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Category: US Senate

  • MIL-OSI USA: Baldwin, Colleagues Demand to Know Who Killed Minority Business Development Agency, Why & Where’s the Money Going?

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) joined her colleagues in demanding that Keith Sonderling, the purported Acting Under Secretary of Commerce for the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), promptly turn over key documents and information related to the dismantling of the agency and recent funding termination notices sent to all grantees by a member of Elon Musk’s DOGE, including Wisconsin’s office.
    “In one MBDA termination notice reviewed by our offices, the Department claims the grant is being terminated because it ‘is unfortunately no longer consistent with the agency’s priorities and no longer serves the interests of the United States and the MBDA Program,” wrote Baldwin and the lawmakers in a letter to Sonderling. “The termination notice further states that, ‘MBDA is repurposing its funding allocations in a new direction in furtherance of the President’s agenda.’ … [T]he notice is silent about why the grants are inconsistent with the MBDA’s priorities and programs—which Congress, nor the Department, set by statute. And it suggests the DOC or others in the Administration may be using funding appropriated for the MBDA for other, unrelated purposes.”
    Baldwin and the Senators questioned Sonderling about the notice terminating all MBDA grants, which was signed by Nate Cavanaugh, a member of Elon Musk’s DOGE and “Under the Authority of Keith Sonderling, Acting Undersecretary of MBDA.”
    “This raises significant questions regarding Mr. Cavanaugh’s precise role at DOC and the mechanism by which you or other members of DOC leadership delegated him authority to terminate MBDA grants on behalf of the Department,” Baldwin and the lawmakers continued. “Our offices have also obtained information indicating you may not have been aware these termination notices were being sent out by Mr. Cavanaugh under your authority, which would raise further questions about who is actually running the Department: Secretary Lutnick or Elon Musk and DOGE?”
    This letter follows Baldwin demanding  Secretary Lutnick, on March 25 and April 17, answer questions about the gutting of MBDA despite his testimony before the Commerce Committee stating he would not support doing so.
    Senator Baldwin worked with Republicans to include the Minority Business Development Act of 2021 as an amendment to the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), making the MBDA permanent and increasing its funding authorization and reach. Baldwin then worked to bring a new Minority Business Development Center to Wisconsin, along with a $1.61 million grant to support its work assisting small businesses.
    The full letter is available here and below.
    Acting Under Secretary Sonderling:
    On March 25, 2025, and April 17, 2025, we sent letters to Secretary Howard Lutnick raising serious concerns about the apparent dismantling of the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), despite his testimony before the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation stating he would not support doing so. In our April 17 letter, we requested specific documents and information that would help address our outstanding questions and concerns regarding the MBDA. On April 24, 2025, we received a letter from the Department of Commerce (DOC) Acting Assistant Secretary for Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs purporting to respond to our April 17 letter. This response, however, contained a mere three sentences related to the MBDA and failed to answer or meaningfully address any of our requests. Given Secretary Lutnick’s apparent disregard for our concerns about the Department’s actions against the MBDA, we are now requesting you provide documents and information related to this inquiry.
    Since our most recent letter, our offices have obtained information demonstrating that DOC has canceled all MBDA grants—further dismantling an agency Congress statutorily authorized, despite Secretary Lutnick’s testimony to the contrary. In one MBDA termination notice reviewed by our offices, the Department claims the grant is being terminated because it “is unfortunately no longer consistent with the agency’s priorities and no longer serves the interests of the United States and the MBDA Program.” The termination notice further states that, “MBDA is repurposing its funding allocations in a new direction in furtherance of the President’s agenda.” Beyond these conclusory assertions, however, the notice is silent about why the grants are inconsistent with the MBDA’s priorities and programs—which Congress, not the Department, set by statute. And it suggests the DOC or others in the Administration may be using funding appropriated for the MBDA for other, unrelated purposes.
    Raising further concerns, the termination notice was signed by Nate Cavanaugh—who we understand to be part of the so-called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)—and is signed “Under the Authority of Keith Sonderling, Acting Undersecretary of MBDA.” Mr. Cavanaugh has reportedly been interviewing employees at the General Services Administration and overseeing efforts to dismantle another agency, the U.S. Institute of Peace. The termination notice indicates that Mr. Cavanaugh now has a DOC e-mail address. This raises significant questions regarding Mr. Cavanaugh’s precise role at DOC and the mechanism by which you or other members of DOC leadership delegated him authority to terminate MDBA grants on behalf of the Department. Our offices have also obtained information indicating you may not have been aware these termination notices were being sent out by Mr. Cavanaugh under your authority, which would raise further questions about who is actually running the Department: Secretary Lutnick or Elon Musk and DOGE?
    Given the lack of responsiveness from the Department to date, we reiterate the requests raised in our April 17, 2025 letter, and request the following additional documents and information no later than May 14, 2025:
    A complete description of Mr. Cavanaugh’s position at DOC, including his title, job description, date(s) of employment, any salary, any benefits, supervisor, and direct reports. Please also identify all other federal e-mail addresses assigned to or used by Mr. Cavanaugh of which you are aware.
    Documents sufficient to show Mr. Cavanaugh’s delegated authority to execute termination notices to MBDA grantees.
    Documentation sufficient to show your appointment as Acting Under Secretary for Minority Business Development Agency and the date of such appointment.
    A complete description of your decision to delegate your authority to Mr. Cavanaugh for the purpose of terminating MBDA grants, including the extent to which Secretary Lutnick or any other senior DOC official was involved in making this decision.
    A complete description of the types of funded activities that are considered “consistent with the agency’s priorities” and “serve[] the interests of…the MBDA program.”
    A detailed explanation of how the MBDA intends to “repurpos[e] its funding allocations in a new direction in furtherance of the President’s agenda,” including any specific program or activity that has received or is expected to receive repurposed funding.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley Helps Restore Three CBP Whistleblowers’ Careers after Nearly a Decade of Retaliation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) has successfully secured promotions for three Customs and Border Protection (CBP) whistleblowers, along with full compensation for the more than seven years of retaliation they’ve suffered.

    Whistleblowers Fred Wynn, Mike Taylor and Mark Jones have been elevated to new supervisory roles at CBP, reversing their prior demotion and reduction in pay. The whistleblowers will receive back pay and retirement benefits to cover for nearly a decade of financial losses inflicted by the agency. The agency is also reauthorizing Jones and Taylors’ law enforcement credentials, badges and firearms, after they were revoked by the Biden administration in 2023 for blowing the whistle on CBP’s failure to comply with the DNA Fingerprint Act of 2005. 

    These actions fulfill Grassley’s explicit requests on behalf of the whistleblowers, and fully unwind years of CBP retaliation.

    “Today is a victory for Fred Wynn, Mike Taylor, Mark Jones and the rule of law. At long last, these patriotic men will be made whole again,” Grassley said. “I’m very grateful to the leadership at the Department of Homeland Security and Customs and Border Protection, who worked with me to bring these whistleblowers back to their rightful roles. Once again, the Trump administration has shown its respect for people that blow the whistle on wrongdoing. I hope that continues, because when you’re at the top of the bureaucracy, you don’t always know what goes on below. That’s precisely why we need brave whistleblowers like these three.”

    “These men had the courage and patriotism to speak up against the Biden Administration’s deliberate efforts to destroy our national security. They paid an unjust price for doing so — betrayed by an administration that protected lawbreakers and punished law enforcement,” said Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. “Under President Trump’s leadership, we are restoring what is right and true and getting these patriots back to doing the work they love.”

    Background:

    The DNA Fingerprint Act of 2005 requires federal law enforcement to collect DNA from every individual CBP arrests, charges, convicts or detains. Wynn, Taylor and Jones were sidelined for sounding the alarm on the agency’s consistent failure to collect all legally-required DNA samples. In 2023, data showed CBP was collecting DNA samples from fewer than 40 percent of the illegal immigrants entering under the Biden-Harris administration.  

    Since 2018, Grassley has urged CBP to halt its retaliation of these three whistleblowers and follow the law. He highlighted their case at a congressional roundtable last year, where Wynn, Taylor and Jones addressed senators in a panel discussion on the national security implications of CBP’s refusal to collect DNA samples.

    During last week’s hearing to consider President Trump’s nominee to be CBP Commissioner, Grassley again voiced his request for these whistleblowers to be “100% redirected from the punishment they had by the previous administration.” Days later, CBP agreed to promote Wynn, Taylor and Jones.

    This is the second agreement Grassley has brokered this year on behalf of whistleblowers. In March, the IRS promoted whistleblowers Gary Shapley and Joseph Ziegler, at Grassley’s urging.   

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden Presses State Department for Update on Use of Fallon Smart Policy, Urges Trump to Reset U.S.-Saudi Policy

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)
    May 05, 2025
    Senator: “I will not be silent when Saudi Arabia tries to cleanse its blood-stained hands, nor will I cease to hold Saudi officials accountable for the death of Fallon Smart and others like hers.”
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden today asked the Trump administration to provide an update on the State Department’s implementation of the Fallon Smart Policy, which requires the department to identify and revoke visas of any foreign official helping foreign criminal suspects evade prosecution by absconding from the United States.
    The State Department policy secured by Wyden two years ago takes its name from a 15-year-old Portland girl struck and killed by a speeding car while riding her bicycle in 2016. The driver accused in her hit-and-run death on Portland’s Southeast Hawthorne Boulevard was a Saudi national who The Oregonian reported fled the country before trial – ultimate resurfacing in Saudi Arabia — with the likely assistance of the Saudi government.
    “The Fallon Smart Policy sends a strong message that there is no place in our country for foreign officials helping criminal suspects evade the law,” Wyden wrote Secretary of State Marco Rubio in today’s letter.  “As I promised the family of Fallon Smart, I will birddog the implementation of this policy and make sure the Fallon Smart Policy is applied whenever there is evidence of foreign officials undermining the American justice system.  I will not be silent when Saudi Arabia tries to cleanse its blood-stained hands, nor will I cease to hold Saudi officials accountable for the death of Fallon Smart and others like hers.  To that end, I ask you to provide me with details about the implementation of the policy.”
    Wyden has long worked since 2018 to expose a pattern of Saudi nationals committing violent crimes in the United States and evading U.S. justice with help from the Saudi government. 
    “In most of these cases, local law enforcement confiscated the passports of the accused criminals and set bail at thresholds the individuals were unlikely to pay themselves,” Wyden wrote, noting passage of his bill in 2019 to declassify an FBI report on Saudi assistance of fugitives that concluded the Saudis wouldn’t stop until the United States addresses Saudi Arabia about its lawlessness. “Yet, many of these individuals somehow made bail and quickly received the resources and travel documents necessary to board a plane and leave our country, only to resurface in Saudi Arabia later.
    Wyden also noted he traveled last month to Saudi Arabia to raise these issues directly with Saudi government officials, and urging those Saudi officials to return to the United States all Saudi nationals accused of crimes so they may stand trial. 
    “I ask that you pursue this issue with the highest levels of leadership within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and formally press for the return of all Saudi nationals who evaded justice,” Wyden wrote. “Finally, I ask that you promptly declassify and make public any information about foreign officials engaging in the practice of helping foreign criminal suspects evade the U.S. justice system.  As the declassification of the 2019 FBI report demonstrated, transparency is necessary if local judicial and law enforcement officials are to be notified of the threat and if the U.S. Government, in coordination with Congress, are to develop and implement policies to protect Americans and the rule of law.
    In a second Wyden letter today, Wyden wrote President Trump to urge a full reset of the U.S.-Saudi Arabia relationship to protect the American people and safeguard U.S. interests. 
    In that letter, Wyden again cited the Fallon Smart Policy as well as the role of Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman Al Saud and Saudi government officials in the brutal slaying of Washington Post journalist Jamal Khashoggi along with the surveillance, detention, torture and killing of dissidents, journalists, women’s rights activists and foreign laborers.
    “I understand that you are planning a visit to Saudi Arabia, and I urge you to seek accountability for Saudi abuses against our country, including its punitive economic actions that have undermined U.S. interests,” Wyden wrote Trump. “You must push for Saudi recognition of these actions.  You must also seek retribution for these actions and refrain from handing out favors to the Saudis until they follow through with meaningful reform.” 
    The entire letter to Trump is here. The entire letter to Rubio is here.
    Related Files

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 05/2/2025 Blackburn Introduces Bills to Combat Juvenile Crime and Crack Down on Carjacking

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)

    NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) introduced the Advancing Frequent and Tailored Education to Rebuild Safe Communities and Help Orchestrate Opportunities and Learning (AFTER SCHOOL) Act and the Federal Carjacking Enforcement Act to reduce juvenile crime and crack down on carjacking by removing barriers to bringing federal prosecutions:

    “We need to make it easier for law enforcement, local school districts, and federal prosecutors to combat and prevent juvenile crime, violent offenses, and carjackings,” said Senator Blackburn. “My AFTER SCHOOL Act would give localities direct access to the tools they need to keep kids off the streets and on the right path. At the same time, the Federal Carjacking Enforcement Act would fix a broken statute, empowering federal prosecutors to hold offenders accountable and make our streets safer for Tennesseans and all Americans.”

    The AFTER SCHOOL Act is co-sponsored by U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.).

    AFTER SCHOOL ACT

    • Violent crime among juveniles has been on the rise after decades of decline.
      • Much of the crime committed in Memphis is driven by juvenile offenders, who are committing more and more aggravated assaults, robberies, and carjackings against innocent city residents;
      • In 2023 Shelby County saw a staggering 4,546 juvenile charges, up 37% from 2021;
      • Nashville has experienced a similar rise in juvenile crimes;
      • The number of juveniles arrested in D.C. has gone up each year since 2020, with more than 2,000 arrested in 2023 and 2024.
    • The gap of time after school and before their parents get home is prime time for violent behavior among youth, and the four hours following the end of the school day (around 2:00 to 6:00 PM) is typically the peak of violent crime.
    • The AFTER SCHOOL Act would establish a grant program administered through the U.S. Department of Justice for localities to receive funds to establish, maintain, and strengthen after school programs proven to reduce juvenile crime and recidivism.
    • School districts can apply for grant funds if their county’s juvenile offense rate exceeds 10% of total violent offenses.
    • The Memphis City Council previously passed a resolution in support of the AFTER SCHOOL Act.

    Click here for a list of Tennessee officials and advocates who have previously endorsed the AFTER SCHOOL Act.

    Click here for bill text.

    FEDERAL CARJACKING ENFORCEMENT ACT

    • Last year, Tennessee was ranked among the top ten states for motor vehicle thefts, and Tennessee saw a nearly 200% increase in auto theft crime by juveniles in 2023.
    • The current federal carjacking statute requires prosecutors to prove defendants had an “intent to cause death or bodily harm,” which has made it harder to bring federal carjacking prosecutions and accounts for the decrease in federal carjacking prosecutions in certain parts of the country.
    • The Federal Carjacking Enforcement Act would fix this drafting error by requiring prosecutors only have to prove the knowing taking of a motor vehicle.
    • In cases in which death results following a carjacking, the bill would maintain the higher “intent to cause death or bodily harm” requirement.

    The Federal Carjacking Enforcement Act is endorsed by the National District Attorneys Association (NDAA), the Major County Sheriffs of America, the National Association of Police Organizations, and the Tennessee District Attorneys General Conference.

    “NDAA is proud to announce its support of the Federal Carjacking Enforcement Act. Carjacking is a violent crime that endangers lives, destabilizes communities, and threatens public safety. This legislation sends a clear message that such acts of violence will not be tolerated, while improving the current legal framework to protect victims and communities,” said Nelson Bunn, Executive Director of National District Attorneys Association.

    “The Major County Sheriffs of America (MCSA) appreciates Senator Blackburn’s leadership in advancing this important legislation, which will empower law enforcement to more effectively combat carjackings, ensuring offenders are held accountable, and justice is served. We stand ready to support all efforts to move the bill forward,” said Megan Noland, MCSA Executive Director.

    “According to the Council on Criminal Justice, carjacking rates in 10 major U.S. cities increased 93% from 2019 to 2023. This substantial surge in carjackings poses a serious risk to public safety and we must ensure the perpetrators of this violent crime face justice. We stand with Senator Blackburn in support of this important change to the federal carjacking statute and thank her for her dedication to protecting public safety,” said Bill Johnson, Executive Director of the National Association of Police Organizations.

    “Tennessee District Attorneys appreciate Senator Blackburn’s commitment to public safety, support for prosecutors and law enforcement, and her meaningful legislative leadership and efforts to reduce violent crime.  We are happy to partner with her to endorse and fully support this legislation that will protect Tennesseans,” said Stephen D. Crump, Executive Director, Tennessee District Attorneys General Conference.

    Click here for bill text.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 05/5/2025 Here’s How Republicans Are Strengthening the Economy

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)

    Last week marked President Trump’s 100th day in office. And in that short amount of time, the Trump administration has made incredible progress to Make America Great Again—especially by strengthening our economy.

    In the last 100 days, President Trump has slashed Democrats’ far-left regulations, unleashed American energy production, and secured trillions of dollars in investments to support American workers, develop new technologies, and spur economic growth, including in Tennessee.

    The candy company Charms is investing nearly $100 million to expand its production plant and distribution center in Covington. Mt. Juliet was included in a $700 million nationwide investment by Schneider Electric to boost domestic manufacturing and energy infrastructure. And the electronics company ABB is investing $80 million in Selmer to expand manufacturing and create new jobs.

    Last week, I had the honor of joining President Trump at the White House as he welcomed the CEOs of companies that are making new investments in America, especially in light of his executive order establishing the United States Investment Accelerator. This order helps to facilitate new investments in our country by reducing regulations and making it easier to do business in America.

    In the Senate, I’ve introduced the Investment Accelerator Act, which would permanently establish President Trump’s new program. Among its provisions, this legislation would speed up permitting, increase coordination across federal agencies to work with companies, encourage research collaboration with national labs, and help state governments eliminate burdensome regulations. Altogether, this legislation would ensure that America will long benefit from President Trump’s Investment Accelerator and help usher in a new Golden Age of America, which is already underway.

    In April, our economy added 177,000 jobs, beating expectations by more than 40,000 jobs with major gains in transportation, warehousing, and health care. The month before, falling energy costs pushed annual inflation down to 2.4 percent, tying the lowest inflation rate since President Biden took office in 2021.

    To ensure that Americans have more money in their pocketbook, President Trump and Republicans are also working hard to extend the President’s 2017 tax cuts. These tax cuts delivered historic growth for the economy, but if we fail to extend them, families and businesses will face a $4 trillion tax hike. That’s why, earlier this month, Republicans in Congress passed a budget resolution that will enable us to extend these expiring tax provisions.

    At the same time, we’re advancing other tax priorities championed by President Trump, including his proposal to cut taxes on Social Security. By taxing Social Security, the federal government is taxing a tax. This makes no sense: Social Security recipients have already paid into the program with decades of tax payments, so they deserve the full sum of their Social Security income. However, nearly 56 percent of retirees pay taxes on their Social Security benefits because Bidenflation pushed seniors’ benefits into higher and higher income brackets.

    To address this problem, I’ve introduced the RETIREES FIRST Act. This legislation would lower the tax burden on Social Security benefits for seniors by raising the provisional income threshold from $25,000 to $34,000 for single filers and $32,000 to $68,000 for married filers. In effect, this legislation would eliminate income taxes for many of our nation’s retirees, leaving them with more money in their paychecks.

    As we work on these tax provisions and more, I look forward to working with President Trump to deliver relief for hard working Tennesseans. America is the greatest nation on earth, and with determined leadership back in the White House, we can make our economy stronger than ever before.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall Applauds Newly Appointed Kansas USDA Officials 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Washington –U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) today issued a statement on the appointment of Gimmie Jo Jansonius as the new U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development (RD) State Director and David Schemm as the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) State Director for the state of Kansas.
    “President Trump has always prioritized rural America, and I applaud his selections for our state’s new USDA Rural Development and Farm Service Agency State Directors,” said Senator Marshall. “As rural Kansans themselves, I’m confident that Gimmie Jo and David will be champions for our state. I look forward to working with them to ensure Kansas fully benefits from federal resources that drive growth and prosperity.”
    FSA State Directors help implement President Trump’s America First agenda and execute the USDA’s policies in planning, organizing, and administering FSA programs through state offices across the country. RD State Directors help affirm the mission of the Trump Administration by focusing on finding ways to empower rural America and unleash economic prosperity.
    “When America’s farming communities prosper, the entire nation thrives. This new group of USDA appointees will ensure President Trump’s America First agenda is a reality in rural areas across the country. I am grateful for the leadership of these new state directors and look forward to their work reorienting the agency to put Farmers First again,” said Secretary Rollins.
    “It is a privilege to serve a President and Secretary of Ag that want to not just make America great, but Ag great again too,” said Schemm. “Kansas farmers and ranchers know the importance of having an efficient and effective operation is to their success and that is what I will be focusing on at Kansas FSA.
    “As a sixth generation Kansan, I am excited for the opportunity to serve my state in delivering vital resources and opportunities to rural communities and businesses,” said Jansonius. “President Trump and Secretary Rollins have laid out a vision for a strong and prosperous rural America and I look forward to carrying out that vision here in Kansas. The Rural Development office is a champion for our communities and is instrumental in the future growth and prosperity of our great state.”  
    Background:
    David Schemm, State Executive Director, Kansas Farm Service Agency
    David Schemm serves as State Executive Director for the Farm Service Agency in Kansas. David formerly served in this position during the first Trump Administration and has also served as Agricultural Advisor for U.S. Senator Dr. Roger Marshall. David works with his wife, Lisa, and son, Clay on their Western Kansas farm.
    Gimmie Jo Jansonius, State Director, Kansas Rural Development
    Gimmie Jo Jansonius serves as State Director for Rural Development in Kansas. A sixth-generation rancher actively involved in production agriculture, Mrs. Jansonius’s family’s business consists of a cow calf herd, small row crop farm, and direct beef sales enterprise where the seventh generation has also put down roots and returned home to rural America working in agriculture and healthcare.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warren, Senate Democrats Demand Trump Defense Department Nominee Withdraw, Explain Attacks on Military Leaders, Calls to Use Military Against Civilians

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    May 05, 2025

    General Tata has a record of bigoted remarks and conspiracy theories, which originally sank his nomination to a top Pentagon role in 2020

    Text of Letter (PDF)

    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Personnel, led six Senate Democrats in calling for retired Brigadier General Anthony Tata, nominee for Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness (USD[P&R]), to withdraw his nomination and explain his past attacks on military leaders and calls to politicize the military. 

    Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), and Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) joined in signing the letter. Senators Duckworth and Hirono are also members of the Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Personnel. 

    “Given your history related to DoD personnel and other matters, we are concerned that, if confirmed, you will not be able to effectively support servicemembers and their families, risking the military’s ability to recruit and retain personnel and undermining military readiness,” wrote the senators. 

    In 2020, Tata was nominated for Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, the third-highest-ranking DoD official. His nomination fell apart after reports revealed several bigoted and false remarks, including calling President Obama a “terrorist leader,” and the Army watchdog found he violated the Uniform Code of Military Justice by committing adultery. Senator Warren led the call for him to withdraw his nomination and resign his position as a senior advisor to the Defense Secretary. 

    Now, the senators are pressing him to withdraw and explain more recent comments, including 

    • Calling for a purge of senior military leaders, including “every 4 star appointed by Biden,” and  

    • Calling for politicizing the military by choosing leaders who are “[a]ll oars in the water to achieve Trump agenda 47” and suspending a law that prevents the military from being used against the American people. 

    “These comments are especially disturbing given the destructive actions the DoD has already taken with regard to servicemembers and civilians,” said the senators in reference to the Pentagon’s recent elimination of diversity, equity, and inclusion, along with attacks on female military heroes and military heroes of color. 

    If confirmed, Tata would be responsible for establishing, implementing, and overseeing policies and recruitment impacting millions of servicemembers, civilian employees, and their families. 

    “Given your past disparaging remarks about servicemembers, and your history of inappropriate activity we are concerned that, if confirmed, you will not be able to effectively support servicemembers and their families, risking the military’s ability to recruit and retain personnel and undermining military readiness… We urge you to withdraw your nomination,” concluded the lawmakers. 

    The senators asked Tata, should he choose to not withdraw his nomination, to clarify, by May 12, 2025, his past bigoted remarks, conspiracy theories, calls to politicize the military, views on transgender people and women serving in the military, and make ethics commitments related to 4Ever Charge, an EV charging station franchise for which he currently serves as the director. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Boozman, Bennet Lead Bipartisan Bill to Reduce Premature Births

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Michael Bennet (D-CO) introduced legislation to improve pregnancy outcomes and infant health by continuing research and education programs aimed at preventing preterm births.

    The Prematurity Research Expansion and Education for Mothers who deliver Infants Early (PREEMIE) Reauthorization Act would reauthorize critical federal research, education and intervention activities to reduce preterm birth and infant mortality. The legislation also calls for a study to better understand the factors that lead to preterm birth and identify effective prevention and treatment options.

    In 2023, there were 4,259 preterm births in Arkansas, representing 12.1 percent of live births. Premature birth can lead to significant developmental delays and chronic health problems for infants. While preterm delivery can happen in any pregnancy, the rate of preterm birth for Black mothers is disproportionately high.

    “Arkansas families and providers face the consequences of preterm birth too often with one of the highest rates in the country. Although important progress has been made through awareness initiatives and investments in research, intervention and education to promote better outcomes for infants and mothers, there is more work to be done,” said Boozman. “Our bipartisan legislation is a strong step in the right direction to reduce preterm births and infant mortality so more moms and babies lead strong, healthy lives.”

    “We need more research to understand the causes of preterm births and ensure more moms have access to the care they need, especially in underserved communities where preterm birth rates are disproportionately high,” said Bennet. “Our bipartisan bill will renew lifesaving research to prevent premature delivery and give mothers and babies a healthy start in life.”

    The PREEMIE Act reauthorizes the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s research and data collection on infants born prematurely and programs at the Health Resources and Services Administration aimed at improving the treatment and outcome of infants born prematurely. This includes grants to help doctors and the public understand the potential risk factors for having a preterm baby, such as smoking, as well as screening and treating pregnant women for depression and substance use disorders including opioid addiction. These programs have not been reauthorized since 2023.

    “Every family deserves the healthiest possible start, but for far too many in the U.S., that’s not the reality,” said March of Dimes Senior Vice President for Public Policy and Government Affairs Stacey Y. Brayboy. “The March of Dimes Report Card shows a preterm birth rate of 10.4 percent—more than 370,000 babies born too soon and too sick. That’s unacceptable. Preterm birth with low birthweight is the second leading cause of infant death, behind birth defects. Improving access to quality health care before, during, and after pregnancy is essential to changing these outcomes. The PREEMIE Reauthorization Act is the only federal law focused on preventing and treating preterm birth. Renewing this legislation is a vital step toward reversing this alarming trend and giving every mom and baby the best possible start.” 

    Companion legislation was introduced in the House of Representatives by Robin Kelly (D-IL-02), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA-01), Lizzie Fletcher (D-TX-07), Buddy Carter (R-GA-01), Shontel Brown (D-OH-11) and Jen Kiggans (R-VA-02).

    The bill text is available here.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Presidential Message on National Astronaut Day

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    class=”has-text-align-left”>Sixty-four years ago today, a brave American sat in the cockpit of the Mercury rocket, ready to face the unknown.  After years of scientific advancement and growing competition in space exploration, Commander Alan B. Shepard undertook a dangerous mission that held the promise of groundbreaking achievement, national pride, and a future defined by American leadership in space.
    With three simple words—“light this candle”—Shepard launched into the vast expanse of space, becoming the first American to break the bounds of Earth.  His spacecraft, Freedom 7, was a tribute to the seven Project Mercury astronauts, and to one of our Nation’s founding principles: freedom.  
    That same spirit of courage, innovation, and resolve has defined American space exploration ever since.  Just 8 years later, Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin planted the Stars and Stripes on the Moon.  Last month, we saw the same strength again when I ordered the rescue of stranded astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, whose 8-day mission turned into a 286-day journey aboard the International Space Station.  It was the vitality of our Nation’s space programs that rose to the challenge and brought them safely home.  
    As we celebrate National Astronaut Day, we honor the legacy of those who have blazed the trail into the final frontier.  Under my leadership, America’s space program will continue to push the boundaries of discoveries, with bold plans for lunar missions, Mars exploration, and beyond.  By fostering innovation, strengthening our partnerships with private space companies, and advancing our technological capabilities, we are ensuring that the United States remains the global leader in space for generations to come. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND: TRUMP & RFK JUST FIRED ANOTHER 16 HEALTH PROGRAM DOCS & SCIENTISTS, STUNTING WORLD TRADE CENTER HEALTH PROGRAM; SENATORS DEMAND NY GOP MEMBERS OF CONGRESS USE THEIR BUDGET VOTE AS…

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Charles E Schumer
    Schumer & Gillibrand Say NY GOP House Members Have Political Leverage To Restore 9/11 Health Program If They Deny Trump Their Budget Vote; Senators Have Built WTCHP & Funded It; GOP Being Played Since April While Heroes Suffer 
    The World Trade Center Health Program Provides Services For Roughly 137,000 Sickened 9/11 First Responders & Other Survivors & Heroes Across Nation; Trump Admin Keeps Playing Games With Staff, The Program – And The People Who Need Care; Schumer Says This Must End NOW  
    Schumer, Gillibrand To NY House GOP: Find The Courage The 9/11 Heroes Had To End This Chaos By Using Your Leverage Over Budget
    U.S. Senator Schumer alongside U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said the Trump administration is at it again: attacking the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP). Yesterday, President Trump and RFK fired an additional 16 medical staff who help keep the WTCHP program alive at NIOSH.
    Schumer said this torrent of chaos must and – and that New York GOP House members have real leverage to end this negligence by using their budget vote and forcing the President to back off on his attacks at the WTCHP. The senators said that this chaos is a dereliction of duty by the federal government, a disservice that must be reversed, so that the 9/11 health program, its staff, the federal government and the amazing medical professionals can all do their jobs: save lives. Schumer and Gillibrand said that they will not rest until this chaos is over.  
    “Since the Trump administration started, more than a quarter of the WTCHP staff are now gone,” said U.S. Senator Charles Schumer. “It is revolting that President Trump and Secretary Kennedy, Secretary of Health and Human Services, fired even more staffers yesterday at NIOSH, critical doctors and scientists who have dedicated their lives to helping these sick people and many others. None of these cuts have anything to do with efficiency. This is MAGA extremism pure and simple and it hurts our brave first responders and others who risked life and limb on 9/11, who rushed to the towers. These people are suffering. They’re getting cancers from the chemicals they breathed in when they ran to the towers to help protect us, and now they have to deal with this assault again, and again, and again. How vicious, how nasty, how callous.”
    Schumer, today, demanded New York GOP House members use their upcoming budget vote that President Trump so badly needs as leverage to end this negligence, restore the critical medical staff at WTCHP, NIOSH and help these heroes.
    “This political chaos is jeopardizing the healthcare of heroes. The NY House members in Congress must find the courage the 9/11 heroes had and use their leverage on the President as it relates to the budget, and join Senator Gillibrand and I to fix this mess now, because if these members haven’t realized it yet: they’re being played by the President,” Schumer added.
    “Cutting staff critical to the operation of the World Trade Center Health Program will devastate our ability to care for sick first responders and survivors,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Once again, President Trump is betraying the heroes who stepped up and risked their lives in one of our nation’s darkest hours. It’s an outrageous betrayal of ‘never forget,’ and I will not rest until these un-American decisions are reversed.”
    “The continued cuts to the WTC Health Program staff by the Trump Administration are a true disaster and place in peril the lives and health of every responder and survivor that rely on this program for their care. The delays in care these egregious actions are causing are reprehensible,” said Gary Smiley of FDNY EMS Local 2507, Uniformed EMTs, Paramedics & Fire Inspectors WTC Liaison.
    “Our community is very literally sick and tired and as Fannie Lou Hamer once put it, also “sick and tired of being sick and tired.” We’re tired of the Trump Administration and Secretary Kennedy’s lies.  We’re tired of having to trot our chronically ill onto stages to prove our suffering and attempt to humanize our losses and we’re tired of the constant mismanagement of the law for which we all fought so hard. 800 of our sick survivors and first responders couldn’t get certified in April because of the harm RFK Jr. has caused and we’re sick of it!” said Mariama James, WTCHP participant.
    “The World Trade Center Health Program must be made whole, it must be fully funded and this program must stay off the table for any future cuts,” said Sean Michael, FDNY Battalion Chief, Uniformed Fire Officers Association Board Member.
    Schumer and Gillibrand urged a once-and-for-all end to playing political football with the WTCHP because it saves lives and it is already lean. The senators said that this chaos is a dereliction of duty by the federal government, a disservice that must be reversed, so that the 9/11 health program, its staff, the federal government and the amazing medical professionals can all do their jobs: save lives. Schumer and Gillibrand said that they will not rest until this chaos is over.
    The World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) provides critical medical treatment, research, and monitoring to over 137,000 responders and survivors of the September 11th terrorist attacks, living in every state and nearly every Congressional district. The WTCHP serves first responders and survivors from the World Trade Center and lower Manhattan, the Pentagon, and the crash site in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. This vital program provides life-saving care to the heroes who answered the call to serve in one of our nation’s darkest hours and the survivors who are forced to live with the health consequences from the attacks every single day. 
    Schumer and Gillibrand worked to establish the WTCHP on a bipartisan basis in 2011 with a five-year authorization to provide medical treatment and monitoring for 9/11 responders and survivors suffering from the effects of the toxins at Ground Zero. They worked to reauthorize the program in 2015 and extended through 2090 with bipartisan support. In 2022, Schumer and Gillibrand delivered $1 billion for the WTCHP in the end-of-year spending bill, and in 2023, they secured an additional $676 million for the program.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: President Trump Highlights Victories for Americans, Sets Path For Next 100 Days

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    President Donald J. Trump, in an exclusive interview on Meet the Press, outlined the historic successes of his first 100 days — and charted the course for many more victories to come. President Trump sent a clear message: he will not relent in his mandate to secure our borders, rid our country of dangerous criminals, lower prices, end the globalist trade policies that have ripped off American workers and businesses for decades, and Make America Great Again.
    Here are the top moments you missed:
    On prices: “Prices are down on groceries. Prices are down for oil. Prices are down for all energy. Prices are down at tremendous numbers for gasoline.”
    On securing the border: “It’s really secure. When you say that, doesn’t it just sound good after being abused for years by an incompetent President?”
    On protecting Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security: “We’re not cutting Medicaid, we’re not cutting Medicare, and we’re not cutting Social Security.”
    On deporting violent criminal illegal immigrants: “We have thousands of people … some of the worst, most dangerous on earth — and I was elected to get them the hell out of here, and the courts are holding me from doing it.”
    On tariffs: “Remember — there are no tariffs if you build your product here. It’s very easy. It’s very simple.”
    On the auto industry: “What about the car business? They’re going to make a fortune because of the tariffs. The head of the union, who was no fan of mine … He’s saying, ‘Wow, what Trump’s done for the automobile, I can’t believe it … We’ve been waiting 40 years for somebody to do what Trump is doing.’”
    On Iran: “I want Iran to be really successful, really great, really fantastic. The only thing they can’t have is a nuclear weapon … The Iranian people are incredible, I just don’t want them to have a nuclear weapon because the world will be destroyed.”
    On DOGE: “They found $160 billion worth of fraud, waste, and abuse. I think he’s done an amazing job. I think his people have done an incredible job … We’re not finished yet … He’s leaving behind some very brilliant people.”
    On the border emergency: “The big emergency right now is that we have thousands of people that we want to take out — and we have some judges that want everybody to go to court … We have millions of people. We’re going to have millions of court cases?”
    On trade: “We’re making a lot of money. We’re doing great. Again, we were losing more than $5 billion a day … We’re going to be at a point soon where we’re making money every day.”
    On peace in Ukraine: “I do believe we’re closer with one party and maybe not as close with the other … We’re talking tremendous hatred between these two men.”
    On China tariffs: “At some point I’m going to lower them because otherwise you could never do business with them — and they want to do business very much. Their economy is really doing badly. Their economy is collapsing.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Capito Congratulates Reisenweber for USDA Rural Development Appointment

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito
    CHARLESTON, W.Va. – U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) congratulated John Reisenweber on being appointed to serve as a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development State Director for West Virginia.
    “I am thrilled to see John—a dedicated West Virginian and someone I have had the privilege of working with directly—take on this important leadership role at USDA Rural Development. John’s commitment to West Virginia and deep understanding of the needs of our rural communities make him exceptionally well-suited for the job. I look forward to partnering together to support economic growth, infrastructure development, and opportunity across our state in this very important role,” Senator Capito said.
    Prior to joining USDA, Reisenweber served in various roles in the public and private sector including the Jefferson County Development Authority. Reisenweber also served as District Representative for then-Congresswoman Capito for more than five years. Reisenweber holds a master’s degree from Oregon State University and a bachelor’s degree from Washington and Lee University.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 96-Year Old Veteran Saluted at Special Medal Ceremony

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed
    SMITHFIELD, RI – Nearly 79 years after Seaman Second Class Carmine J. Lombardi joined the U.S. Navy, U.S. Senator Jack Reed today joined Mr. Lombardi and his family to salute the 96-year old’s military service and present him with medals he earned at the end of World War II.
    A New Jersey-native who moved to Providence at a young age, Carmine Lombardi received military training at the U.S. Naval Training Center (USNTC) Bainbridge in Maryland before joining the crew of the USS Little Rock, a 12,000 ton Cleveland-class cruiser that was commissioned on June 17, 1945.
    Serving in the U.S. Navy, Mr. Lombardi and his shipmates sailed throughout much of the Atlantic Ocean, performing exercises along the East Coast and Caribbean before shipping out to support the war-torn nations of the North Atlantic and Mediterranean.
    As hostilities ceased, Mr. Lombardi was one of many U.S. servicemembers who continued to stand posts around the globe in challenging conditions, following the most widespread war in history which claimed the lives of more than 50 million people.
    “We will forever be grateful for the service and sacrifice of men like Carmine Lombardi, who, at a young age, embarked on an incredible voyage.  He admirably did his part as he and his shipmates deployed half way around the world at a time of great turmoil and transition.  He and his fellow servicemembers stood posts for freedom and contributed to successful missions around the globe. It is a privilege to recognize Mr. Lombardi’s outstanding service and thank him for a job well done,” said Senator Reed.

    After receiving a medical discharge from the U.S. Navy in 1947, Mr. Lombardi returned home and began working in Providence’s growing jewelry industry. Shortly thereafter, he followed the advice of family friends and agreed to go on a blind date with Adelaide Vallante. The pairing took and the two were married for nearly seven decades before Mrs. Lombardi’s passing in July 2022.
    Mr. and Mrs. Lombardi raised two children – a daughter, Sandra, and son, Glen – and were proud grandparents and great-grandparents. The couple worked together in the jewelry industry, eventually opening their own business, Adjo Soldering, designing and manufacturing jewelry and accessories and supporting other local Providence jewelers.
    During the ceremony, Mr. Lombardi received four military honors for exemplary conduct, efficiency, and fidelity that he earned while serving in the U.S. Navy, including:
    President Harry S. Truman officially announced the cessation of hostilities of World War II on December 31, 1946.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ricketts Discusses Strengthening Nebraska’s Water Infrastructure at Environment and Public Works Committee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Pete Ricketts (Nebraska)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE), a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, discussed improvements to Nebraska’s water infrastructure, including irrigation, during a committee hearing. Witnesses included Tom Goulette, City Administrator and Utility Superintendent for the City of West Point, NE. Ricketts said the following to Goulette:

    “[Nebraska is one of] the largest irrigation states in the country. I was just in Scottsbluff last week, where the Gering-Fort Laramie Canal collapsed while I was Governor. We worked to get some temporary repairs in place there. It’s owned by the Bureau of Reclamation, but through a program, they built the canal there 100 years ago, and when it collapsed, it cut off about 55,000 acres of Nebraska farmland from getting irrigation water.

    “That obviously, is just huge for a state like Nebraska, where agriculture is our biggest industry in the state,” Ricketts continued. “We’re going to be looking for opportunities to have the federal government partner with us to get the permanent repairs on that done, because right now it’s operating at about 80% capacity.”

    Click here to watch the hearing.

    TRANSCRIPT:

    Senator Ricketts: “Great. Thank you very much, appreciate it.

    “Well, welcome to all of our witnesses today.

    “I appreciate taking the time and Tom, great to have you here to be able to represent Nebraska.

    “Tom brings just a wealth of information to this committee.

    “If there is a job involving water in the state of Nebraska, over the last 40 years, Tom has done that job.

    “He has been, obviously, currently in West Point and great community there in Cuming County.

    “But just your depth of expertise is amazing.

    “I’m actually going to read all some of the stuff because it’s pretty impressive.

    “Served as Chairman of the Governor’s Advisory Council for Drinking Water, Chairman of the Municipal Energy Agency of Nebraska, Chairman of the League of Nebraska Utilities of Nebraska Utility Section, and President of Nebraska Rural Water. 

    “Just to name a few.

    “You’re currently the Chairman of the Nebraska League of Municipalities, Small Cities Legislative Committee say hi to Lynn for me.”

    Tom Goulette: “I will do that.”

    Senator Ricketts: “And if you’re not busy enough, you’re very you’re engaged very civic engagements, where you’ve served as a Utility Superintendent for the City West Point since 1993 and added City Administrator to your business card in 2001 and you still got both those titles today, right?”

    Tom Goulette: “Yes, yeah.”

    Senator Ricketts: “So it just shows again, small towns people wear a lot of hats.

    “And before the committee today, your post is the Nebraska Rural Water Association.

    “You’ve been on the board there since 2005 and currently serving on the executive committee.

    “So, thank you again, Tom for being here.

    “Really, really appreciate your experience that you bring to this committee.”

    Tom Goulette: “Thank you, sir.”

    Senator Ricketts: “So, welcome.

    “And what I’d like to talk a little bit about is many small and rural communities face significant challenges in accessing and managing the federal infrastructure dollars due to limited staffing and technical expertise.

    “We saw this in other areas as well, like the Department of Transportation, and so forth.

    “When we met in February, the Nebraska Rural Water Association Chair shared some of these barriers, what type of resources or policy changes could Congress consider making to federal programs to make them more efficient for small and rural communities?”

    Tom Goulette: “You know, a lot of it comes down to the simplifying the application requirements for those small communities. 

    “Typically, they know best of what their needs are going to be when it comes to upgrading your systems or changing the equipment and that type of thing, along with the assistance from, you know, the Nebraska Rural Water Association or Circuit Riders are there lending assistance in quantifying that.

    “And then once they get to that point, once they can get to some type of formulation of what that community needs, that’s when an application needs to go in, and then that should allow for some additional engineering. 

    “Then at that stage, once that project is identified, and the community can have some buy in, for lack of a better term.

    “The other thing is that reducing those match requirements, a lot of small rural communities, they stretch every dollar they have.

    “So, when, when they’re looking at this, and they’re looking at the match requirements to comply with that, it becomes difficult.

    “Then they’ve got to balance out where the priorities lie within the financial capabilities of that community. So consequently, some of those projects get on, put on the shelf, then at that point.”

    Senator Ricketts: “Yeah, and it’s not so true for West Point, because West Point is really doing well.

    “But what we see is it fair to say, in a lot of our rural communities, we see that as the younger people move away and you’re left with declining population of older folks at bases, that just adds to the complication of being able to get these water projects done?”

    Tom Goulette: “It does.

    “And along with that, is our aging workforce.

    “You know, we see a lot of operators aging out those, those are one and two main operations.

    “So, you know, once that that legacy leaves that community that they’re difficult to replace.

    “So that makes the challenge even more difficult to make to help sustain that community.”

    Senator Ricketts: “Is there, again, is there something we could do in Congress to be able to help with some of those workforce challenges?”

    Tom Goulette: “One of the things is the apprenticeship program that Senator Capito put in place a few years ago, and we need to get that moving in Nebraska.

    “We need to get that funding moving in Nebraska.

    “We need to get an apprenticeship program and start that process to engage those communities and show them options and bring trained operators to the facilities.

    Senator Ricketts: “Can you just give us a briefly, just how some of these federal funding programs have made otherwise cost prohibitive projects in small towns and rural communities possible?”

    Tom Goulette: “Yeah, I mean, basically, when you’re looking at the projects themselves, and you’re looking at the market based on interest rates and that type of thing, and the longevity, it makes it more economically feasible for those small communities, there’s the grant basis that they also can qualify for, which also helps them.”

    Senator Ricketts: “Can you give me an example of specific project off the top of your head?”

    Tom Goulette: “You know that the easiest example right now is the city of West Point.

    “You know, we did the water project here a few years ago where we had a $2.7 million water treatment plant.

    “Of that $2.7 million, 553,000 of that was loan forgiveness, and then in addition to that, was the one and a half percent interest rate, plus the administrative fee for the state.”

    “So it makes it very economically feasible to get those programs in place rather than going out to the open market.”

    Senator Ricketts: “All right, great.

    “Well, oh, we lost our chair, so I guess I’m in charge of the Republican side now.

    “I’m going to take a moment just to talk a little bit as well about an important project not specifically related to the drinking water, but access to water in general, in our state is obviously important. 

    “We’re the largest irrigation state in the country, and I was just in Scottsbluff last week, and theGering-Fort Laramie Canalcollapsed while I was Governor, and we worked to get some temporary repairs in place there. 

    “It’s owned by the Bureau of Reclamation, but through a program, they built the canal there 100 years ago, and when it collapsed, it cut off about 55,000 acres of Nebraska farmland from getting irrigation water. 

    “And that obviously, is just huge for a state like Nebraska, where irrigation, or irrigation is big, but also agriculture is our biggest industry in the state.

    “And so, we’re going to be looking for opportunities to be able to have the federal government partner, to be able to get the permanent repairs on that done, because right now it’s operating, like, about 80% capacity.

    “And I was just talking to folks about, again, just getting to this idea of, like, how expensive it is for these projects, and how with the drinking water and making it possible in West Point, but the cost that would be for those farmers to be able to pay the extra fees to be able to get those total repairs done would be really, really challenging.

    “So that’s another project in our example how the federal government can help partner with states and local communities to be able to get these water projects done.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Gillibrand Raises Alarm On Secretary Of Education McMahon’s Decision To Withold Income Of Federal Student Loan Borrowers In Default

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Kirsten Gillibrand
    Following reports that the United States Department of Education plans to involuntarily withhold the incomes of federal student loan borrowers, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand expressed deep concern towards Secretary of Education Linda McMahon’s decision to garnish the wages and benefits of federal student loan borrowers whose payments are in default. Nearly 10 million borrowers across the nation are at risk of forced collections.
    The senator noted, this will “unnecessarily exacerbate economic strains in local economies while New Yorkers worry about a tenuous economy and potential recession.” In New York State alone, one in eight individuals have student loan debt. Borrowers work in all professions like teachers and public servants, providing New York communities with critical services. The senator continued that many seniors who take out loans to help family members pay for their education are also at risk of being impacted.
    Gillibrand called on Secretary McMahon to further elaborate and describe an outreach plan for at risk borrowers:
    1. Please describe in detail any outreach campaign being planned, including what languages it will be conducted in and through what means.
    2. What immediate actions have been or will be taken to resolve recent and ongoing disruptions to federal student loan services?
    3. Many borrowers have waited for years to exercise alternative payment arrangements through income-based repayment options; please provide details as to how the Administration will accommodate borrowers who remain unable to make full repayment?
    4. How will the Administration define financial hardship and what will be done to accommodate borrowers requesting a review based on financial hardship? What actions will be taken to address hardship requests in time to avoid additional financial consequences for borrowers in default, such as eviction or canceled medical procedures?
    5. How is the Administration planning for the increased administrative burden of this policy amidst the RIFs at the Department of Education.
    The full letter can be read here and below.
    Secretary McMahon,
    I write to you with concern over the Department of Education’s plans to begin involuntarily withholding the incomes of federal student loan borrowers in default on May 5, 2025. As you note, in a few months, nearly 10 million borrowers are in danger of having their wages, pensions, Social Security benefits, and tax refunds garnished. Withholding income from borrowers will unnecessarily exacerbate economic strains in local economies while New Yorkers worry about a tenuous economy and potential recession.
    One in eight New Yorkers have student loan debt, totaling approximately $93 billion and federal student loan borrowers who work in all industries are vulnerable to these unnecessary actions – my office has heard from K-12 teachers, computer science engineers, pharmacists, and doctors. These professions provide New York communities with vital services and many are public servants. Yet this Administration so far has made the federal student loan process a nightmare. These workers report their payments increasing by as much as 450% as a result of issues on the Federal Student Aid website. Some New Yorkers have had their federal student loans put into forbearance without their request.
    Many borrowers have dreams of opening their own businesses or working directly with
    people in their community, but perfectly put by one constituent, “believe there will be no help for me or others who are drowning in debt.” These New Yorkers want to make their student loan payments, and they deserve a fair system that rewards what they have worked for and earned.
    Seniors who take out loans to help family members pay for college are impacted too, and
    some are still in debt from their own education. My office has heard from seniors who are nearing retirement but still remain unable to move forward with any confidence or security until their loans are fully paid or forgiven.
    I’m concerned that the timing could not be worse for any changes in student loan repayment policies for constituents bracing for an economic downturn, but also because of continuing staff cuts at the Department of Education. An expanded administrative burden on reduced staff aimed at garnishing wages and benefits in a tenuous economic environment is not in the best interest of New Yorkers. To be very clear, wage garnishment should always be considered a last resort, and this Administration’s staffing cuts have impacted existing programs to such an extent that this new policy exacerbates a problem and undermines a purpose.
    I request answers to the questions below by May 16, 2025.
    1. Please describe in detail any outreach campaign being planned, including what languages it will be conducted in and through what means.
    2. What immediate actions have been or will be taken to resolve recent and ongoing disruptions to federal student loan services?
    3. Many borrowers have waited for years to exercise alternative payment arrangements through income-based repayment options; please provide details as to how the Administration will accommodate borrowers who remain unable to make full repayment?
    4. How will the Administration define financial hardship and what will be done to accommodate borrowers requesting a review based on financial hardship? What actions will be taken to address hardship requests in time to avoid additional financial consequences for borrowers in default, such as eviction or canceled medical procedures?
    5. How is the Administration planning for the increased administrative burden of this policy amidst the RIFs at the Department of Education.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: In Syracuse, Gillibrand Condemns President Trump’s Actions To Dismantle Head Start

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Kirsten Gillibrand
    Proposal Would Deprive 50,000 Low-Income Children In New York State Of Critical Early Childhood Education 
    Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand visited the PEACE, Inc. Merrick Head Start in Syracuse to condemn President Trump’s actions to dismantle Head Start. Federal funding allows PEACE Inc. to operate Head Start centers across Onondaga County that serve over 900 children. Without this funding, Head Start centers across New York and around the country will be forced to close their doors, which will deprive low-income children of critical early childhood education that gives them the tools to succeed both in and out of the classroom. President Trump has attempted to diminish Head Start through a number of executive actions that are making it harder for Head Start centers to stay up and running, including closing regional offices that help administer the program, laying off staff, and withholding already authorized funding.
    Head Start programs provide low-income children from birth to age five with comprehensive child development programs, as well as support and services for families. The services Head Start and Early Head Start offer include early education, health screenings, promoting social and emotional health, nutrition, connection to other social services, and services for children with disabilities. Head Start and Early Head Start programs serve over 50,000 children in New York State.  
    “Head Start helps make sure that every child has a chance to thrive,“ said Senator Gillibrand. “It is an investment in our kids and our future that has been proven time and time again to be highly effective at preparing children for school and improving both their social and physical health outcomes. President Trump’s actions to dismantle Head Start would hurt the kids and families most in need – including the 50,000 Head Start attendees in New York alone. I will do everything in my power to fight this effort and preserve funding for this vital program through the next fiscal year and beyond.”
    “Our Head Start program in Syracuse is an essential resource for families with young children. It provides a nurturing environment focused on learning, fun, and overall development. Many parents rely on it as a safe space for their children while they work. Unfortunately, the Trump administration plans to cut funding for this program in Syracuse and nationwide. These cuts will have a devastating impact on the families who depend on it. We must fight to keep Head Start in Syracuse, and I commend Senator Kirsten Gillibrand for leading the effort to ensure it remains here,” said Senator Rachel May.
    “With 7 of its own sites and an additional 14 partnering sites in Onondaga County, PEACE, Inc.’s Head Start program successfully assists 918 low-income families and their children under 5 to access holistic early childhood education, health, nutrition, and family development interventions,” said Peace, Inc. Executive Director Carolyn Brown. “Especially critical are the more than 700 families who are assisted in Syracuse, where early childhood education/childcare options are limited and nearly 1 out of 2 children live in poverty. PEACE, Inc. Head Start levels the playing field for low-income families and their children. In 2024, 81% of our Head Start children entered Kindergarten having reached their math development milestones; 90% of them reached their literacy development milestones. Eliminating Head Start would prove disastrous for our working families and their children. We are grateful for Senator Gillibrand’s passionate support of Head Start, its staff, and its families.”
    “As a mother to a young child in this program, I am so grateful for the resources Head Start provides,” said Mitayah Donerlson, President of the Head Start Parent Policy Council. “Beyond early education, this program has connected me with critical social and mental health support—like access to parenting workshops, family advocates, and behavioral support for children . These services have helped me manage stress, strengthen my relationship with my child, and build a supportive community with other parents. Without Head Start, I wouldn’t have the tools or support network I need to care for both myself and my family. Thank you, Senator Gillibrand, for fighting for this vital funding.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Gillibrand Statement On President Trump’s Preliminary Budget Request

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Kirsten Gillibrand
    Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, released the following statement on President Trump’s fiscal year 2026 preliminary budget request, which proposes slashing critical investments in programs related to education, health, affordable housing, scientific research, environmental protection, and much more. The Trump administration says this proposal will cut domestic funding by $163 billion (-23%); however, the real cut may exceed $200 billion.
    “President Trump’s budget is playing games with American lives. By attempting to defund the programs that help communities stay safe, families pay their bills and keep a roof over their heads, and doctors treat their patients, this administration is abandoning the people who have built our country. Make no mistake — this budget proposal will not ‘make America great again’ — it will set us back decades and make life harder for working families.
    By slashing funding for basic needs like health programs, medical research, and nutrition aid, this proposal will make America sicker. By cutting billions of dollars for the Department of Education, removing investments to prevent violent crime, and divesting from agencies that protect our environment, it will make our country a worse place to live. And by eliminating affordable housing and energy assistance programs, divesting from small businesses, and gutting the funds that help economically distressed communities, it will make it harder for American families to survive.
    This administration has made it clear: they’re willing to cut at least $163 billion in vital investments that benefit everyday Americans just to deliver trillions in tax breaks to billionaires and corporations. That’s not just misguided policy; it’s an insult to every hardworking, tax-paying American.
    I am committed to working with my colleagues in Congress to firmly reject this dangerous proposal. We cannot stand idly by while the Trump administration eviscerates the programs that keep our country safe, healthy, and prosperous.”
    Among other things, President Trump’s preliminary FY2026 budget request:
    EDUCATION: Guts funding for the Department of Education by $12 billion (-15%). Eliminates and cuts dozens of elementary and secondary education programs (the vast majority of which are not specified), underscoring that President Trump’s vision for returning education to the states means state and local taxpayers will pay more to support students and educators at their local schools as a result of major cuts in federal funding. Eliminates several higher education programs, including TRIO, GEAR UP, Federal Work Study, Child Care Access Means Parents in Schools (CCAMPIS), and more, which help Americans pursue a postsecondary education and further their careers.
    HOUSING: Eviscerates the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) with a 43.6% cut.
    Slashes HUD rental assistance programs by 42.8% while foisting responsibility over those programs onto state and local governments. Over 10 million Americans rely on HUD rental assistance, the vast majority of whom are seniors, people with disabilities, and children. This will rip the roofs off Americans’ heads and put even more families at risk of homelessness.
    Eliminates or cuts federal programs most targeted to build more affordable housing and address this country’s housing supply shortage, including in Tribal country.
    Eliminates the Community Development Block Grant that cities and towns across the country use to improve the quality of life for their citizens every day.
    HEALTH: Slashes funding for the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) by $33 billion (-26%).
    Cuts funding for the National Institutes of Health (NIH) by $18 billion or more than 40%—decimating funding for lifesaving medical treatments and cures.
    Decimates funding for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) by cutting $3.6 billion—hollowing out the agency’s ability to save lives and protect Americans from health threats.
    Guts funding for substance use prevention and treatment and mental health services by $1 billion (roughly –15%) and eliminates the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration—the agency with expertise in tackling the substance use and mental health crises.
    Slashes funding for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) by $674 million. CMS helps ensure over 100 million Americans have access to affordable, high-quality health insurance by overseeing Medicare, Medicaid, the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), and Affordable Care Act marketplaces.
    The limited budget materials do not detail President Trump’s proposed funding level for the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which is essential for protecting the safety of our food and drugs.
    TITLE X: Eliminates the Title X program, which helps nearly 3 million patients get preventative care, birth control, cancer screenings, and more in every state.
    LIHEAP: Eliminates the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which helps 6 million American households heat and cool their homes.
    PRE-K: Eliminates all funding for Preschool Development Grants, which help states strengthen their early childhood education system and get parents the child care and pre-K they need. The limited budget materials released today don’t mention Head Start or the Child Care and Development Block Grant, but leaked budget documents show Trump wants to eliminate Head Start.
    DEPARTMENT OF LABOR: Slashes funding for DOL by $4.6 billion (-35%). Proposes to “Make America Skilled Again” by cutting workforce training programs that help Americans develop skills and secure good-paying jobs, by roughly a third. Eliminates Job Corps and the Senior Community Service Employment Program.
    DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE: Slashes the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) budget by at least $3.7 billion (-10%).
    Guts funding for grants to help keep communities safe by over $1 billion (-26%).
    Cuts funding for FBI salaries and expenses by $545 million (-5%), endangering our Americans’ safety.
    Cuts funding for Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) salaries and expenses by $212 million (-7%), weakening the agency’s capacity to crack down on drug trafficking. Also proposes shuttering major DEA offices in countries around the world, noting that those countries “are equipped to counter drug trafficking on their own.”
    Cuts funding for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives’ (ATF) salaries and expenses by $468 million (-29%) as part of the administration’s ongoing attempt to dismantle the agency in charge of enforcing our country’s gun laws.
    TRIBES: Slashes $911 million (-24%) for core Tribal programs that uphold the federal government’s legally-obligated and court-ordered trust and treaty responsibilities to Tribal nations. This cut would decimate core Tribal programs including road maintenance, housing, and programs for children and families. The proposal would nearly eliminate funding for construction of Tribal schools, which are already too often dilapidated, and it cuts Tribal law enforcement funding by 20%.
    SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH: More than halves funding for the National Science Foundation (NSF) with a $5.2 billion (-57%) cut. Cuts funding for the Department of Energy’s Office of Science by $1.148 billion (-14%). These proposed cuts would decimate America’s edge in essential scientific research that will drive future economic growth.
    EPA: Cuts funding for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) by more than half by abandoning state and Tribal programs that build and maintain drinking water and sewer systems, starving states of longstanding federal funding provided to pay for states’ work enforcing federal laws, and decimating funding for cleaning up toxic Superfund sites.  The request would also effectively eliminate research funding used to better understand the impacts on human health from polluted air and water and from toxic chemicals.  
    NATIONAL PARKS: Cuts $900 million (- 30%) from National Park Service operations, abandoning national parks that the administration says should suddenly be transferred to the states, while providing no funding for states to manage massive new obligations that such a dramatic move would entail. This would incentivize states to sell off public lands to the highest bidder, threatening valued open space and areas of natural and historical value to local communities.
    AGRICULTURE: Guts funding for agricultural research, which is critical to ensuring American agriculture is competitive with the rest of the world and provides key resources to help farmers and ranchers prepare and adapt in an uncertain environment. Zeroes out foreign food aid that supports American farmers and is a lifeline for people living in extreme poverty across the world.
    RURAL AMERICA: Slashes investments in core Rural Development programs by $721 million, including investments in safe drinking water, affordable housing, and resources to bolster the rural economy.
    NUTRITION: Eliminates the Commodity Supplemental Food Program, which provides food assistance to low-income individuals 60 years of age and older to supplement diets and addressing potential nutrient deficiencies. The preliminary budget request does not mention any of the other 16 Nutrition Programs, including WIC, The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP), and the National School Lunch Program.
    VETERANS: Without more details, it is unclear whether the President is proposing to shift tens of billions of dollars in funding for veterans’ care to mandatory funding (which Republicans have long vociferously opposed) or to decimate funding for non-medical care.
    FOREST SERVICE: Cuts $1.386 billion (-22%) from the Forest Service, gutting grant funding for state and tribal wildfire risk reduction, volunteer fire departments, and much more. The proposal would cut at least 2,000 National Forest System staff positions, which will severely harm the Administration’s stated goals of improving forest management and increasing domestic timber production.
    ARMY CORPS: Cuts funding for the Army Corps of Engineers by $2 billion (-23%), slashing funding used to maintain our nation’s ports and harbors.
    DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE: Cuts funding for the Department of Commerce by $1.9 billion (-18%). Outright eliminates the Economic Development Administration (EDA), which helps economically distressed communities across America get ahead.
    NOAA: Guts funding for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) by $1.5 billion, which would eliminate all manner of programs that create good jobs, help local economies, and support ocean research, health, and coastal resilience. Proposes a reckless $209 million cut for NOAA’s weather satellites, which play a critical role in ensuring Americans have accurate weather forecasting and will result in a gap in observations when the current satellites retire early in the next decade.
    ENERGY: Slashes funding for the Department of Energy overall by $4.7 billion (-9.4%). Guts funding for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy programs by $2.572 billion (-74%) and proposes to rescind $15.25 billion from Bipartisan Infrastructure Law energy programs, which will raise energy costs for American consumers by halting vital innovation and energy projects.
    SMALL BUSINESSES: Slashes funding for SBA’s Entrepreneurial Development Programs by $167 million, proposing the elimination of nearly all programs, including programs that support veterans as they work to start and grow a small business.
    FEMA GRANTS: Cuts funding for FEMA non-disaster grants that help communities prepare for disasters, support efforts to prevent violence and terrorism, prepare emergency responders, and more.
    STATE DEPARTMENT & FOREIGN ASSISTANCE: Guts funding for the State Department and America’s international security, economic, and humanitarian assistance programs by $31.2 billion (-48%).
    The United States already spends less than 0.2% of our GDP on diplomacy and foreign assistance, which is less than a third of the percent we spent under President Reagan’s peace through strength approach, and Trump is proposing to halve these critical investments.
    Cuts funding for lifesaving and other humanitarian assistance by $4.7 billion (-54%), which will lead to preventable deaths and suffering across the globe, and threaten Americans’ safety and well-being by undercutting our efforts to stop disease outbreaks and prevent conflict. A cut of this magnitude will also lead to more migration of people fleeing poverty, conflict, and natural disasters.
    Cuts funding for International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement account by $1.3 billion (-91%) which helps prevent human trafficking, stop drug trafficking, and much more, with direct implications for American communities.
    Slashes economic growth and development funding across multiple agencies and accounts by $6 billion (67%) and proposes the final dissolution of USAID.
    Guts funding for global health initiatives by $6.2 billion (-62%).
    Reneges on our treaty dues for the United Nations (UN), U.N. Peacekeeping operations, and a majority of other international organizations.
    COMMUNITY SERVICES BLOCK GRANT: Eliminates all funding ($770 million) for community-based anti-poverty programs that help low income individuals and families access services to alleviate the causes of poverty.
    COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS: Eliminates $291 million in funding for all current CDFI financial assistance awards, which help leverage private capital to support the development of child care centers, housing, health care facilities, and small businesses. Since 2010, CDFIs have financed over 1.3 million businesses and 557,000 affordable homes. 
    AMERICORPS: Eliminates AmeriCorps, which enables over 200,000 Americans to help serve communities across the country, including by responding to natural disasters, supporting veterans, fighting the opioid epidemic, helping older Americans age with dignity, and working in our schools, educating and supporting students.
    CORPORATION FOR PUBLIC BROADCASTING: Eliminates funding for CPB, ending support for more than 1,500 local public television and radio stations. 
    INSTITUTE OF MUSEUM AND LIBRARY SERVICES: Eliminates funding for IMLS and the support provided to libraries and museums throughout the United States.
    BUREAU OF RECLAMATION: Cuts funding for the Bureau by $600 million (-34%), gutting investments in key restoration projects.
    CULTURAL GRANTS FOR LOCAL COMMUNITIES: Completely eliminates the National Endowment for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Humanities, which provide funding for every state and every congressional district for cultural economic development and the creative economy.
    NASA: Cuts NASA funding by $6 billion (-24%), the largest single-year cut to NASA in U.S. history, which would mark an incredible retreat for American leadership and ambition in space. Terminates the Artemis Campaign to establish a human presence on the Moon after the Artemis III mission. Slashes funding for the Science Mission Directorate by $3.43 billion (-47%), which would cancel numerous current and planned missions to better understand our universe, solar system, and Earth.
    ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: Eliminates funding to 27 states by zeroing out funding for 6 of 7 regional commissions, which provide grants in economically distressed communities for disaster mitigation, opioid crisis support programming, workforce training, and much more. 
    INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE: Likely cuts IRS enforcement by nearly $2.5 billion (-89%). This significant reduction will help billionaire tax cheats game the system while working families continue to pay their fair share.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Markey Condemns EPA Plan to Terminate All Environmental Justice Grants

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey
    Boston (May 2, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Environment and Public Works Committee, today condemned the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) plan to cancel nearly 800 grants awarded under President Biden, which includes all environmental justice grants awarded and obligated by the agency. This news comes amidst ongoing battles in courts over whether the EPA had violated its legal obligations when clawing back funds through freezes and shutouts.
    “The Trump administration’s plan to terminate hundreds of environmental justice grants is a shameful abandonment of communities nationwide that are working to address generations of historical pollution and underinvestment – efforts made possible by the very grants Trump and Zeldin are set on axing. The administration’s funding freezes have wreaked havoc on communities that are counting on federal investments to weather storms more safely, breathe cleaner air, drink cleaner water, live closer to green space, and save on utility bills,” said Senator Markey. “These callous cuts only force more chaos and uncertainty on small community groups and local environmental justice organizations working tirelessly to improve their communities and lead the fight for a livable future for all.”
    Most of the grants set for termination are those issued by the Office of Environmental Justice and Civil Rights, EPA’s chief environmental justice arm currently being dismantled by the Trump administration. Funds set for termination include environmental justice funding that provides long-overdue resources like technical assistance and staff capacity for underinvested frontline and fenceline communities, including the Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Center (TCTAC) and Community Change Grant programs.
    Since January, EPA environmental justice grantees have been blindsided by sudden grant termination notices, grant freezes, or have been shut out of funding access portals without any warning. Since environmental justice grants are reimbursement-based and contracts require grantees to continue implementing their projects, many grantees have been forced to pay for costs out of pocket without assurance that they will be paid back. Additionally, significant, and sudden EPA staff cuts have left many grantees without proper lines of communication with the EPA about the status of their funds.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Markey Decries Trump Attacks on Public Broadcasting

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey
    Boston (May 2, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, released the following statement after President Donald Trump issued an executive order last night attempting to direct the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) to cease funding for National Public Radio and the Public Broadcasting Service. The Trump administration also today released its budget for fiscal year 2026, which proposes to eliminate all funding for CPB.
    “President Trump’s executive order is both illegal and a direct threat to the survival of local public media stations across the country,” said Senator Markey. “These stations are a lifeline for rural and urban communities alike, offering everything from educational children’s programming to life-saving emergency alerts. Eliminating funding for public media punishes free expression and jeopardizes trusted sources of news, culture, and emergency information for communities everywhere. Local stations must have the resources and autonomy to serve their audiences without political interference. I will fight to maintain CPB’s funding and protect the integrity of public broadcasting.”
    On April 15, 2025, Senator Markey, along with Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), sent a letter to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Acting Administrator Cameron Hamilton urging the agency to lift its freeze on grants that help improve the resiliency of public broadcasting stations. Less than two weeks later, FEMA lifted the freeze on those funds.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ranking Members Padilla, Morelle Blast Trump Administration for Slashing Critical Funding for Election Security and Administration

    US Senate News:

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

    Ranking Members Padilla, Morelle Blast Trump Administration for Slashing Critical Funding for Election Security and Administration

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration, and Representative Joe Morelle (N.Y.-25), Ranking Member of the Committee on House Administration, issued the following joint statement after President Trump released his disastrous budget proposal that guts funding for election security and administration:
    “The President’s budget plan fails to provide the critical funding we need for election infrastructure, security, and administration. Election infrastructure is critical infrastructure and refusing to provide the necessary resources to support our free, fair, and secure elections is nothing short of a dereliction of duty.
    “Every state will feel the cuts, but smaller, rural, and lower-resourced elections offices would be disproportionately hurt. To make matters worse, these cuts are in addition to the Administration’s previous actions to terminate staff and programs to counter election misinformation and disinformation and defend against foreign interference in our elections.
    “Election administrators and volunteers work tirelessly to ensure every eligible American can cast their ballot and make their voice heard. They deserve better. We will continue to support them and fight to protect our American democracy.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Coons, Tillis introduce bipartisan resolution supporting Romania and Moldova amid Russian interference

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) introduced a resolution yesterday expressing support for Romania and Moldova as both countries work to combat Russian interference ahead of upcoming elections.
    The resolution commends Romania and Moldova for their steadfast commitment to strengthening democratic values, deepening their European integration, and their commitment to regional security in the face of sustained Russian pressure campaigns.
    “Romania and Moldova are critical U.S. partners that make substantial contributions to security and sovereignty across eastern Europe,” said Senator Coons. “Romania is one of our most important NATO allies and largest alliance contributors, while Moldova is steadfast in its commitment to joining the European Union. When I visited the region earlier this year, I saw clearly how both are facing intense coercion efforts from Russia, including the weaponization of energy flows and systemic election interference campaigns. This resolution makes clear that the United Stares stands against Putin’s attempts to meddle in their elections and upend their democracies while reiterating our support for their sustained partnerships.”
    “Romania and Moldova are key U.S. allies, with Moldova partnered with North Carolina through the State Partnership Program, at a pivotal moment for democracy in Eastern Europe,” said Senator Tillis. “As both nations confront efforts by Russia to erode democratic institutions and exert undue influence, the United States must reaffirm its commitment to their sovereignty and political independence. Strengthening these partnerships is vital to preserving democratic governance and regional stability.”
    Senator Coons recently visited Romania and Moldova as part of a congressional delegation, where he witnessed firsthand Russia’s ongoing interference—including election interference, disinformation campaigns, and the weaponization of energy supplies. Due to blatant election interference by Russia, Romania’s presidential election in November was annulled, and the election will be rerun this weekend. 
    The resolution applauds Romania’s role within NATO and as a member of the European Union, as well as its critical support to Ukraine since Russia’s unprovoked war. It also supports Moldova’s referendum to join the European Union and thanks the country for its ongoing assistance to Ukraine. 
    Specifically, the resolution:
    Calls on the U.S. government to deepen bilateral and multilateral engagements with Romania and Moldova in support of democracy and state sovereignty in eastern Europe
    Applauds the partnership between Romania and Moldova in the energy sector as a model of reducing reliance on Russian energy exports
    Supports Romania’s role in strengthening NATO and Moldova’s aspirations to join the European Union
    Condemns Russia’s coercion campaigns in democratic sovereign states, including Romania and Moldova
    Asks for greater international support ahead of Romania’s presidential election and Moldova’s parliamentary elections in 2025
    Senator Coons is a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.
    You can read the resolution text here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Statement at Executive Session to Consider Commerce, Treasury Nominations

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.—U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) delivered the following remarks at an executive session to consider the nominations of William Kimmitt to serve as Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade and Kenneth Kies to serve as the Assistant Treasury Secretary for Tax Policy.
    As prepared for delivery:
    “We meet today to consider favorably reporting the nominations of William Kimmitt, who is nominated to serve as Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade, and Kenneth Kies, who is nominated to serve as the Assistant Secretary for Tax Policy at the Treasury Department.
    “The meeting this morning will provide members with the opportunity to make remarks on the nominees.  We will notify members of a time and location later today to conduct the vote. 
    “During his hearing, Mr. Kimmitt spoke about his mission to ensure the International Trade Administration (ITA) is a champion for American workers and industries, and to promote a trade policy that is guided by a strategic understanding of our national interest.  I look forward to working with him, if confirmed, to accomplish these goals.
    “Turning now to Mr. Kies, who has decades of experience in the tax policy world.  Mr. Kies spoke about the importance of permanently extending and building on the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act to prevent a more than $4 trillion tax hike and deliver certainty and stability to American families and businesses, as well as provide additional middle-class tax relief.
    “Mr. Kies, if confirmed, will be a valuable partner in our efforts to deliver on President Trump’s economic agenda.
    “I will be voting in favor of both nominations, and I encourage all my colleagues on the Committee to do the same.
    “I now recognize Ranking Member Wyden for his remarks.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Urges Colleagues to Support Bisignano for SSA Commissioner

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo
    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) delivered remarks on the Senate Floor urging his colleagues to support the nomination of Frank Bisignano to be Commissioner of the Social Security Administration (SSA).

    As delivered:
    “I rise today to urge my colleagues to vote in favor of the confirmation of Mr. Frank Bisignano, who is nominated to be Commissioner of the Social Security Administration (SSA). 
    “The Social Security Administration has the significant responsibility of overseeing the Social Security program, which provides monthly benefits to millions of seniors, individuals with disabilities and their families.  The SSA also oversees the Supplemental Security Income program and issues Social Security numbers and cards, among other workloads. 
    “I am confident Mr. Bisignano has the experience needed to lead this important agency.  He has more than 30 years of executive leadership experience in banks and financial institutions.  He currently serves as the Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Fiserv, Inc., a leader in payments and financial technology. 
    “During his nomination hearing, Mr. Bisignano committed to improving customer service at the Social Security Administration, including by bringing down wait times for the agency’s National 800 Number and for claims decisions; ensuring that individuals can interact with the SSA in the way they prefer, whether in-person, by phone or online; and improving the SSA’s payment accuracy. 
    “During Mr. Bisignano’s nomination hearing, concerns were raised regarding his alleged connections to DOGE’s work at the SSA.  These allegations were raised in an anonymous letter, dated March 24, 2025, the day before Mr. Bisignano’s nomination hearing. 
    “The allegations focused on the frequency and details of communications between the nominee and SSA officials.  Mr. Bisignano addressed the allegations during the hearing and responded in writing as part of the questions for the record.  He has stated that he does not currently have a role at the SSA and was not part of the decision-making process led by the Acting Commissioner, Lee Dudek, about SSA operations, personnel or management. 
    “The Social Security Administration needs steady, Senate-confirmed leadership.  Mr. Bisignano would bring his decades-long focus on customer service and operational excellence to the SSA.  I strongly encourage my colleagues to join me in voting to confirm Mr. Bisignano to serve as the next Commissioner of Social Security.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Statement at CBP Commissioner Nomination Hearing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo
    Washington, D.C.—U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) delivered the following remarks at a hearing to consider the nomination of Rodney Scott to be U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Commissioner.
    As prepared for delivery:
    “Today, we will hear from Rodney Scott, who is nominated to serve as Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection—or CBP. 
    “Mr. Scott, congratulations on your nomination, and thank you for your willingness to serve.
    “Mr. Scott’s twenty-nine years of service at the U.S. Border Patrol provides him with the hands-on experience to oversee one the world’s largest—and most important—law enforcement agencies. 
    “The men and women of CBP are on the frontlines of keeping America safe while ensuring lawful commerce and travel still move efficiently. 
    “The CBP has a broad, challenging mission of countering terrorism; combatting transnational crime; securing the border, facilitating lawful trade and protecting revenue; and facilitating lawful travel.  
    “Consequently, CBP needs strong and committed leadership to ensure it can fulfill its dual responsibilities of allowing law-abiding travelers and businesses to get on their way while combatting grave threats to our security, such as the cartels smuggling fentanyl and other contraband into the United States. 
    “Mr. Scott’s extensive background experience makes him more than fit to lead such a sprawling agency. 
    “Mr. Scott has served on the front lines as Chief Patrol Agent with the Border Patrol, but has also gained valuable experience at CBP headquarters.  
    “In 2005, he served as an Assistant Chief within the Office of the CBP Commissioner’s Office of Anti-terrorism. 
    “In 2019, he served as the Acting Deputy Chief of the U.S Border Patrol, and went on to become Chief of the U.S. Border Patrol the following year. 
    “President Trump rightfully prioritizes border security and recognizes the need for effective leadership at CBP.  Mr. Scott is highly qualified for the job at hand, and the President made an excellent choice in nominating him for this position. 
    “Mr. Scott understands what makes CBP effective, including the strong partnerships it will need with various federal agencies and Congress.   If confirmed, I have no doubt he will be able to hit the ground running.
    “Thank you again for your willingness to return to government, and I look forward to working with you, if confirmed.
    “Before I turn it over to the Ranking Member, I am going to enter a document into the record.  Last Wednesday, Homeland Security was requested to provide further information regarding the 2010 death of Mr. Hernandez Rojas, who died at the San Ysidro Port of Entry and the actions of Mr. Scott—who served at Sector Headquarters in San Diego. 
    “Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem responded to the request and cited official investigations and statutes to note that Mr. Scott’s ministerial work following the death—including authorizing a subpoena to request medical records that were provided to the San Diego police department—was in accordance with his duties, the law and professional standards.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst, Peters, Walberg Designate May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and Gary Peters (D-Mich.), co-chairs of the Senate Motorcycle Caucus, introduced a bipartisan resolution to designate May as “Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month” to promote safe driving practices for the millions of motorcycle riders in America.
    “From delivering messages as a young girl to my dad while he was working out in the fields to riding through the rolling hills of Northeast Iowa with family and friends, some of my most cherished memories include motorcycles,” said Senator Ernst. “As the weather warms up and folks hit the road, I’m excited to share my love of riding while highlighting safety and rider education this Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.”
    “I firmly believe there is no better way to see the beauty of our state than on a motorcycle and keeping our roadways safe for both riders and drivers is extremely important to me,” said Senator Peters. “I’m proud to once again introduce this resolution recognizing the millions of riders in Michigan and across our country and encouraging everyone to use best practices that will keep folks safe on our roads.”
    Representative Tim Walberg (D-Mich.) is leading the resolution in the House of Representatives.
    “Across the country, and in Michigan, we have a passionate riding community, which I am proudly a member of,” said Rep. Walberg. “The start of spring means a growing number of riders in Michigan are enjoying the open road and the benefits motorcycles bring. However, in 2023, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported 6,335 motorcycle fatalities, highlighting the urgent need for collaborative efforts to enhance motorcycle awareness and safety. This bipartisan, bicameral resolution serves as an important opportunity to encourage all road users to share the road, stay aware, and drive smart.”
    Read the resolution here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen Helps Introduce Bill to Ban Assault Weapons, Protect Nevada Communities from Gun Violence

    US Senate News:

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

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) helped introduce a bill to ban the sale of assault weapons and protect Nevada communities. The bill would ban the sale, transfer, manufacture, and import of military-style assault weapons, high-capacity magazines, and other high-capacity ammunition feeding devices that have repeatedly been used in mass shootings across the nation. While the 1994 assault weapons ban was in place, the United States saw gun massacres decline by 37%, and mass shooting fatalities were 70% less likely. When the ban expired in 2005, gun deaths rose 239%.
    “Senseless acts of gun violence have destroyed communities and torn families apart in Nevada and all across our nation,” said Senator Rosen. “I’m proud to help introduce this bill to ban the sale of assault weapons and take commonsense steps to get weapons of war off of our streets. I will continue taking action to end gun violence while respecting the Second Amendment rights of responsible gun owners.”
    Senator Rosen has been a leader in the fight against gun violence. Earlier this year, Rosen helped introduce commonsense, bipartisan legislation to ban bump stocks and other devices or modifications that allow semi-automatic firearms to increase their rate of fire and effectively operate as fully automatic weapons. Bump stocks were used in the 1 October shooting in Las Vegas. Last Congress, Rosen helped pass the historic Bipartisan Safer Communities Act to enhance background checks on firearm purchases for individuals under 21, fund the implementation of red flag laws, combat firearms trafficking, and invest in school safety and mental health programs. Rosen also helped introduce the Resources for Victims of Gun Violence Act to provide all victims of gun violence and their loved ones with the resources to help meet medical, legal, financial, and other needs. Senator Rosen also helped introduce the Background Check Expansion Act to expand federal background checks to all commercial gun sales, including those made online and at gun shows. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Collins Secures $50 Million for Maine Air National Guard Hangar

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that she secured $50 million for the Maine Air National Guard to construct a new hangar in Bangor.  This funding was included in the Fiscal Year 2025 full-year continuing resolution. 

    “Home to the MAINEiacs, the Maine Air National Guard’s 101st Air Refueling Wing in Bangor plays an important role in our national defense,” said Senator Collins.  “This funding will provide for the construction of a new hangar that will improve the capabilities of the Wing and enhance the Maine Guard’s readiness.”  

    “We are extremely appreciative of the news that the Maine Air National Guard will receive much-needed funding for a new aircraft hangar. This exciting development means that the MAINEiacs will be able to better maintain their current refueler aircraft, while ensuring they have the flexibility to house newer-generation tankers in the future,” said Brigadier General Diane Dunn, the Adjutant General of the Maine National Guard.  “We’d like to thank Senator Collins for her help in ensuring that our tankers and their pilots will have the infrastructure they need in Bangor for years to come.”

    The existing hangar in Bangor was designed and built to accommodate the Wing’s existing KC-135 aerial refueling tankers.  This funding will support the construction of a universal fuel cell hangar that can accommodate the Wing’s existing aircraft as well as future generation tankers, ensuring the Wing can execute its mission well into the future. 

    In June, Senator Collins welcomed former Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall to the Bangor Air National Guard base to visit the 101st Air Refueling Wing, marking the first time that the Secretary of the Air Force has made a dedicated visit to the installation. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Collins’ Statement on President’s Budget Request for Fiscal Year 2026

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, issued a statement on the President’s Budget Request for Fiscal Year 2026.

    “The President’s Budget Request is simply one step in the annual budget process.  This request has come to Congress late, and key details still remain outstanding.  Based on my initial review, however, I have serious objections to the proposed freeze in our defense funding given the security challenges we face and to the proposed funding cuts to – and in some cases elimination of – programs like LIHEAP, TRIO, and those that support biomedical research.  Ultimately, it is Congress that holds the power of the purse.

    “The Appropriations Committee has an aggressive hearing schedule to learn more about the President’s proposal and assess funding needs for the coming year.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Collins Announces Release of Nearly $50 Million in Reimbursement Funding for Northern Light Health for COVID Pandemic Care

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins announced today that $49 million in delayed Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) funding has been released to Northern Light Health by the Maine Emergency Management Agency to reimburse costs associated with its COVID-19 pandemic response. Northern Light Health was among the health care providers that faced significant delays in receiving FEMA disaster relief funding following the pandemic, despite the substantial financial burden it incurred while caring for patients.

    “This funding will help ensure that Northern Light Health is reimbursed for the vital health care it provided to Mainers during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Senator Collins. “From expanding patient capacity, to securing personal protective equipment, and increasing staffing in critical care units, Maine’s hospitals stepped up to care for Maine communities during an unprecedented time of crisis. I strongly advocated for the release of these FEMA funds, and I am pleased to see them finally delivered.”

    “Northern Light Health is incredibly grateful to Senator Collins for securing critical FEMA reimbursements for the expenses related to the care we delivered to our community during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said James Rohrbaugh, Northern Light Health executive vice president and chief financial officer. “We understand FEMA disaster relief funding requires detail and scrutiny to ensure the funds are appropriately directed and that caused a significant delay to our receiving these reimbursements and thank the Senator for never losing sight of this.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen Joins Colleagues in Demanding DOJ Reverse Cancellation of Hundreds of Public Safety and Anti-Crime Grants

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen
    (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) joined 30 of her colleagues in sending a letter to the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) urging Attorney General Pam Bondi and Deputy Assistant Attorney General Maureen Henneberg to reverse the abrupt cancellation of hundreds of public safety grants that serve crime victims and improve public safety in communities across the country. The letter calls on DOJ to provide information about its decision to cancel the grants.
    The Senators wrote, in part: “On April 22, the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Office of Justice Programs (OJP) notified hundreds of grant recipients across the country, without warning, that their funding had been terminated, effective immediately. Many of these grants are authorized by Congress and support programs that have enhanced public safety in communities rural and urban, affluent and poor, Democratic and Republican.”
    The Senators continued: “As DOJ’s largest grantmaking component, OJP over the last several decades has supported crime victim assistance and compensation programs, juvenile justice and child protection activities, sex offender management efforts, criminal justice research, and crime statistics collection. These programs deliver critical resources to state, local, and community advocates who help people with addiction and protect kids, veterans, and victims of crime across the country.”
    The Senators concluded: “Additionally, we advise that the Department restore immediately the grants terminated on April 22. The cursory termination of these programs imperils the public safety of the victims and communities that rely on these critical resources.”
    The full text of the letter can be read here.
    In her role as the former Chair of the U.S. Senate Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies (CJS) Appropriations Subcommittee, Shaheen led efforts to fund programs that increase public safety and support New Hampshire’s law enforcement agencies. In the Fiscal Year 2024 government funding legislation, Shaheen secured $23,212,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending to help build safe and prosperous communities and other priorities.
    Shaheen also champions efforts in the Senate to boost services and programs for survivors of domestic and sexual violence. In the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 CJS Subcommittee Appropriations bill, Shaheen secured and helped advance $739.5 million, the highest funding level ever, for grants authorized by the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA).

    MIL OSI USA News –