national security consequences. As the article goes on to state, there are legitimate questions on whether laws like the Espionage Act or laws on preserving official federal records were violated.

    If you had not added a non-government individual to this Signal group, then this breach would never have come to light. This does not inspire confidence that other classified communications have been handled through proper channels or that this national security team is taking these issues seriously.

    We hope you understand the gravity of this situation. The decisions you make have a significant impact on our national security and the safety of our servicemembers. We will be demanding accountability and transparency in what transpired. For the sake of our national security, we ask that you fully and willingly cooperate with Congress in any forthcoming hearings or investigations.

    Sincerely,

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Letlow Pushes to Designate Ouachita River as Marine Highway

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Julia Letlow (LA-05)

    Washington, D.C. – In an attempt to bolster economic growth and job creation in North Louisiana, Congresswoman Julia Letlow is advocating for the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to help provide a crucial economic development designation for the Ouachita River. 

    By designating the 605 mile-long river as Marine Highway M-165, DOT can further enhance the river’s capability to facilitate commerce, reduce highway congestion, and move freight. This is particularly key given the region’s agricultural presence, with river transportation providing for more export opportunities for commodities like rice, soybeans, cotton, and timber.

    The designation, provided under America’s Marine Highway Program, allows local agencies, industries, and shippers to become eligible for additional U.S. Department of Transportation grants supporting infrastructure improvements. A letter from Letlow to Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy highlighted the economic benefits such a move would provide.

    “Expanding the use of the Ouachita River will improve supply chain reliability, lower transportation costs, and support economic stability for businesses and communities across Louisiana,” said Letlow. “I have requested the Department of Transportation to make this designation that will recognize the immense potential of the Ouachita River and will advance regional and national economic interests.”

    Letlow’s letter also congratulated Secretary Duffy on his recent confirmation to the post of Transportation Secretary.

    Letlow’s full letter can be found here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Clyde, Sen. Marshall Reintroduce Legislation to Combat Biden-Era Anti-Gun Rule

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Andrew Clyde (GA-09) reintroduced the Stop Harassing Owners of Rifles Today (SHORT) Act to remove the unconstitutional taxation, registration, and regulation of short-barreled rifles (SBRs), short-barreled shotguns (SBSs), and any other weapons (AOWs) under the National Firearms Act (NFA). Senator Roger Marshall, M.D (R-KS) introduced the Senate companion bill.

    “The Biden-Harris Administration dangerously weaponized the draconian National Firearms Act to further infringe on Americans’ Second Amendment liberties,” said Clyde. “Yet the American people overwhelmingly rejected the Left’s unconstitutional tactics and backdoor gun control in November. It’s now time for Congress to use this mandate to protect Americans’ unalienable, constitutional right to keep and bear arms. Deregulating SBRs, SBSs, and AOWs is the most effective way to ensure American gun owners are not subjected to unlawful and unnecessary restrictions, taxation, and registration of firearms or pistol braces. I’m proud to partner with Senator Marshall in the fight to defeat this Biden-era rule and safeguard Americans’ Second Amendment freedoms.”

    “‘Shall not be infringed’ is crystal clear – and the Biden-era abuses of the Constitutionally protected rights of gun owners across the country need to be undone,” said Senator Marshall. “The SHORT Act takes a step toward rolling back nonsensical regulations that the National Firearms Act has placed upon gun owners. I challenge my colleagues in both chambers to pass this legislation and join me in fully restoring and protecting our God-given Second Amendment rights.”

    Supporting organizations include Gun Owners of America (GOA) and the National Association of Gun Rights (NAGR).

    “The Stop Harassing Owners of Rifles Today (SHORT) Act will repeal elements of the archaic National Firearms Act, which the Biden ATF abused to justify their unconstitutional pistol brace ban– a policy change that affects millions of law-abiding gun owners and does nothing to curb rising crime,” said Aidan Johnston, Director of Federal Affairs for GOA. “GOA is proud to support the SHORT Act, which will repeal archaic short barrel restrictions from the National Firearms Act of 1934 and prevent them from ever being weaponized against the American people ever again.”

    “The SHORT Act is a long overdue step toward restoring the rights of Americans, freeing gun owners from the burdensome and outdated regulations of the National Firearms Act,” said Hunter King, Director of Political Affairs for NAGR. “By removing short-barreled rifles, shotguns, and similar firearms from egregious federal regulations, gun owners would be able to exercise their Second Amendment freedoms without oppressive government interference. This isn’t a measly reform; it’s a declaration of Second Amendment supremacy and will take a sledgehammer to government overreach. The National Association for Gun Rights is pleased to support this bill to reclaim our right to keep and bear arms.”

    Original cosponsors (45) include Representatives Jodey Arrington (TX-19), Brian Babin (TX-36), Jack Bergman (MI-01), Stephanie Bice (OK-05), Andy Biggs (AZ-05), Sheri Biggs (SC-03), Lauren Boebert (CO-04), Josh Brecheen (OK-02), Tim Burchett (TN-02), Kat Cammack (FL-03), Ben Cline (VA-06), Eli Crane (AZ-02), Rick Crawford (AR-01), Byron Donalds (FL-19), Neal Dunn (FL-02), Chuck Edwards (NC-11), Mike Ezell (MS-04), Russell Fry (SC-07), Brandon Gill (TX-26), Paul Gosar (AZ-09), Marjorie Taylor Greene (GA-14),  Brett Guthrie (KY-02), Pat Harrigan (NC-10), Andy Harris (MD-01), Clay Higgins (LA-03), Richard Hudson (NC-09), Wesley Hunt (TX-38), Anna Paulina Luna (FL-13), Thomas Massie (KY-04), Addison McDowell (NC-06), Carol Miller (WV-01), Mary Miller (IL-15), John Moolenaar (MI-02), Barry Moore (AL-01), Troy Nehls (TX-22), Andy Ogles (TN-05), Scott Perry (PA-10), Guy Reschenthaler (PA-14), John Rose (TN-06), Austin Scott (GA-08), Keith Self (TX-03), Tim Walberg (MI-05), Randy Weber (TX-14), Daniel Webster (FL-11), and Tony Wied (WI-08).

    Full text of the SHORT Act can be found HERE. 

    Background

    The SHORT Act will remove the unconstitutional taxation, registration, and regulation in the draconian National Firearms Act (NFA) of firearms such as Short Barreled Rifles (SBR), Short Barreled Shotguns (SBS), and Any Other Weapons (AOW).

    Using the NFA, the Biden-Harris Administration erroneously argued that Americans who own pistols with stabilizing braces are in possession of illegal short-barreled rifles. The ATF used that argument to facilitate a ban, forcing gun owners to violate its rule or participate in an unconstitutional registry titled “Amnesty Registration of Pistol Brace Weapons,” to keep their own firearms. Eliminating unconstitutional and unnecessary restrictions, taxation, and registration placed on NFA firearms will ensure that the ATF does not enact any future version of this ban.

    Rep. Clyde previously introduced the SHORT Act in the 117th Congress and the 118th Congress.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Stansbury Marks 60th Anniversary of Selma Civil Rights Marches with National and Local Leaders

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Melanie Stansbury (N.M.-01)

    SELMA, AL — Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) marked the 60th Anniversary of the 1965 Selma to Montgomery civil rights marches with national and local leaders, including the crossing of the Edmund Pettus Bridge in remembrance of “Bloody Sunday.” This anniversary commemorates a series of three civil rights marches led by Rep. John R. Lewis, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and other civil rights leaders, which ended with a violent clash on Sunday, March 7th, 1965, in which state troopers attacked nearly 600 unarmed protesters. Two weeks later, the march was completed as thousands gathered on the steps of the Alabama State Capitol demanding voting rights. The march and violence of Bloody Sunday galvanized national support for the passage of the Voting Rights Act months later in August of 1965.

    Rep. Stansbury participated in the 60th Anniversary march across the Edmund Pettus Bridge and attended services and commemorations over several days in Selma, Montgomery, and Birmingham with civil rights leaders and nearly 40 members of Congress. 

    “In a time when so much is on the line in protecting American democracy, freedoms, and voting rights, it is humbling to walk in the footsteps of the giants who marched for voting rights here in Selma a generation ago,” said Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01). “This 60th Anniversary is a solemn reminder of the generations who fought to bend the arc of history towards justice. I am grateful to be in the fight alongside so many extraordinary leaders who carry that spirit forward into the work ahead.” 

    More about the history of the events on Bloody Sunday: 

    On March 7th, 1965 civil rights leaders and protesters began the 54-mile walk from Selma to the Alabama State Capitol in Montgomery to demand voting rights protections, only to make it 6 blocks down Broad Street and across the Edmund Pettus Bridge, where they were met by more than 50 state troopers and a several dozen possemen on horseback. When the demonstrators refused to turn back, they were brutally beaten. 

    At least 17 were hospitalized and 40 others received treatment for injuries and the effects of tear gas. The attack, which was broadcast on national television, caught the attention of millions of Americans and became a symbol of the brutal oppression and racism of Jim Crow in the South. 

    Two weeks later, the Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr. and 3,200 civil rights protesters marched the 54 miles from Selma to the state capital in Montgomery — an event that prompted Congress to pass the Voting Rights Act. 

    Every year on the first weekend in March, the Bridge Crossing Jubilee commemorates both the bloody confrontation at the Edmund Pettus Bridge and the march from Selma to Montgomery that followed.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: The Great American Bait and Switch Continues: Rep. Stansbury Calls Out Republicans on Their Real Agenda

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Melanie Stansbury (N.M.-01)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) released the following statement after voting against the Republican-backed Continuing Resolution:  

    “Over the last several weeks we have seen the reckless, lawless, and chaotic dismantling of critical federal programs, enabled and supported by the House GOP—just as they did with the passage of their spending bill in the House today,” said Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01).  

    “In passing this Continuing Resolution, Republicans were clear that they will continue to support Trump and Elon Musk’s dismantling of federal agencies, they will continue to support firing thousands of federal employees, and they will continue to support illegally withholding congressionally mandated funds.  

    “This is not a budget—it’s a bait and switch—as they now turn their attention to their real agenda of gutting healthcare, housing, and food assistance and other vital programs Americans depend on to give permanent tax breaks to billionaires.  

    “That is why I voted no on a budget and a plan that will continue to hurt the people I serve in New Mexico.” 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Stansbury Fights for Workers’ Right to Organize

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Melanie Stansbury (N.M.-01)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) co-sponsored H.R. 20, the Richard L. Trumka Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act, a comprehensive proposal to protect workers’ right to come together and bargain for higher wages, better benefits, and safer workplaces. 

    “Labor is the backbone of our country,” Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) said. “My mother was fired from her job for attempting to organize her workplace, and if the PRO Act were law, she would have been protected. All across the country, Americans are still facing retaliation for organizing at their workplaces, and it must stop. The PRO Act will protect these fundamental rights for our workers.” 

    Large corporations and the wealthy continue to capture the rewards of a growing economy while working families and middle-class Americans are left behind. From 1979 to 2023, annual wages for the bottom 90 percent of households increased just 44 percent, while average incomes for the wealthiest 1 percent increased more than 180 percent. 

    Unions are critical to increasing wages and creating a strong economy that rewards hardworking people.  Through the power of bargaining, the typical union worker earns 16 percent more than the typical non-union worker.  

    The American people’s support for unions is surging.  According to a 2024 Gallup poll, 70 percent of Americans approve of labor unions—remaining at near record highs.  Despite growing support for unions, billionaire- and special interest-funded attacks on workers’ unions and labor laws have eroded union density and made it harder for workers to organize.  The share of American workers who are union members has fallen from roughly one in three workers in 1956 to a new low of 9.9 percent in 2024.  The PRO Act restores fairness to the economy by strengthening the federal law that protects workers’ right to join a union and bargain for higher pay, better benefits, and safer workplaces. 

    The PRO Act protects the basic right to join a union by: 

    • Holds employers accountable for violating workers’ rights by authorizing meaningful penalties, facilitating initial collective bargaining agreements, and closing loopholes that allow employers to misclassify their employees as supervisors and independent contractors.
    • Empowers workers to exercise their right to organize by strengthening support for workers who suffer retaliation for exercising their rights, protecting workers’ right to support secondary boycotts, ensuring workers’ unions can collect “fair share” fees, and authorizing a private right of action for violation of workers’ rights.
    • Secures free, fair, and safe union elections by preventing employers from interfering in union elections, prohibiting captive audience meetings, and requiring employers to be transparent with their workers. 

    For the bill text of the PRO Act, click here. 

    For a fact sheet on the PRO Act, click here. 

    For a section-by-section summary of the PRO Act, click here. 

      ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Rep. Stansbury Fights for New Mexicans, Food Assistance Programs

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Melanie Stansbury (N.M.-01)

    Food Assistance Programs
    Critically important programs at risk in Trump Administration

    ALBUQUERQUE — Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) kept fighting on Friday against President Trump and Elon Musk’s unlawful and harmful systematic dismantling of critical federal government food assistance programs during a press conference at the Roadrunner Food Bank.    

    Watch the video here.   

    “Hunger is a policy choice,” said Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01). “There is no reason why any family, any child, any senior, any veteran in the United States should be hungry. There is plenty of food in this country. We are a wealthy country with a multitude of agriculture and food, and we have the ability to take care of our people. The decision to cut vital life-saving programs is a decision to let people go hungry in this country. We know that the policy choices that both the Trump administration and Congress under GOP leadership are making to let millions of Americans go hungry—that is a choice that they are making. But we also know that there is a policy choice of abundance, that there is a policy choice that we know that works.” 

    The Congresswoman was joined by community leaders who shared insight into the real-world impacts of the current chaos in Washington, D.C.   

    “We are deeply concerned that decisions being made seem to be in a haphazard manner with no recognition of the potential long-term impact,” said Katy Anderson, Vice President of Strategy, Partnership, and Advocacy at Road Runner Food Bank. “We work with over 500 partners across the state, and some of those partners are facing the loss of much or all of the funding that they rely on to support their communities … Cuts to programs that support Americans will increase hunger in our country, and I’m going to repeat that. They will increase hunger in our country. There is no doubt.” 

    “It’s just very hard right now to think about cuts to SNAP and what that’s going to do and what we’re going to do at the food bank because we like certainty at food banks,” said Jason Riggs, Director of Advocacy and Public Policy at Road Runner Food Bank. “We got trucks to load. Our trucks cover over 360,000 miles a year. We need to know what’s going to be loaded on those trucks way ahead of time and we need the people currently across the street waiting in line to get some food from one of our distributions. We need them to know when they get there, there’s going to be food, and when they go to the grocery store, the money’s going to be on their EBT card, and they’re going to be able to feed their families.” 

    “We’re facing challenges that make it harder to do this work,” said Renee Ruybal, Chief Advancement Officer at Meals on Wheels. “The rising costs of food and fuel are already putting pressure on our ability to serve every neighbor in need. We’re also seeing federal funding changes that impact our ability to expand our operations. Last year, we had an approved project to bring our face-to-face delivery to the town of Bernalillo, to Placitas, and to Algodones. That funding was removed from the recent federal budget bill, putting that expansion on hold. If these programs face more cuts, more New Mexicans will turn to us for help, but at a time when we have fewer resources to meet that growing need. So, all of this: higher costs, federal funding cuts, and potential reductions in other food assistance programs will force us to make tough choices. 

    “If hunger is a policy choice, we made a choice together, all of us, that we were not going to tolerate hunger in our communities because our communities are built around food,” said Jill Dixon, Executive Director at The Food Depot. “Every celebration, every lamentation in our communities happens with food at the table. The Food Depot stands for nutritious food being on the table for every single person in our community, and so do my food bank friends. We all should stand for that. It is a fundamental human right to have food at the table. And America has enough food to feed everyone within its borders.” 

    “Agri-Cultura is the largest cooperative here in New Mexico,” said Helga Garcia-Garza, Executive Director of Agri-Cultura Network and La Cosecha CSA. “We’re small-scale farmers and ranchers that many years ago, in 2009, we developed our mission out of a theory that we wanted to keep production local. We wanted to make it accessible to communities that otherwise would not receive organic produce and keep building capacity, keep having an impact on community health, wealth, and well being. So these programs, the ripple effect not only within the farmers but what we’ve been doing for years and years collectively together in state policy work to change procurement practices for that local investment and with that long-term vision of New Mexico becoming a sustainable regenerative food state.” 

    Impacts on New Mexicans if Trump cuts essential programs:  

    • In New Mexico, 487,113 people receive SNAP monthly.
    • 1 in 5 New Mexico children face hunger and food insecurity. 

     ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Stansbury, Nadler, Scott, Leger Fernández, Senator Murray Condemn Unlawful Dismissal of EEOC Commissioners, Demand Immediate Reinstatement

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Melanie Stansbury (N.M.-01)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), Rep. Jerrold Nadler (NY-12), Rep. Bobby Scott (VA-03), and Rep. Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03), and Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) led 236 colleagues in a letter to President Donald Trump in response to his unprecedented and unlawful dismissal of Equal Opportunity Employment Commission (EEOC) Commissioners Charlotte Burrows and Jocelyn Samuels. 

    “We write to express our outrage at your unprecedented dismissal of Commissioners Charlotte Burrows and Jocelyn Samuels of the bipartisan U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission,” the Members wrote. “This unlawful abuse of presidential power undermines the EEOC’s historic independence, harms U.S. workers, and unduly politicizes the Commission’s work. It also impedes the Commission’s ability to fully carry out its critical mission on behalf of the American people. We urge you to swiftly reinstate Commissioners Burrows and Samuels.” 

    The EEOC was established in 1964 with strong bipartisan support to serve as an independent, multi-member body tasked with preventing and addressing employment discrimination. It is the primary federal law enforcement agency responsible for ensuring that workers are protected against discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, and genetic information. Workers rely on the EEOC to be a fair and independent body—not one subject to the shifting political whims of the executive branch.   

    Both Commissioner Burrows and Commissioner Samuels had been confirmed by bipartisan votes of the Senate prior to the start of their terms, with Commissioner Burrows’ term not set to expire until July 2028 and Commissioner Samuels term not set to expire until July 2026. 

     The Members highlighted the massive return on investment the EEOC delivers for the American people, stating, “From 2014-2024, the EEOC recovered $5.6 billion for workers who were discriminated against under these laws, significantly more than the agency’s appropriations during that time period. For FY 2024, the EEOC secured a record $700 million for workers who experienced discrimination. The EEOC’s role in enforcing these protections is essential to ensuring that all workers have a fair chance to obtain employment, provide for their families, and contribute to our economy.” 

    The Members made clear the illegal firing by President Trump is an intrusion into Congress’ constitutional authority, stating, “The Administration’s firing of Commissioner Burrows and Commissioner Samuels is unprecedented and an intrusion into Congress’ Article I constitutional authority. The appointment of EEOC Commissioners is governed by statute and is designed to ensure the agency’s independence from the executive.  The President appoints Commissioners and the Senate confirms them. That is the beginning and end of the executive’s role in determining who can sit on the Commission and for how long. The law not only expressly requires the Commission to be bipartisan, but it also sets out five-year terms, a design that ensures that Commissioners’ terms run between presidential terms, another purposeful action by Congress to ensure the Commission’s independence.” 

    “Longstanding Supreme Court precedent also confirms that multi-member independent commissions such as the EEOC enjoy protection from “coercive influence” of the executive. In Humphrey’s Executor v. United States, 295 U.S. 602 (1935), the Supreme Court made clear that members of independent commissions like the EEOC cannot be removed at will by the President. Prior Presidents have agreed; no Commissioner of the EEOC has ever been removed prior to the expiration of their term in the Commission’s 60-year history.” 

    “Workers deserve to earn a living free from discrimination and feel confident that when they are harmed, they can count on an independent EEOC, not a politicized body, to protect their rights,” the Members concluded. “We urge you to reinstate Commissioner Burrows and Commissioner Samuels, and we look forward to your urgent response.” 

    The full letter can be read here. 

    The letter was also signed by: In addition to Representative Nadler, Senator Murray, Ranking Member Scott, Representative Stansbury, and Democratic Women’s Caucus Chair Fernández the letter is signed by Rep. Alma Adams, Rep. Pete Aguilar, Sen. Angela D. Alsobrooks, Rep. Gabe Amo, Rep. Yassamin Ansari, Sen. Tammy Baldwin, Rep. Becca Balint, Rep. Nanette Barragán, Rep. Joyce Beatty, Rep. Wesley Bell, Sen. Michael Bennet, Rep. Ami Bera, Rep. Donald Beyer, Rep. Sanford Bishop, Sen. Richard Blumenthal, Rep. Lisa Blunt Rochester, Rep. Suzanne Bonamici, Sen. Cory Booker, Rep. Shontel Brown, Rep. Julia Brownley, Rep. Nikki Budzinski, Rep. Janelle Bynum, Sen. Maria Cantwell, Rep. Salud Carbajal, Rep. André Carson, Rep. Troy Carter, Rep. Greg Casar, Rep. Ed Case, Rep. Sean Casten, Rep. Kathy Castor, Rep. Joaquin Castro, Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, Rep. Judy Chu, Rep. Gilbert Cisneros, Rep. Katherine Clark, Rep. Yvette Clarke, Rep. Emanuel Cleaver, Rep. James E. Clyburn, Rep. Steve Cohen, Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman, Rep. Herbert Conaway, Rep. Gerald Connolly, Sen. Christopher Coons, Rep. J. Correa, Rep. Jim Costa, Rep. Joe Courtney, Rep. Angie Craig, Rep. Jasmine Crockett, Rep. Jason Crow, Rep. Danny Davis, Rep. Madeleine Dean, Rep. Diana DeGette, Rep. Rosa DeLauro, Rep. Suzan DelBene, Rep. Christopher Deluzio, Rep. Maxine Dexter, Rep. Debbie Dingell, Rep. Lloyd Doggett, Sen. Tammy Duckworth, Sen. Richard Durbin, Rep. Sarah Elfreth, Rep. Veronica Escobar, Rep. Adriano Espaillat, Rep. Dwight Evans, Rep. Cleo Fields, Rep. Shomari Figures, Rep. Lizzie Fletcher, Rep. Bill Foster, Rep. Valerie Foushee, Rep. Lois Frankel, Rep. Laura Friedman, Rep. Maxwell Frost, Rep. Ruben Gallego, Rep. John Garamendi, Rep. Jesús García, Rep. Robert Garcia, Rep. Sylvia Garcia, Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, Rep. Daniel Goldman, Rep. Jimmy Gomez, Rep. Vicente Gonzalez, Rep. Maggie Goodlander, Rep. Josh Gottheimer, Rep. Al Green, Sen. Maggie Hassan, Rep. Jahana Hayes, Sen. Martin Heinrich, Sen. John W. Hickenlooper, Rep. James Himes, Sen. Mazie Hirono, Rep. Steven Horsford, Rep. Chrissy Houlahan, Rep. Steny Hoyer, Rep. Val Hoyle, Rep. Jared Huffman, Rep. Glenn Ivey, Rep. Jonathan Jackson, Rep. Sara Jacobs, Rep. Pramila Jayapal, Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, Rep. Henry Johnson, Rep. Julie Johnson, Sen. Timothy Kaine, Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove, Rep. Marcy Kaptur, Rep. William Keating, Sen. Mark Kelly, Rep. Robin Kelly, Rep. Timothy Kennedy, Rep. Ro Khanna, Rep. Andy Kim, Sen. Angus King, Sen. Amy Klobuchar, Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, Rep. Greg Landsman, Rep. John Larson, Rep. George Latimer, Rep. Summer Lee, Rep. Susie Lee, Rep. Mike Levin, Rep. Ted Lieu, Rep. Zoe Lofgren, Sen. Ben Ray Luján, Rep. Stephen Lynch, Rep. Seth Magaziner, Rep. John Mannion, Sen. Edward J. Markey, Rep. Doris Matsui, Rep. Lucy McBath, Rep. Sarah McBride, Rep. Jennifer McClellan, Rep. Betty McCollum, Rep. Morgan McGarvey, Rep. James McGovern, Rep. LaMonica McIver, Rep. Gregory Meeks, Sen. Robert Menendez, Rep. Grace Meng, Sen. Jeff Merkley, Rep. Kweisi Mfume, Rep. Dave Min, Rep. Gwen Moore, Rep. Joseph Morelle, Rep. Kelly Morrison, Rep. Jared Moskowitz, Rep. Seth Moulton, Rep. Frank Mrvan, Rep. Kevin Mullin, Rep. Richard Neal, Rep. Joe Neguse, Rep. Donald Norcross, Rep. Eleanor Norton, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Rep. Johnny Olszewski, Rep. Ilhan Omar, Sen. Alex Padilla, Rep. Jimmy Panetta, Rep. Nancy Pelosi, Sen. Gary Peters, Rep. Scott Peters, Rep. Brittany Pettersen, Rep. Chellie Pingree, Rep. Mark Pocan, Rep. Nellie Pou, Rep. Ayanna Pressley, Rep. Mike Quigley, Rep. Delia Ramirez, Rep. Emily Randall, Rep. Jamie Raskin, Sen. Jack Reed, Rep. Luz Rivas, Rep. Kristen McDonald Rivet, Rep. Jacklyn Rosen, Rep. Deborah Ross, Rep. Raul Ruiz, Rep. Patrick Ryan, Rep. Andrea Salinas, Sen. Bernard Sanders, Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon, Rep. Janice Schakowsky, Sen. Brian Schatz, Rep. Adam B. Schiff, Rep. Bradley Schneider, Rep. Hillary Scholten, Rep. Kim Schrier, Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Sen. Charles Schumer, Rep. David Scott, Rep. Terri Sewell, Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, Rep. Brad Sherman, Rep. Mikie Sherrill, Rep. Lateefah Simon, Rep. Elissa Slotkin, Rep. Adam Smith, Sen. Tina Smith, Rep. Eric Sorensen, Rep. Darren Soto, Rep. Greg Stanton, Rep. Haley Stevens, Rep. Marilyn Strickland, Rep. Suhas Subramanyam, Rep. Thomas Suozzi, Rep. Eric Swalwell, Rep. Emilia Sykes, Rep. Linda Sánchez, Rep. Mark Takano, Rep. Shri Thanedar, Rep. Bennie Thompson, Rep. Mike Thompson, Rep. Dina Titus, Rep. Rashida Tlaib, Rep. Jill Tokuda, Rep. Paul Tonko, Rep. Norma Torres, Rep. Ritchie Torres, Rep. Lori Trahan, Rep. Derek Tran, Rep. Lauren Underwood, Rep. Juan Vargas, Rep. Marc Veasey, Rep. Nydia Velázquez, Rep. Eugene Vindman, Sen. Mark R. Warner, Sen. Raphael G. Warnock, Sen. Elizabeth Warren, Rep. Maxine Waters, Rep. Peter Welch, Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, Rep. George Whitesides, Rep. Nikema Williams, Rep. Frederica Wilson, and Sen. Ron Wyden.   

    The letter is endorsed by: A Better Balance, American Civil Liberties Union, the Human Rights Campaign, the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, National Employment Law Project, National Partnership for Women & Families, and the National Women’s Law Center. 

    Other statements of support:   

    “Since its establishment 60 years ago as part of the landmark Civil Rights Act of 1964, the EEOC has protected the rights of workers to earn a living free from discrimination. President Trump’s illegal and unprecedented dismissal of Commissioners Charlotte Burrows and Jocelyn Samuels critically impairs the EEOC’s ability to ensure that individuals aren’t denied jobs and opportunities because of who they are.  We condemn the administration’s flagrant politicization of an independent, nonpartisan civil rights agency and join members of Congress calling for the reinstatement of the commissioners without delay,” said Mike Zamore, National Director of Policy and Government Affairs of the American Civil Liberties Union. 

    “People rely on the EEOC to be an independent, fair body that will protect their right to be free from discrimination in their workplace,” said Gaylynn Burroughs, Vice President for Education and Workplace Justice at the National Women’s Law Center. “President Trump’s removal of EEOC Commissioners Burrows and Samuels is just another extension of his authoritarian power grab that will ultimately harm workers. His actions are a clear abuse of power intended to bend the Commission to his will, but the Commission works for all working people, not for President Trump. The EEOC was born out of the civil rights movement to help ensure equal employment opportunity for all workers. We will continue to fight to preserve the integrity of the Commission, for equal opportunity, and for the right of all workers to be free from discrimination.” 

    “We condemn the administration’s unlawful attempt to fire sitting EEOC commissioners. This reckless decision is already having devastating consequences for workers waiting for the agency to take legal action against employers engaged in discrimination and severe ramifications for the agency’s ability to function effectively and enforce labor and civil rights protections,” said Jocelyn C. Frye, President of the National Partnership for Women & Families. “Workers who are depending on the EEOC to do its job should not have to endure discrimination because of political stunts intended to undermine civil rights enforcement. By making it virtually impossible for the Commission to take important actions, because it lacks a quorum, the administration is effectively circumventing robust enforcement of statutory anti-discrimination protections that workers depend on every day. President Trump must reinstate the commissioners he fired to rectify this situation. We commend Congressman Jerry Nadler and Senator Patty Murray, and all the members of Congress who join us in this fight, for standing up to safeguard the rights and the freedoms of all workers so that they are treated fairly in workplaces that are free of discrimination.” 

    “The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission’s role in ensuring equitable workplaces and enforcing our nation’s laws against discrimination is vital. It is an outrage that the Trump Administration has gutted the agency by illegally firing key EEOC Commissioners who have tirelessly championed robust enforcement of important workplace laws like the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and Title VII of the Civil Right Act. This is an overstep of the President’s authority that will hamstring the agency’s ability to carry out its mission. We thank Congressman Nadler, Senator Murray, Ranking Member Scott, Congresswoman Stansbury, and Congresswoman Leger Fernández for their leadership in defending the EEOC,” said Inimai Chettiar, President of A Better Balance.  

    “President Trump’s removal of Commissioners Burrows and Samuels was an outrageous attack on civil rights and the rule of law – one of many actions taken by the president in pursuit of his goal to further entrench inequality and occupational segregation. The EEOC’s independence and bipartisan structure was established by Congress in the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and is essential to its mission to promote equal opportunity in the workplace. This lawlessness and disregard for our Constitution cannot stand,” said Josh Boxerman, Government Affairs Manager, National Employment Law Project. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Garbarino Leads Bipartisan Push to Modernize U.S. Merchant Marine Academy

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Andrew R. Garbarino (R-NY-02), a member of the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) Board of Visitors, today introduced bipartisan legislation to authorize more than $1 billion over 10 years for a full-scale campus modernization of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, New York.

    The bill is cosponsored by Representatives Laura Gillen (R-NY-04), Nick LaLota (R-NY-01), Tom Suozzi (D-NY-03), and Jen Kiggans (R-VA-02) underscoring a shared commitment to bolstering national security and maritime readiness through investment in one of the nation’s five federal service academies.

    “For generations, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy has trained the men and women who keep our supply chains moving and our national defense strong,” said Rep. Garbarino. “But the infrastructure on campus must keep up with the rigorous demands placed on today’s Midshipmen. This bill ensures the Academy remains a world-class institution worthy of its mission.”

    The legislation authorizes $1.02 billion from FY2026 to FY2035 via the Maritime Security Trust Fund, beginning with $54 million for design and planning in the first year and annual construction funding of over $107 million thereafter. The bill calls for full operational continuity at the Academy throughout construction and recommends using design-build contracting to speed delivery and reduce costs.

    “For more than 80 years, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy has been the pride of Long Island. As one of America’s five services academies, USMMA is a pathway for young Americans to serve our country and contribute to our maritime security. I’m proud to join Rep. Garbarino and my colleagues in working together for Long Island and leading this bipartisan bill to strengthen Long Island’s tradition of producing the best Midshipmen and mariners in the world,”said Rep. Gillen. 

    “To ensure the Merchant Marine Academy continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of maritime and national security leaders, Congress must invest in its infrastructure, which has languished since the mid-20th century. Doing so is essential to providing Midshipmen, who will go on to serve America around the globe,  with the education and hands-on training they need to excel in critical industries like marine transportation and defense,” said Rep. LaLota. “Upgrading these facilities will strengthen the Academy’s ability to prepare top-tier officers and ensure it remains a premier institution for the nation’s future maritime leaders.”

    “The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy is a national treasure that has been neglected for decades. It is time to restore it to its former glory!” said Rep. Suozzi.

    Rep. Garbarino has served on the USMMA Board of Visitors since joining Congress and has been a leading advocate for modernizing the Academy’s campus and supporting the next generation of maritime leaders.

    The full text of the bill can be found here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –