NewzIntel.com

Category: US Senate

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto: House Republicans are Selling Out Nevada

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto
    Representative Mark Amodei’s reckless lands bill strips billions from Nevada schools and water conservation Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) released the following statement after Representative Amodei (R-Nev.-02) and House Republicans snuck one of the single biggest sell-offs of Nevada public lands in history into their reconciliation bill.
    “In the dead of night, Representative Mark Amodei pushed House Republicans to move forward with an insane plan that cuts funding from water conservation and public schools across Nevada,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “This is a land grab to fund Republicans ‘billionaire giveaway tax bill, and I’ll fight it with everything I have.”
    Last night during a session of the House Natural Resources Committee, Representative Amodei, without consulting any of the Nevada delegation, forced the inclusion of language in the Republicans’ upcoming billionaire-tax cut bill that would sell up to 200,000 acres of public land in Clark County. The bill ignores Nevada’s Southern Nevada Public Land Management Act’s (SNPLMA) consultation provisions and takes money away from conservation, wildfire prevention, and public schools across Nevada, as well as from the Southern Nevada Water Authority.
    This will shortchange billions of dollars in future reveneues from almost every county in Nevada, and the state as a whole. Theses funds will be forever lost instead of helping our communities. It also ignores Cortez Masto’s bipartisan Southern Nevada Economic Development and Conservation Act, a years-long effort to help Clark County grow, encourage affordable housing, and protect 2 million acres for conservation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto, Boozman Push for Necessary Updates to Veteran Home Improvement Program

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto
    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and John Boozman (R-Ark.) introduced the bipartisan Autonomy for Disabled Veterans Act, which would help disabled veterans and their families make accessibility and safety improvements to their homes. Specifically, this bipartisan bill would help disabled veterans build accessible bathrooms, widen their doors, and install wheelchair ramps, grab bars and handrails in their homes.
    “After making countless sacrifices in service to our country, disabled veterans deserve to live in their own home with more freedom and dignity,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “That’s why I’m proud to work alongside Senator Boozman to provide them the resources they need to make improvements to their homes for accessibility and safety. I will continue working across the aisle to stand up for Nevada veterans and their families.”
    “Arkansas veterans have sacrificed tremendously in service to our nation,” said Senator Boozman. “One of the most important ways we can support our former servicemembers is to ensure those living with a disability feel safer in an accessible home with a greater sense of independence and quality of life. I am pleased to champion commonsense improvements that will better serve those who have worn our nation’s uniform.”
    “VA’s Home Improvements and Structural Alterations grant program provides modifications to a veteran or service member’s primary residence. However, years of inattention have diminished the effectiveness of this program, and it is long past time to update grant rates to realistic levels. We appreciate the efforts of Senator Cortez Masto and Senator Boozman to correct that by increasing grant rates and tying them to a formula, so they remain current for years to come,” said Heather Ansley, Chief Policy Officer of Paralyzed Veterans of America.
    The Department of Veteran Affairs’ Home Improvements and Structural Alterations (HISA) program offers funds to help eligible disabled veterans with service-related medical issues make alterations to their homes to accommodate their medical needs. But HISA grants have not kept up with the current cost of materials and building. The Autonomy for Disabled Veterans Act would improve HISA by: 
    Increasing the HISA grant from $6,800 to $10,000 for veterans with disabilities who apply after the bill becomes law, helping to cover the true cost of home improvements like accessible bathrooms.
    Raising the grant from $2,000 to $6,800 for veterans with non-service-connected disabilities who applied before the bill is enacted, ensuring they also get better support.
    Requiring the VA to adjust the grant amounts annually based on the cost of residential construction, so the funding stays relevant as prices change.
    The Autonomy for Disabled Veterans Act has been endorsed by Paralyzed Veterans of America. A similar bill will be introduced in the House of Representatives by Reps. Eric Sorensen (D-Ill.-17), Nicole Malliotakis (R-N.Y.-11), and Mark Takano (D-Calif.-39).
    Read the full bill here.
    Senator Cortez Masto is a champion for our service members and veterans. Cortez Masto helped pass the PACT Act to ensure veterans suffering from toxic exposure in the line of duty get the medical care they need, and she worked across the aisle to get legislation helping veterans exposed to Agent Orange and expanding benefits for women veterans signed into law. The Senator sent a letter to U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Collins demanding he provide answers on the mass terminations of personnel across the VA, specifically those in Nevada, and how those terminations would impact services to Nevada veterans.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Support New Businesses with Major Expansion of Startup Tax Deduction

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen
    (Washington, DC) – During the start of National Small Business Month, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a top member and former Chair of the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, joined by U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), introduced the Tax Relief for New Businesses Act – legislation that would provide tax relief to entrepreneurs looking to start a small business and reduce barriers for startups. The bill would increase the startup tax deduction from $5,000 to $50,000 and allow businesses to write off more expenses to compensate for the increasing cost of starting a business. Currently, small business owners can only deduct up to $5,000 in startup costs in the first year, yet a recent survey found that they spend an average of $40,000 to get their businesses off the ground.
    “Small businesses are the lifeblood of the Granite State’s economy, but it’s getting more costly and difficult for local entrepreneurs to open up shop,” said Senator Shaheen. “Our commonsense Tax Relief for New Businesses Act would give entrepreneurs a helping hand up so they can succeed and fuel job growth.”
    The Tax Relief for New Businesses Act is also co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-DE), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Martin Heinrich (D-NM) and Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD).
    “Repeated research has demonstrated that new businesses – ‘startups’ – are a critical driver of economic growth, job creation, and opportunity expansion,” said John Dearie, President of Center for American Entrepreneurship. “But launching a new business costs money. And because startup costs are incurred long before the first dollar of revenue, those costs can be a major obstacle to new business formation. That’s why the Tax Relief for New Businesses Act is so important. The legislation is powerfully pro-entrepreneurship, pro-growth, and pro-job creation. CAE thanks Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) for their leadership and looks forward to working with them to ensure swift passage of the legislation.”
    “Starting a business is a vote of confidence in the future,” said Richard Trent, Executive Director of Main Street Alliance. “Men and women all across the country start businesses that help our communities thrive. Small businesses are connected to their communities, sponsoring little league teams, providing employment and creating a robust culture and economy. But one of the most difficult parts of starting a business is having the capital to do so. A lack of generational wealth, unfair lending practices and discrimination make this difficult for too many. The Tax Relief for New Businesses Act is a huge step in the right direction to level the playing field and jump start Main Streets all across America.”
    As a former small business owner and now a top member of the Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee, Shaheen fights for New Hampshire’s—and America’s—small businesses. During her time as Chair of the committee, Shaheen focused on addressing some of the biggest challenges small business owners face, reporting key legislation out of committee that included critical improvements to the State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) and improved access to federal contracting opportunities for small businesses.
    In February, Shaheen introduced the bipartisan Small Business Technological Advancement Act which would help small business owners integrate digital tools into their businesses by clarifying that small businesses can utilize the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) 7(a) loan program to finance technology that supports daily operations, including inventory management, product delivery and accounting systems. Earlier this year, she introduced the bipartisan Helping Small Businesses THRIVE Act with Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA) that would direct SBA to create a new program that helps small businesses lock in the cost of commodities, like gasoline or lumber, in order to protect against the future volatile price of energy and other expenses.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sens. Shaheen and Rounds, Reps. Kiggans and Courtney Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Bill to Strengthen Civilian Defense Workforce

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen
    **Bipartisan Defense Workforce Integration Act would streamline the hiring of individuals who are medically ineligible for military duty to civilian careers in the defense and national security workforce**
    (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Mike Rounds (R-SD), senior members of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), alongside U.S. Representatives Jen Kiggans (R-VA-02) and Joe Courtney (D-CT-02), members of the U.S. House Armed Services Committee, today led the introduction of the Defense Workforce Integration Act – bipartisan, bicameral legislation that seeks to bolster the civilian defense and national security workforce. The bipartisan bill—which is co-sponsored in the Senate by SASC members Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA), Angus King (I-ME) and Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and in the House by U.S. Representatives Jimmy Panetta (D-CA-19) and Don Bacon (R-NE-02)—would leverage existing programs and best practices within the Department of Defense to retain the talent and motivation of those who desire to serve in uniform but are found to be medically disqualified to address persistent workforce shortages. 
    “Oftentimes, the U.S. Department of Defense will invest significant time and resources into military recruits’ training – only for those recruits to be taken out of consideration for medical reasons, many of which do not prohibit them from working to keep our nation safe and secure,” said Senator Shaheen. “Our bipartisan, bicameral bill provides opportunities for these individuals—who have already stepped up to serve their nation—to still contribute to America’s national security by increasing awareness and accessibility of careers in the civilian defense workforce. Especially as employers like the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard face recruitment and retention challenges for vital roles, we should be doing all we can to fill vacancies that bolster our national security.” 
    “Medical issues might prevent some patriotic Americans from active military service, but it doesn’t have to prevent them from finding other ways to serve our country,” said Senator Rounds. “The Defense Workforce Integration Act would help individuals who want to serve their country but are disqualified from military service for medical reasons transition into federal civilian roles within the Department of Defense.” 
    “Every year, tens of thousands of young Americans are turned away from military service – not because they aren’t willing to serve, but because of medical disqualifications that may have no bearing on their ability to contribute,” said Congresswoman Kiggans. “The Defense Workforce Integration Act ensures that these patriotic individuals still have a path to serve their country through meaningful civilian careers that support our national security. This bipartisan, bicameral bill strengthens our workforce, preserves talent, and reinforces our commitment to the defense industrial base at a time when global threats are growing by the day.” 
    “Hiring and retaining a skilled defense workforce is critical to our national security. From manufacturers in the defense industrial base to the Defense Department’s civilian workforce at military bases across the country and at the Pentagon, these are patriotic careers that make our national security mission possible,” said Congressman Courtney. “Creating pathways into those jobs for former servicemembers and individuals who want to serve but cannot is a smart way to grow our defense workforce with people committed to this mission. I’m glad to introduce this bipartisan, bicameral bill as a part of Congress’ continuing work to boost defense careers and maintain a strong industrial base.” 
    As defense workforce shortages grow in crucial areas like manufacturing, cybersecurity and defense logistics, the Defense Workforce Integration Act would activate a pool of candidates who are ineligible for military service to fill vacant positions that contribute to America’s national security.  
    For applicants who cannot join the military, the legislation directs DoD to enable military personnel managers to provide individuals that are medically disqualified with information about civilian employment opportunities in the following areas: the defense industrial base, cybersecurity, intelligence, research and development of defense technologies, national emergency and disaster preparedness and any other non-military role the Secretary of Defense considers in the national security interest. 
    For servicemembers disqualified early in their careers, the legislation expands on existing Air Force best practices by establishing Army and Navy personnel management programs to execute “warm hand-offs” to DoD civilian hiring authorities for personnel who become medically disqualified during their initial accession and training pipelines. 
    For personnel leaving the military after serving honorably, the legislation leverages existing Navy transition assistance programs to expand awareness of critical civilian roles at Military Sealift Command and workforce training programs for shipbuilders to enhance our civilian maritime workforce. 
    Click here for bill text.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: As Big Tech Fights Antitrust Enforcement in the Courts, Warner, Colleagues Reintroduce Bipartisan Legislation to Encourage Competition in Social Media

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Vice Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, reintroduced the Augmenting Compatibility and Competition by Enabling Service Switching (ACCESS) Act, legislation that would encourage market-based competition between major social media platforms by requiring the largest companies make user data portable – and their services interoperable – with other platforms, and to allow users to designate a trusted third-party service to manage their privacy and account settings.
    “As social media and online platforms continue to become a larger part of our society, we’ve seen a handful of companies completely dominate the marketplace, giving consumers no real option to shift platforms without losing years’ worth of data and interactions,” Sen. Warner said. “By making it easier for social media users to easily move their data or to continue to communicate with their friends after switching platforms, startups will be able to compete on equal terms with the biggest social media companies. Interoperability and portability are powerful tools to promote innovative new companies and limit anti-competitive behaviors. This legislation will create long-overdue requirements that will boost competition and give consumers more power.”
    Joining Warner in introducing the legislation are Sens. Josh Hawley (R-MO) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT).
    Online platforms have become vital to our economic and social fabric, but network effects and consumer lock-in have solidified a select number of companies’ dominance in the digital market and enhanced their control over consumer data, even as the social media landscape continues to change by the day and platforms’ user experiences become more and more unpredictable. The ACCESS Act would increase market competition, encourage innovation, and increase consumer choice by requiring large communications platforms (products or services with over 100 million monthly active users in the U.S.) to:
    Make their services interoperable with competing communications platforms.
    Permit users to easily port their personal data in a structured, commonly used and machine-readable format.
    Allow users to delegate trusted custodial services, which are required to act in a user’s best interests through a strong duty of care, with the task of managing their account settings, content, and online interactions. 
    Sen. Warner first introduced the ACCESS Act in 2019 and, as a former tech entrepreneur, has been one of Congress’s leading voices calling for accountability in Big Tech. He has introduced several pieces of legislation aimed at addressing these issues, including the SAFE TECH Act, which would reform Section 230 and allow social media companies to be held accountable for enabling cyber-stalking, online harassment, and discrimination on social media platforms; the Honest Ads Act, which would require online political advertisements to adhere to the same disclaimer requirements as TV, radio, and print ads; and legislation requiring that the prominent social media platform TikTok divest from China-owned parent company ByteDance. Sen. Warner continues to advocate for the sale of the app to a company not beholden to a U.S. adversary.
    Full text of the ACCESS Act is available here. 
     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy, Republicans Celebrate Small Businesses Driving America into the Golden Age

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Joni Ernst (R-IA), and a group of Senate Republicans introduced legislation declaring this week “National Small Business Week” to recognize the important role small businesses play in creating jobs and fueling the economy.
    “We need an economy which works for small business,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Small businesses create the majority of new jobs. That is President Trump’s goal, that is my goal.”
    “Main Street is roaring back under President Trump’s pro-growth policies that are ushering in a Golden Age,” said Senator Ernst. “This week, we celebrate the small businesses that mean so much more than the livelihoods they support and the jobs they create. These shops embody the American spirit and shape the culture of big cities and rural communities across America. I’m proud to recognize these entrepreneurs’ tremendous contributions and will continue to fight to ensure that they have a champion in Washington.”
    Senator Cassidy introduced the THRIVE Act to level the playing field for small businesses by directing the Small Business Administration to create a program that helps small businesses lock in the cost of commodities, like gasoline or lumber, in order to protect against the future volatile price of energy and other expenses.
    Cassidy and Ernst were joined by U.S. Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Jon Husted (R-OH), James Lankford (R-OK), John Kennedy (R-LA), John Cornyn (R-TX), Susan Collins (R-ME), James Risch (R-ID), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Steve Daines (R-MT), Jim Justice (R-WV), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Katie Britt (R-AL), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), John Boozman, (R-AK), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Josh Hawley (R-MO), John Barrasso (R-WY), John Curtis (R-UT), Jim Banks (R-IN), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Eric Schmitt (R-MO), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Todd Young (R-IN), John Hoeven (R-ND), Tim Scott (R-SC), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), John Thune (R-SD), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Rick Scott (R-FL), and Jerry Moran (R-KS), 
    “Small businesses are the backbone of Louisiana’s economy and create good jobs across our country,” said Senator Kennedy. “This National Small Business Week, I’m proud to recognize everything small businesses do for America and keep fighting to throw out bad regulations that hold our economy back.”
    “Small businesses are the backbone of Idaho’s economy,” said Senator Risch. “During National Small Business Week, I’m proud to recognize the hard-working entrepreneurs who employ our neighbors, give back to our communities, and make the Gem State a special place to live and grow.”
    “National Small Business Week holds a special place in my heart because I know all too well the pressures and joy that come with owning a business and signing the front of a paycheck,” said Senator Scott. “This week I join my colleagues in celebrating their innovation, resilience, and drive that not only creates jobs but fosters community and inspires entrepreneurship across America. As a former small business owner myself, I’m committed to supporting them and ensuring they have the resources they need to thrive and succeed.”
    “As the son of a small business owner, I understand how vital small businesses are to Indiana’s economy,” said Senator Young. “I’m proud to stand with Hoosier small business owners and will continue advocating for policies that help them thrive.”
    “We can’t do Made-in-America without Ohio’s hardworking small business owners, entrepreneurs and job creators,” said Senator Husted. “This week recognizes their work to fuel our economy and drive the country forward, and I’ll continue supporting pro-growth policies that make the American dream achievable.”
    “We know that small businesses drive America’s innovations and economic strength,” said Senator Grassley. “Here in Iowa, they make up 99.3 percent of all businesses, and nearly half of Iowa employees work for a small business. In marking this special week, our resolution recognizes the power of small businesses and honors the men and women who work hard to keep our communities vibrant.”
    “Small businesses are the backbone of Wyoming’s economy,” said Senator Barrasso. “To celebrate National Small Business week, we honor these job creators in Wyoming and across the country. Senate Republicans will continue to work with President Trump to roll back harmful regulations and taxes so America’s small businesses can continue to thrive.”
    “In West Virginia, small businesses are an essential part of our economy, making up more than 98% of the businesses in our state and employing nearly half of our workforce,” said Senator Capito. “During National Small Business Week, I am proud to join my colleagues in recognizing and celebrating the critical contributions small businesses, like the female-owned Dolly’s Diner in Princeton I visited recently, make in West Virginia and across our country.”
    “By designating this week as National Small Business Week, we honor the small business owners who embody the entrepreneurial spirit that makes Texas the economic powerhouse it is today,” said Senator Cornyn.
    “Maine’s small businesses are the bedrock of Maine’s local economies and drive job creation throughout our state,” said Senator Collins. “As Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I remain committed to championing small businesses, the job creating engines that power our nation’s economy.”
    “Fighting for hardworking families, small businesses, and local Main Streets across Alabama has always been a top priority for me,” said Senator Britt. “Small businesses are the backbone of our nation’s economy, and I’m proud to recognize our incredible job creators and entrepreneurs this Small Business Week. I remain steadfastly committed to advancing policies that slash burdensome red tape, provide access to opportunities and resources, and unleash American ingenuity.”
    “Small businesses are at the heart of Tennessee’s economy and a cornerstone of our communities,” said Senator Blackburn. “As we mark National Small Business Week, I’m honored to celebrate these hardworking entrepreneurs. Under President Trump’s new Golden Age for America, we are seeing small businesses start to thrive again. I’ll keep fighting in the Senate to stop the largest tax hike in history and to advance pro-growth policies that cut red tape, lower taxes, and foster an environment where small businesses across America and Tennessee can continue to grow and prosper.”
    “This resolution reaffirms our commitment to supporting entrepreneurs and small business owners in the Cowboy State who demonstrate incredible resilience and determination,” said Senator Lummis. “As they pursue their American dream, they sacrifice countless hours through hard work to overcome challenges and build something meaningful for their families and communities.”
    “Alaska’s small businesses are the cornerstone of our economy, keeping our communities strong and economically vibrant,” said Senator Sullivan. “Our local businesses are the first to give back—contributing to local causes, hiring people who live here, and listening to the needs of the people in our communities. I’m glad to join Senator Ernst in introducing a resolution that acknowledges the incredible work done by small businesses across the country to invest in their communities. I look forward to continuing to work with Alaska’s small businesses to support our crucial, innovative entrepreneurs.”
    “Small businesses are a driving force of North Dakota’s economy, fueling growth, creating jobs and supporting strong communities,” said Senator Hoeven. “Designating this week as National Small Business Week highlights the dedication and impact of entrepreneurs and small business owners both in our state and across the country.”
    “Small businesses employ over 65 percent of Montana’s workforce and represent 99 percent of all businesses in Montana, which boosts our local economies and creates new jobs in our communities,” said Senator Daines. “I’m proud to join my colleagues in celebrating National Small Business Week to recognize all the entrepreneurs and business owners whose innovation and hard work helps keep both Montana and our country a great place to live, work, and raise a family.”
     “I am proud to join my colleagues in celebrating National Small Business Week. Small businesses are the backbone of America, and thanks to the leadership of President Trump our nation’s entrepreneurs are finally empowered again with the resources and support they need to see their dreams come true,” said Senator Scott. “I’ve run businesses small and large, and I know the hard work these folks put in day-in and day-out to keep their doors open and employees on payroll. This week is a time to recognize these hardworking Americans who support our economy and create jobs in their communities as they live their American dream.”
    “Small businesses power our economy and represent core American values like hard work, taking risks and the pursuit of success,” said Senator Boozman. “I am pleased to join my colleagues in celebrating National Small Business week to applaud their local and regional investments that create jobs and sustain communities across Arkansas as well as nationwide. These entrepreneurs deserve our recognition and total support.”
    “Small businesses are the backbone of communities across America, and they represent the heart of Mississippi’s economy and way of life,” said Senator Hyde-Smith. “National Small Business Week is a time to celebrate the American dream, the drive of our entrepreneurs, and the ingenuity that powers growth and opportunity.  I’m proud to support this resolution and honor the small businesses that keep Mississippi strong and our nation thriving.”
    “As a former small business owner, I fully understand the challenges that small businesses face,” said Senator Marshall. “That’s why I remain committed to prioritizing Main Street over Wall Street by cutting red tape and taxes, opening new markets, and ensuring small businesses have the capital they need to grow and thrive. This week, we proudly recognize the lifeblood of our economy by honoring the remarkable contributions of small businesses and officially designating this week as National Small Business Week.”
    “Small businesses are the lifeblood of Idaho’s economy,” said Senator Crapo. “Idaho’s 200,131 small businesses have an outsized impact–making up 99.2 percent of businesses in the state and employing 56.6 percent of all Idaho employees.  I applaud the owners and employees who roll up their sleeves every day, work hard and power our economy.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Introduces Bill to Lower Costs for Caregivers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) introduced the Lowering Costs For Caregivers Act to allow people to use their tax-free health savings accounts and flexible spending accounts on medical expenses for their parents. Currently, adult children may not take advantage of these tax-free accounts to cover expenses they incur on behalf of their aging parents, unless their parents are classified as dependents for tax purposes.
    “Over 11 million Americans are unpaid caregivers for their loved ones,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Let’s give back by making life a little more affordable for them.”
    Cassidy was joined by U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) in introducing the legislation.
    “As parents age, their children often step up as caregivers and take on extra costs and responsibilities. Nevada families continue to be squeezed by rising prices, and we must do everything we can to make it easier to take care of loved ones,” said Senator Rosen. “I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan bill to lower costs for caregivers by allowing them to use tax-free accounts to cover the medical expenses of their aging parents.”
    This legislation is supported by the AARP.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy, Rosen Introduce Legislation to Protect Sensitive Federal Data from DeepSeek, Adversarial AI Technologies

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV) introduced the Protection Against Foreign Adversarial Artificial Intelligence Act of 2025 to prohibit federal contractors from using DeepSeek, an artificial intelligence (AI) platform with direct ties to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), to fulfill contracts with federal agencies. DeepSeek poses a significant potential national security threat and is required by Chinese law to share the data it collects with the government of the People’s Republic of China and its intelligence agencies. Several U.S. states and allied nations have already moved to block DeepSeek from government devices due to critical security concerns.
    “AI is a powerful tool which can be used to enhance things like medicine and education. But in the wrong hands, it can be weaponized. By feeding sensitive data into systems like DeepSeek, we give China another weapon,” said Dr. Cassidy.
    “The U.S. must take steps to ensure Americans’ data and our government systems are protected against cyber threats from foreign adversaries,” said Senator Rosen. “This bipartisan legislation would prevent federal contractors from using Deepseek, a CCP-linked AI platform, when carrying out government work. I will continue working across party lines to bolster our national security and protect Americans’ data.”
    Specifically, the Protection Against Foreign Adversarial Artificial Intelligence Act of 2025 would:
    Prohibit federal contractors with an active federal contract from using DeepSeek, and any successor application developed by High-Flyer, for the fulfillment, assistance, execution, or otherwise support to complete, or support in part, a contract with an agency of the U.S. federal government. 
    Allow the U.S. Secretary of Commerce, in consultation with the U.S. Secretary of Defense, may provide a waiver, if necessary, on a case-by-case basis for national security-related or research purposes.
    Include a report to Congress from the U.S. Secretary of Commerce, in consultation with the U.S. Secretary of Defense, on the national security and economic espionage threats posed by AI platforms from adversarial nations, such as China, North Korea, Iran, and Russia.
    Background
    Cassidy has been a consistent champion for online privacy and user data protection. Earlier this year, he introduced legislation to protect U.S. servicemembers’ data from adversarial nations like China and has worked to ensure that Americans can delete their personal data collected by private data broker companies.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Improve AI Testing and Evaluation Systems, Safeguard Americans Against Risks

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Senator for New Mexico Ben Ray Luján

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), and Peter Welch (D-VT) introduced the Testing and Evaluation Systems for Trusted Artificial Intelligence (TEST) AI Act of 2025, legislation to improve the federal government’s capacity to test and evaluate Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems to drive innovation, protect national security, and build trust and confidence for Americans utilizing AI systems.

    The TEST AI Act aims to ensure that AI systems used by federal agencies are trustworthy, secure, and objective, and lays the groundwork for broader national AI evaluation standards through a transparent and collaborative approach. The TEST AI Act would direct the collaboration between the National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST) and the Department of Energy (DOE) to establish a testbed pilot program to develop and refine measurement standards for evaluating AI systems.

    “AI has reached every sector in our country and driven innovation, but we cannot ignore the vulnerabilities and risks that come with it. While these systems have the power to change lives, they can also fall short – providing inaccurate or biased data – and are at risk of malicious attacks or misuse by our adversaries,” said Senator Luján. “The TEST AI Act addresses these shortcomings by creating government testbeds to better evaluate AI systems. This will help leverage the talent of our National Laboratories and strengthen the federal government’s ability to implement responsible guardrails that protect our national security and the American people.”

    “Innovation at the Department of Energy, our National Laboratories, and the National Institute of Standards and Technology has significantly advanced the boundaries of scientific discovery, but we need to ensure there are safeguards in place to prevent the misuse of AI,” said Senator Blackburn. “The TEST AI Act would direct these teams to establish safeguards, enabling AI to evolve while lowering the risk of manipulating this technology.”

    “While AI holds enormous positive potential, this new technology must be tested thoroughly to ensure that it is used responsibly,” said Senator Durbin. “With the TEST AI Act, we can direct the Department of Energy and the National Institute of Standards and Technology to develop AI testbeds, allowing us to safely explore the boundaries of AI, establish necessary guardrails, and protect against misuses.”

    “While AI offers an opportunity to revolutionize American research and innovation, we must be cognizant of bad actors and potential threats to privacy and national security,” said Senator Risch. “The Idaho National Laboratory is already a leader in AI, national security, and cybersecurity, and the TEST AI Act will use the National Labs’ capabilities to establish safeguards to prevent misuse of this growing technology.”

    “Artificial Intelligence brings limitless potential to every industry, from agriculture to green energy and small businesses. To harness the full power of AI, we need to develop tools and safeguards that manage its risks. That includes supporting federal research at our nation’s higher education institutions that give us a better understanding of AI’s full potential,” said Senator Welch. “The bipartisan TEST AI Act will ensure everyone can reap the full benefits of new and emerging AI technologies safely and responsibly.”

    “The TEST AI Act is a step towards transparency and accountability in artificial intelligence,” said Americans for Responsible Innovation (ARI) President Brad Carson. “Right now, AI systems are being deployed in high-stakes environments without independent oversight or clear standards. By building federal capacity for rigorous AI evaluations, this bill helps ensure AI tools are secure, effective, and ready for deployment.”

    Specifically, the TEST AI Act would:

    • Codify the ongoing collaboration between NIST and DOE to evaluate AI models;
    • Improve public-private partnerships through an AI Testing Working Group to guide standard development related to performance, reliability, security, privacy, and bias; and 
    • Direct the development of a public strategy for testing, construction of testbeds, and compilation of a report to Congress on the results and recommendations for future standards development.

    Senators Luján, Durbin, Blackburn, and Risch are co-leads of the Senate National Labs Caucus. The caucus works to identify legislative opportunities that elevate the National Labs’ visibility and meet national energy and security objectives. This caucus also helps identify bipartisan initiatives to maintain and extend U.S. leadership in critical scientific sectors.

    Full text of the bill is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wicker, Merkley Lead Bipartisan, Bicameral Resolution Celebrating National Nurses Week

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Mississippi Roger Wicker

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Roger Wicker, R-Miss., and Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., introduced a bipartisan, bicameral resolution recognizing National Nurses Week from May 6 through May 12, 2025. U.S. Representatives Dave Joyce, R-Ohio-14, Suzanne Bonamici, D-Ore.-01, Lauren Underwood, D-Ill.-14, and Jen Kiggans, R-Va.-02, introduced a companion resolution in the House of Representatives. 

    The National Nurses Week resolution honors and celebrates the important contributions of America’s nurses to safe, high-quality care and the invaluable role that nurses have. The resolution also highlights the extra care nurses provide in treating injured and sick patients during wartime, natural disasters, and public health emergencies. 

    “Nurses are essential to our nation’s health care system,” said Senator Wicker, Co-Chair of the Senate Nursing Caucus. “They ensure patients receive timely and quality care, and their dedication is unmatched. Our country needs more of these heroes, and I hope more young people will consider joining the nursing profession. This resolution is a small token of our gratitude for their service.”

    “As the husband of a nurse, I’ve seen up-close how difficult nurses’ jobs are and how important they are to patients,” said Senator Merkley, Co-Chair of the Senate Nursing Caucus. “In every corner of Oregon, nurses offer vital care, support, and advocacy to patients and their families during challenging times. Let’s pause this week to express gratitude and honor the nurses in our communities for their unwavering commitment and compassion. We must remain dedicated to providing them with the support necessary to continue their life-saving work.” 

    As of 2025, there are nearly 4.9 million registered nurses in the United States. However, despite this substantial number, the nursing sector faces pressing challenges, including a continuing shortage of nurses, mental health struggles, and the need for safer working conditions. According to the 2024 National Nursing Workforce Study released by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, more than 138,000 nurses left the workforce since 2022 due to stress, burnout, and retirement. This same study also outlined that by 2029, almost 40 percent of nurses intend to leave the workforce. 

    This week’s resolution is a timely acknowledgment of the indispensable role nurses play in delivering quality care, advancing medical research, providing services to all communities and individuals, increasing access to nursing care, promoting healthy behaviors, and much more. The lawmakers’ bipartisan resolution encourages Americans to recognize and celebrate National Nurses Week this year and to support our nursing workforce today and every day. 

    Full text of the resolution can be found here.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Baldwin, Warren, Markey, Merkley Blast Trump Plan to Cut 988 Suicide and Crisis Line For LGBTQ+ Youth

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Edward Markey (D-MA), and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) led their colleagues in slamming the Trump Administration’s plan to take away lifesaving mental health services at the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline from LGBTQ+ youth, who face a higher risk of mental health challenges than their peers. Last week, reports surfaced that President Trump intends to slash 988’s LGBTQ+ Youth Specialized Services program, which has received over 1.2 million crisis contacts since 2022, with a spike over the last several months.

    “Given the Administration has claimed addressing youth mental health as a priority, elimination of specialized services specifically designed for at-risk youth is irresponsible,” wrote the Senators in a letter to Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. “We urge you to reconsider and support continued funding for the program.”

    The proposed cuts come at a time when LGBTQ+ youth continue to experience higher risk for depression, suicidal ideation, and attempted suicide compared to other youths. A 2024 survey by The Trevor Project reported that nearly 40 percent of LGBTQ+ young people seriously considered attempting suicide in the previous year, and 12 percent of LGBTQ+ young people attempted suicide – rates much higher than those present among non-LGBTQ+ youth.

    After a successful pilot program, both Republicans and Democrats in Congress expanded the LGBTQ+ Youth Specialized Services program to 24/7 operation in fiscal year 2023 before increasing funding from $7.2 million for the pilot to $33.1 million in fiscal year 2024 on a bipartisan basis. Like specialized services available to veterans, the line connects LGBTQ+ youth with specially trained crisis counselors. Since its inception in 2022, the Lifeline’s LGBTQ+ Youth hotline has received over 1.2 million crisis contacts, spiking in use over the last several months.

    “While we strongly disagree with the many actions taken by the Trump Administration targeting LGBTQ+ individuals, we believe that suicide prevention should be a nonpartisan issue. Elimination of services that help keep youth alive is reckless, and we urge you to reconsider your proposal to eliminate this lifeline,” concluded the Senators.

    In addition to Senators Baldwin, Warren, Markey, and Merkley, the letter is also co-signed by Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR), Alex Padilla (D-CA), and Jack Reed (D-RI). A full version of this letter is available here and below.

    Dear Secretary Kennedy:

    We write with grave concerns regarding reports that the draft FY26 Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) budget proposes defunding the LGBTQ+ youth suicide and crisis hotline. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline’s (the Lifeline) LGBTQ+ Youth Specialized Services program provides lifesaving services to LGBTQ+ youth, who face a higher risk of significant mental health challenges and barriers to receiving care than their peers. Given the Administration has claimed addressing youth mental health as a priority, elimination of specialized services specifically designed for at-risk youth is irresponsible. We urge you to reconsider and support continued funding for the program.

    As you know, the LGBTQ+ youth specialized services pilot program was created in fiscal year 2022 to provide services to LGBTQ+ youth, who are at a disproportionately high risk for depression, suicidal ideation, and attempted suicide compared to other youths. A 2024 survey by The Trevor Project reported that nearly 40 percent of LGBTQ+ young people seriously considered attempting suicide in the previous year, and 12 percent of LGBTQ+ young people attempted suicide – rates much higher than those present among non-LGBTQ+ youth.

    After a successful initial phase, Congress recognized the importance of providing specialized services for LGBTQ+ youth and directed the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration to expand beyond the pilot to 24/7 operation in fiscal year 2023. To ensure that youth would be able to access the Lifeline by phone, text, or chat whenever they needed it, Congress also increased the program’s funding from $7.2 million for the pilot to $33.1 million in fiscal year 2024 on a bipartisan basis. These specialized services are similar to other dedicated programs for veterans and service members, disaster survivors, individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, and people with neurodivergence. This specialized intervention connects LGBTQ+ youth with specially trained crisis counselors, who can provide understanding, empathetic, and confidential support. Despite the requirement for an operating plan for fiscal year 2025, HHS has provided no information about how or whether it plans to use funds for specialized services or the 988 Suicide Lifeline in general.

    Since its inception in 2022, the Lifeline’s LGBTQ+ Youth hotline has received over 1.2 million crisis contacts and utilization of the Lifeline’s LGBTQ+ Youth program has spiked over the last several months. While we strongly disagree with the many actions taken by the Trump Administration targeting LGBTQ+ individuals, we believe that suicide prevention should be a nonpartisan issue. Elimination of services that help keep youth alive is reckless, and we urge you to reconsider your proposal to eliminate this lifeline.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven, Cramer: Trump Administration Nominates Nicholas Chase to be U.S. Attorney for the District of North Dakota Senators Recommended Chase for the Position

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven

    05.07.25

    Senators Recommended Chase for the Position

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators John Hoeven and Kevin Cramer today announced the Trump administration nominated Nicholas W. Chase to serve as United States Attorney for the District of North Dakota. Earlier this year, the senators recommended that President Trump nominate Chase for the position. Currently, Chase serves as a North Dakota District Court Judge for the East Central Judicial District appointed by Governor Doug Burgum. He previously served for 20 years in the U.S. Attorney’s office for the District of North Dakota, including as Acting U.S. Attorney and First Assistant U.S. Attorney. A North Dakota native, Chase has also worked in private practice and as a federal judicial law clerk.   

    “We appreciate the Trump administration nominating Nick to be the U.S. Attorney for North Dakota, and will work to advance his confirmation as quickly as possible. Nick has dedicated his career to public service and the pursuit of justice in North Dakota and has a proven record of building cooperation among federal, state, tribal, and local law enforcement agencies. From dismantling drug smuggling networks to prosecuting major fraud and trafficking cases, Nick has built a reputation rooted in integrity and a deep commitment to public safety. We look forward to working with him in this position to help make communities across our state safer and more secure,” said Senators Hoeven and Cramer. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth Introduces Bills to Help Protect Lifesaving Veterans Crisis Line and Restore Collective Bargaining Rights for VA Health Care Professionals

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth

    May 07, 2025

    [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs (SVAC)—is introducing two bills that would help protect our nation’s devoted VA workers, including nurses, physicians, Veterans Crisis Line (VCL) workers as well as the Veterans they serve against the Trump Administration’s ongoing attacks and harmful cuts. A day after she made it clear to VA Secretary Collins that his work to rehire VCL workers is not complete, Senator Duckworth is introducing the Protecting Veterans in Crisis Act to help safeguard this lifeline for the brave Veterans who depend on it by increasing transparency and strengthening Congress’s oversight of it. Duckworth is also introducing the VA Employee Fairness Act to empower VA health care professionals with the protections needed to speak out about disruptions and advocate for the Veterans they serve as Donald Trump and Elon Musk’s VA cuts continue to jeopardize care.

    “Donald Trump and Elon Musk’s indiscriminate mass layoffs and funding cuts have hollowed out our VA workforce—needlessly hurting nurses, physicians and Veterans Crisis Line workers without thinking twice about the harmful impact on our Veterans,” said Senator Duckworth. “Whether VA Secretary Collins continues to weaken the Veterans Crisis Line program—or follows through on his promise to fix his mistake of firing of Veterans Crisis Line staff—the bottom line is this: Secretary Collins should transparently report VCL personnel and performance data to Congress. The American people deserve to judge for themselves whether Secretary Collins is actually fulfilling his claims to restore VCL resources—and Congress must be able to hold the Trump Administration accountable if it fails to do so.”

    “This Administration cannot continue to slash and burn the VA in the dark. As DOGE cuts continue, it’s as urgent as ever that Congress empowers VA health care professionals with the same bargaining rights and protections as other federal employees so they can speak out freely against any problems or challenges they’re enduring at this critical time for the VA.”

    The Protecting Veterans in Crisis Act would expand congressional oversight of the Veterans Crisis Line, improve workforce protections for all VCL personnel and help ensure the best performance standards are maintained in order to fulfill the VCL’s mission in serving Veterans in crisis. Specifically, the legislation would require:

      • A 48-Hour Notification of Pending Termination: Ensuring the VA Secretary notifies Senate and House Veterans’ Affairs Committees 48 hours prior to the termination of any VCL employee, including whether the employee is a Veteran or military spouse.
      • A Report on VCL Personnel: Ensuring the VA Secretary submits a report to the Senate and House Veterans’ Affairs Committees and Appropriations Committees on personnel data and specifics about the role that the terminated worker served at the VCL.
      • A Report on VCL Operations and Performance: Ensuring the VA Secretary submits a monthly report to Congress assessing the VCL’s performance. This includes average wait times for callers and the volume of unanswered calls, caller-to-operator ratios, in-person to remote, resources used, staffing report broken down by job category and more.
      • A GAO Report on Improvements to the VCL: Ensuring a GAO investigation on operations and performance of the VCL. This would allow GAO to recommend improvements due no later than 180 days after enactment of the bill.

    The VA Employee Fairness Act—co-led by U.S. Representative and Ranking Member of the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Mark Takano (D-CA-39)—would restore collective bargaining rights to VA health care professionals, including registered nurses, physicians, optometrists, chiropractors and others. Currently, Section 7422 of Title 38 USC restricts the ability of these workers to speak freely about poor working conditions and resolve disputes with management. As a result, the quality of patient care has often deteriorated as problems in VA facilities go unaddressed.

    “VA healthcare employees work tirelessly to provide high-quality care to our nation’s veterans and their families. The VA Employee Fairness Act would grant these indispensable workers the collective bargaining rights they deserve and have been fighting for while improving VA employee retention. Passing this bill is the right thing to do. This legislation is more critical than ever, given the Administration’s efforts to fire VA employees and make cuts that continue to diminish VA employee morale,” said Ranking Member Takano. 

    Along with Duckworth, the legislation is cosponsored in the Senate by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), John Fetterman (D-PA), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Patty Murray (D-WA). The legislation was previously led by U.S. Senator Brown of Ohio.

    Along with Takano, the legislation is cosponsored in the House by U.S. Representatives Terri Sewell (D-AL-07), Jimmy Gomez (D-CA-34), Linda Sanchez (D-CA-39), Maxine Waters (D-CA-35), Scott Peters (D-CA-52), Juan Vargas (D-CA-51), Diana DeGette (D-CO-01), John Larson (D-CT-01), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC-AL), Max Frost (D-FL-10), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL-20), Lucy McBath (D-GA-07), Robin Kelly (D-IL-02), Delia Ramirez (D-IL-03), Nikki Budzinski (D-IL-13), Frank Mrvan (D-IN-01), Seth Moulton (D-MA-06), Stephen Lynch (D-MA-08), William Keating (D-MA-09), Steny Hoyer (D-MD-05), Rashia Tlaib (D-MI-12), Herb Conaway (D-NJ-03), Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ-11), Adriano Espaillat (D-NY-13), Tim Kennedy (D-NY-26), Brendan Boyle (D-PA-02), Mary Gay Scanlon (D-PA-05), Gabe Amo (D-RI-01), Lloyd Doggett (D-TX-37), Jennifer Mccellan (D-VA-04), Adam Smith (D-WA-09), Gwen Moore (D-WI-04), Morgan McGarvey (D-KY-03), Rick Larsen (D-WA-02), Bill Foster (D-IL-11), Nikema Williams (D-GA-05), Suhas Subramayan (D-VA-10), Jamie Raskin (D-MD-08), Joe Morelle (D-NY-25), Jared Golden (D-ME-02), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY-14), Angie Craig (D-MN-02), Donald Norcross (D-NJ-01), Greg Stanton (D-AZ-09), Danny Davis (D-IL-07), Judy Chu (D-CA-32), Steven Horsford (D-CA-32), Marilyn Strickland (D-WA-10), Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24), Ro Khanna (D-CA-17), Haley Stevens (D-MI-11), Val Hoyle (D-OR-04), Ilhan Omar (D-MN-05), Madeleine Dean (D-PA-04), Dina Titus (D-NV-01), Pat Ryan (D-NY-18), Mark Pocan (D-WI-02), Shontel Brown (D-OH-11), Mike Thompson (D-CA-04), Sylvia Garcia (D-TX-29), Dan Goldman (D-NY-10), Sanford Bishop (D-GA-02), Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06), Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ-05), Julie Johnson (D-TX-32), Sri Thaneder (D-MI-13), Maxine Dexter (D-OR-03), Sarah McBride (D-DE-AL), Maggie Goodlander (D-NH-02), Julia Brownley (D-CA-26), Mike Levin (D-CA-49), Andrea Salinas (D-OR-06), Chris Pappas (D-NH-01) and Grace Meng (D-NY-06).

    The legislation is endorsed by National Nurses United (NNU), the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), American Federation of Labor (AFL), American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE), International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE), National Association of Government Employees (NAGE), Service Employees International Union (SEIU), VoteVets and Union Veterans Council of AFL-CIO.

    “By granting VA nurses the ability to bargain collectively on issues related to patient care, the VA Employee Fairness Act would make the VA a safer place both for nurses and our veterans,” said Irma Westmoreland, RN, and chair of Veterans Affairs for National Nurses United. “VA nurses are fierce advocates for veterans, and restoring their full union rights empowers them as they fulfill this most sacred duty. Nurses will never abandon their patients, and they will continue to fight for the best care for our nation’s veterans.”

    The bill text of the Protecting Veterans in Crisis Act and the VA Employee Fairness Act is available on Senator Duckworth’s website.

    Duckworth has been a fierce leader and advocate for VA staff and Veteran Crisis Line (VCL) workers in the wake of the disastrous Trump-Musk layoffs at the VA. Last week, Duckworth slammed a senior official from the VA after he failed to publicly commit to rehiring VCL workers who were wrongfully fired in Trump-Musk layoffs. After the first VA purge laid off workers with the VCL—including several Veterans—Duckworth successfully pushed the Trump Administration to reinstate these devoted public servants that work to support our Veterans in their darkest moments.

    Additionally, Duckworth and U.S. Senator Andy Kim (D-NJ) are leading the push for the Protect Veteran Jobs Act, legislation that would reinstate the thousands of Veterans who were fired in the Trump-Musk layoffs. Duckworth and Kim subsequently introduced their legislation as an amendment to Republicans’ slush fund continuing resolution. Republicans shamefully blocked it from passing.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Capito Urges Administration to Expedite Review Process for Critical Broadband Funding

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), a member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick asking him to expedite the review and release of updated guidance for the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program and urged that West Virginia not have to redo significant portions of their application.
    The BEAD program, which was created through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) that Senator Capito helped craft, is a federal grant program that aims to get all Americans online by funding partnerships between states or territories, communities, and stakeholders to build infrastructure where we need it to and increase adoption of high-speed internet. In June 2023, Senator Capito announced that West Virginia would receive a significant portion of this funding.
    “I urge you to expedite not only the review and release of updated guidance, but the program as a whole. West Virginians have waited long enough, and I hope with your leadership they will soon have broadband access and this will be President Trump and your greatest accomplishment for rural America,” Senator Capito wrote.
    The full letter can be found HERE or below:
    Dear Secretary Lutnick,
    As we have discussed, one of my top priorities in the Senate has been to get all of West Virginia connected with quality broadband service. The opportunity to get the more than 100,000 unserved locations in West Virginia broadband access is finally here through the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program. The Biden Administration took years and years and burdened states and internet service providers (ISPs) with unnecessary mandates like labor requirements, climate change provisions, and some cumbersome financial requirements and did not connect a single location through BEAD. You can succeed where the previous administration failed and deliver this service quickly and efficiently to millions of Americans primarily in rural areas. 
    West Virginia has been allocated $1.2 billion to connect the state. The BEAD statute specifically says it is to be a technology neutral program. Some states may prefer fiber, others fixed wireless, and others satellite. Whatever technology or combination of technologies works best for the state and serves the most people while staying within the allocated funding amount should move forward. 
    When the BEAD program review was initiated on March 5, my state was 6 weeks away from completing the arduous application process after so many steps including a completed fair project selection process. Removing much of the red-tape from the program in a timely manner, so that my state and all others could move forward even faster, is an ideal outcome. 
    As we have discussed, I am concerned that West Virginia may be told to move back from the 1-yard line to the 40-yard line after the review concludes. Many of the changes that should be made to the program can be made quickly, but as an example, reopening the subgrantee application process for ISPs could delay connecting rural Americans for another year. I also am concerned that an arbitrary one-size-fits-all cost cap could be imposed for each connection. West Virginia is the Mountain State, so connecting us may be inherently more expensive than most every other state. In addition, certain technologies are not feasible in many areas not only due to our challenging topography but also because 78 percent of the state is forested.
    Like you, I am opposed to outlandish costs for a single connection but those decisions should be made with a more tailored approach by the states in consultation with the National Telecommunications and Information Administration. My state is committed to achieving the goals of the program with the utmost efficiency. 
    I urge you to expedite not only the review and release of updated guidance but the program as a whole. West Virginians have waited long enough, and I hope with your leadership they will soon have broadband access and this will be President Trump and your greatest accomplishment for rural America. 
    Sincerely,  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Lummis, Barrasso Host Veteran’s Telephone Townhall with VA Secretary Doug Collins

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming Cynthia Lummis

    May 7, 2025

    Washington, D.C.— Last night, U.S. Senators Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and John Barrasso (R-WY) hosted a statewide telephone townhall for Wyoming Veterans, joined by Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins and Tim Sheppard from the Wyoming Veterans Commission.
    During the call, Secretary Collins and the Wyoming Senate delegation addressed Veterans’ concerns and discussed ongoing efforts to ensure accessible, high-quality health care through the Department of Veterans Affairs, in coordination with President Trump’s administration. 
    “Giving Secretary Collins a direct line to Servicemembers and Veterans across Wyoming was incredibly helpful,” said Lummis. “This townhall allowed us to answer important questions and ensure our Veterans are getting the care they deserve. This administration continues to be the most accessible and transparent in United States history, and I’m proud to be working with an administration that prioritizes the promises made to those who served.”
    (Photo: Senator Lummis, Senator Barrasso, and Tim Sheppard take questions from Wyoming Veterans)

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warren Calls on Hegseth to Protect Marine Recruits, Freeze Contract Renewal with Credit Union Under Investigation for Exploitative Overdraft Fees

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    May 07, 2025
    Frontwave Credit Union’s contract with the Marine Corps is expected to be renewed imminently
    “[DoD] does not adequately protect service members from exorbitant overdraft fees in its contracting process…In the interim, I ask that DoD refrain from renewing its contract with Frontwave”
    Text of Letter (PDF)
    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Personnel, wrote to Secretary of the Department of Defense (DoD) Pete Hegseth urging him to freeze the Marine Corps contract renewal with Frontwave Credit Union until the contract terms are revised to protect Marines from abusive overdraft fees. Last year, Senator Warren launched a bipartisan investigation with nine members of Congress into the California-based credit union for its history of targeting Marine recruits with excessive overdraft fees. 
    For 25 years, Frontwave Credit Union has had an exclusive agreement with the Marine Corps that funnels recruits from the Marine Corps Recruit Depot (MCRD) in San Diego and automatically enrolls them in Frontwave checking accounts to receive their paychecks by direct deposit. Approximately 99% of MCRD recruits were automatically enrolled with Frontwave.
    In March 2024, a KPBS investigation exposed Frontwave’s predatory practices, finding that every time a Marine’s account is overdrawn by more than $20, they are charged a $20 per-purchase fee – with fees that can run as much as $500 in total. Base pay for newly enlisted Marines is around $1,800 – $2,000 per month before taxes. A $500 debt to Frontwave, compounded with interest, could take years for a recruit to repay and be disastrous for their credit score.
    In 2022 alone, Frontwave made $7.8 million from overdraft and non-sufficient funds (NSF) fees. Frontwave’s entire profit came from overdraft fees, and was triple the average for state-chartered credit unions. Without the revenue from overdraft fees, Frontwave would have faced significant losses for years.
    Senator Warren’s investigation found that the average overdraft fees for the bank’s customers that were subject to these fees easily exceed $200 annually. Frontwave confirmed to Senator Warren that its contract with the Marines did not contain any terms related to overdraft fees. 
    “New information and documents I obtained as part of my investigation of Frontwave reveal that the Department of Defense does not adequately protect service members from exorbitant overdraft fees in its contracting process,” said Senator Warren. 
    “The findings [of my investigation] indicate a need for DoD to review its contract with Frontwave Credit Union…and ensure that they have adequate protections in place to prevent excessive overdraft fees and other abusive practices,” Senator Warren concluded. 
    Senator Warren urged Hegseth to begin the review process as soon as possible and provide her staff with a briefing on DoD’s efforts to protect Marines from predatory overdraft fees within 30 days. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warren Announces Senate Forum on Trump’s Attacks on Education Access, Invites Secretary McMahon to Defend Actions

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    May 07, 2025
    Spotlight forum entitled “Stealing the American Dream: How Trump and Republicans Are Raising Education Costs for Families.”
    Text of Letter (PDF)
    Washington, D.C. – Today, Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ranking Member of the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee, announced that she will host a spotlight forum entitled “Stealing the American Dream: How Trump and Republicans Are Raising Education Costs for Families.” The forum is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at the Dirksen Senate Office Building in Room G11.
    The latest action in Senator Warren’s Save Our Schools campaign, this forum will examine how both the Trump administration’s attacks on the Department of Education and Congressional Republicans’ legislative plans will increase education costs and limit access to higher education for America’s students and borrowers.
    Senator Warren invited the following witnesses to attend the forum:
    Linda McMahon, Secretary, U.S. Department of Education
    Bonnie Latreille, Former Student Loan Ombudsman, U.S. Department of Education
    Jonathan Glater, Professor of Law & Associate Dean of J.D. Curriculum and Teaching, UC Berkeley School of Law
    Gilberto Gonzalez, Truck Driver, Prime Inc. 
    Tiffany Aliche, Personal Finance Creator, @thebudgetnista
    In a letter to Secretary McMahon, Senator Warren wrote, “Your appearance will provide you with an opportunity to defend the Trump administration’s policies, offer context for your actions to dismantle the Department of Education, and share your vision for ensuring that the American Dream becomes more attainable for all.”
    This forum follows President Trump’s signing of a March 2025 executive order seeking to abolish the Department of Education, and House Republicans advancing legislation last month to slash $351 billion in education spending. 
    Senator Warren has been a leader in the coordinated effort to fight back against President Trump’s attempts to abolish the Department of Education:
    On April 24, 2025, Senator Warren launched a new investigation into the harms of President Trump’s attacks on the Department of Education, seeking information on the impact of the Trump administration’s actions from the members of twelve leading organizations representing schools, parents, teachers, students, borrowers, and researchers.
    On April 10, 2025, following a request led by Senator Warren, the Department of Education’s Acting Inspector General agreed to open an investigation into the Trump administration’s attempts to dismantle the Department of Education.
    On April 2, 2025, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Mazie Hirono, along with Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, sent a letter to Secretary of Education Linda McMahon regarding the Department of Government Efficiency’s proposed plan to replace the Department of Education’s federal student aid call centers with generative artificial intelligence chatbots.
    On April 2, 2025, Senator Elizabeth Warren launched the Save Our Schools campaign to fight back against the Trump administration’s efforts to dismantle the Department of Education (ED) and highlight the consequences for every student and public school in America.
    On March 27, 2025, Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) led a letter to Acting Department of Education Inspector General (IG) René Rocque requesting that the IG conduct an investigation of the Trump Administration’s attempts to dismantle the Department of Education.
    On March 20, 2025, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders led a letter to Secretary of Education Linda McMahon regarding the Trump Administration’s decision to slash the capacity of Federal Student Aid to handle student aid complaints.
    On February 24, 2025, in a response to Senator Warren, Secretary McMahon gave her first public admission that she “wholeheartedly” agreed with Trump’s plans to abolish the Department of Education.
    On February 11, 2025, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Andy Kim sent Linda McMahon, Secretary-Designate for the U.S. Department of Education, a 12-page letter with 65 questions on McMahon’s policy views in advance of her nomination hearing.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Business Insider: Elizabeth Warren is challenging Trump’s top education official to defend policies that could put student-loan borrowers at risk

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    May 07, 2025
    Sen. Elizabeth Warren wants President Donald Trump’s top education chief to answer for her policies that impact millions of student-loan borrowers.
    Warren is holding a forum on May 14 to examine the Trump administration’s education policies and how Republicans’ plans for education, including a recent bill that would eliminate affordable monthly student-loan payment plans, will impact borrowers and America’s students.
    A letter exclusively viewed by Business Insider and sent on Wednesday from Warren to Education Secretary Linda McMahon outlined the issues Warren plans to examine at the forum. It included an invitation for McMahon to attend and defend her policies to students and lawmakers.
    …
    Read the full article here.
    By:  Ayelet SheffeySource: Business Insider
    Previous Article

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: WATCH: Senator Reverend Warnock Highlights Wrongly Terminated CDC Employees, Demands Accountability from Senior HHS Nominee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

    WATCH: Senator Reverend Warnock Highlights Wrongly Terminated CDC Employees, Demands Accountability from Senior HHS Nominee

    During a Tuesday Senate Finance Committee hearing, Senator Reverend Warnock questioned Jim O’Neill, the nominee to be Secretary Kennedy’s second in command at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)
    Senator Warnock also used the hearing to highlight the unjust firings of thousands of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) employees
    The Senator also instructed Gary Andres, the nominee to be an Assistant Secretary of Legislation at HHS, that if confirmed, he would ensure timely answers to Congressional letters – several of Senator Warnock’s letters to HHS have gone unanswered
    The Senator has continued his work to champion to CDC while the agency’s work to protect public health and national security has been under attack from the Trump Administration. The Senator has rallied with fired CDC workers and held then HHS Secretary Nominee Kennedy accountable for his dangerous rhetoric about the centers
    Senator Reverend Warnock: “Yes or no, do you think it is appropriate to fire HHS or CDC, public health experts for ‘performance issues’ who had just gotten positive performance evaluations?”

    Watch Senator Warnock at Tuesday’s Finance Committee hearing HERE
    Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) demanded answers from Jim O’Neill about the wrongful firings of high-performing public health experts. O’Neill is the nominee to be the Deputy Secretary at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). During the Senate Finance Committee hearing, the Senator pressed O’Neil about the unjust firing of Georgia-based Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) employees.
    “Mr. O’Neill, these folks are my constituents, I know them, they are my neighbors, I bump into them at the grocery store. Many of them had just gotten performance evaluations saying they are doing an outstanding job. Only to be fired weeks later for ‘Performance issues, ’” askedSenator Reverend Warnock. “If confirmed, you’d oversee personnel, yes or no, do you think it is appropriate to fire HHS or CDC, public health experts, for ‘performance issues’ who had just gotten positive performance evaluations?”
    Senator Warnock also took time to address the lackluster transparency at HHS, despite being a part of an administration that claims to prioritize transparency. Senator Warnock has sent several letters to Secretary Kennedy and other leadership at HHS, but none of the letters have been answered.
    “If confirmed to be the primary liaison between HHS and Congress, will you ensure that I finally get a complete and thorough response to this and all of my letters? Will you commit to ensuring that HHS communicates timely and transparently with me and my staff on CDC reorganization plans? The Secretary still hasn’t answered my letter,” Senator Warnock asked Gary Andres who would be the chief liaison between HHS and Congress.
    “Tell the Secretary to answer my letters,” Senator Warnock demanded to conclude his line of questioning.
    During Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy’s nomination hearing in committee, Senator Warnock spoke at length defending the importance of the CDC, which employs over 10,000 hardworking Georgians. Shortly after, the Senator spoke for nearly an hour on the Senate floor, in large part in defense of the CDC’s critical work to defend public health and national security. The Senator has continued to pressure HHS Secretary Kennedy to reverse the CDC firings.
    Since CDC employees became a target of this administration, Senator Warnock has led several efforts defending their employment and the crucial role they play in keeping the nation safe. Earlier this year, Senator Warnock sent a letter to the Acting Director of the CDC about the Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS), asking for updates on operations. He also sent two additional letters to President Trump and Secretary Kennedy, respectively, urging the administration to reconsider any plans to eliminate the Division of HIV Prevention at the CDC and requesting additional information about the termination of 20,000 full-time staff and organizational restructuring at HHS. Senator Warnock also spoke at a rally organized by current and former CDC employees to support Georgians who have been callously fired from the public health institution. And his staff hosted a round table with fired CDC employees to brainstorm ways to push back on the administration. 
    Watch the Senator’s full remarks and line of questioning HERE.
    See below a full transcript of the exchanges between Senator Warnock and the HHS nominees:
    Senator Reverend Warnock (SRW): “The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CDC, is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. I am proud to continue the legacy of our great Georgia Senator Johnny Isakson, who made it his mission to champion the important work of CDC when he served on this very committee.”
    “Mr. O’Neill, welcome and congratulations on your nomination. If confirmed as Deputy Secretary of HHS, you would be the number two person to Secretary Kennedy, responsible for the inward-facing operations and day-to-day management of personnel and HHS, including the CDC. But you’d be stepping into an agency that’s mired right now in chaos, following the exodus of 20,000 staff through resignations, unjust firings, including over 3,000 dedicated CDC experts during a historic measles outbreak.”
    “Mr. O’Neill, these folks are my constituents, I know them, they are my neighbors, I bump into them at the grocery store. Many of them had just gotten performance evaluations saying that they were doing an outstanding job. Only to be fired weeks later for “performance issues.” If confirmed, you’d oversee personnel, yes or no, do you think it is appropriate to fire HHS or CDC, public health experts for “performance issues” who had just gotten positive performance evaluations?” 
    Jim O’Neill (JO):“Thank you for the question, Senator. As I said earlier, I had the pleasure of working at HHS for six years in the Bush Administration, and I always enjoyed working with CDC officials…”
    (SRW): “Sir I read your bio and I’m going to run out of time. Do you think it is appropriate to fire these officials who had just got a great evaluation?”
    (JO): “Senator, my understanding of both the proposed organization and RIF (Reeducation in Force) was that the decisions about which personnel should be retained going forward is made by the heads of the operating divisions. I don’t have any inside information on the agency – I believe that the leadership of CDC decided which people should be RIF’d.” 
    (SRW): “Do you think it is appropriate just from an issue of fairness, I’ve talked to these folks one-on-one. CDC workers share with me that they have gotten positive performance evaluations weeks earlier, only to be given notice that they were fired, not only were they given notice that they were fired, but weeks later they get a poor performance evaluation. You’re in charge of personnel. Do you think that’s fair?”
    “Do you think that would be fair, just as someone who has managed personnel, on its face, does that strike you as dealing with people in an honorable way, who are serving our country? Even if you had to fire them, even if you felt like you had to streamline them for whatever reason. Do you think it is fair for someone to get a great performance evaluation and weeks later hear they are doing poorly, even as DOGE says we are dealing with waste?”
    (JO): “Senator, it is always unpleasant to fire people, even if their function is no longer needed or they are not performing…”
    (SRW): “Do you think it is an honorable way of handling people, sir? Yes or no?”
    (JO): “I don’t know the particulars of the situation, perhaps they had a different supervisor the second time.”
    (SRW): “If confirmed, will you commit to restoring the full functionality of each congressionally mandated CDC office that provides life-saving services and programs to the American people? Will you and your staff report directly to this committee on the status of restoring the programs?”
    (JO): “It’s vitally important that every function and responsibility of HHS that’s set out in law be conducted and aimed toward success. If there are two functions that are appropriate that make more sense to be done within the same agency rather than separate agencies, it makes sense to put them together. If they duplicate functions being performed by more than one part of HHS, it makes sense to combine them. That seems to be the philosophy that was stated behind the proposed reorganization. It seems like a reasonable philosophy to me. That does absolutely preserve the essential functions of HHS that you cited.”
    (SRW): “So even as this process – and I think it is charitable to call it a process, it’s been awfully chaotic – even as this ensues, this administration claims its goal is radical transparency. But there has been no transparency around CDC cuts.”
    “In fact, I wrote to the Secretary in March, who I met with in my office, demanding specific information on CDC firings, and I still haven’t gotten a response from the Secretary.”
    “Mr. Andres, if confirmed to be the primary liaison between HHS and Congress, will you ensure that I finally get a complete and thorough response to this and all of my letters? Will you commit to ensuring that HHS communicates timely and transparently with me and my staff on CDC reorganization plans? The Secretary still hasn’t answered my letter.”
    Gary Andres (GA): “Thank you for the question, Senator Warnock. I know that as a top priority for you…”
    (SRW): “It’s a top priority for my constituents.”
    (GA): “…And your constituents, and your staff communicated to me how important CDC and the employees are to you. I will say this, I understand the importance of developing a relationship with trust, of accountability, and getting back to you, and I will commit to work with you on those things.”
    “I think that when we talk about congressional letters, they will vary in terms of their level of complexity, and so it is hard to come up with some specific timeframe. But I understand the importance, I will commit to working with you on those things.” 
    (SRW): “Tell the Secretary to answer my letter!”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Rand Paul Honored Retiring Murray State University President Dr. Bob Jackson in Bowling Green

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Rand Paul
     FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 
    May 6th, 2025 
     Contact: Press_Paul@paul.senate.gov, 202-578-8903 
    Senator Rand Paul Honored Retiring Murray State University President Dr. Bob Jackson in Bowling Green 
    BOWLING GREEN, KY – U.S. Senator Rand Paul honored Dr. Bob Jackson, retiring President of Murray State University, during a recognition ceremony this week at the Senator’s State office 
    During his remarks, Senator Paul stated, “If you’re looking for people who are the next generation of farmers and agriculture, they’re most likely to be kids of people who are farming in agriculture. So, it’s great to have a university that has expertise in the agricultural sciences and the kids who want to remain in and have an opportunity. I see it as serving a great purpose. We’ve worked well with Doctor Jackson over the years, and we wish him success.” 
    “It has been an honor to work with Sen. Paul during these past many years as we worked to advance our Commonwealth and Murray State University,” said Dr. Bob Jackson. “Importantly, we greatly appreciate the Senator’s support of a School of Veterinary Medicine at Murray State University which will have a major and lasting impact on agriculture in Kentucky.” 
    Under Dr. Jackson’s leadership, Murray State established an accredited school of veterinary medicine—a transformative achievement aimed squarely at addressing the severe shortage of large-animal veterinarians in rural Kentucky. This initiative has positioned Murray State as a leader in supporting Kentucky’s animal agriculture economy, equipping local students to serve farm communities and helping ensure the long-term viability of the state’s livestock industry. 
    Dr. Jackson will retire on June 30, 2025, and begin serving as President Emeritus on July 1. During the ceremony, he presented Senator Paul with a commemorative gift from Murray State to be displayed in the State office. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Coons statement on violence between India and Pakistan

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) issued the following statement in response to increasing military action between India and Pakistan in the disputed region of Kashmir:

    “Since the devastating terrorist attack that killed 25 civilians in Kashmir last month, I have been following the escalating tensions and military exchanges between India and Pakistan with increasing concern. As we work collectively to bring the perpetrators to justice, I call on New Delhi and Islamabad to exercise restraint and continue their efforts to resolve this crisis through diplomacy. That is the only way to forge a path toward justice for the families of those killed without an escalation of destruction and death.”

    Senator Coons is a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Senator Coons joins Andy Beshear podcast to talk chickens, faith, and getting started in local government

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons

    WILMINGTON, Del. – In case you missed it, U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) joined Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear for an interview on the Andy Beshear Podcast. They discussed Senator Coons’ background and how his faith informs his Democratic values and public service, as well as his work with the bipartisan Senate Chicken Caucus. Senator Coons appeared on the fourth episode of Governor Beshear’s podcast. He is only the second elected official to be interviewed on the show.

    You can watch and listen here. 

    Key excerpts:

    On serving in local government 

    Beshear: So, when you got into politics, you got in at the local level, and local politics is hard. I mean, everybody knows where you live!

    CAC: It’s mean, it’s tough. The smaller the yard, the meaner the dog.

    Beshear: And so, I’m wondering, how did your experiences there either prepare you for the U.S. Senate, or how different are they?

    CAC: Well, so, in between the non-profit work I did and going into local government, I spent eight years for a global manufacturing company that’s headquartered here in Delaware, and I gradually got more involved – more engaged – with the Democratic party here in Delaware and was recruited to run for County Council President, partly because there was a real ethics meltdown going on in county government, and my master’s in divinity school really focused on ethics, and I had worked as an ethics officer – an ethics trainer at the company I worked for. When I was County Council President, I wrote a new ethics code and was involved in a number of public integrity and ethics issues. I represented half a million people, and our county here, New Castle County, is mostly unincorporated, so the county government provides police, fire, paramedics, land use, sewer, zoning, housing, and libraries for about 400,000 people, and it was a very challenging environment, a great learning opportunity. My wife and I had infant twins who were born in ’99, I was elected in 2000, and our youngest child was born in 2001, so as a brand-new County Council President with one staff person representing roughly half a million people…

    Beshear: With three kids!

    CAC: I had three kids under two years old, and I had two full-time jobs because I was still the in-house lawyer for that manufacturing company. It was crazy. I barely remember the first four years I was elected. But to your point, representing local government in the community where I grew up was both wonderful, because I had a chance to really have an impact on the people I’d grown up with and to have an impact on housing and libraries, paramedic and police response time, and disaster preparedness and all of that stuff—but you know people, and they know you and they know how to get you, and they know your mom, and they know your brother-in-law, you know? They know you. That’s what’s great about local government, and that’s what’s hard about local government.

    On faith 

    Beshear: I know that it hurts you as a Senator who has sworn to uphold the Constitution, but also as a person of faith. So many of the teachings in our Bible seem to be impacted, and impacted negatively, by these actions. You think about the fishes and the loaves and cutting SNAP benefits. You think about the parable, the Good Samaritan, picking up that person who’s different from you and not kicking them while they’re down. So, how do you bring your faith to this job? How does it help you make decisions? And maybe how does it keep you going when things are tough?

    CAC: Well, thank you for the question. Because it’s harder—it’s been harder this year than it’s ever been for me. Actually, looking out my window right now, I can see my church, First and Central Presbyterian, here in Wilmington. And I try, I’ve got something on the wall behind me, it’s Micah 6:8, which is one of my favorites, the most concise passages from the Old Testament, and it is a reminder that we are called to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God. I try to start with humility, to say that everyone I’m interacting with is a child of God, and they may have different understandings or interpretations than I do of what we’re called to do, but if you do justice and love kindness, you’re on the right track. Look, the Bible, the Gospel in particular, is not a political pamphlet. It doesn’t say exactly what we ought to do. It doesn’t say we need more tax cuts, or we need more healthcare, but there are 2,000 specific references to the poor and I think if you look at when Jesus speaks for the very first time, he stands up in his home synagogue and he recites a scripture passage from Isaiah 61—this happens in Luke 4—and where he says, “the spirit of the Lord is upon me, he has anointed me to teach good news to the poor.” If you read that passage, at the very beginning of Jesus’ public ministry, I think it’s hard to reach the conclusion that He doesn’t want us to principally focus on the outcasts, the widowed, the orphans, those in prison, those who are poor, that that is something we are called to do. Look, I represent a million people, not all of them are people of faith, and not all of them are Christians. Folks from many different backgrounds are part of my state and I try to be mindful of the gap between what I believe, and the scripture that I read, and what may be the common interests of the million people I represent. But, Andy, every faith has the Golden Rule, “Do unto others you’d have them do unto you,” and the things we’ve been talking about—addressing the opioid crisis, helping people with affordable housing, responding to natural disasters, and doing it in a way that puts volunteerism and community service first, that strikes me as being right in line with what the Gospels call us to do.

    On the Senate Chicken Caucus 

    Beshear: Amen. We like to typically end with something a little more fun. I read that you founded the Senate Chicken Caucus. Is that accurate?

    CAC: Indeed, I did.

    Beshear: You’ve got to tell me, what is the Senate Chicken Caucus? Are we talking about hot chicken?

    CAC: So, one of my best friends in the Senate was Johnny Isakson of Georgia, just a great man, a great and generous and fun man. We did a lot of traveling and working together and his home state of Georgia is one of the biggest chicken producers in the country, and Sussex County, Delaware, is one of the biggest counties in chicken production in the country, and one of Johnny’s favorite sayings was “life is about friends and future friends, and you don’t have to agree with each other on everything, you just have to agree with each other on one thing.” And so, as we were getting to know each other, we realized that we had chickens in common, that both Delaware and Georgia really cared about growing our chicken exports and so we went to a number of foreign countries together—South Africa, I remember, in particular—where we were trying to promote American chicken exports, and we were trying to grow markets for the fabulous, healthy, tasty protein that we were growing in Georgia and in Delaware in our chicken farms. Southern Delaware is dominated by chicken agriculture. It really is the center of agriculture in Delaware. We have events every year where we always serve chicken, and it’s a great opportunity for me to work across the aisle with Senators from other states—from Arkansas, and Mississippi, and North Carolina, and Georgia, as Johnny was [from]—and focus on what we have in common in the interests of our rural areas and our agricultural sectors. So, that’s the history of the Chicken Caucus and, yes, it is a little funny, but we had a great time doing chicken wing contests and talking about how we could help promote chicken agriculture in the United States and around the world.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Farmers Back President Trump’s Tariffs

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    American farmers are behind President Donald J. Trump and his relentless push to restore fairness in global trade and secure new markets for homegrown producers.
    According to the latest Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer:
    70% of farmers expect the President Trump’s tariffs to strengthen the agricultural economy in the long-term.
    Farmer sentiment improved in April, marked by rises in current and future expectations.
    The Farm Capital Investment Index rose to its highest reading since May 2021.
    “This month, one out of four respondents said it was a good time to make large investments, nearly double the percentage of respondents who said it was a good time to invest when surveyed from May through October of last year.”

    The Farm Financial Performance Index “marked the fourth month in a row that the index was above 100, indicating that producers expect financial performance this year to equal or slightly exceed the year-ago level.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Victory Day for World War II, 2025

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    class=”has-text-align-center”>BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
    A PROCLAMATION
    Today, our Nation proudly commemorates the 80th anniversary of the Allied Powers’ triumph over national socialism and fascism, and the end of World War II in Europe — one of the most epic victories for forces of freedom in the history of the world.  On this Victory Day for World War II, we celebrate the unmatched might, strength, and power of the American Armed Forces, and we commit to protecting our sacred birthright of liberty against all threats, foreign and domestic.In the wake of the December 7, 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor, the United States righteously entered the fray of what would become the apex of the eternal battle between good and evil.  After nearly 4 years of the darkest and bloodiest chapters ever recorded in human history, more than 250,000 Americans lost their lives in the fight against the Nazi regime.  Today and every day, we pay tribute to all those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their Nation, their liberty, and the survival of Western civilization.  Without the sacrifice of our American soldiers, this war would not have been won, and our world today would look drastically different.May 8, 1945 marks the Allies’ acceptance of Germany’s unconditional surrender — the beginning of the end of years of long, gruesome, and brutal warfare.  The millions of souls senselessly lost serve as a reminder of why we must pursue peace through strength.  I remain steadfastly devoted to stopping the years of endless foreign wars and preventing the further loss of lives.  As I stated during my Inaugural Address, we will measure our success not only by the battles we win but also by the wars we end — and my proudest legacy will be that of a peacemaker.As we commemorate Victory Day for World War II, we offer our unending thanks to every patriot from the Greatest Generation who left behind his home and family to fight for our freedom in distant lands.  We honor the memories of all those who perished.  Above all, we renew our commitment to keeping America and the entire world safe, secure, prosperous, and free.NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 8, 2025, as a day in celebration of Victory Day for World War II.IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this seventh day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty‑five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.                                 DONALD J. TRUMP

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch, Gillibrand Introduce Bill to Expand Access to SNAP, Repeal Republicans’ Punitive Eligibility Rules

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Peter Welch (D-Vt.) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) this week introduced the Improving Access to Nutrition Act of 2025, legislation to help more Americans access the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), known as 3SquaresVT in Vermont. The Senators’ legislation would lift Republicans’ punitive three-month time limit on SNAP eligibility to allow able-bodied adults without dependents to receive benefits for longer than three months even if they are unable to find work. The bill would also repeal additional eligibility criteria that imposes the three-month rule on adults up to age 54 over a three-year period. 
    “Trump’s disastrous economic policies have boxed Vermonters into a financial corner, forcing folks to choose between feeding their families or paying their bills. It’s an impossible choice, and it’s unacceptable that folks across the country have to make that call every day,” said Senator Welch. “Our bill makes it easier for Vermonters to get critical nutrition support and put food on the table when times are tough. This is an essential step, and I’m proud to join my colleagues to make SNAP more accessible for folks who need it.” 
    “Restoring access to SNAP for able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) from ages 50-54 is critical,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Time and again it has been shown that increasing work requirements does not improve economic security, but in fact takes away food from our most vulnerable populations. Congress should be fighting to empower our citizens to achieve economic self-sufficiency instead of forcing people to go hungry.” 
    Under current law, able-bodied adults without dependents between 18 to 49 years old are prohibited from receiving more than three months of SNAP benefits during a three-year period if they do not report at least 30 hours of work per week. These punitive requirements disproportionately impact women and people of color—roughly half of all low-income able-bodied adults without dependents—and are often counterproductive given SNAP’s proven effectiveness in improving economic stability, food security, and wellbeing for participants. Research also indicates that time limits for low-income beneficiaries do not lead to a meaningful increase in employment and decrease participation in SNAP, removing a crucial safety net for low-income participants who often have little to no safety net outside of SNAP benefits. 
    In addition to Senators Welch and Gillibrand, the Improving Access to Nutrition Act of 2025 is cosponsored by Sens. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.). 
    The Improving Access to Nutrition Act is supported by the Food Research and Action Center (FRAC). 
    Learn more about the Improving Access to Nutrition Act. 
    Read and download the full text of the bill. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen Statement on New Report on Impacts of Tariffs on U.S. Small Businesses

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    Released During National Small Business Week, New Report Finds That Small Businesses Are Facing Price Hikes And Layoffs As A Result of Trump’s Tariffs
    WASHINGTON, DC – During National Small Business Week, Senator Rosen released the following statement following the release of a new report highlighting the ways in which President Trump’s across-the-board tariffs and tariff uncertainty are harming small businesses across the country. In April, Senator Rosen highlighted the story of a Reno-based small business being hurt by Trump’s tariffs and demanded that the Trump Administration reverse course on its reckless trade policy.
    “Small businesses are the backbone of Nevada’s economy, and Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs are forcing entrepreneurs in our state and across the nation to make difficult decisions,” said Senator Rosen. “This report makes it clear that President Trump’s trade policies are hurting our small businesses by raising costs and pushing them to lay workers off. I’m going to continue pushing to repeal these misguided tariffs.”
    Read the full report from the Joint Economic Committee here. 
    Key points from the report:
    New Committee analysis of data released on May 2 shows that employment at small businesses with fewer than 10 employees declined by 3 percent – 366,400 jobs – since President Trump took office.
    Price hikes: Recent survey data found that 30 percent of small business owners indicated in March that they plan to increase prices – the highest amount reported over the last year.
    The net percentage of small business owners expecting better business conditions declined for the third consecutive month in March – from 37 percent to 21 percent. This represents the largest monthly decline since December 2020.
    Small businesses in the manufacturing, construction, trucking, and restaurant industries are being hit especially hard by tariffs and tariff uncertainty.
    Five of the 12 Federal Reserve Districts recently reported weakening manufacturing activity – in large part due to trade pressures.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth Slams Far-Right Supreme Court’s Shameful Decision to Allow Enforcement of Trump’s Trans Military Service Ban

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth

    May 07, 2025

    [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today issued the following statement after the Supreme Court ruled that the Trump Administration may start enforcing Donald Trump’s un-American, unjust trans military service ban while legal challenges to the ban are still ongoing:

    “Absolutely shameful. Trump’s trans military service ban hurts our military readiness, makes our military’s recruitment challenges even worse and disrespects Americans who are brave enough to serve in uniform. This ruling from the far-right, Trump-appointed Supreme Court majority will make our military less lethal and Americans less safe—it just empowered Donald Trump to fire a servicemember who flew more than 60 combat missions, including in Iraq and Afghanistan.”

    Last month, Duckworth led 13 of her fellow Senate Democratic colleagues in condemning President Trump’s transgender military service ban for being a blatant violation of our brave servicemembers’ civil rights and weakening our national security. In the letter to Defense Secretary Hegseth, the lawmakers derided the ban for not only being discriminatory and based on false pretenses, but also for hurting our military readiness and exacerbating the ongoing military recruiting crisis in service of continuing hateful attacks against transgender Americans.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo, Wyden Introduce Bill to Improve Wetland Habitats in the Pacific Northwest

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Ron Wyden (D-Oregon) introduced bipartisan legislation that would improve wetland habitats in the Pacific Northwest.

    “Preserving critical wetland habitat is vital to protecting open landscapes for the diverse species–including numerous varieties of birds and fish–that call Idaho home,” Crapo said.  “Investments in public-private partnerships in Idaho and the Pacific Northwest will help keep wild spaces wild and protect the natural wonders that Idahoans treasure.”

    “Restoring our wetlands is about more than just providing habitat for birds and other wildlife living along the Pacific Northwest coast.  It is about investing in the watersheds where Tribes, farmers and other local Pacific Northwest communities have maintained their way of life for generations,” Wyden said.  “Our bipartisan bill will make sure Oregonians and people across the Pacific Northwest can continue to benefit from healthy landscapes that provide the clean water and habitat that make our region so special.”

    The Northwest Wetlands Voluntary Incentives Program Act would establish a federal grant and assistance program empowering government agencies, tribes, nonprofits and landowners, among other entities, to work together in both restoring and enhancing habitats for wetland-dependent birds living in the Columbia River Basin and along the coast of Oregon and Washington. These projects include water infrastructure and management and enhancement of vegetative habitat, which could be implemented on public, private, Tribal and other land determined by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior.    

    The Northwest Wetlands Voluntary Incentives Program Act is endorsed by Idaho Wildlife Federation, Idaho Sportsmen, Ducks Unlimited, Pacific Birds Habitat Joint Venture, Coalition of Oregon Land Trusts and Oregon Agricultural Trust.

    “We appreciate Senators Crapo and Wyden introducing the NW Wetlands VIP Act.  Sportsmen and the wildlife we work to conserve–as well as area farmers that are such critical partners in landscape conservation–will benefit from the habitat restoration opportunities and infrastructure improvements that this legislation will provide,” said Nick Fasciano, Executive Director of the Idaho Wildlife Federation.  “As our wetland habitats face long-term threats of degradation and fragmentation, this legislation is all the more critical.”

    “Access and opportunity for the sportsmen and women of Idaho who hunt, fish, trap and recreationally shoot, is paramount.  In a state where water is our most precious resource, Idaho farmers and landowners are working hard to provide more managed wetlands and habitat,” said Benn Brocksome, Founder and Chairman of Idaho Sportsmen, Access & Opportunity.  “Many landowners in Idaho, and across the West, share our conservation goals and work with sportsmen in a pragmatic and collaborative way to meet the needs of Idaho.  These efforts should be supported, bolstered and recognized with the passage of this important bill.”

    “This important legislation will bring much needed resources for improving water infrastructure to provide multi-benefits for agricultural lands and wetland habitats in the Northwest and Columbia River Basin,” said Jeff McCreary, Operations Director for the Western Region of Ducks Unlimited.  “We are thankful to Senators Wyden and Crapo for introducing the Northwest Wetlands VIP Act.”

    “The Northwest Wetlands VIP Act is strongly aligned with the priorities of Pacific Birds Habitat Joint Venture (Pacific Birds).  The bill supports wetlands conservation on the coast of Oregon and Washington and within the Columbia River Basin; areas that are vital for millions of waterbirds and wetland-dependent species.  The proposal represents a smart federal investment in durable ecosystems, strong partnerships, and natural and working landscapes,” said Glenn Lamb, Vice Chair of the Pacific Birds Habitat Joint Venture Board of Directors.  “It offers an actionable way to advance Pacific Birds’ priorities and deliver real benefits for wildlife, communities and the economy of the Pacific Northwest.  The NW Wetlands VIP Act emphasizes collaboration among Tribes, nonprofits, local governments and landowners–consistent with Pacific Birds’ partnership-driven approach.  This bill will provide resources for the installation, maintenance and replacement of critical infrastructure, which aligns with Pacific Birds’ goal to support long-term habitat management while emphasizing multi-species benefits and multi-benefit projects, and empowering collaborative on-the-ground action.”

    “The Columbia River?Basin holds critical habitat for migratory birds and other wetland dependent species,” said Joe Buttafuoco, Executive Director at Coalition of Oregon Land Trusts (COLT).  “COLT and our members are thrilled about the bipartisan NW?Wetlands VIP?Act.  This bill would offer grants that land trusts, Tribes, private landowners and nonprofits can use to improve habitat, manage invasive species and restore floodplain connectivity.  Thank you to Senators?Wyden and?Crapo for advancing this important legislation.”

    “The Northwest Wetlands VIP Act would bring critical infrastructure dollars to Pacific Northwest farmers and ranchers. These water management projects not only enhance and restore wetland habitat for migratory birds, but help producers improve agricultural production on parts of their properties,” said Nellie McAdams, Executive Director of Oregon Agricultural Trust.  “The Act also provides funding to support conservation easements (up to 10% of the total grant award) which protect farms and ranches for agriculture and associated habitat.”

    The text of the bill is here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Vcitory Day for World War II, 2025

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    class=”has-text-align-center”>BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
    A PROCLAMATION
    Today, our Nation proudly commemorates the 80th anniversary of the Allied Powers’ triumph over national socialism and fascism, and the end of World War II in Europe — one of the most epic victories for forces of freedom in the history of the world.  On this Victory Day for World War II, we celebrate the unmatched might, strength, and power of the American Armed Forces, and we commit to protecting our sacred birthright of liberty against all threats, foreign and domestic.In the wake of the December 7, 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor, the United States righteously entered the fray of what would become the apex of the eternal battle between good and evil.  After nearly 4 years of the darkest and bloodiest chapters ever recorded in human history, more than 250,000 Americans lost their lives in the fight against the Nazi regime.  Today and every day, we pay tribute to all those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their Nation, their liberty, and the survival of Western civilization.  Without the sacrifice of our American soldiers, this war would not have been won, and our world today would look drastically different.May 8, 1945 marks the Allies’ acceptance of Germany’s unconditional surrender — the beginning of the end of years of long, gruesome, and brutal warfare.  The millions of souls senselessly lost serve as a reminder of why we must pursue peace through strength.  I remain steadfastly devoted to stopping the years of endless foreign wars and preventing the further loss of lives.  As I stated during my Inaugural Address, we will measure our success not only by the battles we win but also by the wars we end — and my proudest legacy will be that of a peacemaker.As we commemorate Victory Day for World War II, we offer our unending thanks to every patriot from the Greatest Generation who left behind his home and family to fight for our freedom in distant lands.  We honor the memories of all those who perished.  Above all, we renew our commitment to keeping America and the entire world safe, secure, prosperous, and free.NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 8, 2025, as a day in celebration of Victory Day for World War II.IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this seventh day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty‑five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.                                 DONALD J. TRUMP

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: National Foster Care Month, 2025

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    class=”has-text-align-center”>By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation 
    Families raise our children, pass down our values, and hold communities together, forming the foundation of a strong country.  Yet, far too often, for reasons beyond their control, children and young people find themselves in situations without an avenue for safe and loving care.  These circumstances can be difficult for them, but it is the devoted foster parents across America who rise to the occasion with selfless compassion to ensure every child receives love, support, and a sense of belonging.During National Foster Care Month, the First Lady and I honor the individuals and families who make room in their hearts and homes for thousands of children and youth throughout the year.  Without a question, these dedicated men and women are unsung heroes in our local communities across the country for giving each child in their care as much normalcy as possible while also preparing them to be reunited with family or adopted.My Administration estimates that, annually, more than 360,000 children and youth need the safety and stability a foster family provides.  These licensed and trained foster or kinship-care families step up in times of need to offer emotional support and stability.  Foster families, with the help of countless professionals and volunteers — including clergy, educators, attorneys, judges, social workers, and law enforcement personnel — can help change the course of young lives for the better.  These noble caregivers devote their time and talent to ensuring every child has a safe and healthy environment in which to grow and thrive.As a Nation of enduring faith and strong, guiding principles, every child deserves the blessings of a firm foundation and endless opportunity.  That is why I proudly signed into law the landmark Family First Prevention Services Act during my first term, which utilizes evidence-based intervention methods to keep families intact, whenever possible.  Targeted, proactive services — including mental health support, substance abuse treatment, in home parental skills training, housing assistance, and job training — focus on preventing the root causes of conflicts in the home.Despite the work we have achieved, there is more to be done.  That is why our First Lady is passionately focused on supporting young people through her BE BEST initiative and fostering the future for children and young adults.  Her efforts help children reach their fullest potential, including transformative action for youth who have experienced foster care to help them pursue their dreams through education and continued support.Together, we also recognize the need for more men and women to answer the call and serve as foster families.  Foster families help every child realize their worth and inherent value, instilling them with the courage, character, and confidence to achieve their American Dream.  We are incredibly grateful for their compassion and selfless dedication to protecting our Nation’s most precious treasure.NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 2025 as National Foster Care Month.  I call upon all Americans to find ways to support children and youth in foster care, and to recognize the invaluable contributions of foster parents and other caregivers.IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand thisseventh day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.                                 DONALD J. TRUMP

    MIL OSI USA News –