NewzIntel.com

Category: US Senate

  • MIL-OSI USA: MEDIA ADVISORY: Sanders, Scott, Colleagues, Workers to Introduce Bill to Raise Minimum Wage to $17 by 2030

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Vermont – Bernie Sanders

    WASHINGTON, April 4 – 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 food service and airport workers, today announced that they will hold a press conference on Tuesday, April 8, to introduce 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 over five years for all workers and gradually eliminating subminimum wages for tipped workers, workers with disabilities, and youth workers.

    Details 

    What: Press conference to reintroduce the Raise the Wage Act

    When: Tuesday, April 8, 3:00 p.m. ET

    Where: Senate Swamp. The press conference will also be livestreamed on Sanders’ social media. 

    Who: 

    • Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions
    • Rep. Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (D-Va.), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Education and Workforce
    • Rep. Jahana Hayes (D-Conn.)
    • Rep. Greg Casar (D-Texas)
    • April Verrett, Service Employees International Union (SEIU) President
    • Food service and airport workers

    Press RSVP: Press interested in attending should RSVP with press@sanders.senate.gov. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla, Schiff Cosponsor Bill to Fully Fund Special Education

    US Senate News:

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

    Legislation would commit to fully funding special education, finally fulfilling the federal government’s unmet promise 50 years after the passage of IDEA

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff (both D-Calif.) joined Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) and U.S. Representative Jared Huffman (D-Calif.-02) in reintroducing the IDEA Full Funding Act, legislation to ensure Congress finally fulfills its commitment to fully fund the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). 50 years ago, Congress passed IDEA to ensure that every child with a disability has access to educational opportunity. This law was a historic step forward, but since its passage, Congress has failed to provide the funding it promised. The legislation is cosponsored by over 30 members in the Senate and more than 60 members in the House of Representatives and is endorsed by 60 organizations.

    Under IDEA, the federal government committed to pay 40 percent of the average per pupil expenditure for special education; however, that pledge has never been met. According to the Congressional Research Service, current funding is at less than 12 percent, and the IDEA shortfall in the 2024-2025 school year nationwide was $38.66 billion. The IDEA Full Funding Act would require regular, mandatory increases in IDEA spending to finally meet our obligation to America’s children and schools.

    “All students, regardless of ability, deserve access to a quality education. Yet, President Trump’s cruel dismantling of the Department of Education is putting millions of students with disabilities at risk of losing essential IDEA funding. The IDEA Full Funding Act upholds our commitment to offer every student a chance at the American dream by working to close longstanding opportunity gaps in our education system. This investment serves our students, supports our educators, and strengthens our economic future,” said Senator Padilla.

    “A good education has the power to transform lives, and Congress needs to fully fund the educational resources that support children with disabilities and their families. Every child deserves a quality education and the chance to meet their full potential in life. At a time when support for special education is threatened, I join my colleagues in insisting that Congress deliver on its promise to fund these vital services so that every student has access to a quality education,” said Senator Schiff.

    “Fifty years ago, Congress passed the IDEA Act, and with it, made a promise to children with disabilities and their families – but we have fallen short of that promise every year since. While Donald Trump and Elon Musk are illegally gutting public education in America, we are fighting to strengthen it. Our bill will ensure that Congress finally meets its commitment to fully fund IDEA, putting us closer to delivering equal access to high-quality education for every student in this country,” said Senator Van Hollen.

    “While we’ve made substantial progress to fund special education services in recent years, we still have important work left to do to live up to the original commitment Congress made,” said Representative Huffman. “All children – no matter their zip code, race, disability, or any other factor – should be able to access a full, exceptional education, and this legislation will help school districts provide the necessary resources to make this vision a reality. The current chronic underfunding leaves an unfair burden on students, teachers, schools, and families. Our bill holds up the federal government’s end of the bargain to fully fund special education services on a permanent basis and set all students up for long-term success.” 

    The legislation is cosponsored in the Senate by Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.). 

    The legislation is co-led in the House by Representatives Don Bacon (R-Neb.-02), Janelle Bynum (D-Ore.-05),

    G.T. Thompson (R-Pa.-15), Joe Neguse (D-Colo.-02), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.-01), Angie Craig (D-Minn.-02), Pete Stauber (R-Minn.-08), Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.-14), and Mike Bost (R-Ill.-12).

    Full text of the bill is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn, Cruz Introduce Senate Resolution Honoring Texan George Foreman

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Ted Cruz (R-TX) today introduced a Senate resolution honoring the life and legacy of Houston native and professional boxer George Foreman, who passed away on March 21, 2025. Text is below, and you can view the full resolution here.
    “Whereas George Foreman was born on January 10, 1949, in Marshall, Texas;
    Whereas George Foreman was raised in Houston, Texas;
    Whereas George Foreman earned his general education degree and gained vocational skills through the Lyndon B. Johnson Job Corps;
    Whereas George Foreman began his boxing career in 1966 after meeting Doc Broaddus, a boxing instructor, who worked for Job Corps;
    Whereas George Foreman won his first amateur fight on January 26, 1967, in the Parks Diamond Bell Tournament;
    Whereas George Foreman won the National Boxing Championship heavyweight title in Toledo, Ohio, in 1968;
    Whereas George Foreman won a gold medal in the boxing and heavyweight division during the 1968 Mexico City Olympic Games;
    Whereas George Foreman began his professional boxing career in 1969;
    Whereas George Foreman won 37 consecutive fights, of which 35 were by knockout;
    Whereas, on January 22, 1973, George Foreman won the World Heavyweight Championship title by defeating Joe Frazier;
    Whereas George Foreman maintained the title of World Heavyweight Champion until October 30, 1974, in a fierce matchup, known as the “Rumble in the Jungle”, with Muhammad Ali;
    Whereas George Foreman stepped back from his boxing career to become an ordained minister in 1978 and served the congregation at Church of the Lord Jesus Christ, which he founded in 1980, in Houston, Texas;
    Whereas, in 1984, George Foreman opened the George Foreman Youth and Community Center in Houston, Texas, to provide opportunities to youth across Harris County;
    Whereas George Foreman announced his return to boxing in 1987 and won his first fight back against Steve Zouski;
    Whereas George Foreman earned the title of World Heavyweight Champion again on November 5, 1994, against Michael Moorer, breaking multiple records, including the oldest fighter to win a world heavyweight championship after the most time between world heavyweight championships and with the largest age gap between competitors in a heavyweight boxing championship fight;
    Whereas George Foreman fought for the final time in 1997 against Shannon Briggs;
    Whereas George Foreman had a final career record of 76 to 5;
    Whereas George Foreman became a successful businessman, most notably with the George Foreman Lean Mean Grilling Machine, of which more than 100,000,000 units have been sold globally;
    Whereas George Foreman was recognized by the American Legion in 2013 with the James V. Day “Good Guy” Award for his patriotism and service to his community;
    Whereas George Foreman remained a beloved public figure and boxing legend until his death;
    Whereas George Foreman died in Houston, Texas, on March 21, 2025;
    Whereas George Foreman was preceded in death by his daughter, Freeda; and
    Whereas George Foreman is survived by his wife of 40 years, Mary Joan, and 11 of his children and their families: Now, therefore, be it
    Resolved, That—
                 (1) the Senate—
          (A) honors the life and legacy of George Foreman for—
    (i) his accomplishments as a boxing legend;
    (ii) the example he provides to future generations of community leaders; and
    (iii) his dedication to Houston and his support of vulnerable youth in the community;
          (B) respectfully requests the Secretary of the Senate—
    (i) communicate this resolution to the House of Representatives; and
    (ii) transmit an enrolled copy of this resolution to the family of George Foreman; and
    (2) when the Senate adjourns today, it stands adjourned as a further mark of respect to the memory of George Foreman.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn, Blumenthal, Grassley, Durbin Bills to Lower Drug Costs Pass Senate Judiciary Committee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), and Dick Durbin (D-IL) released the following statements after their Affordable Prescriptions for Patients Act, which would help lower drug prices by preventing bad actors in the pharmaceutical industry from deliberately abusing the patent system, and Drug Competition Enhancement Act, which would spur generic and biosimilar marketplace competition by prohibiting branded drug manufacturers from engaging in “product hopping” to help lower drug prices for patients, passed the Senate Judiciary Committee:

    “Patent thicketing and product hopping are abusive and anti-competitive practices that hinder generic drugs from entering the marketplace and raise prices for consumers,” said Sen. Cornyn. “These bills would root out this wrongdoing and hold bad actors in the pharmaceutical industry accountable to ensure Texans can access the treatments and life-saving medications they need without breaking the bank.”

    “For too long, pharmaceutical companies have been allowed to abuse the patent system, stifling innovation and driving up costs for consumers,” said Sen. Blumenthal. “This legislation cracks down on drug companies’ manipulative and exploitative practices, promoting competition and lowering prescription drug costs for patients.”

    “The steep price of life-saving medication puts a major strain on Iowans,” said Sen. Grassley. “Our legislation will help reduce the cost of prescription drugs by ending the abusive practice of blocking generic and biosimilar drugs from entering the market.”

    “I’m pleased the Senate Judiciary Committee passed our Affordable Prescriptions for Patients Act and Drug Competition Enhancement Act. Americans shouldn’t be forced to choose between their wallets and their health. But because Big Pharma games the system, too many patients face sky-high prescription drug costs,” said Sen. Durbin. “I urge the Senate to take these bills up quickly so we can ensure that the Senate is looking out for Americans, not Big Pharma.”

    Background:

    Some pharmaceutical manufacturers have been deliberately abusing the system to prevent potential competitors from entering the marketplace through tactics like “product hopping” and abuse of the “patent dance” process, which slow the entry of lower-cost alternatives. 

    The Affordable Prescriptions for Patients Act and the Drug Competition Enhancement Act put an end to practices that prioritize profits for pharmaceutical companies ahead of Americans’ health and help lower drug prices for patients.

    The Affordable Prescriptions for Patients Act:

    By stopping abuses of our patent system, this legislation would pave the way for biosimilars to compete with branded drugs and aggressively lower drug prices for consumers in the process. In 2010, Congress enacted a law designed to resolve any patent litigation quickly before a biosimilar is introduced to the market, creating a patent dispute resolution process known as the “patent dance.” Under current law, there are no limits on the number of patents that a branded manufacturer of biologics can assert during the patent dance – leading some companies to abuse a process designed to facilitate biosimilar entry, not hinder it. This bill places a reasonable limit on the number of patents a manufacturer can contest, preventing a “patent thicket.” This would help deter branded manufacturers of biologics from gaming the system to increase the number of patents they assert, while preserving the incentives provided by the patent system to encourage the core innovation that produces new biologic treatments in the first place.

    The Drug Competition Enhancement Act:

    This legislation would put an end to “product hopping,” a practice that bad actors in the pharmaceutical industry engage in when their exclusive right to a drug is about to expire, but they do not want to compete with generic alternatives. Rather than simply competing on the merits with their old drug and any generic alternative, companies manipulate the market to move patients off the old drug and onto the new. They “hop” patients from branded product to branded product by engaging in a variety of practices to disadvantage their old drug, including destroying the inventory of their old drug, pulling it from the market, aggressively raising the price, badmouthing their old drug, or even diminishing its safety.  Then, when the market protections for the earlier drug expire and a generic or biosimilar alternative comes to market, it is difficult to switch patients to the cheaper generic or biosimilar. The Drug Competition Enhancement Act would prohibit branded drug manufacturers from engaging in anticompetitive product hopping, making that practice an antitrust violation. If companies engage in this behavior, they would risk enforcement action from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). It would also facilitate entry to the market for generics and biosimilars, which drives down drug costs for patients and consumers.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Address School Bus Driver Shortage

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), and Mark Kelly (D-AZ) today introduced the Driving Forward Act, which would continue to exempt new school bus drivers from the “Under-the-Hood” Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) testing requirement to help alleviate the nationwide shortage of drivers:

    “Young Americans are our nation’s most valuable resource, and it is essential that they have safe and reliable transportation to their schools,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This legislation would help ensure there are school bus drivers available in every neighborhood across the country by removing an antiquated and unnecessary obstacle to their certification.”

    “Children in Wisconsin and across the country should be able to take the bus and get to school safely and on time,” said Sen. Baldwin. “Unfortunately, many communities are struggling to find school bus drivers, and that’s why I am working with my Republican and Democratic colleagues to cut red tape, get good drivers behind the wheel, and ensure kids can get to school safely.”

    “The school bus driver shortage poses a threat to student safety and access to reliable transportation for students across Tennessee,” said Sen. Blackburn. “The Driving Forward Act is a commonsense piece of legislation that would get more qualified individuals into the driver’s seat by extending the current under-the-hood test exemption.”

    “Kids in Arizona deserve to get to school safe and on time,” said Sen. Kelly. “This bipartisan bill cuts red tape to help more people become school bus drivers, directly addressing driver shortages and making the drive to school a better one.” 

    Companion legislation is being led in the House of Representatives by Congressman John Carter (TX-31).

    Background:

    A significant barrier to entry for new bus drivers is the “Under-the-Hood” testing requirement necessary to obtain a CDL. Federal regulations require CDL holders to be able to lift the hood of a school bus and identify engine parts and functions—a requirement that is mainly for the long-haul trucking industry and adds on average an additional three to four days of training time. Texas has used this exemption over 600 times since 2024. Because school bus drivers must remain on the bus with students at all times, an exemption from this testing requirement will not have any effect on the safety level of school bus operations. Should a school bus break down, trained mechanics would complete roadside diagnostics and repairs of mechanical issues.

    The exemption does not change the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)’s vehicle maintenance requirements, including that every motor carrier must systematically inspect, repair, and maintain all vehicles and that unsafe operations of a motor vehicle are forbidden. Any state or local school bus inspection maintenance standards would continue to apply under this exemption. The FMCSA has confirmed that this exemption does not have an adverse impact on safety.

    This legislation is endorsed by the National School Transportation Association, School Superintendent Association, National Rural Education Association, National Association for Pupil Transportation, School Business Officials, and Association of Educational Service Agencies.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Improve Access to Infrastructure Funding for Gulf Coast Ports

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX), along with Senators Gary Peters (D-MI), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Roger Wicker (R-MS), and Todd Young (R-IN), introduced the Securing Smart Investments in Our Ports Act, which would help ensure that Texas Gulf Coast ports receive a fair share of federal funding available for port infrastructure upgrades and repairs.
    “Texas’ seaports facilitate hundreds of billions of dollars in international trade that benefits state economies across the country, but the current division of funding for critical infrastructure projects doesn’t reflect this reality,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This bill would direct the Maritime Administration to even the playing field between ports on the East and West Coasts and those on the Gulf and Great Lakes, ensuring a fairer funding allocation for investments in Texas and elsewhere.”
    Background:
    The Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP) is a competitive federal grant program administered by the Maritime Administration that provides funding to improve the safety, efficiency, or reliability of our nation’s ports – including investments to reconstruct docks, improve access to key transportation routes, expand storage capacity, and more. From 2019 to 2024, Great Lakes ports received as little as two percent of all available PIDP awards, with Gulf Coast ports receiving as little as six percent of that same funding. Meanwhile, ports along the East and West Coasts of the United States were awarded almost 70 percent of the available funding.
    The Securing Smart Investments in Our Ports Act would help address this imbalance by directing the Maritime Administration to consider fair regional distribution of PIDP funds when awarding grants. To read more about the PIDP, click here.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy: “Pres. Putin in Russia is not acting with respect toward the U.S.”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)

    Watch Kennedy’s comments here.
    WASHINGTON – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) argued that Russian President Vladimir Putin has not been taking peace negotiations with Ukraine seriously and warned him not to disrespect President Trump in a speech on the U.S. Senate floor.
    Key excerpts of the speech are below:
    “To get respect, you have to act respectfully. To be taken seriously, you have to act seriously. We know that. It is a matter of common sense. President Putin in Russia is not acting with respect toward the United States of America or President Trump. President Putin is not acting seriously. 
    “I don’t know a single fair-minded person with an IQ above his age who doesn’t want peace in Ukraine. . . . We all want to see peace in Ukraine. President Zelenskyy wants to see peace in Ukraine. President Trump wants to see peace in Ukraine. I thought President Putin did. I am beginning to wonder.” 
    . . .
    “[President Putin] said, ‘I want China to be part of the negotiations and India and Brazil and South Africa’—and get this; this will curdle your lunch—‘North Korea.’ Mama Gump said that stupid is as stupid does. President Putin is not interested in peace.” 
    Watch Kennedy’s speech here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst, Slotkin Work to Ensure Fertilizer Access for Farmers

    US Senate News:

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

    RED OAK, Iowa – U.S. Senators Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), members of the Senate Agriculture Committee, are working to reinstate potash and add phosphate – both critical fertilizer ingredients – to the U.S. Critical Minerals List. In a letter to Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum, the lawmakers explain this designation will support domestic production and strengthen supply chains, important steps to protecting food security and stabilizing the market for farmers.
    “At the very heart of this issue are the American farmers who work tirelessly to feed Americans and much of the world. Fertilizers containing potash and phosphate are essential to maintaining soil fertility, improving crop yields, and ensuring consistent food production,” the senators wrote. “Without access to a stable and affordable supply of these minerals, farmers face higher costs, reduced yields, and increased uncertainty—challenges that threaten their livelihoods and the food security of millions of American families.”
    “Potash and phosphate are essential to growing the food that sustains our nation, and we rely heavily on imports to get them. Global disruptions put farmers in a tough spot, driving up costs and hurting farm profitability,” said Iowa Soybean Association President Brent Swart. “Adding these minerals to the Critical Minerals List helps secure a stable, domestic supply, protecting both our farms and the wallets of everyday consumers.”
    “Fertilizers, specifically potash and phosphate, are crucial tools in the toolbox that Iowa corn farmers rely on as they supply food, feed, fiber, and fuel globally,” said Iowa Corn Growers Association President and farmer from Galt, Iowa, Stu Swanson.“ICGA supports the relisting of potash and the inclusion of phosphate on the U.S. Critical Minerals List. We thank Senator Ernst for her ongoing advocacy for Iowa agriculture.”
    U.S. Reps. Kat Cammack (R-Fla.) and Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif.) are leading the charge in the House.
    Read the full letter here.
    Background:
    Ernst works tirelessly on behalf of Iowa farmers and producers. She has consistently advocated for critical fertilizer access.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Momentum Builds for Bipartisan Cantwell Bill to Reassert Congressional Trade Role

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell

    04.04.25

    Momentum Builds for Bipartisan Cantwell Bill to Reassert Congressional Trade Role

    Legislation requires president to explain reasoning & impacts of new tariffs to Congress within 48 hours

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – ICYMI, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, and Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, introduced bipartisan legislation to reaffirm Congress’ key role in setting and approving U.S. trade policy. In addition to Sen. Cantwell, Sens. Jerry Moran (R-KS), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Mark Warner (D-VA), Mitch McConnell (R-KY), and Michael Bennet (D-CO) have co-sponsored the bill. The Trade Review Act of 2025, modeled after the War Powers Resolution of 1973, would reestablish limits on the president’s ability to impose unilateral tariffs without the approval of Congress.

    “Trade wars can be as devastating, which is why the Founding Fathers gave Congress the clear Constitutional authority over war and trade. This bill reasserts Congress’s role over trade policy to ensure rules-based trade policies are transparent, consistent, and benefit the American public. Arbitrary tariffs, particularly on our allies, damage U.S. export opportunities and raise prices for American consumers and businesses,” Sen. Cantwell said. “As representatives of the American people, Congress has a duty to stop actions that will cause them harm.”

    The bill restores Congress’ authority and responsibility over tariffs as outlined in Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution by placing the following limits on the president’s power to impose tariffs:

    • To enact a new tariff, the president must notify Congress of the imposition of (or increase in) the tariff within 48 hours.
      • The Congressional notification must include an explanation of the president’s reasoning for imposing or raising the tariff, and
      • Provide analysis of potential impact on American businesses and consumers.
    • Within 60 days, Congress must pass a joint resolution of approval on the new tariff, otherwise all new tariffs on imports expire after that deadline.
    • Under the bill, Congress has the ability to end tariffs at any time by passing a resolution of disapproval.
    • Anti-dumping and countervailing duties are excluded.

    The full bill text is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: King Introduces Legislation Banning Energy Exports to China and Other Foreign Adversaries

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Angus King

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME), a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee (ENR), has introduced legislation banning energy exports to China and other foreign adversaries. Having long warned that America is “exporting our principal advantage in the world economy,” Senator King joined with colleagues to introduce the Protecting American Households From Rising Energy Costs Act. The legislation would ban the export of crude oil or liquefied natural gas (LNG) to China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea.

    Senator King has repeatedly warned against “subsidizing Chinese manufacturing” by exporting natural gas to our adversaries without studying how it could be counterproductive for America’s domestic energy costs.

    “The Protecting American Households from Rising Energy Costs Act would ensure that America provides our nation with its power needs before subsidizing industries in adversarial countries. This is a commonsense approach that will support America’s national defense and help to keep energy costs lower for everyday Americans,” said Senator King.

    In 2021, 1.2 billion cubic feet per day of LNG were exported to China, making it the second largest destination for American LNG at 12.7 percent of exports. Exports to China dropped in the wake of Russia’s war on Ukraine, but China is locking up long-term LNG contracts from the U.S. for proposed projects. The Protecting American Households From Rising Energy Costs Act would increase American energy security and protect American consumers by ensuring that valuable national resources are not being exported to adversarial nations.

    In addition to King, this legislation is sponsored by Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and Jack Reed (D-RI).

    Senator King has consistently worked to lower energy prices for Maine people. During his first term in Congress, Senator King introduced the Natural Consumer Gas Protection Act, which would have required the Department of Energy (DOE) to consider the effect that any natural gas export proposal would have on domestic prices and employment, regional impacts, and any impact on U.S. industrial competitiveness. Senator King has also worked to support the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program and to support Maine people struggling to heat their homes.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Markey Statement on Joint Resolutions of Disapproval of Arms Sales

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    Washington (April 3, 2024) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) released the following statement today on the Joint Resolutions of Disapproval of Arms Sales.

    “Ever since Hamas’s heinous October 7 terrorist attacks on Israel, I have remained focused on bringing the hostages home and securing long-term peace and security for Israel. I supported the January ceasefire between Israel and Hamas as the best way to reunite the hostages with their families and provide humanitarian aid to Gaza. I remain steadfastly committed to Israel’s right to exist and defend itself, but the U.S. strategy of transferring to the Netanyahu government certain offensive weapons is not working. Israeli leaders such as former Minister of Defense General Yoav Gallant and former Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar both believe the release of the hostages should be the highest priority and have criticized Netanyahu’s handling of the war as an obstacle to the goal. 

    “Throughout my career, I have always voted in support of the defense aid that Israel needs in the face of enemies committed to its destruction, including last April when I voted for a $14 billion defense aid package. Today, I voted to support the two Joint Resolutions of Disapproval because the Joint Direct Attack Munitions (JDAMs) and large-scale bomb go beyond what is needed for Israel’s current defense and could be used to further decimate Gaza. These 2,000 and 500 pound-bombs have caused untold civilian harm and destruction and do not bring us closer to the ceasefire we need to get the hostages out and get humanitarian aid in. Both Israel and Hamas must immediately return to the mutually agreed upon ceasefire plan. This war must come to an end, so that we can return the hostages to their families and begin to put Israel and Palestine on a path towards lasting peace.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: April 3rd, 2025 Heinrich, Murkowski Legislation to Promote Tribal Forest Management Passes Out of Committee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich
    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, announced that their Tribal Forest Protection Act Amendments Act passed out of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs. The legislation now heads to the Senate Floor for consideration. 
    “Tribes are incredibly important stewards of our natural resources, and we need to ensure that we’re working with Tribes like Tesuque Pueblo and The Mescalero Apache Tribe that have extensive expertise in forest management, wildfire prevention, and watershed restoration on their ancestral lands. I’m pleased our legislation to help scale Tribal-led and effective forestry practices across Indian Country is one step closer to Senate passage,” said Heinrich.
    The 2004 Tribal Forest Protection Act was intended to protect Tribal forest lands and resources from various threats, including wildfires, by allowing Tribes to enter into agreements with the Forest Service or the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and carry out forest management activities on federal lands that are “bordering or adjacent to” lands under Tribal jurisdiction. In practical terms, the “bordering or adjacent to” requirement has proven to be too restrictive. This requirement does not adequately capture the sites, features, cultural landscapes, sacred places or objects with cultural value to Tribes that may be located on federal land that does not border Tribal land.
    The Tribal Forest Protection Act Amendments Act corrects the oversight and expands the original language to enable Tribes to help restore important areas within their ancestral lands, even if their modern lands are not nearby. The legislation promotes Tribal forest management activities — including cultural burning, thinning, and restoration projects to enhance forest health and resilience. Through these sustainable forest management practices, economic development and new jobs can be created within Tribal communities.
    The full text of the bill is here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: April 3rd, 2025 Heinrich, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Impose Hard-Hitting Sanctions on Russia

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich
    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Intelligence Committee, joined U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) to introduce legislation that would impose primary and secondary sanctions on Russia – and actors supporting Russia’s aggression in Ukraine – if Russia refuses to engage in good-faith negotiations for lasting peace with Ukraine or undermines Ukraine’s sovereignty after a peace deal is negotiated.
    “We are sending a clear message to Vladimir Putin with this bill: You reap what you sow. Work to achieve peace with Ukraine or face the consequences,” said Heinrich. “The United States must stand with Ukraine in the fight to defend their freedom and to protect democracy worldwide.”
    While Ukraine announced its willingness to support a U.S. 30-day ceasefire proposal, Russia rejected it – and continues to launch strikes across Ukraine, including on civilians.
    Heinrich has staunchly supported the Ukrainian people in their fight for freedom against Russia’s unjustified, unprovoked, and unlawful invasion.
    Last month, Heinrich attempted to amend Republicans’ budget resolution to include continued support for Ukraine to stand firm against aggression by Russia. Republicans rejected it.
    As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Heinrich secured a provision in the Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24) Defense Appropriations Bill to include $300 million in funding for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative.
    In February 2024, Heinrich passed an aid package that would strengthen America’s national security by delivering aid to Ukraine.
    In January 2024, Heinrich met with Ukrainian families living in Farmington, New Mexico, who fled their country following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
    Heinrich also has an extensive history of standing up to Russia and Russian interference in the United States, detailed here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: April 3rd, 2025 Sen. Heinrich Statement on Senate Vote to Block Select Offensive Weapons Transfers to Israel

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich
    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, released the following statement after voting to block the transfers of 2,000-pound bombs, warheads, Joint Direct Attack Munitions (JDAMS), and Small Diameter bombs to Israel.
    “We need to prioritize de-escalating this conflict now.  To finally end the bloodshed and achieve lasting peace for Israelis and Palestinians, the path forward requires the immediate return of a ceasefire, release of hostages and reinstatement of humanitarian aid, and an end to Hamas’ rule in Gaza.
    “While Israel undoubtedly has the right to defend itself, it must follow U.S. and international humanitarian law. Right now, Israel is acting in direct violation of the requirements mandated under the Foreign Assistance Act and the Arms Export Control Act.
    “As an ally, we must send Israel’s government a strong message that now is the time to de-escalate this conflict. I encourage, in the strongest possible terms, all involved in the ongoing negotiations to take this seriously before more lives are lost.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley Introduces Resolution Marking April as National Sexual Assault Awareness Month

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
    WASHINGTON – Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) today introduced a bipartisan resolution designating April as “National Sexual Assault Awareness Month.” Their resolution was cosponsored by Sens. Susan Collins (R-Maine), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), John Fetterman (D-Penn.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.) and Ben Ray Lujan (D-N.M.).
    Find the resolution text HERE.
    Grassley delivered remarks regarding the resolution ahead of its introduction. Video and a transcript of his remarks follow:
    Floor Remarks by Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa
    Senate President Pro Tempore
    “Sexual Assault Awareness Month”
    Thursday, April 3, 2025
    [embedded content]
    Mr. President,
    Today, Senator Shaheen of New Hampshire and I are introducing a resolution. That resolution recognizes April as Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month.
    Far too many Americans have suffered as a result of this terrible crime.
    Sexual violence doesn’t discriminate.
    Statistics show that two in five women, and one in four men, will experience sexual assault sometime throughout their life.
    And yet, those numbers can’t capture the pain, the fear or the lifelong impact that survivors endure.
    We must ensure that these brave survivors know they are not alone.
    That means expanding resources for survivors, holding criminals accountable and fostering a culture where no one suffers in silence or shame.
    So, Senator Shaheen and I urge my colleagues to recommit to this cause—not just for this one month out of twelve, but every day of the year.
    To survivors of sexual assault: we see you. We stand with you. And we will not stop fighting for you.
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley Honored by National Foreign Trade Council for Longtime Commitment to Pro-Growth Policies

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
    WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), a senior member and former chairman of the tax-writing Senate Finance Committee, accepted the National Foreign Trade Council Foundation’s (NFTC) International Tax Award for his decades-long commitment to pro-growth tax policies.
    “I’m honored to be recognized for my work to grow our nation’s economy through international tax reform,” Grassley said. “During my time as chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, and still today as a senior member of the committee, I’ve approached tax writing as a way to bolster American businesses, increase wages and reinvest foreign earnings. I look forward to continuing my work to advance America-first tax policies, first and foremost by extending the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.”
    “During Senator Grassley’s long career in the Senate, he has always been a champion of tax policies that drive economic growth,” said Anne Gordon, NFTC Vice President for International Tax Policy. “As Chairman of Senate Finance, he led efforts to simplify the tax code, reducing the Foreign Tax Credit baskets and creating a look-thru provision for U.S. subsidiaries, efforts which help streamline compliance and mitigate double taxation.”
    Grassley played a leading role in the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and spearheaded the American Jobs Creation Act to simplify Foreign Tax Credits and increase American businesses’ competitiveness overseas. 
    Photos and a transcript of Grassley’s remarks upon accepting the award follow.

    Download photos HERE.
    Prepared Remarks by Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa “National Foreign Trade Council Foundation’s International Tax Award” Wednesday, April 2, 2025
    It’s good to join you this evening. I’m honored to accept this award from a group of innovators and entrepreneurs who take risks everyday to grow our economy and prosperity for hard-working Americans.
    Around this time of year, a five-letter word in the English language strikes a chord among all Americans. And that word is TAXES. 
    One reason President Trump won re-election was his promise to renew the 2017 tax cuts. So, you’d think getting a bill to his desk to prevent the largest tax increase in U.S. history would be a no-brainer. 
    Unfortunately, this town is famous for gumming up the works, especially when it comes to taxes. 
    As a former chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, this isn’t my first tax rodeo. 
    Two decades ago, I worked with my friend Senator Baucus to enact the American Jobs Creation Act, which included the most significant reforms to our international tax rules in decades. We hammered out provisions to simplify Foreign Tax Credits and increase the competitiveness of American businesses overseas. 
    Corporate inversions were a hot topic at the time and gaining prevalence. Provisions were added to stem the tide. However, I always saw corporate inversions as a symptom of our outdated and uncompetitive corporate tax structure. What we needed was comprehensive tax reform.   
    That finally came with the enactment of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. 
    Our corporate tax rate, which had become the highest in the developed world, was lowered to bring it in-line with that of our major trading partners. Moreover, our international tax system was modernized to unlock offshore earnings and allow trillions to be brought back and invested here at home.  
    And you know how many corporate inversions we’ve seen since enactment of these reforms? 
    Zero! 
    So, as Congress buckles down to renew the Trump tax cuts, let’s learn from history. Increasing corporate taxes reduces our international competitiveness, incentivizes profit-shifting and stretches the tax gap. 
    During his first week back in office, I’m glad President Trump put out a fire the Biden administration started by surrendering U.S. taxing rights to global interests. You can be sure I’m working against discriminatory and unfair taxes on U.S. businesses and American workers.
    Now Congress must get to work and renew the 2017 tax cuts. Failure is not an option.  
    Thank you.
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Schatz Statement On Joint Resolutions Of Disapproval On Weapons Transfers To Netanyahu Government

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Hawaii Brian Schatz
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, released the following statement on S.J.Res.33 and S.J.Res.26.
    “I have always supported Israel’s right to defend itself from serious and enduring threats in the region, and support American security assistance for that purpose, and will continue to do so. While I was encouraged by the ceasefire earlier this year, its breakdown and the Netanyahu government’s devastating actions in Gaza warrant questions around the timing of a sale of large-scale bombs and the current conduct of the war.
    “I am voting against these transfers of 2,000-pound and 500-pound bombs because the Netanyahu government’s current use of weapons like these has resulted in extraordinary levels of civilian harm, death, and destruction in Gaza, while doing nothing to advance the cause of a renewed ceasefire, release of the remaining hostages, and enduring security for the people of Israel. We have seen the Netanyahu government use U.S.-backed resources in ways that are problematic and against our values as a nation – that includes continuing to order population transfers against international law, preventing life-saving humanitarian aid from reaching those in need, and the ongoing bombardment of civilian targets.
    “Israelis and Palestinians deserve to co-exist as neighbors peacefully and safely, and we must do everything we can to work towards a ceasefire, the release of all remaining hostages, and a pathway to an enduring peace.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Coons statement on Joint Resolutions of Disapproval

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) issued the following statement after voting against a Joint Resolution of Disapproval offered by Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) regarding arms sales to Israel:

    “I have always been a staunch defender of Israel and its right to defend itself. I will continue to ensure it has the weapons that it needs to do so.

    “Israel may not need 2,000-pound bombs to prosecute its war against Hamas, but it will need them in the event of war against Iran. President Trump’s continued provocations in the Middle East, including undermining his very own Abraham Accords and his threats this week to bomb Iran, make a regional war far more likely. His efforts to weaken relationships with our partners and allies across the world mean Israel cannot be certain a global coalition will help fend off strikes from Iran, as one did twice under the Biden administration. I understand the humanitarian concerns about supplying Israel with these weapons, but the unfortunate fact is that they are necessary to confront the more dangerous world that President Trump has created.”

    Senator Coons is the Ranking Member on the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense and a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Statement on Analysis Showing Economic Impact of Permanently Extending Trump’s Tax Cuts

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Analysis shows pro-growth agenda fuels 3 percent GDP growth, $4 trillion in revenue

    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, issued the following statement on an analysis from the Council of Economic Advisors (CEA) projecting that making the Trump Tax Cuts permanent—combined with other Trump Administration pro-growth policies—will yield an average growth of at least 3 percent per year over the next 10 years, resulting in more than $4 trillion of additional revenue during that period.

    “Certainty and stability in our tax code are critical for economic growth and activity,” said Crapo.  “This analysis correctly recognizes the full economic impact of permanently extending the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), implementing commonsense regulatory reform and reducing wasteful government spending.  President Trump’s pro-growth agenda will raise trillions of dollars in revenue, increasing prosperity and opportunity across all segments of the economy.”

    Key numbers from the CEA analysis (TCJA extension combined with other pro-growth policies):

    • 3.0 percent – annual real GDP growth rates over the next 10 years.
    • $4.1 trillion – additional revenue over the next 10 years relative to CBO projects that assume TCJA expires.
    • 3.3 to 3.8 percent – boost in short-run real GDP.
    • 2.6 to 3.2 percent – increase in long-run real GDP.
    • $2,100 to $3,300 – annual real wage increase per worker.
    • $4,000 to $5,000 – increase in median-income household take-home pay.
    • 4 million – full-time equivalent jobs saved.
    • $100 billion – investment in distressed communities.

    READ: CEA: The Economic Impact Of Extending Expiring Provisions Of The Tax Cuts And Jobs Act

    READ: FY 2025 Budget Resolution will Deliver Permanent Tax Relief, Spur Economic Growth and Restore Fiscal Order

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Supports Dr. Oz as CMS Administrator

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.–Today, the U.S. Senate confirmed Dr. Mehmet Oz to be Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) by a vote of 53-45.  In remarks delivered on the Senate Floor before the vote, U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) called on his colleagues to support the nomination, emphasizing Dr. Oz’s years of experience as an acclaimed physician and strong desire to modernize CMS and encourage healthy lifestyles for all Americans.

    Click here or above to watch Crapo’s remarks

    As delivered:

    “I rise today to urge my colleagues to vote in favor of the motion to invoke cloture on Dr. Mehmet Oz, who is nominated to serve as Administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).

    “The CMS Administrator is responsible for overseeing health care programs that cover tens of millions of Americans, including Medicare, Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).

    “At his hearing, Dr. Oz spoke strongly about his desire to modernize CMS and encourage a healthy lifestyle for all Americans.  His vision for treating the underlying causes of chronic disease and equipping providers with innovative technologies to serve patients will also be a much-needed sea change at CMS. 

    “I am confident that his years spent as a leading physician and public health advocate make him duly qualified to accomplish these goals, and I look forward to working with him, if confirmed. 

    “Dr. Oz also clearly met the standard of the Finance Committee’s arduous nomination process, and I thank him for the diligence and accessibility he displayed during the extensive meetings he had with Committee members and staff, in addition to responding to hundreds of questions for the record.

    “I strongly encourage my colleagues to join me in advancing this nomination.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen, Colleagues Demand Trump Rescind Illegal Executive Order Threatening Federal Employee’s Collective Bargaining Agreements

    US Senate News:

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

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) joined Senate colleagues in a letter urging President Donald Trump to rescind his March 27 executive order to end collective bargaining agreements between public employee unions and dozens of federal agencies. In their letter, the Senators blasted the move as a “gross overreach” of presidential authority, asserting that the executive order is a clear attempt to gut the federal merit-based civil service and implement a system of political cronyism. They stressed that the order poses a grave threat to the ability of over 1 million federal workers to carry out their missions and deliver important services for the American people – and thus should be rescinded immediately.
    “This order is an insult to the hardworking public servants who go to work on behalf of the American people,” wrote the Senators. “There is no evidence that the long-standing collective bargaining agreements at these agencies have jeopardized our nation’s security in any way; to the contrary, the protection collective bargaining has provided for employees allows them to conduct their work on behalf of the American people—including blowing the whistle on fraud or abuse—without political interference.”
    “This Administration clearly does not have even a basic understanding of the legally binding nature of federal collective bargaining agreements and is actively trying to bend the law to undermine protections for federal civil servants,” they continued. “We urge you to immediately rescind this illegal executive order so that our dedicated public servants can continue to work on behalf of the American public without fear for their job or political retribution.”
    The letter is endorsed by the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO), American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU), International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE), and Service Employees International Union (SEIU).
    As a former union member herself, Senator Rosen has been a strong advocate for Nevada’s workers. Last month, she helped reintroduce the PRO Act, comprehensive labor legislation to protect the rights of workers to stand together and bargain for fair wages, better benefits, and safer workplaces. Last year, Senator Rosen helped introduce the Public Service Freedom to Negotiate Act to federally guarantee the right of law enforcement officials and other public employees to organize and collectively bargain. Last Congress, she co-sponsored the FAMILY Act, which would provide all workers with twelve weeks of paid parental, medical, and caregiving leave. Senator Rosen has also helped introduce legislation to gradually raise the federal minimum wage to $15 an hour.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hagerty Gets Commitment from Nominee Perdue to Hold China Accountable for Unfair Treatment of U.S. Diplomats, Financing of Iran’s Terror Regime

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Tennessee Bill Hagerty

    The Biden Administration failed to protect U.S. diplomats, stop China from financing Iran’s terror regime

    WASHINGTON—United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and former U.S. Ambassador to Japan, today received a commitment from former Senator David Perdue (R-GA), nominee to be U.S. Ambassador to China, to hold the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) accountable for unfair treatment of U.S. diplomats, and work to stop the CCP from financing Iran’s terror regime and its proxies.

    “When I served as U.S. Ambassador to Japan, one of my top priorities was taking care of my staff and their families,” Hagerty said.

    “If I think about what happened during Covid [in China], they put some of our [diplomatic] staff in containers, held them in isolation in moldy hotel rooms,” Hagerty continued. “They took stool samples from them, blood tests for them. I just think it’s totally egregious what took place.”

    “If you receive reports of harassment or abuse, will you immediately report those not only to the Trump Administration, but to this committee, so that we can act upon it?” Hagerty asked.

    “Absolutely,” Perdue confirmed.

    Hagerty also questioned nominee Perdue about preventing the CCP from funding Iran’s terror regime, which the Biden Administration failed to do.

    “As I’ve discussed many times in this committee, the Biden Administration’s non-enforcement of sanctions against Iran has provided that regime with over $100 billion that they have used, therefore, to go out into the Middle East and foment terror and insecurity,” Hagerty said. “President Trump intends to actually enforce sanctions against Iran, and last month, his Administration announced sanctions against the Chinese teapot oil refinery. That refinery was buying and refining hundreds of millions of dollars’ worth of Iranian crude oil.”

    “Some of this oil was even imported to China by ships linked to the Iranian-backed Houthi regime, the same terrorists that are attacking U.S. personnel, commercial vessels, and certainly our ally Israel,” Hagerty added. “This is yet another example of how Biden’s non-enforcement of sanctions funded the very problems we are spending billions to address right now.”

    “Do you commit to conveying to the Chinese government, in the strongest possible terms, that the United States will not tolerate Chinese activities that finance Iran and its terrorist proxy groups, especially those terrorist groups that attacked the United States and its allies?” Hagerty asked.

    “Of course,” Perdue answered.

    *Click the photo above or here to watch*

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Peters Joins Detroit Economic Club to Discuss Michigan’s Leadership in National Security, Advanced Manufacturing, and Innovation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters

    DETROIT, MI – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) joined the Detroit Economic Club to discuss Michigan’s leadership in national security, advanced manufacturing, and innovation. In a fireside chat with the Detroit News’ Nolan Finley, Peters discussed the impact of recently imposed tariffs on Michigan businesses and suppliers as well as the future of Michigan’s auto industry. Peters also highlighted his work on the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee to support the safe, responsible adoption of artificial intelligence (AI), strengthen U.S. cybersecurity, improve drone and counter-drone authorities, and expand Michigan’s role in Northern Border security.  

    Below are key highlights from Peters’ remarks:  

    Peters on impact of uncertainty surrounding scope of Trump Administration’s tariffs: “What we’ve seen with this Administration is things can change on a dime, pretty quickly, and that is also a part of the problem. If you’re trying to help an industry, to grow an industry… having some certainty is really important. Chaos is not good for business.”  

    Peters on Michigan’s leadership in advanced manufacturing: “You cannot have a manufacturing sector in this country if you don’t have a strong and vibrant auto sector. Autos drive so much of manufacturing, no matter what you make.”   

    Peters on expanding Michigan’s role in border security efforts, including by establishing the Northern Border Mission Center at Selfridge Air National Guard Base: “I want to make sure we’re coordinated…I was able to write legislation, pass it, and fund it, and it’s going to open on Selfridge Air National Guard Base… And that will coordinate all the operations across the Northern Border. It will happen here in Michigan… and that will help make sure we keep Selfridge as a viable military base for years to come.” 

    To watch Peters’ full remarks at the Detroit Economic Club, click here.

    The Detroit Economic Club (DEC) was formed in 1934 as a non-partisan, non-profit organization that promotes discussion and debate of important business, government, and social issues.  

    Peters was recently rated the most effective U.S. Senator for the third time in a row by the nonpartisan Center for Effective Lawmaking, which released its biannual effectiveness ratings for the 118th Congress (2023-2024). Peters was also rated the most effective Senator by the Center in the 116th (2019-2020) and 117th (2021-2022) Congresses. In the 118th Congress, Peters earned the highest effectiveness score for a U.S. Senator ever recorded in the fifty years since the Center for Effective Lawmaking began tracking this data. He also becomes the first Senator in more than four decades to be named most effective three times in a row. Peters achieved this recognition by authoring 15 standalone bills that were passed and signed into law. He also authored 10 additional bills that were passed into law as part of larger legislative packages. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden, Merkley Press VA to Answer Questions About Abrupt Closure of Eastern Oregon Clinic

    US Senate News:

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

    April 03, 2025

    Senators: Shadowy shutdown of Wallowa County VA Clinic in Enterprise is “unacceptable” for quality and accessible veterans care

    Washington, D.C. –U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today demanded the Department of Veterans Affairs answer questions by April 15 about the sudden closure of the Wallowa County VA Clinic in Enterprise, and what plans are in place to ensure veterans in Eastern Oregon receive the quality and accessible health care they earned by serving our country.

    “As of this letter’s date, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has yet to update its website to indicate this clinic is, in fact, closed,” the Oregon senators wrote VA Secretary Doug Collins. “This is unacceptable.  Our veterans deserve to know where they can seek care whenever they need it and should not have to drive miles and miles only to find a shuttered, abandoned clinic.”

    Wyden and Merkley sought assurances from the VA in their letter that the veterans of Wallowa County and surrounding areas will not have any disruptions to services. 

    “Our veterans need timely access to primary care, mental health, and suicide prevention programs, among other key services,” Wyden and Merkley wrote. “Absent a clear plan from the VA, we remain deeply concerned about the Department’s ability to deliver these services for people who earned them and expect the VA to follow through on its commitments.”

    The senators noted they’re especially concerned about care for Eastern Oregon veterans given the larger national backdrop of the VA firing thousands of federal employees, canceling nearly 900 contracts, and imposing a hiring freeze that’s worsened the severe shortage of critical specialties.

    “Taken together, these actions have jeopardized the quality and timeliness of care for veterans nationwide,” the senators wrote. “The closure of the Wallowa County VA Clinic in the context of all of these actions leaves us with deep concerns about how the VA will meet our veterans’ needs.”

    Wyden and Merkley closed their letter to Collins by seeking a response by April 15, 2025 to the concerns they outlined. 

    The entire letter is here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst on DOGE: The E Stands for Efficiency

    US Senate News:

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

    Published: April 3, 2025

    “The American people are best served by an efficient workforce full of good employees, and there are many.”

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), chair and founder of the Senate DOGE Caucus, advocated for a more efficient government for American taxpayers by ensuring public servants are actually serving the American people.
    During a U.S. Senate Committee on Homeland Security & Governmental Affairs hearing, Ernst pointed out several bureaucrats that her investigations exposed who should receive a “Reductions in Force” notice, including:

    A Veterans Affairs (VA) manager phoning in from a bubble bath while veterans’ calls go unanswered,
    A VA therapist who gushed about telework with a cat around her neck instead of helping an Army veteran with mental health,
    A Housing and Urban Development employee who was arrested for drunk driving while on the clock,
    A Social Security employee who had his mother answer emails on his behalf while he ran a private business on government time, and
    An IRS employee who was caught golfing on the taxpayers’ dime.

    Watch Senator’s Ernst full remarks here.
    “We need people that care about our constituents. They need to show up to work and do their work. We should reward good employees and get rid of those that truly don’t want to work for Americans and only are working for themselves,” said Ernst.
    Ernst asked Director for the Office of Personnel Management nominee Scott Kupor and Deputy Director for Management for the Office of Management and Budget nominee Eric M. Ueland for their plans to empower agencies to not only dismiss bad employees quickly but reward good employees, stating that “taxpayers deserve better than bubble bath bureaucrats and self-interested therapists.”
    Ernst also cited her personal experience working to get the Social Security Administration’s field office in Sioux City, Iowa back to work after a whistleblower exposed the office’s habit of ignoring simple requests for weeks and not serving Iowans.
    Background:
    As chair of the Senate DOGE Caucus, Ernst unveiled a $2 trillion plan to save taxpayer dollars and downsize the government and her telework report that exposed an absent federal workforce.
    For years, Ernst has been working on getting bureaucrats back to work. In August 2023, Ernst demanded investigations into 24 federal departments and agencies to determine the impact of telework on the delivery and response times of services. In December 2024, Ernst exposed that, almost four years after COVID-19 temporarily closed federal buildings, not a single government agency was occupying even half their office space and called on Biden’s bureaucrats to deck the agency halls with federal workers or sell off unused facilities.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Capito Votes to Confirm Oz to Lead CMS

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), chairman of the Senate Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies (Labor-HHS) Appropriations Subcommittee, issued the following statement after voting to confirm Dr. Mehmet Oz as Administrator for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS):

    “Ensuring that Medicare and Medicaid remain strong and accessible for millions of Americans, including many in my state of West Virginia, remains a priority. Dr. Oz brings a wealth of medical knowledge and a deep understanding of the challenges facing patients and providers alike. His experience as a physician and communicator uniquely positions him to lead CMS at an important time for our healthcare system. I look forward to working with him promote healthcare solutions, and improve health outcomes for families across our country,” Senator Capito said.

    Senator Capito previously met with Oz in February to discuss his nomination and learn more about his vision to lead CMS.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall Joins Fox Business to Discuss Making President Trump’s Tax Cuts Permanent and Tariffs on Canada

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Washington – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) joined Stuart Varney with Varney & Co. on Fox Business today to discuss making President Donald Trump’s tax cuts permanent, implementing ‘No Tax on Tips,’ ‘No Tax on Overtime,’ and ‘No Tax on Social Security,’ and how tariffs on Canada are necessary for our national security.

    [embedded content]

    Click HERE or on the image above to watch Senator Marshall’s interview.
    Highlights from the interview include: 
    On making President Trump’s tax cuts permanent and implementing No Tax on Tips, Overtime, and Social Security:
    “President Trump has to lean into this, and he did yesterday. If you’re not following President Trump’s Truth Social tweets, then you’re missing something. He said exactly what we discussed in that meeting – the most transparent president that I’ve ever seen – that we want to make sure that those Trump tax cuts are permanent, that we add tax cuts on wages, on tips, and on Social Security. He wants to extend the debt ceiling as well. 
    “… We got to get 50 [votes] in the Senate. 218 [votes] over on the House side. Had meetings this morning with House members, getting us all on the same page. But really, this will come down to President Trump’s leadership to get it across the finish line.”
    On 4 Republican Senators who voted to undo President Trump’s tariffs on Canada:
    “This is a team sport, and those are my team members. I’m deeply disappointed in their votes. But the good thing is that Republicans believe that each one of us have our own vote, that we’re not lemmings.
    “I have respect for all four people who voted against this, but I just want to point out to all your listeners, just to remind them, that we’re losing 200 to 300 Americans every day to fentanyl poisoning. A lot of that fentanyl is now being made in labs in Canada, and Canada should be up there smashing those laboratories.
    “… President Trump is doing the right thing with Canada. This is a national security issue. Canada can do better. Not to mention counterfeits – A large amount of counterfeits made in China come through that Canada border as well. So, Canada is not innocent.”
    On balancing the budget:
    “We need to find a way to balance the budget. What’s more important to me, as we work towards driving inflation down under 3%, that we drive GDP above 3%, and working towards a balanced budget is going to help all of us economically… President Trump was always focused on lowering taxes for hard-working Americans. Again, no tax on tips, on overtime, and Social Security.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall and Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Expand Telehealth Access

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Washington – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) joined U.S. Senators Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi), Mark Warner (D-Virginia), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Mississippi) Peter Welch (D-Vermont), John Barrasso (R-Wyoming), and 53 of his Senate colleagues in introducing the Creating Opportunities Now for Necessary and Effective Care Technologies (CONNECT) for Health Act. 
    This legislation would expand coverage of telehealth services through Medicare, improve health outcomes, and make it easier for patients to connect with their doctors. Current flexibilities are set to expire on September 30, 2025, unless Congress extends them.
    “Telehealth is an essential part of our health care system – especially for those who live in rural America,” said Senator Marshall. “The CONNECT for Health Act is a critical step to ensure Medicare beneficiaries in all areas of the country – including Kansas – can connect with their doctors regardless of where they live. I’m glad to work with my colleagues to expand health care access for all Americans.”
    “While telehealth use has rapidly increased in recent years, our laws have not kept up,” said Senator Schatz. “Telehealth is helping people get the care they need, and it’s here to stay. Our comprehensive bill makes it easier for more people to see their doctors no matter where they live.”
    “We live in a digital world, and our health services should reflect that. In the past decade, telehealth has made medical care more accessible for patients across the state and country,” said Senator Wicker. “It is time to make telehealth coverage permanent for Medicare recipients so that more Americans, especially those in rural Mississippi, have access to health care.”
    “Telehealth services have proven to be a safe and effective form of medical care. Through the expansion of telehealth services in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, more patients have received quality, affordable care,” said Senator Warner. “I’m glad to introduce legislation that will make permanent some of these services and ensure Virginians continue to access affordable health care when they need it, and where they need it.” 
    “Even before the pandemic, Mississippi recognized the vital role of telehealth. Across America, rural communities, the elderly, and those with mobility challenges have long struggled to access traditional healthcare,” said Senator Hyde-Smith. “This legislation is essential to delivering affordable, accessible, and quality care that Americans deserve, and I’m proud to continue this years-long effort to expand telehealth services.”
    “The COVID-19 pandemic proved that telehealth not only works, but is essential,” said Senator Welch. “Rural and underserved areas in Vermont and across the country desperately need solutions to address the widening gap in health care access, and increasing telehealth services must be part of the answer. This bipartisan bill takes commonsense steps to help bridge that gap and make sure that our policies adapt to the capabilities of our technology.”
    “Telehealth is a critical for rural states like Wyoming,” said Senator Barrasso. “It has given folks access to specialized care no matter where they live. This important bipartisan bill will make it easier for Medicare patients, especially those in remote areas, to continue to have access to the health care they need.”
    Joining Senators Marshall, Schatz, Wicker, Warner, Hyde-Smith, Welch, and Barrasso are Senators Alex Padilla (D-California), John Thune (R-South Dakota), Tina Smith (D-Minnesota), James Lankford (R-Oklahoma), Maria Cantwell (D-Washington), Tommy Tuberville (R-Alabama), John Hickenlooper (D-Colorado), Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minnesota), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), John Fetterman (D-Pennsylvania), Shelley Moore Capito (R-West Virginia), Jeff Merkley (D-Oregon), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming), Tim Kaine (D-Virginia), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Jeanne Shaheen (D-New Hampshire), Katie Britt (R-Alabama), Ruben Gallego (D-Arizona), Jerry Moran (R-Kansas), Ben Ray Lujan (D-New Mexico), Bill Cassidy (R-Louisiana), Richard Blumenthal (D-Connecticut), Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina), Angus King (I-Maine), Jim Justice (R-West Virginia), Chris Coons (D-Delaware), Eric Schmitt (R-Missouri), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-Rhode Island), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Jacky Rosen (D-Nevada), John Hoeven (R-North Dakota), Cory Booker (D-New Jersey), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Tammy Duckworth (D-Illinois), Mike Rounds (R-South Dakota), Bernie Sanders (I-Vermont), Mark Kelly (D-Arizona), Deb Fischer (R-Nebraska), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-New York), Todd Young (R-Indiana), Martin Heinrich (D-New Mexico), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Gary Peters (D-Michigan), Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska), Adam Schiff (D-California), Markwayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma), Elizabeth Warren (D-Massachusetts), Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina), Chris Van Hollen (D-Maryland), Steve Daines (R-Montana), Raphael Warnock (D-Georgia), and John Boozman (R-Arkansas).
    Companion legislation has been introduced in the U.S. House by Representatives Mike Thompson (D- California-4), Doris Matsui (D-California-7), David Schweikert (R-Arizona-1), and Troy Balderson (R-Ohio-12).
    The CONNECT for Health Act was first introduced in 2016 and is considered the most comprehensive legislation on telehealth in Congress. Since 2016, several provisions of the bill have been enacted into law or adopted by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, including provisions to remove restrictions on telehealth services for mental health, stroke care, and home dialysis.
    This legislation has the support of more than 150 organizations including the American Medical Association, AARP, American Hospital Association, National Association of Community Health Centers, National Association of Rural Health Clinics, and American Telemedicine Association.
    The CONNECT for Health Act would:

    Permanently remove all geographic restrictions on telehealth services and expand originating sites to the location of the patient, including homes;
    Permanently allow health centers and rural health clinics to provide telehealth services;
    Allow more eligible health care professionals to utilize telehealth services;
    Remove unnecessary in-person visit requirements for telemental health services;
    Allow for the waiver of telehealth restrictions during public health emergencies; and
    Require more published data to learn more about how telehealth is being used, its impacts on quality of care, and how it can be improved to support patients and health care providers.

    The full text of the bill is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall Pens Op-Ed in The Daily Signal: Dr. Oz Will Save Medicare, Strengthen Medicaid, Secure a Healthier America

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Washington – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) penned an op-ed in The Daily Signal in support of President Donald Trump’s nominee for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, Dr. Mehmet Oz.

    You may click HERE.
    Highlights from Senator Marshall’s op-ed include:  
    “Medicaid and Medicare are on a path that should concern all Americans, but with the right leadership, we can turn their trajectory around.
    On its current course, Medicare, the government-run health insurance program for seniors, will fall off a financial cliff in as little as a decade – maybe even sooner. Meanwhile, Medicaid, the program that pays for health care for the poor, now covers more people than Medicare, placing an enormous strain on both state and federal budgets. 
    As a nation, we face a chronic disease epidemic, and along with it, a crisis of unsustainable rising costs, high demand, and worsening patient outcomes. Over the past five years, Medicaid spending has surged by some 50% – another unsustainable trend that diverts funds from schools, roads, bridges, and high-speed internet.
    Together, Medicare and Medicaid will each spend roughly a trillion dollars this year. That’s why we urgently need a Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services administrator who can rescue Medicare and fortify Medicaid.
    As both programs fall under the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, we need a leader with a fresh perspective – one who prioritizes patient care while ensuring financial stability. This role demands someone who has experienced these programs at the grassroots level, where patients, doctors, and hospitals intersect. 
    This person must be an exceptional communicator, capable of managing a $2 trillion budget and transforming an organization of 6,000 employees who oversee the health needs of 140 million Americans. This budget accounts for nearly a quarter of federal spending in a system that already overspends by $2 trillion annually. 
    Above all, we need someone who can help us in our mission to Make America Healthy Again.
    Thankfully, we have just the person for the job: Dr. Mehmet Oz.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tillis, Padilla Introduce Legislation to Restore FEMA’s Status as an Independent, Cabinet-Level Agency

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Carolina Thom Tillis

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Alex Padilla (D-CA) introduced the FEMA Independence Act, bipartisan legislation to restore the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) as an independent cabinet-level agency and improve efficiency in federal emergency response efforts. 

    The bill would remove FEMA from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and instead have the agency report directly to the President. It would also stipulate that FEMA’s Senate-confirmed leader must have “a demonstrated ability in and knowledge of emergency management and homeland security” across the public and private sectors.

    “This commonsense, bipartisan bill will help cut red tape and save lives by separating FEMA from the Department of Homeland Security and restoring its status as an independent, cabinet-level agency,” said Senator Tillis. “With the recent devastation caused by Helene in Western North Carolina, the need for this legislation is more urgent than ever. We must pass this bipartisan legislation to help those who are suffering and get FEMA working again for those in need.”

     “Americans depend on FEMA for support when disaster strikes. As states like California and North Carolina continue to recover from devastating natural disasters, it’s more important than ever that we strengthen and protect FEMA’s lifesaving work,” said Senator Padilla. “That starts with restoring to FEMA the independence it needs by making it a cabinet-level agency, separate from the Department of Homeland Security’s competing priorities and bureaucracy. It certainly does not mean shutting it down and turning our backs on our neighbors facing unimaginable loss.”

    Background: 

    In 1979, FEMA was established as an independent agency under the White House. Subsequently, following passage of the Homeland Security Act of 2002, DHS absorbed FEMA in 2003. At that time, then-Director Michael Brown warned that doing so would “sever FEMA from its core functions.”  

    FEMA currently sits within DHS along with almost 20 other incorporated agencies, including U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Transportation Security Administration, the U.S. Coast Guard, and more. Under the Post-Katrina Emergency Management Reform Act of 2006, its Administrator was named the principal advisor to the President of the United States for all matters related to emergency management. 

    Full text of the bill is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –