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Category: US Senate

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Introduces Fellow Louisianan, Trump VA General Counsel Nominee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) today introduced President Trump’s nominee for General Counsel of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Lieutenant Colonel James Baehr of New Orleans, Louisiana, during his confirmation hearing before the U.S. Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee.
    “In Louisiana, James is known for his passion for service,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Currently, he serves as a military judge in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve and on the Louisiana Veterans Affairs Commission, where he has been a tireless advocate for Louisiana’s veterans. But this just scratches the surface of his impressive career.”
    “I am confident that James will bring legal excellence, integrity, and a mission-first mindset to the role of General Counsel. And most of all, I know he will put our veterans at the forefront of every decision he makes,” concluded Dr. Cassidy. “He has my full support.”
    Cassidy’s remarks as prepared for delivery are below:
    Thank you, Chairman Moran and Ranking Member Blumenthal.
    Today I have the privilege to introduce Lieutenant Colonel James Baehr for his nomination as General Counsel of the Department of Veterans Affairs.
    I also want to welcome his wife, Jasmine, and their newborn son, James, Jr.
    Secretary Collins will try to say he’s hiring a fellow Georgian, but Louisiana is going to claim James.
    In Louisiana, James is known for his passion for service. And I know he will bring this passion to the VA.
    Currently, he serves as a military judge in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve and on the Louisiana Veterans Affairs Commission, where he has been a tireless advocate for Louisiana’s veterans.  
    But this just scratches the surface of his impressive career.
    James has served in the Marine Corps for nearly 20 years as a defense counsel, a Civil Affairs officer, and was deployed during Operation Inherent Resolve in Iraq as a staff officer for Lt. General Paul Funk. 
    It was during his time under General Funk, that James earned the Defense Meritorious Service Medal and Joint Service Achievement Medal.
    These accolades can speak for themselves, but having a statement of support from a General doesn’t hurt either.
    In a statement submitted to this committee, General Funk states that James’ “personal leadership contributed to the superb success of our mission. This great Marine officer did what Marines do, he added clarity to chaos, and competence where calamity once prevailed. In a complex operational environment, Lieutenant Colonel Baehr played a key role in shaping how our mission was seen by the outside world. His work reflected not just logistical excellence, but sound judgment and strategic insight.”
    Off the battlefield, James prosecuted violent crime and civil corruption as a federal prosecutor in the Eastern District of Louisiana. He also clerked on the Fifth Circuit and advised President Trump on veterans’ issues as a Special Assistant to the President during his first term.
    While advising the White House, he worked to expand access to health care, improve suicide prevention measures, and better the lives of our veterans.
    These are issues James knows first-hand as a veteran.
    He has received care at the New Orleans VA Medical Center. He’s a husband who used a VA home loan to buy his house. And he’s a father who transferred his GI Bill benefits to his son. 
    We all know that our VA can do more for our veterans. That starts with having strong leadership.
    I am confident that James will bring legal excellence, integrity, and a mission-first mindset to the role of General Counsel.
    And most of all, I know he will put our veterans at the forefront of every decision he makes.
    He has my full support.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Pushes for Long-Needed Update to Social Security Income Program for Disabled, Elderly Americans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) introduced the SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act to reform the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program, which has not been updated in nearly 40 years and currently punishes older and disabled Americans for saving for emergencies and their futures. Cassidy’s legislation would update SSI’s asset limits to ensure disabled and elderly Americans are able to prepare themselves for a financial emergency without putting the benefits they rely on to live at risk. 
    “Outdated rules are making disabled Americans pick between a better job and losing their safety net. That’s wrong,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Instead, let’s encourage work, help people save, and lift them out of poverty.”
    Cassidy was joined by U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) in introducing the legislation.
    “A $2,000 rainy-day fund doesn’t go as far as it did in 1989, but that’s all the savings that people who rely on SSI benefits are allowed,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “We shouldn’t punish people who are working hard, saving their money, and planning for the future. Congress must raise the SSI asset limit to help our seniors and Americans with disabilities.”
    Right now, individuals with a disability or those aged 65 and older are only eligible for Supplemental Security Income if they have under $2,000 in assets. SSI’s marriage penalty restricts married couples to a total of $3,000 in financial resources to remain eligible. A study by JPMorganChase suggests that current asset and income limits on federal benefits for people with disabilities make it harder for them to work a part-time job or save money for an emergency. TheSSI Savings Penalty Elimination Actwould raise the SSI asset limits to $10,000 for individuals and $20,000 for married couples, and index them to inflation moving forward. The last update to SSI asset limits was passed by Congress in 1984 and went into effect in 1989.
    The SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act is supported of more than 200 businesses, faith-based groups, and organizations dedicated to improving the lives of older adults and people with disabilities.
    Cassidy and Cortez Masto were joined by U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), James Lankford (R-OK), Patty Murray (D-WA.), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Rick Scott (R-FL) in cosponsoring the legislation. 
    Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by U.S. Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01) and Danny K. Davis (D-IL-07).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy, Kennedy Introduce Resolution to Honor the Life of Former Senator J. Bennett Johnston

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) and John Kennedy (R-LA) introduced a resolution honoring the life of former U.S. Senator J. Bennett Johnston, Jr., who represented Louisiana in the U.S. Senate from 1972 to 1997.
    “J. Bennett Johnston was a North Louisiana guy who fought for the whole state. He wasn’t the kind of senator who went to Washington just to vote ‘no,’” said Dr. Cassidy. “He voted ‘yes’ when it meant more energy jobs, more investment, and a better future for Louisiana. You can go around the entire state and see the impact he had—he made life better for Louisianans in real, tangible ways.”
    “Sen. J. Bennett Johnston was a Louisiana champion and a champion for Louisiana. He played big but spoke softly. Composure was his superpower. Bennett loved Louisiana, loved America, and loved his family. He was a great senator. Louisiana weeps. Becky and I send our condolences to the Johnston family and our everlasting thanks to Bennett,” said Senator Kennedy.
    Johnston was born in Shreveport, Louisiana in 1932 and served in both the Louisiana House and Senate before being elected to the U.S. Senate. He served on several major committees, including the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, which he chaired from 1987 to 1995. He played a leading role in shaping U.S. energy policy, working to expand offshore energy production, deregulate natural gas markets, and strengthen America’s energy independence. He also led on other issues important to Louisiana such as flood and hurricane protection and preserving the state’s wetlands.
    Johnston passed away on March 25, 2025, at the age of 92.
    Read the full resolution here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dr. Rand Paul Introduces Bill to End Costly Taxpayer Subsidies for Electric Vehicles

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Rand Paul
    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
    April 1st, 2025
     Contact: Press_Paul@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343
     
     
    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) introduced the End Taxpayer Subsidies for Electric Vehicles Act. The End Taxpayer Subsidies for Electric Vehicles Act would eliminate costly government subsidies, allowing the electric vehicle (EV) market to compete on a level playing field while saving taxpayers billions of dollars. A companion bill is being led by Rep. Tom McClintock (R-CA 05.) in the U.S. House of Representatives.
    “For too long, the federal government has picked winners and losers in the auto industry, forcing hardworking Americans to subsidize expensive electric vehicles that many cannot afford,” said Dr. Paul. “The End Taxpayer Subsidies for Electric Vehicles Act restores competition in the EV market by ending taxpayer-funded handouts.”
    Key Provisions of the End Taxpayer Subsidies for Electric Vehicles Act:
    Cuts Federal Spending – Eliminates the Clean Vehicle Credit, saving billions and reducing the national debt.
    Boosts Market Competition – Encourages automakers to innovate and cut EV costs without taxpayer-funded incentives.
    Ensures Tax Fairness – Prevents subsidies that mainly benefit the wealthy, protecting lower and middle-income taxpayers.
    Supports Auto & Energy Jobs – Levels the playing field for gas, hybrid, and EV markets while preserving industry jobs.
    You can read it HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dr. Paul, Sen. Merkley Seek Information on Yemen Strikes

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Rand Paul
    Washington, D.C. – Today, in response to new U.S. military strikes against Houthi rebels in Yemen, Dr. Rand Paul (R-KY) and Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR) joined forces to urge the Trump Administration to seek more information regarding potential future actions in Yemen.
    Dr. Paul and Sen. Merkley wrote in their letter to President Trump, “U.S. military action must have a clear strategy that advances our country’s long-term national security objectives and is compliant with the law of armed conflict. Congress should be briefed about the recent strikes against the Houthis and the total cost expected to be incurred by this campaign at the American taxpayer’s expense. The Administration must also explain to Congress and the American people its expected path forward given the failure of previous such efforts and statements from the Administration that the military campaign will continue and possibly expand to include military action against Iran.” 
    “We also recognize that any U.S. military response—especially sustained military engagement—must be conducted within the framework of the Constitution. Although the Constitution assigns the President the role of commander in chief of the U.S. military, it is Congress that is entrusted with the power to declare war—and Congress has not done so with respect to the Houthis,” the Senators strongly emphasized. 
    Dr. Paul and Sen. Merkley reminded the president of the requirements under the War Powers Resolution of 1973 to notify Congress in the event of military engagement. They asked for a classified briefing within 10 days to address their concerns. 
    Full text of the letter can be read HERE or below: 
    Dear President Trump: 
    We write in regard to recent and ongoing U.S. military strikes against Ansar Allah, also known as the Houthis. 
    Since at least October 2023, the U.S. military has engaged in fending off Houthi attacks against Israel, commercial shipping and U.S. military assets. The Houthi attacks, backed by Iran, have threatened global commerce, endangered U.S. and allied forces, and threatened freedom of navigation in a critical international waterway. We strongly condemn these attacks and support efforts to protect U.S. and allied interests. 
    However, neither the U.S. strikes since October 2023 ordered by President Joe Biden, nor the previous years-long campaign against the Houthis conducted by Saudi Arabia were successful in establishing deterrence against the Houthis. Rather, these campaigns only served to embolden the Houthis and rally their recruiting base. The rare instances in which the Houthis have calmed their recent efforts to harass Red Sea shipping lanes were during sustained ceasefire periods in the Israel-Hamas war. 
    U.S. military action must have a clear strategy that advances our country’s long-term national security objectives and is compliant with the law of armed conflict. Congress should be briefed about the recent strikes against the Houthis and the total cost expected to be incurred by this campaign at the American taxpayer’s expense. The Administration must also explain to Congress and the American people its expected path forward given the failure of previous such efforts and statements from the Administration that the military campaign will continue and possibly expand to include military action against Iran. 
    We also recognize that any U.S. military response—especially sustained military engagement—must be conducted within the framework of the Constitution. Although the Constitution assigns the President the role of commander in chief of the U.S. military, it is Congress that is entrusted with the power to declare war—and Congress has not done so with respect to the Houthis.  
    Further, the War Powers Resolution of 1973 requires that the president consult with Congress before introducing U.S. Armed Forces into “hostilities” or “situations where imminent involvement in hostilities is clearly indicated by the circumstances” and to notify Congress within 48 hours of having done so. This law helps ensure that U.S. military action is subject to rigorous congressional oversight and deliberation. 
    As such, we request a classified briefing from your Administration within 10 days to address the following questions: 
    ·         What was the basis for the strikes conducted against the Houthis? Was there intelligence on an imminent attack against commercial shipping? 
    ·         Does your administration consider U.S. armed forces to have been introduced into hostilities under the War Powers Resolution as a result of recent U.S. military action against the Houthis?   
    ·         Does your administration intend to seek congressional authorization for continued U.S. military action against the Houthis? 
    ·         What is your strategy to ensure U.S. strikes will now be effective and change the Houthis’ behavior? 
    ·         What role, if any, will U.S. allies play in future strikes against the Houthis? 
    ·         Given your recent statements suggesting possible military action against Iran, does your administration intend to seek congressional authorization prior to such use of force? 
    ·         Has your administration ensured that U.S. strikes are consistent with the law of armed conflict? 
    ·         What are the estimated contingency costs associated with ongoing and potential future operations in the region, and how will they be accounted for in the defense budget? 
    Ensuring the security of U.S. forces, allies, and global commerce is a priority we all share. We also believe it is critical that the United States avoids stumbling into another costly and unnecessary war. 
    Thank you for your attention to this important issue. We look forward to a prompt response. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 04/1/2025 Blackburn, Scott, Cruz Introduce BOLIVAR Act to Hold Illegitimate Maduro Regime Accountable

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), and Ted Cruz (R-Texas) introduced the Banning Operations and Leases with the Illegitimate Venezuelan Authoritarian Regime (BOLIVAR) Act. This legislation holds Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro accountable by prohibiting federal agencies from doing business with anyone that supports the oppressive Maduro regime.
    This builds on the efforts of President Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio to hold the illegitimate Maduro regime accountable by reversing Biden’s appeasement policies and tightening economic pressure on the Maduro regime and its criminal enterprises.
    “The Maduro regime is a fraudulent and oppressive dictatorship, and U.S. business dealings with Venezuela should not lend legitimacy to this government, which contradicts our democratic values,” said Senator Blackburn. “The BOLIVAR Act would prevent U.S. federal agencies from contracting with entities linked to the Maduro regime, severing financial support and weakening Nicolás Maduro’s authoritarian hold on Venezuela.”
    “Nicolás Maduro is an illegitimate, murderous dictator who oppresses the people of Venezuela, deprives them of freedoms, and steals elections from the rightful president, Edmundo González, and leader María Corina Machado. Maduro stands against everything the United States stands for, and he cannot remain in power. President Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio are moving quickly to reverse the appeasement and dangerous policies of the Biden administration, which have emboldened and enriched the regime for years now, and are taking significant action to hold the regime accountable and to stop Maduro from benefitting off Venezuela’s natural resources while the nation’s people suffer. We must keep up the pressure on the regime to FINALLY get Maduro out of power and bring freedom to the Venezuelan people by passing my BOLIVAR Act. This will build on our actions by preventing any federal agencies from doing business with anyone who chooses to do businesses with the murderous Maduro regime. It’s time to finally get this bill passed and signed into law to cut Maduro off from every last resource, get him and his thugs out of power, and bring a new day of freedom to Venezuela,” said Senator Scott.
    “Maduro is a tyrant and despot, and his regime poses acute risks to American national security and to the freedoms of the people of Venezuela. The regime is enabled and enriched through international contracts with global companies, and it is squarely in the interests of the United States to limit those contracts and hold those companies accountable. I urge my colleagues to take swift action to advance this bill,” said Senator Cruz.
    The BOLIVAR Act:
    Prohibits federal agencies from awarding U.S. government contracts with companies that are engaged in business with the Maduro regime.
    The prohibition would only apply to contracts entered into on or after the bill’s enactment.
    Provides for necessary exceptions, including for rendering humanitarian aid and disaster relief.
    Allows the Secretary of State to waive the restriction when in the national interest of the U.S.
    Read the bill text HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SCHUMER REVEALS: WITH TRUMP’S DESTRUCTIVE TARIFFS SET TO START TOMORROW, THE COST TO UPSTATE NY IS A $7 BILLION GUT PUNCH, WITH $6,000+ IN HIGHER PRICES FOR FAMILIES PER YEAR; SENATOR SAYS WE MUST…

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Charles E Schumer
    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
    Tuesday, April 1, 2025
    Contact: Ryan Martin, 202-680-0427
    SCHUMER REVEALS: WITH TRUMP’S DESTRUCTIVE TARIFFS SET TO START TOMORROW, REVEALS THE COST TO UPSTATE NY IS A $7 BILLION GUT PUNCH , WITH $6,000+ IN HIGHER PRICES FOR FAMILIES PER YEAR; SENATOR SAYS WE MUST STOP DAMAGING TRADE WAR WITH ALLIES LIKE CANADA AND PROTECT NY FAMILIES, BUSINESSES & JOBS
    Trump’s Tariffs – Set To Start Tomorrow – Could Raise Prices On New Yorkers As Much As $6,500 For Gas, Groceries, Cars And Everyday Goods – All While Decimating Small Businesses, Killing Good-Paying Jobs, Shrinking 401K’s And Damaging Upstate NY’s Vital Tourism Industry
    Schumer Says Stock Market Is Already Hitting Lowest Point In Years Due To Trump Tariff Chaos, Hurting Upstate Seniors’ Retirements – And Leading To Fears Of A Recession
    Schumer: Trump’s Tariffs Mean Higher Prices, Lower Life Savings And Lost Jobs For Upstate Families
    With President Trump’s “Liberation Day” for his destructive tariffs set to start tomorrow, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer today revealed data on the devastating impacts of this unstrategic and damaging tariff war on Upstate New York’s families, small businesses, and jobs – increasing costs for families by up to $6,500 for gas, groceries, cars, and common goods and potentially impacting 150,000+ jobs in directly targeted industries across Upstate New York. The senator said he has gotten calls from farmers, worried workers, and factory owners scrambling in the face of coming tariffs, and said it will be NY businesses, seniors and working- and middle-class class families who will be footing the bill for this tariff war  – in the form of higher prices, a slower economy and shrinking life savings.
    “Tomorrow Trump says he will begin imposing his destructive sweeping tariffs, and if that happens it will be a gut punch to Upstate NY’s economy. Plain and simple, Trump’s tariffs are a tax increase on Upstate New York, a massive new destructive national sales tax for all of America,” said Senator Schumer. “Trump’s tariff war has already created chaos, and the economic uncertainty is causing the stock market to fall, hurting seniors’ retirements, cratering consumer confidence, and jeopardizing the jobs of thousands of New Yorkers. If this tariff war continues, it could devastate Upstate NY’s economy in ways we haven’t seen since the height of the pandemic. President Trump has said straight up that he doesn’t care if prices go up – Well, I do. I am all for addressing trade imbalances. In fact, Trump should be spending far more time going after China’s long-standing trade cheating that has robbed upstate NY of jobs for far too long, rather than picking a trade war with Canada that will only cost more NY jobs and drive up prices for everyone.”
    Schumer explained that consumers bear the cost of tariffs, and Trump’s tariff war is expected to increase costs for American families by up to $6,500 according to the latest analysis of his sweeping plans. According to the Yale Budget Lab, this would increase costs for the average American family by up to:
    Schumer added, “Trump’s tariffs are already slowing sales, and tourism from Canada is down, hurting Upstate’s restaurants and Main Streets. No matter which way you slice it, costs are going to sky rocket for consumers. If you’re in Upstate New York, you’ll feel it first, and worse than just about anywhere in the country. We need everyone, especially NY Republicans, to stand up against Trump’s senseless, job-killing, cost-increasing tax on Upstate New Yorkers.”
    Rising costs will force families to reconsider how they spend their money, which is already causing consumer confidence to plummet said Schumer, and NY families and businesses are expected to pay approximately $7.17 billion total due to Trump’s tariffs, including and $568 million on steel and aluminum.
    According to the New York Times, nearly 8 million Americans work in industries targeted by Trump’s tariffs, including approximately 159,400 in Upstate New York. A regional breakdown of jobs in industries directly impacted by tariffs based on the New York Times analysis can be found below, which does not even account for all the related jobs such as the tourism industry that are also being impacted by the damage of this trade war:

    NY Region

    Jobs In Industries Directly Targeted by Tariffs Most At Risk

    Capital Region

    14,400

    Western New York

    30,100

    Rochester-Finger Lakes

    33,200

    Central New York

    16,100

    Hudson Valley

    27,800

    Southern Tier

    17,300

    Mohawk Valley

    10,000

    North Country

    6,100

    UPSTATE NY TOTAL

    155,000

    Canada is New York State’s top importer and exporter, last year importing $20.5 billion of goods from Canada and exporting $17.4 billion. 70% of Canadian imports are used to manufacture American-made products. Every day, $2.5 billion worth of goods cross the United States-Canada border. People across Upstate New York will especially feel the impact of Trump’s tariffs on Canada given the interconnection of Upstate NY’s economy and trade with Canada.

    What Upstate NY Will See

    Impacts

    Increasing costs for businesses in every industry

    $6 billion in lumber and wood products for the U.S. homebuilding industry came from Canada in 2024, exacerbating costs for affordable housing.

    Canadian tourism slowing down, hurting local businesses

    The Canadian government is encouraging Canadians to boycott travel to the United States, according to the New York Times. Maine has been seeing significant cancellations and Upstate New York could be next on the chopping block, which would have devastating impacts especially with the summer tourist season rapidly approaching.
    45% of Quebecois who had planned vacations in the U.S. this year were now canceling those plans, leading to $3 billion in lost revenue for U.S. businesses, according to the Quebec Tourism Industry Alliance.
    Car crossings from Canada through Plattsburgh in the North Country were down 16% from February 2024, according to the Albany Times Union. There is a projected overall 21% reduction in American travel from Canada.

    Higher costs at the grocery store for families and local restaurants

    Canada leads in exports of grain, livestock and meats, poultry, and more, according to CNN. In 2023, the United States imported about $40 billion in agricultural food products from Canada, ranging from baked goods to canola oil, according to Eater.
    70% of maple syrup globally comes from Canada, and more than 60% of maple exports went to the United States which would get more expensive, according to the New York Times.
    The price of beef could rise because Canadian ranchers are afraid of Trump’s tariffs and shrinking cattle herds, according to Reuters. Beef and pork account for nearly $4 billion in Canadian imports, according to Eater.
    The price of groceries could increase by $185 – or approximately 3% – every year, according to Eater.

    Nearly 160,000 Upstate New York jobs in industries targeted by tariffs at risk, plus many more in related industries like tourism

    Over 680,000 New York jobs depend on trade with Canada. Nearly 160,000 jobs in Upstate New York are in industries directly targeted by Trump’s tariffs and at risk, according to the New York Times.
    The U.S. Travel Association warned that even a 10% reduction in Canadian travelers would translate to $2.1 billion in lost spending and jeopardize 140,000 hospitality jobs nationwide, according to Forbes, many of which would be in Upstate NY as one of the most popular close by destinations.

    Higher electricity, heating, and gas bills for our families, small businesses, and manufacturers

    Electricity is a $7 billion commodity market in New York, and the state imports hundreds of millions of dollars of Canadian electricity annually.
    While the amount varies by month and year, the reliable clean power imported from Canadian dams is critical, and a tariff on Canadian electricity imports would likely raise rates for New Yorkers.
    In response to the Schumer-Hochul letter to New York energy regulators on the tariffs, agency staff assert that electricity costs could increase by $42 to $105 million per year, and that:
    Gasoline prices could increase by $26 million per year
    Heating oil costs could increase by $57 million per year
    Diesel costs could increase by $48 million per year
    Propane costs could increase by $16 million per year; and
    Natural gas costs could increase by $4.4 million per year

    Trump has already delayed the start of his tariffs twice, creating uncertainty for families and small businesses and triggering volatility for the American economy. Trump’s tariff uncertainty is causing the stock market to fall, hurting Upstate New York seniors’ retirements. According to Bloomberg, the stock market rout has intensified in anticipation of Trump’s next tariff rollout, with concerns about recessions leaving the S&P 500 Index on track for its worst quarter compared to the rest of the world since the 1980s.
    Trump in February declared an emergency on fentanyl, which is how he is justifying tariffs on goods from Canada. Schumer explained that less than 0.2% of fentanyl entering the United States comes from Canada, and instead of helping combat the fentanyl crisis, these tariffs will only harm American families, small businesses, and jobs. Schumer said the Senate will vote on a resolution later today terminating Trump’s national emergency that is justifying his destructive tariffs that would require Republican support.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Announces New Hires, Staff Changes

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo
    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) announced new hires and staff changes in his Washington, D.C., and Idaho Falls offices.
    David Pace joined Crapo’s Idaho Falls office as Press Secretary.  David was a reporter with East Idaho News and has previously worked at the Standard Journal and Post Register.  He is a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves.  David graduated from Brigham Young University with a degree in communications and public relations and minors in Middle Eastern studies and business management.
    Casey Jones, a native of Boise, joined Crapo’s Washington, D.C., office as Staff Assistant and IT Assistant.  She graduated from Brigham Young University with a degree in elementary education.
    Jameson Parker joined the Washington, D.C., office as Legislative Correspondent.  Jameson holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Arizona.  He previously worked for Representative Michael Burgess (R-Texas).  He will cover education, pro-life, veterans, small business and health care issues.
    Kennedy Cummins, a Murtaugh native, has been promoted to Staff Assistant and D.C. Office Manager.  Kennedy first joined Crapo’s Boise office as an intern last fall and was serving a second internship in the D.C. office.  She is a senior at Boise State University studying political science.
    Matthew Mondello has been promoted to Legislative Assistant.  Matthew previously served the Crapo office as a Legislative Aide.  He graduated from Wake Forest University with a degree in politics.  As a Legislative Assistant, Matthew is responsible for health care, labor, veterans, small business and education issues.
    Matthew Favero has been promoted to Legislative Correspondent.  He previously served as Staff Assistant and intern.  Matthew holds a degree in American studies from Brigham Young University.  As Legislative Correspondent, Matthew is responsible for semiconductor, energy, public lands and agriculture issues.
    Grant Auman has been promoted to Legislative Correspondent.  He previously served as Staff Assistant and intern.  Grant holds degrees in political science, economics and Spanish from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.  As Legislative Correspondent, he is responsible for banking, tax, budget, telecommunications and judiciary issues.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Introduces Legislation to Stop Woke Activist Judges from Unconstitutional Judicial Overreach

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) joined U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and their colleagues to introduce the Judicial Relief Clarification Act of 2025 (JRCA). The bill would limit federal court orders to parties directly before the court – ending the practice of universal injunctions and clarifying the constitutional role of the judicial branch.
    Under this legislation, parties seeking nationwide relief would be required to file a class action lawsuit. The bill would amend the Administrative Procedure Act and the Declaratory Judgment Act to limit courts’ decisions to the parties before them, and make temporary restraining orders (TROs) immediately appealable.  
    “President Trump has exposed the fact that our courts are full of woke activist judges who think they were elected President. But they were not,” said Senator Tuberville. “More than 77 million Americans voted for President Trump and his agenda – and liberal judges should not be allowed to issue injunctions on policies they do not agree with. We need our justice system to focus on upholding the Constitution, not pushing an agenda. If judges have a problem with that, they can run for political office.” 
    “For a number of years, but particularly in the last few months, we’ve increasingly seen sweeping orders from individual district judges that dictate national policy. Our Founders saw an important role for the judiciary, but the Constitution limits judges to exercising power over ‘cases’ or ‘controversies.’ Judges are not policymakers, and allowing them to assume this role is very dangerous,” Senator Grassley said. “The Judicial Relief Clarification Act clarifies the scope of judicial power and resolves illegitimate judicial infringement upon the executive branch. It’s a commonsense bill that’s needed to provide long-term constitutional clarity and curb district courts’ growing tendency to overstep by issuing sweeping, nationwide orders.”
    The legislation is cosponsored by Sens. John Barrasso (R-WY), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Katie Britt (R-AL), Ted Budd (R-NC), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), John Cornyn (R-TX), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Steve Daines (R-MT), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), Jim Justice (R-WV), John Kennedy (R-LA), Mike Lee (R-UT), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Ashley Moody (R-FL), Bernie Moreno (R-OH), Eric Schmitt (R-MO), and Thom Tillis (R-NC).
    Read the bill here and a fact sheet here.
    BACKGROUND:  Article III, Section 2 of the Constitution limits courts to deciding “cases” or “controversies.” Nevertheless, it has become increasingly common for federal judges to issue sweeping “universal injunctions” that apply even to people who are not before the court. Universal injunctions defy two centuries of historic precedent. Scholars have found no clear record of such an order before 1963 – they have only become common in the last decade. In the first two months of President Trump’s second term, district court judges have issued more universal injunctions against his policies than the Biden administration experienced in four years.
    Concern about this recent practice spans the ideological spectrum. In 2020, Justices Gorsuch and Thomas explained: “By their nature, universal injunctions tend to force judges into making rushed, high-stakes, low-information decisions.” In 2022, Justice Kagan said: “It just can’t be right that one district judge can stop a nationwide policy in its tracks and leave it stopped for the years that it takes to go through the normal process.”
    The Supreme Court can and should end this practice, but has failed to do so. However, Article III gives Congress the authority to establish, organize and regulate the jurisdiction of federal courts. 
    Congress has also enacted rules governing the review of agency actions through the Administrative Procedure Act of 1946 (APA). Under Section 706 of the APA, a person or entity that claims to have been unlawfully harmed by a federal agency action may seek relief in federal court. Currently, many courts interpret the APA to allow for a single district judge to vacate agency actions for everyone, including parties that are not before the court.
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Calls for Healthier Options for Students at Ag Hearing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville
    WASHINGTON – Today,U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) spoke with Dr. Eve Stoody, Director of Nutrition Guidance and Analysis Division at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, during a Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry (Ag) hearing. Sen. Tuberville asked Dr. Moody about the important role dairy plays in children’s development. As a founding member of the Senate Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Caucus, Sen. Tuberville noted the many health benefits that come from a calcium-rich diet and expressed support for the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2025, which would add 2% and whole milk options back in schools.
    Read Sen. Tuberville’s remarks below and watch on YouTube and Rumble.

    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thank you, Doctor, for being here today.
    My former profession was working with students and kids. I traveled to hundreds and hundreds of high schools across the country in all 50 states. I ate at [cafeteria] lunch rooms and the food [was mostly] atrocious. [In] 2010, we did basically do away with milk for some reason [that] I can’t imagine. I’ve got a new granddaughter. My [daughter-in-law] is breastfeeding. We looked at the formula that we could have been feeding my new granddaughter. [If] we wanna do away with something, we [should] do away with that because it’s nothing but sugar. We’re going to look at something that’s so important to our kids growing up and their physical attributes of growing up to an adult, we’re looking at [the] possibility of milk being detrimental [to our kids’ development]. [It is] mind boggling to me, but I guess there’s a lot more smarter people. You know, I used to have a training table for players all of our athletes, and you put milk, and you put tea, you put water out there—they’d drink the milk, [the] athletes. And there’s a reason that they look a lot better than a lot of our kids nowadays. But at the end of the day, we have to make a decision, what’s better [for our kids]? I can’t believe we’re even getting involved in this. 
    But, you know, science improves and changes over time. We know that our nutrition standards should not be what they were in 2010. They have to change—have to change. As nutrition and science data has changed, can you discuss the [2025] Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee’s conclusions on dairy consumption’s effect on children?”
    STOODY: “And just to clarify, just to make sure I heard you correctly, you were referencing the 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee?”
    TUBERVILLE: “Yes, ma’am.”
    STOODY: “Thank you. The 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee did an extensive review. They are convened as an external advisory committee. And the 2025 Committee had 20 members. They did an extensive review on all aspects of the diet, including dairy, data analysis, a number of systematic reviews, and food pattern modeling. At the end of the day, they looked at a lot of new evidence. There is evidence that’s looking at food sources of saturated fat, so […] dairy that has different amounts of saturated fat, these different types that are exactly the conversation today. They also did a number of food pattern modeling analyses. And what that does is [it] looks at what happens if you change the amount of dairy in a pattern. At the end of the day, they found that you can’t reduce the amount of dairy in a dietary pattern – that the amount that’s recommended still holds and that’s in large part because of all the nutrients that dairy provides. It’s a good source and the major source of Calcium, Vitamin D, and about a dozen other nutrients in the diet. At the end of the day, their recommendations to the Departments, and I’ll note that […] that is our advice to the Departments. We’re informing the next edition of the Dietary Guidelines. But their advice was to maintain the current guidance. Now we are at a point in [both] Secretary Rollins and Kennedy have acknowledged their commitment to supporting the development of the Dietary Guidelines to be released later this year. And they have also discussed doing a line-by-line review of the Committee’s report and basing the next edition of the dietary guidelines on science. So, there will, I expect, be a lot more discussion related to the topic of dairy as well as other aspects of the diet. But at the end of the day, I think the […] 2025 Committee continued to emphasize the importance of dairy in a healthy dietary pattern.”
    TUBERVILLE: “So, at the end of the day, don’t you agree that any milk—2%, whole milk—is much better for our kids growing up than soda?”
    STOODY: “Yes. I think the point of the Dietary Guidelines is that there is flexibility. There’s a number of different options within the dairy food group and whether that be fat free, low fat, reduced fat, whole milk, it’s important to make selections that are right, that support individual needs and preferences, and in that context of the larger dietary pattern.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you.”
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Continues to Champion Cryptocurrency, Calls President Trump the “Crypto President”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) reintroduced two pieces of legislation related to protecting American cryptocurrency.
    Senator Tuberville’s first bill, the Financial Freedom Act, would reverse a Biden-era memo from the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) that limits options for where Americans can invest their retirement earnings. The Financial Freedom Act would allow Americans to choose how they want to invest their money, including in crypto.
    “The Biden administration was hellbent on controlling every aspect of Americans’ lives,” said Senator Tuberville. “Meddling in 401(k) investments through overregulation restrains financial growth and restricts personal liberty. The federal government, which is $36 trillion debt, shouldn’t be telling anyone how to invest their money. My bill ensures that hardworking Americans have the financial freedom to make decisions about how to invest their retirement savings.”
    Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) is a cosponsor of this legislation.
    Senator Tuberville’s second bill, the Prohibiting Foreign Adversary Interference in Cryptocurrency Markets Act, would prohibit the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) from registering a digital commodity platform that is owned in whole or in part by an entity organized or established in China. It also requires the CFTC to revoke the registration of any digital commodity platform in the event an entity with ties to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) acquires all or any part of the ownership of the entity.
    Digital commodity platforms collect and store personally identifiable information — including Social Security numbers, mailing addresses, and sensitive financial account data — of their users. Allowing entities based in the PRC to access this information raises serious concerns related to investor protection, data privacy, national security, sanctions compliance, and anti-money laundering efforts. Companies based in the PRC all ultimately answer to the CCP.
    “For four years, the Biden administration put America last – bowing to China at every turn and allowing our adversaries to get ahead,” said Senator Tuberville. “Thanks to President Trump, those days are over. Crypto is the future and we have to make sure our markets are protected from bad actors like China who want to destroy us. This critical bill will protect our markets and make Americans safer.”
    Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS) is a cosponsor of this legislation.
    Senator Tuberville discussed his legislation on Fox Business with Larry Kudlow.
    BACKGROUND:
    FINANCIAL FREEDOM ACT
    The Financial Freedom Act would reverse regulatory guidance released by the Employee Benefits Security Administration, an agency inside of U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). The guidance attempts to bar 401(k) investors from investing in cryptocurrency and undermines the ability of 401(k) plans to offer brokerage windows, which give retirement plan participants the ability to personally control how their assets are invested.
    The DOL guidance threatens that employers and investment firms could be subject to investigation and enforcement actions should they allow individuals using brokerage windows to invest in cryptocurrency. Senator Tuberville’s bill would bar such investigations and enforcement actions, opening the door for Americans to invest their savings in investments of their choice. 
    Senator Tuberville has consistently been an outspoken advocate in Congress for personal financial freedom. 
    Senator Tuberville previously introduced the Financial Freedom Act in the 117th Congress and penned an op-ed warning against government infringement on personal investment decisions.
    Senator Tuberville spoke on the Senate floor in support of the Financial Freedom Act.
    Senator Tuberville joined 36 of his U.S. Senate colleagues in introducing the Fair Access to Banking Act, a bill to protect fair access to financial services by preventing banks and financial institutions from discriminating against law-abiding businesses.
    Senator Tuberville added his support to a resolution that would challenge the Biden administration’s rule to allow retirement fund managers to consider and prioritize Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors while making retirement investment decisions.
    Senator Tuberville introduced legislation to protect Americans’ financial privacy against government surveillance.
    Prohibiting Foreign Adversary Interference in Cryptocurrency Markets Act
    The CCP’s efforts to mine data and surveil the public are well known, and decisive action is needed to safeguard the American people. Under current law, U.S. regulators have limited tools to block the purchase of a U.S. digital commodity platform by a CCP-tied entity. The Prohibiting Foreign Adversary Interference in Cryptocurrency Markets Act will help to wall off the burgeoning U.S. digital asset industry from Chinese interference and help to ensure continued American leadership in financial innovation. 
    Senator Tuberville believes the CCP seeks to overtake the United States as the top global superpower and that America must face China’s growing military and non-military threats with clear-eyed resolve.
    Since assuming office in the U.S. Senate in 2021, Senator Tuberville has led and supported numerous efforts to protect American investments, intellectual property, and national security from China.
    Senator Tuberville led the call for an investigation into Webull Financial, LLC and Moomoo, Inc. – two Chinese-owned stock trading apps operating in the United States that are registered with the SEC and FINRA.
    Both apps are widely used by American investors and freely collect and store sensitive information about users, including Social Security numbers, mailing addresses, and financial account data.
    In May 2023, Senator Tuberville sent a letter to SEC Chair Gary Gensler and FINRA President and CEO Robert Cook calling for oversight of the trading platforms due to the potential CCP access of American user data. In the letter, Senator Tuberville asked for answers to critical questions about the ability of the SEC and FINRA to examine the Chinese companies’ compliance with U.S. law.
    In March 2023, Senator Tuberville led a congressional delegation to Panama to discuss countering China’s growing influence in the region.
    On the trip, Senator Tuberville met with American and Panamanian officials to strategize ways to combat Chinese attempts to control the Panama Canal, which would give China enormous influence over global supply chains.
    To curb Chinese influence in the economy, Senator Tuberville introduced legislation to ban members of the CCP from receiving B-1 and B-2 visas to the United States for vacation and non-official government business.
    The CCP is responsible for trillions of dollars of intellectual property theft each year. To curb growing foreign influence and crime and discourage other Chinese nationals from joining the CCP, the bill cosponsored by Senator Tuberville would bar all 93 million CCP members from entering the United States using nonimmigrant B-1 and B-2 visas.
    Senator Tuberville believes the retirement savings of our military and federal government employees, known as the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), should not be invested in the economies of our adversaries, such as China.
    Senator Tuberville wrote about this issue in the Wall Street Journal in a column entitled, “I’ll Keep Veterans’ Pensions Safe From Communism” and discussed the issue on Fox Business.
    Senator Tuberville continued the push for accountability from the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board (FRTIB) surrounding the board’s policy on foreign investments. 
    Senator Tuberville placed a hold on nominees to the FRTIB until the nominees provided clarification regarding foreign investment policies, which forced the nominees to commit to opposing TSP investment in China.
    MORE:
    Tuberville Questions CFTC Chairman on Taxation of Cryptocurrency and the Need for a Regulatory Framework for Cryptocurrency
    Tuberville Leads Letter Calling for DOJ, SEC Investigation into China-Tied Crypto Firm Prometheum, Inc.
    Tuberville Leads Bipartisan Bill to Block CCP Ownership of American Crypto Companies
    Tuberville, Lummis Work to Establish Strategic Bitcoin Reserve
    Tuberville Takes Action to Protect Conservatives, Taxpayers from Political Discrimination by Banks
    ICYMI: Tuberville in Daily Caller: A Fed-Controlled Digital Dollar Could Mean The End Of Freedom In America
    Tuberville Reintroduces Bill to Keep the Government Out of Americans’ Investment Decisions 
    WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: Support Grows for Tuberville’s Legislation to Protect 401(k) Investment Freedom
    Tuberville Continues Push to Protect Retirement Savers’ Financial Freedom
    New Tuberville Legislation Promotes Financial Freedom for 401(k) Investors
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell to Vote NO on Advancing Social Security Commissioner Nominee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell
    04.01.25
    Cantwell to Vote NO on Advancing Social Security Commissioner Nominee
    Cantwell: “Social Security is no place to slash and burn. It’s a contract with the American people. It should be kept.”
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), senior member of the Senate Finance Committee and ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, spoke against advancing Frank Bisignano – President Donald Trump’s pick to serve as Commissioner of the Social Security Administration – at a Senate Finance Committee Executive Session. The committee will hold their vote to advance Bisignano’s nomination soon.  
    “We have an administration represented with DOGE, who think that they’re going to come in here and find billions of dollars that they can take out of Social Security and give to tax breaks to billionaires and corporations,” said Sen. Cantwell. “He’s not being hired because he’s an expert on Social Security. He’s being hired because somebody thinks he’s going to come in here and basically get billions of dollars out of Social Security to give to a tax bill.”
    At today’s Senate Finance Committee Executive Session, Sen. Cantwell explained that her constituent, who was incorrectly presumed dead shortly after Elon Musk installed his DOGE team at the Social Security Administration, has been forced to “wage war” against the SSA to correct this mistake:
    “Social Security wrongfully declared one of my constituents, Ned Johnson, dead. His monthly benefit was withheld. Thousands of dollars in previously paid benefits were clawed back out of his joint account he shares with his wife. The erroneous determination set off a bureaucratic nightmare, and ultimately, he had to wait in line at the Federal Building.”
    Sen. Cantwell continued, “Why does he have to wage a war just to get his Social Security benefits? We cannot afford more of this thinking in this position. We need to make sure that we know the answers, and I do not believe that we have them today.”
    Video of Sen. Cantwell’s remarks today with Bisignano are available HERE, audio HERE, and a full transcript is HERE.

    “The taxpayers that pay into the program do so throughout their lives, and they want the government to live up to that obligation and take care of them,” said Sen. Cantwell. “Overwhelmingly, Americans support Social Security. A recent AARP poll found that 85% of Americans want Social Security benefits maintained or increased. And that shows that that’s everybody, that’s not just Democrats or people who remember how Social Security got created. This is everybody. This is Democrats, Republicans, independents.”
    In the State of Washington, 1.4 million people receive Social Security. Below is a breakdown of Social Security recipients by county:

    County

    Number of Social Security Recipients

    King Co.

    312,000+

    Spokane Co.

    115,000+

    Clark Co.

    98,000+

    Yakima Co.

    46,000+

    *County data sourced from SSA.gov*
    Sen. Cantwell has been a long-standing champion for Social Security and protecting Washingtonian’s benefits. In December 2024, Sen. Cantwell co-sponsored and voted to pass the bipartisan Social Security Fairness Act, which repealed two Social Security policies that unfairly limited payments for people who also receive a pension from a job that is not covered by Social Security, as well as their surviving spouses and widow(ers). In 2018, Sen. Cantwell introduced and voted to pass the Tribal Social Security Fairness Act to correct a long-standing inequity in the Social Security Act that prevents elected tribal leaders from contributing to and accessing Social Security benefits.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cotton, Colleagues Reintroduce Bill to Repeal Tax on Certain Firearm Purchases

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas Tom Cotton
    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEContact: Caroline Tabler or Patrick McCann (202) 224-2353April 1, 2025
    Cotton, Colleagues Reintroduce Bill to Repeal Tax on Certain Firearm Purchases
    Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) today reintroduced the Repealing Illegal Freedom and Liberty Excises (RIFLE) Act, legislation that would remove a burdensome tax imposed on firearms regulated under the National Firearms Act.
    Senators John Boozman (R-Arkansas), Ted Budd (R-North Carolina), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Steve Daines (R-Montana), Deb Fischer (R-Nebraska), John Hoeven (R-North Dakota), Jim Justice (R-West Virginia), Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio), Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska), Rick Scott (R-Florida), and Tim Sheehy (R-Montana) are co-sponsors of the legislation. Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (Iowa-02) introduced companion legislation in the House.
    “Law-abiding Americans who exercise their Second Amendment rights should not be subject to unnecessary taxes and restrictions preventing them from doing so. Passed into law in 1934, the National Firearms Act needs to be amended. Our legislation will remove the red tape that places an undue financial burden on would-be gun owners,” said Senator Cotton.
    “The Second Amendment is a Constitutional right that is not to be infringed. Law-abiding gun owners should not be forced to pay an unconstitutional firearm tax. This bill will remove unnecessary financial barriers on lawful gun owners from the antiquated 1934 National Firearms Act and protect the Second Amendment rights of Iowans and Americans,” said Congresswoman Ashley Hinson.
    Text of the legislation may be found here.
    Background:
    The 1934 National Firearms Act (NFA) regulates short-barreled shotguns and rifles, automatic firearms and suppressors. In addition to background checks and registration, NFA regulated items have a $200 tax.
    The ATF has acknowledged the tax was intended “to curtail, if not prohibit, transactions” of firearms. The $200 tax, unchanged since 1934, is equivalent to $4,741 in today’s dollars.
    From 2018 to 2023, ownership of NFA regulated items have grown by more than 230% as more sportsmen, shooters and firearm enthusiasts exercise their Second Amendment right.
    The RIFLE Act does not modify the current checks and registration; it solely removes the federally mandated financial burden on law-abiding gun owners.
    The legislation is endorsed by the National Rifle Association and the National Shooting Sports Foundation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lee Introduces the Local Zoning Decisions Protection Act for 119th Congress

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Utah Mike Lee
    Legislation defunds federal efforts to interfere in local zoning through Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing and other means  
     
    WASHINGTON – Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) has introduced the Local Zoning Decisions Protection Act, a bill which denies all federal funding for implementing the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s “Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing Final Rule” and any other race or equity-based schemes to altar socioeconomic outcomes at the federal level. The legislation has been introduced in the House of Representatives by Rep. Paul Gosar (R-AZ).
    “Every American should be free to choose where to live, and every community should be free to zone its neighborhoods and compete for new residents according to its distinct values,” said Sen. Lee. “I congratulate President Trump and HUD Secretary Scott Turner for ending this egregious Obama-era attempt at social engineering, and my legislation would ban such misguided policies in the future.” 
    “Overreaching housing regulations first imposed by Barack Obama and re-upped by Joe Biden have extorted communities into giving up control of local zoning decisions while driving up the cost of affordable housing,” said Rep. Gosar.“By rejecting intrusive Washington, D.C. mandates, I am proud to support Senator Lee’s efforts to codify into law the recent decision by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to repeal the onerous Obama-Biden rules that have punished neighborhoods for refusing to fall in line with big government’s takeover of our communities.”
    BACKGROUND 
    During the Obama administration, the Department of Housing and Urban Development implemented the Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing rule (AFFH) for the purposes of creating a framework to manufacture “equitable” socioeconomic outcomes from local zoning decisions that would not otherwise occur in a free market without federal government mandates. President Trump repealed the rule in 2020, but HUD under President Biden re-implemented the rule in 2021, forcing President Trump, via HUD Secretary Scott Turner, to terminate the AFFH rule again just a few weeks ago.
    The Local Zoning Decisions Protection Act restricts the use of federal funds to implement AFFH rulemaking in the future and requires federal officials to find ways to restore principles of Federalism:
    • No Federal funds may be used to design, build, maintain, utilize, or provide access to a federal database of geospatial information on community racial disparities or disparities in access to affordable housing.
    • HUD is required to consult with state/local government and public housing agencies to develop recommendations to further the purposes and policies of the Fair Housing Act in ways other than through new federal regulations. This is meant to be a report on the federalism issues within the current public housing regime.
    You can read the one-pager HERE. 
    You can read the bill text HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Presidential Message on National Financial Literacy Month, 2025

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    The foundation of American economic prosperity is a society empowered with the knowledge and tools to make informed financial decisions to achieve the American Dream.  During National Financial Literacy Month, we commit to providing critical resources for every American, young and old, helping them invest in a brighter, more secure future.
    Financial independence allows each of us the opportunity to diligently save and freely invest in our robust, and rapidly evolving economy.  As part of my recent effort to strengthen American leadership in digital financial technology, my Administration is supporting the responsible growth and use of digital assets, blockchain technology, and related technologies across all sectors of the economy.  The United States is the best, most innovative  in the world, and we want everyone to invest in, and reap the benefits of, expanding our nation’s prosperity.
    Research shows financial literacy leads to greater investments, higher retirement savings, and ultimately more household wealth.  It is essential for fostering a healthy and efficient marketplace.  The Financial Literacy and Education Commission is a body chaired by the Secretary of the Treasury and comprised of the heads of 23 federal agencies and the White House Domestic Policy Council.  The Commission plays a pivotal role in financial literacy by assessing the effectiveness of financial education programs and promoting practices that empower American families.
    Upon taking office, I took immediate action to end the cost-of-living crisis, ordering all federal agencies to untangle the economy from crippling regulatory overreach—delivering long overdue relief to hardworking American families.  Under my leadership, we will continue to strengthen and support American families by eliminating taxes on tips, overtime, and Social Security while extending the historic tax cuts from my first term.  We are also deregulating and collaborating with employers and local partners to help Americans build more secure and prosperous futures for themselves and their families.
    We will never stop fighting to put more money back in the pockets of our overburdened taxpayers and to end the waste, fraud, and abuse in Government. With enhanced financial literacy, Americans are forging their own economic destinies free from unnecessary government interference.  As President, I will revive the American Dream, turning it from a relic of the past to a promise for the future in our new Golden Age.
    During this National Financial Literacy Month, I urge families, communities, schools, and institutions to commit to bolstering their financial knowledge.  There are amazing resources available to you and your family through the Department of the Treasury’s website that will assist you in making sound financial decisions.  Together, we can all protect each American’s right to economic freedom, securing the promise of prosperity for generations to come.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Illegal Border Crossings Hit New Record Low in March

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    Illegal crossings along the southern border reached another new low last month as President Donald J. Trump makes good on his promise to stop the invasion and secure the homeland.
    It’s called the “Trump Effect.”
    In March, Border Patrol encountered just 7,181 illegal immigrants at the southern border.
    Compared to the same month under Biden, that represents a 95% decrease from 2024 (137,473), a 96% decrease from 2023 (163,672), and a 97% decrease from 2022 (211,181).

    The Los Angeles Times reports “migrant crossings have slowed to a near halt” along the California-Mexico border, where Border Patrol agents are making just “30 to 40 arrests per day … down from more than 1,200 per day during the height of migrant arrivals to the region in April.”

    (Source: New York Post)

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen Helps Introduce Constitutional Amendment to Overturn Citizens United Ruling, Get Dark Money out of Politics

    US Senate News:

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

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) helped introduce an amendment to the U.S. Constitution to overturn the Supreme Court’s disastrous Citizens United v. FEC decision, which overturned key federal campaign finance restrictions and enabled political entities to spend unlimited money to influence elections. The “Democracy for All” Amendment would also overturn other far-reaching judicial decisions around campaign finance that wrongfully equated money with free speech and unfairly determined that mega corporations have the same First Amendment rights as people.
    “Since the U.S. Supreme Court’s disastrous Citizens United decision, billionaires like Elon Musk have been pouring unlimited amounts of dark money in an effort to influence elections – increasing Washington gridlock,” said Senator Rosen. “Nevadans are sick and tired of mega-corporations and dark money special interest groups spending huge sums to influence our elections. Our Constitutional amendment will help root out dark money and limit excessive corporate campaign spending. I’ll keep pushing to pass this commonsense legislation that strengthens our democracy.”
    Senator Rosen has been a leading voice in the fight to clean up Washington and make it work for Nevadans. Last year, her bipartisan No CORRUPTION Act became law, barring Members of Congress from collecting taxpayer-funded pensions if they are convicted of felonies related to their official duties.
    Last Congress, Senator Rosen announced her support for legislation to reduce lobbyist influence in Washington and increase transparency and accountability in Congress.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen, Colleagues Call on Attorney General to Appoint Special Counsel to Investigate Trump Administration’s National Security Breach

    US Senate News:

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

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) joined Senate colleagues in sending a letter urging U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi to appoint a Special Counsel to thoroughly and impartially investigate whether any of the government officials involved in the disclosure of classified material over an unclassified messaging app violated federal criminal law. On March 24, The Atlantic’s editor in chief reported that President Trump’s National Security Advisor Michael Waltz had included him in a group text chain with several high-ranking national security officials where highly sensitive, classified information was shared and discussed over Signal on unsecure, internet-connected smartphones. The Trump Administration has repeatedly refused to acknowledge wrongdoing and it has indicated that it is not interested in thoroughly investigating what happened.
    “These officials conducted a highly sensitive discussion, including of clearly classified or controlled information, over the commercial messaging app Signal, including in some instances on personal devices and while traveling in foreign countries, rather than using the secure U.S. government channels and facilities that are designed and required for the sharing of such information,” wrote the senators. “Despite subsequent claims to the contrary by you, President Trump, and several of the officials involved, including in testimony before Congress, some of the information they shared and discussed over Signal would almost certainly be considered classified or, at a minimum, controlled, prior to and in the immediate aftermath of an impending strike.”
    “During your confirmation hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee, you assured the American people that everyone will be held to ‘an equal, fair system of justice’ if you were confirmed as Attorney General, and that ‘no one is above the law,” they continued. “As the individuals most seriously implicated in this incident include senior officials at the highest levels, including several of your fellow cabinet members, appointment of a Special Counsel is necessary to ensure that the investigation and any ensuing prosecutions are fair, impartial, and independent and that no official, regardless of seniority or political affiliation, is above the law. The people of this country deserve the assurance that this matter will be taken seriously and addressed swiftly. To do so, we urge you to appoint a Special Counsel immediately.”
    The full letter can be found HERE.
    Since the disclosure of this national security breach was made public, Senator Rosen has been working to get to the bottom of this violation of security protocols that put the lives of U.S. troops at greater risk. Last week, 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 released a statement strongly criticizing this inexcusable failure that could have endangered American lives, and called for disciplinary action on the matter.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Graham, Blumenthal Lead 50 Senators In Introducing Hard-Hitting Russia Sanctions

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Lindsey Graham

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Connecticut) led 50 U.S. Senators – evenly divided by party affiliation – to introduce primary and secondary sanctions against Russia and actors supporting Russia’s aggression in Ukraine.

    These sanctions would be imposed if Russia refuses to engage in good faith negotiations for a lasting peace with Ukraine or initiates another effort, including military invasion, that undermines the sovereignty of Ukraine after peace is negotiated. The legislation also imposes a 500 percent tariff on imported goods from countries that buy Russian oil, gas, uranium and other products.

    “We are pleased to announce that we have received overwhelming bipartisan support for our primary and secondary sanctions legislation against Russia. The sanctions against Russia require tariffs on countries who purchase Russian oil, gas, uranium and other products. They are hard hitting for a reason.

    “The dominating view in the United States Senate is that Russia is the aggressor, and that this horrific war and Putin’s aggression must end now and be deterred in the future.

    “We share President Trump’s frustration with Russia when it comes to obtaining a ceasefire, and support President Trump’s desire to achieve a lasting, just and honorable peace.

    “In 1994, as part of the Budapest Memorandum Ukraine gave up approximately 1,700 nuclear weapons with a promise from the U.S., Russia and United Kingdom that Ukraine’s sovereignty would be honored in the future. This failed to deter Russian aggression. In 2014 and 2015, the Minsk agreements were reached to end Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, but again, it did nothing to deter future aggression. In 2022, Russia invaded Ukraine once more, leading to deaths of hundreds of thousands of people and the displacement of millions.

    “It is our hope that in 2025, President Trump and his team will achieve what has eluded the world in the past: ending Russian aggression against Ukraine permanently and ensuring the survivability of a free and democratic Ukraine.

    “These sanctions against Russia are at the ready and will receive overwhelming bipartisan, bicameral support if presented to the Senate and House for a vote.

    “We support an immediate ceasefire to secure a lasting, honorable peace.”

    The sanctions are cosponsored by U.S. Senators Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Dick Durbin (D-Illinois), Katie Britt (R-Alabama), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-Rhode Island), Todd Young (R-Indiana), Angus King (I-Maine), Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska), Tim Kaine (D-Virginia), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minnesota), John Curtis (R-Utah), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), Maggie Hassan (D-New Hampshire), Deb Fischer (R-Nebraska), Angela Alsobrooks (D-Maryland), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi), Jeanne Shaheen (D-New Hampshire), Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina), Peter Welch (D-Vermont), Markwayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma), Chris Coons (D-Delaware), Tim Sheehy (R-Montana), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-New York), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Mark Kelly (D-Arizona), Jon Husted (R-Ohio), Elissa Slotkin (D-Michigan), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), John Hickenlooper (D-Colorado), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Michael Bennet (D-Colorado), Shelley Moore Capito (R-West Virginia), Ruben Gallego (D-Arizona), John Hoeven (R-North Dakota), John Fetterman (D-Pennsylvania), John Boozman (R-Arkansas), Chris Van Hollen (D-Maryland), James Lankford (R-Oklahoma), Martin Heinrich (D-New Mexico), Rick Scott (R-Florida), Adam Schiff (D-California), Jim Justice (R-West Virginia), Elizabeth Warren (D-Massachusetts), Steve Daines (R-Montana) and Jack Reed (D-Rhode Island).

    Companion legislation is being introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by U.S. Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Pennsylvania), Mike Quigley (D-Illinois), Joe Wilson (R-South Carolina) and Marcy Kaptur (D-Ohio).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch, Coons Lead Colleagues in Demanding Answers from Justice Department About Deputy Attorney General’s Misleading Answers to the Senate Judiciary Committee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    Senators seek to determine whether Todd Blanche knowingly and willfully provided untruthful testimony during his nomination hearing
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution, and U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) led Democrats on the Senate Judiciary Committee in requesting documents from U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi to determine the veracity of U.S. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche’s testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee during his nomination hearing. The Senators’ letter comes as recent public reporting has raised questions as to whether Mr. Blanche testified truthfully to Senators at the hearing and in written Questions for the Record, especially regarding his knowledge of plans to dismiss the criminal case against New York City Mayor Eric Adams. 
    The letter was signed by Sen. Welch and Senate Democrats on the Judiciary Committee, including Senators Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Ct.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.). 
    “As you are aware, all nominees who come before the Senate Judiciary Committee provide testimony under oath. It is a federal crime to ‘knowingly and willfully’ provide ‘any materially false, fictitious, or fraudulent statement or representation’ while under oath with respect to ‘any investigation or review, conducted pursuant to the authority of any committee,” wrote the Senators. “Congress has an obligation to investigate whether Mr. Blanche provided untruthful testimony before the Judiciary Committee, including whether a referral to the Department of Justice for a criminal inquiry is warranted.” 
    At the time of his hearing, Mr. Blanche was a private citizen and not an employee of the Department of Justice (DOJ). Two days before his hearing, news broke that the DOJ intended to drop criminal corruption charges against Eric Adams, Mayor of New York City. Senator Welch asked Mr. Blanche if he was aware of the instructions to dismiss the charges, and Blanche responded, “I have the same information you have. It appears it was, yes.” In response to Senator Coons’ question regarding the basis for the dropping of charges, Mr. Blanche stated, “I have no idea.” And in response to Senator Booker’s written Questions for the Record, Mr. Blanche stated in writing that he didn’t know why the charges in Mayor Adams’ case were dismissed. However, recent reporting suggests that Mr. Blanche may have been aware of the orders to dismiss the case against Mayor Adams almost two weeks before he testified. 
    In their letter, the Senators requested the following documentation from the Justice Department: 
    Copies of all documentation and records that reference or discuss Todd Blanche in the possession of the Department of Justice related to the decision to dismiss the criminal charges in United States v. Adams, 24 CR 556 (S.D.N.Y.). 
    Copies of all communications between and among then-Acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove III and Todd Blanche relating to the decision to dismiss the criminal charges in United States v. Adams, 24 CR 556 (S.D.N.Y.). 
    Read and download the full letter. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján Joins Booker’s Marathon Floor Speech Highlighting Trump Administration Policies That Hurt New Mexico Farmers and Ranchers

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Senator for New Mexico Ben Ray Luján

    Luján Highlights How the Trump Administration Is Hurting Farmers, Compromising Food Safety, and Raising Costs for Consumers

    WATCH: Luján Joins Senator Booker’s Marathon Floor Speech

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) joined U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) during his marathon floor speech standing up for the American people. Senator Luján discussed how the Trump administration is devastating the agricultural community, compromising food safety, and raising costs for New Mexicans – all to pass the Trump Tax Scam 2.0.

    An excerpt of Senator Luján’s remarks are below:

    Having fresh food in a grocery store is not something that can be taken for granted, and for a lot of our constituents, I’ve had these conversations with nominees that have come before us. When they ask, “why is someone just eating potato chips or Doritos from that local store?” I’ll educate them by saying, “that’s the only store around.” There’s food deserts everywhere. We could do something about that.

    We have programs in place that recognize the importance of getting someone a meal who needs that meal.

    Supporting our farmers out there to sow those seeds, to help them with their planting.

    What I am seeing right now, Senator Booker, is our farmers have been on the receiving end of these federal funds being taken away from the United States Department of Agriculture.

    These reckless tariffs are hurting farmers and ranchers just as much as they are hurting anyone in America.

    Outbreaks, bird flu—people know what the cost of eggs are at the store now. Then they look into what’s going on here, and there’s this bird flu going around.

    My constituents ask, “why does the Department of Agriculture, under Donald Trump, fire the epidemiologists that are responsible for containing this thing?” It didn’t make any sense to folks.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn Introduces Texan Tilman Fertitta at Ambassador to Italy and San Marino Nomination Hearing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) today introduced Texan and U.S. Ambassador to Italy and San Marino nominee Tilman Fertitta at his nomination hearing before the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations. Excerpts from his remarks are below, and video can be found here.

    “I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Tilman for quite some time.”

    “Over the years, I’ve witnessed Tilman make an incredible impact on the City of Houston and the entire State of Texas.”

    “After school, he helped his father peel shrimp. Years down the road, he’d use the profits from that small family business to secure a small loan to acquire what would later become an empire. That’s one of the things you learned about Tilman, as I have: the man keeps striving and challenging himself.”

    “Tilman’s realization of the American dream will serve him well as a voice for our nation’s interests and as an advocate for a strong relationship between the United States and Italy.”

    “I have no doubt he will do a stellar job as ambassador, so it’s my honor to support his nomination.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: King, Pingree Lead Bipartisan, Bicameral Effort to Support Fishing Communities

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Angus King
    WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME) and Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-ME) today introduced bipartisan, bicameral legislation to expand financial support for fishing communities in Maine and across the country. The Fishing Industry Credit Enhancement Act would allow businesses that provide direct assistance to fishing operations—like gear producers or cold storage—to access loans from the Farm Credit System (FCS) that are already offered to service providers for farmers, ranchers and loggers. The FCS is a network of lending institutions that provides credit to the agriculture industry
    Joining King and Pingree in leading the introduction are Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Congressman Clay Higgins (R-LA).
    “Maine’s fishing industry is more than just the hardworking folks who catch and harvest our delicious seafood, it is also hundreds of small family businesses that make gear, build and maintain fish freezers, and distribute the state’s iconic produce,” said Senator King. “The Fishing Industry Credit Enhancement Act would allow fishing-support businesses to access the loans of the Farm Credit System like similar small businesses working with livestock and crop farmers. These reliable loans unlock rural economies, and help businesses invest in new expansions. Opening this program to the men and women who put fish on grocery shelves and kitchen plates is a smart way to help them hire more workers, and modernize operations to meet the demands of the 21st century economy.”
    “Fisheries are not only the backbone of Maine’s coastal communities and economy, they are a living, breathing ecosystem of interconnected businesses and generational knowledge—one that too often falls through the cracks of traditional credit systems,” said Congresswoman Pingree, a member of the House Agriculture Committee. “Our coastal communities need strategic, pragmatic policy solutions that acknowledge their economic realities. This bill does precisely that: creating a fair lending environment that mirrors the support we’ve long provided to agricultural sectors. It’s about economic resilience and honoring the profound maritime heritage that defines regions like coastal Maine.”
    “Our fishermen share the same mission as the American agriculture industry: to strengthen national food security with locally sourced, high-quality foods while building our economies,“ said Senator Murkowski. “Whether it’s the Fishing Industry Credit Enhancement Act or amending the Farm Bill, I am actively working to ensure that Alaska’s fishermen and the businesses they rely on can access the same resources available to American farmers and ranchers.”
    “Louisiana is home to a strong generational seafood industry, and our fishermen deserve a level playing field,” said Congressman Higgins. “Our legislation provides greater parity for America’s seafood producers and the supporting industries. We are working to provide the same financial opportunities and loan access that other agricultural commodities are entitled to.”
    “The Maine Lobstermen’s Association (MLA) supports legislation that would allow Farm Credit institutions to lend to fishing-related businesses in the same way they lend to farm-related businesses. This change will increase the options for and availability of credit to businesses supporting the fishing industry in Maine and other coastal states,” said Patrice McCarron, Executive Director of the Maine Lobstermen’s Association. “The economies of Maine’s coastal communities center around commercial fishing and the businesses that support the fishing industry in the same way that many rural communities revolve around farming and businesses supporting farming. Fishing-related businesses deserve the same access to competitive financing.”
    “Senators King and Murkowski are champions for U.S. fishermen, and we appreciate their leadership in introducing the Fishing Industry Credit Enhancement Act. Supporting rural communities is a vital piece of Farm Credit’s mission, and this bill will provide more financing options for our rural coastal communities,” said Farm Credit Council President and CEO Christy Seyfert.  “Businesses providing services directly to the commercial fishing operators are impacted by same the pressures as the U.S. fishing industry. These businesses need access to competitive financing to maintain service to the U.S. fishing industry. We look forward to working with Sens. King and Murkowski to include this commonsense legislation in the upcoming Farm Bill.” 
    The FCS was founded in Congress in 1916 to help farmers who historically struggled to access reliable credit and has since provided almost a million loans totaling more than $373 billion to farmers, ranchers, fishermen, aquatic producers, and more. Borrowers must meet eligibility and creditworthiness requirements. It currently provides more than one-third of the credit used by those who live and work in rural America.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto, Cassidy Push for Long-Needed Update to Supplemental Security Income Program

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto
    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and Bill Cassidy (R-La.), alongside Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), introduced the SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act to reform the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program, which has not been updated in 40 years. Currently, the program unfairly punishes lower-income seniors and people with disabilities for saving responsibly for emergencies or their futures. A companion to this bill will be introduced in the House of Representatives by Congressmen Danny K. Davis (D-Ill.) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Penn.).
    Right now, individuals with a disability or those aged 65 and older are only eligible for Supplemental Security Income if they have under $2,000 in assets. SSI’s marriage penalty restricts married couples to a total of $3,000 in financial resources to remain eligible. The Senators’ bipartisan, bicameral legislation would update SSI’s asset limits for the first time since the 1980s to allow millions of Americans with disabilities to marry, work, earn, and save money without putting the benefits they rely on to live at risk.
    “A $2,000 rainy-day fund doesn’t go as far as it did in 1989, but that’s all the savings that people who rely on SSI benefits are allowed,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “We shouldn’t punish people who are working hard, saving their money, and planning for the future. Congress must raise the SSI asset limit to help our seniors and Americans with disabilities.”
    “Outdated rules are making disabled Americans pick between a better job and losing their safety net. That’s wrong,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Instead, let’s encourage work, help people save, and lift them out of poverty.”
    “Every year, SSI’s outdated rules prevent Americans from being able to work, save, or marry the one they love,” said Senator Wyden. “This bipartisan bill gives Americans who are trying to make ends meet the chance to live independently without fear of being forced to forfeit an economic lifeline. As the Ranking Member of the Finance Committee, I am committed to making sure SSI is no longer stuck in yesteryear so every American can live with dignity and respect.”
    “I am honored to join with my colleagues to champion the SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act that would improve the lives of lower-income seniors and people with disabilities,” said Congressman Davis. “This bipartisan, bicameral bill would reform one of the most regressive, anti-savings measures in federal law by updating the outdated asset limits of the Supplemental Security Income program for the first time in almost 40 years. The necessity of this legislation is reflected in its support by over 200 businesses, faith-based groups, and organizations from across the political spectrum.”
    “Raising the SSI asset limits is a smart, long-overdue reform that updates a critical program to reflect today’s economic realities,” said Congressman Fitzpatrick. “For over forty years, outdated restrictions have discouraged work and penalized those who try to save for their future. The SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act modernizes these limits, ties them to inflation, and ensures that seniors and individuals with disabilities are not forced to choose between earning a paycheck and keeping the benefits they depend on. This bipartisan legislation promotes financial independence and strengthens the integrity of our safety net.”
    A study by JPMorganChase suggests that current asset and income limits on federal benefits for people with disabilities make it harder for them to work a part-time job or save money for an emergency. The SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act would raise the SSI asset limits to $10,000 for individuals and $20,000 for married couples, and index them to inflation moving forward. The last update to SSI asset limits was passed by Congress in 1984 and went into effect in 1989.
    Additional cosponsors include Senators Susan Collins (R-Maine), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and Rick Scott (R-Fla.).
    The SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act has the support of more than 200 businesses, faith-based groups, and organizations dedicated to improving the lives of older adults and people with disabilities, including: the AARP, the Autism Society of America, the Aspen Institute Financial Security Program, the Jewish Federations of North America, Microsoft, the National Council on Aging, the National Council on Independent Living, the National Down Syndrome Congress, Justice in Aging, the Arc of the United States, Bipartisan Policy Center (BPC) Action, the National Association of Evangelicals, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
    Read the full bill here.
    Senator Cortez Masto has continually worked to make sure that Social Security and other government benefits efficiently function for America’s seniors and individuals with disabilities. Last Congress, the Senator helped pass the Social Security Fairness Act, bipartisan legislation supported to restore full Social Security benefits to thousands of retired law enforcement officers, firefighters, teachers, and other public servants. Cortez Masto also supports the bipartisan Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act, which would increase the rates of compensation for veterans with service-connected disabilities and military survivors under the Department of Veterans Affairs to ensure benefits keep up with the rising cost of living.
    “SSI’s $2,000 asset limit has been frozen in time since 1989. In today’s economy, that means SSI beneficiaries can’t save for necessary expenses like a security deposit or car repairs without the risk of losing their benefits. There’s also an outdated and unjust marriage penalty baked into the SSI asset limit that cuts the amount of money beneficiaries are allowed to save by 25% if they marry the person they love. We strongly endorse the bipartisan SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act because it will give Americans with disabilities more freedom to build the futures they want and deserve,” said Darcy Milburn, Director of Social Security and Healthcare Policy, The Arc of the United States.
    “Supplemental Security Income’s asset rules have been frozen since the 1980s and prevent disabled Americans from participating in everyday life, whether it be tying the knot to a long-term partner or putting a financial nest egg away. Raising the program’s resource limits will help eliminate work and marriage penalties and limit accidental overpayments. The Niskanen Center supports this pro-savings, pro-family legislative effort by Senators Cortez Masto, Cassidy, and their colleagues,” said Will Raderman, Employment Policy Analyst, Niskanen Center.
    “JPMorganChase, like many companies, wants to attract and retain the very best qualified people of all abilities. We applaud the bipartisan reintroduction of the SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act, whichwould make common sense updates to the outdated rules for SSI benefits to reflect current economic conditions and keep pace with inflation,” said Bryan Gill, Global Head of the Office of Disability Affairs, JPMorganChase.
    “The U.S. Chamber of Commerce would like to thank Senators Cortez Masto and Cassidy and Representatives Davis and Fitzpatrick for their leadership in reintroducing the SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act, which would help employers fill many open jobs with older, experienced American workers who wish to stay in the workforce by raising the current asset limits for Supplemental Security Income program eligibility,” said Chantel Sheaks, Vice President of Retirement Policy, U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
    “SSI’s outdated asset limits have prevented older Americans and those with disabilities from being able to save even a small amount for an emergency or to have a modicum of economic security as they age, without the risk of losing vital benefits. Americans should not be prevented from saving a few dollars for unforeseen circumstances, and SSI beneficiaries are no exception. It is long-past time for Congress to update SSI’s asset limits, which have become overly restrictive and prevent the accumulation of even a small amount of personal savings. AARP therefore urges Congress to pass your SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act as soon as possible,” said Bill Sweeney, Senior Vice President, AARP Government Affairs.
    “Current policy imposes a difficult choice on Americans living with disabilities: spend their money now or lose access to essential support. This is nonsensical and denies some people the ability to save for future needs and opportunities. The SSI savings limit is long overdue for reform. A big thank you to the senators and representatives who are leading the way to a more humane policy,” said Galen Carey, Vice President of Government Relations, National Association of Evangelicals.
    “The SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act will update asset limits for Supplemental Security Income and remove outdated barriers that restrict economic opportunity and hinder workforce participation. We thank Senators Cortez Masto and Cassidy and Representatives Davis and Fitzpatrick, for championing this bipartisan legislation that will help broaden America’s workforce, bolster supply chains, and support disabled workers,” said Rylin Rodgers, Disability Policy Director, Microsoft.
    “BPC Action commends this effort by Sens. Cortez Masto (D-NV) and Cassidy (R-LA) and Representatives Davis (D-IL) and Fitzpatrick (R-PA)  and urges Congress to act on long-overdue bipartisan measures to empower seniors and Americans with disabilities enrolled in Supplemental Security Income to increase their household savings,” said Michele Stockwell, President, Bipartisan Policy Center Action.
    “A core component of the nation’s Social Security system, SSI is nothing short of a lifeline for more than 7 million of the nation’s poorest seniors and disabled people, including more than one million disabled children. But because it’s been left to wither on the vine for decades, with key eligibility criteria never updated even for inflation, outdated savings limits now trap millions in poverty — even though SSI was established to offer a pathway out. Senators Cortez Masto, Cassidy, and Wyden and Reps. Davis and Fitzpatrick are to be commended for their bipartisan leadership on the SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act — important legislation that would bring long overdue reform to one of the most regressive anti-savings policies on the books today. Even at a time of historic polarization, updating SSI’s asset limits is one issue Americans across the political spectrum can agree on — and the time is now to act,”said Rebecca Vallas, CEO, National Academy of Social Insurance. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Speaks In Support Of Senate Booker Holding The Senate Floor & Calls Out The Trump Admin’s Continued Efforts To Undermine The Rule Of Law

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
    April 01, 2025
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today joined Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) on the Senate floor to speak against efforts by the Trump Administration to undermine the rule of law. Booker has taken the Senate floor with the intention of disrupting the normal business of the Senate by speaking for as long as he is physically able. In his right as a Senator to speak without limitation, Booker is lifting up the voices of Americans who are being harmed and aren’t being heard by the Trump Administration and illustrating how this administration continues to disregard the rule of law, the Constitution, and the needs of the American people.
    “I first want to acknowledge this extraordinary moment in the history of the Senate. I believe you [Senator Booker] have been holding the Floor now for more than ten hours and perhaps will go on even longer… I didn’t want to miss this moment in history, not just for the historic nature of it, but for the substance of it as well,” Durbin said to Booker.
    Durbin began by recalling a recent Senate Judiciary Committee hearing where three Justice Department nominees failed to unequivocally commit to following federal court orders. The nominees were Harmeet Dhillon, to be Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division; Aaron Reitz, to be Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Legal Policy; and D. John Sauer, to be Solicitor General of the United States. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) filed cloture on the nominations of Ms. Dhillon and Mr. Sauer last night. Last week, the Senate confirmed Mr. Reitz’s nomination on a party-line vote.
    “The questioning went to the basics of our Constitution, which you have noted here today. And that is, what is the check and balance on a President? What is the accountability of a President under the Constitution?” Durbin said. “The question that was asked of the witnesses who were seeking positions in the Department of Justice, can a public official defy a court order? It seems so fundamental and basic. The answer is no, of course. But these three witnesses all equivocated in their own ways. Which raises the question, if this President is not held accountable by a court order, what then can control a President who misuses their office to the detriment of the nation or the people who live here? And that I thought was a fundamental question.”
    Durbin continued, “He [President Trump] has issued [more than 100] executive orders… executive orders questioning something as basic as birthright citizenship. The point that I’m getting to is in obvious situations here where President Trump has gone too far, where is the accountability… It could be in the courts. And if it goes to the courts, the question is will this President follow a court order if it goes against his policy? And if he won’t follow that court order, where is the accountability? Where is the check and balance? Where is the constitutional framework which is supposed to be at the foundation of this democracy? I think you’re [Senator Booker] raising important questions.”
    Durbin concluded, “I just commend you for raising this point because I believe it’s timely. It’s as timely as the questions that we asked of these Department of Justice nominees about the enforceability of court orders… I’m counting on some of our Republican friends to speak up.”
    Last month, Durbin twice asked for unanimous consent (UC) to pass a resolution that simply affirms that the Constitution vests the judicial power in the federal courts and that both the Constitution and established precedent require the executive branch to comply with all federal court rulings. Senate Republicans objected to both of Durbin’s UC requests.
    Video of Durbin’s remarks on the floor is available here.
    Audio of Durbin’s remarks on the floor is available here.
    Footage of Durbin’s remarks on the floor is available here for TV Stations.
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville, Cornyn Introduce Bill to Help Farmers Impacted by Feral Swine

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Tommy Tuberville (Alabama)
    Feral swine cause estimated $50 million in damages to Alabama every year
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) joined U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) and a bipartisan group of colleagues in reintroducing theFeral Swine Eradication Act, which would extend and make permanent a pilot program to safeguard public health, agriculture, and local ecosystems against the threat of feral swine:  
    “Feral swine are a serious threat to the livelihoods of Alabama’s farmers. Feral hogs destroy crops, land, and undo months, if not years, of work by our farmers to feed our country,” said Sen. Tuberville.“Feral swine cause an estimated $50 million in damages annually to Alabama. Despite eradication efforts, the pigs are still running rampant throughout the South. And so today, I’m standing with Alabama farmers and taking action to fight back against this threat.”
    “Feral hogs can inflict serious economic and environmental damage to our agricultural communities by destroying crops, trampling farmland, and threatening other livestock,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This legislation would support our farmers, ranchers, and producers in Texas and across the country by promoting removal and restoration efforts to mitigate the risk posed by this invasive species.”
    Also joining Senators Tuberville and Cornyn in introducing the legislation are U.S. SenatorsBen Ray Luján (D-NM), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Katie Britt (R-AL), and Jon Ossoff (D-GA). Rep. Barry Moore (R-AL) is once again leading the companion legislation in the House of Representatives.
    Bill text of the legislation can be found here.
    BACKGROUND:
    There are approximately six million feral hogs across the United States, which cause more than $2.5 billion in damages across the country each year, with $50 million in damages in Alabama specifically. The Feral Swine Eradication and Control Pilot Program (FSCP) was established in the 2018 Farm Bill to respond to rampant feral swine outbreaks and was implemented by the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and the Animal and Plant Health and Inspection Service (APHIS). This program included feral swine removal by APHIS, restoration efforts supported by NRCS, and assistance to producers for feral swine control through grants with non-federal partners. NRCS and APHIS successfully carried out these pilot projects in ten states, including in Alabama.
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP, and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senate Democrats Launch Social Security War Room to Fight Back Against Trump Admin Attacks

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    April 01, 2025
    Sens. Warren, Wyden, Kelly, Warnock organize new effort involving all members of Senate Democratic Caucus
    Warren: “Senate Democrats are united in saying: Trump and Elon, get your hands off our Social Security.”
    Washington, D.C. – Today, Senate Democrats led by U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), and Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), launched their new Social Security War Room, a coordinated effort to fight back against the Trump administration’s attack on Americans’ Social Security. The lawmakers announced the effort at a press conference in the U.S. Capitol following the Finance Committee’s vote to advance the nomination of Frank Bisignano, President Trump’s pick for Social Security Commissioner.
    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 admin Social Security cuts; reports revealing new information on impacts in states, wait times, and more; Social Security Administration office visits in War Room members’ states as well as Republican districts; and Social Security-focused town halls.
    “Senate Democrats are united in saying: Trump and Elon, get your hands off our Social Security. We’re fighting back on behalf of every single senior, every single parent of a kid with a disability supported by Social Security, every single person currently paying into the program for later down the line, and every American who cares that seniors can retire with dignity,” said Senator Warren.
    “We’re not going to stop calling out Republicans’ lies and rallying the American people to stand fully against these attacks on Social Security,” said Senator Wyden. “The War Room is just the beginning.”
    President Trump, Elon Musk, and DOGE have gutted the Social Security Administration in recent weeks, creating chaos and threatening Americans’ benefits. Last month, the Social Security Administration announced plans to cut about 7,000 employees, or about 12% of its workforce. It has also tried to significantly limit Americans’ access to services by shutting down regional offices, requiring in-person identity checks for new and existing beneficiaries, and forcing Americans to change direct deposit and other banking information online in person instead of by phone, posing a challenge to many seniors who rely on benefits.
    “Georgia seniors have been calling my office by 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.”
    “President Trump said he wouldn’t cut Social Security, but he and Elon Musk are firing people and making it harder for Americans to get their benefits,” said Senator Kelly. “I’m focused on hearing from Arizonans about how this is impacting them and sharing their stories.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch’s Bipartisan Bill to Help Dairy Farmers and Students Considered by the Agriculture Committee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    Welch urged Republicans to support USDA’s school nutrition and dairy support programs.
    WASHINGTON, D.C.—In an Agriculture Committee hearing today focused on U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.)’s Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, Sen. Welch celebrated Vermont’s dairy farmers and students and called for passage of this bipartisan, bicameral bill. Senator Welch also urged his colleagues to support school nutrition programs, including those championed by former Senator Leahy, which benefit students and local farmers. 
    “Kids are hungry and it’s through no fault of their own…It is really reassuring to me that we’re taking up this bill about whole milk. It’s about whole milk. It’s about our farmers. It’s about an acknowledgment that school is a place where kids get the opportunity to get some decent nutrition. It doesn’t matter what our politics are—we all care about our kids, right? …Whole food tends to be more locally produced. The virtuous cycle that happens when you are getting local products, milk from Vermont dairy (or Kansas dairy, or West Virginia) or vegetables grown locally, that is healthy food, but it’s also locally produced and strengthens the rural economy. All of us, in every one of our states, is really suffering from incredible pressures on the rural economy that is making life very difficult there,” said Senator Peter Welch.  
    “I hope that as we pursue this—this whole milk opportunity for our kids and for our farmers—that it is the beginning of the real commitment to nutritious, locally produced, natural foods as being a much bigger part of what our diet is,” continued Welch. 
    Watch the hearing here:  
    Senator Welch also questioned witness Dan Gorman, Food Service Director of Montague Area Public and North Muskegon Public Schools, about the importance of food programs created by Senator Welch’s predecessor, former Chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee Patrick Leahy, which have lost funding as a consequence of President Trump’s freeze on federal grants and loans: 
    Senator Welch: “Mr. Gorman, my predecessor in the United States Senate from Vermont is that man who’s staring at us right from his picture up there: former Chairman of the Agriculture Committee Patrick Leahy. And we in Vermont are very proud of all he did. One of his many accomplishments was the Patrick Leahy farm-to-school [program]…That was terminated for the rest of this fiscal year and my understanding understand is it will be reinstated next year.  Can you just comment on the benefit of Senators Leahy’s legacy program that was supported with a strong bipartisan majority in the United States Senate?”
    Mr. Gorman: “Thank you for that question. It really is. We were a recipient of the grant probably 5 or 6 years ago, and we had applied again this coming year and got that notice that it was cancelled. So, it was really crushing to us. It is a jumpstart to local food movements. I think about over our past 10-15 years, it started us building towards figuring out the local infrastructure and getting more local food and starting school gardens. Over the past five years we’ve gotten private and public grants in our county—over $2 million to move on this issue, to get kids so they understand what local food is, to make those connections. We’re starting a food processing plant in Muskegon County with the goal of getting local Michigan potatoes diced and frozen so we can get them on every plate in Muskegon County and beyond. All of that started with that farm-to-school grant that we got 10 years ago as a cooperative to start putting those pieces together.”  
    The bipartisan, bicameral Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, led by Senator Roger Marshall, MD (R-Kan.), would support America’s students and dairy farmers by allowing schools participating in the National School Lunch Program to offer students whole milk, in addition to reduced-fat, low-fat, fat-free, and lactose-free milk.  
    Senator Welch recently joined Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and 15 of his Democratic colleagues in introducing the Honor Farmer Contracts Act, legislation to release illegally withheld funding for all contracts and agreements previously entered into by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). This bill would require the USDA to pay farmers all past-due payments as quickly as possible to prevent them from having to shut down their operations.  Last week, Senator Welch and 30 Senators called on Secretary Rollins urging USDA to support local food for schools and local food system grant programs. 
    As Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture Subcommittee on Rural Development, Energy, and Credit, Senator Welch has led bipartisan efforts to support Vermont’s dairy farmers and strengthen the state’s dairy industry. Senator Welch introduced several bills in the 118th Congress to support Vermont’s dairy, organic, and specialty crop farmers; strengthen rural development and infrastructure; increase energy efficiency and renewable energy adoption; improve access to nutrition; strengthen our local food systems and expand markets; and make our communities more resilient to flooding. These bills were included in Senate Democrats’ draft Farm Bill, the Rural Prosperity and Food Security Act. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Statement at Executive Session to Consider SSA Commissioner

    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 an executive session to consider the nomination of Frank Bisignano to be Commissioner of the Social Security Administration (SSA).
    As prepared for delivery:
    “We meet today to vote on the nomination of Frank Bisignano be Commissioner of the Social Security Administration (SSA). 
    “As we have done with other nominees, the meeting this morning will provide members with the opportunity to make remarks on Mr. Bisignano’s nomination.  We will notify members of a time and location later today to conduct the vote. 
    “Mr. Bisignano has more than 30 years of executive leadership experience in banks and financial institutions.  He currently serves as the Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Fiserv, Inc., a leader in payments and financial technology. 
    “At his nomination hearing, Mr. Bisignano discussed his vision for improving the Social Security Administration’s service to the public, including bringing down wait times for the SSA’s National 800 Number and for claims decisions.
    “While Mr. Bisignano has extensive experience using information technology to improve organizational performance, he also understands the importance of meeting customers where they are.  He committed to ensuring that individuals can interact with SSA in the way they prefer, whether in-person, by phone or online. 
    “Mr. Bisignano would also draw on his decades of experience to improve SSA’s payment accuracy.  When SSA issues an improper payment, it places a burden on the affected beneficiaries, agency employees and taxpayers. 
    “I look forward to working with him to achieve these important goals.
    “Before moving on, let me address the allegations made during Mr. Bisignano’s nomination hearing that he “lied about his connections to DOGE and its efforts to break Social Security.”  I remind my colleagues that Mr. Bisignano does not currently hold a position at the Social Security Administration, let alone a decision-making position. 
    “Mr. Bisignano’s nomination was first announced in December 2024 and he has been going through the Finance Committee’s rigorous due diligence process for months.  Yet, the allegations against Mr. Bisignano, made in an anonymous letter, were not shared with me or my staff until after his hearing commenced. 
    “The anonymous letter claims that Mr. Bisignano insisted on personally approving several key DOGE hires at the agency and getting frequent briefings.  Mr. Bisignano responded to these allegations in writing this weekend as part of the questions for the record.  Mr. Bisignano stated that he does not have a role at SSA and was not part of the decision-making process led by the current Acting Commissioner, Lee Dudek, about SSA operations, personnel, or management.  Mr. Bisignano stated he communicated with former Acting Commissioner Michelle King multiple times and had brief introductory phone calls with individuals chosen for various acting roles.  Mr. Bisignano said he has not spoken with Acting Commissioner Dudek, beyond a short introductory phone call. 
    “The anonymous letter specifically mentions four individuals that Mr. Bisignano has been in contact with and/or pushed SSA to onboard.  Mr. Bisignano reiterated, in writing, that he has a twenty-year professional relationship with one contact; periodic contact with another on general matters related to the agency; was referred to another to help him with preparation for his confirmation hearing; and the last individual he does not know, at all.
    “Even though the timing of the anonymous letter suggests a political effort to delay a Committee vote on this nominee, my staff have told Senator Wyden’s staff we are open to meeting with the author of the letter and keeping the individual anonymous.  However, any information provided by the individual must be thoroughly vetted, including allowing the nominee the opportunity to respond.  A process for vetting the allegations has not been agreed to.
    “The issue here, as I understand it, is the frequency and details of communications between the nominee and SSA officials.  The nominee has responded in writing to these allegations. 
    “The SSA needs steady, Senate-confirmed leadership.  Mr. Bisignano would bring his decades-long focus on strong customer service and operational excellence to the SSA.  I urge my colleagues to support his nomination.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall Joins Judiciary Committee Chairman Grassley in Introducing Legislation to Stop Abuses of Federal Injunctions Against President Trump

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Washington – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) joined Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and 20 of their Senate Republican colleagues in introducing the Judicial Relief Clarification Act of 2025 (JRCA). This legislation would end the practice of universal injunctions – which have been abused to prevent executive actions by President Donald Trump – in addition to clarifying the constitutional role of the judicial branch.
    The legislation would also limit the ability of lower courts to block legitimate executive action by issuing orders to nonparties to the lawsuit. In addition, JRCA would also make temporary restraining orders against the government immediately appealable, ensuring that prudence carries more weight than rash decisions handed down in the heat of a political moment.
    “Radical District Court Judges across the country are using, and in many cases abusing, universal injunctions to slam the brakes on President Trump’s America First Agenda – even though the American people overwhelmingly voted in support of it in November,” said Senator Marshall. “These injunctions are disruptive of the normal legal process and overstep judicial authority. It’s time to rein them in.”
    “For a number of years, but particularly in the last few months, we’ve increasingly seen sweeping orders from individual district judges that dictate national policy. Our Founders saw an important role for the judiciary, but the Constitution limits judges to exercising power over ‘cases’ or ‘controversies.’ Judges are not policymakers and allowing them to assume this role is very dangerous,” send Senator Grassley. “The Judicial Relief Clarification Act clarifies the scope of judicial power and resolves illegitimate judicial infringement upon the executive branch. It’s a commonsense bill that’s needed to provide long-term constitutional clarity and curb district courts’ growing tendency to overstep by issuing sweeping, nationwide orders.”
    The legislation is cosponsored by Senators John Barrasso (R-Wyoming), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tennessee), Katie Britt (R-Alabama), Ted Budd (R-North Carolina), Bill Cassidy (R-Louisianna), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Steve Daines (R-Montana), Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina), Bill Hagerty (R-Tennessee), Jim Justice (R-West Virginia), John Kennedy (R-Louisiana), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming), Ashley Moody (R-Florida), Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio), Eric Schmitt (R-Missouri), Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina), and Tommy Tuberville (R-Alabama).
    Click HERE to read the full bill text.

    MIL OSI USA News –