NewzIntel.com

Category: US Senate

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy, Blumenthal, 22 Colleagues Demand Answers On Abrupt Firing Of NSA Leaders

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    April 08, 2025

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, joined 22 of their Senate colleagues in a letter to President Donald Trump regarding the firing of the Director of the National Security Agency (NSA) and Commander of U.S. Cyber Command (CYBERCOM), General Timothy Haugh, as well as the reassignment of the Deputy Director of the NSA, Wendy Noble.

    “These actions severely compromise our ability to keep Americans safe. As you are well aware, our nation currently faces serious cyber threats from foreign adversaries, such as from China’s Salt Typhoon, with near-daily attacks against our critical infrastructure,” the senators wrote. “In addition, our nation’s military is engaged in ongoing operations against multiple threats, from the Houthis in Yemen to Russian aggression in Eastern Europe. Given the dangers facing the United States, it is inexplicable that the Administration would remove the senior leaders of NSA/CYBERCOM without cause or warning, and risk disrupting critical ongoing intelligence operations.”

    The senators warned that ending the dual-hat arrangement—where one officer leads both NSA and CYBERCOM—could seriously undermine U.S. national security: “Premature termination of the dual-hat arrangement would severely degrade the speed and effectiveness of NSA’s and CYBERCOM’s abilities to execute their missions and could have dire consequence for our national security. As Congress on an overwhelmingly bipartisan basis has repeatedly made clear in the National Defense Authorization Acts for Fiscal Years 2017, 2018, and 2020, clear criteria must be met before any termination can be considered and both the Secretary of Defense and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs must together certify that separation will not “pose risks to the military effectiveness of the United States Cyber Command that are unacceptable to the national security interests of the United States.”

    The senators requested written justification for why Director Timothy Haugh and Ms. Wendy Noble were removed from their posts and asked for a Congressional briefing regarding any additional actions the administration plans to take with respect to NSA and CYBERCOM, including but not limited to the separation of the dual-hat.

    U.S. Senators Mark Warner (D-Va.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Angus King (I-Maine), Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) and Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) also signed the letter.

    Full text of the letter is available HERE and below.

    Dear President Trump,

    We write with alarm at the sudden and inexplicable firing of the Director of the National Security Agency (NSA) and Commander, U.S. Cyber Command, General Timothy Haugh, as well as the reassignment of the Deputy Director of the NSA, Wendy Noble. Not only have both dutifully served this nation for decades under both Democratic and Republican administrations, but their removals were conducted in the middle of the night with no consultation with Congress and, according to reports, at the behest of a private citizen who has a record of promoting conspiracy theories.

    These actions severely compromise our ability to keep Americans safe. As you are well aware, our nation currently faces serious cyber threats from foreign adversaries, such as from China’s Salt Typhoon, with near-daily attacks against our critical infrastructure. In addition, our nation’s military is engaged in ongoing operations against multiple threats, from the Houthis in Yemen to Russian aggression in Eastern Europe. Given the dangers facing the United States, it is inexplicable that the Administration would remove the senior leaders of NSA/CYBERCOM without cause or warning, and risk disrupting critical ongoing intelligence operations.

    Furthermore, we urge you to exercise careful consideration and consultation with Congress on any further actions that may impact NSA’s or CYBERCOM’s abilities to provide the critical intelligence and operational support to policymakers and warfighters. This includes, but is not limited to, any considerations to terminate the dual-hat arrangement. Premature termination of the dual-hat arrangement would severely degrade the speed and effectiveness of NSA’s and CYBERCOM’s abilities to execute their missions and could have dire consequence for our national security. As Congress on an overwhelmingly bipartisan basis has repeatedly made clear in the National Defense Authorization Acts for Fiscal Years 2017, 2018, and 2020, clear criteria must be met before any termination can be considered and both the Secretary of Defense and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs must together certify that separation will not “pose risks to the military effectiveness of the United States Cyber Command that are unacceptable to the national security interests of the United States.”

    As Members of the respective committees of oversight, we request that you formally provide in writing a justification for why Director Timothy Haugh and Ms. Wendy Noble were removed from their posts and provide a briefing to Congress on any additional actions you plan to take with respect to NSA and CYBERCOM, including but not limited to the separation of the dual-hat.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen Helps Introduce Legislation to Fully Fund Special Education

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) helped introduce legislation to ensure Congress fulfills its commitment to fund the Individuals with Disabilities in Education Act (IDEA). IDEA was passed 50 years ago, but it has never received the funding it is owed, so the IDEA Full Funding Act would put Congress on a fiscally responsible path to fully fund the program. While fully funding IDEA has been a decades-long fight, it is all the more important now that President Trump has vowed to dismantle the Department of Education, putting special education across the country at risk.
    “Every Nevada student deserves access to a high-quality public education,” said Senator Rosen. “It’s past time that Congress lives up to its commitment and fully funds a law that provides the necessary resources for special education in Nevada. I’ll keep fighting to make sure our teachers and kids have the resources they need to succeed.”
    Senator Rosen has been fighting back against reckless cuts at the Department of Education that hurt students and teachers. Last month, she joined Senate colleagues in a letter to Secretary of Education Linda McMahon condemning the administration’s reckless and illegal firing of half of the workforce at the Department. Rosen also issued a statement denouncing President Trump’s executive order attempting to dismantle the Department of Education.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen Joins Colleagues in Expressing Outrage Over Recent Firings of Leaders of U.S. Cyber Command, National Security Agency

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV), ranking member of the Senate Armed Services Committee’s Subcommittee on Cybersecurity, with oversight of U.S. Cyber Command (CYBERCOM) and the National Security Agency (NSA), joined Senate colleagues in a letter to President Trump demanding information on the sudden and unjustified firing of the Director of the NSA and Commander of CYBERCOM, General Timothy Haugh, as well as the abrupt reassignment of the Deputy Director of the NSA, Wendy Noble, reportedly at the request of a private individual and online provocateur, who has a long record of peddling in vicious conspiracy theories.
    “These actions severely compromise our ability to keep Americans safe. As you are well aware, our nation currently faces serious cyber threats from foreign adversaries, such as from China’s Salt Typhoon, with near-daily attacks against our critical infrastructure,” wrote the senators. “In addition, our nation’s military is engaged in ongoing operations against multiple threats, from the Houthis in Yemen to Russian aggression in Eastern Europe. Given the dangers facing the United States, it is inexplicable that the Administration would remove the senior leaders of NSA/CYBERCOM without cause or warning, and risk disrupting critical ongoing intelligence operations.”
    “As Congress on an overwhelmingly bipartisan basis has repeatedly made clear in the National Defense Authorization Acts for Fiscal Years 2017, 2018, and 2020, clear criteria must be met before any termination can be considered and both the Secretary of Defense and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs must together certify that separation will not ‘pose risks to the military effectiveness of the United States Cyber Command that are unacceptable to the national security interests of the United States,’” they concluded.
    The full letter can be found HERE.
    Senator Rosen has been fighting back against the Trump Administration’s recklessness, which is putting our national security at risk. Last month, she led 15 of her Senate colleagues in a letter calling on the Senate Armed Services Committee, the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, and the Senate Foreign Relations Committee to hold hearings to fully investigate this national security breach. Senator Rosen also joined fellow members of the Senate Armed Services Committee in a letter demanding answers from Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth regarding the recent abrupt dismissals of several Judge Advocate Generals.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Wicker Leads SASC Hearing on Senior National Security Nominations

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Mississippi Roger Wicker
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today chaired a hearing examining nominees for several senior positions at the Department of Defense and one at the Department of Energy.  
    During his opening remarks, Chairman Wicker underscored the significant responsibilities these roles entail, including the modernization of our nuclear weapons and the protection of our intelligence against China’s aggressive espionage campaign.  
    Read Senator Wicker’s hearing opening statement as delivered below. 
    I welcome our four witnesses and their families, and I thank them for being here this morning. 
    Mr. Brandon Williams has been nominated to be Under Secretary of Energy for Nuclear Security and the Administrator of the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA). As the Administrator, Mr. Williams would be responsible for rebuilding and modernizing our long-neglected nuclear weapons stockpile. Failure here is not an option. Over the past several years, we have watched as Russia, China, and North Korea have rapidly expanded their nuclear arsenals and developed new types of weapons – weapons for which we are sorely unprepared. 
    This committee is focused on ensuring that the Department of Defense and the NNSA deliver results. As the Congressional Strategic Posture Commission made clear, modernizing our country’s nuclear deterrent is a national imperative. I look forward to hearing how Mr. Williams intends to pursue this objective.
    Mr. Bradley Hansell has been nominated to be the Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence & Security. In addition to serving as the Secretary of Defense’s principal advisor on intelligence, counterintelligence, security, and law enforcement matters, the Under Secretary is tasked with protecting the Department’s most sensitive information from our adversaries. This includes ensuring the provision of timely and accurate intelligence to our forces, overseeing the security clearance vetting process, guarding against insider threats, and protecting our industrial base from China’s aggressive campaign of espionage and theft. 
    Mr. Hansell served as a Naval officer and an Army Green Beret. During his distinguished career in uniform, he saw first-hand that quality intelligence is crucial to executing the mission. That experience and his work in the private sector gives me confidence he will do an excellent job. I look forward to hearing Mr. Hansell outline his priorities for our intelligence and security enterprise. 
    Mr. Earl Matthews has been nominated to be the General Counsel of the Department of Defense. He has had a distinguished career as a Judge Advocate in the Army Reserve and the Army National Guard, serving as the senior headquarters staff judge advocate for the D.C. National Guard. Mr. Matthews also brings extensive civilian government experience. He worked for Secretary Mattis in 2017 before moving over the Army General Counsel office, where he served as Acting General Counsel of the Army. 
    President Trump and Secretary Hegseth have taken bold and necessary steps to reform the Department of Defense. As we all know, purposeful and thoughtful reform requires purposeful and thoughtful lawyers. I am confident that Mr. Matthews possesses both qualities. I look forward to hearing his opinion about what the DOD Office of General Counsel is doing right, and I want to hear his ideas for how he would do things differently. 
    Mr. Dale Marks has been nominated to be the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Energy, Installations, and Environment, a role which ensures the operational readiness and resiliency of the Department of Defense (DoD). If confirmed, Mr. Marks would oversee the management of military installations and infrastructure, the bedrock of the safety and well-being of service members and their families. 
    This critical position will play a key part in the implementation of several reforms from last year’s NDAA. Among them are the mandate requiring a minimum four-percent plant replacement value for DOD facilities – let me repeat that – among them are the mandate, in the NDAA, requiring a minimum four-percent plant replacement value for DOD facilities, leveraging of area-wide contracting authorities, and a review of Biden-era green energy policies that focus more on climate change than combat lethality. I look forward to hearing from Mr. Marks about how he intends to tackle these important issues. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Reverend Warnock, Warren, Wyden, Kelly Launch Social Security War Room

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia
    The Social Security War Room was created to fight back against the Trump Administration’s attacks on Social Security and other key programs American seniors rely on
    Senator Reverend Warnock: “Georgia seniors have been calling my office by the thousands because they are terrified of this administration’s attempts to cut the Social Security services they rely on”
    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Ron Wyden (D-OR), and Mark Kelly (D-AZ) launched their new Social Security War Room, a coordinated effort to fight back against the Trump administration’s attack on Americans’ Social Security.
    “Georgia seniors have been calling my office by the thousands because they are terrified of this administration’s attempts to cut the Social Security services they rely on,” said Senator Reverend Warnock. “I’m proud to launch this Social Security War Room because we must use every tool at our disposal to protect Social Security for the nearly one in six Georgians who rely on this critical program.”
    The War Room will focus on coordinating messaging across the Senate Democratic Caucus and external stakeholders; encouraging grassroots engagement by providing opportunities for Americans to share what Social Security means to them; and educating Senate staff, the American public, and stakeholders about Republicans’ agenda and their continued cuts to service and benefits.
    It will include coordinated oversight of the Social Security Administration and Trump, Musk, and DOGE’s attacks on Social Security; caucus-wide videos to underscore the impacts of the Trump Administration’s Social Security cuts; reports revealing new information on the impact in states, wait times, and more; Social Security Administration office visits in War Room members’ states; and Social Security-focused town halls.
    The announcement of the war room follows weeks of chaos surrounding the Social Security Administration. Last week, Senator Reverend Warnock collected and submitted over 250 questions from Georgians to SSA nominee Frank Bisignano about how he would protect Social Security if confirmed. Before submitting the questions, Senator Warnock questioned Bisignano on his commitment to keep all field offices in the state open for Georgia seniors and increase staffing at Georgia field offices. Several weeks before the hearing, SSA announced it was making access to benefits more difficult for seniors, no longer allowing individuals to apply for benefits or request a direct deposit change over the phone. These and other proposed changes at the SSA could lead to an increase of 7 million visits to field offices per year across the country, and an estimated 200,000 additional visits in Georgia alone. Senator Warnock remains committed to ensuring Georgians can easily and efficiently access their benefits that they have paid into over their lifetime.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ricketts Introduces Brian Burch, President Trump’s Nominee for U.S. Ambassador to the Holy See

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Pete Ricketts (Nebraska)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) introduced Brian Burch, President Donald Trump’s nominee to be U.S. Ambassador to the Holy See. Ricketts made the following comments in a hearing of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee:
    “He’s a dedicated champion of the poor, the vulnerable, and preborn babies,” said Ricketts. “He’s been a man of great integrity, a passion for truth, justice, and patriotism. He firmly believes in the tenets of the Catholic faith, and particularly, a concept we have called the common good.”
    “We live in a time when the world’s most determined adversaries are expanding their influence, seeking to challenge our values in every region of the world,” continued Ricketts. “Now more than ever, we need principled, capable leaders who can represent our nation with moral clarity, conviction, and purpose. Brian Burch is that man.”
    “The sovereign state which includes the Vatican may be small in size, but it continues to help advance the foreign policy interests of the United States around the globe,” said Ricketts. “The global reach and moral witness of the Holy See makes this post not just important for what happens in the Vatican or in Europe, but around the entire world. Brian’s deep commitment to the Catholic faith, unwavering patriotism, and record of leadership make him an ideal candidate for this post.”
    [embedded content]
    Watch the video HERE
    TRANSCRIPT:
    Senator Ricketts: “It is my distinct honor to introduce my friend and colleague and the nominee to be US Ambassador to the Holy See, Mr. Brian Burch. 
    “I’d also like to extend a warm welcome to his family.
    “When I first met Brian, over a decade ago, he had six kids.
    “Now he’s got nine kids, and a grandchild to boot.
    “He and his wife, Sarah, live in suburban Chicago, and as we’ve talked about, often, these roles are never done alone.
    “Whoever their loved one that is serving our country needs the support of their family to be able to do the job.
    “And behind every great public servant, there is that family supporting and I know that Brian is deeply grateful for his family.
    “Our connection goes back to actually, the launch of a nationally acclaimed documentary series called Catholicism by Bishop Robert Barron, now Bishop of Rochester, Minnesota.
    “The series promotes the beauty and truth of Catholicism, and was watched by millions of Americans.
    “We connected over the hope that more people would come to know the beauty and appreciate the gift of our shared faith, something Mr. Burch has worked on for over two decades, to be able to share that and to advocate for Catholicism in the realm of politics, education and media.
    “He is also, not surprisingly, a Cubs fan.
    “I recall being with him on a balcony overlooking Wrigley Field after game seven or game five, actually, in 2016, which was a turning point in that game that led to the championship for the Chicago Cubs. 
    “Mr. Burch shares that competitive spirit.
    “He’s also a dedicated champion of the poor, the vulnerable and preborn babies.
    “He’s been a man of great integrity with a passion for truth, justice and patriotism.
    “He firmly believes in the tenets of the Catholic faith, and in particular, a concept that we have called the common good.
    “We live in a time when the world’s most determined adversaries are expanding their influence, seeking to challenge our values in every region of the world.
    “Now more than ever, we need principled, capable leaders who can represent our nation with moral clarity, conviction, and purpose. Brian Burch is that man.
    The post for which he’s been nominated to serve can easily be misunderstood or underestimated.
    “Lest we forget, it was the ambassador of the Holy See that helped facilitate the relationship between Ronald Reagan and Pope John Paul II that ultimately led to the downfall of the Soviet Union.
    “This relationship between the Holy See and the United States is no less important today.
    “The sovereign state, which includes the Vatican, may be small in size, but it continues to help advance the foreign policy interests of the United States around the globe. The global region, moral witness to the Holy See makes this post not just important for what happens in the Vatican or in Europe, but around the entire world.
    “Brian’s deep commitment to the Catholic faith, unwavering patriotism and record, a record of leadership, make him an ideal candidate for this post.
    “He is a leader who understands the contours of the Holy See, Catholic social teaching, and the priorities of the United States.
    “Brian’s ability to bring people together around shared values and a common purpose is a quality that will serve him well and our nation in this ambassadorial role.
    “As Ambassador to the Holy See, Brian will represent not only American interests, but the spirit of dialogue, mutual respect and cooperation that defines the very long-standing relationship the United States has had with the Vatican.
    “It’s a role that demands diplomatic skill and a profound understanding of the Catholic Church’s global mission.
    “I have every confidence that Brian Burch will carry out these responsibilities with honor, humility and a steadfast commitment to strengthening the relationship between United States and the Holy See. Brian, in a world where we are facing increasing moral and geopolitical challenges, your voice, your vision, your values, are needed now more than ever, I look forward to supporting your nomination.
    “I cannot think of a better person to represent the United States to the Holy See than you, Brian, and I urge my colleagues to support you as well.
    “You will be a fantastic ambassador for the United States.
    “I couldn’t be happier that you’re the nominee, and again, I strongly encourage all my colleagues support you as well.
    “Thank you, Mr. Chairman.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: King: America’s Nuclear Programs a “Not Fail Mission,” Warns Against Firings at Key Department

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Angus King

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Angus King, in a hearing of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), spoke with Brandon Williams, the nominee to serve as the Under Secretary of Energy for Nuclear Security, about the grave importance of keeping the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) staffed amid reckless cuts and buyouts inflicted upon the department by the White House at the urging of Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). During the exchange, Senator King pressed Williams for his commitment to protect the NNSA workforce and ensure it is properly staffed to meet the demand as the United States seeks to bolster its nuclear arsenal and keep pace with global foes. The hearing comes on the heels of the Trump Administration firing — then scrambling to rehire — more than 300 NNSA employees without realizing they oversee the country’s weapons stockpile.

    I am gravely concerned about this memo that was mentioned on Friday of the possibility of 500 people in the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) as non-essential. That is 20% of the workforce. The testimony is it is one of the greatest scientific engineering organizations in human history. I just do not understand how that wonderful organization, if that’s true, how 20% are non-essential. I did a little calculation. That is 2/10th of 1% of the budget. What is to be gained by reducing the staff by 20% of this essential agency at this moment with the rebuilding of our nuclear triad,” asked Senator King.

    “Senator King, thank you for that question and your attention on the workforce which I think is absolutely critical. If confirmed, I commit to you that I will stand up for the men and women of NNSA, that I will advocate for them. We are facing a moment in history where NNSA must perform. I think there are opportunities for us to innovate at NNSA, to deliver on the program record and the expectations that this committee has set and that we will stand up to our adversaries,” replied Williams.

    “You are absolutely right. This is a no fail mission. Because of the modernization program we are in the midst of, the demands on NNSA have never been greater, probably since the founding of the agency. I hope you will stand up for that workforce. There is an issue here not only of the people, the 500 people being non-essential, the effect on morale in the workforce is something to be considered. I hope you can address this early in your tenure and be sure that the workforce is protected, and that the morale of the agency can be maintained. Will you commit to that,” questioned Senator King.

    “If confirmed, I will certainly commit to that,” responded Williams.

    Senator King is a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and also serves as the ranking member of the subcommittee on Strategic Forces — which performs critical oversight of America’s nuclear weapons arsenal. He has been a steady voice on the need to address the growing nuclear capacity of our adversaries and has previously expressed concern about Russia and China’s emerging “nightmare weapon” hypersonic missiles. Senator King has also warned extensively of the carelessness of Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) antics, and raised the alarms on Constitutional overstep as the White House continues to pare down the federal workforce. He wrote a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, alongside 36 senators, sharing the detrimental effects of  the Trump Administration’s dismantling of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). He also joined fellow Senate Select Committee on Intelligence (SSCI) colleagues in writing a letter to the White House about the risks to national security by allowing unvetted Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) staff and representatives to access classified and sensitive government materials. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: April 8th, 2025 Heinrich, Luján, Leger Fernández, Stansbury Reintroduce Legislation to Permanently Protect Pecos Watershed from Mining in Northern New Mexico

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich

    Lawmakers introduce legislation after Trump administration announces decision to reverse Pecos Watershed mining withdrawal

    “The Trump administration does not stand with the people of New Mexico, but we always will”

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), and U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.) and Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.) have reintroduced their Pecos Watershed Protection Act after the Trump administration confirmed to Source New Mexico that it will reverse the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the U.S. Forest Service’s decision to protect the Upper Pecos Watershed from new mining operations.

    The Pecos Watershed Protection Act would permanently withdraw all federally managed minerals in the watershed from development — preventing the leasing, patent, or sale of all publicly owned minerals.

    “The Trump administration’s decision to reverse the community-driven Pecos Watershed withdrawal is disturbing and insulting, especially after they canceled the only public meeting on the proposal. This is a rural community that overwhelmingly supports protecting the Pecos River. The Trump administration just blatantly disregarded that, and the value of the Pecos River with it,” Heinrich, Luján, Leger Fernández, and Stansbury said.

    “The Trump administration won’t have the last word: We will continue to push for permanent protection of the watershed through our Pecos Watershed Protection Act. New Mexicans deserve clean water free from harmful mining pollution. The Trump administration does not stand with the people of New Mexico, but we always will,” the lawmakers stated.

    Background on Heinrich, Luján, Leger Fernández, and Stansbury’s Advocacy to Protect the Pecos Watershed:

    The Pecos Watershed Protection Act has been introduced every Congress since 2020 to protect portions of the Pecos Watershed in northern New Mexico from new mining claims.

    In 1991, a toxic waste spill from a closed mine in the Upper Pecos Watershed caused more than 11 miles of fish kill in the river and resulted in decades and millions of dollars to clean up the mine. For years, there has been a community-led effort to protect the area from future mining claims to avoid similar threats and pollution.

    In December 2024, Heinrich, Luján, Leger Fernández, Stansbury, and U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) sent a letter to the U.S. Forest Service strongly urging the completion of the initial steps of the mineral withdrawal process in the Upper Pecos Watershed. Completion of these initial steps was key to begin safeguarding the lands, waters, and way of life in the Pecos from the dangers of future mining claims for two years.

    In response to their letter, President Biden’s BLM and Forest Service initiated a process to propose a 20-year withdrawal to help secure the region’s water and air quality, cultural resources, critical fish and wildlife habitat, and recreational opportunities. The withdrawal, for lands in San Miguel and Santa Fe counties, encompassed multiple Pecos River tributaries, including Dalton Canyon, Macho Canyon, Wild Horse Creek, Indian Creek, and Doctor Creek.

    On December 16, 2024, the BLM and Forest Service initiated a 90-day public comment period to gather input on the proposal. During the comment period, the two agencies were scheduled to host a public meeting for the proposed Upper Pecos River Watershed Protection Area withdrawal on February 26, 2025. This public meeting was cancelled by the Trump Administration on February 19, 2025, with no further explanation. Local supporters speculated the action was in response to Secretary Burgum’s Order No. 3418, which requires agency reviews of all protected public lands. Despite the cancellation, the administration has received hundreds of public comments in support of the administrative mineral withdrawal.

    On April 7, 2025, reporting from Source New Mexico revealed the Trump administration plans to reverse the BLM and the Forest Service’s decision to protect the Upper Pecos Watershed from new mining operations.

    Protection of the Upper Pecos Watershed has garnered widespread support from local leaders, farmers, business owners, acequia parciantes, Tribes, and recreationists alike.

    The Village of Pecos, Santa Fe County, and San Miguel County have passed resolutions in support of the legislation. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murkowski, Shaheen Seek Explanation for Alarming Email from Department of Homeland Security to Ukrainians in the United States

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Lisa Murkowski

    04.08.25

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, sent a letter to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem yesterday seeking answers following reports that Ukrainians on humanitarian parole in the United States had received threatening emails from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) stating that their humanitarian parole status had been terminated and that they had seven days to depart the country. 

    “Even if this message was sent in error, threatening the abrupt termination of humanitarian parole for Ukrainians is alarming and adverse to the U.S. national interest,” the Senators wrote. “At a time when a Kremlin official was in the United States negotiating with Administration officials, this mixed message sends the wrong signal: that the U.S. may abandon Ukrainians in need even as Ukraine remains under attack by Vladimir Putin.”

    “We urge the agency to provide immediate clarification to Ukrainians in the United States that their humanitarian parole has not been terminated, and that there are no plans to terminate the program while Ukraine is still under active attack by Russia,” the Senators concluded. “We also request a briefing on any future plans regarding humanitarian parole for Ukrainians and an immediate explanation as to how these emails were sent in error.”

    The full text of the letter can be found here and below.

    Dear Secretary Noem: 

    We are extremely concerned about notifications that Ukrainians on humanitarian parole in the United States have received official notifications from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS)—apparently in error—that their parole had been terminated and that they are required to depart the United States within seven days. 

    Even if this message was sent in error, threatening the abrupt termination of humanitarian parole for Ukrainians is alarming and adverse to the U.S. national interest. At a time when a Kremlin official was in the United States negotiating with Administration officials, this mixed message sends the wrong signal: that the U.S. may abandon Ukrainians in need even as Ukraine remains under attack by Vladimir Putin.

    Ukrainians who have participated in the Uniting for Ukraine program have entered the U.S. lawfully, passed rigorous screening and vetting requirements and have been required to find financial support from private U.S. sponsors. These are individuals, including children, who have fled a war zone and followed a lawful process. Many are working in our states, paying taxes and contributing to local communities. Abruptly and cruelly telling victims of Russia’s war to leave the country would not reflect American values—and it risks emboldening Putin to continue the war, despite President Trump’s stated objectives to establish peace. 

    For many Ukrainians, conditions on the ground in Ukraine remain unsafe for them to return, as Putin continues to violate the limited ceasefire Russia pledged it would honor on March 18. Twenty percent of Ukraine remains occupied, the frontline in Donbas remains volatile and Russia has escalated the use of swarms of drones to attack population centers across the country, including Kyiv. We support the Administration’s desire to reach a just and sustainable peace in Ukraine, but until that goal is realized, we must continue to offer safe harbor to the Ukrainian families that have found temporary homes in our states. 

    The fact that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) drafted such a notification is alarming. DHS has not issued a public announcement about any planned policy change and the agency’s website continues to display information about the availability of parole for Ukrainians. Nor has Congress been notified regarding any proposed changes to the program. Congressional staff inquiries to DHS on Friday resulted in conflicting responses that demonstrated a disturbing lack of interagency coordination or strategy on the status of humanitarian parole for Ukrainians. 

    We urge the agency to provide immediate clarification to Ukrainians in the United States that their humanitarian parole has not been terminated, and that there are no plans to terminate the program while Ukraine is still under active attack by Russia. We also request a briefing on any future plans regarding humanitarian parole for Ukrainians and an immediate explanation as to how these emails were sent in error. 

    We appreciate your urgent attention to this matter.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Risch Introduces Religious Workforce Protection Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho James E Risch

    Bill would allow foreign-born religious workers to continue to perform essential service in American communities

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho) today introduced the Religious Workforce Protection Act to allow religious workers in the U.S. on temporary R-1 status to continue serving our communities while their application for permanent residency is processed.

    The Religious Workforce Protection Act would provide a targeted fix to the backlog of EB-4 applications that have exacerbated a growing shortage of religious workers across the country. This legislation would grant the Secretary of Homeland Security the authority to extend temporary R-1 nonimmigrant status for religious workers already in the U.S. until they receive a decision on their permanent residence application, and allow religious workers that were forced to leave to reenter the country.

    “Idaho’s religious communities risk losing up to a quarter of their clergy due to immigration backlogs,” said Risch. “By introducing the Religious Workforce Protection Act, we offer an important fix—ensuring religious workers who are integral to Idaho congregations can continue their service without interruption during lengthy visa processing delays.” 

    The Religious Workforce Protection Act has received support from the Diocese of Boise.

    “Despite the vast territory and increasing membership, our diocese is served by only 79 priests. If the current R-1 visa procedures remain in effect, our diocese will face severe hardship when foreign-born priests are required to leave the country for at least one year or more,” said Bishop Peter F. Christensen, Diocese of Boise. “I would like to extend my special thanks to Senator Risch and his staff, as well as Senators Susan Collins and Tim Kaine, for their assistance in developing and sponsoring the bill. Their partnership with those affected by the current situation is an excellent example of our legislators listening to their constituents and enacting common-sense changes that benefit all.”

    Risch is joined by U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Tim Kaine (D-Va.) in introducing the legislation.

    Background:

    Under current law, religious workers with R-1 nonimmigrant status are limited to stay in the U.S. for five years. These workers must then leave the U.S. for at least one year before they can return, costing churches and faith organizations the beloved religious workers their congregations and local communities have grown to depend on. 

    Almost 25% of clergy members across the country are foreign-born, impacting religious communities throughout the United States.

    More than a fourth of Idaho’s Catholic priests are at risk of losing their legal immigration status within the next four years.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SCHUMER: TRUMP TARIFFS LIKELY TO DRIVE NEW YORK RIGHT INTO A RECESSION; NYC METRO AREA IS ESPECIALLY VULNERABLE AS ONE OF LARGEST TRADE HUBS IN WORLD; SENATOR DETAILS NUMBERS THAT COULD ROT VARIETY OF…

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Charles E Schumer

    Schumer Warns Over 260,000 NY Jobs Tied To Exports At “Direct Hit” Risk; JP Morgan Says Chance For National Recession Now At 60%–But Schumer Says For New York, That Risk Is Even Higher With EU Seeking To Retaliate At NYC Financial, Accounting & Tech Sector

    Schumer Crunches Numbers To Say, As Of Right Now, Current Tariff Plan Could Cost NYC At Least $20 Billion Dollars; NYC Metropolitan Area Exports Second Most Goods Of Any U.S. Metropolitan Area – Much Of This Could Just Cease With NYC Revenues, Jobs, Investments All Nosediving

    Schumer: Donald Trump’s Pinball Tariff Strategy Will Wreak Total Havoc On NYC & Could Drive A Deep & Needless Recession; Put Down The Golf Club & Pick Up The Papers

    With tariff chaos wreaking havoc on the U.S. economy, U.S. Senator Charles Schumer, today, issued a dire warning, with the numbers and the data to back it up: Trump tariffs are likely to drive New York’s economy right into a recession. 

    “President Trump’s pinball tariff strategy will wreak total havoc on New York City and is likely to drive us right into a recession,” Schumer said. “We’ve crunched the numbers, and what doesn’t look good for the nation, looks far worse for New York City. Some of the Big Apple’s core sectors are being targeted already, New Yorkers face roughly $20 billion dollars in increased costs, and a staggering 260,000 New York jobs are under threat, unless Donald Trump backs off—and that is exactly what I am urging today. Back off, President Trump.”

    Schumer, today, cited numbers that he predicts would go beyond the JP Morgan chances of a national recession while citing specific New York industries and sectors that would be especially slammed as the President’s pinball plans knock out some of New York’s most resilient industries—from finance, to tech and accounting. However, Schumer also cited tourism, fashion and other lifestyle industries across the city that would be equally damaged. 

    Schumer explained an ominous fact, detailing how New York and its metro area is especially vulnerable to the President’s needless tariff war because it is one of the world’s largest trade hubs. Schumer explained that the New York port and area import and export hubs hum with activity that pumps billions of dollars into the New York City economy each year.  

    Specifically, Schumer said that the President’s plans also put over 260,000 New York jobs tied to exports at, what he calls, a “direct hit” economic risk. Schumer explained that JP Morgan released data showing the nation’s chances of a recession are now at 60%–but Schumer says, in New York, the number is much higher. Schumer also said that, right now, the European Union is seeking to retaliate directly at New York City’s financial, accounting and tech sectors. He warned, today, that Asia would be next.  

    Just last week, JP Morgan said that the chance of a recession substantially increased due to President Donald Trump’s tariff announcement. The report, headlined “There will be blood” and dated April 3, warned, “these policies, if sustained, would likely push the US and possibly global economy into recession this year. An update of our probability scenario tree makes this point, raising the risk of a recession this year to 60%.”

    “Disruptive U.S. policies have been recognized as the biggest risk to the global outlook all year,” JP Morgan said last week, adding that the country’s trade policy has turned less business friendly than anticipated.

    “The effect is likely to be magnified through tariff retaliation, a slide in U.S. business sentiment and supply-chain disruptions,” JP Morgan warned. S&P Global, the rating firm, also raised its “subjective” probability of a U.S. recession last week.

    Schumer also pointed to Barclays, and brokerages HSBC, Deutsche Bank and BofA warned last Thursday that the U.S. economy faces a higher risk of slipping into a recession this year if the President’s tariffs remain in place.

    Financial reports say that if the tariffs are sustained, “recession risks will likely rise materially,” Deutsche Bank said in a note, while BofA noted the economy could be pushed to “the precipice of recession,” according to reports. Both Deutsche Bank and BofA predicted tariffs could ‘potentially shave 1-1.5 percentage points from U.S. economic growth this year.’

    And today, Goldman Sachs has now sounded their own alarm, saying the chances of a recession have increased greatly.

    Schumer echoed these warnings and other reports saying Trump’s tariff increase is “largest tax hike since 1968”—comparable to Smoot-Hawley, Schumer says.  

    As for New York City, Schumer is seeing red. Specifically:

    1. Schumer says that Trump’s tariffs will raise costs for NYC and threaten to put the Big Apple straight into a recession:
  • Schumer detailed how NYC is particularly vulnerable:
    • NYC is one of the largest trade hubs in the country, with more than $200 Billion in trade in goods alone each year ($100b imports, $100b exports) – Schumer says this entire subset economy has been fractured, no matter what the President does right now.
    • Schumer can say that Trump’s tariffs will mean a nearly $20 Billion-dollar DIRECT HIT to NYC, and that’s before other countries try to retaliate. Schumer says the EU and Asia have begun the process.
    • 80,000 jobs were already at risk before Trump’s latest announcement, which now threatens the more than 250,000 jobs in New York that are dependent on exports and could be threatened by retaliation.
  • Schumer says key NYC industries are already feeling the effects:
    • NYC’s biggest industries are in information services (financial, accounting, tech), which are the focus of the EU’s potential retaliation, and Schumer says it is clear that Asia will begin retaliation this week.
    • Tourism: Countries like Canada are boycotting travel to US, which has already seen a 23% drop in Canadian travel to US. But Schumer says the pinball tariff strategy will also constrict tourism on a global scale, constricting the global economy and weakening the dollar.  
    • Fashion/Garment industry is facing price increases of 10 to 17% — Schumer says NYC is a fashion and garment hub, from leathers to other textiles, and that the current tariff ‘plan’ will rip the threads out of the NYC fashion and commerce economy.

    Schumer has fought to help New York push back against these pinball tariffs, forcing a vote to rescind Trump’s disastrous tariffs and protect NY consumers.

    Following Democrats’ successful effort to force a Senate vote to pull back Trump’s tariffs on Canada, Schumer pushed an amendment to rescind any tariffs put in place after January 20, 2025 that have increased the costs of groceries, medicines, or other everyday goods, while leaving in place tariffs on adversaries like China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea. Schumer explained he authored the amendment because Congress should be prioritizing reducing costs for families and small businesses, not taxing middle class families to pay for tax cuts for billionaires.

    “Bottom line, Schumer says, Donald Trump’s tariff strategy will wreak total havoc on the New York City economy and is likely to drive us straight into a recession. I urge the President to back off. Put down the golf clubs and pick up the papers and have a look at what is going on because it is anything but ‘great.’”

MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden, Bonamici, Salinas Join Colleagues Demanding McMahon Reverse Abrupt Policy Change Halting Funding for Schools Nationwide

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)

    April 08, 2025

    Lawmakers press Trump’s Department of Education about its abrupt halt of funding for state governments and school districts that adds an unnecessary hurdle to reimbursement and will harm students following the pandemic.

    Washington D.C.—U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., with U.S. Representatives Suzanne Bonamici and Andrea Salinas, D-Ore., said today they have  joined Senate and House colleagues in a letter demanding a reversal of a new federal Department of Education policy that imposes new red tape on Oregon and other states that  prevent their access to  pandemic relief funds they are counting on to support students’ learning.

    In their letter  to Education Secretary Linda McMahon, the lawmakers press McMahon for immediate reversal of the department’s revision to its longstanding liquidation extension policy for COVID-19 education recovery funding—warning that the department’s change, along with its myriad other harmful actions recently, seriously jeopardizes students’ learning and growth. 

    “We write to request the immediate reversal of the Department of Education’s recent March 28, 2025, action to revise the liquidation extension policy for COVID-19 relief funds,” the lawmakers wrote. “Just over a month ago, the Department announced a policy change to the longstanding extension policy that imposed an additional step for processing of extension reimbursements. … However, on March 28, 2025, with many state extension requests having been approved more than six months ago,  the Department suddenly announced on March 28 that ‘the Department is modifying the liquidation period to end on March 28, 2025,’ the very same day as the announcement.” 

    “In short,” the lawmakers state, “the Department changed the spending rules it affirmed just one month ago, without providing any notice, and imposing more federal red tape.”

    The lawmakers note that the abrupt change—coupled with the mass firings at the Department of Education—seriously threaten the ability of schools to support students’ learning: “When combined with the massive reduction in force announced earlier this month, the Department jeopardizes an estimated $4 billion from the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2021 and American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 in nearly all of our states and outlying areas and roughly 1,000 school districts nationwide. This action is particularly harmful to rural school districts that faced the greatest disruptions during the authorized program period. This will also have a disproportionate impact on $800 million reserved for identification and support for students experiencing homelessness, which was implemented slowly in many states. The March 28th decision of the Department improperly imposes its will on state and local budget decisions in a manner not contemplated by Congress.”

    The lawmakers also called out that while the Trump administration works to cut off this funding for schools, it is pushing to pass new tax cuts for billionaires: “Let’s be very clear: The abrupt change in the liquidation extension policy is yet another way this administration is seeking to strip educational opportunities for students in order to pay for tax cuts for billionaires and large corporations. President Trump and Congressional Republicans are intent in claiming any savings they can in the federal budget that they intend to use to pay for their tax cuts for billionaires and large corporations.”

    “We believe there is a better way,” they conclude. “We urge you to immediately rescind your March 28 revision to the longstanding liquidation extension policy. Further, we believe you should work with us to start properly executing our federal education laws as Congress intended.”

    The letter was led in the Senate by U.S. Senators Patty Murray, D-Wash., Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., and Tammy Baldwin, D-Wis. In addition to Wyden the letter was signed by Senators Angela Alsobrooks, D-Md., Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., Dick Durbin, D-Ill., Ruben Gallego, D-Ariz., Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii, Tim Kaine, D-Va., Angus King, I-Maine, Ed Markey, D-Mass., Chris Murphy, D-Conn., Alex Padilla, D-Calif., Jack Reed, D-R.I., Jeanne Shaheen, D-Mo., Elissa Slotkin, D-Mich., Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., Mark Warner, D-Va., and Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass.

    In the House, the letter was led by U.S. Representatives Rosa DeLauro, D-Conn., and Robert C. “Bobby” Scott, D-Va. In addition to Bonamici and Salinas, the letter was signed by Representatives Alma Adams, D-N.C., Donald Beyer, D-Va., Julia Brownley, D-Calif., Shontel Brown, D-Ohio, André Carson, D-Ind., Greg Casar, D-Texas, Sean Casten, D-Ill., Joaquin Castro, D-Texas, Steve Cohen, D-Tenn., Joe Courtney, D-Conn., Danny Davis, D-Ill., Diana DeGette, D- Colo., Chris Deluzio, D-Pa., Mark DeSaulnier, D-Calif., Sarah Elfreth, D-Md., Veronica Escobar, D-Texas, Adriano Espaillat, D-N.Y., Dwight Evans, D-Pa., Shomari Figures, D-Ala., Jesús García, D-Ill., Sylvia Garcia, D-Texas, Vicente Gonzalez, D-Texas, Jahana Hayes, D-Conn., Chrissy Houlahan, D-Pa., Jonathan Jackson, D-Ill., Hank Johnson, D-Ga., Robin Kelly, D-Ill., Timothy Kennedy, D-N.Y., John Larson, D-Conn., Summer Lee, D-Pa., Lucy McBath, D-Ga., Sarah McBride, D-Del., Jennifer McClellan, D-Va., Betty McCollum, D-Minn., Kristen McDonald Rivet, D-Mich., Jim McGovern, D-Mass., LaMonica McIver, D-N.J., Donald Norcross, D-N.J., Johnny Olszewski, D-Md., Chellie Pingree, D-Maine, Mark Pocan, D-Mich., Linda Sánchez, D-Calif., Terri Sewell, D-Ala., Mikie Sherrill, D-N.J., Lateefah Simon, D-Calif., Darren Soto, D-Fla., Haley Stevens, D-Mich., Mark Takano, D-Calif., Dina Titus, D-Nev., Rashida Tlaib, D-Mich., Bonnie Watson Coleman, D-N.Y., Frederica Wilson, D-Fla., and Eleanor Holmes Norton, D-D.C.

    The full text of the letter is here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden, Welch, Grassley, Rounds Introduce Legislation to Stop Monopoly of Meat-Packing Industry, Promote Opportunity for Local Ranchers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)

    April 08, 2025

    Only four companies control 85% of the entire market in the beef industry

    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ron Wyden, D-Ore., Peter Welch, D-Vt. , Mike Rounds, R-S.D., and Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, today introduced bipartisan legislation to lower skyrocketing grocery bills – particularly for meat and eggs – by cracking down on America’s Big Four meatpackers that are undercutting local ranchers.

    Wyden, Welch, Rounds, and Grassley’s legislation would specifically strengthen the enforcement of existing price-fixing laws to ensure America’s Big Four meatpackers comply, which would allow more opportunities for ranchers and drive down meat prices for shoppers.

    “For too long, Oregon ranchers and consumers have been greedily exploited by the Big Four meatpackers that sneak their way around regulations,” Wyden said. “While local ranchers work tirelessly day and night to support their small business and feed families across the country, these big companies keep raking in bigger bills at the expense of local communities in red and blue states alike. It’s way past time to level the playing field for local ranchers and bring grocery prices down for consumers at the meat counter by better enforcing laws that are already on the books.”

    “Vermonters rely on fresh foods from local farmers and ranchers to feed their families,” Welch said. “But with meat and dairy prices at the grocery store soaring sky high, small producers across the country are struggling to make ends meet and support their businesses. The rapid consolidation of the meatpacking industry further cripples fair competition. Our bipartisan bill will bring down costs for consumers and create opportunities for producers in red and blue states alike.”

    “For decades, America’s Big Four meatpackers’ anticompetitive practices have made it harder for Iowa cattle producers to receive a fair price,” Grassley said. “Our bill empowers USDA, in coordination with the Justice Department and Federal Trade Commission, to crack down on bad actors, ensuring a fair and functional marketplace that supports everyone who produces and enjoys quality American meat.”

    “Anticompetitive practices in the meatpacking industry hurt producers and consumers alike,” Rounds said. “Currently, four large companies, two of which are foreign-owned, control over 80% of the meat processing market. Our legislation would establish an office within the USDA to investigate violations of the Packers and Stockyards Act of 1921, which will support competition in meat and poultry markets.”

    Today, just four companies control 85% of the beef market and 67% of the pork market, which is up from 36% and 34% in 1980. The Big Four meatpackers are profiteering middlemen that have created a system allowing them to accumulate billions of dollars on the backs of ranchers struggling to make ends meet and shoppers suffering expensive meat and egg prices.

    The Meat and Poultry Special Investigator Act would create and empower a team of investigators at the United States Department of Agriculture to prevent anticompetitive practices in the meat and poultry industry by enforcing existing antitrust laws, in coordination with the Department of Justice and the Federal Trade Commission.

    Cosponsors in the Senate include Senators Adam Schiff, D-Calif., Cindy Hyde-Smith, R-Miss., Martin Heinrich, D-N.M., Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., John Hoeven, R-N.D., and Cory Booker, D-N.J.

    “Every week, California families sit at their kitchen tables and worry about how they will afford to put food on their kid’s plate,” Schiff said. “At a time when rising grocery prices are making those worries even worse, we need to ensure that large companies aren’t driving up costs through anti-competitive practices. I am proud to join my colleagues from around the country and on both sides of the aisle to hold price gougers accountable and ensure fair competition in our markets for farmers and consumers alike.”

    “The struggle to get by only gets worse for cattle producers year after year, and a lot of that is tied to consolidation in the meat packing industry.  It is certainly not the producers making a profit from the high prices consumers are paying, which indicates something has gone wrong,” Hyde-Smith said.  “This legislation is sorely needed to investigate and pursue any anti-competitive activities that are hurting producers and consumers alike.”

    “Small ranchers are struggling to compete with major meat and poultry corporations, meanwhile these giants rake in record profits and dominate the industry through anticompetitive means,” Blumenthal said. “Local ranchers and consumers alike deserve a fair and free market and strong enforcement against illegal practices like price fixing. That’s why I’m proud to support the Meat and Poultry Special Investigator Act which would crack down on these megacorporations and lower grocery store bills for Connecticut families.”

    The Meat and Poultry Special Investigator Act is endorsed by the National Farmers Union and the U.S. Cattlemen’s Association.

    “If the bad actors in the marketplace have nothing to hide, then they should have no problem with reinforcing USDA’s oversight authority through the measures provided in this bill. It’s not enough that producers stand on a level playing field in the marketplace – there also needs to be a referee, with a whistle, there to throw a flag when there’s a penalty. USCA fully supports the Meat Packing Special Investigator Act and would like to applaud our Champions for ‘Competition’ in the Senate who never waiver on supporting producers not just in Oregon, South Dakota, and Iowa – but across the countryside,” said Justin Tupper, President of the United States Cattlemen’s Association.

    “A special investigator at USDA is an important step to cracking down on unfair practices and leveling the playing field for independent livestock producers. Senators Wyden, Rounds, and Grassley get it—strong enforcement keeps monopolies in check. When family farmers and ranchers thrive, so do our rural communities,” said Rob Larew, President of the National Farmers Union.

    The text of the bill is here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen, Grassley Mark National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month with Bipartisan Resolution

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen

    (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA) introduced a bipartisan resolution recognizing April as “National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month,” supporting survivors of sexual assault and honoring the critical work done by victim advocates, public safety, law enforcement and health professionals. Their resolution was cosponsored by Senators Susan Collins (R-ME), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Joni Ernst (R-IA), John Fetterman (D-PA), Patty Murray (D-WA) and Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM).

    “This month, and every month, we must do all we can to stand with survivors of sexual assault,” said Senator Shaheen. “I’m proud to help introduce a bipartisan resolution to support survivors and highlight the difficult but critical work that victim advocates, public safety, law enforcement and health professionals do on a daily basis to respond to and prevent sexual violence. We are grateful for their tireless work to ensure that survivors across the United States have the services they need to heal.”

    The text of the Senators’ resolution can be found HERE.

    Shaheen champions efforts in the Senate to boost services and programs for survivors of domestic and sexual violence. In the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 U.S. Senate Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies (CJS) Subcommittee Appropriations bill, Shaheen secured and helped advance $739.5 million, the highest funding level ever, for grants authorized by the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), including $10 million for continued implementation of her Sexual Assault Survivors’ Bill of Rights grant program.

    In 2016,?Shaheen led the effort?to pass the?Survivors’ Bill of Rights Act, which was signed into law by President Obama. The historic legislation guaranteed rights for survivors of sexual assault in federal cases and led to 21 states adopting similar legislation,?including New Hampshire. Shaheen and Grassley’s bipartisan?Survivors’ Bill of Rights in the States Act was?signed into law?as part of the FY 2023 national defense authorization legislation, and builds on the legacy of Shaheen’s initial legislation by ensuring that all survivors, not just those in federal cases, are protected.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner, Colleagues Question HHS Secretary RFK Jr. on Decision to Fire Workers Tasked with Protecting Coal Miner Health and Safety

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), joined by U.S. Sens. Tim Kaine (D-VA), John Fetterman (D-PA), and Bernie Sanders (I-VT), wrote to Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. pushing back on his decision to gut the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), firing nearly 900 employees. Recent reporting has indicated that these firings include all employees tasked with protecting the health and safety of coal miners.

    “According to reports, HHS is laying off approximately 873 employees, or two-thirds, of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC),” the senators wrote. “According to a notification provided to AFGE Local 1969, whose federal employee members are being impacted, all employees working on mining safety and health in NIOSH’s Spokane, WA and Pittsburgh, PA, offices are being let go. ,  The NIOSH Pittsburgh Mining Research Division focuses on coal miner safety, and the Spokane Mining Research Division specializes in hard rock mining, and are the two main research hubs for NIOSH’s Mining Research Program. Additionally, reports indicate more than 185 NIOSH employees are being laid off from its Morgantown, WV, office, who also work to protect miner health, among other occupational safety and health activities.”

    The senators also highlighted the immediate impacts of this move, explaining that mining communities are already being left without key health services.

    They continued, “We also have heard from those who work directly with our miner constituents in these communities that the Enhanced Coal Workers’ Health Surveillance Program is also being decimated. This program provides direct screening services via a mobile medical unit to miners at no cost. NIOSH also supports clinic sites where screening is done, so miners can understand if they are developing black lung or another condition and be as healthy as possible for themselves and their families.”

    In their letter, the senators demanded answers from Secretary Kennedy, questioning how these crucial services will continue with a significantly reduced workforce. The senators requested a written response to the following:

    1.  How many HHS employees who work in offices that work on mining health and safety have been fired, put on administrative leave, accepted the deferred resignation program offer, or accepted the VERA/VSIP offer since January 20, 2025? Provide a complete breakdown by agency and position. For each category of employee at each agency, provide information on GS level and veteran status, and clearly state the justification for termination. Include employees who have since been reinstated or placed on administrative leave, noting that change in status. Please provide the latest data available.
    2. How many HHS employees remain who work on mining health and safety? Please provide a complete breakdown by agency and position.
    3. How many additional employees who work in offices that work on mining health and safety do you intend to fire following the announcement made on March 27, 2025?
    4. Provide all analyses conducted prior to the reorganization and firings of HHS employees who work in offices that focus on mining safety and health to determine the immediate and long-term impact these firings will have on programs and activities that those employees are tasked with administering. In particular, provide all analyses relating to 1) ensuring statutory obligations will be met, and 2) the Coal Workers’ Health Surveillance Program.

    A copy of letter is available here and text is below.

    Dear Secretary Kennedy:

    We write today with alarming concern about reports that nearly the entire workforce that works to improve the health of miners was laid off and the office that oversees this work was eliminated. We urge you to reverse course immediately and ensure the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) continues its important work in our states to protect and serve our constituents.

    According to reports, HHS is laying off approximately 873 employees, or two-thirds, of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).  According to a notification provided to AFGE Local 1969, whose federal employee members are being impacted, all employees working on mining safety and health in NIOSH’s Spokane, WA and Pittsburgh, PA, offices are being let go. ,  The NIOSH Pittsburgh Mining Research Division focuses on coal miner safety, and the Spokane Mining Research Division specializes in hard rock mining, and are the two main research hubs for NIOSH’s Mining Research Program. Additionally, reports indicate more than 185 NIOSH employees are being laid off from its Morgantown, WV, office, who also work to protect miner health, among other occupational safety and health activities. 

    We also have heard from those who work directly with our miner constituents in these communities that the Enhanced Coal Workers’ Health Surveillance Program is also being decimated. This program provides direct screening services via a mobile medical unit to miners at no cost. NIOSH also supports clinic sites where screening is done, so miners can understand if they are developing black lung or another condition and be as healthy as possible for themselves and their families.

    Never has there been a more critical time to do this work. A 2023 study conducted jointly by researchers at NIOSH and at the University of Illinois Chicago found that coal miners in central Appalachia—Virginia, West Virginia, and Kentucky—were eight times more likely to die from respiratory diseases like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and black lung than American men who are not miners.  Our constituents are getting more severe disease at younger ages in recent decades, and we might never had known that without the expertise of NIOSH’s work on coal miner health.

    We require more than a fact sheet indicating these duties will be reorganized into an Administration for a Healthy America given the extensive cuts to personnel. In order for us to better understand how the same amount of work can be done with hundreds fewer individuals, please provide responses to the following questions by April 9, 2025:

    1. How many HHS employees who work in offices that work on mining health and safety have been fired, put on administrative leave, accepted the deferred resignation program offer, or accepted the VERA/VSIP offer since January 20, 2025? Provide a complete breakdown by agency and position. For each category of employee at each agency, provide information on GS level and veteran status, and clearly state the justification for termination. Include employees who have since been reinstated or placed on administrative leave, noting that change in status. Please provide the latest data available.
    2. How many HHS employees remain who work on mining health and safety? Please provide a complete breakdown by agency and position.
    3. How many additional employees who work in offices that work on mining health and safety do you intend to fire following the announcement made on March 27, 2025?
    4. Provide all analyses conducted prior to the reorganization and firings of HHS employees who work in offices that focus on mining safety and health to determine the immediate and long-term impact these firings will have on programs and activities that those employees are tasked with administering. In particular, provide all analyses relating to 1) ensuring statutory obligations will be met, and 2) the Coal Workers’ Health Surveillance Program.

    Art Miller, an expert in mine air quality who has been working for NIOSH since 1996 and for its predecessor before this, was part of the Spokane-area firings. He noted that no one else does this kind of research and that “every worker in this country deserves to go home safe.”  We agree, and urge you to reverse these cuts before it’s too late.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Statement at Hearing on President’s 2025 Trade Policy Agenda

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) delivered the following remarks at a hearing entitled, “The President’s 2025 Trade Policy Agenda.” 

    As prepared for delivery:

    “Members and the public have questions and concerns about the recent tariff actions.  That’s ok.  We should think about tariff impacts and ask questions.  Thoughtful and respectful debate on the issues is good and why we call hearings, like this one, with the United States Trade Representative, Ambassador Jamieson Greer. 

    “We need to think strategically about tariff policy, including how to minimize unnecessary costs on American families.  I also recognize that although it is easy to see the costs arising from tariffs, it is far more difficult to assess the cost of denied market access opportunities. 

    “Tariffs can advance American interests in market access.  In the first Trump Administration, we used tariff threats to stop France from imposing discriminatory digital services taxes. 

    “Tariffs also forced China to discuss the systemic challenges between our two nations.  Frankly, every enforcement action—whether it is a WTO dispute, a Section 301 investigation or a preference program review—ultimately relies on the threat of tariffs to secure objectives.

    “Accordingly, it is important to contextualize the tariffs in the design of the larger policy.  The real headline then becomes the fundamental shift in trade policy since President Trump’s inauguration—where the United States actually plans to do trade again. 

    “My colleagues and I in Congress want to pursue a real trade policy.  That was put on hold during the Biden years.   We now have a President who will partner with us in that effort.  Together, we will enforce our rights; we will negotiate again; and we will expand opportunities for Americans. 

    “This Administration is not deliberating endlessly over whether ‘trade can be a force for good,’ like the past Administration.  Trade today is the centerpiece of our international economic engagement and we have plenty of substantive trade ideas to discuss. 

    “Businesses want certainty from good policies that will continue so they can invest confidently in prospects that create jobs and wealth. 

    “That is one of the primary reasons that I am working so hard to make the Trump Tax Cuts permanent—to provide businesses with the certainty they need to make long-term investments, to drive growth and to increase prosperity across all segments of the economy.

    “Contrast this kind of certainty and forward thinking on trade with that of the last four years, where the only ‘certainty’ was that you were going to lose ground because your government fundamentally rejected free markets, free enterprise and free trade. 

    “The last Administration turned to industrial policy because it was certain that the free market failed in delivering what government planners believed necessary for climate and social agendas. 

    “Indeed, China’s central planners saw their own strategic thinking in the Inflation Reduction Act’s approach of bestowing massive subsidies to stimulate investments that the market would not.

    “We can restore faith in free markets by making it easier than ever to do business in America.  The President’s Executive Order last week to assist major investors to navigate our regulatory system efficiently is a good start.  We plan to do more.

    “The Biden Administration provided us with only the “certainty” that in the face of a foreign government’s discriminatory policies, like digital services taxes, data localization or other non-tariff barriers, it would not stand up for its citizens because it believed that the so-called ‘right to regulate’ trumped the principle of free enterprise. 

    “Respectfully, democratic governments do not have rights—they exist to secure them for their citizens.

    “One immediately welcome change, under the Trump Administration, appeared last week in USTR’s National Trade Estimate.

    “Last year, the Biden Administration deliberately cut from the Estimate a number of discriminatory measures imposed by foreign governments on American businesses because it sided with those governments over our citizens.  This year’s Estimate is exhaustive because the Administration carefully identified all of the ways Americans lose out in the global marketplace.

    “Finally, the validity of free trade will be seen again.  The last Administration did not pursue market access in its negotiations.  Instead, it demanded governments to undertake a number of social and environmental commitments, even ones Congress did not approve domestically.  Not surprisingly, our partners did not put their trust in such negotiations. 

    “While tariffs inherently may be seen at odds with free trade, we must also acknowledge that many of our trading partners deploy barriers that have gone unchallenged for too long.  Free trade, by definition, must be reciprocal.  We do not have it if others can impose barriers on us unchallenged.

    “Our failure to enforce our rights over the last four years lost a lot of ground for us.  This cannot continue because what I am certain about is American goods and services are innovative, high quality and globally competitive. 

    “Senior Administration officials say that a number of countries are ‘coming to the table’ to engage with USTR.  We look forward to hearing about this engagement and the steps toward better opportunities for Americans.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaine & Banks Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Support Mental Health Care and Substance Use Disorder Recovery

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Jim Banks (R-IN), members of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, introduced the Providing Empathetic and Effective Recovery (PEER) Support Act, bipartisan legislation to support mental health care and substance use disorder recovery. Specifically, the bill would elevate peer support specialists—individuals with lived experience with a mental health condition or substance use disorder who are certified to assist individuals and their families in recovery through advocacy, relationship and community building, resource sharing, mentorship, goal setting, and more. Although peer support specialists have been shown to decrease substance use for individuals with substance use disorders and reduce re-hospitalization for individuals with mental health conditions, they often face significant barriers to entering or staying in the profession. The PEER Support Act would help remove these barriers, address workforce shortages in the field, and support access to mental health and substance use disorder treatment.

    “Peer support specialists play an important role in mental health and substance use disorder treatment teams, and provide valuable support to individuals in recovery,” said Kaine. “At a time where we need to expand access to mental health care and substance use disorder treatment, this bipartisan legislation is critical to helping peer support specialists enter the field.”

    “As millions of Americans struggle to overcome addiction, access to peer support specialists saves lives. This bipartisan bill helps better connect these experts—who have overcome addiction themselves—to those in recovery,” said Banks.

    “Fifty-two million adults in the U.S.—or 1 in 5 adults—have a mental health condition, and we lack the workforce to help provide much-needed services. The Bipartisan Policy Center has recommended policies advancing peer support specialists and boosting recovery services, and we believe the reintroduction of the PEER Support Act is a critical step toward addressing the shortage of behavioral health workers in this country,” said Michele Stockwell, President of Bipartisan Policy Center Action.

    “Trained peer supporters make an incredible difference in helping people recover, and this bill positions peer support specialists to be a lifeline throughout the behavioral health care system,” said Bruce Curser, Executive Director of Mental Health America of Virginia.

    “I’m both excited and incredibly grateful to see the reintroduction of the PEER Support Act, as it highlights the real and significant barriers faced by Peer Recovery Specialists in our communities. For many of us, including myself, entering this workforce can be an unnecessarily difficult challenge after overcoming the obstacles created by our lived experiences with substance use and mental health diagnoses. The PEER Support Act is essential in creating more job opportunities, fostering professional growth, ensuring recognition as equal professionals, and enabling the collection of crucial data that supports this evidence-based practice,” said Rachel Alderman, AAS, RPRS, CCHW, Community Health Center of the New River Valley (Christiansburg, Virginia).

    “I am more than happy to see advocates stepping up to support Peer Recovery Specialists in this way. Having personally faced barriers in this field due to past charges, I know how discouraging it can be to be turned away from a position despite a commitment to recovery and helping others. I almost gave up, but I am so grateful for the opportunity to prove that a past does not define one’s future. Peer support is built on connection, understanding, and lived experience—showing others that recovery is not only possible but sustainable. This bill is vital to ensuring that those who have walked the path of recovery can continue to uplift and guide others on their own journeys,” said Kellie Simpkins, CPRS, Community Health Center of the New River Valley (Christiansburg, Virginia).

    Specifically, the PEER Support Act would:

    • Codify the Office of Recovery in the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to
      • Train, educate, and support the professional development of peer support specialists.
      • Research and publish best practice recommendations for the training, certification, and supervision of peer support specialists for entities that employ these professionals.
      • Recommend career pathways for peer support specialists.
      • Provide leadership in the identification of new and emerging issues related to recovery support services.
    • Instruct the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Department of Justice (DOJ) to conduct a study to research states’ screening processes for prospective peer support specialists that may pose undue barriers to their certification, and provide evidence-based recommendations for overcoming those barriers. Some prospective peer support specialists cannot get a license because of their past interactions with law enforcement related to their substance use disorder (such as convictions for possession of drugs that occurred prior to recovery).
    • Direct the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to revise the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) system to recognize peer support specialists as a profession, which would help ensure accurate data reporting on the field.

    The PEER Support Act is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).

    The PEER Support Act is supported by American Association for Psychoanalysis in Clinical Social Work, American Association on Health and Disability (AAHD), American Association of Suicidality, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), American Psychological Association Services (APA Services), Anxiety & Depression Association of America, Ballad Health, Bipartisan Policy Center (BPC), Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD), Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance, Face and Voices of Recovery, Fountain House, International Society for Psychiatric Mental Health Nurses, Lakeshore Foundation, Mental Health America (MHA), Maternal Mental Health Leadership Alliance (MMHLA), NAADAC, the Association for Addiction Professionals, National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), National Association for Peer Supporters (NAPS), National Association of State Mental Health Program Directors (NASMHPD), National Council for Mental Wellbeing, National Federation of Families, Overdose Prevention Initiative, Policy Center for Maternal Mental Health, Psychotherapy Action Network, RI International, SMART Recovery, and Trust for America’s Health (TFAH).

    Full text of the PEER Support Act is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaine, Schumer, and Wyden Demand House Vote on Senate-Passed Tariff Legislation Ending Trade War with Canada

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), Democratic Senate Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), and Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Committee Ron Wyden (D-OR) sent a letter to House Speaker Mike Johnson demanding that he schedule a vote in the House of Representatives on Senate Joint Resolution 37, legislation led by Kaine to reverse President Trump’s tariffs on Canada, which amount to a 25 percent tax on imported goods. S.J. Res. 37 passed in the Senate last week by a 51-48 vote.

    “Plain and simple, the Trump Trade War is a Trump Tax on families, raising their costs by nearly $4,000 per year and devastating small businesses, forcing them to raise prices or lay off staff. It is a dangerous, foolish exercise that is wreaking havoc on the American economy and could tee up a recession,” wrote the senators.

    The senators continued, “Now that the Senate has weighed in, members of the House should have the opportunity to vote on whether to continue President Trump’s wrongheaded tariffs on Canada.”

    “Canada is the United States’ second largest trading partner and longtime ally,” the senators wrote. “This absurd and dangerous trade war has needlessly fractured the relationship between our two countries, thrown integrated manufacturing supply chains into disarray, and raised costs for American families and small businesses. The Senate has acted. The House should follow and schedule a vote without delay.”

    Full text of the letter is available here and below:

    Speaker Johnson:

    We call on you to move without delay to schedule a vote in the House of Representatives on Senate Joint Resolution 37, which would terminate President Trump’s foolish and misguided trade war with our ally, Canada.

    Plain and simple, the Trump Trade War is a Trump Tax on families, raising their costs by nearly $4,000 per year and devastating small businesses, forcing them to raise prices or lay off staff. It is a dangerous, foolish exercise that is wreaking havoc on the American economy and could tee up a recession. If the president doesn’t back off, Congress must take action – the Senate has already taken action to provide relief from tariffs on Canada, and the House should follow immediately.

    On February 2, President Trump declared a so-called emergency with regard to the flow of illicit drugs from Canada, despite evidence from Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that less 0.2 percent of fentanyl comes from our northern ally.

    This was clearly a pretext to abuse the emergency authorities under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to start a trade war with one of our closest allies and biggest trading partners. Situations like this are exactly why Congress created a privileged process to rescind emergencies under IEEPA.

    Last week, the Senate exercised this authority and voted on a bipartisan basis to rescind the president’s emergency and end this ridiculous trade war. The House of Representatives already sidestepped this responsibility once in March, taking extraordinary steps to avoid the question of the legitimacy of the president’s declared emergency. Now that the Senate has weighed in, members of the House should have the opportunity to vote on whether to continue President Trump’s wrongheaded tariffs on Canada.

    Canada is the United States’ second largest trading partner and longtime ally. This absurd and dangerous trade war has needlessly fractured the relationship between our two countries, thrown integrated manufacturing supply chains into disarray, and raised costs for American families and small businesses.

    The Senate has acted. The House should follow and schedule a vote without delay.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: McConnell Comments on Colby Nomination

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Mitch McConnell

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) issued the following statement today on the nomination of Elbridge Colby to be Under Secretary of Defense for Policy:

    “Preparing to deter or defeat an historic alignment of adversaries must be the top priority for the United States and the West. But the more we indulge the fiction that these threats are not linked, and the longer we delay overdue investments in the national defense, the more difficult the task of restoring our credibility, our military capability, and our industrial capacity will become.

    “Elbridge Colby’s long public record suggests a willingness to discount the complexity of the challenges facing America, the critical value of our allies and partners, and the urgent need to invest in hard power to preserve American primacy. The prioritization that Mr. Colby argues is fresh, new, and urgently needed is, in fact, a return to an Obama-era conception of a la carte geostrategy. Abandoning Ukraine and Europe and downplaying the Middle East to prioritize the Indo-Pacific is not a clever geopolitical chess move. It is geostrategic self-harm that emboldens our adversaries and drives wedges between America and our allies for them to exploit.

    “Mr. Colby’s confirmation leaves open the door for the less-polished standard-bearers of restraint and retrenchment at the Pentagon to do irreparable damage to the system of alliances and partnerships which serve as force multipliers to U.S. leadership. It encourages isolationist perversions of peace through strength to continue apace at the highest levels of Administration policymaking.

    “As I have expressed repeatedly, I remain committed to supporting national security nominees whose records and views make them assets, not liabilities, in the restoration of U.S. hard power. As he gets to work, Mr. Colby will need to work swiftly to advance policy that conforms to the President’s recognition of U.S. interests from Europe to the Middle East to the Indo-Pacific. I hope he will come to appreciate the essential role our allies play in advancing our collective interests, the urgent need for enduring investments in our national defense, and the linked and simultaneous challenges we face.

    “Make no mistake: America will not be made great again by those who are content to manage our decline.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: McConnell in Wall Street Journal: Executive Order Invites Leftwing Election Takeover

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Mitch McConnell

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) submitted the following op-ed to The Wall Street Journal, printed in today’s edition, on voting and election integrity:

    Easier to vote, harder to cheat. That was the pitch the last time Washington passed major updates to the way America votes.

    After 2000 saw one of the closest presidential elections in American history, there was a bipartisan appetite to make sure states were equipped to count votes correctly. In 2002, Sen. Chris Dodd (D., Conn.) and I developed a plan to give state election authorities more resources and expert help as they navigated new technologies and reformed voting procedures. When we wrote the Help America Vote Act, we took care to reinforce—not undermine—the limits of federal involvement in America’s elections.

    As a result, HAVA and the Election Assistance Commission it created are still on the books today, and thank goodness for that. Challenges to America’s elections aren’t slowing down, they’re speeding up. The Trump administration is right to focus national attention on election-security issues that enjoy wide support, from voter roll maintenance to voter I.D. requirements.

    But the way measures like these are implemented matters. And the administration’s executive order on voting and election integrity risks setting them back.

    In the near term, Executive Order 14248 will face constitutional scrutiny. That isn’t because the citizenship requirement for participation in elections is unclear but because the delegation of authority over election administration is crystal clear. Elections may have national consequences but the power to conduct them rests in state capitols. No public mandate, real or perceived, lets Washington tamper with this authority, not even for a worthy cause like election integrity.

    In the longer term, last month’s executive order carries grave risks. The Trump administration can, and should, support state-led efforts to authenticate voter rolls, train election officials, upgrade voting technologies, and combat voter fraud. But they ought to be careful. Even a targeted federal mandate to strengthen election integrity today could make it easier for a future Democratic president and Congress to use more sweeping mandates to carry out a complete federal takeover of American elections.

    In that case, expanding Washington’s role wouldn’t be a side effect, it would be the entire point. This isn’t speculation. We know exactly what Democrats want to do because they’ve tried before.

    As it was first introduced in 2019, H.R. 1, the “For the People Act” was designed to gut state laws that upheld widely popular voter-I.D. requirements as well as open the door for rampant fraud with mandates for ballot drop boxes and unlimited ballot harvesting. It would hoover up state authority over redistricting, make it harder to clean inaccurate and duplicate voter registrations from the rolls, give the Internal Revenue Service sweeping new authority to consider political ideology in determining the tax-exempt status of advocacy groups, and turn even-split governance at the Federal Election Commission into a partisan majority.

    Over the years, Washington Democrats’ rationale for their federal takeover evolved. Initially, with President Trump’s first election still consuming the Democratic Party’s consciousness, H.R. 1 was sold as an urgent cure for a broken system. After subsequent Democratic victories, the plan was portrayed instead as preventive maintenance.

    In each iteration, it was a jaw-dropping affront to states’ authority to administer elections. We mustn’t forget how narrowly America avoided it. Had two Democratic senators not broken ranks with their party, the demise of the Senate’s legislative filibuster and the submission of American elections to the whims of unelected bureaucrats would have come as a package deal.

    Unfortunately, reasonable Americans can’t expect that sort of courage the next time a Democratic president and Congress have a chance to tilt the electoral playing field in their favor. The current administration has better ways to spend its time than laying the groundwork for a leftwing election takeover.

    Mr. McConnell, a Republican, is a U.S. senator from Kentucky.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warren, Wyden Launch Investigation into Google, Microsoft Partnerships with AI Developers Anthropic, OpenAI

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    April 08, 2025

    “We are concerned that corporate partnerships within the AI sector discourage competition, circumvent our antitrust laws, and result in fewer choices and higher prices for businesses and consumers using AI tools.” 

    Text of Letter to Google/Anthropic (PDF) | Text of Letter to Microsoft/OpenAI (PDF)

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) wrote to cloud service providers Google and Microsoft with concerns that their respective partnerships with AI developers Anthropic and OpenAI may violate antitrust laws, leading to fewer choices and higher prices for businesses and consumers using AI tools. 

    The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) warned in a January 2025 report that these types of partnerships might pose “risks to competition and consumers, such as ‘. . . locking in the market dominance of large incumbent technology firms.” The FTC and the Department of Justice have also raised concerns about these partnerships, warning that they can act as de facto mergers and allow companies to consolidate talent, information, and resources, while bypassing the traditional scrutiny associated with mergers and acquisitions. 

    These partnerships can involve minority stakes and significant investment from cloud service providers (CSPs), like Google and Microsoft, giving them access to AI developers’ talent, computing capacity, intellectual property, or business information. 

    In some cases, CSPs hire the top AI talent away from the AI developer and obtain exclusive licensing of the developer’s technology, “effectively swallowing the start-up and its main assets — without becoming the owner of the firm.” An agreement may also give the CSP a high level of control over, and stake in, the AI developer’s business decisions. In the most egregious case, individuals have held concurrent board positions with both the CSP and the AI developer, in a blatant violation of U.S. antitrust law. Partnership agreements can also lock AI developers in with particular CSPs because of the high contractual and technical cost of starting an agreement with a new CSP, limiting innovation in cases where there are better partnerships available. 

    “Partnerships between CSPs and AI developers, if left unchecked, may accelerate consolidation of the AI sector, ultimately driving up prices and choking off innovation,” wrote the senators. 

    In order to better understand the potential anticompetitive risks of these agreements, the senators requested the companies provide more information about their partnerships, including on the consolidation of computing resources, talent, and intellectual property, by April 21, 2025.  

    Senator Warren has long fought to crack down on corporate consolidation that threatens consumers and raises prices, including in the technology sector: 

    • In February 2025, Senator Elizabeth Warren wrote to Omeed Assefi, Acting Assistant Attorney General for the United States Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Antitrust Division, calling on the agency to closely scrutinize Disney’s proposed acquisition of FuboTV (Fubo).
    • In December 2024, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.) introduced the bipartisan Protecting AI and Cloud Competition in Defense Act to ensure that the Department of Defense (DoD)’s procurement of artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing tools prioritizes resiliency and competition. The bill offers meaningful regulation to limit Big Tech monopolies from elbowing out competitors in the AI and cloud computing markets.
    • In November 2024, U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) sent two letters regarding the impact of private equity and large corporations in veterinary care, to JAB Holding Company (JAB) and to Mars Petcare (Mars), a subsidiary of Mars, Inc., respectively.
    • In October 2024, Senator Elizabeth Warren led the reintroduction of the Stop Wall Street Looting Act, comprehensive legislation to fundamentally reform the private equity industry and level the playing field by forcing private investment firms to take responsibility for the outcomes of companies they take over, empowering workers and protecting investors. 
    • In August 2024, U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Representative Joaquin Castro (D-Texas), joined by U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT), wrote to the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) and Federal Communications Commission (FCC), calling on the agencies to closely scrutinize the proposed joint venture between FOX, Warner Bros. Discovery, and Disney subsidiary ESPN that would create a new streaming service named Venu Sports (Venu). 
    • In July 2024, Senators Warren, Klobuchar, Murphy, Sanders, Booker, and Blumenthal wrote a letter to the Department of Justice and Federal Communications Commission, urging them to scrutinize T-Mobile’s proposed acquisition of UScellular.
    • In July 2024, Senator Warren and Representatives Mark Pocan (D-Wis.) and John Garamendi (D-Calif.) urged the Department of Defense (DoD), FTC, and DOJ to review TransDigm Group Inc.’s acquisitions of two specialized aerospace contractors to prevent price gouging.
    • In June 2024, Senator Warren wrote to DOJ, FTC, and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), calling out high health care costs due to vertically integrated insurers, private equity companies, and pharmaceutical companies that are driving health care consolidation.
    • In June 2024, Senators Warren and Markey (D-Mass.) introduced the Corporate Crimes Against Health Care Act of 2024 to root out corporate greed and private equity abuse in the health care system.
    • In May 2024, chairing a hearing of the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee Subcommittee on Economic Policy, Senator Warren highlighted the impact of concentration in the food industry and its impact on prices, product, and consumer choice.
    • In May 2024, Senator Warren and Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) introduced the bipartisan Airport Gate Competition Act, which would increase competition in the airline industry and lower prices for consumers by increasing the number of common-use gates in airports.
    • In March 2024, Senator Warren and Representative Mary Gay Scanlon (D-Penn.) led a group of 14 lawmakers in urging the FTC to revive enforcement of the Robinson Patman Act, a critical tool to promote fair competition in the food industry.
    • In March 2024, Senators Warren and Klobuchar led 26 lawmakers in urging the leadership of the House and Senate Appropriations Committees to strike parts of the Commerce, Science, and Justice (CJS) appropriations bill that undercut DOJ’s ability to block anticompetitive mergers.
    • In February 2024, Senator Warren urged FTC to closely scrutinize Choice Hotels’ attempted hostile takeover of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, which would further consolidate the hotel market and create the largest branded hotel chain in the United States.
    • In February 2024, Senator Warren delivered the keynote address at RemedyFest, where she called out Big Tech for their anti-competitive tactics that have led to market consolidation and record profits.
    • In February 2024, Senator Warren and 12 other lawmakers called on regulators to block the Capital One-Discover Merger.
    • In December 2023, Senator Warren led 6 senators in a letter to Acting Comptroller of the Currency Michael Hsu, calling on OCC to allow states to move forward with their efforts to protect consumers from harmful bank practices. The senators criticized the OCC for overstepping its preemption authority under the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, which the agency is abusing to block tough, state-level consumer protections.
    • In November 2023, Senators Warren and Blumenthal called out U.S. Anesthesia Partners’ (USAP) monopolistic business model and use of restrictive non-compete agreements that have reduced patients’ quality of care, increased prices, and suppressed workers’ wages.
    • In October 2023, Senator Warren and Representative Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.) urged DOJ and FTC to carefully scrutinize UnitedHealth Group’s pending acquisition of Amedisys; and urged the agencies to scrutinize similar deals, reject behavioral or structural remedies, and oppose any health care acquisition that would threaten competition, increase prices, and reduce quality of care.
    • In September 2023, Senator Warren and Representative Becca Balint (D-Vt.), along with a bicameral group of lawmakers, submitted a public comment to the FTC and DOJ in support of the agencies’ proposed merger guidelines, endorsing the agencies’ reading of antitrust law, praising the guidelines as necessary to prevent harm to workers, consumers, and small businesses.
    • In August 2023, chairing a hearing of the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee Subcommittee on Economic Policy, Senator Warren highlighted the need for regulators to implement the strongest version of bank merger review guidelines in order to ensure stability in the financial system. 
    • In July 2023, Senators Warren and Lindsey Graham unveiled comprehensive legislation that would rein in Big Tech by establishing a new commission to regulate online platforms. The commission would have concurrent jurisdiction with FTC and DOJ, and would be responsible for overseeing and enforcing the new statutory provisions in the bill and implementing rules to promote competition, protect privacy, protect consumers, and strengthen our national security.
    • In June 2023, Senator Warren sent a letter to Assistant Attorney General Jonathan Kanter, Federal Deposit Investment Corporation (FDIC) Chairman Gruenberg, Acting Comptroller of the Currency Hsu, Federal Reserve Vice Chair for Supervision Michael Barr, and Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, urging regulators to promote greater competition in the banking sector by toughening their stances on bank mergers and strengthening bank merger review guidelines.
    • In May 2023, at a hearing of the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee, Senator Warren questioned Acting Comptroller Hsu on his decision to approve JPMorgan Chase’s purchase of First Republic Bank after its collapse. This merger allowed a large, poorly supervised bank to be swallowed by America’s largest bank, making it $200 billion larger than it was before.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warren, Wyden, Kelly Demand Answers on Reported Social Security Benefit Disruptions

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    April 08, 2025

    “These beneficiaries are some of the most vulnerable in the nation—low-income seniors and children and adults with disabilities—and face extraordinary hardship if their benefits are delayed or disrupted.”

    “[W]e are concerned that these efforts are a precursor to attempts to make further cuts to Social Security, or privatize it entirely.” 

    Text of Letter (PDF)

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Senate Finance Ranking Member Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), and Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) pressed Acting Social Security Administration (SSA) Commissioner Leland Dudek for answers after reports of recent disruptions to Americans’ Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. The new letter marks the first investigation from Senate Democrats’ Social Security War Room, a coordinated effort to protect Americans’ Social Security from Donald Trump’s and Elon Musk’s efforts to gut the agency. 

    SSI supports the most vulnerable Americans by providing monthly payments to children and adults with disabilities as well as seniors experiencing economic insecurity, and has strict income and asset restrictions for beneficiaries. This means even brief disruptions in benefits could have devastating impacts for these families. 

    “These beneficiaries are some of the most vulnerable in the nation—low-income seniors and children and adults with disabilities—and face extraordinary hardship if their benefits are delayed or disrupted,” wrote the senators. 

    In March, Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) forced its way into SSA, improperly accessed taxpayers’ sensitive data, announced closures of Social Security field offices, and implemented policies making it more difficult for citizens to claim their benefits or address problems. Now, constituents have submitted disturbing reports that their SSI accounts or accounts they manage for a disabled family member display the message “currently not receiving payments,” and that payment history and data have disappeared. 

    These issues are just the latest, including increased wait times and website crashes, in the chaos caused by DOGE’s attacks meant to hollow out the agency by slashing the workforce, closing offices across the country, and cutting critical phone services.

    “This alarming episode raises fresh questions about operations at SSA and the effects of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)’s attacks on the agency, which you have helped facilitate…Indeed, we are concerned that these efforts are a precursor to attempts to make further cuts to Social Security, or privatize it entirely,” said the lawmakers. 

    To better understand the source of these benefit disruptions, the senators demanded Dudek explain why recipients’ accounts were marked as “currently not receiving benefits,” how many recipients’ benefits were interrupted, whether these interruptions were related to DOGE’s actions at the agency, and more, by April 12, 2025. 

    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: NEWS: Sanders, Scott, 174 Colleagues Introduce Bill to Raise Minimum Wage to $17 by 2030, Benefitting Nearly 22 Million Americans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Vermont – Bernie Sanders

    WASHINGTON, April 8 – Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP), and Rep. Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (D-Va.), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Education and Workforce, alongside 32 colleagues in the Senate, 142 in the House of Representatives, and with the support of 85 organizations from across the country, today introduced the Raise the Wage Act. This bicameral legislation will ensure American workers make a living wage, drive economic growth, and reduce income inequality by raising the minimum wage to $17 for all workers and gradually eliminating subminimum wages for tipped workers, workers with disabilities, and youth workers. 

    Early Saturday morning, Sanders forced a vote on an amendment to the Budget Resolution in the Senate calling for raising the federal minimum wage to at least $17 an hour over the next 5 years. Every Democrat voted for that amendment while every Republican but one opposed it. 

    Last year, nearly one in four workers in the U.S. made less than $17 per hour. The Raise the Wage will raise the federal minimum wage to $17 over five years, eliminate the tipped subminimum wage over seven years, eliminate the subminimum wage for workers with disabilities over five years, and eliminate the subminimum wage for youth workers over seven years. According to analysis by the Economic Policy Institute (EPI), passing the Raise the Wage Act of 2025 would provide raises to over 22 million workers across the country by 2030. 

    “The $7.25 an hour minimum wage is a starvation wage. It must be raised to a living wage – at least $17 an hour,” Sanders said. “In the year 2025, a job should lift you out of poverty, not keep you in it. At a time of massive income and wealth inequality, we can no longer tolerate millions of workers trying to survive on just $10 or $12 an hour. Congress can no longer ignore the needs of the working class of this country. The time to act is now.” 

    “No person working full-time in America should be living in poverty. The Raise the Wage Act will increase the pay and standard of living for nearly 22 million workers across this country. Raising the minimum wage is good for workers, good for business, and good for the economy. When we put money in the pockets of American workers, they will spend that money in their communities,” said Scott. 

    Raising the minimum wage to a living wage to a living wage is not a radical idea. In 2024, voters in Missouri and Alaska overwhelmingly voted to raise the minimum wage to $15 an hour. In 2022, voters in Nebraska voted to raise the minimum wage to $15 an hour. In 2020, Florida voted to raise the minimum wage to $15 an hour. As a result of inflation, $15 an hour a couple of years ago would be over $18 an hour today. Moreover, if the minimum wage had increased with worker productivity over the last 57 years, it would be over $23 an hour today, not $7.25 an hour. 

    Over the last 50 years, nearly $80 trillion in wealth has been redistributed from the bottom 90 percent of America to the top one percent. Today, the value of the current federal minimum wage – $7.25 per hour – is the lowest it has been since 1956 and has declined by over 32 percent since it was last increased in 2009. While approximately four million tipped workers in the U.S. depend on tips for as much as half of their income or more, the tipped sub-minimum wage has remained stagnant at just $2.13 per hour since 1991. The current median wage for at least 37,000 workers with disabilities is just $3.50 per hour. 

    Meanwhile, across every state in the country, a living wage for a worker in a family with two working adults and one child is greater than $17 per hour, according to the Economic Policy Institute’s (EPI) Family Budget Calculator. Many of these low-wage workers face persistent economic insecurity, struggling to put food on the table and afford basic necessities, including housing, health care, and childcare.

    Black and Hispanic workers disproportionately feel the burden of these low wages as compared to their white counterparts, and that disparity is even worse for women of color. Nearly 40 percent of Hispanic women and 35 percent of Black women make less than $17 per hour. 

    Joining Sanders on this legislation are Sens. Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.). 

    More than 85 organizations endorsed the Raise the Wage Act of 2025, including Service Employees International Union (SEIU), AFL-CIO, American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD), American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), American Federation of Teachers (AFT), Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN), Business for a Fair Minimum Wage, Communications Workers of America (CWA), Economic Policy Institute (EPI), Equal Pay Today, International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT), National Domestic Workers Alliance (NDWA), National Education Association (NEA), National Employment Law Project (NELP), The National Partnership for Women & Families, National Women’s Law Center (NWLC), One Fair Wage, Oxfam America, Patriotic Millionaires, UNITE HERE, United Autoworkers (UAW), United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW), United for Respect, and United Steelworkers (USW). 

    Sanders and Scott will hold a press conference at 3 p.m. today to introduce this legislation alongside workers from around the country. The press conference will be streamed on Sanders’ social media. 

    Read the bill text here. 

    Read the fact sheet here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch, King, Castor Introduce Bicameral Bill to Boost Investment in Grid-Enhancing Technologies, Increase U.S. Power Grid Capacity

    US Senate News:

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Peter Welch (D-Vt.) and Angus King (I-Maine) joined U.S. Representative Kathy Castor (D-FL-14) in introducing the Advancing Grid-Enhancing Technologies Act, bicameral legislation to boost investments in grid-enhancing technologies (GETs), a type of transmission technology that expands the capacity of existing transmission infrastructure. The lawmakers’ billwould increase U.S. grid capacity by requiring the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to establish an incentive that splits savings generated by GETs implementation between the installer and ratepayers. 
    “We’re at a crucial turning point in our work to achieve a clean energy transition, and meeting this moment requires new investments in clean energy technologies that strengthen the capacity of our transmission system,” said Senator Welch. “The Advancing GETs Act will motivate grid operators and developers to bring new projects online that expand transmission capacity by guaranteeing returns for these targeted, cost-saving investments. Our legislation will be crucial to boosting transmission capacity and will help the United States cost-effectively achieve its clean energy goals while lowering electricity bills and for working families.” 
    “As technology improves and grows more efficient, we should incorporate this innovation into our energy grid to better serve American homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure,” said Senator King. “As we work to create a sustainable clean energy future, streamlined transmission is urgently needed. The Advancing GETs Act will create an incentives program to help spur new, smart solutions expanding existing transmission infrastructure. This bill is another step forward in meeting the need for reliable, affordable, and clean electricity.” 
    “Consumers deserve lower electric bills and a more reliable electric grid.  By optimizing the existing grid infrastructure and decreasing the need for costly upgrades, GETs can build a more stable power supply. These technologies pave the way for a more efficient, affordable, and sustainable energy future for everyone,” said Rep. Castor. “In order to quickly bring these projects online and meet growing electricity demand, we must upgrade our old, congested transmission infrastructure. The Advancing GETs Act will help us do that by supercharging the deployment of grid-enhancing technologies that enable transmission operators to maximize the capacity of existing power lines, increase reliability, and lower prices.” 
    The Advancing GETs Act is endorsed by the American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE), Electricity Consumers Resource Council, Natural Resources Defense Council, Sierra Club, Solar Energy Industries Association, and the WATT Coalition. 
    “At a moment where our country faces unprecedented growth in energy demand, expected to surge 35-50% by 2040, evolving the way we deliver power is as critical as ever. Grid-enhancing technologies (GETs) will be needed to quickly and affordably increase transmission capacity. ACP commends Sen. Welch and Rep. Castor for introducing the Advancing GETs Act which creates incentives for these technologies. We look forward to working with them as this bill moves through the legislative process,” said Jason Grumet, CEO of American Clean Power Association (ACP).  
    “Delivering the cheapest power is not part of the business model for utilities who own the grid. This regulatory problem means that grid constraints that could be addressed with low-cost technologies add $3-8 billion to electricity costs every year. The Advancing GETs Act aligns utility and consumer incentives for technologies that can save money and improve grid reliability and security. GETs can be deployed in less than a year to open up the grid for cheaper energy and new industries,” said Julia Selker, Executive Director of the WATT Coalition. 
    Grid-enhancing technologies provide crucial opportunities to upgrade America’s aging infrastructure by enabling grid operators to more dynamically manage the flow of electricity and increase cost-effective capacity of existing infrastructure. However, current financial incentives have proven inadequate in encouraging developers to implement GETs. Currently, utilities see guaranteed returns on investment for building larger, expensive infrastructure such as new transmission lines and power generation plants, but get little or no return for targeted, cost-saving investments like GETs.    
    The Advancing Grid-Enhancing Technologies Act would increase U.S. grid capacity by requiring FERC to establish an incentive that splits savings generated by GETs implementation between the installer and ratepayers. The legislation would motivate developers to invest in GETs by rewarding deployment of GETs projects that result in savings of at least four times their upfront cost and deliver a net benefit to ratepayers. Additionally, the Advancing GETs Act includes an annual reporting requirement that directs transmission owners to report costs associated with congestion to FERC and directs the Commission to analyze and make this data available to the public. The legislation also charges the Department of Energy with creating an application guide for implementing GETs projects, providing technical assistance to stakeholders interested in GETs, and managing a clearinghouse with examples of GETs projects. 
    Last year, Sens. Welch, King and Reps. Castor and Paul Tonko (D-NY-20) sent a letter to FERC leadership urging the Commission to implement shared savings incentive that promote the deployment of GETs to expand transmission capacity and meet rapid growth in electricity demand. 
    Learn more and read a section-by-section summary about the Advancing GETs Act. 
    Read and download the full bill text. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Brings Voice of Iowa Small Businesses to Washington

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)
    Published: April 8, 2025
    Ernst, small business owners emphasize the need to make Trump tax cuts permanent.
    WASHINGTON – During a joint hearing of the House Committee on Small Business and the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, Chair Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) questioned small business owners, including from Iowa, about how important it is for Congress to ensure Trump’s tax cuts don’t expire.
    She spoke with Jerry Akers from Palo, Iowa, on the impact of the punitive death tax and how renewing Trump’s tax cuts will allow him to pass down his business to his daughters without taking on unnecessary loans.
    Chair Ernst and Iowan Jerry Akers. Watch Chair Ernst’s full questioning here.
    Akers echoed Chair Ernst’s remarks on how the expiration of Trump’s tax cuts would slow the growth of small businesses and harm communities and employees.
    Ernst, who has long advocated for the eradication of the death tax, detailed how Iowa families should not have to fear the loss of their livelihoods as they grieve a loved one.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Pushes to Make Trump Tax Cuts Permanent for Small Businesses

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)
    WASHINGTON – Today, at a joint hearing of the House Committee on Small Business and the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, Chair Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) delivered opening remarks on why Congress must keep taxes low to unleash prosperity on Main Street.
    Ernst detailed how the Trump tax cuts must be made permanent to keep tax relief in place that fueled incredible growth and job creation during President Donald Trump’s first term.
    Watch Chair Ernst’s full remarks here.
    Ernst’s full remarks:
    “Thank you, Chairman Williams. I appreciate your friendship and our ability to work together on behalf of America’s small businesses. 
    “I am glad that we can hold this joint hearing of our two committees today to examine an issue that impacts every small business in America.
    “Eight years ago, working alongside President Trump, Congress passed the most significant simplification of our tax code in decades, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, otherwise known as the TCJA.
    “The TCJA provided relief to every American, simplifying and reducing personal income taxes, and expanding important deductions used by small businesses across the country.
    “These changes have allowed small businesses to thrive and contributed to the incredible growth we saw under President Trump’s first term, which led to strong real wage growth for workers, the lowest unemployment rate in 50 years, and annual GDP growth that reached 3 percent.
    “These tax provisions have also allowed small business owners, including our witnesses today, to grow their businesses and reinvest in their communities and employees.
    “But the reality is these gains are in jeopardy if Congress allows the TCJA to expire, and Americans would suffer the largest tax increase in history.
    “Small business owners will be hit particularly hard if the TCJA expires, as over 96 percent of small businesses are structured as pass-through entities that benefit from the qualified business income deduction and the general reductions in personal income tax rates.
    “The TCJA empowered small business owners to invest in themselves through provisions like bonus depreciation, enhanced business expensing, and the R&D deduction.
    “More importantly, the TCJA enabled small businesses to invest more in their employees. I’ve heard from small business owners all over Iowa who used that extra money to provide their workers with health insurance, parental leave, and retirement plans. 
    “I have also talked to small business owners who hired staff and expanded, but who would have to make hard decisions about who to keep if these cuts were to expire.
    “When I talk to Iowans back home the message is clear – they can’t handle a tax hike.
    “Workers are also concerned that if employers have to give more of their revenue to Washington, jobs and benefits will have to be cut, on top of the higher taxes they will pay due to individual rate hikes. The consequences are real to workers and their families. 
    “I also want to address a tax policy issue of particular concern to Iowans.
    “The TCJA reduced the death tax, giving families the ability to keep their farms and businesses after a loved one’s passing. This change was particularly important in my state, preventing families from being forced to sell off farms or businesses that have been in theirs for generations. 
    “The bottom line is that America’s small businesses need the TCJA along with the certainty it provides.
    “If we let the TCJA expire now, Americans and small business owners will be forced to shoulder another $4 trillion dollars in new taxes.
    “When small businesses grow, the American economy grows. 
    “I strongly support making the TCJA permanent and will fight to ensure that the interests of small businesses continue to be a priority in this Congress.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hagerty Headlines Fourth Annual Cherry Blossom Policy Summit with All-Star Lineup, Trump Admin Officials

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Tennessee Bill Hagerty
    The best-in-class summit crystalized modern conservative policy, national security, the economy, and energy dominance in the first three months of the Trump Administration
    WASHINGTON—United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN) last week headlined the star-studded fourth annual Cherry Blossom Policy Summit, hosted by 21st Century Policy Institute. Hagerty gave opening remarks, and moderated numerous discussions with high-ranking Trump Administration officials, his U.S. Senate colleagues, and several special guests.
    Hagerty’s participation attracted the summit’s other experts to attend the marathon discussion, which served as the most relevant such gathering since November’s election.
    “I was deeply honored to headline the fourth annual Cherry Blossom Policy Summit and to invite so many of my friends to join me,” said Senator Hagerty. “The discussions opened unparalleled opportunities to bring fruitful, productive, and insightful policy to light in an era that requires clear thought and communication to cut through media narratives. When 21st Century Policy Institute asked me who demonstrates the bold thinking and decisive action needed to implement President Trump’s new vision for liberty, innovation, and prosperity on the world stage, I turned to friends new and old—many now dutifully serving in the Trump Administration.”
    At the summit, Hagerty engaged with the following officials he invited to join him as special guests for the event:
    Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent
    Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth
    Energy Secretary Chris Wright
    HUD Secretary Scott Turner
    Chair of the Council of Economic Advisors Stephen Miran
    White House Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy Stephen Miller
    Director of the Domestic Policy Council Vince Haley
    “Thanks to President Trump’s leadership, this Administration is stocked with some of the brightest experts in our country,” Hagerty continued. “The months since President Trump took office have been nothing short of incredible. I look forward to working hand-in-hand with this Administration as a close ally in the United States Senate, and 21st Century Policy Institute has been a key partner of mine in advancing policies that support American economic and military strength. I was also pleased that so many of my illustrious Senate colleagues, and distinguished special guests outside government, responded to the invitation to contribute at this special event.”
    In addition to the many key Trump Administration speakers, Hagerty appeared alongside important Congressional colleagues, including:
    Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-TN)
    Senator Deb Fisher (R-NE)
    Senator Mike Lee (R-UT)
    Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA)
    Senator Bernie Moreno (R-OH)
    Senator Dan Sullivan (R-AK)
    Congressman August Pfluger (R-TX-11)
    Private sector guests featured at the summit alongside Hagerty included:
    Marc Andreessen
    Jason Cummins
    Kevin O’Leary
    Safra A. Catz
    Alex Karp
    Alex Epstein
    Scott Strazik
    Ruthless podcast hosts John Ashbrook, Michael Duncan, Josh Holmes, and Comfortably Smug
    Hagerty helped formulate and moderate these policy discussions at the summit:
    American Technological Dominance in the 21st Century
    An Outlook on the U.S. Economy and Fiscal Policy
    How to Strengthen the U.S. Economy for the Next Generation
    The Intersection of National Security and Technology
    An All of the Above Approach to U.S. Energy Dominance
    Promises Made, Promises Kept
    A Fresh Look at the Indo-Pacific Region

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray, Commerce Director Nguyễn, WA Businesses and Agriculture Respond to Trump Tariffs Raising Costs on Americans, Tanking Economy

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    Murray: “I’m calling on my Republican colleagues to help us, stop letting Trump tank the economy and raise prices, vote with us to reverse these pointless and destructive tariffs… Already, the chaos and uncertainty these tariffs have created are pushing us toward a Republican recession.”

    Washington state is one of the most trade-dependent states in the U.S., with 40 percent of WA jobs tied to international commerce; A recent analysis from Yale Budget lab found Trump’s tariffs could raise costs on the average American household by $4,000 a year

    ***WATCH HERE, DOWNLOAD VIDEO HERE; AUDIO HERE***

    Washington, D.C. — Today,U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, held a virtual press conference with Washington Department of Commerce Director Joe Nguyễn, Washington Council on International Trade President Lorri Otto Punke, Washington State Department of Agriculture International Marketing Program Manager Rianne Ham, and Blas Alfaro, co-owner of Fulcrum Coffee Roasters in Seattle. Senator Murray and the other speakers highlighted how the reckless, sweeping new tariffs President Trump announced last week—a significant escalation in Trump’s ongoing trade war—will raise costs for families everywhere and be devastating for Washington state’s economy, businesses, and our agriculture sector. A recent analysis found that Trump’s tariffs could raise costs on the average American household by $4,000 a year—and these price hikes on working families are coming at the very same time that Republicans are forcing massive new tax cuts for billionaires through Congress.

    Last Wednesday, President Trump declared new tariffs on a wide range of imports, targeting key sectors including agriculture, electronics, and automobiles. This included a new, 10 percent baseline tariff on all imported goods—which went into effect on Saturday—as well as country-specific reciprocal tariffs, which will take effect tomorrow, April 9th. These tariffs come on top of the 25 percent tariffs President Trump imposed in February on most imports from Canada, Mexico, and 10 percent tariffs on China. Canada is Washington’s largest trading partner, accounting for nearly $20 billion in imports and $10 billion in exports—and Trump’s pointless trade war with Canada is already hurting businesses of all sizes in Washington state. On the heels of Trump’s tariff announcement, JP Morgan raised its prediction of the probability of a US recession to 60 percent.

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

    “Families are going to feel the pain of Trump’s new tariffs everywhere they shop. And, as one of the most trade-dependent states in the country, Washington state stands to lose among the most from Trump’s destructive trade war. Two in five jobs in our state exist because of international trade—that’s a full 40 percent of jobs in our state. Farmers, fishers, producers in our state—rely heavily on trade with Canada and Mexico, and Trump’s trade war has already been an especially deep cut for them. Now, they’re about to get hammered even more,” said Senator Murray on the press call today. “Already, the chaos and uncertainty these tariffs have created are pushing us toward a Republican recession… But here’s the thing you all need to know: Congress can actually reverse these tariffs. Last week in fact, the Senate voted on a resolution to reverse Trump’s tariffs on Canada by ending the bogus emergency declaration President Trump issued to justify them. That resolution passed the Senate—with four Republican votes—but right now, it’s dead in the water unless Speaker Johnson brings it up for the vote in the House.”

    “Working families are already having a hard enough time navigating the rising costs because of these Trump tariffs. Their stock portfolios, their 401Ks are tanking because of these Trump tariffs as well, and they’re trying to figure out what’s happening next,” said Joe Nguyễn, Director of the Washington State Department of Commerce. “These are disruptive. They disrupt people’s lives, they disrupt their jobs, they disrupt industries like Boeing, our shipping terminals, our farmers, our tech companies—all of this is on the line. And I also want to be very clear about what’s at stake: affordability, stability, and opportunity in every corner of our state is being jeopardized by this manufactured crisis.”

    “Trade equals jobs in Washington state. And as we know, 40 percent to jobs in this state are tied to international trade. We are proud of our diversity of exports—everything from aerospace to agriculture to clean tech to forest products to life sciences marine, and the military. And Washington state also facilitates trade and exports around the country. More than 50 percent of all U.S. wheat travels through our Columbia River system,” said Lori Otto Punke, President of the Washington Council on International Trade. “We have the 10th-largest economy in the U.S… we’re very deeply concerned about the impacts that these aggressive unilateral tariff actions will have, here locally. And we also know from the last almost-decade that tariff policy has already negatively impacted Washington state… [Tariffs] have failed to achieve the goals that they were meant to do, while imposing a lot of costs and many lost opportunities… What we’re talking about from a tariff perspective now is nowhere close—you know, it’s huge, compared to what we’ve seen in the past. And from a broad historical context, in 2015, Washington state exports [were] approximately, nearly 90 billion dollars in goods. And this made us one of the top exporting states in the country. But after… nearly a decade of tariff policy, in 2023, a lot of our goods and services were down about a third of that, down to about $60 billion dollars. So as we know, there are negative impacts of tariffs already, we’ve already seen that, and this huge magnification of tariffs is really detrimental.”

    “Exports are critically important to Washington’s agriculture economy. The uncertainty around retaliatory tariffs, the uncompetitive prices and lost market share that may result where implemented, and the damage to relationships with trading partners are some of the areas of concern for Washington agriculture exporters at this time,” said Rianne Ham, International Marketing Program Manager at the Washington State Department of Agriculture. “We’ve been through this before. A few years ago, we did face a number of retaliatory tariffs from the past Trump administration, some of those are still in effect. We do know that those retaliatory tariffs did raise prices on our agriculture products, they did make our products more expensive for consumers, and they did result in lost market share.”

    “Green coffee prices have risen by up to 40 percent over the past year. This isn’t just inflation—it’s a result of global challenges: climate change disrupting crops, labor shortages in producing countries, increased demand from growing economies, and declining output from some of the world’s largest producers, including Vietnam and Indonesia. And now, with the April 2 tariff implementation, that pressure is increasing,” said Blas Alfaro, Partner & Senior Vice President at Fulcrum Coffee Roasters in Seattle. “Here’s what that looks like: a 10 percent base tariff on all imported green coffee, a 46 percent tariff on coffee from Vietnam, which represents 20 percent of U.S. imports, and a 30 percent tariff on Indonesian coffee, a country known for unique flavor profiles that simply cannot be substituted. This affects not just roasters, but the thousands of local, independent cafés we serve—many of them drive-thru espresso stands and family-run shops in small towns. These businesses employ baristas and support staff, serve as cultural and social gathering spaces, and actively reinvest in their communities. But their margins are thin. Tariffs like these force them to make tough decisions: raise prices, reduce hours, or close altogether. The impact goes beyond the beans. Espresso machines, mostly manufactured in Italy, now face a 30 percent import tariff. Packaging materials—cups, bags, lids—are also affected. The full cost of doing business is rising rapidly, and small operators are being hit the hardest.”

    Senator Murray’s full remarks, as delivered on today’s press call are below and video is HERE:

    “First of all, thank you to all of my great guests for being on this today, for bringing your expertise to this conversation—and thank you, to all of you who have joined us for this really important call today.

    “As we all know, last week President Trump held a press conference in the Rose Garden to celebrate—yea, he did say celebrate—his new taxes on everyone. And I have to say, the alternative reality Trump and his advisors have been spinning could not be more different from whatI’m hearing from folks at home who are already being crushed by Trump’s tariffs—and are about to see their prices go up even more.

    “So, today I wanted to paint a better picture for all of us of what Trump’s ham-fisted, utterly pointless tariffs are actually going to mean for people in Washington state.

    “For businesses, like Fulcrum Coffee Roasters in Seattle. For our farmers, for our fishers, for our growers, for housing developers, who are going to face rising costs for the raw materials it takes to build—and that will ultimately raise the cost of housing for everyone.

    “And for families in every part of our state who are deeply worried about how Trump’s tariffs are going to raise prices everywhere they shop.

    “No matter how much Trump tries to deny this simple fact—tariffs are a tax that the American people will pay on everything they buy.

    “There’s a brand-new analysis from the Yale Budget Lab that found that Trump’s tariffs are going to cost the average family nearly $4,000 per year. That is the largest middle-class tax increase in a generation!

    “Now that extra tax might not matter much to billionaires like Trump and Elon Musk, who do not even shop for themselves or even think about basic necessities—but you can bet it is going to matter to regular people in Washington state. Families are going to feel the pain of Trump’s new tariffs everywhere they shop.

    “And—as one of the most trade-dependent states in the country—Washington state stands to lose among the most from Trump’s destructive trade war.

    “Two in five jobs in our state exist because of international trade—that’s a full 40 percent of jobs in our state. Farmers, fishers, producers in our state—rely heavily on trade with Canada and Mexico, and Trump’s trade war has already been an especially deep cut for them. Now, they’re about to get hammered even more.

    “Last year, Washington state imported 17.8 billion of goods from Canada alone—everything from natural gas for folks to heat their homes, cars, seafood that you buy at the grocery store, fertilizer that our farmers rely on. All of that is now getting more expensive because of Trump’s tariffs.

    “Canada is also our second-largest export market—behind only China, which just got slapped with a 54 percent tariff they’re promising to retaliate heavily against. Well at least that was the plan last week, this week its 104 percent—and who knows what is next!?

    “I’ve talked to so many farmers in our state who are furious that Donald Trump cannot seem to grasp the basic fact that they actually rely on international markets.

    “Last month, Trump posted on Truth Social, and I’m going to quote it, ‘Get ready to start making a lot of agricultural product to be sold inside of the United States… Have fun!’

    “Have fun?! Many of our state’s top commodities export up to 90 percent of their crops. Producers are panicking right now! And Trump doesn’t seem to have a clue.

    “He just slapped 24 percent tariffs on Japan, which is the largest export market for Washington potatoes. Now, potato growers have been worried that they’re going to lose access to Japan’s market over retaliatory tariffs—and theyalreadylost access to China’s market in Trump’s first-term trade war. Our Ports are concerned that countries will start bypassing U.S. ports altogether, offloading their goods in Vancouver where it is cheaper. Business in Northern Washington, especially Whatcom County, is already cratering from Trump’s pointless trade war with Canada. The City of Blaine saw about a 40 percent drop in retail and services revenue after Trump’s tariffs on Canada went into effect!

    “As we know, the stock market is cratering right now and taking so many Americans’ hard-earned retirement savings with it. Stocks fell 10 percent over the week—and they keep dropping! And what was Trump doing while the Dow Jones was plummeting and Americans were panicking? He was golfing!

    “So, it’s already clear on Wall Street and Main Street alike that Trump’s tariffs will be devastating—and it’s also pretty clear he doesn’t care. Trump and his advisors might try to pretend that someone else, some other country, is going to pay these taxes—but even they know that’s not true!

    “Does anyone remember how Trump said Mexico would pay for the border wall?! He is selling snake oil.

    “Trump actually admitted to NBC that he ‘couldn’t care less if automakers raised prices because of his tariffs.’

    “And the irony is rich. Because, at the very same time that Trump is slapping new taxes on the goods that middle class families buy every day. At the very same time that Trump and Musk are insisting that we cannot afford to fund cancer research—or keep Social Security staff to answer Americans’ phone calls.

    “Trump’s top priority for Congress is making sure Republicans move full steam ahead to pass massive new tax cuts for billionaires.

    “And let’s be clear, Republicans’ tax breaks for billionaires are going to blow up the deficit—they will not be paid for. But guess how Republicans are choosing to try and offset some of the cost of those tax cuts? By slashing Medicaid and nutrition programs that feed hungry kids and families.

    “So, to recap: Trump is gutting services and raising costs on you by thousands of dollars a year with his tariffs—while, at the same time cutting taxes for himself and other billionaires like Elon Musk.

    “That’s Republican plan, if you’re a billionaire, you get showered with new tax breaks. If you’re a working family, you just get screwed—with new tax hikes and cuts to your health care. Already the chaos and uncertainty these tariffs have created are pushing us toward a Republican recession.

    “But here’s the thing you all need to know: Congress can actually reverse these tariffs. Last week in fact, the Senate voted on a resolution to reverse Trump’s tariffs on Canada by ending the bogus emergency declaration President Trump issued to justify them. That resolution passed the Senate—with four Republican votes—but right now, it’s dead in the water unless Speaker Johnson brings it up for the vote in the House.

    “So, right now I’m calling on my Republican colleagues to help us, stop letting Trump tank the economy and raise prices, vote with us to reverse these pointless and destructive tariffs. We could end this chaos today if Republicans would put their checkbook ahead of Donald Trump’s ego.

    “So, let’s be clear: any Republican who refuses to join us is joining Trump in raising prices on you, and wrecking our economy.

    “So I am delighted today to have four really great people who can lay out the basic facts, and the cold, hard reality of tariffs and what they mean for people here in Washington state and to our economy.

    “So let me turn it over first to Director Nguyen.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Klobuchar, Smith Press EPA Not to Close Duluth Lab

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Minnesota Amy Klobuchar

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN) are pressing Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin on reports of a reduction in staff at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Great Lakes Toxicology and Ecology Division (GLTED) Lab in Duluth, Minnesota. The Senators called for the critical lab, which helps keep our Great Lakes water clean and safe and contributes $15 million to Minnesota’s economy every year, not to be closed and for career scientists not to be fired.

    “We are very concerned about reports of impending staff reductions within the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Office of Research and Development (ORD), potentially including the Great Lakes Toxicology and Ecology Division (GLTED) Lab in Duluth, Minnesota,” wrote the Senators. “Firing career scientists and shutting down a lab that leads the nation in freshwater toxicology research would have huge impacts on Minnesotans and all Americans.”

    “Our entire country depends on the premier water testing protocols developed at this lab,” the Senators continued. “In addition to testing, the dedicated scientists in Duluth have developed effective tools to combat polluted water and protect human health. This dedication to science as a public service has directly led to cleaner, safer drinking water for our kids and grandkids, and these efforts will continue to be critical for years to come. Simply put, closing the lab or firing its staff without proper cause would endanger future generations of Americans.”

    The full letter is available here and below. 

    Dear Administrator Zeldin,

    We are very concerned about reports of impending staff reductions within the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Office of Research and Development (ORD), potentially including the Great Lakes Toxicology and Ecology Division (GLTED) Lab in Duluth, Minnesota.

    Firing career scientists and shutting down a lab that leads the nation in freshwater toxicology research would have huge impacts on Minnesotans and all Americans.  Recent reporting by the New York Times indicates that the Department plans to fire up to 1,155 scientists from the ORD, potentially including some or all of the over 130 in the Duluth GLTED Lab who conduct critical research on risks to our water and ways to keep it clean and safe.

    The research at the GLTED Lab directly supports EPA’s top stated priority of providing “clean air, land, and water for every American” and is central to the Duluth community. Locally, it contributes over $15 million to the economy and helps keep Lake Superior healthy. As one of the cleanest freshwater sources in the world, Lake Superior provides drinking water to cities from Duluth to Grand Marais, supports processing operations for our Iron Range taconite mines, and sustains tourism businesses along the North Shore. Minnesotans depend on Lake Superior’s health to live, work, and enjoy recreation every day.

    Because of the GLTED Lab’s unique access to Lake Superior, it is well situated to address widespread water quality issues. Our entire country depends on the premier water testing protocols developed at this lab. In addition to testing, the dedicated scientists in Duluth have developed effective tools to combat polluted water and protect human health. This dedication to science as a public service has directly led to cleaner, safer drinking water for our kids and grandkids, and these efforts will continue to be critical for years to come. Simply put, closing the lab or firing its staff without proper cause would endanger future generations of Americans.

    As such, we request you provide written answers to the following questions by April 11, 2025:

    1. Will staff in Minnesota’s Great Lakes Toxicology and Ecology Division Lab be included in the EPA’s reduction in force plans? If so:
      1.  How many Minnesota GLTED Lab staff will be fired?
      2. Please share a list of all Minnesota GLTED Lab staff who will be fired.
      3. Please provide a breakdown of GLTED Lab staff who will be fired and i.) were recently promoted; ii.) are veterans; iii.) were probationary employees who were previously employed; iv.) by the Federal government immediately prior to their most recent role; v.) were probationary employees who were not previously employed by the Federal government
    2. Is EPA assessing the public health and environmental impacts of these firings? Please share any assessments EPA has conducted or describe the methods in which EPA is conducting this assessment.
    3. How will layoffs in EPA’s Office of Research and Development impact long-term water quality, including its public health and ecological impacts? Please be specific.
    4. What is EPA’s plan to maintain clean air and water into the future should fewer scientists be dedicated to the issue? Please be specific.

    Thank you for your prompt attention to this urgent matter.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper, Colleagues Urge Trump Admin to Address Health Impacts of Mass Layoffs at HHS

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Hickenlooper – Colorado

    Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has reportedly fired 20,000 workers

    Layoffs will hurt vulnerable populations, undermine lifesaving research, and weaken American public health

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper joined 37 of his Senate colleagues to call on the Trump administration to address the devastating impacts that the administration’s mass layoffs at HHS will have on Americans’ health and well-being.

    “Your plan to eliminate 20,000 HHS employees and consolidate core agencies is an unprecedented and baseless assault on the federal workforce and the hundreds of millions of Americans who rely on the Department’s services,” wrote the senators. “If you do not reverse course, you will do irreparable damage to our nation’s human services, health care delivery, public health, and scientific infrastructure – making Americans sicker and leaving our communities ill-prepared for future threats.”

    The letter comes after the announcement that HHS began to dismantle the agency and fire over 20,000 HHS workers, including workers responsible for the well-being of seniors and people with disabilities and research to promote health care quality.

    The senators highlighted the devastating impact these reckless HHS layoffs would have on critical services that Americans depend on, including:

    • Care for seniors, people with disabilities, and children
    • Development of life-saving drugs and treatments
    • Basic access to primary care
    • Public health programs and pandemic preparedness
    • Access to mental health services
    • Timely Medicare and Medicaid payments
    • Rural health care

    The full text of the letter is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –