NewzIntel.com

Category: US Senate

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hagerty Introduces Daniel Zimmerman, Trump’s Nominee to be Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Tennessee Bill Hagerty
    Zimmerman has served in Hagerty’s office as a Congressional Executive Fellow
    WASHINGTON—Today, United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN) introduced Daniel Zimmerman, President Trump’s nominee to be Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs, at the Senate Armed Services Committee Hearing.  Zimmerman, a 16-year CIA officer, has served in Senator Hagerty’s office as an Executive Branch detailee since January 2024.  During President Trump’s first term, he was detailed to the White House and worked on the Abraham Accords negotiations under then-Senior Advisor Jared Kushner.

    *Click the photo above or here to watch*
    Remarks as prepared for delivery:
    Chairman Wicker and Ranking Member Reed, thank you for holding today’s confirmation hearing.
    It is my honor to introduce my good friend Daniel Zimmerman—President Trump’s nominee to be Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs.
    Daniel is tailor-made for this role.
    For nearly two decades, Daniel has served with distinction at the Central Intelligence Agency, the White House, and, most recently, in the United States Senate.
    While many of the details of his career remain classified, I can share a few anecdotes that highlight his experience and expertise.
    Daniel has risked his life in warzones, working with special operations forces out of Soviet-era bunkers in Iraq to hunt ISIS and other terrorists.
    He has dealt face-to-face with Russian energy oligarchs and traveled the world—from Europe, to the Middle East, to the Indo-Pacific—on sensitive matters related to energy and trade security.
    And Daniel was one of the first people whom the White House hired to support the historic Abraham Accords, which is one of President Trump’s signature achievements from his first term and is still bearing fruit in the Middle East today.
    For the last 15 months, I have had the pleasure of having Daniel on my Senate staff as a detailee.
    During this time, I have found that that his tremendous leadership skills and knowledge of global issues are matched only by his humility and qualities as a colleague and a friend.
    Daniel is the right person to serve as the next Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs and I urge the members of this Committee to move quickly on his nomination.
    Thank you for the time this morning.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hagerty Introduces Charles Kushner, Trump’s Nominee to be U.S. Ambassador to France and Monaco

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Tennessee Bill Hagerty
    WASHINGTON—Today, United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and former U.S. Ambassador to Japan, introduced Charles “Charlie” Kushner, President Trump’s nominee to be U.S. Ambassador to France and Monaco.

    *Click the photo above or here to watch*
    Remarks as prepared for delivery:
    Chairman Risch and Ranking Member Shaheen, thank you for holding this important nominations hearing today.
    It is my honor to introduce my good friend, Charles “Charlie” Kushner—President Trump’s nominee to be the U.S. Ambassador to France and Monaco.
    I have been fortunate to get to know Charlie, his wife Seryl and their wonderful family.
    Their children—Dara, Nicole, Josh, and Jared—are all tremendously successful in their own right and I’ve had the pleasure to know and work closely with Jared and his wife, Ivanka.
    The Kushner children—are a testament to the family’s values and character and are, in many ways, Charlie and Seryl’s finest achievement.
    Charlie truly embodies the “American Dream.”
    As the son of Holocaust survivors who immigrated to the United States in the 1940s with nothing, Charlie rose to become one of the country’s most successful real estate developers—indeed, he’s a skilled and talented negotiator, a leader who treats his employees like family, and a respected philanthropist.
    As a lifelong businessman who served as U.S. Ambassador to Japan during President Trump’s first term, I believe the skills and experiences that have made Charlie successful in the private sector will drive his success as America’s ambassador in Paris.
    Yet President Trump selected Charlie for this role—not only because of his business acumen and experience in tough negotiations, but also because Charlie is a deeply patriotic American who recognizes the strategic and historical importance of our transatlantic relationships.
    Charlie understands the unique and enduring bond between the United States and France—a bond rooted in shared history, democratic values, and mutual interests.
    He is committed to advancing U.S. national security interests by deepening the U.S.-France alliance through pragmatic defense collaboration and fair, reciprocal trade relations.
    In short, Charlie is a do-er, and he’s energized not only to represent our country, but also accomplish things for the American people.
    I am confident that Charlie, when he is confirmed, will work tirelessly to build a more secure and prosperous future for both the American and French people.
    I look forward to his testimony today and to working with my colleagues on this committee to ensure his nomination moves forward as quickly as possible.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Booker, Colleagues Demand DOJ Reverse Cancellation of Hundreds of Public Safety Grants

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) led nearly 30 Democratic senators in sending a letter to the 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 DOJ to provide information about its decision to cancel the grants. 
    “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. While this Administration continues to market itself as the  administration of law and order and public safety, DOJ has decided to defund programs that  prosecutors, police and sheriff’s departments, judges, mental health service providers,  academics, and more depend on to advance the Department’s longstanding ‘core mission of  keeping Americans safe and vigorously enforcing the law,’” the Senators wrote. 
    “Based on public reporting, outreach from grantees, and a DOJ Justice Management Division  (JMD) spreadsheet (Encl. 1), it appears that the Department defunded at least 365 public safety  grants on April 22, 2025. A review of this information reveals that these grants provide support  for victims of crime and resources for communities to ensure public safety,” the Senators continued.
    For example, with these grant terminations, the Department has defunded programs that support victims of crime, combat rape in prison, assist people with mental health disorders, reduce and prevent violence, and support successful reentry. These examples offer only a sample of the critical funding that DOJ abruptly terminated.
    “The magnitude of these defunding measures, Congress’ role in authorizing and appropriating  grant funds, and the negative impacts that the sudden termination of funding will have on public  safety in communities across the country, requires the immediate review of the processes and  decisions that led to the cancellation of these critical grants,” the Senators wrote.
    The Senators requested answers to nine questions about the cancellations, including whether the Department has reallocated the money to other programs and how officials determined which grants should be cancelled. 
    A DOJ JMD spreadsheet (Encl. 1) lists 365 grants that were terminated on April  22.
    Does this spreadsheet represent the entire universe of grants that were  terminated?  
    Are there grants that were terminated that are not reflected on the list? If so, provide the information in every column for these grants. 
    Which grants that were terminated on April 22 have since been restored? For each grant restored, please provide the reason for its restoration.  
    How were the grants that were terminated chosen? What were the factors  considered in making the determination to terminate? Where the affected grantees were state or local jurisdictions, did the political party of state or local officials in  those jurisdictions influence the determination to terminate? 
    Were there entire categories of grants that were terminated? If so, provide the  categories.  
    What is the legal basis for terminating grant funds that are statutorily required? 
    Has DOJ reallocated the funds it rescinded on April 22? Provide any specific  programs or purposes to which these funds will be reallocated. 
    Will DOJ terminate any more grants, from any of its funding components, that  have been obligated or are in cycle? If so, provide the grant-making component  and the grants that will be terminated or are under consideration to be terminated.  
    Was former Tesla employee turned-DOGE staffer Tarak Makecha solely  responsible for selecting which grants to terminate? Provide the names of all  individuals within DOJ who reviewed or approved the cancellation of the grants.  
    Did any White House officials review the grants to be terminated or otherwise  have any involvement in the decision to terminate the grants? Provide their names.
    “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 Senators concluded.
    The letter is cosigned by U.S. Senators Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Chris Coons (D-DE), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Peter Welch (D-VT), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Patty Murray (D-WA), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Gary Peters (D-MI), and Chris Murphy (D-CT). 
    To read the full text of the letter, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 05.01.2025 Sen. Cruz, Rep. Harshbarger Introduce USA Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas Ted Cruz
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) introduced the Universal Savings Account Act, a bill that allows American families to save without the restrictions and penalties associated with traditional tax advantaged accounts.
    Sen. Cruz said, “A simple and accessible incentive savings plan will provide families with a way to establish financial security and prosperity. This bill provides a straightforward solution to those challenges. I strongly urge my colleagues to pass this bill for the future generations of Americans.”
    Companion legislation was introduced in the House by Rep. Diana Harshbarger (R-Tenn.-1).
    Rep. Harshbarger said, “It’s an honor to partner with Senator Cruz on this commonsense legislation to empower Americans to take control of their financial futures. The Universal Savings Account Act cuts through red tape and gives every American a flexible, tax-free way to save, invest, and spend — without government interference or penalties. Washington shouldn’t be in the business of micromanaging how people use their own money. This bill is a win for working families, a win for personal freedom, and a win for financial independence.”
    Read the full text of the bill here.
    BACKGROUND
    Universal saving accounts (USAs) are tax-advantaged savings vehicles with unrestricted use of funds, allowing participants to save, invest, and withdraw funds for any reason.
    This bill would allow the following:
    Distributions from Universal Savings Accounts are not subject to income tax, nor included in gross income.
    An initial contribution limit of $10,000, which increases by $500 every year, before capping at $25,000.
    No contribution limits based on income.
    Experts have found Universal Savings Accounts would boost savings for low-income households, allowing them to better withstand economic shocks, such as pandemics and recessions, and plan for major expenses, such as an expanded family, education, and housing needs.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wicker, Bennet Introduce the American Infrastructure Bonds Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Mississippi Roger Wicker
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Roger Wicker, R-Miss., and Michael Bennet, D-Colo., have introduced the American Infrastructure Bonds Act. This bipartisan legislation would help state and local governments finance critical infrastructure projects. The 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provided much-needed funding, but many rural communities continue to struggle with high interest rates that delay crucial projects. The American Infrastructure Bonds Act would address this challenge by establishing a taxable, direct-pay bond program, expanding investment opportunities for infrastructure improvements nationwide.
    “Local governments need flexibility to invest in the infrastructure their constituency needs, not be stifled by bureaucratic red tape. The American Infrastructure Bonds Act would establish a bond program to expand investment in infrastructure improvements nationwide. This legislation would help rural communities access affordable financing for the necessary infrastructure in their cities and towns,” said Senator Wicker.
    “To build an economy that works for every Coloradan, we have to invest in 21st-century American infrastructure,” said Senator Bennet. “American Infrastructure Bonds are a proven, successful model to expand investments to help state and local leaders build stronger and more resilient communities.”
    Click here for full text of the legislation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla, Kaine, Van Hollen, Schumer to Force Senate Vote Demanding Answers on Trump Administration’s Compliance With Court Orders and El Salvador’s Horrific Human Rights Record

    US Senate News:

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

    Padilla, Kaine, Van Hollen, Schumer to Force Senate Vote Demanding Answers on Trump Administration’s Compliance With Court Orders and El Salvador’s Horrific Human Rights Record

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) introduced a resolution to investigate El Salvador’s human rights abuses and the Trump Administration’s compliance with due process and court orders. Under Senate rules, the members will be able to force a vote on the resolution requiring the Trump Administration to produce a report detailing any steps the Administration is taking to ensure compliance with court orders applicable to U.S. citizens or residents wrongfully deported by the United States to El Salvador; confirming whether U.S. security assistance has been used to support the illegal detention of U.S. residents; and assessing El Salvador’s human rights record. 
    Under existing Senate rules, if the Administration fails to produce the report, security assistance to El Salvador would be prohibited by federal law. Companion legislation is being led in the U.S. House of Representatives by Representative Joaquin Castro (D-Texas-20).
    “El Salvador’s ongoing human rights abuses against detainees at CECOT — including individuals removed from the United States to be detained at the mega-prison — must cease immediately,” said Senator Padilla. “As the Trump Administration upends due process to wrongfully deport people to El Salvador, we must restore fundamental civil liberties, end the inhumane treatment of all detainees, and ensure freedom from oppression for everyone in El Salvador. I stand with Senator Kaine and my colleagues in fighting to hold President Bukele and President Trump accountable over the corrosion of civil liberties and due process in El Salvador being supported by the United States. I also continue to call for the immediate return of those wrongfully deported to El Salvador.”
    “Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele has rounded up tens of thousands of Salvadorans without due process and jammed them indefinitely into overpopulated torture centers. And now he’s trying to do the same to people living in the United States. President Trump is even threatening to send U.S. citizens to these same horrific megaprisons,” said Senator Kaine. “This is a violation of the founding principles of the United States. That’s why I’m forcing a vote on legislation to require this Administration to explain its actions to the American public and shine a bright light on the Bukele regime’s human rights abuses, instead of celebrating them.”
    “Following the ruling of our federal courts that Kilmar Abrego Garcia was illegally deported, the Trump Administration is clearly refusing to comply with their orders to facilitate his return. This legislation would require the Trump Administration to report on the actions they’ve taken in response to the court orders, the Government of El Salvador’s collusion with the Trump Administration to violate due process rights, and the broader human rights concerns in El Salvador. The American people deserve answers on this clear defiance of our nation’s constitutional rights and the extent of El Salvador’s complicity in this scheme, as well its human rights abuses,” said Senator Van Hollen.
    “The cornerstone of American democracy is due process. The Trump administration has taken a sledgehammer to the very basis of our legal system and the rights Americans have as citizens,” said Leader Schumer. “Make no mistake: A threat to one is a threat to all. The courts have spoken and now the Senate needs to ensure that the Trump administration is listening. Senate Democrats will not rest until we have answers.”
    “The Trump Administration has sent numerous people to Salvadoran gulags using a wartime authority and without due process,” said Representative Castro. “El Salvador, under President Bukele, has engaged in well-documented human rights abuses. This resolution demands that the Trump Administration provide documentation of the human rights conditions in El Salvador. If they don’t do so, the law would cut off all security assistance to the country—we will use this resolution to force accountability.”
    As Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Immigration Subcommittee, Senator Padilla has also pushed back against wrongful deportations of U.S. residents to El Salvador. Last month, he joined 24 Senators in urging Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) leadership to return Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a father who was living legally in Maryland with his family until the Trump Administration wrongfully deported him without due process to a maximum-security prison in El Salvador. Padilla also joined Senators Van Hollen and Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.) to meet with Abrego Garcia’s family and wife, Jennifer Vasquez Sura, to discuss the ongoing effort to secure his immediate release. Padilla promised to keep fighting for Abrego Garcia so he can be reunited with his family.
    Full text of the resolution is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Scott Applauds Vice President Vance’s South Carolina Visit

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Tim Scott
    WASHINGTON — Today, Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) released the following statement on Vice President J.D. Vance’s visit to Nucor Steel Plant in Huger, South Carolina. 
    “I am thankful that Vice President Vance took the time to visit Nucor Steel and see first-hand why South Carolina leads the nation in manufacturing. His visit today should help us demonstrate to President Trump how his goal of revitalizing American manufacturing and recognizing the industry’s hard-working men and women can be led by the job creation, innovation, and economic growth in the Palmetto State.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SCHUMER REVEALS: ‘DOGE’ & TRUMP JUST SLASHED $26+ MILLION FOR AMERICORPS PUBLIC SERVICE COMMUNITY PROJECTS ACROSS NEW YORK, AXING 3,600 AMERICORPS NATIONAL SERVICE MEMBERS, WITH MORE DEVASTATING CUTS…

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Charles E Schumer
    Thousands Of AmeriCorps Members Were Just Fired By ‘DOGE’ And NY Community Grants Ripped Away, Cancelling Funds To Help Build Houses, Provide Rural Health Care, Respond To Disasters, Tutor Students, And More
    Every Year Over 22,000 AmeriCorps National Service Participants Work On 1,700+ Projects In Every Corner Of NY, But Now Grants Are Being Cancelled Across The State With Even More Cuts Expected – Senator Breaks Down Impact Region By Region Thus Far And Demands Funding Be Restored
    Schumer: Calling Service-Led Community Projects ‘Government Waste’ Makes No Sense, AmeriCorps Is One Of The Best Bang For Your Buck Programs That Helps NY Communities In Need
    After Trump and ‘DOGE’ placed a majority of AmeriCorps employees on leave and terminated nearly $400 million in AmeriCorps grants nationally earlier this month, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer today revealed this has impacted over 3,600 NY community service members slashing over $26 million in federal funding for local community projects in every corner of New York State, and with more potential cuts on the horizon the senator broke down the impacts region by region to show just how deep these cuts go. 
    Schumer said this is the first step towards dismantling AmeriCorps entirely would devastate New York, which has over 1,700 AmeriCorps projects, and is demanding that NY House Republicans stand up to protect this vital public service and join him in his push to immediately reverse these cuts. All of these AmeriCorps programs have long-standing bipartisan support having been previously authorized by Congress and funded by the annual appropriations bill passed by Congress and signed into law, making ‘DOGE’s’ cuts unlawful.
    “AmeriCorps is one of the world’s greatest service programs, and one of the best bang for your buck federal investments in addressing community needs and in the future of our country. But across New York hundreds of AmeriCorps community service participants were just egregiously fired and had their funding ripped away halting their critical work helping the communities they serve. This is funding that provides rural healthcare in the Southern Tier, helps children learn to read in Buffalo, expands job training opportunities in Albany, and so much more to fill in the gaps by linking national service participants with opportunities to gain experience serving their country. This critical work will now cease as these members are dismissed and funding is ripped away from our communities by Trump and ‘DOGE,’” said Senator Schumer. “I am all for cutting out inefficiency, but you use a scalpel, not a chainsaw. You don’t dismiss thousands of members who have dedicated their time to public service and giving back to underserved communities – it makes no sense. These are community projects that wouldn’t happen without AmeriCorps and we need these cuts reversed NOW and for NY Republicans to stand up in opposition to eliminating funding for AmeriCorps.”
    In recent days, Trump and ‘DOGE’ cut roughly 75% of full-time AmeriCorps employees and dismissed thousands of national service participants working on projects in every corner of the country, including over 3,600 community service participants across New York and cancelling over $26 million in grant funding, meaning in many instances these projects will not continue. You can find a full list of cut projects across Upstate NY according to AmeriCorps linked HERE. Some projects cut or facing threats by the Trump administration include:
    In Buffalo, AmeriCorps members were tutoring more than 2,500 students across 4 schools in the school district through City Year, helping students improve attendance and academic performance. In addition, more AmeriCorps members were building homes through Habitat for Humanity.
    In the Southern Tier, AmeriCorps members based in Binghamton were providing health care services to rural communities across the Southern Tier through the Rural Health Network of South Central New York.
    In Rochester, AmeriCorps members were improving academic engagement and college and career readiness throughout the Rochester City School District through Monroe Community College and providing public health apprenticeships through Flower City Public Health Corps.
    In the Capital Region, AmeriCorps members were providing free support for high schoolers applying for federal student aid through SUNY and training to be dispute resolution practitioners.
    In Central NY and the North Country, AmeriCorps members were working with local children providing mentoring, nutrition, and fitness education through Oswego AmeriCorps and working supporting outdoor-based education initiatives in the Adirondacks community through the Wild Center.
    In the Hudson Valley, AmeriCorps members were working with local children through We Prosper Family Organization.
    A breakdown of dismissed volunteers and cut federal funding by region for Upstate NY can be found below:

    Region

    Federal Funding

    Capital Region

    $6,439,224

    Rochester-Finger Lakes

    $2,556,668

    Western NY

    $2,285,041

    Southern Tier

    $647,910

    Central NY & North Country

    $636,020

    Hudson Valley

    $132,300

    TOTAL FOR UPSTATE NY-BASED PROJECTS

    $12,697,163

    Across New York State, there are over 22,000 national service members working on over 1,700 projects. AmeriCorps and its partners generated more than $20 million in outside resources from businesses, foundations, public agencies, and other sources in New York last year. Schumer said AmeriCorps members and communities that are impacted by these latest cuts are just the tip of the iceberg, with more cuts being announced every day that could soon hit other projects such as the Rockland Head Start program which provides child care, Interfaith Works in Syracuse which supports Central New York seniors, and Lifespan which provides services to seniors across Upstate NY such as training for part time jobs as senior companions in Central New York and health and wellness programs for seniors in the Rochester Finger-Lakes region.
    ‘There is no rhyme or reason to the project and grant terminations, other than DOGE was forcing AmeriCorps to get to a bottom-line dollar amount. The reason for eliminating over half the staff is very clear: This administration does not value the contributions of public servants who have been quietly administering an extremely efficient agency that engages Americans all across the country in service, which in addition to providing critical services, strengthens civic engagement and ties between people of all backgrounds,” said Kelly Daly, President, AFSCME Local 2027.
    “AmeriCorps gets things done by filling unmet local needs, while bolstering a sense of community,  advancing personal responsibility, and boosting the upward mobility of its participants.  We have used AmeriCorps members to build the capacity of anti-hunger organizations throughout the state. In many ways, AmeriCorps is a conservative program. You don’t get a penny unless you work, most program funding decisions are made by states rather than the federal government, and the vast majority of participants serve with nonprofit groups (not government agencies). AmeriCorps is one the most cost-effective ways to solve social problems because it harnesses the immense energy of citizen service. Thus, if conservatives were ideologically consistent, they would increase rather than gut AmeriCorps funding. We thank Leader Schumer for keeping the government running and keep many AmeriCorps projects alive as long as possible, and for taking on the fight to protect AmeriCorps,” said Joel Berg, CEO of Hunger Free America, a national nonpartisan nonprofit organization headquartered in New York.
    Executive Director of PEACE, Inc., Carolyn D. Brown said, “PEACE, Inc.’s AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparent Program allows our community’s seniors to share their time and their expertise through mentoring. Statistics show how the program improves the lives of our Foster Grandparent volunteers and both the academic performance and the social emotional skills of youth in elementary schools, Head Starts, and children’s centers. If our program was eliminated, 68 Foster Grandparent volunteers would lose their positions, and 225 vulnerable youth would lose critical interventions. These numbers would prove devastating for a city like Syracuse where nearly 1 out of 2 children live in poverty.”
    “InterFaith Works’ Senior Companion Program connects older volunteers with older adults and caregivers, for in home companionship and friendly visits. For as little as $3000 per year, vulnerable older adults stay socially connected, get help with daily activities, and age well at home – and out of costly nursing homes. Working caregivers get free in home respite for up to 40 hours per week, so they can maintain their jobs and attend to their personal needs. Senior Companion volunteers are all low-income older adults who receive a small stipend, stay active, and keep themselves healthy, too. Funding cuts would eliminate these critical and cost-effective supports for over 300 vulnerable older adults and their caregivers throughout the Central New York community,” said Lori Klivak, Director of the Center for Healthy Aging at InterFaith Works of CNY.
    “In the past five years, City Year AmeriCorps members have served in Buffalo schools to help thousands of students engage more deeply with their learning, stay on track to graduate, and reach their full potential, and these corps members receive professional development and gain skills that prepare them to enter the workforce as our region’s most in-demand employees,” said City Year Buffalo Executive Director Jacqueline Ashby. “We’re grateful to Senator Schumer for his steadfast support in championing the national service program AmeriCorps that makes this important work possible, and that benefits our community, local economy, education system and workforce development here in Western New York.”
    Across the country, AmeriCorps deploys more than 200,000 Americans annually to carry out results-driven projects at over 35,000 locations. National service participants serve in hundreds of nonprofit organizations, public agencies, and community and faith-based organizations, in rural and urban communities throughout the country. They mentor youth, build affordable housing, help communities respond to disasters, and build the capacity of nonprofit groups to extend and improve their impact by leveraging community service participants. In exchange for their services, AmeriCorps members earn an education award to pay for college or to pay off qualified student loans. A non-partisan study showed that there are an estimated $17 in benefits returned for every taxpayer dollar spent. In addition, Schumer said AmeriCorps is a long-standing, bipartisan program and failing to use AmeriCorps funding for its intended purpose as appropriated by Congress would be a violation of the law.
    Schumer led dozens of his colleagues’ in a recent letter to the President on these devastating cuts, which can be found HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: King, Daines Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Preserve America’s Parks and Public Lands

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Angus King

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Angus King (I-ME) and Steve Daines (R-MT), leaders of the Senate National Parks Subcommittee, are introducing bipartisan legislation to strengthen and better manage public lands across the country. The America the Beautiful Act would reauthorize the National Parks and Public Land Legacy Restoration Fund (LRF) and increase its funding to address serious maintenance backlog and ensure that America’s public lands can be enjoyed for generations to come. 

    Senator King first introduced the bipartisan Restore Our Parks Act in July 2018 which established the “National Park Service Legacy Restoration Fund” to reduce the maintenance backlog by allocating existing revenues the government collects from on and offshore energy development. It was passed in the 2020 Great American Outdoors Act, but now requires reauthorization.

    “People travel from across the globe to experience the natural beauty of America’s public lands — from Maine to Montana and across the nation,” said Senator King, Ranking Member of the Senate National Parks Subcommittee. “However, deferred repairs on aging infrastructure like roads and trails can become unsafe and diminish the visitor experience for those enjoying our public lands and National Parks. By addressing maintenance backlog and reauthorizing the Legacy Restoration Fund, the bipartisan America the Beautiful Act will help better protect our lands and the visitor experience. This is an important step forward in creating lasting protections for our public lands and continues to demonstrate that stewardship is not partisan.”

    “When President Trump signed my Great American Outdoors Act into law in 2020, it was the greatest conservation win for Montana and the entire country in 50 years. I’m proud to work with my colleagues to strengthen that win and protect our outdoor way of life for generations to come,” said Senator Daines, Chairman of the Senate National Parks Subcommittee. “The America the Beautiful Act will fund crucial projects and address maintenance backlogs, so that people can get outside and enjoy the natural beauty we’re lucky to have here in the U.S.” 

    “America’s parks are our legacy to uphold — and bold action is essential to fulfill that promise. The National Park Foundation applauds Senators Daines and King for their leadership in introducing bipartisan legislation to reauthorize the Legacy Restoration Fund,” said Jeff Reinbold, President and CEO of the National Park Foundation. “Since its establishment through the Great American Outdoors Act, this vital program has already delivered billions toward transformative infrastructure projects across our national parks. As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, reauthorizing this investment affirms a bold democratic ideal — that every generation deserves to experience our parks as we do today. We look forward to working with Congress to ensure these magnificent landscapes and historic sites can continue welcoming visitors for generations to come.”

    “We applaud the leadership of U.S. Senators Steve Daines (R-MT) and Angus King (I-ME) in reintroducing legislation to reauthorize the Legacy Restoration Fund. This proven, bipartisan investment keeps national parks running. The reauthorization of this bill will allow Acadia National Park to continue to make progress against a long list of needed projects that are essential for protecting resources and elevating the visitor experience. With nearly 4 million visits to Acadia in 2024 alone, and over 330 million to national parks nationwide, continued investment to maintain park infrastructure is critical,”  said Eric Stiles, President & CEO, Friends of Acadia.

    The America the Beautiful Act reauthorizes the LRF for through 2033 and increases funding to $2 billion per year to help address the maintenance backlog in national parks and public lands. Currently, the maintenance backlog for each agency is as follows:

    1. U.S. Park Service: $23.26 billion
    2. U.S. Forest Service: $8.695 billion
    3. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service: $2.65 billion
    4. U.S. Bureau of Land Management: $5.72 billion
    5. U.S. Bureau of Indian Education: $804.5 million

    Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Mark Warner (D-VA), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) are original cosponsors of the America the Beautiful Act. The legislation is supported by over 40 public lands, conservation and recreation groups. 

    Read the bill text HERE and a one pager on the bill HERE.

    As a lifelong advocate for conservation and Chairman of the Energy and Natural Resources Subcommittee on National Parks, Senator King is among the Senate’s most prominent voices advocating for conservation. Senator King helped lead the passage the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA) into law; the legislation that included the Legacy Restoration Fund (LRF). Because of his work, in 2020, Senator King was awarded the inaugural National Park Foundation (NPF) “Hero” Award. Since the creation of the LRF, Senator King has pushed park leaders to discuss funding maintenance efforts, maintaining a sufficient NPS workforce, and managing growing park visitation.

    Senator King’s work on this legislation is the culmination of more than four decades of work on land conservation efforts in Maine, including helping to establish the Land for Maine’s Future program in 1987 and supporting extensive conservation projects during his time as Governor. Under King’s leadership in his eight years as Maine governor, he put more Maine land under conservation than in the state’s 175 year history.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Murkowski, Schatz Reintroduce Legislation to Help Veterans with Disabilities

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Lisa Murkowski

    05.01.25

    Washington, DC – U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Brian Schatz (D-HI) reintroduced the Deliver for Veterans Act. This legislation expands an existing Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) grant program to allow the funds awarded to a veteran to acquire an adapted vehicle to also be used to cover the cost of shipping the vehicle to where it’s needed. 

    “Our veterans in rural Alaska, deserve the same access to the specialized grant programs and services that they would get if they lived elsewhere in the country,” said Senator Murkowski. “There is a significant financial burden associated with transporting a car to many of the rural communities around Alaska. As the state with the highest number of veterans per capita, I want those with disabilities living in Alaska to be able to benefit from the VA’s many excellent programs. Ensuring that they can affordably transport handicapped-modified vehicles to their homes is an important step.”

    “Disabled veterans deserve access to every benefit they have earned – regardless of where they live,” said Senator Schatz. “Our bill is about basic fairness and will help disabled veterans in Hawai‘i and other isolated areas receive the specialized vehicles they need to go about their daily lives.”

    At present, the program provides eligible veterans with a stipend of $26,417.20 to purchase or modify accessible vehicles. However, those funds cannot be used to ship their vehicles, making it exceedingly difficult for veterans to acquire these vehicles in Alaska and Hawaii. The Deliver for Veterans Act would amend the grant program to allow coverage of these additional costs.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján Announces Legislation to Lower Taxes for Hardworking New Mexicans

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Senator for New Mexico Ben Ray Luján

    Senate Democrats Introduce Tax Breaks for Working Families While GOP Pushes Tax Scam for Nation’s Wealthiest

    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M), a member of the Senate Committee on Finance, cosponsored the Tax Cut for Workers Act, legislation to give thousands of New Mexicans a much-needed tax break. The bill would make permanent the American Rescue Plan Act’s expansions of the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), continuing one of the largest-ever tax breaks for the middle class.

    The American Rescue Plan Act, which Senator Luján championed into law, made several critical expansions of the EITC, including nearly tripling the maximum EITC benefit for workers without children from roughly $540 to roughly $1,500 and raising the income limit from about $16,000 to $21,000 for single filers and from about $22,000 to $27,000 for married filers. It also made individuals aged 19 to 24 and 65 and older newly eligible for the credit. While the American Rescue Plan’s EITC provisions expired the end of 2021, they had a significant impact, increasing disposable income among America’s working families.

    “As President Trump’s reckless economic agenda continues to increase costs, we must find ways to make life more affordable for hardworking New Mexicans,” said Senator Luján. “That is why I am cosponsoring the Tax Cut for Workers Act to bring a tax break for New Mexicans that need it most. I am committed to lowering costs and will fight so that hardworking New Mexicans – who contribute to our economy – are the beneficiaries of any tax break, not the nation’s wealthiest.”

    The Tax Cut for Workers Act will cut taxes for 111,000 New Mexicans by expanding the Earned Income Tax Credit to workers without children. The bill also extends eligibility for the tax cut to workers under the age of 25 and over the age of 64.

    In addition to Senator Luján, the legislation is co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Angus King (I-Maine), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.).

    The full text of the bill is here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper Cheers Final Passage of His Bill to Curb AI Deepfakes, Protect Our Children

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Colorado John Hickenlooper

    TAKE IT DOWN Act will crack down on malicious uses of AI and protect victims of “deepfake porn”

    Legislation passed the Senate this February, now heads to President’s desk to be signed into law

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper celebrated the final passage of the bipartisan Tools to Address Known Exploitation by Immobilizing Technological Deepfakes on Websites and Networks (TAKE IT DOWN) Act, which he helped reintroduce and pass out of the Senate earlier this year. This legislation protects Americans by making it unlawful for a person to knowingly publish sexually explicit deepfake images of an identifiable individual, and requiring social media companies and websites to promptly remove the images.

    The bill now heads to the President’s desk to be signed into law.

    “AI innovation is changing so much about our world, but it can’t come at the cost of our children’s privacy and safety,” said Hickenlooper. “We have a narrow window to get out in front of this technology. We can’t miss it.”

    New generative artificial intelligence tools are able to create lifelike, but fake, imagery depicting real people, known as deepfakes. Deepfakes have recently been used to target minors, including incidents where classmates used AI tools to create sexually explicit images of other classmates that they then shared on social media.

    The Take It Down Act criminalizes the publication of non-consensual, intimate imagery (NCII), including AI-generated “deepfakes,” and requires social media platforms and online sites to remove NCII within 48 hours of notice.

    Specifically, the TAKE IT DOWN Act:

    1. Criminalizes the publication of NCII in interstate commerce. The bill makes it unlawful for a person to knowingly publish NCII on social media and other online platforms. NCII is defined to include realistic, computer-generated pornographic images and videos that depict identifiable, real people. The bill also clarifies that a victim consenting to the creation of an authentic image does not mean that the victim has consented to its publication.
    1. Protects good faith efforts to assist victims. The bill permits the good faith disclosure of NCII, such as to law enforcement, in narrow cases.
    1. Requires websites to take down NCII upon notice from the victim. Social media and other websites will be required to have procedures in place to remove NCII, pursuant to a valid request from a victim, within 48 hours. Websites must also make reasonable efforts to remove copies of the images. The FTC is charged with enforcement of this section.
    1. Protects lawful speech. The bill is narrowly tailored to criminalize knowingly publishing NCII without barring lawful speech. The bill respects first amendment protections by requiring that computer-generated NCII meet a “reasonable person” test. Meaning, it must appear to realistically depict an individual.

    Full text of the bill available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper, Tillis, Smucker, Sewell Reintroduce Bipartisan Bill to Help Americans Save for Retirement

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Colorado John Hickenlooper

    Bipartisan, bicameral Retirement Savings for Americans Act would make saving for retirement attainable for American workers

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper and Thom Tillis and Representatives Lloyd Smucker and Terri Sewell reintroduced the Retirement Savings for Americans Act (RSAA) to help working Americans build wealth and save for retirement.

    “Americans who work hard their entire lives deserve to retire with dignity,” said Hickenlooper. “This bill helps low-income workers enjoy a secure retirement and fulfill their American dream.’’

    “Roughly 50 million Americans lack access to an employer-sponsored retirement plan, which represents a significant roadblock to achieving financial security for their retirement,” said Tillis. “The Retirement Savings for Americans Act tackles this real problem by establishing a pathway for savings for Americans lacking retirement options.”

    “Too many hard-working Americans are not able to prepare financially for retirement. Over half of working employees lack access to the tax-advantaged retirement benefits that many higher-income earners take advantage of to save. Additionally, as the workforce continues to innovate and more Americans become categorized as “gig workers,” the reliance on traditional employer-sponsored plans causes too many workers to slip through the cracks. Hard-working Americans deserve a modern pathway to find financial security in their retirement. I am proud to join in this bipartisan and bicameral effort to advance the Retirement Savings for Americans Act, to help millions of Americans save for their retirements. I will continue to advocate for policies which help hard workers live their American Dream, including a well-earned and financially stable retirement,” said Smucker.

    “Every Alabamian and every American should be able to retire with dignity after a lifetime of work,” said Sewell. “Democrats and Republicans alike recognize the urgent need for Congress to address the gaps in our retirement system and make it easier for low- and middle-income workers to save for retirement. I am proud to once again work with my House and Senate colleagues on both sides of the aisle to advance the Retirement Savings for Americans Act which would level the playing field for working families and build a stronger economy for all Americans.”

    The bill would establish a new program that gives eligible workers access to portable, tax-advantaged retirement savings accounts. It would also allow the federal government to match contributions for low- and middle-income workers, with the match beginning to phase out at median income.

    “Nearly 1 out of 4 Americans has no retirement savings, and more than half of all Americans report they are concerned they will not achieve financial security in retirement. We know that Americans are much more likely to save when they have access to retirement savings options at work. Today nearly half of all private-sector employees do not have access to an employer-sponsored retirement savings program. The Retirement Savings for Americans Act would help more families across the country save for retirement,” said Bill Sweeney, Senior Vice President of Government Affairs, AARP.

    “Creating this kind of program meets an obligation we all share to help every working American build financial security and well-being in retirement. I also know it will offset future support we surely would have to provide if we don’t help more people begin to build that security today. And in true American spirit, it isn’t a giveaway, but an incentive for working individuals to begin helping themselves and their families,” Charles R. Schwab, Founder and Chairman, Charles Schwab Corporation.

    “The Retirement Savings for Americans Act would create a healthier retirement system, a more financially secure workforce, and a stronger economy for all Americans,” said John Lettieri, President and CEO, Economic Innovation Group. “By ensuring that all workers — regardless of their employer or income — have the opportunity and incentives to build long-term financial security, the RSAA would boost the wealth of the working class and significantly reduce the strain on the social safety net over time. EIG is proud to have worked closely with Senators Hickenlooper and Tillis and Representatives Smucker and Sewell on this important legislation, and we applaud them for their bipartisan leadership on behalf of American workers.”

    Specifically, the Retirement Savings for Americans Act contains the following provisions:

    • Eligibility and Auto Enrollment: Full- and part-time workers who lack access to an employer-sponsored retirement plan would be eligible for an account, and they would be automatically enrolled, contributing 3% of their income. They could choose to increase or decrease their withholding, or opt out entirely at any time. Independent workers (including gig workers) would also be eligible.
    • Federal Contribution: Low- and moderate-income workers would be eligible for a 1% automatic contribution (as long as they remain employed) and up to a 4% matching contribution via a refundable federal tax credit. This would begin to phase out at median income.
    • Portability: Accounts would remain attached to workers throughout their lifetimes, and workers would be able to stop and start contributions at will.
    • Private Assets: The accounts would be the property of the worker and the assets could be passed down to future generations to help them build wealth and financial security.
    • Investment Options: Much like the current Thrift Savings Plan, participants would be given a menu of simple, low-fee investment options to choose from, including lifecycle funds tied to a worker’s estimated retirement date, or index funds made of stocks and bonds.

    View a one-page explainer of the bill HERE.

    Full text of the bill is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Delivers Statement from Coach Bruce Pearl to Commemorate Israel’s Independence Day

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville

    WASHINGTON – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) delivered a statement from Auburn Basketball Coach Bruce Pearl during a Special Committee on Aging hearing on Israel’s Independence Day. The hearing was focused on combatting antisemitism.

    The hearing featured several witnesses, including former Congressman Ted Deutch and Rabbi Mark Rosenberg.

    See excerpts from Sen. Tuberville’s remarks below or watch on YouTube or Rumble.

    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and thanks to all of you for being here and your heartfelt statements. Very, very much needed. Before I start my questions, I wanna read a statement here from a good friend of mine. His name is Coach Bruce Pearl, who is currently in Jerusalem, and he’ll be there for a couple of weeks. He would have loved to have been here.

    ‘Shalom from Jerusalem. I’m an American Jewish college basketball coach visiting my ancestral homeland. Yesterday was Israel’s Remembrance Day. Today is Israel’s Independence Day. This is a very emotional time for everyone here because this country has been at war since birth.

    Hours ago, I left Knesset where I was in attendance, along with Prime Minister Netanyahu, President Herzog, and about a thousand citizens honoring the fallen. I’m angry. I’m very angry. What I would ask of this committee is the courage to speak to our educators. We must teach our children. I’m very proud that in the state of Alabama, we have mandatory Holocaust education for middle school students. If we choose not to teach them, somebody else will. None of us can explain […] it or understand why the Jewish people have been targeted.

    We have to do two things. We have to protect ourselves from those who want to kill us, and we have to try to live exemplary lives so that maybe the uncertain won’t hate us. Our educational institutions want to stay neutral, leaving our young people to find out the truth on their own. I am proud to be an American. This country saved my family’s life, rescuing my grandfather from Ternopil in 1929. I will be forever grateful.’

    God bless Coach Bruce Pearl, Auburn University. The issue we’re seeing today on college campuses, and this is from me, is being reinforced by the culture and values being taught on all the campuses. Good people in this country are being taught that Palestinians are the freedom fighters and the people who are being oppressed. They are being taught that the facts on the ground of the Middle East are not true. Why is this happening on university campuses?

    It’s the same reason why our players would kneel for our flag and the national anthem. Because they’re not being taught to love this country. They’ve been taught that they’re oppressed. They have not been taught to love and appreciate the opportunities this country gives them. They have not been taught what’s really going on in the Middle East.

    Young people wanna have a cause, and they have now chosen to stand against freedom because of lies and propaganda. So, congressman, we have unfortunately seen antisemitic attacks spike since the October 7th Hamas terrorist attack. Many of the victims of these attacks have been elderly Jewish Americans. How can the United States government better protect its citizens, particularly the elderly from such attacks?”

    DEUTCH: “Senator Tuberville, thank you. First of all, I appreciate your reading that statement from Coach Pearl who stopped at the AJC Global Forum in New York on his way to Israel. We are, as I’m sure you are, quite proud of his leadership on these issues. There is an enormous amount that Congress can do. I want—it’s important though to emphasize that facts really matter here, and what you said is so important. Some of the protests that we saw, the ones that happened on October 8th and 9th, were not protests about anything that Israel was doing, the IDF, Israeli Defense Forces, hadn’t even gone into Gaza to defend the people of Israel and the Jewish people. The people who took to the streets immediately [took] to the streets with signs that had a terrorist and a hang glider as their call to action were there to do one thing, which is to support the Hamas terrorists who slaughtered 1,200 Jews and whose goal is the destruction of Israel and the massacre of Jews.

    Congress can play a vital role both in helping to keep seniors, Jewish seniors, and all Jews safe by focusing on security and nonprofit security grants. Congress can play an important role in helping everyone understand and identify what antisemitism actually is for those who don’t spend time thinking about this the way that we believe the country should in passing the Antisemitism Awareness Act. And we think that Congress can play a really vital role in making sure that on those campuses when the civil rights of Jewish students are violated, when anyone’s Title VI rights are violated that the Office of Civil Rights, the Department of Education, has the funding necessary to actually conduct the investigations and hold those who committed these acts accountable. Accountability matters on campuses across America. Jewish students have the right to speak out and feel safe like every other group on campus.”

    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you. Rabbi, I am proud that we now have the most pro-Israel and pro-Jewish President of my life back in the White House. President Trump has made it clear: if universities continue allowing antisemitic propaganda on their campuses, they will lose their federal funding. Outside of this, what steps do universities and school administrators need to take to put an end to all this?”

    ROSENBERG: “Well, firstly, they need to follow the law, and I hope that if the law is on their side, why don’t we see college campuses go rob 14 stores every day? Why don’t we see iPhones, Android phones go missing every day? Why? Why don’t the 7/11s around the colleges don’t have a problem with people coming into the store? Because there is law and order. And I strongly believe that if what my friend over here said that if we do that, we’re not gonna have an issue. If people are taught to love like young children, they need to know what’s right and what’s wrong. And right now, it’s right, it’s a movement, it’s a cause, and I’ve been to college campuses myself. And, you know, for 40 plus years, I grew up in upstate New York. I never experienced anything whatsoever, we all got along.
    Now at this time of my life, I have to walk on a college campus and feel weird that I’m wearing a yamaka. I don’t feel that I’m gonna be robbed. I feel that I’m gonna be identified because I’m a Jew.”

    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you. My time is up, but I appreciate y’all coming and speaking the truth. And as my buddy and fellow coach Bruce Pearl would say, I think one of the biggest answers to this question is education. We need to educate people the right way. Thank you and God bless you.”

    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell Questions Commerce Deputy Sec Nominee on Drastic NOAA Cuts: “We Are Going to Hold This Administration Accountable.”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell

    05.01.25

    Cantwell Questions Commerce Deputy Sec Nominee on Drastic NOAA Cuts: “We Are Going to Hold This Administration Accountable.”

    At committee hearing, Cantwell takes Dabbar to task over admin’s decision to slash 2.5K employees from NOAA NOAA’s core functions like weather forecasting, predicting climate change impacts, and fishery stock assessments are crucial to the PNW

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, grilled Paul Dabbar – President Trump’s nominee to serve as Deputy Secretary of Commerce – on the administration’s plans to gut the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) during a hearing before the Commerce committee.

    “The Department continues to slash essential workers at NOAA, with approximately 2,500 employees of the 12,000-person workforce fired or otherwise departing since the start of this administration. These staffing shortages are already impacting NOAA’s core functions, including reduced and suspended weather balloon launches at many of our weather forecast offices — and I can’t tell you how important this is for us, particularly related to fire season, these NOAA weather activities are giving us essential data about how best to prepare for fire season — and further cuts are expected in the coming weeks.

    “On top of that, the Trump administration is pursuing a 2026 budget proposal that would reduce NOAA’s budget by more than 27%, including a 75% cut to the Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research, the closures of all its weather climate labs, and an 85% cut to the Office of Space Commerce.

    “I can tell you this, Mr. Dabbar, as somebody who ran a science organization, that we are going to hold this administration accountable for the cuts in science. It is not acceptable. Innovation is the way we’re going to grow our economy. It is the way we are going to protect our industries that exist today.

    “At the same time, the administration is calling for major reorganizations of NOAA, including moving part of the National [Marine Fisheries] Service to the Department of Interior. I’m not sure why the most important management resource we have for our fisheries, having our science management system, we would give up to the Department of Interior.

    “I’m particularly shocked to see this proposal, given that Mr. Lutnick promised to me during this confirmation hearing that ‘I have no interest in separating NOAA.’ And that breaking up NOAA ‘is not on my agenda.’ What changed?” Sen. Cantwell said.

    In February, Sen. Cantwell voted against confirming Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, citing – among other issues – his “tepid support” for NOAA. She then sent a letter to Lutnick directly following his confirmation calling on him to exempt the National Weather Service (NWS) from the federal hiring freeze, and protect all NOAA workers from firings “that would jeopardize the safety of the American public.”

    NOAA provides critical services to the nation including weather forecasts, extreme storm tracking and monitoring, tools to enable communities to adapt to sea level rise and climate change, supporting fisheries management, and conserving marine mammals and other protected species.

    Sen. Cantwell is a champion of NOAA and helped secure $3.3 billion in NOAA investments in the Inflation Reduction Act to help communities prepare for and adapt to climate change, boost science needed to understand changing weather and climate patterns, and invest in advanced computer technologies that are critical for extreme weather prediction and emergency response. Her Fire Ready Nation Act, bipartisan legislation to strengthen NOAA’s ability to help forecast, prevent, and fight wildfires, passed the Commerce committee unanimously earlier this year and now heads to the full Senate for consideration.

    Video of Sen. Cantwell’s remarks in the hearing today can be watched HERE; audio is HERE; and a transcript is HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Capito Applauds House Passage of Resolutions to Repeal California’s Radical EV Mandate

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, applauded the House of Representatives’ passage of joint resolutions of disapproval under the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to repeal California’s EV waivers that prohibit the sale of new gas-powered light-duty vehicles by 2035, and set unrealistic and stringent requirements for heavy-duty trucks and heavy-duty diesel engines. Chairman Capito and U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), and Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.) have introduced identical resolutions in the Senate.

    “I congratulate my House colleagues for taking this important step towards eliminating the radical California waivers and displaying the bipartisan support behind reversing the EV mandate. We know these rules would not only eliminate consumer choice, but also create harmful impacts across multiple sectors of our economy that would lead to major job losses felt far outside of California. I continue to work with my colleagues and Senate Republican leadership to address all options available in the Senate to repeal these rules,” Chairman Capito said.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Commerce Committee Unanimously Passes Sullivan-Whitehouse FISH Act to Combat Illegal Foreign Seafood Harvest

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Dan Sullivan

    05.01.25

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) thanked their colleagues on the Senate Commerce, Science & Transportation Committee for unanimously passing their Fighting Foreign Illegal Seafood Harvest (FISH) Act yesterday. The FISH Act would combat foreign illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing by blacklisting offending vessels from U.S. ports and waters, bolstering the U.S. Coast Guard’s enforcement capabilities and partnerships, and advancing international and bilateral negotiations to achieve enforceable agreements and treaties. The legislation is cosponsored by Sens. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) and Roger Wicker (R-Miss.).

    [embedded content]

    “The geopolitics of the North Pacific and the Arctic are changing dramatically, with Russia and China increasing their aggression and ruinous activities near Alaska’s waters,” said Sen. Sullivan. “One particularly insidious threat is Chinese and Russian fishing fleets that ignore basic seafood harvest rules and best practices, and ravage fish stocks without regard for any other users or future generations. These grey fleets, which literally utilize slave labor in many cases, are a cancer on fisheries throughout the world and undercut our fishermen, who fish sustainably. I want to thank my Commerce Committee colleagues for unanimously passing our FISH Act and fighting back against IUU fishing on behalf of our fishermen and coastal communities.”

    “I thank Senator Sullivan, my longtime partner on oceans issues, for his leadership in shepherding the bipartisan FISH Act through the Commerce Committee. Our bill cracks down on illegal pirate fishing operations to level the playing field for Rhode Island fishermen and processors who play by the rules, and will help nurture the fisheries that keep our oceans and coastal communities so healthy and vibrant,” said Sen. Whitehouse, co-founder of the Senate Oceans Caucus.

    The FISH Act builds on prior landmark legislation against IUU fishing, including the Maritime SAFE Act, authored by Senators Wicker and Chris Coons (D-Del.) and signed into law in December 2019 as part of the National Defense Authorization Act.

    Key provisions of the FISH Act: 

    • Direct the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to establish a blacklist of foreign vessels and owners that have engaged in IUU fishing.
    • Direct the administration to address IUU fishing in any relevant international agreement.
    • Direct the U.S. Coast Guard to increase its work with partner countries and increase at-sea inspection of foreign vessels suspected of IUU fishing.
    • Direct the administration to report to Congress on how new technologies can aid in the fight against IUU fishing, the complexities of the seafood trade relationship between Russia and China, and the economic costs of IUU fishing to the U.S.

    On April 17, President Trump signed an executive order, “Restoring American Seafood Competitiveness,” directing the Secretary of Commerce, U.S. Trade Representative (USTR), and Interagency Seafood Trade Task Force to assess seafood competitiveness issues and collectively develop a comprehensive seafood trade strategy. Among these strategies, the USTR will examine the relevant trade practices of major seafood-producing nations, including IUU fishing and the use of forced labor in the seafood supply chain.

    Senators Sullivan and Whitehouse have worked together extensively on ocean sustainability issues, most notably on the Save Our Seas 2.0 Act, the most comprehensive legislation ever to address the global marine debris crisis, which became law in 2020.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Peters, Cassidy Announce Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen the Resiliency of U.S. Power Grids

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Bill Cassidy (R-LA) announced new bipartisan legislation to strengthen the resiliency of power grids across the country. The senators’ Preventing Power Outages Act would reauthorize two U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) grant programs that help states and utilities invest in modernizing their grid infrastructure to ensure the power stays on even in the face of extreme weather and natural disasters. The bill would also update these programs to ensure that sufficient funding goes to states whose grids are least reliable and require the most investment.  

    “Thousands of Michigan households lost power for weeks on end after the catastrophic ice storm that recently hit Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula, and our dedicated lineman are still working to fully restore power in some communities. This devastating storm was just one of many severe weather events in recent years that significantly disrupted our electrical grid and, as a result, risked the safety of Michiganders. It’s clear that our power infrastructure is in dire need of upgrades in order to keep our residents safe, keep energy costs down, and meet the growing demands of our communities,” said Senator Peters. “I’m leading this bipartisan bill to help ensure Michigan can access the federal resources we need to strengthen our power grid to reduce outages, improve reliability, and deliver affordable power to every Michigan household.” 

    “I was at an event this week where President Trump emphasized the need for growth and power generation to fuel our future economy. He specifically spoke of the problems with our grid,” said Dr. Cassidy. “This is one more step in addressing those problems that President Trump was speaking of.”

    Many states, including Michigan and Louisiana, are in need of long-term, strategic investment to improve the resiliency of their grid infrastructure and deliver reliable power to households and businesses. However, without federal assistance, grid repair costs often ultimately fall to the very consumers that are being impacted by rising energy rates, poor reliability, and long service restoration times. 

    The Preventing Power Outages Act would reauthorize and update DOE’s Grid Resilience State/Tribal Formula Grants Program and Grid Resilience Utility and Industry Grants Program – which have spurred historic investment in much-needed grid improvements in recent years but are set to expire in 2026. Funding from these programs can be used for undergrounding electrical equipment, utility pole management, relocating power lines, and more. It can also be used to acquire innovative technologies including weatherization equipment, fire-resistant technologies, and fire prevention systems. Without reauthorization, states that require significant grid upgrades could go without the necessary investments to address ongoing challenges. The senators’ legislation aims to protect these critical federal resources and ensure Americans across the country have access to safe, reliable, and affordable power. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Peters Announces Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen the Resiliency of Michigan’s Power Grid

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters

    Peters’ Bill Comes After Hundreds of Thousands of Michigan Residents Lost Power Due to Devastating Ice Storm

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) announced new bipartisan legislation to strengthen the resiliency of power grids in Michigan and across the country. Peters’ Preventing Power Outages Act would reauthorize two U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) grant programs that help states and utilities invest in modernizing their grid infrastructure to help ensure that the power stays on even during extreme weather and natural disasters. The bill – which Peters introduced with U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA) – would also update these programs to ensure that sufficient funding goes to states whose grids are least reliable and require the most investment, like Michigan.  

    “Thousands of Michigan households lost power for weeks on end after the catastrophic ice storm that recently hit Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula, and our dedicated lineman are still working to fully restore power in some communities. This devastating storm was just one of many severe weather events in recent years that significantly disrupted our electrical grid and, as a result, risked the safety of Michiganders. It’s clear that our power infrastructure is in dire need of upgrades in order to keep our residents safe, keep energy costs down, and meet the growing demands of our communities,” said Senator Peters. “I’m leading this bipartisan bill to help ensure Michigan can access the federal resources we need to strengthen our power grid to reduce outages, improve reliability, and deliver affordable power to every Michigan household.” 

    In 2024, the Michigan Public Service Commission released the results of an independent, third-party audit that found Michigan’s power infrastructure severely underperformed in reliability and service restoration times. This report highlighted the numerous challenges facing Michigan’s energy systems and the severe need for long-term, strategic investment to improve grid resiliency and deliver reliable power for all Michigan residents. However, without federal assistance, grid repair costs often ultimately fall to the very consumers that are being impacted by rising energy rates, poor reliability, and long service restoration times.  

    Peters’ Preventing Power Outages Act would reauthorize and update DOE’s Grid Resilience State/Tribal Formula Grants Program and Grid Resilience Utility and Industry Grants Program – which have collectively delivered over $123 million in federal funding to Michigan to date for much-need grid improvements but are set to expire in 2026. Funding from these programs can be used for undergrounding electrical equipment, utility pole management, relocating power lines, and more. It can also be used to acquire innovative technologies including weatherization equipment, fire-resistant technologies, and fire prevention systems. Without reauthorization, states like Michigan that require significant grid upgrades could go without the necessary investments to address ongoing challenges. Peters’ legislation aims to protect these critical federal resources and ensure Michiganders and Americans across the country have access to safe, reliable, and affordable power. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Following Urging of Senator Collins, HHS Releases $400 Million for LIHEAP Program

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins released the following statement in response to the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Administration for Children and Families’ decision to release more than $400 million in funding for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). This action comes following a letter sent by Senators Collins, Jack Reed (D-RI), and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), and signed by 10 of their Senate colleagues, to HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., highlighting the importance of swift distribution of LIHEAP funds and urging the Department to avoid any cuts to regular programmatic funding.

    “LIHEAP funding provides vital relief to thousands of Mainers, helping them avoid the constant worry of having to choose between heating or cooling their homes and covering other basic necessities,” said Senator Collins. “I am glad that following our outreach, the Department has released the full amount of funding for this critical program. As Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I will continue to support this program and work to ensure that households in Maine and throughout the country can afford to heat their homes.”

    The federally funded LIHEAP is a crucial lifeline that helps 6.2 million low-income households and seniors on fixed incomes afford their energy bills, including those who use natural gas, propane, electricity, and home heating oil. Without this assistance, many Americans may not be able to afford their utility bills and could end up falling victim to extreme weather.

    LIHEAP is administered by states and accessed through local Community Action Agencies. Eligibility for LIHEAP is based on income, family size, and the availability of resources. Senior citizens and those receiving Social Security Disability or SSI benefits are encouraged to apply as early as possible, but applications will be open to everyone until the funding is exhausted.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Voting Rights Under Attack by Trump and Republicans, Welch Warns

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution, yesterday joined his Democratic colleagues on the Senate Floor to speak out against President Trump’s and Republicans’ ongoing attacks on the right to vote and pledge his commitment to protecting access to the ballot box. Senator Welch condemned President Trump’s new antidemocratic executive order that would effectively disenfranchise millions of eligible citizens. The Senator also warned about the dangers of Congressional Republicans’ SAVE Act, which recently passed the House of Representatives and contains many of the problematic provisions in President Trump’s Executive Order.  
    “This Executive Order makes an assumption that noncitizen voting is a problem. The assertion that noncitizens are voting is alarming. Fortunately, it’s not true,” said Senator Welch. “Also, federal law already bars noncitizens from voting in congressional and presidential elections. This is not a question of whether there’s some back door effort on the part of one party to allow noncitizens to vote. It can’t be done. Illegal now—this executive order would not change that.” 
    Watch Senator Welch’s speech below: 

    Senator Welch was joined on the Senate Floor by Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Sens. Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.).  
    Senator Welch’s Committee and Subcommittee Assignments for the 119th Congress include:   

    Senate Committee on Finance   
    Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, & Forestry  

    Ranking Member, Subcommittee on Rural Development, Energy, and Credit   

    Senate Committee on the Judiciary 

    Ranking Member, Subcommittee on the Constitution   

    Senate Committee on Rules & Administration  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Leads Introduction of the Nulhegan River and Paul Stream Wild and Scenic River Study Act to Protect Vermont Waterways

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Vermont Congressional Delegation, U.S. Senators Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.) and U.S. Representative Becca Balint (VT-At Large) this week reintroduced the bicameral Nulhegan River and Paul Stream Wild and Scenic River Study Act. This bill would protect the ecological, recreational, and economic value of Northern Vermont waterways by commissioning a study to determine whether the Nulhegan River and Paul Stream could be included in the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System.  “Keeping Vermont’s rivers healthy is crucial to the success of our outdoor recreation and tourism industries. We’re proud to once again introduce this legislation as a Delegation help protect our State’s natural beauty and boost our economy,” said the Vermont Congressional Delegation. “This bill is an important step forward in preserving and protecting the Nulhegan River and Paul Stream for future generations of Vermonters to enjoy.”  The National Wild and Scenic Rivers System protects free-flowing rivers with outstanding natural, cultural, or recreational value. Since its creation in 1968, the system has grown to encompass more than 13,400 miles of rivers across the country, including segments of the Missisquoi and Trout Rivers in Vermont. Depending on their characteristics, rivers may be classified as wild, scenic, or recreational. Wild and Scenic rivers are managed to maintain their free-flowing condition, high water quality, and outstanding recreational opportunities, from rafting to fishing. 
    The Nulhegan River and Paul Stream Wild and Scenic River Study Act is supported by a broad coalition of local municipalities, cultural and regional organizations, and environmental conservation groups, including American Rivers, the Connecticut River Joint Commission, Connecticut River Conservancy, Essex County Conservation District, Nature Conservancy, Northeastern Vermont Development Association, Northern Forest Canoe Trail, Nulhegan Band of the Coosuk – Abenaki Nation, Trout Unlimited (including the David and Francis Smith Northeast Kingdom Chapter), Vermont Chapter of the Native Fish Coalition, and the Vermont River Conservancy.  Last Congress, Senator Welch led the Vermont Congressional Delegation in introducing the Nulhegan River and Paul Stream Wild and Scenic River Study Act of 2023, which was passed out of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources with bipartisan support. In December 2024, the Senate unanimously passed the Delegation’s bill.  Learn more about the Nulhegan River and Paul Stream Wild and Scenic River Study Act of 2025. 
    Read the full text of the bill.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cramer, Warner Reintroduce Bipartisan Bill to Authorize Remote Online Notarizations Nationwide

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND)
    ***Click here for audio.***
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Despite significant advancements in digital technology, remote notarization has yet to be fully deployed and accepted on an interstate basis. While nearly every state allows for remote electronic notarization, regulations and recognition vary between states.
    U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and Mark Warner (D-VA) introduced their bipartisan Securing and Enabling Commerce Using Remote and Electronic (SECURE) Notarization Act. This bill would permit the nationwide use of Remote Online Notarizations (RON), enabling notaries and signers to complete the process from different physical locations. It authorizes every notary in the United States to perform RON and provides certainty for interstate recognition of RON. The SECURE Notarization Act requires tamper-evident technology and fraud prevention measures through the use of multifactor authentication.
    “We’ve made a lot of progress toward much more widespread use of online notarizations in the past few years, particularly through the pandemic,” said Cramer. “But this patchwork of state regulations really leaves consumers without consistent access to some notary services. Quite honestly, I think it violates, certainly, the spirit of interstate commerce. Our bill simply makes sure online notarizations are valid across [state] lines and allow every notary to perform them, and perform them in a very secure way.”
    “It’s time to finally bring the notarization process into the 21st century,” said Warner. “Remote notarizations have proven to be a safe and convenient way for individuals to complete essential services such as executing wills, completing financial documents, and buying or selling a home online. This legislation would continue to modernize this system by permitting nationwide use of Remote Online Notarization to complete important documents.”
    The SECURE Notarization Act will complement state regulations, including those in North Dakota, which already allow for remote notarizations.
    The bill is endorsed by American Land Title Association (ALTA), Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), National Association of REALTORS (NAR), and American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI).
    “Senators Cramer and Warner have been longstanding champions in recognizing the clear benefits of extending RON access to all Americans and leading this bipartisan legislation, which offers a safe and secure path to remotely close real estate and mortgage transactions,” said Diane Tomb, CEO of ALTA. “By passing the SECURE Notarization Act, Congress will embrace a proven innovation and modernize the notarization process with a secure system that meets consumer needs and expectations, including those of our military heroes overseas, the elderly, and homebuyers seeking convenience.”
    “The SECURE Notarization Act would make the mortgage closing process more convenient for consumers by creating federal minimum standards to allow notaries in all states to perform remote online notarization (RON) transactions,” said Bill Killmer, Senior Vice President of Legislative and Political Affairs at MBA. “MBA appreciates Senator Cramer and Warner’s commitment to enable nationwide use of RON technology. Their continued diligence and hard work on this critical issue will greatly simplify and improve mortgage transactions for all borrowers.” 
    “The National Association of REALTORS applauds Senators Cramer and Warner for reintroducing the SECURE Notarization Act,” said Shannon McGhan, EVP & Chief Advocacy Officer for the National Association of REALTORS. “This commonsense, bipartisan bill will modernize an essential part of real estate transactions by allowing nationwide use of secure, remote online notarization. Reliable, accessible notarized records are the bedrock of real estate, and this technology ensures Americans can continue to buy, sell, and finance property with confidence in today’s digital age.”
    “Senators Cramer and Warner understand that families need practical, modern tools to plan for their financial futures,” said David Chavern, President and CEO of the ACLI. “During COVID, life insurers demonstrated how well remote online notarization works for consumers. Allowing its use nationwide is a smart, commonsense step to bring the notarization process into the 21st century.”
    Click here for bill text.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen, Cassidy Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Lower Costs for Caregivers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Bill Cassidy (R-LA) introduced the Lowering Costs For Caregivers Act to lower costs for caregivers and help families afford medical expenses. This bipartisan legislation allows people to use their tax-free health savings accounts and flexible spending accounts on medical expenses for their parents. Currently, adult children may not take advantage of these tax-free accounts to cover expenses they incur on behalf of their aging parents, unless their parents are classified as dependents for tax purposes.
    “As parents age, their children often step up as caregivers and take on extra costs and responsibilities. Nevada families continue to be squeezed by rising prices, and we must do everything we can to make it easier to take care of loved ones,” said Senator Rosen. “I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan bill to lower costs for caregivers by allowing them to use tax-free accounts to cover the medical expenses of their aging parents.”
    “Over 11 million Americans are unpaid caregivers for their loved ones,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Let’s give back by making life a little more affordable for them.”
    This legislation is supported by the AARP.
    Senator Rosen is working to lower costs for hardworking Nevada families. Earlier this year, her bipartisan bill to help lower child care costs by increasing the availability of affordable, high-quality child care for Nevada families advanced out of committee. Rosen has also introduced the Physicians for Underserved Areas Act and the Train More Nurses Act to address the shortages of medical professionals in Nevada that are reducing access to care and driving up costs.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: On 50th Anniversary of Vietnam War, Baldwin Leads Resolution Honoring 2025 International Day of Mine Awareness

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) introduced a Senate resolution honoring April 4, 2025, as International Day of Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action and recognizing April 30, 2025, as the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War.

    “The Vietnam War left a lasting mark across Southeast Asia, and it’s our responsibility to continue working hand and hand with our allies to protect civilians from the legacy of this conflict,” said Senator Baldwin. “50 years after Americans withdrew from Vietnam, unexploded mines still kill and injure men, women, and children who had no part in this fight every year. I’m proud to recognize this anniversary and International Day of Mine Awareness to remember this critical work to protect innocent civilians continues well beyond the end date of the Vietnam War.”

    In 2005, the General Assembly of the United Nations declared that April 4 of each year shall be observed as the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action. On April 30, 1975, North Vietnam captured Saigon, effectively ending the civil war. Vietnam remains one of the world’s most impacted countries with respect to uncleared mines and other unexploded ordnance (UXO). Since the war ended, 40,000 people have been killed by UXO and 60,000 injured. At least 25,000 people have been killed or injured by explosives in Laos, and at least 65,000 people in Cambodia since 1979.

    Senator Baldwin leads the bipartisan Legacies of War Recognition and Unexploded Ordnance Removal Act to remove landmines in Southeast Asia and support the establishment of victim support programs for those affected by remnants of war. The legislation also recognizes the contributions of the many communities and Diasporas from Southeast Asia who supported and defended the United States Armed Forces during the war in Vietnam.

    In addition to recognizing April 4, 2025 as the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action and recognizes April 30, 2025 as the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War, the resolution also: 

    • reaffirms the leadership of the United States in eliminating landmines and unexploded ordnance;
    • acknowledges the global impacts of landmines and highlights the United States role in clearing landmines, cluster bombs, and other munitions;
    • recognizes the U.S. Servicemembers and the Southeast Asian Communities that supported them during the Vietnam War;
    • recognizes the ongoing humanitarian harm caused by unexploded ordnance remaining in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia;
    • recognizes additional humanitarian priorities caused by the use of landmines, cluster bombs, and munitions in Ukraine, the Middle East, and elsewhere;
    • affirms the Senate’s commitment to support international humanitarian efforts to eliminate landmines and unexploded ordnance;
    • calls upon the U.S. Government to continue providing funding necessary to support international humanitarian demining activities; and
    • reaffirms the goals of the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action.

    “We at The HALO Trust are grateful for the leadership of Senator Tammy Baldwin in introducing a resolution to recognize International Mine Awareness Day. Demining programs provide life-saving support across the globe while making America safer, stronger, and more prosperous. This legislation is critical to reaffirming the U.S. commitment to demining and honors the tireless efforts of deminers who work every day to make communities safe,” said Chris Whatley, Executive Director, The HALO Trust (USA).

    “As the daughter of a surgeon who treated survivors of landmines and cluster munitions, I’ve seen the lasting impact of these weapons. I’m deeply grateful for Senator Baldwin’s resolution recognizing April 4, 2025, as the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action. It honors the courage of survivors, deminers, and medical professionals—and reaffirms our duty to act. Thanks to strong U.S. leadership, we’ve made real progress but millions still live in fear. I urge continued U.S. leadership and funding to rid the world of these deadly legacies of war once and for all,” said Sera Koulabdara, CEO, Legacies of War and Co-Chair of the War Legacies Working Group.

    Full text of this resolution is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla Statement on Republican Attacks on California’s Clean Air Act Waivers

    US Senate News:

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

    Padilla Statement on Republican Attacks on California’s Clean Air Act Waivers

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Senate Rules Committee and a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, issued the following statement after House Republicans erroneously voted to strike down three California Clean Air Act waivers, which authorize California’s clean cars and trucks programs. The Senate Parliamentarian and the Government Accountability Office (GAO) have already determined that California’s Clean Air Act waivers are not subject to the simple majority threshold in the Congressional Review Act (CRA) and therefore would require 60 votes to secure Senate passage.

    “House Republicans’ misguided and cynical attempts to gut the Clean Air Act and undercut California’s climate leadership ignores the reality of California’s strength as the fourth largest economy in the world. I will continue to defend our state’s authority to protect our residents, clean our air, lower costs, and transition to a clean energy economy.

    “Let me also be clear about process. The Senate parliamentarian has already upheld decades of precedent and determined these CRAs are not allowed by Senate rules. If Senate Republicans take up these measures under the Congressional Review Act, they will be going nuclear by overruling the Parliamentarian, all to baselessly attack California.”

    Senator Padilla has been outspoken in pushing back against Republican attacks on California’s Clean Air Act waivers and welcomed the Senate parliamentarian’s decision that waivers are not subject to the CRA. He also joined Senators Schiff and Whitehouse in blasting Trump and Zeldin’s weaponization of the EPA when the GAO had already found that California’s Clean Air Act waivers are not subject to the CRA. Padilla and Schiff also slammed the Trump Administration’s intent to roll back dozens of the EPA’s regulations that protect California’s air and water.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst, Williams, Loeffler Bring Back “Made in America”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship Chair Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and House Small Business Committee Chairman Roger Williams (R-Texas) are introducing key bipartisan legislation with Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) to continue unleashing American industry.
    Manufacturing loans are already up 74% under President Trump and by doubling the individual loan limit for 7(a) and 504 small manufacturing loans from $5 million to $10 million, the Made in America Manufacturing Finance Act will allow small businesses to access the capital they need to invest in new equipment, hire new employees, and grow their businesses.
    “In Iowa and across the country, Main Street is roaring back under President Trump,” said Ernst. “I am proud to work with Administrator Loeffler and Chairman Williams to continue unleashing American industry by allowing small manufacturers to grow and equipping Iowa small business to lead the way. Today marks a major step in bringing back ‘Made in America.’”
    “I want to thank Administrator Loeffler and Senators Ernst and Coons for their partnership on this crucial legislation, as we support America’s small businesses, which make up nearly 99% of all U.S. manufacturers,” said Williams. “The Made in America Manufacturing Finance Act provides small business owners the capital they need to expand, modernize, and compete. We must continue to support and empower the job creators who keep our communities thriving. Together, we will continue driving the America First agenda forward and creating an environment where the success of Main Street is a priority.”
    “On Liberation Day, President Trump made a clear promise to fight for our businesses and workers by bringing back the jobs and supply chains that built this nation—and today, we’re delivering,” said Loeffler. “The Made in America Manufacturing Finance Act will double SBA loan limits for small manufacturers, supercharging the return of American industry by giving small businesses the capital they need to expand, hire, and compete. I’m grateful to Senator Ernst and Representative Williams for leading this bipartisan effort that will empower our small businesses to reclaim our economic independence and rebuild the foundation of American power.”
    “Every big business started as a small business that just needed a little help to grow,” said Coons. “This bipartisan bill builds on years of work to give small manufacturers access to the funding they need to invest in their American dream. This is how we keep manufacturing jobs in America and help communities up and down Delaware thrive.”  
    Click here to view the bill.

    Background:
    After discussing undoing the damage of the Biden administration and fixing the financial integrity of the 7(a) loan program with Administrator Kelly Loeffler during her confirmation hearing, Ernst praised Loeffler for restoring financial responsibility to SBA’s loan programs.
    These responsible reforms were a great relief to Ernst and Williams, who previously raised concerns that the Biden administration’s rapid expansion of the 7(a) lending program was leaving taxpayers on the hook for risky lending practices by non-bank lenders.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sens. Markey, Cramer Honor National Assistive Technology Awareness Day

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    Washington (May 1, 2025) – Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) released the following statement after the Senate passed their resolution designating April 30, 2025 as “National Assistive Technology Awareness Day.”

    “Assistive technology, which includes communication devices, modified vehicles, glasses, and mobility devices, is not a luxury – it is essential for individuals with disabilities and older Americans to live in their homes, access education, receive health care, and obtain employment,” said the lawmakers. “We are proud to recognize April 30th as ‘National Assistive Technology Awareness Day’ and highlight the importance of assistive technology and the state assistive technology programs that improve people’s lives every day.”

    The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported one in four individuals in the United States has a disability, including over 40 percent of adults 65 or older. Additionally, the Department of Education reported that there were more than 9 million children with disabilities.

     “In their lifetime, everyone on the planet will either need Assistive Technology (AT) or know someone who does. That’s why awareness is crucial—before it’s needed! On behalf of ATAP and the State and Territory Assistive Technology Act Programs, we are grateful to Senators Markey and Cramer for leading the effort for National Assistive Technology Awareness Day 2025!” said Jeannie Krull, Executive Director, ATAP.

    The resolution is endorsed by Association of Assistive Technology Act Programs (ATAP), American Network of Community Options and Resources (ANCOR), Access Ready Inc., American Council of the Blind, CommunicationFIRST, Autistic Self Advocacy Network, Telecommunications for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, Inc. (TDI), and Perkins School for the Blind.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cotton, Gallego Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen America’s Water Infrastructure Against Cyber Attacks

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas Tom Cotton

     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    Contact: Caroline Tabler or Patrick McCann (202) 224-2353
    May 1, 2025

    Cotton, Gallego Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen America’s Water Infrastructure Against Cyber Attacks
    In recent years, municipalities across the U.S. have faced cyber-attacks, including from foreign adversaries like Russia, China, and Iran 

    Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) and Senator Ruben Gallego (D-Arizona) today introduced the Water Cybersecurity Enhancement Act, bipartisan legislation to help public water systems protect against and respond to cyberattacks, which have become increasingly frequent in recent years. 

    “Cyberattacks on public infrastructure are a growing threat, and our water systems are no exception. This bipartisan bill will strengthen our ability to protect essential services and support local water utilities in building stronger cyber defenses,” said Senator Cotton. 

    “In Arizona, we know better than most the importance of safe and secure access to water. But adversaries also understand the importance and are increasingly trying to undermine our water security,” said Senator Gallego. “It is critical that we ensure our public water systems have the resources they need to prevent and respond to cyberattacks. That’s exactly what this bipartisan, commonsense bill does.” 

    Full text of the legislation may be found here.

    The Water Cybersecurity Enhancement Act would:

    • Extend and expand the Drinking Water Infrastructure Risk and Resilience Program. 
    • Provide technical assistance and grants to community water systems for training and guidance regarding protecting from and responding to cyberattacks.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lee, Merkley Bill Would Save Taxpayers Millions by Ending Penny Production

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Utah Mike Lee

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT), along with Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR), introduced the Make Sense Not Cents Act today to save taxpayers millions annually by ending production of the U.S. penny.

    Because each penny currently costs nearly 4 cents to produce, ending their production is estimated to save American taxpayers over $85 million each year. The Make Sense Not Cents Act would eliminate this government waste by prohibiting the federal government from spending another cent from taxpayers on costly penny production.

    “Minting pennies costs the American taxpayer millions every year – nearly four times more than the pennies are worth,” said Senator Mike Lee. “No private business would produce something at a 4x loss. It’s time to stop wasting Americans’ hard-earned tax dollars making overpriced pennies.”

    “It’s the opposite of ‘common cents’ for taxpayers’ dollars to fund wasteful spending like producing pennies,” said Merkley. “The Make Sense Not Cents Act will save taxpayers millions—and that is something that both Democrats and Republicans support to seriously take on government waste.”

    To read the full text of the Make Sense Not Cents Act, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –