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Category: US Senate

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto Opposes Howard Lutnick to Head the Department of Commerce

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

    Washington, D.C. – U.S.Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) released the following statement after voting against confirming Howard Lutnick for Secretary of Commerce:

    “Howard Lutnick has repeatedly defended President Trump’s harmful tariff threats to our allies and the ongoing federal funding freeze that has caused great concern for Nevada communities and families, including the delay in the Department of Commerce’s final approval of our statewide broadband plan. His unquestioning loyalty to Donald Trump makes him unable to independently lead this department that is critical to the stability of the U.S. economy. It’s clear Mr. Lutnick will not help lower costs for Nevada families, and he will continue to facilitate President Trump’s chaos. I therefore oppose his nomination to lead the Department of Commerce.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen, Cortez Masto Join Nevada Colleagues’ Effort to Preserve National Monuments

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) joined Nevada’s Congressional Democratic Delegation in urging the Secretary of the Interior, Doug Burgum, to not roll back designations of national monuments in Nevada. The Nevada lawmakers raised concerns about a recent order by Secretary Burgum initiating a 15-day review of possible impediments, including national monuments, to accessing natural resources, including oil and gas. 
    “We urge the administration to refrain from attempts to unilaterally alter lands with existing national monument designations, as we’ve seen previously at Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante,” the Delegation said in the letter.
    “Decisions to protect these treasured lands were not made on a whim,” they continued. “They were the result of intense engagements with tribes, community leaders, and local businesses. While Congress reserves the authority to revoke or adjust national monuments, any future action by your department should be a result of the same level of outreach and public engagement.”
    The letter is supported by the following organizations: Conservation Lands Foundation; Friends of Avi Kwa Ame; Friends of Basin and Range National Monument; Friends of Gold Butte; Friends of Nevada Wilderness; Friends of Sloan Canyon; Native Voters Alliance Nevada; Nevada Conservation League; Nevada Outdoor Business Coalition; and Save Red Rock.
    In recent years, Basin & Range, Gold Butte, and Avi Kwa Ame have been designated as national monuments in Nevada and have been a boom to the state’s $8 billion outdoor recreation economy. The letter came in response to Secretarial Order 3418, specifically Section 4c which initiated a 15-day review of national monuments and mineral withdrawals.
    Senators Rosen and Cortez Masto are champions for Nevada’s great outdoor spaces and public lands. They passed critical legislation to permanently fund the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), which protects public lands in Nevada and across the U.S. They passed bipartisan, bicameral legislation to reauthorize the Lake Tahoe Restoration Act, and they delivered critical funding to protect Lake Tahoe in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Last year, the Senators announced over $375 million for recreation and conservation projects across Nevada.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen, Senate Colleagues Urge President Trump to Reject Republican Budget That Raises Costs for Families

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) joined her Senate colleagues in urging President Donald Trump to reject Congressional Republicans’ legislative plans to increase the cost of living for Americans. Last week, Congressional Republicans in both chambers approved for floor consideration their 2025 budget proposals, their blueprints for a large package that would raise costs for hardworking families and target critical services like Medicaid.
    “But the Republican budget plans do not focus on lowering costs, and in fact will raise costs for American families by forcing them to pay more for groceries, health care, education, and caregiving,” wrote the senators.
    Congressional Republicans’ budget plans will:
    Raise food costs: The Republican budget plans tee up extensive cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Meals on Wheels.  
    Raise health care costs: The Republican budget plans also pave the way for 15 Republican proposals to cut Medicare, Medicaid, and Affordable Care Act coverage. These Republican cuts would raise health care costs for over 160 million Americans.
    Raise education costs: The Republican budget plans set up cuts to programs that help families afford college, including Pell Grants and income-driven repayment plans, and tax scholarships for hard-working students. 
    Raise caregiving costs: The Republican budget plans pave the way to cut programs that help families care for kids, people with disabilities, and aging loved ones. Cuts to these essential programs will make it impossible for many working families to live and work with dignity.
    “If Congressional Republicans are successful at passing their proposals, it will mean that families will pay more for food, healthcare, education, and caregiving – while Republicans plot more tax cuts for billionaires,” they continued. “We urge you to stand by the promises you made to the American people about lowering costs, including by committing not to sign any legislation that raises their costs.”
    The full letter can be found HERE.
    Senator Rosen has been holding the Trump Administration accountable to their promise to lower costs for hardworking Nevadans. Earlier this month, she took the Senate floor to call out the Trump Administration for its lack of actions to lower grocery prices and address the egg shortage.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warren Statement on the Sudden Shutdown of JFK Presidential Library

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    February 18, 2025
    Washington, D.C. – Following the announcement of the shutdown of the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum in Boston due to the Trump administration’s executive order, U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) released the following statement: 
    “President Trump is firing American workers who monitor bird flu outbreaks, safeguard nuclear facilities, and now those who promote American history in Dorchester – all to help pay for tax breaks for billionaires and giant corporations. Trump’s shutdown of the JFK Library won’t lower egg prices or make housing more affordable, but it’s part of a retribution tour designed to distract from his agenda to enrich the wealthy and well-connected at the expense of everyone else.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth Votes Against Confirming Howard Lutnick to Serve as Commerce Secretary

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth

    February 18, 2025

    [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation (CST)—released the following statement after voting against Howard Lutnick’s nomination to serve as Secretary of the U.S. Department of Commerce. The Senate confirmed Lutnick by a vote of 51-45.

    “I cannot vote for any nominee who won’t publicly pledge without hesitation that they’d refuse an unlawful order from President Trump—and Mr. Lutnick failed that simple test. As Donald Trump and Elon Musk continue their illegal spree to freeze federal funding and make deep cuts at critical agencies so they can pave the way for tax cuts for the ultra-wealthy, we need a Secretary of Commerce who is not afraid to stand up to this chaos, uphold the law and put our economy and middle-class Americans first. And yet, by confirming Mr. Lutnick today, Republicans are once again proving how easily they will appease Trump out of fear for their own political survival—and it will be American farmers, businesses and the middle class who will pay the price.”

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth Statement on Trump’s Overly Vague, Toothless IVF Executive Order

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth

    February 18, 2025

    [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—author of the Right to IVF Act that would protect individuals’ rights to access IVF and make it more affordable for middle-class Americans, Veterans and military families—released the following statement after President Donald Trump signed an executive order that requests policy recommendations to ensure reliable access to IVF:

    “Don’t be fooled. Donald Trump’s executive order does nothing to expand access to IVF. In fact, he’s the reason IVF is at risk in the first place. But if he is actually serious about taking real action to accomplish his own campaign promise to make IVF free for everyone, there’s a simple way he can prove it: He can call on Senate Republicans to immediately back my Right to IVF Act that would require insurance plans to cover IVF. 

    “Otherwise, it’s all just lip-service from a known liar.”

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Senator Coons joins CBS’ ‘60 Minutes’ to discuss the Trump administration’s efforts to abolish USAID and other agencies

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons

    WASHINGTON – In case you missed it, CBS News’ 60 Minutes aired a segment on Sunday featuring U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.), where he discussed the Trump administration’s efforts to dismantle our foreign aid apparatus and warned that it’s a “dress rehearsal” for the administration’s attacks on other essential parts of the federal government.

    Shortly after taking office, President Trump signed an executive order freezing all foreign aid. Soon after, nearly all USAID personnel in the U.S. and abroad were put on paid administrative leave. Judges have temporarily halted Trump’s efforts to dismantle USAID and freeze federal funding, but whether funding will start flowing again remains unclear. 

    “You’re principally reporting on what’s happened to USAID. It’s a dress rehearsal,” Senator Coons said to 60 Minutes correspondent Scott Pelley.

    Senator Coons said that USAID is not the only agency on the chopping block. Elon Musk, head of the newly created Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), has already begun to dismantle other agencies and entire departments of the federal government.

    “Next up is the Department of Education. They’re gonna take it down next. They’re already talking about getting into and going after the Department of Labor, the Veterans Administration, the Department of Defense, the Social Security Administration. Why?” said Senator Coons. 

    A video and transcript of Senator Coons’ segment are available below.

    WATCH HERE.

    Senator Coons: You’re principally reporting on what’s happened to USAID. It’s a dress rehearsal.

    Chris Coons is a Democratic senator from Delaware — a member of the Committees on Appropriations and Foreign Relations.

    Senator Coons: Next up is the Department of Education. They’re going to take it down next. They’re already talking about getting into and going after the Department of Labor, the Veterans Administration, the Department of Defense, the Social Security Administration. Why?

    Scott Pelley: Do you believe you have a sense of what DOGE is doing?

    Senator Coons: No. I think DOGE is an unelected, unofficial, small group of young ‘tech bros’ who are charging into different federal agencies, getting into their core computer systems, doing things with them that at least I don’t know the full details of, copying and downloading reams of data. 

    Scott Pelley: What does it matter that DOGE has access to U.S. government computer systems?

    Senator Coons: What matters is that the U.S. government has information about you, about me – our Social Security information, our Medicare, Medicaid, veterans benefit payments, things that matter to us, obviously – our tax filings. And if they have access to it and control it, they can change it.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Statement on Lutnick Confirmation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) issued the following statement after the Senate confirmed, by a vote of 51-45, Howard Lutnick to be Secretary of the U.S. Department of Commerce:

    “Howard Lutnick as Secretary of the U.S. Department of Commerce will bring decades of economic expertise to the agency tasked with advising President Trump on various policies to stimulate growth and innovation and safeguard our nation’s economic security.  He led Cantor Fitzgerald out of its tragic losses from the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, rebuilding the company in the face of tremendous adversity.  Under Trump’s direction for Lutnick to help lead the Administration’s trade agenda, he will play a vital role in securing real, meaningful negotiations for improved market access globally for Idaho producers.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Reintroduces Legislation to Ban Foreign Adversaries from Buying American Farmland

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville
    Legislation would prohibit the sale of agricultural land to Iran, North Korea, China, and Russia 
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) and U.S. Senator Jim Banks (R-IN) reintroduced the Protecting America’s Agricultural Land from Foreign Harm Act, which would prohibit the sale of U.S. agricultural land to any individual or entity tied to the governments of Iran, North Korea, China, or Russia. The legislation follows Senator Tuberville’s recent reintroduction of the Foreign Adversary Risk Management (FARM) Act to better vet foreign purchases of America’s farmland.
    1819 News first reported the reintroduction of the bill. 
    “For too long, we’ve sat by while foreign nations have been trying to take over our nation’s agricultural industry,” said Senator Tuberville. “Our adversaries are always looking for any way to get their foot in the door and jeopardize our national security—including our agricultural assets. There’s no reason why foreign adversaries should be allowed to buy American farmland. Not only is it dangerous for our farmers, but it’s disastrous for our national security. It’s past time to take action to protect our American farmers and consumers from threats to our food security. I’m proud to reintroduce this legislation with Senator Banks, and will continue fighting to protect America’s farmland and put our farmers and producers first.”
    “Food security is national security. Leaving America’s basic needs vulnerable to extortion by foreign control is not an option,” said Senator Banks. “This bill prevents foreign adversaries, including communist China, from owning American farmland in Indiana and across the U.S.—a no-brainer. Proud to lead this effort alongside Senator Tuberville and Rep. Strong.”
    U.S. Representative Dale Strong (R-AL-05) also introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.
    “Chinese investment in U.S. farmland, much of which is in close proximity to sensitive national security sites, presents an enormous threat not only to our food, fiber, and fuel markets but also to our national security. As the CCP, Iran, Russia, and North Korea look to exploit weaknesses in our free and open society, it is our responsibility to ensure that the American people are protected against those who seek to undermine our national interest,” said Congressman Strong. 
    Specifically, the Protecting America’s Agricultural Land from Foreign Harm Act would:
    Restrict foreign ownership of U.S. agricultural land, forests, and timberland by Iran, North Korea, China, and Russia,
    Prohibit participation in certain USDA programs for individuals from Iran, North Korea, China, and Russia,
    Close loopholes to ensure adequate reporting of foreign owned U.S. agricultural land,
    Establish a federal tax lien if a violation occurs and amend civil penalties,
    Establish more in-depth public data sets through online database,
    Require U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Department of National Intelligence (DNI), and Government Accountability Office (GAO) to submit individual reports to Congress.
    Read the bill or learn more here.
    BACKGROUND
    Over the past few years, the United States has experienced a rapid increase in foreign investment in the agricultural sector, particularly from China. Growing foreign investment in agriculture and other essential industries, like health care and energy, threaten our country’s national security and ability to survive. Senator Tuberville has long been a vocal critic of foreign ownership of American farmland and other elements of our food supply chain. As Alabama’s voice on the Senate Ag Committee, Senator Tuberville has been sounding the alarm about foreign ownership of American farmland and other elements of our food supply chain.
    According to USDA data from December 2023, foreign investors own approximately 45 million acres of U.S. agricultural land. This represents an increase of over 1.5 million acres in one calendar year. Foreign ownership of U.S. agricultural land increased modestly increased from 2012 to 2017 at an average increase of 0.6 million acres per year. However, since 2017, this number skyrocketed to an annual average of 2.6 million acres annually. Additionally, between 2010 and 2021, entities or individuals from China increased their ownership of U.S. agricultural land more than twentyfold, from 13,720 acres to 383,935 acres. Alabama has the fourth-highest amount of foreign-owned agricultural land in the United States, with 2.2 million acres, most of which is forestland.
    Earlier this year, Senator Tuberville reintroduced the Foreign Adversary Risk Management (FARM) Act, a bipartisan, bicameral bill that would ensure the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) acknowledges the importance of our agricultural industry and supply chains by adding the Secretary of Agriculture as a permanent member of the committee. Currently, CFIUS does not directly consider the needs of the agriculture industry when reviewing foreign investment and ownership in domestic businesses. 
    MORE:
    Tuberville Continues Efforts to Secure America’s Farmland from Foreign Adversaries
    Tuberville Continues Fighting Foreign Influence in American Agriculture
    Second Democrat Ag Secretary Endorses Central Provision in Tuberville’s FARM Act
    Biden Ag Secretary Endorses Central Part of Tuberville’s FARM Act
    Tuberville Continues Push to Combat Chinese Influence in U.S. Agriculture 
    Tuberville, Jackson Lead Bipartisan, Bicameral Effort to Protect Ag Industry from Foreign Interference
    Tuberville Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Ban Foreign Adversaries from Buying U.S. Farmland
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP, and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed, Magaziner Join RI Education Leaders to Warn RIers About Trump’s Plan to Dismantle the U.S. Department of Education

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed

    ***WATCH***

    CRANSTON, RI – In an effort to stand up to President Trump’s proposal to slash education funding and shutter the U.S. Department of Education, U.S. Senator Jack Reed and U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner rallied with educators from across Rhode Island.  The lawmakers stressed the need to continue investing in public schools and ensuring all children have access to a high-quality education in a safe and healthy environment.

    The U.S. Department of Education’s mission is to support students, schools, and communities. The department conducts important research and administers funding to promote student achievement and preparation for global competitiveness by fostering educational excellence and ensuring equal access.

    After winning office, President Trump said that he would like to shutter the U.S. Department of Education “immediately.”

    Though education is largely under state and local control in the U.S., the U.S. Department of Education was created to provide critical guidance, support, protections, and funding for students, teachers, and public education across the nation. 

    While the standalone federal department does not control what is taught in U.S. schools, its responsibilities include:

    • Administering billions in federal funding to almost every public school;
    • Providing and monitoring federal financial aid for postsecondary education, including Pell Grants and student loans;
    • Collecting data on schools;
    • Disseminating research;
    • Focusing national attention on educational issues, and;
    • Prohibiting discrimination and upholding civil rights.  

    According to the Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE), the state receives approximately $275 million in federal funds to support public education, including $65 million for ‘Title I’ programs that serve low-income students and families, $60 million to support students with disabilities, $48 million to help feed students, and $11 million for career and technical education. Additionally, in 2024, more than $95 million in Pell Grants flowed to Rhode Island students and families to help pay for college.

    Senator Reed said that the Trump Administration should be focused on improving public education and helping students succeed. Instead, Trump’s proposed plans to cut key programs and dismantle critical supports for teachers would have a disastrous effect on Rhode Island families and would hurt public schools and school departments throughout the state.

    “Education is the foundation for our nation’s competitiveness and the prosperity of our communities.  It is essential for a strong society and a brighter future for America.  We can’t afford to leave anyone behind.  But that’s what the Trump Administration is suggesting they will do,” said Senator Reed.  “President Trump and the Republicans in Congress have declared war on public education.  It’s clear that their actions will have devastating impacts on our students and families.”

    Reed continued: “We stand with educators. We stand with students and families. And we will fight Trump, Elon Musk, and his DOGE wrecking crew, who are intent on demolishing educational opportunities and our future.”

    Senator Reed and Congressman Magaziner were joined at the event by Rhode Island Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education, Angélica Infante-Green; Rhode Island Commissioner of Postsecondary Education, Shannon Gilkey; Rhode Island College President Jack Warner; Executive Director of the National Education Association of Rhode Island, Mary Barden; President of the Rhode Island Federation of Teachers, Maribeth Calabro; and Executive Director of Rhode Island KIDS COUNT, Paige Parks.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed Works to Nix “Carried Interest” Tax Loophole & Make Wall Street Pay Its Fair Share

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed

    WASHINGTON, DC –In an effort to restore fairness to the tax code, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) is seeking to close the “carried interest” tax loophole, which lets private equity firms and Wall Street managers at investment partnerships pay a lower tax rate on their income than most American workers.

    Reed is teaming up with U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) to introduce the Carried Interest Fairness Act (S. 445).  Their legislation would ensure that income earned by investment managers of private equity, venture capital, and hedge funds is taxed at the same rate paid by the vast majority of Americans.  The non-partisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimates that ending the loophole could reduce the federal deficit by $13 billion through 2034.

    Under the current system, fund managers get paid up to two percent of assets as a regular fee, plus twenty percent of the fund’s profits.  The managers pay regular income tax on the two percent, but when it comes to their share of the profits, which is called “carried interest,” they usually pay only the lower long-term capital gains tax rate.  In a sense, they are converting income from labor into capital gains.  So even though the investors are putting up the fund’s capital and taking the risk, the fund managers are able to treat their part of the fund’s earnings as a capital gain, subject only to a top capital gains tax rate at 20 percent compared to the top federal income tax rate of 37 percent for the wealthiest Americans. 

    “Americans feel the system is fixed against them, and this big, fat loophole sure seems that way. This commonsense legislation would close a glaring loophole in the tax code and restore a key measure of fairness so that wealthy fund managers pay the same rate as regular working Americans.  It would end preferential treatment for Wall Street elites and prevent these wealthy executives from paying lower rates than their salaried employees.  Everyone has a right to earn their pay, but there shouldn’t be a special set of tax breaks just for the wealthy and well-connected.  Congress needs to close this loophole, simplify the tax code, and enact other sensible reforms that will strengthen our economy,” said Senator Reed, a senior member of the Senate Banking Committee.

    “Wall Street investors should not be paying less in taxes than Wisconsin firefighters, teachers, and small business owners. But right now, the wealthiest Americans are gaming our tax system to get out of paying their fair share, passing their tax burden onto working Wisconsinites,” said Senator Baldwin.

    Despite President Donald Trump previously pledging “we will eliminate the carried interest deduction and other special interest loopholes…”  during the 2016 election, his 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act “failed to eliminate [the] key deduction used by wealthy investment firms that Trump had vowed to kill,” leading PolitiFact to rate this a “Promise Broken.”

    In 2017, Senate Republicans rejected an amendment to the Trump tax bill by Senator Baldwin to close the carried interest loophole.

    In 2022, Senator Reed and the majority of his Democratic colleagues pushed for a provision to eliminate the carried interest loophole as part of the Inflation Reduction Act.  But with a 50-50 split in the U.S. Senate, the measure was stripped out of the underlying bill after then-Senator Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ) objected to its inclusion.

    In addition to Baldwin and Reed, the Carried Interest Fairness Act is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Patty Murray (D-WA), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Ed Markey (D-MA), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Peter Welch (D-VT), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), and Mazie Hirono (D-HI).

    Companion legislation has been introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Congresswoman Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-WA-03).

    The legislation is endorsed by Communications Workers of America, Americans for Tax Fairness, the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), Public Citizen, American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), Alliance for Retired Americans, Americans for Financial Reform, Take on Wall Street, Patriotic Millionaires, 20/20 Vision, Community Catalyst, Main Street Alliance, American Federation of Government Employees, Small Business Minority, Economic Policy Institute, and the National Women’s Law Center.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Condemns President Trump’s Art Of Appeasement To Russian President Vladimir Putin

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    February 18, 2025

    Durbin: President Trump has always had a strange affinity for assorted autocrats and dictators—a troubling stain and liability for the leader of the free world

    WASHINGTON – In a speech on the Senate floor, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) condemned President Trump’s appeasement to Russian President Vladimir Putin—where Trump announced key concessions to Putin regarding Ukraine, while apparently ignoring Ukraine’s key demands. Durbin began his speech by recounting history in which British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain touted the now infamous Munich Agreement as the way to stave off Hitler’s Nazi Germany. One year later, Hitler invaded Poland and triggered World War II.

    “Over time, Chamberlain’s name became synonymous with the term ‘appeasement.’ And for good reason. You see, while Chamberlain’s goal of peace may have been honorable, he was dangerously naïve about the human nature of a tyrant in Germany who was bent on territorial and maniacal ambitions—pursuits that could only be thwarted with strength,” said Durbin. “Well, President Trump’s ‘art of the deal’ opening negotiation with Vladimir Putin has the same naïve odor of appeasement.”

    Durbin continued, “Trump and his fledgling Defense Secretary publicly gave away huge concessions at the start—signaling they would not insist on a return to Ukraine’s sovereign 2014 borders or future NATO membership. It’s also not clear from the Administration’s bewildering Munich Security Conference remarks if Trump plans to even include Ukraine, or our European allies, in the negotiations over its own future. It is no wonder that in the UK—where they remember Chamberlain’s folly all too well—Donald Trump’s early pronouncements were lambasted for their misreading of history by leaders across the political spectrum.”

    Members of the UK Parliament are speaking out against President Trump’s attempt to work with Putin. One Member of Parliament lamented that the West now “might be facing the worse betrayal of a European ally since Poland in 1945.” Another stated, “This is less the Art of a Deal and more a charter for Appeasement.”

    Durbin concluded, “President Trump has always had a strange affinity for autocrats and dictators—a troubling stain and liability for the leader of the free world. He almost seems to want their adoration and admiration—especially compared to the clear-eyed leadership of Ronald Reagan in his dealing with the Soviets. But there are real consequences to Trump’s autocrat liaisons for American and allied security—ones Republicans in the Senate must take more seriously. His crazy rants about Greenland, Canada as a 51st state, Panama, and the Gulf of Mexico may be amusing to some including himself, but it certainly does not portend well for the foreign policy of the United States. Simply caving to Putin and walking away from Ukraine—just as Chamberlain did to Hitler—is an invitation for more confrontations in the future.”

    Video of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.

    Audio of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.

    Footage of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here for TV Stations.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Slams Senate Republicans For Blindly Supporting Kash Patel For FBI Director Despite Serious Concerns On Fitness To Serve

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    February 18, 2025

    Ahead of procedural vote, Durbin: “My Senate Republican colleagues are willfully ignoring myriad red flags about Mr. Patel, especially his recurring instinct to threaten retribution against his and President Trump’s perceived enemies.”

    WASHINGTON – Ahead of tonight’s procedural vote on the nomination of Kash Patel to be Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, spoke on the Senate Floor regarding his serious concerns about Mr. Patel, which includes whistleblower reports that Mr. Patel has been personally involved in the ongoing purge of FBI officials.

    Key Quotes:

    “After meeting with Mr. Patel, reviewing his record, and questioning him under oath at his hearing, I am deeply concerned about his fitness to serve as FBI Director. He has neither the experience, the judgment, nor the temperament to lead the FBI.”

    “My Senate Republican colleagues, sadly, are willfully ignoring myriad red flags about Mr. Patel, especially his recurring instinct to threaten retribution against his political enemies and President Trump’s perceived enemies. This is an extremely dangerous characteristic for someone who seeks to lead the nation’s most powerful domestic investigative agency for the next 10 years.”

    “On day one, [Kash Patel] plans to ‘shut down the F.B.I. Hoover Building and reopen it the next day as a museum of the ‘deep state.’’ He even wrote a book on this subject, and I punished myself by requiring that I read it from cover to cover so I understood exactly what this man believed. He has peddled outrageous conspiracy theories that benefit President Trump, claiming that January 6th—the assault on the Capitol—was ‘never an insurrection’ and that the FBI ‘was planning January 6 for a year.’ Where is this man coming up with these wild theories?”

    “He compiled an enemies list and published it in the back of his book. Sixty names—‘members of the deep state,’ which includes distinguished public servants from both political parties—like former Attorneys General Bill Barr and Merrick Garland and former FBI Directors Robert Mueller and Chris Wray as the so-called ‘members of the deep state’… whatever that may be.”

    “[Patel] decided to assemble a choir of the January 6th individuals who were prosecuted. Then he was involved in making a recording of a patriotic song that these prisoners were singing. Then, he was selling this recording and playing it at the rallies for President Trump… which he denied during our hearing, under oath.”

    “Before even being confirmed as the FBI Director, Mr. Patel is already seeking retribution on behalf of President Trump despite Patel’s status as a private citizen. Multiple whistleblowers have disclosed highly credible information to my staff, indicating that Mr. Patel has personally directed the ongoing purge of senior law enforcement officials at the FBI. Senior leaders with collectively hundreds of years of experience have been forced out at the FBI, creating a leadership vacuum.”

    “In the FBI’s long history, this has never happened before—never. Keep in mind that the Director is the only [political] appointee at the FBI, and [that] the leaders have been forced out despite their career commitment to law enforcement. This purge has dramatically weakened FBI’s ability to protect the country from national security threats and made America less safe.”

    “If these whistleblower allegations are true that Kash Patel, as a private citizen, has been orchestrating the purging of the ranks at the FBI because of political loyalty questions, I will tell you that he came dangerously close to perjuring himself during his nomination hearing when he was asked about the possible firings of FBI officials and he answered, under oath, ‘I don’t know what’s going on right now’ at the FBI. Mr. President, we’re told that’s not true.”

    “Mr. Patel has been open about his plans to dismantle the FBI and seek retribution against his and President Trump’s enemies. His directives as a private citizen have already thrown the Bureau into absolute chaos.”

    “Mr. Patel’s recent actions and testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee confirm my belief that he is dangerous, inexperienced, and he’s been dishonest in portraying his role in what’s happening at the FBI.”

    “It will be a political and national security disaster if he is confirmed.”

    Video of Durbin’s remarks on the floor is available here.

    Audio of Durbin’s remarks on the floor is available here.

    Footage of Durbin’s remarks on the floor is available here for TV Stations.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: McConnell Proud to Confirm Lutnick as Commerce Secretary

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Mitch McConnell

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) issued the following statement today regarding the confirmation of Howard Lutnick as U.S. Secretary of Commerce:

    “The American people handed the Trump Administration a crystal-clear mandate to hit the brakes on President Biden’s reckless spending and runaway inflation. It’s time to provide working families some much-needed relief through commonsense, pro-growth policies that drive investment and get Americans back to work. I’m optimistic that Secretary Lutnick, with his decades of experience in the private sector, will be a valuable partner as Republicans work to reverse the last four years of economic heartache.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy champions bill to stop bureaucrats from crushing America’s chemical industry

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)

    WASHINGTON – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) today introduced the No Industrial Restrictions In Secret (No IRIS) Act to prevent the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from using data from the Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) to make rules that punish America’s chemical manufacturing industry. 

    “For four years, the Biden administration weaponized the EPA’s IRIS program against America’s chemical industry. My bill would prevent this kind of abuse from happening again and safeguard American businesses from government overreach,” said Kennedy.

    The No IRIS Act would prohibit the federal government from using the IRIS to inform its rulemakings unless Congress explicitly authorizes the program.

    Rep. Glenn Grothman (R-Wis.) is leading the companion legislation in the House of Representatives.

    “Unelected bureaucrats have often disrupted the work of Wisconsin’s chemical manufacturers and inhibited the success of the industry through the abuse of the EPA’s IRIS program. Instead of grounding regulatory decisions in sound science, IRIS has demonstrated a poor track record by issuing assessments that conflict with the industry’s best available scientific expertise and methodologies. The No IRIS Act will protect American jobs, promote innovation, and hold the EPA accountable for acting against the best interest of the industry and our economy,” said Grothman.

    “American success relies on American chemistry. Computer chips, national defense, modern healthcare, housing, infrastructure, agriculture, and energy are all made possible by America’s chemical industry. Unfortunately, the EPA’s IRIS program puts many critical chemistries in jeopardy. The IRIS program has a troubling history of being out of step with the best available science and methods, lacking transparency, and being unresponsive to peer review and stakeholder recommendations. It’s time for Congress and EPA to take action and put sound science at the forefront of regulatory decision-making, and we applaud Senator Kennedy and Congressman Grothman for their leadership on this important issue,” said Chris Jahn, President and CEO of the American Chemistry Council.

    Background: 

    • The EPA established the IRIS program in 1985 to gather data on how chemicals impact human health. The EPA designed the system to spot health hazards—not make policy.
    • The IRIS program is not currently authorized in statute. As a result, unelected bureaucrats have abused the system to hurt chemical makers in Louisiana and across the country with virtually zero Congressional oversight.
    • President Joe Biden’s EPA used unscientific methods in the IRIS to justify rules that hurt businesses and cost Americans their jobs. 
    • As of 2023, Louisiana was the second-largest chemical-producing state in the country, with its chemical industry paying $3.49 billion in wages.

    The full bill text is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 02.18.2025 Sen. Cruz Files Bill to Repeal Costly Chemical Tax on American Manufacturers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas Ted Cruz
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) reintroduced the Chemical Tax Repeal Act today. The bill eliminates the Superfund excise tax imposed by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act passed in 2021. That law re-imposed taxes on 42 different chemicals, critical minerals, and metallic elements used in common household items such as plastics, rubber, concrete, soap, lightbulbs, and electronics.
    Upon reintroduction, Sen. Cruz said, “We should be unleashing American manufacturing and strengthening our economy, not increasing the tax burden on Texan and American businesses. Repealing this tax will strengthen the competitiveness of American industries, protect jobs, and ensure everyday essentials remain affordable for American families. I urge my colleagues to expeditiously take up and advance this bill.”
    U.S. Chamber of Commerce said, “The U.S. Chamber of Commerce supports the efforts of Senator Ted Cruz and Representative Beth Van Duyne to repeal the Superfund Tax. This tax has increased costs for essential household items and undermined the competitiveness of American manufacturers, yet the EPA has failed to accelerate site cleanups despite the additional revenue. We urge Congress to act swiftly to remove this burden and strengthen the U.S. economy.”
    American Chemistry Council said, “We welcome the Senate reintroduction of the Chemical Tax Repeal Act and commend Senators Cruz, Barrasso, Kennedy, Lee, and Cornyn for their leadership on this key issue for America’s economy. Estimates by the Joint Committee on Taxation indicate that the excise taxes could result in a nearly $15 billion hit to the U.S. economy by the time they expire at the end of 2031. The taxes are affecting chemical supply chains and markets and continue to increase costs for consumers and businesses. … We urge additional lawmakers to join the legislation and look forward to swift passage by both chambers.”
    Eric R. Byer, President & CEO, Alliance for Chemical Distribution (ACD) said, “The Alliance for Chemical Distribution (ACD) commends Senators Cruz, Kennedy, Cornyn, Barrasso, and Lee for championing the Chemical Tax Repeal Act, which aims to alleviate the undue burdens and uncertainties imposed by the reinstated Superfund Tax. Since its reimplementation in 2021, this tax has posed significant regulatory and financial hurdles for our members, many of whom operate small, family-owned businesses. The situation is further exacerbated by unclear guidance from the Internal Revenue Service. ACD strongly advocates for the prompt enactment of the Chemical Tax Repeal Act to enable the chemical distribution industry to continue its essential operations without the constraints of this excise tax.”
    The bill was co-sponsored by Sens. John Kennedy (R-La.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), and Mike Lee (R-Utah).
    Read the bill text here.
    BACKGROUND
    The Chemical Tax, also known as the Superfund Tax, existed from 1987-1995 and was used to mitigate certain contaminated sites around the country with mixed success and high costs. The 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act re-imposed the tax at twice its prior levels. The costs imposed by this measure travel down the supply chain, increasing prices for manufacturing materials to final products. Texas is home to forty percent of the nation’s chemical manufacturing plants.
    Sen. Cruz’s legislation received support from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, American Chemistry Council, Alliance for Chemical Distribution (ACD), Vinyl Institute, National Taxpayers Union (NTU), Taxpayer Protection Alliance (TPA), Battery Council International (BCI), Americans for Prosperity (AFP), and Institute of Makers of Explosives (IME).
    Sen. Cruz previously introduced the Chemical Tax Repeal Act in April 2023 and December 2021.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: arner, Colleagues Warn IRS that Staffing Cuts will Wreak Havoc on Tax Refunds, Taxpayer Service, and Undermine Law Enforcement

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), a member of the Senate Finance Committee, joined colleagues in warning the Trump administration and Internal Revenue Service (IRS) leadership that staffing reductions at the IRS resulting from Trump’s hiring freeze and potential layoffs would likely delay tax refunds, harm taxpayer service and undermine law enforcement efforts.
    The senators urged the administration to end the IRS hiring freeze immediately, avoid further staffing cuts, and protect the Criminal Investigation division that plays a key role in combating drug and human trafficking, terrorism and sanctions evasion. 
    Regarding the impact of the hiring freeze and layoffs on taxpayer refunds and service, the senators wrote: “Americans need the IRS to be fully staffed with employees who can answer their questions, process their returns, send refunds, and keep IRS systems online and functional. It is nearly inevitable that this hiring freeze, compounded by layoffs and further reductions in staff mandated as a result of Elon Musk’s unprecedented power grab, will delay refunds and degrade taxpayer service. Millions of Americans plan their budgets around timely refunds every filing season. These reckless decisions on the part of Elon Musk and the Trump administration will likely cause serious financial hardship for people across the country.”
    Regarding the impact on law enforcement and national security they continued, “IRS Criminal Investigation is at the forefront of federal law enforcement efforts to investigate fentanyl trafficking by cartels, human trafficking, terrorism financing, and sanctions evasion. For example, CI was the lead investigative agency in the largest international fentanyl/opioid seizure in U.S. history. This operation took down a massive drug trafficking operation and seized 864 kg of drugs, including an astounding 64kg of fentanyl and fentanyl-laced opioids, enough to kill thousands of people. CI was also responsible for the dismantling of several large fentanyl trafficking networks operated by the Sinaloa cartel, including a collaboration with Chinese money laundering organizations. An indefinite hiring freeze at CI would endanger both public safety and national security by directly hampering multi-agency efforts to pursue and dismantle these highly dangerous criminal networks.”
    The letter was also signed by Finance Committee Ranking Member Ron Wyden (D-OR), and U.S. Sens. Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) Bernie Sanders, (I-VT), Tina Smith (D-MN), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), and Peter Welch (D-VT).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Provides Opening Remarks at NOFA’s Winter Conference 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    BURLINGTON, VT — U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) delivered remarks to a gathering of over 300 organic farmers and food businesses at the Northeast Organic Farmers’ Association of Vermont’s (NOFA-VT) annual winter conference this weekend.  
    “Vermont was an early pioneer of organic farming, and our organic farmers and producers remain crucial to our economy. Last year, I was proud to work across the aisle and secure bipartisan provisions in the Farm Bill to support Vermont’s organic industry. But thanks to Elon Musk’s influence, Republicans removed crucial funding for organic programs from the bill at the eleventh hour,” said Senator Welch. “Finding common ground to protect people and industries under threat from the Trump Administration, like our organic farmers and producers, will be vital in the days ahead. I’ll do everything I can to find common ground to support and strengthen our organic farms in Vermont. 
    As Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture Subcommittee on Rural Development, Energy, and Credit, Senator Welch has led efforts to support Vermont’s organic farms and the transition to organics.  
    Senator Welch has introduced several bills to support Vermont’s dairy, organic, and specialty crop farmers; strengthen rural development and infrastructure; increase energy efficiency and renewable energy adoption; improve access to nutrition; strengthen our local food systems and expand markets; and make our communities more resilient to flooding—all of which were included in the Senate’s draft Farm Bill text during the 118th Congress, the Rural Prosperity and Food Security Act. Senator Welch plans to reintroduce many of these bills and policy provisions in the 119th Congress. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper, Bennet Press Trump Admin on Treatment of Federal Employees

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Colorado John Hickenlooper
    Blanket buyouts and layoffs threaten Colorado’s 40,000 federal employees and raise potential for severe delays in federal services
    Hickenlooper and Bennet: “Our federal workers keep Colorado, and America moving.”
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper and Michael Bennet sent a letter to the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) pushing the Trump administration to respond to concerns regarding OPM’s blanket buyout offer to federal employees. The senators argue that the buyout threatens severe delays and pauses to ongoing federal services in Colorado including health care for veterans, childcare for underserved families, and access to national parks.
    “In Colorado alone, there are more than 40,000 federal workers across agencies and areas of expertise. Such a sweeping reduction of the workforce could have a devastating impact on the programs that our constituents rely on,” the senators wrote.
    “…While every administration has the right to review and make changes to the executive branch personnel, doing so without a strategic plan, without appropriated funds, and without adhering to workers’ legal protections, is a misleading overreach. Further, these changes will likely lead to workforce shortages and talent gaps that delay timely and effective service to our constituents,” they continued. 
    In late January, OPM sent an e-mail to over two million federal workers offering them the opportunity to resign in exchange for their full pay and benefits. According to OPM, an estimated 75,000 federal employees have accepted the buyout offer.
    The senators’ letter raises questions about the legality and legitimacy of the Trump administration’s offer. The OPM promised full pay and benefits to employees who accepted the offer, but Congress has not appropriated funding to make good on that commitment. Given the lack of clarity, federal employees across Colorado have received confusing instructions or no guidance at all from their supervisors.
    The buyout offer is part of a larger Trump administration initiative to drastically reduce the size of the federal workforce. Last Tuesday, Trump signed an executive order paving the way for “large-scale” layoffs and pauses in hiring. In accordance with the executive order, the Department of the Interior fired 2,300 employees, and the Department of Veterans Affairs fired 1,000.
    Last week, Hickenlooper pushed the Department of the Interior to resolve looming staffing shortages at the National Park Service following news that the Trump administration had fired thousands of National Forest Service and National Park Service workers. 
    Full text of the letter is available HERE and below.
    Dear Acting Director Ezell:
    The State of Colorado’s federal workforce is essential to ensure that the work we do, in Congress and in the Executive Branch, benefits our constituents. We are deeply concerned about the implications of the Office of Personnel Management’s (OPM’s) January 27th Memorandum on Agency Return to Office Implementation Plans and the agency’s subsequent “Fork in the Road” e-mail, issued January 28. This offer was accepted by over 75,000 federal employees as of the February 12th deadline. Given the decision by the U.S. District Court of Massachusetts to uphold OPM’s offer, it is critical that this process is transparent and that OPM works in earnest to prevent delays or pauses in federal services.
    Historically, under the Chief Human Capital Officers Act of 2002, OPM could not pay more than $25,000 per person in a lump sum payment for resignations. OPM currently includes this policy on its website. Under OPM’s deferred resignation plan, the federal government will be responsible for paying billions of dollars in salary and benefits to employees that would be doing important work, had they not been chased away by the administration’s offer to resign.
    Despite OPM’s guidance about how agencies implement the new return-to-work and deferred resignation offer, we continue to hear from Coloradans who received confusing instructions or no guidance at all from their supervisors. Colorado’s federal workforce consists of workers who provide unique services across the state. For many of our workers, remote work and telework policies have been in place long before COVID-19. Workers are also increasingly skeptical that this deferred resignation offer will not actually allow them to continue receiving their full salary and benefits or protect them from future federal employee layoffs.
    In Colorado alone, there are more than 40,000 federal workers across agencies and areas of expertise. Such a sweeping reduction of the workforce could have a devastating impact on the programs that our constituents rely on. For example, the Department of Veterans Affairs (V A) Health Administration comprises more than 7,000 workers in Colorado. While the VA has taken steps to minimize impacts related to veterans’ direct care, mass resignations could delay administration of other VA services like veterans’ disability or burial benefit payments. Denver, Colorado also houses one of 12 regional Head Start offices that helps ensure that our more than 8,000 Head Start children in Colorado receive high-quality child care. Just as importantly, our four national parks, 11 national forests, eight wildlife refuges, and 65 national conservation lands all depend on the federal employees who keep these areas safe, well-maintained, and welcoming to Coloradans and visitors from around the world.
    A highly skilled and stable workforce is key to making our government efficient and effective. However, under OPM’s offer, roughly 3 percent of federal employees will exit the workforce in just a matter of days. Further, the Trump Administration set a goal to see an initial 10 percent reduction across the federal workforce. While every administration has the right to review and make changes to the executive branch personnel, doing so without a strategic plan, without appropriated funds, and without adhering to workers’ legal protections, is a misleading overreach. Further, these changes will likely lead to workforce shortages and talent gaps that delay timely and effective service to our constituents.
    We question whether the Administration can achieve its goal of streamlined and efficient service to Colorado–and the nation–while making such sweeping changes to the federal workforce. To ensure transparency in this ongoing process, we ask that you answer the following questions:
    How many federal workers nationally and based in Colorado accepted OPM’s resignation offers and from which agencies? Which agencies had the highest concentrations of resignations?
    Will OPM and relevant agencies ensure employees continue receiving their contractually obligated salaries, and benefits, including any previously negotiated Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA), through September 30, 2025? If not, why not?
    Have senior agency staff since been consulted about the next steps to implement resignation processes? How soon should workers expect to receive specific information about their agency’s expectations for workers who accept the resignation offer?
    How does OPM plan to work with agencies to prevent delays to constituent services in the event of future workforce shortages these resignations may cause? Has OPM submitted guidance to each agency about preserving mission-critical staffing for services like health care and child care facilities, care for the elderly or veterans’ affairs?
    Consistent with the Civil Service Reform Act of 1978, workers are protected against retaliation if they a) choose to exercise their right to appeal, file a complaint or grievance against their agency; b) testify in support of another worker’s appeal, complaint or grievance process, c) cooperate or disclose information to an Inspector General or other federal entity responsible for internal investigations; or d) refuse to obey an order that would require that they violate a law, rule or regulation. Will OPM adhere to these protections for workers? How will you continue to enforce these protections?
    Many federal workers are protected by union–negotiated collective bargaining agreements, which are legally binding. Does OPM acknowledge and agree to adhere to these bargaining agreements and the agreed upon protections for workers?
    Our federal workers keep Colorado, and America moving. We implore you to implement these resignations thoughtfully and to take every step to prevent unintended harm to our constituent services. We look forward to hearing from you by Monday, March 10, 2025.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden, Merkley, Colleagues Demand Answers About Elon Musk and DOGE’s Access to Disaster Victims’ Personal Data

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)
    February 18, 2025
    Washington D.C.—U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley said today they have joined Senate colleagues to demand answers from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator, on the potential security breach created by Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which has reportedly accessed the sensitive personal data of disaster victims. 
    The senators in their letter to Cameron Hamilton, Senior Official Performing the Duties of the FEMA Administrator also sought more information on the procedures FEMA follows to protect data from misuse, and if DOGE’s unaccountable agents complied with federal law.
    “The United States has suffered from a growing number of natural disasters over the past several years—from severe flooding in Vermont and hurricanes in North Carolina, to catastrophic wildfires in Hawaii and California. In order to register for federal disaster assistance and receive help rebuilding their communities, our constituents have provided their personally identifiable information to FEMA. They did not do so with the expectation that their sensitive information would be turned over to unvetted, unaccountable DOGE agents,” the senators wrote. 
    “Mr. Musk has stated his desire to eliminate waste at FEMA. We agree the country must examine and thoughtfully consider reforms to the operation of FEMA. Our constituents have experienced first-hand the frustrating bureaucracies that hinder the federal disaster recovery process. Congress must take steps to equip FEMA and communities with the tools needed to better assist disaster victims after the storm has passed. We stand ready to work with anyone willing to fix it,” the senators continued. “But such reforms do not require, or come close to justifying, the invasive measures DOGE has reportedly undertaken.” 
    “When disaster strikes, Americans should have confidence the government will safeguard their data, regardless of the Administration at the helm. Reports indicate you have breached that trust—perhaps in violation of federal privacy law,” the senators concluded.
    In their letter, the senators requested responses to the following questions to understand the scope of that breach and the extent of FEMA’s compliance with federal law: 
    Please provide a complete list of individuals authorized by FEMA to access disaster victims’ data and records during the period between January 20, 2025, and February 14, 2025. Please indicate whether those individuals are employees of FEMA, the White House, DOGE, or another federal agency and specify the agency. If the individuals are not federal employees, please indicate that in your response.  
    What are the individuals specified above authorized to do with disaster victims’ data and records, and what types of data were obtained?  
    What procedures does FEMA follow to protect disaster victims’ data from misuse? Are DOGE-affiliated individuals required to follow those procedures?   
    How many Americans’ personally identifiable data has been accessed by DOGE-affiliated individuals? What vetting did these individuals undergo prior to their being granted access to FEMA systems? 
    The letter was led by U.S. Senators Peter Welch, D-Vt., and Alex Padilla, D-Calif. In addition to Wyden and Merkley, the letter was co-signed by U.S. Senators Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., Adam Schiff, D-Calif., Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii, Martin Heinrich, D-N.M., Edward J. Markey, D-Mass., Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., and Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn. 
    Full text of the letter is here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner Joins Rosen, Scott in Introducing Antisemitism Awareness Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) joined Sens. Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Tim Scott (R-SC) in introducing the Antisemitism Awareness Act, legislation to address antisemitic sentiment and actions on college campuses.
    In the year following the October 7th attack, the Anti-Defamation League reported 1,400 antisemitic incidents on campuses across the nation, all-time high, with 73 percent of Jewish students reporting they had witnessed or experienced some form of antisemitism.
    “In the wake of the horrific October 7th terrorist attack perpetrated by Hamas, we have seen growing rates religious discrimination across the country. This legislation aims to address the alarming rise of antisemitism on college campuses, and help investigate these reprehensible acts.” Sen. Warner said.
    The Antisemitism Awareness Act would require the Department of Education to take into consideration the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s (IHRA) definition of antisemitism when investigating violations of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The IHRA definition has been used to clarify and identify the various manifestations of antisemitism. Since 2018, the Department of Education has used the IHRA definition when investigating Title VI violations.
    In addition to Sens. Warner, Rosen, and Tim Scott, the Antisemitism Awareness Act is sponsored by U.S. Sens. Chuck Schumer (D-NY), James Lankford (R-OK), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lindsay Graham (R-SC), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Rick Scott (R-FL), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Susan Collins (R-ME), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), John Barrasso (R-WY), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Chris Coons (D-DE), Katie Britt (R-AL), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), John Cornyn (R-TX), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), John Boozman (R-AR), John Fetterman (D-PA), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Gary Peters (D-MI), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Deb Fischer (R-NE), and Steve Daines (R-MT).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sullivan, Colleagues Introduce Resolution Honoring the 80th Anniversary of Iwo Jima

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Dan Sullivan
    02.18.25
    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) and the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee (SVAC), introduced a resolution with his Senate colleagues recognizing the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima, which began on February 19, 1945, and lasted until March 26, 1945. 
    “Eighty years ago, the brave Marines who stormed the beaches of Iwo Jima turned the tide of the Pacific Theater in one of the greatest displays of valor and sacrifice in our military’s history,” Senator Sullivan said. “It is an honor to introduce this resolution with my colleagues to recognize the members of the U.S. military who fought in Iwo Jima and inspired enduring peace and allyship between the United States and Japan. The United States, and our military members in particular, has done more to liberate humankind from tyranny and oppression than literally any other force in history. Hundreds of millions of people have been liberated because of our military and our country—and Iwo Jima was a proud part of that legacy.”
    Specifically, the resolution:
    Honors the Marines, Sailors, Soldiers, Army Air Crew, and Coast Guardsmen who fought bravely on Iwo Jima;
    Remembers the brave servicemembers who lost their lives in the battle;
    Encourages Americans to honor the veterans of Iwo Jima; and
    Reaffirms the bonds of friendship and shared values that have developed between the United States and Japan over the last 80 years.
    The resolution was cosponsored by Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Chris Coons (D-Conn.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Angus King (I-Maine), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.).
    Full text of the resolution can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Boozman, Scott, Rosen Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Combat Antisemitism on College Campuses

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman
    WASHINGTON––U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR), Tim Scott (R-SC) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV) introduced the Antisemitism Awareness Act, which would direct the U.S. Department of Education to use the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s (IHRA) definition of antisemitism when investigating antisemitic acts on campus. 
    This bill ensures the Education Department has a clear definition of antisemitism when determining whether an antisemitic incident on campus crosses the line from free speech into harassing, unlawful or discriminatory conduct. 
    “Disturbing acts of antisemitism and violence increased on college campuses in the wake of Hamas’ deadly attack on Israel, it is more important than ever for universities to fulfill their responsibility to provide students with a safe learning environment,” said Boozman. “University leaders should move swiftly to hold individuals who take part in abhorrent, antisemitic behavior accountable and I am proud to support this commonsense legislation that gives them clear guidance and federal support.”
    “In the continued aftermath of the October 7th attacks on Israel by Hamas and Iran, we have seen college campuses across our nation become hotbeds of antisemitism where Jewish students’ rights are being threatened,” said Scott. “It’s critical the Department of Education has the tools and resources it needs to investigate antisemitism and root out this vile hatred wherever it rears its ugly head. There can be no equivocating when it comes to the issue of anti-Jewish violence and harassment.” 
    “Antisemitism is on the rise across the nation, particularly on college campuses, and Congress has a responsibility to do everything in its power to fight back against this hate,” said Rosen. “I’ll keep working with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to get this bill passed and signed into law.” 
    The Antisemitism Awareness Act is also cosponsored by Senators James Lankford (R-OK), Charles Schumer (D-NY), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Rick Scott (R-FL), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Susan Collins (R-ME), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Mike Crapo (R-ID), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Katie Britt (R-AL), Ron Wyden (D-OR), John Cornyn (R-TX), Chris Coons (D-DE), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), John Fetterman (D-PA), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Mark Warner (D-VA), John Barrasso (R-WY) and Gary Peters (D-MI).
    Further, the Antisemitism Awareness Act is endorsed by the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, Christians for United Israel Action Fund, the Anti-Defamation League, the American Jewish Committee and the Jewish Federations of North America. Here’s what they are saying: 
    “Since Hamas’s October 7th attack on Israel, there has been a dramatic increase in antisemitism on college campuses. We continue to see university administrators show they have little understanding of how to identify antisemitism. The Conference of Presidents urges swift passage of AntisemitismAwareness Act,” said COO of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations Stephanie Hausner.
    “Advancing this legislation is important in making American campuses safe and welcoming for all. We must defeat the vile cancer of antisemitism and defining it under US law is a critical step in that righteous effort,” said Christians for United Israel Action Fund Chairwoman Sandra Hagee Parker.
    “As Anti-Defamation League data shows, antisemitism is at crisis levels in the United States, creating the urgent need for decisive action. The AntisemitismAwareness Act makes clear that antisemitism, including anti-Zionist harassment, has no place in our schools or society and, importantly, reinforces the IHRA Working Definition of Antisemitism as a critical tool for the U.S. Department of Education,” said Anti-Defamation League CEO Jonathan Greenblatt.
     “According to American Jewish Committee’s upcoming State of Antisemitism in America 2024 Report, three in ten American adults are either unsure of what antisemitism means or never heard the term. This number jumps for young Americans (ages 18-29): 41% of young Americans are unsure of what antisemitism means or never heard the term, while, at the same time, young American Jews (ages 18-29) are more likely to have experienced antisemitismin the past year than Jews ages 30 and older. These numbers show why it is critical to have a clear understanding of what antisemitism is and why it matters for American society because to even begin to solve the problem of antisemitism, there must be clarity about what it is and what it isn’t. The International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) Working Definition of Antisemitism is a clear and concise description of antisemitism in its various forms. AJC has supported efforts by both Republican and Democratic Administrations to use this definition at the Department of Education when investigating Title VI complaints,” said CEO of American Jewish Committee Ted Deutch.
    “This bill provides a clear framework for identifying antisemitism, offering concrete examples to help distinguish between constitutionally protected speech and targeted attacks against Jewish individuals. Congress must act now to send a strong message that antisemitism has no place in our society,” said Jewish Federations of North America Vice President of Government Relations Karen Paikin Barall.
    Congressmen Mike Lawler (R-NY-17) and Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ-05) are leading companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.
    Click here for full text of the legislation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Boozman, Blackburn, Duckworth Work to Encourage Domestic Violence Recognition, Reporting

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman
    WASHINGTON––U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) joined Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) to introduce the bipartisan Supporting the Abused by Learning Options to Navigate Survivor (SALONS) Stories Act to promote domestic violence awareness and response training for cosmetologists and beauty professionals. 
    One in four women will be a victim of domestic violence in her lifetime, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. National Violent Death Reporting System data indicates three women were victims of homicide by an intimate partner every day from 2018-2021. The SALONS Stories Act preserves states’ autonomy in setting their cosmetology standards while incentivizing lifesaving support for abused and at-risk patrons.
    “Domestic violence often goes underreported because victims are unable to confide in others and the signs of mistreatment can be difficult to identify,” said Boozman. “Cosmetologists, who routinely build trust and close familiarity with their clients, can help break down those barriers. Encouraging more states follow this example and adopt programs that help them recognize signs of domestic violence can bring victims one step closer to the resources and support needed to escape dangerous, abusive situations.” 
    “Domestic violence is a tragic epidemic in the United States, impacting millions of women every year who often suffer in silence,” said Blackburn. “Given their close relationship with their clients, beauty professionals have the unique opportunity to be a first line of defense against domestic violence by identifying the signs of abuse and helping victims and survivors escape dangerous situations. The SALONS Stories Act would help save the lives of vulnerable and isolated women across the country, and the nation should follow Tennessee’s lead by equipping cosmetologists to recognize and support victims of domestic violence.”
    “Victims of domestic violence often don’t know where to turn or who to talk to, but they do often continue going to their salons—which puts beauty professionals in a unique position of potentially being among the first people who can recognize signs of abuse,” said Duckworth. “How they handle these critical moments could be life-saving.”
    The SALONS Stories Act provides grants to states that have implemented initiatives requiring cosmetologists to undergo free and easily accessible domestic violence awareness training while preserving states’ autonomy in setting their cosmetology standards. Arkansas, Tennessee and Illinois have passed legislation requiring cosmetology students to complete training on recognizing the signs of domestic violence. The Arkansas law, passed in 2017, serves as a model for the nation, providing free, accessible training to cosmetologists.
    The legislation is also cosponsored by Senators Susan Collins (R-ME), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH).
    The SALONS Stories Act is endorsed by the Professional Beauty Association, National Network to End Domestic Violence, the National Domestic Violence Hotline and YWCA USA.
    Click here for full text of the legislation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla, Welch Lead Push to Demand Answers About Elon Musk and DOGE’s Access to Disaster Survivors’ Personal Data

    US Senate News:

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

    Padilla, Welch Lead Push to Demand Answers About Elon Musk and DOGE’s Access to Disaster Survivors’ Personal Data

    Senators: “When disaster strikes, Americans should have confidence the government will safeguard their data, regardless of the Administration at the helm”

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and Peter Welch (D-Vt.) demanded answers from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) after Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) reportedly accessed sensitive personal data of disaster survivors.

    Senators Padilla and Welch led 10 of their colleagues from disaster-impacted states in sounding the alarm on DOGE’s potential security breach. This breach is particularly concerning as Californians request federal disaster assistance following the devastating Southern California fires last month.

    The Senators also requested more information on the procedures FEMA follows to protect data from misuse, and questioned whether DOGE’s unaccountable agents were in compliance with federal law.

    “In order to register for federal disaster assistance and receive help rebuilding their communities, our constituents have provided their personally identifiable information to FEMA. They did not do so with the expectation that their sensitive information would be turned over to unvetted, unaccountable DOGE agents,” wrote the Senators.

    “When disaster strikes, Americans should have confidence the government will safeguard their data, regardless of the Administration at the helm,” continued the Senators. “Reports indicate you have breached that trust—perhaps in violation of federal privacy law.” 

    In their letter, the Senators also expressed that while Congress must better equip FEMA and communities with the tools needed to cut through red tape and quickly assist disaster victims, these reforms “do not require, or come close to justifying, the invasive measures DOGE has reportedly undertaken.” 

    In addition to Senators Padilla and Welch, Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) also signed the letter.

    The Senators requested responses to the following questions to understand the scope of the breach and the extent of FEMA’s compliance with federal law: 

    • Please provide a complete list of individuals authorized by FEMA to access disaster victims’ data and records during the period between January 20, 2025, and February 14, 2025. Please indicate whether those individuals are employees of FEMA, the White House, DOGE, or another federal agency and specify the agency. If the individuals are not federal employees, please indicate that in your response.  
    • What are the individuals specified above authorized to do with disaster victims’ data and records, and what types of data were obtained?  
    • What procedures does FEMA follow to protect disaster victims’ data from misuse? Are DOGE-affiliated individuals required to follow those procedures?   
    • How many Americans’ personally identifiable data has been accessed by DOGE-affiliated individuals? What vetting did these individuals undergo prior to their being granted access to FEMA systems? 

    Senator Padilla has fought relentlessly to secure and protect Southern Californians’ access to desperately needed disaster relief aid. In the immediate aftermath of the Los Angeles fires, Padilla and Senator Schiff led 47 bipartisan members of the California Congressional delegation in successfully urging President Biden to grant Governor Gavin Newsom’s request for a major disaster declaration to expedite timely relief to Los Angeles County residents impacted by these disasters. Last month, Padilla delivered remarks on the Senate floor urging his Republican colleagues and President Trump to provide essential disaster recovery aid to California without conditioning it on the passage of partisan legislation. He also sharply rebuked the order from President Trump’s Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to freeze all congressionally approved federal grants and loans, including disaster relief for Californians, and raised the alarm on OMB Director Russell Vought’s record of withholding federal disaster aid.

    Full text of the letter is available here and below:

    Dear Mr. Hamilton,

    We write with serious concern about reports that Elon Musk’s “Department of Government Efficiency” (DOGE) has obtained access to sensitive information at the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), including the personal data of thousands of disaster victims.

    The United States has suffered from a growing number of natural disasters over the past several years—from severe flooding in Vermont, Minnesota, and Connecticut and hurricanes in North Carolina, to catastrophic wildfires in Hawai’i, California, New Mexico, and Oregon. In order to register for federal disaster assistance and receive help rebuilding their communities, our constituents have provided their personally identifiable information to FEMA. They did not do so with the expectation that their sensitive information would be turned over to unvetted, unaccountable DOGE agents.

    Mr. Musk has stated his desire to eliminate waste at FEMA. We agree the country must examine and thoughtfully consider reforms to the operation of FEMA. Our constituents have experienced first-hand the frustrating bureaucracies that hinder the federal disaster recovery process. Congress must take steps to equip FEMA and communities with the tools needed to better assist disaster victims after the storm has passed. We stand ready to work with anyone willing to fix it.

    But such reforms do not require, or come close to justifying, the invasive measures DOGE has reportedly undertaken.

    When disaster strikes, Americans should have confidence the government will safeguard their data, regardless of the Administration at the helm. Reports indicate you have breached that trust —perhaps in violation of federal privacy law.

    To understand the scope of that breach and the extent of your compliance with federal law, we request responses to the following items by no later than February 28, 2025:

    1. Please provide a complete list of individuals authorized by FEMA to access disaster victims’ data and records during the period between January 20, 2025, and February 14, 2025. Please indicate whether those individuals are employees of FEMA, the White House, DOGE, or another federal agency and specify the agency. If the individuals are not federal employees, please indicate that in your response.

    2. What are the individuals specified above authorized to do with disaster victims’ data and records, and what types of data were obtained?

    3. What procedures does FEMA follow to protect disaster victims’ data from misuse? Are DOGE-affiliated individuals required to follow those procedures?

    4. How many Americans’ personally identifiable data has been accessed by DOGE affiliated individuals? What vetting did these individuals undergo prior to their being granted access to FEMA systems?

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla Introduces Bill to Standardize Cost-of-Living Adjustment for Retired Federal Employees

    US Senate News:

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

    Padilla Introduces Bill to Standardize Cost-of-Living Adjustment for Retired Federal Employees

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) introduced the Equal COLA Act to ensure cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) are applied equally to all federal retirees. The legislation comes as President Trump and Elon Musk conduct a massive purge of longtime federal employees.

    The Social Security Administration announced a 2.5 percent COLA increase for 2025. While federal employees who retired under the Civilian Service Retirement System (CSRS) will enjoy this 2.5 percent boost in benefits, those under the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) will only receive a 2.0 percent increase. This legislation would end the disparity between the two federal retirement systems and ensure all federal workers receive full cost-of-living adjustments.

    “Federal retirees who have worked in service to our country should receive the full cost-of-living adjustment each year that is consistent with national economic trends,” said Senator Padilla. “As President Trump and Elon Musk threaten the hard-earned benefits of our federal workforce, we must ensure the nearly 800,000 federal retirees living on fixed incomes receive the full amount they deserve to keep up with the cost of living.”

    Civilian federal employees who were hired in 1984 or later participate in FERS, as do employees who have voluntarily switched from the CSRS, which was only available to those hired before 1984. COLAs for CSRS annuities are based on the rate of inflation as measured by the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W) in the third quarter of the current calendar year compared with the third quarter of the prior year. While COLA benefits paid under FERS are also based on the percentage change in the CPI-W, they are limited if the rate of inflation exceeds 2 percent.

    Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Angus King (I-Maine), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) are cosponsoring the bill. Representative Gerry Connolly (D-Va.-11) is leading companion legislation in the House of Representatives.

    The Equal COLA Act is endorsed by the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), the Federal Managers Association (FMA), the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE), the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association (NARFE), the National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE), and the National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU).

    Full text of the bill is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: PHOTOS: Capito Attends EPA Signing Event Approving West Virginia’s Class VI Well Authority

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, today joined U.S. Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum and Congressman Riley Moore (R-W.Va.), as U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin signed a final rule approving West Virginia’s request to regulate the injection of carbon dioxide into deep rock formations. This action officially grants West Virginia the authority to oversee and administer the Class VI well program for deploying carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) projects. Video of today’s event is available here.
    “I’m thrilled that Administrator Zeldin has affirmed his support for West Virginia’s approval to permit Class VI wells for carbon capture, and that we are officially bringing this important authority to those who know our state best. West Virginia has proven ourselves as a leader in this field, and with this announcement, has become the fourth state to receive Class VI well primacy. Today’s signing marks an important step in the continuation of West Virginia’s proud tradition of being an energy state and our efforts to contribute to American energy dominance,”Chairman Capito said. 
    “To Power the Great American Comeback, we need to produce more energy right here in the United States, and that requires cooperative federalism and permitting reform. As one of my first acts as EPA Administrator, I am proud to sign this rule to allow West Virginia the independence it needs to permit and regulate itself, while also working to safeguard our environment and drinking water. Under President Trump’s leadership, we will continue to advance conservation and foster economic growth for families across the country,” Administrator Zeldin said. 
    BACKGROUND: 
    Senator Capito has continuously advocated for West Virginia to be granted Class VI well primacy. In May 2023, Senator Capito introduced legislation to streamline state primacy applications for Class VI wells. In November 2023, Senator Capito urged the EPA to more quickly grant state primacy for Class VI storage wells and disburse funding from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which she fought to include for future CCUS projects in the state. Last November, Senator Capito applauded EPA’s proposal to grant West Virginia this authority, and sent a letter in support of approval to the Agency in December. Senator Capito applauded West Virginia’s final approval to permit Class VI wells last month.
    Photos from today’s event are included below:

    U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) is introduced by Interior Secretary Doug Burgum at the signing event approving West Virginia’s Class VI well program primacy

    U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) provides remarks at the signing event approving West Virginia’s Class VI well program primacy

    U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) joins EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin, Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, and Congressman Riley Moore (R-W.Va.) for the signing event approving West Virginia’s Class VI well program primacy

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth, Durbin Help Unveil Bill to Raise Minimum Age to Buy Assault Weapons

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth

    February 14, 2025

    [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – On the seventh anniversary of the tragic shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today joined U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA) in announcing legislation to raise the minimum age to purchase assault weapons and high-capacity ammunition magazines from 18 to 21, the same age requirement that already applies to purchasing handguns from federally licensed dealers.  Individuals under 21 have used assault weapons in some of the most devastating school shootings in U.S. history, including the mass shootings at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, and Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut.

    “Congress cannot sit by and do nothing while gun violence remains the number one killer of children in America,” said Duckworth.  “As we remember the 17 lives cut short at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, we must honor their memory with action.  The Age 21 Act is commonsense gun safety legislation that would help prevent mass shootings and do more to keep dangerous weapons out of the hands of those who would seek to harm themselves or others.  If Republicans were truly ‘pro-life,’ they would support our bill and help us save lives.”

    “Gun violence continues to shatter families and communities throughout America.  Our existing laws allow far too many guns to fall into the wrong hands.  That is why I’m signing onto the Age 21 Act, which prohibits the sale of assault weapons, handguns, large-capacity ammunition feeding devices, and related ammunition to individuals under the age of 21,” said Durbin.  “This legislation is one of many steps we must take to address the gun violence epidemic across the United States.”

    Gun violence is a national crisis, claiming over 46,000 lives in 2023 — the third-largest number of gun-related deaths in American history.  Assault weapons, originally engineered for military combat to maximize damage, are frequently used in mass shootings because of their ability to inflict catastrophic harm in mere seconds.  More than 85 percent of deaths in public mass shootings involving four or more fatalities were caused by assault rifles.  Furthermore, shootings involving assault weapons or large-capacity magazines result in more than 2.5 times as many people being shot compared to incidents involving other firearms. 

    The bill’s restrictions on the sale of assault weapons, handguns, large-capacity ammunition feeding devices, and related ammunition to individuals under the age of 21 would apply to both federally licensed and private sellers.  Additionally, the legislation would bar most individuals under 21 from possessing these items, with limited exceptions for specific circumstances such as service in law enforcement or the armed forces.

    In addition to Durbin, Duckworth, and Padilla, the Age 21 Act is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Chris Coons (D-DE), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Patty Murray (D-WA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).

    The Age 21 Act is endorsed by organizations including Brady: United Against Gun Violence, March for Our Lives, Giffords, Newtown Action Alliance, and Everytown for Gun Safety.

    Durbin and Duckworth are fierce advocates for common-sense gun safety legislation that would help save lives.  Durbin and Duckworth were strong supporters of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA), which cracks down on straw purchasing and gun trafficking, expands background checks for buyers under 21 years of age, takes steps to close the “boyfriend loophole,” supports state red flag laws, and offers billions in funding for counseling, mental health, and trauma support for victims of gun violence. Durbin and Duckworth are also continuing to push for the Assault Weapons Ban and additional gun safety measures.

    While Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Durbin held a full committee hearing on public safety and gun safety laws in a post-Bruen America; filed an amicus brief in opposition to legal challenges in U.S. v. Rahimi, in which the Supreme Court ultimately ruled to uphold a ban on firearm possession for domestic violence offenders; condemned the Supreme Court decision in Garland v. Cargill, which ruled a bump stock does not convert a rifle into a machine gun; and introduced legislation to curb firearms trafficking enabled by weak American gun laws, among other efforts.

    A one-pager on the bill is available here.

    Full text of the bill is available here.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth Joins Durbin, Casten, Illinois Delegation Members’ Letter to Protect Regional EPA Workers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth

    February 18, 2025

    [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) joined U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), U.S. Representative Sean Casten (D-IL-06) and members of the Illinois Congressional Delegation in a letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin urging him to reconsider reported plans to terminate more than 1,100 probationary EPA employees, including many based in Illinois.

    “We are deeply concerned about the negative impacts such terminations—done across the board without consideration for positional need or programmatic impact—would have on the agency’s ability to protect public health and the environment in the state of Illinois and across the nation,” the lawmakers wrote.  “ The Trump Administration’s environmental policy agenda, led by EPA Director Zeldin, has already resulted in the termination of 388 probationary employees and 168 Environmental Justice (EJ) employees after the EPA dismantled its EJ office earlier this month. Though they are probationary, many of these employees are long-standing federal workers and subject matter experts with experience vital to running the EPA effectively and efficiently. They perform critical functions protecting Americans from dangers related to pesticides, waste management, chemical control, and ground and drinking water.”

    EPA Region V, which employs many EPA workers, is headquartered in Chicago.

    “The potential dismissal of employees based out of the EPA Region V Office in Chicago threatens the health and safety of communities across Illinois, as well as the rest of the states in Region V, and will undermine ongoing efforts to monitor and improve air and water quality, manage hazardous waste, and restore the ecosystem of the largest freshwater system in the world,” the lawmakers continued.

    “In light of these concerns, we request that you reconsider any plans to terminate probationary EPA employees. We urge you to consider the critical importance of these workers to the EPA’s mission and the potential adverse effects these terminations would have on the public health and environment of the American people,” the lawmakers urged Administrator Zeldin.

    In addition to Duckworth, Durbin and Casten, the letter is co-signed by U.S. Representatives Jonathan Jackson (D-IL-01), Robin Kelly (D-IL-02), Delia Ramirez (D-IL-03), Jesús “Chuy” García (D-IL-04), Mike Quigley (D-IL-05), Danny Davis (D-IL-07), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL-08), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL-09), Brad Schneider (D-IL-10), Bill Foster (D-IL-11), Nikki Budzinski (D-IL-13), Lauren Underwood (D-IL-14) and Eric Sorensen (D-IL-17).

    The full text of the letter is available on Senator Duckworth’s website and below:

    Dear Administrator Zeldin,

    As members of the Illinois delegation, we write to express our profound concern about the potential immediate termination of over 1,100 Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) employees, many based in Illinois, as well as the impact this could have on public health and our environment.

    Reports indicate that EPA staff members have received emails informing them of possible immediate dismissal due to their probationary status. We are deeply concerned about the negative impacts such terminations—done across the board without consideration for positional need or programmatic impact—would have on the agency’s ability to protect public health and the environment in the state of Illinois and across the nation.

    Though they are probationary, many of these employees are long-standing federal workers and subject matter experts with experience vital to running the EPA effectively and efficiently. They perform critical functions protecting Americans from dangers related to pesticides, waste management, chemical control, and ground and drinking water. They are essential to the EPA’s mission and to the well-being of our constituents.

    Illinois is home to industrial sites, precious natural resources, and unique environmental challenges that require diligent oversight, remediation, and ongoing enforcement. As just one example, the Chicago area has more lead pipes than any other American city, requiring EPA water technical assistance to help communities identify lead service lines, develop replacement plans, and apply for funding for lead pipe removal.

    The potential dismissal of approximately employees based out of the EPA Region V Office in Chicago threatens the health and safety of communities the state, as well as the rest of the states in Region V, and will undermine ongoing efforts to monitor and improve air and water quality, manage hazardous waste, and restore the ecosystem of the largest freshwater system in the world.

    In light of these concerns, we request that you reconsider any plans to terminate probationary EPA employees. We urge you to consider the critical importance of these workers to the EPA’s mission and the potential adverse effects these terminations would have on the public health and environment of the American people.

    Sincerely,

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Requires Transparency for the American People About Wasteful Spending

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    PROMOTING TRANSPRENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed a memorandum requiring radical transparency regarding wasteful spending of taxpayer dollars by the federal government.
    It requires all departments and agencies to disclose details about terminated programs, cancelled contracts, and discontinued grants to the fullest extent allowed by law.
    PUTTING AN END TO WASTEFUL SPENDING: By signing this memorandum, President Trump recognizes that the American people have a right to see how the federal government has wasted their hard-earned wages.
    The United States government has wasted taxpayer dollars on programs, contracts, and grants that do not serve the American public’s interests.
    For too long, taxpayers have subsidized ideological projects overseas and domestic organizations engaged in actions that undermine the national interest.
    The Biden Administration spent billions on electric vehicle charging stations, yet only a fraction were completed.
    The Trump Administration recently canceled a Biden-era $50 million environmental justice grant to an organization that believes “climate justice travels through a Free Palestine.”
    Numerous USAID grants have come under review, including $1.5 million to “advance diversity equity and inclusion in Serbia’s workplaces and business communities.”
    The Biden Administration gave nearly $4.6 million to help foreign groups promote LGBT projects like drag shows and pride parades. 
    The Trump Administration found $20 billion parked at a financial institution by the Biden Administration to fund partisan pet projects.
    President Trump’s Department of Education canceled $881 million in unnecessary contracts that were not benefiting students, including a $4.6 million contract just to coordinate Zoom and in-person meetings.
    President Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has already recovered $1.9 billion in taxpayer funds “misplaced” by the Biden Administration.
    The Government Accountability Office released a report last year estimating that the federal government “could lose between $233 billion and $521 billion annually to fraud.”
    KEEPING HIS PROMISE TO THE AMERICAN PEOPLE: President Trump campaigned on a promise to return power back to the American people by “cleaning out the Deep State, firing rogue bureaucrats and career politicians, and targeting government corruption.”
    President Trump recently signed a memorandum to stop last-minute collective bargaining agreements issued by the Biden Administration designed to constrain the incoming Trump Administration from reforming government.
    President Trump created the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to bring accountability and transparency to federal spending, ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent wisely and effectively.
    President Trump launched a 10-to-1 deregulation initiative, ensuring every new rule is justified by clear benefits for taxpayers.
    The Trump Administration is aggressively investigating Biden-era programs that wasted billions of taxpayer dollars on inefficient and politically-driven projects, including canceling unnecessary government contracts and grants that do not serve the national interest.

    MIL OSI USA News –