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Category: US Senate

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy, Tillis, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Replenish the SBA Disaster Loan Program Following Hurricanes Francine, Helene, Milton

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Ted Budd (R-NC), Tim Scott (R-SC), and Rick Scott (R-FL) announced plans to introduce the Restoring an Economic Lifeline with Immediate Emergency Funding (Relief) Act that would replenish the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loan Program. On October 15th, the SBA announced the Disaster Loan Fund had run out of money. The senators plan to seek passage of the legislation when Congress returns to session.
    “Hurricanes Francine, Helene, and Milton hit us hard, but Louisianans and Americans are resilient,” said Dr. Cassidy. “This funding is essential to help small businesses recover from these storms and support our local economies.”
    “The SBA Disaster Loan Program running out of funds risks delays in processing the loans of those affected by Helene and Milton and their ability to get their lives back on track,” said Senator Tillis. “That is why I am leading legislation to replenish this fund when Congress returns to Washington, and I look forward to working across the aisle to pass a long-term disaster aid package that will provide additional resources to help make the victims of these hurricanes whole again. ”
    “The citizens of Western North Carolina are some of the toughest and most resilient people in this country,” said Senator Budd. “As they recover and rebuild their communities, they must be able to access disaster loans from SBA. This recovery will take many years, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to cut through the delays and provide WNC with the resources they need as quickly as possible.”
    “Hurricane Helene brought a level of devastation to South Carolina we haven’t seen since Hugo. With a natural disaster of this magnitude, Congress should take the opportunity to show leadership and help ease the pain of those who have lost everything,” said Senator Tim Scott. “Communities back home and in surrounding states have come together to recover, but it will take every possible effort to get us back to where we were.”
    “We cannot allow frontline federal agencies, like the SBA, to run out of disaster relief funds. This is especially important in the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton which devastated Florida, North Carolina and communities across the Southeast U.S,” said Senator Rick Scott. “I continue to call on Leader Schumer to immediately reconvene the Senate so we can fund disaster relief functions at FEMA, the SBA, USDA and other agencies to get folks what they need and deserve. I won’t stop fighting to get this done and am proud to join my colleagues to introduce a bill that funds SBA disaster loans and makes sure the federal government is a reliable partner as families continue their recovery.”
    The Relief Act would appropriate $550 million to fund the SBA Disaster Loan Program Account, which would provide $2.475B in lending capacity projected to last until the end of 2024.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 10/24/2024 Blackburn, Cornyn, Blumenthal, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Combat Child Exploitation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)
    NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), and three of their Senate colleagues introduced the PROTECT Our Children Act, which would reauthorize and modernize the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program:
    “For more than 15 years, the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program has helped law enforcement agencies protect innocent children from sexual predators who wish to exploit them online,” said Senator Blackburn. “The PROTECT Our Children Act would reauthorize this critical program to combat technology-facilitated crimes against children.”
    “For decades, the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program has played an invaluable role in helping federal, state, and local law enforcement work together to fight child exploitation and put vicious predators behind bars,” said Senator Cornyn. “By extending and modernizing this program, our legislation would ensure these Task Forces can continue to protect our next generation in an increasingly digital world.”
    “We must save children who are victims of the most ongoing vile, stomach-churning crimes because child sexual abuse goes unstopped,” said Senator Blumenthal. “Protecting such victims is urgent and imperative—and we have an obligation to provide tools and resources necessary to do it. The PROTECT Our Children Act reauthorizes and modernizes the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Programs, enabling law enforcement to combat the exploding, serious dangers of abhorrent abuse in an online society. This essential legislation will help safeguard our children and hold predators accountable.”

    BACKGROUND:

    The Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force Program helps state and local law enforcement agencies develop an effective response to technology-facilitated child sexual exploitation and Internet crimes against children. This encompasses forensic and investigative components, training and technical assistance, victim services, and community education. This national network of 61 coordinated task forces represents more than 5,400 federal, state, and local law enforcement and prosecutorial agencies engaged in both proactive and reactive investigations, forensic investigations, and criminal prosecutions.
    Since 1998, ICAC Task Forces have trained more than 826,700 law enforcement officers, prosecutors, and other professionals on techniques to investigative and prosecute ICAC-related cases. They have also reviewed more than 1,452,040 reports of online child exploitation, resulting in the arrest of more than 123,790 suspects.

    THE PROTECT OUR CHILDREN ACT:

    The PROTECT Our Children Act would:
    Update and modernize the requirements for the National Strategy for Child Exploitation Prevention and Interdiction, including requiring the U.S. Department of Justice to provide detailed, useful information on efforts to protect children nationwide;
    Provide liability protection for ICAC Task Forces in the course of conducting criminal investigations of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and child abuse material;
    Make needed technical improvements and clarifications to the statutory text of the program to match it to current technology and needs;
    Focus the ICAC program on both proactive and reactive investigations; and
    Reauthorize the ICAC Program through 2027 with an escalator authorization.

    ENDORSEMENTS:

    The PROTECT Our Children Act is endorsed by the National Center on Sexual Exploitation (NCOSE), the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN), National Children’s Alliance, National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC), Rights 4 Girls, National District Attorneys Association (NDAA), Raven, Fraternal Order of Police, Association of State Criminal Investigative Agencies (ASCIA), and the National Criminal Justice Training Center (NCJTC).

    CO-SPONSORS:

    This legislation is also co-sponsored by Senators Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.). Companion legislation was introduced in the House by Representatives Nathaniel Moran (R-Texas) and Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 10/29/2024 Blackburn, Whitehouse, Colleagues Urge DEA to Extend Telehealth Flexibilities for Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health Treatment

    US Senate News:

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

    NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), and Mark Warner (D-Va.) led a group of 11 Senators in sending a bipartisan letter calling on the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to extend COVID-era regulatory flexibilities that increase access to telehealth services. 

    These rules have been a lifeline for many patients, particularly those in rural and underserved communities, as well as individuals managing mental health conditions, substance use disorders, and chronic illnesses. 

    “Telemedicine has proven to be an effective tool in reducing barriers to care, supporting those with the greatest need, and bridging the divide between patients and providers,” wrote the Senators. 

    “As bipartisan senators committed to safeguarding public health and promoting equitable access to health care, we are concerned that the reported proposed restrictions could have significant unintended consequences, including disrupting access to treatment for substance use disorder,” added the Senators.  “We urge the DEA to continue working with stakeholders on a proposal that prioritizes the public health benefit for continued access to telemedicine, and finalize an additional temporary extension well before the December 31, 2024 deadline so that both providers and patients have certainty that there will be no gap in their ongoing care.”

    BACKGROUND:
    • The bipartisan letter urges the Biden administration to extend the current flexibilities that safeguard access to necessary care while addressing the risks of prescription medication misuse, and recommends a final rule that creates no new barriers to care. 
    • The letter highlights that telemedicine has expanded access to life-saving treatments, particularly for opioid use disorder, mental health care, and chronic illnesses. 
    • Overdose deaths involving opioids rose to a peak of 84,181 Americans in 2022 before falling to 81,083 in 2023. Despite strong evidence that medication is the most effective treatment for opioid use disorder, only one in five Americans with opioid addiction receive medication treatment that could help them quit and stay in recovery.
    • The Senators’ letter also stresses the importance of ensuring there is no gap in services when the current rules expire at the end of 2024. 

    TREATS ACT:
    • The bipartisan legislation would waive regulatory restrictions for accessing care, preserving flexibilities put in place to save lives during the COVID-19 pandemic.
    • During the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency, the DEA and the Department of Health and Human Services temporarily removed the in-person exam requirement for prescribing medication via telemedicine for people with opioid use disorder. Telehealth flexibilities helped a broad range of patients – including veterans, those living in rural areas, people experiencing homelessness, individuals in the criminal justice system, and racial and ethnic minorities – access treatment. The flexibilities are set to expire on December 31, 2024.
    • The TREATS Act would make the changes permanent, allowing providers to waive the in-person visit requirement and instead use audio-only or audio-visual telehealth technology. The TREATS Act has 20 bipartisan co-sponsors in the Senate.  

    CO-SIGNERS:
    • The letter is also signed by Senators Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Angus King (I-Maine), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), and Peter Welch (D-Vt.). Representatives Doris Matsui (D-Calif.) and Buddy Carter (R-Ga.) are leading a similar effort in the House.

    Full text of the letter can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sinema Expanding Women’s Access to Cancer Screening & Treatment Services

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Kyrsten Sinema (Arizona)

    The bipartisan, bicameral legislation reauthorizes the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP) for five years 

    WASHINGTON – Arizona senior Senator Kyrsten Sinema cosponsored the Screening for Communities to Receive Early and Equitable Needed Services (SCREENS) for Cancer Act  – bipartisan, bicameral legislation reauthorizing the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP) for five years to allow for greater flexibility in providing access to lifesaving screening, diagnostic, and treatment services and continue its innovative work aimed to reduce disparities and advance health equity in breast and cervical cancer.

    The National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP) provides breast and cervical cancer screenings, diagnostic tests, and treatment referral services to women who are limited-income, underserved, underinsured, or uninsured, and do not qualify for Medicaid. The SCREENS for Cancer Act would reauthorize NBCCEDP through 2028.

    “Our legislation ensures the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program may continue providing lifesaving breast and cervical cancer screenings, diagnostic, and treatment services to women in underserved communities,” said Sinema.

    Early detection of breast and cervical cancer through screening can improve survival and reduce mortality by finding cancer at an early stage when treatment is more effective and less expensive. However, research has shown there are many barriers to cancer screening for people with limited income, including access to providers and facilities, costs of screening and care, lack of knowledge and understanding about the role of screening, as well as barriers like time off work and access to childcare. Unfortunately, people who are uninsured and underinsured have lower breast and cervical cancer screening rates, resulting in a greater risk of being diagnosed at a later, more advanced stage of disease.

    Since the program’s inception in 1991, NBCCEDP has provided over 16.1 million screening exams to more than 6.2 million eligible people, detecting 77,968 invasive breast cancers and 24,656 premalignant breast lesions, as well as 5,220 invasive cervical cancers, and 242,261 premalignant cervical lesions, of which 38% were high grade.

    In 2024, an estimated 310,720 women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer, and 42,250 will die from the disease. Additionally, an estimated 13,820 people will be diagnosed with invasive cervical cancer, and 4,360 will die from the disease.

    The SCREENS for Cancer Act does not require any additional funding and has no score. Importantly, early detection of breast and cervical cancer through screening can improve survival and reduce mortality by finding cancer at an early stage when treatment is more effective and less expensive. Currently, the U.S. spends approximately $30 billion annually on breast cancer treatments. This could be significantly reduced if more women receive their annual screenings, and the disease is caught early. For cervical cancer, the current expenditure is approximately $12 billion annually. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gillibrand, Schumer Announce Port Authority Of NY/NJ To Receive Over $347 Million From Program Gillibrand Helped Create, Including $344 Million To Deploy Zero-Emission Equipment And Upgrade Green Energy Infrastructure

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Kirsten Gillibrand
    Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer announced that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has selected the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) to receive an anticipated $344,138,135 through EPA’s Clean Ports Program for its proposed project, Catalyzing Change: Zero-Emissions NY-NJ Port Projects for a Greener Future. This project will support the installation of zero-emission equipment and promote good-paying and union jobs at the Port of New York and New Jersey. The grant is funded by the Inflation Reduction Act, the most substantial climate change and clean energy legislation in history. Senator Gillibrand was an original cosponsor and champion of the standalone legislation (the Climate Smart Ports Act) to create the Clean Ports Program, and she helped secure its enactment as part of the Inflation Reduction Act.
    According to the EPA, PANYNJ’s proposed project “includes the deployment of electric cargo handling equipment and drayage trucks with supporting charging infrastructure, including through a ZE Equipment for Ports (ZEEP) Voucher Incentive Program and Green Drayage Accelerator (GDA) program. PANYNJ commits to reducing the number of polluting vehicles at the port by scrapping a portion of the existing fleet. The project also includes the installation of vessel shore power infrastructure. As part of this project, PANYNJ will implement a comprehensive community engagement plan and train workers to operate and maintain new equipment and infrastructure.”
    In addition to the over $344 million grant for the zero-emission technology deployment project, EPA selected PANYNJ to receive $3,000,000 to support a proposed climate and air quality project, which is also through EPA’s Clean Ports Program.  
    “I fought hard to secure $3 billion via the Inflation Reduction Act for the EPA to fund a new program for zero-emission port equipment and to modernize infrastructure as well as climate and air quality planning at ports across the country,” said Senator Schumer. “I’m proud to announce more than $344 million—the second largest award in the country—for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey to deploy zero-emission equipment, install charging equipment, and train workers for new green jobs. This substantial federal investment will help transform Port Liberty NY on Staten Island by replacing harmful diesel-powered equipment with zero-emission electric infrastructure.”
    “This over $347 million investment in the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey will lay the foundation for a stronger, more sustainable future,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This funding will promote the use of zero-emission equipment and clean power, as well as train workers for the green energy jobs of the future. I am proud to have helped secure the creation of the transformative Clean Ports Program in the Inflation Reduction Act and am thrilled about today’s historic investment. Not only are we improving air quality and combating climate change, but we’re creating good-paying jobs and putting New York and the United States in position to lead in global clean energy.”
    The selection of the PANYNJ projects was announced as part of the Biden-Harris administration’s Investing in America agenda, which today announced nearly $3 billion of investments in Clean Ports.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: PHOTOS: Capito Makes Stops in Kanawha County Focused on Healthcare, Economic Development

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito

    CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Today, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), who serves as the Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies (Labor-HHS), delivered remarks and met with local leaders at events focused on healthcare and economic development.

    First, Senator Capito delivered remarks at the ribbon cutting ceremony for the new West Virginia University (WVU) Medicine Thomas Orthopedic Hospital. The orthopedic hospital offers inpatient and outpatient surgical units, physical therapy, occupational therapy, as well as six orthopedic, spine, and nerve physician offices.

    “Since the partnership between Thomas Health, WVU Health System, and Saint Francis Hospital, we have seen tremendous growth. The addition of this new orthopedic hospital is an example of that growth,” Senator Capito said. “Partnerships like this mean more doctors, equipment, and staff, additional and specialized services, a stronger network of care, and a stronger community here in Charleston and the Kanawha Valley. With the addition of this new orthopedic hospital, I am confident the entire state of West Virginia will benefit, bringing a new suite of services and care for patients.”

    “We are thrilled to open the doors to our new state-of-the-art orthopedic Hospital serving all of southern West Virginia and the Region. As a member of WVU Medicine, we have worked throughout the last 18 months to transform Thomas Hospitals into a destination to receive advanced orthopedic care serving southern West Virginia and beyond,” Greg Rosencrance, M.D., president and CEO of Thomas Hospitals, said. “I thank Senator Capito for her partnership as we continue our expansion of services for the people of West Virginia.”

    Second, Senator Capito visited the West Virginia Hospital Association’s (WVHA) LEAD (Learn, Excel, Achieve, Deploy) pilot program training for new health care managers. The program aims to create a better pipeline of healthcare leaders for the future.

    “Managers have an important position in the overall success of any organization, including health care organizations,” Senator Capito said. “The skills these participants are learning at the LEAD training program are helpful for keeping health systems running effectively and efficiently, and it also can help with retention. I have no doubt that these trainees will come away as stronger and more confident leaders.”

    Photos from today’s events are below:


    U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) at the WVU Medicine Thomas Orthopedic Hospital ribbon cutting ceremony in Charleston, W.Va. on Tuesday, October 29, 2024.

    U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) at the WVU Medicine Thomas Orthopedic Hospital ribbon cutting ceremony in Charleston, W.Va. on Tuesday, October 29, 2024.

    U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) at the WVHA LEAD pilot program training in Charleston, W.Va. on Tuesday, October 29, 2024.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Collins Participates in Factory of the Future Groundbreaking at UMaine

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins
    Published: October 29, 2024

    Click HERE and HERE for individual photos.
    Orono, ME – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins participated in a groundbreaking for the Green Engineering & Materials Factory of the Future at the University of Maine (UMaine). The Factory of the Future will be a 50,000 square foot facility that will usher in a new era of large-scale advanced manufacturing at the nexus of engineering and computing. The Factory will serve as a new national model to integrate research, leaning, and manufacturing.
    “UMaine’s Factory of the Future will establish Maine as a national leader in additive and advanced manufacturing,” said Senator Collins. “This state-of-the-art facility will spur innovation, strengthen our national defense, and give students invaluable experience in pioneering high-tech industries.”
    Senator Collins has secured more than $90 million to support the Factory of the Future project. In addition, the Fiscal Year 2025 defense spending bill, which still awaits consideration by the Senate and House of Representatives, includes $15 million to further support the Factory project.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Baldwin Delivers Nearly $450,000 to Lower Prices at the Pump in Northwest Wisconsin

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin
    WEBSTER, WI – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) announced that Wisconsin will receive more than $445,000 to lower prices at the pump and give Wisconsinites cleaner fuel options. The funding comes from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program, funded by the Baldwin-backed Inflation Reduction Act.  
    “Homegrown biofuels reduce our dependence on foreign oil, lower prices at the pump, and support Wisconsin farmers,” said Senator Baldwin.  “I was proud to vote to provide this funding to keep our Made in Wisconsin economy moving forward, cut costs for families, and support our small towns and rural communities like Webster.”
    Connor’s Service Station in Webster, Wisconsin will use the funding to install two E15 fuel dispensers, two B20 dispensers, one ethanol storage tank, and one biodiesel storage tank. The project is expected to increase the amount of biofuel sold by nearly 224,000 gallons per year.
    Senator Baldwin has long championed increasing the use of biofuels to reduce prices at the pump and support Wisconsin’s farmers, producers, and rural communities. Last year, Senator Baldwin successfully pushed the Biden administration to allow E15 fuel to be sold during the summer months.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed Delivers $1.5 Million for Expansion of Bryant School of Health & Behavioral Sciences

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed

    SMITHFIELD, RI – In an effort to help bridge health care education and train more mental health clinicians, U.S. Senator Jack Reed today joined students, educators, and Bryant University leadership to deliver a $1.5 million federal earmark to strengthen health and behavioral sciences instruction and prepare more mental health care and health professionals to enter the local workforce.

    The $1.5 million federal earmark secured by Senator Reed is for Bryant University’s School of Health and Behavioral Sciences (SHBS) and its new doctoral program in clinical psychology (Psy.D.), which will launch next fall and be the first program of its kind in Rhode Island.

    The funding secured by Senator Reed will support renovation and expansion of SHBS to more than double its current footprint and house state-of-the-art teaching and research labs that will support Bryant’s curricular efforts to foster the development of a modern health care workforce.

    “Across the nation, communities and states need more mental health professionals who have the skills needed to effectively treat patients.  By expanding Bryant’s School of Health and Behavioral Sciences to include new, state-of-the-art lab and class spaces, the university is helping to address pressing needs and produce more well-trained health care providers who will graduate with hands-on experience in diverse clinical settings,” said Senator Reed, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee.  “I salute Bryant for the outstanding work they do to build our future health care workforce and to address our nation’s mental health crisis.  This $1.5 million earmark will help them advance their important mission, expand Bryant’s health footprint, and train more highly-skilled health care and mental health care professionals to serve in high-demand environments.”

    “We are grateful to Senator Reed for enabling Bryant University to advance its ability to address the healthcare shortage in Rhode Island,” said Bryant University President Ross Gittell, Ph.D. “Aligned with our Vision 2030 priorities, this federal funding allows Bryant to put in place state-of-the-art behavioral health facilities as we launch Rhode Island’s only Doctor of Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.) program.”

    Provost and Chief Academic Officer Rupendra Paliwal, Ph.D., said, “This earmark not only enhances our facilities but also empowers us to train the next generation of healthcare practitioners, especially in the critical field of mental health. Our new Psy.D. will provide learners with a cutting-edge education that will prepare them to address the pressing mental health needs of our communities upon graduation.”

    Senator Reed joined Bryant University President Dr. Ross Gittell, Provost and Chief Academic Officer Dr. Rupendra Paliwal, Director of SHBS Dr. Kirsten Hokeness, and Associate Director of SHBS and President of the RI Psychological Association Dr. Joseph Trunzo to tour the SHBS, discuss plans for the two-phase expansion project, and to meet with students currently enrolled in the program.

    Phase 1 of the expansion of campus science facilities will directly support the growth of Bryant’s Psy.D. program. The first phase will include:

    • Behavioral Health/Psychology suite including seven observation and counseling labs, cognitive and psychophysiology labs, and a child development center.

    Phase 2 of the expansion will include:

    • Six teaching labs and a healthcare informatics lab;
    • Six research labs supporting faculty and student research programs and a shared health care informatics lab which can serve as a core facility for the state; and
    • Laboratory prep areas, chemical storage, and waste rooms.

    Bryant University launched its new School of Health and Behavioral Sciences in 2022 as part of Bryant’s Vision 2030 Strategic Plan, building on successful programs like the university’s Master of Physician Assistant (PA) program.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Tuberville in the Daily Caller: The Dangerous Biden-Harris Plan to Leave Our Veterans Behind

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville
    “As one VA provider pointed out, this delay in critical healthcare could put us on the path to a ‘mass casualty event.’”
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) penned an op-ed in the Daily Caller about how the Biden-Harris administration is limiting community care access for veterans. Community care is essential to veterans across the country, specifically those in rural areas. In the piece, Senator Tuberville calls for slashing the bureaucratic red tape keeping veterans from receiving the pivotal care they deserve and emphasizes the need to change course before it is too late.
    Read excerpts from the piece below or here. 
    “Over the last four years, the Biden-Harris administration has made it clear its priorities lie anywhere but with America’s military service members.
    It was apparent in the disastrous Afghanistan withdrawal that left 13 service members dead. It was obvious when the Department of Defense forced extreme DEI requirements on our troops and discharged service members who had legitimate concerns about taking the COVID-19 vaccine.
    We hear it time and again with the White House’s rhetoric that now has us teetering on the brink of another World War — an event which would drag our sons and daughters into more foreign wars on behalf of interests that are not our own. 
    Which is why it comes as no surprise that the Biden-Harris administration is severely limiting veterans’ access to timely care. Access to community care is an essential health care option that can meet the various needs and circumstances for our veterans — especially those living in rural areas.
    The Community Care Network allows veterans to seek care from a provider who may be closer to the veteran in proximity than the nearest Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facility, or who may have a shorter wait time than a comparable provider in the VA. It’s something that the brave men and women who have served our country need more access to, not less.”
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, and HELP Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: McConnell Helps Secures $1 Million in Federal Funding for Capital City Airport in Frankfort

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Mitch McConnell

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) announced today the U.S. Department of Transportation will provide $1 million to the Capital City Airport in Frankfort, Kentucky to support the redevelopment of the terminal. According to airport officials, the federal funding will be used to construct a new, modern two-story facility that will expand passenger access, increase airfield safety, and support aviation career training programs. 

    Senator McConnell contacted the U.S. Secretary of Transportation in support of the airport’s competitive grant application for this project.

    The federal grant is funded through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Airport Terminal Program, established in the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). Senator McConnell led the IIJA to Senate passage in 2021, and the President signed the bill into law. The IIJA gives Kentucky billions of federal dollars over five years to improve the Commonwealth’s roads, bridges, railroads, riverports, airports, broadband, and more.

    “Today’s announcement is great news for Frankfort and all of Central Kentucky, providing additional funding to overhaul and modernize a new terminal at Capital City Airport. I look forward to this project’s progression and will continue to deliver for Kentucky’s airports in the years ahead,” said Senator McConnell. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: McConnell Helps Secure $1 Million in Federal Funding for Capital City Airport in Frankfort

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Mitch McConnell

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) announced today the U.S. Department of Transportation will provide $1 million to the Capital City Airport in Frankfort, Kentucky to support the redevelopment of the terminal. According to airport officials, the federal funding will be used to construct a new, modern two-story facility that will expand passenger access, increase airfield safety, and support aviation career training programs. 

    Senator McConnell contacted the U.S. Secretary of Transportation in support of the airport’s competitive grant application for this project.

    The federal grant is funded through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Airport Terminal Program, established in the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). Senator McConnell led the IIJA to Senate passage in 2021, and the President signed the bill into law. The IIJA gives Kentucky billions of federal dollars over five years to improve the Commonwealth’s roads, bridges, railroads, riverports, airports, broadband, and more.

    “Today’s announcement is great news for Frankfort and all of Central Kentucky, providing additional funding to overhaul and modernize a new terminal at Capital City Airport. I look forward to this project’s progression and will continue to deliver for Kentucky’s airports in the years ahead,” said Senator McConnell. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Reverend Warnock, Ossoff Announce Over $48 Million in Federal Funding for Clean Energy Upgrades at Savannah, Brunswick Ports 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

    Senators Reverend Warnock, Ossoff Announce Over $48 Million in Federal Funding for Clean Energy Upgrades at Savannah, Brunswick Ports 

    Federal funds made possible by the Inflation Reduction Act, championed by Georgia’s U.S. Senators for its investments in Georgia’s clean energy economy
    Georgia Ports Authority to receive over $48 million to install new electric charging infrastructure for ships at the Port of Savannah and the Port of Brunswick
    Senator Reverend Warnock penned a letter of support for GPA’s bid to receive federal funding for clean energy infrastructure upgrades
    In addition to boosting the local economy, this grant will result in less smog from diesel emissions for surrounding port communities, strengthening air quality and the health of dock workers 
    Earlier this year, Georgia’s U.S. Senators announced over $15 million in clean energy and infrastructure investments for the Port of Savannah
    Senator Reverend Warnock: “As a son of coastal Georgia, I know the importance of Georgia’s ports and its workers to our state and national economies. As we continue moving toward a clean energy economy, it is critical Georgia and its workers remain on the frontlines of these federal investments and reap the benefits of our hard work in Washington”
    Senator Ossoff: “Today we are delivering new resources through the EPA’s Clean Ports program to upgrade the Port of Savannah and the Port of Brunswick with vessel shore power systems and install new electric charging infrastructure. This is a win-win for our economy and for local communities”

    Washington, D.C. —  Today, U.S. Senators Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA), a member of the Senate Commerce committee charged with overseeing the nation’s transportation policies, and Jon Ossoff (D-GA) announced they secured $48,763,746 to install new electric charging infrastructure for ships at the Port of Savannah and the Port of Brunswick. The funding will go to the Georgia Ports Authority (GPA) to invest in the vessel shore power systems, which will allow ships to ‘plug-in’ to electric grid power and turn off diesel engines while at port. In addition, the project includes the scrappage and replacement of diesel terminal tractors with new electric terminal tractors. GPA plans to engage with communities through their network and conduct classroom and on-the-job training for workers related to shore power, zero-emission vehicles, and charging stations. In addition to boosting the local economy, this grant will result in less smog from diesel emissions for surrounding port communities, helping enhance overall quality of life. The decrease in diesel emissions will also strengthen air quality, and in turn, the health of dock workers spending long hours keeping our ports running. This latest investment reflects both senators’ commitment to bolstering Georgia’s clean energy infrastructure, helping Georgia’s ports maintain their competitive edge in the U.S. economy, and ensuring workers receive the support and training needed in an evolving economy. 

    “As a son of coastal Georgia, I know the importance of Georgia’s ports and its workers to our state and national economies. As we continue moving toward a clean energy economy, it is critical Georgia and its workers remain on the frontlines of these federal investments and reap the benefits of our hard work in Washington, which is why I was proud to champion this award for the Georgia Ports Authority,” said Senator Reverend Warnock. “Senator Ossoff and I will continue delivering investments for Georgia’s ports to keep our state at the forefront of the nation’s clean energy economy.”

    “Senator Warnock and I continue working to upgrade Georgia’s port infrastructure and establish Georgia as the national leader in advanced energy technology. Today we are delivering new resources through the EPA’s Clean Ports program to upgrade the Port of Savannah and the Port of Brunswick with vessel shore power systems and install new electric charging infrastructure. This is a win-win for our economy and for local communities,” said Senator Ossoff.

    The latest announcement is part of a larger set of awards unveiled by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency that includes 55 applicants across 27 states and territories to receive nearly $3 billion through EPA’s Clean Ports Program. The grants are funded by the Inflation Reduction Act—the largest investment in combating climate change and promoting clean energy in history, and legislation only made possible by Georgia voters electing Senators Warnock and Ossoff to cast the decisive votes—and will advance environmental justice by reducing diesel air pollution in U.S. ports and surrounding communities while promoting good-paying and union jobs that help America’s ports thrive.

    A longtime advocate for strong federal funding for Georgia’s ports, this latest effort follows Senator Warnock’s bipartisan, bicameral push with Georgia’s full congressional delegation urging officials to study expanding the Port of Savannah to ensure it can continue accommodating increasingly large container vessels. Earlier this year, Senators Warnock and Ossoff announced over $15 million in clean energy and infrastructure investments for the Port of Savannah. Also this year, Senator Warnock successfully secured $11.3 million for the Brunswick Harbor through the FY ’24 government funding bill for modifications to improve the efficiency, cost and reliability of ship traffic in the harbor, as well as $44.7 million for the Savannah Harbor to support operations and maintenance. Additionally, in January 2024, Senators Warnock and Ossoff announced a $15 million federal grant to the Port of Brunswick for critical infrastructure upgrades, funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law championed by both Georgia senators.

    In May 2023, Sen. Ossoff and EPA Administrator visited the Port of Savannah to announce the Clean Ports Program and the availability of funding to electrify transportation and logistics to reduce air pollution.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Remarks by President  Biden on a Campaign  Call

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    6:53 P.M. EDT THE PRESIDENT:  (In progress) — and your friendship.  And thanks to everyone — MS. TERESA:  So, President — THE PRESIDENT:  — at Voto Latino.  (Inaudible.) MS. TERESA:  So, President Biden, before we get started — before we get started, I just want to say, literally, three and a half years ago, we — when we were hunkered down, we were doing Zoom calls very similar to this, you came in and you talked to our community, and you said, “Maria Teresa, we are going to have the largest climate change legislation, the biggest infrastructure,” and you listed 20 things, and he’s like, “Will you be there with me?”  And I said, “Absolutely.”  And I said, “Do you think we’re going to get it done?”  You’re like, “Absolutely.”  And you know what?  You have.  So, I’m incredibly grateful for all the work that you’ve done, and I would love for you to say a few words to — to the community based on your ability to deliver every single time. THE PRESIDENT:  We got it done.  I didn’t get it done.  Every major thing we tried to do, from over a trillion dollars in infrastructure to work on communities that need help to health care to — I mean, a whole range of things, and we got it done. As I said earlier, your partnership, your friendship, and your leadership has really made a big difference.  And thank everyone at Latino — you know — excuse me, thank everyone at your organization, Voto Latino, for all you do.  You know, you’ve always had my back, and I think it’s fair to say I’ve always had yours. This is it.  This is it.  Seven days to Election Day, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.  And that’s not a — that’s not an exaggeration.  The choice couldn’t be clearer. Presidential historians tell us the most important thing about a president is character — does he or she have character.  Kamala has character.  She’ll always stand up for Latinos, but not just Lati- — she’ll stand up for everyone who deserves to be stood up for, and that’s all Americans. Donald Trump has no character.  He doesn’t give a damn about the Latino community.  He’s failed businessman.  He’s — he only cares about the billionaire friends he has and accumulating wealth for those at the top.
    You know, he says immigrants are “poisoning the blood” of our country.  Give me a break.  He wants to do away with the birthright citizenship.  Who the hell else said that in the last 100 years? 
    And just the other day, a speaker at his rally called Puerto Rico a “floating island of garbage.”  Well, let me tell you something.  I don’t — I — I don’t know the Puerto Rican that — that I know — or a Puerto Rico, where I’m fr- — in my home state of Delaware, they’re good, decent, honorable people.  The only garbage I see floating out there is his supporter’s — his — his demonization of Latinos is unconscionable, and it’s un-American.  It’s totally contrary to everything we’ve done, everything we’ve been.   Now, Trump has di- — tried to divide the country based on race, ethnicity, anything that does harm, to take their eye off the ball about what the terrible things he’s done and will do.  But Kamala Harris has fought for all Americans and will be a president for all of America. Look, folks, we’ve gotten a lot done together, as you pointed out.  Look, Maria Teresa, we did everything from the infrastructure bill to health care to making sure that veterans are taken care of.  I mean, across the board, we’ve done so much.  We’ve created over 16 million jobs.  More Latinos have jobs than ever before. Look, a quarter of all — here’s the way I look at it.  A quarter of all the children in our schools today are Latino — are Latino, a quarter of them.  How could we possibly not invest everything we have in a quarter of our population that’s going to be our future?  It’s going to make a major, major, major, major piece of what this country looks like and what we think and what we believe.  So, these are going to have to be the doctors, the teachers, the scientists, and, yes, presidents. You know, I know we’ve asked a lot of each other, but I’m talking to you about one more thing and asking you, as a favor, all of you listening, to vote.  Get out early and vote.  Do it early. You know, I — I know the long waits on Election Day are all too common, especially in Latino communities.  You know, I cast my ballot yesterday.  I stood in line for 40, 45 minutes with all the people in Delaware, and I cast my vote yesterday in my home state.  I waited in line with a lot of other people.  There was a woman ahead of me, an elderly woman, who was in her 90s in a wheelchair, and it was a heavy wheelchair and the person pushing it was having trouble, so I spent time with her.  She — she’s — she’s over 90 years old, and she’s breaking her neck to vote because she knows how important it is. Today is National Vote Early Day.  Let me say it again.  Today is National Vote Early Day.  Remind folks to vote early, to return mail-in ballots.  Vote for access to a good education so everyone has an opportunity.  Vote to eliminate not — what Trump wants — he wants to eliminate the Department of Education and no early education.  We’re fighting like hell, and we’re fighting like hell for early education because, you know, it increases exponentially the prospect of success for our sons and our daughters.  Vote to give our daughters the same opportunities we give our sons, instead of taking away their rights.  Vote to make sure we maintain a significant health care that would provide for our parents and our families and basic health care for all Americans.  Trump is trying like hell to get rid of it.  More people have health care now than ever before.  He says he’s going to — wants to get rid of it. Vote to continue the progress we made on job growth — the growth in jobs for everyone, including Latinos — a significant job growth. Vote for comprehensive imm- — immigration reform instead of mass deportation.  What’s he talkin- — think about it.  You know, I travel the world because of my role as president and my knowledge of foreign policy.  I get inquiries from other heads of state, “Does Trump really mean it?  Are you really going to send out the police to gather up thousands and millions of people and deport them?”  What the hell is going on here?  Vote for comprehensive immigration reform instead of mass deportation.  In short, vote to keep Donald Trump out of the White House.  He’s a true danger to not just Latinos but to all people, particularly those who are in a minority in this country.  You know, we have to vote to elect Kamala as president, Tim Walz as vice president.  It’s (inaudible) — it’s never been more important. We’ve known each other a long time, Maria Teresa — a long time.  And I want to tell you something I can say without equivocation.  Our democracy is at stake.  And to translate that into pure English — and that’s wh- — I should be able to speak Spanish, but I can’t.  We should be able to talk about what this means. He wants to fundamentally change the way our Constitution works.  He wants to take away people’s rights.  He wants to concentrate power in the hands of a very few — people like him. So, go to IWillVote.com and make your plan to vote early.  Make it today, because voting early (inaudible) now basically through election.  Make a plan to vote, please, please, please.  Your vote is critical.  A Latino vote is critical.  Let’s make it heard. I want them to remember who you are and who we are.  We’re the United States of America.  And there’s nothing, nothing at all beyond our capacity when we do it together. So, God bless you all.  And God bless you, Maria Teresa, for all you’ve been doing.  We have more to do, but we got to get it done.  This el- — this election is the most consequential election we’ve ever voted in, no matter how old or how young you are — this election. God bless you all.  And God protect our troops. MS. TERESA:  Thank you so much, President Biden.  And I have to tell you, what you really — what you are saying is a clarion call.  It’s a multicultural democracy, and it’s us, as Americans first, that will save this country and our democracy.  And I’m so grateful for the time — THE PRESIDENT:  The reason why we’re strong. MS. TERESA:  — you’ve spent with us.  (Inaudible.) THE PRESIDENT:  We’re the most diverse country, and that’s why we’re strong.  That is our strength. MS. TERESA:  Right.  (Laughs.) THE PRESIDENT:  (Inaudible) our weakness.  It’s our strength. MS. TERESA:  No, I call it our superpower — our superpower.  And I always say, like, you don’t have to take my word for it.  The reason that you have disinformation around race is because the Russians and the Chinese recognize that racism is our Achilles heel, but it — they also recognize that it’s our multiculturalism that is our superpower and our strength. THE PRESIDENT:  We bring all the best of every culture together.  We really do.  It’s not hyperbole.  That’s a fact. MS. TERESA:  It’s true. THE PRESIDENT:  Sometimes I think our folks (inaudible) don’t realize it, but it’s truly a fact.  Anyway. God love you for what you’re doing.  Keep it going, kid. MS. TERESA:  I’m super grateful. THE PRESIDENT:  Keep it going. MS. TERESA:  Yeah, we’re not done yet.  We’re just getting started. THE PRESIDENT:  We’re not even close to done. MS. TERESA:  (Inaudible.)  (Laughs.) THE PRESIDENT:  And I may be — I may be leaving office on January 20th, but I’m not leaving.  MS. TERESA:  I — I — THE PRESIDENT:  I’m not leaving. MS. TERESA:  You promise? THE PRESIDENT:  I’m leaving office, but I’m not leaving this fight.  MS. TERESA:  (Laughs.) THE PRESIDENT:  God love you.  Thank you so much. MS. TERESA:  I’m going to remind you of that.  Much love.  Say hello to Jill. THE PRESIDENT:  Well, you don’t (inaudible) — I’m going to ask for your help and let me join you. MS. TERESA:  I will always be there, President.  
    7:02 P.M. EDT

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Background Press Call on U.S. Efforts to Address U.S. Investments in Certain National Security Technologies and Products in Countries of  Concern

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    Via Teleconference
    2:38 P.M. EDT
    MODERATOR:  Good afternoon, everyone.  Thanks so much for joining today’s call.  As a reminder, this call will be on background, attributable to senior administration officials, and it is embargoed until 5:00 p.m. Eastern today.
    For your awareness, not for your reporting, on the call today we have [senior administration official], [senior administration official], [senior administration official], and [senior administration official]. 
    We’ll follow up shortly after the call with embargoed materials as well, but I will turn it over to [senior administration officials] who will have a few words at the top, and then we’ll take your questions. 
    Over to you.
    SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL:  Thanks, Eduardo, and thanks to everybody for joining us today.
    Since the earliest days of the administration, President Biden has said we are at an inflection point with respect to advanced technologies.  And as he’s often said, we will see more technological change in the next 10 years than we saw in the last 50.
    And that has motivated historic investments, mobilizing hundreds of billions of dollars in private investment to rebuild American manufacturing and innovation. 
    The flipside of that, of course, of promoting critical technologies is, of course, protecting them.  And recognizing how transformative certain technologies can be, the President directed his national security team to ensure that where we have significant advantages, our world-leading technologies and know-how are not used against us to undermine our national security.  That’s been the guiding principle for the Biden-Harris administration’s export control policies, as well as the Outbound Investment Program that we’re glad to announce is being finalized today. 
    As many of you know, we’ve been working on this approach to address certain outbound investments in sensitive technologies and critical sectors that could undermine American national security for some time.  And, in particular, we’ve been focused on the exploitation of certain intangible benefits that often accompany U.S. outbound investments and that help companies succeed through, for example, enhancing their standing and prominence, providing certain types of assistance, introducing investment and talent networks, opening up market access, and enhancing access to additional financing. 
    The People’s Republic of China has a stated goal, as you know: to develop key sensitive technologies that will directly support the PRC’s military modernization and related activities, including weapons development, and it has exploited U.S. investments to develop domestic, military, and intelligence capabilities. 
    So, today, the Treasury Department will issue a Final Rule to implement President Biden’s Executive Order 14105, from August of 2023, which is entitled “Addressing United States Investments in Certain National Security Technologies and Products in Countries of Concern.” 
    The Final Rule provides the operative regulations and a detailed, explanatory discussion regarding its intent and application.  And as directed in the President’s executive order, the Final Rule does prohibit U.S. persons from engaging in certain transactions involving a defined set of technologies and products that pose a particularly acute national security risk to the United States. 
    The Final Rule also requires U.S. persons to notify the Treasury Department of certain other transactions involving a defined set of technologies and products that may contribute to a threat to the national security of the United States. 
    Covered technologies fall into three categories: semiconductors and microelectronics, quantum information technologies, and artificial intelligence.  This set of technologies, we believe, is core for the next generation of military, cybersecurity, surveillance, and intelligence applications, providing what we believe are force multiplier capabilities. 
    The United States already prohibits and restricts the export to countries of concern of many of the technologies and products covered by the Final Rule.  This program complements the United States’ existing export control and inbound screening tools by preventing U.S. investment from advancing the development of these technologies and products in countries of concern. 
    The Treasury Department, as [senior administration official] will lay out, has used feedback through the notice and comment process to help design a carefully tailored approach.  And we also want to commend Senators Casey and Cornyn, Representatives DeLauro, Fitzpatrick, and Pascrell, as well as Representatives Meeks and McCaul in particular, for their leadership on this issue. 
    The overwhelmingly bipartisan vote on Senators Casey and Cornyn’s Outbound Investment Transparency Act as an amendment to the Senate NDAA demonstrates the shared will of Congress and the administration to meaningfully regulate outbound investments. 
    So, with that, I’ll turn it over to [senior administration official] to provide more detail on the content of the Final Rule. 
    Over to you.
    SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL:  Thanks very much.  As mentioned today, Treasury is issuing, at the direction of the President, a targeted and narrowly scoped regulation that implements a new program to address this threat to U.S. national security.  The Final Rule has clear thresholds and definitions to implement the executive order, and provides detailed, explanatory discussion regarding its intent and application to assist investors and other stakeholders to help them navigate this new program. 
    The Final Rule does two things at its core, as previewed: First, it prohibits U.S. persons from engaging in certain transactions involving semiconductors, quantum, and artificial intelligence.  And second, it requires U.S. persons to notify Treasury of certain other transactions involving semiconductors and artificial intelligence. 
    The rule explains in detail the scope of the program, definitions, processes, requirements, and penalties for non-compliance, among other things.  Importantly, this rule has benefited from the input of a variety of stakeholders, industry experts, and allies and partners. 
    We had two rounds of formal comments on the rulemaking to implement the executive order, first with the August 2023 ANPRM that was issued alongside the ENO and on which we got 60 comments from stakeholders.  Those comments were integral in developing the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking that we issued in June of this year and on which we received more than 40 additional comments, which further informed the development of the Final Rule.
    Over two-plus years, Treasury, along with the Departments of State and Commerce, have led extensive engagements with stakeholders across the globe.  These engagements and our deliberate decision to offer two rounds of public comment have helped us receive insightful feedback that has helped inform the Final Rule to ensure to choose our national security objectives while taking into account the need to be focused, targeted, and clear. 
    Now, I’ll briefly discuss a few key aspects of the rule. 
    First, as [senior administration official] suggested, the rule imposes requirements on U.S. persons.  This includes prohibiting U.S. persons from engaging in certain transactions with what the rule identifies as covered foreign persons, and requires the U.S. persons to notify the Treasury Department about other transactions that involve covered foreign persons. 
    Second, the Final Rule focuses on specific categories of investment transactions where the target of the investment has a nexus to the PRC and activities involving sensitive technologies and products. 
    In terms of what transactions are covered, the Final Rule applies to, among other things, a U.S. person’s acquisition of an equity interest or contingent equity interest, certain debt financing, certain greenfield investments, or investments that could result in corporate expansion and joint ventures.  This would include, for example, a U.S. investment firm taking an equity stake in an advanced semiconductor manufacturer in the PRC.  It would also cover a U.S. company’s purchase of land in the PRC to develop a quantum computing research facility. 
    There are exceptions for certain types of transactions that are less likely to contribute to the national security threat we’re worried about. 
    For example, the Final Rule excepts or carves out certain investments by a U.S. person to publicly trade securities and certain investments made by a limited partner in a pooled investment fund, among others.
    In light of our ongoing conversations with allies and partners on the importance of multilateral efforts in this area, the Final Rule also includes an exception for certain transactions involving a person of a country or territory outside the United States where the Secretary of the Treasury has determined that the country or territory is addressing national security concerns posed by outbound investment. 
    And third, in terms of the technologies and products in scope for the program, the Final Rule provides technical details on the subsets of semiconductors, quantum, and artificial intelligence that are relevant to the program. 
    For example, a U.S. person is prohibited from acquiring equity in a PRC entity that manufactures advanced semiconductors or that is developing an AI system designed exclusively or intended for a military end use.  A U.S. person would be required to notify Treasury if they are acquiring equity in a PRC company that manufactures legacy semiconductors. 
    Other examples include direct equity investments by a company or private equity fund into any PRC company that is repurposing an AI model for penetration testing or automated vulnerability detection and exploitation, which would be covered under the rule as either notifiable or prohibited, depending on the design end use and computing power used to train an AI system. 
    In addition to direct investments, indirect investments through a parent of a PRC company that is using AI models to improve targeting, intelligence, reconnaissance, and surveillance, or autonomous weapons systems for military use would be prohibited, as would such indirect investments in a PRC company developing or scaling quantum computers or networks to undermine encryption systems.  These technologies can be used for advanced code breaking, the development of next-generation military applications, or offensive cyber operations. 
    Additionally, in general, the rule is based on a U.S. person’s knowledge of the relevant facts, rendering a transaction to be covered under the rule.  Enforcement and penalties are consistent with the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, or IEEPA, the authority by which the President issued the executive order. 
    The Final Rule takes effect on January 2nd, giving stakeholders time to organize internal infrastructure and processes to ensure compliance with the rule. 
    The lengthy preamble to the rule summarizes the response to the comments received, as well as provides an explanation of the changes since the proposed rule issued over the summer. 
    And let me make two additional and final points before concluding. 
    First, this program is calibrated to help ensure our actions can be supported multilaterally, which is a critical component to maximize its effectiveness and reduce backfill from other investors.  The administration has been engaged in extensive conversations with allies and partners on the issue, and we are encouraged to see some allies and partners, including the European Commission and the United Kingdom, exploring the issue of outbound investment security in their own jurisdictions.
    Second, cross-border investment flows have long contributed to U.S. economic vitality.  This targeted action is focused on national security and scope to address specific risks posed by certain U.S. outbound investment, and it maintains our longstanding commitment to open investment. 
    Thanks.  And back to you, Eduardo, for questions.
    MODERATOR:  Thank you.  We now have time for a few questions.  If you’d like to ask a question, please use the “Raise Your Hand” feature on Zoom, and we’ll come to you. 
    First up, we’ll go to Michael Martina.
    Q    Hi there.  Appreciate you doing this.  So, what you described sounds quite similar to the notice for proposed rulemaking earlier in the year.  I’m wondering if you can detail any specific or key changes that you made to the original notice you said it was used to inform this Final Rule.  So, are any changes from earlier?
    And just an effort at clarification.  You know, given the exemptions for publicly traded securities, is it the White House’s contention that China has not significantly exploited publicly traded security purchases by U.S. investors to enhance their military or intelligence capabilities?  My understanding is that this is perfectly fine — you could trade public securities for Chinese defense companies under this; that’s totally within the rules.  Is that correct?  Thanks. 
    SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL:  So, maybe I’ll take the first question, Eduardo.  And then, [senior administration official], if you want to chime in on the second from a White House perspective.
    So, I think while largely consistent with the NPRM in scope and structure, the Final Rule does contain some changes, including with respect to clarity of the rule and thinking forward to compliance. 
    So, for example, we’ve selected clear technical thresholds for notifiable and prohibited transactions involving AI systems based on the amount of compute power to train an AI system that is open in the NPRM; refine how the rule applies to U.S. persons with investment banking authority and non-U.S. entity, such that it clearly applies only to those who actually exercise authority, for example; and clarifying with respect to compliance and enforcement with the rule. 
    And so, there are a number of areas where we have honed and focused and sharpened the rule since then, and those are some examples.
    SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL:  Thanks for the question, Michael.  So, I will say we do have existing authorities to address the threat you were discussing.  So, for example, Treasury has authorities — the Chinese military industrial complex sanctions regulations that are intended to address U.S. persons from purchasing or selling publicly traded securities and companies that are involved in this sector, and there are others as well. 
    MODERATOR:  Next up, we’ll go to the line of Anita Powell.
    Q    Thank you so much.  As you guys are surely aware, Elon Musk is developing a data center in China to train the algorithm to work on self-driving cars.  That’s a lot simpler than I think it really is.  But anyway, is this the type of investment that might be restricted under this new rule?  Can you just kind of flesh that out for us?
    SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL:  Sure.  Happy to start. 
    Look, I don’t think we’re going to get into hypothetical scenarios, but just reiterate some of the points that I’ve said. 
    What the rule is really targeted on is capital and the intangibles that can flow from such American capital to go into the development of PRC-based — not just based, but PRC-based entities that are developing these advanced technologies.  And so, that’s sort of the scope of the rule. 
    And one thing I will mention is that Treasury will provide some guidance and other documents during this interim period before the rule goes online.  That’s certainly our intent to help flesh this out.  But I think going back to the core tenets of the rule is the best way to answer that.
    MODERATOR:  Next up, we’ll go to the line of (inaudible).
    Q    Yeah, hi.  Thanks for doing this and for taking my question.  Could you talk a little bit more about the engagement with allies and partners in the process of finalizing this rule, specifically which allies specifically you engaged with and whether there are any allies who are going to create similar rules of their own?  Thank you.
    SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL:  [Senior administration official], maybe you could start with engagements with allies that you’ve had, but then maybe, [senior administration official], if we could go to you, you could talk a little bit about the G7 as well.  That might be helpful.
    SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL:   Yeah, sure.  Thanks. 
    So, in terms of — just to sort of put a topper before going to [senior administration official], we’ve had a number of engagements with partners and allies, which have resulted in not only sort of technical exchanges about what we are doing and why we’re doing it, but also various statements.  And [senior administration official] will allude to one of them with regard to the G7, but obviously the European Commission and the United Kingdom have made statements in support of these goals.  And so, it’s an ongoing process and one that will continue.
    SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL:  Yeah, and just to add on to what [senior administration official] said, this is something that, you know, even from the White House level we engage with our closest allies and partners on.  And [senior administration official] referenced, you know, a line in the G7 leaders’ statement from Apulia early this year that refers to, you know, recognizing that appropriate measures designed to address risk from outbound investments are important to complement our existing toolkit. 
    So, it’s a conversation that we’re frequently having with our key partners and allies.
    MODERATOR:  And we have time for one more.  We’ll go to the line of Patrick Tucker.
    Q    Hey.  Thanks.  Patrick Tucker from Defense One.
    So, when you say the rule prohibits people from acquiring equity in a PRC entity that manufactures semiconductors that might be used in autonomous weapons systems or that might be repurposed for AI penetration testing, is that based on an observation that there are U.S. firms that currently have investments in those areas of autonomous weaponry and penetration testing for China?  Or are you making the rule now in anticipation that firms might begin to invest in that sort of thing?  I’m trying to get a sense of the degree to which U.S. firms have exposure and have willingly made investments in these areas of the Chinese military.
    SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL:  So let me start, [senior administration official], and then perhaps, [senior administration official], pass it to you. 
    I think what we are worried about, which I would focus on, is the kinds of scenarios that we have outlined, which is supported by data.  And one statistic that comes to mind — and I won’t get it exactly right, so I’d refer you to the Georgetown Center for — I think it’s Technology — that had a statistic that said something to the effect of: For a five-year period, I think between 2016 and 2020 or 2021, 17 percent of investment in Chinese artificial intelligence companies included U.S. participation, and of that, 91 percent was at the venture capital stage. 
    I think if you think about those sets of facts and scenarios, that’s the kind of situation that when it comes to certain artificial intelligence capable of impacting our national security, from military intelligence, cyber, other related perspectives, that’s what we’re concerned about. 
    SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL:  Yeah, I would just add to that that part of the motivation, as we were looking at some case studies to inform the development of this executive order and the regulation, actually was focused on cybersecurity, where we had a number — we saw a number of VC investments directly into firms working on cybersecurity that ended up on the entity list for working with Chinese military or intelligence services.
    MODERATOR:  Thanks, everyone, for joining.  That’s all the time we have for today.  As a reminder, this call was on background, attributable to senior administration officials, and the contents of the call are embargoed until 5:00 p.m. Eastern. 
    We’ll follow up shortly with embargoed materials as well. but do reach out to us, to the NSC or Treasury, with any questions in the meantime.  Thanks so much.
    3:00 P.M. EDT  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Demands Answers on USDA Oversight Following Pure Prairie Poultry’s Abrupt Closure

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, joined U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) in demanding answers from United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack regarding distribution and oversight of grants and loans following the recent bankruptcy filing of Pure Prairie Poultry.The Minnesota-based poultry processor received more than $45 million in USDA grants and loans intended to help meat and poultry processors start or expand processing capacity. However, Pure Prairie Poultry filed for bankruptcy after only a few short years of operation, which impacted up to 50 farmers and left more than 2 million chickens in Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin without feed or the necessary processing capacity following the shutdown of their Charles City, Iowa plant. 
    “Pure Prairie Poultry’s abrupt closure shows the importance of proper vetting and oversight at USDA to ensure the agency’s multi-million dollar grants and loans are actually helping producers, rather than being flushed down the drain and harming entire rural communities in the process,” said Senator Ernst. “Encouraging the growth of meat processing and strengthening our supply chain is a cause I can support, but this lack of accountable spending hurts our farmers, livestock, and taxpayers.”“Over the past two years, USDA has provided $223 million in loan guarantees and grants to 30 meat and poultry processing companies,” the lawmakers wrote. “A press release from the USDA celebrated this funding as part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s ‘commitment to strengthen critical food supply chain infrastructure to create more thriving communities for the American people.’ Unfortunately, this investment has instead resulted in the loss of income, jobs, and poultry across three states.”“While we share USDA’s desired goals of expanding meat processing capacity and markets and building a robust national food supply chain, it is critical that livestock producers have resilient systems to ensure the production of healthy and affordable protein for both domestic and global consumption. Moreover, American taxpayers deserve the peace of mind that their dollars are being spent wisely,” the lawmakers concluded.
    Click here to read the full letter.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves U.S. Virgin Islands Disaster  Declaration

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    On October 25, 2024, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. declared that a major disaster exists in the territory of the U.S. Virgin Islands and ordered Federal assistance to supplement territory and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by Tropical Storm Ernesto from August 13 to August 16, 2024.
    Federal funding is available to territory and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by Tropical Storm Ernesto in the islands of St. Croix, St. John, St. Thomas, and Water Island.
    Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures for the entire territory.
    Lai Sun Yee of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has been appointed to coordinate Federal recovery operations in the affected areas. 
    Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the territory and warranted by the results of further damage assessments.
    Residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362), or by using the FEMA App. Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service. 
    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION MEDIA SHOULD CONTACT THE FEMA NEWS DESK AT (202) 646-3272 OR FEMA-NEWS-DESK@FEMA.DHS.GOV.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen, Risch Issue Joint Statement in Response to Georgian Elections

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen

    (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee (SFRC) and Chair of the Europe and Regional Security Cooperation Subcommittee, and Jim Risch (R-ID), Ranking Member of SFRC, released the following joint statement in response to the elections in Georgia over the weekend: 

    “Despite our recent concerns with democratic backsliding in Georgia, we had hoped to see a commitment by the Georgian government to run a free and fair election process that reflected the wishes of the Georgian people. In reality, we have witnessed something different in this weekend’s parliamentary elections. Reporting shared by the OSCE/ODHIR, International Republican Institute, National Democratic Institute, and ISFED show multiple violations that severely compromised the standards for democratic elections. We are also alarmed by the dozens of reports of election day interference, including violence, voter intimidation and ballot stuffing, that could have further damaged the integrity of yesterday’s election results.  
     
    “We call on the Department of State, in partnership with our European friends, to immediately investigate reports of fraud and any external interference to determine whether any actions have seriously impacted the outcome of the elections. Those responsible should be held accountable.  

    “This is a precarious moment for Georgia. The ruling party, Georgian Dream, must recognize that its actions could have immediate consequences on its economic and security agenda. Russia has also undoubtedly benefitted from sowing division and disinformation. We recognize the right of the Georgian people to, if they so choose, protest peacefully and call on the relevant Georgian authorities to respect this deeply important democratic right. 

    “If needed, we will make additional changes to our bipartisan legislation, the Georgian People’s Act, to ensure that those responsible for fraud and manipulation of the election process are held accountable. The US Senate is fully committed to supporting the democratic aspirations of the Georgian people.” 

    Last week, Shaheen and Risch announced that 10 additional Senators intend to cosponsor their bipartisan Georgian People’s Act – legislation that would hold Georgian government officials and individuals responsible for corruption, human rights abuses and efforts to advance the foreign influence law or facilitate its passage.   

    Earlier this summer, Shaheen led a bipartisan, bicameral Congressional delegation to Georgia with U.S. Congressman Michael Turner (R-OH), Chair of the U.S. House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence and a member of the U.S. House Armed Services Committee. During their visit, Senator Shaheen and Chair Turner met with Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili, Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, Foreign Minister Ilia Darchiashvili and Defense Minister Irakli Chikovani to once again raise concerns about democratic backsliding following the passage of the foreign agents law and anti-Western rhetoric and communicate the United States’ commitment to its longstanding partnership with people of Georgia to achieve a Euro-Atlantic future, including by facilitating a free and fair election in October. Shaheen and Turner’s visit came shortly after U.S. action to pause bilateral assistance to Georgia following recent actions undertaken by the Georgian government.   

    Before the trip, Shaheen and Risch issued a statement welcoming the action by the U.S. State Department to pause $95 million in assistance to the government of Georgia following passage of a foreign agents law. Shaheen first visited Georgia as an election observer with Senator Risch in 2012. She has visited the nation three times since.  

    In the annual defense legislation, Shaheen secured a provision that would require the Secretary of Defense to review security cooperation activities with Georgia in light of its new foreign agents law, a part of Shaheen’s and Risch’s bipartisan Georgian People’s Act. Prior to the vote in the Georgian Parliament, the Senators sent a bipartisan letter to the Prime Minister of Georgia urging the government to reconsider the bill.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen Leads Roundtable on Youth Substance Misuse Prevention in Claremont, Visits Hypertherm to Discuss Workforce Development, Continues “Invest in NH Tour” With Visit to Schaefer Center for Health Sciences at Colby-Sawyer College Nursing School

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen

    (Claremont, NH) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) led a roundtable in Claremont on substance misuse prevention with Youth CAN leadership and community members. She then visited Hypertherm in Lebanon to discuss workforce challenges, housing and child care. Later, Shaheen continued her “Invest in NH Tour” with a visit to the Schaefer Center for Health Sciences at the Colby-Sawyer College Nursing School, which she secured funding to build. Photos from today’s events can be found here.

    In Claremont, Shaheen led a roundtable with the Youth CAN coalition leadership team and community partners to discuss the organization’s work to prevent youth substance misuse in the Claremont and Newport area. Youth CAN is part of the Drug-Free Communities (DFC) Program which provides grants to local community coalitions to address the youth substance use disorder crisis.

    “It is crucial that we reach children as early as possible to educate them about the dangers of substance misuse, and one of our most effective tools to do that is the Drug-Free Communities Program, said Senator Shaheen. “I’ve strongly advocated for the program and was happy to meet with Claremont and Newport’s coalition and discuss their critical work to prevent substance misuse.”

    Shaheen has spearheaded crucial legislation and funding to stem the opioid epidemic, including to support the DFC Program. Shaheen recently introduced the Keeping Drugs Out of Schools Act to establish a new grant program that allows DFC coalitions to partner with schools to provide resources educating students about the dangers of drug use.

    Shaheen then visited Hypertherm, an employee-owned manufacturer of cutting products and software, to tour its facility and discuss the company’s in-house technical training program for workforce development, as well as engagement with Vital Communities’ Corporate Council to address regional housing and child care challenges. Vital Communities’ Corporate Council collaborates with Upper Valley employers to help solve the challenges they’re facing.

    “Many Granite State businesses, like Hypertherm in Lebanon, face complex barriers to recruiting and retaining a workforce,” said Senator Shaheen. “I was pleased to visit Hypertherm to learn more about the manufacturer’s innovative approach to workforce development and their collaboration with Vital Communities as well as discuss how Congress can continue help New Hampshire businesses address housing and child care challenges.”

    Senator Shaheen has long supported programs that support workforce development and increase opportunities and growth for New Hampshire businesses, including by tackling New Hampshire’s housing affordability crisis and the child care crisis. Recently, Shaheen joined Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su at A Place to Grow to host a roundtable discussion at the facility to discuss the first U.S. Department of Labor approved apprenticeship program for early childhood education operations managers and a new report emphasizing the importance of care workers.

    Later, as part of her “Invest in NH Tour”, Shaheen visited the Schaefer Center for Health Sciences at Colby-Sawyer College to discuss its new nursing and health sciences facility, which is funded in part by Congressionally Directed Spending. Shaheen secured $1.5 million in the Fiscal Year 2022 government funding legislation to construct the new building and to help address critical health care workforce needs by training the next generation of nurses.

    “As health care workforce shortages continue to impact our state, I was glad to visit and tour the Schaefer Center for Health Sciences at Colby-Sawyer College where they’re training the next generation of nurses,” said Senator Shaheen. “I secured funding to help construct the building and was glad to learn more about how the program is working to fill desperately needed nursing positions in the Granite State.”

    Senator Shaheen has spearheaded numerous efforts in the Senate in support of New Hampshire’s health care workforce. During negotiations surrounding the American Rescue Plan Act, Shaheen helped steer efforts to increase funding for the Provider Relief Fund (PRF) to ensure hospitals, nursing homes and other health care providers on the frontlines had the support they needed to keep their doors open and continue to care for patients. As a senior member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, Shaheen secured $17,419,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending in the FY 2024 government funding legislation to support health care and education needs in the Granite State.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy Op-Ed For The Financial Times: Breaking Up Concentrated Economic Power Must Be A Foreign Policy Priority

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    October 29, 2024

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, on Tuesday authored an op-ed for the Financial Times arguing that American foreign and domestic policies must align to break up concentrated economic power and revitalize local communities. Pointing to the Biden-Harris administration’s work to break up corporate monopolies, rebuild local economies, and create a new industrial policy, Murphy called for America’s foreign policy to be similarly reshaped.

    Murphy described how the Biden-Harris Administration’s decision at the World Trade Organization to block new data transit rules reflects a larger effort to combat the consequences of neoliberalism: “They saw the negotiations through the prism of America’s twin crises of alienation and the concentration of economic power. While all the key economic indicators point to a country that has bounced back from the pandemic, rates of addiction, self-harm and political extremism continue to rise as more Americans report feeling unhappy and disconnected from their communities. This alienation is the wreckage left in the wake of a half century of shared, bipartisan faith in economic neoliberalism — the doctrine that unrestricted free trade and market forces would best uphold the public good. The unchecked gobbling up of economic power by a few large corporations has left us with broken supply chains and uncompetitive markets.”

    Murphy underscored the need for a post-neoliberal foreign policy that aims to break up concentrated global economic power, protect fair trade, and breathe life back into local communities: “Trade agreements should be put to a simple test: will the terms concentrate or distribute private economic power? When new rules clearly give large global companies too much power over workers and citizens in individual nation states, then the answer must be to rewrite or reject them, as demonstrated by Tai. A post-neoliberal foreign policy must also challenge the ability of state-run economies to rig the rules of the global marketplace. Too often US foreign policy is focused on military threats. Yes, China and Russia present conventional military threats to global order; but America must expend equal effort on confronting our adversaries’ growing economic influence. This should involve speeding up renewable energy adoption to weaken the power of Russia and other petro-dictatorships and continued work to contest Chinese dominance of critical supply chains for products such as solar panels or advanced batteries.”

    “Our foreign policy must also buttress growing bipartisan efforts to create a new industrial and commercial approach rooted in localism,” Murphy continued. “Americans do not want to be part of a homogenized, flattened global economy. They want vibrant local economies where worker power is prioritized over shareholder power, community wellness prevails over the cult of efficiency, and values such as generosity and fairness matter more than greed and excess. Through carefully constructed tariffs and subsidies for domestic manufacturing and research and development, foreign and trade policy can be the vehicle for this change.”

    Murphy concluded: “Americans will continue to lose faith in their country’s democracy if we do not marry foreign and domestic policy in an effort to prioritize the common good over shameless profit-seeking. That decision at the WTO to rethink global data rules offers proof that the Biden-Harris administration understands the scale of the crisis the America faces and that it has laid the foundations of a coherent way forward for US foreign policy. The next generation of national security leaders must now build on and finish this work.”

    Read the full op-ed here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement from Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre on the Visit of President Nikos Christodoulides of the Republic of  Cyprus

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    On October 30, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. will host President Nikos Christodoulides of the Republic of Cyprus for a bilateral meeting at the White House. Building on the successful inaugural U.S.-Republic of Cyprus Strategic Dialogue, launched on October 23, the leaders will discuss a range of global issues, including energy security and cooperation, events in the Middle East, and continued robust support to Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression. Acknowledging the 50th anniversary of the island’s division, President Biden will reiterate U.S. support for a bizonal, bicommunal federation with political equality for all Cypriots.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Manchin Thanks West Virginia Coal Miners For Restoring North Carolina Road

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Joe Manchin
    October 29, 2024
    Charleston, WV— Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (I-WV) released the following statement praising the unnamed West Virginia coal miners who helped restore access to a 2.7-mile stretch of highway near Chimney Rock, North Carolina that was destroyed by Hurricane Helene.
    “West Virginia’s coal miners are the most heroic and patriotic men and women I have ever met in my life, and the fact that several of them voluntarily went to North Carolina to help restore access to a road destroyed by Hurricane Helene is proof of just that. This is a perfect example of the Appalachian tradition of neighbors helping neighbors.
     “Our brave miners have consistently done the heavy lifting to power West Virginia and America to greatness. Because of their work ethic and determination, they helped our country win two world wars, build cities and a strong middle class, and our miners continue to support Americans in every corner of the country. I want to send my deep appreciation to these coal miners for their selfless act of service to our Appalachia neighbors in need.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Merkley, Wyden Celebrate Multi-Million Dollar Federal Investment in Rail Safety, Stronger Supply Chains Across Oregon

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)
    October 29, 2024
    Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden announced $42,712,400 in federal funding is coming to Oregon for five projects to improve railroad safety, efficiency, and reliability across the state. The investment—funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law—comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program, which advances projects that modernize America’s freight and intercity passenger rail infrastructure to move people and goods.
    “Railroads are a vital mode of transportation for businesses and communities across our state, and this is the kind of significant investment in infrastructure we need to make to keep Oregon on track in the 21st century,” Merkley said. “As I travel to every corner of our state, I see firsthand the need for bold infrastructure investments in our communities. This nearly $43 million in federal funding invests in rail safety and stronger supply chains—creating jobs and economic opportunity for all Oregonians.”
    “Rail improvements in rural Oregon communities are a must to ensure small businesses generating jobs throughout our state have a full menu of reliable transportation options for their goods,” Wyden said. “Federal investments like this prove yet again the immense value of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for Oregon and the entire country. And I’ll keep battling to secure similar investments from this landmark federal law I worked to pass so Oregon could channel significant infrastructure resources into building a stronger economy.”
    Today’s major funding announcement comes after Merkley, Wyden, and U.S. Representative Val Hoyle announced last week that the Pacific Coast Intermodal Port (PCIP) Coos Bay Rail Line (CBRL) Upgrades Planning Project secured an over $29.7 million award through the CRISI Program. This critical funding further moves the Port of Coos Bay toward the goal of becoming the first fully ship-to-rail port facility on the West Coast.
    The five additional projects in Oregon awarded funding by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) CRISI Program can be found below:
    $19,843,062 for Watco ZE Locomotive Conversion (Watco Companies, LLC). The proposed project involves project development and construction activities to acquire and repower eight (8) diesel locomotives (non-tiered and Tier 0) with eight (8) battery-electric, zero-emission locomotives to be put into service on Watco-operated rail lines. Watco operates 44 short-line railroads across the U.S. and provides rail switching service to tens of locations, including at the Georgia Pacific containerboard facility in Toledo. The project enhances climate resiliency by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and the harmful health impacts associated with diesel locomotives.
    $13,736,000 for the Lake County Rail Replacement Project (Lake County Railroad). The proposed project involves final design/construction for a rail rehabilitation project on the Lake County Railroad between Alturas, California and Lakeview, Oregon. Lake County will complete an essential rail replacement project that would significantly increase track safety standards, allow for an increase in freight, and provide new connections for environmentally friendly industries. The replacement project will significantly improve safety standards, allowing Lake County to achieve FRA Class 2 (25mph freight) track safety standards on the lower portion of the line allowing for capacity for expected growth.
    $4,139,730 for the Sweet Home Branch Rail Relay (Albany & Eastern Railroad Company). The proposed project will complete final design and construction activities for track and track structure improvements on the Albany and Eastern Railroad’s (AERC) Sweet Home Branch in Linn County, Oregon. Specifically, the project will replace approximately 6.25 track miles of 85 lb. jointed rail with at least 112 lb. rail, which includes upgrading four turnouts and associated tie and surfacing work along the project area. The project will improve the safety and performance of rail shipments along this line
    $3,393,608 for the Mill City Branch Tie Renewal Project (Albany & Eastern Railroad Company). The proposed project involves final design and construction activities to replace 12,000 defective ties and related ballast and surfacing on the Mill City Branch of the Albany & Eastern Railroad Company in Oregon. The project will enhance safety and improve system and service performance by removing all slow orders placed on the project segments and reducing the risk of derailment.
    $1,600,000 for the City of Prineville Railway Track Improvement and Restoration Project (City of Prineville, Oregon). The proposed project will complete final design and construction for the rehabilitation of 18 miles of the City of Prineville Railway’s track between Prineville and Prineville Junction, OR. Specifically, the project will improve the track by replacing approximately 9,700 rail ties as well as associated tamping, resurfacing, and aligning the rail line, and the procurement of the necessary railroad equipment to perform this work including a tamper, regulator, tie inserter, tie handler, and mini excavator. These improvements will allow for the removal of two slow orders, decrease locomotive run-time and associated emissions, improve safety, and provide a Class II track condition, thereby imparting benefits to 34 rail users served by the City of Prineville Railway.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden, Merkley, Kaine, Markey, Van Hollen and Booker Warn U.N. Cyber Convention Could Justify Spying and Censorship By China, Russia and Other Authoritarian Regimes

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)
    October 29, 2024
    U.N. Convention Against Cybercrime Lacks Safeguards Against Abuse; Senators Urge Admin To Seek Better Balance To Protect Journalism and Human Rights
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., and five Democratic senators urged the Biden Administration to make clear a United Nations cyber convention should not be used to justify censorship, spying and human rights abuses by authoritarian governments like Russia and China, in a letter released today.
    “We fear the Convention will legitimize efforts by authoritarian countries like Russia and China to censor and surveil internet users, furthering repression and human rights abuses around the world,” the senators wrote. “While the Executive Branch’s efforts to steer this treaty in a less-harmful direction are commendable, more must be done to keep the Convention from being used to justify such actions.”
    Senators Tim Kaine, D-Va., Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., Edward J. Markey, D-Mass., Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., and Cory Booker, D-N.J. cosigned the letter, which was sent to Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Attorney General Merrick Garland, Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo and National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan. 
    The U.N. Convention Against Cybercrime was originally proposed by Russia in 2017 as an alternative to an existing treaty on cybercrime. The U.N. convention is expected to come up for a vote in the U.N. General Assembly as soon as December. 
    A broad array of advocates for journalism, human rights and national security have warned that the convention could be abused by authoritarian regimes to repress political dissent and censor independent reporting, and have urged changes to the measure.  
    The senators thanked the Biden Administration for seeking changes to improve the convention, but warned that the final document does not go far enough to protect journalists, cybersecurity researchers and human rights advocates against surveillance and censorship by authoritarian regimes. 
    “As the UNGA considers the Convention, the United States must not align itself with repressive regimes by supporting a Convention that undermines human rights and U.S. interests,” the senators wrote. “Instead, the United States should lead the charge at the U.N., with allies and partners, for a more balanced and rights-respecting approach to cybercrime. Upholding the values of freedom and human rights is essential not only for U.S. global standing but also for the protection of vulnerable communities worldwide.”
    Read the full letter to the administration here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Casey, Cartwright Secure Funding to Begin Construction on Scranton to New York Rail Line

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Pennsylvania Bob Casey

    Casey, Cartwright have long pushed to restore passenger rail service to region

    Direct rail service between Scranton and New York could generate as much as $84 million in economic activity every year, according to Amtrak study

    Funding to begin railway construction made possible by Casey and Cartwright-backed infrastructure law

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) and U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright (D-PA-8) announced $8,958,919 in federal funding to begin construction to bring back Amtrak passenger rail service between Scranton, PA and New York, NY. The award will kick off long needed railway rehabilitation and track improvements to begin the process to restore service between the communities via the Lackawanna Cut-Off. The funding comes from the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) grant program, made possible by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), which Casey and Cartwright fought to pass.

    “I have fought to restore rail service between Scranton and New York for my entire career in the Senate, and this investment from the infrastructure law means we are now closer than ever to making it a reality,” said Senator Casey. “Passenger rail service to and from New York will be a game-changer for our region, meaning more family time, more economic investment, and more job opportunities. I won’t stop fighting for this train until it pulls into Scranton.”

    “Restoring passenger rail has been a major goal of mine since my first day on the job. That’s why I’m thrilled to help announce that we’re getting closer than ever to seeing the realization of our passenger rail project. This nearly $9 million CRISI Grant Award will go towards restoring the rail line between the Delaware Water Gap and Scranton,” said Congressman Cartwright. “Connecting our region to major metropolitan areas in a seamless, passenger friendly system will be transformative. It will create jobs, improve quality of life, and offer convenient travel options for commuters, college students and tourists, alike. We now have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to do something transformational for our region.”

    Rail service previously ran directly between Scranton and New York but was discontinued in 1970. Without consistent use and upkeep, the track fell into disrepair.

    Senator Casey and Representative Cartwright have spent their careers in Congress advocating relentlessly to restore rail service between Scranton and New York. In 2008, Casey began leading the charge in the Senate to implement a passenger service between Scranton, PA and New York City. Representative Cartwright has also been fighting to restore the Lackawanna Cut-Off since being elected to the House of Representatives in 2012.

    Senator Casey pushed the Obama administration, emphasizing the need for continued support to see the project to completion. Additionally, Casey sent letters to the Lackawanna County Regional Planning Commission and the Luzerne County Planning Commission, as well as the Northeastern Pennsylvania Alliance and the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation in support of funding for the Lackawanna Cut-Off Restoration Project. Representative Cartwright also organized and led symposiums to highlight the project and helped the Pennsylvania Northeast Regional Railroad Authority (PRRNA) secure funding to investigate costs, feasibility, and impact of the project.

    In 2021, Casey and Cartwright fought to pass the landmark bipartisan Investment in Infrastructure and Jobs Act (IIJA), creating unprecedented funding for infrastructure across the Nation and paving the way for the restoration of service via the Lackawanna Cut-Off. Senator Casey visited East Stroudsburg to tout the potential for train service after Amtrak released a proposal to expand rail across the country, including restoring Scranton-New York rail service. In October 2021, President Biden delivered his infrastructure speech at the Electric City Trolley Museum in Scranton and was joined by Senator Casey and Representative Cartwright.

    In 2022, Casey and Cartwright led a coalition of regional partners from Pennsylvania and New Jersey in urging the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) to reestablish rail service through a once-in-a-generation investment in Northeastern Pennsylvania’s rail infrastructure. The Members have also pushed Pennsylvania Governors Tim Wolf and Josh Shapiro to support the rail project. In 2023, at the Members’ urging, Governor Shapiro pledged millions in matching funds from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) to further the rail service restoration project.

    In December 2023, the Members announced that the FRA had included Northeastern Pennsylvania in its Corridor Identification and Development (Corridor ID) Program with the goal of reestablishing direct passenger rail service between Scranton, PA and New York, NY. In addition, Senator Casey and Congressman Cartwright both delivered funding for the line in the FY24 spending bills.

    Since being elected to Congress in 2012, Cartwright has made restoring passenger rail service to Northeast Pennsylvania the top priority of his work in public life. Beginning shortly after being sworn in, Rep. Cartwright teamed up with Pennsylvania Northeast Regional Rail Authority (PNRRA) officials Larry Malski, Dominic Keating and Bob Hay for dozens of meetings and hundreds of calls, all with a view toward reviving the moribund project.

    In January 2017, Cartwright and then State Senator John Blake (and currently District Director for Rep. Cartwright) organized and led a symposium at Pocono Manor at which the bipartisan coalition of scores of local elected officials, New Jersey rail officials and community business leaders began to come together. At that event, PennDOT Secretary Leslie Richards and Federal Transit Administrator Therese McMillan provided key advice on how to position the project for success, including evaluating the repair work needed on the massive bridges over the Delaware River and the Paulinskill Creek.

    Beginning in 2017, Cartwright helped PNRRA secure funding from Lackawanna and Monroe counties, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation and the Appalachian Regional Commission to fund a rail study on costs, feasibility, ridership and environmental impact. These studies were performed by recognized engineering firm Greenman Peterson and, later, Amtrak itself.

    In February 2021, Cartwright and Blake held a Zoom meeting with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, and secured his agreement to increase the New Rail part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law by $2 billion, to increase this project’s chances of success.

    In May that year, Cartwright founded the Lackawanna Cutoff Rail Restoration Caucus in Congress, which included inaugural Members Susan Wild (PA-7), Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) and Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5).

    As a member of House Leadership, in the summer of 2021, Cartwright heavily lobbied top leadership to treat the Infrastructure Law as a stand-alone bill and pass it. Rep. Gottheimer also aided in that effort. It succeeded, and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act passed the House on July 1, 2021.

    In October 2021, Cartwright selected the Scranton Trolley Museum as the site of President Biden’s infrastructure speech, and invited Amtrak President Stephen Gardner and CEO Bill Flynn, who attended. The next month, November 15, 2021, Cartwright was joined by both men, plus Amtrak Board Chair Anthony Coscio, at the signing of the Infrastructure bill into law.

    In July 2022, Cartwright secured an agreement from Governor Tom Wolf to provide $3.7 million matching funds for the purchase of 43,000 railroad ties to upgrade tracks on the Pennsylvania side of the line. PNRRA will be applying for a matching grant from FRA in February.

    Later in 2022, Cartwright introduced Pennsylvania gubernatorial candidate Josh Shapiro to the rail project and met with him several times during the campaign. After his inauguration, Governor Shapiro agreed to a January 14, 2023, discussion of the project. On that day, after a full discussion of the project, including an explanation of its widespread bipartisan support and economic benefits, Governor Shapiro enthusiastically agreed to support it. He agreed to provide $125 million in local-match funds, to have PennDOT author the application to the Federal Railroad Administration, and to seek New Jersey Transit’s co-sponsorship of the application. Under the leadership of Governor Shapiro, and Pennsylvania Secretary of Transportation Mike Carroll, that application was submitted, and NJT did cosponsor it.

    This past August, Cartwright and New Jersey Congressman Josh Gottheimer led a delegation that included Amtrak’s vice president of network development along with N.J. Transit and PennDOT officials on a tour of proposed station locations and other key landmarks along the Scranton-to-New York City passenger rail route.

    The Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safey Improvements (CRISI) grant program is a federal grant program that provides funding for projects that improve the safety, efficiency, ant reliability of intercity passenger and freight rail.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Casey Secures $48.4 Million to Develop Hydrogen-Powered Trains in Erie

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Pennsylvania Bob Casey

    Funding will support Wabtec Corporation, which will remanufacture trains to run on hydrogen fuel

    Grant made possible thanks to Casey-backed infrastructure law

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) announced $48,412,512 to help Wabtec Corporation develop hydrogen-powered trains in Erie. Hydrogen fuel is a low-emission fuel that increases train efficiency and ultimately reduces fuel costs. The funding comes from the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) grant program, made possible by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), which Casey fought to pass.

    “Pennsylvanians have a long history of being on the cutting edge of building our Nation’s railroads, and it is critical that as America’s transportation sector begins using the technology of the future, our Commonwealth continues to lead the way,” said Senator Casey. “Thanks to the infrastructure law, we are investing in the development of trains that run on hydrogen, which will protect our environment and boost our economy. I will always fight to modernize our Commonwealth’s transportation infrastructure and ensure that Pennsylvania remains a leader the technology that powers the Nation.”

    The Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) grant program is a federal grant program that provides funding for projects that improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of intercity passenger and freight rail.

    The $48,412,512 will help Pittsburgh-based Wabtec Corporation remanufacture trains at its facility in Erie to use hydrogen as a fuel source. This research and development project will entrail control system and engine upgrades to accommodate the hydrogen fuel.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Casey, Fetterman, Scanlon, Boyle, Evans Secure $79.6 Million to Make PhilaPort More Energy Efficient

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Pennsylvania Bob Casey

    New investment will support the Philadelphia Regional Port Authority’s efforts to transition to more energy efficient equipment and operations

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-PA) and John Fetterman (D-PA) and U.S. Representatives Mary Gay Scanlon (D-PA-5), Brendan Boyle (D-PA-2), and Dwight Evans (D-PA-3) announced that Philadelphia Regional Port Authority (PhilaPort) is receiving a total of $79,650,965 in federal funding to plan and implement projects that will transition the port’s operations to zero-emissions equipment. The funding comes from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean Ports Program, made possible by the Inflation Reduction Act.

    “This investment from the Inflation Reduction Act will allow PhilaPort to bring down its energy costs and improve air quality in surrounding communities while incorporating the technology of the future into its operations,” said Senator Casey. “I will always fight to improve our shipping hubs to ensure that the Commonwealth’s waterways boost economic growth and create and sustain good jobs.”

    “The nearly $80 million investment in PhilaPort is a transformative step toward a more efficient future for Philadelphia. Moving to zero-emission technology will help make our port cleaner and healthier for the community while boosting the local economy and creating good paying jobs. This is what the Inflation Reduction Act is all about—making big investments that keep Pennsylvania competitive and sustainable,” said Senator Fetterman.

    “The Port of Philadelphia is a critical driver of good-paying jobs for our region and a vital gateway for goods and passengers across the country,” said Representative Scanlon. “I’m so pleased to see funding from the Biden-Harris administration’s Investing in America agenda continue to flow into our region, helping clean up pollution at our ports and improving air quality and public health in neighboring communities.”

    “This funding, which I proudly supported as part of the Inflation Reduction Act, will enable PhilaPort to adopt cutting-edge technology that reduces carbon emissions and could help expand the port’s operations,” said Congressman Brendan F. Boyle. “Philadelphia’s ports are vital to our communities, providing jobs and positioning our city as a key hub of commerce. This investment not only supports the hardworking port workers who drive our economy but also ensures that PhilaPort can continue serving the nation sustainably for years to come.”

    “I was proud to vote for the Biden-Harris administration’s Inflation Reduction Act, a landmark clean-energy and health-care law, and this more than $79 million in federal funding for our area is just the latest way it’s benefiting Philadelphia and the region,” said Representative Evans.

    The Clean Ports Program funding will support two PhilaPort projects. $77.6 million will help Philaport deploy electric cargo handling equipment, install new charging infrastructure, and upgrade existing electrical infrastructure. An additional $2 million will support planning operations to better understand the port’s current emissions levels, identify areas where energy efficiency can be improved, and engage the surrounding community about the process of transitioning to zero-emission operations.

    The announcement comes just a month after the members secured $217 million for PhilaPort to expand the operational capacity of the SouthPort terminal.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Casey Announces $6.8 Million for Penn State Rail Research to Improve Railway Safety and Reliability

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Pennsylvania Bob Casey

    Federal funding will support research to improve railroads’ safety, efficiency, reliability

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey announced that Penn State University is receiving $6,877,761 in new, competitive grant funding to research and develop technologies that improve railroads in rural areas. This federal funding comes from the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) grant program and will establish a rail research center to develop ways to improve railroad safety, efficiency, reliability, and sustainability. Technologies developed through this research initiative will improve railroads across the Commonwealth.

    “Ensuring Pennsylvania’s railroads are safe, efficient, and reliable is critical to keeping our Commonwealth fully connected and running full steam ahead,” said Senator Casey. “This funding will support critical research efforts to modernize our railroads and continue delivering transportation service across the Commonwealth.”

    The Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) grant program is a federal grant program that provides funding for projects that improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of intercity passenger and freight rail.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Casey, Scanlon, Houlahan Secure $11.3 Million to Improve Railways in Southeastern Pennsylvania

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Pennsylvania Bob Casey

    Funding includes more than $3.6 million to improve 26 miles of rail tracks on the East Penn Railroad and more than $7.7 million to secure rail track in Chester

    Funding comes from Casey, Scanlon, and Houlahan-backed infrastructure law

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) and U.S. Representative Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA-5) announced $11,393,644 in federal funding to make Southeastern Pennsylvania’s railways safer for passengers and surrounding communities. East Penn Railroad will receive $3,624,223 to improve 26 miles of train tracks. Amtrak will receive $7,769,421 to build a fence along a segment of rail track in Chester. These two awards will enhance safety by decreasing the chance of derailments and reducing the incidence of accidents. The funding comes from the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) grant program, made possible by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), which Casey, Scanlon, and Houlahan fought to pass.

    “It is critical that rail transportation is safe and efficient for all Pennsylvanians. Thanks to the infrastructure law, we are investing in rail projects in Southeastern Pennsylvania that will improve rail safety,” said Senator Casey. “Ensuring Pennsylvania’s railroads are safe, efficient, and reliable is critical to keeping our Commonwealth fully connected and running full steam ahead.”

    “We know the great impact railroads have had on our Commonwealth and the country for the last two centuries. I’m thrilled that over $11 million in federal funds is coming to southeastern PA to improve both passenger and commercial rail to improve both safety and efficiency,” said Representative Houlahan. “As Amtrak’s most traveled line, it’s essential that we put parameters in place on the Northeast Corridor, such as this steel fencing, to reduce accidents, injuries, fatalities, and operational disruptions. Our commercial rail also needs to be upgraded. I’m excited that 26 miles will be improved on the Wilmington & Northern Subdivision of the East Penn Railroad, greatly increasing capacity. This is great rail progress, and I’m thankful to the DOT for their efforts in improving our PA rail infrastructure.”

    The Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) grant program is a federal grant program that provides funding for projects that improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of intercity passenger and freight rail.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy announces $4.7 million in Hurricane Laura aid for Lake Charles church

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)

    MADISONVILLE, La. – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced a $4,680,568 Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) grant for Louisiana disaster aid.

    “Hurricane Laura devastated Lake Charles, leaving churches like the Church of the King with heavy storm damage. This $4.7 million will benefit the people of Lake Charles as they work to recover from the pain Laura caused,” said Kennedy.

    The FEMA aid will fund the following:

    • $4,680,568 to the Church of the King in Lake Charles, La. to replace its sanctuary building due to Hurricane Laura damage.

    MIL OSI USA News –