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Category: US Senate

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray Visits With Yakama Nation Members, Observes Dipnet Fishing on the Klickitat River

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    Senator Murray has been raising the alarm on Trump administration’s plans to slash critical funding for salmon recovery efforts

    ***PHOTOS, B-ROLL HERE**

    Lyle, WA — Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, visited Klickitat Falls to observe Yakama Nation members dipnet fishing on the Klickitat River and meet with Tribal leaders and members. Senator Murray spoke with Chairman Gerald Lewis others about the importance of salmon recovery efforts in the Columbia and Snake Rivers, as well as forestry management and other issues. Forest management and wildfire prevention in particular have become a major cause for concern for the Yakama Nation in recent weeks, as the Trump administration’s federal funding cuts and freezes directly affect their ability to manage their lands or respond to fires on adjoining federal lands.

    Senator Murray has also been raising the alarm and demanding answers on the Trump administration’s plans to shutter the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) office in Toppenish, which the Yakama Nation relies on for everything from timber sales to Indian Child Welfare Act cases.

    “It was a real honor to visit with the Yakama Nation today and observe dipnet fishing, a practice handed down over generations,” said Senator Murray. “The Yakama Nation have been stewards of this land since time immemorial, and I’m proud to be their partner at the federal level in fighting to save our salmon, manage our forests responsibly, and make progress on so many other issues. Over the past few years, we’ve made historic investments in salmon recovery through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act—but now the Trump administration’s reckless cuts and illegal funding freezes are putting that progress at risk.”

    “I’ve spoken with many Tribes, including the Yakama Nation, who are already seeing the consequences of the Trump administration’s mass firings and hiring freezes at important federal agencies they rely on—and that were already painfully understaffed. There’s no way around it—Trump’s gutting of the federal workforce and deep funding cuts will seriously hamper the administration of programs and services that Tribes rely on, and that the federal government has trust and treaty obligations to provide,” Murray continued. “I take seriously my responsibility to be a voice for our Tribes in the U.S. Senate—and I’ll continue using every tool at my disposal in Congress to fight back and hold this administration accountable.”

    As a voice in the U.S. Senate for Washington state’s Tribal governments and communities, Senator Murray has long worked to make sure our nation lives up to its promises to support Tribal infrastructure, health care, education, housing, natural resources management, and more. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Senator Murray was instrumental in passing as then-Assistant Majority Leader provided more than $13 billion to directly support Tribal communities and makes Tribes eligible to apply for or request billions in discretionary, formula, and other funding to deploy record investments to provide affordable high-speed internet, safer roads and bridges, modern wastewater and sanitation systems, clean drinking water, reliable and affordable electricity, and good paying jobs in every Tribal community. In total, this funding represents the single largest investment in Tribal infrastructure ever.

    Senator Murray has also been a champion for protecting and strengthening critical salmon and fish populations throughout her time in the Senate. Senator Murray secured a historic $2.85 billion investment in salmon and ecosystem restoration programs—including $400 million for a new community-based restoration program focused on removing fish passage barriers in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law—and in the Inflation Reduction Act, Murray secured hundreds of millions for Washington state priorities including $15 million for the Pacific Coastal Salmon Recovery Fund, $3 million to support facilities at the Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary, $27 million for Pacific salmon research, and more. Last Congress, as then-Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Murray protected critical funding for salmon recovery and fishery projects in the Fiscal Year 2024 government spending bills she negotiated and passed into law, including securing: $50 million in the construction of the Howard Hanson Dam Fish Passage facility; $75 million for the Pacific Salmon account at the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), $65 million for the Pacific Coastal Salmon Recovery Fund, $54 million for the EPA’s Puget Sound Geographic Program, and more.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray Visits Gilbert Orchards in Yakima to Hear from Growers About How Chaotic Trade Policy is Affecting Their Bottom Lines

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    Yakima, WA — Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, visited Gilbert Orchards, where she met with Owner Sean Gilbert, Orchard Manager Donny Schlect, Northwest Horticultural Council President Mark Powers, and Steve Smith, Vice President of Marketing for the Washington Fruit Growers, to hear about how President Trump’s trade war is affecting their businesses and the tree fruit industry in Washington state.

    Gilbert Orchards is a family-owned growing operation that has been in the Yakima Valley for over 125 years, primarily growing apples, pears, and cherries. During the visit, Senator Murray toured the packing facility and heard concerns from Gilbert Orchards and other tree fruit growers about how an escalating trade war and the potential for steep retaliatory tariffs from other nations could hurt their bottom lines and be detrimental for farmers across Washington state. Washington’s tree fruit industry has historically borne the brunt of retaliatory measures for trade and tariffs.

    “It was really important to me to hear from local tree fruit growers in Yakima today about how this administration’s trade war is affecting them, and how I can best advocate for them in the other Washington,” said Senator Murray. “Farmers thrive when they can sell their products domestically and internationally—but right now, President Trump is cutting off markets our farmers sell to while increasing their costs. We can help our farmers by opening up more markets for them to sell their products in—not shutting them down. I’ll continue working to end this senseless trade war and help farmers across Washington state succeed.”

    “It was good to have Senator Murray visit us today. It’s important for our Members of Congress to understand that Washington state farmers rely on access to global markets and as much certainty around trade policy as possible,” said Northwest Horticultural Council President Mark Powers.

    40 percent of jobs in Washington state are tied to international commerce. Washington state is the top U.S. producer of apples, blueberries, hops, pears, spearmint oil, and sweet cherries—all of which risk losing vital export markets if retaliatory tariffs from key trading partners including Canada take effect. Additionally, more than 12,000 small and medium-sized companies in Washington state export goods and will be unlikely to be able to absorb the impact of retaliatory tariffs. Trump’s tariffs during his first term were extremely costly for Washington state—for example, India imposed a 20 percent retaliatory tariff on U.S. apples, causing Washington apple shipments to India to fall by 99 percent and growers to lose hundreds of millions of dollars in exports.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: At Reno Small Business, Rosen Calls on Trump to Reverse Devastating Trump Tariffs

    US Senate News:

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

    RENO, NV – Today, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) visited Orucase, a local outdoor recreation small business in Reno, to discuss how President Trump’s across-the-board tariffs are harming Nevada’s economy. In Nevada, 99 percent of all businesses are small businesses, and Trump’s tariffs are threatening their ability to stay afloat.
    “President Trump’s reckless across-the-board tariffs are devastating Nevada small businesses — which make up the backbone of our state’s economy,” said Senator Rosen. “Today, I visited Orucase, a local small business that is in the crosshairs of this reckless trade war, to highlight how much small businesses are already being hurt from these tariffs. I will continue fighting back against these reckless policies in the Senate.”
    “This tariff policy is not theoretical for us, it’s an existential threat,” said Isaac Howe, co-founder and owner of Orucase. “These duties will force us to raise retail prices, which will make it more difficult to operate and cost customers more. I’m grateful to Senator Rosen for her willingness to advocate for Nevada businesses like ours.”
    In the Senate, Senator Rosen has been fighting back against President Trump’s reckless tariffs and the destructive impacts they’re having on Nevada’s economy. She recently led Senate colleagues in demanding that the Trump Administration reverse course on tariffs and provide relief for small businesses. Senator Rosen also helped pass a resolution in the Senate to overturn Trump’s tariffs on Canada.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sens. Johnson, Grassley Demand Records from DOJ IG on J6 Confidential Human Sources

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Ron Johnson
    WASHINGTON – On Monday, U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), Chairman of the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations (PSI), and U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, sent a letter to Department of Justice (DOJ) Inspector General (IG) Michael Horowitz highlighting the IG’s failure to respond to the senators’ previous requests about the government’s use of confidential human sources (CHS) and undercover agents on January 6, 2021 (J6).
    On Dec. 16, 2024, the senators wrote to IG Horowitz requesting information based on the IG’s review of DOJ’s use of CHSs on J6. Specifically, the senators wanted to know the extent DOJ components, like the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), had tasked and untasked CHSs in the area of the Capitol Building on J6.
    On April 7, 2025, IG Horowitz responded, noting that “ATF, DEA, USMS, and BOP did not have any tasked CHSs in Washington, D.C. on January 6 in connection with the events of January 6.”
    However, IG Horowitz could not make a similar assertion regarding whether untasked CHSs from DOJ components, other than the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), were in the D.C. area on J6 and connected to events that day. “[U]nlike the FBI, we have no information at this time as to whether the ATF, DEA, USMS, or BOP conducted a post-January 6 canvass to determine if any of their CHSs traveled on their own initiative (untasked) to D.C. in connection with the January 6 events,” IG Horowitz wrote.
    In addition, IG Horowitz’s response failed to adequately address whether DOJ components had employees or contractors wearing civilian clothing in the Washington, D.C. area and around the Capitol Building on J6.
    “We also reiterate other requests from our December 16, 2024, letter that are still outstanding,” the senators wrote.  
    “For example, in our letter we asked whether your office obtained, during the course of its investigation into this matter, all communications, including text messages, between and among all DOJ component agency handlers and the CHSs/undercover agents. Your April 7, 2025, response confirmed that your office ‘did not request all of the text messages for all of the 26 CHSs and their handlers.’ Your April 7, 2025, response also noted that your office obtained classified communications; however, it failed to answer whether it obtained all classified communications,” the senators added.
    Read more about the letter on Fox News.
    Full text of the letter can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sens. Johnson, Baldwin Renew Bipartisan Wisconsin Federal Nominating Commission

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Ron Johnson

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) and U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) announced they renewed their agreement establishing the bipartisan Wisconsin Federal Nominating Commission to provide recommendations for nominations during the 119th Congress for U.S. Attorneys and federal judicial positions. Currently, there are vacancies in the U.S. Attorney positions for the Eastern and Western Districts of Wisconsin. Additionally, U.S. Circuit Court Justice Diane Sykes recently announced she will go into senior status on October 1, 2025, necessitating a nomination for consideration by the Wisconsin Senators to the U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit.

    “The goal for all officers of the court, especially judges, should be the equal application of law. Our judicial commission has worked in the past, and it can work in the future, if everyone concentrates on finding individuals who will apply the law and not alter it to fit their ideological or policy preferences. I look forward to working with the commission to find individuals to recommend to President Trump who will provide that type of justice for the citizens of Wisconsin,” said Sen. Johnson.

    “I am proud to work with Senator Johnson this Congress to select qualified, impartial candidates to serve our state and faithfully apply the law. I have full confidence our bipartisan nominating commission will do its job well of rigorously vetting and selecting candidates with the character, expertise, and experience required to fairly deliver justice for our constituents,” said Sen. Baldwin. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto Introduces Bills to Establish Smithsonian Museums Recognizing Accomplishments of Women and Latinos

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

    Las Vegas, Nev. – U.S. Senator Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), a member of the Smithsonian Board of Regents, helped introduce bipartisan legislation to build two new Smithsonian museums on the National Mall that recognize the accomplishments of women and Latinos.

    “Women and Latinos have done so much for our nation, and those contributions – our story, the American story – deserve to be told and honored,” said Cortez Masto. “I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation to ensure the accomplishments of the Latinos and women who have truly made America great can be showcased in their very own Smithsonian museums.”

    Senators Cortez Masto, Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming), and Alex Padilla (D-Calif) are leading the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum Act. Senators Cortez Masto, Padilla, Ted Cruz (R-Texas), and Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio) are leading the National Museum of the American Latino Act.

    The first and only Latina elected to the U.S. Senate, Senator Cortez Masto has been a strong advocate for women and the Latino community. She passed into law her bipartisan legislation to authorize a series of U.S. quarters to honoring women’s history and suffrage, which featured Queen of Salsa Celia Cruz, among other prominent women. She has pushed legislation to promote women and underrepresented groups in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education and careers. And she regularly supports legislation to advance women and Latinas’ professional opportunities, such as federal funding for Minority-Serving Institutions, including the four Hispanic-Serving Institutions in Nevada.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Barrasso, Lummis, Hageman Celebrate Cutting Edge  C-130J Housing in Wyoming 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming Cynthia Lummis

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-WY), U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), and U.S. Representative Harriet Hageman (R-WY) applauded the announcement by the Trump administration that the Wyoming Air National Guard Base has been selected as the preferred and final location for the Air National Guard’s C-130J Main Operating Base (MOB) 11. This critical investment will allow for the complete recapitalization of one squadron, replacing eight aging C-130H aircraft with the modern C-130J Super Hercules fleet. 

    “The Trump administration rightfully selected the Wyoming National Guard base in Cheyenne to be the new home of the C-130J aircraft,” said Barrasso. “The C-130J air tanker is one of the best tools we have to quickly and efficiently suppress wildfires at home and support airlift operations around the globe. With the ongoing threat of wildfires across the Rocky Mountain West, having access to these planes in Wyoming is more critical than ever.” 

    “This is a transformative moment for Wyoming’s military presence and our state’s contribution to our national security,” said Lummis. “The arrival of these cutting-edge aircrafts will significantly enhance our Air National Guard’s capabilities while securing high-skilled jobs and economic activity in our community for decades to come. I am grateful to the Trump administration for recognizing Wyoming’s strategic importance and the exceptional readiness of our Guard members to operate this advanced fleet.” 

    “This is a major win for Wyoming,” said Hageman. “Housing the C-130J fleet in Cheyenne reinforces Wyoming’s role as a strategic hub for military readiness and strengthens our firefighting capabilities. I’m grateful to President Trump for securing this investment in our state’s future, our service members, and our ability to respond to both foreign threats and domestic emergencies.”

    The Wyoming Air National Guard Base in Cheyenne was selected from among four candidate locations that were previously considered but not selected in earlier rounds of C-130J basing decisions. Other candidates included New Castle Air National Guard Base in Delaware, Nevada Air National Guard Base at Reno-Tahoe, and Rosecrans Air National Guard Base in Missouri.

    The C-130J Super Hercules represents a significant technological advancement over the legacy C-130H model, with improved performance, fuel efficiency, cargo capacity, and avionics. The aircraft will enhance the Wyoming Air National Guard’s ability to support both military operations and domestic emergency response missions like aerial firefighting.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gillibrand Demands Answers From HHS On Mass Firings At HRSA That Imperil Primary Care and Maternal Health

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Kirsten Gillibrand

    New York Has Over 4,300 HRSA Health Care And Service Delivery Sites

    So Far In FY2025, HRSA Has Awarded Over $256 Million In Funding To Health Programs And Facilities In New York

    Firings Include Workers Who Oversee The National Maternal Mental Health Hotline, Which Gillibrand Helped Establish in 2022

    U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and U.S. Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE) led nine of their colleagues in sending a letter demanding answers from Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. on the abrupt and unprecedented mass firing of Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) employees. HRSA is the primary federal agency tasked with improving access to health care for vulnerable populations, including uninsured and underinsured children and families and individuals living in rural communities.

    New York has over 4,300 HRSA Health Care and Service Delivery Sites, which are facilities that are funded by or participate in HRSA programs. So far in FY2025, HRSA has awarded over $256 million in funding to these facilities and other health programs across New York State. These grants help fund health care facilities in rural areas; support programs that help patients living with HIV/AIDS, substance use disorder, maternal health complications, and cancer; and bolster health care workforce training programs across the state. Firing HRSA employees imperils their ability to provide care to New Yorkers and potentially puts this funding in jeopardy.

    These firings also include layoffs of HRSA workers who run the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline, which provides free, 24/7 support to pregnant and postpartum women facing mental health challenges. Senator Gillibrand helped establish the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline in 2022. Since its launch, the hotline has received more than 54,000 calls and texts — a large part of which have been from postpartum moms reporting depression, anxiety, or feeling overwhelmed. Maternal mental health issues are the leading cause of pregnancy-related death in the United States. By firing the individuals who keep the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline operational, HHS is jeopardizing the lives of American moms.

    “HRSA employees help struggling mothers, vulnerable children, uninsured patients, and individuals who live in rural areas access critical health care,” said Senator Gillibrand. “By indiscriminately firing these employees, the Trump administration is jeopardizing access to these vital services and threatening programs that help keep New Yorkers healthy. This is unacceptable, particularly at a time when our country is facing a health care workforce crisis. I am proud to work with my fellow senators to demand answers about these egregious firings at HHS, and I will not rest until our concerns are remedied.”

    In addition to Sens. Gillibrand and Blunt Rochester, the letter was also signed by Sens. Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA).

    The full letter can be found here and below:

    Dear Secretary Kennedy:

    We write concerning the abrupt and unprecedented mass firing of Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) employees who serve vulnerable populations including children, seniors, uninsured Americans, and rural communities. Reportedly, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) used spreadsheets to slash entire divisions without fully understanding the critical functions that many of the former employees performed. Therefore, we request detailed information about who was fired, their specific job functions, and the measures you will implement to ensure that at-risk Americans do not suffer due to your Reduction in Force (RIF).

    HRSA is the primary agency tasked with improving access to health care for vulnerable populations, including the un- and underinsured, children, and families. On March 27, 2025, HHS announced a rushed and ill-conceived RIF in accordance with President Trump’s Executive Order 14210, “Implementing the President’s ‘Department of Government Efficiency’ Workforce Optimization Initiative.” This is on top of the firing of seven percent of HRSA staff that occurred on February 14, 2025. These egregious staffing cuts have particularly decimated the Bureau of Primary Health Care (BPHC) and the Maternal and Child Health Bureau (MCHB), which not only runs counter to the administration’s goal of elevating preventative care and reducing the prevalence of chronic disease but comes at a time when the United States ranks last in maternal health outcomes relative to other high-income countries.

    The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has reportedly fired 40 percent of the Bureau of Primary Health Care, which oversees the Health Center Program. This program effectively closes health care access gaps by providing high quality, affordable primary medical, dental, mental health care, and low-cost prescription drugs. Health centers provide care to over 32.5 million patients at 15,000 clinics across every state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the Pacific Basin. Health centers typically provide a wider array of lifesaving health care services for diverse populations impacted by barriers to care, serving one in five rural residents, one in three living in poverty, and over 400,000 veterans. Of the 32.5 million patients served by health centers, almost one-third are children, and 11 percent are seniors. A strong health center network is integral to increasing primary care access for people at every stage of life.  

    Through the Health Center Program, HRSA not only finances critical health care services, but safeguards patients from low-quality, inaccessible care. HRSA ensures that health centers comply with the highest health care standards to support improved clinical outcomes, improved access to services, and proper financial management. As a result of HHS’s actions, the ability of health centers to carry-out their critical mission of providing safe and accessible care is now in jeopardy, particularly at a time when the U.S. is facing a primary care workforce crisis.

    Combined with the Health Center Program, HRSA administered health workforce programs through the Bureau of Health Workforce are our largest defense against nationwide workforce shortages that are driving preventable deaths. HRSA is critical to adequately staffing health professional shortage areas (HPSAs) with physicians, nurses, dentists, and mental health providers. As an increasing number of rural hospitals close- leaving many Americans without reasonable access to emergency, obstetric, primary, or specialty care- the country cannot afford to lose any investment in the health care workforce.

    HHS has also terminated 20% of the employees at the Maternal and Child Health Bureau. This bureau oversees important programs that support children and pregnant women, such as the Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Block Grant and the Healthy Start Program. These initiatives help reduce infant deaths, provide wrap-around services not covered by Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), and reach families before, during, and after pregnancy. In 2023, the Title V MCH Services Block Grant helped provide services to an estimated 59 million people. This included 94% of all pregnant women, 98% of infants, and 59% of children nationwide, including children with special health care needs. Although your administration claims to support families, mothers, and children, you are actively undermining the health and wellbeing of these vulnerable groups.

    At your direction, HHS has reportedly fired workers who oversee the Maternal Mental Health Hotline, which offers free and confidential support to the very large proportion of expectant and new mothers experiencing postpartum depression and anxiety, and mothers who simply need a listening ear during some of the most challenging moments of their lives. From October to December 2024, the hotline received 7,500 calls and texts— a majority of which were from postpartum parents, reporting depression, anxiety, or feeling overwhelmed. Maternal mental health issues are the leading cause of maternal death in the United States. These firings could disrupt an essential support pathway for saving the lives of American moms. 

    We remain concerned that these indiscriminate firings have destabilized HRSA and reduced the ability of the agency to provide critical, quality services to the vulnerable populations at the core of its mission. We request a full account of the status of HRSA’s workforce and the impact these firings will have on the American people. Please respond to the following questions and requests for information by no later than Monday, April 21st at 5 p.m.: 

    1. Please provide the total number of people terminated or put on administrative leave for all of HRSA, and specifically from each of the following offices as a result of EO 14210. Please provide a complete breakdown of position, GS level, and veteran status, and clearly state the justification for termination. This accounting should include employees who have since been reinstated or placed on administrative leave, noting that change in status.
      1. Maternal and Child Health Bureau
      2. Bureau of Primary Health Care
      3. Bureau of Health Workforce
      4. HIV/AIDS Bureau
      5. Federal Office of Rural Health Policy
      6. Provider Relief Bureau
    2. Please provide the total number of people terminated or put on administrative leave, who accepted the deferred resignation program offer, or accepted the VERA/VSIP offer between January 18, 2025 and April 1, 2025 for all of HRSA and specifically from each of the following divisions. Please provide a complete breakdown of position, GS level, and veteran status, and clearly state the justification for termination. This accounting should include employees who have since been reinstated or placed on administrative leave, noting that change in status.
    1. Maternal and Child Health Bureau
    2. Bureau of Primary Health Care
    3. Bureau of Health Workforce
    4. HIV/AIDS Bureau
    5. Federal Office of Rural Health Policy
    6. Office of Women’s Health
    1. How many people who were terminated or put on administrative leave were the primary or secondary contact for grantees?
    2. What methods and frequency of communication are being used to inform grant recipients about their new points of contact? Have you confirmed that each grantee received notice of the change?
    3. How many people involved with operations or compliance with the following grants or contracts were terminated or put on administrative leave?
      1. Section 330 grants
      2. Early childhood development grants
      3. Cancer screenings grants
      4. School-based health center grants
      5. Maternal health hotline
      6. Home visiting program
      7. Title V Maternal Health Block Grant
      8. Healthy Start
    4. Have grantees been able to draw down funding at the same rate they were able to at this time last year? Please describe the cause of any delays in funding reimbursements experienced by grantees.
    5. Have HRSA project officers or related personnel been instructed to withhold information from grant recipients regarding the continued availability of previously awarded support under EO 14210?
    6. What instructions or communication have been provided to HRSA employees internally regarding program termination and staff reductions related to EO 14210?
    7. What instructions have been given to remaining staff about how to absorb workloads of terminated employees?
    8. What safeguards are in place to ensure that essential functions of HRSA are not harmed as a result of the RIF and proposed restructure of HHS??
    9. How does terminating grants under EO 14210 align with HRSA’s mission to improve the health and well-being of vulnerable populations and all Americans?
    10. Will you commit that, despite these terminations, HRSA will make all funding opportunity announcements for congressionally appropriated funding for Fiscal Year 2025 available immediately to allow communities the time necessary to develop robust proposals and that HRSA will award all congressionally appropriated funding by September 30th?

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Klobuchar, Blackburn Introduce Bill to Prevent Human Trafficking

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn)

    The Combatting Trafficking in Transportation Act would support public awareness campaign on the risk and signs of trafficking along the Interstate Highway System

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) introduced the Combating Trafficking in Transportation Act, which would provide federal funding to states post human trafficking awareness signage at rest stops and welcome centers along the Interstate System, helping educate the public and better support survivors of human trafficking.

    “We must do everything in our power to stop human trafficking, and public awareness campaigns are a proven, effective tool to combat this issue,” said Klobuchar. “That is why we are introducing bipartisan legislation to provide more information about signs of trafficking and how to help victims. This bill will give law enforcement crucial information to take on criminals and get more victims to safety.”

    “As human traffickers move their victims across the country, they travel on the same highways and visit the same rest stops and gas stations as everyone else, which creates multiple opportunities to identify these victims,” said Blackburn. “This bipartisan legislation would give all states the flexibility to take advantage of signage campaigns that have been proven effective to rescue more men, women, and children from this heinous crime.”

    In 2023 alone, there were nearly 17,000 trafficking victims in the United States. By making information about human trafficking available at these locations, we can increase reporting of suspicious behavior and direct victims to resources like the National Human Trafficking Hotline.

    The Combating Trafficking in Transportation Act would: 

    • Amend the list of eligible projects under the Surface Transportation Block Grant Program and the RAISE Discretionary Grant Program to include the procurement and installation of human trafficking awareness signage at rest stops and welcome centers along the Interstate System; and 

    • Add a 16th seat to the Department of Transportation Advisory Committee on Human Trafficking specifically for a representative from state departments of transportation. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Baldwin Introduces Bill to Stand Up for Wisconsin Workers Impacted by Harmful Trade Policies

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and her colleagues introduced a bill to stand back up a successful program that supports American workers who have lost their jobs or suffered reduced hours or wages due to harmful trade policies. The Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) Reauthorization Act of 2025 would bring back the TAA Program, which expired in 2022 and offers a range of services to support displaced workers, including access to skills training, job search and relocation assistance, and extended income support.
    “For years, I’ve fought bad trade deals that were a race to the bottom, shipped Wisconsin jobs overseas, and hollowed out our communities. When Wisconsin workers bear the brunt of unfair trade policies, we have to ensure they have the tools and support that they need to get back on their feet and back in the workforce,” said Senator Baldwin. “I am proud to fight for our workers and ensure they have a helping hand when they are the ones to pay the price from bad trade deals – because at the end of the day, it’s our workers who make our Made in Wisconsin economy move forward.”
    Since its creation in 1974, more than 5 million Americans have benefitted from the TAA Program, with more than 75 percent of participants successfully finding new jobs within six months. Since the program expired, nearly 200,000 workers – including more than 3,200 in Wisconsin – who may qualify for assistance have been unable to receive TAA given the lapse in authorization.   
    The TAA Reauthorization Act of 2025 would reauthorize the TAA Program through 2031 to help ensure American workers have access to the resources they need to transition to new employment opportunities at the same level or higher than their previous job.
    The TAA Reauthorization Act of 2025 is supported by the United Auto Workers (UAW), United Steel Workers (USW), AFL-CIO, and the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM).  
    This bill is led by Senator Gary Peters (D-MI) and also co-sponsored by Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), John Fetterman (D-PA), Kristen Gillibrand (D-NY), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Tina Smith (D-MN), and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla, Schiff Demand Answers on Trump DHS Attempt to Enter Los Angeles Elementary Schools

    US Senate News:

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

    Padilla, Schiff Demand Answers on Trump DHS Attempt to Enter Los Angeles Elementary Schools

    After meeting with Homeland Security Investigations last week, Senators express serious concerns about fear caused by HSI’s school visit, push for no further visits without a warrant
    LOS ANGELES, CA — Today, U.S. Senators Alex Padilla, Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Immigration Subcommittee, and Adam Schiff (both D-Calif.) demanded additional answers from the Trump Administration regarding last week’s attempt by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents to enter two Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) elementary schools to question students. Their letter follows a meeting with HSI leadership and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials last week that raised additional questions on how and why these visits to LAUSD elementary schools were conducted. The Senators expressed serious concern about the erosion of public trust in the local community and called for assurances that ICE agents do not attempt to visit or enter schools without a warrant.
    In the Senators’ meeting last week with HSI and ICE officials, HSI claimed that they went to LAUSD schools to conduct a “welfare check” on formerly unaccompanied children. Padilla and Schiff questioned why HSI did not coordinate with the California Department of Social Services or the schools if they believed these children were at risk, and pressed HSI leadership not to undertake any further “welfare checks” without a warrant.
    “We are deeply concerned that HSI officers attempted to question several children, between first and sixth grade, during the school day apparently without contacting or coordinating in advance with the schools, parents or guardians, or state or local child welfare agencies,” wrote the Senators. “Though the agents were purportedly there to conduct a ‘welfare check’ on the children, their actions instead terrorized hundreds of thousands of students across Los Angeles and undermine public trust. We urge you to ensure that HSI does not conduct any additional ‘welfare checks’ on school premises and that ICE agents do not attempt to visit or enter schools without a warrant.”
    “These types of ‘welfare checks’ scare children and their family members, rather than promote their safety,” continued the Senators. “If ICE and HSI want to ensure unaccompanied children’s welfare, these agencies should urge the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) within the Department of Health and Human Services and the White House to restore legal and social services for these children, rather than terrorizing them and their classmates at school.”
    While trying to enter these schools, HSI agents reportedly falsely told staff that they had gotten prior permission from the students’ families to talk to them. The Senators asked for a review of the agents’ alleged conduct, including why they reportedly felt compelled to deceitfully claim they had permission to speak with students.
    Additionally, the Senators demanded a full briefing on the nature, scale, and purpose of these “welfare checks,” the policies and protocols involved, and whether steps were taken to consult with victim services, experts, and children’s attorneys before these visits. They also asked for information on whether ICE has conducted subsequent immigration enforcement in California or across the country during these “welfare checks.”
    In a joint statement last week, Padilla and Schiff expressed their outrage at HSI agents’ attempts to enter LAUSD elementary schools.
    Full text of the letter is available here and below:
    Dear Acting Executive Associate Director Hammer,
    Thank you for taking the time to speak with us last week. We write to express our continued outrage with the conduct of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents who attempted to enter two Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) elementary schools earlier this month. We are deeply concerned that HSI officers attempted to question several children, between first and sixth grade, during the school day apparently without contacting or coordinating in advance with the schools, parents or guardians, or state or local child welfare agencies. Though the agents were purportedly there to conduct a “welfare check” on the children, their actions instead terrorized hundreds of thousands of students across Los Angeles and undermine public trust. We urge you to ensure that HSI does not conduct any additional “welfare checks” on school premises and that ICE agents do not attempt to visit or enter schools without a warrant.
    We understand from our conversation with you that the stated purpose of HSI agents at the school was not to conduct immigration enforcement, but instead to undertake a “welfare check” on formerly unaccompanied children. We do not understand why, if you obtained evidence that led you to believe that these children were in danger, your agency has not made a referral to the California Department of Social Services and did not coordinate with the school in advance of the “welfare check” regarding potential child welfare or trafficking concerns.
    When we spoke, we informed you that reports indicated that, while attempting to enter the schools, HSI officers falsely told school staff that they received permission from the families to speak with their children. You informed us that you were unfamiliar with those details and would look into the matter. We would like to understand what steps you are taking to review and address your agents’ conduct, including determining why they said they received permission to speak with children from their families when that was not the case.
    We also request that you provide us with a full briefing on the nature, scale, and objectives of, and policies and protocols surrounding these “welfare checks,” including whether there was any officer training, coordination with victim services, or consultation with experts about conducting these visits with a victim-centered approach, as well as whether ICE is contacting children’s attorneys of record prior to conducting “welfare checks” of represented children. We further request information on what, if any, enforcement actions against formerly unaccompanied children and/or their sponsors ICE has performed in connection with the “welfare checks” both in California and nationally, including any initiation of removal proceedings, detentions, or removals.
    These types of “welfare checks” scare children and their family members, rather than promote their safety. If ICE and HSI want to ensure unaccompanied children’s welfare, these agencies should urge the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) within the Department of Health and Human Services and the White House to restore legal and social services for these children, rather than terrorizing them and their classmates at school.
    We ask that you respond to our questions by May 2, 2025. We urge you to end any efforts to conduct “welfare checks” on school premises and to ensure that ICE agents do not attempt to visit or enter schools without a warrant.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Merkley, Wyden Join Senate Democrats to Warn About Republicans Raising Food Costs to Give Tax Breaks to Billionaires

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)
    April 16, 2025
    Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden, Ranking Members of the Senate Budget and Finance Committees, respectively, joined their colleagues in sending an open letter to the American public warning that Congressional Republicans are trying to take food away from hungry families in order to give tax breaks to the wealthiest Americans. After promising to lower prices for families, Republicans in Congress are instead raising grocery costs and making it harder for families to put food on the table.
    “Congress should not give tax breaks to the wealthiest Americans by taking away food assistance from millions of Americans,” wrote Merkley, Wyden, and more than 40 other Senators. “SNAP supports 42 million Americans, including nearly 8 million seniors, 16 million children, 4 million people with disabilities, and 1.2 million veterans, in putting food on their tables each month. Cuts of this magnitude—or anything close to it—would be devastating to American families in every state.”
    The letter, led by U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry; Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY); and signed by Merkley and Wyden and  42 of their colleagues, comes as Republicans in the Senate and House have passed a budget resolution that would fast-track cuts to nutrition assistance. 
    As of April 11, 2025, SNAP is helping 774,581 people in Oregon put food on the table. In fiscal year 2024, SNAP brought $1,596,585,242 to Oregon, according to the Food Research and Action Center.
    The full text of the letter can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: April 18th, 2025 Heinrich, Rep.Vasquez Lead Introduction of Wild and Scenic Legislation to Protect Gila River

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich
    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) reintroduced their M.H. Dutch Salmon Greater Gila Wild and Scenic River Act, legislation to designate portions of the Gila River, its watershed, and other rivers in the Gila National Forest as Wild and Scenic Rivers. The bill will be a boon to New Mexico’s outdoor economy, while protecting an irreplaceable natural resource for future generations of New Mexicans. U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.) and Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), Member of the House Committee on Natural Resources, are original cosponsors.
    The Greater Gila watershed comprises the largest remaining network of naturally free-flowing river segments in the Southwestern United States.
    The M.H. Dutch Salmon Greater Gila Wild and Scenic River Act protects portions of the Gila River, some of its tributaries, and other nearby rivers under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. The Gila is treasured by New Mexicans because it supports exceptional experiences for families to cherish, spectacular scenery and wildlife habitat, abundant cultural resources, the integrity of an important water source, and many traditional uses. Designating portions of the Gila River and its watershed as Wild and Scenic Rivers will protect one of the nation’s most iconic and treasured rivers, as well as the immense recreational and agricultural economies that rely on it.
    “The Gila and San Francisco Rivers are among the last wild, free-flowing rivers in the Southwest— vital to the region’s wildlife, communities, and culture. To truly safeguard the Gila’s wild character, we must also protect its rivers,” said Heinrich, Ranking member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. “Our M.H. Dutch Salmon Greater Gila Wild and Scenic River Act will ensure that the Gila and San Francisco watersheds receive the lasting protections they deserve. These protections enhance water quality, support local economies, bolster outdoor recreation, and preserve healthy ecosystems. In New Mexico, the Rio Chama, the Jemez, the Rio Grande, and the Pecos all benefit from this important designation. The Gila and San Francisco watershed deserve no less.”
    “The Gila River is a symbol of everything we love about New Mexico—wild, beautiful, and full of life,” said Vasquez. “This legislation is about protecting that legacy for future generations, and I’m proud to stand alongside so many New Mexicans who have fought for years to make this legislation possible”
    Heinrich originally introduced the M.H. Dutch Salmon Greater Gila Wild and Scenic River Act with former-U.S. Senator Tom Udall (D-N.M.) in 2020. The legislation passed out the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee in 2023. The bill is named after Maynard Hubbard “Dutch” Salmon from Silver City, New Mexico. Salmon was a nature writer, longtime advocate for the Gila River, and co-founder of the Gila Conservation Coalition.
    The M.H. Dutch Salmon Greater Gila Wild and Scenic River Act has received support from local community leaders, Tribes, sportsmen and women, and business leaders.
    Resources:
    Background:  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley, Johnson Demand DOJ Inspector General Provide All Records on J6 Confidential Human Sources

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
    WASHINGTON – Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations Chairman Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) are pushing Department of Justice (DOJ) Inspector General Michael Horowitz to provide a full picture of the DOJ’s use of Confidential Human Sources (CHS) and undercover agents on January 6, 2021 (J6) during the electoral certification in Washington, D.C. 
    The chairmen are seeking clarity on whether, in addition to the 26 previously identified Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) CHSs present on J6, any of DOJ’s other federal law enforcement agencies had employees, contractors or untasked CHSs assigned to the area. DOJ component agencies include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) and the Bureau of Prisons (BOP).
    Inspector General Horowitz’s April 7, 2025, response to the chairmen noted that his office “did not request all of the text messages for all of the 26 CHSs and their handlers.” The Inspector General’s response also failed to answer whether his office obtained all classified communications as part of its review.  The chairmen have requested all communications, including text messages, between DOJ component agency handlers and their CHSs/undercover agents.
    “It’s well past time the American people received complete transparency and clarity regarding the full extent of the Justice Department and its component agencies’ involvement in the events of J6. Inspector General Horowitz must be thorough in his approach and shed light on every corner of the department he oversees. We expect Horowitz to bring finality to this investigation by fully complying with our requests,” Grassley and Johnson said of their oversight push.
    Background:On December 12, 2024, the DOJ Office of Inspector General (OIG) released a report revealing that 26 FBI CHSs were present at the Capitol on January 6, 2021.
    Quickly after the report’s release, Grassley and Johnson wrote to Horowitz requesting more information, including whether DOJ component agencies other than FBI had tasked or untasked CHSs present at the Capitol that day. Horowitz’s response on April 7, 2025, failed to address all of the chairmen’s questions and requests. Today’s letter follows up on their December 12 inquiry and asks for a timely response for all requested records.
    Read the full letter HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley Takes Aim at Radical Activist Groups’ Foreign Ties

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    BUTLER COUNTY, IOWA – Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) is urging the Department of Justice (DOJ) to assess whether The People’s Forum and Code Pink are obligated to register under the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA), due to the group’s reported Chinese Communist Party ties.

    “Evidence suggests that The People’s Forum and Code Pink have been funded and influenced by Mr. [Neville Roy] Singham and the communist Chinese government, both of which are foreign principals. The evidence also suggests that The People’s Forum and Code Pink have engaged in covered political activities that directly advance the communist Chinese government’s political and policy interests,” Grassley wrote.

    “Secretive foreign lobbying and public relations campaigns by China and other adversaries undermines the political will and interests of the American people. The People’s Forum and Code Pink’s reported role in advancing policies in favor of the communist Chinese government is more than alarming and their potential obligation to register as foreign agents for purposes of FARA ought to be investigated,” Grassley continued.

    Read Grassley’s letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Kash Patel HERE.

    Background:

    Neville Roy Singham is a social activist and billionaire who reportedly “works closely with the Chinese government media machine and is financing its propaganda worldwide.” Singham has reportedly attended Communist Party workshops focused on “promoting the party internationally,” shares office space and staff with the Shanghai Maku Cultural Communication Company and co-produces a YouTube show that’s partially financed by China’s propaganda department.

    The People’s Forum, self-described as a “political and cultural hub,” is also funded in large part by Singham – who reportedly donated over $20.4 million through a series of shell organizations and donor advisory groups. The People’s Forum offers courses titled, “Lenin and the Path to Revolution” and “China75 – When the People Stand Up.” The group joined Code Pink in hosting a conference moderated by the Qiao Collective, known as “a diaspora Chinese media collective.” Further, the Executive Director of the People’s Forum openly pedaled Chinese propaganda when appearing on CGTN, a Chinese state-owned media group. DOJ directed CGTN to register under FARA in 2019. 

    Code Pink, self-described as a “grassroots organization working to end U.S. warfare and imperialism,” was founded by Singham’s wife, Jodie Evans, and has reportedly received roughly a quarter of its donations from organizations with ties to Singham. Since marrying Singham in 2017, Evans and Code Pink have “stridently support[ed] China,” with Evans publicly describing the Uyghurs, an ethnically Muslim minority group, as “terrorists” and defending their mass detention. Further, Code Pink activists have met with the House Select Committee on China to directly advocate for Chinese interests, including denying evidence of forced labor in the Uyghurs’ native region of Xinjiang.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley, Iowa Congressional Delegation Urge Trump to Grant Disaster Relief Request Following Damaging March Storms

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    BUTLER COUNTY, IOWA – U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) led the entire Iowa delegation, including U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and U.S. Reps. Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-Iowa), Ashley Hinson (R-Iowa), Zach Nunn (R-Iowa) and Randy Feenstra (R-Iowa), in urging President Donald Trump to promptly grant Governor Kim Reynolds’ request for federal disaster assistance in the state of Iowa.

    The request follows severe weather on March 19 that produced high winds and blizzard conditions across much of west central and northwest Iowa, causing significant damage to public infrastructure and private property.

    “The Governor has determined that this incident is of such severity and magnitude that effective response is beyond the capabilities of the State and affected local governments, and supplementary federal assistance is necessary. Thank you for your prompt consideration of this important request,” the lawmakers wrote.

    Governor Reynolds has requested Hazard Mitigation statewide and activation of Public Assistance programs for Crawford, Harrison, Monona and Woodbury Counties.  

    Read the full letter HERE.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley to Hold Town Meeting in Worth County

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
    BUTLER COUNTY, IOWA – U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) will hold a town meeting on Wednesday, April 23, in Worth County as part of his annual 99 county meetings.
    “You can’t have representative government without dialogue between elected officials and the people we represent,” Grassley said. “I appreciate the opportunity to hold town meetings, answer questions and take comments. My annual 99 county meetings are one way I regularly keep in touch with Iowans to better represent them at the policymaking tables in Washington.”
    This is Grassley’s 45th year of holding question and answer sessions in each of Iowa’s 99 counties. Grassley has held at least one meeting in every county, every year since he was first elected to serve in the U.S. Senate. He answers questions on any subject. Iowans set the agenda.
    Grassley will be available for 15 minutes after the meeting to answer questions from local reporters. The town meeting is open to the public and media. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis until the room is at capacity. Members of the media who wish to attend the meeting or media availability must RSVP. Please RSVP directly to Georgie_Hilby@grassley.senate.gov. Details for the upcoming meeting follow.
    Wednesday, April 23
    Worth County Town Meeting
    8 – 9 a.m.
    Olson Community Room
    909 1st Avenue South
    Northwood
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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Q&A: Boosting Biofuels Boosts Farm Economy

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
    Q: Why is the Renewable Volume Obligation important for Iowa farmers?
    A: Biomass-based fuels convert feedstocks, including corn and soybeans, for use in the nation’s fuel supply, from passenger vehicles to commercial trucks, marine shipping, rail and aviation. Biodiesel and ethanol expand domestic markets for grain farmers, which is particularly vital when there’s uncertainty with overseas trading partners. Iowa farmers and biofuel producers stand ready to meet demand that provides reliable, affordable, cleaner fuel for consumers.
    Two decades ago, I helped steer through Congress two federal laws that unleashed America’s renewable fuels era in the 21st century. The Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 built upon the Energy Policy Act of 2005 that established the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). President George W. Bush signed both pieces of legislation that accelerated use of renewable fuels in the transportation sector, primed the pump for the biofuel industry in rural America, produced cleaner burning fuel and fostered U.S. energy independence. The RFS set annual targets with the Renewable Volume Obligation (RVO), a requirement that specifies volumes for refiners and importers to blend into the nation’s fuel supply. Congress authorized the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to implement the RFS program. It sets annual RVO’s divided among four buckets: conventional biofuel; advanced biofuel; cellulosic biofuel; and biomass-based diesel. As a lifelong family farmer and lawmaker on the Senate Agriculture Committee, I make my voice loud and clear under both Republican and Democrat administrations to champion homegrown biofuel, including speaking out against unfair policies for used cooking oil and imported ethanol. The EPA needs to follow the law as Congress intended. Bureaucratic lollygagging brings uncertainty to the marketplace and unfairness to farmers and biofuel producers who have the capacity to meet demand. During the Biden administration, I invited the White House Climate Czar to visit Iowa to see how renewable fuels are where the rubber meets the road for a more sustainable energy policy, cleaner environment and stronger economy in rural America.
    Q: What are you pressing the Trump administration to do on this issue?
    A: In April, I led a bipartisan letter with Sen. Amy Klobuchar pressing the EPA to keep its commitment to American energy production and affirm renewable fuels are an important component of that all-the-above energy strategy. We urged the administration to increase RVO levels that take into account biofuels production capacity and the productivity of the American farmer. Specifically, the EPA should set volume levels for biomass-based diesel at 5.25 billion gallons in 2026. What’s more, the EPA ought to provide multi-year RVO standards to provide certainty and growth for the biofuel industry. This would send a strong message to boost investment in biofuels that are an important piece of the economic pie in rural communities. We’ve seen what happens when RVO levels are low-balled, biofuel facilities are forced to reduce their workforce, idle production or shut down their facilities. That’s a big blow to economic vitality on Main Street and a big market loss for local farmers. I’ll be keeping close tabs on the EPA as it works to determine RVO standards.
    In addition to trade and energy policies, the federal tax code holds significant sway over investment and profitability in rural America. As former chairman and ranking member of the Senate Finance Committee, I’ve secured important energy tax incentives that ensured public policy kept pace with advancing technologies in alternative energy. As Congress takes up tax policy in the coming months, I’ll be at the table advocating for the family farmer and biofuel producers. Along those lines, in January I pressed Trump’s cabinet nominees about the importance of providing clarity about new biofuel incentives in the federal tax code. Specifically, I explained the urgency to clean up after the Biden administration’s failure to deliver certainty for farmers and biofuel producers by failing to issue guidance for the clean fuel production tax credit, called 45Z. I’m working as hard as ever on behalf of Iowa biofuel producers and family farmers who are putting in the work, taking on the risk and deploying new technologies to power America’s energy needs.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell, Murray, Randall Introduce Legislation to Place Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe and Quinault Indian Nation Lands into Trust

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell
    04.18.25
    Cantwell, Murray, Randall Introduce Legislation to Place Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe and Quinault Indian Nation Lands into Trust
    The Lower Elwha Kallam Tribe Project Lands Restoration Act is one of the last steps of the Elwha and Glines Canyon Dam removal project & will help restore fisheries
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Patty Murray (D-WA) and Representative Emily Randall (D, WA-06) introduced a pair of bills to transfer land back to the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe and Quinault Indian Nation to be held in trust. Land is taken into trust when land is transferred to the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) to be held in trust for the benefit of the tribe.
    “The Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe led a historic regional effort to restore salmon runs by removing obsolete dams along Elwha River,” said Sen. Cantwell. “Now, it’s time to return over 1,000 acres of land that was taken to build the dams and allow the Lower Elwha Klallam people to reclaim ancestral lands.” 
    “For generations, the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe have acted as stewards of the lands along the Elwha River—transferring this land back to Tribal ownership is not only the right thing to do, but it will support important Tribal-led habitat restoration and salmon recovery efforts, improving these precious ecosystems for everyone,” said Senator Murray. “As the Trump administration shutters Bureau of Indian Affairs and Indian Health Service facilities, fires the people responsible for ensuring our nation is living up to its trust obligations to Tribes, and terminates federal funding that is owed to our Tribes, I will keep fighting back with everything I have and working to ensure that Tribes in the Pacific Northwest have the support they need to not just survive, but to thrive.”
    “Since time immemorial the Lower Elwha Klallam and the Quinault Indian Nation have stewarded these lands and waters for today’s inhabitants, and for the benefit of the next seven generations,” said Rep. Randall. “These bills — transferring land into trust and restoring the original reservation lands — are part of our federal government’s promise, our constitutional responsibility, and our treaty obligation to protect Tribal Lands and the people who call them home.”
    Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe Project Lands Restoration Act:
    This bill would transfer three parcels of land totaling 1,082 acres to the BIA to be held in trust for the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe.
    The land is just outside the boundaries of the Olympic National Park and includes 1,061 acres originally acquired by the National Park Service to demolish two dams along the Elwha River.
    The two remaining parcels were acquired by the U.S. Department of the Interior to construct a pipeline to transfer surface water to the Tribe’s new fish hatchery – the House of Salmon.
    The land transfer would boost habitat restoration efforts led by the Lower Elwha Tribe and federal agencies, aiding in the recovery of all five species of Pacific salmon and other native fish, including Chinook, coho, chum, pink and sockeye salmon, along with steelhead and bull trout.
    This bill is an important action in the decades long effort to restore the Elwha River.
    “The Tribe is excited by the introduction of this bill by Senators Maria Cantwell and Patty Murray and Congresswoman Emily Randall,” said Chairwoman Frances Charles, Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe. “This bill is an important final action to the dam removal project and the restoration of the Elwha River ecosystem and salmon fisheries. The transfer of these lands along the Elwha River to the Tribe will safeguard the federal investment in the restoration of the river and fisheries through tribal management of the resources. The bill will also protect the Tribe’s sacred cultural homelands by restoring them to the stewardship of the Tribe.”
    The proposal for the land to be taken into trust is supported by WSDOT, the Makah Tribe, and the City of Port Angeles.
    “Returning 72 acres of the Quinault Indian Nation’s original reservation will restore the Tribe’s ancestral lands and help preserve one of the area’s last remnants of old growth forest as a living museum for future generations,” said Sen. Cantwell.
    “The Quinault Indian Nation Land Transfer Act will right a historic wrong by transferring 72 acres of land from the Forest Service to be held in trust for the Quinault Nation, more than 100 years after the forced breakup and sale of their lands irrevocably changed their way of life,” said Senator Murray. “I’m proud to be part of this important effort to fulfill our nation’s promise to the people of the Quinault Indian Nation—and I’ll keep doing everything I can to fight back against Trump and Elon’s disastrous cuts across the federal government that are hurting Tribes and undermining our nation’s ability to live up to our trust and treaty obligations.”
    Quinault Indian Nation Land Transfer Act:
    This bill would transfer 72 acres from the Forest Service to the Bureau of Indian Affairs to be held in trust for the Quinault Indian Nation.
    The 72 acres, known as Allotment 1157, was originally part of the Quinault reservation that was established by the Treaty of Olympia of 1856.
    After the passage of the Dawes Act of 1887, the Quinault Indian Reservation was separated into individual allotments and in 1928, Allotment 1157 was given to away through a Trust Deed signed by President Calvin Coolidge.
    The Allotment was eventually sold to a timber company and was purchased by the U.S. Forest Service in 1996 for conservation.
    Allotment 1157 is one of the last remnants of old growth forest, particularly old growth cedar, that were a significant part of the Quinault’s reservation.
    The Quinault Nation plans to utilize this land as a living museum for educational purposes, where students and college interns will learn how to preserve other historical places. Trees and downed wood on this land will be utilized for cultural purposes as has been done in the past. 
    The proposal for the land to be taken into trust is supported by Jefferson and Grays Harbor County, the Hoh Tribe, and the Quileute Tribe. A document containing written letters of support is available HERE.
    With the passage of the Dawes Act in 1867, the Quinault Reservation was broken up into 80-acre allotments, many given to individual Tribal Members. As private interests quickly moved in to buy up the allotments, including allotment 1157, reservation land was lost to the Tribe.
    “The forced breakup of our reservation erased one of the foundations of our way of life, our view that the land and waters of our homeland were for communal use by all. The Quinault Indian Nation Land Transfer Act will help right a historic wrong,” said Quinault Indian Nation President Guy Capoeman. “This legislation helps fulfill the promise the United States government made to the Quinault Nation that the lands set aside for the Quinault Indian Reservation will always belong to the Quinault Nation. We thank Senators Maria Cantwell and Patty Murray and Congresswoman Emily Randall for introducing this important legislation and for her leadership in Congress.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Collins Speaks at Inaugural Patricia and Donald Collins Leadership Award Presentation at UMaine

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins

    Click HERE, HERE, or HERE for individual photos

    Orono, ME – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins delivered remarks at the inaugural Patricia M. and Donald F. Collins Leadership Award ceremony at the University of Maine (UMaine). This endowed scholarship award was established in memory of Patricia and Donald Collins, both Class of 1949 graduates of UMaine, former mayors of the City of Caribou, and the parents of six children, including Senator Collins. Patricia Collins also served as the first female chair of the UMaine System Board of Trustees, the Catholic Charities of Maine Board of Directors, and the Catholic Foundation of Maine Board of Trustees. Donald Collins was a Bronze Star and two-time Purple Heart recipient as an infantry sergeant during the Battle of the Bulge in World War II, and later served as a member of the Maine State House of Representatives and the Maine State Senate.

    The inaugural recipient of the award is Keegan Tripp, a member of the University of Maine Class of 2026. Keegan is the President of the University of Maine Student Government, a board member of the University of Maine Alumni Association, and a recipient of the John M. Nickerson Scholarship for political science students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement. Keegan also interned at Senator Collins’ state office in Bangor.

    “My parents believed deeply in the value of education, civic responsibility, and giving back to their community, and they exemplified those principles throughout their lives,” said Senator Collins. “It is incredibly meaningful to honor their legacy through this endowed scholarship. I know that they too would be proud of Keegan, whose leadership, character, and outstanding academic achievements made him an excellent candidate to be the first-ever recipient of this award.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Baldwin Successfully Pushes Trump to Punish China for Cheating American Workers and Shipbuilders

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) released the following statement after the Trump administration announced penalties against China for its unfair trade practices in the shipbuilding industry that undermine American workers. The penalties come as a result of the investigation Baldwin backed under the Biden Administration into China’s maritime, logistics, and shipbuilding sectors. That United States Trade Representative (USTR) investigation showed China’s unfair, targeted efforts to dominate the shipbuilding and maritime industry and paved the way for the incoming administration to implement remedies and level the playing field.

    “For nearly two centuries, Wisconsin workers have built world-class ships and their parts that power our Navy and make sure businesses’ products can get in the hands of their customers. Wisconsin workers and shipbuilding companies can compete with anyone in the world – but they need a level playing field to do it. And, as I have been saying for years, China has gotten away with cheating the system and undermining our workers – and it’s long overdue we stand up to them,” said Senator Baldwin. “I was proud to stand with workers to launch this investigation and am proud to have now pushed two presidents to do right by these workers. This is a big step forward in cracking down on China’s unfair trade practices, supporting American workers and building more ships here at home, and keeping our country safe.”

    The penalties include new measures to combat China’s cheating, including fees for Chinese ships that dock at U.S. ports, based on how big they are and how often they visit. The fees will increase incrementally over the following years. There will also be extra charges for companies using ships built in China, again based on the size of the ship or how many containers they carry, with the fees increasing over time. To encourage the use of ships built in the U.S., foreign-built car carriers will have to pay additional fees based on how much they can carry. A second round of changes, which won’t start for three years, will aim to promote U.S.-built ships that carry liquefied natural gas (LNG) and will place limits on using foreign ships for LNG transport. Senator Baldwin will continue to work with the administration and stakeholders to ensure that these trade remedies are adjusted and updated as needed.

    Last March, Senator Baldwin joined United Steelworkers and other labor leaders in support of the American shipbuilding industry and to call on the United States Trade Representative to conduct a full investigation. In April 2024, the USTR announced they were heeding that call and launching an investigation into China, concluding in a report that China targeted dominance in these sectors is unreasonable and burdens or restricts U.S. commerce, and is therefore “actionable” under Section 301. This report laid the groundwork for the Trump Administration to impose appropriate penalties on China to support American workers. In January, Senator Baldwin applauded this USTR report outlining China’s unfair trade practices to undercut American shipbuilding and called on the President to act. In February, Baldwin led a group of her colleagues in calling on the Trump Administration to act on the results of the investigation and take immediate action to level the playing field for American workers, businesses, and national security.

    Senator Baldwin has long championed Buy America policies to support American businesses and workers. She fought to advance her American Made Navy Act in last year’s annual defense legislation, which would ensure by 2033 any new Navy ship purchased uses 100% domestically produced materials, like propulsion systems, shipboard components, couplings, shafts, support bearings, and more. She also worked to include strong Buy America standards in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Baldwin Talks Trump’s Tariffs, Medicaid Cuts, and Endangered Food Assistance with Stops Across Wisconsin

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin

    WISCONSIN – This week, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) stopped in Saukville, Milwaukee, Green Bay, Rhinelander, Merrill, and Wausau to connect directly with Wisconsin families, communities, and businesses struggling to deal with President Donald Trump’s trade war jacking up costs, Republicans advancing a plan to cut Medicaid, and Elon Musk and DOGE taking away food assistance to pay for their massive tax breaks.

    Senator Baldwin celebrated 414 Day with a stop at Lakefront Brewing Company in Milwaukee to host a roundtable with local brewers, restaurants, farmers, roofers, and autobody shop owners to talk about how President Trump’s trade policy has sent their costs skyrocketing and made it harder to plan for the future. Small business owners shared how Trump’s trade war is increasing input costs, forcing them to raise prices on customers, and increasing uncertainty is making it harder to grow their businesses and make long-term investments. On Thursday, Senator Baldwin also joined local officials and business owners in Merrill to tour their Main Street and learn how small businesses are being impacted by rising costs from President Trump’s tariff policy.

    “President Trump came into office promising to lower costs for Wisconsinites. Instead, his trade war is landing families and businesses alike with higher costs that make it harder to make ends meet and keep their doors open,” said Senator Baldwin. “This week, I’ve been meeting with small businesses across the state to understand how Donald Trump is single-handedly raising costs on families and making it next to impossible for Made in Wisconsin businesses to plan and grow for the future.”

    Senator Baldwin also continued her “Hands Off Medicaid” tour with stops in Green Bay and Wausau, meeting with Wisconsinites who rely on Medicaid for essential health care, including for family members living with disabilities and mental health care. Last week, Congressional Republicans advanced their budget plan that includes up to $880 billion in cuts to Medicaid, all to pay for tax breaks for big corporations.

    “My phones have been ringing off the hook with Wisconsinites worried about what Republicans’ budget cuts will mean for their families who need Medicaid to afford cancer treatments, home care for loved ones with disabilities, and treatment for their addiction,” said Senator Baldwin. “Medicaid is a lifeline for over one million Wisconsinites, and I’m fighting tooth and nail to protect it from the deep cuts Republicans have outlined to pay for their tax cuts for Wall Street and corporations.”

    Senator Baldwin also visited the Rhinelander Food Pantry to discuss how the Trump Administration’s cuts to critical food assistance programs, including the Local Food Purchase Assistance (LFPA) program and the Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP), are endangering Wisconsin food banks’ ability to feed families in need. According to the Rhinelander Food Pantry, cuts in funding for both programs is threatening more than one-third of their capacity. Rhinelander Food Pantry serves over 750 households and over 1,500 individuals in their area. Baldwin also visited the Ozaukee Food Alliance in Saukville to hear firsthand how Trump’s cuts to TEFAP will mean fewer meals for vulnerable children and families in Southeastern Wisconsin.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Risch Advocates for Western Water, Local Management

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho James E Risch
    BOISE, Idaho – In case you missed it, U.S. Senator Jim Risch emphasized the importance of local water resource management and his commitment to advancing the priorities of Idaho farmers, ranchers, and water users in a recent feature by Irrigation Leader Magazine.
    Senator Jim Risch: Advocating for Western Water Needs and Local Water Management
    Excerpts from the feature:
    “Q: In Idaho, we have long considered you a water champion. Your office regularly takes the lead on water issues important to our state. Why do you believe you are drawn to water issues?
    Senator Risch: I know firsthand that difficult problems—especially those relating to natural resources—are best addressed when local stakeholders come together to develop creative and tailored solutions. Unfortunately, it seems that the federal government is increasingly trying to impose one-size-fits-all mandates that do not work for Idaho and certainly do not work for Idaho water. As a senator for Idaho and a member of the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, it is my job to ensure that Idahoans have a seat at the table and to maintain our right to manage Idaho’s natural resources.
    As a rancher, I recognize the critical role agriculture plays in Idaho’s economy and identity. Water is at the heart of our agriculture industry. When it comes to the issues that matter most, keeping Idaho’s farmers and ranchers in the driver’s seat is my top priority.”
    “Q: Being in Congress gives you a special perspective on not only the challenges that water managers are facing in the West but also the politics of addressing those challenges. What do you see as the biggest issues affecting water use and management in the West?
    Senator Risch: People outside the West struggle to understand the distinctive challenges we face. This is especially apparent when it comes to western water management. Idaho has been a leader in water innovation and conservation, employing aquifer recharge, surface water infrastructure upgrades, and other water-conserving technologies to ensure that our most valuable resource, water, remains available to future generations. Unfortunately, continuous overreach and regulation from the federal government, even on matters about which agencies have received clear direction from Congress, disrupt these tailored and effective efforts. Local stakeholders have the best ability to solve these difficult problems, and the federal government needs to leave states room to manage their water.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper, Colleagues Reintroduce Bill to Lower Prescription Drug Costs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Colorado John Hickenlooper

    Bill would streamline FDA approval process for generic drugs

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper, Maggie Hassan, Rand Paul, and Mike Lee reintroduced the bipartisan Increasing Transparency in Generic Drug Applications Act to lower prescription drug prices for patients by streamlining the approval process for generic drugs to enter the market more quickly. Last Congress, Hickenlooper voted the bill out of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP).

    “More generic drugs means lower health care costs for Americans. Unnecessary and unclear FDA approval processes delay them from reaching the shelves,” said Hickenlooper. “Our bill speeds up the process to help Americans save more.”

    “Skyrocketing prescription drug prices are forcing too many Granite Staters to choose between their health and their financial security,” said Hassan. “This commonsense, bipartisan legislation will help address a critical obstacle in the generic drug approval process that keeps affordable alternatives off of pharmacy shelves. By requiring more transparency from the FDA and streamlining the drug approval process, this bill will help deliver lower-cost medications to Americans faster.”

    “No one should have to play a complicated guessing game with the FDA simply to bring a safe, effective, and affordable drug to market. The Increasing Transparency in Generic Drug Applications Act will help low-cost generics get to American consumers faster,” said Paul.

    “Generic drugs have made the prescription drug market much more competitive, offering cheaper alternatives to their brand name counterparts. Streamlining the generic drug approval process by eliminating the pointless guessing game manufacturers are forced to play would eliminate red tape and bring down costs for American families,” said Lee.

    Current FDA policy requires certain generic drug manufacturers to demonstrate that their medication has the same levels of active and inactive ingredients as a brand name drug. If the generic drug contains the wrong amount of inactive ingredient, the FDA is not allowed to disclose how the generic comes up short. As a result, manufacturers end up playing a time-consuming guessing game until they reach the right formula. This legislation would require the FDA to clearly identify the formulaic differences between a generic and brand name drug to streamline the approval process.

     “S. 1302 expedites generic submission by creating process efficiencies for FDA and Industry. These efficiencies will enhance patient access to lower-cost medicine. When generic medicines become available, they bring immediately lower prices for lifesaving and life changing medications. We are thankful for the work done thus far by Senators Hassan, Paul, Hickenlooper, and Lee,” said John Murphy, III, President & CEO for the Association for Accessible Medicines.

    Full text of the bill is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lankford Recognizes 30thAnniversary of Oklahoma City Bombing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Oklahoma James Lankford

    OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today released a statement ahead of tomorrow’s 30th anniversary of the tragic bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Building in Oklahoma City on April 19, 1995:

    “On this 30th anniversary of the Oklahoma City bombing, Cindy and I remember the 168 lives lost, including 19 children, and honor survivors and the courageous community who turned tragedy into stories of resilience and hope,” said Lankford. “The heroic actions of first responders, volunteers, and the whole Oklahoma family embodied ‘The Oklahoma Standard.’ The Survivor Tree, a symbol of strength, serves as a powerful reminder that even in the face of unspeakable loss, we can heal and rebuild. Together, we honor the legacy of those who lost their lives and the unwavering spirit of Oklahoma.”

    Background: 

    Lankford recently spoke on the Senate floor ahead of the 30thAnniversary of the Oklahoma City Bombing, you can watch his remarks HERE. 

    Last week, Lankford and Congresswoman Bice hosted a ceremony to plant a Commemorative Survivor Tree on U.S. Capitol grounds. This sapling, a descendant of the original Survivor Tree, honors the victims, survivors, and heroes of the Oklahoma City bombing on its anniversary.

    Lankford and Senator Mullin (R-OK) introduced a resolution to commemorate the anniversary, which passed the Senate unanimously.

    Lankford will speak at the First United Methodist Church of Oklahoma City tomorrow to observe the anniversary with local leaders and community members.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy, Blumenthal, DeLauro, Governor Lamont Announce Start of Bridge Replacement and Traffic Flow Improvement Project on I-95 in West Haven

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    April 17, 2025

    WEST HAVEN—U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) on Thursday joined U.S. Representative Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.-03) and Governor Ned Lamont to announce that the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) has begun construction on a major project on Interstate 95 in West Haven to replace two aging bridges and improve traffic flow in the area.

    The bridges, which are each more than 70 years old, carry I-95 over 1st Avenue and the Metro-North Railroad train tracks. The new structures are designed to have a minimum service life of 75 years, significantly improving long-term safety and reliability.

    In addition to replacing the bridges, the project includes extending the southbound lane from Exit 44 to create a continuous travel lane, which will ultimately serve as an exit-only lane for Exit 43. The goal of these improvements is to reduce congestion, enhance traffic flow, and improve safety in the region. The $136.5 million project is funded by a mix of 90% federal funds and 10% state funds. This project has a labor force of approximately 100 workers. Construction is expected to be completed in phases by year-end 2027.

    “Replacing these 70-year-old bridges is long overdue, and I’m glad to see this project finally moving forward,” said Murphy. “This is a smart federal investment that will make I-95 safer, reduce commutes, and boost Connecticut’s economy, all while creating good-paying jobs in West Haven.”

    “Over $122 million in federal funding will help replace two decaying, deteriorating and undersized bridges in West Haven, providing relief to the tens of thousands of commuters who drive across them every day,” said Blumenthal. “These projects reduce congestion, improve traffic flow on I-95, and most importantly, enhance commuter safety. I’ll continue fighting to deliver investments that make Connecticut’s roads more secure.”

    “Today marks a major step forward not just for West Haven, but for every traveler who depends on I-95 to get to work, to school, or home to their families,” said DeLauro. “These bridge replacements are more than concrete and steel – they are the result of years of hard work, advocacy, and persistent efforts that I’ve championed to bring critical federal resources back to our community. I fought for this investment because I believe in safer roads, smarter infrastructure, and a better quality of life for our residents. By widening and modernizing this vital interchange, we’re not only easing the daily burden of traffic, but we’re also laying the foundation for a stronger, more resilient transportation network that will support economic growth for generations. I’m proud to have led the charge in securing this funding and delivering real results for our region’s future.”

    “This project is a long-term investment in public safety and mobility, not only for West Haven but for the entire region,” said Lamont. “Beyond improving infrastructure, it’s also creating good-paying jobs that support local families and strengthen Connecticut’s workforce. Thank you to Connecticut Department of Transportation crews and contractors who are delivering on these critical projects across the state.”

    “Replacing these aging bridges and revamping the interchange will ease the daily commute for more than 142,000 drivers on I-95,” said CTDOT Deputy Commissioner Laoise King. “By tackling this now, we’re avoiding future disruptions to highway and rail travel. Thanks to support from Governor Lamont, Metro-North Railroad, and our federal and state partners, we’re making significant progress modernizing Connecticut’s bridge infrastructure.”

    For most of 2025, traffic is not expected to be disrupted from this project because the initial work includes construction on the foundation for the new bridges on the ground level at 1st Avenue and at the railroad crossing underneath the highway. Later in 2025, the northbound entrance ramp at Interchange 43 will close, with a detour routed through nearby state roads. The project will progress in stages through 2027, with three lanes of traffic maintained in each direction during daytime hours.

    For detailed information on this project and to subscribe to construction updates via email, visit i95westhaven.com.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Presidential Message on the 250th Anniversary of Paul Revere’s Midnight Ride, 2025

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    class=”has-text-align-left”>On the evening of April 18, 1775, two lanterns were illuminated from the tower of The Old North Church in Boston to alert the colonists that British forces were advancing across the Charles River.  With the alert signal in place, Paul Revere, a silversmith dedicated to the cause of independence, mounted a borrowed horse and embarked on a midnight journey that became a defining moment in American history. The dangerous mission was threefold.  First, sound the alarm for colonists in farms and villages throughout the Massachusetts countryside.  On the way, stop in Lexington to inform the leaders of the colonial resistance, Samuel Adams and John Hancock, that the British were coming to arrest them.  Finally, prevent the seizure of military provisions and munitions stored a few miles west in the town of Concord. Disregarding personal peril or consequence, Paul Revere rode with urgency into the night.  After successfully warning Adams and Hancock, Revere was intercepted by a British patrol just before reaching Concord.  Yet, Revere had already achieved his most important mission—relaying the news of the impending British advancement to his fellow patriots.  Samuel Prescott and William Dawes evaded detection and carried the news on to Concord, giving the fledgling colonial army a critical advantage against the advancing Redcoats.  Paul Revere’s Midnight Ride enabled our troops to prepare for battle and their eventual victory.  By early the next morning, the first shots rang out in Lexington Green, signaling the start of the American Revolution. In 1860, the American poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow immortalized “Paul Revere’s Ride” in a poem that generations of schoolchildren across America have read and recited.  On this 250th anniversary, we remember the stirring words that so beautifully capture the urgency and heroism of that fateful night: “Listen my children, and you shall hearOf the midnight ride of Paul Revere… A cry of defiance, and not of fear,A voice in the darkness, a knock at the door,And a word that shall echo forevermore!”  With these timeless verses, Longfellow ensured that Revere’s harrowing ride for freedom would never be forgotten. Paul Revere was a master craftsman, a husband, a father, and a proud son of liberty, who risked his life to help forge a new Nation.  His courageous ride ignited patriots across the colonies who rose up to defend their families, their livelihoods, and their sacred liberties.  On the 250th anniversary of Paul Revere’s Midnight Ride, we commemorate the enduring legacy of the famed Boston silversmith, patriot, and revolutionary hero, whose passion for independence and bold act of defiance set in motion a war of independence that changed the course of history and transformed the world.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen, Collins, King Visit Portsmouth Naval Shipyard with Navy Secretary John Phelan, Highlight Shipyard’s Role in Supporting U.S. National Security

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen
    (Portsmouth, NH) – Today, U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Susan Collins (R-ME) and Angus King (I-ME) visited Portsmouth Naval Shipyard with Secretary of the Navy John Phelan. The visit was Secretary Phelan’s first to a public shipyard since his confirmation as Secretary of the Navy by the U.S. Senate. The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is a key economic driver in the region, supporting thousands of jobs integral to America’s national security.
    “I was pleased to accompany Navy Secretary Phelan on his first visit to a public shipyard so that he could see the vital role that Portsmouth Naval Shipyard plays in advancing our country’s national security priorities and maintaining a strategic advantage over China,” said Senator Shaheen. “I look forward to working with the Secretary to protect the investments that ensure the shipyard’s workforce can continue to support our nuclear submarines and military readiness.”
    “It was a great pleasure for us to welcome the new Secretary of the Navy to our nation’s oldest and best public shipyard. We talked about a wide range of issues that Senator Shaheen and I have worked on together, like exempting our public shipyards from the hiring freeze that has been applied to many agencies,” Senator Collins said. “Strengthening our Navy is critical to our national defense, and the work of the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard to maintain and update our nuclear submarines is an essential part of that goal.”
    “The United States Navy and the State of Maine have worked together for generations to protect our nation and maintain the best built ships in the fleet for the fight; I was proud to accompany Navy Secretary Phelan during his first visit to Portsmouth Naval Shipyard,” said Senator King. “Our shared commitment to our national security relies on continued, sustainable investments in our workforce. Together we will continue to support our shipbuilders so we can maintain superiority on the world stage.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn Supports Bill to Prevent Taxpayer Dollars From Funding Anti-Second Amendment Groups

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn
    AUSTIN – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) cosponsored the Firearm Industry Non-Discrimination (FIND) Act, which would prohibit the federal government from entering into contracts with groups that discriminate unfairly against firearm associations or businesses: 
    “Texans should not be forced to foot the bill for corporations’ woke agendas,” said Sen. Cornyn. “I am proud to support this commonsense bill to prevent the federal government from doing business with those who seek to undermine our Constitutional right to keep and bear arms.”
    This legislation is being led by Senator Steve Daines (R-MT) and is cosponsored by Senators Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Rick Scott (R-FL), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Jim Risch (R-ID), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Ted Budd (R-NC), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Deb Fischer (R-NE), James Lankford (R-OK), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Eric Schmitt (R-MO), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Katie Britt (R-AL), John Hoeven (R-ND), and Thom Tillis (R-NC).
    Background:
    The FIND Act would ensure corporations cannot benefit from taxpayer-funded contracts and subcontracts while discriminating against firearm trade associations or businesses that deal in firearms, ammunition, or related products.
    This legislation is endorsed by the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SCHUMER: ON TAX DAY, MILLIONS OF AMERICANS ARE EVEN MORE WORRIED ABOUT THEIR SOCIAL SECURITY; CITING SIN-AFTER-SIN CUTS TO THE SAFETY NET OF SENIORS, SENATOR SAYS SOCIAL SECURITY ADMIN ACTING…

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Charles E Schumer

    Schumer Says Dudek, Hand-Picked By DOGE, Has Been Dismantling Social Security & Its Operations: Granting DOGE Access To Data Systems & Deeply Personal Info Without Adequate Vetting, Laying Off 7,000 Staff While Closing Critical Offices, Including Ones In NY & Other Sins Against Seniors’ Social Security

    Schumer Says These Decisions Have Caused Massive Service Disruptions Like A Crashed Website, Jammed Phone Lines, Hours Of Waiting & More; Dudek Is Unfit & Enough Is Enough  

     Schumer: The Man Chosen To Oversee The Senior Safety Net Of Social Security Is Instead Weaving A Web Of Worry For Americans Who EARNED Their Social Security Benefits  

    On Tax Day, U.S. Senator Charles Schumer said millions of Americans (And New Yorkers) are even more worried about the future of Social Security and the disgraceful undermining of the Social Security Administration led by Leland Dudek, the acting Commissioner. From chaos to long waits, Schumer said sin-after-sin cuts not only hurt seniors, but they risk dangerous outcomes to health and wellness for those who most depend on their earned payments for day-to-day life. 

    “You don’t need to scratch your head and wonder what’s going on when you see that the Trump administration is decimating Social Security offices and staff. And you don’t need to ponder what might happen next when Elon Musk, the richest man in the world, says that the earned benefits that tens-of-millions of seniors, families, and children depend on are some scam—because that’s a real threat and a real promise: they are coming for your Social Security,” said U.S. Senator Charles Schumer.

    “And now those two, Donald Trump and Elon Musk, have a hatchet man in Leland Dudek, an acting Commissioner with an emphasis on the ‘acting,’ because his real role is to dismantle the very office he is supposed to lead, make better, and protect. We have seen his audition and his work on the stage, and it is clear: Dudek is incapable of doing this job in the way it needs to be done. He won’t protect seniors. He will hurt them. Leland Dudek should resign,” Schumer added.

    Schumer announced that the Social Security Administration’s Acting Commissioner—Leland Dudek—must resign. Schumer said, Dudek, hand-picked by DOGE, has been dismantling Social Security (SS) from day one, and that he has brainlessly laid off 7,000 staff with plans to lay off even more. Schumer said Dudek is targeting field offices for closure, plans to close 6 out of 10 regional offices, and has granted Elon Musk and DOGE access to Americans’ deeply sensitive personal information. Schumer said these unfit actions have created massive service disruptions (crashed website, jammed phone lines, and multi-hour waits at field offices) and that Dudek has made it clear his priority is pleasing Trump, not ensuring Americans’ get their earned benefits. Schumer called on Dudek to resign as he warns what might happen next with Dudek unchecked at the helm of Social Security.  

    Schumer also explained, Dudek has no executive experience and had previously been put on administrative leave pending an investigation into his sharing sensitive information with DOGE. Schumer reiterated, DOGE’s ability to gain access to Social Security’s data, which contains reams of personal information on hundreds of millions of Americans, has caused real concern among experts and consumer advocates.

    Schumer explained that New Yorkers and Long Islanders, as well as tens-of-millions of Americans, who depend on Social Security are in serious trouble. Schumer vowed to fight the effort to decimate Social Security offices, including locations in New York, with everything he’s got.

    Social Security sends over $126 billion to more than 73 million retired and disabled beneficiaries every month, Schumer explained. At least 7,000 workers were fired with the administration’s chainsaw. Across New York City and Long Island, the Social Security field offices offer a full range of Social Security services, including applying for new or replacement Social Security cards, applying for Social Security and Supplemental Security Income benefits, making changes to your benefits information and more. Now some of those offices could permanently close, and it’s because Leland Dudek would allow it.  

    “Leland Dudek personifies the shoulder shrug,” said Schumer. “This is not a person who is in their job to make things better, or carry the weight. This is a person who just does not care about the people he is supposed to serve—seniors. Dudek cares about two things, and two things only: Donald Trump and Elon Musk. He has got to go.”

    Social Security has been a crucial piece of the social safety net since President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the law creating it in 1935, and it was designed to be self-sufficient. It has a dedicated revenue source from payroll taxes, which workers split with their employers, the New York Times noted. 

    MIL OSI USA News –