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Category: US Senate

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin: If Your Goal Is To Make America Great Again, Why Would You Start By Cutting Basic Services For Families?

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    January 29, 2025

    In a speech on the Senate floor, Durbin listed the critical programs—VAWA funding, veterans’ support, early education programs—that were thrown into chaos by the OMB memo that put ahold on federal funding

    WASHINGTON – In a speech on the Senate floor last night, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) denounced the Trump Administration’s decision to issue an Office of Management and Budget (OMB) memo to “temporarily pause all activities related to obligation or disbursement of trillions of dollars of Federal financial assistance,” which caused mass confusion about the funding and operations of hundreds of government-funded programs ranging from Medicaid, to Head Start, to Violence Against Women Act grants.  Shortly before the federal funding freeze began, U.S. District Court Judge Loren L. Alikhan, who was confirmed under Durbin’s tenure as Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, temporarily blocked the move by the Trump Administration.

    In his remarks, Durbin emphasized that the Trump Administration does not have the authority to institute a federal funding freeze as Congress holds the constitutional power of the purse.

    “He [Acting OMB Director Matthew Vaeth] sent out a letter, or memo, that basically called for a temporary pause in government spending.  By what authority did he do that? I don’t know. I’ve been in Congress for a few years.  I’ve never quite seen anyone with an ‘Acting’ before their name have this much authority and power, but he had a lot.  He has taken to himself the decision-making that affects families all over the United States, including in my State of Illinois,” Durbin said.

    “But he [Vaeth] basically paused federal spending… so that these recipients could answer the basic questions as to whether they’re loyal to his point of view.  He referred to those who didn’t agree with him as Marxists, as in Karl Marx… Who is this guy?  How does he have this much authority? How is he able to say things like that that are so blatantly political?” Durbin said.

    The memo caused immediate panic across the country as states’ Medicaid portals shut down and Head Start programs worried that they would not be open the following day to provide critical child care.  The Trump Administration failed, when asked repeatedly, to provide clear guidance about what programs would be safe from being defunded.

    “This poorly conceptualized, poorly communicated policy has created mass confusion in my state and across the nation.  Worst yet, it has endangered [the] health, safety, [and] welfare of Americans across the country.  The proposed freeze mandates that the government ‘temporarily pause’ the disbursement of key funds… We’re going to temporarily pause reimbursement to local units of government and charities, for example, while we decide whether they’re living up to the standards of Donald Trump in terms of his political values,” Durbin continued.

    Durbin read out some of the programs that were thrown into chaos by the OMB memo, beginning with Head Start and domestic violence survivor programs.

    “For many families, Head Start is day care.  Head Start is Pre-K.  Head Start is a chance for kids in tough family circumstances to have a fighting chance.  Of course, the Head Start agencies need to get their federal funds to keep the lights on, to feed the kids, to make sure they can heat the buildings in the winter,” Durbin said.

    “The other one is violence against women.  The groups are calling us in Illinois.  They call me because the Senate Judiciary Committee, which I serve on, authored this bill years ago.  A Senator from Delaware at the time, Joe Biden, introduced this legislation.  What it boils down to, is if you’re a victim of domestic violence, there are grants available to provide safe and secure places for you to stay, rather than [keeping you] in these horrible, violent situations at home.  What are we going to do with Mr. Vaeth’s idea to put this on temporary pause?” Durbin said.

    Durbin continued providing examples of threatened federal funding, including natural disaster relief, veterans benefits, and small business loans.  Durbin pointed to the double standard of pausing federal aid to small businesses when major corporations, including Elon Musk’s company, Tesla, has received support from the federal government to stave off bankruptcy.

    “Natural disaster relief speaks for itself.  You think of the poor folks in California trying to recover from their wildfires.  Think of the flooding, hurricanes, all the other events that take place.  There are people who need a helping hand,” Durbin said.

    “So many aspects of business rely on just a helping hand to get started.  If you think loans to businesses are for little businesses, keep in mind that in 2009, Elon Musk came to the Obama Administration and asked for a loan so that his Tesla car company wouldn’t go into bankruptcy.  There are a lot of smaller businesses just as desperate to get a helping hand,” Durbin said.

    Durbin concluded his remarks by criticizing the Trump Administration for claiming to support American families while attempting to tear away the basic services and programming that Americans rely on.  Durbin underscored that President Trump’s own team could not answer basic questions about the policy he attempted to institute.

    “If your goal is to ‘Make America Great Again,’ why start by cutting these basic services for families and deserving people across this country?” Durbin said.  “We’re better than that.  I’m proud of a nation that cares for people that need a helping hand.  I’m not ashamed to say that.”

    “Even the President’s own Press Secretary a few minutes ago was unable to even answer the questions about what was going on with this OMB Director.  You know why?  Because this move is nothing more than a power grab designed to target the most vulnerable and disguise it as a way ‘to analyze government spending,’” Durbin said. “The President is blatantly violating the law by holding up these vital funds across America.”

    “This measure [temporary pause by the federal judge] is only delaying chaos and uncertainty if it’s President Trump’s determined effort to make sure that this happens.  We will not stand idly by while the President plays fast and loose with our nation’s laws and the American peoples’ lives and livelihoods.  We can have fiscal responsibility, we could have a budget we’re proud of, but this action taken by a fellow last night, somewhere in the bowels of a building here in Washington, is hurting people all across America.  You can’t help American families be great if you don’t give them a fighting chance,” Durbin concluded.

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

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

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

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Snaps Back at Billions in Overpayments

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)
    WASHINGTON – In her latest fight to prioritize taxpayers in Washington, U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) is addressing growing concerns about mismanagement within the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which is supposed to help feed hungry families, but sloppy state administration of the program is costing taxpayers nearly $1 billion per month.
    As a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, Ernst is introducing the Snap Back Inaccurate SNAP Payments Act to strengthen the integrity of this important program by identifying all errors, recollecting overpayments, and holding states with high payment inaccuracies accountable.
    “Bureaucratic blunders are leaving billions of dollars on the table as Americans are starved to keep up with the ever-growing $36 trillion debt,” said Ernst. “SNAP plays an essential role in helping feed families, that’s why we need to strengthen its integrity by holding states accountable for growing error rates, implementing a zero-tolerance policy, and snapping back overpayments.”
    Congressman Randy Feenstra (R-Iowa) is introducing companion legislation in the House of Representatives.
    “The American people elected President Trump and Republican majorities in Congress to cut waste from government and get our budget under control. With over $36 trillion in debt and counting, we have no time to waste to pinpoint every possible area to save taxpayer dollars and hold bureaucrats accountable,” said Feenstra. “One sector that needs serious reform is the SNAP program. Every month, taxpayers shell out about $1 billion in SNAP overpayments, which is absolutely ridiculous and must change. That’s why Senator Ernst and I introduced legislation to strengthen the integrity of the SNAP program by establishing a zero-tolerance policy on benefit overpayments. As members of our respective DOGE caucuses, we will continue to fight for fiscal sanity, government efficiency, and a balanced budget.” 
    Most SNAP payment errors are made in the form of “overpayments,” or benefits paid either to ineligible recipients or to eligible households above what is allowed by law. In 2023, there were approximately $10.73 billion in overpayments. However, the true cost is unknown because errors totaling $54 or less are excluded.
    Ernst’s Snap Back Inaccurate SNAP Payments Act could reduce spending by nearly $91 billion over the next decade by:
    Directing states to recollect SNAP overpayments, so each household only receives exactly what they are eligible for;
    Requiring states to pay back what they owe;
    Holding states accountable for payment error rates to incentivize better management of funds; and
    Improving the accuracy of SNAP payment error rates by requiring all errors to be reported.
    Background:
    As chair of the Senate DOGE Caucus, Senator Ernst unveiled a $2 trillion plan, featuring the Snap Back Inaccurate SNAP Payments Act, to cut down federal spending, save taxpayer dollars, and downsize the government – in addition to her telework report that exposed an absent federal workforce.
    Her playbook has already racked up a win with the announcement of the sale of the Wilbur J. Cohen building, a 1.2 million square foot monument to waste, where just 72 of 3,341 workers were showing up to work.
    In September 2023, Ernst highlighted that instead of giving billions in benefits to those who don’t qualify or doubling payments for others already being served, we should give a seat at the table to families who do qualify but are going without while they wait in line. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Barrasso Calls on Senate to Confirm Lee Zeldin

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming John Barrasso
    “Lee knows that innovation, not government intervention, is the best solution to lower prices, to grow the economy, and to protect our environment…He is the right nominee to lead the EPA.”
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Senate Majority Whip, today spoke on the Senate floor calling for the quick confirmation of Lee Zeldin, President Donald J. Trump’s nominee for Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
    Click HERE to watch Senator Barrasso’s remarks.
    Sen. Barrasso’s remarks as prepared:
    “I strongly support Congressman Lee Zeldin to be the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency.
    “We are blessed in America with enormous natural resources.
    “I support using our resources responsibly. I support sensible environmental stewardship. Americans deserve clean water and clean air. They deserve good jobs and economic strength.
    “Environmental protection and economic growth should go hand-in-hand. They are not mutually exclusive.
    “As head of the EPA, Lee will return the agency to its original missionof protecting America’s air, water, and land – without, as he puts it, ‘suffocating the economy.’
    “Nearly two weeks ago, the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works held a hearing on Lee. As the former Chairman of the Committee, I was honored to introduce him.
    “Lee is highly qualified. His support is bipartisan.
    “Lee is a lifelong public servant. He is a seasoned lawyer with a sharp legal mind. He has over 20 years of military service. He currently serves as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Army Reserves.
    “Lee also served 8 years in Congress. As a representative from New York,he worked to strengthen our economy and protect his district’s unique ecosystem. He worked across party lines to do so.
    “For the last four years, the so-called experts at the Environmental Protection Agency went on a reckless regulatory rampage.
    “They saddled American families and businesses with higher costs and heavy-handed restrictions. They bowed to climate extremism and ignored common sense.
    “In 2024, the EPA introduced one of the most expensive regulations in American history – the electric vehicle mandate.
    “The EV Mandate was left-wing lunacy at its worst.
    “According to the Competitive Enterprise Institute, its total cost of compliance is $760 billion. To put that in perspective, the cost of this one regulation is nearly equal to the price tag of 8 years of regulations under President Barack Obama.
    “The EV mandate would also cost hundreds of thousands of jobs.
    “Americans rejected the EV Mandate and other costly climate policies in November. President Trump revoked the EV Mandate on his first day in office.
    “Here in the Senate, repealing the Biden EV subsidies is one of my top priorities. These subsidies are estimated to cost more than $393 billion.
    “Americans should not have their tax dollars pay for vehicles thatmost Americans don’t want, can’t afford, and don’t work for them or their families. Americans should not be dependent on Communist China like we are today with electric vehicles.
    “Lee Zeldin will continue President Trump’s mission to roll back punishing, political regulations.
    “The EPA does important work in states and local communities.
    “Lee will be a fantastic partner to my home state of Wyoming.
    “He will not impose one-size-fits-all mandates on American consumers and businesses. Instead, he will cut red tape. We will see a new wave of creativity and innovation.
    “Lee knows that innovation, not government intervention, is the best solution to lower prices, to grow the economy, and to protect our environment.
    “Many Americans are confident that Lee will right the ship and restore balance at the EPA.
    “One of those organizations is the National Association of Clean Water Agencies.
    “In a letter to the Committee, the Association said that Lee has ‘shown a willingness to engage with a broad spectrum of stakeholders to address pressing issues.’
    “Lee also impressed our colleagues here in the Senate. This is what my Democrat colleague from Arizona said about Lee: ‘He’s a qualified candidate for this job.’
    “I share America’s confidence in Lee.
    “Through three hours of tough questions, Lee Zeldin proved he is well-qualified.
    “He showed he is committed to strong environmental protection and energy production.
    “He is the right nominee to lead the EPA. The Senate should confirm him quickly.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hawley Renews Effort to Protect Kids from Mutilation Following Trump Executive Order

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo)

    Wednesday, January 29, 2025

    Today U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) re-introduced his Protecting Our Kids from Child Abuse Act, legislation that would allow those who were harmed by gender-transition procedures as minors to bring lawsuits against the participating individuals and entities. Yesterday, President Trump issued an Executive Order that expressly calls for this legislation.
     “Our children should no longer suffer from irreversible and dangerous child mutilation procedures, which the Biden administration enabled and promoted,” said Senator Hawley. “I welcome President Trump’s strong action to reverse this child abuse and look forward to working with his administration to advance legislation that protects our kids.” 
    Yesterday, the White House issued an Executive Order on “Protecting Children from Chemical and Surgical Mutilation,” which reverses federal support for the gender mutilation industry that has targeted children. Among other provisions, this order directs the Attorney General to work with Congress on legislation that establishes a private right of action—with a lengthy statute of limitations—for children who were harmed by gender-transition procedures. Senator Hawley’s bill would do just that.
    The Protecting Our Kids from Child Abuse Act would:
    Create a private right of action for individuals who were harmed by a gender-transition procedure performed on them when they were minors.
    The following individuals and entities would be liable for damages: a pediatric gender clinic where the procedure was performed; a medical practitioner who performed the procedure or was employed by the clinic; and a university or hospital that is affiliated with the clinic.

    Prohibit federal funding to any pediatric gender clinic, to any university or hospital that is affiliated with a pediatric gender clinic, and for any gender-transition procedure performed on minors.
    Read full text here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hawley Secures Zeldin Commitment to Clean Up West Lake Landfill as EPA Administrator

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo)

    Wednesday, January 29, 2025

    Ahead of the first Senate vote to advance Lee Zeldin as Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator, U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) secured Zeldin’s commitment to visit and clean up the West Lake Landfill Superfund site in Bridgeton, Missouri.
    “For years, the EPA has dragged their feet and refused to clean up the West Lake Landfill. And Missourians have been left to suffer. I was happy to hear Lee Zeldin commit to changing the failed status quo, if confirmed as EPA Administrator,” said Senator Hawley. “He’s committed to visiting the West Lake Landfill site, to finally start cleanup – and get it finished. This is a tremendous step in the right direction. And now we must pass RECA.” 
    BACKGROUND
    The West Lake Landfill Superfund site contains radioactive contamination dating back from the Manhattan project. In the 1960s, the federal government hired a company to dispose of this waste, which originated from a processing facility in St. Louis, but the waste was placed in the landfill in 1973 without proper remediation. The EPA has jurisdiction over the site.
    Senator Hawley’s proposal to expand and reauthorize the RECA program passed the Senate twice, with strong bipartisan support. Last week, Senator Hawley reintroduced his proposal to give nuclear radiation victims compensation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lummis Cosponsors Legislation to Expand School Choice and Educational Freedom in the Cowboy State

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming Cynthia Lummis

    January 29, 2025

    Washington, D.C.—  U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) joined Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA) to introduce the Educational Choice for Children Act, a bipartisan bill to expand education freedom and student opportunity. It offers a charitable donation incentive for individuals and businesses to fund scholarships for K-12 public and private education expenses.
    “This National School Choice Week, I am reaffirming my commitment to educational freedom and equal opportunity for all American children,” said Lummis. “A child’s zip code should not dictate their quality of education, and I am proud to cosponsor this legislation ensuring Wyoming’s future leaders, regardless of their educational needs, are set up for success.”
    The Educational Choice for Children Act would:
    Provide a non-refundable federal tax credit to individuals and corporations making charitable donations to Scholarship Granting Organizations (SGOs). The Treasury Department would administer these credits with a total annual cap of $10 billion, allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. 
    Use a limited government approach with respect to federalism, thus avoiding mandates on states, localities, and school districts.
    Ensure that faith-based educational institutions would be included. 
    A copy of the bill can be found here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Votes Against Advancing Pam Bondi’s Nomination to be the Next Attorney General of the United States

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – In the Senate Judiciary Committee today, U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) voted against advancing Pamela Bondi’s nomination to be the next Attorney General of the United States. In remarks following his vote, Senator Welch cited Ms. Bondi’s evasion on questions about the 2020 presidential election and concerns about her willingness to stand up against the President to preserve an independent Department of Justice. He called on his colleagues in the United States Senate to fulfill their role in serving as a check and balance to President Trump’s illegal power grabs. 
    “I would like to think that Pam Bondi would have the ability to stand up because she is qualified, she is engaging, but I was very disturbed on the question from Senator Hirono: ’Who won the election?’ And she couldn’t answer it. It was the Trump-permissible answer: that President Biden is the President, but could not say that he won the election. That bodes poorly,” said Senator Welch. “That is the reason for my no vote. But this raises a question that I think we as the United States Senate have to ask ourselves in view of the nine days of the reckless conduct and the illegal conduct of the President. Will we fulfill our Constitutional role as a separate and independent branch of government to maintain the principle of separation of powers and checks and balances? Our founders knew that would be needed. What they didn’t know is whether those who served in this position as United States Senators would meet the challenge when the check and balance was needed.” 
    Watch video of his remarks below:  
    Read his remarks in the Senate Judiciary Committee below: 
    “Pam Bondi is qualified. She has done outstanding work as an Attorney General, both as a County Prosecutor and as the Florida Attorney General, and I actually quite admire the grit that she had to take on a challenging statewide campaign to become Attorney General. 
    “Number two, she had very good testimony from Republicans and Democrats about her managerial style, and when I met with her, she was very engaging and responsive to the concerns I have about criminal justice. She is qualified.  
    “The question that we face as a Senate is: What kind of Department of Justice will we have? There has been a bipartisan recognition of the importance of independence at the Department of Justice. Will we have a Department of Justice that is independent, or will we have a Department of Justice that, in the words of President Trump, is ‘my’ Department of Justice, where I have the right to do anything I want to do.  
    “There is no question about where President Trump is going. Nine days into the President’s administration, he is on a rampage — a rampage of reckless conduct and illegal conduct. The reckless conduct, of course, are these horrible pardons. People who grabbed the shields that police were using to defend themselves and then started battering police with them, stomping them, kicking them, spitting on them, and then these folks who are pardoned, they get out and they say they want to come back here, and they want those who certified the election of the president to be hanged. We have people who are pardoned, who are wanted for soliciting sex with a minor. Those pardons are so disrespectful to the men and women of law enforcement. It is absolutely despicable in my view. 
    “But then the illegal conduct: The President says that he can do what he wants to do, regardless of the law.  
    “One of the laws that I am so proud of is something, Mr. Chairman, you authored and it’s the Inspector Generals. And he fired them all, despite the specific provision in the law that you wisely included, that there be a 30-day notice. Illegal. Clearly illegal. He did the same thing at the National Labor Relations Board.  
    “There are specific statutory, legislative responsibilities if you want to remove a person. Just blew by it. Illegal. Then, of course, the shocking announcement about impoundment. Absolutely illegal, interfering with the Constitutional right of the Article I branch of Congress to be the appropriator of funds. And what he is doing is illegal.  
    “Then TikTok—we passed a law in Congress—bipartisan—that it has to comply or be sold. The president picks and chooses and says, ‘No, we are not applying the law.’ Illegal.  
    “At the Justice Department, before the new AG is even there, the President has installed his personal lawyers. His personal lawyers. And they started doing dirty work, firing career prosecutors. 
    “There is no mystery here about what the president is going to insist upon. It’s that the DOJ will be ‘my’ law firm. That’s what it is. And there is no question because, if past is prologue, goodbye to Attorney General Barr, goodbye to Attorney General Sessions when they didn’t comply with the demands of an overbearing president.  
    “Now, I would like to think that Pam Bondi would have the ability to stand up because she is qualified, she is engaging, but I was very disturbed on the question from Senator Hirono: ’Who won the election?’ And she couldn’t answer it.  
    “It was the Trump-permissible answer that ‘President Biden is the President,’ but could not say that he won the election. That bodes poorly.  
    “That is the reason for my no vote. But this raises a question I think we as the United States Senate have to ask ourselves – in view of the nine days of the reckless conduct and the illegal conduct of the President: Will we fulfill our constitutional role as a separate and independent branch of government to maintain the principle of separation of powers and checks and balances? Our founders knew that would be needed. What they didn’t know is whether those who served in this position as United States Senators would meet the challenge when the check and balance was needed.” 
    Watch Senator Welch’s questioning of Ms. Bondi during her confirmation hearing, as well as legal and ethics experts and former colleagues.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 01/29/2025 Blackburn Statement on Priorities for Budget Reconciliation Package

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following statement on her legislative priorities for the budget reconciliation package: 
    “With President Trump back in office and a GOP majority in both the House and Senate, Republicans have the opportunity of a lifetime to achieve real results for the American people through the budget reconciliation process. We need to make President Trump’s tax cuts permanent, reduce the tax burden on seniors, and increase access to health care for families who live in rural America. We also need to build on President Trump’s efforts to restore a strong and secure southern border by empowering local law enforcement to assist the federal government and curbing human trafficking. I support President Trump’s efforts to limit the power of unelected bureaucrats in Washington and to hold federal agencies more accountable for how they spend Americans’ hard-earned tax dollars, and I’m fighting to secure big wins for Tennesseans in the upcoming reconciliation package.” – Senator Blackburn

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy: “If you don’t believe we’re going to have to cut spending substantially, then you shouldn’t be driving”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)

    Watch Kennedy’s comments here. 
    WASHINGTON – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) explained why Congress must focus on spending cuts over the next six months even as it bolsters America’s national defense, extends its 2017 tax cuts, addresses inflation and grows the country’s economy enough to pay down its national debt in a speech on the Senate floor.
    Key excerpts of Kennedy’s speech are below:
    “If we don’t extend those tax cuts, it is going to drive our GDP and our economy on a journey to the center of the Earth. Even my Democratic friends know those tax cuts have to be extended, but we have got other things we have to do, too. We are deficit spending. We are spending money around here like it was pond water, like it was ditch water. . . . I don’t want to blame it all on President Biden, but, if the shoe fits, wear it, Cinderella.”
    . . .
    “We have now got $36 trillion worth of national debt. . . . That is the most debt we have ever had, well over 100% of GDP. So, we have got to renew the tax cuts, . . . and we have got to stop the deficit spending, and we have got to reduce our debt—but there’s more. There’s more.
    “We have got to increase defense spending because President Xi is working with President Putin, who is working with the Ayatollah in Iran. . . . I don’t want America to be the world’s policeman, but I don’t want President Xi or President Putin or the Ayatollah in Iran to be the world’s policemen either. Weakness invites the wolves, and we have got to start spending more money on defense.
    “Now you don’t have to be Einstein’s cousin to figure out that all the things that I just described that we have to do in the next year-to-six-months could be called ‘competing interests’—tax cuts, stop deficit spending, reduce the debt, but find more money for defense. Something has got to give . . . we are going to have to reduce spending.
    “Since 2019, the American population has grown 2%. We are not having babies. Two percent—and that is after all the illegal immigration. Do you know what has happened to our budget? It has gone up [nearly] 55%.”
    . . .
    “We’re going to have to reduce spending to pre-pandemic levels, and that is what this [Office of Management and Budget] memorandum today—which temporarily held up the spending of some money, consistent with President Trump’s executive orders—was the first baby step toward. That is what this is all about. That is what this is all about. The world is not going to spin off its axis.”
    . . .
    “So, I hope all the folks today will go home and take off their Batman t-shirts, wash them [because they’re] probably a little sweaty. I hope everybody will go home—those who drink, have a cocktail—take their meds and put this all in perspective. That’s what that OMB memorandum was all about.”
    . . . 
    “If you don’t believe we’re going to have to cut spending substantially in order to get out of this mess that has been created, then you shouldn’t be driving.”
     Watch Kennedy’s full speech here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven Statement on Confirmation of Sean Duffy as Secretary of Transportation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven
    01.28.25
    WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven issued the following statement after the U.S. Senate confirmed Sean Duffy to serve as Secretary of the U.S. Department of Transportation.
    “We look forward to working with Secretary Duffy and the Trump administration to ensure that Americans can safely travel on our roads and bridges, railways and in the air. He’s also committed to help reform the permitting process so we can more efficiently build the infrastructure we need to securely move people and goods in this country.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth Votes Against Sean Duffy’s Nomination to Be Transportation Secretary

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth
    January 28, 2025
    [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee (CST)—released the following statement after the Senate confirmed Rep. Sean Duffy by a vote of 77-22 to serve as Secretary of the Department of Transportation.
    “Heading into this week, I was prepared to vote to confirm Rep. Duffy. Our conversations were productive and encouraging, and I thought he was sufficiently qualified to serve as Transportation Secretary. But President Trump’s sweeping order to freeze federal grant funding—including historic investments from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law—is illegal and hurting Americans in red and blue states alike, and I cannot vote to confirm a Transportation Secretary while transportation funding is being unlawfully withheld.”
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth Slams Trump’s Dangerous Pause on Federal Grants That Will Hurt Veterans, Underscores Importance of Maintaining VA as Medical Center Home for Veterans Seeking Care

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth
    January 28, 2025
    [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee (SVAC) who still receives her own health care services through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)—slammed President Donald Trump’s dangerous executive order that bypasses Congress and freezes billions of dollars in grants that help fund programs run by VA and that offer lifelines to millions of Americans, including those who sacrifice for our country. In her remarks, Duckworth also underscored the importance of robust communication between VA and community care providers, calling for VA to remain the “medical center home” for all Veterans, including those who choose—as is their right—to seek care in the community. Video of Duckworth’s remarks and questions can be found on the Senator’s YouTube.
    “It’s ironic that while policymakers and citizens came together today to discuss expanding access to care for Veterans, Donald Trump was actively preparing to restrict their access to care this evening,” said Duckworth. “After all that our Veterans have sacrificed, we should be doing everything we can to make it easier for our heroes to receive the timely, high-quality care they’ve earned through their service. Yet, Trump’s dangerous executive order would jeopardize critical and life-changing VA grants that support community-based suicide prevention efforts, rural telehealth access and more. Congress alone has the ‘power of the purse,’ and I hope my Republican colleagues will have the spine to oppose Donald Trump in the face of this cruel, chaotic and unconstitutional order that would hurt everyday Americans, including Veterans.”
    Despite campaigning on the promise that he would look out for our Veterans and working families, Donald Trump’s dangerous and unlawful executive order would halt critical, life-changing VA grants that our nation’s heroes rely on. Among the VA efforts that would be impacted by this illegal federal grant freeze include those that aid in the VA’s mission to help homeless Veterans in need of shelter, provide community-based suicide prevention resources, support rural Veteran telehealth access and transportation services, promote the hiring and retention of nurses at state Veterans’ homes, improve specially-adapted housing assistive technology and much more.
    Throughout her tenure in Congress, Duckworth has been a fierce supporter of and an effective legislator for our Veterans. During the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee’s confirmation hearing for President Trump’s VA Secretary nominee Doug Collins last week, Duckworth pressed Collins to oppose any effort to privatize VA health care, which would place many Veterans at risk of receiving less effective and less cost-efficient care. In her remarks, Duckworth underscored that VA health care professionals are better positioned to provide the best care possible for our Veterans due to specialized training that informs providers with a unique understanding of Veterans’ experiences and comprehensive medical needs—something that is not replicated in the civilian health care system. 
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Statement at HHS Secretary Nomination Hearing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo
    Washington, D.C.—U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) delivered the following remarks at a hearing to consider the nomination of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to be Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
    As prepared for delivery:
    “Thank you to my colleagues and to Mr. Kennedy for being here today.  Congratulations on your nomination.
    “Throughout this process, Mr. Kennedy, you have been accessible to members and staff on both sides of the aisle and have demonstrated a strong commitment to fulfilling the responsibilities of this role.
    “The Department of Health and Human Services oversees our nation’s largest health care programs, providing coverage for nearly two in every five Americans.
    “Improving Medicare, Medicaid and CHIP, among other initiatives, presents challenges, especially in the face of a rapidly aging population, stubbornly high costs and persistent barriers to access.
    “However, this also provides us an opportunity to deliver bold, transformative solutions.
    “As a Committee, we share a commitment to advancing commonsense, bipartisan policies that improve the delivery of health care in this country.
    “This Committee has worked to realign incentives in the prescription drug supply chain, enhance access in rural communities, expand the availability of telehealth and improve the broken clinician payment structure.
    “Across these and other issues, I look forward to working with the Administration to continue pursuing meaningful reforms that serve the American people more effectively and efficiently. 
    “Too often, patients encounter a health care system that is a disjointed, dysfunctional maze.  Complex and bureaucratic chutes and ladders have become the norm. 
    “Meanwhile, even as health care spending climbs, outcomes across a range of conditions continue to decline. 
    “Mr. Kennedy, if confirmed, you will have the opportunity to chart a new and better course for the federal approach to tackling both the drivers and the consequences of our ailing health care system.
    “Your commitment to combatting chronic conditions that drive health care costs will be critical to our success.
    “Prioritizing disease prevention and addressing the factors that fuel conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, metabolic disease, Alzheimer’s disease, COPD and cancer will save lives, reduce costs and build a healthier, stronger country.
    “Private-sector breakthroughs, from groundbreaking cancer medications to curative gene therapies, offer hope.  But misguided government initiatives and market volatility risk eroding American leadership in lifesaving R&D. 
    “Your advocacy for health care transparency has the potential to empower consumers across the country, promoting competition to enhance quality while cutting excessive spending, both for patients and for taxpayers.  
    “Today’s hearing will provide a forum to hear more about your vision, particularly for the federal programs under this Committee’s jurisdiction.
    “Mr. Kennedy, you represent a voice for an inspiring coalition of Americans who are deeply committed to improving the health and well-being of our nation.
    “Regardless of political party, everyone in this room shares a common recognition that our current system has fallen short—as well as a common desire to make our country healthier. 
    “I look forward to today’s conversation, as well as to your testimony, Mr. Kennedy.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Moran: VA will Not be Impacted by Federal Funding Pause

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas – Jerry Moran
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs – today issued the following statement after receiving confirmation from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that there are no VA programs impacted by the federal funding pause:
    “After my inquiry today, VA has confirmed that no direct benefits or assistance provided through grant partners is impacted by OMB’s pause on federal funding. Veterans and their families, as well as the organizations that serve them, will continue to have access to the benefits, services and resources provided through the Department of Veterans Affairs. I appreciate the VA quickly providing answers to my questions and continuing the important programs that serve our veterans and their families.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen Named Ranking Member of Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen
    (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced she will serve as Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration and Related Agencies (Ag-FDA). This Subcommittee oversees funding for the majority of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) as well as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
    “I’m honored to serve in this new role and committed to building on my work to address the high cost of living that so many Granite Staters are experiencing,” said Senator Shaheen. “I look forward to finding new and creative opportunities to improve support for New Hampshire’s rural communities, including by investing in rural housing and water infrastructure, championing our small businesses and small and diversified farmers, continuing my bipartisan efforts to tackle the skyrocketing cost of prescription drugs, such as those to treat Type 1 diabetes, as well as funding federal nutrition programs that help Granite Staters put food on the table.”
    Shaheen has served on the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee since 2012, and formerly chaired the Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies Subcommittee. She will also serve as a member of the Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies, Defense, Homeland Security, Labor, Health and Human Services and Education and Related Agencies and State, Foreign Operations and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittees.
    Shaheen has long fought to support farmers in New Hampshire, including by successfully helping to secure disaster supplemental funding for farmers impacted by crop losses in 2023. Shaheen also has a strong record of working to improve crop insurance policies to support farmers in New Hampshire and leads legislation to reform the federal government’s crop insurance program. Senator Shaheen has supported more than 230 New Hampshire small businesses who have received over $25 million to lower energy bills and cut costs through USDA’s Rural Energy for America Program. She has consistently fought for increased funding and improved support for rural development programs, including rural water programs.
    Shaheen also spearheads efforts to combat rising drug prices and make essential medications more affordable, including leading legislation to lower the cost of prescription drugs and bring generic drugs to market faster. Last Congress, Shaheen introduced bipartisan legislation, the Ensuring Timely Access to Generics Act, that would work to increase competition from generic drugs through better oversight of FDA’s citizen petition process. The Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee passed this bill unanimously. As co-chair of the bipartisan U.S. Senate Diabetes Caucus, Shaheen has also consistently worked with FDA on access to diabetes technology and cures for type 1 diabetes. Senator Shaheen’s bipartisan INSULIN Act also includes proposals to expedite FDA approval of biosimilar drugs, which are proven to increase competition and lower drug costs.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen, Ernst Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Expand Affordable Child Care Availability, Support Child Care Providers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV), a member of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, and Committee Chair Joni Ernst (R-IA) introduced the Small Business Child Care Investment Act. This bipartisan legislation would increase the availability of affordable, high-quality child care for working families by allowing non-profit child care providers, that qualify as small businesses, to participate in Small Business Administration loan programs.
    A recent report labeled the entire state of Nevada as a “child care desert,” and found that nearly 75 percent of children below the age of five don’t have access to a licensed child care provider. The report deemed the cost of child care a “huge concern” in Nevada and found it often to be more expensive than college tuition.
    “The lack of affordable child care options in our communities hurts hardworking families at a time when they are already being squeezed by rising costs,” said Senator Rosen. “Our bipartisan bill will help increase the number of child care providers in Nevada and across the country by bolstering non-profits with access to much-needed federal resources, giving families greater access to care. I will continue working to lower costs of the everyday essentials that Nevadans rely on.”
    “Finding affordable and high-quality childcare is one of the most pressing issues facing small businesses looking to hire and retain capable staff,” said Senator Ernst. “As chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, I’m proud to help alleviate the pressure on hardworking families, especially in rural areas. This commonsense legislation will clear the Washington red tape, expand options, and drive down costs in Iowa and across the country.”
    “The Small Business Child Care Investment Act is a game-changer for families and communities across the United States. By empowering nonprofit child care providers to access critical small business loan programs, this legislation ensures they have the resources to expand, improve and sustain the high-quality child care that working families depend on. At Save the Children, we know that accessible and affordable child care is essential not only for children’s healthy development but also for economic stability. We applaud this bipartisan effort and urge swift action to make these vital investments a reality for families nationwide,” said Christy Gleason, Vice-President for Policy, Advocacy, and Campaigns at Save the Children.
    “For too many parents balancing work and family responsibilities, finding reliable child care remains a significant challenge,” said  Sarah Rittling, Executive Director of the First Five Years Fund. “We are thankful to Senators Rosen and Ernst for their bipartisan work on this innovative bill to support small, non-profit child care providers and expand access so more children and families can find and afford the care they need.”
    “Access to quality child care providers is critical for hardworking families and a strong, stable economy. Yet across the country, providers are struggling to deliver care on razor thin margins and with limited resources. Increasing access to capital by allowing these nonprofit child care businesses to utilize Small Business Administration loans will support providers looking to enter the child care space, expand services, and increase quality. These resources can be especially crucial in rural communities where access to child care fails to meet the needs of many working families. We applaud Sens. Rosen (D-NV) and Ernst (R-IA) for their leadership and making child care more accessible with the introduction of the Small Business Childcare Investment Act,” said Michele Stockwell, President of the Bipartisan Policy Center Action.
    “United Way of Southern Nevada is a long-standing partner of Nevada Ready! State Pre-K, a program enabling hundreds of children from qualifying families to attend preschool at no cost. We have seen firsthand the positive impact that affordable high-quality care and education options have provided not only for our children, but entire families,” said Julie Houchins, Senior Director of Early Education at the United Way of Southern Nevada. “The Small Business Child Care Investment Act allows nonprofit childcare and early education providers to grow their capacity so they can meet the needs of working families in Nevada. We are very grateful for this bipartisan effort that will help local children, parents, and businesses alike.”
    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, which creates local jobs and gives working families more options for affordable and quality child care;
    Ensure non-profit providers can access 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.
    Senator Rosen continues working to lower child care costs for Nevada’s hardworking families. Last year, she joined a bipartisan bill to provide child care services for police officers and support law enforcement families. During a confirmation hearing in the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, Senator Rosen secured a commitment from General David Allvin, Air Force Chief of Staff, to cut red tape in a program designed to make child care available for military families like Airmen at Nellis and Creech Air Force Bases who work overnight shifts. Additionally, Senator Rosen joined in helping to introduce the Child Care for Working Families Act, legislation that would help lower child care costs for an average American family to no more than $10-a-day. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Capito to Chair Labor, HHS, Education Appropriations Subcommittee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today announced that she will serve as the chairman of the Senate Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee, which oversees funding across a large range of programs within the U.S. Departments of Labor, Education, Health and Human Services (HHS), and other independent agencies. Senator Capito previously served as ranking member of the subcommittee during the 118th Congress.
    “I’m honored to continue my efforts—now as chairman—on the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee to represent the needs of West Virginians. In this impactful role, I will strive to ensure the funding we provide is used in the most efficient and effective manner and that critical oversight is provided.
    “Additionally, I look forward to working with committee leadership and members in this new role to support many priorities that are important to my state of West Virginia, such as Alzheimer’s research, efforts to end childhood cancer, fighting the addiction crisis, the wellbeing of our miners, and supporting the education and research missions of our schools and universities. Regardless of the scope or challenges, I will approach this opportunity with the objective of ensuring the voices and priorities of West Virginia are heard and understood. I appreciate the support of Chairman Collins in this role and I am excited to work together in our Republican Congress to advance the goals of the Trump administration,” Chairman Capito said.
    In addition to her chairman role, Senator Capito will continue serving on the following Appropriations Subcommittees: Defense; Homeland Security; Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies; Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies; and Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies.
    In addition to the Appropriations Committee, Senator Capito will continue serving on the Committee on Environment and Public Works as chairman; the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation; and the Committee on Rules and Administration.
    This is the fourth Appropriations Subcommittee Senator Capito has been a chairman of as a member of the committee during her time in the Senate. She previously chaired the Homeland Security, Financial Service and General Government, and Legislative Branch subcommittees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: King to White House: Measured Approach to Implementation of Hiring Freeze Will Prevent Harmful Impacts on Maine’s Veterans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Angus King
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME), a member of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee (SVAC), is highlighting the catastrophic consequences that could result from the immediate federal hiring freeze enacted by the new administration. In a letter to President Donald Trump, King specifically expresses his concerns about the impact this hiring freeze will have on access to healthcare and critical services for veterans in Maine.
    King wrote, “Our veterans deserve access to the best quality health care, the benefits they earned, and someone to answer the phone when they call for help. I worry that this hiring freeze will have harmful impacts on the VA and their ability to continue providing critical services to our veterans. As a former governor who implemented a hiring freeze for state employees, I encourage your administration to take a measured approach to implementation.”
    “As you know, the VA provides various services to millions of veterans—from health care to life-saving assistance from the Veterans Crisis Line. VA employees across the Department dedicate their careers to caring for our veterans,” King continued. “Without a broad exemption, I worry that any hiring freeze would hurt access to veterans’ benefits, including health care. For example, if support staff are not there to help schedule appointments or address IT issues, veterans will not be able to get care; if claims processors aren’t processing disability claims, veterans will not receive benefits; if there aren’t enough doctors and nurses, veterans will not have access to health care; if the National Cemetery Administration isn’t properly staffed, veterans will not have access to burial benefits.”
    “I appreciate new guidance from Acting VA Secretary Todd Hunter that clarifies that more than 300,000 health care positions at the VA will be considered essential to department operations, and therefore exempt from the hiring freeze. I urge you and the VA to ensure that all positions within the VA are considered as essential, so that we can continue to hire dedicated employees to serve and care for our veterans,” King concluded.
    Representing one of the states with the highest rates of veterans per capita, Senator King is a staunch advocate for America’s servicemembers and veterans. In the committee cabinet nomination hearing, King questioned nominee Doug Collins of his concerns over using artificial intelligence (AI) to determine the status of a veteran’s earned benefits. In the exchange, he pressed Collins for his commitment to ensure veterans’ access to benefits will not be adversely impacted by AI technologies. In 2024, Congress also passed Senator King’s bipartisan legislation to improve veterans’ access to health care and benefits.
    The full text of the letter can be found here and below.
    +++
    Dear President Trump:
    I write regarding the January 20, 2025, Presidential Memorandum instituting an immediate hiring freeze of civil service federal employees. While the intended goal of the hiring freeze is to allow the government time to evaluate the size of the current workforce, I have concerns about the impact this hiring freeze will have on our nation’s veterans, especially those in Maine. That is why I urge you to provide a full exemption to all Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) personnel to ensure continued services to our nation’s heroes.
    Our veterans deserve access to the best quality health care, the benefits they earned, and someone to answer the phone when they call for help. I worry that this hiring freeze will have harmful impacts on the VA and their ability to continue providing critical services to our veterans. As a former governor who implemented a hiring freeze for state employees, I encourage your administration to take a measured approach to implementation.
    As you know, the VA provides various services to millions of veterans—from health care to life-saving assistance from the Veterans Crisis Line. VA employees across the Department dedicate their careers to caring for our veterans. Without a broad exemption, I worry that any hiring freeze would hurt access to veterans’ benefits, including health care. For example, if support staff are not there to help schedule appointments or address IT issues, veterans will not be able to get care; if claims processors aren’t processing disability claims, veterans will not receive benefits; if there aren’t enough doctors and nurses, veterans will not have access to health care; if the National Cemetery Administration isn’t properly staffed, veterans will not have access to burial benefits.
    I appreciate new guidance from Acting VA Secretary Todd Hunter that clarifies that more than 300,000 health care positions at the VA will be considered essential to department operations, and therefore exempt from the hiring freeze. I urge you and the VA to ensure that all positions within the VA are considered as essential, so that we can continue to hire dedicated employees to serve and care for our veterans.
    Veterans deserve the best care and we must deliver on the promises made to them. I look forward to working with you on this important matter.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Schatz Named Lead Democrat On Appropriations Subcommittee Responsible For Funding State Department, Key Programs That Provide Economic Support, Security Assistance, Live-Saving Aid

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Hawaii Brian Schatz
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) today was named Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations. Schatz is also a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.
    “This new role will put me in a better position to continue the hard work of strengthening U.S. diplomacy overseas. I’m committed to working with Chairman Graham and my committee colleagues to stand by our friends, partners, and allies around the world, honor our international commitments, and deliver much-needed humanitarian aid to those most in need,” said Ranking Member Schatz.
    The Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations is responsible for appropriating 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.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin, Schakowsky Introduce Mentoring To Succeed Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
    January 29, 2025
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), along with U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Cory Booker (D-NJ), today introduced the Mentoring to Succeed Act in recognition of January as National Mentoring Month.  U.S. Representatives Jan Schakowsky (D-IL-09), Jesús “Chuy” García (D-IL-04), and Lori Trahan (D-MA-03) introduced companion legislation in the House earlier this week.  This legislation creates a strong, sustainable support system through mentorship to ensure that children who experience barriers like poverty, disability, adverse childhood experiences, or drug or alcohol abuse, can successfully transition to high school, college, and the workforce.  The Mentoring to Succeed Act would strengthen investments in mentorship programs to help youth facing risk develop the academic, social, and workforce skills that lead to success. 
    “Across Illinois and the country, young kids, especially from underserved communities, face obstacles like community violence and underfunded schools that have a dramatic impact on their ability to graduate from high school and transition to college and the workforce.  But with the guidance of a mentor, youth could lean on a trusted adult to help them navigate these challenges,”said Durbin.  “I’m introducing the Mentoring to Succeed Act to ensure that our most vulnerable children have the opportunity to succeed and achieve their full potential with the guidance of a mentor.”
    “Too many young people, particularly young people of color, don’t have access to the academic or economic opportunities that everyone deserves,” Duckworth said.  “At the same time, too many struggle with violence in their communities and other obstacles that stifle their dreams and their ambitions.  Our nation’s children deserve a chance to reach their full potential, and mentoring programs have been proven to help students do just that.  I’m proud to join my colleagues in re-introducing this legislation to help ensure every child gets the guidance and resources they need to succeed in school, in the workforce and in life.”
    “Across the country, young kids lack access to the resources they need to thrive academically and succeed post-graduation,” said Booker.  “Mentorship programs have a proven track record of helping young people stay on track and achieve their dreams by providing a stable support system for the kids who don’t have one at home.  The Mentoring to Succeed Act will expand access to high quality, trauma-informed mentorship programs and help at-risk kids receive the help, support, and skills they need to pursue their aspirations.”
    “In celebration of National Mentoring Month, I am proud to reintroduce the Mentoring to Succeed Act in the House of Representatives,” said Schakowsky.  “Whether it be the gun violence epidemic, the ongoing threat of climate change, the rising cost of college education, or anything in-between, today’s students are dealing with a lot and deserve access to a support system.  TheMentoring to Succeed Act will give students that support system – through a mentor – helping them get the resources and support they need to thrive in school, the workforce, and beyond.”
    A study by MENTOR found that 70 percent of today’s young people could remember a time when they wanted a mentor for support but did not have one.  As a result, these youth missed out on the powerful effects of mentoring that have been shown to make a child more likely to enroll in college, participate regularly in sports and extracurricular activities, volunteer in their communities, and hold leadership positions.  Researchers at the University of Chicago found that Youth Guidance’s school-based mentoring program, Becoming a Man, reduced rates of arrests for violent crime, improved school engagement, and increased high school graduation rates.
    Mentoring programs help youth develop valuable workforce skills that employers are seeking and prepare young people for future apprenticeships, internships, and workforce-based learning opportunities.  A 2024 study found that 84 percent of employers say job candidates must demonstrate social and emotional skills, such as communication and problem-solving—with the majority of employers stating that these types of skills were the most important.  The federal government can strengthen investments in mentoring programs to help youth facing significant barriers develop the academic, social, and workforce skills that lead to success in career and life.
    The Mentoring to Succeed Act would:
    Invest in Mentoring Programs.  Establish a three-year, competitive grant program that provides federal funding to establish, expand, or support mentoring programs.
    Help Youth Overcome Adversity and Trauma.  Provide grant recipients with funding to train mentors in trauma-informed practices and interventions to increase resilience in youth and reduce juvenile justice involvement.
    Strengthen Workforce Readiness.  Support partnerships with local businesses and private companies to help youth facing risk with hands-on career training and career exploration.
    Close the Opportunity Gap.  Give preference to applicants that develop a plan to help prepare youth facing barriers for college and the workforce.
    Support Capacity Building.  Support partnerships with nonprofit, community-based, and faith-based organizations to increase the number of youth facing risk served.
    Enhance Youth Success.  Provide grant recipients with funding for program evaluation and identification of successful strategies.
    The Mentoring to Succeed Act is endorsed by MENTOR; Big Brothers Big Sisters of America; Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta; Big Brothers Big Sisters of Colorado; Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Iowa; Big Brothers Big Sisters of East Tennessee; Big Brothers Big Sisters of Essex, Hudson, and Union Counties; Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Los Angeles; Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metropolitan Chicago; Big Brothers Big Sisters of the National Capital Area; Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound; Big Brothers Big Sisters of San Diego County; Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Triangle; Big Brothers Big Sisters of Utah; Jewish Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Boston; Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago; Boys & Girls Club of Livingston County; College Mentors for Kids; Friends of the Children; Girls Inc. of Chicago; Instituto del Progreso Latino; National Alliance of Faith and Justice; National Organization of Concerned Black Men; Partners for Youth with Disabilities; Sisters Circle; Union League Boys and Girls Clubs; Year Up United; and YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago.
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Votes ‘No’ On Advancing President Trump’s Pick To Be Attorney General, Pam Bondi

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
    January 29, 2025
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today voted against advancing President Trump’s pick to be Attorney General of the United States, Pam Bondi, in the Senate Judiciary Committee executive business meeting this morning. The Committee voted to advance her nomination on a party-line vote of 12-10.
    Key Quotes:
    “If you want to know the role of the Department of Justice under President Trump, just listen to his words. He said ‘I have the absolute right to do what I want to do with the Justice Department.’ He not only uses the Justice Department to advance his political interests but he has also promised to seek ‘retribution’ against ‘the enemy within.’ The President has repeatedly threatened to weaponize the justice system against those he feels have wronged him and that’s a long list. It includes career prosecutors, military officials, and his own former political appointees. Unfortunately, we are seeing these threats emerge in real time.”
    “Given the massive upheaval that President Trump has caused at the Justice Department in just the first few days in office, the next Attorney General will have their work cut out for them. As I said during Ms. Bondi’s hearing, it is absolutely critical that any nominee for this position be committed first and foremost to the Constitution and the American people—not the President and his political agenda. Unfortunately, I am unconvinced that Ms. Bondi shares my belief. She is one of four personal lawyers of President Trump that he has already selected for top positions at the Department of Justice. And she has echoed President Trump’s calls for exacting revenge on his political opponents.”
    “Ms. Bondi undermined our democracy by joining in President Trump’s efforts to overturn the 2020 election. It appears she does not regret this decision, as she refused before this Committee repeatedly during her hearing to acknowledge that President Trump actually lost the vote in 2020. During her hearing, I asked if she was familiar with the January 2021 phone call in which President Trump called on the Republican Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger [to] ‘find 11,780 votes.’ Ms. Bondi denied having ever listened to that phone call. However, in August 2023, she appeared on a news program and defended President Trump’s conduct with Raffensperger. She stated that his actions were ‘not a crime’ and were instead ‘free speech.’ She condemned the criminal charges that had been filed against President Trump due to his conduct on this call where he asked the Georgia Secretary of State to ‘find 11,780 votes.’ I asked Ms. Bondi to explain why she spoke so authoritatively on the legal strength of a case when she was, according to her own claim before this Committee, unfamiliar with the evidence. Her explanation was that she was on television, not in a court of law.”
    “It is deeply concerning that someone seeking the role of Attorney General believes it is appropriate to comment publicly on a criminal case without conducting even a minimal assessment of the evidence against the defendant. The role of Attorney General is a serious one. It requires someone who is committed to the facts and the law—not someone who is willing to say whatever is most politically expedient.”
    “During Ms. Bondi’s hearing, I was shocked to hear her speak of a ‘peaceful transition of power’ in 2021. In written questions, Ms. Bondi attempted to walk that statement back, instead referring to ‘a smooth transition of power.’ I was at the Capitol on January 6, 2021. The events of that day were neither peaceful nor smooth. You don’t have to take my word for it. The 140 law enforcement officers who were assaulted by President Trump’s supporters on January 6 can attest to what actually happened. Ms. Bondi also refused to comment on possible pardons for January 6 rioters who violently assaulted police officers. One of my Republican colleagues—a friend on this panel—dismissed my question on the subject and said it was ‘an absurd and unfair hypothetical,’ to even ask if President Trump was going to grant pardons to those who assaulted police officers. Now we know what happened.”
    “I went into Ms. Bondi’s hearing with an open mind for obvious reasons… There remains one basic question that I wanted answered—whether she would be willing to tell President Trump and wealthy special interests ‘No’ if faced with pressure to use her position as Attorney General to benefit those parties. In light of the Trump Administration’s actions over the course of the past week, that question is even more critical. And I did not receive a satisfactory answer from Ms. Bondi. Since Watergate, there has been bipartisan support for the idea that the Justice Department must be independent from the White House. President Trump’s conduct during his first term underscored the need for this independence. I do not believe that Ms. Bondi will provide it.”
    “I hope she proves me wrong, but I cannot support her nomination.”
      
    Video of Durbin’s opening statement is available here.
    Audio of Durbin’s opening statement is available here.
    Footage of Durbin’s opening statement is available here for TV Stations.
    Ms. Bondi was previously a registered lobbyist with the Washington, D.C.-based firm Ballard Partners. In that role, she has represented wealthy special interests and foreign governments, presenting serious potential conflicts of interest if she is confirmed as Attorney General. In response to Question 22 of the Senate Judiciary Questionnaire regarding conflicts of interest, she only listed two potential conflicts of interest: her work for the America First Policy Institute and her brother’s legal practice.
    To view Durbin’s questions to Ms. Bondi in her confirmation hearing click here.
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Scott, Cassidy, Lead Colleagues in Reintroducing Bill to Expand School Choice, Educational Opportunity

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Tim Scott
    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators 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, and Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-La.), chair of the Senate HELP Committee, led 16 Republican colleagues in introducing the Educational Choice for Children Act (ECCA), bicameral legislation to expand education freedom and opportunity for students. Specifically, it provides 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.
    “When you give parents a choice, you give kids a better chance at achieving their dreams,” said Senator Scott. “By empowering families with more education resources and freedom, this bill will unlock opportunities that have been out of reach for students across America who deserve every chance to succeed and a schooling system that fosters their potential.”
    “Parents want to see their child succeed. Giving them the ability to make decisions over their child’s education puts that child’s needs first,” said Dr. Cassidy. “More freedom empowers parents and allows American children to thrive in school.”
    The Educational Choice for Children Act:
    Provides $10 billion in annual tax credits to be made available to taxpayers. Allotment of these credits to individuals would be administered by the Treasury Department.
    Sets a base amount for each state and then distributes the credits on a first-come, first-serve basis.
    Uses a limited government approach with respect to federalism, thus avoiding mandates on states, localities, and school districts.
    Includes provisions that govern Scholarship Granting Organizations (SGOs), as SGOs are given the ability to determine the individual amount of scholarship awards.
    An estimated two million students in any elementary or secondary education setting, including homeschool, are eligible to receive a scholarship. Eligible use of scholarships awards includes tuition, fees, book supplies, and equipment for the enrollment or attendance at an elementary or secondary school.
    Senators Scott and Cassidy were joined by U.S. Senators Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), John Thune (R-S.D.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), John Kennedy (R-La.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Jim Justice (R-W.Va.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), and Todd Young (R-Ind.) in introducing the bill. 
    The Educational Choice for Children Act has received the endorsement from former U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos; former U.S. Deputy Secretary of Education Dr. Mick Zais; former U.S. Attorney General Bill Barr; Louisiana State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley; LA Kids Matter; Louisiana Family Forum; Louisiana State University Board of Supervisors; ACE Scholarships Louisiana Founder Eddie Rispone; ACE Scholarships; Invest in Education Coalition; ACSI Children’s Education Fund; America First Policy Institute; American Association of Christian Schools; American Federation for Children (AFC); American Principles Project; Americans for Tax Reform; Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI); Black Mothers Forum; U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB); Catholic Education Partners; CatholicVote; Center for Education Reform; Children’s Scholarship Fund; Club for Growth; Coalition for Jewish Values; Agudath Israel of America; Orthodox Union Advocacy; Republican Jewish Coalition; Concerned Women for America; Council for American Private Education (CAPE); Defense of Freedom Institute (DFI); Family Policy Alliance; Foundation for Excellence in Education (ExcelinEd); Freedom Foundation; Heartland Institute; Heritage Action for America; Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA); Independent Women’s Forum; Mountain States Policy Center; Parental Rights Foundation; Parents Defending Education Action; Partners in Mission; Project 21; Protect the First; 60Plus Association; Former Virginia & Florida Secretary of Education Gerard Robinson; and several other conservative leaders.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Merkley, Wyden Blast President Trump’s Illegal Federal Funding Cuts That Harm American Families

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)
    January 29, 2025
    Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden today issued the following statements in response to a federal judge blocking the Trump Administration’s executive order immediately stopping all federal loans and grants:
    “The attack on these programs that allow families to get on their feet and thrive is the great betrayal coming from President Trump, who campaigned on helping working families, said Merkley, Ranking Member of the Senate Budget Committee and a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee. “In addition, Trump’s order cutting federal funds will have a huge impact on critical infrastructure projects in Oregon—like the Hood River-White Salmon and I-5 bridge replacement projects and the Port of Coos Bay’s transformative container port project—as well as funding to mitigate and fight wildfires, fulfill our commitments to Tribal communities, ensure clean air and water, and protect our public lands and wildlife. During the chaos caused by Trump’s constitutional crisis, Oregonians called my office after being shut out of their federal reimbursement systems and cut off from funding for their work to provide affordable housing, Head Start programs, and health care at federally qualified health centers. I’ll keep fighting to block these illegal cuts.”
    “Chaos is not leadership. Ransacking resources from Oregonians counting on federal support for local law enforcement, schools, small businesses, firefighters, veterans, and more hurts each and every community I am honored to represent,” said Wyden, Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Committee. “Donald Trump ran on lowering prices for families, and instead he’s intentionally driving the economy into the ground, forcing all Americans who aren’t Elon Musk to accept a lower standard of living to help he and his buddies get richer and richer. Legal or not, he doesn’t care. This illegal unconstitutional act is now in a court of law, but it’s already playing out in the court of opinion with Oregonians voicing their outrage. The American people must keep the pressure on until every community counting on this funding is assured they will receive it just as Congress intended.”
    According to the Oregon State Legislature, about 30% of Oregon’s budget is supported by federal aid, which is critical for supporting local communities. If allowed to go into effect, the directives in President Trump’s executive order could block funding in Oregon for:
    PUBLIC SAFETY: Grants for law enforcement departments would cease to go out the door, undermining public safety in Oregon.
    FIREFIGHTING: Grants to support firefighters would be halted—this includes grants that help states and localities purchase essential firefighting equipment.
    HEALTH SERVICES: Over $106 million in federal funding for community health centers that provide health care for people across Oregon would be at risk, creating chaos for patients trying to get their prescriptions, a regular checkup, and more.
    TRIBES: Funding to Tribes for basic government services like health care, public safety, programs, Tribal schools, and food assistance would be halted.
    HEAD START: Funding for Head Start programs that provide comprehensive early childhood education for almost 10,000 children in Oregon would be at risk. Teachers and staff would not get paid, and programs may not be able to stay open.
    COMBATTING FENTANYL CRISIS: Funding for communities to address the substance use disorder crisis and combat the fentanyl crisis would be cut off.
    CHILD CARE: Child care programs in Oregon and across the country would be at risk to accessing the funding they rely on to keep their doors open.
    K-12 SCHOOLS: Federal funding for our K-12 schools would be halted, preventing school districts in Oregon from accessing key formula grant funding including Title I and nearly $160 million in IDEA Grants (which help children with disabilities). This would pose tremendous financial burdens on schools in the middle of the school year.
    INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS: Federally-funded transportation projects in Oregon and across the country—roads, bridges, public transit, and more—would be halted, including projects already under construction.
    EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS: Critical preparedness and response capability funding used to prepare for disasters, public health emergencies, and chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear events would be frozen.
    DISASTER RELIEF: Public assistance and hazard mitigation grants from the Disaster Relief Fund to state, Tribal, territorial, and local governments and non-profits to help communities quickly respond to, recover from, and prepare for major disasters would be halted—right as so many communities are struggling after severe natural disasters.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 01.28.2025 Sens. Cruz, Schatz, Britt, and Tuberville Introduce Bill Targeting Illegal Fishing Operations

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas Ted Cruz
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Sen. Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Sen. Katie Britt (R-Ala.), and Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.) introduced the bipartisan Illegal Red Snapper and Tuna Enforcement Act, which directs the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to develop a standard methodology for identifying the country of origin of red snapper and certain species of tuna imported into the United States.
    Technology exists to chemically test and find the geographic origin of many foods, but not for red snapper and tuna. The legislation aims to develop a field test kit that can be used to accurately ascertain whether fish were caught in U.S. or foreign waters, thus allowing federal and state law enforcement officers to identify the origin of the fish and confiscate illegally caught red snapper and tuna before it is imported back into the U.S.
    Upon the introduction of the Illegal Red Snapper and Tuna Enforcement Act, Sen. Cruz said, “Cartels and other criminal entities are illegally catching, importing, and selling red snapper and tuna to unwitting consumers then using such profits to fund other illicit activities like drug smuggling and human trafficking. I am glad to join my colleagues in introducing this common-sense, bipartisan legislation to support U.S. fishermen, and I am hopeful Congress will act quickly to stop these dangerous criminal gangs.”
    Sen. Schatz said, “Seafood that’s caught illegally or intentionally mislabeled rips off consumers and makes it harder for law-abiding U.S. fishermen to compete. Our bill will help fight against pirate fishermen who try to pass off cheap foreign tuna for high-quality ahi from local Hawai‘i fishermen.”
    Sen. Britt said, “Cartel-backed poachers need to face consequences for their illicit activities in the Gulf of America. Red snapper is a core component of Coastal Alabama’s economy, and our hardworking fishermen and food producers deserve fairness when fishing in the Gulf. Senator Cruz’s and my Red Snapper and Tuna Enforcement Act will help protect Alabama’s fishermen. This is yet another message to Mexico that illegal actions cannot and will not stand.”
    Sen. Tuberville said, “Alabama lands 34 percent of all recreationally caught Red Snapper in the Gulf. Unfortunately, our domestic Red Snapper industry is being undermined by Mexican fishermen who are illegally catching American snapper in the Gulf, smuggling them into Mexico, and then reselling the same fish back to American consumers. In addition to taking business away from Alabama’s fishermen, many of the profits from these illegal fishing operations are funding the cartels. I’m proud to join Senator Cruz in introducing the Illegal Red Snapper and Tuna Enforcement Act to stop illegal Red Snapper from flooding our markets and bankrupting our great fishermen.”
    Background:
    Mexican fishermen cross the maritime border between Texas and Mexico on small boats called “lanchas” to illegally catch red snapper in U.S. waters and return to Mexico. The fish are sold in Mexico or mixed in with legally-caught red snapper then exported back into the United States across land borders. Red snapper is one of the most well-managed and profitable fish in the Gulf, but illegal fishing by Mexican lanchas puts law-abiding U.S. fishermen and seafood producers at a competitive disadvantage.
    In Hawaii, commercial fishermen have long fought to combat illegal fishing and human trafficking in the seafood industry. Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing activities violate both national and international fishing regulations.
    Sens. Cruz, Britt, and Tuberville previously introduced similar legislation during the 118th Congress, which passed the Commerce Committee in July of last year.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warren Statement on Hegseth Directing DoD IG to Go After Gen. Milley

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    January 29, 2025
    Washington, D.C. – Newly-confirmed Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth reportedly directed the new DoD Inspector General to investigate and potentially strip General Mark Milley of a star in retirement due to his refusal to blindly defer to President Donald Trump in his first term. In written responses to Senator Warren during his confirmation process, Hegseth committed to “protecting the DoD IG’s independence.”
    Senator Warren released the following statement:
    “Pete Hegseth pledged to the Senate that he’d protect the independence of the Department of Defense’s watchdog for waste, fraud, and abuse. But after President Trump illegally fired the Pentagon’s Inspector General, the Defense Secretary is going back on his word and weaponizing government investigations to go after Trump’s perceived political enemies. It’s a clear warning sign that Secretary Hegseth is focused more on political retribution than national security.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gillibrand Announces Position As Ranking Member Of The Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Subcommittee Of The Senate Appropriations Committee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Kirsten Gillibrand
    Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand released the following statement announcing that she will be joining the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies (THUD) subcommittee of the U.S. Senate Committee on Appropriations as its ranking member and top Democrat. The subcommittee has jurisdiction over funding for the Department of Transportation and Department of Housing and Urban Development, among other agencies.
    “I am thrilled to be serving as ranking member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies for the 119th Congress. This is an opportunity to address some of our state’s most pressing issues, including aging infrastructure and the skyrocketing cost of housing. I look forward to delivering major federal funding to revitalize New York’s roads, bridges, and rail infrastructure and to expand affordable housing nationwide.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ranking Member Coons statement on leadership of Defense Appropriations Subcommittee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) issued the following statement upon the announcement that he would be the Ranking Member on the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense for the 119th Congress:
    “Around the world today we face real threats to our nation and the post-World War Two international order that has provided us with decades of peace, prosperity, and security. Our security is threatened both by authoritarian adversaries like Russia, Iran, China, and North Korea, and from a rising tide of isolationism here at home.  
    As the senior Democrat on the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, I will work every day so that the robust American engagement with the world that has kept us safe for so long continues. I will make sure that our military remains the most capable and lethal fighting force in the world and has the weapons and resources required to project our values and defend our interests from the Arctic to Africa, from the Indo-Pacific to the North Atlantic. Lastly, I will send a clear message to the brave men and women of our armed forces, our intelligence services, and in our foreign services who serve every day without fear or favor: we have your back.
    “I look forward to partnering with Senator McConnell who will chair this crucial subcommittee. Senator McConnell has long been dedicated to a strong defense and to ensuring we continue to defend our critical global network of allies and partners.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Budd, Tillis, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Help Restore Access to WNC Homes

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ted Budd (R-North Carolina)
    Washington, D.C. — Senator Ted Budd (R-NC), Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), Rep. Chuck Edwards (R-NC), and Don Davis (D-NC) have introduced the Restoring Access to Mountain Homes Act.
    The bill allows Public Assistance funding from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to be used for permanent repair of private roads and bridges that Hurricane Helene destroyed. Private roads and bridges provide access to and from many mountain homes.
    Background:
    FEMA Individual Assistance is capped at $42,500 for all expenses.
    The cost to rebuild private roads and bridges often exceeds this amount.
    The state of NC estimates a $350 million gap between what is funded and what is required to rebuild the private roads and bridges relied on by many in mountainous regions.
    The Restoring Access to Mountain Homes Act will help fill this gap by allowing FEMA public assistance to cover  these costs.
    Senator Budd said in a statement:
    “Mountain homes often require private roads and bridges to connect their property to main roads and highways. Given FEMA’s Individual Assistance cap and the extensive cost of rebuilding these access points, I am proud to propose a bill that will allow the people of Western North Carolina to use Public Assistance dollars to regain access to their homes.”
    Senator Tillis said:
    “Hurricane Helene caused widespread devastation, leaving many communities in Western North Carolina severely impacted and cut off from one another. This commonsense legislation ensures that FEMA public assistance funding can be used to repair private roads and bridges destroyed by the hurricane, allowing families in the hardest-hit areas to reconnect to main roads and highways as they continue to recover.”
    Rep. Edwards said:
    “Every disaster response official I’ve heard from agrees on one thing: Hurricane Helene destroyed the greatest number of private roads and bridges they’ve ever seen in one disaster. We’re entering month six since Helene hit our mountains, and there are still folks with limited access to many of our mountain homes. The Restoring Access to Mountain Homes Act would ease the burden on WNC families by allowing NCDOT and local governments to be reimbursed by FEMA for any repairs they make to private roads or bridges. The federal support provided in this bill is critical to making sure Western North Carolina can be rebuilt.”
    Rep. Davis said:
    “The Restoring Access to Mountain Homes Act will provide local governments and the NC Department of Transportation the authority to repair essential infrastructure and receive reimbursement for those efforts, helping to ensure a smoother return to safety, stability, and peace of mind for those who depend on these vital connections to get to work, school, and go about their daily lives. We must ensure a timely and effective recovery for western NC.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lankford, Coons Lead Bill to Incentivize Charitable Giving

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Oklahoma James Lankford
    WASHINGTON, DC – Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Chris Coons (D-DE) introduced the Charitable Actto expand and extend the expired non-itemized deduction for charitable giving. The bill would ensure Americans who donate to charities, houses of worship, religious organizations, and other nonprofits of their choice are able to deduct that donation from their federal taxes at a higher level than the previous $300 deduction.  
    This provision was first included under the CARES Act passed by President Donald J. Trump. The policy resulted in 90 million tax returns utilizing the deduction, and households making between $30,000 and $100,000 saw the largest increase in charitable giving. Charitable organizations received $30 billion in increased donations as a result. 
    “America’s first safety net should never be the government—government is the least efficient caregiver by far. Our families, churches, and other nonprofits do incredible work to lift up those who need it most. Updating the tax law to incentivize giving empowers Americans to make an even bigger impact for the homeless, hurting, and hungry,” said Lankford. 
    “Delawareans have always risen to the occasion in support of our communities,” said Coons. “Last year, Americans demonstrated our generosity by donating a collective $557 billion to charities, houses of worship, and nonprofits. I am proud to reintroduce the Charitable Act with Senator Lankford to help the federal government encourage even more Americans to embrace the civic virtue of giving to those in need.”
    Lankford and Coons were joined on this bill by Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), John Curtis (R-UT), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Katie Britt (R-AL), and Tim Scott (R-NC).
    This bill is supported by numerous organizations including National Council of Nonprofits (25,000 member organizations), Charitable Giving Coalition (175 member organizations), the Nonprofit Alliance, Faith & Giving Coalition, Leadership 18, Independent Sector, YMCA, Council on Foundations, American Endowment Foundation, Philanthropy Southwest, Christian Alliance for Orphans, Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission, United Philanthropy Forum, National Association of Charitable Gift Planners, Association of Art Museum Directors, ECFA, Association of Fundraising Professionals, Council for Advancement and Support of Education, Americans for the Arts, American Heart Association, Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits, Delaware Alliance for Nonprofit Advancement, Maryland Nonprofits, Boys and Girls Club of America, March of Dimes, and Habitat for Humanity.
    “Bravo to Senators Lankford and Coons on this much-needed support for America’s nonprofits. They both understand from personal experience the key role the nonprofit sector plays both as a provider of critical services to millions of Americans and as a major employer in Oklahoma and nationwide. In this era of historic inflation and ever-rising costs, the need for nonprofit services has not declined — in fact, we are needed more than ever. The Charitable Act will help recreate an environment of years past where charitable givers at every level can feel incentivized and appreciated—after all, we are all in this together,” said Marnie Taylor, President & CEO, Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits. 
    “Nonprofits are the backbone of our communities, addressing critical needs and enhancing the quality of life for all. The Charitable Act is a vital step in restoring a proven incentive that encourages generosity and empowers nonprofits to meet growing demands, even in challenging times. We applaud Senators Lankford and Coons for their leadership and steadfast commitment to strengthening the nonprofit sector, ensuring we can continue to deliver essential services and drive positive change.” said Sheila Bravo, President and CEO, Delaware Alliance for Nonprofit Advancement.
    “Faith & Giving heartily thanks and commends Senators James Lankford and Chris Coons for reintroducing the Charitable Act to restore a charitable deduction for taxpayers who do not itemize. Giving by individuals is the financial lifeblood of many thousands of American faith communities and faith-based organizations. Yet since 2017 individual giving to religion has fallen billions of dollars short of keeping pace with inflation. No single policy is more important for restoring the health of individual giving and faith-based charities than a non-itemizer charitable deduction like the one Congress created to stimulate giving in 2020 and 2021,” Brian Walsh, Executive Director, Faith & Giving. 
    “Nonprofits need tools like the nonitemizer deduction proposed by the Charitable Act to meet growing and changing community needs,” said YMCA of the USA President and CEO Suzanne McCormick. “We saw this policy unlock more giving when it was enacted temporarily during the pandemic, and we know that making it permanent will help YMCAs serve and support more neighbors every day. Senators Lankford and Coons recognize the important role nonprofits play in communities and understand that the universal charitable deduction helps nonprofits like the Y make their communities stronger. I’m grateful for their leadership.”
    “The temporary non-itemizer charitable deduction implemented in 2020 and 2021 led to an additional $18 billion in donations to nonprofits. As nonprofits are faced with higher demand for services, increased costs, workforce challenges, and declining donations, the Charitable Act presents an opportunity to reinstate that incentive and provide nonprofits with more resources to carry out their mission. The networks of the National Council of Nonprofits enthusiastically endorse this vital legislation and appreciate leaders like Sen. Lankford and Sen. Coons who continue to be stalwart champions for these efforts and the nonprofit sector,” said Diane Yentel, President & CEO, National Council of Nonprofits.
    “Generosity is a core American value that should be incentivized to help meet the evolving needs of communities,” said Kathleen Enright, Council on Foundations president and CEO. “The temporary non-itemizer deduction in the CARES Act successfully sparked more people to give. We hope Congress will cement this effective policy into law and inspire many more generous Americans to give charitably to support one another and the causes they value. We thank the House and Senate sponsors of the Charitable Act for their leadership on this issue.”
    “American Endowment Foundation (AEF) is mission-motivated to expand philanthropy, and many current and potential donors are seeking new ways to connect with their communities and give back. However, today’s tax code excludes nonitemizers from deducting their charitable contributions, limiting their ability to give. The Charitable Act would level the playing field, offering all donors—regardless of whether they itemize—more opportunities to support their communities. We are proud to support this important legislation and look forward to collaborating with Congress to enact policies that expand philanthropy for everyone,” said Ron Ransom, Chief Executive Officer, American Endowment Foundation.
    “The Charitable Act represents an opportunity to continue to strengthen the philanthropic ecosystem with tax incentives that will reverse a downward trend in levels of charitable giving. Philanthropy Southwest, its members and the charitable sector continue to confront unprecedented needs. By recognizing tax code should support giving at all levels and from all Americans, and encouraging more Americans to support nonprofit organizations, this legislation has the potential to create meaningful, lasting impact across our most critical social challenges,” said Tony J. Fundaro, President & CEO, Philanthropy Southwest. 
    “The generosity of ordinary citizens reflects America at her best and provides immense public good.  It fuels vital projects and services, from aid to the needy, to education for the young, to parks, museums, and civic life, and so much more.  Citizen-giving also nurtures strong, healthy accountability for nonprofits, insisting that they prove their worth in order to earn the support of their neighbors.  Finally, as many studies now confirm, generosity benefits givers, too — measurably boosting happiness, connectedness, and overall well-being.  The Charitable Act will significantly advance all of these benefits and more,” said Jedd Medefind, President, Christian Alliance for Orphans (CAFO). 
    “Churches, faith-based organizations, and other non-profit institutions that depend on charitable giving are the backbone of a healthy civil society, contributing to our communities and serving those in need. Southern Baptists have long understood this principle. Therefore, the ERLC fully supports Sen. Lankford’s reintroduction of the Charitable Act that would extend the Charitable Deduction to 100% of taxpayers. This legislation deserves broad support and quick passage,” said ERLC’s President, Brent Leatherwood. 
    “Charitable giving supports lifesaving work, provides essential services, and strengthens our communities. The past few years have offered incontrovertible proof that tax incentives impact giving: when everyday Americans had access to the charitable deduction, they gave more generously. Fortunately, Congress has a rare opportunity to strengthen the work of charitable organizations and the fabric of our nation by passing the Charitable Act this year,” said Independent Sector President and CEO Dr. Akilah Watkins.
    “United Philanthropy Forum commends these Congressional champions for their steadfast support of America’s charitable sector and the vital services these organizations provide to communities nationwide,” said Deborah Aubert Thomas, President & CEO of United Philanthropy Forum. “The Forum maintains that implementing a non-itemizer deduction would modernize giving incentives, strengthen our nation’s philanthropic foundation, and empower donors across all tax brackets to increase their charitable investments. This approach would be particularly impactful in engaging younger generations in meaningful charitable giving that strengthens their communities,” said Deborah Aubert Thomas, President and CEO, United Philanthropy Forum. 
    “We applaud the reintroduction of this important legislation that would provide all taxpayers with access to the charitable deduction for their generosity,” said Michael Kenyon, President & CEO of the National Association of Charitable Gift Planners. “As gift planners, we know that once a donor starts to support a cause or organization, they are much more likely to continue giving in the future, no matter the size of their initial contribution. Restoring a non-itemizer charitable would encourage all taxpayers, irrespective of income level, to give, instilling a habit of philanthropy that will drive more dollars to charity for years to come from a new generation of givers.”
    “The Charitable Act isn’t just about tax policy – it’s about democratizing generosity and unleashing the full potential of American philanthropy. When teachers, nurses, and other everyday heroes can’t receive the same tax benefits for their charitable giving as wealthy donors, we’re reinforcing inequality in our giving ecosystem. We cannot afford to discourage giving from hardworking Americans. The Charitable Act would empower all donors, regardless of tax filing status, to make a bigger impact and strengthen the vital services that our communities desperately need,” said Shannon McCracken, CEO The Nonprofit Alliance. 
    “The Association of Art Museum Directors thanks Sens. Lankford and Coons for their leadership on the Charitable Act. Donations make possible free and reduced admissions, educational programs, and a host of community services.  We look forward to a resurgence of giving upon passage of their bill, just as gifts increased following the temporary enactment of a deduction for non-itemizers in 2020-21,” said Christine Anagnos, Executive Director of the Association of Art Museum Directors.
    “The charitable deduction sends a powerful message that America wants to honor and encourage openhanded generosity,” said ECFA President & CEO Michael Martin. “The Charitable Act wisely democratizes this proven incentive and supports habits of giving for all taxpayers regardless of whether they itemize on their tax forms or not.”
    “According to Q3 2024 data compiled by AFP’s Fundraising Effectiveness Project, the number of small gift donors (gifts under $100) saw a steep decline of -12.4%; this is a continued decline in the last two years since the charitable deduction for non-itemizers was not renewed.,” said Mike Geiger, President and CEO of the Association of Fundraising Professionals. “On behalf of our more than 26,000 fundraising professional members that raise more than $100 billion annually for charities, we are grateful for our Congressional champions reintroducing the bipartisan Charitable Act as this giving incentive will support nonprofits in their communities who rely on these funds to provide much needed services.”
    “We are grateful for the leadership of Senators Lankford and Coons in reintroducing the bipartisan Charitable Act, legislation that will ensure that all American taxpayers, regardless of income, are encouraged to give more to support local soup kitchens, homeless and domestic abuse shelters, disaster relief organizations, schools, cultural organizations, and religious congregations and ministries—among innumerable other crucial charities. We know from experience that a charitable deduction for non-itemizers will generate additional giving. In 2020 and 2021, the CGC and its members successfully worked with Congress to enact a modest temporary charitable deduction for non-itemizers that led to increased giving, particularly through a significant increase in small gifts. In 2020, 42 million taxpayers used the temporary universal charitable deduction to give $10.9 billion to charities, with a quarter of the Americans taking that $300 deduction made less than $30,000. We look forward to working with Sens. Lankford, Coons and their colleagues to ensure that this important proposal is included in tax reform legislation,” said Brian Flahaven, Chair, Charitable Giving Coalition. 
    “Donors invest in schools, colleges, and universities because of the essential role they play in transforming lives and society. By restoring a charitable deduction for non-itemizers, the bipartisan Charitable Act will encourage more Americans to make donations aimed at funding scholarships, educating and preparing students, supporting ground-breaking research, and strengthening academic programs. We applaud and thank Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Chris Coons (D-DE) for re-introducing the Charitable Act and look forward to advocating for its speedy enactment,” said Sue Cunningham, President and CEO, Council for Advancement and Support of Education.
    “Small donations are crucial to the nonprofit arts and culture sector, which generated $151.7 billion in economic activity, supported 2.6 million jobs, created $29.1 billion in tax revenue, and provided residents $101 billion in personal income in 2022. Those who do not itemize on their taxes are a crucial part of this sector,” said Suzy Delvalle, co-CEO of Americans for the Arts.
    “When we support the arts through small donations, we invest in both economic and community well-being, particularly in rural areas. We thank Senator Lankford and Senator Coons for their leadership on this important issue,” said Jamie Bennett, co-CEO of Americans for the Arts.
    “Charitable organizations work tirelessly to improve and enrich communities nationwide. The bipartisan Charitable Act would support the life-changing work of our nation’s charities by encouraging middle- and lower-income taxpayers to contribute to nonprofits making an impact across the country. The American Heart Association thanks the congressional champions reintroducing the Charitable Act and looks forward to working with these lawmakers to pass this bill,” said Mark Schoeberl, Executive Vice President of Advocacy, American Heart Association.
    “Charitable giving is for everyone, and everyone who donates should have the same opportunity to receive a tax deduction. The Charitable Act expands access to these incentives, ensuring that all Americans—whether they itemize deductions or not—can benefit from a tax break on their contributions. This legislation empowers more people to support the vital work of nonprofits in their communities,” said Heather Iliff, President & CEO of Maryland Nonprofits. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Votes Against Bill to Sanction International Criminal Court Officials

    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 Senate Democrats blocked legislation that would have caused irreparable harm to the International Criminal Court (ICC), which has a mandate to prosecute and punish war crimes: 
    “Building lasting peace requires justice and ensuring accountability for violations of international humanitarian law in Ukraine, in Gaza, and wherever they occur. The United States was instrumental in establishing the International Criminal Court to prosecute war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide when domestic justice systems fail to act. That is a key limitation which the ICC’s critics—including Senate Republicans—often neglect to acknowledge: the ICC does not supplant the courts of any country. It has jurisdiction only when domestic justice systems fail to prosecute and punish war criminals.   
    “Yet, instead of waiting to hear the evidence, the White House and some in Congress attempted to selectively sanction the ICC’s judges and prosecutors, which would have damaged our own credibility, the credibility of the Court, and the rule of law. The ICC is only as effective as the international community’s willingness to enforce the Geneva Conventions and hold violators accountable. And while its indictments and rulings, like any court, will always have detractors, there cannot be one standard of justice for war crimes committed by our adversaries and a lesser standard for our allies.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –