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Category: US Senate

  • MIL-OSI USA: WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: Pass the One, Big, Beautiful Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    President Donald J. Trump’s One, Big, Beautiful Bill is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to make good on the promises Republicans have made — and that’s why advocacy groups and other stakeholders are coming out in droves to urge Congress to immediately pass the landmark bill.
    Here’s what they’re saying about the One, Big, Beautiful Bill:
    American Exploration & Production Council CEO Anne Bradbury: “On behalf of America’s leading independent producers of oil and natural gas, AXPC urges all House Republicans to pass the budget reconciliation and advance President Trump’s agenda to unleash American energy. This legislation takes decisive steps towards improving our nation’s energy landscape by repealing the Biden-era menthane tax, unlocking oil and gas development on federal lands, and alleviating regulatory pain points that have stymied the build out of American energy. Passing this bill is essential to secure America’s energy dominance through smart, durable reforms.”
    NumbersUSA: “For decades Congress has promised to secure the border and failed to deliver. The House Reconciliation bill delivers on the promise of building the border wall, 10,000 ICE officers, detention beds, historic funding for Customs and Border Patrol and a tax on money illegal aliens send out of the country. The Trump Administration needs this funding to deport illegal aliens, millions of whom entered the country over the last four years. The American people voted in mess this last election to secure our borders and return law and order to our immigration system. Congress must not fail them.”
    Airlines for America: “A4A strongly supports the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and applauds the inclusion of a critical investment of $12.5 billion in modernizing the Federal Aviation Administration’s air traffic facilities, systems and infrastructure. For years, A4A has been sounding the alarm about ATC staffing shortages and antiquated equipment, such as copper wires and floppy disks. Given the challenges facing the air traffic system, these funds are a vital down payment on updating the technology that guides 27,000 flights, 2.7 million passengers and 61,000 tons of cargo every day—all while driving five percent of our nation’s GDP. The legislation also makes smart, strategic investments in Customs and Border Protection personnel and training for the aviation workforce of tomorrow while supporting American energy dominance in aviation fuel production. We encourage the House to pass this legislation and deliver on the Department of Transportation’s plan to help keep our skies safe and efficient. Modernizing our National Airspace System is necessary, and passing the One Big Beautiful Bill Act will help ensure the United States has a world-class aviation system.”
    National Federation of Independent Business SVP for Advocacy Adam Temple: “On behalf of NFIB, the nation’s leading small business advocacy organization, I write in support of the Committee’s legislative proposal to comply with reconciliation instructions contained within the concurrent resolution on the Budget for Fiscal Year 2025, H. Con. Res. 14. As written, this is one of the most pro-small business pieces of tax legislation in recent history.”
    CTIA—The Wireless Association President and CEO Ajit Pai: “The wireless industry urges swift passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. The critical spectrum and tax provisions in this legislation will allow the wireless industry to invest, create jobs, propel economic growth, and secure America’s edge in innovation.”
    Job Creators Network CEO Alfredo Ortiz: “House Republicans’ big, beautiful reconciliation bill is exactly what the country needs to jumpstart the economy and guarantee the safety and prosperity of Americans for decades to come. It helps people of all backgrounds but especially small businesses, the backbone of our economy, by making permanent and expanding the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. It increases the small business tax deduction used by 26 million entrepreneurs annually from 20% to 23% — a tax cut Job Creators Network has long been the leading voice for. The bill also restores 100% immediate expensing, allowing businesses to write off investments, expansion, and modernization. It will empower Main Street to expand, hire, raise wages, and reinvest in their communities, while also providing significant tax relief for ordinary folks. All Republicans should unite to support this historic reconciliation bill. We need Tax Cuts Now.”
    Business Roundtable President & COO Kristen Silverberg: “Business Roundtable strongly supports the House budget reconciliation bill. This important legislation ensures a more competitive, pro-growth tax system, secures our borders and takes the necessary step of raising the debt ceiling. We urge members of the House Budget Committee to swiftly pass this measure.”
    Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council President & CEO Karen Kerrigan: “SBE Council strongly supports the One Big, Beautiful Bill and urges every member of the U.S. House to vote in support of this economically powerful package. The One Big, Beautiful Bill provides entrepreneurs and small businesses with the tools and policy environment they need to invest in their businesses and workforce, to innovate and strengthen their firms, and to lead America’s economic resurgence.”
    Associated Equipment Distributors SVP Daniel B. Fisher: “This legislation will spur economic growth and job creation, incentivize capital investment, and ensure AED members, which supply and maintain the equipment needed to build, feed and fuel America, remain competitive for years to come. We urge support for the bill and look forward to working with the entire House of Representatives to approve it as soon as possible.”
    National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association Interim CEO Michele Stanley: “NSSGA appreciates that ‘The One, Big, Beautiful Bill’ includes aggregates industry priorities, such as bonus depreciation, the Research and Development Tax Credit, small business deductions, keeping the corporate tax rate at the status quo and protecting percentage depletion and estate taxes. Additionally, we appreciate the committee’s commitment to safeguarding associations’ tax-protected status. NSSGA thanks the committee for introducing this bill and encourages the Ways and Means Committee and the House of Representatives to pass this package in a timely manner.”
    60 Plus Association Chairman Jim Martin: “It’s a win for seniors across the country. The President and House Republicans are providing much needed tax relief to middle and low-income seniors.”
    Association of Mature American Citizens Action SVP Andrew J. Mangione, Jr.: “This bill is a win for seniors, for taxpayers, and for the future of our country. We urge swift passage and full support from lawmakers who value liberty, accountability, and the financial security of AMAC members across the country.”
    RATE Coalition Executive Director Dan Combs: “This legislation is a clear step toward preserving a tax code that spurs job creation, boosts wages, and builds on the legacy created by President Trump and Congress under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Now is the time for Congress to come together, finish the work, and deliver a strong, stable economic foundation for American workers and businesses. A competitive corporate tax rate is key to keeping the U.S. ahead and a top destination for investment in the global economy. This bill goes a long way towards making that possible.”
    Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi: “We’ve said from the start: No Tax on Tips should include @Uber drivers & couriers. Grateful the new House Ways & Means bill does just that. Thanks to @POTUS and @RepJasonSmith for backing all tipped workers—no matter how they work. Let’s get this done!”
    DoorDash CEO Tony Xu: “Thanks to @POTUS and @RepJasonSmith, millions of Dashers may soon get a tax break on their hard-earned tips. Following advocacy from 40K Dashers, including dozens in DC last week, the House’s budget bill is an important step in making #NoTaxOnTips a reality.”
    Americans for Prosperity Chief Government Affairs Officer Brent Gardner: “The Republican Party has an incredible opportunity to put the country on the right track for long-term economic growth by making the Trump Tax Cuts permanent and avoiding the largest tax hike in American history. This bill is smart pro-growth policy that would provide certainty for American businesses and lead to sustained prosperity for millions of working Americans. This legislation also takes meaningful action to cut billions in special interest giveaways, reforming broken programs, and rooting out waste, fraud, and abuse –   ensuring that taxpayers’ hard-earned dollars are spent wisely. It’s about making government work better for the people it serves. We’re encouraged by the foundation laid in the House and stand ready to work with Senate lawmakers to get this measure across the finish line. The moment for action is now. We urge all Members to support this legislation and put our economy on the path to growth and opportunity.”
    Concerned Veterans for America Executive Director John Vick: “Failing to extend President Trump’s Tax Cuts and Jobs Act would impose the largest tax hike in U.S. history on American families and businesses. Congress must seize its opportunity to protect our long-term prosperity while improving the lives of middle-class Americans. The American people sent a clear message last November: they are tired of massive tax hikes, higher prices, reckless government spending, and Biden-era “Green New Deal” giveaways. Congress must answer this call by moving budget reconciliation forward. As veterans, we fought for a better future for our fellow Americans. We also understand that a strong economy is the bedrock of American strength at home and abroad. Today, CVA calls on Congress to act to protect the promise of long-term economic growth and prosperity for all Americans.”
    The LIBRE Initiative Executive Director Sandra Benitez: “We commend the House Budget Committee for taking a positive step to ensure that we continue extending tax relief to middle-class families and job creators, including Latinos who cannot afford a tax hike. Now it is critical that the House of Representatives have a full House vote as quickly as possible and approve this pro-growth legislation to help unleash prosperity and opportunity for all. The LIBRE Initiative looks forward to educating and activating the Latino community on the benefits of this critical legislation.”
    America First Policy Institute: “Conservatives must deliver to the American people! The One, Big, Beautiful Bill cuts taxes for ALL Americans, secures the border, stands up to the woke mob by empowering parents and protecting women and children, and much more!”
    Independent Women Center for Economic Opportunity Director Patrice Onwuka: “Passing the Big, Beautiful Bill is an imperative. The stakes are high. If Congress fails to pass this bill, average Americans face a massive 22% tax increase, 40 million families will see their Child Tax Credit slashed in half, and 26 million small businesses face a 43.4% top tax rate. Republicans should not hold up tax relief for American families and small businesses to bail out high-tax blue states.”
    Family Business Coalition: “Family Business Coalition supports the ‘One, Big, Beautiful Bill’ which includes tax relief that will help family businesses expand, upgrade equipment, and hire more workers. FBC urges the House to take action now to move this process forward in Congress.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján, Rosen Lead Colleagues in Demanding President Trump Lift Hold on High-Speed Internet Funding for New Mexico

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Senator for New Mexico Ben Ray Luján

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Telecommunications and Media Subcommittee, and U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) led 1o Senate colleagues in a letter demanding that the Trump administration release funding for states under the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program. This program connects families in the hardest-to-serve communities to high-speed internet. Senator Luján successfully helped pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that created the BEAD Program. New Mexico has been approved to receive $675 million in funding through the BEAD Program, but the Trump administration’s pause on this critical program is indefinitely delaying New Mexico’s ability to connect New Mexicans to high-speed internet.

    “We write with concern regarding the National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s (NTIA) recent announcement that it is delaying the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program,” wrote the senators. “This unprecedented move by the NTIA will further delay our communities from having the connectivity they need to grow and thrive. To unlock the full strength of the U.S. economy, every community must have access to the vast opportunities enabled by broadband, and this can be achieved by your Administration following the law as outlined in the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (P.L. 117-58).”

    “Currently, there are multiple states ready for broadband providers to put shovels in the ground tomorrow,” the senators continued. “NTIA must act swiftly to release BEAD funding to states that have already been approved and expeditiously work to approve the remaining eligible applications. Time is of the essence, and our rural and tribal communities cannot afford more delays.”

    In addition to Senators Luján and Rosen, the letter was signed by Senators Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Mark Warner (D-VA), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Gary Peters (D-MI), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), and Angus King (I-ME).

    As Ranking Member of the Commerce Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Media, Senator Luján is a strong champion for 100% broadband connectivity. In the 118th Congress, Senator Luján introduced the bipartisan Tribal Connect Act to make it easier for Tribes to secure high-speed internet access at Tribal Essential Community-Serving Institutions through the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) Universal Service Fund (USF) Schools and Libraries Program, or E-Rate program. In the 117th Congress, Senator Luján introduced legislation to help close the homework gap by equipping school buses with Wi-Fi technology and improving financing options for broadband deployment.

    The full letter can be found here or below:

    Dear President Trump:

    We write with concern regarding the National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s (NTIA) recent announcement that it is delaying the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program. This unprecedented move by the NTIA will further delay our communities from having the connectivity they need to grow and thrive. To unlock the full strength of the U.S. economy, every community must have access to the vast opportunities enabled by broadband, and this can be achieved by your Administration following the law as outlined in the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (P.L. 117-58).

    The intent of Congress when it created and appropriated over $42 billion for the bipartisan BEAD program was to connect the hardest-to-serve Americans to high-speed internet and finally close the digital divide. Congress explicitly shaped this program to give deference to states, so they could address the unique challenges their states face reaching the goals of the program Congress mandated.

    Currently, there are multiple states ready for broadband providers to put shovels in the ground tomorrow. Forty-two states have begun or completed their BEAD application process. Three states have even had their applications fully approved and yet are waiting on funds to be released by your Administration. Many states have applications that are tech-neutral and dramatically more cost-effective than previous projects funded by federal broadband programs, all while fulfilling the program’s mission to bring high-speed, reliable broadband to all unserved communities in their state. The attempts by NTIA to revise the state application process at this late stage will cause further delays to the program and leave rural and tribal communities behind in an increasingly connected economy. NTIA must act swiftly to release BEAD funding to states that have already been approved and expeditiously work to approve the remaining eligible applications. Time is of the essence, and our rural and tribal communities cannot afford more delays.

    It is imperative to follow the law, deliver on the promise of access to affordable high-speed internet, and ensure that every American, regardless of where they live, has the tools to succeed in the modern economy.

    Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy on Meet The Press: Republican Tax Plan is Greatest Transfer of Wealth from the Poor and Middle Class to the Rich in the History of the Country

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    May 18, 2025

    [embedded content]

    WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Sunday joined NBC’s Meet the Press with Kristen Welker to discuss the Trump administration and congressional Republicans’ plan to give the ultra-wealthy a giant tax break paid for by slashing Medicaid and programs millions of Americans rely on, and President Trump’s corruption of U.S. foreign policy.

    Murphy slammed the disastrous Republican tax plan: “Well, what we’re standing in the way of is the most massive transfer of wealth from the poor and the middle class to the rich in the history of the country. This budget bill is an absolute disaster. It is going to kick over 10 million people off of their health care — Medicaid covers about a quarter of all Americans — in order to pass along a new trillion-dollar tax cut for the richest 1%. Nobody in this country is asking for that…These guys are running the economy recklessly because all they care about is the health of the Mar-a-Lago billionaire class. They only care about their corporate friends. They’re going to destroy this economy, they’re going to throw millions of people off of health care, just so that they can pass along a benefit to a small handful of very rich Americans.”

    Murphy pushed back on claims by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent that the growing deficit is due to Democratic policies: “I think it’s important to remember that some of the most important legislative achievements during Joe Biden’s presidency were done in a way that reduced the deficit. In fact, the Inflation Reduction Act – which made massive investments in renewable energy, reduced prescription drug costs – was done in a way that drove down the deficit, not driving the deficit up. Most of the deficit was added under Joe Biden’s presidency was in those early days when we were still recovering from the pandemic. But there’s just no doubt that it was Donald Trump who added more to the deficit than any president in the history of the country, and he is on pace to do it for a second time. It’s going to crater the economy. And listen, it won’t have an impact on his billionaire friends. His Mar-a-Lago crowd will come out all right, but it will impact the regular people I represent in New Britain, Bristol and Bridgeport, Connecticut.”

    On Trump’s corrupt trip to the Middle East, Murphy said: “So why did he choose these three countries to go to for his first major foreign trip? It’s not because these are our most important allies, are the most important countries in the world. It’s because these are the three countries willing to pay him off. Every single one of these countries is giving Trump money — the plane from Qatar and investment in his cryptocurrency scam from the UAE, and they are asking for national security concessions in return. This is the definition of corruption. Foreign governments putting money in the President’s pocket and in the United States, giving them national concerning concessions that hurt our own security.”

    He continued: “By the way, the plane is not a gift to the American people, as the Secretary said. It is going directly to Donald Trump. That library will take a decade to build, and so once he leaves the White House until the library is built, he gets to use that plane to fly around all of his billionaire friends while his policies result in millions of Americans losing their health care and having to pay higher costs. That is the definition of corruption.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI—Hagerty Joins Squawk Box on CNBC to Discuss GENIUS Act, Budget Reconciliation, Tariffs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Tennessee Bill Hagerty
    NEW YORK CITY—Today, United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN), a member of the Senate Appropriations, Banking, and Foreign Relations Committees and former U.S. Ambassador to Japan, joined Squawk Box on CNBC live in-studio to discuss the GENIUS Act vote in the Senate, the budget reconciliation package, and President Donald Trump’s ongoing trade negotiations.

    *Click the photo above or here to watch*
    Partial Transcript
    Hagerty on the GENIUS Act: “It’s actually born from a great deal of frustration. We started working on the bill in earnest back in the fall, but we’ve watched what’s happened with the absence of any type of regulatory framework here in America. And what we see is this type of innovative technology moving offshore. The last thing I want to see is that I don’t want to see innovation leaving America. It’s all happening here right now. But what we saw was a lack of regulatory framework, which means a lack of certainty. And if you’re using enforcement actions from the [Securities and Exchange Commission], which was what has been happening for the past four years, to regulate the markets, it creates massive amounts of uncertainty. This will fix it […] It basically establishes a legal and regulatory framework to issue stablecoins here in America. Stablecoin is stable, meaning it’s backed by a certain currency. In this case it’s tied to the U.S dollar, but also, it’s backed either by cash or by short-term U.S. treasury securities. So, it’s entirely safe having that type of regulatory framework and disclosure around it so we know exactly what’s backing up these digital dollars, if you will, is going to be great.”
    Hagerty on the difference between stablecoins and typical cryptocurrency:“This is a payment mechanism, and not to be confused with Bitcoin or something that has a speculative component. This puts us into a digital payment framework. The fastest rails available, much better than the system developed in the seventies and eighties, which is slow. It takes days to clear […] It’s not going to be [backed by] equities. It’s going to be high quality, short-term assets, either short-term U.S. treasuries or cash. I think the majority of it’ll be U.S. treasuries. In fact, what this will do, and the projections are by 2030, this is according to Citibank, stablecoin issuers will be the largest holders of U.S. treasuries in the world.”
    Hagerty on opposition to the GENIUS Act: “No one in the industry is [opposing this legislation] and has to do with my colleagues. And basically, it’s gotten to be a question; we’ll find out tonight. We have broad policy agreement, Democrats and Republicans. The question is, can we get past the partisan politics and allow us to actually have a victory? I would enjoy having a bipartisan victory […] It’s politicians that want to see centralized control. And centralized control, if you want that, buy the digital yuan. I don’t want to see that happen here in America. I think it would be devastating for the dollar’s value as the reserve currency. This will actually perpetuate the dollar’s value as a reserve currency. It will extend that momentum. It’s going to extend demand for U.S. treasuries. There’s a lot to like about this.”
    Hagerty on Moody’s U.S. credit downgrade highlighting the need to pass the budget reconciliation package: “I think it puts more pressure on us as well, over the next couple of weeks, to get this reconciliation bill done in a way that’s responsible and shows real progress against the deficit […] I’d certainly like to see [the bill passed] sooner, and so would my colleagues in the Senate […] [Treasury Secretary] Scott [Bessent’s] perspective on the market is born from his experience. I’ll just say the immediate impact is real, but I think the market’s going to digest this. The other rating agencies [have] already put us at this place, but what I want to see is the reconciliation package come through stimulation of capital investment. That capital investment will be at more jobs, more economic activity, that’s going to be good for revenue growth […] My colleagues in the Senate want to see significant cuts.”
    Hagerty on the ongoing trade negotiations: “I think it’s coming much more clear. What we have is a system that’s a result of—you go back to the post World War II era, we put in place very favorable terms of trade. Countries like those in Europe, Japan, their economies were devastated. But we should have put a GDP-per-capita or a time limit on those. We didn’t. So, we wind up with these gross imbalances. For example, you build a car here in America, sell to Europe, ten percent tariff. They build one there, sell to us, two and a half percent. We’d never do that deal today. So, this sort of reciprocity is sorting itself out. We’ve had a deal struck with the UK; we’re in a good place with China.”
    Hagerty on tariff impacts: “To the extent there is an increase, you’ve got the producer, you’ve got the shipper, you’ve got the middleman, the retailer, and you’ve got the consumer. All of them may bear some of that. But it’s not certain to me at all, that that’s where we’re going to head. We could head to lower tariffs around the board […] The president’s been working very hard with China to make sure we get this thing addressed as quickly as possible.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senate Passes Peters, Ernst Bipartisan Resolution Designating May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters
    Published: 05.19.2025
    Resolution Promotes Safe Roadway Practices for Motorcyclists & Motorists

    WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. Senate passed a bipartisan resolution introduced by U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Joni Ernst (R-IA), co-chairs of the Senate Motorcycle Caucus, to designate May as “Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.” The resolution promotes safe practices for the millions of motorcycle riders across America. 
    “I’ve always said there’s no better way to get from point A to point B than on a motorcycle. But we must ensure that our roads are safe for both drivers and riders,” said Senator Peters. “With summer around the corner and more riders hitting the open road, I’m proud the Senate has once again passed this bipartisan resolution to promote best practices that will keep folks safe and informed.”
    “From delivering messages as a young girl to my dad while he was working out in the fields to riding through the rolling hills of Northeast Iowa with family and friends, some of my most cherished memories include motorcycles so I’m proud to designate May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month,” said Senator Ernst. “As the weather warms up and folks hit the road, I’m excited to share my love of riding while highlighting safety and rider education.”
    “Senators Peters and Ernst have long been champions of the motorcycle industry and we thank them for highlighting Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month by authoring this resolution,” said Scott Schloegel, Senior Vice President of the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, and the Motorcycle Industry Council. “As riders themselves, the Senators have surely encountered instances of car & truck drivers encroaching on motorcycles when changing lanes or vehicles turning in front of motorcyclists due to a lack of attention. May is a time when many riders are returning to the roads after the winter season and it is the perfect time to remind all road users to lookout for motorcycles as we share the roads.”

    According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 6,335 motorcyclists were killed in 2023, accounting for 15 percent of all traffic fatalities. This is the highest number of motorcyclist fatalities on record since the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) began data collection in 1975. Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month aims to address these safety concerns by promoting roadway education, safety training opportunities, and the use of proper gear for motorcycle operation. 
    The text of the resolution can be found here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: In 14-Page Letter, Warren Demands IRS Nominee Explain Record of Corruption and Fraud, Support for Tax Policies that Hurt Working Families

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    May 19, 2025
    Warren asks former Congressman Billy Long to commit to resisting Trump’s attempts to politicize agency
    “I am deeply concerned about your ability to lead an agency as critical as the IRS and ensure that the wealthy pay their fair share, hardworking Americans can file their taxes and claim refunds, and the agency protects taxpayer privacy and retains its independence and non-partisan integrity.”
    Text of Letter (PDF)
    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), a member of the Senate Finance Committee, wrote to Billy Long, nominee for Commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), with concerns over his record of supporting regressive tax policies, his acceptance of “campaign donations” from tax-dodging companies, his work promoting fraudulent tax credits, and more. Long will face senators, including Warren, at his hearing before the Senate Finance Committee on May 20, 2025. 
    Long served as a Missouri congressman from 2011 through 2023. His time in Congress ended after an unsuccessful campaign for the U.S. Senate in 2022. He was nominated by President Trump to lead the IRS in December 2024, despite his lack of tax policy experience, and his conflicts of interest. 
    Senator Warren concerns include: 
    Long’s potential politicization of the IRS, given President Trump’s promise to use the agency against his political opponents, including, most recently, Harvard University, after the university refused to cave to the Administration’s demands to change their hiring and other practices. Senator Warren asked Long to commit to preserving the agency’s independence and non-partisan stance. 
    “[T]he IRS is a non-political and non-partisan institution, created to meet the needs of the American public, not the political whims of the President…If confirmed, you will be responsible for maintaining that independence…However, I have serious doubts that you will do so,” said Senator Warren. 
    Long’s slim tax policy experience and record of supporting regressive tax policies. Long’s record in Congress includes supporting the abolition of the IRS itself, along with the Fair Tax Act, which would overhaul the entire tax system and replace it with a regressive, 30 percent sales tax. The bill would have also slashed taxes for the rich and increased taxes for lower and middle-income taxpayers.
    “As head of the IRS, you will play an integral role in writing and enforcing tax rules, directly affecting who pays their fair share…I am concerned that your lack of experience in a role directly related to administering the tax code, paired with your focus on cutting taxes for the wealthy as a U.S. Representative, make you a dangerous pick for this position,” wrote Senator Warren. 
    Long accepting donations from tax-dodging companies, posing major ethical concerns and calling into question his fitness for the role of IRS Commissioner. Following his nomination to lead the IRS, companies, including ones tied to an allegedly fraudulent tax credit scheme referred to the IRS for criminal investigation by Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Wyden, donated to Long’s failed 2022 Senate campaign. All of these companies donated to Long more than two years after he had lost the election, and the donations were enough to cover Long’s outstanding personal campaign debt of $130,000. In May 2025, Senator Warren demanded answers from these companies for these donations to Long. 
    “It is implausible to suggest that those were legitimate contributions to an ongoing campaign—one cannot run in the 2022 election more than two years later. Instead, these companies appear to be attempting to earn your indulgence and cash in on those contributions, if you are confirmed, in the form of favorable treatment and regulatory decision-making from the IRS,” said Senator Warren. 
    Long’s record of promoting the fraud-ridden Employee-Retention Tax Credit. After leaving Congress in 2023, Billy Long worked as a tax consultant, repeatedly pushing businesses to file for the ERTC, a refundable tax credit designed to support businesses that struggled as a result of COVID-19 pandemic. Long bragged about securing a $3 million faulty refund, and falsely claimed “everybody qualifies” for the credit. In January 2025, Senator Warren pressed Long to explain his involvement in this scheme.  
    “Given the widespread issues caused by ERTC mills and your role in their questionable practices, taxpayers deserve a better understanding of your work promoting these credits,” wrote Senator Warren. 
    Long’s promotion of fake “Tribal Tax Credits.” The Treasury Department and the IRS have confirmed that “tribal tax credits” do not exist. Long is affiliated with firms promoting selling these fake credits, which donated to Long’s failed Senate campaign. 
    Senator Warren asked Long to explain his role in the allegedly fraudulent tax scheme, and whether he would recuse himself from matters related to these fake tax credits. 
    Long’s potential continuation of cuts to the IRS’s Workforce. Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) have repeatedly targeted the IRS through mass firings at the agency. The firings have disproportionately targeted people working in collections, despite the IRS collecting 96 percent of federal revenue and the agency already being understaffed. 
    “This presents a serious problem that, if confirmed, you will have to address. A functional IRS is the backbone of a strong federal government,” said Senator Warren. 
    Senator Warren asked Long to be prepared to answer her questions at his hearing before the Senate Finance Committee on May 20, 2025. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warren, Baldwin, Lawmakers Challenge Trump to Close Carried Interest Loophole

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    May 19, 2025
    Democratic lawmakers agree with Trump goal to close loophole, press Trump to demand Congressional Republicans eliminate it in tax bill
    “You were an avid supporter of closing the carried interest loophole throughout your first campaign and during the first few months of your first administration…So, Mr. President, will you get it done?”
    Text of Letter (PDF)
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) led colleagues in sending a letter to President Donald Trump, challenging him to eliminate the carried interest loophole. Sens. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Bernie Sanders (D-Vt.) joined in signing the letter.
    “During your first campaign, you claimed that the carried interest loophole was ‘ridiculous’ and ‘unfair to American workers’ and that the individuals reaping the benefits from the loophole were ‘getting away with murder.’ We agree,” wrote the lawmakers. “We write to ask that you follow through on your promise to eliminate the carried interest loophole and demand that Congressional Republicans eliminate it in any tax bill they send to your desk.”
    When private equity managers oversee an investment fund, they receive a 20% share of the profits earned from the funds’ investments, called “carried interest.” This interest is not subject to the ordinary income tax rate of 37%, and is instead taxed at the 20% capital gains rate as long as the investments are held for at least three years. As a result, private equity fund managers who routinely make hundreds of millions of dollars are subject to a tax rate lower than that of an average blue-collar worker.
    “Despite the extraordinary profits that private equity funds are raking in each year, the carried interest loophole allows private equity managers to avoid paying their fair share of taxes, often paying tax rates that are lower than middle-class workers,” wrote the lawmakers.
    Although he was an avid supporter of closing the carried interest loophole during his first term, President  Trump failed to get it done. Now, he has another opportunity.
    “You have once again confirmed your desire to end the loophole, and we understand that last week you asked Speaker Johnson to close the carried interest loophole. Notably, the House Ways and Means Committee defied your wishes and chose to advance legislation that does not eliminate the carried interest loophole,” wrote the lawmakers. “So, Mr. President, will you get it done?”
    The massive loophole costs the federal government tens of billions of dollars in tax revenue, and the private equity industry regularly donates significant sums to politicians sympathetic to their cause in order to make sure the loophole remains open for their profit. The industry has donated almost $600 million to political campaigns over the last decade to maintain a loophole worth upwards of $63 billion over the next 10 years.
    “It is clear that the private equity industry has fought hard to retain these extraordinary tax giveaways. What is less clear is whether you will allow your party to deviate from your commitments, bow to industry demands, and fail to close the loophole for a second time,” the lawmakers wrote to President  Trump.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Capito, Barrasso Introduce Growing America’s Small Businesses and Manufacturing Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) recently introduced pro-growth legislation to boost investment in American manufacturing and help small businesses, farmers, and ranchers purchase the equipment and supplies they need to build their operations and support their employees.
    The Growing America’s Small Businesses and Manufacturing Act will reduce tax bills for business owners looking to purchase equipment—including machinery, farming equipment, energy infrastructure, building upgrades, commercial vehicles, mining equipment, and more. This will free up resources to go toward employee salaries, materials, and other critical business expenditures.
    “West Virginia’s manufacturers and small business owners are the backbone of our economy,” Senator Capito said. “The Growing America’s Small Businesses and Manufacturing Act will give them the tools they need to compete, grow, and hire. By allowing greater investment in equipment and operations, this bill strengthens our global competitiveness and supports the hardworking Americans driving innovation and economic growth across the country.”
    “Wyoming’s small businesses are what keeps our economy going strong. We want to make sure they have every opportunity to succeed,” Senator Barrasso said. “Right now, they face an uphill battle with high prices and a mountain of new regulations. The Growing America’s Small Businesses and Manufacturing Act will go a long way in helping Wyoming’s farmers, ranchers and small businesses expand their operations, better compete and hire more workers.” 
    “Manufacturers are driving the economy by investing in job-creating projects and cutting-edge equipment and machinery. The Growing America’s Small Businesses and Manufacturing Act would incentivize and support these important investments by reducing the cost of capital equipment purchases and the debt financing that makes them possible. Manufacturers commend Sens. Barrasso and Capito for their leadership in introducing this bill, and we encourage Congress to include these policies in comprehensive legislation that preserves and extends pro-manufacturing tax provisions from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act,” Charles Crain, Managing Vice President of Policy, National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), said.
    “Doubling the small business expensing threshold (Section 179) will be a huge win for small employers. This will allow small businesses to make significant capital investments which will help to grow the Main Street economy. NFIB applauds Senators Barrasso and Capito for introducing this important legislation,” Jeff Brabant, Vice President, Federal Government Relations, National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), said.
    “America’s economic security relies on a strong manufacturing sector and small business growth. The “Restore American Investment Now” (RAIN) Coalition applauds Senators John Barrasso (R-WY) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) for introducing the Growing America’s Small Businesses and Manufacturing Act, which restores the EBITDA standard for business interest deductibility. Restoring the EBITDA standard will help businesses to invest, grow, and create jobs. We thank the Senators championing this pro-growth legislation to strengthen American manufacturing, support small business expansion, and create more opportunity for American workers,” Michael O’Rielly, Spokesman, RAIN Coalition, said.
    “Tax policy plays a critical role in the restaurant industry’s success. Pro-growth policies ensure that restaurant owners can continue investing in their businesses – upgrading equipment, expanding dining rooms, and creating jobs. With economic uncertainty beginning to slow spending, restoration of the critical interest expense deductions and small-business expensing are top priorities for our members. We appreciate Sens. Barrasso and Capito’s continued support of restaurant operators and small business owners and hope that Congress will include these important policies in any tax package they pass this year,” Sean Kennedy, Executive Vice President, National Restaurant Association, said.
    BACKGROUND:
    The Growing America’s Small Businesses and Manufacturing Act delivers two pro-growth tax proposals that will boost investment in capital-intensive industries like manufacturing, energy production, and agriculture.
    Expanded Business Interest Deduction:
    The bill revises the limitation from 30% of a business’s Earnings Before Interest and Taxes (EBIT), back to 30% of Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, Amortization, and depletion (EBITDA).
    This protects businesses from being punished for investments in machinery, capital equipment, mining, drilling, and research and development (R&D).
    Enhanced Small Business Expensing:
    The second provision expands Section 179, which allows taxpayers to deduct the cost of certain business assets in the year they are purchased rather than depreciating them over time.
    Under the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, the maximum deduction amount was increased to $1 million from $500,000, helping small businesses acquire the equipment needed to expand operations.
    The bill builds on this success by lifting the deduction cap to $2.5 million, accelerating small businesses’ access to capital.
    The provision covers a wide range of eligible expenses, including machinery, mining tools, farming implements, energy production equipment, commercial vehicles, building upgrades, and other critical investments.
    Full text of the legislation can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: In New Video, Sen. Warren, Constituent Reunite to Underscore How Republicans’ Massive Health Care Cuts Will Hurt Families

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    May 19, 2025

    Liam Barry, constituent: “I can’t believe I’m reading this letter 8 years later, still fighting for my mom to have health care. Cutting Medicaid will affect millions of American families just like mine, Republican and Democrat alike.” 

    Warren: “[T]his is a righteous fight. Back in 2017, we stopped them from ending health care for millions of people, we can do it again.”

    Watch on YouTube

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) released a new video underscoring how  Congressional Republicans’ plans for massive cuts to Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act will hurt families. The video, featuring a teenage constituent from Worthington, MA, tells the story of how his family will be harmed by the proposed cuts, and draws a connection between Republicans’ assault on health care in 2017 and today.

    In 2017, Senator Warren read her then-10-year-old constituent’s letter to President Trump on the Senate floor. In the letter, Liam Barry explained that his family relies on protections in the Affordable Care Act for coverage due to his mother’s illness, and asked Trump not to cut their care. In the newly-released video, entitled “Liam’s Letter to President Trump on Medicaid: 8 Years Later,” a now 18-year-old Liam reads a new version of his letter, and Senator Warren shares her thoughts on today’s fight.

    “I can’t believe I’m reading this letter eight years later, still fighting for my mom to have health care. Cutting Medicaid will affect millions of American families just like mine, Republican and Democrat alike,” said Liam Barry. 

    “I talk a lot about righteous fights — this is a righteous fight. Back in 2017, we stopped [Donald Trump and Republicans in Congress] from ending health care for millions of people. We can do it again,” said Senator Warren.

    Transcript: Liam’s Letter to President Trump on Medicaid: 8 Years Later
    YouTube
    May 19, 2025

    Liam Barry (2017): Dear President Trump

    Liam Barry (2025): and Republicans in Congress. 

    Liam Barry (2017): My name is Liam Barry

    Liam Barry (2025): and I am 18 years old. 8 years ago, my Senator, Elizabeth Warren, read a letter I wrote to you about my mom on the Senate floor.

    Senator Warren (2017): I don’t know if President Trump ever read that letter, but I’m going to read it right now into the congressional record: “Dear President Trump, my name is Liam Barry, and I am 10 years old.”

    Liam Barry (2017): My mother has been very ill. 

    Liam Barry (2025): My mother is still very ill. Thanks to Medicaid, my mom gets the care she needs and the medication she needs. If you cut Medicaid,

    Liam Barry (2017): My mother will not be able to get the care she needs. 

    Liam Barry (2025): I can’t believe I’m reading this letter eight years later, still fighting for my mom to have health care. Cutting Medicaid will affect millions of American families just like mine, Republican and Democrat alike.

    Liam Barry (2017): I know there are millions of kids in the same situation as me, so please think of them when you read this. Sincerely, Liam Barry. 

    Senator Warren (2017): Mr. President, I get letters and emails everyday from families begging me not to let Republicans in Congress tear up health care in this country. 

    Senator Warren (2025): I’m still getting letters from people who are terrified that Donald Trump and the Republicans are going to tear away their health care. I talk a lot about righteous fights — this is a righteous fight. Back in 2017, we stopped them from ending health care for millions of people. We can do it again. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: King Cosponsors Bipartisan Legislation to Avoid Drug Shortages, Improve Health Emergency Response

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Angus King

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME) is joining bipartisan legislation to ensure the United States is well positioned to mitigate potential prescription drug shortages and respond to future health emergencies. More specifically, the Mapping America’s Pharmaceutical Supply (MAPS) Act would improve federal coordination and visibility for essential medicine supply chains by proactively identifying and addressing supply chain shortfalls or weaknesses.

    The bipartisan MAPS Act would direct the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), in coordination with relevant agencies and the private sector, to regularly update, maintain, and publish a list of essential medicines. Using the Essential Medicines List, the federal government would be required to conduct a comprehensive risk assessment of these supply chains to assess the key ingredients needed to manufacture essential medicines, overreliance on high-risk foreign sources, sole-sourced products, current domestic manufacturing capabilities, cybersecurity threats, and any other gaps that may reduce the federal government’s ability to identify health and national security risks related to our essential medicine supply chains.

    “As we work to protect our communities from a future public health emergency, researching and understanding the prescription drug supply chain is a simple way to help Americans stay healthy and safe – since access to medication is such a critical component to modern care,” said Senator King. “The bipartisan Mapping America’s Pharmaceutical Supply (MAPS) Act would help prevent prescription drug shortages, ensure that our country is reducing its dependence on foreign adversaries for essential medicines, while also protecting the American public from the effects of a future pandemic. I am grateful to my colleagues in both parties for putting the safety and health of the American people first.”

    In addition, HHS, through public-private partnerships, would be required to map all essential medicine supply chains – from the key ingredients needed to manufacture drug products to their distribution in hospitals and pharmacies – creating end-to-end visibility in these supply chains. The bill would also require the Department of Defense (DoD) to submit reports to Congress on drug products that rely on China for critical inputs and finished dose forms.

    The bill is supported by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP), American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), Angels for Change, the Michigan Health & Hospital Association, United States Pharmacopeia, and CivicaRx. Below are statements in support of the bill.  

    “ASHP strongly supports the MAPS Act. By requiring the Department of Health and Human services to coordinate with other agencies and the private sector to map the pharmaceutical supply chain, threats to the U.S. pharmaceutical supply chain can be identified and addressed before they place patients at risk,” said Tom Kraus, Vice President of ASHP Government Relations. 

    “ASCO applauds the introduction of the MAPS Act, which would provide needed tools to gain better visibility into the supply of critical prescription drugs in the United States,” said Eric P. Winer, MD, FASCO, Board Chair of the Association for Clinical Oncology. “We support efforts to recognize potential drug shortages earlier and to relay information to stakeholders to help them prepare for and mitigate possible supply challenges. The bipartisan work of Senators Peters, Ernst, Cotton, Kaine, Lankford and King, on this important legislation, advances these efforts.” 

    “Angels for Change proudly supports the MAPS Act—a vital step toward ending drug shortages and protecting patients,” said Laura Bray, Founder and Chief Change Maker of Angels for Change. “This bipartisan legislation will strengthen transparency and coordination across the entire drug supply chain, helping to detect and prevent disruptions before they impact care. Building the reliable supply chain patients deserve will require collaboration across government and industry. We applaud Senators Peters, Lankford, Ernst, Cotton, Kaine, King, and Scott for their leadership in prioritizing the safeguarding of Essential Medicines that will benefit all US patients.” 

    Joining King on this legislation are Senators Gary Peters (D-MI), James Lankford (R-OK), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Tim Kaine (D-VA), and Rick Scott (R-FL).

    Senator King has consistently worked to increase transparency of prescriptions drugs. Earlier this year, he introduced bipartisan legislation to modernize and streamline drug testing protocols for better patient outcomes. Last year, he also introduced bicameral legislation to prohibit direct-to-consumer drug advertising of pharmaceutical drugs in the first three years after the drug receives Federal Drug Administration (FDA) approval. Additionally, Senator King has introduced legislation to prohibit pharmaceutical drug manufacturers from claiming tax deductions for consumer advertising expenses.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hawley Demands Insurance Companies ‘Make Policyholders Whole’ in Wake of Devastating Missouri Storms

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo)
    Today, U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) sent a letter to the presidents and CEOs of State Farm, Nationwide, Liberty Mutual, Travelers, Allstate, and American Family Insurance among others in the wake of the devastating storms that hit Eastern Missouri on Friday. Senator Hawley called onthe companies to uphold their end of the insurance contract as policyholders work to rebuild. 
    “Your policyholders have paid you faithfully, often for years. Now is the time for you to honor the faith your customers placed in you. As Missourians work to rebuild and recover from these devastating storms, you must provide immediate and comprehensive assistance to my constituents as they navigate the claims process,”the Senator wrote. “It is my full expectation that you will honor your commitments, fully pay claimants, and do your part to help rebuild communities across Missouri.” 
    The storms come just days after Senator Hawley’s subcommittee hearing that exposed industry-wide corruption in the insurance industry that rips off those who have paid into insurance policies. The Senator has also launched a bipartisan investigation into the practice of subjecting policyholders to delays and underpayments.
    Read the full letter to the State Farm CEO here or below. 
    May 17, 2025Mr. Jon FarneyPresident and Chief Executive OfficerState Farm Mutual Dear Mr. Farney: On Friday, May 16, a series of severe storms swept across Eastern Missouri. As of Saturday morning, approximately 5,000 buildings were damaged and nearly 80,000 Missourians were without power. There have been seven confirmed fatalities. The scale of the damage is devastating. Records indicate that you currently provide significant property and casualty insurance coverage across Missouri. Victims of these severe storms will soon be seeking assistance. During this time of crisis for Missouri, I fully expect that your company will make policyholders whole. As you may be aware, as Chair of the Senate Subcommittee on Disaster Management, I have launched a bipartisan investigation into major insurance companies’ claims practices. Last week, the Subcommittee held a hearing that established an industry-wide practice of subjecting policyholders to substantial delay and underpayment. Even more alarming, the hearing revealed a practice whereby key findings in adjustment reports are altered or deleted by reviewers who have never seen the property to drive payouts to policyholders down. My investigation has revealed a pattern of this activity across the country and across disaster events. That is unacceptable and must change. Your policyholders have paid you faithfully, often for years. Now is the time for you to honor the faith your customers placed in you. As Missourians work to rebuild and recover from these devastating storms, you must provide immediate and comprehensive assistance to my constituents as they navigate the claims process. It is my full expectation that you will honor your commitments, fully pay claimants, and do your part to help rebuild communities across Missouri.
    Sincerely, Josh HawleyUnited States SenatorChairSubcommittee on Disaster Management

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Collins Delivers Remarks at Rumford Fire Station Dedication and Open House

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins

    Click HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE, and HERE for individual photos
    Rumford, ME – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins delivered remarks at a dedication and open house at the new Rumford fire station. The new station is dedicated to Peter Chase, a former Deputy Fire Chief and Town of Rumford Selectman who passed away in 2022. Members of the Chase family, including his wife Rhonda and his son, Auburn Fire Department Chief Bob Chase, were in attendance for the ceremony, which was held on the same day as Deputy Chief Chase’s birthday.
    “This is a celebration of more than a modern facility for firefighters. As we dedicate this building to Peter Chase, we honor an inspiring life of service,” said Senator Collins during her remarks. “From Deputy Fire Chief, to Selectman, to his work on several town and county commissions, Peter devoted himself to his community. This is a wonderfully touching way to mark what would have been Peter’s 72nd birthday.”
    “Rhonda, Bob, and all members of his wonderful family, please know that this new fire station is a fitting memorial to a remarkable example of the spirit of Maine,” she continued. “Bob, let me congratulate you for carrying on your father’s legacy in Auburn and for your recognition as Maine’s Fire Chief of the Year for 2024. That spirit lives on in the firefighters who selflessly put their lives on the line to protect our families, our homes, and our businesses.”
    After touring the old station—which was constructed in 1923—in May of 2022, Senator Collins secured $1 million in Congressionally Directed Spending to support the construction of the new station in the Fiscal Year 2022 omnibus appropriations package. The new station includes two additional bays and additional clearance for trucks, as well as a decontamination area, and sleeping space for the firefighters.
    Senator Collins has long been an advocate for Maine’s firefighters and first responders. Through her role on the Senate Appropriations Committee, she secured more than $31 million in Congressionally Directed Spending through the Fiscal Year 2024 appropriations process for projects across the state that will support local law enforcement, fire and rescue stations, and emergency response services.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hawley Statement on Devastating Storms Affecting Eastern Missouri

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo)

    Friday, May 16, 2025

    This evening, U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) released the following statement in wake of devastating storms and tornadoes affecting eastern Missouri. Local state authorities have confirmed multiple fatalities and casualties following the severe storms. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Johnson Joins Sen. Cotton in Introducing Bipartisan Bill to Protect Military Installations from Unauthorized Drones

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Ron Johnson

    WASHINGTON – Yesterday, U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) joined U.S. Sen. Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) in introducing the Comprehensive Operations for Unmanned-System Neutralization and Threat Elimination Response (COUNTER) Act. The bipartisan legislation will help enhance airspace security at military installations.

    Sens. Johnson and Cotton were joined by U.S. Senators Jim Banks (R-Ind.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W. Va.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Jim Justice (R-W. Va.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), and Todd Young (R-Ind.).

    U.S. Reps. Chrissy Houlahan (D-Penn.) and August Pfluger (R-Texas) are introducing companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.

    Full text of the letter can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray Slams Trump Administration for Ripping $48 Million Tech Hub Grant from Spokane

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    ICYMI FROM JAN 14, 2025: Spokane Aerospace Materials Manufacturing Center Tech Hub Launches With $48 Million Federal Grant – MORE HERE

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, issued the following statement in response to the Trump administration effectively rescinding a $48 million grant from the Tech Hubs Program for the American Aerospace Materials Manufacturing Center (AAMMC) in Spokane.

    “Let’s be clear: Donald Trump and his know-nothing Commerce Secretary are wrongfully ripping away federal dollars owed to Spokane—what is happening is unprecedented and nothing short of an outrage. This would have never happened under nearly any other administration—yet now we are all faced with a pointless and costly setback for Spokane’s economy and future.

    “Our constituents are losing $48 million for no other reason than Donald Trump’s absurd political games. Every single one of us should speak out—and the Trump administration should immediately reverse course. As Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I will certainly do everything within my power to fight for Spokane and I do not plan to give this administration any cover for this outrageous decision.” 

    Senator Murray helped secure the funding for the Tech Hubs grant and celebrated the award at the start of this year.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Klobuchar, Smith Visit Command Center in Northeastern Minnesota and Survey Wildfire Damage ?

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn)
    TWO HARBORS, MINN. – Governor Tim Walz, and U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN) visited the Incident Command Center in Two Harbors, Minnesota to receive a briefing from officials battling the wildfires and to survey fire damage.
    “We heard directly about the incredible emergency response effort that is underway to contain these wildfires that spread so quickly.  I’m grateful to the firefighters, National Guard, Forest Service and local officials who are working tirelessly to fight these fires and keep people safe, ” said Sen. Amy Klobuchar. “I stand ready to support all efforts to make sure emergency responders  receive the resources they need to do their work so affected areas can start to rebuild.”
    “My heart is with the Minnesotans who have been forced to evacuate their homes and the communities facing these devastating wildfires. I’m grateful to the firefighters, emergency personnel, Minnesota National Guard, U.S. Forest Service, DNR, and local volunteers who are putting themselves on the line to protect lives and land,” said Sen. Tina Smith. “Being here today allowed us to speak directly with those coordinating the response so we can ensure they have the support and resources they need. In the face of loss and uncertainty, Minnesotans always show up for one another, and I know we’ll get through this together.”
    Walz, Klobuchar, and Smith were briefed on the Brimson Complex (made up of the Camp House and Jenkins Creek fires) and the Munger Shaw fires by Incident Commander Brian Jenkins with the Eastern Area Incident Management Team and other emergency response leaders and local officials. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hagerty, Gillibrand Statement on GENIUS Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Tennessee Bill Hagerty
    NASHVILLE, TN—Today, Sens. Bill Hagerty (R-TN) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) released the following statements on the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for U.S. Stablecoins (GENIUS) Act, a historic piece of legislation that establishes a clear regulatory framework for payment stablecoins.
    “Next week, the Senate will make history when we debate and pass the GENIUS Act that establishes the first ever pro-growth regulatory framework for payment stablecoins,” said Senator Hagerty. “This bill will cement US dollar dominance, protect customers, increase demand for US treasuries, and ensure that innovation in the digital asset space is in the hands of the United States of America, not our adversaries.”
    “Stablecoins are already playing an important role in the global economy, and it is essential that the U.S. enact legislation that protects consumers, while also enabling responsible innovations,” said Senator Gillibrand. “The bipartisan GENIUS Act will provide regulatory clarity to this important industry, keep innovation on shore, add robust consumer protection, and reaffirm the dominance of the U.S. dollar. The crafting of this bill has been a true bipartisan effort and I’m optimistic we can pass it in the coming days.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: PHOTOS: Amid Federal Funding Cuts & Uncertainty, Senator Peters Visits MSU Biomedical Research Institute to Highlight Importance of Federal Support for Solving Today’s Pressing Healthcare Challenges

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters
    EAST LANSING, MI – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) visited Michigan State University (MSU) to tour the Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering (IQ) and highlight the importance of federal funding for solving the most pressing challenges in healthcare. During the tour, MSU faculty and students demonstrated the innovative research and technologies made possible by grants from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and National Science Foundation (NSF), including cancer-sniffing insects, cardiac organoid models and wearable monitoring systems.  
    Peters was joined by Dr. Christopher Contag, Director of the Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, and Dr. Jinxing Li, Assistant Professor of the Department of Biomedical Engineering. During a press conference following the tour, Peters underscored the challenges that research institutions like MSU currently face amid federal funding cuts and uncertainty, which are impacting IQ’s ability to continue developing cutting-edge research that keeps Michiganders safe and healthy.  
    “As we saw firsthand today, the students and faculty at Michigan State University are developing cutting-edge health care solutions that will transform the way we can care for our patients and keep Michiganders healthy. However, recent executive orders made by the current administration have either stalled or completely terminated the federal funding that research institutions like MSU rely on to carry out this important work,” said Senator Peters. “These cuts are a big mistake. That’s why I made it a priority to come to MSU today to highlight how federal investments in research and innovation are effective and invaluable to our society.” 
    “At IQ, our biomedical research drives bold innovation — from “first-ever discovery” to “first-in-human” application. We’re not just focused on uncovering new biology, technologies, and therapeutic approaches; we’re committed to translating these breakthroughs into real-world impact,” said Dr. Christopher Contag. “I’d like to thank Senator Peters for coming here today to learn more about our mission, which is to lead at the frontier of discovery and be the first to bring those innovations to patients. With vital support from federal funding, we turn transformative ideas into solutions that can improve and save lives.”  
    “Earlier this year, I was thrilled to learn from a representative of Senator Peters’ office that my research project was set to receive funding from the National Institutes of Health,” said Dr. Jinxing Li. “However, the project has been delayed and is awaiting final funding authorization. Without a reliable funding timeline, we were unable to begin planning or recruiting the talented scientists needed to carry out this critical work. This experience underscores how timely and consistent federal support is essential to sustaining innovation, and we are grateful to Senator Peters for his continued advocacy for science, innovation, and the future of healthcare.”
    To download photos from Peters’ event at MSU, click here.
    MSU’s Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering (IQ) integrates a variety of researchers across scientistic disciplines to solves some of today’s most pressing issues in healthcare including cancer research, studying heart defects, and delivering therapies to treat muscular disfunction, all of which are supported by NIH and NSF grant funding. Peters, a graduate of MSU, has remained committed to the continued renewal of these grants and ensuring researchers at MSU and across Michigan have access to this funding. As a member of the Appropriations Committee, Peters secured over $50 billion in the government funding bill that was signed into law last year for the NIH to support biomedical research and support institutions like the IQ Lab.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SCHUMER – WITH HUDSON VALLEY RELIGIOUS LEADERS, FARMERS AND FOOD BANKS- SAYS GOP JUST VOTED TO RIP AWAY NEARLY $300 BILLION FROM AMERICA’S LARGEST ANTI-HUNGER PROGRAM, AND THAT COULD LEAD TO THOUSANDS…

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Charles E Schumer
    Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York Serves 170,000 In Hudson Valley Every Month And Already Nearly 1 Million Pounds Of Food Has Been Canceled Due To Trump’s Cruel USDA Cuts – And This Week The GOP Voted To Take ~$300 Billion From SNAP To Fund Trump’s Tax Breaks For Corporations & Billionaires, Which Will Lead To Families With Kids As Young As 7 Getting Kicked Off The Program
    Schumer, With Church Leaders & Advocates, Say Double Whammy Will Hurtle Hudson Valley To A Hunger Crisis, Impacting 200,000+ In Orange, Rockland, Westchester And Across Region, Millions Nationwide; Senator With Those On Frontline Of Getting Food To The Needy Demands GOP Block Cruel Cut To SNAP And Protect Anti-Hunger Programs
    Schumer: No Child Should Go To Bed Hungry. This Is Not A Partisan Issue; This Is A Moral Issue
    After House Republicans voted for the largest cut to the anti-hunger program SNAP in American history, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer stood with Hudson Valley religious leaders, food banks, and farmers to demand action against the devastating $300 billion SNAP to fund Trump’s tax cuts for corporations & billionaires, that would leave thousands of seniors, families, and children hungry. The senator joined with church leaders and hunger advocates to emphasize how this is a moral issue that we should all unite to stop, and demanded that NY House Republicans stand against stealing from SNAP, which over 200,000 in the Hudson Valley rely on for food.
    “No child should ever go to bed hungry. But Trump’s slashing of anti-hunger programs at the USDA has already cancelled nearly a million pounds of food for the Hudson Valley Food Bank in Montgomery and Feeding Westchester. Now, House Republicans are trying to make the largest cut to SNAP in history which could hurtle Hudson Valley families to a hunger crisis,” said Senator Schumer. “Stealing from SNAP to pay for Trump’s tax breaks for corporations & billionaires is as backwards as it gets, and will result in thousands of kids, seniors, and families going hungry. Instead of feeding the hungry, they are feeding corporate greed.”
    Schumer added, “This is not a partisan issue, it is a moral issue. That is why I am here to show what these cuts mean for our local churches and food banks on the frontlines of fighting against hunger. It only takes a few NY House Republicans to join us to stop this cruel cut to SNAP. We need NY Republicans to protect these programs and block this bill, otherwise it will be families here in the Hudson Valley that go hungry.”
    Schumer explained how Trump’s USDA has already cruelly canceled $1 billion in food assistance, hurting the Regional Food Bank of the Hudson Valley, and if these SNAP cuts move forward it would be a double whammy, hurtling us to a hunger crisis. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a lifeline for nearly 3 million NY seniors, veterans and families who rely on the critical funding to purchase groceries. Schumer said that we should be investing more not less in anti-hunger programs, but under the Republican proposal, the average family would be reduced to just $5.00 per day per person. A breakdown of SNAP recipients in the Hudson Valley from the Center for American Progress can be found below:

    County

    SNAP Recipients

    % of County on SNAP

    SNAP Retailers

    Dutchess

    4,559

    6%

    168

    Orange

    40,035

    9.8%

    273

    Putnam

    3,487

    2.5%

    33

    Rockland

    43,843

    12.9%

    159

    Sullivan

    13,347

    16.7%

    121

    Ulster

    18,039

    9.9%

    154

    Westchester

    77,237

    7.8%

    567

    TOTAL

    200,547

     

    1,475

    Earlier this week, House Republicans advanced a bill that would rip $300 billion away from SNAP. This proposal would impact Hudson Valley residents in many ways, including the addition of a work requirement which would raise the age to access SNAP benefits from age 55 to age 64 and only exempt SNAP recipients from work requirements if they have someone younger than 7 years old in their household, down from the current exemption for all families with children under 18 years old.
    Schumer said, “I’m all for reducing any waste or fraud to make the program more efficient, but rushing to pass these massive damaging cuts with no plan while they slash our food banks is a recipe for disaster. Republicans a tying themselves in knots trying to justify these massive cuts. I ask my Republican friends this: which category does a hungry 7 year old fall under: are they waste? Are they fraud? Or are they abuse?”
    Schumer explained the Republican proposal to cut $300 billion from SNAP would inevitably mean costs of feeding families shift to states, who simply do not have the capacity to absorb this massive increase in expenses, risking families going hungry. Under this Republican proposal, states would be required to pay 5 – 25% of their state’s SNAP benefits based on the state’s error rate. According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities (CBPP), mandating New York State to cover even a modest share of SNAP benefits would shift astronomical costs to the state, with even just 5% increasing New York State’s costs by nearly $3.5 billion from FY2026 to FY2034. The senator said it is impossible to cut this much from federal SNAP funding without ripping food away from hungry children, seniors, veterans, people with disabilities, and more.
    These agonizing decisions would be amplified even further at the local level, with non-profits, many of whom have already had their funding cut, unable to fill in the gap. Counties could even be forced to shoulder the burden of increased costs in SNAP, using more local dollars to provide coverage because less federal funding will be coming in. During recessions or economic downturns, these impacts will be even more acute, as more people apply for benefits and state revenue declines, more children, seniors, veterans, people with disabilities, and more will be turned away from this vital program due to insufficient federal funding.
    According to CBPP, 13,000 people in NY-18 reside in households with adults ages 18-64 with school-age children and are at risk of losing some SNAP benefits under this Republican proposal. 8,000 people in NY-17 reside in households with adults ages 18-64 with school-age children and are at risk of losing some SNAP benefits if the current proposal becomes law, according to CBPP.
    The proposed SNAP cuts would be a blow to Hudson Valley food banks which have already been hit hard by Trump’s funding freezes and canceled payments. Earlier this year, the USDA canceled $1 billion in food assistance for organizations to purchase locally grown food. USDA programs provide food banks, schools, and other organizations with federal support to purchase local food products from NY farms.
    Trump’s USDA cuts have already hit the Hudson Valley hard. According to the Albany Times Union, the Regional Food Bank of the Hudson Valley said it will deliver 2 million fewer meals to people in need. The Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York, which covers 23 counties including the Hudson Valley, has already had 27 tractor-trailers of food canceled, which is nearly 1 million pounds meant to feed Capital Region families. That’s nearly 800,000 meals, and the food bank expects to lose over 200 tractor-trailers over the next year. According to the Journal News, the food bank’s Hudson Valley branch in Montgomery serves approximately 170,000 people every month across the Hudson Valley counties it serves. Due to a predicted drop in food through USDA programs, the food bank expects to distribute 2 million fewer meals. In addition, this past week, it was reported by News12 that Feeding Westchester has had a million pounds of food shipments canceled due to existing federal cuts. These cuts are exacerbating food insecurity and forcing food banks to rely on donations instead of a steady supply of resources from area producers.
    Schumer said these proposed cuts will limit food banks’ ability to keep shelves stocked as more people have been forced to rely on food banks to feed their families. Food bank workers and religious leaders across Upstate New York are concerned about the impact of potential cuts to SNAP on the people they serve, and farmers are worried there will be nowhere to sell their food if SNAP funding levels drop.
    “No matter which way you slice it, this Congressional Republican plan will screw Hudson Valley families, food banks and farmers from farm to table. We need everyone to stand up to these cuts that would take away food from our neighbors in need,” added Schumer.
    “My thanks to Senator Schumer for highlighting this critical issue. Cutting funding to food assistance programs as New York–and many other states–face an affordability crisis is truly odious public policy. These cuts would be particularly painful after funding for schools and food banks has already been brutally slashed. Those funding shortfalls affect not only school children and families in need, but the New York farmers and producers who supply food through federal programs. These cuts–and those pending–threaten the livelihood and safety of many New Yorkers, and I’m horrified that this administration has deemed funding corporate giveaways more important than feeding hungry Americans,” said New York State Senator James Skoufis.
    “To date, we’ve lost 1 million pounds due to USDA cuts – the equivalent of 750,000 meals – with an expected 6 million more slated to be cut by the end of 2025,” said Felicia Kalan, the Regional Food Bank’s Executive Vice President, Hudson Valley. “With neighbors already facing difficult decisions between paying for housing, medical care, or food, further cuts could devastate families, children, and seniors served by the Regional Food Bank’s network of partner agencies and programs. The meal gap is growing across the country, and all across New York, and the Regional Food Bank is fully committed to addressing this challenge.”
    “SNAP is our nation’s most powerful tool in the fight against hunger,” said Karen C. Erren, President & CEO of Feeding Westchester. “For every meal the Feeding America network of 200 food banks provides, SNAP delivers nine. With grocery prices already out of reach for too many of our neighbors and the rising cost of food and health care, now is not the time to scale back essential programs. Cuts to SNAP would be devastating for the millions of families, seniors, veterans, and children who rely on this vital support to make ends meet. Neighbors in our community are doing everything in their power to put food on the table – but they need a strong foundation to succeed. Access to food and health care is that foundation. Now is the time to come together to preserve and strengthen SNAP.”
    “As Mayor of the City of Newburgh, I cannot stand by while Republicans in Washington play politics with fundamental human needs. The House’s proposal to slash $300 billion in SNAP benefits – and President Trump’s relentless assault on the social safety net – are not just policy choices; they are moral failures. These devastating cuts to SNAP would rip food from the mouths of children, seniors, and working families in Newburgh, all to bankroll tax breaks for the wealthy. These unconscionable cuts will deepen inequality when we should be building a nation where no one is forced to choose between rent and their next meal,” said Newburgh Mayor Torrance Harvey.
    Proposed rollbacks to the country’s most widely utilized nutrition assistance program would strain budgets for Hudson Valley families. Schumer said decimating funding for SNAP right as costs at grocery stores across the country are skyrocketing will hit the Hudson Valley hard. According to the New York State Community Action Association, 12% of people in Orange County live in poverty, including more than 18% of children. According to No Kid Hungry, over half of New Yorkers reported going into debt in the past year due to rising food costs, with over 60% of families with children. Tariffs
    SNAP not only supplements families’ food budgets, it has also generated great economic benefits for New York State and NY-18 specifically. According to the National Grocers Association, grocery stores across New York State sold over $2.1 billion in groceries to people using SNAP benefits, including $99.7 million in NY-18. This created more than 18,500 New York jobs in the grocery industry, including 890 in NY-18, and generated more than $820.8 million in grocery industry wages, including $39.4 million in NY-18.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen Leads Colleagues in Demanding Trump Lifts Hold on High-Speed Internet Funding for Nevada

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) led 11 of her colleagues in a letter demanding that the Trump Administration release funding for states under the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program. This program connects families in the hardest-to-serve communities to high-speed internet and works to close the digital divide. Senator Rosen helped create the BEAD program, as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and she secured $416 million for Nevada. The state has been approved to receive the funding since January 2025, but the Trump Administration’s pause on this critical program is indefinitely delaying Nevada’s ability to connect Nevadans to high-speed internet.
    The letter was signed by Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Mark Warner (D-VA), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Gary Peters (D-MI), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), and Angus King (I-ME).
    “We write with concern regarding the National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s (NTIA) recent announcement that it is delaying the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program,” wrote the Senators. “This unprecedented move by the NTIA will further delay our communities from having the connectivity they need to grow and thrive. To unlock the full strength of the U.S. economy, every community must have access to the vast opportunities enabled by broadband, and this can be achieved by your Administration following the law as outlined in the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (P.L. 117-58).”
    “Currently, there are multiple states ready for broadband providers to put shovels in the ground tomorrow,” they continued. “NTIA must act swiftly to release BEAD funding to states that have already been approved and expeditiously work to approve the remaining eligible applications. Time is of the essence, and our rural and tribal communities cannot afford more delays.”
    The full letter can be found HERE.
    Senator Rosen has been a strong advocate for expanding high-speed internet access in Nevada. Through her efforts, she has secured $550 million in federal funding through various programs and legislation for the High Speed Nevada Initiative, including the Middle Mile Infrastructure Grant Program she created. Senator Rosen helped write the broadband section of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, securing $65 billion in overall investments to make high-speed internet affordable for Americans. She also successfully pushed the Federal Communications Commission to update its deeply flawed National Broadband Map and ensure Nevada receives its fair share of BEAD funding.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla, Blumenthal Demand Transparency From Avelo Airlines About Deportation Flights

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    Padilla, Blumenthal Demand Transparency From Avelo Airlines About Deportation Flights

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Immigration Subcommittee, and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) raised serious concerns to Avelo Airlines CEO Andrew Levy about the airline’s contract with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to fly domestic and international deportation flights, even as the Trump Administration is unlawfully removing immigrants without due process.

    “Given the Trump Administration’s mission to indiscriminately deport our nation’s immigrants — without due process, in violation of the Constitution and federal immigration law, and, in some cases, in defiance of court orders — it is deeply disturbing that Avelo has determined that its partnership with ICE is ‘too valuable not to pursue,’” wrote the Senators.

    “The Trump Administration has used airline contractors to carry out hasty deportations without judicial review,” continued the Senators. “President Trump has even suggested deporting U.S. citizens convicted of certain unspecified crimes to be imprisoned abroad — a suggestion that is blatantly unconstitutional. By partnering with ICE, Avelo risks being complicit with the Administration’s illegal actions.”

    Avelo Airlines entered into a long-term contract with ICE on April 7 and flew its first deportation flight for ICE on May 12, despite the Trump Administration’s reckless deportations and repeated ignoring of due process. The Senators specifically criticized the Administration’s deportations of Venezuelan immigrants to El Salvador, refusing to return people to the United States despite a federal judge’s orders. They cited the erroneous deportation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a father who was living legally in Maryland with his family until the Trump Administration wrongfully deported him without due process to a maximum-security prison in El Salvador.

    Senator Padilla is a leading voice in Congress opposing President Trump’s mass deportation agenda and anti-immigrant actions and rhetoric. Earlier this week, he joined immigration advocates and his House colleagues to speak out against the extreme anti-immigrant provisions in Republicans’ reconciliation bill and to call on Congressional Republicans to reject harmful policies targeting immigrant communities. Last month, Padilla, Senator Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Representative Jamie Raskin (D-Md.-08), and Representative Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.-07) issued a joint statement condemning the Supreme Court’s decision to lift a hold on removals under the Alien Enemies Act of 1798, and he joined 14 lawmakers in condemning President Trump’s unlawful invocation of the antiquated law.

    Senator Padilla has strongly pushed back against wrongful deportations to El Salvador. Last month, he joined 24 Senators in urging Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and ICE leadership to return Kilmar Abrego Garcia. Padilla also joined Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) and Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.) to meet with Abrego Garcia’s family and wife, Jennifer Vasquez Sura, to discuss the ongoing effort to secure his immediate release. Padilla promised to keep fighting for Abrego Garcia so he can be reunited with his family. Last year, Padilla emphasized the dangers and immense economic costs of the Trump Administration’s mass deportation plans during a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing.

    Full text of the letter is available here and below:

    Dear Mr. Levy,

    On April 7, 2025, it was reported that Avelo Airlines entered into a long-term contract with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to fly domestic and international deportation flights and had begun recruiting flight attendants to serve on those flights. On May 12, 2025, Avelo reportedly flew its first deportation flight for ICE. Given the Trump Administration’s mission to indiscriminately deport our nation’s immigrants—without due process, in violation of the Constitution and federal immigration law, and, in some cases, in defiance of court orders—it is deeply disturbing that Avelo has determined that its partnership with ICE is “too valuable not to pursue.”

    The Trump Administration has used airline contractors to carry out hasty deportations without judicial review. The Administration used an ICE contractor to fly Venezuelan immigrants to El Salvador, persisting with the flights even though a federal judge ordered the planes returned to the United States. That judge has found probable cause to hold the government in contempt for violating his order, noting that the planes touched down in Honduras after the judge issued his order for their return and remained in Honduras for several hours before proceeding to El Salvador. The Administration’s hastiness has caused further error and harm. The Administration deported Kilmar Abrego Garcia, despite a court order that prohibited his removal to El Salvador. The Supreme Court unanimously held that the government must facilitate Mr. Garcia’s “release from custody in El Salvador;” yet, the Trump Administration refuses to do so. President Trump has even suggested deporting U.S. citizens convicted of certain unspecified crimes to be imprisoned abroad—a suggestion that is blatantly unconstitutional. By partnering with ICE, Avelo risks being complicit with the Administration’s illegal actions.

    Avelo is also reportedly closing its base at Charles M. Schulz-Sonoma County Airport and ending certain West Coast routes to accommodate its new contract with ICE. The growth of Avelo’s commercial flight service has been subsidized by the State of Connecticut, which has granted Avelo an exemption from aviation fuel taxes and a guarantee against losses of up to $2 million. Avelo’s apparent decision to shrink its commercial service to accommodate its ICE contract is a betrayal of Connecticut’s support and of Avelo’s customers.

    On April 8, 2025, Connecticut Attorney General William Tong sent you a letter asking for more information on your agreement with ICE. You refused to provide a copy of your contract with ICE, and your response, in which you state that Avelo is committed to “the rule of law,” indicates that you fail to grasp the scope of the Trump Administration’s illegal actions. As Senators from Connecticut and California—states in which Avelo is based—and in furtherance of our oversight responsibilities as members of the Senate Judiciary Committee as well as your stated value of “being open, honest, and transparent,” we write to seek information on your partnership with ICE. Please provide your responses to the following questions by May 30, 2025:

    1. Do you have policies and procedures in place to confirm the immigration status of individuals you are deporting?

    2. If you become aware that an individual aboard your deportation flight cannot or should not be removed from the country, do you have policies and procedures in place for addressing this situation?

    a. If so, please provide copies of those policies and procedures.

    3. If you become aware that an individual aboard your deportation flight is protected by a court order preventing their removal or that they have other lawful status (such as asylum, cancellation of removal, and withholding of removal), will you refuse to fly the individual out of the country?

    a. If the government nevertheless directs you to fly the individual out of the country, will you comply with the government’s instruction or the court’s order?

    b. If you become aware that an individual aboard your deportation flight is protected by a temporary restraining order or preliminary injunction preventing their removal, and the government nevertheless directs you to fly the individual out of the country, will you inform the judge that issued the order of the government’s actions?

    4. If you become aware that an individual aboard your deportation flight is a U.S. citizen, will you refuse to fly the individual out of the country?

    a. If the government nevertheless instructs you to fly the individual out of the country, will you comply with the government’s instruction?

    5. What changes have been made or will be made to existing or planned commercial service as a result of this contract?

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cotton to Patel: Review All FBI Actions by James Comey

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas Tom Cotton
    Cotton to Patel: Review All FBI Actions by James Comey
    Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) today sent a letter to FBI Director Kash Patel, asking for a review of all FBI actions in which James Comey was personally involved in as FBI Director. This request comes after Comey’s recent social media post threatening President Trump. 
    In part, Senator Cotton wrote:
    “While I have long questioned Mr. Comey’s motive behind various decisions, his social media post threatening President Trump calls into question every FBI action Comey carried out during his tenure as director.”Full text of the letter may be found here and below.
    The Honorable Kashyap PatelDirectorFederal Bureau of Investigation935 Pennsylvania Avenue, NWWashington, DC 20535Dear Director Patel:
    I write requesting a review of all Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) actions in which former Director James Comey was personally involved. While I have long questioned Mr. Comey’s motive behind various decisions, his social media post threatening President Trump calls into question every FBI action Comey carried out during his tenure as director.
    As you are aware, Mr. Comey recently posted a photo on social media of seashells arranged on a beach that formed the numbers “8647”. Mr. Comey admitted that although he thought this was a political statement, he did not intend to call for violence. But in the words of President Trump, “he knew exactly what it meant.”
    I commend the Secret Service for investigating this threat and appreciate the support the FBI has offered. Mr. Comey has politicized investigations, been at the center of leaks, and obviously shown bias against the Trump administration and supporters. I urge you to review all FBI actions directed by Mr. Comey from September 4, 2013, until May 9, 2017.
    I appreciate your attention to this urgent matter.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: May 16th, 2025 Heinrich, Luján Fight to Protect Head Start, Meals on Wheels, Social Services from Republican Budget Cuts

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich
    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) joined Democratic Senate colleagues in sending an open letter to the public exposing the Trump Administration and Congressional Republicans’ plan to gut Head Start, Meals on Wheels, and other essential social services like those to prevent child abuse and provide special services for individuals with disabilities. 
    Republican senators are currently writing legislation that will give a tax break to the wealthiest by ripping away programs that American seniors, children, and families rely on. Republicans have targeted two essential funding sources for social services programs—Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and the Social Services Block Grant (SSBG) — putting nearly 25 million children, seniors, and families at risk across the country.
    “We write to make our position on this legislation perfectly clear: Congress should not give tax breaks to the wealthiest Americans by ripping away programs that almost 25 million Americans – close to 50% of whom are children – rely on for basic needs,” the senators wrote to the American public. 
    “Earlier this month, Congressional Republicans in the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate passed a budget that sets the stage for existential cuts to the safety net. Republican leaders claim they have no plans to eliminate essential services, but tens of billions in catastrophic cuts to these programs appeared on Republicans’ published wish list, alongside cuts to Medicaid and SNAP,” the senators continued. “State and local leaders confirm that eliminating SSBG and TANF would reduce programs that serve our most vulnerable as states and localities are already operating under tight budget constraints.”
    The senators’ letter concludes: “Right now, Republicans are writing the most consequential legislation contemplated in decades entirely behind closed doors. That’s because Trump and Congressional Republicans must hide the ugly truth – their legislation feeds corporate and wealthy individuals’ greed by abandoning vulnerable children, starving seniors, and cutting off families in need. You, your family, and your neighbors deserve far better. Democrats are fighting to protect your communities from Republican cuts. Join us and keep up the fight.”
    The open letter to the public is led by U.S. Senators Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), and Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.). Alongside Heinrich and Luján, the letter is signed by U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Richard J. Durbin (D-Ill.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), and Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.).
    The full text of the letter is here and below:
    An open letter to the public:
    The Trump Administration and Congressional Republicans are planning to give another round of tax handouts to the ultra-wealthy and corporations that are paid for by gutting funding that supports Meals on Wheels, Head Start, and other essential programs that seniors, children, and working families rely on. While Republicans maintain that they are not cutting benefits for people, they have zeroed-in on two essential funding sources for these programs – Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and the Social Services Block Grant (SSBG) – putting children, seniors, and families at risk across the country.
    We write to make our position on this legislation perfectly clear: Congress should not give tax breaks to the wealthiest Americans by ripping away programs that almost 25 million Americans – close to 50% of whom are children – rely on for basic needs.
    Earlier this month, Congressional Republicans in the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate passed a budget that sets the stage for existential cuts to the safety net. Republican leaders claim they have no plans to eliminate essential services, but tens of billions in catastrophic cuts to these programs appeared on Republicans’ published wish list, alongside cuts to Medicaid and SNAP. State and local leaders confirm that eliminating SSBG and TANF would reduce programs that serve our most vulnerable as states and localities are already operating under tight budget constraints.
    These devastating cuts will rip away access to child care and early education for close to 40,000 children, taking away programs that help set them up for successful lives. This will force working parents to walk an even tighter economic tightrope and make impossible choices about whether to cut back their hours or leave their jobs altogether to take care of their children. Moreover, these funding cuts will disproportionately impact kinship families – families in which grandparents or other family members raise children – as TANF is often their sole federal support outside of Social Security and the foster care system.
    Along with children, seniors will bear the brunt of these cuts. For example, in South Carolina, the state’s adult protective services is funded entirely by SSBG, raising questions about how the state will be able to effectively identify and prevent elder abuse without these dollars. SSBG is also a critical funding source for Meals on Wheels programs across the country. If Congressional Republicans get away with eliminating SSBG, the local Meals on Wheels program in Abilene, Texas will be forced to cut services for over half of the 1,700 seniors and people with disabilities across 15 rural communities it currently feeds. It doesn’t get crueler than going after a program that seniors rely on to eat what is often their only meal of the day, and there are programs like these in every community.
    Right now, Republicans are writing the most consequential legislation contemplated in decades entirely behind closed doors. That’s because Trump and Congressional Republicans must hide the ugly truth – their legislation feeds corporate and wealthy individuals’ greed by abandoning vulnerable children, starving seniors, and cutting off families in need. You, your family, and your neighbors deserve far better.
    Democrats are fighting to protect your communities from Republican cuts.
    Join us and keep up the fight.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Schatz Votes To Demand Answers On Trump Administration’s Illegal Deportations To Salvadoran Prisons

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Hawaii Brian Schatz
    Published: 05.15.2025
    Senate Republicans Voted To Block The Resolution

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) released the following statement after voting for a resolution led by U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-Va.) to demand answers on the Trump administration’s compliance with court orders regarding illegal deportations of American citizens and residents as well as more information about El Salvador’s human rights record. The resolution was blocked by Senate Republicans.
    “President Trump’s disappearing of American residents to Salvadoran prisons without due process is immoral and unlawful – and it has to stop.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Schatz Criticizes Trump’s ‘Small, Insular, Mercenary’ Foreign Policy, Discusses Rebuilding American Foreign Assistance

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Hawaii Brian Schatz
    WASHINGTON – Speaking at the Council on Foreign Relations, U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i), Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations, condemned the Trump administration’s wholesale dismantling of American foreign assistance and its abrupt departure from generations of bipartisan American foreign policy consensus. He underscored the various ways the administration’s cuts are costing lives and disrupting work critical to American interests around the world. Schatz also outlined ways in which the foreign assistance enterprise could be reformed to be more disciplined and effective going forward.
    “The existing tools of American foreign policy have served us, and the world, well,” said Senator Schatz, a member of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations. “American leadership has deterred conflict and forged peace; cured diseases and slashed poverty. It has advanced equality, unleashed unprecedented economic prosperity, and powered extraordinary breakthroughs in science and technology. The world order we’ve established, flawed as it is, and as episodically counterproductive as our actions have been, is far better than the alternatives. But we now have a president and Secretary of State in Marco Rubio who are racing to shatter it.”
    Senator Schatz continued, “Legitimate, lawful, and lasting reform is not just possible, but necessary. For foreign assistance, that means rethinking what we do, where we do it, and how we do it. I’m not arguing that we shrink the scope of our ambitions or the scale of our investments. What I am advocating for is a more disciplined approach.”
    “Whether this moment is a requiem or a recess for American leadership is up to all of us. Because for all of the chaos and suffering of the past 4 months, we’re still in a position to rebuild the enterprise. We can still return to being the indispensable nation, as Madeleine Albright used to say. But that requires recapturing our ambition to once again be big, and bold, and expansive, and engaged, and innovative. And it demands a forceful rejection of the false choices being presented about strength and greatness and patriotism,” Senator Schatz concluded.
    A copy of Senator Schatz’s remarks, as prepared for delivery, is below. Video is available here.
    Good evening, everyone. It’s a pleasure to be here with all of you, and I want to thank the Council on Foreign Relations for having me.
    The toll of President Trump’s foreign policy, both on a human level and in policy terms, is rising every day. Children are starving. Mothers are passing HIV onto their newborns. Countries that were partners for decades are now turning to China for help. And our friends and allies, feeling confused and betrayed, are moving on without us.
    But this moment also raises an essential question about the future. Which is: what does a modern American foreign policy – one that is smart and strategic – look like? How do we adapt to reflect the lessons of recent decades and face future challenges?
    And here’s the truth. The existing tools of American foreign policy have served us, and the world, well. American leadership has deterred conflict and forged peace; cured diseases and slashed poverty. It has advanced equality, unleashed unprecedented economic prosperity, and powered extraordinary breakthroughs in science and technology. And so while I get the gravitational pull towards newness, we don’t need to outsmart ourselves, either.
    The world order we’ve established, flawed as it is, and as episodically counterproductive as our actions have been, is far better than the alternatives. But we now have a president and Secretary of State in Marco Rubio who are racing to shatter it.
    President Trump’s narrow and transactional view of the world is not news to anyone. What is genuinely surprising is that Secretary Rubio is aligning himself so closely with it. This is someone who, up until 4 months ago, was an internationalist. Someone who believed in America flexing its powers in all manners, but especially through foreign assistance. And yet, he is now responsible for the evisceration of the whole enterprise. He’s a colleague. I voted for him. And what I’m trying to understand is: what happened? Has he suddenly changed his mind on all of this? Or is someone else in charge?
    We could have done this well – and together. If the goal was to reform foreign assistance, rather than gut it from top to bottom, then the administration was pushing on an open door. In fact, my first meeting with Lindsey Graham at the start of the year when I became Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations was about reforms. What’s working and what’s not? Does our work match our priorities? How can we better align our investments and our objectives? But you don’t fix something by burning it down.
    Legitimate, lawful, and lasting reform is not just possible, but necessary. For foreign assistance, that means rethinking what we do, where we do it, and how we do it. The objectives are the same as they’ve always been – keeping Americans safe, strengthening American businesses overseas, saving lives, and promoting rights and freedoms. The question is: how do we pursue them?
    And it’s through things like PEPFAR which is the most successful global health program in history. It’s saved 26 million lives to date and enabled local health systems to combat the spread of diseases, making the whole world safer and healthier. But because of the administration’s indiscriminate cuts to HIV testing and treatment, thousands of children have already died, and an estimated half a million more could die in the next 5 years. 2030 was our goal to end the HIV/AIDS pandemic. But we’re now moving backwards with more – not fewer – people dying. Kids are dying because we walked away.
    Our work in the Indo-Pacific is important for several reasons – geopolitics, security, trade, climate. But our security partnerships with Vietnam, for example, are possible because of USAID’s health and climate programs which also help address the legacies of the Vietnam War. Abandoning those projects overnight hurts both of our countries.
    And on foreign military financing, which has helped make us the security partner of choice globally, the administration initially froze billions of dollars, forcing our allies to beg for the money that they count on.
    Going forward, the task is two-fold: restoring the things that were clearly working. And that requires processes that actually work and staff who are allowed to work. But most of all, it requires Secretary Rubio’s undivided attention. And then second, we have to look at what we can be doing better.
    And that starts with doing fewer things. Not less, but fewer – and there is a big difference. I’m not arguing that we shrink the scope of our ambitions or the scale of our investments. What I am advocating for is a more disciplined approach. Just because there’s a lot of great and worthy work that we could be doing doesn’t mean we should be the ones doing it. We’re not a private foundation.
    Second, we have to reduce our overreliance on big contractors with high overhead. Contractors shouldn’t be bigger than the agencies that oversee them. And less overhead means more money in the field, actually helping people. Along those lines, we need to stop overregulating our implementing partners and be more flexible about how money is spent.
    Third, there’s a lot of private capital flowing in the world. The challenge sometimes is getting it to flow to the places and projects that we want it to. But we can help fix that with grant dollars that help private sector-led projects pencil out. It’s a good example where the U.S. government doesn’t have to assume the majority of the burden. But we can be smarter about leveraging our resources to achieve outcomes that are in our interest.
    And finally, where possible, we should work to transfer the delivery of basic services – food, water, education – to partner governments. Otherwise, our development programs aren’t actually development programs. They’re service delivery programs with no end in sight. And that’s not helping anyone.
    This isn’t an exhaustive list, but those are the kinds of reforms we should be working toward in our annual appropriations bill. Now, the good news is that there’s longstanding, bipartisan support for this bill. Because leaders and members on both sides of the Capitol understand that we can’t do foreign policy without the tools of foreign policy. It doesn’t matter where you are on the ideological spectrum. You need tools to implement your policies. And so we’re starting to work toward a bill on that basis, and we have a hearing on it next week with Secretary Rubio.
    President Trump’s version of America – small, insular, mercenary – is fundamentally un-American. It’s antithetical to not just our belief, but the world’s belief, in America as the promised land. And it defies generations of American leadership which helped defeat the Nazis, rebuild Europe, prevent nuclear Armageddon, and take down terrorists.
    But whether this moment is a requiem or a recess for American leadership is up to all of us. Because for all of the chaos and suffering of the past 4 months, we’re still in a position to rebuild the enterprise. We can still return to being the indispensable nation, as Madeleine Albright used to say. But that requires recapturing our ambition to once again be big, and bold, and expansive, and engaged, and innovative. And it demands a forceful rejection of the false choices being presented about strength and greatness and patriotism.
    We didn’t become the most powerful nation in human history by walling ourselves off from the world or by trying to extort friends and monetize every relationship. We’re the good guys. And that’s important for its own reasons – separate and apart from geopolitics, though it’s helpful with that too. Being the good guys is foundational to how we move through the world. It’s not woke or left or soft. It has been the perennial, bipartisan consensus since our founding.
    Getting back to that is going to require all of us to do our part. And I really mean that. Many of you here have dedicated your lives to promoting our values and interests. Your work and your voice matter, now more than ever. This is a hard time, but it’s not the hardest of times. We’ve survived greater challenges before, and we can do it again. To save America as we know it, we all have a role to play, both in Congress, but especially outside of it. And as my colleague Sarah McBride’s dad said, if everyone has just a little bit of courage, then no one has to be a hero. So let’s get to it. Thank you.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell Statement on Trump Administration Withholding $500M for Fish Passage at Howard Hanson Dam

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell

    05.16.25

    Cantwell Statement on Trump Administration Withholding $500M for Fish Passage at Howard Hanson Dam

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, released this statement following news that the Trump administration is withholding $500 million in planned federal funding to construct fish passage at Howard Hanson Dam.

    “Constructing fish passage at Howard Hanson Dam was key to reopening at least 60 miles of prime salmon and steelhead habitat, nearly doubling Green River spawning grounds for endangered salmon and steelhead,” said Sen. Cantwell. “Withholding funding for this project is a stab in the back to tribal, commercial, and recreational fishing families. It also amounts to an abandonment of our commitment to tribal treaty rights, and ignores federal law intended to protect salmon.” 

    In November 2021, nine members of the Washington Democratic congressional delegation led by Sen. Cantwell and Rep. Kim Schrier, M.D. (D, WA-08) sent a letter to Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works Michael Connor and Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Acting Director Shalanda Young requesting the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and OMB prioritize funding for the planned Howard A. Hanson Dam fish passage facility on the Green River as part of the $17.1 billion in funding included for the Corps in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA).

    In February 2020, Sen. Cantwell joined Rep. Schrier and the entire bipartisan Washington congressional delegation in sending a letter to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and OMB requesting funding for the dam.

    Sen. Cantwell was the leading champion in securing a historic $2.855 billion investment in salmon recovery and ecosystem restoration programs in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that passed in November 2021. This funding includes a Cantwell-authored provision to provide $1 billion for the U.S. Department of Transportation to create a new program aimed at removing, replacing, or restoring culverts, which enable the recovery of salmon passage and habitats.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell Statement on Spokane Tech Hub Funding Delay

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell

    05.16.25

    Cantwell Statement on Spokane Tech Hub Funding Delay

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, released this statement regarding today’s announcement by the U.S. Department of Commerce to delay funding for six Tech Hubs nationwide, including $48 million in funding previously announced for Spokane’s American Aerospace Materials Manufacturing Center (AAMMC).

    “This is an unnecessary delay in a very fast race for future aerospace jobs critical to America’s economic success. In the Economic Development Agency’s own announcement today, they confirm the Spokane Coeur d’Alene Tech Hub award.

    “So now why the delay? 

    “Are they actually trying to lose the race?

    “Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said at his confirmation hearing that he would not withhold previous awards from the Biden Administration.

    “This is causing us chaos and uncertainty in a race against world competitors to build high rate manufactured composites likely to determine which country wins the aerospace future.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: During National Police Week, Rosen Addresses Nevada & National Law Enforcement, Pledges Continued Federal Support

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    WASHINGTON, DC – During National Police Week, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) addressed the National Association of Police Organizations, including Nevada law enforcement officers, to thank them for their service to our communities and renew her pledge to work across party lines to make sure they have the resources they need. In her remarks, Senator Rosen detailed her bipartisan efforts to address the police officer shortage and provide law enforcement agencies with the federal resources they need to continue doing their jobs safely and effectively.
    Below are excerpts from Senator Rosen’s remarks as written:
    Let me start by saying how truly grateful I am to the National Association of Police Organizations for all of the work you do every day to keep our communities safe.
    I’m honored to be here with you during National Police Week to say: thank you.
    Each day, you put on your uniform knowing the risks, whether it’s a routine traffic stop or a domestic dispute, any situation can escalate in the blink of an eye.
    […]
    As I’ve met with law enforcement officers all across my state of Nevada, one challenge I hear again and again is the shortage of officers and support staff. 
    This isn’t just a Nevada problem. This is a national crisis.
    When departments are understaffed, the burden on existing officers grows, stretching resources thin and putting even more pressure on those still on the job.
    That’s why I’ve been working across party lines to help recruit and retain the next generation of law enforcement officers.
    I was proud to help pass the bipartisan Recruit and Retain Act, which was signed into law last year. 
    This law established a federal pipeline program to strengthen collaboration between local police departments and schools, helping encourage more young people to pursue careers in law enforcement.
    It also expands the COPS Hiring Program to help local departments cover the costs of recruiting and onboarding new officers.
    This is a critical step to making sure we’re expanding training and making it easier for departments to hire new officers based on the needs and demands of their communities.
    […]
    At the end of the day, this all comes down to one thing: respect – respect for your service, respect for your sacrifice, and respect for your commitment to keeping us safe.
    You are the heroes who put your lives on the line to protect our families, fight crime, and keep us all safe. 
    I promise that as long as I’m in the Senate, I will continue working with my colleagues — Democrats, Republicans, and Independents — to support you, invest in your health and safety, and ensure that you and your families have the support you’ve earned.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner & Kaine Slam Republican Efforts to Gut Health Care in Order to Pay for Tax Cuts for the Wealthiest Americans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (D-VA) released the following statement on findings by the Joint Economic Committee that more than 262,000 Virginians are set to lose their health insurance under the cuts being proposed by President Donald Trump and Republicans in Congress:
    “Donald Trump wants to give another massive tax break to his billionaire friends, and Republicans in Congress are planning to pay for that by ripping health care away from working families. These findings make clear that cutting health care to offset the cost of tax breaks will hurt millions of Americans, including 262,400 Virginians who would quickly find themselves with no insurance and no way to pay for a doctor’s visit or the medication they rely on. To make matters worse, these cuts would also deliver a massive blow to rural communities, where hospitals are often able to stay open only because of the dollars they receive from Medicaid. Virginians deserve better than this.”
    The cuts to Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act are being proposed as part of the President’s “big, beautiful” tax bill, which seeks to give trillions of dollars in tax breaks to the rich.  
    According to the Joint Economic Committee, these cuts are set to affect approximately 262,400 Virginians, including 100,826 who would lose coverage under the Affordable Care Act and 161,614 who would lose Medicaid coverage. Medicaid serves primarily low-income families, including children, parents, elderly people, and people with disabilities.
    These calculations are based on the latest numbers available, including from the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO)’s initial analysis released on Sunday evening – which found that cuts to Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act would result in roughly 13.7 million people losing their health insurance by 2034.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy Joins 29 Colleagues In Introducing Senate Resolution Decrying Two-Month Blockade On Food And Medicine In Gaza

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    May 16, 2025

    WASHINGTON—As the humanitarian situation in Gaza worsens, U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, joined 29 of his U.S. Senate colleagues in introducing a resolution calling on the Trump Administration to use all diplomatic tools at its disposal to ensure an end to the blockade of food and lifesaving aid to address the needs of civilians. The senators express grave concern about the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, including the imminent starvation of tens of thousands of children. 

    “What’s happening in Gaza is a full-blown humanitarian catastrophe. Half a million Palestinians are now at serious risk of famine, and every day that food and medicine are kept from starving families, more children suffer, and more innocent lives are lost,” said Murphy. “There is no time to waste, aid must start moving immediately.”

    On March 2, 2025, the Israeli Government began blocking all food and emergency aid—including food, medicine, infant formula, fuel, and other lifesaving humanitarian supplies—from reaching Palestinian civilians in Gaza. In the same month, all 25 World Food Program (WFP)-supported bakeries in Gaza closed, wheat flour and cooking fuel ran out, and food parcels distributed to families—with two weeks of food rations—were depleted. According to the United Nations, about 10,000 children have been identified as suffering from acute malnutrition since January 2025. 

    More than two months later, a US-backed aid organization established to distribute humanitarian assistance in Gaza announced Wednesday that it would begin rolling out aid by the end of the month and that Israel would lift its blockade in the interim. Aid has yet to flow, and the risk of mass starvation remains dangerously high.

    U.S. Senators Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Angus King (I-Maine), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) also cosponsored the resolution. 

    The resolution is supported by Anera, the Friends Committee on National Legislation, J Street, and Oxfam America. 

    Full text of the resolution is available HERE. 

    MIL OSI USA News –