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Category: United States House of Representatives

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pfluger Leads CTI Markup For Terror Threats, Transnational Repression Legislation

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

    Today, Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11), Chairman of the House Committee on Homeland Security’s Subcommittee on Counterterrorism and Intelligence, led the subcommittee’s first markup of the 119th Congress to consider legislation to enhance the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) coordination with all levels of law enforcement to bolster our national security and combat evolving threats from our adversaries.

    Ten pieces of legislation were considered today, of which two were Chairman Pfluger’s – the Countering Transnational Repression Act and the Generative AI Terrorism Risk Assessment Act.

     

    WATCH THE MARKUP IN ITS ENTIRETY HERE

    WATCH CHAIRMAN PFLUGER HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE MARKUP BELOW:

    Chairman Pfluger’s opening remarks HERE

    Chairman Pfluger’s remarks on his Countering Transnational Repression Act HERE

    Chairman Pfluger’s remarks on his Generative AI Terrorism Risk Assessment Act HERE

    Chairman Pfluger’s closing remarks HERE

    Background:

    Ahead of this markup, Chairman Pfluger held a CTI hearing titled, “The Digital Battlefield: How Terrorists Use Online Networks for Recruitment and Radicalization“ to learn about how America can simultaneously protect First Amendment rights while taking proactive measures to prevent future terrorist attacks.

    Earlier this month, Chairman Pfluger introduced the Countering Transnational Repression Act of 2025 which would create a dedicated transnational repression office in DHS to ensure the federal government takes steps to recognize, assess, and counter threats from foreign authoritarian regimes or agents of foreign governments against American citizens or lawful permanent residents. Read Chairman Pfluger’s op-ed in the Washington Times here.

    Chairman Pfluger also introduced the “Generative AI Terrorism Risk Assessment Act” earlier this month, which would require the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to conduct annual assessments on terrorist threats to the U.S. posed by terrorist organizations like ISIS and Al Qaeda, utilizing generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) applications for terroristic activity. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Pfluger is “Keeping The Lights On”

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

    Today, Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11), a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, questioned witnesses during the Energy Subcommittee Hearing titled, “‘Keeping The Lights On’ Examining The State Of Regional Grid Reliability.”

    The witnesses included:

    ·     Pablo Vegas, President & Chief Executive Officer, Electric Reliability Council of Texas, Inc., (ERCOT)

    ·     Gordon van Welie, President & Chief Executive Officer, ISO New England (ISO-NE)

    ·     Richard J. Dewey, President & Chief Executive Officer, New York Independent System Operator (NYISO) 

    ·     Manu Asthana, President & Chief Executive Officer, PJM Interconnection, LLC

    ·     Jennifer Curran, Senior Vice President for Planning and Operations, Midcontinent ISO (MISO)

    ·     Lanny Nickell, Chief Operating Officer, Southwest Power Pool

    ·     Elliot Mainzer, President & Chief Executive Officer, California Independent System Operator (CAISO)

    Watch the hearing in its entirety HERE.

    During the hearing, ERCOT’s President and CEO, Mr. Vegas, confirmed to Rep. Pfluger that there is a pressing need to invest in long-duration, dispatchable resources to support the Texas grid reliably.

    Watch Rep. Pfluger’s full line of questioning HERE, or read the highlights below.

    Rep. Pfluger: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I want to state that I believe in the best of the above, not all of the above, and I think that differs from state to state. In West Texas, we have no access to hydropower, unfortunately, as they do in the Pacific Northwest, but if you have access to affordable, reliable sources, then we should use those. Mr. Vegas, I think we need to do a math problem here. So, sorry for math in public. But let’s talk about what the current demand is in Texas for what ERCOT is serving. What are we seeing annually? 

    Mr. Vegas: The current demand peak in the summer is around 80,000 – 85,000 and in the winter, about 80,000. 

    Rep. Pfluger: Okay, and in the next three or four years, with added industrialization, added population data centers, what do we think that is going to grow to in Texas?

    Mr. Vegas: We’re now forecasting that by 2030 we expect around 150,000 megawatts. So that’s an additional 65,000 megawatts over where we are today.

    Rep. Pfluger: Almost double?

    Mr. Vegas: Almost double.

    Rep. Pfluger: In three to four years? This is incredible. So what I want to get to is, when you look at the balance, you’re balancing price, you’re balancing reliability, you’re balancing all these different things. What are the best sources that you are looking for today at 85,000 and in three years, at 150,000 plus?

    Mr. Vegas: We’re getting to a point on the Texas grid where you can start to see that the peak demand is exceeding the dispatchable generation that we have available on the grid. So it’s important, as we look forward, to meet the demands of this growth, to grow the supply in a balanced way. The balanced resource mix brings, I think, the best portfolio for consumers. It brings cost combinations that vary and give the optimal price, and it also brings characteristics around reliability and resilience that are important. So as we look forward, we need to make sure we keep up with firm dispatchable generation, in addition to the strong growth that we continue to see on renewables.

    Rep. Pfluger: Firm dispatchable generation. So I just looked it up on your website, ercot.com, and right now in my hometown, it’s 78 degrees, and we’ve got a little bit of wind, which is serving 18% of the grid, 45% solar. But talk to us about when it’s hot or when it’s cold, and how reliable on those days where you have 100 degrees plus, which we have about 90 plus days in the summer in Texas of 100 degrees or more, or when it’s cold, how reliable are those sources?

    Mr. Vegas: Yeah, as I said earlier, over the course of a year, the actual delivered energy on the Texas grid, 65% of it comes from our thermal fleet, which is our coal, our natural gas, and our nuclear. They are the backbone of reliability. They complement what we’re getting from the renewable mix as well. And right now we need all of the supply that’s there. It’s clear that we need it all. We’re seeing 63% right now coming from renewables, but when the wind isn’t blowing, and when it’s nighttime, and in the summer when it’s hot, you still need a lot of energy to support that air conditioning load and that requires long duration, dispatchable resources to do that. 

    Rep. Pfluger: When government dictates policy that doesn’t allow you to have the right capacity, the right mixture – what does that do to affordability, reliability, and at the end, what does it do to our national security?

    Mr. Vegas: It is absolutely detrimental to affordability and to reliability, and it risks our energy security. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Ramirez Statement on Trump’s Attack on American Elections

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

    Washington, DC — Today, Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), Co-chair of the Congressional Taskforce on Strengthening Democracy, released the following statement on Trump’s sweeping executive action to undermine elections and disenfranchise millions of Americans. The Executive Action requires documented proof of citizenship to register to vote in federal elections and demands that all ballots be received by Election Day. 

    “Our elections are secure. Trump’s most recent Executive Order is an assault on our democracy. It is an unnecessary and unlawful executive overreach that disrupts how Americans vote, attempts to bring an independent agency under presidential control, and disenfranchises thousands of voters. A man with no integrity – who refused to accept the 2020 election results – has no credibility to comment on election integrity.   

    Bottom line: no matter how secure our elections are, Trump and Republicans will still claim elections are rigged to suppress the votes of women, Black, Brown, veterans, Indigenous, and working-class Americans. Because for them, it’s not about election integrity; it’s about rigging the system to consolidate power and undermine the power of the people. If they succeed and only certain people vote and only certain votes are counted, America will no longer be able to claim free and fair elections and a healthy democracy. 

    The Trump Administration is operating by the authoritarian playbook. History has shown us where their path – unchallenged – leads. We must be clear: Trump is attempting to end free and fair elections in our nation. We must be courageous, proceed with the moral clarity of those who came before us, like the late Congressman John R. Lewis, and stand against his actions.”

    Background:

    About 1 in 10 adult U.S. citizens don’t have ready access to documents that prove their citizenship, such as a birth certificate or passport.  Despite claims of mass voting by noncitizens, the available data has shown consistently that it is incredibly rare and rapidly identified. The American Immigration Council analyzed the Heritage data and only found 10 cases involving undocumented immigrants since the 1980s. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Burlison Welcomes Former U.S. Air Force Officer David Grusch as Special Advisor

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

    Washington, D.C. – Congressman Eric Burlison (R-MO-07) is pleased to announce David Grusch, a decorated former U.S. Air Force officer and senior civilian intelligence official, as a Special Advisor. Grusch, recognized for his previous sworn testimony before House Oversight & Accountability Committee about the federal government’s Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAP) activities, will contribute his expertise to Rep. Burlison’s efforts to promote transparency regarding UAP and other matters on the Task Force on the Declassification of Federal Secrets. 

    “The American people deserve answers about UAPs,” said Rep. Burlison. “David Grusch has risked his career to expose critical information. His expertise will be vital as we work to uncover the truth and hold the government accountable.”   

    Grusch served 14 years in the Air Force, reaching the rank of Major, with a combat tour of duty in Afghanistan supporting counter-illicit finance, drug, and arms-trafficking operations with Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC) and ISAF. He later worked as a senior intelligence officer at the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) and National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), and from 2019-2021 officially represented the NRO on the UAP Task Force. In 2022 while at NGA, Mr. Grusch filed a federal whistleblower complaint with the Intelligence Community Inspector General (ICIG) which was found “credible and urgent” for reporting to the Congressional intelligence committees. In 2023, he testified before Congress, alleging that elements of the U.S. government had thwarted Congressional oversight, withheld information from proper Executive Branch officials and illegally concealed programs tied to the recovery and reverse engineering of craft of unknown, non-human origin. 

    “I’m both immensely humbled and deeply honored to join Congressman Burlison and his amazing team of professionals in pushing for government transparency,” said Grusch. “The public is rightfully demanding to know the truth and it is my true privilege for me to serve the people of this country once again. I will use all my expertise to support Rep. Burlison and help the US Congress restore full oversight while enabling the Legislative Branch’s ability to investigate and hold those accountable who have broken the law and lied not only to our Congress, but also to the Executive Office of the President, Director of National Intelligence, and Department of Justice.” 

    Rep. Burlison, a strong advocate for government transparency, underscores his commitment to government accountability and transparency on the UAP topic with this appointment. 

    VIDEO: NewsNation’s Blake Burman Discusses David Grusch Hire With Rep. Burlison

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Feenstra Obtains Six Military Medals and Accolades for Late World War II Veteran from Sioux City

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) announced that his office helped obtain six military medals and pins for the late Edward Motz – a veteran from Sioux City – who earned these accolades while serving our country in Italy and the Aleutian Islands during World War II.

    Feenstra’s office presented the medals to Denny and Robert Motz, two of Edward’s sons, and Curtis Motz, Edward’s grandson, in Sioux City on Monday March 24th.

    “Our veterans are heroes who deserve our deepest appreciation for their service to our country and the sacrifices they made to defend our values and freedoms. Ensuring that our veterans are properly recognized for their heroism and patriotism is important to me and the least that we can do as a grateful nation,” said Rep. Feenstra. “I’m glad that we could help the family of World War II veteran Edward Motz obtain six military medals and accolades that he earned while serving our country. I encourage any veteran or family member to contact our office online at Feenstra.House.Gov or by phone at 202-225-4426 if we can be helpful with navigating the VA or receiving earned medals. I will always stand with our veterans and work to ensure that they receive the high-quality healthcare, benefits, and support that they deserve.”

    “I thank Congressman Feenstra and his office for getting my late grandfather the military medals he earned from his service during World War II. This recognition was a long time coming and honors the commitment that he made to our country so many years ago,” said Curtis Motz, Edward Motz’s grandson. “I encourage anyone who needs help with cutting through red tape at the federal level or getting military medals to contact Congressman Feenstra’s office. I appreciate his work for our veterans.”

    The medals and accolades secured include the WWII Victory Medal, the WWII Honorable Service Lapel button, the Good Conduct Medal, the European African Middle Eastern Campaign Medal & the Bronze Star Attachment, the American Campaign Medal, and the Marksman Badge & Carbine Bar. 

    Pictured from left to right are Wes Fopma with Congressman Randy Feenstra’s office, Robert Motz, Curtis Motz, and Denny Motz.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Representatives Ivey, Scanlon, and Neguse Reintroduce the Raise the Age Act

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

    WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Glenn Ivey (D-MD), Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon (D-PA), and Assistant Democratic Leader Joe Neguse (D-CO) reintroduced the Raise the Age Act, which would increase the age from 18 to 21 to purchase a semiautomatic rifle, the same legal age to purchase a handgun.

     “Gun violence continues to take the lives of too many across this country.” said Congressman Glenn Ivey. “The Raise the Age Act is a common-sense and crucial step to keep our kids safer and protect our communities. I want to thank Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon and Assistant Democratic Leader Joe Neguse in partnering together on this effort and for the overwhelming support of our colleagues on this important piece of legislation.”

    “Across our country, Americans are living in fear and grief because of senseless gun violence,” said Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon. “They also know that enough is enough, and we need to act. This commonsense bill would keep dangerous weapons out of the hands of those who shouldn’t have them and prevent young people from hurting themselves or others. I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing the Raise the Age Act – one of the many gun violence prevention solutions that have the power to save lives.”

    “We strongly support Congressman Ivey’s reintroduction of the Raise the Age Act because too many lives have been lost to AR-15s in the hands of young shooters. The Sandy Hook, Parkland, Uvalde, Buffalo, and Apalachee shootings were all carried out by gunmen under the age of 21 who legally purchased or acquired AR-15-style rifles,” said Po Murray, Chairwoman of Newtown Action Alliance. “These weapons of war have no place in our schools, grocery stores, malls, or communities. If this law had been in place, lives could have been saved. Congress must act now to raise the minimum age and help prevent the next heart shattering tragedy.”

    “Too often, we see 18-, 19-, and 20-year-olds legally purchasing assault weapons and using them to commit devastating acts of violence.” said Vanessa Gonzalez, Vice President of Government & Political Affairs at GIFFORDS. “The Raise the Age Act is a commonsense solution that aligns with existing federal law on handgun purchases and would help keep dangerous weapons out of the hands of those most at risk of misusing them. We already set age limits for drinking, voting, and renting a car because we recognize that certain responsibilities require maturity—firearm purchases should be no different. We applaud Congressman Ivey for his leadership in reintroducing this critical legislation and urge Congress to act now to save lives.”

    “Time and time again, radicalized young men with access to semiautomatic firearms have carried out horrific acts of mass violence. In fact, two-thirds of the deadliest mass shootings from 2018 to 2022 were perpetrated by individuals under 21.” said Mark Collins, Director of Federal Policy at Brady. “It is essential that we raise the minimum age to purchase semiautomatic rifles from 18 to 21 to prevent these devastating tragedies from occurring in the future. Brady thanks Representatives Glenn Ivey, Mary Gay Scanlon, and Joe Neguse for reintroducing the Raise the Age Act and renewing their commitment to common-sense gun violence prevention.”

    Community Justice is proud to endorse the Raise the Age Act to help ensure that young people under the age of 21 are not able to purchase shotguns or semiautomatic rifles. This is a commonsense policy grounded in the data underscoring that people between the ages of 18 and 20 are responsible for a disproportionate amount of violence and should not have unrestricted access to particularly lethal weapons.” said Adzi Vokhiwa, Vice President of Policy atCommunity Justice. “We thank Congressman Ivey for his leadership on this important bill and urge Congress to pass it quickly to help protect our communities and save lives.”

    “Representative Ivey’s bill to raise the age to purchase assault weapons to 21 is the definition of common sense — especially when research shows that 18- to 20-year-olds commit gun homicides at triple the rate of adults.” said John Feinblatt, President of Everytown for Gun Safety, “Everytown is proud to support this bill, which would bring peace of mind to our teachers, students, law enforcement, and so many others.” 

    The Raise the Age Act is supported by 114 original cosponsors. It is endorsed by Brady, Community Justice, Everytown for Gun Safety, GIFFORDS, and Newtown Action Alliance. 

    A copy of the bill can be found here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sorensen Reintroduces Bill to Rename Post Office After Rockford Letter Carrier Jay Larson

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

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17), along with Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16), reintroduced a bipartisan bill to rename the United States Postal Service (USPS) building located at 5225 Harrison Avenue in Rockford after letter carrier Jay Larson. Larson, a 25-year veteran of the USPS, was killed on March 27, 2024, in the Rockford stabbing spree while delivering mail to his neighbors.     

    “One year ago today, Jay Larson tragically lost his life serving his Rockford community as a 25-year veteran of the United States Postal Service,” said Congressman Sorensen. “Jay was an exemplary public servant, never taking a sick day and working overtime to help his fellow letter carriers finish their routes. He was a fixture of his community and a kind, welcoming face to his many neighbors along the route he delivered mail. I am proud to reintroduce this bipartisan legislation to honor Jay Larson’s decades-long legacy of helping his neighbors and to remind future generations of the positive impact he had on his Rockford community.”  

    “Jay Larson embodied the values of a dedicated public servant,” said Congressman LaHood. “He cared deeply about the Rockford community through his strong work ethic and compassion for others over his 25 years as a letter carrier for the United States Postal Service. I am proud to co-lead this legislation with Representative Sorensen to dedicate the Harrison Avenue Post Office in Jay’s honor. This will preserve his legacy and serve as a reminder of the positive impact one person can have on an entire community.” 

    Congress maintains the ability to pass legislation to name or rename USPS buildings and post offices in honor of those who have served their communities.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Pettersen, Bonamici, and Senate Colleagues Lead Manufactured Housing Tenant’s Bill of Rights

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Brittany Pettersen (Colorado 7th District)

    WASHINGTON—Today, U.S. Representatives Brittany Pettersen (D-CO) and Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) introduced legislation alongside U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and John Fetterman (D-PA) that would provide tenants and owners of manufactured (mobile) homes with enhanced protections against predatory landowners in federally backed Manufactured Housing Communities (MHC).

    “Growing up, my family experienced housing insecurity firsthand, as we struggled to find safe, affordable places to live,” said Pettersen.“Manufactured housing can be a critical part of the solution to our affordable housing crisis, but only if residents are protected. Too often, outside investors buy up these communities and displace families by hiking rents and cutting services. With the Manufactured Housing Tenant’s Bill of Rights, we’re fighting to ensure hardworking families have basic protections against unfair treatment, rising costs, and the threat of eviction.”

    “Our country is experiencing a persistent housing shortage, and in some areas manufactured housing is the only affordable option,” said Bonamici. “People who own or rent manufactured homes should have the same tenant protections as any other homeowner or renter. The Manufactured Housing Tenant’s Bill of Rights will help end predatory practices in the manufactured housing industry and give residents more power to advocate for their rights and their communities.”

    “Manufactured housing is often one of the most affordable options for families, but all too often residents face rent hikes and evictions due to predatory practices,” said Shaheen. “By ensuring mobile home tenants have the same legal protections as homeowners and other renters, the Manufactured Housing Tenant’s Bill of Rights is a critical part of our work to preserve affordable housing in the Granite State.”

    “Struggling with rising rents, exploitative evictions, and predatory practices, mobile homeowners deserve strong, enforceable rights to protect them and their homes,” said Blumenthal. “The Manufactured Housing Tenant’s Bill of Rights Act equips residents of manufactured housing communities with protections and tools to combat unfair treatment threatening their homes and hard-earned savings. With this legislation, we bolster safeguards for mobile homeowners and assure security to tenants who own their homes but not the underlying land,” 

    “Having a safe place to call home should not be some luxury—it should be a basic right,” said Fetterman. “This bill protects families in manufactured housing communities from skyrocketing rents, surprise evictions, and shady tactics that put profits over people. It gives people a fair shot at stability and dignity. I’m proud to cosponsor this bill so more communities in Pennsylvania and across the country can rest easier, knowing their homes—and their rights—are secure.”

    For the full text of the bill, click here.

    Currently, more than 3 million Americans live in MHCs, which often represent one of the few naturally occurring sources of affordable housing. However, because residents typically own the home itself, but not the land it sits on, they often struggle with unexpected cost increases and face a heightened risk of evictions. Outside investors have often purchased MHCs and pushed residents out, raising rents as much as 70%. Because of the unusual ownership structure, manufactured housing residents can fall through the cracks, where residents often lack the protections of either homeowners or other renters.

    The Manufactured Housing Tenant’s Bill of Rights would establish a set of minimum standards for tenants in MHCs that receive federal financing through Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, or the Federal Housing Administration. These protections include:

    • The right to a one-year renewable lease absent good cause for nonrenewal
    • A 5-day grace period for late rent payments
    • A minimum 60-day written notice of rent increases or new added charges like water or sewer of up to 5% of the prior rent, with longer notice for larger rent increases (an additional 30 days required for each 2.5% rent increase above 5%)
    • Rights for the tenant to: 
      • Sell the manufactured home without having to relocate it
      • Sublet the home or assign the lease to a buyer of the home provided the buyer meets the MHC’s rules and regulations
      • Post “for sale” signs on the home
      • Sell the manufactured home in place within 45 days after eviction to prevent the homeowner from losing their equity
      • Receive at least 60 days advance notice of the MHC’s planned sale or closure, giving tenants the opportunity to purchase the community in the event of a sale. 

    The bill also requires public disclosure of MHCs that receive federal backing to ensure residents are aware of their rights. FHFA would also be required to create a standard lease agreement which allows Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to finally begin purchasing manufactured home leases through their single-family mortgage programs, which could significantly lower interest rates. 

    This legislation is also cosponsored by Representatives John B. Larson (CT-01) and Rashida Tlaib (MI-12).

    The legislation is endorsed by the National Consumer Law Center (on behalf of its low-income clients), National Housing Law Project, National Manufactured Home Owners Association, Housing Assistance Council, ROC USA, and New Hampshire Community Loan Fund.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Cory Mills Introduces the No Citizenship for Alien Invaders Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Cory Mills Florida (7th District)

    Washington, D.C. — Today, Congressman Cory Mills (FL-07) introduced the No Citizenship for Alien Invaders Act. This Act would prohibit immigrants, of any nationality, who have illegally entered the United States from ever obtaining legal citizenship. The bill cosponsors include Reps. Josh Brecheen (OK-02), Andy Harris (MD-01), and Anna Paulina Luna (FL-13).

    The No Citizenship for Alien Invaders Act would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to protect American sovereignty by ensuring that illegal immigrants cannot exploit the U.S. immigration system. This bill upholds the rule of law and strengthens border security.

    “Under the Biden administration, we saw more than 10 million encounters at our borders, a crisis exacerbated by reckless catch-and-release policies that allowed criminals who broke our laws to remain in the United States. President Trump has made it clear that anyone that tries to unlawfully undermine, exploit, or bypass our immigration system is a criminal. The No Citizenship for Alien Invaders Act will ensure these criminals will never be granted U.S. citizenship, that privilege will be reserved for those who respect our laws.” said Congressman Cory Mills.

    “America is a nation of laws, and if we allow those laws to be subverted by illegal aliens who have no constitutional right to be here in the first place, then we will cease to be a nation. The No Citizenship for Alien Invaders Act prevents illegal aliens from being rewarded with citizenship after breaking our laws. It’s time we get back to common sense policies that restore law and order to America.” said Congressman Josh Brecheen (OK-02).

    Read the full bill HERE. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Gabe Vasquez Champions Bicameral Push Urging President Trump to Reinstate Executive Order Supporting Tribal Self-Determination

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) joined a bicameral coalition of 52 Members of Congress in a letter to President Trump urging him to reinstate Biden-era Executive Order 14112, titled “Reforming Federal Funding and Support for Tribal Nations to Better Embrace Our Trust Responsibilities and Promote the Next Era of Tribal Self-Determination.”

    President Trump’s decision to revoke the Self-Determination executive order reversed a significant policy designed to empower Tribal Nations by improving their access to federal funding and reducing bureaucratic hurdles. Signed in 2023, the executive order aimed to reduce government interference on Tribal funding, and to make sure federal agencies meet their legal obligations for tribes.

    “The federal government has a responsibility to support Tribal Nations, and should not create unnecessary obstacles that make it harder for them to access the resources they need,” said Vasquez. “This executive order was critical in ensuring that Tribes in New Mexico and across the country could navigate federal funding processes more effectively. Its revocation creates even more instability and uncertainty for Tribal communities that are already facing funding and staffing cuts under this administration.”

    The Self-Determination executive order  had tangible positive impacts, including facilitating federal support for tribal emergency response efforts and funding critical infrastructure projects such as fisheries management and broadband connectivity. It also established the Tribal Access to Capital Clearinghouse, a centralized hub for Native businesses to navigate federal funding opportunities. Its revocation creates uncertainty for Tribal Nations, potentially reinstating restrictive barriers to funding and creating instability in federally supported tribal programs.

    The letter also demands an explanation of why the executive order was rescinded. The lawmakers stressed that “Tribal Nations have a legal, government-to-government relationship with the United States” and that their inherent sovereignty is recognized in the U.S. Constitution, treaties, and federal law. They also emphasized that Tribal Nations should not be included in any efforts to target diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, stating, “Tribal Nations have legal status as a political, not racial class, and the United States has a trust responsibility to them.”

    The letter pointed to key provisions of the rescinded executive order that aligned with the administration’s stated goals, including increasing “accessibility, flexibility, and utility of Federal funding and programs for Tribal Nations, while increasing the transparency, and efficiency of Federal funding processes,” said the Members. The lawmakers warned that removing these provisions will exacerbate challenges that already hinder Tribal Nations’ ability to meet their communities’ needs.

    “Too often, federal funding processes impose unnecessary barriers for Tribal Nations, including restrictive limitations and burdensome reporting requirements,” they wrote. “Without the coordination and efficiency processes established under the Tribal Self-Determination EO, these challenges will only grow, creating uncertainty and instability that directly undermines tribal self-determination.”

    Vasquez and his colleagues are calling on the administration to immediately reinstate Executive Order 14112 and engage in meaningful consultation with Tribal Nations moving forward.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: De La Cruz Leads Efforts to Raise Awareness of VA Home Loan Program

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

    Rep. Monica De La Cruz (R-TX) introduced the bipartisan VA Home Loan Awareness Act to ensure Veterans and their families are aware of their VA benefit eligibility when applying for a home loan.

    The legislation will incorporate an impactful disclosure on the Uniform Residential Loan Application (URLA) to direct applicants to consult their lender for more information about the VA Home Loan Program, which has benefits that can include zero down payments, no mortgage insurance, and often lower interest rates compared to conventional FHA loans.

    The legislation was introduced alongside Rep. Al Green (D-TX). Original co-sponsors of the legislation include: Rep. August Pfluger (R-TX), Rep. Mike Lawler (R-NY), Rep. Lance Gooden (R-TX), Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Rep. Dan Crenshaw (R-TX), Rep. Brittany Pettersen (D-CO), Rep. Joyce Beatty (D-OH), Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ), Rep. Josh Harder (D-CA), Rep. Deborah Ross (D-NC).

    “We are forever grateful to our Veterans and their families for their sacrifices to our nation. Though we can never fully repay them, we can ensure they can access the benefits they deserve. Only a fraction of veterans are utilizing the significant advantages offered by the VA Home Loan Program. My bipartisan legislation ensures that our nation’s heroes can access the benefits they earned, achieve homeownership, and live the American dream they fought to protect.” – Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz

    The legislation has garnered robust support from the Veterans Association of Real Estate Professionals (VAREP) and the Defense Credit Union Council (DCUC).
     
    “Too many veterans are unaware of the VA home loan benefit they’ve earned. This legislation adds visibility at the loan application stage. While using the benefit is their choice, awareness empowers them to ask the right questions and make informed decisions—ultimately increasing usage among those who qualify.” – Son Nguyen, President of the Veterans Association of Real Estate Professionals (VAREP)

    “We thank Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz for her leadership in reintroducing the ‘VA Home Loan Awareness Act’ to address the housing challenges faced by military families. The affordable housing crisis continues to place financial strain on service members and veterans, and policy solutions like this are essential to ensuring they have access to stable and affordable housing. Defense credit unions remain committed to supporting military families through innovative mortgage products and financial counseling, but legislative action is critical to expanding the overall impact we can offer to these communities. We look forward to assisting congressional leadership in their efforts to strengthen VA home loan programs and improve housing affordability for those who serve our nation.” – Anthony Hernandez, DCUC President & CEO

    Background:
     
    The bipartisan VA Home Loan Awareness Act incorporates a key disclosure below the military service question on the Uniform Residential Loan Application (URLA), the standard mortgage prequalification application. The disclosure emphasizes that Veterans and their surviving spouses may qualify for a VA Home Loan and directs applicants to consult their lender for more information. 

    The VA Home Loan Program is a vital tool for military families to achieve homeownership. Despite the benefits offered by this program, only 13% of Veterans report utilizing their VA Home Loan benefit, citing a lack of awareness as the primary reason for not using it. The VA Home Loan Awareness Act will address this challenge.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Republicans Refuse to Consider Rep. Salinas’ Amendment to DETERRENT Act

    Source: US Representative Andrea Salinas (OR-06)

    Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Andrea Salinas (OR-06) condemned House Republicans for refusing to consider her amendment to the DETERRENT Act. Rep. Salinas’ amendment would require that all U.S. Department of Education (ED) workers who were illegally fired by the Trump Administration be reinstated before considering this legislation.

    “If enacted as written, the DETERRENT Act would put more burdensome requirements on an already decimated and demoralized workforce at the U.S. Department of Education. It is counterproductive to put this bill forward while Donald Trump and Elon Musk continue their illegal firing spree, with the goal of eliminating the Department entirely,” said Rep. Salinas. “My amendment was simple: reinstate every worker who was unlawfully terminated before bringing this legislation up for a vote. House Republicans refused to consider my proposal. Ultimately, I voted against the DETERRENT Act because it is deeply unserious and ignores the reality that thousands of hardworking Americans are being fired by Trump and Musk for no reason at all, ruining lives and threatening America’s position as a world leader in research and higher education.” 

    On March 20, 2025, President Trump signed an executive order to dismantle ED. Now, Republicans want to increase ED’s responsibilities and threaten institutions’ financial futures if they do not meet additional reporting requirements. 

    The Defending Education Transparency and Ending Rogue Regimes Engaging in Nefarious Transactions (DETERRENT) Act adds new and onerous reporting requirements under Section 117 of the Higher Education Act that will make it nearly impossible for colleges and universities to be transparent about their partnerships with other countries. For example, faculty must report certain gifts and contracts from any representative of a “country of concern” – regardless of whether it pertains to their job duties or personal life. This information is then shared in a public database, regardless of whether the action was nefarious. This is so excessive and burdensome that it would disincentivize universities from complying with Section 117 and conducting vital global research that will move America forward.

    At the same time, many universities are already bracing for funding cuts and other negative impacts of the Trump Administration’s efforts to eliminate ED. The DETERRENT Act does nothing to address these concerns, while adding unnecessary requirements that only make life harder for the few workers who remain at the Department. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Oregon Delegation Calls on Trump Administration to Reinstate Fired Agricultural Researchers in Oregon

    Source: US Representative Andrea Salinas (OR-06)

    Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Andrea Salinas (OR-06) led her Oregon colleagues – including U.S. Reps. Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Val Hoyle (OR-04), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), and Janelle Bynum (OR-05), along with U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley – in a letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Brooke Rollins, expressing concern about the Administration’s decision to terminate USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) workers based in several locations across Oregon, including Corvallis, Newport, Burns, Pendleton, and Hood River.

    “The United States is already falling behind other countries in research and agricultural development, and the loss of these researchers will significantly stunt our competitive capabilities in agricultural science and technology,” wrote the members.

    The lawmakers go on to explain how terminations are undermining important cooperative agreements between research institutions, USDA-ARS, and stakeholders representing some of Oregon’s most vital crop industries, including greenhouse and nursery crops, grass seed, wine grapes, and hazelnuts.

    “Because of unexpected and unpredictable staff terminations, these crop industries cannot holistically benefit from such cooperative agreements and are at risk of losing valuable research progress, which otherwise would have helped stakeholders be more productive and financially successful,” they continued.

    The letter highlights how ongoing projects are being destabilized and progress is being lost on valuable research to improve crop yields and storage methods, manage pests, mitigate and prevent disease, and develop resilient farming practices – partly because these fired workers were, in some cases, the only or one of just a handful of people in the country with those research specialties. For example, the Corvallis-based Forage Seed and Cereal Research Unit (FSCRU), whose research improves the resiliency of cereals and hops, lost its only hops horticulturalist and technician in the first round of staff cuts.

    The lawmakers concluded: “As Members whose constituents are greatly impacted by these research cuts and personnel firings, we urge you to reconsider these staff terminations and permanently reinstate those who have been let go. Permanent reinstatement will ensure that agricultural operations in Oregon are competitive, data-based, competitive with foreign markets, and stable for generations to come.”

    Read the full letter below or click here.

    March 27, 2025

    The Honorable Brooke L. Rollins
    U.S. Department of Agriculture
    1400 Independence Ave SW
    Washington, DC 20250

    Dear Secretary Brooke L. Rollins:

    We write to express our deep concern regarding United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) decision, under direction from President Trump and Elon Musk to fire Agricultural Research Service (ARS) researchers based out of the Corvallis, Newport, Burns, Pendleton, and Hood River locations.

    The United States is already falling behind other countries in research and agricultural development, and the loss of these researchers will significantly stunt our competitive capabilities in agricultural science and technology. Here in Oregon, important cooperative agreements between Oregon State University (OSU) and ARS have been undermined without due cause. Neither ARS nor OSU alone have the full breadth or depth of expertise required to address the ongoing and emerging needs of stakeholders. However, by leveraging their combined strengths, USDA-ARS and OSU have more effectively supported Oregon agricultural industries and driven innovation in Pacific Northwest agriculture. These industries include several of Oregon’s highest-value crops, such as greenhouse and nursery crops ($1.2 Billion), hay ($785 Million (M)), grass seed ($639M), wine grapes ($330M), blueberries ($182M), hazelnuts ($100M), and hops ($85M). Because of unexpected and unpredictable staff terminations, these crop industries cannot holistically benefit from such cooperative agreements and are at risk of losing valuable research progress, which otherwise would have helped stakeholders be more productive and financially successful.

    With Corvallis, staff terminations have significantly hampered the work of research units which directly strengthen Oregon’s – and the nation’s – agricultural production. The Forage Seed and Cereal Research Unit (FSCRU), whose research improves the resiliency of cereals and hops, lost its only hops horticulturalist and technician in the first round of staff cuts. The Horticultural Crops Research Lab (HCRL) drives innovation by studying breeding and improving disease and pest management for the small fruit and nursery industries, some of the highest profiting Oregon agricultural commodities. After years of recruiting the best and brightest staff in their fields, the lab has now lost at least 2 specialists and 15 postdoctoral researchers who, in some cases, were the only or one of just a few people in the country with those research specialties. Though some of these staff have been temporarily reinstated, they face an uncertain future, destabilizing ongoing projects and indefinitely barring new research from starting.

    In Newport, the ARS Pacific Shellfish Research Unit (PSRU) focuses on West Coast oyster growers’ priorities that promote and improve field survival of oysters in response to key threats like changing ocean conditions, disease, toxins, and pests. Because of recent firings, PSRU has lost unit leadership capacity, forcing an immediate halt in its oyster production and breeding program operations. Imperative research mitigating diseases, pests, and ocean conditions has also stopped, undermining any future data-driven aquaculture operations because of reduced research personnel and data acquisition capabilities. 

    At Hood River Mid-Columbia Agricultural Research and Extension Center (MCAREC), research is completed to understand and subsequently mitigate challenges to sweet cherry and pear post-harvest storage. Staff terminations have significantly undermined scientists who were working to address the most pressing postharvest processing and storage challenges for pears and cherries. Managing postharvest diseases and disorders is critical to increasing and maintaining healthy agricultural distribution across the region and country. Undermining these efforts negatively afflicts the regional U.S. tree fruit industry yield and distribution of its products.

    These haphazard firings have also affected Pendleton Columbia Plateau Conservation Research Center (CPCRC). The Pendleton CPCRC conducts priority research on soil and water conservation, resilient farming practices, and dryland wheat and crop production – all of which are put at risk by the Trump Administration’s staff terminations. There has also been a loss of research expertise to advance development of cropping systems and management techniques focused on water use efficiency and soil moisture storage. Reinstating these important researchers is paramount to ensuring Oregon wheat growers remain competitive with foreign markets.

    Burns Eastern Oregon Agricultural Research Center (EOARC) is a cooperative research effort between OSU and USDA-ARS focusing on rangeland ecology and restoration of wildlands, environmentally compatible livestock systems, forage crops, and alternative livestock systems. EOARC’s research program is unique in the integration of research about beef cattle, rangeland, wildlife, watershed, and forest management. Reduction of staff capacity will impact output across three areas of research and outreach funded by USDA-ARS: precision rangeland agriculture, rangeland restoration, and rangeland outreach. Oregon’s ranchers will unnecessarily see significant reductions in holistic management that both save ranchers money and promote smart land-management strategies. 

    As Members whose constituents are greatly impacted by these research cuts and personnel firings, we urge you to reconsider these staff terminations and permanently reinstate those who have been let go. Permanent reinstatement will ensure that agricultural operations in Oregon are competitive, data-based, competitive with foreign markets, and stable for generations to come.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: REPS. LAUREN BOEBERT AND TOM TIFFANY’S GRAY WOLF BILL RECEIVES KEY HEARING IN HOUSE SUBCOMMITTEE

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

    WASHINGTON D.C.– The Pet and Livestock Protection Act introduced by Congresswoman Lauren Boebert (CO-04) and Congressman Tom Tiffany (WI-07) today received a key hearing in the House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife, and Fisheries.

    The bill delists the gray wolf from the Endangered Species List, prioritizes the safety and success of America’s agriculture community, removes the ability of progressive, activist judges to get in the way of science and allows states to set their own rules and regulations for managing their gray wolf population. 

    “The science is very clear on this issue: gray wolves should no longer be on the Endangered Species List,”said Congresswoman Boebert. “We can no longer put the livestock of ranchers and farmers in harm’s way by protecting a species that has fully recovered and does not recognize state boundaries. Administrations on both sides of the aisle have agreed this change needs to happen and I look forward to implementing this legislation into law so activist, progressive judges will no longer be able to put their ideology over the rights of ranchers and farmers across Colorado and America.”

    “We’ve all witnessed the slaughter of pets, livestock, and deer herds across rural America as a result of an unmanaged gray wolf population. The science is clear; the gray wolf has recovered. Rep. Boebert and I introduced the Pet and Livestock Protection Act to delist the gray wolf, restore state management, and protect the livelihoods of farmers and pet owners. Wolf management belongs in the hands of states, not distant D.C. bureaucrats,” said Congressman Tiffany.

    “The Pet and Livestock Protection Act would formalize what the Department of the Interior has repeatedly stated under multiple presidential administrations—that gray wolves are recovered, have exceeded the established delisting criteria, and that states should regain management authority as originally intended under the ESA,” said Dr. Nathan Roberts, Professor of Conservation and Wildlife Management at College of the Ozarks and testifying witness at today’s hearing. “The bills discussed today will promote responsible wildlife management and stewardship, helping to restore balance and ensure effective conservation practices.”

    Congresswoman Boebert’s entire opening statement from today’s hearing can be viewed HERE.

    Additional Reading:

    9News: Wolf from Great Lakes dies in Elbert County, Colorado

    USA Today: Colorado Gray Wolf killed after attacking 5 sheep in Wyoming

    The Gazette: Wolves from Canada Arrive in Colorado, Destination Unknown

    Colorado Sun: Ranchers hit Colorado with $580,000 in wolf depredation claims after gray wolf attacks on livestock

    Background:

    The Pet and Livestock Protection Act requires the Secretary of the Interior to reissue the 2020 Department of the Interior final rule that delisted gray wolves in the lower 48 United States. It also ensures this rule cannot be overturned through judicial review, preventing activist judges, like the California judge who vacated the rule in 2022, from relisting the gray wolf by judicial fiat.

    In 2020, the Department of the Interior and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service under President Trump delisted the gray wolf in the lower 48 United States through a process that included the best science and data available. At over 6,000 wolves at the time of delisting, the gray wolf has been the latest Endangered Species Act (ESA) success story with significant population recoveries in the Rocky Mountains and western Great Lakes regions.

    Despite clear evidence of recovery, a California judge overturned the rule in 2022, relisting the gray wolf under the ESA. In Colorado, foreign gray wolves have been imported in from Canada despite strong pushback from local stakeholders and confusion about how to fund wolf depredation claims.

    31 Members of Congress cosponsored the Pet and Livestock Protection Act, including: Reps. Nick Begich (AK-At-Large), Jack Bergman (MI-01), Andy Biggs (AZ-05), Cliff Bentz (OR-02), Jeff Crank (CO-05), Eli Crane (AZ-02), Troy Downing (MT-02), Tom Emmer (MN-06), Gabe Evans (CO-08), Scott Fitzgerald (WI-05), Brad Finstad (MN-01), Michelle Fischbach (MN-07), Russ Fulcher (ID-01), Paul Gosar (AZ-09), Glenn Grothman (WI-06), Harriet Hagemann (WY-At-Large), Andy Harris (MD-01), Jeff Hurd (CO-03), Richard Hudson (NC-09), Mike Kennedy (UT-03), Doug LaMalfa (CA-01), Max Miller (OH-07), John Moolenaar (MI-02), Dan Newhouse (WA-04), Troy Nehls (TX-22), Andy Ogles (TN-05), Scott Perry (PA-10), Bryan Steil (WI-01), Pete Stauber (MN-08), Derrick Van Orden (WI-03), and Tony Wied (WI-08).

    Stakeholders that support the Pet and Livestock Protection Act include: American Farm Bureau Federation, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), Public Lands Council (PLC), National Rifle Association (NRA), Safari Club International (SCI), Hunter Nation, International Order of T. Roosevelt (IOTR), Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation, Mule Deer Foundation, Blacktail Deer Foundation, Colorado Farm Bureau, Colorado Conservation Alliance, Colorado Wool Growers, New Mexico Cattle Growers, Minnesota Lamb & Wool Producers Association, Coalition of Arizona/New Mexico Counties, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation, Wisconsin Cattlemen’s Association, Nebraska Cattlemen, and Wisconsin Bear Hunters Association.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Cammack & Craig, Sens. Ernst & Smith Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Resolution To Designate March 27 As “National Women In Agriculture Day”

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — In celebration of Women’s History Month and National Agriculture Week, Congresswoman Kat Cammack (R-FL-03), Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA), Congresswoman Angie Craig (D-MN-02), and Senator Tina Smith (D-MN)—members of the House and Senate Agriculture Committees—have introduced a resolution for Thursday, March 27 to be designated as “National Women In Agriculture Day.”

    “Home to dozens of commodities and incredible producers, women lead the way in the Sunshine State in agribusiness, education, advocacy, and more,” said Rep. Kat Cammack. “Women in agricultural industries not only help our country prosper, but they understand how important our food supply is to our national security. I’m proud to lead this effort with my fellow lawmakers and extend my sincerest gratitude to the women in agriculture in Florida and nationwide.”

    “When folks think of farmers, they often think of men, but anyone involved in the agriculture community will tell you that there are many incredible women who are stepping up, filling their parents’ boots, and carrying on our great rural traditions all across the state of Iowa,” said Senator Ernst. “I was proud to grow up as a woman in agriculture, and I’m honored to recognize the more than 1.2 million female farmers and producers in the United States that work so hard to feed and fuel our nation and our world.”

    “Agriculture is the backbone of Minnesota’s economy,” said Senator Smith. “Women have always played an essential role in this sector. I’m proud we have introduced this bipartisan resolution to designate a day during Women’s History Month and National Agriculture Week to recognize the achievements of the women who have been the key to our agricultural success.”

    Read the full text of the resolution here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Strickland, Moore Fight for Abortion Doulas in State Medicaid

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

    Washington, D.C. – Today, during World Doula Week, Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) and Representative Gwen Moore (WI-04) introduced the Abortion Data and Outreach to Unlock and Leverage Abortion Support Act, or the Abortion DOULAS Act. This bill would direct the Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) to conduct a study on the benefits of abortion doula care and provide recommendations to states on incorporating this care into state Medicaid programs.

    “With women’s rights consistently under attack, it’s important that women have access to the physical and emotional support that they need,” said Strickland. “Abortion doulas provide uniquely valuable support to patients and ensure women have a voice in their reproductive care experience.”

    “Abortion doulas provide comfort and support to women after receiving abortion care. Prior to Congress, I proudly served as an abortion counselor and helped women through an often-emotional process. Their work is especially important now in our post-Roe America. I am partnering with Rep. Strickland on legislation to support research on abortion doulas, so we can better understand their impact and as a result, better serve those seeking abortion care,” said Moore.

    “Abortion doulas offer vital physical, social, and emotional support to those seeking abortion care in what continues to be a chaotic post-Dobbs landscape,” said Jocelyn Frye, president of the National Partnership for Women & Families. “The barriers to abortion access are even steeper for those living in under-resourced communities that often lack sufficient economic investments and health care infrastructure, making the expertise and care that abortion doulas offer even more valuable. Especially important are those abortion doulas who provide culturally competent care rooted in a deep understanding of the communities they serve. We thank Representatives Strickland and Moore for their leadership on this critical bill to improve patient access to quality health care experiences.”

    “While there has been a great deal of research into the benefits and incidence of doula care during the prenatal and postpartum period and during labor and delivery, there has been comparably less research into this topic for abortion doula care. Representative Strickland’s bill will help address this need by commissioning a comprehensive study on the benefits of abortion doula care and state coverage of abortion doula care, while also bringing to the topic the direct impact and experiences of abortion doulas and clients who have received abortion doula care. NHeLP has always been a supporter of doula care for all the ways in which a pregnancy can end, including doula care for abortion, and are proud to support this bill,” said Amy Chen, Senior Attorney at the National Health Law Program.

    Abortion doulas are trained, non-clinical professionals that provide emotional, physical, and informational support to patients before, during, and after seeking abortion care. Often times, abortion doulas act as patient advocates, help patients navigate the healthcare space, and possess culturally-relevant awareness that a medical professional may not consider.

    This bill is supported by the following organizations:

    • National Partnership for Women & Families
    • National Health Law Program
    • Surge Reproductive Justice
    • Physicians for Reproductive Health
    • National Network of Abortion Funds

    You can read the full bill text here.

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

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Strickland Hosts Her Largest Telephone-Townhall Ever

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

    Joined by former Social Security Administrator Martin O’Malley, and over 22,000 Constituents

    Lacey, WA – Yesterday, Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) was joined by special guest, former Social Security Administrator Martin O’Malley, for her most widely-attended telephone-townhall with over 22,000 constituents.

    “I organized this Townhall to connect directly with you and respond to the thousands of messages I have received about the actions of the Trump Administration, said Strickland. “As your member of Congress, I have the responsibility to let you know how the actions are going to affect you and hurt you.”

    “There’s nobody fighting harder for Social Security, and the powerful beliefs we share, and the dignity of every person, and the truth that as Americans – we’re all in this together,’ said former Social Security Administrator Martin O’Malley. “And there is no act that a free people have ever put into law, that demonstrates that better than Social Security, which for 90 years has never ever missed a monthly payment.”

    The pair discussed the Trump Administration’s attacks on Social Security and how these cuts are impacting American seniors who worked hard for and paid into this benefit for decades. Strickland and O’Malley also denounced Elon Musk’s DOGE efforts to take away services that Americans rely on: safe travel, clean water, access to health care, and many more.

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

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Trump Endorses Malliotakis Push for Women’s History Museum

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

    (WASHINGTON, DC) – Yesterday, Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis joined female members of both the House of Representatives and the Senate at the White House to officially launch the Republican Women’s Caucus alongside President Donald Trump. At the event, President Trump backed Malliotakis’ push to build the museum he authorized in 2020 on the National Mall in Washington DC.

    Following historic gains among women voters in 2024, the bicameral group will rally behind legislation that advances key priorities for women in the 119th Congress, including legislation to strengthen families, protect women, economic empowerment, workforce development, healthcare, medical freedom, national security, and public safety.

    The Republican Women’s Caucus aims to elevate the role and voice of women nationally and to advance key legislative wins. The group also rallied for greater representation in leadership roles, and support Republican women at the national, state, and local levels.

    Some of the key legislation highlighted includes H.R. 633, the Take It Down Act introduced by Rep. Maria Salazar, which requires covered platforms to remove nonconsensual intimate visual depictions. Also highlighted was the Nest Act introduced by Rep. Kat Cammack, which creates tax-free savings accounts to help individuals and families save for a 20% down payment on their first home. Additionally, Rep. Cammack alongside Rep. Jodey Arrington introduced H.R. 842, The Nancy Gardner Sewell Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act, which seeks to expand Medicare coverage for early cancer detection through multi-cancer screening tests. Malliotakis is also cosponsoring the HOPE with Fertility Services Act, which would require private insurance to cover fertility treatments, and this bill is expected to be reintroduced soon.

    “I am pleased to join my colleagues at the White House and stand with President Trump to promote our legislation that advances key priorities for women this Congress,” said Rep. Malliotakis. “The Republican Party today is the party of opportunity, security, and freedom. It was Republican Susan B. Anthony who led the suffrage movement. It was a Republican Senator who sponsored the 19th Amendment to give women voting rights that was passed by a Republican-led Congress and ratified by a majority Republican states. It was a Republican President, Richard Nixon, who signed Title IX into law to eliminate sex discrimination in education and athletics. Our party is protecting females in sports, making cities safer for America’s women, empowering parents to shape their children’s education, and electing more Republican women to office than ever before.”

    Congresswoman Malliotakis is leading the effort to transfer the land on the National Mall to the Smithsonian Institution so the museum first authorized by President Trump in 2020 can be built. She is joined in this bipartisan effort by Reps. Judy Chu (D-CA), Monica De La Cruz (R-TX), Debbie Dingell (D-MI), Emilia Sykes (D-OH), Mike Carey (R-OH), and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA). The bill, H.R. 1329, has strong bipartisan support, with over 95 cosponsors.

    At yesterday’s event, President Trump expressed his strong support for building the Women’s Museum on the National Mall. In reference to Congresswoman Malliotakis’ bill, he called her a “driving force” behind the effort and said, “…we’re going to back it 100%.”

    Watch The President’s Remarks HERE.

    Earlier this month, Congresswoman Malliotakis hosted a Women’s History Month celebration at the U.S. Capitol alongside the House Bipartisan Women’s Caucus, where she serves as Vice Co-Chair. The House Bipartisan Women’s Caucus is led by Chairs Rep. Monica De La Cruz and Rep. Emilia Sykes, with Rep. Janelle Bynum also serving as Vice Co-Chair.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Tenney Speaks at Global Student Summit Against Antisemitism

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

    Washington, DC – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) recently joined the Rise & Respond: Global Student Summit Against Antisemitism as a keynote speaker to highlight the work she is doing in Congress to combat antisemitism and empower Jewish Students.

    Rep. Tenney was joined at the summit by over 400 student leaders and higher education professionals from across the United States. Rep. Tenney highlighted her legislative work, including sending a letter to Biden’s Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Kristen Clarke, urging her to prosecute those who threatened Jewish students at Columbia University and cosponsoring the Antisemitism Awareness Act.

    “We cannot stay silent as hatred from pro-Hamas mobs are threatening Jewish students. In Congress, I am leading the charge to hold the perpetrators of this vile rhetoric accountable. It was an honor to join the hundreds of student leaders and educators at the Rise & Respond: Global Student Summit Against Antisemitism and share the work I am doing in Congress to support the Jewish community, end antisemitism, and hold wrongdoers accountable,” said Congresswoman Tenney. 

    Rep. Tenney has been a steadfast advocate for the Jewish Community. So far this Congress, Rep Tenney has championed numerous initiatives, including:

    • Introduced the RECOGNIZING Judea and Samaria Act
    • Introduced the Calling on the United Kingdom, France, and Germany (E3) to initiate the snapback of sanctions on Iran under United Nations Security Council Resolution 2231
    • Introduced Encouraging the EU to DESIGNATE Resolution
    • Founded the Friends of Judea and Samaria Caucus
    • Led a Letter to President Trump about Judea and Samaria
    • Coled the PLO and PA Terror Payments Accountability Act
    • Cosponsored the Holocaust Education and Antisemitism Lessons Act
    • Cosponsored the Antisemitism Awareness Act
    • Cosponsored the Iran Sanctions Relief Review Act
    • Cosponsored the United States-Israel Defense Partnership Act
    • Cosponsored the No Immigration Benefits for Hamas Terrorists Act
    • Cosponsored the IGO Anti-Boycott Act
    • Cosponsored the Enhanced Iran Sanctions Act
    • Hosted the Inaugural Friends of Judea and Samaria Caucus Event
    • Spoke at the Congressional Israel Allies Caucus Event
    • Joined the Abraham Accords Caucus, the House Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Antisemitism, and the Congressional Israel Allies Caucus

     

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Fallon Leads Letter Calling for Probe Into Pro-Hamas University Organizations

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Pat Fallon (TX-04)

    Rep. Fallon Leads Letter Calling for Probe Into Pro-Hamas University Organizations

    Washington, March 27, 2025

    Washington, DC — Rep. Pat Fallon (TX-04) led a letter today to Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Attorney General Pam Bondi urging the Trump Administration to open a probe into the possible ties between anti-Israel organizations prevalent on US university campuses, and Hamas, a designated Foreign Terror Organization.

    Rep. Fallon commented: “Recent evidence further points to troubling ties between campus organizations and the terrorist group Hamas, particularly with regards to the campus organizations’ alleged advanced knowledge and support for the barbaric attacks of October 7, 2023. It is in the United States’ national security interest to investigate these alleged ties and hold these groups accountable.”

    “We cannot allow foreign terrorist organizations to operate freely with campus organizations on American soil,” said Rep. Fallon. “I am calling for swift action to prevent further malign foreign influence on our campuses.”

    Rep. Fallon was joined on this letter by: 

    Rep. Barry Moore (AL-01)

    Rep. Keith Self (TX-03)

    Rep. Claudia Tenney (NY-24)

    Rep. Rudy Yakym (IN-02)

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pfluger’s Bill Seeking to Lower Military Aviation Cancer Rates Included in Legislative Hearing

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

    Background:

    Military aviators and crewmembers have been found to have a higher risk of developing prostate cancer and melanoma, with possible links to non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and testicular cancer. This is why Rep. Pfluger reintroduced the ACES Act earlier this year. If passed, this bill would direct the Secretary of the VA to study cancer incidence and mortality rates among aviators and aircrew who served in the Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps.

    This legislation is critical as it would improve our understanding of the link between military service and cancer risks among Veteran aviators. By better understanding the correlation between aviator service and cancer, we can better assist our military and provide more adequate care for our veterans.

    The ACES Act will help advance research on any correlation between aviator service and cancer rates to better assist veterans and active service members. The ACES Act was introduced in the House of Representatives in the 117thand 118thCongress.

    Rep. Pfluger’s Opening Remarks as Prepared for Delivery:

    Chairman Luttrell, Ranking Member McGarvey, esteemed colleagues on the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs, thank you for inviting me to speak on behalf of my bill, H.R. 530, the Aviator Cancers Examination Study, also known as the ACES Act.

    Military aviators and crewmembers are tragically being diagnosed with various forms of cancer at alarming rates – which is why I am proud to lead this legislation to address the critical gap in our care for military aviators. When brave men and women volunteer for our nation, they shouldn’t face a second battle against cancer without proper government support.

    The ACES Act directs the VA to partner with the National Academies of Sciences to study cancer prevalence among military aviators and identify service-connected factors, ultimately saving lives through earlier detection, developing targeted screening protocols, and ensuring our veterans receive the specialized care they’ve earned.

    This is critical because in 2021, an Air Force cancer incidence study revealed troubling findings about the health risks faced by fighter pilots and their crews. When compared to the general population, it showed aircrews had a 29% greater probability of testicular cancer, 24% higher for melanoma, and 23% higher for prostate cancer.

    Additionally, the Department of Defense’s Military Aviator Cancer Study also found elevated rates of cancer among military aviators and aviation ground personnel.

    I understand concerns about potential duplication with the DoD’s ongoing work. Let me clarify – the ACES Act is complementary, not duplicative. It leverages the National Academies’ expertise in meeting the VA’s evidentiary requirements for determining service connections and includes veterans who might not qualify under the PACT Act.

    Through more comprehensive and focused research on this issue than the aforementioned studies, the ACES Act will help us develop tailored interventions, improve screening protocols, and provide better care for aviators affected by cancer.

    This is not a partisan issue. Over 20 veterans, cancer, and medical professional organizations have rallied behind this bill because they’re tired of waiting year after year while aviators continue to suffer. They demand action now. Moving this legislation forward isn’t just about providing critical care—it’s about finally acknowledging the true cost of service these aviators have paid and continue to pay daily.

    As an Air Force fighter pilot with over 20 years of service, I’ve witnessed firsthand the incredible dedication, bravery, and resilience of our nation’s aviators. But I’ve also seen many of my brothers and sisters fight their toughest battles not in the air, but in hospital rooms, against cancer.

    That’s why I was honored to invite my dear friend Colonel Andy “Pablo” Shurtleff, who is currently fighting non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, to testify before this committee.

    You must not just hear the facts and figures but the voices of those living with the consequences of their service.

    The ACES Act is not just a bill—it’s a lifeline for those who have already given and continue to give and will give so much for our freedom. We owe it to them to act now.

    Thank you again, Mr. Chairman. I yield back.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: October 28, 2024 In Response to Rising Pedestrian Fatalities, Rep. Mullin Introduces Driver Technology and Pedestrian Safety Act Washington, D.C. – In response to an increase in the rate of pedestrian fatalities across the United States, Congressman Kevin Mullin (CA-15), introduced federal legislation that aims to address the impacts of driver-controlled technology in vehicles. October is National Pedestrian… Read More

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

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    Washington, D.C. – In response to an increase in the rate of pedestrian fatalities across the United States, Congressman Kevin Mullin (CA-15), introduced federal legislation that aims to address the impacts of driver-controlled technology in vehicles.

    October is National Pedestrian Safety Month, and Rep. Mullin announced his Driver Technology and Pedestrian Safety Act, H.R. 10051.  

    According to the most recent data available, in just one year 7,522 pedestrians were killed in traffic collisions in the United States and 67,000 pedestrians were injured. This reflects an alarming trend of increasing fatalities over the past several years. One of the biggest recent changes is the proliferation of driver-controlled technology in vehicles, such as touch screens that have replaced traditional knobs and switches, which require an increased amount of drivers’ attention. This, combined with other changes in the environment and traffic patterns, may be leading to increasingly dangerous road conditions. However, there have not been significant national studies on this topic that could inform policymakers on how to better protect pedestrians and other road users.

    “However you move around – whether you take public transit, drive a car, or ride a bike – at some point all of us are a pedestrian. Safety on our roads is everyone’s responsibility, and Congress should take a leading role in helping us understand what we can do to protect our most vulnerable populations,” said Rep. Mullin. “The Driver Technology and Pedestrian Safety Act would help us understand how technology in vehicles, such as touch-screen displays, may be distracting drivers and contributing to America’s increasing rates of pedestrian deaths and injuries.”

    The bill would direct the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine to conduct a study on the effects of driver technology, including touch screen-based systems and user interface design, as they relate to pedestrian collisions. It would also evaluate the impact of time of day and changes in traffic, weather and the volume of commercial or “hired” vehicles on the road whose drivers rely heavily on screens. It would also require the DOT to provide recommendations on actions Congress or agencies can take, such as updating standards, to address the study’s findings.

    The bill is endorsed by AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety, and Truck Safety Coalition.

    “The increase in pedestrian fatalities in the United States during the past decade is a disturbing trend that’s been well-documented by national statistics. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety believes Rep. Kevin Mullin’s legislation to examine the correlation between driver interactions with vehicle technology and pedestrian safety can help to update design recommendations to better protect vulnerable road users,” said Dr. David Yang, President and Executive Director of the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety.

    Watch a video of a press conference Rep. Mullin hosted with San Mateo Police Chief Ed Barberini to discuss the bill and provide safety tips. Learn more about the Driver Technology and Pedestrian Safety Act.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: November 21, 2024 On the Heels of Deadly Hurricanes, Lawmakers Call for More Resilient Lifeline Infrastructure   Washington, D.C. – When natural disasters strike, a community’s ability to respond and recover can hinge on the resilience of its lifeline infrastructure. After the deadly Hurricanes Helene and Milton devastated huge swaths of the country, a group of lawmakers… Read More

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

    Washington, D.C. – When natural disasters strike, a community’s ability to respond and recover can hinge on the resilience of its lifeline infrastructure. After the deadly Hurricanes Helene and Milton devastated huge swaths of the country, a group of lawmakers are calling upon the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to develop long-overdue standards for lifeline infrastructure.  

    Natural hazards can “disable power, water, communications, liquid fuel and gas, and transportation services – referred to collectively as lifeline infrastructure. The loss of lifelines harms local economies, threatens human health, and compounds the challenges faced by communities as they recover,” wrote the lawmakers, led by Rep. Kevin Mullin (CA-15) in a letter to NIST. “During Hurricane Helene, roads and bridges were destroyed, over 4 million customers were left without power, and many also lost cell and internet service and access to clean water.” 

    NIST has taken a leading role in developing standards that help communities become more resilient to natural disasters including earthquakes, floods and wildfires. But much of these efforts have focused on the restoration of buildings and do not address lifeline infrastructure systems.   

    “Currently, there are no national guidelines for lifeline system performance, and those developed at the state and local levels often do not account for resilience or the interdependency between systems. This impedes efforts by communities and first responders to accurately predict and plan for lifeline service loss. Given this reality, we urge NIST to develop national, cross-sector, multi-hazard design guidelines for lifeline infrastructure, which would include model codes, resilience metrics, and performance goals,” the lawmakers wrote. 

    Communities are facing increased risks from natural disasters. Proactively investing in mitigation is crucial: for every dollar spent on prevention, communities save an estimated $6 in disaster response.  

    Rep. Mullin, whose California district is all too familiar with earthquakes, has also introduced legislation, the Earthquake Resilience Act, that would require NIST to develop guidelines for lifeline infrastructure resilience and restoration after an earthquake hits. 

    The letter was cosigned by Rep. Suzanne Bonamici (OR-1), Rep. Ed Case (HI-1), Rep. André Carson (IN-7) and Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-4). Read the full letter here.  

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Sara Jacobs Releases Statement on One Year Since October 7th Attack in Israel

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

    October 07, 2024

    On the first anniversary of Hamas’ brutal attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, Rep. Sara Jacobs (CA-51), the youngest Jewish Member of Congress, released the following statement:

    “Like millions of Jews around the world, I woke up one year ago today in complete horror. I am still grappling with the aftermath of that day – the loss of nearly 1,200 innocent people, the trauma of many more who were assaulted, raped, tortured, and kidnapped, the pain felt by San Diego’s sister city Sha’ar HaNegev, and the stark rise of antisemitism since. I remain heartbroken for all the families who are still living this nightmare because Hamas is holding their loved ones hostage and because of new attacks from Iran and Hezbollah. This attack was heinous, inexcusable, and will never be forgotten.

    “I’m focused on bringing the remaining 100 hostages home as soon as possible and finding tangible solutions to achieve long-term peace, safety, and security for Israelis, Palestinians, and the region. October 7th started a devastating war in Gaza, where entire cities have been leveled, tens of thousands of Palestinian civilians have been killed, and nearly 2 million people have been displaced and are in desperate need of assistance and refuge. That’s why I believe we need an immediate ceasefire and to use our considerable leverage to deescalate tensions in the region – so we can secure the release of the remaining hostages, protect civilian lives, deliver much-needed aid and relief to Gazans, and begin the hard work of ensuring all people can live in safety, security, and autonomy.”

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Sara Jacobs, Sen. Tammy Duckworth Seek to Protect IVF Coverage in Final NDAA

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

    October 24, 2024

    Rep. Sara Jacobs (CA-51) and Sen. Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) continued their push to ensure the FY2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) preserves the requirement contained in both the House-passed and Senate-reported versions of NDAA that requires TRICARE coverage of fertility services, including in vitro fertilization (IVF). In a letter to House and Senate Armed Services Committee leadership, the lawmakers – who authored and successfully secured inclusion of the IVF coverage provisions in the House and Senate bills, respectively – called for service members and military families to receive the same level of IVF coverage that’s accessible to Members of Congress and Federal employees next year.

    Two-thirds of service members, who often spend their prime reproductive years in hazardous conditions and away from their partners, have reported experiencing family-building challenges after returning home. As a result, many TRICARE beneficiaries pay tens of thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket costs for fertility treatment. Expanding IVF coverage would strengthen recruitment, retention, and readiness efforts – all while supporting those who have sacrificed greatly for the United States.

    Read Rep. Sara Jacobs’ and Sen. Tammy Duckworth’s Letter Here

    The lawmakers wrote:

    “Because of hard work conducted under your respective leadership of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) and House Armed Services Committee (HASC), Congress is poised to ensure the final legislative text of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (NDAA) preserves language contained in both the House-passed and Senate-reported versions of the NDAA that require TRICARE cover fertility services, including in vitro fertilization (IVF).

    “Accordingly, we write to request that in negotiating the final conference report to accompany the NDAA, you ensure U.S. servicemembers and military families receive IVF coverage in 2025 that is on par with the IVF coverage Members of Congress and Federal employees will be provided access to in 2025 by taking one of these courses of action:

    • House recedes regarding Section 701 of H.R. 8070, and the final bill includes Section 705 of S. 4638;
    • Senate recedes regarding Section 705 of S. 4638 and the final bill includes Section 701 of H.R. 8070; or
    • The final bill merges and harmonizes Sections 701 and 705.

    “Since HASC added the provisions (sec. 701) requiring TRICARE cover fertility services, including IVF, by voice vote without controversy; and then House Republicans chose to preserve these Democratic-authored provisions in the version of the NDAA that the House narrowly passed along party-lines; we are hopeful that achieving fertility benefit parity between Members of Congress, Federal employees and members of the U.S. Armed Forces can avoid controversy and be preserved in the final NDAA that President Joe Biden signs into law.

    “In the coming months, Members of the U.S. House of Representatives and United States Senators will have the opportunity to select health insurance from 2025 marketplace plans that all include high quality, affordable fertility benefit coverage—including excellent IVF coverage that, absent action by Congress, will be far superior to the restrictive fertility benefit coverage offered to U.S. servicemembers and military families under current law. Under the Federal Employees Health Benefits program, Federal employees will also receive high quality fertility benefit coverage, including IVF, in 2025.

    “Importantly, every Member of Congress will be able to enroll in a 2025 marketplace plan that covers IVF services provided in accordance with widely accepted and evidence-based medical standards of care and the American Society for Reproductive Medicine’s (ASRM) professional guidelines—which includes coverage of at least three complete oocyte retrievals with unlimited embryo transfers from those oocyte retrievals, and standard fertility preservation services.

    “We strongly believe U.S. servicemembers and military families deserve fertility benefit coverage in 2025 that is at least comparable to what Members of Congress will receive.

    “It would be hypocritical for Members of Congress to enjoy high quality fertility benefit coverage next year, right on the heels of denying such IVF coverage to brave Americans willing to defend our country in uniform, and the dedicated military families that sacrifice to support their loved ones’ service to our great country. That is why we strongly agree with the position taken by a broad coalition of Military Service Organizations (MSOs) and Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) that these MSOs and VSOs expressed to you in their October 10, 2024, joint letter:

    ‘The health care benefit is an earned benefit and an essential part of military compensation. Coverage should not be contingent on a service member’s willingness or ability to accept an additional service commitment. For that reason, we caution Congress against adopting Section 627 of S. 4638, which would require a service member benefiting from expanded reproductive health coverage to accept an additional service commitment of four years. Again, military members deserve coverage that is on par with civilian plans, and civilian plans make no such demands of their beneficiaries [emphasis added].’

    “We share the opposition of MSOs and VSOs to including Section 627 of S. 4638 in the final bill text because it falls woefully short of providing servicemembers and their families with comparable coverage to the coverage Members of Congress receive. Unfortunately, Section 627 goes beyond TRICARE fertility coverage requirements and injects controversial and divisive language relating to abortion services and embryonic personhood, which are contrary to the bipartisan tradition of the NDAA and distract from what should be our overriding priority: making sure that in 2025, U.S. servicemembers and military families receive high quality and affordable fertility services coverage that is on par with fertility benefits that Members of Congress and Federal employees will receive in the coming year.

    “Servicemembers are disproportionately impacted by infertility and face unique challenges in trying to start and build their families. Two-thirds of servicemembers, who often spend their prime reproductive years in hazardous conditions and away from their partners, have reported family-building challenges due to military service. Most TRICARE beneficiaries must pay out of pocket for fertility treatment, costing tens of thousands of dollars, all while navigating challenging duty station moves and a complex healthcare system bureaucracy.

    “Failing to provide high-quality IVF coverage through TRICARE would perpetuate an unfair system that forces military families to confront an impossible and unjust choice between serving their country in uniform or starting a family without the risk of financial ruin. We are gravely concerned that this will inevitably deter recruitment and retention efforts and ultimately decrease our Nation’s military readiness. Providing U.S. servicemembers and military families with robust IVF coverage is the least we can do for those Americans who have sacrificed so much for us.

    “We thank you in advance for your consideration of our request to make sure that we complete the mission of ensuring members of the U.S. Armed Forces achieve parity with Members of Congress and the civil service by finalizing a conference report and passing a NDAA that, for the first time in history, requires TRICARE cover fertility services, including IVF, without harmful and onerous restrictions that violate widely accepted and evidence-based medical standards of care and fail to comport with ASRM professional guidance.”

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Jacobs, Kamlager-Dove Introduce Legislation to Institutionalize African Diaspora Advisory Council

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

    October 25, 2024

    Congresswomen Sara Jacobs (CA-51) and Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37) introduced a bill to codify the President’s Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement in the United States, ensuring the Council is not a one-off initiative but an important asset that continues to be utilized by future administrations.

    Congresswoman Jacobs, the Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa, said: “The African diaspora in the United States is a special, and often untapped, resource as we continue rebuilding and strengthening our relationship with the African continent. That’s why it’s so important that we codify the President’s Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement and make permanent the pathway for direct and robust dialogue between the African diaspora and U.S. officials. As we work to tackle our shared challenges and promising opportunities, the African diaspora’s strong ties and deep knowledge will be invaluable.”

    “The African diaspora in Los Angeles and across the U.S.—from recent immigrants to the descendants of enslaved Black Americans—are leading advocates for a strong U.S.-Africa relationship,” said Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove. “These communities have pioneered U.S.-African partnerships in trade, education, climate, sports, and the arts, and are our greatest asset when it comes to enhancing ties with the continent. The President’s Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement is a long overdue recognition of the critical role our diaspora plays in advancing common interests and addressing shared challenges. Codifying this initiative affirms the U.S.’s continued commitment to bolstering mutually beneficial relationships with the African continent.”

    Full text of this legislation can be found here.

    ABOUT THE PRESIDENT’S ADVISORY COUNCIL ON AFRICAN DIASPORA ENGAGEMENT IN THE UNITED STATES:
    The establishment of the President’s Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement was a deliverable announced during the 2022 U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit. The Council advises the President, through the Secretary of State, on issues involving the African diaspora and U.S.-Africa ties in an effort to enhance dialogue between United States officials and the African diaspora. In July, the Council conducted its first visit to the continent to strengthen ties between the United States and Nigeria through diaspora-led initiatives. A list of the Council’s inaugural members can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Bush Joins 64 House Democrats Urging Unimpeded Media Access to Gaza in a Letter to the Biden Administration

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Cori Bush (MO-01)

    October 21, 2024

     

    Members asking Biden Administration to take immediate action to advocate for unrestricted, unimpeded media access

    Washington, D.C. (October 21, 2024) — Congresswoman Bush joins Ranking Member of the House Rules Committee, Rep. James P. McGovern (MA-02), and 62 members of Congress in a letter to President Joseph Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken calling for the United States to push for Israel to allow unimpeded access for U.S. and international journalists. The constantly shifting dynamics on the ground inside Gaza make unimpeded press access more urgent than ever.

    “The restrictions on media reporting have created significant challenges in obtaining accurate, verifiable information from Gaza, leading to increased skepticism about the limited reports that do emerge. At a time when reliable information is more critical than ever, the restrictions on foreign reporting undermine the very foundation of press freedom and democratic accountability,” wrote the members.

    In July, over 70 media and civil society organizations signed an open letter calling on Israel to grant journalists access to Gaza. Yet foreign media remains largely prohibited from entering the region, except for a few controlled trips arranged by the Israeli military. This effective ban on foreign reporting has placed an overwhelming burden on local journalists who are documenting the war they are living through. Tragically, at least 130 journalists have lost their lives since the start of the war, and those who remain face conditions of extreme hardship and danger.

    The International Federation of Journalists has reported that the mortality rate for media workers in Gaza is over 10%. Seventy-five percent of all reporters killed worldwide in 2023 lost their lives between October 7 and the end of the year.4 In December 2023, just two months into the conflict, the Committee to Protect Journalists declared Gaza the “most dangerous ever” war zone for reporters. These staggering statistics underscore the critical importance of allowing independent journalists to document and report from the ground.

    “We urge the administration to take immediate action to advocate for unrestricted, independent media access to Gaza. A free press is essential to ensuring that the world can bear witness to the realities on the ground and hold all parties accountable,” conclude the members.

    A full copy of the letter can be found here.  

    In addition to Representatives Bush (MO-01) and McGovern (MA-02), the letter was signed by Representatives Lloyd Doggett (TX-35), André Carson (IN-07), Nydia M. Velázquez (NY-07), Raúl M. Grijalva (AZ-03), Betty McCollum (MN-04), Barbara Lee (CA-12), Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-00), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Maxine Waters (CA-43), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Stephen F. Lynch (MA-08), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Seth Magaziner (RI-02), Jamaal Bowman, Ed.D. (NY-16), Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. (NC-12), Greg Casar (TX-35), John Garamendi (CA-08), Gerald E. Connolly (VA-11), J. Luis Correa (CA-46), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Veronica Escobar (TX-16), Sean Casten (IL-06), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (IL-04), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Linda T. Sánchez (CA-38), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Emanuel Cleaver, II (MO-05), Daniel T. Kildee (MI-08), Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10), Danny K. Davis (IL-07), Jonathan L. Jackson (IL-01), Donald S. Beyer Jr. (VA-08), Maxwell Alejandro Frost (FL-10), Rosa L. DeLauro (CT-03), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Paul D. Tonko (NY-20), Jared Huffman (CA-02), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Al Green (TX-09), Summer L. Lee (PA-12), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Becca Balint (VT-AL), Steve Cohen (TN-09), Lori Trahan (MA-03), Eric Swalwell (CA-15), Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), Andy Kim (NJ-03), Val Hoyle (OR-04), Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Mark Takano (CA-39), Jason Crow (CO-06), Madeleine Dean (PA-04), Lauren Underwood (IL-14), Julia Brownley (CA-26), Gabe Amo (RI-01), John B. Larson (CT-01), Sylvia R. Garcia (TX-29), Nikema Williams (GA-05), and Dwight Evans (PA-03).

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Bush Calls on Biden, Blinken, Garland to Investigate Israeli Attack on American Journalist

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Cori Bush (MO-01)

    October 24, 2024

    The attack – that has gone uninvestigated for over a year – killed a Reuters journalist and left six others from Reuters, AFP, and Al Jazeera injured, including Vermonter Dylan Collins

    Washington, D.C. (October 24, 2024) — Congresswoman Bush joins Sen. Bernie Sanders and ten other Members of Congress in writing to the Biden Administration, demanding the United States open an independent investigation into an Israeli attack on a group of journalists, including American journalist Dylan Collins.

    “It has now been more than one year since Mr. Collins was injured in a targeted Israeli strike while on assignment for AFP,” wrote the members in the letter to President Biden, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, and U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland. “To date, Mr. Collins has received no explanation for the attack, and there have been no steps toward accountability. Given the inaction of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government, the United States must open an independent investigation into this incident.”

    On October 13, 2023, American journalist Dylan Collins was injured in a targeted Israeli strike while on assignment for Agence France-Presse (AFP). Collins was part of a group of journalists covering the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. The group was clearly marked as press and had selected an open and highly visible position to minimize the risk of misidentification – one that was clearly visible to several Israeli military positions. The group had been filming from that location for close to an hour when they were struck twice by Israeli tank rounds and machine gun fire. 

    Reuters journalist Issam Abdallah was killed. Six other journalists from Reuters, AFP, and Al Jazeera were seriously wounded. Collins – the only U.S. citizen involved in the incident – sustained shrapnel wounds to his face, arms, and back. Despite Collins’s efforts to apply a tourniquet, his colleague lost her leg in the attack. 

    Six rigorous investigations – by UNIFIL, Reuters, AFP, Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International, and the Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research – have all independently corroborated these details, based on video footage and multiple first-hand accounts, and concluded that it was an unlawful attack on civilians.  

    In response to an earlier letter sent in May by the Vermont delegation, the State Department indicated that the incident was under investigation in Israel. In fact, more than one year later, no survivors or other witnesses have been approached to provide testimony. No updates have been provided to the public, the survivors, or the media organizations that they worked for. Given the Israeli government’s failure to investigate numerous similar attacks on journalists, “there is no reason to believe the Netanyahu government will take any action,” wrote the members. “The U.S. government must therefore act to ensure accountability for attacks on its citizens.”

    In addition to criminal culpability under the War Crimes Act of 1996 (18 USC 2441), as well as other relevant U.S. and customary international law, the U.S. must also credibly establish whether the Israeli attack violated applicable laws governing the use of U.S. security assistance.  

    This is particularly important as the U.S. Congress will soon consider Joint Resolutions of Disapproval – introduced in September by Sen. Sanders, Welch, and Merkley – regarding the sale of additional arms to Israel, including 32,739 additional 120mm tank cartridges, the same rounds used against Collins and his journalist colleagues.

    Joining Congresswoman Bush (MO-o1) on the letter are Sens. Bernie Sanders (), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Reps. Becca Balint (VT-AL), Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.), Barbara Lee (D-Calif.), Jim McGovern (D-Mass.), Delia Ramirez (D-Ill.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), and Rashida Tlaib. (D-Mich.).

    “Mr. Collins deserves better from his own government,” wrote the members.

    Read the full letter here.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Bush, Labor Caucus Urge Amazon to Respect its Employees’ Rights; Requests Information About Anti-Union Activities

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Cori Bush (MO-01)

    October 21, 2024

    Washington, D.C. (October 21, 2024) — Congresswoman Cori Bush (MO-01) joined Congressional Labor Caucus Co-Chairs Representatives Mark Pocan (WI-02), Donald Norcross (NJ-01), and Debbie Dingell (MI-06) and Caucus members Reps. Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04), and 126 other members of Congress in calling on Amazon to respect its employees’ rights and requesting information from the company about its anti-union activities.

    “Workers have a constitutional right to organize and advocate for improvements in their wages and working conditions, as well as statutory rights to engage in protected concerted activity under Section 7 of the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA),” the members wrote in a letter to Amazon Chief Executive Officer Andy Jassy.

    “We have heard concerns from our constituents who are scared to exercise these rights due to fear of reprisal from their employer, and anti-union activities from an employer as prominent as Amazon exacerbate those concerns,” the Members continued. “Therefore, in accordance with the NLRA, we urge Amazon to refrain from engaging in intimidation, retaliation, and other forms of illegal interference and to allow workers to decide on their own, whether they should join a union.”

    Unfortunately Amazon has been found to have violated federal labor law on numerous occasions, including public anti-union comments from CEO Andy Jassy. This letter comes amidst a recent wave of worker organizing activity at Amazon locations around the county. To ensure that workers rights are respected going forward, the Members requested information from Amazon and asked if it will commit to following applicable federal and state labor laws. 

    A full copy of the letter can be found here.  

    The letter was signed by 132 Members of Congress, including: Reps. Alma Adams; Gabe Amo; Becca Balint; Nanette Barragán; Joyce Beatty; Jamaal Bowman; Julia Brownley; Shontel Brown; Nikki Budzinski; Salud Carbajal; André Carson; Greg Casar; Sean Casten; Joaquin Castro; Judy Chu; Steve Cohen; Lou Correa; Joe Courtney; Jason Crow; Danny Davis; Madeleine Dean; Rosa DeLauro; Christopher Deluzio; Mark DeSaulnier; Debbie Dingell; Lloyd Doggett; Adriano Espaillat; Dwight Evans; Bill Foster; Lois Frankel; Maxwell Frost; Ruben Gallego; John Garamendi; Jesús García; Sylvia Garcia; Jared Golden; Daniel Goldman; Jimmy Gomez; Al Green; Raúl Grijalva; Chrissy Houlahan; Val Hoyle; Jared Huffman; Jonathan Jackson; Sara Jacobs; Henry Johnson; Marcy Kaptur; William Keating; Timothy Kennedy; Ro Khanna; Daniel Kildee; Andy Kim; Raja Krishnamoorthi; Greg Landsman; John Larson; Barbara Lee; Summer Lee; Teresa Leger Fernandez; Stephen Lynch; Seth Magaziner; Betty McCollum; Morgan McGarvey; James McGovern; Robert Menendez; Grace Meng; Kevin Mullin; Jerrold Nadler; Grace Napolitano; Wiley Nickel; Donald Norcross; Elanor Norton; Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez; Ilhan Omar; Frank Pallone; Chris Pappas; Mary Peltola; Chellie Pingree; Mark Pocan; Katie Porter; Ayanna Pressley; Delia Ramirez; Jamie Raskin; Raul Ruiz; Patrick Ryan; Linda Sánchez; Mary Scanlon; Janice Schakowsky; Adam Schiff; Hillary Scholten; Brad Sherman; Mikie Sherrill; Elissa Slotkin; Adam Smith; Eric Sorensen; Darren Soto; Melanie Stansbury; Greg Stanton; Haley Stevens; Thomas Suozzi; Emilia Sykes; Mark Takano; Shri Thanedar; Bennie Thompson; Dina Titus; Rashida Tlaib; Paul Tonko; Ritchie Torres; Lori Trahan; David Trone; Lauren Underwood; Juan Vargas; Nydia Velázquez; Debbie Wasserman Schultz; Maxine Waters; Bonnie Watson Coleman; and Susan Wild.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Bush, Tlaib Lead War Powers Letter to President Biden

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Cori Bush (MO-01)

    November 01, 2024

    Washington, D.C. (November 1, 2024) — Today, Congresswoman Cori Bush (MO-01) and Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib (MI-12) led a letter to President Biden questioning the involvement of the U.S. Armed Forces in the Israeli government’s expanding regional war across the Middle East, including in the ground invasions of Lebanon and Gaza, and the recent exchanges of hostilities between Israel and Iran.

    The Biden administration has deepened U.S. involvement in the Israeli government’s devastating regional war through comprehensive intelligence sharing and operational coordination, and now even the direct deployment of U.S. servicemembers to Israel. Not only do these actions encourage further escalation and violence, but they are unauthorized by Congress, in violation of Article I of the Constitution and the War Powers Resolution of 1973. 

    “American military involvement in these wars has not been authorized by the United States Congress, as required by the Constitution and U.S. law. The American people have made it clear that they want to see an immediate ceasefire, an end to these wars, and the return of hostages, not deepening American involvement in potentially endless regional war,” the lawmakers wrote.

    The lawmakers asked President Biden for a detailed account of the United States military’s involvement to “command, coordinate, participate in the movement of, or accompany” Israeli forces currently engaged in hostilities in Gaza, Lebanon, Iran, Yemen, the West Bank, Syria, or elsewhere in the Middle East.  

    Since the start of its genocidal campaign, the Israeli government has killed over 43,000 Palestinians in Gaza, including over 16,700 children, and displaced over 90 percent of the population. With complete impunity and a blank check from the United States’ government, Netanyahu has now invaded Lebanon, where Israeli forces have killed over 2,700 people and displaced 1.2 million.

    “The Executive Branch cannot continue to ignore the law without Congressional intervention. In the absence of an immediate ceasefire and end of hostilities, Congress retains the right and ability to exercise its Constitutional authority to direct the removal of any and all unauthorized Armed Forces from the region pursuant to Section 5(c) of the War Powers Resolution,” the lawmakers concluded.  

    The letter was also signed by Congressman André Carson (IN-07), Congresswoman Summer Lee (PA-12), and Congresswoman Ilhan Omar (MN-05). 

    Through a war powers resolution, Congress holds the power to direct the removal of any Armed Forces engaged in hostilities outside the territory of the United States without a declaration of war or specific statutory authorization. War powers resolutions are privileged, meaning that any member of the House of Representatives could force a vote on the legislation. 

    The letter is endorsed by Friends Committee on National Legislation, Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft, Just Foreign Policy, A New Policy, Action Corps, Jewish Voice for Peace Action, National Iranian American Council Action, Peace Action, Institute for Policy Studies – New Internationalism Project, Presbyterian Church USA – Office of Public Witness, Common Defense, Americans for Justice in Palestine Action, The United Methodist Church – General Board of Church and Society, US Campaign for Palestinian Rights Action, and Center for Constitutional Rights. 

    A full copy of the letter can be found here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –