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Category: US Senate

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: This Week, Senator Luján In The News Standing Up For New Mexicans and Fighting Back Against Republicans’ Attacks On Nutrition Programs

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Senator for New Mexico Ben Ray Luján
    Washington, D.C. – In case you missed it, this week, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) has been fighting back against Congressional Republicans’ attacks on essential services and programs that New Mexicans rely on, exposing the Trump administration’s blocking of billions for Indian Country and Native communities, and introducing bipartisan legislation to protect cattle farms and ranches in New Mexico from the growing New World screwworm (NWS) outbreak.
    Fighting Back Against Republicans’ Attacks on SNAP, Nutrition Programs
    This week, Senator Luján, Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture Committee Subcommittee on Nutrition and Specialty Crops, alongside Senate colleagues, Oregon Governor Tina Kotek, and nutrition advocates hosted a press call on Republicans’ efforts to gut the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), a critical anti-hunger program that helps more than 41.6 million Americans. 
    Senate Democrats, including New Mexico Sen. Ben Ray Luján, are holding a conference Tuesday after the House Agriculture Committee released their provisions to a Republican backed bill that would require states to cover a portion of SNAP benefit costs, tighten eligibility requirements for the program, and block future increases to monthly benefits.
    One in four New Mexicans rely on SNAP, said Sen. Ben Ray Luján, D-N.M. The farmers and ranchers he represents also plan their farming season based on what grocery stores and food banks will need, and farmers already planted seeds with the idea that those vegetables will be used for school lunches and other food programs. “The way to look at this is it’s not fiscally responsible,” Luján said. “It’s taking away from the hungry across America to make billionaires and millionaires even wealthier, and it’s going to even explode the deficit.”
    Exposing How the Trump Administration is Illegally Blocking Nearly $316 Billion Owed to Native Communities
    This week, Senator Luján, a member of the Senate Indian Affairs Committee, shared a new tracker revealing that the Trump administration is blocking or freezing more than $430 billion in federal funding owed to communities across the country — including nearly $316 billion for national programs that support Indian Country and Native communities. 
    U.S. Sen. Ben Ray Luján continued to sound the alarm this week on the Trump administration’s decision to block hundreds of billions of dollars in federal funds for programs that focus on health, education and other services in Native American communities. A day after questioning the impacts of potential cuts to early childhood, maternal health and other programs for Indigenous people during a meeting of the Senate Indian Affairs Committee, the New Mexico Democrat on Thursday blasted the administration of Republican President Donald Trump.
    New Mexico Senator Ben Ray Luján (D) said Donald Trump’s Administration has blocked hundreds of billions of dollars for programs that support Indian Country and native communities. The United States Senate Committee on Appropriations released a tracker of the cuts made by DOGE in President Trump’s first 100 days.
    Combatting the Screwworm Outbreak
    This week, Senator Luján, a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, introduced the bipartisan Strengthening Tactics to Obstruct the Population of Screwworms (STOP Screwworms) Act, legislation that would combat the growing New World screwworm (NWS) outbreak that threatens to wreak havoc on the American cattle industry.
    U.S. Sen. Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, announced on Thursday bipartisan legislation, also sponsored by fellow New Mexico Democrat U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich, aimed at curbing the outbreak.
    The legislation was introduced by New Mexico Senator Ben Ray Luján and Texas Senator John Cornyn. It was co-sponsored by Martin Heinrich and Ted Cruz. The screwworm is a parasitic fly whose larvae feed on livestock, wildlife, and in some cases humans.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sullivan Secures Army Corps Pledge to Fast-Track Juneau Flooding Solution

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Dan Sullivan
    05.16.25
    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, received commitments from Adam Telle, President Trump’s nominee to head the Army Corps of Engineers, to expedite efforts to protect homes and property from the recurring threat of glacial lake outburst flooding in Juneau, Alaska. Sen. Sullivan emphasized the unique challenges facing Alaska’s capital city, where seasonal glacial flooding has become an urgent concern, damaging hundreds of homes and causing millions of dollars in losses to personal property and infrastructure last year. Sen. Sullivan also received a commitment from Mr. Telle to implement President Trump’s Day One executive order, “Unleashing Alaska’s Extraordinary Resource Potential,” declaring “the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works shall immediately review, revise or rescind any agency action that may in any way hinder, slow, or otherwise delay any critical project in the state of Alaska.”
    Sen. Sullivan posed his questions to Mr. Telle during his confirmation hearing before the committee.
    [embedded content]
    Below is a full transcript of Sen. Sullivan’s exchange with Mr. Telle.
    Sen. Dan Sullivan: Thank you, Madam Chair. Thank you to the witnesses and your families for your service. Mr. Telle, you’re a glutton for punishment. A lot of folks don’t know you had your Armed Services confirmation hearing yesterday, so you did a great job on that one. This should be a piece of cake.
    Adam Telle: Thank you, Senator Sullivan.
    DS: By the way, in my state—I’m going to focus a lot on Alaska. I appreciated our meetings, Mr. Telle and Mr. McMaster. It’s hard to build anything in Alaska. Right? You want to build a road, a sidewalk, you usually get 12 radical far-left environmental groups that sue to stop it. We have the King Cove Road. We’ve only been trying to get that done for 40 years. A nine-mile, single-lane gravel road that every Democrat in the country—including, God rest his soul, Jimmy Carter, writes op-eds [saying] you can’t build a road in Alaska. Then it went so bad, we had the Biden administration’s Last Frontier Lock Up. My great state suffered through 70 executive orders and executive actions from the Biden administration singularly focused on Alaska. I like ripping this up because that’s not the issue anymore. We now have President Trump who issued his day-one executive order called, “Unleashing Alaska’s Extraordinary Resource Potential.” Mr. Telle, as you and I discussed, there’s a lot of great provisions in here. This is all about getting things done in Alaska, not crushing us as the radical left wants to do. There’s a really good provision about the Corps of Engineers. I’m going to read it to you: “The assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works”—that’s you—”shall immediately review, revise or rescind any agency action that may in any way hinder, slow, or otherwise delay any critical project in the state of Alaska.” That’s from the President. Will you commit to abide by that very expansive provision to get things done in my great state after four years of being crushed by the previous administration?
    AT: Senator Sullivan, absolutely. When I visited your office, I tattooed the executive order that the President issued on Alaska on my heart.
    DS: By the way, that’s a great answer.
    AT: I will go ahead and read the second paragraph to you from memory, which essentially says that I shall, if confirmed, coordinate as closely with the Governor of Alaska as a human could possibly coordinate.
    DS: Good. And the Senator from Alaska.
    AT: Of course.
    DS: Okay. Just double checking on that. We talked about the Juneau glacial lake outburst flooding. You want to talk about a unique issue in Alaska—we’ve had this flooding that pretty much happens now every summer. It’s amazing it hasn’t killed anybody. We need the Corps’ help, right? This is a unique challenge. The Corps is uniquely qualified to help us. You can’t have flooding. I went and toured where this happened this past summer. Over 200 homes were flooded. We’ve got to fix it and the Corps initially said, “Well, Senator, we’re going to work on this. We think it’ll be ten years to study and fix this.” Say what? That is the wrong answer. Can you commit to me, and really importantly, the citizens of Juneau, Alaska, that the Corps is going to bring its best minds in a very rapid way to help address this unique challenge that we really need the Corps’ help on?
    AT: Senator Sullivan, thank you for the question. I failed to mention as a part of my answer to your previous question that Alaska is home to greater than 60% of the U.S.’s wetlands. So it makes the work of the Corps of Engineers critically important. That’s the need for the executive order. With regard to the glacial outburst issue, you rightly point out that this is an issue that is brand new, as far as I understand it to be, in terms of flood risk management, and it’s going to require creativity.
    DS: Yes, it is.
    AT: The Corps of Engineers was made to solve tough problems. I look forward to working with you, with the surrounding communities, to try to solve this challenge.
    DS: Great. Thank you. In an expedited manner, not ten years. That’s just…
    AT: In an expedited manner, Senator.
    Below is a timeline of Senator Sullivan’s work to address the Juneau flooding challenge:
    On August 7, 2024, Sen. Sullivan visited Juneau following the largest glacial outburst flow ever recorded along the Mendenhall River system. Sen. Sullivan surveyed the damage and spoke to homeowners and local leaders.
    On August 8, 2024, Sen. Sullivan spoke with the FEMA administrator to coordinate the immediate emergency response to the flooding.
    On August 16, 2024, Sen. Sullivan coordinated an initial meeting between the City and Borough of Juneau and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on long-term response solutions. Corps flood fighting officials visited Juneau in September, October, and November 2024 to provide flood fighting expertise and insight.
    On September 27, 2024,  Sen. Sullivan led a letter to the Corps with his Alaska congressional delegation colleagues requesting the agency to advance measures to mitigate the imminent threat of glacial flooding by prioritizing a long-term engineering solution for the community.
    On October 16, 2024, following advocacy from the Alaska delegation, President Biden approved the major disaster declaration for the Juneau flood.
    On November 19, 2024, Senator Sullivan led a letter to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) with his Alaska delegation colleagues requesting that funding for the Mendenhall Glacier flood recovery and mitigation be considered and included in the disaster supplemental request to Congress, including the addition of necessary expenses related to flood mitigation, disaster relief, long-term recovery, and restoration in areas that received a major disaster designation due to “glacial flooding.”
    On December 3, 2024, Sen. Sullivan met with Lt. Gen. William “Butch” Graham Jr., Chief of Engineers and Commanding General of the Corps, and pressed the urgency of achieving a solution for Juneau. In this meeting, Graham shared that the Corps was committed to Juneau and leading the project to a long-term engineering solution.
    On December 21, 2024, H.R.10545, the American Relief Act, was signed into law and included a Sullivan-led provision for a Corps study of Juneau’s glacial lake outburst flooding, the first step to identify long-term engineering solutions for the community.
    On January 14, 2025, Sen. Sullivan led a letter to OMB urging that, as the funding allocations under the American Relief Act are evaluated, recognition of the congressional intent to address the Mendenhall Glacial flood recovery and mitigation efforts be reflected in OMB’s budget.
    On March 4, 2025,  Sen. Sullivan sent a letter to OMB with his Alaska congressional delegation colleagues requesting an increased permitting budget for the Corps in Alaska to better reflect Alaska’s geographic scope, unique regulatory challenges, and the new directives outlined in Executive Order (EO) 14153, “Unleashing Alaska’s Extraordinary Resource Potential,” issued by President Trump to expedite permitting and infrastructure development in Alaska.
    On March 14, 2025, the Corps designated $4.75 million for a feasibility study following Sen. Sullivan’s requests for funding.

    MIL OSI USA News –

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

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sens. 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: Murray, DeLauro, Scott, Baldwin, Sanders Decry Trump Administration’s Illegal Firings, Cuts at AmeriCorps 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
    Top appropriators and authorizers call on Interim Head of AmeriCorps to reverse layoffs and grant terminations that have debilitated the agency’s core functions
    Washington, D.C. — Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, alongside Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-CT), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee, Rep. Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (D-VA), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Education and Workforce, Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies on the Senate Appropriations Committee, and Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Ranking Member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, today sent a letter to the Interim Agency Head of AmeriCorps calling for the immediate reversal of layoffs and grant terminations that have debilitated the agency’s core functions and run counter to its longstanding, bipartisan support in Congress.
    “While a recent court order instituted a 14-day temporary restraining order on staff reductions at AmeriCorps, the damage of firing staff and eliminating $400 million in grants has already been felt across the country,” wrote Murray, DeLauro, Scott, Baldwin, and Sanders. “The grant terminations and potential issues awarding fiscal year 2025 grant funding will have a catastrophic impact on the ability of AmeriCorps members to carry out work in communities all over the country — responding to natural disasters, serving as classroom teachers, providing tutoring services, and helping build housing in rural communities.” 
    Late last month, President Trump and Elon Musk’s DOGE illegally terminated over a thousand AmeriCorps grants to states, nonprofits, and faith-based organizations across the country – totaling nearly $400 million, or roughly 41% of the agency’s grant funding. Grantees were not given statutorily required notices before these grants were terminated. The cuts are already seriously impacting communities where AmeriCorps projects were ongoing as well as their selfless members and volunteers.
    Last year, nearly 200,000 AmeriCorps volunteers prepared today’s students for tomorrow’s jobs, connected veterans to services, fought the opioid epidemic, helped seniors live independently, rebuilt communities after disasters and led conservation efforts nationwide.
    “We urge the swift reversal of the termination of NCCC members’ service terms so that they can get back to helping communities,” concluded the lawmakers. “These illegal grant terminations attempt to supersede congressional intent at the expense of communities in need of crucial services. More than 1,000 programs will be forced to close and over 32,000 AmeriCorps members and AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers will be released from their service terms early… Further, by laying off nearly the entire agency staff, AmeriCorps is violating the law.”
    Read the full letter here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murray Joins WA Water Utilities, Slams Trump Defunding Howard Hanson Dam, Blue State Construction Projects

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
    Trump plan takes $437 million away from blue states and moves $258 million toward red states—overall, 64-33 percent red to blue split in Trump admin’s Army Corps work plan versus roughly 50-50 split in budget request, FY25 House and Senate appropriations bills
    ICYMI: Senator Murray on Trump Defunding Blue State Army Corps Construction: “This is Some Corrupt B-S”
    ***WATCH HERE; DOWNLOAD HERE***
    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee and Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, held a virtual press conference with Tacoma Public Utilities and the Covington Water District to speak out against President Trump’s outrageous decision to zero out and significantly cut Army Corps of Engineers construction projects in blue states such as Washington state—including the complete elimination of construction funding for Howard Hanson Dam.
    The Howard Hanson Dam facility in Washington state was poised to receive $500 million this year in funding Senator Murray secured in the fiscal year 2025 appropriations bill she wrote as Chair and passed through committee in August 2024, as well as in House Republicans’ fiscal year 2025 bill. The funding was needed for the Army Corps to execute a construction contract option this year, allowing construction to begin in 2026 as scheduled. But instead of working with Democrats to pass full-year funding bills that would have directed that funding, Republicans in Congress passed a yearlong continuing resolution (CR) that enabled the administration to determine how to allocate the funding it did provide—a scenario Murray repeatedly warned about. The Army Corps’ work plans released Thursday—which lay out how the Army Corps will spend the funding provided by Congress under Republicans’ yearlong continuing resolution for fiscal year 2025—include zero funding for the project.
    “President Trump’s Army Corps construction plan utterly tramples all of the careful, painstaking negotiations we did in Congress to reach a bipartisan understating about what projects need funding, and replaces it with his own partisan vision—a vision that rips away hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars from blue states like mine. There is just no getting around it: this plan is utterly partisan—and sets a truly egregious precedent. We should all be outraged,” said Senator Murray. “The balance of states Trump wants to give more funding to, and the states he wants to cut funding from—is completely lopsided—roughly two-thirds for red states, and one-third for blue states. For comparison, the budget request, our bipartisan Senate bill, and yes, even House Republicans’ bill, split funding between red and blue states about 50-50. We are talking about critical Army Corps projects to maintain and build foundational water infrastructure, from dredging for our ports, to protecting communities from flood waters, or maintaining major dams.”
    “Back in Washington state, this plan cuts us out, to the tune of hundreds of millions of dollars,” continued Senator Murray. “It is completely outrageous. It is completely unacceptable…I will not let defunding Howard Hanson Dam stand in any future bipartisan spending bill. However, that could be a long ways away. So, I’ll be speaking with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle and making clear to them we have to rein Trump in—or he is going to keep trampling the powers of Congress, and he is going to keep trampling the communities we all came here to fight for. It may not be your state today, but what happens when your governor disagrees with the President?”
    Overall, the Army Corps’ plans released by the Trump administration would steer roughly $258 million dollars more in construction funding to red states while ripping away roughly $437 million dollars in construction funding for blue states, relative to the president’s fiscal year 2025 request—which, historically, has been fully funded and was fully funded in the draft fiscal year 2025 bills produced on a bipartisan basis in the Senate and by House Republicans in the House. This includes the complete elimination of Army Corps construction funding for states like California. Trump’s work plan steers two-thirds of all Army Corps construction funding to red states—the budget request and House and Senate bills would have split it roughly 50-50 to red and blue states.
    “Tacoma Public Utilities (TPU) has made significant investments in the Howard A. Hanson Dam for decades. This project is one of the most significant steps toward ensuring long-term water reliability for over one million people across our broader region—not just for today, but for generations to come,” said Heather Pennington, TPU Water Superintendent.
    “Without this key part of the project, the District may not have enough summertime supply to meet our current and future customer needs starting as early as the mid-2030s. That’s not very far from now folks. For the District, it feels like we purchased a 4 bedroom home, but having the builder tell us we can occupy 2 bedrooms. Not to mention, this action will further delay access for endangered salmon to over 100 miles of pristine spawning habitat above Howard Hansen Dam. It is just unfair on many levels,” said Thomas Keown, General Manager of the Covington Water District. “For instance, the decision is also unfair to the many local stakeholders who have invested time and money, hundreds of millions, if not billions of dollars in infrastructure and watershed benefits in and along the Green River in preparation of the project coming online. This is now unfortunately shaping up as a waste of a perfectly good ‘shovel ready’ project that is likely to be mothballed for who knows how long.”
    Supporting the Howard Hanson Dam has been a longtime priority for Senator Murray, and she has pressed the Army Corps to prioritize funding for the Dam for years. Under the last administration, Senator Murray was able to secure critical funding boosts for Howard Hanson Dam, including $220 million in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and $50 million to begin construction of the Fish Passage facility in the funding bills for fiscal year 2024 that Murray wrote as then-Chair of the Appropriations Committee. Back in 2010, Murray secured $44 million in badly needed emergency funds for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to repair the Howard Hanson Dam. In the draft fiscal year 2025 appropriations bill she cleared unanimously out of Committee last year, Senator Murray secured $500 million for the construction of a fish passage facility, which would also address flood risk and water supply issues for cities like Tacoma and Covington. $500 million was also included in the House’s draft fiscal year 2025 appropriations bill. The funding is needed to execute a construction option on the contract for the project, which would have allowed construction to begin in 2026 as scheduled.
    Congress typically provides specific, detailed instructions in its annual appropriations bills on how the Army Corps (and so many other agencies) must spend funding provided by Congress. Annual appropriations bills note exactly what Army Corps projects must be funded and at what levels. But instead of working with Democrats to pass full-year appropriations bills that deliver for communities across America, Republicans in Congress put forth a yearlong continuing resolution (CR) that failed to include hundreds of specific directives on how funding must be spent. For months, Senator Murray warned of the dangers of passing Republicans’ slush fund CR, noting, for example, that it would allow the administration to zero out funding for Army Corps projects. 
    Senator Murray’s full remarks, as delivered, are available below and HERE:
    “Yesterday, the Trump Administration released a plan to blatantly rob blue states and completely politicize federal funding for crucial projects. We are talking historically blatant thuggery from the White House here.
    “President Trump’s Army Corps construction plan utterly tramples all the careful, painstaking negotiations we did in Congress to reach a bipartisan understating about what projects need funding and replaces it with his own partisan vision—a vision that rips away hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars from blue states like mine.
    “There is just no getting around it: this plan is utterly partisan—and sets a truly egregious precedent. We should all be outraged.
    “The balance of states Trump wants to give more funding, and the states he wants to cut out off—is completely lopsided—roughly two-thirds for red states, and one-third for blue states.
    “For comparison, the budget request, our bipartisan Senate bill, and yes, even House Republicans’ bill, split funding between red and blue states about 50-50.
    “We are talking about critical Army Corps projects to maintain and build foundational water infrastructure, from dredging for our ports, to protecting communities from flood waters, or maintaining major dams.
    “Back in Washington state, this plan cuts us out, to the tune of hundreds of millions of dollars.
    “We are losing some funding for our waterways and fish mitigation, funding for our ports, and we are completely losing funding for the Howard Hanson Dam, which—before Trump meddled with these funds—was set to receive $500 million to execute a necessary construction contract this year.
    “This is a crucial project, years in the making, that is important to safeguard our water supply, protect our communities from dangerous flooding, and save our salmon. I have pounded the pavement getting support for this project. This funding had bipartisan support—our Committee cleared a bill for this unanimously.
    “Howard Hanson was even fully funded in the House Appropriations bill drafted by Republicans—every cent! But now, thanks to this administration, it’s dust. Trump is completely defunding Howard Hanson Dam.
    “They are not giving us even a hint of a real explanation why—but the motivation here is obvious and it is alarming. Especially when Trump’s budget completely zeros out Army Corps Construction in California. That’s right—he just completely cut the most populous state in the country out of Army Corp construction funding.
    “It is completely outrageous. It is completely unacceptable. And it is exactly why I voted against Republicans’ partisan CR.
    “I warned, repeatedly, that we should not give Trump new flexibility to move Army Corps funding around and hang this threat over everyone. That’s a reckless amount of power to give any President—and certainly not this one, who shows us every minute of every day that he will abuse it.
    “This has never been a President we can expect to operate in good faith. This has never been a President we can expect to follow precedent, decency, or even basic common sense. But Republicans’ slush fund CR passed and gave Trump dangerous authority, and it should be no surprise to anyone—he is using it.
    “I am speaking out today: I will not let defunding Howard Hanson Dam stand in any future bipartisan spending bill.
    “However, that could be a long ways away. So, I’ll be speaking with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle and making clear to them we have to rein Trump in—or he is going to keep trampling the powers of Congress, and he is going to keep trampling the communities we all came here to fight for.
    “It may not be your state today, but what happens when your governor disagrees with the President? What happens you vote against him and your state loses out on funding? What happens when there is a new President and this is just how things work now?
    “We have to push back now—today. That’s exactly what I am doing. I will fight tooth and nail to prevent this completely partisan vision from becoming a reality.
    “And I have with me some people who can speak more to just how crucial this Army Corps funding is—and why we are not going to stop fighting.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Jewish American Heritage Month, 2025

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    class=”has-text-align-center”>BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
    A PROCLAMATION
    Since the time the United States was but a coalition of villages and settlements, America’s Jewish citizens have played an indispensable role in our national story.  They arrived as farmers, soldiers, tailors, and merchants, settling quickly and contributing greatly to the fields of law, art, science, and medicine.  At crucial moments, Jewish Americans have joined their fellow citizens in working towards America’s unique vision of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. 
    The New World allowed those Jewish people emigrating from Europe to freely practice their faith without persecution, for the American experiment offered something providential — an escape from every indignity, every abuse, and every tragedy visited upon the Jewish people over their long history. 
    In my proclamation declaring Jewish American Heritage Month in 2019, I drew from the words President George Washington drafted and sent to the Hebrew Congregation of Newport, Rhode Island, on August 18, 1790, addressing the Jewish citizens of our new Republic.  President Washington’s letter contained a blessing, that “the Children of the Stock of Abraham, who dwell in this land, continue to merit and enjoy the good will of the other Inhabitants; while everyone shall sit in safety under his own vine and fig tree, and there shall be none to make him afraid.”
    During my first 4 years as President, in the several proclamations I issued for Jewish American Heritage Month, I often had the unfortunate task of contrasting President Washington’s timeless blessing with whatever violent acts of anti-Semitism had occurred in the previous year.  Each time, it was an all too painful reminder of the fragility of President Washington’s words.
    Then, October 7, 2023, happened, shattering the peace, not only abroad but also at home.  Since those horrific attacks, the Jewish community in the United States — and around the world — has faced an incredible trial, though one that was not unfamiliar in Jewish history.  College campuses and city streets erupted into violence.  Blood libels were displayed proudly at protests.  Those wearing yarmulkes were openly assaulted in the streets.  The America that its Jewish citizens felt that they once knew appeared to have shifted completely.
    In his letter, President Washington championed a different vision:  “For happily the Government of the United States, which gives to bigotry no sanction, to persecution no assistance requires only that they who live under its protection should demean themselves as good citizens.”
    Since the day I resumed my duties as President — and following President Washington’s example — my Administration has been determined to confront anti-Semitism in all its manifestations.  I say that at home and abroad, on college campuses and in city streets, this dangerous return of anti-Semitism — at times disguised as anti-Zionism, Holocaust denialism, and false equivalencies of every kind — must find no quarter.
    We proudly celebrate the history and culture of the Jewish people in America, and we hold that President Washington’s words, though nearly 250 years old, still carry the revolutionary promise of our Republic:  that every citizen who demeans himself as a good citizen shall sit in safety under his own vine and fig tree — a covenant added to a blessing.
    I believe there has never been a greater friend to the Jewish people than my Administration.  We will never deviate from our conviction that anti-Semitism has no place in the greatest country in the world.  As the 47th President of the United States, I will use every appropriate legal tool at my disposal to stop anti-Semitic assaults gripping our universities.  We will proudly stand with our friend and ally, the State of Israel.  I will never waver in my commitment.
    NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 2025 as Jewish American Heritage Month.  I call upon Americans to celebrate the heritage and contributions of American Jews and to observe this month with appropriate programs, activities, and ceremonies.
    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand thissixteenth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.                                DONALD J. TRUMP 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, 2025

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    class=”has-text-align-center”>BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
    A PROCLAMATION
         Throughout our history, the United States has been strengthened by the contributions of citizens from every background, united in the shared pursuit of the American Dream.  As we recognize Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we celebrate the deep and enduring impact that Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have had on our Nation.  Forged by hardship and trial, they have never wavered in their contributions toward the advancement of our common destiny. 
         In the 1980s, Lakshmi and Radhakrishna Chilukuri immigrated from India to the United States and dedicated their lives to higher education.  They built a life in America and raised a family, their daughters Usha and Shreya, instilling in them the values of hard work, perseverance, and a love of learning.  Their daughter, Usha, now serves as the Second Lady of the United States.  Tulsi Gabbard, a native of American Samoa, has dedicated her career to protecting our Republic, serving in the military and now as the Director of National Intelligence.  Today, more than 77,000 Asian American and Pacific Islanders heroically serve our Nation in the Armed Forces.  Their stories, along with many others, have helped build a stronger, safer, and more prosperous country.
         This month, we honor the proud legacy of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders and their contributions to the vast constellation of all our national triumphs.  They are woven into the fabric of our Republic, reminding us that the American spirit is one of resilience, independence, and relentless pursuit of freedom and opportunity.  
         NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 2025 as Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.  The Congress, by Public Law 102-450, as amended, has also designated the month of May each year as “Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month.”  I encourage all Americans to learn more about those of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander heritage and to observe this month with appropriate programs and activities.
         IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand thissixteenth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.
                                  DONALD J. TRUMP

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Armed Forces Day, 2025

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    class=”has-text-align-center”>BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
    A PROCLAMATION
           On Armed Forces Day, we pause to honor the men and women of America’s Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Space Force.  Every day, throughout our homeland and in far-flung regions of the world, our fighting forces valiantly safeguard our liberty, defend our border, and support global stability through humanitarian missions and disaster relief operations.  In America’s legacy of awe-inspiring heroes, they are without equal.
         As Commander in Chief, my highest responsibility is to ensure our all-volunteer military, 2.1 million-strong, is the world’s most lethal fighting force.  I have taken bold steps to prioritize military excellence and readiness across every branch of service, ensuring that all active duty, National Guard, and Reserve members who wear our Nation’s uniform are prepared to deploy, fight, and win against any adversary in any domain.  America’s military will soon be stronger and more powerful than ever before.  Since November, enlistment numbers for every branch of the Armed Forces have surged — recruitment is now the highest it has been in 30 years. 
         On Armed Forces Day, we celebrate those for whom patriotism is not a passive, lofty ideal, but a way of life that is measured by the unyielding commitment to serve this Nation with valor, vigilance, integrity, and devotion to duty.  It is worthy not only of a day of recognition but also a lifetime of respect from a grateful Nation. 
         The First Lady joins me in saluting our service members — on land, at sea, and in air and space — along with their devoted families, who share in this legacy of service and sacrifice.
         NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of the United States, continuing the tradition of my predecessors in office, do hereby proclaim the third Saturday of each May as Armed Forces Day.  I invite the Governors of the States and Territories and other areas subject to the jurisdiction of the United States to provide for the observance of Armed Forces Day within their jurisdiction in an appropriate manner designed to increase public understanding and appreciation of our Armed Forces.  I call upon all Americans to display the flag of the United States at their homes and businesses on Armed Forces Day, and I urge citizens to learn more about military service by attending and participating in the local observances of the day.     Proclamation 10762 of May 17, 2024, is hereby superseded.
         IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this sixteenth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.
                                  DONALD J. TRUMP

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall Participates in Documentary Highlighting the Significant Mental Health Challenges Facing Farmers and Ranchers  

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall
    Washington – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) participated in a recently released documentary called Out of the Shadows, which showcases the mental health crisis that is plaguing rural America.
    Specifically, the data shows that:
    The suicide rate has increased 46% in rural America in the last 20 years. 
    U.S. farmers are 3.5 times more likely to die by suicide than the general population, according to the National Rural Health Association.  
    65% of rural counties across the U.S. don’t have a single psychiatrist. 
    60% of farmers meet the accepted medical criteria for depression.
    Agriculture has the fourth highest suicide rate by industry.
    You may click HERE or on the image above to watch the documentary. 
    Highlights from the documentary include:
    On what is happening with the rural mental health crisis today:
    Senator Marshall: “I grew up in agriculture and I’ve just have never seen the amount of stress that I am seeing today in the world of agriculture. It’s the input costs, it’s the interest rates… you know, we were all brought up in agriculture, we were taught farm safety. And despite the best practices, we still lose a farmer about once a day across the country to some type of a farm-related accident. But we’re also losing a farmer, almost every day, to suicide as well.”
    On the pressures of family legacy facing farmers:
    Senator Marshall: “Think about the pressure on my farmers. I am a fifth-generation farm kid. Many of these folks today will be sixth generations. So for six generations, they’ve been able to keep this farm going. A farmer doesn’t inherit the land from their ancestors, they borrow it from their children. And I think some are just embarrassed by the circumstances. They’ve not been able to keep the family farm together.”
    On the challenges facing rural communities when it comes to mental health:
    Senator Marshall: “Most farmers have to travel 30, 60, 100 miles for any type of care, more than just an urgent care situation. So, there certainly aren’t the resources in rural America that you’d see in an urban setting.”
    “…It’s just gone unrecognized, untreated for too long. It doesn’t have to be this way. There’s help out there. I just think the stress is so immense right now, on farmers. They need a word of encouragement, and that’s my job. My job is to be out there and be a message of hope.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper, Moran National Space Day Resolution Unanimously Passes Senate

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Colorado John Hickenlooper

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper and Jerry Moran, members of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, celebrated the unanimous Senate passage of their bipartisan resolution designating May 2, 2025, as National Space Day.

    “From one small step for man to giant leaps for mankind, the U.S. has redefined what’s possible in space,” said Hickenlooper. “National Space Day will honor that legacy, especially here in Colorado—and keep us reaching for what’s next.”

    “Kansas has a rich history in aviation and aerospace manufacturing and is an important contributor to this new era of space exploration,” said Moran. “The aerospace community in Wichita – the Air Capital of the World – and across the country has secured America’s leadership in space exploration. This resolution honors America’s pioneering achievements in space and is a commitment to continue supporting new advancements in space exploration.”

    “Space Foundation applauds the effort led by Senators Moran and Hickenlooper to introduce a resolution recognizing the first Friday in May, May 2, 2025, as National Space Day,” said Heather Pringle, CEO of the Space Foundation. “The resolution highlights the importance of reflecting on the incredible space achievements of the past, recognizing the advancements of today, and inspiring the limitless possibilities of tomorrow.”

    “As one of the nation’s premiere STEAM education centers and space museums, the Cosmosphere is proud to call Kansas home,” said Jim Remar, President and CEO of the Cosmosphere in Hutchinson, Kansas. “Through applied, hands-on education programs, the Cosmosphere strives to inspire the next generation of workforce.  It is an honor to have our work included in the National Space Day Resolution.”  

    Click HERE to read the full text of the legislation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: To Celebrate Colorado Public Lands Day, Hickenlooper, Bennet Reintroduce Dolores River National Conservation Area and Special Management Area Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Colorado John Hickenlooper

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper and Michael Bennet reintroduced the Dolores River National Conservation Area and Special Management Area Act to protect over 68,000 acres of public lands in Southwestern Colorado. Colorado Public Lands Day is Saturday, May 17th. Colorado was the first state to create a holiday for public land, demonstrating the deep connection Coloradans have to their public lands that define life in Colorado and drive our economy.

    “Southwestern Coloradans care deeply about the Dolores River,” said Hickenlooper. “Leaders on the ground have spent years deciding how to best protect and invest in the Dolores. We worked with them side by side to design a bipartisan bill to preserve this landscape.”

    “Over millions of years, the Dolores River carved a canyon renowned – not just in our state, but across the country – for its majestic red rock walls that tower over the ponderosa pines. For the people of Southwest Colorado, the river is more than just a landmark – it’s the lifeblood of their communities and way of life,” said Bennet. “This bill was written in Colorado, by Coloradans who live, work, and depend on the Dolores River. It represents a balanced, sensible way forward to resolve many long-standing disagreements, protect the river for all parties, and provide long-term certainty for generations.”

    The Dolores River National Conservation Area Act follows nearly two decades of local discussion and collaboration on the Dolores River and twelve years of work to find a legislative compromise. In 2004, the Dolores River Dialogue began as a forum for all stakeholders to discuss their perspectives on Dolores River management. In 2008, the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management requested that the Dolores River Dialogue – a coalition of diverse interests in the region – convene a broad-based community group to study pressing management issues in the Dolores River corridor from McPhee to Bedrock, including the possibility of a Wild and Scenic River federal designation. Through consensus agreement, the working group, known as the Lower Dolores Plan Working Group, decided to explore the possibility of an NCA and appointed a Legislative Subcommittee, which included counties, water managers, conservation groups, landowners, recreationists, energy companies, and staff from federal elected officials’ offices, to draft a legislative proposal for further vetting. 

    The bill text is available HERE. A summary of the bill is available HERE. A map of the proposed National Conservation Area and Special Management Area is available HERE. You can find additional information, including support letters and answers to frequently asked questions on the bill’s webpage HERE.

    This bill is supported by: the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe; Montezuma, San Miguel, Dolores Archuleta, and La Plata Counties; the city of Cortez; the towns of Dove Creek, Norwood, and Dolores; Dolores River Boating Advocates, The Wilderness Society, American Rivers, Conservation Lands Foundation, American Whitewater, San Juan Citizens Alliance, Conservation Colorado, Sheep Mountain Alliance, The Nature Conservancy, Conservation Alliance, Outdoor Alliance, Outdoor Industry Association, Jagged Edge Mountain Gear, Trout Unlimited, San Miguel Watershed Coalition, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers Colorado, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, and the Southwestern Water Conservation District.

    “The Ute Mountain Ute Tribe fully supports the NCA legislation. The large gathering by the Dolores River last summer, during a boat trip with Senate staffs, Senator Bennet, Conservation Representatives, State, Federal, Tribal and local officials reflected the broad bi-partisan support for the NCA resulting from 10 years of collaborative negotiations,” said Manuel Heart, Chairman Ute Mountain Ute Tribe. “From the Tribe’s perspective, the Legislation protects our allocations from the Dolores Project, which provides us with water for drinking, economic development and our 7,600-acre farm. The Bill also supports the stewardship of the Dolores River, including protection of our cultural resources and practices. The legislation reconciles the obligations of Reclamation to meet water supply obligations, with BLM and USFS responsibilities to protect the natural ecology along the River. It includes the Tribe on the Resource Advisory Council that will develop a Management Plan for the NCA. Our water supplies are critical to the future of the Tribe, and protection of the River is consistent with our deeply held value that “Water is Life” for all beings. The NCA legislation supports both.”

    “The proposal is the result of a long-standing collaborative effort to protect the Dolores River and the interests of the various stakeholders that it serves, including water users, agricultural entities, local governments, OHV users, conservation groups, and recreationalists. ln crafting the NCA proposal, Montezuma County, San Miguel County, Dolores County, and other partners sought to address a myriad of concerns, including those arising from the finding that the Dolores River is ‘suitable’ for designation under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act,” said the Montezuma County Commissioners. “lt is the position of Montezuma County that designating the Dolores River as Wild and Scenic would result in significant consequences for water users and other groups seeking to access natural resources along the river corridor. By supporting the proposal for an NCA, it is Montezuma County’s intent to ensure that portions of the lower Dolores River that run through Montezuma, Dolores, and San Miguel counties will not be designated as Wild and Scenic, and it is our position that the NCA proposal sets forth an acceptable compromise between the various stakeholders interested in utilizing water and land resources in and along the Dolores River.”

    “For over a decade, San Miguel County has been engaged in discussions with Dolores and Montezuma Counties, the Ute Mountain Utes, and other regional stakeholders to determine a locally driven long-term management solution for the Dolores River,” said Lance Warring, San Miguel County Commissioner. “Collaboration and compromise have brought all these parties together on this issue. The Dolores County NCA is a locally built and broadly supported proposal that protects both natural resources and existing uses. I’m grateful to Senator Bennet for leading this effort and to Senator Hickenlooper for supporting this bill to ensure the protection of this magnificent river canyon.”

    “Dolores County is very pleased to hear that Senator Bennet and Senator Hickenlooper are reintroducing the Dolores River National Conservation Area and Special Management Area Act (NCA),” said Linda Yellowman, Co-Chair, Dolores County Commission. “Dolores County has worked diligently on the NCA Legislation since its beginning as the Lower Dolores River Working Group. We have a working product that shows how a bipartisan group of stakeholders came together to provide local support and legislative efforts to protect and sustain our cultural & natural resources and supports our agricultural industry and our treasured land in the Lower Dolores River canyon.”

    “Senator Bennet has been a longtime champion for protecting the Dolores River and surrounding landscape. We are excited that he has reintroduced the Dolores River National Conservation Area and Special Management Area legislation with support from Senator Hickenlooper. This bill represents the wisdom of southwest Colorado’s diverse interests and would protect the southern portion of the greater Dolores River Canyon Country. Farmers, ranchers, boaters, motorized recreationists, water and energy interests, landowners, and conservation organizations all recognize the need to protect the region and are aligned on how best to do it. We are grateful to our delegation for their commitment to protecting these important cultural, natural, and recreational resources for generations to come,” said Amber Clark, Executive Director, Dolores River Boating Advocates.

    “I have worked continuously on this proposal since 2008. I believe local participation in the management of the area will provide better benefits for the native fish, scenic area, recreation, permitted federal land uses, private land values and water rights than a wild and scenic designation. I have ranching and farming operations in all three counties involved. I appreciate Senator Bennet for his many years of his leadership on this bill and Senator Hickenlooper for joining him in supporting this bill. I hope this bill can go forward in the bipartisan way we have shown is possible with the diverse local groups that put this proposal together,” said Al Heaton, local rancher that operates in the proposed NCA. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: In Celebration of Colorado Public Lands Day, Hickenlooper, Bennet, Hurd Reintroduce Bipartisan Legislation to Protect Gunnison Basin and Surrounding Regions

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Colorado John Hickenlooper

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper and Michael Bennet reintroduced the Gunnison Outdoor Resources Protection (GORP) Act to permanently protect key portions of the Gunnison Basin and the surrounding regions through a variety of public land management tools, including special designations focused on recreation, wildlife, scientific research, and conservation. U.S. Colorado Representative Jeff Hurd introduced companion legislation in the House. 

    “Adventurers across Colorado and the country come to the Gunnison Basin for its rugged canyons and untamed wilderness,” said Hickenlooper. “Protecting these additional 730,000 acres will help keep it that way for generations.”

    “Coloradans have spent over a decade at trailheads and kitchen tables to find common ground and protect Gunnison County’s spectacular landscapes, economy, and natural resources,” said Bennet. “This bill proves that people with wide-ranging interests can develop a common vision to preserve our public lands for future generations.”

    “Honored to lead the Gunnison Outdoor Resources Protection Act alongside Senator Bennet,” said Hurd. “This legislation reflects strong local support for the responsible stewardship of our land.”

    Colorado Public Lands Day is Saturday, May 17th. Colorado was the first state to create a holiday for public land, demonstrating the deep connection Coloradans have to their public lands that define life in Colorado and drive our economy.

    The bill is based on over a decade of collaboration with local governments, Tribes, and public lands user groups. It has the bipartisan support of six counties in Western Colorado, as well as the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe and local municipalities. A wide variety of local businesses and public lands user groups, including summer and winter motorized recreation, conservation, mountain biking, whitewater recreation, rock climbers, ranchers, water users, and hunters and anglers, also support the bill.

    The bill is supported by: Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, Gunnison County, Delta County, Hinsdale County, Saguache County*, Pitkin County, Ouray County, Town of Crested Butte, City of Gunnison, Town of Mt. Crested Butte, Town of Paonia, Town of Ridgway, Gunnison County Stockgrowers Association, Crested Butte Mountain Bike Association, Gunnison Trails, High Country Conservation Advocates, Gunnison Valley OHV Alliance of Trail Riders (GOATs), The Wilderness Society, Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, Upper Gunnison River Water Conservancy District, Trout Unlimited, Gunnison Sno-Trackers, Gunnison Sustainable Tourism Outdoor Recreation Committee, American Whitewater, Wilderness Workshop, Western Slope Conservation Center, Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory, The Conservation Alliance, The Access Fund, Colorado Wildlands Project, Western State Ranches, Conservation Lands Foundation, and others.
    * Support applies only to the portion of the bill in their county

    “Land is very important to the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe and throughout history we have lost a lot of land that has been taken from the tribe unjustly,” said Manuel Heart, Chairman Ute Mountain Ute Tribe. “To get land back for the tribe by putting it into Trust status as this legislation does, is important to the tribe’s children and grandchildren. The Ute Mountain Ute Tribe appreciates Senator Bennet’s work on the GORP Act, supports the legislation and hopes it will move forward quickly in the US Senate. We deeply appreciate the support of Congressman Hurd for introducing this important legislation in the US House.”

    “Colorado’s great outdoors are known around the world and this bill marks a valuable step in the protection and management of the incredible Gunnison Basin for future generations of Coloradans and visitors,” said Colorado Governor Jared Polis. “I appreciate Senator Bennet’s and Congressman Hurd’s leadership on this issue and look forward to continuing to engage on this bill with them as it moves forward.”

    “As a former resident of the Gunnison Valley and Western Colorado University graduate, I am intimately aware of the importance public lands, wildlife and outdoor recreation are to local communities’ economy and environment,” said Dan Gibbs, Executive Director, Colorado Department of Natural Resources. “Our forests, water, wildlife and open spaces are some of our most precious natural resources and outdoor recreation drives visitors and residents to our state to enjoy our diverse opportunities. I commend Senator Bennet, Representative Hurd and the many diverse stakeholders on developing the locally driven Gunnison Outdoor Resources Protection Act. I look forward to working alongside all interested parties as this legislation makes its way through the U.S. Congress.”

    “The GORP Act is the product of the way we do business in Gunnison County: We sit down with our friends and neighbors and do the hard work of finding common ground and durable solutions that best serve our communities. Public Lands touch every aspect of our lives and are the backbone of our economy, our values and our way of life. I am proud of the work we have done to bring so many stakeholders- snowmobilers, ranchers, mountain bikers, hunters/anglers and conservationists to name a few- together,” said Jonathan Houck, Gunnison County Commissioner. “While GORP started in Gunnison County, I couldn’t be happier to stand with five neighboring Western Slope counties in support of this legislation, and I thank Senator Bennet for listening to our communities and to Congressman Hurd for supporting the hard work of his constituents in this part of his district.”

    “Delta County is glad to have worked with Senator Bennet and Representative Hurd on the GORP Act,” said the Delta County Commissioners. “Its provisions for Delta County will provide public access to a boat ramp, ensure that the BLM can continue to permit existing motorized boat use, and bring forward a thoughtful balance of uses on public lands in the North Fork Valley. This legislation shows what’s possible when we roll up our sleeves and work together.”

    “The Saguache County Board of Commissioners are pleased to support the introduction of Senator Bennet’s Gunnison Outdoor Resources Protection Act (GORP), and eagerly anticipate the passing of this legislation,” said the Saguache County Commissioners. “We appreciate the multiple years the many stakeholders have committed to this project. We also want to thank Representative Hurd for joining the effort to lead this bill in the US House.”

    “Pitkin County remains a strong supporter of public lands, and we believe in thoughtfully designating new Wilderness areas in sensitive landscapes, where it is appropriate,” said Greg Poschman, Pitkin County Commissioner. “I am deeply grateful for the dedication to their constituents and for the bold work of both Senator Bennet and Representative Hurd, as demonstrated by their advocacy for the GORP Act. We look forward to celebrating the ultimate success of two important new Wilderness designations in Colorado’s wild and pristine high country.”

    “Hinsdale County was proud to have collaborated with Senator Bennet, Gunnison County and Ouray County on the GORP Act,” said Kristie Borchers, Chair, Hinsdale County Board of County Commissioners. “We are excited that a key portion of the scenic Cimarron area where Hinsdale, Ouray and Gunnison County come together will be protected by this legislation. This bill will help protect our watersheds and the landscapes that attract the visitors who help drive our mountain town economies in the San Juan Mountains. We look forward to seeing the GORP Act move forward in Congress and we are excited to see Congressman Hurd introduce a companion version of this bill in the US House. The support on the ground for GORP is bipartisan and it’s great to see the bill have bipartisan support in Washington DC as well.”

    “The GORP Act sets the bar for collaborative and beneficial legislation,” said Lynn Padgett, Ouray County Board of County Commissioners. “I am forever grateful to Senator Bennet and his team and stakeholders like Gunnison, Hinsdale, and Ouray Counties for enthusiastically working together to include the proposed Uncompahgre Wilderness expansion and especially for protecting Turret Ridge. The peaks of the Cimarron range are unique in their scenery and geology. The GORP Act not only protects important migration areas for elk and key habitats for lynx and moose. The GORP Act protects our precious wildlands, vital to our local economy and quality of life. We deeply appreciate that Representative Hurd has now joined the effort to pass this bill in the US House.”

    “As Mayor of Crested Butte I am beyond excited to see GORP being introduced as bipartisan legislation,” said Ian Billick, Mayor Crested Butte. “This is a testament to the community conversation shepherded by Senator Bennet, as well as his foresight and hard work. Serious kudos to Representative Jeff Hurd for stepping up to support this bill, making it clear that when local communities invest their blood, sweat, and tears in working through hard conversations, in this instance for more than 10 years, bipartisan progress is possible! Working together we can make good things happen.”

    “Our groups have worked for nearly a decade to craft a vision for public lands in and around Gunnison County that will benefit our economy, environment, and quality of life into the future,” said members of the Gunnison Public Lands Initiative in a joint statement. “The GORP Act reflects the countless hours we spent working together and with communities around the Gunnison Basin. We are eager to see this thoughtful and well-vetted legislation signed into law.”

    BACKGROUND

    The GORP Act will protect over 730,000 acres of public lands in Western Colorado, safeguarding the region’s local economy, world-class recreation, ranching heritage, wildlife habitat, and clean air and water. The bill also includes provisions for recreational boating in Delta County and, at the request of the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, transfers the Pinecrest Ranch from fee ownership to trust ownership. 

    Hickenlooper and Bennet first introduced the GORP Act in 2024. 

    The text of the bill is available HERE. Maps of the areas designated by the bill are HERE. A summary of the bill is HERE. You can find additional information, including support letters and answers to frequently asked questions on the GORP Act website HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Announces $1.6 Million for Airport Improvements Across Louisiana from His Infrastructure Law

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) announced the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is granting Louisiana a total of $1,627,346.00 in funding from his Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) to improve airport infrastructure in Minden, Shreveport, Monroe, Vivian, Mansfield, Eunice, and Reserve.
    “Communities always want their airports to leave a good first impression,” said Dr. Cassidy. “These investments will help them do so. They’ll boost safety, support local economies, and help smaller airports better serve their communities.”
    Grant Awarded
    Recipient
    Project Description
    $585,000.00
    City of Minden
    This grant will provide federal funding to construct a 3,600 sq. ft. sponsor-owned hangar for aircraft storage to help the airport be self-sustaining by generating revenue.
    $292,125.00
    Shreveport Airport Authority
    This grant will provide federal funding to acquire a new sweeper/vacuum truck to bring the airport into conformity with current safety standards.
    $355,679.00
    City of Monroe
    This grant will provide federal funding to rehabilitate 2,153 feet of Runway 14/32 to maintain structural integrity and minimize foreign object debris.
    $57,770.00
    Town of Vivian
    This grant will provide federal funding to construct a new fuel farm by adding one fuel tank to expand availability of an existing fuel type and help generate airport revenue.
    $131,772.00
    De Soto Parish Police Jury
    This grant will provide federal funding to construct a 10,920 sq. ft. sponsor-owned hangar and a 735-foot taxilane to improve airfield access and meet current standards.
    $95,000.00
    City of Eunice
    This grant will provide federal funding to construct a new sponsor-owned hangar for aircraft storage to support revenue generation and self-sufficiency.
    $110,000.00
    Port of South Louisiana
    This grant will provide federal funding to construct an 8,400 sq. ft. sponsor-owned hangar to assist the airport in becoming self-sustaining through increased revenue.

    MIL OSI USA News –

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

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)
    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: Army Corps Nominee Commits to Sullivan to Prioritize Alaska’s Nome Port Project

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Dan Sullivan
    05.16.25
    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), a member of the Senate Environment & Public Works (EPW) Committee, secured a commitment this week from Adam Telle, nominated to be Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works in charge of the Army Corps of Engineers, to prioritize the Port of Nome project, the nation’s first deep-draft Arctic port, in light of Alaska’s strategic importance constituting the entirety of America’s Arctic.
    “The Port of Nome has bipartisan support,” said Sen. Sullivan. “We don’t have an Arctic port anywhere to push back on the Russian and Chinese aggression in my part of the [country]. That project, it’s really important. We’ve got to get it over the finish line. Can I get your commitment to work with me and the others in this committee on that project?”
    “Senator Sullivan, one of the most strategic issues that confronts the United States of America today is our status as an Arctic…nation,” said Mr. Telle. “This is an area of the world that the Chinese Communist Party is very interested in. The Russians are very active. Your state is front and center to the United States of America’s being an Arctic nation. We must be. It seems to me that, if we’re going to be an Arctic nation, that Alaska ought to be one of the key launching points of that force projection and power projection and economic projection. I look forward to working with you to help make the case for the strategic nature of Alaska and the Port of Nome as it relates to the United States asserting itself as an Arctic nation.”
    [embedded content]
    In his questioning during the EPW hearing, Sen. Sullivan also highlighted President Donald Trump’s executive order, “Unleashing Alaska’s Extraordinary Resource Potential,” which directs the Corps to “review, revise or rescind any agency action that may in any way hinder, slow, or otherwise delay any critical project in the State of Alaska.” Mr. Telle reiterated his understanding of and support for carrying out the President’s Alaska order in relation to critical projects, including the Port of Nome.
    Below is a transcript of Sen. Sullivan’s exchange with Mr. Telle on the Port of Nome and the Alaska EO.
    SEN. SULLIVAN: I appreciated our meetings, Mr. Telle and Mr. McMaster. It’s hard to build anything in Alaska. Right? You want to build a road, a sidewalk, you usually get 12 radical far-left environmental groups that sue to stop it. We have the King Cove Road. We’ve only been trying to get that done for 40 years. A nine-mile, single-lane gravel road that every Democrat in the country—including, God rest his soul, Jimmy Carter, writes op-eds [saying] you can’t build a road in Alaska. Then it went so bad, we had the Biden administration’s Last Frontier Lock Up. My great state suffered through 70 executive orders and executive actions from the Biden administration singularly focused on Alaska. I like ripping this up because that’s not the issue anymore. We now have President Trump who issued his day-one executive order called, “Unleashing Alaska’s Extraordinary Resource Potential.” Mr. Telle, as you and I discussed, there’s a lot of great provisions in here. This is all about getting things done in Alaska, not crushing us as the radical left wants to do. There’s a really good provision about the Corps of Engineers. I’m going to read it to you: “The assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works”—that’s you—”shall immediately review, revise or rescind any agency action that may in any way hinder, slow, or otherwise delay any critical project in the state of Alaska.” That’s from the President. Will you commit to abide by that very expansive provision to get things done in my great state after four years of being crushed by the previous administration?
    MR. TELLE: Senator Sullivan, absolutely. When I visited your office, I tattooed the executive order that the President issued on Alaska on my heart.
    SULLIVAN: By the way, that’s a great answer.
    TELLE: I will go ahead and read the second paragraph to you from memory, which essentially says that I shall, if confirmed, coordinate as closely with the Governor of Alaska as a human could possibly coordinate.
    SULLIVAN: Good. And the Senator from Alaska.
    TELLE: Of course.
    …..
    SULLIVAN: The Port of Nome has bipartisan support. We don’t have an Arctic port anywhere to push back on the Russian and Chinese aggression in my part of the [country]. That project, it’s really important. We’ve got to get it over the finish line. Can I get your commitment to work with me and the others in this committee on that project? That’s an interesting project. I mentioned, you had your SASC hearing yesterday. That’s EPW, and that’s very much DoD, to be able to have Navy ships, icebreakers, be able to pull up to the port of Nome. We don’t have a port in the Arctic right now that can handle Navy ships and icebreakers.
    TELLE: Senator Sullivan, one of the most strategic issues that confronts the United States of America today is our status as an Arctic and Antarctic nation. This is an area of the world that the Chinese Communist Party is very interested in. The Russians are very active. Your state is front and center to the United States of America’s being an Arctic nation. We must be. It seems to me that, if we’re going to be an Arctic nation, that Alaska ought to be one of the key launching points of that force projection and power projection and economic projection. I look forward to working with you to help make the case for the strategic nature of Alaska and the Port of Nome as it relates to the United States asserting itself as an Arctic nation.
    Below is a timeline on the Port of Nome expansion project: 
    Water resource projects developed by the Corps undergo a multi-stage process. Standard Corps project delivery consists of the Corps leading the study, design, and construction of authorized projects. However, each stage of that process must qualify for an existing authorization or receive a separate authorization from Congress, as well as receive congressional appropriation at each stage to proceed. Congress authorizes the Corps’ actions through periodic Water Resource Development Acts in the Senate EPW Committee and the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.  
    In 2012, the Corps launched the Alaska Deep Draft Arctic Port System Study to evaluate potential locations on the northern and western coasts of Alaska, and to determine the feasibility of constructing navigation improvements as part of a larger system of port facilities in the Arctic and sub-Arctic region. Following the selection of Nome as the location for an Arctic port, the Corps began a feasibility study, assessing the costs of the port versus the benefits. The Corps paused the feasibility study following the departure of Shell Oil Company from the Arctic, which significantly tipped the cost-benefit ratio against the port project. 
    In the 2016 Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WIIN) Act, Sen. Sullivan and the late Representative Don Young (R-Alaska) included two provisions to justify a potential Arctic port based on its value to surrounding communities and its importance to national security.
    In 2017, following enactment of the WIIN Act, senior Corps leaders committed to Sullivan and Young to utilize the new authority to restart the feasibility study for the port.
    On February 2, 2018, the City of Nome and the Corps initiated a cost-sharing agreement.
    On October 23, 2018, President Trump signed America’s Water Infrastructure Act (AWIA), which included Sullivan-Young language to expedite completion of a Corps feasibility study for the Nome port.
    On May 29, 2020, the Corps announced the completion of the chief’s report for the Port of Nome Modification Feasibility Study, making the project eligible for congressional authorization and funding.
    In December 2020, President Trump signed the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2020, which included language, championed by Sullivan and Young, authorizing $379 million for the federal share of the Nome Deep Draft Port Project.
    On November 15, 2021, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) was signed into law. The bill provided $250 million over five years for the construction of remote and subsistence harbor projects. These projects are in locations that are not connected to a road system, and for ports are vital to the long-term viability of the community.
    On January 19, 2022, the Corps announced that the entire $250 million from the IIJA for remote and subsistence harbor projects will be directed to the Port of Nome.
    On July 28, 2022, the Senate passed the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2022. The legislation included key victories for Alaska infrastructure, including increasing the federal cost-share for the Nome Deep Draft Port Project. 
    On December 15, 2022, the Senate passed WRDA 2022 as part of the FY 2023 National Defense Authorization Act.
    On October 31, 2023, Senators Sullivan and Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) announced an$11.2 million grant for the construction of water and wastewater, fuel, power, and communications infrastructure to expand and deepen the Port of Nome. The grant was made possible by the IIJA.
    On January 25, 2024, the Corps announced a Project Partnership Agreement (PPA) for the Port of Nome expansion project, which includes the construction of a new deep-water basin. The PPA, which legally binds the government and the State of Alaska to execute the project, was marked by a signing ceremony held in Nome.
    On February 12, 2025, several Arctic policy experts testified at a Senate Commerce Science & Transportation Committee hearing in support of increasing infrastructure investments in Alaska, including the Port of Nome expansion.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Collins Secures $8 Million USDOT Partnership for UMaine Advanced Structures and Composites Center

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins
    Published: May 16, 2025

    U.S. Department of Transportation will collaborate with UMaine to support the Center’s development of low-cost, composite bridge materials.

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins today announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Advanced Research Projects Agency–Infrastructure (ARPA-I) is moving forward with an $8 million partnership with the University of Maine’s (UMaine) Advanced Structures and Composites Center (ASCC) to further develop technologies that will deliver bridges at half the cost, in half the time, and with twice the lifespan of many current bridges. USDOT Secretary Sean Duffy called Senator Collins to inform her that the Department was moving forward with the partnership.
    “The Advanced Structures and Composites Center has long been a leader in this innovative space, and I cannot think of a better partner for the federal government for this bridge building initiative,” said Senator Collins. “This investment will support cutting-edge research that has the potential to revolutionize how we construct our nation’s bridges—saving taxpayers money while creating good-paying jobs here in Maine.”
    “We are delighted that ARPA-I has selected the University of Maine for this inaugural grant competition. It is a big day for UMaine and for providing more durable bridges to the public,” said Dr. Habib Dagher, Executive Director of the UMaine Advanced Structures and Composites Center. “We thank Senator Collins who has secured the funding which enabled the ARPA-I program competition to be carried out.  Building on our years of work on composites materials, this funding will allow us to develop the X-BRIDGE, which will increase the speed of construction, increase the lifespan of bridges, and reduce lifecycle costs including installation and maintenance costs.”
    The funding for this project comes from the USDOT’s ARPA-I Exceptional Bridges through Innovative Design and Groundbreaking Engineering (X-BRIDGE) program.  ARPA-I’s cooperative agreement with the University of Maine will develop and integrate new advanced composite materials into bridge construction and to explore AI-assisted design tools. In partnership with UMaine, the X-BRIDGE program aims to demonstrate these technologies at scale through the construction of a prototype bridge.
    UMaine’s X-BRIDGE project has a total of five major tasks, with a base year budget of $8 million plus two potential option years of $6 million each (totaling $20 million for the overall project). It covers the design of the University’s Composite Bridge System (CBS) and its utilization, developing and prototyping CBS technologies, and planning and ramp up to constructing a full-scale demonstration bridge using the CBS in partnership with Maine DOT. Full-scale construction of the demonstration bridge is expected to be primarily funded through an infrastructure owner and operator, and appropriate partnerships for construction will be finalized during the execution of the R&D project.
    In addition to this partnership, Senator Collins has secured more than $18 million in Congressionally Directed Spending for UMaine’s Advanced Structures and Composites Center through her role on the Senate Appropriations Committee.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Baldwin Calls Out Trump Administration’s Illegal Firings and Cuts at AmeriCorps, Demands Reversal

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) called for the immediate reversal of layoffs and illegal funding cuts that have debilitated the AmeriCorps’ core functions and run counter to its longstanding, bipartisan support in Congress. In Wisconsin, 8,400 AmeriCorps members support local communities through teaching in schools, tutoring students, providing health care, helping the homeless, and more.  
     “While a recent court order instituted a 14 day temporary restraining order on staff reductions at AmeriCorps, the damage of firing staff and eliminating $400 million in grants has already been felt across the country,” wrote Baldwin and the lawmakers in a letter to the Interim Agency Head of AmeriCorps. “The grant terminations and potential issues awarding fiscal year 2025 grant funding will have a catastrophic impact on the ability of AmeriCorps members to carry out work in communities all over the country — responding to natural disasters, serving as classroom teachers, providing tutoring services, and helping build housing in rural communities.”
    Late last month, President Trump and Elon Musk’s DOGE illegally terminated over a thousand AmeriCorps grants to states, nonprofits, and faith-based organizations across the country – totaling nearly $400 million, or roughly 41% of the agency’s grant funding. Grantees were not given statutorily required notices before these grants were terminated. The cuts are already seriously impacting communities where AmeriCorps projects were ongoing as well as their selfless members and volunteers.
    Last year, nearly 200,000 AmeriCorps volunteers prepared today’s students for tomorrow’s jobs, connected veterans to services, fought the opioid epidemic, helped seniors live independently, rebuilt communities after disasters and led conservation efforts nationwide.
    “We urge the swift reversal of the termination of NCCC members’ service terms so that they can get back to helping communities,” concluded Baldwin and the lawmakers. “These illegal grant terminations attempt to supersede congressional intent at the expense of communities in need of crucial services. More than 1,000 programs will be forced to close and over 32,000 AmeriCorps members and AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers will be released from their service terms early… Further, by laying off nearly the entire agency staff, AmeriCorps is violating the law.”
    Last month, Senator Baldwin urged President Donald Trump to reverse cuts to AmeriCorps and NCCC AmeriCorps made by Elon Musk’s DOGE, which had already begun impacting service programs across Wisconsin.
    Programs such as AmeriCorps and AmeriCorps Seniors deploy over 200,000 Americans annually to carry out results-driven projects at over 35,000 locations across the U.S. These programs serve communities nationwide, including in Wisconsin, where 8,400 AmeriCorps members and AmeriCorps Seniors serve at more than 900 local service sites to respond to disasters, improve housing, help veterans, and support educational services.
    In addition to Senator Baldwin, the letter is co-signed by Senators Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and Patty Murray (D-WA).
    The full letter is available here and below.
    Dear Interim Agency Head Bastress Tahmasebi:
    We write to express our grave concern with recent AmeriCorps grant terminations, reports that DOGE is interfering with operations at AmeriCorps, the demobilization of National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC) members, and reports that the Trump Administration has placed nearly all of the agency’s staff on administrative leave. While a recent court order instituted a 14-day temporary restraining order on staff reductions at AmeriCorps, the damage of firing staff and eliminating $400 million in grants has already been felt across the country. These actions make it nearly impossible for AmeriCorps to effectively administer its programs and carry out its statutory responsibilities, including supporting the approximately 200,000 AmeriCorps members and volunteers, awarding all fiscal year 2025 grants and funding appropriated by Congress in a timely manner if at all, and conducting meaningful oversight. The grant terminations and potential issues awarding fiscal year 2025 grant funding will have a catastrophic impact on the ability of AmeriCorps members to carry out work in communities all over the country — responding to natural disasters, serving as classroom teachers, providing tutoring services, and helping build housing in rural communities.
    On Friday, April 25th, 1,031 grantees—including states, local non-profits, and faith-based organizations— received grant termination notices, which stated that the programs, “no longer effectuate agency priorities.” Grant termination notices amounted to nearly $400 million, roughly 41 percent of the agency’s grant funding, although actual savings may be far less than that. These terminations appear to contradict both statutory and regulatory provisions governing changes to agency priorities. For example, 42 USC 12572(c)(2) requires AmeriCorps to provide advance notice to potential applicants of any national service priorities to be in effect for a fiscal year. Further, Section 401 of Title IV of Division D of the Further Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024, a term and condition carried forward in the Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2025, requires that “CNCS shall make any significant changes to program requirements, service delivery or policy only through public notice and comment rulemaking.”
    In addition, these programs were not notified that they were out of compliance and the agency failed to provide 7 days’ notice of proposed cuts, which is required under applicable regulations. These illegal grant terminations attempt to supersede congressional intent at the expense of communities in need of crucial services. More than 1,000 programs will be forced to close and over 32,000 AmeriCorps members and AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers will be released from their service terms early. These demobilized members and volunteers will lose access to their living stipends and may be left without other benefits, including healthcare and housing. Additionally, staff who administer AmeriCorps programs at a state and local level will likely be laid-off due to budget constraints as a result of these grant terminations. In response, on April 29th, 24 states and the District of Columbia filed a lawsuit alleging that the Trump administration has exceeded its authority under the law and is in violation of the Administrative Procedures Act and the separation of powers under the Constitution.
    The recent demobilization of AmeriCorps NCCC members is already having rippling effects in communities across this country. AmeriCorps NCCC was authorized by Congress to strengthen communities, develop the next generation of leaders, and help communities respond to natural disasters and other environmental issues. In 2024, NCCC members performed over 717,000 hours of service to the nation and their service benefited communities in 48 states. NCCC members helped over 388,000 people in disaster areas and over 8,700 students in K-12 tutoring programs. In the fall of 2024, AmeriCorps NCCC led efforts to respond to the communities devastated by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. It is devastating to hear that NCCC members were pulled out as they were continuing to help victims of those hurricanes rebuild their homes. We urge the swift reversal of the termination of NCCC members’ service terms so that they can get back to helping communities.
    Further, by laying off nearly the entire agency staff, AmeriCorps is violating the law. The Administration’s actions make it impossible for AmeriCorps to carry out statutorily required functions and congressional intent, and raise serious questions about AmeriCorps being able to spend all appropriated fiscal year 2025 appropriated funding. For example, the administration has not decided how it will spend nearly $200 million in fiscal year 2025 funding that was provided for AmeriCorps grant programs in fiscal year 2024. The most straightforward interpretation of a full-year CR is to continue funding for all programs and activities at the prior year’s level. After all, Congress enacted the fiscal year 2024 appropriation with overwhelmingly bipartisan majorities a little more than a year ago. If Congress wanted to make changes to AmeriCorps funding in the fiscal year 2025 appropriation bill, it would have done so, but it did not. The Administration’s effort to eliminate AmeriCorps is contrary to the bipartisan record of Congress.
    Lastly, AmeriCorps members cannot earn their service hours or be placed in schools until the grant awards supporting them are in place. In particular, the delay in awarding of grant funds could impact the ability of the AmeriCorps members to earn the Segal Education Award by not providing them sufficient service hours to earn such education awards. Also, many Teach for America/AmeriCorps members use the Segal awards to cover the costs of teacher certification, without which they would not be able to serve as classroom teachers. Teach for America members often teach in the most understaffed rural and urban schools around the nation. At a time of teacher shortages in key subject areas across the country, the slow release of fiscal year 2025 AmeriCorps grant funds could exacerbate such teacher shortages. 
    We request that you provide written answers to the following questions as soon as possible, but not later than May 30, 2025.
    Please provide a list of every grant that has been terminated since January 20th, including the total amount of awards to each grantee, the amount of funds that each grantee has spent up to the date of the grant’s termination, and the amount of remaining unspent funds for each award.
    Please detail how the grant terminations noticed on April 25th comply with statutory requirements including 42 USC 12572 and Section 401 of Title IV of Division D of the Further Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024.
    What calculation is being used to determine the amount of a Segal Award a member will receive for a terminated grant?
    Please provide AmeriCorps’ own estimates of the number of volunteers and members expected to be demobilized and terminated due to the cancellation of grants since January 20th.
    For each office, please provide the number of staff on board as of January 19th and as of today’s date.
    For each office, please provide the number of staff placed on paid administrative leave since January 20th as of the pay period including January 23, 2025 and the most recent pay period.
    For each office, please provide the total salaries and benefits costs of staff placed on paid administrative leave since January 20th as of the pay period including January 23, 2025 and the most recent pay period. For the agency in total, please provide the estimated total salaries and benefits costs incurred for employees placed on administrative leave since January 20th.
    On January 28, 2025, the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) sent a so-called “Fork in the Road” email to more than two million federal employees offering the opportunity to take “deferred resignation” by February 6, 2025. For each office, please provide:
    The number of employees that offered to resign as part of the deferred resignation program.
    The number of employees whose resignations were accepted as part of the deferred resignation program.
    The number and types of duties re-assigned from employees whose resignations were accepted as part of the deferred resignation program.
    The number and types of duties eliminated from employees whose resignations were accepted as part of the deferred resignation program.
    The roles and number of personnel who tried to accept but were excluded from the deferred resignation program.
    For AmeriCorps in total, the estimated total salaries and benefits costs in fiscal year 2025 for employees whose resignations were accepted as part of the deferred resignation program

    The President and his team have directed all agencies to develop Agency Reorganization Plans in phases through mid-April.25 Please provide us with a briefing of such plans no later than seven days after receipt of this letter.
    The email that was sent to NCCC members on April 15, 2025 stated that the “AmeriCorps NCCC is working within new operational parameters that impact the program’s ability to sustain program operations.” Given that Congress has not cut funding for this program, please detail the specific operational parameters that have changed and why NCCC can no longer carry out it statutorily required activities?
    What actions has DOGE made the agency take to date?
    Who at DOGE made the decision to demobilize the NCCC members and agency staff cuts? And under what authority did such staff have to make such a decision?
    What information did DOGE collect from the agency?
    Was any personally identifiable information of AmeriCorps members shared with DOGE? If so, what types of information?
    With NCCC members being sent home, how does the agency plan to fulfill its obligations to the disaster-impacted communities where NCCC members were working?

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: Trillions in Great Deals Secured for America Thanks to President Trump

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    President Donald J. Trump’s first official trip was a huge success, locking in over $2 trillion in great deals—including a $600 billion investment commitment from Saudi Arabia, a $1.2 trillion economic exchange agreement with Qatar, $243.5 billion in U.S.-Qatar commercial and defense deals, and $200 billion in U.S.-United Arab Emirates commercial deals.
    President Trump’s historic collaboration with these Middle Eastern nations not only strengthens America’s economy but also fosters greater safety and stability in the region, paving the way for a more prosperous and secure future.
    The companies securing these landmark deals are grateful for the Trump Administration’s leadership and the economic climate President Trump has fostered to make these agreements possible:
    U.S.-Saudi Arabia Deals
    Alphabet and Google President and Chief Investment Officer Ruth Porat: “We acknowledge and are grateful for the engagement and policies of the Trump Administration and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, who are enabling strong execution to accelerate AI innovation in both countries. We are proud of the partnership with PIF for a global AI hub that will deliver innovation, economic growth and societal benefits not only to Saudi Arabia, but also to American and global companies doing business in the region. Together, we will create highly-skilled jobs and deliver AI training programs to open new, rewarding career pathways.”
    Amazon CEO Andy Jassy: “We appreciate President Trump and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman convening business leaders in Saudi Arabia to strengthen economic ties and drive innovation between our two countries. Amazon is excited to partner with HUMAIN, Saudi Arabia’s newly created AI innovation company, to collectively invest more than $5 billion to build a groundbreaking ‘AI Zone’ there, which will bring multiple innovative AWS AI capabilities to Saudi Arabia along with skills training for 100,000 citizens from the Kingdom.”
    DataVolt CEO Rajit Nanda: “This partnership was made possible in large part due to the enabling technology and trade frameworks advanced during the Trump Administration—policies that championed high-tech exports, strengthened U.S.-Saudi strategic ties, which have empowered entrepreneurial collaboration in the digital era.”
    Oracle CEO Safra Catz: “Thanks to the decisive actions and strong leadership of President Trump and his administration, Oracle is providing the world’s most advanced cloud and AI technology to Saudi Arabia. Our expanded partnership with the Kingdom will create new opportunities for its economy, deliver better health outcomes for its people, and fortify its alliance with the United States, which will create a ripple effect of peace and prosperity across the Middle East and around the world.”
    GE Vernova CEO Scott Strazik: “As the world’s energy equipment manufacturer, GE Vernova is proud to deploy world class technology to help deepen the longstanding relationship between the United States and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, advance energy security, and strengthen the economic prosperity and competitiveness of both nations. We are thankful for the leadership of both governments for putting energy manufacturing, innovation, and technology front and center, setting the strongest possible precedent for the role of equipment to unlock more solutions globally. We are committed to continuing our work to grow capacity and jobs in the U.S. and beyond to meet these critical needs.”
    Shamekh IV Solutions, LLC Chairman and Founder Stephen Shaya, M.D.: “We extend our profound gratitude to President Trump, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, the Administrations of the United States and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and our future partner Alturki Holding for their unwavering support and shared vision in making this endeavor possible. The Trump Administration’s policies and engagements have shown leadership and laid the groundwork for international partnerships and investment opportunities. As we embark on this transformative journey, we are committed to generating employment, stimulating industrial growth, and contributing to the development of a robust pharmaceutical industry in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United States. Together with our esteemed partners, we are fortifying global competitiveness and positioning ourselves as leaders in the healthcare sector. This venture represents a monumental leap forward in our mission to deliver innovative healthcare solutions. By leveraging advanced technologies and fostering international collaborations, we aim to set new standards in biopharmaceutical manufacturing and research, ultimately improving patient outcomes worldwide.”
    Saudi Excellence Co. Chairman Sheikh Abdullah Zaid Al-Meleihi on the Energy Investment Fund: “This vehicle represents more than capital—it is a bridge of trust and ambition between two great nations. We are proud to recognize the legacy of President Trump, which positioned the United States as a magnet for innovation and opportunity and elevated the conditions necessary for meaningful bilateral engagement.”
    New Era Fund and New Vista Capital General Partners Adam Kaplan and Kirsten Bartok Touw, along with Saudi Excellence Co. Chairman Sheikh Abdullah Zaid Al-Meleihi: “We extend our gratitude to President Donald J. Trump and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud for their exceptional leadership and support in making this initiative possible. The launch of the New Era Fund reflects a shared vision of investing in industrial capability and innovation to build a stronger and more resilient future together.”
    Palantir Co-Founder and CEO Alex Karp: “This historic visit builds on decades of strategic cooperation between the United States and Saudi Arabia. Palantir is proud to play a role in forging the next generation of that alliance by enhancing U.S.-Saudi cooperation on AI and defense.”
    Lockheed Martin Chairman, President, and CEO Jim Taiclet: “At Lockheed Martin, we build the world’s best air defense systems, powerful radars, and most lethal fighter aircraft and we thank President Trump for including us in this groundbreaking defense partnership with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. We look forward to working with his administration to support a pathway to fifth generation air dominance capabilities while further strengthening the Kingdom’s defenses against air and missile threats.”
    L3Harris Chair and CEO Christopher E. Kubasik: “L3Harris was proud to enter a defense-focused joint venture with Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI) in 2019 under the first Trump administration, and today’s agreement represents another significant step forward in our collaboration in the Kingdom. We look forward to expanding our partnership in communications; datalinks; and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities to protect the joint security interests of the U.S. and Saudi Arabia.”
    Jacobs Chair and CEO Bob Pragada: “Jacobs is honored to have participated in the Saudi–U.S. Investment Forum, held this week, which reinforces the strength of the commercial partnership between the United States and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The signing of our Memorandum of Understanding with Saudi Power Procurement Company (SPPC) reflects Jacobs’ continued commitment to delivering sustainable infrastructure that supports Vision 2030 and contributes to long term prosperity and job creation in the Kingdom.” 
    Bechtel Chairman and CEO Brendan Bechtel: “Bechtel’s announcement to deliver three new terminals at King Salman International Airport marks a significant new chapter in our more than 80-year partnership with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This project reflects our shared commitment to advancing world-class infrastructure that fuels long-term economic growth and underscores the enduring strength of U.S.-Saudi economic and development ties. We appreciate the leadership of President Trump and the vision of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. We’re proud of the progress we’ve made together—including more than 300 projects across Saudi Arabia, such as the recently opened Riyadh Metro—and we’re energized by the opportunities ahead.” 
    Franklin Templeton CEO and President Jenny Johnson: “President Trump is visiting the Middle East to build on historic progress made in his first term to bring peace and stability to the region by brokering the Abraham accords. His focus on enhanced economic and military cooperation advances the interests of the US, our partners in the region, and all who rely on the benefits of a more stable region and safe passage of critical resources and services. The United States is home to the leading global asset managers. For over 75 years, Franklin Templeton has been one of the largest, most innovative, and truly global firms; having maintained a physical presence in the Gulf region more than 25 years, we are renowned for our pioneering approach to emerging market investments, as we were one of the first global asset managers to invest in the Saudi capital market and now we offer a suite of investment and research services from our Riyadh location, in addition to our leadership in global Sukuk and Sharia-compliant investing. Our USA-based teams manage many of our global portfolios in close collaboration with our local teams on the ground in Saudi Arabia and around the world. The Trump Administration’s policies, including those designed to open foreign markets to US-based global leaders like us – have already helped Franklin Templeton to export more of our world-class services. And the Administration’s bilateral approach to trade in both goods and services is a welcome, direct approach that allows for quick and meaningful successes like those we have announced this week with our Saudi partners.”
    Edrevel Founder and CEO Anita Selwyn: “President Trump’s visit to Saudi Arabia and the announcement of more than $600 billion in U.S.–Saudi investment agreements mark a major step forward in global economic partnership. Edrevel thanks the U.S. Department of Commerce for bringing together innovative startups and enterprises to power the dialogue at the forum, and set the stage for long term investments in the U.S. and Saudi Arabia. The investments in both countries generate a surging demand for talent, requiring fast, scalable upskilling. AI-powered learning delivers speed, precision, and measurable ROI. Edrevel is proud to advance workforce development through strategic partnerships with the Saudi Entertainment Academy, Alfaisal Center for Research and Consultancy Studies, and Aosha Training and Consulting in Saudi Arabia. We look forward to expanding Edrevel’s role in building capacity, driving innovation, and unlocking opportunity across both nations.” 
    Mitchell Rubber Arabia Founder, Chairman, and CEO Stephen J. Lautenschlager:  “President Trump’s visit to Saudi Arabia represents a historic affirmation of the enduring strength and strategic importance of the U.S.–Saudi relationship. Mitchell Rubber exemplifies the kind of industrial collaboration that advances Vision 2030 while delivering real economic value back to the United States—through expanded trade, advanced technology integration, and the growth of U.S.-based engineering and services exports. This partnership is made possible by forward-looking policies from both governments and the coordinated support of the Ministry of Investment, the Royal Commission for Yanbu, the U.S. Embassy, and the U.S.–Saudi Business Council—all of whom have played a vital role in enabling this cross-border investment and industrial localization initiative.” 
    I Squared Capital Chairman and Managing Partner Sadek Wahba: “Today’s forum represents the best of U.S.-Saudi cooperation—built on a long-standing partnership and poised for future growth. The MoU I Squared Capital signed with the Public Investment Fund highlights the vital role of private capital, particularly in infrastructure, and reflects what’s possible when two nations share a commitment to innovation, investment, and economic progress. We are especially grateful to the U.S. and Saudi leadership for their vision and collaboration in setting the stage for high-impact partnerships like ours. As part of our commitment to the Kingdom, I Squared Capital hopes to invest roughly $1 billion in Saudi Arabia over the coming years, supporting the ambitions of Vision 2030 and contributing to a more connected, sustainable, and prosperous future.”
    Armada CEO Dan Wright: “We’re grateful for President Trump’s focus on American leadership in enhancing global economic prosperity and look forward to continuing to strengthen key international partnerships through collaboration, technology, and innovation. This visit marks a significant moment in the historic partnership between the United States and Saudi Arabia. Aligned with this milestone, we are proud to announce that Armada is partnering with Alturki Holding to bring real-world AI and edge infrastructure to the region and help advance Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. This $30 million investment will accelerate American and Saudi innovators, create highly-skilled jobs, and expand opportunities for collaboration between our nations.” 
    Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon: “This marks a pivotal time for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as it makes significant strides in becoming a global hub for digital and AI innovation. As a long-standing American innovator and semiconductor company, we are proud to work with HUMAIN, Aramco and ALAT to deploy our leading technologies in 5G, AI and next generation edge and cloud computing. The Saudi-US Investment Forum showcased the importance of collaboration between leading enterprises of two great nations, and we applaud President Trump and Saudi Arabia’s crown prince Mohammed bin Salman for their leadership.” 
    Doroni Aerospace CEO and Founder Doron Merdinger: “It was an honor to represent Doroni Aerospace at the U.S.–Saudi Investment Forum in Riyadh — a historic moment where American innovation met global collaboration. This partnership, to develop and manufacture the H1-X, next generation personal eVTOL, will directly support U.S. job creation, help alleviate traffic through advanced personal air mobility, and unlock new economic opportunities by reimagining how we move. This milestone would not have been possible without President Trump’s leadership, fostering a business environment that welcomes international investment and accelerates next-generation technologies.”
    Parsons Corporation Chair, President, and Chief Executive Officer Carey Smith: “Parsons is proud to be a part of President Trump’s initiatives to strengthen strategic relations in Saudi Arabia. As a global infrastructure leader with a presence in the Kingdom spanning more than six decades, Parsons has leveraged our global experience to build trusted partnerships and deliver critical infrastructure, supported by over 3,000 employees across the country with 50 active projects in the Kingdom, including mega and giga projects. We are working on some of the Kingdom’s premiere projects including the world’s largest urban park; King Salman Park, NEOM’s THE LINE and Oxagon projects, Soudah Peaks and Riyadh Metro, the largest driverless metro system in the world. Our unwavering focus on the country’s future is underlined by a combination of a dedicated team of experts and our understanding of the local environment and vision, reinforcing our commitment to building this nation and supporting its transformation.”
    Hill International Global CEO Raouf Ghali: “We extend our profound gratitude to President Trump, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, the Administrations of the United States and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and our future partner National Water Company and Lucid Motor for their unwavering support and shared vision in making this endeavor possible. The Trump Administration’s policies and engagements have shown leadership and laid the groundwork for international partnerships and investment opportunities. As we embark on this transformative journey, we are committed to generating employment, stimulating industrial growth, and contributing to the development of a robust infrastructure industry in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United States. Together with our esteemed partners, we are fortifying global competitiveness and positioning ourselves as leaders in the infrastructure sector. This represents a monumental leap forward in our mission to deliver infrastructure top notch services.”
    Woodside CEO Meg O’Neill: “Woodside was pleased to sign a collaboration agreement with Aramco today as part of the U.S.-Saudi Investment Forum, which is focused on building economic ties between the United States and Saudi Arabia as part of the President’s goal to build a long-term economic partnership between the two countries. Under the collaboration agreement, Woodside and Aramco will explore global opportunities, including Aramco’s potential acquisition of an equity interest in and LNG offtake from the Louisiana LNG project as well as exploring opportunities for a potential collaboration in lower-carbon ammonia.”
    Global AI Director and CEO Sami Issa: “The Saudi-U.S. Investment Forum has exceeded our expectations. We are deeply grateful to President Trump for his remarkable efforts to strengthen cooperation with our close ally, Saudi Arabia, and to promote mutual investment in AI between our two nations. We would be honored to invite President Trump and Secretary Lutnick to tour our state-of-the-art, water-cooled data center located in his home state of New York.”
    Intelligent Security Systems Chairman Richard Burns: “We were delighted to close our deal at the Summit. No question at all that President Trump’s visit was the major accelerant. Our deal is proof that you don’t need to be Fortune 500 to do well in Saudi if you have the right products and services.”
    Phosphorus Cybersecurity CEO and Founder Chris Rouland: “President Trump’s historic visit to Saudi Arabia marks a significant milestone in the enduring partnership between our countries. We are proud to support this shared commitment to economic growth and innovation by providing advanced cybersecurity technologies that empower the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 while also driving technological leadership here in the United States. We thank the Trump administration for its policies that promote global collaboration and open new opportunities for American technology companies to contribute to critical digital infrastructure projects around the world.”
    Hydrotech CEO Tarek Khouri: “President Donald Trump’s historic visit to Saudi Arabia marks a significant milestone in the enduring partnership between the United States and the Kingdom. At HydroTech Environmental Engineering and Geology DPC, we take immense pride in contributing to this collaboration by delivering innovative environmental and infrastructure solutions that drive economic growth and sustainability. We sincerely appreciate President Trump’s leadership and his administration’s commitment to fostering international cooperation, foreign investment, and technological advancement. These policies have paved the way for strengthened economic ties and new opportunities that benefit industries across both nations. We remain dedicated to leveraging our US and international expertise to support this evolving partnership and to create lasting positive impacts for a sustainable future. Thank you, President Trump, for upholding your commitment to Make America Great Again and for implementing policies that have reinforced America’s global leadership toward a new golden age.”
    Science Technology Co CEO Eng. Idris Al-Zakari: “The unprecedented opportunity provided by President Trump’s historic visit to the Kingdom underscores and surpasses the evolutionary relationship between Saudi Arabia and the United States of America.  The spectacular investment package negotiated between the two allies is the most significant step forward for the two nations since the meeting between Franklin Roosevelt and King Abdualaziz aboard the USS Quincy during WW-II.”
    Cimcor, Inc. President and CEO Robert E. Johnson, III: “This moment marks more than a business milestone—it’s a symbol of what’s possible when American innovation aligns with visionary leadership in the Gulf. Through this partnership, we are helping to build a digital future that’s more secure, more resilient, and deeply connected across borders. We’re proud to contribute to Vision 2030 and thank the Administration for fostering global cooperation that drives real progress.”
    Enfield Investment Partners Chairman and Co-Founder Jake Silverstein: “It is an extraordinary honor to be part of President Trump’s historic visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and to witness the collaboration between President Trump and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Enfield Investment Partners is built on the belief that sports is a universal language. Enfield invests in sports teams, leagues, and sports-focused real estate that drive economic value, uplift communities, and bring people together around the shared experience of sports. The sports ecosystem in the United States is the strongest and best in the world because core to our national identity are the traits that make sports so compelling: competition, meritocracy, and constantly seeking the leading edge of excellence. A portion of our Fund is directed to developing the Saudi Arabian sports ecosystem. I would like to thank President Trump for leading a transformation and ushering in a new Golden Age and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, a once-in-history visionary leader whose bravery and determination has rapidly propelled the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Our two countries have been friends for eighty years, but this visit marks the start of a new chapter, built on mutual trust, shared vision, and an exciting new path.”
    Tricion Defense Group President and CEO Eng. Nasr al-Ghrairi: “We extend our sincere congratulations to President Trump on his historic visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, a moment that marks a renewed and elevated chapter in U.S.–Saudi relations. We deeply appreciate the Administration’s vision and policies that continue to foster bilateral engagement, unlock economic opportunity, and reinforce America’s global industrial leadership. Tricion Defense Group is proud to stand at the forefront of this strategic transformation. As one of the largest private U.S. direct investment in Saudi Arabia’s defense sector, we are not only enabling the Kingdom to localize critical capabilities in electronic warfare, air defense, and C4I—but we are also contributing to U.S. economic growth by injecting capital into innovation, technology development, and advanced manufacturing across both nations. This SR4 billion ($1.06 billion) commitment—announced in partnership with NESMA Information and Technologies (NIT)—represents more than an MOU; it is a declaration of our belief that Saudi Arabia must lead from the front—not follow. It is also a bold affirmation of our support for the American innovation engine, which remains the most valuable strategic asset of the United States. President Trump’s visit has reignited a new era of industrial alignment between our two nations. Through this investment, we are laying the foundation for a next-generation model of defense collaboration: faster, bolder, and unapologetically strategic. We thank the leadership of both nations, especially Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, for enabling a partnership of this scale and consequence.”
    U.S.-Qatar Deals
    Boeing President and CEO Kelly Ortberg: “We are grateful for the trust Qatar Airways has placed in us with this historic order, the largest-ever for Boeing’s widebody planes, including the largest-ever purchase of 787 Dreamliners and more 777X jets. Thank you to President Trump for supporting the agreement, which grows our longstanding partnership with the airline. As one of America’s top exporters, Boeing is proud that our aircraft sales to global customers strengthen U.S. manufacturing and sustain jobs in our factories and at suppliers across the United States.”
    GE Aerospace Chairman and CEO H. Lawrence Culp, Jr.: “We are extremely honored to deepen our relationship with Qatar Airways and grateful to them for placing their trust in us with our largest ever widebody engine deal. Our widebody engines – the GE9X and GEnx – are marvels of modern engineering, with the durability and reliability to power flight across the longest distances. We appreciate President Trump’s support for this historic agreement.”
    Northrop Grumman Spokesperson: “Northrop Grumman has a long history of delivering advanced defense technologies to Qatar. Thanks to the President’s leadership, we have a historic opportunity to accelerate security cooperation and defense technology sales that will greatly expand U.S. jobs and economic strength.”
    Quantinuum President and CEO Dr. Rajeeb Hazra: “Quantinuum is deeply committed to advancing quantum capabilities with partners like Qatar to further solidify U.S. innovation and global leadership in a technology critical to our collective future. We are honored to be highlighted as part of this historic visit by the President of the United States to Qatar and look forward to helping create the future of our industry.”
    Lockheed Martin Chairman, President and CEO Jim Taiclet: “At Lockheed Martin, supporting American armed forces and our international defense partners drives everything we do. We build the most advanced integrated air and missile defense systems with cutting-edge radars. Thanks to President Trump’s leadership, we will help accelerate Qatar’s next-generation air and missile defense capabilities, enabling a more secure and stable region, sustaining American manufacturing jobs, and reinforcing our defense industrial base.”
    Parsons Corporation Chair, President, and CEO Carey Smith: “I’m proud to be here on behalf of Parsons, and to be a part of President Trump’s initiatives to strengthen strategic relations in Qatar. As a global infrastructure leader with over six decades of experience in the region, including two-plus decades in Qatar, Parsons has partnered with organizations across the country to deliver on many of its premier infrastructure projects in Doha, Lusail, and beyond.”
    McDermott International President and CEO Michael McKelvy: “The partnership between McDermott, Qatar Energy and The State of Qatar has been developed over decades. We remain committed to bringing McDermott’s +100 years of experience to support Qatar’s energy development plans for decades to come and were honored to be part of this historic visit by the President.”
    U.S.-United Arab Emirates Deals
    Saildrone CEO Richard Jenkins: “This groundbreaking deal unites the best of American innovation with a partner committed to regional security and stability. We are proud to play our part in President Trump’s vision, for regional maritime superiority, to enable the safe passage of trade and the interception of illegal or destabilizing activity, throughout the Middle East region.”
    Occidental President and CEO Vicki Hollub: “We are proud to participate in President Trump’s visit to the UAE, where we signed a strategic energy enhancing agreement with our longstanding partner ADNOC, whose investment company XRG will consider making a $500 million investment in the United States, alongside a grant award from the U.S. DOE, to advance Occidental’s South Texas Direct Air Capture Hub, Development of DAC is essential for ensuring our country’s long-term energy security. We also signed an agreement with ADNOC to examine the expansion of production at our successful joint venture energy development project in the UAE’s Shah Gas field, using U.S. technologies.”
    Oracle CEO Safra Catz: “In support of President Trump’s vision and commitment to peace through prosperity and the Abraham Accords, the greatest diplomatic accomplishment in modern history, we are pleased to continue to invest in and deliver cloud and AI technology to power the UAE’s most important systems. Our Oracle Cloud Infrastructure footprint, Oracle Alloy sovereign cloud partnerships, and groundbreaking work in healthcare will help accelerate the UAE’s technology modernization efforts and advance patient health outcomes. Together, the UAE and U.S. will redefine what is possible in technology, business, and healthcare.”
    Boeing President and CEO Kelly Ortberg: “As one of the launch customers for the 777X, Etihad is a valued customer, and we are grateful for the airline’s continued confidence in Boeing. We appreciate the support of the President and his administration as we partner with Etihad to enable their growth while sustaining highly skilled U.S. manufacturing jobs.”
    Northrop Grumman Spokesperson: “Just as we have invested in the UAE, such as Northrop Grumman’s grant to the American Community School in Abu Dhabi, we welcome increased partnership and investment by the UAE in our world-class defense sector. This historic trip will increase U.S. jobs and economic strength.”
    Lockheed Martin Chairman, President, and CEO Jim Taiclet: “Through President Trump’s leadership, Lockheed Martin and the United Arab Emirates are building on 50 years of partnership to strengthen regional defense with advanced airpower, integrated air and missile defense, precision radars, and next-generation command and control. Our high-tech innovation benefits both nations by sustaining American manufacturing jobs and driving industrial growth.”
    Parsons Chair, President, and CEO Carey Smith: “Parsons is proud to be a part of President Trump’s initiatives to strengthen strategic relations in the UAE. As a global infrastructure leader with a presence in the Emirates spanning nearly five decades, Parsons has leveraged our global experience to build trusted partnerships and deliver critical infrastructure, supported by 2,700 employees across the country and have successfully completed more than 3,000 projects. We have worked on some of the UAE’s premiere projects including the region’s first metro line in Dubai, the iconic Infinity Bridge, Dubai Municipality’s Strategic Sewerage Tunnel project, the Sharjah and Abu Dhabi International Airports and Etihad Rail, the region’s first high speed rail network. Our unwavering focus on the country’s future is underlined by a combination of a dedicated team of experts and our understanding of the local environment and vision, reinforcing our commitment to building this nation and supporting its transformation.”
    Baker Hughes CEO Lorenzo Simonelli: “We congratulate President Trump on his historic visit to the United Arab Emirates — A key moment that underscores the enduring partnership between two nations committed to innovation, progress, and shared prosperity. As we look to the future, energy will remain central to economic growth and broader cooperation that supports stability and opportunity for both countries, and Baker Hughes remains steadfast in our dedication to help both nations meet their goals.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: MEDIA ADVISORY: Sanders to Sound the Alarm on Vermont’s Health Care Crisis

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Vermont – Bernie Sanders
    WASHINGTON, May 16 – Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) today announced he will hold a press conference Monday with health care, business and community leaders to discuss the crisis in Vermont’s health care system and call for immediate action. 
    As independent health care providers, nonprofit insurers, federally qualified health centers and rural hospitals in Vermont struggle to stay afloat, Congressional Republicans and the President are seeking massive cuts to Medicaid and tax credits that lower premiums that could devastate Vermont and the nation. 
    “It is no secret that Vermont’s health care system is in crisis. While Vermont is not alone in these struggles, the sad reality is that our state is struggling more than most,” said Sanders. “Unfortunately, the federal government is not coming to fix this crisis. Instead, President Trump and my Republican colleagues in Washington want to make things far worse by slashing Medicaid and tax credits that lower premiums for Vermonters.” 
    In addition to the threat posed by the president’s “big, beautiful” budget reconciliation bill that cuts Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act by $715 billion, Vermonters’ access to health care is in jeopardy because hospital and drug prices are so high. The state’s population is the second oldest in the country, with fewer and fewer people on commercial insurance. Vermont also ranks 43rd in the nation when it comes to being a nurse, largely because of poor pay and a severe health care worker shortage. 
    “I commend both the Vermont House and Senate for standing up to small but powerful parts of our health care industry and taking up legislation to address the challenges we face,” continued Sanders. “We must listen to the working families who can no longer afford their health care premium, the small business owners who can no longer afford to provide health care coverage for their workers, and the nurses who are working in understaffed facilities for low wages. We simply cannot delay acting to address this crisis.” 
    Details: 
    What: Press conference on Vermont’s health care crisis
    When: Monday, May 19, 11:00 a.m. ET
    Where: Location provided upon RSVP.
    Who: 
    Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions
    State Sen. Virginia “Ginny” Lyons, Chair of the Vermont Senate Health and Welfare Committee
    State Rep. Alyssa Black, Chair of the Vermont House Health Care Committee
    Owen Foster, Chair of the Green Mountain Care Board
    Lisa Ventriss, Co-Chair of Vermont Health Care 911 and former president of the Vermont Business Roundtable
    Mike Fisher, Chief Health Care Advocate at Vermont Legal Aid

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: May 14th, 2025 Heinrich, Ernst Introduce Legislation to Improve Agricultural Conservation Practices

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich, a member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, and the Food and Drug Administration, and U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, intorduced the bipartisan Streamlining Conservation Practice Standards Act, legislation to streamline the Natural Resource Conservation Service’s (NRCS) process for updating and adopting conservation practice standards that help farmers and ranchers improve soil health, build resilience to climate impacts, and achieve their conservation goals. The legislation will close the gap between evidence-based NRCS best practices and emerging research and innovation, enabling producers to more quickly and effectively harness voluntary NRCS conservation programs on their land. The effort will provide more transparency for stakeholders and set a clear, standardized process for producers and the public to participate in improving conservation practices.
    “By leveraging innovations in regenerative agriculture and soil health practices, we can help farmers and producers make their working lands more resilient,” said Heinrich. “Our bipartisan legislation accomplishes this by updating and streamlining the process for developing new conservation practice standards at the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resource Conservation Service. This will allow producers to build more resilience into their operations.” 
    “Traveling across Iowa, I regularly hear from farmers who are eager to implement conservation practices that improve soil health, water quality, and long-term productivity — but they face real barriers when rigid USDA standards slow things down,” said Ernst. “I’m leading the Streamlining Conservation Practice Standards Act to modernize how USDA’s Natural Resource Conservation Service updates its technical standards. Ultimately, the goal is simple: let’s cut the red tape, let’s keep standards science-based and flexible, and help farmers get conservation tools in use faster.”
    Specifically, the Streamlining Conservation Practice Standards Act will update the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) process to:
    Require a regular review of existing conservation practice standards,
    Create a public process for submitting and adopting new practices, and
    Prioritize the integration of innovative tools like nutrient efficiency technologies — biological fertilizer being one example that’s proven to improve plant growth.
    The full text of the bill is here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: May 15th, 2025 Heinrich, Luján, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Combat Devastating Screwworm Outbreak

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich
    The STOP Screwworms would create a facility to curb New World screwworm population growth
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, and the Food and Drug Administration, joined U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and John Cornyn (R-Texas) to introduce the bipartisan Strengthening Tactics to Obstruct the Population of Screwworms (STOP Screwworms) Act, legislation to authorize funds for and direct the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to begin construction on a new sterile fly production facility to combat the growing New World screwworm (NWS) outbreak that threatens to wreak havoc on the American cattle industry. 
    “The New World Screwworm poses a growing threat to New Mexico livestock, jeopardizing ranchers’ livelihoods, and putting our food supply at risk.  I’m proud to join Senators Cornyn and Luján to introduce bipartisan legislation that will help us tackle this problem now and prevent outbreaks in the future,” said Heinrich, a member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, and the Food and Drug Administration.”
    “Given the current screwworm outbreak, Congress must take immediate action to help protect New Mexico’s cattle and livestock from this growing threat,” said Luján, a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry. “This bipartisan legislation will fund a new sterile fly facility to help stop the spread of the destructive New World screwworm and protect New Mexico’s 1.4 million cattle and calves. This is a critical investment that supports over 10,000 cattle farms and ranches in New Mexico, saves the U.S. livestock industry nearly $1 billion each year, and helps prevent an outbreak in the U.S.”
    “Combatting the destructive New World screwworm is vital to protecting our cattle, Texas producers, and the American livestock industry as a whole,” said Cornyn. “I am proud to lead this legislation to create a new facility dedicated to pushing these pests away from our border and will continue to work with Secretary Rollins and agriculture leaders across the state to ensure our farmers, ranchers, and producers have the resources they need.” 
    “The recent screwworm outbreak is deeply concerning, and without immediate action and adequate preparation, the consequences for New Mexico’s cattle and livestock industries could be devastating,” said Larry Reagan, New Mexico Farm and Livestock Bureau President. “This legislation is a critical step in ensuring the nation is prepared to respond effectively and New Mexico’s farmers and ranchers are protected.”
    The STOP Screwworms is led by Luján and Cornyn. Alongside Heinrich, the legislation is co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Ted Cruz (R-Texas), and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.). Congressman Tony Gonzales (R-Texas) was the lead sponsor of the House version.  
    Background:
    The New World screwworm (NWS) is a parasitic fly whose larvae feed on livestock, wildlife, and in rare cases, humans, and populations are moving toward the United States at an alarming rate. They can cause serious damage to their host, including death. This week, the USDA announced the suspension of live cattle, horse, and bison imports through the southern border in response to the growing spread of the NWS and recent outbreaks in Mexico.
    This new facility would produce sterile male screwworm flies that would be released into infested areas to help combat the growth of the screwworm population. The sterile fly technique was instrumental in eradicating NWS from the United States in the 1960s and from Mexico in the ‘90s, as sterile male flies can outcompete local populations and effectively wipe out an entire generation of screwworms in a given area.
    This legislation is endorsed by the American Farm Bureau Federation, the New Mexico Farm and Livestock Bureau, the Texas Farm Bureau, the Texas Cattle Feeders Association, the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, and the South Texans’ Property Rights Association. 
    Full bill text is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Q&A: Police Week

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
    Q: What is National Police Week?
    A: Since 1962, U.S. presidents have proclaimed the second week of May as National Police Week to pay tribute to the men and women who put on the badge to serve and protect their community. As Americans go about their daily lives, law enforcement officers put their lives on the line to protect life and property from crime and violence. President John F. Kennedy named May 15 as National Peace Officers Memorial Day to honor law enforcement officials who lost their lives or become disabled in the line of duty. These are the men and women who run towards danger in the discharge of their vocation to keep the peace, protect innocent lives and enforce the laws to uphold a just and orderly society. In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to take for granted the hardworking men and women standing on the thin blue line separating law-abiding citizens and criminals. National Police Week is a good opportunity for neighbors to thank local law enforcement officers for their around-the-clock efforts. When they leave their homes, they’re on the job to serve and protect the public, from enforcing traffic laws to investigating crime, catching criminals who shoplift, peddle drugs, commit violence and put innocent people in harm’s way. For those who have laid down their lives in the line of duty, we must never forget their ultimate sacrifice and ensure benefits are protected for their families. That includes federal law enforcement officials investigating transnational criminal rings and tracking down laundered money and human trafficking. It includes local police officers on our streets and in our schools who respond to 9-1-1 calls around-the-clock, year-round. Law-abiding citizens owe the men and women in blue a debt of gratitude for working to enforce law and order that keep our communities a safe place to buy a home and open a business. Two years after surviving an assassination attempt in 1981, President Ronald Reagan spoke to a memorial service for 13 fallen federal law enforcement officers. “It’s wisely said that nothing comes cheaply or easily. And the price of a free nation is sometimes counted in the dearest currency: human life.” Assaults on police officers are an assault against society that the men and women in blue have solemnly sworn to protect. For those who have answered the call to this noble vocation, we salute you and thank you for your courage, service and pursuit of justice.
    Q: What is the annual Roll Call during Police Week?
    A: During National Police Week, a roll call of names is released to honor law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty during the previous year. In 2025, this list includes 234 precious names, including two fallen officers from Iowa: Trooper Jeffrey Brown and Senior Police Officer Tran Phoukham. The annual celebration in the nation’s capital also includes a candlelight vigil to honor the fallen at the National Law Enforcement Memorial. Officers from around the country participate to honor the fallen officers and walk the pathways where the names of the fallen heroes are engraved on the walls.
    As chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, I helped steer eight bipartisan bills out of committee during National Police Week. I’ll continue pushing to get these pro-police bills to the president’s desk. These bills are written to help ensure law enforcement have the resources to do their jobs, protect benefits for families of fallen officers and improve law enforcement recruitment and retention.
    Whenever I see a police officer in uniform, I make a point to thank them for their service and make clear that I’m not for defunding the police. I back the blue because these men and women know that when they put on the badge and report for duty, they put their lives on the thin blue line to keep the peace.
    Sen. Grassley’s bipartisan resolution recognizing National Police Week, May  12-17, 2025 unanimously passed the U.S. Senate.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin, Wyden, Senate Democrats Urge Social Security Administration To Reverse Decision To Maliciously & Illegally List Immigrants As “Dead”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
    May 15, 2025
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and U.S. Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) today led a group of fourteen Senate Democrats in condemning and urging reversal of the Social Security Administration’s recent decision to list certain immigrants as “dead” in the master files.
    The Senators began by condemning the decision, writing: “We write to strongly object to the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) apparent decision to list living noncitizens as ‘dead’ in the agency’s master files. These arbitrary actions—intended to weaponize Social Security in the Administration’s attack on immigrants—are disgraceful and will erode the integrity of and trust in Social Security.”
    The Senators then highlighted the departure from previous uses of SSA master files, writing: “SSA collects death records from families, financial institutions, and government agencies and compiles them into death master files, which the agency then shares with certain federal agencies, banks, credit bureaus, and other financial institutions to prevent improper payments to people who have died or those fraudulently seeking to impersonate someone who is deceased. In fact, the death master files help to prevent more than $50 million in improper payments each month.  However, it appears that SSA is now using the death master files for another purpose: a weapon against living noncitizens.”
    The Senators further elaborated on the reported malicious intent of this designation, writing: “In April, the New York Times reported SSA maliciously has listed living noncitizens as ‘dead’ in its death master files. These noncitizens were lawfully present and granted work authorization by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), making them eligible for Social Security numbers (SSNs) to work and contribute to our nation. SSNs allow noncitizens to participate in the economy by obtaining housing, bank accounts, and insurance. Their work helps to boost the United States’ Gross Domestic Product by trillions of dollars. But now, these noncitizens will no longer have access to their own financial resources because SSA has taken the unprecedented action of declaring them ‘dead’ in a cruel and Orwellian attempt to force them to leave the United States.”
    The Senators continued by highlighting incorrect designations of living, legal immigrants as “dead” without a chance to appeal, writing: “According to an internal memo, DHS claims that these noncitizens are ‘criminals’ and ‘suspected terrorists.’ But it is clear that the Trump Administration is not conducting sufficient administrative checks to ensure this is the case, considering DHS’ apparent incompetence in Kilmar Abrego Garcia’s mistaken deportation to El Salvador. In fact, according to press reports, most of the more than 6,000 noncitizens declared ‘dead’ were lawfully authorized to be in the United States and lawfully obtained SSNs … Further, SSA has no authority to erroneously categorize living noncitizens as ‘dead’ in its death master files. Such use of the death master files raises the question of whether SSA may list other living legal immigrants—or even American citizens—as ‘dead’ in the death master files without justification. It should frighten every American that SSA could make the unilateral decision to ruin their financial lives without even a chance to appeal.”
    The Senators concluded by denouncing misinformation spread by President Trump regarding Social Security and urging reversal of SSA’s decision, writing: “In his Joint Address to Congress in March, President Trump claimed there were people over the age of 300 receiving Social Security benefits, simply because some of the death master files lacked a recorded death date. His assertion was not true, and SSA’s actions now are turning this tool to prevent fraud into one that instead facilitates it. We urge SSA not to use the death master files in this manner and to remove noncitizens falsely listed as “dead” from the files.”
    In addition to Durbin and Wyden, the letter is signed by U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Ed Markey (D-MA), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and Peter Welch (D-VT).
    A PDF of the letter to SSA Commissioner Frank Bisignano is available here.
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Joins Health Care Leaders To Discuss Cost Of Prescription Drugs And Republican Cuts To Medicaid

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
    May 16, 2025
    SPRINGFIELD — U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today joined health leaders at Springfield Memorial Hospital to highlight efforts to address high prescription drug prices, and how health insurance coverage for nearly 14 million Americans is at risk because of Republican plans to provide tax breaks for billionaires.
    Americans are paying the highest prices for prescriptions in the world. In addition to unjustifiable pricing and anticompetitive tactics by pharmaceutical manufacturers, this is partly due to Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs), who control the flow of prescriptions for 200 million Americans. PBMs abuse rebates and fees to manipulate their formularies, ensuring they, not doctors, often decide which drugs patients receive.
    President Trump’s recent executive order on Big Pharma does little to address the issue of high drug costs, unlike the Inflation Reduction Act, which was passed during the Biden Administration and capped costs for covered insulin at $35 per month under Medicare, made recommended vaccines available at no costs for 1.4 million seniors in Illinois, established a limit on annual out-of-pocket cost at $2,000, and required drug companies to pay a rebate to Medicare if they raise prices faster than the rate of inflation. It also provided the Biden-Harris Administration with the authority to negotiate drug prices with Big Pharma, resulting in price reductions of up to 79 percent for some medications last year.
    Durbin has also been outspoken on Republicans’ dangerous proposal to fund tax breaks for billionaires by slashing Medicaid funding. Medicaid covers nearly half of all births, two-thirds of nursing homes residents, and the majority of patients with behavioral health needs, while being a lifeline for children’s and rural hospitals. Last week, the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) report on Republicans’ proposed budget plan concluded that, if Republicans push the plan forward, 13.7 million Americans would lose health care coverage.
    “People in the United States are paying four times more than people in similar countries pay for life-saving medications,” said Durbin. “I was proud to pass the Inflation Reduction Act during the Biden Administration to cap out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs and empower Medicare to bargain with Big Pharma for lower prices, but there’s still work to be done to address PBMs and their high fees. Instead of focusing on lowering prices for Americans, Republicans in Congress are focused on cutting Medicaid to give tax breaks to billionaires—which would rip away health coverage for nearly 14 million Americans. Hospitals in the Memorial system that rely on Medicaid, whether here in Springfield, or in Decatur or Jacksonville, are the backbone of their community. I’ll continue fighting to protect Medicaid and lower the cost of prescription drugs for Illinoisans.”
    “The 340B program helps stretch scarce federal resources, but even that safety net is being undermined by opaque pricing practices and the growing power of pharmacy benefit managers. It’s clear that without action, these problems will only worsen,” said Dr. Chris McDowell, Executive Associate Dean, SIU School of Medicine. “That’s why we are deeply grateful to Senator Durbin for his leadership in calling out these systemic failures—and for championing policies that prioritize patients over profit.”
    “PBM reform is urgently needed to protect patient access and lower drug costs. Independent pharmacies are often the only source of care in underserved areas, and pharmacists play a vital role in guiding safe, effective treatment. Without action now, communities risk losing access to essential medications and trusted healthcare professionals,” said David Bagot, President, Illinois Pharmacists Association.
    “As physicians, we focus on providing the very best care we can for our patients. We prescribe medications based on an individual patient’s unique needs and conditions. However, drug pricing and availability too often influence the options available to our patients,” said Dr. Ted Clark, Chief Medical Officer, Decatur Memorial Hospital.
    Earlier this week, Durbin, as the Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, questioned witnesses during a hearing that investigated the role PBMs play in the drug supply chain and their impact on competition, patients, providers, and pharmacies.
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján, Moran Reintroduce Bipartisan Legislation to Improve Farmer Coordination & Education

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), both members of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, announced the reintroduction of bipartisan legislation to expand the reach of peer-to-peer networks that are already helping farmers manage the many challenges they face. As farmers and ranchers are met daily with unique challenges, including unexpected weather, droughts, and floods, they often turn to colleagues to find the right answer. This bill fills a critical gap in federal programs to support and provide guidance to those networks.
    The Farmer to Farmer Education Act would leverage existing technical assistance resources by supporting farmer-led education networks and build capacity for new ones—particularly for communities that are historically marginalized from existing systems—as a key strategy to increase adoption of conservation practices. Specifically, the bill would authorize the National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to enter into cooperative agreements with community-based organizations in each state that are able to identify and build on established and burgeoning peer-to-peer networks, and/or create new ones.
    “Farming is deeply ingrained in New Mexico’s history and culture, with communities that have cultivated the land for generations. Local farmers are skilled at managing challenges like unpredictable weather, drought, and flooding. However, existing programs often fall short in providing the support and guidance needed during these times,” said Senator Luján. “The bipartisan Farmer to Farmer Education Act will help improve coordination between local farmer-to-farmer networks and the USDA and NRCS. Strengthening this connection will ensure farmers receive timely, specialized information to better protect their crops and livestock.”
    “Farmers and ranchers across the country face many conservation challenges, including staffing shortages at NRCS, which limits their access to conservation technical assistance,” said Senator Moran. “This legislation would allow farmer-to-farmer groups to develop cooperative agreements with USDA to share conservation concepts and new practices.”
    “When it comes to adopting conservation practices, farmers trust information and guidance from other farmers.” said Samantha Levy, AFT’s Senior Policy Manager for Conservation and Energy. “We applaud Senators Lujan and Moran for introducing a bipartisan bill that would enable more farmers to provide practical, experience-based assistance to their peers. This would supplement the essential support producers receive from NRCS, nonprofit conservation organizations and districts, and others to successfully implement practices critical to the resilience and viability of their operations.”
    “We learn from best from people who are like us. The Farmer to Farmer Education Act would help connect producers to support each other’s on-farm conservation efforts,” said Ben Knuth, Agriculture Policy Manager at National Wildlife Federation.  “As complements to USDA’s existing conservation technical assistance, these learning networks offer informal opportunities to learn about improving soil, water, and wildlife outcomes.”
    “Farmers and ranchers across the country serve as a valuable resource to their peers when it comes to knowledge-sharing about farming best practices and resources. As farmers adapt to a changing climate, it will become even more important that farmers continue learning from their most trusted sources: each other,” said Lotanna Obodozie, Climate Policy Director, National Young Farmers Coalition. “The Farmer-to-Farmer Education Act will invest in collaboration between farmers and their networks for long-term conservation practice adoption, and we’re grateful to Sen. Luján and Sen. Moran for cosponsoring this important bipartisan legislation.”
    “For farming and ranching families, helping one another is just part of their way of life,”said Jenny Conner Nelms, Associate Director of Legislative Affairs at The Nature Conservancy. “Supporting local, producer-led networks is a natural, common-sense way to help farmers and ranchers share information with their neighbors and manage challenges together, like droughts and floods. We are grateful for Senators Lujan and Moran’s proposal, which would help producers, communities, and nature thrive.”
    Full text of the bill is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Coons, Cornyn host Law Enforcement Caucus event during Police Week highlighting de-escalation tactics in policing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.) and John Cornyn (R-Texas), co-chairs of the bipartisan Senate Law Enforcement Caucus, hosted an event this week focused on how law enforcement agencies are adopting new approaches to de-escalation and training tactics to resolve high-risk conflict situations with minimal force. The event occurred during National Police Week, which started on May 11 and runs through May 17.

    “Police week is a critical opportunity to honor the sacrifices and bravery of local, state, and federal law enforcement,” said Senator Coons. “Effective de-escalation tactics keep officers and the public safe while building trust between law enforcement officers and the communities they serve. I was proud to join my colleague, Senator Cornyn, to convene this panel, including Delaware’s own Lt. Bill Harris of Delaware State Police, to talk about de-escalation tactics and hear directly from law enforcement about the tools and resources they need to keep doing their jobs effectively and safely.” 

    “During National Police Week, we honor the dedication and heroism of our police officers and remember those who’ve made the ultimate sacrifice,” said Senator Cornyn. “These heroes in Texas and across the nation risk their lives daily to keep our communities safe, and we must give them the necessary tools so officers feel supported while helping those experiencing mental health emergencies and other crises. I am proud to represent a state that strongly backs the blue, and I will continue advocating for the needs of police throughout the Lone Star State.”

    The event featured a moderated panel discussion with police leaders, researchers, and advocates on how new de-escalation techniques are reducing harm for officers, civilians, and public bystanders alike. Participants included Lieutenant Bill Harris of the Delaware State Police, who represented the National Fusion Center Association, and Sheriff Bill Waybourn of Tarrant County, Texas, representing the Major County Sheriffs of America. Both Delaware and Texas law enforcement agencies have been national leaders in embracing new tactics to de-escalate high-risk situations.

    Senators Coons and Cornyn are Co-Chairs of the Senate Law Enforcement Caucus and members of the Senate Judiciary Committee.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warren Statement on New SSA Phone Policy Walkback

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    May 16, 2025
    Washington, D.C. – Following new reporting revealing that the Social Security Administration (SSA) changed its policy of holding benefit claims made over the phone for days to check for “fraud” — which was causing a “degradation of public service” — U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) released the following statement:
    “We sounded the alarm on Elon Musk and DOGE’s fake fraud claims — and now, the Social Security Administration is changing its policy that’s slowing down retirement claim processing based on a bunch of lies. That’s a win, and we’ll keep up the pressure to fight back against Trump and Musk’s attack on Americans’ Social Security benefits.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch, Durbin Lead Senate Judiciary Democrats in Calling for Hearing on Trump’s Violation of the Right to Due Process

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution, and Ranking Member Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) called on Senate Judiciary Chairman Chuck Grassley to convene a hearing on the Trump Administration’s violations of the right to due process. Senator Welch and Ranking Member Durbin were joined by every Democrat on the Senate Judiciary Committee.  
    “The Senate Judiciary Committee has a special responsibility to examine whether the Executive Branch has circumvented the Constitution in carrying out its policy agenda. We urge you to schedule an immediate hearing on the administration’s infringement of this critical constitutional right,” Democratic Senators on the Senate Judiciary Committee write. 
    The Senators add, “For over two centuries, America’s commitment to due process has helped define us as a free nation. In recent months, President Trump has repeatedly departed from that obligation to support his agenda regardless of its legality.”  
    This Congress, congressional Republicans have failed to hold a hearing or investigate violations to due process, despite President Trump’s illegal disappearances of individuals without due process, detainments, deportations, and threats to suspend habeas corpus.  
    The letter was led by Senator Welch and signed by Ranking Member of the Judiciary Committee Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), and Cory Booker (D-N.J.). 
    Read the letter here and below: 
    Dear Chairman Grassley:  
    The Constitution prohibits the deprivation of life, liberty, or property without due process of law. As the Supreme Court recently reaffirmed, this constitutional right affords all those present in the United States the opportunity to contest any allegations the government levies against them in a court of law. 
    For over two centuries, our commitment to due process has defined us as a free nation. In recent months, however, President Trump has repeatedly departed from that obligation. The case of Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia underscores the profound consequences of the administration’s disregard for due process. In March, the government mistakenly deported Mr. Abrego Garcia to a Salvadoran prison—an error it has admitted—in direct contravention of a 2019 court order and without even the semblance of due process. The administration has failed to demonstrate its compliance with repeated federal court orders to facilitate Mr. Garcia’s return, and Mr. Garcia remains imprisoned. Courts around the country have been forced to stop additional deportations that took place without due process. Now, Trump Administration officials are discussing unilaterally suspending habeas corpus, depending “on whether the courts do the right thing or not.” 
    To date, no congressional committee has held a hearing on the administration’s violations of the right to due process. The Senate Judiciary Committee has a special responsibility to examine whether the Executive Branch has circumvented the Constitution in carrying out its policy agenda. We urge you to schedule an immediate hearing on the administration’s infringement of this critical constitutional right. 
    Sincerely,  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: As Trump Racks Up Corrupt Deals, Kaine & Colleagues File Joint Resolutions of Disapproval to Block $3.5 Billion in Arms Sales to Qatar and the UAE

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Brian Schatz (D-HI), all members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and Bernie Sanders (I-VT) filed four joint resolutions of disapproval (JRD) to block a $1.9 billion arms sale to Qatar and three arms sales—totaling $1.6 billion—to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as President Donald Trump racks up corrupt deals with those countries. The Senate is required to vote on JRDs.
    The introductions come after Qatar offered to gift President Trump a $400 million luxury Boeing 747 jumbo jet; an investment firm backed by the Emiratis announced that it would use a stablecoin issued by a crypto company directly backed by the Trump family to facilitate a $2 billion investment in the Binance cryptocurrency exchange; and after the Trump Organization signed a $5.5 billion golf course and real estate deal with Dar Global and Qatari Diar, a firm established by Qatar’s sovereign wealth fund.
    “Everywhere I go in Virginia, I hear about how worried folks are about price hikes because of President Trump’s tariffs and the massive cuts he’s trying to implement on basic government services, including Medicaid. Meanwhile, he’s hatching secret plans with corrupt foreign governments to enrich himself with crypto deals, golf courses, and a luxury plane?” said Kaine. “I’m glad to be working with my colleagues to force votes on legislation challenging arms sales to Qatar and the United Arab Emirates to make it clear that bribing an American president is one of the fastest ways to poison your relationship with the United States. Countries around the world should take notice.”
    The JRDs would block the following sales:
    A $1.9 billion arm sale to Qatar, which would include:
    Eight MQ-9B Armed Drones and associated equipment, including 200 JDAM tail kits, 300 500-lb bombs, and 110 Hellfire II missiles.

    Three separate arms sales totaling $1.6 billion to the UAE, which would include the sales of:
    Six CH-47F Block II Chinook helicopters and associated equipment, valued at $1.32 billion;
    F-16 aircraft components, accessories, and defense services, valued at $130 million;
    Spare and repair parts to support the UAE’s fleet of AH-64 Apache, UH-60 Black Hawk, and CH-47 Chinook aircraft, and other logistics and program support, valued at $150 million.

    Full text of the Qatar JRD is available here.
    Full text of the UAE JRDs are available here (Chinook helicopters), here (aircraft equipment), and here (helicopter equipment).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner & Kaine Announce Over $15.2 Million to Address Coastal Resilience in Virginia Beach and on Tangier Island

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) announced $15,250,000 in federal funding to address sea level rise and expand flood resiliency in Virginia Beach and on Tangier Island.
    “Coastal Virginia has long been identified as one of the most vulnerable regions of the country to flooding, but thanks to smart federal investments, we’re not just worrying about it anymore—we’re doing something about it,” said the senators. “We’re proud to announce this funding to advance a citywide plan for flood resilient infrastructure in Virginia Beach and to take a significant step forward in slowing erosion of Tangier Island and restoring it to its historical dimensions to preserve this unique part of Virginia. We will keep working to improve resiliency and combat climate change throughout the Commonwealth.”
    The funding is broken down as follows:
    $10,300,000 for Tangier Island for maintenance dredging and shoal removal within navigation channels in the Chesapeake Bay. The dredged material will be used to address persistent erosion and will be part of a plan to eventually restore the island.
    $4,950,000 for the Virginia Beach and Vicinity Coastal Storm Risk Management Study. The Coastal Storm Risk Management Study will develop and engineer large-scale flood resilience projects to reduce flood vulnerability for the City of Virginia Beach.
    Warner and Kaine have long worked to secure significant federal funding to increase resiliency and protect Virginia’s coastal communities from the impacts of sea level rise. The senators previously secured $1.9 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Fiscal Year 2024 government funding bill for the Virginia Beach and Vicinity Coastal Storm Risk Management Study. Warner and Kaine secured $800,000 in the Fiscal Years 2023 and 2024 government funding bills for studying and permitting the use of dredged material to be used to help Tangier address sea level rise and recurrent coastal flooding and storms. The senators have also secured nearly $399 million for the Norfolk Coastal Storm Risk Management project and $3 million for the Peninsula Regional Flood Risk Management feasibility study for the City of Hampton and the surrounding region.

    MIL OSI USA News –