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Category: US Senate

  • MIL-OSI USA: King Gets Commitment from Defense Nominee to Maintain Focus on Military Blast Trauma

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Angus King
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME), in a hearing of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), pressed Sean O’Keefe, nominee to serve as the Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness, for his commitment to maintain focus on addressing brain injuries stemming from weapon blast traumas. During the exchange, Senator King’s remarks were informed by the analysis of the brain of the Lewiston shooter — who shot and killed 18 Maine people in October 2023 — which showed evidence of severe traumatic brain injury. An Army reservist, he worked as an instructor at a hand grenade training range where it is believed he was repeatedly exposed to low-level blasts, leading to an undetected deterioration of his mental health. O’Keefe gave his absolute commitment to prioritize working to better understand and combat the impacts of blast traumas.
    Senator King made this issue the focal point of his questions for O’Keefe during the hearing:
    “Mr. O’Keefe, I am running out of time. We had a tragedy in Maine several years ago with a shooting. 18 people killed. It turned out that the fellow had been a trainer exposed to blast, blast overpressure. There was a lot of work done at the time. I hope you will commit to maintaining that work, and to be sure that what was learned in those various reports that were made gets down to the troop level, so that it is not just a report on the shelf in the Pentagon, it actually affects conduct. This is one of the most serious problems coming out of the Mideast Wars, is the effects of continuous exposure to blast,” said Senator King.
    “You absolutely have my commitment. As you know, we did quite a lot of work on this in last year’s NDAA and that legislation will take place over the next year or so. If confirmed, I look forward to implementing the legislation and working with this committee. We are learning more about this area every day, it seems. It is affecting more people the perhaps we first thought. Absolutely, you have my commitment. This is a priority,” replied O’Keefe.
    “You use the magic word, implementation. One of my mottos of life is: implementation can be as important as vision. We can have a good bill coming out of here. If it is not implemented adequately, it’s not going to save lives. I accept your commitment and look forward to working with you on that,” concluded Senator King.
    During just three months in 2023, the Department of Defense (DoD) provided treatment to service members nearly 50,000 times for traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), which are considered the “signature wound” of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. For troops with mild TBI, “the most important cause of brain injury was the long-term exposure to explosive weapons.” Researchers in Afghanistan also determined that, “75 percent of the troops’ [blast] exposure was coming from their own weapons.” Despite this, service members continue to train with weapons with unsafe blast levels, and sadly, many have of these injuries have led to high levels of mental illness and suicide.
    Following the Lewiston shooting, Senator King has been working with his colleagues to increase mental health funding and address brain injuries. Last summer he wrote a letter to the former Department of Defense (DoD) Secretary Lloyd Austin urging the Department to expedite protection of servicemembers from weapon blasts and TBIs. Prior to that letter he urged leaders of the Appropriations Committee to support the strongest possible funding for the Traumatic Brain Injury and Psychological Health Research program within the DoD Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program (CDRMP). Earlier this year, Senator King introduced bipartisan legislation to study impacts of lower-intensity weapon blasts on veteran mental health. He also was successful in securing a provision to protect service members from brain injuries in the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Q&A: National Nurses Week

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
    Q: What is National Nurses Week?
    A: Efforts to honor and celebrate nurses in the United States first got underway during the Eisenhower administration. In 1974, President Nixon issued a proclamation to honor the expanding role nurses were taking on in the health care system, such as nurse practitioners and those specializing in pediatric, cardiac, oncology and geriatric care. In 1982, President Reagan signed a proclamation to mark “National Recognition Day for Nurses” that observed the indispensable role nurses have in patient care, from intensive care in trauma and burn units to community health and home care, nursing homes and schools. Since then, grassroots-led efforts expanded the observance to National Nurses Week that continues today during the week of Florence Nightingale’s birthday, who is celebrated as the founder of modern nursing. Since 1991, I’ve supported an annual joint resolution of Congress to reflect on the important contributions nurses make in our society. With an estimated 4.7 million registered nurses in the United States, nurses are on the front lines treating sick and injured patients, including during natural disasters and public health emergencies. During the COVID-19 pandemic, nurses put their own lives on the line to care for the sickest among us. The nursing profession continues to meet the moment in scientific inquiry, medical research and team-based delivery of care. With limited faculty and spots available for prospective nursing students across the country, I support efforts to strengthen workforce development and academic training programs. I value the feedback I get from Iowans to solve problems and improve the delivery of health care in communities across our state. I’m pleased the University of Northern Iowa last year launched a new Bachelor of Science in Nursing program that will help address the nursing shortage across the state, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
    Q: How do Iowa nursing professionals inform your work at the policymaking table?
    A: As former chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, I led efforts to ensure fairness for Medicare reimbursements that directly impact providers delivering essential health care in communities across our state. For example, requiring Medicare to directly reimburse nurse practitioners and other specialists is an important tool in rural areas to expand access to health care services. More recently, I’m pushing to improve advanced practice nurses and clinical nurse reimbursement for nurse practitioners in their diagnosis and treatment for diabetic patients. I’m also spearheading bipartisan efforts to provide rural hospitals with financial stability. My Rural Hospital Support Act would help prevent rural hospital closures by extending and modernizing critical Medicare programs for rural hospitals. Specifically, my bill would permanently extend the Medicare-Dependent Hospital (MDH) and the Low-Volume Hospital (LVH) programs. For many hospitals located in rural areas, costs often outpace their revenue. If hospitals can’t pay their bills and are forced to close their doors, nurses are out of work and patients would have to travel further for life-saving care. I’ve also led efforts to improve maternal and infant health across our state. At a roundtable discussion in Bettendorf in 2022, I heard first-hand accounts from health care professionals about the Maternal, Infant and Early Childhood Home Visiting Program. Home visits from a nurse and other health care professionals provide important support and resources to improve health outcomes for at-risk pregnant moms and families with children from birth to kindergarten. My advocacy for this home visiting program reflects my longstanding support for health care professionals in our communities who provide evidence-based services to improve childhood development, reduce post-partum depression and help families thrive.
    During National Nurses Week, I applaud the labor of love and patient-centered care that legions of nursing professionals provide around-the-clock, year-round to loved ones of all ages and all walks of life. Nurses are ranked among the most honest and ethical professions in society. I thank nurses for their tireless commitment to their vocation and encourage Iowans to celebrate those in your lives who have answered the call to this noble profession.
    National Nurses Week is May 6-12, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley Delivers 12 Veterans’ Stories to Library of Congress as Part of Veterans History Project

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
    WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) today delivered to the Library of Congress recorded interviews detailing 12 Iowa veterans’ stories of service in the U.S. Armed Forces. Members of Grassley’s staff and students from Kirkwood Community College interviewed Iowa veterans last November at the Veterans Memorial Building in Cedar Rapids to document their stories for inclusion in the Veterans History Project.
    Established by Congress in 2000, the Library of Congress’ Veterans History Project collects, preserves and makes accessible the personal accounts of American war veterans so that future generations can hear from them directly and better understand the realities of war. To date, Grassley has submitted 95 Iowans’ stories. 
    Iowa veterans who would like to have their stories recorded can contact Grassley’s Gold Star Fellow, Clayton Brown, at clayton_brown@grassley.senate.gov or call the Senator’s Des Moines office at 515-288-1145.
    The stories of the following veterans were submitted today:
    Brian Eschen – Linn County
    Dave Schiel – Dubuque County
    Dawn Butler (Fleming) – Dubuque County
    Doug Thompson – Johnson County
    Jennie Wunderlich – Johnson County
    Jenny Olson – Johnson County
    Jim Felker – Linn County
    Michael Parnell – Linn County
    Rod Courtney – Johnson County
    Ron Randazzo – Polk County
    Ron Slagle – Linn County
    Tara Allen – Linn County
    Grassley spoke on the Senate floor about the Veterans History Project today. Video and remarks follow.
    Floor Remarks by Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa
    Senate President Pro Tempore
    “Veterans History Project”
    Thursday, May 8, 2025
    [embedded content]
    I want to report to my colleagues what I’m doing today, delivering some history to the Library of Congress, and I’ll tell you about that project in the Library of Congress.
    This is something that I do around Veterans Day each year, for the last eight years. In the past and including today, it’s added up to about the history of 95 veterans that have told their story to me and my staff.
    Veterans are an important part of our communities. 
    The sacrifices of the brave men and women who have served our country should never be forgotten. 
    My office recently interviewed 12 of these 95 veterans, this time from the Cedar Rapids, Iowa area for what the Library of Congress calls the Veterans History Project.
    Stories of our veterans help us to better understand the sacrifices that have granted us security and prosperity and allow us to live in the freedom and liberties of this great nation, the United States of America.
    Today, these stories of the latest 12 veterans will be delivered to the Library of Congress, preserving these first-hand accounts for future generations to appreciate the role of the people that defend our freedoms.
    So, for the project that we had in Cedar Rapids, I want to give a special thank you to Teri Van Dorston, at the Veterans Memorial Building there in Cedar Rapids, for hosting the event that we held last November there, and to Randy Langel, from Kirkwood Community College, for coordinating the students who performed and recorded these interviews.
    I look forward to hosting another Veterans History Project event in November of this year, in the Western Iowa city of Council Bluffs.
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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Statement On President Trump Withdrawing Ed Martin’s Nomination To Be U.S. Attorney For D.C.

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
    May 08, 2025
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today released the following statement regarding President Trump’s announcement that he will withdraw Ed Martin’s nomination to be U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia:
    “Ed Martin’s commentary and affiliations left no doubt that he was not qualified to serve as the top law enforcement official for our nation’s capital. Nearly every day, new disqualifying information surfaced—including a history of judge intimidation; downplaying the January 6 insurrection and attacking prosecutors and law enforcement officers who were assigned to work on January 6 cases or defended the Capitol on that day; and his close ties to Timothy Hale-Cusanelli, a January 6 rioter and Nazi sympathizer, just to name a few.
    “Mr. Martin’s record made it clear that he does not have the temperament or judgment to be entrusted with the power and responsibility of being U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia. I’m relieved to see that his nomination will be withdrawn by the White House.”
    Shortly before the President’s announcement, Durbin laid out his stark opposition to Martin’s nomination in a speech on the Senate floor. Durbin also noted that Martin failed to disclose to the Senate an unprecedented amount of required information. Of approximately 2,200 writings or remarks that he was required to submit to the Senate Judiciary Committee, he omitted at least 700 items—more than 30 percent of his known record. Making clear that Mr. Martin is not qualified to serve as a U.S. Attorney, Durbin once again pressed his Republican colleagues to oppose Martin’s nomination. 
    Video of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.
    Audio of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.
    Footage of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here for TV Stations.
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin, Smith, Schneider, Stevens Introduce Bill To Address Teaching Shortages In High-Need Schools

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
    May 08, 2025
    The Retaining Educators Takes Added Investment Now (RETAIN) Act would create a fully refundable tax credit for educators
    WASHINGTON – During Teacher Appreciation Week, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Representative Brad Schneider (D-IL-10), along with U.S. Senator Tina Smith (D-MN) and U.S. Representative Haley Stevens (D-MI-11), today introduced bicameral legislation, the RETAIN Act, that would address the severe nationwide shortage of early childhood and K-12 teachers that disproportionately impacts students from low-income backgrounds, students of color, and students from rural communities.  Exacerbated by low pay, school leadership instability, and poor teaching conditions, schools in low-income communities struggle to retain experienced, qualified education professionals.  On average, teachers are paid 23.5 percent less than other college graduates working in nonteaching fields, and teachers in low-income schools are paid less than teachers in more affluent schools. 
    The RETAIN Act creates a fully refundable tax credit for teachers, paraprofessionals, school-based mental health providers, and school leaders in Title I schools, as well as for educators, program providers, and program directors in early childhood education programs funded by Head Start, Early Head Start, and Child Care and Development Block Grants.  The tax credit increases at key points in a teacher’s career to incentivize retention. 
    “Each day, teachers are shaping the minds of the next generation, but they are not paid enough for the valuable work they’re doing.  Hoping to make ends meet for their families, high-quality and experienced teachers are incentivized to move to more affluent, higher paying districts.  The impact on Black and Brown students and low-income and rural communities is particularly drastic, with many students in the greatest need having the least resources available to them,” Durbin said. “This Teacher Appreciation Week, I’m introducing the RETAIN Act to help address teaching disparities by incentivizing teachers and other educational professionals to make careers in areas with the most need.”
    “Schools across the nation are facing teacher shortages that need to be met with decisive action. We must invest in those who teach our kids and attract the talent that will provide high quality education for future generations. I’m proud to join Sen. Durbin and Rep. Stevens in uplifting educators, enriching classrooms, and fostering a thriving school system that empowers teachers and students alike,” said Schneider.
    “Every student should have access to a quality K-12 public education and part of that is paying teachers more,” said Smith. “Teachers rise to the challenge, working hard to meet the academic and emotional needs of their students, but they remain largely underpaid. This contributes to teacher shortages, which disproportionately affect students from low-income backgrounds. That is just wrong. The RETAIN Act will help raise teacher pay, help schools overcome these shortages and ultimately help ensure students get the best education possible.”
    “Across my home state of Michigan, we have felt the devastating effects of teacher shortages,” said Stevens. “Low-income schools in particular struggle to retain and recruit the teaching talent that their students so desperately need.  I am proud to be a part of this bicameral effort to support and retain teachers and other professional in our Title I schools.”
    Educators increasingly are unwilling to teach in difficult working conditions at current compensation levels.  Across the nation, the average teacher salary in 2023-2024 was $72,030—though this average masks variation in pay across regions and the income level of the school district.  In 2023-2024, the average salary for a first-year teacher was $46,526, and in 2024, early childhood educators made $37,120—barely above the federal poverty line for a family of four.  While federal data shows inflation-adjusted teacher pay has been stagnant since 1990, the inflation-adjusted cost of college has nearly doubled, leaving teachers with large amounts of student loan debt and low pay. 
    To receive modest increases, teachers must obtain expensive graduate degrees—adding student loan debt that dwarfs the accompanying pay raise.  Further, schools consistently struggle to attract and retain effective teachers who reflect the diversity of students, particularly with respect to teachers of color. 
    A one-pager on the bill is available here.
    The RETAIN Act has earned the endorsement of Advance CTE; Association for Career and Technical Education; All4Ed; American Federation of Teachers; American Association of School Personnel Administrators; American School Counselor Association; Association of Educational Service Agencies; Council of Administrators of Special Education; Council of the Great City Schools; Deans for Impact; Education Leaders of Color; Educators for Excellence; First Five Years Fund; Illinois Associate for the Education of Young Children; Illinois Education Association; Illinois Federation of Teachers; Illinois Head Start; Illinois Principals Association; Learning Forward; National Association of Elementary School Principals; National Association of School Psychologists; National Council for Languages and International Studies; Joint National Committee for Languages; National Education Association; National Parent Teacher Association; Save the Children; AASA, The School Superintendents Association; Teach For America; and Teach Plus.
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall Joins Senators Kennedy, Merkley, and Markey to Protect Americans’ Privacy at Airports

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Washington – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) joined U.S. Senators John Kennedy (R-Louisiana), Jeff Merkley (D-Oregon), and Edward Markey (D-Massachusetts) today to introduce the Traveler Privacy Protection Act, which would safeguard Americans’ ability to opt-out of Transportation Security Administration (TSA) facial recognition screenings at airports and prevent abuse of passenger data obtained through these scans.
    While the TSA calls its plan to implement facial scans voluntary, passengers are largely unaware of their ability to opt out. Additionally, TSA does not effectively display notices at its check points to inform travelers that they have such an option.
    “Privacy is one of America’s most sacred liberties, and we must protect it,” said Senator Marshall. “In no universe should the federal government collect biometric data from Americans without their full, informed consent. The Traveler Privacy Protection Act strengthens safeguards around this sensitive data and brings transparency for travelers. I’m proud to work with Senators Kennedy, Merkley, and Markey to champion this effort.”
    “The TSA subjects countless law-abiding Americans to excessive facial recognition screenings as they travel, invading passengers’ privacy without even making it clear that they can opt out of the screening,” said Senator Kennedy. “The Traveler Privacy Protection Act would protect Americans’ ability to say ‘no’ to these facial scans and safeguard the personal data that the TSA collects.” 
    “Folks don’t want a national surveillance state, but that’s exactly what the TSA’s unchecked expansion of facial recognition technology is leading us to,” said Senator Merkley. “Americans have the right to opt out of using TSA’s facial recognition at the airport, and we need to protect that right. Our Traveler Privacy Protection Act safeguards the freedoms and privacy of all Americans by making sure no one is required to have their face scanned to travel.”
    “Passengers should not have to choose between safety and privacy when they travel. Yet, the TSA has consistently ignored our calls to halt the unacceptable use of facial recognition tools and protect passenger privacy. Instead, the agency rapidly expanded the use of the technology nationwide,” said Senator Markey. “I am glad to partner with Senators Merkley and Kennedy on the Traveler Privacy Protection Act to ensure travelers are able to exercise their right to privacy and be able to check TSA’s invasive practices at the door.”
    U.S. Senators Steve Daines (R-Montana) and Chris Van Hollen (D-Maryland) also co-sponsored the legislation.
    The full text of the legislation can be found here.
    Background:
    The bipartisan Traveler Privacy Protection Act would:

    Require TSA to give each passenger the option to have their identity verified without the use of facial recognition and make sure that TSA notifies passengers about this option.
    Ban TSA from subjecting travelers who opt out of facial recognition to worse treatment.
    Protect traveler data obtained through facial recognition from being stored indefinitely.
    Stop the TSA from using facial recognition for purposes other than identity verification at security checkpoints.
    Prohibit the TSA from using facial recognition to profile, target or discriminate against individuals solely for exercising their constitutional rights, or to enable wide-scale monitoring, surveillance, or tracking. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NEW SCHUMER ANALYSIS: TRUMP’S BUDGET PROPOSAL IS ALL-OUT ASSAULT ON FEDERAL PROGRAMS UPSTATE NY RELIES ON MOST, RAISING COSTS FOR SENIORS, FAMILIES, & SMALL BUSINESSES AND SLASHING CRITICAL INVESTMENT…

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Charles E Schumer

    Trump Just Released His “Skinny Budget” Blueprint Of Next Year’s Spending – And It Completely Zeroes Out And Slashes Many Of The Programs Most Important To Communities From Albany, To Buffalo, To Watertown, To Westchester  

    Schumer Data Shows Upstate NY Families Would Lose BILLIONS – Ripping Away Support For Seniors & Families To Heat Their Homes In The Winter, Community Grants Our Cities Rely On For Economic Development, Decimating Support To Reduce Housing Costs, Ending Funding To Fight Opioid Crisis, Slashing Funding For Removing Lead Pipes, Cutting Support For Rural Air Service, & More

    Schumer: Trump’s Budget Is All-Out Assault On Upstate NY Families, Seniors & Communities

    After President Trump released his “skinny budget” plan for the next year, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer revealed how these devastating cuts would totally eliminate and slash many of the federal programs Upstate NY relies on the most. Schumer is sounding the alarm on the most dangerous and severe of these cuts for Upstate NY, which could cost our seniors, families, local governments, and small businesses billions.

    “Trump’s budget proposal is an all-out assault on hardworking Upstate New York families and seniors and the programs our communities rely on most – from totally eliminating funding to help our seniors keep the heat on during cold winters, to slashing funding to fight the opioid crisis, to cutting funding for rural air service in the North Country, to decimating the CDBG and HOME grant programs that deliver tens of millions of dollars every year for cities from Buffalo to Rochester to Albany to reduce housing costs and create local jobs. The chaos and cruelty of these cuts to incredibly effective, popular and essential federal programs show no one is safe from government by chainsaw,” said Senator Schumer. “Donald Trump’s budget is dead on arrival in the Senate, and all NY House Republicans should stand up and be vocal against these cuts, which are so damaging to Upstate NY, and get them reversed and removed from this misguided budget proposal.”

    Schumer highlighted some of the most severe and alarming cuts proposed in Trump’s budget that would hit Upstate NY hardest:

    Totally Eliminates LIHEAP – Ripping Away Nearly $400 Million Per Year For NY Seniors & Families To Heat And Cool Their Homes

    Trump’s budget proposal completely eliminates all federal funding for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), zeroing out the funding. LIHEAP is the program that provides federal support to seniors & families to help pay their winter heating bills or summer cooling bills.

    Schumer said, “We all know Upstate winters can be harsh, and it is beyond cruel Trump could turn off the heat for thousands of seniors who rely on this program to stay safe and warm in their homes.”

    Last year, more than 1.8 million families across New York State received nearly $400 million in funding thanks to LIHEAP. A full county-by-county breakdown of New Yorkers receiving LIHEAP can be found HERE, with some of the largest counties highlighted below:

    Upstate NY Major Counties LIHEAP Benefits

    Counties

    Households

    Benefits

    Erie

    119,693

    $41.7 million

    Monroe

    65,920

    $19.7 million

    Onondaga

    41,559

    $15.1 million

    Oneida

    28,545

    $13.8 million

    Albany

    19,603

    $6.7 million

    Westchester

    34,060

    $3.3 million

    Broome

    20,166

    $9.6 million

    St. Lawrence

    13,940

    $8.6 million

    Cuts $4.2+ Billion for CDBG and HOME Grants, Eliminating the Programs – These Investments Are Some of the Main Tools Local Governments Use To Reduce Housing Costs And Revitalize Neighborhood

    Trump’s budget proposal eliminates the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships Programs. Schumer said CDBG and HOME have long been cornerstones of funding for building new housing to reduce costs and increase access, economic development, and community revitalization creating jobs for Upstate NY.

    Below is a breakdown of the CDBG and HOME funding levels Upstate NY communities are receiving for Fiscal Year 2025 that would be eliminated under the Trump budget proposal:

    Upstate CDBG and HOME Grant Breakdown

    Grantee

    2025 CDBG Award

    2025 HOME Award

    Total Combined

    State of New York

    $47,644,860

    $23,805,148

    $71,450,008

    Buffalo

    $13,103,636

    $3,092,955

    $16,196,591

    Rochester

    $8,068,072

    $2,316,840

    $10,384,912

    Syracuse

    $4,795,536

    $1,278,624

    $6,074,160

    Westchester County

    $4,646,543

    $1,027,065

    $5,673,608

    Yonkers

    $3,248,745

    $1,223,019

    $4,471,764

    Erie County

    $2,994,630

    $921,687

    $3,916,317

    Albany

    $3,043,143

    $857,575

    $3,900,718

    Rockland County

    $2,691,786

    $970,993

    $3,662,779

    Schenectady

    $2,050,241

    $1,187,096

    $3,237,337

    Monroe County

    $1,842,072

    $1,146,571

    $2,988,643

    Onondaga County

    $2,272,403

    $673,565

    $2,945,968

    Utica

    $2,320,311

    $590,075

    $2,910,386

    Orange County

    $1,645,340

    $1,110,380

    $2,755,720

    Niagara Falls

    $2,150,047

    $449,818

    $2,599,865

    Dutchess County

    $1,497,550

    $884,623

    $2,382,173

    Binghamton

    $1,790,607

    $442,780

    $2,233,387

    Mount Vernon

    $1,548,930

    $591,829

    $2,140,759

    New Rochelle

    $1,385,726

    $446,046

    $1,831,772

    Troy

    $1,725,397

    $0

    $1,725,397

    Union Town

    $1,253,674

    $390,411

    $1,644,085

    Tonawanda Town

    $1,592,983

    $0

    $1,592,983

    Amherst

    $625,669

    $838,600

    $1,464,269

    Jamestown

    $1,105,265

    $313,260

    $1,418,525

    Elmira

    $1,095,403

    $239,101

    $1,334,504

    Ends The Northern Border Regional Commission, Great Lakes Authority, and Economic Development Administration – Federal Investments Aimed Specifically At Spurring Economic Growth and Job Creation In Upstate NY

    Trump’s budget proposal would completely get rid of the Northern Border Regional Commission, which has delivered more than $48 million for 78 projects across Upstate NY since its creation, and the Great Lakes Authority which specifically benefit NY counties. These agencies provide targeted help for Upstate NY infrastructure, rural health care, child care access, workforce training, small business support, and community projects that otherwise would go unfunded. The Trump budget also eliminates the Economic Development Administration (EDA), which has delivered well over $320 million for New York State projects since 2018 alone. These EDA investments have created or supported nearly 40,000 New York jobs and spurred more than $4.4 billion in private investment.

    At the end of last year, the Economic Development Administration was reauthorized with wide bipartisan support. This bill that passed into law also reauthorized the Northern Border Regional Commission for another 5 years, increasing funding and expanding the critical grant program.

    1. The Northern Border Regional Commission includes: Cayuga, Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Fulton, Genesee, Greene, Hamilton, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Livingston, Madison, Montgomery, Niagara, Oneida, Orleans, Oswego, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, Schoharie, Seneca, St. Lawrence, Sullivan, Washington, Warren, Wayne, Wyoming and Yates counties.
    2. The Great Lakes Authority includes: Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Allegany, Erie, Niagara, Genesee, Wyoming, Jefferson, Orleans, Oswego, Wayne, Monroe, Cayuga, Lewis, Herkimer, Hamilton, Oneida, Seneca, Onondaga, Tompkins, Schuyler, Yates, Ontario, Madison, Cortland, Chemung, Steuben, Livingston, St. Lawrence, Franklin, Essex, and Clinton counties.

    Slashes $1 Billion For Fighting The Opioid Epidemic And Combating Addiction

    Trump’s budget slashes the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration’s (SAMSA) budget by over $1 billion, a nearly 15% reduction. This will make it harder for Upstate NY to fight the opioid epidemic reducing critical treatments and mental health care, especially rural programs that uniquely rely on this funding.

    New York State-based institutions received nearly $650 million in grant funding in FY2024. A 15% reduction would rip away nearly $100 million from NY’s efforts to combat the opioid epidemic.

    Devastating 40% Cut to NIH Funding – Harming Medical Research On Cancer, Alzheimer’s And More: Hurting Healthcare and Jobs In Upstate NY

    Trump’s budget slashes the National Institutes of Health budget by approximately $18 billion, a roughly 40% reduction. Every corner of New York is using this funding to study cures for cancer, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and other life-threatening diseases.

    Schumer said, “These extreme cuts will lead to layoffs in Upstate NY and make it more difficult for sick people to receive care, and set our country back decades in developing lifesaving medical treatment.”

    New York State institutions received more than $3.5 billion in grant funding in FY2024. A 40% reduction in the total NIH budget means that all of the money New York receives is at risk. Institutions could see millions of dollars ripped away for research efforts across NY. A full list of NIH grant recipients and federal funding awards can be found here.

    Examples of Upstate NIH Cut Subsidy Summary

    Recipient

    FY2024 Grants

    University of Rochester

    $187,470,266

    University at Buffalo

    $90,062,504

    Roswell Park Cancer Institute

    $48,999,339

    Albany Medical College

    $13,233,444

    University at Albany

    $11,007,516

    89% Slash For Federal Funds For Clean Drinking Water And Eliminating Lead Pipes

    Trump’s budget proposal cuts nearly $2.5 billion from the Drinking Water and Clean Water State Revolving Funds, amounting to an overall budget of $305 million which is a nearly 89% cut. The SRFs are one of the primary federal tools for municipalities to get low-cost financing for water and sewer infrastructure projects that ensures the water New Yorkers rely on is safe and clean.

    Schumer said, “Upstate NY has some of the oldest water infrastructure, and our cities like Buffalo and Troy have more lead pipes than most places in the country.  No amount of toxic lead exposure is safe for our children, and these cuts would leave communities high and dry when it comes to upgrading their water and sewage infrastructure.”

    According to the EPA, New York State received more than $368 million in funding from the Clean Water State Revolving Fund and nearly $294 million from the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund for a total of more than $662 million in FY2024. Under Trump’s proposed FY2026 funding levels, New York State would see a reduction of nearly $580 million.

    Cutting Rural Air Service Support For North Country Airports

    Trump’s budget proposal slashes funding for FAA’s Essential Air Service (EAS) program by 50%. The EAS provides federal support to bring air service to underserved & rural communities, and specifically all five of the North Country’s major airports. All of NY’s airports that rely on EAS are in the North Country: Ogdensburg, Massena, Plattsburgh, Watertown, and Adirondack Regional Airport.

    Cuts Funding For Programs That Help Seniors And People With Disabilities Pay Rent

    Trump’s budget proposal would consolidate funding for Tenant-Based Rental Assistance, Public Housing, Project-Based Rental Assistance, Housing for the Elderly, and Housing for Persons with Disabilities into a new State Rental Assistance Block Grant, cutting nearly $27 billion across these programs and foisting responsibility over these programs onto state and local governments, reducing their ability to help people in need. Over half a million New Yorkers rely on this assistance, the vast majority of whom are seniors, people with disabilities, and children. Schumer explained that as rent costs continue to go up across the country, the administration is slashing funding for rental assistance. 

    In FY2023, New York State received more than $7.4 billion across these programs that would not be consolidated into a new State Rental Assistance Block Grant and receive a massive cut of 42.8%. Below is a breakdown of funding for each program and how much would be allocated to New York State if Trump’s major cuts to the programs were to go through.

    NY State Rental Assistance Block Grant Breakdown

    Grant

    FY2023 Funding Levels

    Award Based on Proposed FY2026 HUD Funding Levels

    Amount Cut Based on Proposed FY2026 HUD Funding Levels

    Tenant-Based Rental Assistance

    $140,182,508

    $80,184,395

    $59,998,113

    Public Housing

    $5,239,042,468

    $2,996,732,292

    $2,242,310,176

    Project-Based Rental Assistance

    $1,907,344,837

    $1,091,001,247

    $816,343,590

    Housing for the Elderly

    $122,626,159

    $70,142,163

    $52,483,996

    Housing for Persons with Disabilities

    $14,109,993

    $8,070,916

    $6,039,077

    Total

     $7,423,305,965

    $4,246,131,012

    $3,177,174,953

    Cancels $1.3 Billion For NOAA- Essential To The Health Of Great Lakes & Weather Monitoring

    Trump’s budget proposal eliminates more than $1.3 billion for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) grants and research programs which uniquely support the Great Lakes, including programs which helps identify storm water infrastructure in need of upgrades to ensure community safety during extreme weather events.

    In addition, Trump wants to cancel $209 million for weather satellites and infrastructure critical for Upstate NY communities to get timely and accurate forecasts, and without could put safety at risk.

    Senator Schumer said, “Trump’s seismic cuts to the NOAA Great Lakes programs are the equivalent of wandering outside during a blizzard in Buffalo without a jacket. It’s not just dumb, it’s dangerous. NOAA Great Lakes scientists are how we monitor the health of Lake Erie, how we keep our waterways clean, how Western NY gets daily weather reports and this funding is one of our best tools for knowing when a lake effect snow will drop and how extreme it will be.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy on extending tax cuts: “If we don’t, then we are going to have a $4.3 trillion tax increase on the American people.”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)

    Watch Kennedy’s comments here.

    WASHINGTON – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) explained why extending the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is the most important thing Congress can do in the budget reconciliation process to protect the economy in a speech on the U.S. Senate floor.

    Key excerpts of the speech are below:

    “So, the first goal of reconciliation is to try to reduce these prices, to try to kill inflation dead. But there is a second equally—some would say more—important reason, as you well know, Mr. President. In 2017, this Congress, during President Trump’s first term, passed the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. We cut taxes by $4.3 trillion. And, boy, did it work. The economy took off like a SpaceX rocket ship.” 

    . . .

    “The bad news is that those tax cuts expire at the end of this year. So, we are going to try to extend them and make them permanent in our reconciliation bill. And if we don’t, then we are going to have a $4.3 trillion tax increase on the American people.

    “I want you to think about that, Mr. President, when some of our colleagues try to throw up roadblocks to our reconciliation bill. In effect, what they are saying is, they want to raise taxes on the American people by $4.3 trillion.

    “That is the most important thing we want to do in our reconciliation bill. It is not the only important thing, as I mentioned, but it is clearly the most important thing. If we raise taxes right now, $4.3 trillion on the American people, this economy will begin a journey to the center of the Earth. We cannot let it happen.”

    Watch Kennedy’s speech here.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy, Merkley, Marshall, Markey champion bill to end involuntary facial recognition screenings, protect Americans’ privacy at airports

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)

    Watch Kennedy’s comments in the Senate Budget Committee here.

    WASHINGTON – Sens. John Kennedy (R-La.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.) and Ed Markey (D-Mass.) today introduced the Traveler Privacy Protection Act of 2025, which would protect Americans’ ability to opt out of Transportation Security Administration (TSA) facial recognition screenings at airports and prevent abuse of passenger data obtained through these scans. 

    “The TSA subjects countless law-abiding Americans to excessive facial recognition screenings as they travel, invading passengers’ privacy without even making it clear that they can opt out of the screening. The Traveler Privacy Protection Act would protect Americans’ ability to say ‘no’ to these facial scans and safeguard the personal data that the TSA collects,” said Kennedy.

    “Folks don’t want a national surveillance state, but that’s exactly what the TSA’s unchecked expansion of facial recognition technology is leading us to. Americans have the right to opt out of using TSA’s facial recognition at the airport, and we need to protect that right. Our Traveler Privacy Protection Act safeguards the freedoms and privacy of all Americans by making sure no one is required to have their face scanned to travel,” said Merkley.

    “Privacy is one of America’s most sacred liberties, and we must protect it. In no universe should the federal government collect biometric data from Americans without their full, informed consent. The Traveler Privacy Protection Act strengthens safeguards around this sensitive data and brings transparency for travelers. I’m proud to work with Senators Kennedy, Merkley, and Markey to champion this effort,” said Marshall.

    “Passengers should not have to choose between safety and privacy when they travel. Yet, the TSA has consistently ignored our calls to halt the unacceptable use of facial recognition tools and protect passenger privacy. Instead, the agency rapidly expanded the use of the technology nationwide. I am glad to partner with Senators Merkley and Kennedy on the Traveler Privacy Protection Act to ensure travelers are able to exercise their right to privacy and be able to check TSA’s invasive practices at the door,” said Markey.

    While the TSA calls its plan to implement facial scans voluntary, passengers are largely unaware of their ability to opt out. Moreover, TSA does not effectively display notices at its check points to inform travelers that they have such an option.

    The Traveler Privacy Protection Act of 2025 would:

    • Prohibit the TSA from using facial recognition to profile, target or discriminate against individuals solely for exercising their constitutional rights, or to enable wide-scale monitoring, surveillance or tracking. 

    Sens. Steve Daines (R-Mont.) and Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) also cosponsored the bill.

    Full text of the Traveler Privacy Protection Act of 2025 is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven, Shaheen Statement on Introduction of House Companion to Air Traffic Control Workforce Legislation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven

    05.08.25

    Senators Authored Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Strengthen Enhanced AT-CTI Program, Improve ATC Recruitment, Training & Retention

    WASHINGTON – Senators John Hoeven (R-N.D.) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) issued the following statement after Representatives Nick Begich III (R-AK) and Greg Stanton (D-Ariz.) introduced a House companion bill to their Air Traffic Control (ATC) Workforce Development Act of 2025, bipartisan legislation they introduced with Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) and Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.). The bill will help address ATC staffing shortages, improve working conditions and ensure the safe transportation of people and goods within U.S. airspace. Additional House cosponsors include Representatives Don Bacon (R-Neb.), Salud Carbajal (D-Cal.), Sharice Davids (D-Kan.), Julie Fedorchak (R-N.D.), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Penn.), Laura Gillen (D-N.Y.), Maggie Goodlander (D-N.H.), Jennifer Kiggans (R-Virginia), Tracey Mann (R-Kan.), Seth Moulton (D-Mass.), Hillary Scholten (D-Mich.), Chris Pappas (D-N.H.), Pete Stauber (R-Minn.), Dina Titus (D-Nev.) and David Taylor (R-Ohio) and Delegate King-Hinds (R-Northern Mariana Islands).

    “Recent aviation tragedies and accidents have made it clear that we need to do more to overcome attrition in the ATC workforce. Our legislation is all about training, recruiting and retaining air traffic controllers to ensure air travel is safe and efficient,” said Senator Hoeven. “We appreciate Representatives Begich and Stanton for introducing a House companion bill. We continue working to pass this legislation to expand the training capacity at schools like the University of North Dakota (UND) and get more controllers into FAA towers and radar facilities. At the same time, our legislation provides better benefits to support workers and boost recruitment and retention. Our bill is all about improving the safety of our skies for the American public.”

    “Increasingly frequent aviation tragedies and close calls are serious, solemn reminders that there’s more we can do to make our skies safer – and our bipartisan bill to strengthen the air traffic controller workforce is a good place to start,” said Senator Shaheen. “I’m glad to see our Air Traffic Control Workforce Development Act earn strong bipartisan support in both the House and Senate. I hope our bill now moves quickly through both chambers so we can expand the air traffic controller workforce pipeline, enhance training facilities and equipment, improve recruitment and retention efforts and more to strengthen aviation safety.”

    Specifically, the legislation would:

    • Expand the ATC workforce training pipeline by codifying and strengthening the Enhanced Air Traffic-Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI) program.
      • The bill authorizes $20 million per year for grants to AT-CTI schools to invest in curriculum, high-fidelity simulators, faculty and classroom supplies.
      • The legislation also removes disincentives that discourage retired air traffic controllers from working as instructors at AT-CTI schools.
      • Hoeven worked to advance UND’s selection as an Enhanced AT-CTI program, under which graduates are immediately eligible for hire by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and to begin localized training at an air traffic facility. Currently, four schools, including UND have been selected for the Enhanced AT-CTI program.
    • Authorize the procurement and placement of Tower Simulator Systems at ATC facilities nationwide, supporting more efficient certification of ATC trainees.
    • Require the FAA to develop Air Traffic Controller recruitment and retention incentive programs, which inspired the FAA to implement new ATC incentive programs.
    • Support the development of mental health services equipped to address the particular stressors faced by the ATC workforce.

    The ATC Workforce Development Act is supported by the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA), Air Traffic Control Association (ATCA), Airlines for America (A4A), Regional Airline Association (RAA), American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE), U.S. Contract Towers Association and the Airports Council International – North America (ACI-NA).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven: Energy Committee Advances Andrea Travnicek’s Nomination to Full Senate

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven

    05.08.25

    WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven today announced that the Senate Energy and Natural Resources (ENR) Committee has approved Dr. Andrea Travnicek’s nomination to serve as Assistant Secretary for Water and Science at the U.S. Department of the Interior, sending her nomination to the full Senate for approval.

    “The Senate Energy Committee approved Dr. Travnicek’s nomination with bipartisan support not only because of her vast technical knowledge, but because she has a proven record of collaborating across all levels of government, as well as with tribes and private stakeholders. Andrea was a trusted advisor and an important member of my staff when I was governor, and has the right background for this position,” said Senator Hoeven. “As the Assistant Secretary for Water and Science, she will be a great partner as we work to advance critical priorities, including completing more drought-resistant water supply projects in North Dakota, and ensuring we have USGS studies necessary to unlock our nation’s energy potential. Andrea’s nomination now goes to the full Senate and we’ll work to get her confirmed as quickly as possible.”

    A member of the Senate Energy Committee, Hoeven introduced Dr. Travnicek at her confirmation hearing last week and outlined her depth of experience and qualifications for the role. Additionally, Hoeven and Travnicek discussed issues relevant to agriculture, energy and water development under her role, including:

    • Ensuring access to reliable water supplies for North Dakota’s communities.
      • Hoeven continues working to advance his legislation to increase authorizations under the Dakota Water Resources Act (DWRA).
      • The increased funding from the Municipal, Rural, and Industrial (MR&I) program is needed to complete water supply projects like the Northwest Area Water Supply (NAWS) and the Eastern North Dakota Alternate Water Supply (ENDAWS).
    • Keeping U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) surveys of oil and gas reserves updated, reflecting the latest technologies and industry practices.
    • Maximizing access to taxpayer-owned energy resources, including the abundant oil, gas and coal reserves that fall under federal control.
      • The senator highlighted his North Dakota Trust Lands Completion Act, which would allow equal-value exchanges to reduce fragmentation of state and tribally-owned lands and minerals, while supporting greater development of these resources.
      • Hoeven also stressed the need to provide regulatory relief and streamline federal permitting.

    Dr. Travnicek holds a Ph.D. in Natural Resources Management/Communication from North Dakota State University. During President Trump’s first term, she served as a deputy assistant secretary at Interior. Most recently, she was Director of the North Dakota Department of Water Resources. As governor, Hoeven appointed her as a senior policy advisor in his office following her service with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in Sacramento, California.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo, Merkley Lead Bipartisan Effort to Expand Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Jeff Merkley (D-Oregon) teamed up to introduce the bipartisan Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration (CFLR) Program Reauthorization Act of 2025.  This legislation would reauthorize and expand the CFLR program, which helps fund collaborative and community-based forest management.  The CFLR program has a proven track record of improving forest health, reducing wildfire risk and supporting rural communities. 

    “Shared, active forest management plays a vital role in reducing the risk of wildfires and fire suppression,” said Crapo.  “Ensuring long-term reauthorization of the CFLRP will promote Idaho’s forest health, encourage the responsible stewardship of our public lands and foster resilient, rural economies.  Reauthorizing the CFLRP results in stronger relationships on the ground, more effective projects and a decreased risk of conflict and litigation.”

    “When people come together to develop collaborative plans to manage our forests, we can thin overgrown forests, strengthen our timber stands, support diverse ecosystems, increase fire resilience and boost workforce development,” said Merkley, Ranking Member of the Interior Appropriations Subcommittee.  “This is a proven, bipartisan model that delivers healthier forests and stronger communities instead of litigation and conflict.  Investing more in collaborative solutions will make a real difference in rural communities across Oregon and beyond.”

    In addition to Crapo and Merkley, this legislation is supported by U.S. Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Ron Wyden (D-Oregon), Steve Daines (R-Montana) and Michael Bennet (D-Colorado).

    “Cooperation is vital to effectively managing our forests and reducing wildfire risk across the West,” said Risch.  “Reauthorization of the CFLRP ensures the longevity of collaboratives that make our forests healthier and Idaho’s communities safer.”

    “Forest collaboratives are a proven tool to reduce wildfire risk as well as to head off needless litigation, with the end result in Oregon and elsewhere being jobs and more resilient woodlands,” said Wyden.  “The proof of this productive forest formula can be seen in the fact that this legislation has earned bipartisan support in the Senate along with backing from conservationists and lumber companies alike.”

    “Collaborative forest projects help create jobs throughout Colorado while restoring wildlife habitat and managing fuel for wildfires.  In Colorado, they bring together people across local government, industry and conservation advocacy to make our forests more resilient and help our communities adapt to a changing climate,” said Bennet.  “As a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry, I’ll work to expand this valuable program for Colorado in the upcoming Farm Bill.”

    “In Montana, we’re tired of breathing in smoke.  I’m glad to work with my colleagues on this bipartisan measure to streamline commonsense forest management programs and increase collaboration between state and federal partners, so that we can keep our communities safe from catastrophic wildfires,” said Daines.

    The CFLR program brings stakeholders from all walks of life together to create solutions aimed at reducing wildfire risk across the West.  Requirements of this program ensure that various local stakeholders collaborate, resulting in stronger relationships on the ground, better, more effective projects, and a decreased risk of conflict and litigation.  Then-Interior Appropriations Subcommittee Chairman Merkley pushed to double funding for the program in the Fiscal Year 2022 Interior spending bill, which funds the U.S. Forest Service.  This funded all five collaboratives in Oregon, including the new Rogue River CFLR.  The program was last reauthorized by Senators Crapo and Merkley in the 2018 Farm Bill.

    CFLR was first authorized in 2009, and in the first ten years of the program, CFLR projects treated and restored 5.7 million acres of forestland, and have helped improve 1,000 miles of trails and maintain 25,000 miles of roads.  The lawmakers’ bipartisan bill would extend the program for another ten years, increase the size and scope of the Collaborative to reduce wildfire risk and make other program improvements. 

    U.S. Representatives Joe Neguse (D-Colorado), Andrea Salinas (D-Oregon) and Kim Schrier (D-Washington) are expected to introduce companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.

    The full text of the Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration Program Reauthorization Act can be found by clicking here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 05.08.2025 Sen. Cruz Introduces Bill Penalizing Universities that Mask Foreign Funding

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas Ted Cruz
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) introduced the Foreign Influence Transparency and Accountability Actto penalize universities that take money from foreign adversaries and do not report foreign funding as required by the Higher Education Act.
    Sen. Cruz said, “The Chinese Communist Party expends vast resources to control what Americans see, hear, and ultimately think, as do other adversaries including Russia and Iran. Unchecked foreign funding flowing into American universities opens the door for such adversaries to influence American students and research. This bill would ensure that higher education institutions are held accountable if they fail to disclose foreign funding, as required by law. I call on my colleagues to expeditiously advance it, for the House to then pass it, and to get it to the President.”
    This bill is supported by Heritage Action and FDD Action.
    Ryan Walker, EVP for Heritage Action said, “The Department of Education has failed the American people for years as billions in undisclosed foreign funding poured into our higher education system. $6.5 billion has seeped into academia from adversarial nations such as China and Russia. The Foreign Influence Transparency and Accountability Act will address the failures on foreign funds to academic institutions and force universities to be transparent as to where their endowments are coming from. Heritage Action commends Senator Ted Cruz for introducing this legislation and for his staunch commitment to upholding institutional integrity, transparency, and American values within higher education.”
    Nick Stewart, Senior Director of Government Relations for FDD Action said, “FDD Action strongly supports Senator Ted Cruz’s Foreign Influence Transparency and Accountability Act, a vital measure to safeguard American higher education from foreign interference. By imposing rigorous audits and substantial penalties, this legislation ensures transparency and accountability, deterring malign actors like China and Russia from exploiting our universities. Protecting our academic institutions from covert foreign influence is essential for national security, and we urge swift passage of this bill.”
    Companion legislation was introduced in the House by Rep. Brandon Gill (R-TX-26).
    Rep. Gill said, “American universities that receive taxpayer funding and mold the minds of our next generation of working adults should not be compromised by the foreign influence of adversarial nations and their big ticket donations. I am honored to team up with Senator Ted Cruz of Texas to combat foreign propaganda in our higher education system through this legislation.”
    Read the full text of the bill here.
    BACKGROUND
    The Higher Education Act requires U.S. colleges and universities to disclose foreign gifts and contracts that total $250,000 or more in a calendar year. Under this law, all U.S. institutions of higher education that receive federal funding must comply with the reporting requirement.
    This bill would require the following:
    Implement a 300% excise tax on all funds institutions receive from designated countries of concern.
    Mandate a biennial audit of 30 universities, prioritizing institutions with large endowments and a history of misconduct.
    Implement a 110% excise tax on unreported funds by institutions that fail to disclose funding from any foreign entity.
    The taxes are cumulative, meaning an institution of higher education receiving money from an entity of concern and failing to report under section 117 is assessed a 410% excise tax.
    This past month, President Trump’s administration launched an investigation into the University of California over its alleged failure to report $220 million from the Chinese government.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: What They Are Saying: Support for Fischer’s Precision Ag Package

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nebraska Deb Fischer
    Today, organizations and industry groups released statements and endorsed U.S. Senator Deb Fischer’s (R-Neb.) Precision Ag Package. Earlier this week, Fischer, a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, introduced three pieces of legislation aimed at enabling America’s producers to harness the full potential of precision agriculture.
    “Nebraska Farm Bureau is proud to support Nebraska Senator Deb Fischer’s work to ensure rural America has necessary broadband coverage and is able to utilize the latest in precision agriculture technology to help ensure the success of Nebraska’s farm and ranch families. Passage of all three of these important pieces of legislation will help equip farmers and ranchers with the tools and infrastructure needed for a more productive, sustainable, and connected agricultural future,” said Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation President Mark McHargue.
    “These bipartisan bills deliver practical tools that empower farmers’ adoption of precision technologies, increase productivity, improve on-farm connectivity and conserve resources more effectively. We applaud Senators Fischer, Klobuchar, Warnock and Luján for advancing policies that strengthen agriculture through innovation and stewardship,” said Irrigation Association CEO Natasha Rankin. 
    “We thank Senator Fischer and the sponsors of these important bills that will encourage the use of innovative precision agriculture technologies, including efficient irrigation and the ways it fits into smart farming practices. This legislation will help growers meet global food challenges while simultaneously supporting USDA conservation goals,” said Lindsay Corporation President Randy Wood.Full List of Endorsements of Fischer’s 
    Precision Ag Package: American Equipment Manufacturers, American Farm Bureau Federation, American Soybean Association, Ethos Connected, Irrigation Association, John Deere, National Corn Growers Association, and Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation.
    Additional Support for Fischer’s 
    PRECISE and PAL Acts:
    “America’s farmers and ranchers increasingly rely on advancements in technology to grow more with less. Equipment manufacturers applaud Senators Deb Fischer and Amy Klobuchar for championing the PRECISE Act and Senator Fischer and Senator Raphel Warnock for leading thePAL Act, which will help producers embrace precision agriculture technologies – allowing them to reduce costs, operate more efficiently, and better compete on a global scale. These two bipartisan bills will help ensure that America’s farmers and ranchers have access to the innovative technologies to help them feed the world while also protecting it,” said Association of Equipment Manufacturers Senior Vice President of Government and Industry Relations Kip Eideberg.
    “PAL and PRECISE prioritize American agriculture leadership. Farmers, ranchers and private industry dedicated to driving American agriculture innovation require sound and responsible policy that not only invests in technological advancements, stewardship of our natural resources and continued agriculture leadership but also prioritizes national security. These bills do just that. Ethos Connected applauds Senator Fischer for her steadfast commitment to agriculture and the security of our great nation,” said Ethos Connected CEO Julie Bushell.
    Full List of Endorsements of Fischer’s 
    PRECISE and PAL Acts: American Equipment Manufacturers, American Soybean Association, American Farm Bureau Federation, Ethos Connected, Irrigation Association, John Deere, National Corn Growers Association, Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation, and The Nature Conservancy. 
    Additional Support for Fischer’s 
    LAST ACRE Act:
    “Innovation is at the heart of everything farmers and ranchers do, but without access to reliable broadband, that innovation is often stifled. Farm Bureau is grateful to Senators Fischer and Luján for their leadership and dedication to advancing connectivity on farms, ranches, and in rural communities. Precision agriculture tools are key to ensuring our nation’s food security and in turn, national security, and the LAST ACRE Act will allow all farmers and ranchers to utilize the latest technologies,” said American Farm Bureau Federation Vice President of Public Policy Sam Kieffer.“Equipment manufacturers applaud Senators Fischer and Luján for their longstanding support for keeping rural communities connected and competitive. Today’s farmers and ranchers rely on broadband internet access to power precision agriculture technologies, which allow them to operate more efficiently. The LAST ACRE Act will help our nation’s agriculture community harness this critical technology through affordable and reliable access to high-speed broadband,” said Association of Equipment Manufacturers Senior Vice President of Government and Industry Relations Kip Eideberg.
    “LAST ACRE plays a critical role in securing and growing America’s rural communities and ensuring America’s continued leadership in agriculture. This bill will connect the acre; where farmers and ranchers need to make real-time decisions, drive operational efficiencies and improve their quality of life. For too long, we have overlooked the need to adequately connect America’s greatest strength: farmers, ranchers, and the communities they support. We are grateful for Senator Fischer’s steadfast leadership, continued dedication, and deliberate action for agriculture,” said Ethos Connected CEO Julie Bushell.
    “Competitive Carriers Association applauds Senators Fischer and Luján for reintroducing the ‘LAST ACRE Act of 2025.’ This bill can help expand access to the precision agriculture applications that are increasingly relied upon across America’s rural farmlands, ranches, and forests – technologies that depend on robust mobile and wireless connectivity. Wireless networks play a critical role in rural America, and policies like those in the LAST ACRE Act can help meet demand and spur innovation and opportunities to meet the agriculture community’s diverse needs. I thank Senators Fischer and Luján for their unwavering commitment to fully connecting rural communities,” said Competitive Carriers Association President and CEO Tim Donovan. 
    “The LAST ACRE Act is a vital step toward bridging the digital divide in rural America by extending high-speed broadband access beyond homes and businesses to the very fields where farmers and ranchers work, enabling the full adoption of precision agriculture technologies. We welcome this important bipartisan legislation that ensures the U.S. Department of Agriculture has the strategy and resources to deliver connectivity to every acre, boosting productivity, sustainability, and economic opportunity across rural communities,” said NATE: The Communications Infrastructure Contractors Association.Full List of Endorsements of Fischer’s 
    LAST ACRE Act: Association of Equipment Manufacturers, American Farm Bureau Federation, American Soybean Association, Competitive Carriers Association, Ethos Connected, Irrigation Association, John Deere, Lindsay Corporation, NATE–The Communications Infrastructure Contractors Association, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, National Corn Growers Association, National Milk Producers Federation, Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation, NexTech, and the Wireless Internet Service Providers Association.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fischer Statement on Lesley Woods Murphy Nomination for U.S. Attorney for Nebraska

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nebraska Deb Fischer

     U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) released the following statement after President Donald Trump nominated Lesley Woods Murphy to serve as the U.S. Attorney for the District of Nebraska: “Lesley Woods Murphy has spent her career working to bring criminals to justice and ensure the law is firmly enforced. Her experience in complex legal matters, remarkable successes in court, and efforts to improve public safety through strong law enforcement partnerships will no doubt make her an excellent U.S. Attorney for the District of Nebraska. For these reasons, I was honored to recommend Lesley to serve Nebraskans in this capacity, and I look forward to her swift confirmation in the United States Senate.”While her nomination is pending, Woods Murphy has also been appointed as the Interim U.S. Attorney for the District of Nebraska, effective immediately. From 2017-2023, Woods Murphy served as an Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) for the District of Nebraska. She most recently served as an AUSA for the District of Maryland and Trial Attorney for the Department of Justice’s Counterterrorism Section.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wicker, Scott, and Griffith Applaud the Rollback of Biden-Era EPA Rule

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Mississippi Roger Wicker
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Roger Wicker, R-Miss., and Tim Scott, R-S.C., and Congressman Morgan Griffith, R-Va., celebrated the passage of the Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution to overturn the unnecessary U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Rubber Tire Manufacturing National Emissions Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) rule in the Senate.
    “The Biden administration forced needless regulations on American tire manufactures and producers. Increasing the NESHAP standard puts an unnecessary financial and environmental burden on rubber manufacturing facilities. Reversing this decision will protect jobs and bring back the time-tested NESHAP rule, which has kept our environment clean and our communities safe,” said Senator Wicker.
    “I am happy we are one step closer to eliminating the Biden-era NESHAP rule driven by radical environmentalism that did nothing but hurt workers and businesses across the nation,” said Senator Scott. “Republican leadership continues to deliver for the American people by getting rid of government overreach and inefficiency and paving the way for productivity and prosperity.”
    “House and Senate Republicans are acting decisively to repeal onerous regulations from the Biden EPA, like the rubber tire manufacturing rule, that do very little to serve public health. Like many of regulations issued during the waning days of the Biden-Harris Administration, the rubber tire manufacturing emission standard utilized questionable emissions data and pointed to negligible health benefits as justification for the rule. Thanks to strong conservative leaders in the Senate, like Senators Tim Scott and Roger Wicker, Congress is exercising its authority to undo this harmful Biden EPA measure and provide relief to America’s rubber tire manufacturers,” said Rep. Griffith.
    This resolution is cosponsored by Senators Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va., Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn., Cindy Hyde-Smith R-Miss., and Tim Sheehy, R-Mont., and Representatives Gary Palmer, R-Ala., Derek Schmidt, R-Kan., Mike Bost, R-Ill., Claudia Tenney, R-N.Y., Joe Wilson, R-S.C., Rep. John Joyce, R-Pa., Troy Balderson, R-Ohio, Randy Weber, R-Texas, Dan Crenshaw, R-Texas, Bob Latta R-Ohio, and Buddy Carter, R-Ga.
    Click here for bill text.
    BACKGROUND:
    The Rubber Tire Manufacturing source category is comprised of facilities that produce rubber components such as rubber compounds, tread, tire cords, and liners. The category is split into rubber processing, tire production, tire cord production, and puncture seal application subcategories.  
    In 2002, the original Rubber Tire Manufacturing NESHAP established emissions limits for the tire production, tire cord production, and puncture seal application subcategories.
    In 2020, a residual risk and technology review (RTR) found that the current NESHAP provided an ample margin of safety to protect public health and that the risk associated with air emissions from rubber tire manufacturing was acceptable. The RTR also clarified that emissions during startup, shutdown, and malfunction are subject to the NESHAP.
    The DC Court determined in Louisiana Environmental Action Network v. EPA that the agency should address unregulated emissions from a source category when the EPA conducts an eight-year technological review as required by the Clean Air Act.
    On November 16, 2023, the EPA proposed the emission standards to address unregulated hazardous air pollutants from the rubber processing subcategory pursuant to the decision in Louisiana Environmental Action Network.
    But the EPA’s risk review found that the rule was not necessary to protect public health or the environment and could not quantify any public health benefits from the rule.
    Regardless, to comply with the rule, tire manufacturers would have had to install regenerative thermal oxidizers (RTOs), would have caused an increase in CO2 emissions. As a result, the EPA quantified public health disbenefits associated with the rule ranging from $2.7 million to $8.1 million per year, in addition to $13.3 million per year in compliance costs.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Collins Announces More Than $8.5 Million for Maine Resiliency Center in Lewiston

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins
    Published: May 08, 2025

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins announced that the Maine Resiliency Center will receive an $8,526,240 grant from the U.S. Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Office for Victims of Crime (OVC). The funding is being supported through OVC’s Antiterrorism and Emergency Assistance Program (AEAP). This grant will go toward the Maine Resiliency Center’s critical work to provide support to those affected by the October 25, 2023, mass shootings in Lewiston. Senator Collins contacted Attorney General Pam Bondi to strongly advocate for funding for the Center.
    “The Lewiston shooting robbed the lives of 18 innocent people and shook the community and our entire state to its core. A year and half later, others injured are still recovering from that horrific day. As the community works to rebuild, the Maine Resiliency Center remains a critical part of this recovery process. I am thankful this federal funding will go toward supporting these efforts,” said Senator Collins.   
    “We launched the Maine Resiliency Center in the wake of the awful tragedy in Lewiston to create a space dedicated to providing support, resources, and hope to help the local community heal and thrive. This funding will allow this important work to continue for victims, their families, first responders, and the larger community. We are so thankful to Senator Collins for her efforts and helping to secure this critical support,” said Jim Martin, LCSW, Chief Executive Officer of Community Concepts.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Baldwin Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Support American Businesses’ Research and Development and Outcompete China

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) joined a group of her colleagues in reintroducing the American Innovation and Jobs Act, bipartisan legislation that will expand and strengthen American small businesses’ research and development (R&D) investments and help America outcompete global rivals, like China, who are significantly investing in R&D.  
    “When we invest in research and development, we invest in our American workers, small businesses, and economy. Wisconsin is a state that makes things, and I’m committed to ensuring our Made in Wisconsin economy and workers have the tools they need to pioneer the new breakthroughs and create good-paying jobs across the state,” said Senator Baldwin. “I am proud to work with Republicans and Democrats to boost American innovation, support American workers and businesses, and ensure that we don’t let countries like China get a leg up on us.”
    Currently, companies and startups investing in R&D can claim tax incentives that help them invest in developing new, innovative products that lead to additional jobs and a stronger economy. The bipartisan American Innovation and Jobs Act builds on this by expanding the refundable R&D tax credit and extending it to more startups and small businesses. In addition, the bill reverses a change in the 2017 tax law that limits companies from fully deducting R&D investments each year.
    Specifically, the American Innovation and Jobs Act would help businesses innovate and create jobs by:
    Restoring incentives for long-term R&D investment by ensuring that companies can continue to fully deduct R&D expenses each year by repealing the change made by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act to section 174 of the tax code.
    Expanding support for innovative startups by:
    Immediately doubling the cap on the refundable R&D tax credit from $250,000 to $500,000, and ultimately raising it to $750,000 over ten years.
    Expanding access to the R&D tax credit for startups by lowering certain threshold needed to qualify.
    Expanding the number of startups eligible to use the refundable R&D credit by:
    Increasing the eligibility threshold from $5 million to $15 million in gross receipts.
    Increasing the period during which startups can claim the credit from 5 years to 8 years after beginning to generate at least $25,000 in revenue.
    The bill is led by Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Todd Young (R-IN) and co-sponsored by 33 of their Senate colleagues.
    Full text of the bill is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: McConnell, Guthrie Introduce Bill to Expand Mammoth Cave National Park Boundaries

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Mitch McConnell
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and U.S. Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02) introduced today the bicameral Mammoth Cave National Park Boundary Adjustment Act. This bill would give the park the ability to acquire an additional 551.14 acres of land from the Nature Conservancy. This newly acquired land would enhance protections in the Green River watershed, further conserving the area’s wildlife and cultural heritage while generating additional tourism to Kentucky’s Second District. 
    “Kentucky is lucky to be home to an abundance of natural treasures, among them, Mammoth Cave National Park. This extensive cave network has been inspiring Kentuckians and drawing visitors from all corners of the globe for generations. Beyond its role in driving tourism to our Commonwealth, the park also plays a crucial role in the region’s economic growth, supporting good jobs for the people of Kentucky,” said Senator McConnell. “I’m proud to partner with Congressman Guthrie on this important initiative once again which will expand the critical habitats that the National Park Service protects and preserves in the park.” 
    “Every year, Mammoth Cave National Park draws hundreds of thousands of visitors and contributes nearly $90 million to our local economy,” said Congressman Guthrie. “This natural wonder has inspired people for thousands of years, playing a foundational role in the culture of our region. I am proud to introduce the Mammoth Cave National Park Boundary Adjustment Act to expand protections for the cave system’s important biodiversity and rich history, ensuring that it can be studied, maintained, and enjoyed by future generations of Americans.”
    You can find the full text of the Mammoth Cave Boundary Adjustment Act here. 
    A map of the proposed boundary changes can be found here.
    Background:
    This legislation authorizes the National Park Service to acquire 551.14 acres of land currently owned by the Nature Conservancy (TNC). 
    This expansion would allow the National Park to manage land in Edmonson and Barren Counties, further conserving the area’s wildlife and cultural heritage.  
    The property includes cave passages, including Coach and James Caves, which hold prehistoric and historic artifacts. 
    In 2023, the park received more than 650,000 visitors, generating $89.6 million for communities surrounding the park. This expansion of the park is expected to drive further economic growth in the local community. 
    This legislation is supported by local elected officials in the surrounding counties.
    Established as a National Park in 1941, Mammoth Cave National Park is home to the world’s longest known cave system, stretching a mapped 426 miles with many miles still undiscovered.
    In 1981, the park was named a World Heritage Site, and in 1990, a Biosphere Reserve.
    In April 2025, Congressman Guthrie welcomed Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum to Mammoth Cave National Park for a tour of the park and a discussion with NPS staff about its importance. You can learn more about their visit here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Warren, Wyden, Senators Slam Social Security for Improperly Declaring Thousands Dead, Call for Watchdog Investigation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    May 08, 2025
    Trump administration abused Death Master File to purge at least 6,300 Social Security numbers, including children and seniors
    Letter to SSA Acting Commissioner | Letter to SSA Assistant Inspector General for Audit 
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), along with Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) and 11 Senate Democrats, slammed the Social Security Administration (SSA) for transferring thousands of Social Security numbers associated with immigrants to the SSA’s Death Master File, marking them as dead to pressure “self-deportation,” and demanded the agency’s watchdog launch a full investigation into the decision.
    Exploiting Social Security’s Death Master File to terminate the SSN of living individuals without full due process violates bedrock constitutional rights. The Trump administration’s actions, which amount to falsifying government records, also violate the Privacy Act. Even Trump’s lawyers reportedly agreed. 
    “This decision will result in the ‘financial murder’ of living individuals improperly placed in the file, with everything from their credit cards and banking to their ability to access healthcare and housing being ripped out from under them,” wrote the senators.
    The senators also called on the SSA Office of the Inspector General to launch a full investigation into the agency’s decision to begin using the Death Master File for this purpose, including how an individual gets targeted, who at the agency has decision-making authority, and how those who have had their SSNs nullified through this process can get it fixed if there is a mistake.
    The Trump administration’s abuse of Social Security and its flagrant violation of constitutional guarantees of due process set a precedent that could endanger the rights of all Americans. It also undermines the accuracy of the Social Security Administration’s data, which could lead to more mistakes that limit a person’s access to benefits, regardless of their immigration status. 
    “The purpose of SSA is to provide for the welfare of number-holders and their dependents, not to serve as an arm of President Trump’s immigration enforcement agenda. This move degrades the solvency, reliability, and accuracy of SSA systems and programs. It is as cruel as it is thoughtless—the impact will be felt in communities across the country and in the future of SSA programs themselves,” concluded the senators to Acting Social Security Commissioner Leland Dudek. 
    The letter was signed by Senators Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawai’i), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Angus King (I-Maine), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.). 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: WATCH: Padilla Speaks on Senate Floor to Defend California’s Clean Air Act Waivers, Warns Republicans of Consequences of Overruling Parliamentarian

    US Senate News:

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

    WATCH: Padilla Speaks on Senate Floor to Defend California’s Clean Air Act Waivers, Warns Republicans of Consequences of Overruling Parliamentarian

    WATCH: Padilla highlights environmental, public health, and economic importance of California’s waiversWASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration, Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works (EPW), took to the Senate floor to sound the alarm on Senate Republicans’ consideration of a dangerous plan to overrule the Senate Parliamentarian’s decision regarding California’s clean air waivers that allow the state to implement more protective air quality standards.
    The House of Representatives last week erroneously voted to revoke three of California’s Clean Air Act waivers for the state’s clean cars and trucks programs, despite the Government Accountability Office’s (GAO) determination that California’s Clean Air Act waivers are not rules under the Congressional Review Act (CRA), and the Senate Parliamentarian’s decision that any CRA resolutions on this subject would therefore require 60 votes to secure Senate passage. Senator Padilla emphasized the harmful environmental, public health, and economic consequences of attempting to revoke California’s waivers, as well as the dangerous precedent this “nuclear option” would set in undermining longstanding Senate procedures that could be applied to legislation far beyond the CRA.
    Padilla outlined California’s leadership in driving climate progress that has not only improved air quality, but has helped make California the world’s fourth largest economy through investments in innovative clean technologies.
    “When Donald Trump returned to the White House a few months ago, there was a whole lot of people throughout California and beyond that knew that California had a target on its back. For more than half a century, we’ve been trailblazers in a number of policy areas, but especially in the fight for environmental protections and public health protections. And for the last decade, we’ve been proud to … stand up to each and every one of Donald Trump’s attacks on our clean air and clean water, not just through his rhetoric, but through his actions. So while the particular procedural battle that we find ourselves in today over the Clean Air Act waivers may be new, the larger war on California’s climate leadership and progress is not new.”
    “One of the most outlandish things I’ve heard from my Republican colleagues these past few weeks as it pertains to these Clean Air Act waivers is that they’re concerned that these waivers and other regulations would stifle the California economy. That ‘the market is not ready.’ Or, I’ve heard some say that they’re concerned that this could raise prices on consumers. Really? These are the same Republican members who have stayed silent while Donald Trump’s imposed universal tariffs that are actually already increasing prices. So now you’re worried about increased costs for American families? Where have you been these last several weeks? But I have some good news for you: in case you haven’t heard, California’s proven this argument wrong already. … As of a couple weeks ago, California is now the fourth largest economy in the world.”
    “California didn’t get there by just holding on to technologies of the past. We did so by innovation and investment in clean technologies. So we are proving that you can be for clean air and for business and economic growth.”
    Padilla emphasized that Republicans are looking for a “backdoor” to bypass a filibuster since they do not have the votes needed to amend the Clean Air Act, instead trying to use the CRA to kill California’s Clean Air Act authority with a lower, 51-vote threshold. This would require Republicans to overrule the Senate Parliamentarian and GAO, which they have never done on a CRA question. Padilla highlighted that Senate Republicans, including EPW Chair Senator Mike Lee (R-Utah), have even published a fact sheet that says: “California’s power to influence national emissions standards … is not subject to Congressional review.”
    “In plain English, they’re trying to change the rules of the Senate in order to please Donald Trump and the Big Oil lobby.”
    “It’s clear to me that this is about more than just California’s climate policies and leadership. This would set a major new precedent that blows way past the bounds of the Congressional Review Act. It’s not an insignificant change to the rules. It is not an insignificant precedent that you would be setting.”
    “If successful, it would open the door to ignoring the Parliamentarian on any ruling that you don’t like. And if Republicans can ignore the Parliamentarian on a CRA, then why not the tax bill that they’re working so hard on? Or health care? Or anything else?”
    He concluded his speech by presenting Senate Republicans’ previous statements saying they would not ignore the parliamentarian. Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) said that ignoring the Senate Parliamentarian would be “totally akin to killing the filibuster. We can’t go there.” Senator John Curtis (R-Utah) said “a red line for [him] is overruling the Parliamentarian,” and Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine) promised she would “never vote to overturn the Parliamentarian.” Padilla warned his Republican colleagues not to cross this critical red line.
    “I will call our attention to the fact that the red line is here now. And each member of this body has a decision to make. The Parliamentarian has ruled that this effort cannot be done on a 51-vote threshold.”
    “If you choose to go forward and overrule the Parliamentarian, just know: there’s no going back. All bets are off.”
    Senator Padilla has been outspoken in pushing back against Republican attacks on California’s Clean Air Act waivers. Earlier this week, Padilla, Whitehouse, and U.S. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) led Democratic Ranking Members in strongly warning Majority Leader Thune and Majority Whip John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) of the dangerous and irreparable consequences if Senate Republicans overrule the Senate Parliamentarian’s decision on California’s waivers.
    Last month, Senators Padilla, Whitehouse, and Schiff welcomed the Senate Parliamentarian’s decision that the waivers are not subject to the CRA. Padilla also joined Whitehouse and Schiff in blasting Trump and EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin’s weaponization of the EPA after GAO’s similar finding. Padilla and Schiff previously slammed the Trump Administration’s intent to roll back dozens of the EPA’s regulations that protect California’s air and water.
    Video of Senator Padilla’s remarks is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden Joins Bipartisan Tax-Free Pell Grant Act to Help Make Higher Education More Accessible and Affordable

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)
    May 08, 2025
    Legislation would simplify access to higher education assistance and increase opportunities for students in Oregon and nationwide.
    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., today joined Senate colleagues in introducing bipartisan legislation that would simplify higher education assistance for students in Oregon and nationwide by better coordinating Pell Grants with higher education tax incentives. 
    While Pell Grants have been a critical federal aid tool helping millions of young people cover college tuition and other fees, any additional education costs like living expenses are taxed. 
    The current tax code is complex and lacks coordination between the American Opportunity Tax Credit and the Pell Grant program, preventing students from maximizing their benefits. Students are required to subtract their Pell Grant from the amount of expenses for which they claim the tax credit that provides up to $2,500 for tuition and course materials. But calculating the optimal amount of the Pell Grant to include in taxable income is complicated for those without access to sophisticated tax advice, so many students leave benefits on the table or forgo claiming the tax credit all together.
    “Students seeking a higher education should never be denied opportunities because they can’t afford it,” Wyden said. “For decades, Pell Grants have been supporting Oregonians who are pursuing a higher education in hopes of achieving a better and brighter future. This bipartisan legislation will help students worry less about the tax consequences of their financial aid and more about the educational tools they need to succeed.”
    The Tax-Free Pell Grant Act would also remove financial barriers to higher education by  fully excluding Pell Grants from taxable income, and ensuring that students do not have to subtract Pell Grants from expenses for which the tax credit can be claimed.
    In addition to Wyden, the bill was led by U.S. Senators Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I., and Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, and cosponsored by U.S. Senator Thom Tillis, R-N.C.
    The text of the bill is here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto, Collins Reintroduce Bipartisan Legislation to Protect and Enhance Ground Ambulance Services

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto
    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), and Peter Welch (D-Vt.) introduced the bipartisan Protecting Access to Ground Ambulance Medical Services Act, which would ensure that all communities, particularly those in rural and underserved areas, have access to vital emergency and non-emergency ground ambulance services.
    In 2022, Cortez Masto passed a law to make sure ambulance providers are adequately reimbursed for providing critical services. Specifically, the legislation provided Medicare add-on payments for ground ambulance services until 2025. Since then, Congress, on a bipartisan basis, has passed additional extensions, maintaining the enhanced reimbursement rate for ground ambulance services through September 30, 2025. This bipartisan bill builds on those efforts by extending and increasing Medicare add-on payments for ambulance services in all communities. This legislation will continue to close the gap between Medicare reimbursement and the cost of providing services, helping ambulance service providers hire and retain EMT staff, update their equipment, and continue providing lifesaving medical care across the country, especially in the underserved areas where EMT services can be expensive and hard to access.
    “During a medical emergency, all Nevadans should be able to count on lifesaving ambulance services,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “This bipartisan legislation provides essential resources to rural and underserved communities to ensure that no one is left without help in a life-or-death situation.”
    “Whether an automobile accident, a fire, a health crisis, or another catastrophe, paramedics are there in those first critical minutes when courage, skill, and compassion are most needed,” said Senator Collins. “Our bipartisan bill would support these first responders, especially those in rural and underserved communities, by ensuring they are adequately reimbursed by Medicare for their services. As a Senator representing one of the most rural states in the country, I will continue to support the brave men and women who work around the clock to protect our communities.”
    The legislation is endorsed by the American Ambulance Association, the International Association of Fire Fighters, the International Association of Fire Chiefs, the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians, and the National Rural Health Association.
    “The American Ambulance Association appreciates the support for ground ambulance services that Senators Coretz Masto, Collins, Cassidy, and Welch continue to provide by reintroducing the Protecting Access to Ground Ambulance Medical Services Act of 2025,” said Jamie Pafford Gresham, President of the American Ambulance Association. “If enacted, the legislation would prevent a gap in much-needed funding for local ground ambulance services to maintain the adjustments for providers that service rural, urban, and super-rural communities that are set to expire on October 1. Moreover, the legislation provides some relief for the substantial cost increases in labor, vehicle, equipment, and drugs and devices these local services are encountering and that current policy does not address.”
    The full text of the bill can be accessed here.
    Senator Cortez Masto has consistently fought to ensure that Nevadans can access quality, affordable health care. She’s passed a law to make sure ambulance providers are adequately reimbursed for providing critical services, fought to protect the Medicare Advantage program for millions of seniors and Americans with disabilities, and introduced legislation to keep labor and delivery units open in rural and underserved hospitals. She has also championed the Inflation Reduction Act, which gives Medicare the power to negotiate drug prices, caps drug costs and limits egregious price hikes by drug manufacturers. She has repeatedly pressed the Trump administration for transparency about its cuts to the Department of Health and Human Services.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murkowski, Cantwell Reintroduce Legislation to Reauthorize the National Landslide Preparedness Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Lisa Murkowski
    05.08.25
    Washington, DC – U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA) today introduced a bill to reauthorize the National Landslide Preparedness Act, to help communities prepare for, and respond to, landslides. The bill passed the Senate late last year, but failed to pass the House of Representatives.   
    “Many communities across Alaska are still reeling from the aftermath of recent landslides. Most recently, Ketchikan is working to stabilize roads following the Wolfe Point landslide in March. Many of those facing significant landslide hazards lack access to sufficient data, monitors, and forecasting abilities to warn residents when they are in danger,” Sen. Murkowski said. “This legislation provides resources to communities, allowing them to create response plans and improve emergency preparedness. We must do everything we can to safeguard our communities and protect Alaskans from fatal natural disasters, and that is why I will continue to advocate for the reauthorization of this bill.”
    “Since we passed this bill, federal agencies have improved mapping technologies and gained a better understanding of the landslide risks facing our communities,” Sen. Cantwell said. “Now, more than a decade since the devastating Oso landslide, and as more wildfires and atmospheric river events make landslides more likely, we must reauthorize and update these federal programs to help keep communities safe.”
    Background: The bill reauthorizes the National Landslide Preparedness Act for 10 years, through Fiscal Year 2035, and authorizes additional funding for the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) to prioritize purchasing, repairing, and deployment of landslide early warning systems in high-risk areas. The National Landslide Preparedness Act previously authorized USGS’ Hazards Reduction Program to include the creation of a national strategy, a national landslide hazards database, and a debris flow early warning system. The measure also created the Interagency Coordinating Committee on Landslide Hazards, a federal Advisory Committee on Landslides, and two grant programs.
    In addition to her authorizing legislation, Murkowski, a senior appropriator, has secured more than $14 million in federal funding over the past three years for landslides-related work in Alaska, including for Barry Arm and Prince William Sound.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murkowski Reiterates Her Support for Public Broadcasting

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Lisa Murkowski
    05.08.25
    Washington, DC – In an opinion piece published in the Fairbanks Daily News-Miner this morning, U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) reiterated her support for public broadcasting as the administration proposes to cut funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB). The senator outlined the unique value that public broadcasting offers to Alaskans across the state and committed to defending the CPB’s funding through her role as a senior member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Appropriations.
    “The fact is, we get these essential services at a comparatively small cost. Alaska’s local stations received $12 million from CPB last year, accounting for anywhere from 30-70 percent of their overall budgets,” Senator Murkowski wrote. “Although they also receive individual donations, sponsorship dollars, and grants from the state, the loss of federal funding would be devastating for our local stations.”
    “Not only would a large portion of Alaska communities lose their local programming, but warning systems for natural disasters, power outages, boil water advisories, and other alerts would be severely hampered,” Senator Murkowski continued. “What may seem like a frivolous expense to some has proven to be an invaluable resource that saves lives in Alaska.”
     
    The full piece can be viewed here at the Fairbanks Daily News-Miner, or read below.
    My Support for Public Broadcasting
    Senator Lisa Murkowski
    Last week, President Trump released his budget proposal for fiscal year (FY) 2026 that would effectively eliminate the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), a nonprofit corporation established by Congress in 1967. The CPB oversees the federal government’s investment in public broadcasting, allocating funds to local radio and television stations to provide robust telecommunications services for Americans. While I share the desire to reduce government spending, defunding the CPB, and particularly the essential reporting it allows locally owned radio and television stations to provide in Alaska, is not the place to start.
    Even before I knew what public broadcasting was or what makes it possible, I recognized its value. Growing up in communities around our state, public broadcasting was a key part of daily life. No matter where we were living, my family relied on local radio and television to keep us safe, informed, and connected.
    Based on the more than 2,000 unique messages my office has received from Alaskans expressing their support for our local media, that experience is widely shared. As print journalism continues to face challenges in an increasingly digital world, public broadcasting remains essential to people and communities across Alaska.
    On the North Slope, KBRW is filling a major communications gap created by a severed subsea fiber optic cable, and the station will likely serve as the sole source of emergency communications for the region until the cable is restored later this year.
    In the YK-Delta, KYUK provides updates on the Kuskokwim ice breakup daily at 8:40 am, following an early and rapid breakup season.
    In Kodiak, KMXT hosts “Talk of the Rock,” a radio show that addresses mental health concerns and aims to provide support for listeners. In the Aleutians, KUCB ensures that Unalaska’s fishermen have access to accurate weather reporting as they head out for various openers.
    In Southeast, KRBD offered routine updates after the Wolfe Point landslide in March, as crews worked to secure and restore the road outside Ketchikan.
    I know these things because I, too, rely on these sources to keep me informed about events on the ground. And I am immensely grateful to the local reporters who are dedicated to telling the stories of their communities, big and small, in times of both triumph and tragedy.
    The fact is, we get these essential services at a comparatively small cost. Alaska’s local stations received $12 million from CPB last year, accounting for anywhere from 30-70 percent of their overall budgets. Although they also receive individual donations, sponsorship dollars, and grants from the state, the loss of federal funding would be devastating for our local stations.
    Not only would a large portion of Alaska communities lose their local programming, but warning systems for natural disasters, power outages, boil water advisories, and other alerts would be severely hampered. What may seem like a frivolous expense to some has proven to be an invaluable resource that saves lives in Alaska.
    To be clear, I am not advocating for a blank check for national outlets. The vast majority of CPB funds are distributed to local stations, not national organizations like PBS and NPR. Nor do these funds weigh down the federal deficit. The $12 million that local Alaska stations received last year equated to roughly 0.00018 percent of all federal spending.
    The President has made his views about CPB clear, but the final decision rests with Congress. As a Senator for Alaska, and a senior member of the Appropriations Committee, I will do everything I can to protect your access to emergency updates, news, weather reporting, and educational programming that local public broadcasting provides.
    Local media makes a difference—and Alaska would be worse off without it.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Honors Puck Esposito of Auburn as “May Veteran of the Month”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Tommy Tuberville (Alabama)
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) released a video honoring U.S. Navy Captain Paul “Puck” Esposito as the May “Veteran of the Month.”
    Excerpts from Sen. Tuberville’s remarks can be found below, and complete remarks can be found here. 

    “In Alabama, we take a lot of pride in honoring and supporting the heroes who have served in our nation’s military. But it takes people who are dedicated to this mission 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
    No one embodies this cause better than Captain Paul “Puck” Esposito of Auburn, Alabama. The son of a World War II and Korean War veteran, Puck followed in his father’s footsteps and joined the Navy in 1986. Puck spent 30 years in active duty as a Navy Aviator. From flying Grey helicopters, serving on an exchange tour with the Canadian Air Force, to spending eight years at sea—you name it, Puck did it. He was sent on nine long deployments and served in every theater the Navy has a presence in. 
    […]
    His role at the Vets Resource Center has been an essential part of filling the gaps for Auburn student-veterans and military-affiliated students. Though the Center is largely focused on providing academic resources for its participants, Puck has taken a deeper approach. In addition to educational support, Puck and his team have worked to combat critical issues such as veteran suicide, food insecurity, and homelessness.
    Under the last decade of Puck’s leadership, Auburn’s Vets Resource Center has expanded from supporting 600 students to 2,100 currently. They put on events like Project Iron Ruck and help Auburn recognize and honor veterans at many of the University’s athletic events. We’re proud to now call Puck one of our own, and are grateful for all he does to support our veterans.”
    Senator Tuberville recognizes a different Alabama veteran each month for their service and contribution to their community. Constituents can nominate an Alabama veteran and submit their information to Senator Tuberville’s office for consideration by emailing press_office@tuberville.senate.gov. 
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville, Cornyn Introduce Bill to Crack Down on Illegal Immigrants Who Murder Innocent Americans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Tommy Tuberville (Alabama)
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) joined U.S. Senator John Cornyn and several of their colleagues to introduce the Justice for American Victims of Illegal Aliens Act, which would codify President Trump’s Executive Order subjecting illegal immigrants who kill American citizens to the death penalty. Earlier today, Sen. Tuberville joined Sen. Cornyn, Sen. Steve Daines (R-MT), and Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC) for a press conference about the bill.

    “Over the past four years, Joe Biden and Kamala Harris welcomed more than 10 million illegal immigrants into this country with open arms,” said Sen. Tuberville. “As a direct result, innocent Americans like Laken Riley and Rachel Morin have lost their lives. It’s simple: if you’re in this country illegally and you murder an American citizen, you should face the death penalty. President Trump has essentially stopped the crisis at our southern border. Republicans in Congress must do our part to ensure no more American blood is shed at the hands of criminals who shouldn’t be here in the first place.”
    “Violent predators who enter our country illegally and brutally murder American citizens should be subject to the death penalty as a consequence of their heinous actions,” said Sen. Cornyn. “By enshrining President Trump’s Executive Order into law, this legislation would protect the American people, make our country safe again, and ensure no future President can singlehandedly undo this consequence for taking innocent lives.”
    Joining Senators Tuberville and Cornyn in cosponsoring the bill are Senators Jim Banks (R-IN), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Steve Daines (R-MT), Jim Justice (R-WV), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Jim Risch (R-ID), Tim Scott (R-SC), and Thom Tillis (R-NC).
    Watch the full press conference here or Sen. Tuberville’s remarks here.
    BACKGROUND:
    Under the Biden administration’s reckless open-border policy and failure to enforce the law, millions of illegal immigrants flooded into the United States, creating the worst immigration crisis in history. After entering the U.S., many illegal immigrants subsequently committed crimes, including violent felonies and murder. For example:
    August 5, 2023 – An illegal immigrant from El Salvador attacked, raped, and murdered 37-year old Rachel Morin, a mother of five, in Bel Air, Maryland. The perpetrator had previously attacked a 9-year old girl and her mother in Los Angeles. 
    December 4, 2023 – An illegal immigrant from Mexico stabbed 16-year old Lizbeth Medina to death and left her body in a bath tub in Edna, Texas.
    February 22, 2024 – An illegal immigrant from Venezuela murdered 22-year old Laken Riley as she went for a run in Athens, Georgia. 
    March 22, 2024 – An illegal immigrant from Mexico shot and killed 25-year old Ruby Garcia while in her car, then left her body on the side of a highway in Grand Rapids, Michigan. 
    June 17, 2024 – Two illegal immigrants from Venezuela kidnapped, sexually assaulted, and strangled 12-year old Jocelyn Nungaray to death in Houston, Texas.
    January 26, 2025 – Two illegal immigrants, one from Ecuador and the other from Venezuela, bound, gagged, and beat 63-year old George Levin to death in Chicago, Illinois. 
    March 12, 2025 – An illegal immigrant from Honduras choked 52-year old Camillia Williams, a mother of five and grandmother, to death, then dumped her body in the woods in Marietta, Georgia. 
    As President Trump highlighted, since America’s founding, capital punishment has been an essential tool for deterring and punishing murder. When illegal immigrants come into the United States and murder law-abiding American citizens, they should face the death penalty. The Justice for American Victims of Illegal Aliens Act would ensure that this deterrent is applied to predators illegally crossing our border and committing violent crimes here.
    The Justice for American Victims of Illegal Aliens Act would:
    Amend the Criminal Code to create a new aggravating factor for illegal immigrants who murder U.S. citizens
    Help direct juries to administer the death penalty when an illegal immigrant murders a U.S. citizen
    Fully implement and permanently codify President Trump’s Jan. 20, 2025 Executive Order, “Restoring the Death Penalty and Protecting Public Safety,” specifically Section 3(b)(i) of the Executive Order, which states that the “Attorney General shall, where consistent with applicable law, pursue Federal jurisdiction and seek the death penalty regardless of other factors for every federal capital crime involving … [a] capital crime committed by an alien illegally present in this country.”
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Speaks with Trump Defense Nominees on Supporting Small Businesses and Service Academy Oversight

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Tommy Tuberville (Alabama)
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) spoke with Sean O’Keefe, President Trump’s nominee to be Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness, and Michael Obadal, President Trump’s nominee to be Under Secretary of the Army during their Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) nomination hearing. During the hearing, they spoke about how the Army can integrate and support small defense businesses and different ways to improve the United States’ military service academies.
    Read Sen. Tuberville’s remarks below or on YouTube or Rumble.

    ON RCCTO AT REDSTONE ARSENAL:
    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you for your service, first of all. […] One of our new defense contractors, obviously, has taken a novel approach to supporting the warfighter. You know, newer companies like this have become successful, partly because newer defense contract and authorities and organizations such as the RCCTO, which is headquartered in Redstone Arsenal in my state of Alabama, you know, we’re making progress. 
    So, how can the Army continue to improve our acquisition systems based on the lessons learned from the RCCTO?”
    OBADAL: “Senator, thank you for the question as this is a critical part of Army transformation. And I believe that the RCCTO really showed us that we can rapidly understand the problem, innovate solutions with industry, and then field them rapidly in a number of different ways. My experience in commercial industry, and specifically in the defense technology industry, gave me a wide exposure to a number of different companies dealing with the acquisition corps. And having been on both sides of the table and having overseen acquisitions in my government service, I came to the conclusion that the Army needs to be a better customer. And we need to do that through streamlining our requirements through predictability of requirements and not changing them and moving the goalpost on the defense industry. 
    With that said, we always have to have agile requirements, which requires modularity, both software and hardware. So, if confirmed, when I look at the entire acquisition corps, I believe the people—we have fantastic people—in our acquisition corps who have given us the world’s strongest Army. It is our processes that we have to fix. So, if confirmed Senator, I would work diligently on that.”
    ON SUPPORTING SMALL BUSINESSES IN DEFENSE:
    TUBERVILLE: “Yeah. Thank you. As Senator Ernst said earlier, last week, the Army announced the ATI initiative [is] headed in a different direction in some areas. I understand that being an old football coach—you can’t keep doing the same thing over and over, you gotta change along with your adversary, and obviously we need to do that. You know, part of this change last week, canceling multiple programs, you know, one of these contracts, the Future Tactical Uncrewed Aircraft System, was won by a small family business in Alabama, my home state, named Griffin Aerospace. On Friday, they were notified that the thousands of man hours and millions of dollars that they had spent and invested in good faith were basically wasted. It’s hard to understand that from their perspective. I’d like to suggest to you that the Army restore faith with this type of businesses because we need these smaller businesses. That is not Lockheed [Martin], this is not Boeing—who could really absorb this. This is gonna devastate this country. And at the end of the day, they need more than an, ‘oops.’ You know, we wanna change here. Do you agree with that?”
    OBADAL: “Senator, I wholeheartedly agree that the Army needs to take care of small business[es] as best it can. And I believe there are a number of different ways that we can do that because small business[es], in my experience, is where most of the innovation comes from. And obviously large companies, like you mentioned, build us exquisite weapon systems and we need them, but we have to make sure that we’re cultivating a robust small and medium sized business ecosystem.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Yeah. Thank you. And, you know, in my state, in Huntsville, we have probably 600-800 small defense contractors. We can’t lose them. You know, they get bought out obviously regularly, but we need to make sure that, you know, for future innovation, they’re as important as anybody. So, thank you for that.
    ON MILITARY SERVICE ACADEMY OVERSIGHT:
    TUBERVILLE: “Mr. O’Keefe, in my role as Chairman of the Subcommittee on Personnel, we held our first hearing, as you well know, with our [superintendents] of our [service] academies in 30 years. [The] first one in 30 years. […] One of the things we illuminated during that hearing is that permanent military professors at the academies require Senate confirmation—which is very understandable—while civilian-tenured faculty are not [Senate confirmed], making them as far as I can tell, the only lifetime government employee [that] is not subject to advice and consent. How do you feel about that?”
    O’KEEFE: “Senator, it’s an interesting dynamic when the permanent professors were set up decades ago, the majority of the faculty was all military at the service academies. I suppose the concern anytime you’re discussing whether to make more civilian positions Senate confirmed is perhaps extended vacancies. I do think that there’s some room to evaluate the administrative faculty authority. You know, they have a slightly nuanced statutory scheme that applies to civilian faculty. They didn’t always have tenure for instance. So, I think that is something that should be evaluated, which I think could improve the […] effectiveness of the workforce, of the faculty mix there. Without perhaps causing some of the vacancies that I think might result with Senate confirmation. But I do think that’s an area to take a look at. I know the Secretary has mentioned that that’s something he wants to take a look at as well.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you, and when confirmed, I have some suggestions [for what superintendents can] do about transforming, you know, our military academies to make them better. We don’t wanna do something just to do it, but we need to make them better and grow with the times. And so, [I] look forward to visiting with you on that and working with you.”
    O’KEEFE: “Absolutely, Senator.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you.”
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan America the Beautiful Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Colorado John Hickenlooper
    Bill would increase funding to address maintenance backlog at national parks
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper recently joined Senators Angus King and Steve Daines to introduce the bipartisan America the Beautiful Act, which would reauthorize the National Parks and Public Land Legacy Restoration Fund (LRF) and increase its funding to address the serious maintenance backlog in our national parks and public lands.
    “Our public lands are our national treasures. We’re making sure they’re treated that way,” said Hickenlooper. “Our bill fills a critical gap in funding so Americans can enjoy our sacred outdoor spaces for generations to come.” 
    The LRF was originally passed in the 2020 Great American Outdoors Act, but now requires reauthorization. 
    This bill reauthorizes the LRF through 2033 and increases funding to $2 billion per year to help address the maintenance backlog in national parks and public lands. Currently, the maintenance backlog for each agency includes:
    U.S. Park Service: $23.26 billion
    U.S. Forest Service: $8.695 billion
    U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service: $2.65 billion
    U.S. Bureau of Land Management: $5.72 billion
    U.S. Bureau of Indian Education: $804.5 million
    Hickenlooper sits on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee where he is an advocate for Colorado public lands. He recently introduced the Protect Our Parks Act of 2025 and the Save Our Forests Act of 2025 to restore National Park Service (NPS) and U.S. Forest Service (USFS) workers who were illegally fired by the Trump administration. He also took to the Senate floor and led an amendment to the Republican budget plan to protect public lands from being sold to pay for tax cuts for the ultra-wealthy. 
    Full text of the bill is available HERE. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Markey, Leader Schumer, Senator Luján Decry Republican Vote to Tear Internet Access from Rural and Low-Income Students

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    Senators Markey, Luján, joined by E-Rate advocates
    Washington (May 8, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), and Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), along with advocates from the Schools Health and Libraries Broadband (SHLB) Coalition, the American Library Association (ALA), the School Superintendents Association (AASA), and the Washington Teachers’ Union (WTU) today held a press conference on Republican attempts to gut low-income and rural students’ access to Wi-Fi internet hotspots. Senate Republicans voted Thursday to overturn a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rule allowing schools and libraries to use their E-Rate funds to loan Wi-Fi hotspots to students and educators.
    “Today is a deeply disappointing day for students across the country, especially those living in rural and underserved communities. Today, Senate Republicans will vote to repeal a rule from the FCC to provide Wi-Fi hotspots to students at home. With this vote, Republicans are abandoning millions of students who lack the internet access needed to complete their homework, attend class, and reach their full potential,” said Senator Markey. “It is unfair. And it is cruel. This repeal doesn’t make our schools stronger. It doesn’t make our libraries better. It doesn’t improve student outcomes. It doesn’t save the government money. All it does is strip away a lifeline.”
    “For years, Senate Democrats have worked to close the digital divide, and this vote would blow a gaping hole in those efforts and set back years of progress. Access to high speed internet is not a luxury, it is a necessity – a utility as vital as electricity that people need to stay connected to the world and those they love,” said Leader Schumer. “Whether you are a student doing your homework, a veteran looking for job opportunities, senior utilizing telehealth, or someone reaching out during experiencing an emergency who needs internet access, E-rate is essential. I urge our Republican colleagues to stand up to DOGE and reconsider this vote. The American people are watching and they are feeling the effects of this slash and burn administration.”
    “Across the country, the E-Rate program has helped connect millions of students to the internet they need to succeed in today’s world – especially in the most rural parts of America. Under the FCC’s Wi-Fi hotspots rule, schools and libraries across America can provide Wi-Fi hotspots to students and educators to use at home,” said Senator Luján, Ranking Member of the Telecommunications and Media Subcommittee. “Senate Republicans just passed a partisan resolution that would rob our students and educators of the very tools they need to succeed. When we should be increasing connectivity, my Republican colleagues are working to limit it.”
    “This vote is a setback for the millions of students, library patrons, and patients who depend on hotspot access to stay connected,” said Joey Wender, Executive Director of SHLB. “But our fight isn’t over. SHLB remains committed to defending digital opportunity, and we are hopeful that the House will see the harm this resolution would cause and choose a better path forward. Communities across the country, including rural and underserved areas, are counting on it.”
    “This disappointing vote doesn’t need to become law if Congress considers how many constituents are benefitting – and will benefit in the future from this program. The enthusiasm for this vote was low. E-Rate, supported financially by the Universal Service Fund, is wildly popular. Hotspots provided through the federal E-Rate program offer a flexible, at-home opportunity for internet access, which individuals and families need, along with digital skills training. Libraries are uniquely suited to provide supportive connectivity and foster digital resilience,” said Cindy Hohl, President of the American Library Association.
    “As the national voice for more than 13,000 superintendents serving America’s public schools, we are speaking up about the danger of exacerbating a digital divide that disproportionately affects low-income, rural, and historically underserved children. This resolution would have a devastating impact on students and families who rely on internet access beyond the classroom. There are currently 20,000 school and library applications for hotspot and internet access – if it passes, students and patrons will be left offline and left behind. For many children, this program is the sole reason they are able to stay connected, keep up with their peers, complete homework, access digital learning tools, and be prepared to join the modern economy. Now is not the time to roll back access and connectivity, AASA urges members of the Senate to vote NO on S.J.Res.7,” said David Schuler, Executive Director of the AASA, the School Superintendents Association.
    Senator Markey is the House author of the original E-Rate program, which has invested over $62 billion to connect schools and libraries to the internet across the country. Massachusetts schools and libraries have received more than $930 million from the E-Rate program and another $97 million from the Emergency Connectivity Fund, a $7 billion program that Senators Markey and Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) created within the American Rescue Plan to provide devices and connectivity for students and educators at home.

    MIL OSI USA News –