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Category: US Senate

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy, Blumenthal, Colleagues Condemn DoD Decision To End Policy Allowing U.S. Service Members To Access Non-Covered Reproductive Health Care Services

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    January 31, 2025

    HARTFORD—U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee (HELP), and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) joined 17 of their Senate colleagues in releasing the following statement on the U.S. Department of Defense’s (DoD) rescission of a policy that allowed service members to get reimbursed for travel and transportation for non-covered reproductive care. A memo that updates the Joint Travel Regulations to rescind this policy was issued earlier this week.
    “This decision strips away service members’ ability to access the reproductive care they need, which is nothing short of abhorrent. It runs contrary to a core goal of the Department of Defense – to ensure the health and wellbeing of all our service members so that our force remains ready at all times to protect Americans and keep this nation safe.
    “U.S. service members have no control over where they are stationed and what state laws may govern their bodies. The policy that the Department of Defense took away from our servicewomen and military families provided them the ability to travel to another state to seek out the care they need. Rescinding that does nothing to enhance military readiness.
    “At a time when we are already facing military recruitment and retention challenges, we should do all we can to assure those who answer the call to serve America that we will do everything in our power to support them and their families. Instead, this extreme action does the opposite and sends a message to servicewomen—who make up more than 17 percent of our military’s active duty—that they are not as valuable as their male counterparts.
    “We will do everything in our power to mitigate the impact that this extreme decision will have on members of our military and ensure their health and safety comes first.”
    The statement was led by U.S. Senator Shaheen (D-NH) and also joined by U.S. Senators Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Angus King (I-Maine), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), and Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: EPW Democrats to Zeldin: Provide Valid Legal Basis for EPA Funding Freeze that is Threatening Jobs and Jeopardizing Infrastructure Projects

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey
    During his first days on the job, EPA Administrator Zeldin rubber stamps Trump’s crippling funding freeze and violates federal law
    Washington (January 31, 2025) – Today, Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) joined Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Ranking Member of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, and all Democratic members of the Committee in demanding answers from newly-confirmed Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin about the agency’s freezing of Congressionally appropriated funds, including those that have already been obligated.  According to public reporting, the EPA sent letters to grant recipients explaining it was pausing “all funding actions related to” the Inflation Reduction Act and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.  Not only are these funding cuts already having devastating effects on communities, with reports of jobs in jeopardy and essential infrastructure projects on the chopping block, but failing to allow grant recipients to access funds that have already been obligated violates federal law.
    “We write concerning troubling reports that the Environmental Protection Agency is attempting to claw back funds that have already been obligated to grant recipients. We believe that this is contrary to federal law,” wrote Senators Whitehouse, Markey, Sanders, Merkley, Kelly, Padilla, Schiff, Blunt Rochester, and Alsobrooks. “Many of us have also been contacted by grantees in our states reporting that they no longer have access to the grant money that has been obligated to them.”
    The Senators further pressed Administrator Zeldin on his failure to abide by the commitments he made to Members of the Committee during his confirmation hearing. When asked if he believed the president or executive branch could ignore congressional appropriation decisions and instructions, then-nominee Zeldin responded, “If confirmed, I pledge to respect all of Congress’s duly enacted statutes.” When asked if he pledged to respect congressional appropriation decisions and instructions and resist any efforts within the executive branch to circumvent them, he reaffirmed his commitment to executing on EPA’s mission and recognized Congress’s power of the purse, stating “Particularly as a former Member of Congress, I appreciate and respect the Congressional funding process. I commit to fully following the law.” 
    But it appears that in his first days as EPA Administrator, Zeldin is already allowing President Trump to pull the strings at EPA by failing swiftly to address these funding freezes that undermine EPA’s core mission and run contrary to federal law. 
    “Federal law and regulations require that obligated funds be provided to grantees absent proof of misuse of funds,” wrote the Senators.  “We further note that the Solar for All program furthers several goals, all of which are part of EPA’s core mission, which you support. It is designed to help reduce carbon pollution, air pollutants, and household energy costs by financing community and rooftop solar in low-income communities. It will further help drive American manufacturing, boosting the economy and creating jobs.” 
    Accordingly, the Senators demanded that Administrator Zeldin provide a valid legal justification for the funding freezes and explain when he plans restore the availability of the funds to grant recipients.
    The text of the letter is below, and a full version (with footnotes) is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy, Tillis, Padilla, Schiff Introduce Legislation to Give Tax Relief to Disaster Victims

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Alex Padilla (D-CA), and Adam Schiff (D-CA) introduced the Disaster Mitigation and Tax Parity Act of 2025, legislation that allows Americans to exclude any qualified catastrophe mitigation payment made under a state-based catastrophe loss mitigation program from their income tax. The bill would provide needed relief to homeowners after a major flood or hurricane.
    “Louisianans understand the impact of devastating storms, but with the help of state and local programs, we have tools to rebuild and return to wholeness,” said Dr. Cassidy. “If communities need tax relief, let’s give it to them!”
    “This commonsense legislation takes a critical step toward empowering individuals and communities to better protect themselves from the devastating effects of natural disasters like Hurricane Helene,” said Senator Tillis. “By excluding qualified catastrophe mitigation payments from income tax, we are incentivizing property owners to make the necessary improvements that reduce damage and save lives. This proactive approach to disaster preparedness not only helps families rebuild faster but strengthens our resilience in the face of future disasters.”
    “The devastating fires in Southern California underscored the urgent need to empower homeowners to take proactive steps to keep their families and homes safe,” said Senator Padilla. “As these disasters become more frequent and more extreme due to the climate crisis, we should incentivize — not penalize — taxpayers for protecting their homes. That’s why the Disaster Mitigation and Tax Parity Act would provide a tax exemption on payments from state-based programs for homeowner investments in critical disaster-related improvements.”
    “We have seen how natural disasters have devastated communities around the country, and we must ensure we have the resources and programs in place to respond,” said Senator Schiff. “Homeowners should not face additional taxes for wanting to protect their homes and our bipartisan legislation will provide the needed tax relief to help affected Americans recover from these disasters.”
    The bill defines a qualified catastrophe mitigation payment as any amount received for making improvements to an individual’s property for the sole purpose of reducing the damage that would be done to such property by a flood, windstorm, earthquake, or wildfire.
    Cassidy, Tillis, Padilla, and Schiff were joined by U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Katie Britt (R-AL), Michael Bennett (D-CO), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), John Kennedy (R-LA), Roger Wicker (R-MS), and Ted Budd (R-NC) in cosponsoring the legislation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tillis, Padilla, Cassidy, Schiff Introduce Legislation to Exclude Catastrophe Mitigation Payments from Income Taxes

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Carolina Thom Tillis
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), and Adam Schiff (D-CA) introduced the Disaster Mitigation and Tax Parity Act of 2025, legislation that excludes from gross income, for income tax purposes, any qualified catastrophe mitigation payment made under a state-based catastrophe loss mitigation program. 
    “This commonsense legislation takes a critical step toward empowering individuals and communities to better protect themselves from the devastating effects of natural disasters like Hurricane Helene,” said Senator Tillis. “By excluding qualified catastrophe mitigation payments from income tax, we are incentivizing property owners to make the necessary improvements that reduce damage and save lives. This proactive approach to disaster preparedness not only helps families rebuild faster but strengthens our resilience in the face of future disasters.”
    “The devastating fires in Southern California underscored the urgent need to empower homeowners to take proactive steps to keep their families and homes safe,” said Senator Padilla. “As these disasters become more frequent and more extreme due to the climate crisis, we should incentivize — not penalize — taxpayers for protecting their homes. That’s why the Disaster Mitigation and Tax Parity Act would provide a tax exemption on payments from state-based programs for homeowner investments in critical disaster-related improvements.”
    “Louisianans understand the impact of devastating storms, but with the help of state and local programs, we have tools to rebuild and return to wholeness,” said Dr. Cassidy. “If communities need tax relief, let’s give it to them!”
    “We have seen how natural disasters have devastated communities around the country, and we must ensure we have the resources and programs in place to respond,” said Senator Schiff. “Homeowners should not face additional taxes for wanting to protect their homes and our bipartisan legislation will provide the needed tax relief to help affected Americans recover from these disasters.”
    Background:
    The bill defines a “qualified catastrophe mitigation payment” as any amount received for making improvements to an individual’s property for the sole purpose of reducing the damage that would be done to such property by a windstorm, earthquake, flood, or wildfire.
    The Disaster Mitigation and Tax Parity Act of 2025 is co-sponsored by Senators John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Michael Bennett (D-CO), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), John Kennedy (R-LA), Roger Wicker (R-MS), and Ted Budd (R-NC).
    The Disaster Mitigation and Tax Parity Act of 2025 is endorsed by North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey and the North Carolina Insurance Association.
    “Passing federal legislation that would ensure all state-funded, pre-disaster mitigation grants are tax-free would allow these grants to have the maximum impact,” said Mike Causey, Insurance Commissioner, State of North Carolina. “These mitigation grants protect homes and have a direct impact on insurers and the claims they pay for such disasters, which is critical for ensuring an insurance market that is stable and available and affordable for homeowners.  Because North Carolina has been a leader in windstorm mitigation through our Strengthen Your Roof and Strengthen Your Coastal Roof grant programs, and because working to maintain a healthy market is one of my goals as Insurance Commissioner, I am in total support of this bill. I thank Senator Tillis for proposing it.” 
    “North Carolina Insurance Association (NCIUA) has made grants of more than $100 million so that our policyholders can invest in resilient construction and fortified roofs,” said Gina Hardy, CEO, North Carolina Insurance Association. “Given the possibility of more frequent catastrophic events, we believe all of the grant money we invest should be free of federal taxation and remain with our policyholders so they can continue to strengthen and improve their homes.” 
    Full text of the bill is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Senator Coons warns about Russian efforts against Romania and Moldova in interview with The Counteroffensive

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons
    WASHINGTON – In case you missed it, U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) sat down with The Counteroffensive’s Tim Mak to encourage continued western support for Romania and Moldova, both of which are victims of intensive Russian coercion campaigns in eastern Europe amid the ongoing invasion of Ukraine.
    Last month, Senator Coons led a congressional delegation to Moldova and Romania, where he saw firsthand Russia’s attempts to undermine the independence and democracy of both countries. Romania, a crucial NATO ally, faced widespread Russian interference in their November presidential election that propelled pro-Russia NATO-skeptic candidate Calin Georgescu to first place before the election was annulled. Meanwhile, Moldova also faced intensive Russian interference, including disinformation and vote-buying campaigns, in its October presidential election and a referendum on joining the European Union, which ultimately passed despite Russia’s efforts. The country is also dealing with an energy crisis, as Russia started off the year by cutting off gas supplies to Moldova’s only power plant, with devastating consequences for Moldovan civilians now struggling through the winter. 
    In the interview, Senator Coons also encouraged President Trump and Republicans not to abandon Ukraine nearly three years into Russia’s full-scale invasion of the country.
    The Counteroffensive: TOP DEM SENATOR: DON’T TAKE EYES OFF MOLDOVA, ROMANIA 
    As violent as the war in Ukraine is, there are broader Russian threats that the United States needs to pay attention to, said Sen. Chris Coons, a senior Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.
    Coons recently returned from a Congressional delegation to Moldova and Romania, and gave an exclusive interview with The Counteroffensive to share lessons learned.
    “Russia has a playbook, and it has a set of plays that it’s running,” and not just in Ukraine, he said, referring to hybrid warfare techniques that include threats to Moldova’s energy security and influence operations in Romania.
    “Their sabotage operations are continuing right now across Central and Western Europe: fires and attacks and assassinations; and that their influence operations using social media; cyber attacks; good old fashioned bribery – are actually having an influence on politics,” he warned. “These are not isolated.”
    Read the full article here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ahead of expected Trump tariffs, Senators Coons and Kaine introduce legislation to require congressional approval of new tariffs on U.S. allies

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Tim Kaine (D-Va.) yesterday introduced the Stopping Tariffs on Allies and Bolstering Legislative Exercise of (STABLE) Trade Policy Act, which would rein in chaos that President Trump could create by unilaterally imposing tariffs on trading partners like the ones expected to go into effect this weekend on Canada and Mexico.
    The STABLE Trade Policy Act would institute a requirement of congressional approval before a president could impose new tariffs on U.S. allies and free trade agreement (FTA) partners. Currently, the president can impose tariffs on any nation using authorities that Congress created to combat national security risks and address international emergencies. The bill reclaims congressional authority over trade policy and limits the president’s ability to treat allies as enemies.
    “Congress gave the president the authority to impose tariffs so that he could combat our enemies in the event of a national security crisis, not so that he could pursue grudges against our allies and neighbors. If the president is going abuse this power to bully and coerce our allies, Congress should take this authority back,” said Senator Coons. “If this weekend’s tariffs go into effect, they’ll do catastrophic damage to our relationships with our allies and raise costs for working families by hundreds of dollars a year. Congress needs to stop this from happening again.”
    “Virginians want costs to go down, not up. But President Trump’s plans to impose broad-based tariffs would raise the price of everyday goods and hurt our economy,” said Senator Kaine. “It’s time for Congress to make it clear that no president should abuse existing tariff authorities designed to protect America’s national security from threats posed by our adversaries to slap tariffs on our allies and closest trading partners. I’m proud to introduce this legislation with Senator Coons to take that step to protect Americans’ pocketbooks from sharp price hikes and safeguard our relationships with our allies.”
    The introduction of STABLE Trade Policy Act comes shortly before President Trump’s across-the-board tariffs on Canada and Mexico are expected to go into effect. On his first day in office, President Trump pledged 25% tariffs on Mexico and Canada to go into effect February 1. The two nations, both members of the U.S.M.C.A. trade agreement that President Trump negotiated, accounted for almost one-third of all U.S. goods imports last year. Additionally, President Trump has promised 10% tariffs on China. President Trump has already threatened and then rescinded tariffs on Colombia.
    Specifically, the STABLE Trade Policy Act would:
    Require the president to explain to Congress any proposal to impose tariffs on allies and FTA partners.
    The president must explain why challenges with allies cannot be better addressed through diplomacy or other mechanisms.
    The president must assess of how tariffs will impact the U.S. economy and U.S. foreign policy interests. 
    Require congressional approval for new or additional tariffs on imports from allies and FTA partners.
    The bill constrains tariff authorities created by Congress to combat national security risks and address international economic emergencies. 
    The executive branch retains full authority to impose safeguard tariffs to combat unfair trade practices.
    The full bill text is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Welcomes Spring 2025 Interns

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo
    Washington, D.C.–Six interns joined U.S. Senator Mike Crapo’s (R-Idaho) Washington, D.C., Boise and Pocatello offices for the winter and spring 2025 terms.
    “The young individuals joining my office for the spring term will get to experience firsthand historic moments with President Trump’s return to office,” said Crapo.  “They will actively engage with Idaho’s constituents, expand their knowledge of the federal policymaking process and grow hard and soft skills important for their next career step.  I am delighted to have them on board for this spring and look forward to their success.”
    Three interns will serve in the Washington, D.C., office:
    Kennedy Cummins is a Murtaugh, Idaho, native and a senior at Boise State University.  She is studying political science.  Kennedy interned in Senator Crapo’s Boise office in the fall.
    Samuel Jardine is an Idaho Falls, Idaho, native a junior at Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah.  He is studying political science with a professional emphasis in political strategy and a minor in business.
    Madison Schmidt is a senior at Boise State University, pursuing a degree in political science and a certificate in business.  Madison attended high school in Meridian, Idaho.
    Two interns will serve in the Boise office:
    Ellison Winger is a sophomore at Boise State University.  She is majoring in political science and minoring in business.
    Jack Marmor moved to Idaho when he was three-years-old.  He is a senior at Boise State University, pursuing a degree in criminal justice.
    One intern served in the Pocatello office during the month of January:
    Giovanni DeLaRosa is a Pocatello, Idaho, native.  Giovanni is studying political science and business management at Columbia University in New York City.
    Crapo hosts interns in his Washington, D.C., office as well as in the various regional offices throughout Idaho.  The applications for the summer and fall 2025 terms close on March 1.  Students interested in positions for the spring, summer or fall semesters can find more information about the application process, internship expectations, and deadlines for applying on the Senator’s official website at: https://www.crapo.senate.gov/services/for-students/internships 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Works to Expand Child Care Access for Families and Small Businesses

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)
    WASHINGTON – As Chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) is introducing bipartisan legislation with Senator Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.) to increase the availability of affordable, high-quality child care for working families. This bill would allow non-profit child care providers to participate in Small Business Administration (SBA) loan programs.
    “When traveling river to river across Iowa, I consistently hear about the difficulties families face in finding affordable, high-quality child care,” said Chair Ernst. “As chair of the Small Business Committee, I’m bringing Iowans’ concerns to Washington. In many of our state’s rural communities, religious organizations often offer the only child care options but for too long have been denied access to federal funding. To drive down prices, I’m dedicated to real solutions like this that expand options and kick down regulatory hurdles on behalf of hardworking families.” 
    “There is a significant need for additional child care in Decatur County, and oftentimes, for-profit business isn’t able to completely meet that need. If a program like the SBA loan program was available to help fund small, rural, non-profit child care centers, this would help reduce the upfront financial cost of construction and expedite the process of expanding services and adding additional child care slots,” said Shannon Erb, President of Decatur County Development Corporation. “The team at Decatur County Development Corporation wholeheartedly supports this bill and would like to thank Senator Ernst for leading the way to support rural child care. We are excited about the direct impact this could have on the future of our community and other rural communities across the country.”
    “The Iowa Women’s Foundation proudly supports the bipartisan Small Business Child Care Investment Act being introduced in the U.S. Senate by Senators Joni Ernst (R) and Jacky Rosen (D). This bill will expand access to quality affordable child care by allowing non-profit child care providers to utilize programs offered by the Small Business Administration,” said Iowa Women’s Foundation. “This bill will help meet a critical need for affordable quality child care in Iowa communities across the state, a major focus of the Iowa Women’s Foundation. We applaud the bipartisan work of Senators Ernst and Rosen in addressing this critical need in our state.” 
    “As a director of a non-profit child care center in a rural community, we would greatly appreciate the opportunity to apply for the SBA Loans. There continues to be a need for child care that offers families the same quality found in larger communities,” said Tiffany Finch, Director of Cambridge Little Achievers Center. “Allowing non-profit child care centers the same access to SBA Loans would allow us to apply for funding that can focus on the quality and culture of the programs without adding more expense to rural families. The SBA loans can help and invest in our staff and families!”
    The bipartisan Small Business Child Care Investment Act would:
    Ensure that qualified non-profit providers have equal access to key SBA loan options that allow providers to invest in and expand their operations;
    Create local jobs and give working families more options for affordable and quality child care; and
    Protect religiously-affiliated non-profit providers access to the larger and more flexible loan programs like 7(a) and 504 that can be used for real estate, construction, remodeling, and other expenses critical to maintaining and expanding high-quality child care operations.
    Background:
    Ernst has been a strong advocate for increasing access to affordable, high-quality child care in Iowa. 
    On her annual River to River Tour, Ernst routinely visits child care centers to understand the needs of Iowans and bring their voices to Washington.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senate Republicans Block Resolution Condemning Pardons of Violent J6 Offenders

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed
    WASHINGTON, DC – During the presidential campaign last year, President Trump pledged to pardon non-violent offenders who participated in the January 6 (J6), 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol.  And just days before taking the oath of Office, Vice President -elect JD Vance stated: “obviously people that committed violence against police officers that day should not get a pardon.”
    However, on the first day of President Trump’s second term he commuted the prison sentences for 14 of the most notorious J6 offenders, including leaders of the paramilitary groups the Oath Keepers and Proud Boys. Simultaneously, he granted a “full, complete and unconditional pardon” to the rest of the approximately 1,560 defendants, including those convicted of violently assaulting police officers. 
    Many of the people Trump called “patriots” had extensive rap sheets.  Some had prior convictions or pending charges for crimes ranging from rape to sexual abuse of a minor to manslaughter.  While Trump’s pardons did not absolve offenders from every crime they committed in the past, his actions helped every one of them escape justice for their actions on January 6.  Some of the J6ers who got a pardon from Trump have already been arrested for other crimes or involved in deadly altercations with police officers.
    Among those pardoned by Trump were 169 people who pled guilty to assaulting police officers on January 6th.  During the siege of the Capitol that day, over 80 U.S. Capitol Police Officers were assaulted, as well as over 60 officers from the Washington, DC Metropolitan Police Department.
    This week, U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse joined every member of the Democratic caucus in introducing a resolution condemning the pardons of individuals who were found guilty of assaulting Capitol Police Officers.  The resolution simply states: “Resolved, That the Senate disapproves of any pardons for individuals who were found guilty of assaulting Capitol Police officers.”
    But when U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) requested unanimous consent for the resolution on the floor, Republicans blocked the measure, with opposition from Majority Whip John Barrasso (R-WY) objecting on behalf of his colleagues in the majority.
    Unanimous consent is a common route senators take for simple resolutions, military nominations and other actions, but adoption can be blocked if one single senator objects, sometimes on behalf of others.
    “These pardons were a slap in the face of the Capitol Police who stand up every day to protect members of Congress.  They have our back; we should have theirs.  Choosing subservience to President Trump rather than condemning the pardons of the criminals who attacked the Capitol is a shameful betrayal of these dedicated officers,” said Senator Reed.
    Senator Whitehouse stated: “These pardons are an insult to the men and women of the Capitol Police and the DC Police who protected democracy from the brutal rioters on January 6.  Less than two weeks from their pardons, they’re already back committing crimes, and now provide a personal army with demonstrated willingness to commit acts of political violence at the behest of Donald Trump.”
    The senators urged Senate Republicans to work with Democrats to pass the resolution, ensure accountability, and respect for law enforcement officers across the country.
    Among the individuals granted a full, complete, and unconditional pardon by President Trump was a Florida man who attacked a police officer with an explosive device during the J6 assault and was deemed by a federal judge to pose a serious ongoing danger to the general public, particularly to members of law enforcement, if released.
    Another J6 offender who was pardoned was the so-called QAnon Shaman, who, according to press reports declared soon after his pardon: “Now I’m gonna buy some (expletive) guns.”
    And a Missouri woman convicted in the Jan. 6 Capitol riot and seen holding the broken nameplate of then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), was given a pardon by President Trump, only to be sentenced for another crime: killing a mother of two in a drunken-driving crash.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: January 31st, 2025 Heinrich Introduces Legislation to Improve Access to Chiropractic Services

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich
    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) introduced the Chiropractic Medicare Coverage Modernization Act, legislation to expand Medicare coverage of chiropractic services to ensure patients enrolled in the program can access care as a non-drug alternative for pain management. Additionally, it would expand Medicare coverage to include x-rays and other diagnostic services needed to determine and prescribe appropriate chiropractic treatments.
    “New Mexicans deserve to have the care they need, when they need it,” said Heinrich. “By expanding Medicare to include chiropractic services, seniors will have more choices and freedom to pick the care that’s right for them.”
    The legislation is led by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.). Alongside Heinrich, the bill is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.),Chris Coons (D-Del.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), and Mike Rounds (R-S.D.).
    The text of the bill is here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: January 31st, 2025 Heinrich, Sheehy Introduce Bipartisan Aerial Firefighting Enhancement Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.) introduced the bipartisan Aerial Firefighting Enhancement Act of 2025 to strengthen the aerial wildfire suppression fleet and better combat the year-round threat of catastrophic wildfire.
    “I have worked for years to expand the operations of Very Large Air Tankers that have proven absolutely essential to firefighters battling large wildfires in New Mexico, Los Angeles, and across the West. This includes securing more than $15 million to upgrade the Cibola National Forest Air Tanker Base in Albuquerque so that it can support and refuel the most effective firefighting planes that make the most difference for firefighters on the ground by dropping larger loads of fire retardant on blazes,” said Heinrich. “I’m proud to partner with Senator Sheehy on this bipartisan legislation that will help aerial wildfire firefighting contractors continue purchasing excess equipment from the military to support their heavy aircraft. I will never stop fighting to deliver the resources New Mexico needs to effectively respond to wildfires.”
    “As a former Navy SEAL and the only aerial firefighter in the Senate, I understand government’s most solemn duty is to keep the American people safe. Combatting the threat of catastrophic wildfires is a year-round mission, and we must ensure our aerial wildfire suppression fleet has the resources needed to protect our communities. I’m proud to lead this bipartisan effort to help our brave first responders fight wildfires better, faster, and stronger by streamlining wildland firefighting efforts and removing outdated bureaucratic obstacles to getting the job done,” said Sheehy.
    The Aerial Firefighting Enhancement Act amends the Wildfire Suppression Aircraft Transfer Act of 1996 to reauthorize the sale of excess aircraft and parts by the Department of Defense for wildfire suppression. The bill will help the U.S. better suppress wildfires year-round by facilitating the acquisition of military excess aircraft, sold at fair market value, for the aerial wildfire suppression fleet. Additionally, the sale of parts will help the U.S. maintain its existing aerial firefighting aircraft fleet.
    The bill reauthorizes the Secretary of Defense’s authority to sell excess Department of Defense aircraft and aircraft parts, which are acceptable for commercial sale, to persons or entities that contract with the government for the delivery of fire retardant or water by air to suppress wildfires, as long as the aircraft and parts are used only for wildfire suppression. The initial authority expired in 2005 and was reauthorized from 2012 to 2017 before lapsing again.
    Read more on the bill here.
    Heinrich’s Support for Aerial Firefighting
    Heinrich has long worked to expand and improve aerial firefighting operations in New Mexico to more effectively fight wildfires. In 2022, Heinrich secured more than $15 million to upgrade the Cibola National Forest Air Tanker Base at Kirtland Air Force Base in Albuquerque. Those upgrades were completed in 2024 – a major milestone that makes it possible to support and refuel Very Large Air Tanker planes that can drop large volumes of fire retardant on blazes.
    In an op-ed published in the Albuquerque Journal, Col. Mike Power, Kirtland Air Force Base Installation Commander, highlighted the importance of these newly completed upgrades at the Cibola National Forest Air Tanker Base that will help the U.S. Forest Service fight wildfires in New Mexico more efficiently and effectively.  one of only two bases in the United States with that capability.
    “This base upgrade, where now up to 30 Forest Service professionals work to lead the fight against wildfires, includes the larger ramp space for a stronger, more efficient capability to fight wildfires in New Mexico year-round. It now also houses a retardant tank farm,” said Col. Power in the op-ed. “What does that mean to the average New Mexican? It means 75,000 gallons of retardant available at one time, and cuts response time to a fire in half. Ours is one of only two bases in the United States with that capability.”
    Heinrich’s Continued Leadership on Wildfire Recovery
    Heinrich remains focused on delivering the resources New Mexico needs to effectively respond to wildfires and prevent future devastating blazes by restoring the health and resilience of our forests and watersheds.
    Heinrich is keeping up the effort to do right by the New Mexico families whose lives were upended by the 2022 Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire. As communities continue to rebuild, Heinrich will keep working to deliver for every person impacted by that fire and the floods that followed.
    Heinrich, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), and U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.) successfully secured an additional $1.5 billion to help New Mexicans recover from the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire within the Continuing Resolution that Congress passed in December.
    The Continuing Resolution also extended the period that victims may file claims with the Hermit’s Peak Claims Office to March 14, 2025. The lawmakers are continuing to call for the passage of their Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Extension Act, legislation they introduced last year to extend the period a victim can file a claim with the Hermit’s Peak Claims Office through the end of 2027.
    The New Mexico Congressional Delegation has now secured a total of $5.45 billion in federal resources to help New Mexicans recover and rebuild since the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire.
    In November, Heinrich, Luján, and Leger Fernández announced that President Biden’s disaster supplemental request included transfer authority for $1.5 billion to help New Mexicans recover from the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire. Heinrich, Luján, and Leger Fernández also sent a letter urging the FEMA Director of the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office and the FEMA Director of the New Mexico Joint Recovery Office to address concerns from New Mexicans about the process for receiving compensationfrom the Claims Office and help families get the relief and compensation needed to recover.
    Additional information on Heinrich’s leadership on Hermit’’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire Response and Recovery can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen Leads New Hampshire Congressional Delegation In Urging Trump to Halt Planned Tariffs on Canada and Mexico, Citing Likelihood of Increasing Energy and Food Prices for Families in the Middle of Winter

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen
    (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH), alongside Representatives Chris Pappas (NH-01) and Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), are sending a letter to President Donald Trump urging him not to impose 25 percent tariffs on Canada, the Granite State’s largest trading partner, and Mexico. Sweeping tariffs would dramatically increase costs for families in New Hampshire and around the nation. Home heating oil is New Hampshire’s largest import from Canada, and these tariffs are estimated to drive up energy prices for families in the middle of winter. It would also increase costs for essential items like groceries, housing, cars and more. Click here to read the full letter.
    In part, the delegation wrote: “During your campaign, you promised to ‘bring down the price of everything.’ Despite that promise, sweeping tariffs would be a tax on Americans that raises the cost of everything from cars and gas to housing and groceries. Tariff costs would be passed on to our consumers and businesses through higher costs for goods and services.”
    They continued: “For the more than 350,000 households in New Hampshire who rely on heating oil, propane and wood to keep their homes warm and comfortable, adding these costs would be particularly cruel in the middle of a winter that has seen recent temperatures reach 20 below zero. Home heating oil is New Hampshire’s largest import from Canada, not because we don’t produce enough in the United States, but because it makes logistical and economic sense. The National Energy & Fuels Institute (NEFI), which represents wholesale and retail liquid heating fuel distributors throughout the Northeast, estimates that tariffs could increase heating costs by at least $375 per winter for a home in New Hampshire.”
    They concluded: “These taxes would raise families’ grocery bills, too. The type of broad tariffs you’ve proposed could raise food costs by $200 per year for the average household. That’s because the U.S. imports 38 percent of our fresh vegetables, 60 percent of our fresh fruit, and more than 99 percent of our coffee. This is the last thing families need when they’re already struggling with record high prices for eggs or coffee […] We urge you to focus on bringing down prices and reconsider the wisdom of placing sweeping tariffs on imports that would raise prices for our constituents.”
    Earlier this year, Shaheen introduced new legislation with U.S. Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Tim Kaine (D-VA) to shield American businesses and consumers from rising prices imposed by tariffs on imported goods into the United States. The Senators’ legislation would keep costs down for imported goods by limiting the authority of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA)—which allows a President to immediately place unlimited tariffs after declaring a national emergency—while preserving IEEPA’s use for sanctions and other tools. 
    After the November election, a multitude of business leaders verified that, if the President placed sweeping tariffs as promised, they’d be forced to raise prices on consumers. The CEO of Best Buy said, “the vast majority of that tariff will probably be passed on to the consumer as a price increase.” The CFO of Walmart said, “there will probably be cases where prices will go up for consumers.” The CEO of Columbia Sportswear said, “we’re set to raise prices” and “it’s going to be very, very difficult to keep products affordable.” The CEO of AutoZone said, “if we get tariffs, we will pass those tariff costs back to the consumer.” The President of a Texas-based Lipow Oil Associates  said, “The prices at the pump are going to go up.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen Addresses New Hampshire Sea Grant’s Annual Research Symposium, Highlights Importance of Federal Funding for Coastal Communities

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen
    (Durham, NH) – Today, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), former Chair and now senior member of the U.S. Senate Commerce, Justice and Science Appropriations Subcommittee, delivered remarks at New Hampshire Sea Grant’s Annual Research Symposium and highlighted the importance of federal funding for coastal communities. The New Hampshire Sea Grant Research Symposium is a showcase of recent projects which are supported by federal funding through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)’s National Sea Grant College Program. The event provides a forum to discuss putting scientific research into action through applied research, education and engagement in local communities. You can view photos from the event here.
    “Sea Grant is a key driver of efforts to protect our coast that not only strengthens the health of our coastal areas, but also informs and improves how we utilize coastal resources to benefit our local communities and the coastal economy,” said Senator Shaheen. “Unfortunately, the current administration’s efforts to cut grants and loans that these communities rely on has caused chaos and panic, while fueling uncertainty about the future of these programs. We need to be focused on creating jobs and strengthening our economy, not gutting programs that help to do just that.”
    Based at the University of New Hampshire since 1980, New Hampshire Sea Grant is one of 34 Sea Grant programs in the U.S. under the umbrella of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)’s National Sea Grant College Program. New Hampshire Sea Grant works to support a coastal environment that sustains healthy ecosystems, economies and people through integrated research, extension, education and communications efforts.
    As a senior member and former Chair of the U.S. Senate Commerce, Justice and Science Appropriations Subcommittee, Shaheen has long advocated for robust funding for the Sea Grant account, which directly supports the New Hampshire Sea Grant program. In the fiscal year (FY) 2024 government funding bill, Shaheen helped secure $80 million for the National Sea Grant College Program which directly funds the New Hampshire Sea Grant program. She also worked across party lines to secure, within that funding,  $2 million for lobster research, $1 million to train young fishermen and $1 million to support research into the impacts of PFAS and other emerging contaminants, efforts that will help ensure that New Hampshire’s coastal economy remains strong for future generations.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bipartisan Lawmakers Introduce Bicameral Resolution to Keep All Options on the Table to Counter a Nuclear-Armed Iran

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Lindsey Graham
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina), John Fetterman (D-Pennsylvania) and Katie Britt (R-Alabama) along with U.S. Representatives Jared Moskowitz (D-Florida-23) and Mike Lawler (R-New York-17) this week introduced a bipartisan, bicameral resolution to affirm that the United States, Israel and our allies and partners should keep all options on the table in order to counter and contain the threat from a nuclear-armed Iranian regime.
    “If the Iranian Ayatollah and his henchman obtain a nuclear weapon, it would be one of the most destabilizing and dangerous events in world history. They are trying to acquire a nuclear weapon as part of their religious agenda to purify their faith, destroy the Jewish State, and drive Westerners out of the Middle East. A nuclear-armed Iran is an existential threat to Israel and a nightmare for the world,” said Senator Graham. “This resolution clearly demonstrates that the Iranian regime is lying when it says they only want nuclear power and not a nuclear weapon. This is not an authorization for the use of military force, but a resolution establishing the truth regarding Iran’s nuclear intentions and capability.”
    Senator Graham continued, “Finally, I’d like to recognize the leadership of my colleagues, Senators Fetterman and Britt and Representatives Moskowitz and Lawler, on the issue of countering a nuclear-armed Iran. They understand the serious implications for the world if Iran were to obtain such a weapon. It speaks volumes that members from across the political spectrum are united on this front. I look forward to having a debate and vote in the United States Senate on our resolution.”
    “Iran’s pursuit of nuclear weapons is a threat we cannot ignore. The United States, Israel, and our allies cannot afford to sit back while the Iranian regime continues down this dangerous path,” said Senator Fetterman. “This resolution sends an unmistakable message: all options are on the table to prevent a nuclear-armed Iran.”
    “Iran’s continued pursuit of nuclear weapons poses a clear threat to the US, Israel, and our allies. Now more than ever, we must stand up to Iran and use every tool in our toolbox to address these threats,” said Senator Britt. “Peace is achieved through strength, and our resolution sends an important bipartisan message to Iran that the U.S. will not tolerate Tehran’s aggression.”
    “Allowing Iran to maintain and build a nuclear program is an existential threat to the United States, Israel, and global stability,” said Representative Moskowitz. “As the Iranian regime continues its dangerous attempts at nuclear expansion, leaders have to call this out for what it is: an unacceptable escalation in the Middle East and a national security threat against the United States and our allies. Iran must dismantle its nuclear program now. This resolution makes clear the United States won’t stand for anything less and will consider all options to protect our national security. We must send a clear, bipartisan message that we stand with our ally Israel and that a continued nuclear program in Iran is an absolute nonstarter.”
    “An Iran that has nuclear weapons is unacceptable and a danger not only to our closest ally, Israel, but also to the whole world,” said Representative Lawler. “We must keep all options on the table when it comes to dealing with this unprecedented situation, and I’m glad to be working in a bipartisan fashion with Senators Graham, Fetterman, and Britt, as well as my friend Congressman Moskowitz, to make evident to Iran what the grave consequences of their actions would be.”
    This resolution:
    Affirms that the Islamic Republic of Iran’s continued pursuit of a nuclear weapons capability is:
    A credible threat to the United States; and
    An existential threat to Israel and other allies and partners in the Middle East.
    Asserts all options should be considered to address the nuclear threat the Islamic Republic of Iran poses to the United States, Israel, and our allies and partners.
    Demands the Islamic Republic of Iran to immediately cease engaging in any and all activities that threaten the national security interests of the United States, Israel, and our allies and partners, including:
    Enriching uranium;
    Developing or possessing delivery vehicles capable of carrying nuclear warheads; and
    Developing or possessing a nuclear warhead
    To read the full resolution text, click HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaine & Coons Introduce Legislation to Require Congressional Approval of New Tariffs on U.S. Allies Ahead of Expected Trump Tariffs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA), and Chris Coons (D-DE), both members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, introduced the Stopping Tariffs on Allies and Bolstering Legislative Exercise of (STABLE) Trade Policy Act to rein in chaos that President Trump could create by unilaterally imposing tariffs on trading partners.
    The STABLE Trade Policy Act would institute a requirement of Congressional approval before a president could impose new tariffs on U.S. allies and free trade agreement (FTA) partners. Currently, the president can impose tariffs on any nation using authorities that Congress created to combat national security risks and address international emergencies. The bill reinstates Congressional authority over trade policy and limits the president’s ability to unilaterally impose tariffs on our allies.
    “Virginians want costs to go down, not up. But President Trump’s plans to impose broad-based tariffs would raise the price of everyday goods and hurt our economy,” said Kaine. “It’s time for Congress to make it clear that no president should abuse existing tariff authorities designed to protect America’s national security from threats posed by our adversaries to slap tariffs on our allies and closest trading partners. I’m proud to introduce this legislation with Senator Coons to take that step to protect Americans’ pocketbooks from sharp price hikes and safeguard our relationships with our allies.”
    The introduction of STABLE Trade Policy Act comes shortly before President Trump’s across-the-board tariffs on Canada and Mexico are expected to be announced. On his first day in office, President Trump pledged to implement 25% tariffs on Mexico and Canada. The two nations, both members a trade agreement that President Trump negotiated, accounted for almost one-third of all U.S. goods imports last year. The tariffs set to go into effect soon are expected to raise the costs of gasoline, cars, groceries, and home goods.
    Specifically, the STABLE Trade Policy Act would:
    Require the president to explain to Congress any proposal to impose tariffs on allies and FTA partners.
    The president must explain why challenges with allies cannot be better addressed through diplomacy or other mechanisms.
    The president must assess of how tariffs will impact the U.S. economy and U.S. foreign policy interests. 

    Require Congressional approval for new or additional tariffs on imports from allies and FTA partners.
    The bill constrains tariff authorities created by Congress to combat national security risks and address international economic emergencies. 
    The executive branch retains full authority to impose safeguard tariffs to combat unfair trade practices.

    Kaine is committed to protecting Virginian families from price hikes imposed by tariffs. Last week, he introduced the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes on Imported Goods Act to shield American families and businesses from increased costs by limiting the president’s authority to impose unlimited tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).
    The full bill text is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto, Finance Democrats Press RFK Jr. to Reject Big Pharma Pause on Medicare Negotiation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

    Following Noncommittal Answer in Committee and Statement by CMS, Finance Democrats Press for Commitment to Continuing Medicare Drug Price Negotiation on Schedule

    Washington, D.C. – Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and all 12 Democratic members of the Senate Finance Committee sent a letter to Robert F. Kennedy Jr. pressing him to answer nearly a dozen questions regarding his views on Medicare drug price negotiation and confirm he will not pause negotiations, as CEOs representing the largest pharmaceutical companies have requested.

    “As a result of the Inflation Reduction Act, which passed without a single Republican vote, Medicare drug price negotiation is a powerful tool available right now to President Trump to make good on his long-standing promise to stand up to Big Pharma,” the senators wrote. “On behalf of the tens of millions of Americans who count on Medicare, Democrats on the Senate Finance Committee want to know whether the Trump Administration will follow through on negotiating with Big Pharma to deliver the lower costs promised to the American people.” 

    The letter, sent to Kennedy in his capacity as the nominee to be secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), asks whether he will follow the Inflation Reduction Act’s statutory requirements related to Medicare drug price negotiation, whether the Trump administration will continue to defend the law in court against attacks by Big Pharma, and other questions. Earlier this month, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released the list of the next set of drugs that will be negotiated by Medicare. Yesterday the agency, now run by the Trump administration, released a concerning statement that appeared to open the door to Big Pharma’s requests for changes in negotiations.

    “Contrary to what you suggested in today’s hearing, the Trump Administration’s statement is far from an embrace of drug price negotiation and appears to be opening the door to changes that could undermine Medicare’s ability to get the best price possible on drugs,” the senators continued.

    The full letter can be found here.

    Senator Cortez Masto has worked to lower drug costs for Americans. She passed legislation to allow Medicare to negotiate lower drug prices and cap the cost of insulin at $35-a-month for Medicare recipients through the Inflation Reduction Act. She has introduced bipartisan legislation to improve transparency of Medicare Advantage plans and has pushed pharmacy benefit managers to help continue to lower prescription drug costs.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lankford, Fischer, Ricketts, and Sullivan Urge America to Stand with Israel

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Oklahoma James Lankford
    WASHINGTON, DC – Senator James Lankford (R-OK), Republican Conference Vice Chair, hosted a floor event to stand with Israel and condemn the rise of antisemitism on college campuses. He was joined by Senators Deb Fischer (R-NE), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), and Dan Sullivan (R-AK).
    IN CASE YOU MISSED IT…
    View the Clip HERE or Download Lankford’s Full Speech HERE.
    “The Trump Administration, I’m confident, will speak out with sanctions against the International Criminal Court. They did during the first Trump presidency. I’m confident they will again. What I’m not confident of is every future president after President Trump, if they will hold the same high standard to be able to protect American citizens, our soldiers, and to be able to stand alongside with Israel,” said Lankford.
     
    View the Clip HERE or Download Fischer’s Full Speech HERE.
    “We have a responsibility to protect the sovereignty of our nation and our allies. This moment—it demands courage, and it demands conviction. And we must rise to meet it,” said Fischer. 
    View the Clip HERE or Download Ricketts’ Full Speech HERE.
    “The appeasement-first policy of the Biden Administration is alive and well in the Democrats in the US Senate today—Americans take note,” said Ricketts.
    View the Clip HERE or Download Sullivan’s Full Speech HERE.
     “I know we’re talking about the ICC, and we should be, but our universities and our great nation need a huge wake up call. Because if we look at antisemitism at the ICC, at the UN, we need to be staring at it in places like Harvard and other universities where it has reached disturbing and sickening levels. And I think it’s this body’s responsibility to do something about it,” said Sullivan.   

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Army Secretary Nominee Commits to Defending Active Duty Force, Advancing “Iron Dome” Missile Defense Initiative

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Dan Sullivan
    01.31.25
    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), yesterday received commitments from Daniel Driscoll, President Trump’s nominee to serve as Secretary of the Army, to support President Trump’s “Peace Through Strength” policies and kill any proposal that would dramatically cut the Army’s active duty force. In his questioning during Driscoll’s confirmation hearing, Sen. Sullivan noted that the Obama administration cut more than 35,000 active duty troop in its second term, with detrimental consequences to military readiness. At the time, Sullivan and his congressional delegation colleagues successfully fought off attempts by the Obama administration to eliminate the 5,000-soldier 4-25 Infantry Brigade Combat Team (ABN) at Joint Base Elmendorf Richardson (JBER), which became the cornerstone of the current 11th Airborne Division in Alaska.
    Driscoll, an Army veteran, committed to working with the Senator on implementing President Trump’s “Iron Dome” executive order and Sen. Sullivan’s forthcoming legislation to build a multi-layered missile defense system protecting the entire country. Driscoll also committed to coming up to Alaska and meeting with Alaska’s soldiers, including members of the 49th Missile Defense Battalion at Ft. Greely.
    [embedded content]
    DAN SULLIVAN: Ten years ago, I was in this position. I was a brand-new U.S. senator. I’d been here for a month, and the Obama administration announced as part of its gutting of our U.S. military that they were going to cut 40,000 active duty Army troops, including the 4-25 at JBER in Alaska, the only airborne brigade combat team in the entire Indo-Pacific. Strategic national security suicide, in my view. I was a brand new senator. I fought that with everything I had. I put a hold on the chief of staff for the Army’s confirmation. I put a hold on the secretary of the Army’s confirmation for several weeks, until we got the Army to see the light. Okay. Obama ended up cutting 35,000 troops, and he kept the 4-25 in Alaska, 5,000 Airborne Army troopers, which became the cornerstone of the 11th Airborne Division as we built up the Army in Alaska. Are you aware that the Army now has two active duty airborne divisions?
    DAN DRISCOLL: I am, Senator.
    DS: The 82nd, which we all love, but the 11th Airborne Division, which is in Alaska, the Arctic Angels. You aware of that?
    DD: I am, Senator.
    DS: Great. Imagine my surprise. There’s been some articles, recent articles in the paper saying certain leaders in policy roles in the Trump Pentagon have had past ideas in the debate about shifting resources to the Indo-Pacific, which I support, but past ideas on how we can do that. One was a report, an idea from a report from 2021 that would deactivate four Stryker brigade combat teams, six infantry brigade combat teams, two National Guard aviation brigades. More than 10 percent of the Army’s active duty combat power. If this idea ever saw its head in the Pentagon from a non-Senate confirmed DAS, I need your commitment to me and this committee right now that you would kill it.
    DD: Senator, I commit, if confirmed, to fight as hard as I can for the Army. As I said to your colleague, the Army is at its lowest staffing since World War II.
    DS: Right. And do you think cutting 12 brigade combat teams worth of combat power is a good idea?
    DD: Without knowing the specifics, senator…
    DS: Well, come on. I need your answer to say no. Do you think cutting 12 brigade combat—this is Obama 2.0, right? Do you think cutting 12 brigade combat teams from the Army would implement President Trump and Secretary Hegseth’s policies of peace through strength?
    DD: No.
    DS: No it wouldn’t. Do you think it would deter XI Jinping and Vladimir Putin if this idea—and maybe this idea has been discarded by this DAS who’s there right now—cutting 12 brigade combat teams would help with deterrence?
    DD: No.
    DS: I don’t think so either. Well, thank you on that because it was very disturbing when I read that. I’m glad you agree with me that we’re not doing Obama 2.0. We’re doing Reagan and Trump 1 2.0. Peace through strength, and ideas of gutting the Army’s active duty force—that’s what I fought when I came here. If there’s anyone who’s trying to do that, we’ll fight it. I’ll fight it. Okay. Let me go to another question. In addition to the 11th  Airborne Division in Alaska, we have the 49th Missile Defense Battalion at Fort Greely. A lot of people don’t know this, but the cornerstone of missile defense for America is in Alaska, and it’s led by the U.S. Army. The President put out his Iron Dome executive order recently for layered missile defense. I fully support that. Will you work with me and this committee, Senator Cramer. We’re going to be introducing legislation to bolster what the President’s trying to do. But a lot of it will involve the Army. A lot of people don’t know that. The 49th Missile Defense Battalion at Fort Greely, they like to call themselves the “300 protecting the 300 million,” because they protect the whole country. Will you commit to working with this committee and me on bolstering our missile defenses, particularly as it relates to Fort Greely and our brave soldiers, who are doing a great job defending our nation, and come to Alaska with me to see them and the 11th Airborne Division?
    DD: It would be an honor, Senator. As we talked about in your office, I was stationed with 10th Mountain Division in Fort Drum, New York.
    DS: Where there’s no mountains.
    DD: When you get there, you assume the 10th Mountain Division would have mountains around. I think the highest elevation on the entire base is 50 feet. So I would be honored, Senator.
    DS: Great. Thank you.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn to Support Tulsi Gabbard for DNI

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn
    WASHINGTON – Following yesterday’s nomination hearing in the U.S. Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statement announcing his intention to support Tulsi Gabbard’s nomination to be Director of National Intelligence (DNI) under the Trump administration:
    “Article II, Section 2, Clause 2 provides that the President shall appoint officers with the advice and consent of the Senate. Having won the election decisively, I believe President Trump has earned the right to appoint his own cabinet, absent extraordinary circumstances. Therefore, it is my intention to consent to the appointment of Tulsi Gabbard as Director of National Intelligence.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 01/31/2025 Blackburn, Padilla, Issa, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Ensure Artists Receive Fair Compensation for Their Songs

    US Senate News:

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

    NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), and Cory Booker (D-N.J.) introduced the bipartisan American Music Fairness Act to ensure artists and music creators are paid for the use of their songs on AM/FM radio. This legislation would bring corporate radio broadcasters in line with all other music streaming platforms, which already pay artists for their music.

    “As the heart of country music and the birthplace of the blues, Tennessee has produced so many songwriters and artists that have undeniably made their mark on history, whether that be on Beale Street, Music Row, or the hills of East Tennessee,” said Senator Blackburn. “The United States is the only democratic country in the world in which artists are not paid for the use of their music on AM and FM radio. This legislation would close an outdated loophole that has allowed corporate broadcasters to take advantage of artists and their songs for decades.”

    “California’s artists enrich our country’s music scene, but our laws unfairly deny them the pay they deserve for their work on AM/FM radio broadcasts,” said Senator Padilla. “As we celebrate the accomplishments of our musical artists at the Grammy Awards in Los Angeles this weekend, we must also commit to treating them with the dignity and respect they deserve for the music they produce and we enjoy every day.”

    “Artists and music creators deserve to be fairly compensated for their work,” said Senator Tillis. “For too long, FM and AM radio stations have enjoyed the benefits of playing music without compensating the artists. This commonsense legislation makes an important step towards ensuring that our nation’s artists are recognized and paid for the value that they bring to our airwaves.”

    “America’s musical artists enrich our lives, yet they are denied royalties when their music is broadcast on AM/FM radio,” said Senator Booker. “This bipartisan legislation will close a loophole that keeps artists and creators from being paid for their work, while also ensuring that small and local stations are protected and preserved. Musicians bring joy and vibrancy to our country, and they should be compensated for their hard work.”

    Representative Darrell Issa (R-Calif.) is introducing companion legislation in the House of Representatives this week:

    “Now is the time for the United States to finally adopt the proven global standard of compensating our artists for music broadcast over the radio,” said Representative Issa. “AMFA represents a best effort to modernize our system and finally recognize and reward the artists for all they have given us. After significant progress last Congress, I thank my friend Senator Blackburn for her continued leadership and look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle and on both ends of Capitol Hill to make this overdue reform a reality.”

    AMERICAN MUSIC FAIRNESS ACT:
    • The United States is the only democratic country in the world in which artists are not compensated for the use of their music on AM/FM radio. By requiring broadcast radio corporations to pay performance royalties to creators for AM/FM radio plays, the American Music Fairness Act would close an antiquated loophole that has allowed corporate broadcasters to forgo compensating artists for the use of their music for decades.
    • The American Music Fairness Act would:
      • Require terrestrial radio broadcasters to pay royalties to American music creators when they play their songs;
      • Protect small and local stations who qualify for exemptions – specifically those that fall under $1.5 million in annual revenue and whose parent companies fall under less than $10 million in annual revenue overall – by allowing them to play unlimited music for less than $500 annually; and 
      • Create a fair global market that ensures foreign countries pay U.S. artists for the use of their songs overseas.
    • In recognition of the important role of locally owned radio stations in communities across the U.S., the American Music Fairness Act also includes strong protections for small, college, and non-commercial stations.

    Click here for bill text.

    ENDORSEMENTS:

    The American Music Fairness Act is endorsed by the Recording Academy, SAG-AFTRA, the American Association of Independent Music, the MusicFirst Coalition, the Recording Industry Association of America, SoundExchange, and the American Federation of Musicians.

    “For more than a century, American artists and producers have been denied the basic right to earn compensation for their own creation broadcast on AM/FM Radio. The Recording Academy is grateful for the leadership of Reps. Issa and Nadler and Senators Blackburn and Padilla for introducing the American Music Fairness Act, and we urge Congress to finally pay creators for their work.” – Harvey Mason Jr., CEO of the Recording Academy

    “Just a few notes of a beloved song can transport you a million miles away. Popular music has helped define and reflect the culture in which we live, speaking to our evolving values and shared concerns. It’s outrageous that the recording artists, vocalists and musicians who bring it to life and enrich our lives receive no compensation from airplay on AM/FM radio. It’s downright un-American to exploit people and not pay them. The AMFA legislation will help close that loophole and restore fairness, so that artists are paid when their songs are played on AM/FM radio, just as they are in other mediums. Our gratitude to Reps Issa and Nadler and Sens. Padilla and Blackburn for taking leadership roles on this important legislation.” – Fran Drescher, President of SAG-AFTRA

    “The American Music Fairness Act is long overdue. The radio industry has no valid justification for refusing to compensate the recording artists who form the backbone of their business. Our laws align us with regimes like Iran and North Korea, allowing foreign broadcasters to exploit American musicians without paying them a dime. Congress must hold mega broadcasters accountable to put American musicians first. A2IM commits to working with our congressional champions to get it done.” – Dr. Richard James Burgess MBE, President and CEO of American Association of Independent Music

    “For too long, big radio companies have had a powerful hold on Washington, D.C. It’s time for Congress to stand up for artists, not big radio companies, and ensure working musicians – backup musicians and vocalists who work 9-to-5 jobs to make ends meet – can better earn a living. That means passing the American Music Fairness Act and ensuring that artists are finally compensated when their music plays on AM/FM radio.” – Former U.S. Senator Mark Pryor, Co-Chair of the MusicFirst Coalition

    “The American Music Fairness Act takes a smart, calibrated approach towards solving a decades old problem in the radio industry. When enacted into law, AMFA will ensure recording artists and copyright owners are paid fairly for recorded music regardless of the technology used to broadcast it while carefully protecting small and noncommercial stations to preserve truly local radio our communities depend upon. This practical, compromise legislation has previously passed the House Judiciary Committee with bipartisan support and we applaud Chairman Issa and his colleagues for working to advance this important legislation.” – Mitch Glazier, Chairman and CEO of the Recording Industry Association of America

    “Radio conglomerates operating thousands of AM/FM stations across the U.S., make billions in profits, employ legions of lobbyists, and spend millions each year to influence lawmakers, all while continuing to refuse to pay the artists whose songs they play on the airwaves. This unfair double standard is the result of a loophole – one that can only be closed by Congress by passing the American Music Fairness Act so artists are paid for the work they do.” – Michael Huppe, President & CEO of SoundExchange

    “The American Music Fairness Act (AMFA) will fix a broken and unfair system. Musicians deserve compensation when their work is played on terrestrial radio. On this issue, the United States is out of step with the rest of the free world. AMFA will correct that.  Thank you, Reps. Issa and Nadler, for recognizing the value of our work.” – Tino Gagliardi, International President of the American Federation of Musicians

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Slams Trump Tariffs: “Donald Trump has just raised prices for every working American.” 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) released the following statement after the White House confirmed President Trump is expected to put new tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China on Saturday:  
    “Donald Trump has just raised prices for every working American. He has threatened jobs and set our nation up for retaliation and years of painful trade disputes. On Monday in St. Albans, Vermont—only 15 miles from the northern border—I brought together Vermont businesses and local leaders to hear directly from them about how another Trump Trade War would hurt our state. It was clear: Donald Trump’s policy of chaos is one that Vermont can’t afford.  
    “We need a ‘Do No Harm’ approach when it comes to tariffs and trade policy—especially when we’re talking about our biggest trading partner, Canada. Vermont’s and Canada’s economies are closely intertwined, and our families, farmers, and businesses will suffer because of these reckless 25% tariffs. These actions are reckless, counterproductive, and destructive. A trade war is not the answer.”  
    The White House has not provided the public with an exemption process ahead of the February 1st start date. The White House announced it plans to put a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico, as well as a 10% tariff on imports from China. 
    On Monday, Senator Welch convened Vermont businesses and state and local leaders for a roundtable discussion on President Trump’s threats to reignite a trade war with Canada and other U.S. trade allies by imposing dramatic tariffs on goods imported from Canada. Sen. Welch was joined by the Vermont Chamber of Commerce; the Vermont Association of General Contractors; Manufacturing Solutions, Inc.; H20 Innovation; A.N. Deringer, Inc.; Poulin Grain; Green Mountain Power; Vermont State Treasurer Mike Pieciak; Brett Long, Deputy Commissioner, Vermont Department of Economic Development; and Tim Smith, the Mayor of St. Albans. 
    Attendees at the roundtable spoke about the impact of the tariffs on their businesses and their concerns regarding President Trump’s rhetoric regarding trade since taking office last week.  
    Vermont sells more goods to Canada than the next six largest foreign markets combined. In 2023, Vermont exported $150 million just in food and agricultural products to Canada. In many cases, Vermont manufacturers buy imports from Canada to manufacture into products.  However, the ability of Vermont’s small manufacturing businesses to absorb a 25% increase in costs on parts or raw materials is limited. Tariffs on Canada and Mexico could result in layoffs or higher homebuilding costs, increased costs of grain for farmers, and more expensive equipment for maple producers.  
    Tariffs could also increase the cost of utilities for Vermonters. According to preliminary estimates, a 25% tariff on goods from Canada could increase customer rates for natural gas by 10% (based on firm customer rates). Electricity rates could increase by 2.5% in Vermont and by 5% for New England wholesale electricity prices.   

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven: Army Corps Issues More than $10 Million Contract to Complete Southern Embankment

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven

    01.31.25

    Corps Issues Last Major Contract to Finish Federal Portion of Fargo-Moorhead Region’s Flood Protection Project

    WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven today announced that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has awarded a more than $10 million contract to construct Reach SE-5, the last of 7 reaches required to complete the 21-mile long Southern Embankment.

    • This reach, which is located in Minnesota, will include reconstructing portions of 180th Avenue, its intersection with Highway 75 and the Wolverton Creek crossing.
    • The funding is made available under the $437 million Army Corps’ award that Hoeven secured in 2022.
    • This comes as the last major Corps contract being awarded for the Fargo-Moorhead region’s flood protection project, marking a major milestone as the federal portion of the project nears completion.

    “Awarding this final contract to complete the Southern Embankment is achieving a major milestone in protecting the entire Fargo-Moorhead region against the threat of flooding,” said Hoeven. “Numerous efforts have to be tied together in order to make this permanent flood protection a reality. That’s why it was critical that we not only secure full federal funding now to provide certainty over the long-term, but also advance this as the Corps’ first major P3 project. This approach, which is serving as model for Army Corps projects across the country, provided the flexibility needed to build the various aspects of the project concurrently.”

    Today’s milestone follows Hoeven’s efforts to:

    • Pass 16 acts of Congress, including:
      • 9 legislative provisions, such as the project authorization in 2014 and a new construction start authorization in 2016.
    • 7 separate appropriations to fund the project’s construction.
    • Fully fund the $750 million federal cost share.
      • Prior to this, Hoeven helped renegotiate the Project Partnership Agreement to increase the federal funding commitment from $450 million.
    • Advance this as the first major Army Corps project to utilize the public-private partnership (P3) split-delivery model and a Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) loan.
    • Coordinate efforts across four federal agencies.
    • Provide funding and flexibility to concurrently raise I-29 and begin excavating the Red River Control Structure to keep the project on schedule.
    • Resolve the easement issue on lands purchased with Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) funding, allowing the project to use an alternative route.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Scott Touts School Choice Legislation at Invest in Education Coalition Event

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Tim Scott
    WASHINGTON — At today’s Invest in Education Coalition event in support of National School Choice Week, U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.), co-chair of the Congressional School Choice Caucus and member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, championed the rights of parents to choose the school that best fits their child’s individual talents and needs. Specifically, he pointed to the Educational Choice for Children Act (ECCA), which he and HELP Committee Chairman Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-La.) introduced today. The ECCA would expand education freedom and opportunity for students by providing a charitable donation incentive for individuals and businesses to fund scholarship awards for students to cover expenses related to K-12 public and private education.

    Watch Senator Scott’s full remarks here. 
    “Let us [now] do our part as citizens of this great nation, to make available to some of the brightest kids that grew up in neighborhoods like I did…Let’s not let those kids down. They can’t afford a lobbyist, but they have you. And that’s enough,” concluded Senator Scott.
    Click here to learn more about the ECCA. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gillibrand Slams Trump Policy That Would Gut Social Security Administration, Make It Harder For Seniors To Receive Benefits

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Kirsten Gillibrand
    U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, ranking member of the Senate Aging Committee, is leading 11 of her Senate colleagues in a letter warning that President Trump’s plan to “buy out” federal workers would make it harder for older Americans to get their Social Security benefits. Earlier this week, Trump offered federal workers the option to resign and continue to receive full pay and benefits until September 30th, 2025, even though many federal agencies – including the Social Security Administration, which processes Social Security applications – are facing staffing shortages. Further reducing staffing through the buyout programs could force seniors to wait longer to receive assistance and benefits.
    “Trump’s buyout offer would have devastating consequences for the tens of millions of Americans who rely on Social Security,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Since the first Trump administration, the Social Security Administration has struggled to retain staff, and the agency is in desperate need of more personnel to process applications and serve beneficiaries. This policy would only exacerbate staffing shortages and long service wait times. Forcing seniors to wait indefinitely to get their benefits is unacceptable, and I am demanding answers from the administration about its plan to keep SSA functioning.”
    Gillibrand’s letter to the United States Office of Personnel Management, which sent the email earlier this week offering the buyout, was cosigned by Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), and Jack Reed (D-RI).
    The full text of Senator Gillibrand’s letter is available here or below:
    Dear Mr. Ezell,  
    We are writing today to express concern regarding the consequences of an email sent to federal employees from the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) on January 28, 2025.i As you are aware, the email offered two million federal employeesii a “deferred resignation program” allowing employees to resign and continue to receive pay and benefits until September 30, 2025. It is clear that the Administration is seeking to undermine federal programs by eliminating career public servants. We have grave concerns for how these personnel decisions will affect the programs that serve the American people, especially those served by the Social Security Administration (SSA).  
    Social Security is the nation’s most effective anti-poverty program, without which, four in 10 older adults would have incomes below the poverty line.iii In 2025, SSA will serve approximately 72.5 million beneficiaries, including retirees and their families, individuals with disabilities, and low-income older adults.iv As our Nation’s population continues to age, the number of beneficiaries served by Social Security, and the demand placed on SSA field offices, will increase.v While the agency should be prepared to meet this surge in beneficiaries, with limited resources and personnel, SSA has historically struggled to provide essential services in a timely manner. In 2024, the average wait time for service via phone was 45 minutes;vi in 2023 the average wait time for disability determinations was 230 days,vii and SSA staffing was at a 25-year low.viii  
    The origin of these challenges can be traced back to the previous Trump Administration; under the leadership of then-SSA Commissioner Andrew Saul, SSA imposed harsh union contracts and undermined employees’ workplace rights, failed to prioritize training and retention of SSA staff, and failed to deploy modernization efforts to improve delivery of benefits to eligible Americans, resulting in a notable decline in employee morale and an increase in staff departures. Surveys have shown that more than half of SSA employees considered leaving the agency due to burnout and poor compensation.ix Under the Biden Administration, SSA Commissioner Martin O’Malley worked to invest in the workforce, improve morale, and reverse failing policies imposed by President Trump— in six months, he successfully lowered the average phone wait time to under 13 minutesx and succeeded in reducing the number of pending disability determination hearings to the lowest number in 30 years.xi  
    But—years of decline cannot be fixed overnight, and challenges remain at SSA. Recent Executive Orders issued by President Trump, including the return-to-work mandate, the hiring freeze, and others, threaten to reverse improvements in SSA staff morale and staff retention. On top of these Executive Orders, your January 28th email could result in a staffing crisis at SSA. Workers who were already burned out and underpaid will likely be tempted by the resignation program, as will the one in four SSA employees who are eligible for retirement.xii This will have a tangible impact on beneficiaries, who will experience longer wait times and declining service quality. Given the significant impacts this proposal could have on one the Nation’s most valuable programs and the Nation’s most vulnerable individuals, we ask that you respond to the following questions: 
    Is the Administration planning to calculate the impact that these resignations could have on SSA’s ability to process applications and pay out benefits?  
    Further, P.L. 118-273, the Social Security Fairness Act, which would provide an estimated three million retired first responders, teachers, and other public servantsxiii with an average boost of $360xiv in their monthly benefits, was signed into law by President Biden at the end of last year. The law’s effective date was January 2024, and as a result, SSA will not only need to adjust current monthly benefits for these retirees, but also past benefits to ensure they are provided their entitled backpay. How does the Administration plan to ensure that resignations will not interfere with implementation of this law?   
    Should it become apparent that the number of “resignations” at SSA endanger the agency’s ability to serve Americans, does OPM plan to reject resignations from any employees?  
    Given that the Administration plans to afford benefits and pay through September 30, 2025 to employees who agree to resign, how does the Administration plan to attract, hire, and pay new SSA employees between now and September 30th to continue to meet service demands? Does the Administration plan to work with Congress to request supplemental funds for SSA’s operational budget?  
    The Administration has stated that it “insist[s] on excellence at every level.” How does the Administration plan to evaluate whether this rash deferred resignation policy is not resulting in the loss of well-qualified, federal employees who exhibit excellence in serving the American people and harm access to Social Security for the millions of Americans served by the program? 
    Will OPM instruct SSA to monitor changes in key metrics for customer satisfaction and benefit delivery after February 6th? If not, please explain why. If OPM does instruct SSA to monitor the impact of the deferred resignation program on customer satisfaction and benefit delivery processes, please describe the metrics that will be used.  For example, will SAA monitor for an increase in call times to SSA, an increase in wait time at SSA field offices, and an increase in wait time for processing Social Security applications? Please also describe how OPM will instruct SSA to publicize any changes in customer satisfaction and benefit delivery to the public and Congress. 
    Has the Administration worked with labor unions representing SSA employees, like the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), as well as organization representing beneficiaries, like AARP, in developing the deferred resignation policy? 
    Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. We ask that you reply no later than Friday, February 7, 2025. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Following International Holocaust Remembrance Day, Senators Rosen & Lankford Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen Holocaust Education

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    WASHINGTON, DC – Following the 80th Anniversary of the Liberation of Auschwitz and International Holocaust Remembrance Day, U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and James Lankford (R-OK), co-founders and co-chairs of the Senate Bipartisan Taskforce for Combating Antisemitism, introduced the Holocaust Education and Antisemitism Lessons (HEAL) Act to strengthen Holocaust education at public schools and increase awareness of Holocaust educational resources available to local communities. This bipartisan legislation would direct the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum to conduct a first-of-its-kind, comprehensive study on Holocaust education. This study would help identify the resources and methods available to public schools to improve the ways in which educators teach students across the country about the Holocaust and antisemitism.
    “As our nation continues to face an alarming rise of antisemitism, and with Holocaust denial and distortion spiking worldwide, it’s critical that we identify and improve the resources available to our nation’s educators so they can accurately inform students about the horrors of the Holocaust and the dangers of anti-Jewish bigotry,” said Senator Rosen. “Our bipartisan legislation will help ensure the lessons of this dark chapter in history are never forgotten. I’ll keep working to combat antisemitism and make certain that Never Again means never again.”
    “Antisemitism and anti-Jewish crimes remain sadly on the rise in our nation and around the world,” said Senator Lankford. “Senator Rosen and I continue to work together to call out antisemitism no matter who or where it comes from. I will continue to do what I can to ensure future generations never forget the Holocaust and understand the fact that everyone should be able to freely live their faith without fear or persecution.”
    “Holocaust education is not just about preserving history—it fosters empathy, underscores the fragility of democracy, teaches about the role of antisemitism as Nazi ideology and the importance of bearing witness. ADL’s Center for Antisemitism Research (CAR) survey results reveal alarming gaps in Holocaust knowledge, with nearly 6 in 10 Americans under 30 unable to identify how many Jews were murdered, and 1 in 4 adults saying they ‘don’t know.’ ADL applauds Senators Rosen and Lankford, Co-Chairs of the Senate Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Antisemitism, for reintroducing the Holocaust Education and Antisemitism Lessons (HEAL) Act and urges swift passage of this important bill to ensure every student has access to comprehensive Holocaust education,” said Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO of ADL.
    “American Jewish Committee (AJC) surveyed adults in the United States and found that only 53% of Americans over the age of 18 knew that approximately six million Jews were killed in the Holocaust. Knowing about the Holocaust contributes to understanding and confronting antisemitism in the United States. We applaud Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and James Lankford (R-OK), co-chairs of the Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Antisemitism, for introducing the Holocaust Education and Antisemitism Lessons (HEAL) Act. We also appreciate their commitment to supporting educators throughout the country and the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in its mission to ensure the Holocaust is taught accurately and comprehensively,” said Ted Deutch, CEO of the American Jewish Committee.
    “With rising antisemitism around the world, the HEAL Act is more critical than ever. Jewish Federations across the United States have long worked to encourage requiring Holocaust education in schools. We are grateful that the Senate is reintroducing this bill, which will teach students about the Holocaust and its lessons to prevent such atrocities from ever happening again.” said Karen Paikin Barall, Vice President of Government Relations at Jewish Federations of North America.
    “Hadassah is proud to support the Holocaust Education and Antisemitism Lessons (HEAL) Act. One of the most important ways to demonstrate our collective responsibility to fight antisemitism, hatred and bigotry is to ensure that future generations learn about the Holocaust. Yet, as antisemitism continues to alarmingly rise, schools are becoming hotbeds of hatred toward Jewish students. Passing the HEAL Act will help identify gaps in Holocaust education and review best practices from expert historic and Jewish studies perspectives to provide resources that help educators teach students about this horrific period in history and the evils to which intolerance can lead,” said Carol Ann Schwartz, Hadassah National President, and Ellen Finkelstein, Hadassah Chief Executive Officer.
    As co-chairs of the Senate Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Antisemitism, Senators Rosen and Lankford have been leading the fight against antisemitism. They pushed to create the first-ever national strategy to counter antisemitism. Last year, Senator Rosen’s bipartisan legislation to reauthorize the Never Again Education Act became law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: King Joins Bipartisan Bill to Lower Child Care Costs and Address Shortage of Affordable Child Care

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Angus King

    WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME) is joining bipartisan legislation to lower child care costs and address the nationwide shortage of affordable child care. The Child Care Workforce and Facilities Act would provide competitive grants for states to train child care workers and build or renovate child care facilities.

    Families across the country are struggling to access available child care, with rural communities increasingly becoming “child care deserts” due to the noticeable decline in the number of child care providers. According to the Governor’s office, Maine has seen a 39% drop in the number of family childcare providers since 2013, significantly affecting the most rural communities.

    “Affordable and accessible child care is one of the most pressing needs for working families in Maine and across the nation,” said Senator King. “The bipartisan Child Care Workforce and Facilities Act would provide important grant funding to states like Maine to train additional child care workers and build or renovate new child care facilities. When families have access to care, they are able to succeed both at home and in their professional careers. Child care is more than a household priority; child care means business!”

    The Child Care Workforce and Facilities Act would:

    • Address the shortage of affordable child care and qualified child care professionals, particularly in rural areas; 
    • Provide competitive grants to states to support the education, training, or retention of the child care workforce;
    • Provide competitive grants to states to build, renovate, and expand child care facilities in areas experiencing shortages; 
    • Require grant applicants to demonstrate how their projects would increase the availability and affordability of quality child care, and help child care workers continue advance their careers; and 
    • Enhance retention and compensation of quality child care professionals.

    The legislation is cosponsored by Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), and Whitehouse (D-RI).

    Senator King has long worked to expand access to child care. He secured millions to improve child care services in the 2022 and 2023 omnibus appropriations bills, and worked to authorize the planning and development of a new child development center at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. He is also the cosponsor of the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit Enhancement Act, which would permanently expand the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit that helps households offset their child care costs.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Schatz Underscores Urgent Need for Uninterrupted, Strategically Critical, Life-Saving Foreign Aid

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Hawaii Brian Schatz

    WASHINGTON — At yesterday’s Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing on the “Malign Influence of the People’s Republic of China at Home and Abroad: Recommendations for Policy Makers,” U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) underscored the importance of U.S. leadership and global engagement in advancing American interests. Using the Philippines and Papua New Guinea as examples, Schatz asked witnesses to lay out the dire consequences of U.S. disengagement, as well as the opportunities it would create for the PRC.

    Prior to his questioning, Schatz, who also serves as Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations, addressed the chaos caused by the Trump Administration’s recent foreign aid funding freeze, stating, “We really just, on a nonpartisan basis, have to keep the pressure on the State Department to effectuate the Secretary’s policy because right now there’s a ton of confusion, and these are faraway places, and the original stop work orders are still being observed in some places and not in others. The furloughs are in some places being undone and not in others, and this is not some policy question anymore. It’s a question of executing what the Secretary has asked. So I just ask that we continue to put pressure on a bipartisan basis and just to understand the urgency of the moment. Four days ago, I asked now how bad is this, and they said ‘babies dying by the weekend’ and so this is not the kind of thing that we can get back to on Monday. We all have to exert pressure and make sure that the State Department gets this right, and I’m talking about in the next 24 hours.”

    Having recently discussed strengthening security and economic ties with the Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez, Schatz asked, “I want to just start with the Philippines. As you know, they’re one of our closest allies. We have economic assistance arrangements, we have life-saving support that we provide, and of course we have a security partnership that’s lasted generations. If you were a senior CCP official, how would you view this freeze in foreign aid coming from the United States?”

    Peter Mattis, President of the Jamestown Foundation, replied, “I would be looking to exploit the opportunity that is there. And over the years the political fluctuations in the Philippines have offered those opportunities. They’ve disrupted the relationship. They’ve disrupted partnership, and anything from Beijing’s perspective, or if I were… a senior official in the United Front Work Department, I would be doing everything I can to exploit whatever chaos is there in the U.S.-Philippine relationship.”

    Schatz then pivoted to the subject of Papua New Guinea (PNG), a country rich in natural resources, saying, “It’s at risk of becoming a foothold for PRC military expansion. But right now it has the highest HIV incidence in the Pacific, and it’s rising. It also has a lot of unexploded ordinance, and last year the Department of Defense signed an $864 million defense bill deal with Port Morrisby, so it seems to me that the Philippines is one question: we have a bilateral relationship that spans generations and is sturdy, like under Duterte less sturdy, but still solid even when we have a president who is an unreliable partner, but in places like PNG where to use… the domestic equivalent they’re sort of swing states they’re open for business… to being aligned with China, to being aligned with the United States, to playing both sides against the middle. I’m particularly concerned about smaller countries for whom a withholding of economic or military or life-saving support is not something they can sort of weather, and so I’m wondering if you can talk about PNG in particular.”

    Dr. Melanie Hart, Senior Director of Global China Hub at Atlantic Council, answered, “Basically we’ve given Beijing a blank check and kneecapped the United States and the entire global pro-democracy movement. If you want to talk about PNG and their need for medicine, there is very clear pattern that, during the COVID crisis, Beijing forced nations around the world… to carry out its political edicts in exchange for COVID vaccines. I have no doubt that Beijing is already showing up in capitals where the United States is pulling back and saying here is your HIV medicine and guess what: here’s the three things you need to do for me today to get it.”

    Schatz was recently named the Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations, which appropriates billions of dollars in funding for the U.S. Department of State, U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), and other critical agencies and programs that provide humanitarian aid, global health support, and economic and security assistance, among other things to those in need around the world.

    Video of Senator Schatz’s full exchange at today’s hearing is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lee Introduces the Achieving Choice in Education (ACE) Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Utah Mike Lee

    WASHINGTON – Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT) has introduced the Achieving Choice in Education (ACE) Act to bolster educational choices for American families. This bill addresses growing concerns among parents about the ideological influences in public education and the economic barriers to alternative schooling options. Senator Ted Budd (R-NC) is a co-sponsor. Rep. Eric Burlison (R-MO) has introduced the legislation in the House of Representatives.

    “It is the fundamental right of parents to choose the educational path that is most suitable for their children,” said Sen. Lee. “The ACE Act ensures that our tax system reflects this principle and provides real support to those seeking alternatives to public schooling.”

    “As a father of three children who were homeschooled, I know that kids benefit from an education that is uniquely suited to their needs,” said Sen. Budd. “I’m proud to cosponsor the ACE Act, which will give more parents the option to choose the education that is best for their children.”

    “Across the country, and especially in Southwest Missouri, school choice is already benefitting many of our nation’s young children.” said Rep. Burlison. “Through 529 education saving accounts, families are freed from the arbitrary link between where they live and which school their child can attend.”

    Sen. Lee’s legislation builds upon a provision of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and enhances federal tax incentives for the enactment of state-level school choice legislation.

    Key provisions of the ACE Act include:

    • Doubling the allowable level of tax-exempt 529 account distributions for qualified educational expenses to $20,000 per taxable year.
    • Gift tax exclusions up to $20,000 per year for contributions to 529 accounts.
    • Adjusted federal tax exemption on municipal bonds based on state school choice laws, incentivizing states to adopt such measures. 

    Under the ACE Act, states with no qualifying school choice laws will see the tax-exempt status of municipal bonds for local projects, such as new school construction, revoked. States that adopt school choice laws will benefit from a 50% tax exemption on bond interest income, while states fully embracing school choice will enjoy a complete tax exemption.

    ENDORSEMENTS

    “American families deserve the best education options available without financial barriers to access them. Expanding school choice provides students with an opportunity to break out of a ‘one-size-fits-all’ education system. The Achieving Choice in Education Act would incentivize states to give more American families the flexibility to educate their children according to their needs and values.” -Heritage Action for America

    “Over the past several years, a growing number of parents have realized that the one-size-fits-all model provided by public schools doesn’t meet their family’s needs – be it because of concerns over quality, safety, or values. American students deserve to find educational options that work for them, and we are grateful that Sen. Lee’s ACE Act will make that path easier for families around the country.” -Parents Defending Education Action

    “A family’s income level shouldn’t determine whether or not a child gets a good education. Instead of having their tax dollars go straight to the public schools, families should be allowed to spend their money on the education system that they’re actually using. The ACE Act uses Congress’s powerful purse strings to encourage states to be more school-choice friendly. It is common sense policy that is good for kids, good for families, and good for the future of America. We are thankful for Sen. Lee’s leadership on this issue.” -Penny Nance, President and CEO of Concerned Women for America Legislative Action Committee

    “On behalf of Association of Christian Schools International, our 2,500 member schools, and the thousands of families who can enjoy high quality, Christian education as a result of school choice, we thank Senator Lee for his leadership in introducing the ACE Act. Over 20 years of research has found that students who exercise school choice have dramatically better educational outcomes. By encouraging school choice at the state level, more students will be empowered to access the education that best suits their needs and be set up for a lifetime of success.” -P. George Tryfiates, Vice President for Public Policy and Legal Affairs, Association of Christian Schools International

    “HSLDA Action supports the ACE act because it will help homeschool families pay for their children’s education. By increasing the contribution limits, and expanding 529s for homeschool use, parents will be able to save more of their own money for educational purposes in a tax advantaged way. This furthers opportunities for homeschoolers and opens the door to enable more parents to educate their children at home.” -Home School Legal Defense Association Action

    “A good education is the foundation of the American Dream. And every child—no matter their background or zip code—deserves the chance to learn and grow in an environment that is steeped in learning and free from radical ideology. Senator Lee’s ACE Act would be a monumental win for parents across the country who want the opportunity and financial freedom to give their kids the education that will set them up for success.” -Tarren Bragdon, President and CEO of the Foundation for Government Accountability.

    For bill text, click HERE.
    For a one-pager, click HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lee Introduces the Knife Owners Protection Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Utah Mike Lee

    Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) has reintroduced the Knife Owners Protection Act (KOPA), legislation that would protect traveling knife owners from the vagaries of restrictive state and local laws. If possession of the knife is legal in the state where the journey starts and ends, and provided the knife is secured in accordance with the requirements set in KOPA, knife owners would no longer be threatened with arrest simply for traveling from one state to another. The legislation is co-sponsored by Sens. Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and Bill Cassidy (R-LA).

    Originally introduced in 2013, KOPA serves as the first proactive pro-knife federal legislation in the nation’s history. In 1986, Congress enacted the Firearm Owner Protection Act (FOPA) to protect law-abiding gun owners from an inconsistent patchwork of local laws, but no such protections currently exist for knife owners.

    “Patchwork and unclear knife laws across America endanger the rights of law-abiding knife owners, especially when traveling,” said Senator Lee. “This legislation will provide consistency and clarity for Americans who safely transport knives between jurisdictions and prevent capricious prosecutions against them.”

    “Those who travel across the country with knives for work, recreation and self-defense are presently subject to arrest and prosecution under a confusing patchwork of inconsistent state and local laws,” said Knife Rights Chairman Doug Ritter. “What is perfectly legal in one place may be a serious crime in another, resulting in forfeiture of the knife and carrying significant penalties including jail time. Enforcement is not uniform even within jurisdictions and is too often subject to the vagaries of political expediency.”

    For bill text, click HERE
    For a one-pager, click HERE

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lee Introduces the SHUSH Act to Simplify Suppressor Rules

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Utah Mike Lee

    WASHINGTON – Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) and Congressman Michael Cloud (TX-27) have introduced the Silencers Helping Us Save Hearing (SHUSH) Act in the Senate and House, a bill to eliminate the excessive regulation of firearm suppressors. The bill seeks to simplify the purchase process for law-abiding citizens and reduce unnecessary bureaucratic obstacles. Senate cosponsors of the SHUSH Act include Sens. Rick Scott (R-FL), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Roger Marshall (R-KS), and John Curtis (R-UT). The SHUSH Act has garnered the support of the National Association for Gun Rights, Gun Owners of America, the National Rifle Association and the National Shooting Sports Foundation.

    “Despite what Hollywood may lead you to believe, silencers aren’t silent, and they aren’t just for secret agents,” said Senator Lee. “They are a vital tool for hearing protection for countless marksmen and gun enthusiasts across America, and making them prohibitively difficult to obtain is an assault on the 2nd Amendment. The SHUSH Act eliminates federal regulation of silencers and treats them as the non-lethal accessory that they are.”

    “Suppressors are a vital tool for responsible gun owners that protect hearing, enhance safety, and reduce firearm noise—but thanks to Hollywood and federal overreach, they’ve been unfairly vilified,” said Congressman Cloud. “Law-abiding Americans shouldn’t have to endure months of red tape and pay an additional tax just to access a safety accessory. The SHUSH Act puts an end to this unnecessary bureaucratic red tape, eliminates the federal tax, and prevents state overreach by treating suppressors like any other firearm accessory.”

    “Suppressors are accessories and should be treated just like magazines, scopes, or gun stocks,” said Hunter King, National Association for Gun Rights. “Treating an accessory the same as a gun sets a bad precedence for anti-gun legislators to further regulate other accessories in the future. There’s no reason they should be subjected to the Brady registration scheme. We’re happy and privileged to be able to work with Sen. Lee and Rep. Cloud on this legislation,”

    “Gun Owners of America applauds the introduction of the ‘Silencers Helping Us Save Hearing Act’ (SHUSH) Act. The SHUSH Act would not only remove suppressors from the federal regulations of the National Firearms Act, but also treat suppressors as any other firearm accessory – free from the infringing background check process. Senator Lee’s bill will not only benefit hunters and sport shooters, but also take much needed steps for gun owners to restore the rights protected by the Second Amendment,” said Aidan Johnston, Director of Government Affairs, Gun Owners of America.

    Background

    Suppressors, commonly known as silencers, are non-lethal firearm accessories widely used by hunters, sportsmen, and marksmen. These devices enhance safety by reducing noise, recoil, and muzzle blast. Contrary to popular belief, they do not completely silence firearms.

    Currently, the process to legally acquire a suppressor involves an extensive and burdensome procedure through the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), including:

    • Completing two copies of ATF Form 4
    • Filling out ATF Form 5330.20 Certification of Compliance
    • Obtaining certification from a local chief law enforcement officer and two copies of fingerprints
    • Submitting two passport photos and a $200 check to the ATF
    • This approval process can take 9-12 months, making the purchase of a suppressor prohibitively complex and costly for many consumers.

    The SHUSH Act aims to:

    • Eliminate federal regulation of suppressors as firearms under the National Firearms Act (NFA) and the Gun Control Act (GCA).
    • Remove existing taxes, fees, and registration requirements associated with suppressors.
    • Allow current or retired law enforcement officers to carry concealed firearms with suppressors.
    • Preempt state regulations on the manufacture, transfer, transport, or possession of suppressors.
    • Strike provisions requiring mandatory minimum sentences for suppressor possession in certain cases.
    • Exempt suppressors from regulation by the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
    • Provide a provision for a refund of the $200 transfer tax for anyone who purchased a suppressor within two years prior to the enactment of the bill.
    • If passed, the SHUSH Act will work alongside the Hearing Protection Act to further deregulate suppressors and remove them from the Gun Control Act of 1968.

    SHUSH Act: Bill Text | One-Pager

    MIL OSI USA News –