NewzIntel.com

Category: US Senate

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Speaks at Georgetown Law School on Executive Power and the Rule of Law 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution and a former public defender, last week joined the Georgetown Law Journal for a conversation on executive overreach and the judiciary’s role in the impending constitutional crisis. Senator Welch spoke on President Trump’s abuse of executive power and the breakdown of norms and independence of the judiciary. He also urged law students at Georgetown to push back on the Administration’s brazen lawlessness by working for law firms that stand up for the rule of law. 
    Senator Welch was joined at the event by Visiting Professor Mary McCord, Executive Director of the Institute for Constitutional Advocacy and Protection (ICAP), and Stephen I. Vladeck, the Agnes Williams Sesquicentennial Professor of Federal Courts. The conversation was moderated by Mark Joseph Stern, Legal Reporter for Slate Magazine.   
    “The Republicans’ fealty is to Trump. And it’s like everybody that has been appointed by the President has taken an Oath of Allegiance to him…And it’s really putting in stark relief that there’s limits on even what the Constitution can protect us from. Because of the norms breakdown—just those agreements that we have, without even being explicit, that there’s a free election, there’s a peaceful transfer of power—and the Constitution doesn’t protect us. That’s actually the biggest shock to me,” said Senator Welch during the event.  
    “So, this is extremely ominous, and it is the institutional breakdown. You know, I just can’t fathom being a member of an organization, like I’m a Member of Congress, and us giving up our authority without a huge fight. That has to be something that binds Republicans and Democrats together because the separation of powers really does matter in the end. The concentration of power in one place—I mean, this is the whole point that was made in Federalist Papers—is incredibly dangerous and what we’re seeing played out right now.” 
    View photos from the event below:
    Watch a recording of the event here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Statement On Ed Martin’s Undisclosed Appearances On Russian State Media

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    April 16, 2025

    SPRINGFIELD – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today released the following statement regarding reportsthat Ed Martin, President Donald Trump’s pick to be U.S. Attorney for D.C., appeared on RT and Sputnik—networks funded and directed by the Russian government—150 times as a guest commentator from August 2016 to April 2024, something he failed to disclose in his Senate Judiciary Committee questionnaire:

    “It is well-documented that Ed Martin is a Donald Trump loyalist who has embraced a Nazi sympathizer and attacked law enforcement who kept lawmakers and staff safe during the January 6 insurrection. The 150 undisclosed appearances Mr. Martin has made on Russian state media as recently as April of last year—as Russia was actively bombing Ukraine—raises further serious questions about whether he has the temperament to serve as U.S. Attorney, concerns that have been underlined by his misconduct as Interim U.S. Attorney.

    “I understand that Chairman Grassley has submitted questions to Mr. Martin in response to the issues that Committee Democrats and I raised with respect to Mr. Martin’s record, and Mr. Martin will submit responses to our written questions during this April recess. However, today’s reporting is further evidence that the Committee must hold a hearing and hear from Ed Martin directly, under oath. We must take our constitutional duty of advice and consent seriously.”

    Durbin has continuously called out Mr. Martin’s long record of objectionable statements and conduct. This includes: Mr. Martin repeatedly attacking law enforcement officers who kept members and staff safe during the January 6 insurrection and the Assistant U.S. Attorneys who were assigned to prosecute the rioters who brutally attacked police officers; Mr. Martin calling Michael Fanone, a 20-year veteran of the Metropolitan Police Department who was nearly killed on January 6, “a fake cop”; Mr. Martin advocating for “less judgment on somebody who hit a cop” on January 6; Mr. Martin repeatedly attacking prosecutors who were assigned to work on January 6 cases, calling them “terrorists” and “despicable people who decided to do something wrong”; and Mr. Martin’s close relationship with Timothy Hale-Cusanelli, a January 6 rioter and Nazi sympathizer whom he called an “extraordinary man, an extraordinary leader” who is “worthy of being listened to by lots of folks.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wicker, Colleagues Send Letter Calling for Reform to Biden AI Diffusion Rule

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Mississippi Roger Wicker
    WASHINGTON – Last week, U.S. Senator Roger Wicker (R-MS) joined Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) in sending a letter to Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick regarding the Biden administration’s AI Diffusion Rule (AIDR). The letter highlights the need to withdraw Biden’s overly obstructive rule and propose an alternative before the May 15th compliance deadline. Implementing a new standard would help prevent the Chinese Communist Party from taking the lead in this emerging technology by focusing efforts on encouraging American companies to continue being pioneers in artificial intelligence innovation. The letter states:
    “We applaud President Trump’s commitment to ensuring American dominance in the tech sector. Today, we are in an enviable position: American companies dominate in crucial areas that will define tomorrow’s economy including semiconductor design, compute infrastructure, and artificial intelligence (AI). This leadership position has been hard fought. Maintaining and growing our tech lead requires diligently advancing an American-led, global ecosystem around the world.”
    “With the compliance deadline of May 15, 2025, rapidly approaching, immediate action is necessary to prevent irreversible damage to American innovation and competitiveness,” the letter continues. “Every day this rule remains in place, American companies face mounting uncertainty, stalled investments, and the risk of losing critical global partnerships that cannot be easily regained. Therefore, we urge you to withdraw this rule and propose an alternative that is effective in preventing Communist China from capturing the world market in a leading technology without compromising American advantages.”
    The letter was also signed by Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC), Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), Ted Budd (R-NC), Eric Schmitt (R-MO), and Tommy Tuberville (R-AL).
    Read the full letter here or below:  
    Dear Secretary Lutnick:
    We applaud President Trump’s commitment to ensuring American dominance in the tech sector. Today, we are in an enviable position: American companies dominate in crucial areas that will define tomorrow’s economy including semiconductor design, compute infrastructure, and artificial intelligence (AI). This leadership position has been hard fought. Maintaining and growing our tech lead requires diligently advancing an American-led, global ecosystem around the world.
    Concerningly, President Biden’s recently issued Artificial Intelligence Diffusion Rule (AIDR) threatens to undermine this leadership and advancement. Among other things, the rule categorizes countries into three tiers, imposing complex restrictions on the purchase of U.S. technology. Only Tier 1 countries—limited to just 18 nations—would have access to American technology. Even these 18 would only have access if they comply with a burdensome and ever-evolving set of federal regulations. The vast majority of nations fall into Tier 2. These countries face arbitrary purchase limits and a cumbersome licensing process to acquire U.S. computing technologies. Strikingly, key allies and partners like Israel have been inexplicably excluded from the top tier and placed into Tier 2. Tier 3 countries, including Communist China, are already rightly restricted.
    While the AIDR claims to provide secure ecosystems for the responsible diffusion of AI, this rushed midnight rule’s impact and overly broad scope will result in consequences that divorce it from its intent. Fundamentally, the rule places burdensome constraints on U.S. companies that would be difficult to comply with and even harder for the Federal government to enforce. Buyers, particularly in Tier 2 countries that are constrained from purchasing U.S. technology, would be incentivized to turn to Communist China’s unregulated, cheap substitutes. Additionally, technology companies in Tier 2 countries could be motivated to create their own AI technology stack that is outside our export control regime. Neither outcome furthers our nation’s long-term economic and national security goals.
    With the compliance deadline of May 15, 2025, rapidly approaching, immediate action is necessary to prevent irreversible damage to American innovation and competitiveness. Every day this rule remains in place, American companies face mounting uncertainty, stalled investments, and the risk of losing critical global partnerships that cannot be easily regained. Therefore, we urge you to withdraw this rule and propose an alternative that is effective in preventing Communist China from capturing the world market in a leading technology without compromising American advantages.
     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven to Host Agriculture Secretary Rollins in North Dakota on April 22

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven

    04.16.25

    Senator, Secretary Will Meet with ND Ag Producers, Participate in Technology Demonstrations at Grand Farm

    FARGO, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven today announced that he will host Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins in North Dakota on Tuesday, April 22. Hoeven, who serves as chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee and a senior member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, invited Rollins to the state during her confirmation process earlier this year so she could:

    • Get direct feedback from the state’s ag producers as work proceeds on the next farm bill.
    • Learn firsthand about North Dakota’s leadership in precision agriculture technologies.

    To this end, Hoeven and Rollins will meet with local commodity groups and producers at North Dakota State University (NDSU) and participate in an agriculture technology demonstration at Grand Farm. Specific event details, including times and locations, will be released in the coming days.

    “Our farmers, ranchers and agri-businesses have built North Dakota into a world leader in production agriculture,” said Senator Hoeven. “Their feedback will be invaluable to Secretary Rollins as she works with us to keep the farm in the farm bill. At the same time, this visit will enable her to see the exciting new developments in precision agriculture that are happening right here in the Red River Valley. This is a tremendous opportunity to showcase the partnerships we’ve worked to craft between Grand Farm, NDSU and others and secure key support for strengthening such initiatives.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Risch Names Schumacker’s Jewelry as April Small Business of the Month

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho James E Risch

    BOISE, Idaho – U.S. Senator Jim Risch, senior member and former chairman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, announced the selection of Schumacker’s Jewelry in St. Maries as the Idaho Small Business of the Month for April 2025. Schumacker’s Jewelry will be recognized for its contribution to the North Idaho community in the Congressional Record of the U.S. Senate.

    “Schumacker’s Jewelry has been a North Idaho favorite for 78 years,” said Risch. “The Schumacker family proudly serves the St. Maries community with timeless pieces to celebrate life’s important milestones—engagements, anniversaries, and so much more. I’m proud to recognize Schumacker’s Jewelry as the April Small Business of the Month.”

    Idaho is consistently ranked on the best places in the country to do business. Each month, Senator Risch selects an Idaho small business that exemplifies the Idaho values of hard work, entrepreneurial spirit, and exceptional commitment to community.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Holds Roundtable On Tax Day To Discuss Using Tax Dollars Responsibly To Support Critical Programs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
    April 15, 2025
    SPRINGFIELD – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today held a roundtable in Springfield with labor leaders, senior advocates, retirees, and small business owners to discuss the need to use tax dollars wisely to fulfill the promise of critical programs like Social Security, instead of cutting taxes for billionaires and raising prices forAmerican families and small businesses via tariffs.
    More than two million Illinoisans depend on the Social Security Administration (SSA) to deliver essential benefits and services, yet customers experience long wait times over the phone and increased time to process disability benefits, while staffing levels at SSA offices continue to decrease. The Trump Administration’s threats to cut tax payer-funded SSA services would further prevent Illinoisans from receiving their benefits.
    “Illinoisans are questioning whether or not they’ll continue to have access to their hard-earned benefits and essential services, while also being crushed by President Trump’s other economic policies, such as his outlandish tariffs,” said Durbin. “Today’s discussion with seniors, small business owners, and labor leaders in Springfield made it clear—these policies do nothing to ‘Make America Great Again,’ they are only making it harder for Illinoisans to get by.”
    Durbin spoke on the Senate floor about the impact President Trump’s tariffs will have on small businesses, manufacturers, consumers, and workers in Illinois, which received $127 billion of imports from China, Canada, and Mexico in 2023. Durbin also joined fellow U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture member U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and 17 of their colleagues in a letter to ask U.S. Trade Representative Ambassador Jamieson Greer for information on how the Trump Administration’s tariffs will impact farmers across the nation.
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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ensuring Commercial, Cost-Effective Solutions in Federal Contracts

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    By the authority vested in me as President, by the Constitution and laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered:
         Section 1.  Purpose.  A major goal of my Administration is to eliminate unnecessary and imprudent expenditures of taxpayer dollars.  Previous administrations evaded statutory preferences and abused the Federal contracting framework by procuring custom products and services where a suitable or superior commercial solution would have fulfilled the Government’s needs.  Doing so simultaneously stifled the integration of commercially available innovations in Government procurement while increasing Government spending, resulting in avoidable waste and costly delays to the detriment of American taxpayers.  My Administration will enforce existing laws directing the Federal Government to utilize, to the maximum extent practicable, the competitive marketplace and the innovations of private enterprise to provide better, more cost-effective services to taxpayers. 
         Sec. 2.  Policy.  It is the policy of my Administration that agencies shall procure commercially available products and services, including those that can be modified to fill agencies’ needs, to the maximum extent practicable, including pursuant to the Federal Acquisition Streamlining Act of 1994 (Public Law 103-355, as amended) (FASA).
         Sec. 3.  Definitions.  For purposes of this order:      (a)  “Agency” means an executive department, a military department, or any independent establishment within the meaning of 5 U.S.C. 101, 102, and 104(1), respectively, and any wholly owned Government corporation within the meaning of 31 U.S.C. 9101(c).     (b)  “Approval authority” means the senior procurement executive, designated pursuant to 41 U.S.C. 1702(c), who is responsible for management direction of the acquisition system of an agency, including implementation of the unique acquisition policies, regulations, and standards of the agency.     (c)  “Contracting officer” has the meaning given in 48 C.F.R. 2.101. 
         Sec. 4.  Review of Pending Actions.  (a)  Within 60 days of the date of this order, each agency’s approval authority shall direct the agency’s contracting officers to conduct a review of all open agency solicitations, pre-solicitation notices, solicitation notices, award notices, and sole source notices for non-commercial products or services, such as highly specialized, Government-unique systems, custom-developed products or services, or research and development requirements where the agency has not identified a satisfactory commercial option.  Each contracting officer shall consolidate each such agency solicitation, pre-solicitation notice, solicitation notice, award notice, and sole source notice into a proposed application requesting approval for the purchase of the non‑commercial products or services, which shall be submitted to the agency’s approval authority.  The proposed applications shall contain the market research and price analysis used to determine the availability of commercial products and services to meet the Government’s needs and to justify the procurement of a non-commercial product or service, as required by 41 U.S.C. 3307(d) and 10 U.S.C. 3453(c) and 3453(d), as applicable, and the rationale for pursuing a Government-unique, custom-developed or otherwise non-commercial product or service.     (b)  Within 30 days of the date of the receipt of the proposed applications for solicitation of non-commercial products or services under subsection (a) of this section, each approval authority shall:             (i)   assess each proposed application’s compliance with FASA, including the sufficiency of the market research and price analysis provided in support of the procurement of non‑commercial products or services, and take appropriate action with respect to any deficiencies in the proposed application, including returning the application or any portion of the application to the contracting officer for additional research or action with respect to potential commercial products or services; and             (ii)  make appropriate recommendations to advance the solicitation of commercial products or services where those products or services would be sufficient to serve the applicable procurement needs.     (c)  Within 120 days of the date of this order and annually thereafter, each agency’s approval authority shall provide a report to the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) detailing the agency’s compliance with FASA and its progress toward implementing the policies of this order.
         Sec. 5.  Oversight of Non-Commercial Procurements.  (a)  Whenever an agency proposes to solicit a non-commercial product or service, the applicable contracting officer shall provide the agency’s approval authority with a description of the proposed procurement, which shall include the specific reasons a non‑commercial product or service is required, including all market research and price analysis in support of the proposed solicitation for such product or service.  The approval authority shall review and approve or deny the proposal in writing.      (b)  In conducting the review under subsection (a) of this section, the approval authority may seek input regarding the proposal from the Director of OMB.  In such cases, the Director of OMB, in consultation with the Administrator for Federal Procurement Policy, shall review and assess the validity of the proposal, including the thoroughness of the market research and price analysis, and shall notify the approval authority in writing whether the Director of OMB recommends that the proposal be approved or denied. 
         Sec. 6.  General Provisions.  (a)  Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:             (i)   the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or             (ii)  the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.     (b)  This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.     (c)  This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
                                  DONALD J. TRUMP
    THE WHITE HOUSE,    April 15, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lummis, Kelly Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Modernize Environmental Reviews and Speed Up Road Construction Projects

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming Cynthia Lummis
    Washington, D.C. —  U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ) introduced the Interactive Federal Review Act, bipartisan legislation to bring 21st-century technology to the outdated federal environmental review process and speed up the delivery of vital highway infrastructure.
    “Hardworking American taxpayers send trillions to Washington, only for outdated permitting policies and decades-old technology to delay building the very infrastructure they rely on,” said Lummis. “I’m proud to work across the aisle to deliver cutting-edge solutions to modernize how we build roads and bridges in Wyoming — saving time, saving money, and ultimately delivering safer, more efficient transportation for people throughout the Cowboy State.”
    The legislation would direct the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) to select at least ten highway infrastructure projects to demonstrate the use of advanced interactive, digital, cloud-based platforms to conduct environmental analysis, and engage the public. These tools allow real-time, concurrent agency reviews, and transparent public participation — replacing the slow-moving exchange of static documents and PDFs.
    Although the bill calls for 10 demonstration projects, its impact reaches far beyond that. The legislation also requires the Department of Transportation to issue guidance on best practices, laying the foundation for the broader adoption of modern technologies in federally funded infrastructure projects nationwide.
    Full text of the bill can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 04/16/2025 Blackburn Probes Vanderbilt University Medical Center for Not Complying with President Trump’s Executive Action Ending DEI Programs

    US Senate News:

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

    NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) sent a letter to Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) President Jeffrey Balser regarding reports that VUMC has begun concealing its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs instead of fully complying with President Trump’s executive action to end wasteful DEI programs in educational institutions:

    VUMC Scrubbed Website References to DEI Initiatives That Are Still Active

    “For the benefit of Tennesseans and all Americans who rely on VUMC for lifesaving care and research, I urge you to end all DEI programs and fully comply with the President’s executive action. VUMC has recently scrubbed its website of references to DEI initiatives at the institution, going so far as to password protect web pages tied to DEI and climate activism. Concerningly, though, offices such as the Office of Health Equity, the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, and the Office for Diversity Affairs are seemingly still active. These offices have advocated for ‘collectively addressing systemic inequities’ and ‘confronting structural racism.’ Additionally, VUMC’s track record on embracing harmful woke initiatives is grim, as VUMC has previously performed sex- change surgeries on minors before suspending the program after public outrage.”

    VUMC Should Invest Taxpayer Dollars in Lifesaving Research Instead of Harmful DEI Initiatives

    “VUMC has been the beneficiary of millions of dollars of federal taxpayer funds. In fact, so far this fiscal year, VUMC has received more than $66 million in NIH awards. In previous years, instead of using funding to advance core medical research, over $17 million has been invested in VUMC’s DEI and Belonging Program, which was formed to hire ‘diverse biomedical researchers.’ This is only one of many examples of VUMC investing in DEI initiatives instead of lifesaving medical research. President Trump has been clear on this issue. His recent executive orders correctly prohibited DEI programs at federally funded research institutions and ended the recognition of gender identity apart from biological sex. As a beneficiary of federal funding, VUMC has a responsibility to align with the President’s executive orders and return to a focus on lifesaving research as opposed to woke DEI initiatives. Instead of covering up VUMC’s DEI initiatives, I urge you to comply with President Trump’s effort to responsibility allocate taxpayer dollars and immediately cease all DEI initiatives.”

    Click here to read the full letter.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst, McClain Halt Tax Dollars to China

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)
    WASHINGTON – As Americans fork over their hard-earned money to the government on Tax Day, U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.) are introducing the Accountability in Foreign Animal Research Act (AFAR) Act to end the insane practice of funding sketchy animal experiments in China with American tax dollars.
    The bill would ban the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) from funding experiments similar to the gain-of-function research on bat coronaviruses at the Wuhan Institute of Virology that many experts believe led to the COVID-19 pandemic.
    “We should have learned our lesson after COVID-19,” said Ernst. “Whether creating zombie cats in Russia, supporting risky research in Wuhan, or funding sketchy experiments on animals in foreign labs, I am cutting off the money for this madness and ensuring that taxpayers no longer foot the bill for crazy pseudoscience overseas.”
    “American taxpayer dollars should never fund dangerous, cruel experiments in animal research labs – much less in China or other adversarial countries,” said McClain. “This common-sense legislation ensures taxpayer dollars are not wasted on reckless research.”
    “White Coat Waste applauds Sen. Joni Ernst for reintroducing the AFAR Act just in time for Tax Day because Americans’ hard-earned money shouldn’t be wasted on funding foreign adversaries’ animal labs,” said Justin Goodman, Senior Vice President at government watchdog White Coat Waste. “As White Coat Waste first exposed in Wuhan five years ago, shipping taxpayer dollars to unaccountable animal testing labs in China and other adversarial nations is a recipe for disaster. Despite our progress since 2020 and in the first few months of the new Trump Administration, we’ve uncovered how twenty Chinese animal labs are still eligible to receive taxpayers’ money, including one that’s currently abusing 300 beagles a week in wasteful and cruel NIH-funded drug tests. Cutting cash for foreign enemies’ animal labs is common sense, consistent with Trump priorities, and backed by over 70 percent of taxpayers. Stop the money. Stop the madness!”
    Background:
    Ernst has long fought to stop tax dollars from being sent overseas for risky research.
    An Ernst-requested investigation exposed how EcoHealth sent over $1 million U.S. taxpayer dollars to the Wuhan Institute of Virology for risky experiments on bat coronaviruses. She also secured an audit by the Department of Defense’s Inspector General of risky research in China paid for by the Pentagon and hidden from the public. 
    She led the charge to permanently debar the Wuhan Institute of Virology and defund EcoHealth Alliance from receiving U.S. taxpayer dollars.
    Ernst efforts also led to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) defunding EcoHealth and promising to cut off any taxpayer dollars used for research of pandemic potential.
    In her $2 trillion blueprint to slash waste in Washington, Ernst pointed to the millions being sent to China for secretive risky research.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murray, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Cut Taxes for Working Americans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), and Michael Bennet (D-CO) led 42 of their Senate colleagues in introducing the Tax Cut for Workers Act to give millions of working Americans a much-needed tax break. The bill is part of Senate Democrats’ comprehensive plan to bring relief to the American people, and it is being introduced with the senators’ American Families Act to permanently expand the Child Tax Credit. 

    “Long term, sustainable economic growth is built from the middle out—not the top down,” said Senator Murray. “While Trump and Republicans are working overtime to pass more tax breaks for their billionaire friends, I will keep fighting tooth and nail to put more money back in the pockets of hardworking Americans. I am proud to join my colleagues in introducing the Tax Cut for Workers Act, and I’ll keep fighting to cut costs for Americans who are already facing rising prices because of Trump’s ham-fisted tariffs.”

    “With costs skyrocketing right now thanks to the Trump administration, millions of hardworking Americans need expanded tax relief to keep a roof over their heads and food on the table for their families,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “This bill is focused on those who really need a tax cut – middle-class Americans who contribute to our economy – not Donald Trump’s billionaire friends.”

    “Working people need relief more than ever. The Trump Administration’s reckless tariff policy will cost the average American family upwards of $3,800 annually,” said Senator Bennet. “These tariffs, coupled with an extension of Trump’s tax cuts for his billionaire friends, are an insult to hard working Americans. Senator Cortez Masto and I are committed to passing real tax relief for middle-class families through the Child Tax Credit and the Earned Income Tax Credit.”

    The existing Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) – the Worker Tax Cut – has been delivering tax relief for millions of workers for decades. The new legislation would cut taxes for working class Americans without children, who currently receive a much smaller EITC than workers with children, would nearly triple the average tax break many of these Americans receive from the existing EITC, and extend eligibility for the tax cut to workers under the age of 25 and over the age of 64.

    The full text of the bill is here.

    Additional cosponsors include Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE.), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chris Coons (D-DE), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), John Fetterman (D-PA), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mark Warner (D-VA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murray, Colleagues Press U.S. Trade Representative on How Trump Tariff Are Hurting Farmers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
    ICYMI: Senator Murray, Commerce Director Nguyễn, WA Businesses and Agriculture Respond to Trump Tariffs Raising Costs on Americans, Tanking Economy
    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and 17 of their colleagues sent a letter asking U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) Ambassador Jamieson Greer for information on how the Administration’s tariff taxes will impact farmers across the nation.
    “We write with great concern about the impact of the Administration’s reckless tariff agenda on our nation’s farmers,” the senators wrote. “Farmers not only have billions of dollars in commodities from last year waiting to be sold, but also have started spring planting and rely on stable markets for their planning.”
    “As farm organizations and economists have been warning for months, key trading partners will continue to retaliate against U.S. agricultural products as a result of President Trump’s tariffs,” the senators continued. “The direct economic impact and uncertainty on America’s farmers stands to change the future of agricultural trade relationships for generations.”
    Along with Murray and Klobuchar, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Ron Wyden (D-WA), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Mark Warner (D-VA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Chris Coons (D-DE), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Gary Peters (D-MI), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Tina Smith (D-MN), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), and Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD).
    The full letter is available here and below. 
    Dear Ambassador Greer, 
    We write with great concern about the impact of the Administration’s reckless tariff agenda on our nation’s farmers. Farmers not only have billions of dollars in commodities from last year waiting to be sold, but also have started spring planting and rely on stable markets for their planning. These farmers have made planting decisions and purchased key inputs such as seeds and fertilizer, selected crop insurance coverage, and even began marketing their expected production. Long before the President’s across-the-board tariff announcement, millions of acres of fall-planted crops like winter wheat were already in the ground and farmers already have enough uncertainty without tariffs adding more volatility. 
    We continue to hear from farmers and businesses across the agricultural supply chain who are bearing the brunt of the negative impacts of the global tariffs announced by President Trump on April 2, 2025, and earlier tariffs on Canada and Mexico. These actions and the resulting retaliation have injected further uncertainty into the farm economy and continue to rattle commodity markets. Heading into this year, farmers were already facing tightened margins resulting from declining commodity prices and heightened input costs. Many farmers are in a much worse position than they were heading into the 2018-2019 trade war and so are less equipped to withstand the impacts of continued volatility. 
    As farm organizations and economists have been warning for months, key trading partners will continue to retaliate against U.S. agricultural products as a result of President Trump’s tariffs. For example, on April 3rd, China announced a 34 percent retaliatory tariff on all products from the U.S. A major export destination for U.S.-grown soybeans, futures prices dropped 34 cents on Friday, with an estimated loss in value of unsold 2024 soybeans of nearly $300 million. That Friday drop would also cost farmers nearly $1.4 billion on the 2025 crop. Cotton, another crop that is heavily reliant on exports followed a similar steep decline. Since then, volatility in the markets has continued as the Administration has continued to change the tariffs day-by-day and sometimes hour-by-hour. While the tariffs are currently 10 percent across-the-board for nearly all countries except China, this continued uncertainty is the last thing farmers need as they begin planting season.
    Farmers are also continuing to experience the long-term implications of the 2018-2019 trade war when structural trade flows shifted to favor farmers in Brazil and Argentina. A prolonged trade war now with key trading partners will just further exacerbate those trade shifts. This market share that farmers are losing is the result of more than $15 billion in investments by both taxpayers and the farmers themselves through trade promotion programs over the last 50 years. 
    The direct economic impact and uncertainty on America’s farmers stands to change the future of agricultural trade relationships for generations. As such, we request responses to the following questions:  
    Did USTR perform any analysis on the impact of the across-the-board tariff policy on farmers prior to implementation? If so, please share that analysis with us.
    What do you expect to be the short- and long-term impacts of tariffs on farmers? 

    There have been conflicting reports as to whether tariffs are being used as leverage in trade negotiations or as a long-term structural shift in trade policy.
    Can you provide clarity on the goals of the administration’s trade policy?
    If tariffs are being used as leverage in trade negotiations, what are your top agriculture priorities and markets?  What countries are you prioritizing in negotiations, and what is the basis for determining those countries?

    President Trump indicated that U.S. farmers need to get ready to supply the domestic market instead of the international markets.
    Has USTR or have other agencies done analysis to show how production and consumption of crops would need to shift, or what domestic processing would be necessary to accomplish this goal?  For example, there is very limited domestic cotton spinning, weaving or apparel manufacturing. 
    Significant parts of the agricultural trade imbalance are related to imports of specialty crops, many of which are either grown in tropical regions or imported during the off-season.  U.S. farmers will not be able to produce these commodities in the same volume or season.  Will consumers need to shift from fresh produce in the off season or be forced to pay a higher price due to the tariffs on these products? 

    Prior to the announcement of the across-the-board tariffs and per-country rates, the USDA announced plans for trade missions to several countries including some with tariffs as high as 46%.
    Did USTR consult with USDA on the trade missions or setting tariffs based on targets for opening markets?   

    We have serious concerns about the haphazard approach taken by the Administration to tariffs that cause unnecessary uncertainty and harm for U.S. farmers and their markets.  We look forward to a prompt response. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla, Colleagues Demand Trump Administration and DOGE Stop Their Attacks on Social Security

    US Senate News:

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

    Padilla, Colleagues Demand Trump Administration and DOGE Stop Their Attacks on Social Security

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Ahead of today’s Social Security Day of Action, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) joined 20 Senators in calling on the Trump Administration and the so-called “Department of Government Efficiency” (DOGE) to stop their attacks on Social Security. The letter comes in the wake of the Administration’s repeated actions to weaken the Social Security Administration (SSA), which include staffing cuts, plans for indiscriminate closures of field offices across the country, and limits to phone services.
    These actions threaten the roughly 6.3 million Californians who receive critical Social Security benefits, more than any other state in the nation. The cuts are upending the lives of older adults and people with disabilities who rely on the Social Security benefits that they have earned to pay their rent, purchase groceries, and afford medical bills.
    “The changes undertaken by SSA leadership and the DOGE disregard the reality of daily life for those millions of Americans,” wrote the Senators. “They are spearheaded by the out-of-touch, unelected leadership of the DOGE. They hurt our nation’s older adults and people with disabilities—our grandparents, our friends, and our neighbors. And they risk debilitating the Social Security System and denying Americans the money they are owed.”
    The letter to Acting SSA Commissioner Leland Dudek was led by U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Ranking Member of the Senate Special Committee on Aging, and Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Committee. In addition to Senator Padilla, the letter was also signed by Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Edward Markey (D-Mass.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.).
    Full text of the Senators’ letter is available here and below:
    Dear Acting Commissioner Dudek:
    We write to denounce the incessant havoc sparked by the Trump Administration’s continual cuts to the Social Security Administration (SSA). Changes implemented by SSA leadership and the so-called “Department of Government Efficiency” (DOGE) include heinous staffing cuts, plans for indiscriminate closures of field offices around the nation, and limits to phone services. It is difficult to see how DOGE’s attacks on the SSA, and the complicity shown by SSA leadership, will improve efficiency when we are already hearing stories upon stories of how SSA’s changes have damaged the system responsible for ensuring timely, accurate payments—upending the lives of older adults and people with disabilities who rely on Social Security benefits that they earned to pay their rent, groceries, and medical bills.
    Social Security lifts 22 million Americans, including 16 million older adults, out of poverty. Many older adults rely on Social Security for life-saving sustenance—to ensure they have food to eat, a roof over their heads, and money to pay for medications. In fact, 40 percent of older Americans rely on Social Security as their only source of retirement income. Over seven million veterans received a Social Security benefit in 2024, while SSDI and Supplemental Security Income serve millions of workers with disabilities and their children. DOGE’s attacks on the SSA will break down access to services, affect timely and accurate payment of benefits, and have disastrous consequences for Americans everywhere.
    It is precisely because older adults, people with disabilities, and other deserving Americans count on Social Security that we are deeply concerned with efforts by DOGE and SSA leadership to impede access to SSA services. SSA has announced plans to slash at least 12 percent of its workforce, and offered a buyout incentives to staff, at a time when SSA staffing is at a 50-year low. SSA has also announced plans to close six of its ten regional offices, which coordinate and support the efforts of SSA employees. DOGE, meanwhile, has placed dozens of SSA offices across the country on the chopping block. At the same time, SSA has decided to limit the services it makes available over-the-phone, after backing down from broader restrictions following an outcry by older adults and people with disabilities. SSA’s new limits on over-the phone services are still unacceptable, and the process used by SSA—swift revisions after public outcry—suggest the agency is not talking to the Americans who rely on Social Security the most before it makes its decisions. Instead, it appears that SSA leadership is pushing out half-baked ideas that lead to public confusion and panic.
    SSA leadership should strive to serve the public, not Elon Musk and his cronies with the DOGE. We are already witnessing the consequences of SSA’s complicity in DOGE’s irresponsible actions and cruel intentions. Scammers have taken advantage of the confusion surrounding SSA changes to defraud older adults. The SSA website crashed 4 times in 10 days because servers were overloaded; phone wait time and foot traffic to field offices have skyrocketed. This chaos does not create “efficiency.” It harms older adults and people with disabilities while undermining a program that is already efficient: Even as Social Security uplifts millions of older adults and people with disabilities, less than one percent of Social Security payments are improper—a percentage that includes underpayments as well as overpayments.
    We are pleased that Elon Musk, the world’s richest man, is skilled with technology, lives his life with unfettered access to services, and has not experienced what it is like to live with a severe disability or financial hardship. We are also pleased that the Trump Administration’s supposed “leadership” is comfortable enough to believe older adults will not mind a missed Social Security payment. However, their experiences do not reflect the experiences of millions of Americans who rely on Social Security. The changes undertaken by SSA leadership and the DOGE disregard the reality of daily life for those millions of Americans. They are spearheaded by the out-of-touch, unelected leadership of the DOGE. They hurt our nation’s older adults and people with disabilities—our grandparents, our friends, and our neighbors. And they risk debilitating the Social Security System and denying Americans the money they are owed.
    In light of our concerns, we ask that you answer the following questions:
    Reports indicate that an internal memo proposing changes to the Social Security claims process was circulated within SSA on March 13, 2025. The memo also reportedly details how the changes could significantly impact the ability of Social Security recipients to access their benefits, including through “longer wait times and processing time” and “increased challenges for vulnerable populations.” Please provide:
    An unredacted copy of the March 13, 2025 memo, which was sent from Acting Deputy Commissioner Doris Diaz to Acting Commissioner Leland Dudek;
    Copies of any other written communications that are related to the March 13, 2025 memo, including e-mail, texts, letters, memorandums, or other documents; and
    Copies of any written communications, including e-mail, texts, letters, memorandums, or other documents, related to SSA’s decision to revise its changes to phone services, as announced on March 26, 2025.

    SSA’s new limitations on over-the-phone services are likely to increase the number of visitors per-week to SSA field offices, a potential impact reportedly detailed by SSA leadership in its March 13, 2025 memo. The DOGE website lists numerous SSA offices throughout the United States that will have their lease terminated, and one analysis suggests that 47 SSA offices are slated for closure.
    Please answer the following questions about potential SSA field office closures:
    SSA claims in a press release on March 27th that the SSA “has not permanently closed or announced permanent closure of any local field office.” Public reporting shows that multiple SSA field offices across the country were publicly slated for lease termination, many of which were taken off DOGE’s website prior to the press release.
    Explain the reason for the removal of the field offices previously listed for lease termination on the DOGE website.Explain why the SSA did not issue a public correction of the information provided on SSA lease termination after its removal off the DOGE website.
    Provide detailed information on each location on the DOGE and GSA lease termination lists that include an SSA office, including any locations that include an SSA field office but are leased by other federal departments, such as the General Services Administration. Please include the following information for each location:
    What SSA functions operate out of the location, whether the location is open to the public, what services the location provides to the public, and how many members of the public visit the location each day.How the SSA office will be impacted by the lease termination listed on the DOGE website, including which services at the SSA office will cease to be offered to the public and whether the SSA office will be closed entirely.
    Which field offices is SSA planning to close, or considering for closure, through December 31, 2026, regardless of whether the location appears on the DOGE lease termination list? Please provide a detailed list that includes the name, city, and state of each field office.
    How will SSA analyze the impact of potential field office closures on people who use SSA services in light of SSA’s new limitations on over-the-phone services? If SSA does not plan to include the new limitations on over-the-phone services when analyzing potential field office closures, please explain why.
    SSA’s new limitations on over-the-phone services are likely to drive more people to use the SSA website, including “my Social Security” accounts, when filing for benefits or making changes to their payments. Past oversight conducted by the Senate Aging Committee demonstrated that federal departments and agencies often fail to make their websites fully accessible for people with disabilities, as required by law. Further, the unelected billionaire running DOGE demonstrated his callous disregard for people with disabilities when he decimated Twitter’s accessibility team after taking over the company.
    How many staff held a role in ensuring SSA website accessibility for people with disabilities on January 20, 2025?
    How many staff held a role in ensuring SSA website accessibility for people with disabilities on April 8, 2025?
    How many staff with a role in ensuring SSA website accessibility for people with disabilities were fired or accepted a buyout between January 20, 2025 and April 8, 2025?
    How many contracts related to ensuring SSA website accessibility for people with disabilities have been delayed or cancelled since January 20, 2025? Please describe each delayed or cancelled contract and provide a justification for each delay or cancellation.
    How many tests to evaluate SSA websites for accessibility for people with disabilities have been delayed or cancelled since January 20, 2025? Please provide a justification for each delayed or cancelled accessibility test.
    Please describe how SSA consulted with older adults and people with disabilities before making the initial decision, announced on March 18, 2025, to implement new limits to over-the-phone services. Please include the names of groups representing older adults and people with disabilities that were contacted for feedback. If SSA did not conduct this outreach, please explain why.
    Please describe how SSA will collect feedback from older adults and people with disabilities on the impact of its limits to over-the-phone services once those limits have been implemented, including:
    The groups representing older adults and people with disabilities that SSA will work with to collect feedback; and
    The number of in-person meetings, virtual meetings, and town-hall style meetings related to the limits on over-the-phone services that SSA will conduct through December 31, 2026, the planned locations of those events, and plans by SSA leadership to participate in those events and answer questions.

    If SSA does not plan to collect feedback from older adults and people with disabilities in this fashion, please explain why.
    Thank you for your attention to this matter. Please respond by April 22, 2025.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla, Cruz Introduce Bill to Establish Smithsonian Museum Recognizing Accomplishments of Latinos

    US Senate News:

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

    Padilla, Cruz Introduce Bill to Establish Smithsonian Museum Recognizing Accomplishments of Latinos

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and Ted Cruz (R-Texas) introduced the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Latino Act to build a new Smithsonian museum on the National Mall that recognizes the accomplishments of Latinos. This follows the passage of bipartisan legislation that establishes a Latino history museum, which was signed into law in December 2020.

    The Smithsonian National Museum of the American Latino Act is led by Senators Padilla, Cruz, Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.). The bill was introduced in conjunction with the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum Act, led by Senator Klobuchar and Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.) and cosponsored by Senators Padilla and Cortez Masto.

    “Latinos have been at the heart of U.S. history for hundreds of years, shaping American culture, communities, and business,” said Senator Padilla. “As the first Latino elected to represent California in the United States Senate, I intimately understand the immense contributions and accomplishments Latinos have made to our nation — and the barriers we have had to overcome. The story of the American Latino, and the simultaneous fight for equality by American women, should be enshrined on the National Mall, the tapestry of the United States. Legislation to establish the Smithsonian Museums of the American Latino and National Women’s History was signed into law five years ago, and it’s past time we clear the way to make this bipartisan priority a reality.”

    “We are taking the first step in righting a historic wrong and casting light on overlooked and forgotten parts of American history,” said Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.). “I have long been a champion of adding a Latino History Museum as well as a Women’s History Museum to the National Mall and I am proud to stand with Congresspeople on both sides of the aisles to try and make this dream a reality. Honoring the contributions of Hispanics and Latinos should not be political – it is about our constituents, ancestors, and our great Nation’s history. I encourage my colleagues in the Senate to sign onto these bills.”

    “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 Senator 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.”

    In order to allow the National Museum of the American Latino — a museum that President Trump signed into law in 2020 — to be built on the National Mall, Congress must pass legislation to provide a waiver from the Commemorative Works Act.

    Specifically, the waiver would:

    • Allow the Smithsonian to build the Museum of the American Latino on the National Mall Reserve, and
    • Require the National Park Service to transfer the land and avoid a lengthy environmental review process, which could result in significant delay. The Smithsonian will still eventually have to undertake its own environmental review before construction can begin.
    • The legislation does not require new federal spending from taxpayers; it simply allows for land designation.

    After 18 months of a site selection process that evaluated over 25 sites, the Smithsonian Board of Regents recommended two sites — the Tidal Basin site for the National Museum of the American Latino and the South Monument site for the American Women’s History Museum. A map of the sites is available here.

    The Smithsonian National Museum of the American Latino Act is endorsed by multiple organizations including FRIENDS of the National Museum of the American Latino, the American Latino Veterans Association, the Latino Coalition, the Hispanic 100, and the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

    “FRIENDS celebrates the introduction of legislation that would give the Smithsonian the authority to build the National Museum of the American Latino on the National Mall,” said Estuardo V. Rodriguez, President and CEO of FRIENDS of the National Museum of the American Latino. “This 30-year campaign has come with many challenges, but we remain committed to working with Congress to ensure continued bipartisan support to get this bill signed into law this year.”

    “There are countless exhibits paying respect to our troops throughout Smithsonian museums, but having a National Museum of the American Latino provides us an opportunity to celebrate our Latino service members and veterans,” said Danny Vargas, CEO and founder of the American Latino Veterans Association. “Latinos have been involved in every major war since the birth of this country. I applaud the Senate for understanding the need for this museum that will honor our men and women in uniform.”

    “This museum represents a recognition of these contributions, and it will inspire our community to be even more invested and engaged. It will also serve as a recognition that Hispanics have been in the U.S. since 1492,” said Carlos F. Orta, President & CEO, the Latino Coalition. “We thank this bipartisan group of Senators for introducing this legislation and bringing the museum one step closer to the National Mall.”

    “Preserving and celebrating the stories and culture of Latinos is essential. For too long, we have gone without a museum on the National Mall sharing our history,” said the Hispanic 100. “This legislation will allow for our stories to be told in the heart of our nation’s capital alongside other Smithsonian institutions. We are proud to support this bill and look forward to the inevitable opening the National Museum of the American Latino.”

    “Ever since our nation’s colonial period, generations of Hispanic entrepreneurs have contributed enormously to American innovation and economic growth,” said the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. “Our hard work and resilience have helped build the American Dream of prosperity and these historic contributions deserve to be shared and celebrated on the National Mall.”

    “From the introduction of the Commission bill I co-led with Congressman Xavier Becerra to the passage of the National Museum of the American Latino Act, this effort has always been bipartisan. Today, I am grateful for the leadership of Senators Ted Cruz and Bernie Moreno on this bill,” said former Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen. “It will take members from both sides of the aisle to come together and get this bill across the finish line.”

    A one-pager on the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Latino is available here.

    Full text of the Latino museum bill is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Booker, Adams, Underwood Reintroduce Bicameral Black Maternal Health Week Resolution

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker

    WASHINGTON, D.C. –  U.S. Senator Cory Booker along with U.S. Representatives Alma Adams (D-NC-12) and Lauren Underwood (D-IL-14) reintroduced a bicameral resolution recognizing April 11 through April 17 as Black Maternal Health Week. This resolution serves to bring national attention to the maternal health crisis in the United States and the critical need to reduce maternal mortality and morbidity rates among Black mothers. 

    In the United States, Black women face a maternal mortality rate two to three times that of white women, yet studies show that 80% of all maternal deaths are preventable. The resolution calls on Congress to support and promote policies addressing Black maternal health in order to address the ongoing Black maternal mortality crisis.

    “Black mothers in the United States face high, disproportionate rates of maternal mortality and maternal morbidity,” said Senator Booker. “We must do more to guarantee access to comprehensive care, remove the structural inequalities impacting Black families, and work to pass legislation that addresses the large disparity in care Black moms and their babies are facing. The Black Maternal Health Week Resolution is a week where we are called to bring attention and action to the maternal health crisis facing Black communities, and I’m working alongside my colleagues in the House to find meaningful solutions and ensure that improving Black maternal health is a top priority here in Congress.

    “I am honored to reintroduce the 8th annual Black Maternal Health Week resolution to draw attention to the ongoing Black maternal health crisis, because our mamas can’t wait,” said Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D., Co-founder and Co-chair of the Black Maternal Health Caucus. “Since Rep. Lauren Underwood and I founded the Black Maternal Health Caucus in 2019, we have been committed to enacting lasting, data-driven solutions to bring an end to this crisis. That’s why we are fighting to pass the Momnibus Act and make Black maternal health a critical priority for our country. We have the right legislation. It’s time we protect our moms.” 

    “Our country’s Black maternal health crisis demands urgent action,” said Congresswoman Underwood, Co-Founder and Co-Chair of the Black Maternal Health Caucus. “In 2019 I co-founded the Black Maternal Health Caucus with Congresswoman Alma Adams to respond to this crisis and advance evidence-based solutions that will save lives and end disparities. I’m thrilled to continue this work by introducing this resolution with Congresswoman Adams to recognize Black Maternal Health Week 2025, and I am grateful to the Black Mamas Matter Alliance for their leadership in establishing this critical week of awareness and action. We must continue to elevate Black maternal health as a national priority and pass the entire Momnibus.”  

    “As we launch our 8th annual Black Maternal Health Week, we’re reminded through this year’s theme that healing happens through collective action and advocacy. It is crucial, especially now, that we acknowledge the historical and systemic injustices that continue to impact Black Maternal Health while also emphasizing our power to create change through solutions that center our communities,” said BMMA, Inc. Co-Founder & Executive Director Angela D. Aina. “BMHW25 is about so much more than simply raising awareness—we’re mobilizing resources, strengthening Black-led initiatives, and building systems that truly honor and protect Black mamas and birthing people. Our collective voices and actions are what will continue creating the foundation for a future where all Black families can thrive.”

    The resolution is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Chris Coons (D-DE), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Patty Murray (D-WA), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Tina Smith (D-MN), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Peter Welch (D-VT), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Ed Markey (D-MA), and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD). 

    A full list of endorsing organizations can be found here.

    To read the full text of the resolution, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Schatz Statement On Trump Administration’s Refusal To Return Wrongfully Deported Maryland Man

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Hawaii Brian Schatz


    Schatz Statement On Trump Administration’s Refusal To Return Wrongfully Deported Maryland Man | U.S. Senator Brian Schatz






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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján Convenes Roundtable Discussion on Tariffs with Business Leaders and Tours Veterans Integration Center

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Senator for New Mexico Ben Ray Luján
    Albuquerque, N.M. – Today, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Committee on Finance, held a roundtable discussion with business leaders and workers on President Trump’s reckless tariffs and its impacts on the New Mexico economy at the Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce. During the roundtable, Senator Luján engaged in a conversation with representatives from the chambers of commerce to hear directly from business leaders about the impacts President Trump’s tariffs are having on businesses, Main Streets, and New Mexico families.
    Following the roundtable, Senator Luján toured the new Veterans Integration Center (VIC) transitional housing campus in Albuquerque and spoke with veterans currently housed at the facility. During the visit, Senator Luján highlighted $1 million he was able to secure through FY24 congressionally directed spending to support the construction of the transitional housing facility. Additionally, Senator Luján discussed the importance of stable housing for veterans and the impacts of cuts to the Department of Veterans Affairs by the Trump administration.
    Roundtable at Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce

    “Costs, chaos, and corruption – that is President Trump’s plan when it comes to tariffs. Over the past few weeks, these tariffs have wreaked havoc on our business community, farmers, manufacturers, and families,” said Senator Luján. “Today, I was proud to convene a roundtable to hear directly from New Mexico’s business leaders about how these tariffs are hurting our small business and making life more expensive for New Mexico families. As a member of the Finance Committee, I am committed to helping our businesses and workers succeed, and I will take points brought up today back to Washington to continue fighting for New Mexico businesses.”
    Veterans Integration Center Tour

    “Our brave service members put everything on the line to defend our country and freedom, and we must work harder to ensure they’re not left behind when they return home,” said Senator Luján. “It was an honor to tour the new transitional housing campus at the Veterans Integration Center and meet with the veterans housed at the facility. As the nation witnesses ongoing cuts the VA and the dismantling of vital services, I remain committed to pushing back against attacks from the Trump administration on the VA and our veterans. We can always do better by our veterans, and I will continue to fight to ensure veterans in New Mexico and across the country get the support they deserve.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tillis, Warnock Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Extend Tax Deadline for Natural Disaster Victims

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Carolina Thom Tillis

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) recently introduced the bipartisan Disaster Related Extension of Deadlines Act, legislation that provides an extension to ensure taxpayers impacted by recent natural disasters have more flexibility when claiming refunds or credits.

    “Helene devastated communities across Western North Carolina, leaving many families struggling to recover,” said Senator Tillis. “North Carolinians affected by this disaster deserve the opportunity to claim the tax refunds they’re entitled to without facing unnecessary red tape. This commonsense legislation ensures disaster victims aren’t penalized for circumstances beyond their control and provides much-needed relief during the recovery process.”

    Background:

    Taxpayers usually have three years to file a claim for credit or refund of any overpayments of tax. However, when a filing deadline is postponed due to a federally declared disaster or similar reason, the three-year “lookback period” for paying refunds is not increased.  As a result, some taxpayers who take advantage of a postponed filing deadline will not be able to obtain a refund.

    Separately, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is required to demand payment within 60 days of an assessment, even if the payment deadline is postponed. As a result, the IRS may send letters demanding payments that have been postponed. This creates unnecessary confusion and stress for disaster victims.

    To ensure that taxpayers impacted by disasters are treated like every other taxpayer when claiming their refunds, the Disaster Related Extension of Deadlines Act would:

    • Extend the three-year period for receiving a refund or credit when the IRS extends a filing deadline due to a natural disaster, ensuring that a deadline extension does not give disaster impacted taxpayers a shorter lookback period for claiming a refund;
    • Ensure that the automatic IRS payment deadline is extended to match any disaster-based filing deadline extension.

    The American Institute of CPAs and the National Association of Realtors support the legislation.

    Full text of the legislation is available HERE.

    Senator Tillis has been pushing for federal assistance for Western North Carolina since the moment Helene made landfall.

    • On October 1, 2024, Senator Tillis led a bipartisan letter to Senate Appropriations Chair Patty Murray (D-WA) and Vice Chair Susan Collins (R-ME) on the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene and the urgent need to pass an appropriations package to support the millions of Americans affected by the storm.  
    • On October 16, 2024, Senator Tillis led a bipartisan group of senators in urging the White House to rapidly submit a government funding request to Congress that will fully cover costs associated with clean-up and recovery following Hurricanes Helene and Milton so that affected communities could begin to heal. The Senators called for Congress to return to Washington from the October in-state work period to approve federal disaster relief legislation.
    • On October 23, 2024, The Hill published an op-ed by Senator Tillis addressed to members of Congress to step up and be proactive with long-term disaster recovery assistance.  
    • On October 29, 2024, Senator Tillis and his colleagues announced plans to introduce legislation that would replenish the Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loan Program with families and small businesses across WNC unable to get loans approved until then. The Senators outlined their plan to seek passage of the legislation when Congress returned to session.
    • On November 14, 2024, Senator Tillis attempted to pass legislation to replenish the SBA Disaster Loan Program through a unanimous consent request on the Senate floor, but was blocked by another Senator.
    • On November 15, 2024, Senator Tillis led a bipartisan letter to request that the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) immediately send a supplemental appropriation request to Congress to support the communities we represent, which were devastated after Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The OMB sent the request to Congress a few days later.
    • On November 18, 2024, Senator Tillis introduced the standalone RELIEF Act to provide Hurricane relief to small businesses impacted by Hurricane Helene.  
    • On November 20, 2024, Senator Tillis called on Congress to quickly pass Hurricane Helene relief during his testimony to the Senate Appropriations Committee. 
    • On November 21, 2024, Senator Tillis met with Governor Cooper, Governor-Elect Stein, members of the North Carolina Congressional Delegation and the North Carolina General Assembly, and local leaders from Western North Carolina to discuss efforts to provide federal assistance to North Carolinians affected by the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene. 
    • On December 5, 2024, Senator Tillis joined Fox News’ Your World with Neil Cavuto where he discussed the urgent need for Congress to provide federal assistance to North Carolinians affected by the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene. 
    • On December 10, 2024, Senator Tillis hosted N.C. Senate President Pro Tempore Phil Berger, N.C. House of Representatives Speaker-elect Destin Hall, State Senators Bill Rabon and Ralph Hise, and State Representative Dudley Greene to discuss efforts to provide immediate assistance to North Carolinians affected by Hurricane Helene’s devastation.  
    • On December 18, 2024, Senator Tillis committed to filibustering any continuing resolution that did not include disaster aid for Western North Carolina.
    • On December 21, 2024, Senator Tillis voted to pass a bipartisan government funding bill that included more than $100 billion in disaster relief for states and communities hit by natural disasters, including North Carolina during Hurricane Helene.
    • On January 7, 2025 Senator Tillis announced $1.65 billion in Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) funds to help rebuild communities devastated by Hurricane Helene. 
    • On January 24, 2025, Senator Tillis released a statement thanking President Trump for his visit to Western North Carolina to survey the devastation left behind by Helene.
    • On January 31, 2025, Senator Tillis introduced the Disaster Mitigation and Tax Parity Act of 2025, legislation that excludes from gross income, for income tax purposes, any qualified catastrophe mitigation payment made under a state-based catastrophe loss mitigation program. 
    • On March 11, 2025, Senator Tillis reintroduced the Disaster Assistance Simplification Act, bipartisan legislation to simplify the application process for federal disaster recovery assistance. 
    • On April 1, 2025, Senator Tillis sent a letter urging U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins to work with Congress to quickly distribute the more than $23 billion Congress passed in December to assist farmers, ranchers and rural Americans in responding to devastating natural disasters in 2023 and 2024.
    • On April 3, 2025, Senator Tillis (R-NC) introduced the FEMA Independence Act, bipartisan legislation to restore the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) as an independent cabinet-level agency and improve efficiency in federal emergency response efforts.  

    In addition to Senator Tillis’ legislative efforts, he has met with local leaders, residents, and elected officials across Western North Carolina including in: Asheville, Black Mountain, Boone, Burnsville, Canton, Clyde, Fairview, Flat Rock, Hendersonville, Hot Springs, Marshall, Morganton, Spruce Pine, Swannanoa, Waynesville and Wilkesboro.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Rosen in Las Vegas Sun: Trump abandoned his promise to lower prices, but I won’t

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    LAS VEGAS, NV – U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) penned an op-ed in the Las Vegas Sun criticizing President Trump for abandoning his promise to lower costs for Nevada families and reaffirming her support to provide families financial relief. In the piece, she highlighted how President Trump’s reckless tariffs and cuts to essential services are hurting hardworking Nevadans.
    Las Vegas Sun: Sen. Rosen: Trump abandoned his promise to lower prices, but I won’t
    By Jacky Rosen
    Throughout the 2024 presidential election, Donald Trump promised to bring down costs for Americans on Day 1. It’s the reason many people in our state voted for him. Unfortunately, he’s broken that promise. As president, he’s abandoned efforts to ease the financial burden so many Nevada families are facing. Instead, he’s focused on giving major tax breaks to ultra-wealthy individuals like Elon Musk.
    At the beginning of his term, I stood ready to work with President Trump to bring down costs. But I am not going to support policies or politicians that will hurt families in our state.
    A nonpartisan report recently found that Trump’s new taxes will cost the average family nearly $4,000 per year, increase home prices by roughly $20,000, and car prices by $3,000.
    Our state’s economy is fueled by travel and tourism, which rely on visitors coming to our city and spending money. If families are squeezed and their disposable incomes are decimated, fewer visitors from around the country will be able to afford a trip to Las Vegas.
    Just recently, Republicans rammed through a budget resolution in the middle of the night that puts Medicaid on the chopping block to pay for more tax cuts for billionaires. Medicaid is not just a health care program; it’s a lifeline for Nevadans in need.
    There’s a key difference between Trump and me: He may break his promise to lower costs and make things affordable for Nevada families, but I won’t.
    I helped pass bipartisan legislation in the Senate to reverse Trump’s tariffs on Canada.
    I wrote a letter calling on the administration to reverse its tariffs and sounding the alarm about the impact Trump’s tariffs would have on housing costs in our state and nationwide.
    And I’ve spoken out wherever I can — on the Senate floor, in committee hearings and back home in Nevada — to put pressure on this administration to keep its promise and do something to lower costs for our state.
    It’s time for Trump and Republicans to stop putting the ultra-wealthy ahead of working families. It’s time for them to put aside their hyper-partisan actions that are raising costs. It’s time to deliver meaningful financial relief for Nevadans. I’m ready to get that done.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: In Las Vegas, Rosen Hosts Roundtable Discussion on Impacts of Republican Medicaid Cuts on Nevada Families

    US Senate News:

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

    LAS VEGAS, NV – Today, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) hosted a roundtable in Las Vegas to discuss the impacts of proposed cuts to Medicaid. Senator Rosen heard from Nevada families that rely on Medicaid for lifesaving and critical care for their children, and she highlighted her commitment to continue opposing Congressional Republicans’ proposed cuts. Senator Rosen recently opposed a Republican budget resolution that would cut Medicaid to pay for more tax giveaways to billionaires.
    “As Congressional Republicans work to slash Medicaid to pay for even more tax breaks for the ultra-wealthy, I sat down with hardworking Nevada families to hear about how this critical program is literally saving lives and how devastating the cuts would be to their families,” said Senator Rosen. “It is cruel and immoral for Republicans to want to take away children’s only access to critical medical care to give billionaires even more money. I’m bringing these stories with me to the Senate where I’ll continue fighting back to protect Medicaid.”
    Senator Rosen has been a strong critic of Republicans’ budget plans that would drastically increase our national debt and give tax breaks to the ultra-wealthy by cutting programs Nevadans rely on. Earlier this month, she took to the Senate floor to call out Congressional Republicans for this extreme budget plan. Senator Rosen also joined her Senate colleagues in urging President Donald Trump to reject Congressional Republicans’ legislative plans to increase the cost of living for Americans.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 04.15.2025 WTAS: Sen. Cruz Leads the Fight for Cryptocurrency

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas Ted Cruz
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) continues to make news for his leadership in the cryptocurrency space. Last week, President Trump signed his resolution into law overturning a Biden-era rule that would have undermined American leadership in cryptocurrency. Significantly, this is also the first cryptocurrency bill to ever be signed into law.
    Read more about Senator Cruz’s leadership and accomplishments for Bitcoin and cryptocurrency below.
    THE DALLAS EXPRESS: Cruz Control: Celebrating Cryptocurrency Win After Trump Signs New Law
    “Senator Ted Cruz declared a win for the cryptocurrency community when President Donald Trump signed his Congressional Review Act into law.
    Cruz has emerged as one of crypto’s most vocal advocates in the Senate. The senator has introduced a series of bills aimed at boosting the industry, and fending off what he views as federal overreach into digital financial systems.”
    CRYPTO IN AMERICA: Trump Makes History Signing First Crypto Bill into Law
    “The bill, introduced under the Congressional Review Act by Republican Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) to repeal the IRS’s so-called ‘DeFi broker rule,’ passed the Senate on March 26 with overwhelming bipartisan support in a 70–28 vote.
    ‘This rule would have undermined American leadership on cryptocurrency, and I am grateful to President Trump for signing my resolution into law,’ Cruz, who attended the signing ceremony Thursday afternoon, told Crypto In America. ‘The resolution is a victory for innovation, privacy, and economic freedom.’”
    INSIGHTS: The First U.S. Crypto Law is Now in Effect! Trump Has Eliminated DeFi Regulations!
    “The rules faced quick backlash. Critics argued they would hinder DeFi development. Republican Senator Ted Cruz pushed to repeal these rules, and now he has Trump’s support. Cruz attended the signing ceremony and stated, ‘This regulation will undermine America’s leadership in crypto. I thank President Trump for signing my resolution into law.’
    Cruz added, ‘We are protecting developers building the future of cryptocurrency. We clearly state that America will not cede digital leadership to China. We will preserve the ability for Americans to trade without government interference.’”
    DECRYPT: Ted Cruz Introduces FLARE Act to Repurpose Flared Gas for Bitcoin Mining
    “U.S. Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) has introduced a new bill aiming to turn waste energy into electricity for Bitcoin mining.
    Cruz specifically pointed to crypto mining as a direct output of this extra energy. In a statement announcing the bill’s introduction, he said that it, ‘takes advantage of Texas’s vast energy potential, reinforces our position as the home of the Bitcoin industry, and is good for the environment.’”
    THE STREET ROUNDTABLE: Senator Ted Cruz proposes bill to power Bitcoin mining with wasted gas
    “With Bitcoin mining still at the center of the debate over cryptocurrency’s environmental footprint, U.S. Senator Ted Cruz has introduced legislation intended to change the narrative — and the power source.
    Cruz emphasized the bill’s environmental and economic angles in a statement released when it was announced…Cruz’s measure could be considered part of a larger political drive to keep crypto innovation — and energy consumption — inside U.S. limits with a climate-conscious touch to mining.”
    CRYPTO.NEWS: Ted Cruz introduces FLARE Act to incentivize Bitcoin mining with waste gas
    “United States Senator Ted Cruz has introduced a new bill that offers tax incentives for cryptocurrency miners using flared natural gas to power mining operations.
    By turning stranded gas into usable energy, Cruz and supporters argue the bill would not only cut emissions but also boost energy innovation and grid resilience, especially during periods of peak demand or extreme weather.”
    CRYPTOSLATE: Senator Ted Cruz introduces FLARE Act to repurpose flared gas for Bitcoin mining
    “Senator Ted Cruz introduced legislation on April 1 to repurpose flared gas and use it to generate ‘value-added products,’ like mining Bitcoin (BTC) and other digital assets.
    According to Cruz, the bill simultaneously addresses two challenges: reducing oil and gas industry emissions and encouraging energy use innovation.”
    BACKGROUND
    Sen. Cruz introduced the Facilitate Lower Atmospheric Released Emissions (FLARE) Act, incentivizing entrepreneurs and crypto miners to use natural gas that would otherwise be stranded.
    Sen. Cruz introduced the Anti-CBDC Surveillance State Act, legislation that prohibits the Federal Reserve from issuing a central bank digital currency (CBDC). This bill passed with an overwhelming bipartisan support.
    Sen. Cruz passed a joint resolution of disapproval overturning the IRS’s Gross Proceeds Reporting rule for brokers handling digital asset sales.
    Sen. Cruz authored the Adopting Cryptocurrency in Congress as an Exchange of Payment for Transactions Resolution, also known as the ACCEPT Resolution.
    Sen. Cruz introduced an amendment to repeal a provision from the 2021 infrastructure package that created new reporting requirements for many cryptocurrency and blockchain companies in both the 117th and 118th Congresses.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaine & Warner Demand Answers from Departments of State and Homeland Security on Sudden and Unexplained Revocations of Virginia Students’ Visas

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Tim Kaine, a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, and Mark R. Warner (both D-VA) sent a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem demanding information and action on the growing number of Virginia college and university students whose visas or records have been abruptly terminated without due process, a means of seeking recourse, or even notification to the students or their schools.
    “We write to you today expressing extreme concern after hearing from institutions of higher education throughout Virginia and the country that the Department of State and the Department of Homeland Security are working together to revoke the nonimmigrant (F-1, M-1, or J-1) visas of their students. Such revocations are then used to terminate these students’ records in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), potentially affecting their ability to attend school,” wrote the senators. “Worse, State and DHS are taking such actions without providing any notice to the affected students or their schools, with only vague, non-individualized reasons given for terminations in SEVIS.”
    “The chaos caused by your actions is not acceptable. We believe in the rule of law and that immigration laws should be enforced. That starts with the Constitution and its guarantees of free speech and due process. These Constitutional protections apply to noncitizens in the United States, including people in nonimmigrant status,” continued the senators. “If there are international students in the United States in violation of our criminal or immigration laws, they should be removed. But summarily revoking these students’ visas and/or terminating their records in SEVIS without any notice to the students or their schools undermines confidence in State and DHS’s judgment and erodes Americans’ trust in the immigration system and the rule of law. Such distrust will be exploited by the very people who want to harm the United States.”
    The senators posed the following questions:
    Since January 20, 2025, how many F-1, M-1, or J-1 nonimmigrant visas have the State Department revoked for people attending schools in Virginia? For each revoked visa, please provide the justification given for the revocation.
    For those whose F-1, M-1, or J-1 visas were revoked in question 1, how many had their records terminated in SEVIS?
    Since January 20, 2025, has the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) terminated the SEVIS records of any students attending school in Virginia whose nonimmigrant visas have not been revoked by the State Department? For each such termination, please provide the specific reason why their SEVIS records were terminated, and specify what evidence SEVP reviewed before terminating each record.
    How would a Virginia student whose visa has been revoked and/or had their SEVIS record terminated be notified that this has happened? How would their schools be notified that this has happened? If a student or school believes that such revocation and/or termination has been made in error, what are the avenues for review or appeal of the revocation and/or termination? How long would such process take?
    Full text of the letter can be found here and below:
    Dear Secretary Rubio and Secretary Noem:
    We write to you today expressing extreme concern after hearing from institutions of higher education throughout Virginia and the country that the Department of State and the Department of Homeland Security are working together to revoke the nonimmigrant (F-1, M-1, or J-1) visas of their students. Such revocations are then used to terminate these students’ records in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), potentially affecting their ability to attend school. Worse, State and DHS are taking such actions without providing any notice to the affected students or their schools, with only vague, non-individualized reasons given for terminations in SEVIS. Furthermore, there is no clear process for these students to ascertain why their record was terminated in SEVIS, then to challenge the termination if they believe that DHS or State has made an error in their case. To date, over 1,000 international students have had their student visas revoked and/or SEVIS records terminated nationwide, including in the Commonwealth of Virginia.[1]  
    The chaos caused by your actions is not acceptable. We believe in the rule of law and that immigration laws should be enforced. That starts with the Constitution and its guarantees of free speech and due process. These Constitutional protections apply to noncitizens in the United States, including people in nonimmigrant status.
    If there are international students in the United States in violation of our criminal or immigration laws, they should be removed. But summarily revoking these students’ visas and/or terminating their records in SEVIS without any notice to the students or their schools undermines confidence in State and DHS’s judgment and erodes Americans’ trust in the immigration system and the rule of law. Such distrust will be exploited by the very people who want to harm the United States.
    Over 1.1 million international students matriculated to U.S. colleges and universities in 2023-2024, contributing over $40 billion into the U.S. economy and supporting 378,175 jobs.[2] Virginia is proud to be home to more than 170 colleges and universities, including community colleges and highly prestigious research universities that enroll international students. These students pay for the privilege and contribute tremendously to the academic intuitions and the communities in which they live.
    We want all our students to feel safe, supported, and secure in their studies so they can focus on their education. As such, we are deeply concerned that this administration’s policies surrounding student visas will result in severe consequences to universities and colleges, and their surrounding communities.
    To better assist us in understanding the impacts of State and DHS’s action, no later than April 30, 2025, please provide us with the following information:
    Since January 20, 2025, how many F-1, M-1, or J-1 nonimmigrant visas have the State Department revoked for people attending schools in Virginia? For each revoked visa, please provide the justification given for the revocation.
    For those whose F-1, M-1, or J-1 visas were revoked in question 1, how many had their records terminated in SEVIS?
    Since January 20, 2025, has the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) terminated the SEVIS records of any students attending school in Virginia whose nonimmigrant visas have not been revoked by the State Department? For each such termination, please provide the specific reason why their SEVIS records were terminated, and specify what evidence SEVP reviewed before terminating each record.
    How would a Virginia student whose visa has been revoked and/or had their SEVIS record terminated be notified that this has happened? How would their schools be notified that this has happened? If a student or school believes that such revocation and/or termination has been made in error, what are the avenues for review or appeal of the revocation and/or termination? How long would such process take?
    We look forward to hearing from you.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ensuring National Security and Economic Resilience Through Section 232 Actions on Processed Critical Minerals and Derivative Products

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, as amended (19 U.S.C. 1862) (the “Act”), it is hereby ordered:
         Section 1.  Policy.  A strong national defense depends on a robust economy and price stability, a resilient manufacturing and defense industrial base, and secure domestic supply chains.  Critical minerals, including rare earth elements, in the form of processed minerals are essential raw materials and critical production inputs required for economic and national security.  Critical mineral oxides, oxalates, salts, and metals (processed critical minerals), as well as their derivative products — the manufactured goods incorporating them — are similarly foundational to United States national security and defense.
         But processed critical minerals and their derivative products face significant global supply chain vulnerabilities and market distortions due to reliance on a small number of foreign suppliers.  These vulnerabilities and distortions have led to significant United States import dependencies.  The dependence of the United States on imports and the vulnerability of our supply chains raises the potential for risks to national security, defense readiness, price stability, and economic prosperity and resilience.
         Processed critical minerals and their derivative products are essential for economic security and resilience because they underpin key industries, drive technological innovation, and support critical infrastructure vital for a modern American economy.  They are key building blocks of our manufacturing base and foundational to sectors ranging from transportation and energy to telecommunications and advanced manufacturing.  These economic sectors are, moreover, foundational to America’s national security.
         Processed critical minerals and their derivative products are essential for national security because they are foundational to military infrastructure, energy infrastructure, and advanced defense systems and technologies.  They are key building blocks of our defense industrial base and integral to applications such as jet engines, missile guidance systems, advanced computing, radar systems, advanced optics, and secure communications equipment.
         The United States manufacturing and defense industrial bases remain dependent on foreign sources for processed critical mineral products.  Many of these foreign sources are at risk of serious, sustained, and long-term supply chain shocks.  Should the United States lose access to processed critical minerals from foreign sources, the United States commercial and defense manufacturing base for derivative products could face significant shortages and an inability to meet demand. 
         Associated risks arise from a variety of factors.  First, global supply chains are prone to disruption from geopolitical tensions, wars, natural disasters, pandemics, and trade conflicts.
         Second, major global foreign producers of processed critical minerals have engaged in widespread price manipulation, overcapacity, arbitrary export restrictions, and the exploitation of their supply chain dominance to distort world markets and thereby gain geopolitical and economic leverage over the United States and other competitors that depend on processed critical minerals to manufacture derivative products essential to their economic and national security and national defense. Therefore, the import dependence of the United States on processed critical minerals from foreign sources may pose a serious national security risk to the United States economy and defense preparedness.
         Third, the risks arising from America’s import dependence on processed critical minerals also extend to derivative products that are integral to the United States economy and economic and national security. 
         For the United States to manufacture derivative products, it must have ready access to an affordable, resilient, and sustainable supply of processed critical minerals.  Simultaneously, a resilient and sustainable manufacturing base for derivative products is vital to creating a stable demand base for processed critical minerals.  Both must coexist to ensure economic stability and national security.
         Finally, overreliance on a small number of geographic regions amplifies the risks posed by geopolitical instability and regional disruptions.
         In light of the above risks and realities, an investigation under section 232 of the Act (section 232) is necessary to determine whether imports of processed critical minerals and their derivative products threaten to impair national security. 
         Sec. 2.  Definitions.  As used in this order:        (a)  The term “critical minerals” means those minerals included in the “Critical Minerals List” published by the United States Geological Survey (USGS) pursuant to section 7002(c) of the Energy Act of 2020 (30 U.S.C. 1606) at 87 FR 10381, or any subsequent such list.  The term “critical minerals” also includes uranium.        (b)  The term “rare earth elements” means the 17 elements identified as rare earth elements by the Department of Energy (DOE) in the April 2020 publication titled “Critical Materials Rare Earths Supply Chain.”  The term also includes any additional elements that either the USGS or DOE determines in any subsequent official report or publication should be considered rare earth elements.        (c)  The term “processed critical minerals” refers to critical minerals that have undergone the activities that occur after critical mineral ore is extracted from a mine up through its conversion into a metal, metal powder or a master alloy.  These activities specifically occur beginning from the point at which ores are converted into oxide concentrates; separated into oxides; and converted into metals, metal powders, and master alloys.         (d)  The term “derivative products” includes all goods that incorporate processed critical minerals as inputs.  These goods include semi-finished goods (such as semiconductor wafers, anodes, and cathodes) as well as final products (such as permanent magnets, motors, electric vehicles, batteries, smartphones, microprocessors, radar systems, wind turbines and their components, and advanced optical devices).
         Sec. 3.  Section 232 Investigation.  (a)  The Secretary of Commerce shall initiate an investigation under section 232 to determine the effects on national security of imports of processed critical minerals and their derivative products.     (b)  In conducting the investigation described in subsection (a) of this section, the Secretary of Commerce shall assess the factors set forth in 19 U.S.C. 1862(d), labeled “Domestic production for national defense; impact of foreign competition on economic welfare of domestic industries,” as well as other relevant factors, including:             (i)    identification of United States imports of all processed critical minerals and derivative products incorporating such processed critical minerals;             (ii)   the foreign sources by percent and volume of all processed critical mineral imports and derivative product imports, the specific types of risks that may be associated with each source by country, and those source countries deemed to be of significant risk;            (iii)  an analysis of the distortive effects of the predatory economic, pricing, and market manipulation strategies and practices used by countries that process critical minerals that are exported to the United States, including the distortive effects on domestic investment and the viability of United States production, as well as an assessment of how such strategies and practices permit such countries to maintain their control over the critical minerals processing sector and distort United States market prices for derivative products;             (iv)   an analysis of the demand for processed critical minerals by manufacturers of derivative products in the United States and globally, including an assessment of the extent to which such manufacturers’ demand for processed critical minerals originates from countries identified under subsections (b)(ii) and (b)(iii) of this section;             (v)    a review and risk assessment of global supply chains for processed critical minerals and their derivative products;             (vi)   an analysis of the current and potential capabilities of the United States to process critical minerals and their derivative products; and             (vii)  the dollar value of the current level of imports of all processed critical minerals and derivative products by total value and country of export.     (c)  The Secretary of Commerce shall, consistent with applicable law, proceed expeditiously in conducting the investigation as follows:             (i)    Within 90 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of Commerce shall submit for internal review and comment a draft interim report to the Secretary of the Treasury, the Secretary of Defense, the United States Trade Representative, the Assistant to the President for Economic Policy, and the Senior Counselor to the President for Trade and Manufacturing.             (ii)   Comments to the Secretary of Commerce from the officials identified in subsection (c)(i) of this section shall be provided within 15 days of submission of the draft interim report described in subsection (c)(i) of this section.             (iii)  The Secretary of Commerce shall submit a final report and recommendations to the President within 180 days of the investigation’s commencement.     (d)  In considering whether to make recommendations for action or inaction pursuant to section 232(b) of the Act (19 U.S.C. 1862(b)), the Secretary of Commerce shall consider:             (i)    the imposition of tariffs as well as other import restrictions and their appropriate levels;             (ii)   safeguards to avoid circumvention and any weakening of the section 232 measures;             (iii)  policies to incentivize domestic production, processing, and recycling; and             (iv)   any additional measures that may be warranted to mitigate United States national security risks, as appropriate, under the President’s authority pursuant to the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.).
         Sec. 4.  General Provisions.  (a)  Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:             (i)   the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or             (ii)  the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.    (b)  This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.     (c)  This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
                                  DONALD J. TRUMP
    THE WHITE HOUSE    April 15, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senate Democrats Highlight How DOGE Social Security Takeover Hurts Americans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    April 15, 2025
    Democrats mark “Save Social Security Day of Action”
    Trump, Musk, DOGE continue to fire staff, close offices, cut vital services
    Washington, D.C. – On the “Save Social Security Day of Action,” Senate Democrats are highlighting how Donald Trump and Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) takeover of the Social Security Administration is hurting Americans. 
    Read these stories from communities across the country:
    New York Times: ‘Just a Mess’: Staff Cuts, Rushed Changes and Anxiety at Social Security: “‘I didn’t know he was going to pull this,’ said Teresa Boswell, whose vote for Mr. Trump in November helped flip Arizona, but who found herself fuming outside the Social Security office in Glendale last week, unable to sign up for $1,200 in monthly benefits after she retired from her job processing legal papers. ‘This is a joke.’
    Virender Kanwal, a biology professor in New Jersey, applied for retirement benefits online at the end of February, a few months before her 70th birthday. She said she knew she would have to provide proof of her citizenship to complete the process but did not want to risk mailing in her passport, so she planned to visit a field office. To do so, she needed an appointment, and those need to be secured over the phone. Ms. Kanwal said she called daily for weeks but never got through…She began calling every few minutes, and said she was eventually placed on hold for six and a half hours before an agent finally answered just before midnight and gave her an appointment. “This is not what we expect from our country,” Ms. Kanwal said.
    In Poughkeepsie, N.Y., a 90-year-old man using a walker came to a field office because he thought he had to prove he was still alive. In Clinton, S.C., a woman with one leg fell down in the parking lot after coming into the office to show her identification.
    In Southern California, older people with disabilities are spending hours taking public buses to get to Social Security offices only to be turned away, nonprofit groups said.
    ‘People just don’t know what’s going to happen,’ said Bob Kelley, founder of the San Diego Seniors Foundation. ‘Everything is up in the air, so it’s just confusion right now.’
    Bonnie Baum, 68, a resident of the sprawling 55-and-older community Sun City West, decided to stick it out in the hopes of talking to someone. She said her application for $1,800 in monthly retirement benefits had been rejected because she did not file the paperwork on time. She had been unable to reach anyone on the phone, and said she had enough difficulty navigating her smartphone, much less Social Security’s online system. ‘It’s just a mess,” she said.”
    Washington Post: Social Security website keeps crashing, as DOGE demands cuts to IT staff: “The [Social Security] website has crashed repeatedly in recent weeks, with outages lasting anywhere from 20 minutes to almost a day, according to six current and former officials with knowledge of the issues. Even when the site is back online, many customers have not been able to sign in to their accounts — or have logged in only to find information missing. For others, access to the system has been slow, requiring repeated tries to get in.
    In Upland, California, 72-year-old Kathy Stecher began trying to apply for retirement benefits more than a week ago. One of her first steps was to visit the Social Security website to book a required appointment at her local field office, because she believed she had to authenticate her identity in person first. But over several days stretching from last month through Wednesday, the website wouldn’t let Stecher schedule a visit…When she finally reached someone on the phone, the website’s booking tool wasn’t working, she said. The employee sighed and told her that similar problems have become routine, forcing customers to wait on hold for hours.
    In recent weeks, Robert Raniolo, 67, a retired financial analyst in New York, found himself stuck when he tried to update his emergency contact by designating his niece instead of his wife, who has dementia. Since he began receiving retirement benefits five years ago, Raniolo has never missed a payment or had trouble getting online, he said. But this time he got an error message — and kept getting them. ‘Bad Request,’ read one notification, according to a screenshot he provided to The Washington Post. ‘There has been an unexpected system error,’ read another. He was directed to try again during ‘regular service hours’ on the East Coast. So Raniolo kept trying…Nothing worked.’
    CBS: Social Security wrongly told disabled people and some seniors their benefits ended, causing alarm: “Chris Hubbard, whose 37-year-old disabled adult son relies on the program to pay for his group home, told CBS MoneyWatch she became aware of the problem on March 31, when people in a Facebook group for mothers of autistic children flagged the problem. 
    Hubbard, who lives with her husband in Westborough, Massachusetts, said she checked her son’s account and was alarmed to find a similar message, leading her to stay up through the night to keep refreshing the page. She fell asleep at 5 a.m. without seeing a change, she said.
    ‘I was continuing to be worried because the message was still on the site, saying this beneficiary doesn’t receive payments,’ Hubbard said.
    The next morning, however, the correct information was on her son’s page, and the money was deposited on April 1, as scheduled. But she and her husband say they received no outreach from Social Security about the problem, or an explanation of the error. They opted against calling the agency because of the long waits now often required to get someone on the phone.
    The Hubbards said they’re worried the glitch could signal more problems with the service, pointing to the potential impact of cuts to SSA’s workforce.”
    Washington Post: Long waits, waves of calls, website crashes: Social Security is breaking down: “The Social Security Administration website crashed four times in 10 days this month because the servers were overloaded, blocking millions of retirees and disabled Americans from logging in to their online accounts. In the field, office managers have resorted to answering phones in place of receptionists because so many employees have been pushed out. Amid all this, the agency no longer has a system to monitor customer experience because that office was eliminated as part of the cost-cutting efforts led by Elon Musk. And the phones keep ringing. And ringing.
    The recording that 66-year-old Kathy Martinez heard when she called the toll-free number two weeks ago from the San Francisco Bay Area said her hold time would be more than three hours — she was calling to ask what her retirement benefits would come to if she filed for them now or waited until she turned 70. She hung up and tried again last week at 7 a.m. Pacific time. The wait was more than 120 minutes, but she was offered a callback option, and in two hours she spoke with a ‘phenomenally kind person who called me,’ she said. Martinez said she wants to wait to file for benefits to maximize her check. But ‘I’m kind of thinking, I wonder if I should take it now. When I apply, I will do it over the phone. But will there still be a phone system?’
    In one office in central Indiana, the phone lines are jammed by 9 a.m. with hundreds of retirees, further taxing a staff of less than a dozen that is responsible for nearly 70,000 claimants across the state, according to one employee. That worker, who like others spoke on the condition of anonymity for fear of retribution, said the questions have become predictable: What is the U.S. DOGE Service doing to Social Security? Will the office close? Will my benefits continue?
    In one Philadelphia office, the federal government’s return-to-office edict has left 1,200 staffers competing for about 300 parking spots, according to an employee. Staffers wake up as early as 4:30 a.m. to try to snag a space, and some are buying backup spots for $200 a month nearby. As morale has cratered, some employees have stopped wearing business clothes and now come to work in jeans and a T-shirt because, as they tell colleagues, they no longer take pride in their work, the employee said.
    In Baltimore, an employee who works on critical payment systems said nearly a quarter of his team is already gone or will soon be out the door as a result of resignations and retirements. Talented software developers and analysts were quick to secure high-paying jobs in the private sector, he said — and the reduction in highly skilled staff is already having consequences. His office is supposed to complete several software updates and modernization processes required by law within the next few weeks and months, he said. But with the departures, it seems increasingly likely that it will miss those deadlines.”
    Today, Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) published an op-ed in Fox News arguing that Trump and Musk gutting Social Security isn’t “efficiency” — it’s a broken promise to the American people.
    Senate Democrats’ Social Security War Room is a coordinated effort to fight back against the Trump administration’s attack on Americans’ Social Security. The War Room coordinates messaging across the Senate Democratic Caucus and external stakeholders; encourages grassroots engagement by providing opportunities for Americans to share what Social Security means to them; and educates Senate staff, the American public, and stakeholders about Republicans’ agenda and their continued cuts to Americans’ Social Security services and benefits.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst, Stefanik Expose Tax Dollars to China

    US Senate News:

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

    WASHINGTON – As hardworking Americans report and pay taxes on every dollar earned under the threat of an audit, this Tax Day, U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) are forcing Washington to live by the same rules when sending tax dollars to China.
    After exposing that the Biden administration sent more than $18 million to China for everything from a bakery roadshow to DEI trainings, the lawmakers are introducing a new bill to require every penny sent to foreign adversaries be publicly disclosed.
    “Americans should never send a cent to China,” said Ernst. “But you cannot stop what you cannot see. I am exposing every single tax dollar sent overseas to scrutinize and halt all wasteful spending.”
    “My legislation will ensure hardworking taxpayer dollars are not funding our adversaries including Communist China as they work against American interests,” said Stefanik. “The days of poor stewardship over American dollars under the Biden Administration are long gone as House Republicans join President Trump in his efforts of rooting out government waste, fraud, and abuse.”
    While most of the $18 million sent to China was publicly disclosed, more than $4 million sent by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) was not, and a Government Accountability Office (GAO) audit confirmed that not all money being sent to China is being publicly disclosed.
    To ensure that the American people know how their money is spent, Ernst and Stefanik are introducing the Tracking Receipts to Adversarial Countries for Knowledge of Spending (TRACKS) Act to require every penny sent to foreign adversaries or entities of particular concern, such as terrorist groups including the Taliban, to be accounted for and disclosed to the public for scrutiny.
    Background:
    Ernst has long fought to stop tax dollars from being sent overseas for risky research.
    An Ernst-requested investigation exposed how EcoHealth sent over $1 million U.S. taxpayer dollars to the Wuhan Institute of Virology for risky experiments on bat coronaviruses. She also secured an audit by the Department of Defense’s Inspector General of risky research in China paid for by the Pentagon and hidden from the public.  
    She led the charge to permanently debar the Wuhan Institute of Virology and defund EcoHealth Alliance from receiving U.S. taxpayer dollars.
    Ernst efforts also led to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) defunding EcoHealth and promising to cut off any taxpayer dollars used for research of pandemic potential.
    In her $2 trillion blueprint to slash waste in Washington, Ernst pointed to the millions being sent to China for secretive risky research.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley, Colleagues Seek to Protect MAHA Commission from Anti-Science Activists

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee and a lifelong family farmer, joined Sens. Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.) and Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), along with Reps. Randy Feenstra (R-Iowa) and Mark Alford (R-Mo.), in a letter urging the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Commission to use sound science and risk-based analysis in its policy decisions, particularly on crop protection tools and food-grade ingredients.

    The letter was sent to Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr, Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Brooke Rollins and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin.

    “We write to express our strong appreciation for your leadership and interest in working with each of you to ensure America has the healthiest people in the world. In recent decades, chronic illness rates have risen. This warrants our careful scrutiny to support better health outcomes. It is essential that policies supported by sound science and risk-based analyses are used to accomplish this goal,” the lawmakers wrote.

    “We have concerns that environmentalists are advancing harmful health, economic, or food security policies under the guise of human health. Despite insinuations to the contrary, regular testing by FDA and USDA finds that more than 99% of all pesticide residues meet extremely conservative limits established by EPA according to the best available science,” they continued.

    In the Senate, additional signers include Sens. Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Jim Justice (R-W.Va.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Todd Young (R-Ind.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) and Mike Rounds (R-S.D.).

    In the House, additional signers include Reps. Mike Flood (R-Neb.), Don Bacon (R-Neb.), Adrian Smith (R-Neb.), Michael Baumgartner (R-Wash.), Jack Bergman (R-Mich.), Mike Bost (R-Ill.), James Comer (R-Ky.), Troy Downing (R-Mont.), Jake Ellzey (R-Texas), Gabe Evans (R-Colo.), Mike Ezell (R-Miss.), Vince Fong (R-Calif.), Michael Guest (R-Miss.), Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.), David Kustoff (R-Tenn.), Darin LaHood (R-Ill.), Doug LaMalfa (R-Calif.), Frank Lucas (R-Okla.), Tracy Mann (R-Kan.), Mark Messmer (R-Ind.), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-Iowa), Dan Newhouse (R-Wash.), Mike Rogers (R-Ala.), Derek Schmidt (R-Kan.), Austin Scott (R-Ga.), Jefferson Shreve (R-Ind.), Claudia Tenney (R-N.Y.), David Valadao (R-Calif.) and Ann Wagner (R-Mo.).

    Text of the letter follows:

    Dear Secretary Kennedy, Secretary Rollins, and Administrator Zeldin:

    We write to express our strong appreciation for your leadership and interest in working with each of you to ensure America has the healthiest people in the world. In recent decades, chronic illness rates have risen. This warrants our careful scrutiny and to support better health outcomes. It is essential that policies supported by sound science and risk-based analyses are used to accomplish this goal.

    We also urge you to safeguard the work of the Make America Healthy Again Commission (Commission) from activist groups promoting misguided and sometimes even malicious policies masquerading as health solutions. The influence of these groups in the Commission would result in shoddy science; a less abundant, less affordable food supply; greater reliance on foreign adversaries for our food; diminished U.S. agricultural production and manufacturing; and, ultimately, poorer health outcomes.

    President Trump recently stated environmental activists were holding the economic prosperity of our country hostage. We now have concerns that they are seeking to influence the work of the Commission to advance their agenda. For decades activist groups have tried to ban safe, well-regulated agricultural inputs by any means necessary. Without these products, yields and quality are negatively impacted by otherwise avoidable insects, fungus, weeds, and other pest pressures. This drives up food prices for American consumers and forces reliance of food imports.

    The same groups have seized upon the Commission’s work as an opportunity to misrepresent the science on common food and feed categories or ingredients, such as plant-based oils. These inputs are subject to a robust, risk-based regulatory system which focuses on protecting human health. Unfounded accusations harm the U.S. farmers who grow our food, upend food and feed supply chains, and significantly increase grocery food prices – all without public health benefit.

    We have concerns that environmentalists are advancing harmful health, economic, or food security policies under the guise of human health. Despite insinuations to the contrary, regular testing by FDA and USDA finds that more than 99% of all pesticide residues meet extremely conservative limits established by EPA according to the best available science.

    We applaud the Commission’s desire to improve the health and well-being of Americans. We implore you to ensure policy decisions are grounded in sound science and risk-based analyses. With unity, we can protect American agricultural producers from environmental activists’ attacks on proven-safe inputs critical to their profitability and long-term viability while promoting positive health outcomes.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley to Zuckerberg: Stop the Secrecy, End the War on Whistleblowers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    BUTLER COUNTY, IOWA – Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) is demanding answers from Meta Chairman and CEO Mark Zuckerberg on the company’s reported efforts to silence whistleblower and former employee Sarah Wynn-Williams, who alleges Meta developed concerning and potentially unlawful ties with the Chinese Communist Party and targeted teenagers for financial gain. Meta was formerly known as Facebook.

    Grassley is scrutinizing Meta’s severance agreement with Wynn-Williams, which may violate the Security and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) regulations by restricting her ability to claim monetary rewards for reporting illegal conduct.

    “For over a decade, I’ve sounded the alarm about restrictive severance agreements and nondisclosure agreements (NDA) that hinder congressional oversight and improperly silence whistleblowers from making disclosures to Congress and regulatory bodies … It appears that attempts to silence whistleblowers are not just prevalent in the AI sector, but in the tech industry more broadly,” Grassley wrote.

    “The SEC whistleblower program was established by Congress to incentivize whistleblowers to report federal securities laws violations. The program is an important tool to expose fraud, waste, and abuse in our government and publicly traded companies,” Grassley continued.

    Grassley emphasized Meta must ensure its employees can make protected disclosures to federal authorities or Congress without illegal restrictions and bullying. According to Wynn-Williams, Meta has sought to silence her by seeking to collect $50,000 for every disparaging statement made against the company.

    “The tactics used by Meta are clearly aimed at silencing Ms. Wynn-Williams, a brave whistleblower who courageously testified in the face of Meta’s threats at the Senate Judiciary Committee’s Subcommittee on Crime and Counterterrorism,” Grassley concluded.

    Text of Grassley’s letter to Zuckerberg follows:

    April 14, 2025

    VIA ELECTRONIC TRANSMISSION

    Mr. Mark Zuckerberg 

    Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

    Meta Platforms, Inc. 

    Dear Mr. Zuckerberg:

    For over a decade, I’ve sounded the alarm about restrictive severance agreements and nondisclosure agreements (NDA) that hinder congressional oversight and improperly silence whistleblowers from making disclosures to Congress and regulatory bodies.   On August 1, 2024, given my deep concern on this issue, I wrote to OpenAI regarding its use of restrictive employment, severance, non-disparagement, and nondisclosure agreements.   It appears that attempts to silence whistleblowers are not just prevalent in the AI sector, but in the tech industry more broadly.  

    Recently, Ms. Sarah Wynn-Williams approached my office with whistleblower allegations against Meta.  Her allegations raised concerns about Meta’s severance agreement, as well as the company’s ties with China, violations of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, practices targeting vulnerable teenagers, sexual harassment, and misrepresentations made to Congress and the company’s shareholders.   Ms. Wynn-Williams has specifically alleged that her severance agreement violated SEC regulation 17 C.F.R. § 240 21F-17 by restricting her from claiming any monetary reward for reporting illegal conduct to the SEC.   The SEC whistleblower program was established by Congress to incentivize whistleblowers to report federal securities laws violations.   The program is an important tool to expose fraud, waste, and abuse in our government and publicly traded companies.  

    According to Ms. Wynn-Williams’ disclosures, Meta has sought to silence her by seeking to collect $50,000 per disparaging statement against the company.   The tactics used by Meta are clearly aimed at silencing Ms. Wynn-Williams, a brave whistleblower who courageously testified in the face of Meta’s threats at the Senate Judiciary Committee’s Subcommittee on Crime and Counterterrorism on April 9, 2025.  

    It’s crucial that Meta ensures its employees can provide protected disclosures without illegal restrictions and bullying.  So that Congress may conduct objective and independent oversight of Meta’s efforts to silence whistleblowers, as well as the allegations raised by Ms. Wynn-Williams, please provide answers to the following no later than April 28, 2025: 

    1. Regarding Meta’s severance, non-disparagement, and other employment agreements, has Meta made changes to the language of the agreements to remove restrictive provisions?  If so, provide a copy of the updated version(s) along with the dates the changes were made.
    1. From 2015 to the date of this letter, how many requests did Meta or its subsidiaries receive from employees to disclose information to federal authorities or Congress?  For each request, provide all records, including the relevant federal authorities, the nature of the information to be disclosed, and whether Meta or its subsidiaries permitted the disclosure. 
    1. From 2015 to the date of this letter, how many SEC investigations has Meta or its subsidiaries been subject to?  For each SEC investigation, provide the basis and outcome.   

    Thank you for your prompt review and response.  If you have any questions, please contact Tucker Akin with my Committee staff at (202) 224-5225.

    Sincerely, 

    Charles E. Grassley 

    Chairman 

    Committee on the Judiciary

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Gazette Letter to the Editor Hails Grassley Leadership on Biodiesel

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    Grassley, with Ernst’s support, leads on biodiesel

    Tom Brooks

    April 14, 2025

    As General Manager of Western Dubuque Biodiesel, I want to thank Sen. Grassley for leading a bipartisan Senate effort urging the Environmental Protection Agency to increase volumes of biomass-based diesel, like biodiesel, under the federal Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). His leadership is critical, but now the EPA must act.

    Our plant currently sits idle. We made the difficult decision in December, in large part due to weak RFS volumes that do not reflect our industry’s production capacity. We are committed to our employees and to keeping jobs in rural Iowa, but without action the future of biodiesel production — and the economic stability of our community — is at serious risk.

    Biodiesel is a proven, homegrown fuel that enhances American energy security and strengthens markets for our farmers. The EPA should set volume levels that support domestic energy production, not hinder it. For 2026, our industry is asking EPA to set the biomass-based diesel volumes at 5.25 billion gallons. We need certainty and strong commitments to prevent further plant shutdowns and job losses.

    Sen. Joni Ernst also signed onto the bipartisan letter to EPA urging action on the RFS, and we thank her, too. The message from the Senate is clear: Increase volumes to match production and demand, and provide the long-term stability needed for investment in rural America. I urge the EPA to listen and act before it’s too late.

    Tom Brooks

    Farley

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gillibrand Presses Social Security Commissioner on Benefit Portal Malfunctions, Planned Firings of SSA Tech Workers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Kirsten Gillibrand

    Lawmakers Send Letter Amidst Widespread Website Outages, Benefit Disruptions

    Senate Special Committee on Aging Ranking Member Kirsten Gillibrand wrote to Acting Social Security Commissioner Leland Dudek to demand that the Social Security Administration (SSA) address ongoing issues with the SSA website and reverse its reported plans to worsen the situation by firing up to 50 percent of employees from the Office of the Chief Information Officer (OCIO). Gillibrand was joined on the letter by Senate Banking Ranking Member Elizabeth Warren and Senate Finance Ranking Member Ron Wyden.

    OCIO is responsible for maintaining the agency’s benefit claims processing systems, managing SSA.gov and SSA’s online benefits portal, and protecting Social Security recipients’ sensitive information. In February, the agency announced plans to reduce its workforce by over 12 percent. Hundreds more staff firings will happen at OCIO, which has been directed to cut half of its staff. These cuts are expected to worsen the ongoing issues with SSA’s website and online portals, including recipients being incorrectly labeled as “not receiving payments” and losing access to their account histories.

    “It is unsurprising that weeks after you allowed DOGE to invade SSA, improperly access SSA data, and announce closures of Social Security offices, our constituents began having problems accessing their benefits…We are concerned that these recurring issues will impact the benefits of our constituents—many of whom rely on Social Security to pay rent or put food on the table,” wrote the lawmakers. 

    The cuts to the agency also expose SSA to system vulnerabilities, risking Americans’ data to hackers and foreign agents seeking to obtain private information. In addition to the dozens of senior SSA officials with centuries’ worth of experience who have resigned or retired, SSA’s entire cybersecurity leadership was also part of the exodus.

    “Leaving Americans’ most sensitive information unguarded places immeasurable financial and economic harm on our most vulnerable…We ask that you immediately cease all OCIO firings and act swiftly to restore SSA system and website functionality to prevent any further disruption of…benefits,” concluded the lawmakers. 

    The senators asked Dudek to provide clarity on the impact of cuts to OCIO, the so-called Department of Government Efficiency’s (DOGE) role in the firings, and the acting commissioner’s plan to ensure technical knowledge of internal systems is not lost during workforce reductions. 

    The letter is the latest in a series of actions by Senator Gillibrand to protect Social Security from the Trump administration’s efforts to cut the program. Last week, Senator Gillibrand led a letter with Senator Ron Wyden calling on the Trump administration and DOGE to stop their attacks on Social Security, specifically calling out SSA’s staffing cuts, plans for indiscriminate closures of field offices around the nation, and attempts to limit phone services. Earlier this year, Gillibrand also demanded answers from the administration about its plans to close the Social Security office in White Plains, NY; slammed the Trump administration for its efforts to “buy out” SSA employees; and joined elected officials in New York to call on the administration to stop its repeated efforts to cut Social Security.

    The full text of the letter can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Collins, Baldwin, Peters Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Give Lifeline to Winter Businesses Impacted by Mild Winters

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins

    Bill would ensure that small businesses impacted by low snowfall are eligible for disaster assistance.

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins, Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), and Gary Peters (D-MI) introduced the Winter Recreation Small Business Recovery Act. This bipartisan legislation would ensure businesses that rely on winter weather can get disaster assistance during winters that do not produce enough snow to meet the needs of their business.

    “Snow droughts pose a significant threat to Maine’s winter businesses, whose financial stability are often dependent on natural snowfall levels,” said Senator Collins. “This bipartisan bill would add snow droughts to the list of recognized disasters under the Small Business Act, providing winter businesses a new tool to manage these unpredictable and costly seasons.”

    The Winter Recreation Small Business Recovery Act would ensure that during winters with a snow drought, small businesses are eligible for disaster relief through the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Injury Disaster Loans. This existing loan program at SBA is designed to provide small businesses with the funds they need to operate while they recover from a natural or other disaster. Under current law, qualifying disasters include droughts and ice storms or blizzards, but do not include snow droughts.

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