NewzIntel.com

Category: US Senate

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 03/24/2025 Blackburn, Shaheen, Duckworth Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Place a WWII Women’s Memorial on National Mall

    US Senate News:

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), and Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) introduced the World War II Women’s Memorial Location Act—bipartisan, bicameral legislation to place a memorial honoring women’s contributions to World War II on the National Mall in the nation’s capital. Companion legislation to designate a memorial commemorating the women who worked on the home front to support the efforts of the United States military was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Representative Debbie Dingell (D-Mich.) and Representative Russ Fulcher (R-Idaho). 

    “Over 18 million women served on the home front during World War II, playing a key role in American history. They helped support their country while inspiring future generations of women to join the workforce,” said Senator Blackburn. “A memorial honoring the sacrifice and service of these women should be placed on the National Mall as a powerful reminder of their legacy in fighting for freedom and building the equipment needed by America’s troops during World War II.” 

    “The monuments and memorials displayed in Washington tell America’s story,” said Senator Shaheen. “The invaluable contributions of ‘Rosie the Riveters’ during World War II are measured not only by the countless American lives they helped save, but also by the generations of women they inspired to serve our nation. Our bipartisan legislation designates a permanent home to memorialize the brave women who worked on the home front during the second world war.” 

    “It’s long past time we memorialize the contributions hardworking women made during World War II beside all the other historic memorials on the National Mall,” said Senator Duckworth. “I’m proud our legislation was signed into law to establish a memorial in D.C. to honor the millions of women who rolled up their sleeves and took whatever job was necessary to help move our country forward during World War II. Now, Congress must pass this bipartisan legislation to ensure this memorial is rightfully placed on the National Mall where their legacy can be remembered and preserved prominently for generations to come.” 

    More than 18 million women answered the call to hold down the home front by working as pilots, engineers, electricians, mechanics, code breakers and more during World War II.   

    In 2022, Congress passed bipartisan legislation authorizing the Women Who Worked on the Home Front Foundation to establish a memorial on the National Mall in Washington, DC to commemorate the service and sacrifice of these women to the United States. The legislation introduced by Blackburn, Shaheen, and Duckworth would authorize the location of the memorial to be on the National Mall so that it can be built within walking distance of the World War II Memorial.   

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 03/10/2025 Blackburn, Joins Bipartisan Effort to Expedite Disaster Assistance to Farmers Following Hurricane Helene

    US Senate News:

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), and Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.) and Representatives Chuck Edwards (R-N.C.) and Don Davis (D-N.C.), sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins urging the department to publish clear guidelines on administering disaster relief aid for farmers.

    Hurricanes Helene and Milton Caused Catastrophic Damages to Crops, Livestock, and Agricultural Infrastructure

    “Following the destruction caused by recent natural disasters, including the catastrophic damages caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton, our agricultural producers are heavily relying on the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to efficiently and fairly disperse this assistance. As you know, these natural disasters have caused irreparable damage to commodity and specialty crops, livestock, forestlands, and infrastructure, leaving farmers, ranchers, and foresters in desperate need of support. As the backbone of rural America, our workers in the agriculture and forestry industries desperately need access to the emergency funding Congress provided.”

    Additional Clarity from USDA on Disaster Payments Would Help More Tennessee Farmers Receive the Assistance They Need

    “Producers from vulnerable agriculture communities that were hit hard by these recent natural disasters are at risk of greatly downsizing or having to shut down their operations if the agricultural disaster relief funding is not fully accessible in the upcoming months. Clear direction and quick action from the USDA on disaster payment structure would provide certainty and, in many cases, a lifeline for farmers to continue their operations. Lack of clarity in the rulemaking process for natural disaster programs will prevent many farmers from fully utilizing the aid.”

    CO-SIGNERS

    The letter is also signed by Senators Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Jim Justice (R-W.Va.), Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.) and Representatives David Rouzer (R-N.C.), Richard Hudson (R-N.C.), Virginia Foxx (R-N.C.), Greg Murphy, M.D. (R-N.C.), Tim Moore (R-N.C.), Deborah Ross (D-N.C.), Brad Knott (R-N.C.), Pat Harrigan (R-N.C.), Addison McDowell (R-N.C.), Austin Scott (R-Ga.), Sanford Bishop Jr. (D-Ga.), Buddy Carter (R-Ga.), David Scott (D-Ga.), Rick Allen (R-Ga.), Morgan Griffith (R-Va.), Vern Buchanan (R-Fla.), Kathy Castor (D-Fla.), and Scott Franklin (R-Fla.). 

    Full text of the letter can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto, Wyden, Padilla Statement on Reports the IRS Plans to Share Sensitive Taxpayer Data to DHS

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), and Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) released the following statement in response to reports the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is planning to provide sensitive taxpayer information to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to locate suspected undocumented immigrants.

    This statement comes after their letter to IRS Acting Commissioner Melanie Krause, IRS Acting Chief Counsel Andrew De Mello, and DHS Secretary Kristi Noem demanding answers on reports that DHS and the “Department of Government Efficiency” have illegally requested sensitive taxpayer information from the IRS. So far, the Trump Administration has not responded to their demand for answers about their plans to require the IRS to turn over home addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses of over 700,000 people.

     “This weekend, it became clear that the Trump Administration is finalizing plans totarget and penalize people who are following federal law and contributing to our economy. This agreement between the IRS and DHS – if finalized – will have long-lasting and devastating implications on our economy, taxpayer privacy, immigrant communities, and the rule of law.

    “It’s past time for the Trump Administration to make their plans public. The IRS and DHS must disclose the extent of this agreement and brief Congress immediately.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Markey Joins Peters, Senate Committee Ranking Members in Demanding Immediate Review by Agency Inspectors General of Trump Administration’s Mass Dismissals of Federal Employees

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    Senators Question Trump Administration Claims and Whether Actions Will Increase Waste and Abuse

    Washington (March 21, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Ranking Member of the Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee joined Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), Ranking Member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, and 15 Senate Committee Ranking Members in sending a letter to the Inspectors General of 23 federal agencies, pressing for details on the impact of President Trump’s sweeping and unprecedented dismissal of tens of thousands of federal employees. The senators asked the Inspectors General to review the Trump Administration’s actions, citing potential violations of federal laws and procedures, which the senators warn could harm Americans’ access to vital government services and increase waste and abuse of taxpayer dollars.
    “The decision to terminate thousands of employees across multiple federal agencies will impose undue hardship on millions of Americans who rely on their services,” wrote the Senators. “The loss of experienced agency staff may risk causing serious disruptions to nearly 73 million Americans who rely on the Social Security Administration (SSA) to administer retiree and disability benefits and 9.1 million veterans who depend on the Department of Veteran Affairs (V.A.), many of which rely on the V.A. for life saving medical treatments and care.”  
    Highlighting the devastating consequences of these mass firings, the senators underscored the Trump Administration’s layoffs have already disrupted critical operations at agencies that millions of Americans depend on for survival. 
    “Among the 2,400 employees fired from the V.A. since Mr. Trump’s inauguration are workers who purchase medical supplies, schedule appointments and arrange rides for patients to see their doctors,” wrote the Senators, citing a NY Times report. “Additionally, taxpayers seeking in-person assistance as they navigate the 2025 filing season may find the support centers they previously relied on completely relocated or shuttered. That risk is a direct consequence of the Administration’s mass dismissals and decision to terminate over 100 IRS offices with Tax Assistance Centers (TAC) – which provide free, in-person assistance for those seeking it.”
    The senators are requesting that IGs examine whether these dismissals violated agency policies and assess the damage to agency missions, public safety, and national security, calling for an initial review to be completed within 60 days, with findings made available to the public to ensure transparency and accountability.  
    The letter was signed by U.S. Senators and Ranking Members Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Special Committee on Aging, Patty Murray (D-WA), Committee on Appropriations, Jack Reed (D-RI), Committee on Armed Services, Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs, Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Committee on Environment and Public Works, Ron Wyden (D-OR), Committee on Finance, Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Committee on Foreign Relations, Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions, Dick Durbin (D-IL), Committee on the Judiciary, Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, and Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Committee on the Budget.
    The full text of the letter can be found here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Markey Celebrates Opening of South Coast Rail

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey
    For the first time in 65 years, cities and towns in southeastern Massachusetts will have passenger rail service
    Boston (March 24, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, released the following statement celebrating the formal opening of South Coast Commuter Rail service. South Coast Rail will offer reliable public transit between Boston and communities in southeastern Massachusetts, including Taunton, New Bedford, Fall River, Middleborough, Freetown, and the surrounding region. It represents the first time since the late 1950s that riders on the South Coast can take a one-seat rail trip to Boston. Now, all major cities within 50 miles of Boston have Commuter Rail access.
    “We are one stop closer to transit justice with daily Commuter Rail service to southeastern Massachusetts,” said Senator Markey. “The opening of South Coast Rail represents a long-awaited celebration for Taunton, Fall River, New Bedford, and beyond. I am grateful to Governor Healey, the MBTA, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, and all the leaders and advocates on the South Coast who are making this project a reality. This milestone represents a major leap in addressing a critical gap in our state’s public transit system. Together, we are expanding rail service, reducing congestion, increasing economic opportunity, and more equitably connecting our Commonwealth. I look forward to continuing to work with state and local officials, community members, and our federal delegation to expand public transit throughout the South Coast and across Massachusetts.”
    Senator Markey is a long-time advocate for expanding rail transit. He previously introduced the Building Rail Across Intercity Networks To Ride Around Interior of the Nation (BRAIN TRAIN) Act, which established a new $25 billion passenger rail grant program and required the Federal Railroad Administration to prioritize projects that connect historically under-connected areas such as the South Coast. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law established a new Corridor Identification and Development Program aligned with, and that includes language from Senator Markey’s BRAIN TRAIN Act. Last Congress, he introduced the All Aboard Act, which would dedicate $200 billion over five years to build high-speed rail, expand existing passenger rail service, and electrify the most heavily polluting railyards and corridors. The legislation also includes critical labor protections for the existing union labor workforce and creates a rail personnel training grant program for rail workers. Senator Markey has also been a strong advocate to secure funding for West-East passenger train service running through Boston, Worcester, and Western Massachusetts, helping to secure a $108 million grant for the project, followed by a second $36.8 million grant.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Medicaid Cuts Would Cost Money and Endanger Lives, Say Central WA Health Care Providers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell
    03.21.25
    Medicaid Cuts Would Cost Money and Endanger Lives, Say Central WA Health Care Providers
    Medicaid, known in WA as Apple Health, would face significant cuts from GOP budget proposal to slash up to $880 billion from essential health care program
    RICHLAND, WA – 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, held a press conference with Central Washington health care professionals and providers to discuss the harms that would result from proposed cuts to Medicaid.
    “Our health care system today does save money when we give people the freedom to see a doctor when they need to, instead of forcing them to wait until they absolutely have to,” said Sen. Cantwell. ”These attempts aren’t about reducing costs, they are literally about destroying our health care system.”
    “It is a tsunami. And trust me, this is not a drill,” she continued. “This is a real proposal, and we have to wake up the American people, and certainly here in Central Washington, to the devastating impacts they could see if Medicaid was cut.”
    “There’s very good evidence from multiple studies that preventive care delivers better quality of life, better health outcomes, at a lower overall cost,” said Dr. Richard Meadows, Chief Medical Officer, Providence Clinical Network. “The thought that somehow saving money by not funding Medicaid would be better for our country, it just does not make any financial sense, because we know from studies that if you wait and treat things later on it is far more expensive. People miss more time from work, they’re not able to be there for their families, and ultimately it costs all of us as taxpayers more money.”
    Brenda Morgan, a Tri-Cities area home care provider, shared the story of her client, Samantha, an autistic young adult with a heart condition, who needs a feeding tube for meals and medications. “She wants me to ask you,” Morgan said, “’Why aren’t people thinking about us? Do they not know that I can’t survive without Medicaid?’”
    Medicaid is the federal program that insures many low-income adults and children, pregnant people, seniors, and people with disabilities. Washington state’s Medicaid program, Apple Health, ensures that eligible Washingtonians can afford to seek health care and see providers when they need to.  The program also ensures that hospitals receive reimbursements for the significant number of low-income people they serve. Medicaid paid for $3.36 billion in hospital care in Washington state in state fiscal year 2024. More than 1.9 million Washingtonians are enrolled in Medicaid.
    In the 4th U.S. Congressional District, 70% of children and 24% of adults are covered by Medicaid / Apple Health.
    In Washington state legislative district 16, which includes Richland, 60% of kids and 32% of the total population are covered by Medicaid / Apple Health.
    In legislative district 8, which includes Kennewick and most of Benton County, 49% of kids and 26% of the total population are covered by Medicaid / Apple Health.
    In Yakima County’s legislative district 15, 87% of kids and 51% of the population are covered by Medicaid / Apple Health. These are the highest numbers for any legislative district in the state.
    On February 25, House Republicans voted to advance President Trump’s budget resolution, which proposes up to an $880 billion cut from Medicaid.
    Last month, Sen. Cantwell released a snapshot report highlighting the impact that slashing Medicaid to fund tax cuts for corporations and the ultra-wealthy would have on Washington state’s health care system — especially in Central and Eastern Washington.
    The other participants in today’s roundtable were Reza Kaleel, Chief Executive Southeast Washington Service Area Kadlec and Providence St. Mary; Regina Ahl, Director of Pharmacy, Tri-Cities Community Health; Dr. John Matheson, Chief Medical Officer, Kadlec Regional Medical Center; and Everett Maroon, Executive Director, Blue Mountain Heart to Heart.       
    Video of today’s entire press conference is HERE; video of Sen. Cantwell’s opening statement is HERE; photos are HERE; and a transcript of Sen. Cantwell’s opening statement is HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: What are they hiding? Murray, DeLauro Demand OMB Promptly Restore Access to Website Detailing Federal Spending Allocations, As Federal Law Requires

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
    Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Senate Appropriations Committee Vice Chair, and Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (D-CT-03), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee, issued the following joint statement after the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) moved to unlawfully hide how the agency directs agencies to spend taxpayer dollars. OMB hid this information by destroying a website that publicly displayed all of these decisions, known as apportionments.
    “Federal law is unequivocal: OMB must publish the agency’s legally-binding budget decisions. Congress enacted these requirements over a Democratic President’s objections on a bipartisan basis because our constituents, and all American taxpayers, deserve transparency and accountability for how their money is being spent. Taking down this website is not just illegal it is a brazen move to hide this administration’s spending from the American people and from Congress. We call on OMB to immediately restore access to the website and resume compliance with this most basic, bipartisan transparency requirement.”
    Apportionments are legally binding budget decisions issued by OMB under title 31 of the U.S. Code. These documents are final, decisional, and legally binding on agencies, and officials responsible for violating an apportionment may be subject to administrative discipline, including suspension without pay and termination, and the knowing and willful violation of an apportionment carries with it criminal penalties under the Antideficiency Act.
    The 2022 bipartisan appropriations bills instated a requirement for OMB to publicly post in an accessible format all approved apportionments within two business days, along with any footnotes, an explanation for those footnotes. The following year, Congress made those requirements permanent. Those bipartisan requirements have been carried out for the last three years without incident—allowing lawmakers and the public to track OMB’s legal-binding budget decisions.
    As of March 24, however, OMB’s apportionments database was taken down with no notice or explanation, and reporting indicates the website was destroyed in defiance of the bipartisan requirements enshrined in federal law that OMB maintain the site.
    Importantly, there have never been national security concerns associated with this statutory requirement, and the law requires OMB to make any classified documentation referenced in any apportionment available at the request of the Chair or Ranking Member of any appropriate congressional committee. Classified programs are frequently addressed in public statutory language, including in the recently passed Republican full year continuing resolution, with classified annexes available on a need-to-know basis.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Before Confirmation Hearing, Warren Slams Top Military Health Nominee on Record of “Severe and Systemic” Problems

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    March 24, 2025
    Keith Bass would be responsible for military health care system that provides care for over nine million active and retired servicemembers and their families
    “Given your checkered past involving the disbursement of controlled substances within the [White House], and your failures in managing the CIA’s health care program, I am concerned that if you are confirmed, you will not be able to effectively manage the military health care system, placing care at risk for millions.” 
    Text of Letter (PDF)
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, wrote to Mr. Keith Bass, nominee for Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs (ASD[HA]), demanding an explanation for the problems that occurred under his watch at the White House Medical Unit (WHMU) and the Central Intelligence Agency’s health care program. 
    Mr. Bass is scheduled to appear before the Senate Armed Services Committee for his nomination hearing on Thursday, March 27, 2025. If confirmed, Mr. Bass would be in charge of the Military Health System, which provides health care to approximately 9.5 million active and retired service members and their families, would become a top advisor at DoD on “force health protection policies, programs, and activities,” and oversee budgeting across the military health program. But his record raises serious concerns about his ability to fulfill the responsibilities of the role. 
    From 2013 to 2019, Mr. Bass oversaw the WHMU, overseeing care to the President, other senior officials, and their families. During his tenure, several complaints were filed against him for overseeing “an operation that widely dispensed sedatives and stimulants, among other concerns.” An independent investigation by the Department of Defense’s (DoD) Inspector General found that, under Bass’ tenure, the WHMU pharmacy operations had “severe and systemic problems” and was found to have violated federal law by handing out “sedatives such as Ambien and stimulants such as Provigil without proper prescriptions” to ineligible staff while “us[ing] aliases in electronic health records to disguise the patients’ identities and deliver free care in cases where the recipients wouldn’t be eligible.” 
    “At best, you were oblivious to the wide distribution of sedatives and stimulants by WHMU’s pharmacy operations and, in the worst case, you were complicit. Either scenario should disqualify you from serving as the ASD(HA),” said Senator Warren. 
    After leaving the WHMU, Mr. Bass served as Director of the Office of Medical Services (OMS) at the CIA, where he was reportedly “pushed out” because of his “messy” management, poor communication, “badly handl[ing] the surge of Covid-19 cases,” and “fumbling the agency’s handling of Havana Syndrome.” 
    “Your poor performance in this position casts doubt on your ability to serve in a position requiring broader management skills,” said Senator Warren. 
    “Given your checkered past involving the disbursement of controlled substances within the WHMU, and your failures in managing the CIA’s health care program, I am concerned that if you are confirmed, you will not be able to effectively manage the military health care system, placing care at risk for millions,” concluded Senator Warren. 
    Senator Warren asked Mr. Bass to explain his involvement in the illegal distribution of controlled substances at the White House, his knowledge of the “severe and systemic” problems at the WHMU, the issues during his tenure at the CIA, and asked him to commit to not lobby DoD after his service. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy, Cassidy applaud Pres. Trump for supporting Louisiana energy production

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)

    WASHINGTON – Sens. John Kennedy (R-La.) and Bill Cassidy (R-La.) sent a letter to President Trump to applaud his administration for restoring pro-energy policies in America and recognizing Louisiana as one of the nation’s leaders in energy production.

    Key excerpts of the letter are below:

    “We are writing to highlight the critical role that Louisiana plays in securing America’s position as the world’s leading liquefied natural gas (LNG) exporter. LNG will play a key role in restoring American energy dominance, and our state is ready to increase supply. We appreciate your decision on Day One to reverse the pause on non-FTA [free trade agreement] LNG export permitting, and we applaud your administration’s decision for Interior Secretary [Doug] Burgum and Energy Secretary [Chris] Wright to visit a Louisiana LNG facility as one of their first energy trips.

    “Louisiana is the backbone of America’s LNG export industry, accounting for more than 60% of all U.S. LNG exports last year. . . . Under your leadership, the U.S. is positioned to achieve record-breaking LNG exports, reinforcing energy dominance and providing allies with reliable, affordable, and cleaner-burning natural gas.” 

    . . . 

    “We look forward to working with you on policies to allow the LNG sector to thrive. Ensuring consistent, predictable policies from the administration and Congress will bolster U.S. competitiveness and reinforce our nation’s energy leadership.”

    Read the full letter here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy, Van Hollen champion bipartisan bill to deter executives of foreign companies from insider trading at the expense of American investors

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)

    WASHINGTON – Sens. John Kennedy (R-La.) and Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), members of the Senate Banking Committee, today reintroduced the Holding Foreign Insiders Accountable Act to hold executives of foreign companies that are traded on U.S. stock exchanges to the same disclosure requirements that U.S.-based firms are required to follow. 

    “Insiders at companies in Beijing and Moscow have been able to avoid billions in losses on the U.S. stock exchange by playing by a different set of rules than Americans do. This insider trading comes at a cost to American investors. The Holding Foreign Insiders Accountable Act will help stop opportunistic insider trading by requiring foreign executives to disclose trades immediately,” said Kennedy.

    “When corporate insiders sell their stocks, investors and the public have a right to know. U.S. firms are required to disclose these trades and provide this information to the public, but foreign companies don’t have to play by the same rules. Our legislation will ensure all corporate insiders are held to the same standard and prevent foreign executives from insider trading at the expense of American investors,” said Van Hollen.

    Currently, executives of U.S. publicly traded companies must disclose any trades they make of their own company’s stocks to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) within two business days. Meanwhile, executives of foreign firms are not required to make such timely disclosures and are required to file by paper. The lag this system creates means that foreign executives can keep trades private for a longer period of time, which promotes insider trading at the expense of everyday American investors.

    The legislation would amend Section 16 (a) of the Securities Exchange Act to require executives of public companies based outside the U.S. to make electronic disclosures of trades in their company’s stocks to the SEC within two business days. The SEC would then make that information available to the public, as they currently do with U.S.-based firms. 

    Background:

    • In April 2023, Kennedy and Van Hollen outlined their bill in the Wall Street Journal.  
    • In Aug. 2022, reports uncovered that Chinese investors of corporations listed on U.S. exchanges avoided billions of dollars in losses by making seemingly informed sock sales ahead of declines.
    • In May 2022, Kennedy first introduced the Holding Foreign Insiders Accountable Act. 

    Text of the Holding Foreign Insiders Accountable Act is available here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Risch, Crapo Introduce Bill to Deliver Combat-Injured Veterans Full Military Benefits

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho James E Risch

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Jim Risch and Mike Crapo (both R-Idaho) introduced the Major Richard Star Act to provide combat-injured veteran retirees their full benefits.

    “Our veterans made significant sacrifices for our freedoms. Penalizing their retirement benefits due to injuries they incurred during their honorable service to our country is unacceptable,” said Risch. “The Major Richard Star Act protects the entirety of veterans’ earned benefits and give our nation’s heroes the respect they deserve.”

    “The Major Richard Star Act corrects a severe injustice for combat-wounded veterans,” said Crapo. “The support for this correction is clear. Though the namesake of our legislation is no longer with us, I continue to press for its passage on behalf of the more than 50,000 veterans, including hundreds in Idaho, who stand to benefit.”  

    Currently, only veterans with disability ratings above 50% and more than 20 years of service are eligible to receive the full amount of their Department of Defense (DOD) retirement and Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) disability payments—leaving behind more than 50,000 combat-injured military retirees. The Major Richard Star Act will fix this unjust policy for retired combat veterans—providing them with their full VA disability and DOD retirement payments.

    This legislation is named in honor of Major Richard A. Star, a decorated war veteran who was forced to medically retire due to his combat-related injuries. Major Star sadly lost his battle with cancer on February 13, 2021.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Shaheen Discusses Foreign Affairs, Trump Tariffs, Her Decision to Not Seek Reelection and More on WMUR’s CloseUp

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen

    (Manchester, NH) – On Sunday, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, joined Adam Sexton on WMUR’s CloseUp to discuss ongoing global affairs such as Russia’s war in Ukraine, as well as pressing issues in New Hampshire including the harmful impacts of President Trump’s tariffs and Republican-led threats to federal services. The Senator also detailed her decision to not seek reelection. The first segment can be found here and the second segment can be found here.   

    Key quotes from Senator Shaheen below: 

    On threats to U.S. leadership abroad:  

    • “Both ceasefires that this President is talking about taking credit for are falling apart already. The ceasefire in Israel with Gaza has already fallen apart. The ceasefire that he’s trying to broker with Russia has already fallen apart.” 
    • “[Elon Musk] came up with this brilliant idea to get rid of USAID and so has undermined so many of our efforts that help us compete with China around the world. Our efforts that keep Americans safe because we’re tracking epidemics in places like Africa. That promote democracy efforts in countries where, if we’re not there China comes in and takes up that vacuum that we’ve left. So, I think he’s totally misguided, and he has no real understanding of what it means for the United States to be a leader in the world.”  

    On the harmful impact of President Trump’s tariffs on Granite State businesses:  

    • “I was at C&J[…] yesterday. He’s had to cancel more than half of his bus order for new busses that are made in Canada because he’s concerned about the additional cost.” 
    • “I was up north on Wednesday in the North Country, talking to Littleton town officials who were talking about visitors coming down to New Hampshire who they’re concerned are not going to be here, about small businesses that are worried they are not expanding because they’re worried about the inability to have the relationship that they have had with Canada.” 

    On Elon Musk and DOGE’s gutting of federal services: 

    • “We are in this economic mess because of the decisions that President Trump is making about tariffs, about the uncertainty that he’s created, about the chaos that he’s created in Washington, about the layoffs that he’s doing and I want to keep people focused on that.” 
    • “The fact is, Donald Trump, in his campaign said he was going to do something about grocery prices. He was going to do something about inflation. He was going to do something about high energy costs. He was going to do something about the cost of rental housing and he was going to address mortgage rates. He was going to end the war in Ukraine on the first day. He’s done none of those things.” 

    On her decision not to seek reelection: 

    • “It’s time to think about what else I might want to do. I’m not going to leave trying to make a difference in New Hampshire and [I’ll] still be engaged, but it will be nice to have a little more flexibility to do some other things.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen, Blackburn, Duckworth Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Place a WWII Women’s Memorial on National Mall

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen

    (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today introduced the World War II Women’s Memorial Location Act—bipartisan, bicameral legislation to place a memorial honoring women’s contributions to World War II on the National Mall in the nation’s capital. Companion legislation to designate a memorial commemorating the women who worked on the home front to support the efforts of the United States military was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by U.S. Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) and U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher (R-ID-01). 

    “The monuments and memorials displayed in Washington tell America’s story,” said Senator Shaheen. “The invaluable contributions of ‘Rosie the Riveters’ during World War II are measured not only by the countless American lives they helped save, but also by the generations of women they inspired to serve our nation. Our bipartisan legislation designates a permanent home to memorialize the brave women who worked on the home front during the second world war.” 

     “Over 18 million women served on the home front during World War II, playing a key role in American history. They helped support their country while inspiring future generations of women to join the workforce,” said Senator Blackburn. “A memorial honoring the sacrifice and service of these women should be placed on the National Mall as a powerful reminder of their legacy in fighting for freedom and building the equipment needed by America’s troops during World War II.” 

    “It’s long past time we memorialize the contributions hardworking women made during World War II beside all the other historic memorials on the National Mall,” said Senator Duckworth. “I’m proud our legislation was signed into law to establish a memorial in D.C. to honor the millions of women who rolled up their sleeves and took whatever job was necessary to help move our country forward during World War II. Now, Congress must pass this bipartisan legislation to ensure this memorial is rightfully placed on the National Mall where their legacy can be remembered and preserved prominently for generations to come.” 

    More than 18 million women answered the call to hold down the home front by working as pilots, engineers, electricians, mechanics, code breakers and more during World War II.   

    In 2022, Congress passed bipartisan legislation authorizing the Women Who Worked on the Home Front Foundation to establish a memorial on the National Mall in Washington, DC to commemorate the service and sacrifice of these women to the United States. The legislation introduced by Shaheen, Blackburn and Duckworth would authorize the location of the memorial to be on the National Mall so that it can be built within walking distance of the World War II Memorial.   

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lee Introduces the Restraining Judicial Insurrectionists Act of 2025

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Utah Mike Lee

    Bill would stop blanket injunctions from sabotaging President Trump’s legitimate constitutional authority as Commander in Chief

     

    WASHINGTON – Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) today introduced the Restraining Judicial Insurrectionists Act of 2025, which establishes a three-judge panel to swiftly review injunctions or declaratory relief against the President of the United States and the Executive Branch, with quick appeal to the Supreme Court. This legislation comes in the wake of several decisions by district court judges usurping the role of the Chief Executive from President Donald Trump and attempting to thwart the will of the American people who elected him. 

    “America’s government cannot function if the legitimate orders of our Commander in Chief can be overridden at the whim of a single district court judge,” said Senator Lee. “They have presumed to run the military, the civil service, foreign aid, and HR departments across the Executive Branch—blatantly unconstitutional overreach. This legislation will create a judicial panel to expedite Supreme Court review of these blanket injunctions, preventing unelected radicals in robes from sabotaging the separation of powers.”

      

    BACKGROUND ON THE RESTRAINING JUDICIAL INSURRECTIONISTS ACT OF 2025

    • The bill amends 28 USC 2284 to state that any action commenced against the executive seeking injunctive or declaratory relief against the Executive will go to a three-judge district court.
    • Next, it requires that upon filing any covered action, the district judge who received the complaint and/or motion for preliminary injunction will refer the matter to the Chief Justice. The Chief Justice will then be required to select three judges in active service to preside over the case.
    • Additionally, the bill requires that a majority of the judges must agree to issue any form of relief, preliminary or permanent.
    • Finally, because this is a three-judge district court, all orders are directly appealable to the Supreme Court without discretion—so they must take up the case. 

    You can read the bill text HERE.

    You can read the Washington Examiner’s exclusive coverage HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn Recaps Events in Texas on Trump Tax Cuts, Unleashing American Energy

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn

    WASHINGTON – Today on the floor, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) recapped his travel in Texas during the state work period, including visits to Corpus Christi, Houston, Midland, Dallas, San Antonio, and Austin to discuss the importance of unleashing Texas’ energy industry with oil and gas workers and renewing the Trump tax cuts with small business owners. Excerpts of Sen. Cornyn’s remarks are below, and video can be found here.

    “From Corpus Christi, which is on the Gulf Coast of Texas, [and] Houston, also along the Gulf Coast, now the Gulf of America, to Midland to Dallas to San Antonio, Austin, and I had great conversations with folks that are praising the work that we’re doing here in Congress.”

    “I went down to Corpus Christi, which is on the Gulf Coast of the Coastal Bend region of Texas, and met with energy businesses located there.”

    “We had a great discussion about the importance of the Port of Corpus Christi and the product that passes through that port that helps America’s energy independence and helps our friends and allies around the world.”

    “Another important opportunity I had during the state work period was to meet with my constituents to talk about the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and how it has helped their small businesses and their employees thrive.”

    “I met with the good folks at Southland Hardware in Houston, Texas… We also had representatives from Empire Tools and Sylvia’s Enchilada Kitchen and Tejas Office Products—all thriving small business owners who shared their support for the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and explained why it needed to be extended.”

    “I heard the same thing from business owners all across the state, including Austin, where I live. We went to Wally’s Burger Express in Austin.”

    “I went there in 2018, and I went back, and Robert Mayfield, who employs a single franchise there in Austin, seven years later reported that the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act had been very, very helpful, allowing him to provide better benefits and bonuses to his employees.”

    “I would encourage the naysayers and our Democratic colleagues to actually talk to real people about what their experience has been.” 

    “I’m sure they would find that the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act did not, contrary to our Democratic colleagues, just help a bunch of rich people.”

    “The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act has, in fact, allowed people in communities from Austin to Houston and everywhere across the country to provide more of what they’ve earned to their families, provide employment opportunities to their neighbors, and contribute to their communities, which is just another way of saying helped them help contribute to the American dream.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Senator Mullin joins President Trump at NCAA Division I Wrestling Championships

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator MarkWayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma)

    ICYMI: Senator Mullin joins President Trump at NCAA Division I Wrestling Championships

    Washington, D.C. – Saturday night, U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) joined President Trump in Philadelphia, PA at the NCAA Division I Wrestling Championships alongside his wife Christie, and sons Jim, Jayce, and Andrew. President Trump is the first President of the United States to attend the NCAA Division I Wrestling Championships. The Mullin family also proudly cheered on two Oklahoma State wrestlers to victory: Wyatt Hendrickson and Dean Hamiti Jr.

    “President Trump walked in there, they were chanting USA because every single day they know that he’s up there fighting for him.”

    Sen. Mullin’s full recap on Fox & Friends Sunday can be found here.

    On President Trump attending the NCAA Division I Wrestling Championships:

    “It was a huge moment. Just the fact that President Trump took the time to walk into that arena and just share the love of the sport that he truly cares about. Remember Rachel, in 2023 he was in Tulsa with me as well. My boys now, in 2023 they were wrestling in high school, today they wrestle at Oklahoma State and OU. I got three boys all wrestling in college. And it’s just something that we truly love the sport, and President Trump seems to share our same passion for it.” 

    On the crowd’s reaction to President Trump:

    “When the sound of, they say the sound of God, came on the place went absolutely nuts. President Trump came walking in, they’re chanting, USA, USA, USA. You can tell the wrestlers that had already wrestled… were standing up cheering. The President walked over to me, and he says, ‘They absolutely love me here, don’t they?’ I said, ‘Sir, they certainly do.’ And he says, ‘Why do you think that?’ And I said, ‘Sir, every male in this building, and I’d say a lot of females in this building, has been punched in the face. We’re wrestling fans. We do this.’ And I said, ‘They respect a fighter, and they respect you.’

    On the event attendees respecting the fighter that President Trump is:

    “[President Trump] shows every single day that he’s for the people, and from the people. What I mean by that is, tell me if Joe Biden could walk in that room and get a chant like that? They would have been chanting, let’s go Brandon. But when President Trump walked in there, they were chanting USA because every single day they know that he’s up there fighting for him. And the iconic part was… when the assassin’s bullet, missed him, and yet he stood up and put his hand in the air and said, fight, fight, fight. That resonated through everybody. And it resonated through the patriotism through our country too. And then you walk into a wrestling arena like that, where people just love America, they respect a fighter. That’s right at President Trump’s base, and he couldn’t have been more at home in that crowd than, let’s say, myself, or any other wrestler that was participating there.”

    On Oklahoma State wrestler Wyatt Hendrickson:

    “One thing I want to add too is Wyatt Hendrickson is the heavyweight that you guys are talking about that pulled maybe the largest upset of the NCAA, he’s also a graduate from the Air Force Academy. And when President Trump met him three years ago and Wyatt walked up to him, and I was with him, and said, ‘Can I get a waiver to fly jets?’ And the President looked at him and said, ‘Sir, I don’t think they make cockpits that big.’ I mean, just a huge individual. And they actually developed a friendship. And so, President Trump was supposed to leave two matches before Wyatt wrestled, and he looked at me, he says, I can’t leave, I’ve got to watch my big guy. That’s what he called him he said, ‘I got to watch my big guy.’”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Applauds $5.8 Billion Hyundai Investment in Louisiana Jobs, American Manufacturing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) applauded today’s announcement that Hyundai Steel, a subsidiary of the Hyundai-Kia Motor Group, will invest $5.8 billion to build a new, next-generation steel production facility in Ascension Parish. The project will bring around 1,300 direct jobs and thousands of indirect jobs to Louisiana.
    “Made in America is good, but made in Louisiana is even better! My team has advocated to Hyundai that Louisiana is the best state to invest in. I’m glad they agree!” said Dr. Cassidy. “Thank you to President Trump and Governor Landry for their support for American manufacturing and Louisiana jobs.”
    This project will help expand and strengthen the U.S. automotive steel supply to Hyundai production facilities in the U.S. The facility will produce 2.7 million tons of advanced, high quality automotive steel a year and is expected to generate $4.1 billion in annual revenue. The facility will produce steel for Hyundai, Kia, and other automakers manufacturing in the U.S.
    Construction on the project is expected to begin in 2026.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy, Kennedy Applaud President Trump’s Actions Supporting Louisiana Energy, Restoring U.S. Energy Dominance

    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) applauded President Trump’s policies allowing Louisiana’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) sector to thrive. Louisiana plays a critical role in America’s position as a leading LNG exporter, and President Trump’s measures bolstering domestic energy production are reinforcing the United States’ energy dominance.
    “Louisiana is the backbone of America’s LNG export industry, accounting for more than 60 percent of all U.S. LNG exports last year,” wrote the senators. “Under your leadership, the U.S. is positioned to achieve record-breaking LNG exports, reinforcing energy dominance and providing allies with reliable, affordable, and cleaner-burning natural gas.”
    “We look forward to working with you on policies to allow the LNG sector to thrive. Ensuring consistent, predictable policies from the administration and congress will enhance U.S. competitiveness and reinforce our nation’s energy leadership,” concluded the senators.
    Read the full letter here or below:
    Dear President Trump,
    We are writing to highlight the critical role that Louisiana plays in securing America’s position as the world’s leading liquefied natural gas (LNG) exporter. LNG will play a key role in restoring American energy dominance, and our state is ready to increase supply. We appreciate your decision on Day One to reverse the pause on non-FTA LNG export permitting, and we applaud your administration’s decision for Interior Secretary Burgum and Energy Secretary Wright to visit a Louisiana LNG facility as one of their first energy trips.
    Louisiana is the backbone of America’s LNG export industry, accounting for more than 60 percent of all U.S. LNG exports last year. Our state hosts the largest and most advanced liquefaction and export terminals with strategic proximity to prolific natural gas basins such as the Permian, Eagle Ford, and Haynesville, as well as direct access to the Gulf of America for export to our allies. Deep-draft ports, robust pipeline infrastructure, and skilled workforce across Louisiana makes the Gulf Coast irreplaceable in delivering U.S. energy to the world. Under your leadership, the U.S. is positioned to achieve record-breaking LNG exports, reinforcing energy dominance and providing allies with reliable, affordable, and cleaner-burning natural gas.
    We are proud that our existing LNG export facilities including Cheniere’s Sabine Pass facility, Cameron LNG, and Venture Global’s Calcasieu Pass and Plaquemines facilities call our state home. We also look forward to welcoming additional LNG facilities in various stages of construction and permitting. One example of a key project in the pipeline is Argent LNG, a facility planned for the strategically located Port Fourchon in Louisiana. In addition to increasing U.S. LNG exports, the facility will support thousands of high-paying jobs in construction and operation. Through long-term contracts and stable supply, facilities like Argent LNG bolster energy security for our country and our allies.
    We look forward to working with you on policies to allow the LNG sector to thrive. Ensuring consistent, predictable policies from the administration and congress will enhance U.S. competitiveness and reinforce our nation’s energy leadership.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Booker, Markey, Van Hollen Urge Trump to Work with Congress to Keep TikTok Online

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), a member of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) wrote to President Donald Trump, requesting additional information on any efforts to keep TikTok online in the United States and urging the Administration to work with Congress on any potential resolutions to the TikTok ban.

    Under the Protecting Americans’ Data from Foreign Adversaries Act, ByteDance had until January 19 to either divest TikTok or face a ban in the U.S. In an executive order, President Trump directed the Department of Justice to not enforce the law for 75 days. This nonenforcement of the TikTok ban was not only unlawful but also raised serious questions about TikTok’s future, as the law imposes liability—up to $850 billion in fines—on companies for facilitating TikTok’s continued operations in the U.S. That 75-day extension expires on April 5. With a qualified divestiture unlikely to occur by that deadline, the Senators urged the Trump administration to work with Congress to keep TikTok online.

    In the letter, the lawmakers write, “There is a better solution: Work with Congress. We have previously introduced legislation — the Extend the TikTok Deadline Act — that would extend the TikTok deadline to October 16, 2025, but Senate Republicans blocked passage of our bill. If you need additional time to complete a deal, we urge you to direct Senate Republicans to pass our legislation and provide the companies with legal certainty to keep TikTok online and in the app stores over the next few months. If you intend to proceed with the reported Oracle deal, we urge you to work with Congress to propose modifications to the Protecting Americans’ Data from Foreign Adversaries Act to ensure that any Oracle deal prevents TikTok from going dark. Regardless of your approach, the path to saving TikTok should run through Capitol Hill.

    “Without any further action from Congress, the 170 million Americans that rely on TikTok will continue to face uncertainty about TikTok’s future. Creators will continue to fear that the platform could disappear at any moment. This situation is unfair and unworkable. We urge you to stand up for TikTok’s users and use your immense influence over congressional Republicans to demand a long-term solution to the TikTok ban.”

    Ahead of the April 5, 2025 deadline, the lawmakers request responses by March 28, 2025, to the following questions:

    1.     Is your administration considering further extending the TikTok divestment deadline by executive order? If so, please identify the statutory basis for such an extension.

    2.     Are news reports accurate that your administration is considering a potential deal with Oracle under which Oracle would take a stake in TikTok and provide certainty about the security of TikTok’s user data?

    3.     Does your administration believe that any further legislative action is necessary to ensure that TikTok remains online in the United States?

    On January 16, 2025, Senator Booker, along with Senators Markey and Van Hollen, sent a letter to President Joe Biden urging him to trigger the 90-day extension in the Protecting Americans’ Data from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act to allow ByteDance additional time to divest from TikTok. Senators Booker, Markey, and Van Hollen, along with Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Congressman Ro Khanna (D-CA-17), introduced the Extend the TikTok Deadline Act, legislation that would delay the January 19 deadline by which ByteDance must sell TikTok or face a ban, by an additional 270 days.

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Booker Pens Letter to USDOT Regarding Recurring I-80 Sinkholes, Urging Federal Funding & Collaboration with New Jersey

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker

    NEWARK, NJ – Ahead of the weekend and Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy’s visit to Morris County, New Jersey, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) penned a letter urging the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) to release emergency funding to the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) and the State of New Jersey to address recurring sinkholes along the Interstate 80 (I-80) corridor in Morris County, New Jersey.

    Senator Booker wrote: “I write today in support of the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) and the State of New Jersey, and their efforts to apply for United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) Emergency Relief program funding to address sinkholes along Federal-Aid Interstate 80 (I-80) located in Morris County, New Jersey.”

    On Friday, March 21, another sinkhole opened up along the same corridor, hindering the state’s multi-agency remediation efforts.

    Senator Booker concluded, “New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy […] signed an Executive Order on March 8th declaring a State of Emergency to address the damage and qualify for Emergency Relief program funding designated for emergency repairs and permanent repairs on Federal-aid highways and roads.”

    So far, the state has not received federal aid from the FHWA’s Emergency Relief Program to address this issue.

    A full copy of the March 21 letter can be found here and below:

    Dear Secretary Duffy:

    I write today in support of the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) and the State of New Jersey, and their efforts to apply for United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) Emergency Relief program funding to address sinkholes along Federal-Aid Interstate 80 (I-80) located in Morris County, New Jersey.

    I-80 spans more than 68 miles from the Pennsylvania state line to its eastern terminus in Bergen County, New Jersey. On December 26, 2024, a sinkhole on I-80 opened when an abandoned iron mine shaft collapsed under the highway’s eastbound shoulder near Exit 34. This sinkhole closed the eastbound lanes for four days, leading to slow-moving detours and diminishing throughput along a route critical to regional commerce. On February 10, 2025, NJDOT discovered a second sinkhole 75 feet west of the first, leading to another closure and weeks of detours along I-80.

    The response to this structural disaster has been a collaborative effort between NJDOT, the New Jersey State Police, and local partners. NJDOT crews began proactive drilling and grouting 24 hours a day along the 1-80 eastbound corridor between Exit 34 and the bridge over Route 15 in Wharton, New Jersey to stabilize the roadway and evaluate the subsurface conditions. Once this assessment is complete, NJDOT will be able to finalize a design for repair and calculate a cost estimate.

    According to NJDOT, 82 locations were drilled and 57 locations were filled with grout between December 26, 2024 and March 5, 2025. Construction barriers and fencing were installed between the median and 1-80 westbound to provide additional safety during the grouting process. New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy then signed an Executive Order on March 8th declaring a State of Emergency to address the damage and qualify for Emergency Relief program funding designated for emergency repairs and permanent repairs on Federal-aid highways and roads.

    I thank you in advance for your attention to New Jersey’s efforts to restore the structural integrity of this vital highway that will keep drivers of commercial and personal vehicles safe. Should you have any questions, please contact me or my staff at (973) 639-8700.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Baldwin Presses USDA to Reverse $1 Billion in Canceled Local Food Purchases for Farmers, Schools & Food Banks

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and a group of her colleagues are demanding the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) immediately reverse the cancellation of local food purchase programs that allow states, territories, and Tribes, including Wisconsin, to purchase food from Wisconsin farmers to be used by local emergency food providers, schools, and childcare centers. Specifically, Baldwin is calling on the administration to reverse course on the cancellation of the Local Food Purchase Assistance (LFPA) program and the Local Food for Schools Cooperative Agreement Program (LFS). Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers announced earlier this month that the Trump Administration had reneged on contracts with the state that support Wisconsin farmers and food banks through the LFPA program.

    “We ask that you reverse the cancellation,” wrote Baldwin and the lawmakers in a letter to USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins. “We have grave concerns that the cancellation…poses extreme harm to producers and communities in every state across the country. At a time of uncertainty in farm country, farmers need every opportunity to be able to expand market access for their products.”

    In their letter, the lawmakers warned of the harmful impacts this move by the Trump Administration will have on American farmers and families. According to Governor Evers’ Office, as of the end of 2024, nearly 300 Wisconsin farmers had participated in the Wisconsin LFPA Program, which distributed more than $4 million in food and served all 72 of Wisconsin’s counties. More than half of the participating farmers—55 percent—were new or beginning farmers. The program was set to enter its third year in just a few weeks based on Wisconsin’s contractual agreement with the federal government. USDA also told school nutritionists that it would end a companion program that connects farmers with local schools. The loss of the two programs is estimated to cut off farmers nationwide from more than $1 billion in support and would cut Wisconsin’s promised funding by nearly $6 million.

    The letter was led by Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) and Adam Schiff (D-CA) and co-signed by 29 other Senate colleagues.

    A full version of this letter is available here and below.

    Dear Secretary Rollins:  

    We write to express serious concerns regarding the cancellation of U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs supporting local and regional food purchases providing assistance to those in need. These successful programs, the Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program (LFPA) and the Local Food for Schools Cooperative Agreement Program (LFS), allow states, territories, and Tribes to purchase local foods from nearby farmers and ranchers to be used for emergency food providers, schools, and childcare centers.  

    At a time when food insecurity remains high, providing affordable, fresh food to food banks and families while supporting American farmers is critical. Notably, LFPA and LFS have benefitted producers and consumers by providing funding for purchases through all 50 states, four territories, and 84 tribal governments. Through LFPA and LFS, USDA has prioritized the procurement and distribution of healthy, nutritious, domestic food. It has also taken an important step towards igniting rural prosperity by expanding and strengthening markets among farmers and rural economies. As of December 2024, the programs had supported over 8,000 producers, providing increased marketing opportunities.  

    Most importantly, we ask that you reverse the cancellation of LFPA and LFS. We also ask that you provide a thorough and complete update on USDA’s implementation of LFPA and LFS, including answers to the following questions:  

    1. What is the status of reimbursements for entities that have agreements with USDA through LFPA and LFS? What is the last date for which states, territories, and Tribes received reimbursements for food purchases under LFPA and LFS?
    2. Has the Administration conducted any assessments of how these program cancellations will impact producers and recipient organizations (e.g., food banks, schools, child care centers)? If so, please provide a copy of any such assessments.  

    We have grave concerns that the cancellation of LFPA and LFS poses extreme harm to producers and communities in every state across the country. At a time of uncertainty in farm country, farmers need every opportunity to be able to expand market access for their products.  

    Please provide responses to the information requested in our questions no later than Friday, April 4. Thank you for your attention to this urgent and important matter.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla, Cortez Masto, Wyden Statement on Reported IRS Plans to Share Sensitive Taxpayer Data to DHS

    US Senate News:

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

    Padilla, Cortez Masto, Wyden Statement on Reported IRS Plans to Share Sensitive Taxpayer Data to DHS

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Immigration Subcommittee, Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) released the following joint statement in response to reports that the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is planning to provide sensitive taxpayer information to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to locate suspected undocumented immigrants:

    “This weekend, it became clear that the Trump Administration is finalizing plans to target and penalize people who are following federal law and contributing to our economy. This agreement between the IRS and DHS — if finalized — will have long-lasting and devastating implications on our economy, taxpayer privacy, immigrant communities, and the rule of law.

    “It’s past time for the Trump Administration to make their plans public. The IRS and DHS must disclose the extent of this agreement and brief Congress immediately.”

    Earlier this month, Padilla, Cortez Masto, and Wyden led a letter to IRS and DHS leadership raising the alarm on reports that DHS and the “Department of Government Efficiency” have illegally requested sensitive taxpayer information from the IRS. So far, the Trump Administration has not responded to their demand for answers about their plans to require the IRS to turn over the home addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses of over 700,000 people.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján Statement on New Nonpartisan Government Data Exposing How the Republican Budget Plan Will Explode Debt and Deficit for Decades

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Senator for New Mexico Ben Ray Luján

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Budget Committee, issued the following statement after the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) published 10- and 30-year projections of the debt and deficit if Congressional Republicans permanently enact the Trump Tax Scam:

    “Congressional Republicans are once again attempting to pass a partisan budget that will fund the Trump Tax Scam 2.0 by ripping away health care, taking food off the table, and making it harder to get a quality education – all to give a tax handout to the wealthiest Americans and corporations.

    “This nonpartisan analysis from the CBO makes it clear that if Congressional Republicans move forward with this budget, the debt will skyrocket, the deficit will explode, and working Americans will be left to pay the price. Make no mistake, Congressional Republicans are pushing this partisan budget to fund their latest tax scam on the backs of hardworking Americans with no regard for the devastating impacts it will have on our nation’s economy now and into the future.”

    CBO projects that under the Republicans’ budget plan, the national debt will expand by $4.6 trillion over the next 10 years. A second round of the Trump Tax Scam – which Republicans are trying to claim is cost-free by using a “current policy baseline” – a gimmick that will increase the national debt to 214 percent of GDP by 2054. The CBO highlights a few points that would be detrimental to the nation’s economy if Republicans continue down this path:

    • A new round of the Trump Tax Scam will increase the primary (non-interest) deficit by $4 trillion. A previous CBO estimate found they would cost $4.6 trillion with interest.
    • By 2054, extending the Trump tax giveaways would increase debt to 214 percent of GDP, growing almost twice as fast as under current law. The extension would be responsible for adding almost 30 percent to the national debt.
    • A new round of the Trump Tax Scam would mean that long-term economic growth would be slower, and interest rates would be higher, making it harder for businesses to start or to grow and Americans to afford buying a home or a car.

    The CBO report can be found HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján, Scott Reintroduce Legislation to Support Treatment of Pregnant and Postpartum Women

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Senator for New Mexico Ben Ray Luján

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and Tim Scott (R-S.C.) announced the reintroduction of the Pregnant and Postpartum Women (PPW) Treatment Reauthorization Act to reauthorize residential treatment programs for pregnant and postpartum women who have a substance use disorder.

    Drug overdose deaths involving synthetic opioids like fentanyl reached record highs in 2020 and 2021, with pregnant women experiencing more overdoses than ever before. The PPW Treatment Reauthorization Act addresses this health crisis by authorizing funding to enhance comprehensive substance use disorder (SUD) treatment services, recovery support services, and harm reduction interventions supported by the federal Center for Substance Abuse Treatment.

    “I’m proud to reintroduce bipartisan legislation that strengthens resources for pregnant and postpartum women, supports families, and tackles health disparities in reproductive care,” said Senator Luján. “Substance use disorder continues to significantly impact New Mexico, and this legislation will help address the issue by reauthorizing funding to ensure that all communities have access to the necessary resources for preventing health complications and treating substance use disorders.”

    “By extending and strengthening these essential programs, we are ensuring pregnant and postpartum women are receiving the support and care they need to navigate substance use disorders and mental health challenges,” said Senator Scott. “I’m proud to lead legislation that helps to build a future where every mother and child can thrive.”

    Full text of the bill is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI Dr. Paul Joined Sen. Kennedy in Protecting Veterans’ Second Amendment Rights

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Rand Paul

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

    March 24, 2025

     Contact: Press_Paul@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343

     

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – On friday, enator Rand Paul (R-KY) joins Senator John Kennedy’s (R-LA) legislation to prevent veterans from losing their Second Amendment right to purchase or own firearms when they receive help managing their Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits. The Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act would preserve the constitutional rights of Veterans.

    “No veteran should have to choose between getting the help they need and preserving their constitutional rights. The VA’s longstanding policy unfairly targets those who served our country, placing bureaucratic decisions above due process. I’m proud to join this effort to defend the Second Amendment rights of our veterans and ensure they are treated with the respect and fairness they deserve.” – Dr. Rand Paul

    “Our veterans should not receive less due process rights than other Americans just because they served our country and asked the federal government for a helping hand. Under the VA’s interpretation of the law, however, unelected bureaucrats punish Louisiana and America’s veterans by forcing them to choose between their Second Amendment rights and getting the help they need as they manage their financial affairs. I’m proud to introduce the Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act to stand up for veterans’ constitutional rights by ending this unfair practice.” – Senator Kennedy

    Because of the VA’s interpretation of current law, the VA sends a beneficiary’s name to the FBI’s National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) whenever a fiduciary is appointed to help a beneficiary manage his or her VA benefit payments.

    Ultimately, VA employees decide whether veterans receive help from a fiduciary.

    The bill would prohibit the Secretary of Veterans Affairs from transmitting a veteran’s personal information to NICS unless a relevant judicial authority rules that the beneficiary is a danger to himself or others.

    You can read the Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden, Warren Press Social Security Commissioner Nominee on Trump, Musk Efforts to Gut Agency

    US Senate News:

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

    March 24, 2025

    Ahead of Finance Committee hearing, lawmakers push nominee to make commitments to stop further cuts to Americans’ benefits Senators say “we are gravely concerned about the current trajectory of the SSA and more specifically, that those charged with leading it might profit off its destruction.”

    Washington D.C.—U.S. Senators Ron Wyden, D-Ore., and Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., said today they are pressing the Social Security Commissioner nominee to commit to stopping the Trump Administration and the self-styled “Department of Government Efficiency’s” ongoing efforts to hollow out the Social Security Administration (SSA).

    Wyden, ranking member of the Senate Finance Committee; and Warren, a member of the Finance Committee, warned those Social Security schemes may be a “prelude to privatization.” 

    The lawmakers highlighted recent reports of significant staffing cuts, office closures, and new burdensome administrative requirements on seniors who receive Social Security. At the same time, reports have also revealed that Elon Musk’s Wall Street allies have infiltrated the agency.

    “These new developments leave us deeply concerned that DOGE and the Trump Administration are setting up the SSA for failure—a failure that could cut off Social Security benefits for millions of Americans—and that will then be used to justify a ‘private sector fix,” the lawmakers wrote to Social Security Commissioner nominee Frank Bisignano ahead of his Tuesday hearing at the Finance Committee..

    Last week, the lawmakers wrote to Bisignano with concerns about how layoffs and office closures are impacting Americans’ Social Security benefits and services. In recent days, SSA officials have only intensified their efforts to undermine the program.

    One policy change will require beneficiaries who can’t verify their identity online to do so in person. This change could force seniors and people with disabilities to travel more than 100 miles to sign up for benefits, creating particular problems for vulnerable populations, including people with severe disabilities or illnesses. An internal memo from SSA revealed inside officials have acknowledged the policy could lead to “service disruptions.” 

    “Republicans have flirted with the idea of privatizing Social Security for over two decades. The latest changes at the Social Security Administration leave us worried that Elon Musk—with his clear disdain for the program that provides financial security to millions of Americans—has taken up the mantle as the latest privatization crusader,” the lawmakers continued.

    Beyond Musk planting a number of his private equity friends in various roles in the agency, Bisignano’s payment firm, Fiserv, which enables money movement for thousands of financial institutions and millions of people, could potentially also stand to benefit from SSA privatization. 

    The senators laid out specific commitments they expect Bisignano to make before the Finance Committee votes on his nomination. 

    The full text of the letter is here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Merkley, Risch, Wyden, Crapo Team Up for Bipartisan Bill to Boost Mass Timber Industry Nationwide

    US Senate News:

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

    March 24, 2025

    International Mass Timber Conference Kicks off in Portland, Oregon

    Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley and Idaho’s U.S. Senator James Risch today launched a renewed bipartisan effort to promote the use of mass timber in federal building projects and military construction.

    The bipartisan Mass Timber Federal Buildings Act—which is cosponsored by Oregon’s U.S. Senator Ron Wyden and Idaho’s U.S. Senator Mike Crapo—would incentivize the use of mass timber building materials by providing a preference in federal building contracts for mass timber products, giving mass timber companies the ability to compete for federal construction, renovation, or acquisition of public buildings and for military construction. The bill’s reintroduction coincides with the start of the International Mass Timber Conference—the largest gathering of mass timber experts in the world—in Portland this week.

    “Mass timber creates jobs in rural and urban communities, reduces wildfire risk, increases forest resiliency, and helps us shrink our carbon footprint,” said Merkley. “This expanding industry presents a huge opportunity for Oregon, and we must do all we can to harness its power for our economy and environment. By using mass timber in federal projects, our bipartisan effort around this critical industry will help tackle our nation’s biggest challenges while creating good-paying jobs in Oregon and across the Pacific Northwest.”

    “As a trained forester, I understand how important the timber industry is to Idaho communities, wildfire risk reduction, and forest management,” said Risch. “The Mass Timber Federal Buildings Act is commonsense legislation to benefit Idaho’s forests, create jobs, and increase economic growth.”

    “Mass timber has huge potential to generate jobs in Oregon, reduce carbon emissions, and build an innovative approach to combat the shortage of housing in Oregon and nationwide,” said Wyden. “This fresh use for timber also directly addresses the immediate threat of wildfires caused by the climate crisis. Simply put, the Mass Timber Federal Buildings Act adds up to a huge win for our state that helps protect Oregonians and boosts our timber economy.”

    “Idaho’s timber industry already provides a wealth of benefits in its resourcefulness across a number of critical projects in our state,” said Crapo. “Boosting demand for Idaho timber in the construction of federal buildings will harness the incredible work already done in our forests, and create new opportunities for Idaho companies, workers and products.”

    The bipartisan bill creates a two-tier contracting preference for mass timber and other innovative wood projects. The first-tier preference applies to mass timber that is made within the U.S. and responsibly sourced from state, federal, private, and Tribal forestlands. The optional second tier applies to mass timber products that are sourced from restoration practices, fire mitigation projects, and/or underserved forest owners. Additionally, this bill contains a reporting requirement for a whole building lifecycle assessment. The results of this assessment will help provide additional evidence of the carbon sequestration benefits of mass timber buildings.

    The Mass Timber Federal Buildings Act is endorsed by the American Wood Council, Sustainable Northwest, Forest Landowners Association, National Alliance of Forest Owners (NAFO), Weyerhaeuser, Freres Engineered Wood, Oregon Forest Industries Council, Composite Recycling Technology Center (CRTC), Oregon iSector, Washington Mass Timber Accelerator, Pacific Northwest Mass Timber Tech Hub, American Forest Resource Council, and Oregon Department of Forestry.

    “Mass timber and wood construction presents a real opportunity to grow our domestic manufacturing and sustain our rural communities in the process. The Mass Timber Federal Buildings Act is an important first step in expanding new markets for wood products, ensuring that the nation’s single biggest developer – the federal government – can help invest in this emerging technology. This is a win-win proposal: not only would the bill expand markets and support domestic manufacturing; it would also support active forest management, help reduce wildfire risk and create jobs in forestry, manufacturing and construction. We applaud Senators Merkley and Risch for their bipartisan leadership and support for forestry communities nationwide,” said Jackson Morrill, President and CEO of the American Wood Council.

    “Sustainable Northwest commends Senator Merkley and Senator Risch for introduction of the Mass Timber Federal Buildings Act. This practical legislation will spur use of innovative wood products in public buildings, support American manufacturing, and build critical markets for restoration of our nation’s forests,” said Dylan Kruse, President of Sustainable Northwest.

    “Private forest landowners, many from multi-generational family businesses, are the backbone of forest health in the U.S. But rising natural disasters and limited recovery tools threaten their ability to keep forests healthy and resilient. Expanding market access is critical to their success, and we thank Senator Merkley and Senator Risch for their leadership on the Mass Timber Federal Buildings Act of 2025. By replacing carbon-intensive materials with American-grown timber, this policy strengthens our wood products supply chain, supports rural economies, and ensures the future of our working forests,” said Scott Jones, CEO of the Forest Landowners Association.

    “We commend Senators Merkley and Risch for re-introducing the Mass Timber Federal Buildings Act. Wood is an abundant, renewable, and sustainable building material. When we build with American-grown wood, we bolster our nation’s private working forests and the rural communities that depend on them. As global leaders in modern, sustainable forest management, U.S. forest owners are already growing the wood needed to expand mass timber construction. Because of the strong relationship between forest products markets and sustainable forest management, today we have 60% more wood in our forests than we had in the 1950s. This positions mass timber construction to deliver wins for the economies of rural communities, our nation’s water quality, wildlife, and more. We look forward to working with the Senators as well as their colleagues in the Senate and House of Representatives to advance this important legislation,” said Dave Tenny, President and CEO of NAFO.

    “Wood products are the most sustainable, versatile and cost-effective building material we have. Building more with wood decreases the country’s dependence on materials that have a much higher environmental impact and rely on large amounts of fossil fuels in their production. Additionally, wood products manufacturing facilities are critical drivers of rural economies, and increased wood products demand and usage will bolster and continue to provide jobs in these communities. Mass timber has emerged as a transformative way to use wood in larger and taller buildings and grow the market for wood construction and wood buildings. The Mass Timber Federal Buildings Act recognizes the importance of sustainably managed wood as a building material in the construction of federal buildings, and we commend Senator Merkley and Senator Risch for introducing this important piece of legislation,” said Kristen Sawin, Vice President of Corporate Affairs at Weyerhaeuser.

    “The Mass Timber Federal Buildings Act seeks to foster innovative wood products development by encouraging the use of sustainable, renewable, and domestically supplied wood products for Federal projects. Freres Engineered Wood wholeheartedly supports this act for encouraging innovation inbuilding design and construction, as well as the social benefits of resilient forests, healthy habitats, and prosperous rural communities, from sustainable forest management across our Federal lands,” said Tyler Freres, Vice President at Freres Engineered Wood.

    “The Mass Timber Federal Buildings Act is not just legislation; it is a commitment to building a sustainable future. By embracing mass timber, we are investing in our planet, expanding economic opportunities, and setting a standard for environmentally responsible construction. This legislation will not only allow us to create structures that stand tall but it will foster a legacy of stewardship for generations to come,” said David Walter, CEO of the CRTC Building Innovation Center.

    “The private, public and civic sectors are coming together to support Mass Timber as never before in Oregon and Washington. This bill will find support for its preferences and lifecycle assessment provisions from our Mass Timber partnerships,” said Greg Wolf, Executive Director of Oregon iSector.

    “The Washington Mass Timber Accelerator, a nonprofit organization dedicated to accelerating sustainable and equitable adoption of mass timber in construction in Washington and nationally, is pleased to support the Mass Timber Federal Buildings Act. The State of Washington is poised to supply high-quality mass timber products to public buildings across the United States, sourced from federal forest restoration projects and forests cared for and managed by Tribal Nations – contributing to wildfire risk reduction and rural community economic development. These mass timber buildings can be built with labor standards and apprenticeship opportunities, and will endure long into the future, and serve as a celebration and reminder of our commitment to people and planet,” said Erica Spiritos, Director at the Washington Mass Timber Accelerator.

    “The Pacific Northwest Mass Timber Tech Hub enthusiastically welcomes and strongly endorses the introduction of the Mass Timber Federal Buildings Act bill, which will help the United States restore well-paying jobs to rural communities, tackle the urgent challenges of wildfire risk and housing supply, and contribute to national security through a reduced reliance on foreign-sourced steel,” said Iain Macdonald, Director at the Pacific Northwest Mass Timber Tech Hub.

    Full text of the Mass Timber Federal Buildings Act can be found by clicking here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Announces Experts on First Amendment and Freedom of the Press as Witnesses for Hearing on So-Called ‘Censorship Industrial Complex’

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    Welch: “Newsflash for my colleagues across the aisle: their claims of a ‘vast cover-up’ against conservatives will get debunked as quickly as their claims about supporting free speech.”
    WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Ranking Member of the Judiciary Subcommittee on The Constitution, announced the Minority witnesses for the Subcommittee hearing titled “The Censorship Industrial Complex.” Instead of focusing the first Subcommittee hearing on actual and proven instances of censorship by the Trump Administration against their political adversaries, the Majority has focused this hearing on a perceived—and unproven—censorship enterprise against conservatives.   
    “Newsflash for my colleagues across the aisle: their claims of a ‘vast cover-up’ against conservatives will get debunked as quickly as their claims about supporting free speech,” said Sen. Peter Welch. “The Republican party has pushed disinformation for years, and this sham hearing on the so-called anti-conservative ‘censorship industrial complex’ is yet another example. Instead of focusing on the actual censorship directed, unabashedly, by the White House, they’re pushing this false narrative that their voices are being silenced. I’m thankful to be joined by Professor Mary Anne Franks and Gabe Rottman tomorrow, who will speak on the importance of the First Amendment and press freedom.” 
    Witnesses for the Minority will include: 
    Mary Anne Franks. Ms. Franks is the Eugene L. and Barbara A. Bernard Professor in Intellectual Property, Technology, and Civil Rights Law at George Washington University School of Law, and an expert in the First Amendment and technology.  
    Gabe Rottman: Mr. Rottman is the Vice President of Policy at the Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press. In this role he works at the intersection of press freedom and technology.  
    Majority witnesses will include Mollie Hemingway, senior editor for The Federalist, Jonathan Turley, conservative legal scholar, and Benjamin Weingarten, a Senior Contributor for The Federalist.  
    More details on the hearing are included below: 
    Title:                      The Censorship Industrial Complex
    Date:                      Tuesday, March 25, 2025
    Time:                      2:00 p.m. ET
    Location:   Room 226 of the Dirksen Senate Office Building
    Livestream:           Watch live HERE.
    Media Note: Members of the media who wish to attend the hearing in person should RSVP to their respective Senate press gallery. Hearing room space is limited. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Marshall, Moran, and Representative Davids Urge USPS Postmaster General to Build New Post Office in Olathe

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall
    Washington – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) joined Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kansas) and U.S. Representative Sharice Davids (D-Kansas-03) in urging the United States Postal Service (USPS) Postmaster General Louis DeJoy to relocate the City of Olathe’s downtown postal facility and construct a new, efficient, and modern post office.
    Olathe is one of the fastest-growing cities in the state, and the city is working in partnership with USPS to relocate and modernize the current postal facility.
    In the letter, Senator Marshall, Senator Moran, and Representative Davids wrote: 
    “We write regarding the proposed partnership between the USPS and Olathe, Kansas concerning the relocation of the downtown postal facility and construction of a new, efficient, and modern facility in its place.
    “…We wish to again express our strongest support for the project and remind you that each of us remains committed to following the process closely.
    “As we have stated before, we believe this type of project can be a model for innovating partnerships benefiting both the USPS and local communities. We believe it will be achievable in quick order, and it will send a strong message to those legislatively engaged in USPS related issues.”
    The full text of the letter is available HERE.
    BACKGROUND
    Olathe is one of the fastest growing cities in Kansas, and the city has been hard at work to revitalize downtown Olathe.
    The city initiated the move to mitigate the impact of revitalization efforts on post office operations.
    The Kansas City area has been significantly affected by mail delays, with the region having the sixth-worst on-time delivery rate in the nation in 2024.
    Senator Marshall has worked extensively to restore reliable mail service for Kansans:
    In December 2024, Senator Marshall helped deliver a new post office for Winchester, Kansas.
    In June 2024, Senator Marshall secured an audit from USPS on mail services in the Kansas City area to evaluate the efficiency of mail delivery and post office operations.
    In March 2024, Senator Marshall led a letter with Kansas and Missouri delegation members requesting answers and transparency for the continued decline in performance indicators, inconsistent mail delivery across the two-state region, and insufficient staffing at USPS facilities.
    In February 2024, Senator Marshall sent a separate letter asking for explanations for frequent mail delivery delays to residents in Johnson County.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Coons statement on Atlantic story

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.), Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, issued the following statement today in response to today’s article in The Atlantic entitled “The Trump Administration Accidentally Texted Me Its War Plans:”
    “Jeffrey Goldberg’s reporting in The Atlantic calls for a prompt and thorough investigation. If senior advisors to President Trump in fact used non-secure, non-government systems to discuss and convey detailed war plans, it’s a shocking breach of the standards for sharing classified information that could have put American servicemembers at risk. There needs to be an oversight hearing and accountability for these actions.”

    MIL OSI USA News –