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Category: US Senate

  • MIL-OSI USA: One Year Later, Rosen Honors Memory of Victims of Hamas’s October 7 Terrorist Attack, Renews Push to Bring Hostages Home

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    Watch Senator Rosen’s Remarks HERE.
    LAS VEGAS, NV – Today, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) released the following statement marking one year since Hamas’s deadly October 7, 2023 terrorist attack on Israel:
    “One year ago today, vicious Hamas terrorists brutally murdered innocent Israeli civilians and soldiers, raped women, and kidnapped hundreds – including children and the elderly – in the deadliest attack on the Jewish people since the Holocaust” said Senator Rosen. “For a year, we’ve carried grief and pain in our hearts for the victims of this heinous attack and the families of those who continue being held by Hamas. Today, we recommit ourselves to ensuring Israel has all of the resources it needs to defend itself from Iran and its terrorist proxies, while also doing all we can to finally bring the hostages home.”
    In the wake of Hamas’s terrorist attack on Israel, and in the year since, Senator Rosen has been working across party lines to ensure the United States continues to support Israel. She led a bipartisan resolution demanding that Hamas immediately release all hostages, which passed the Senate unanimously. She was one of the first members of Congress to visit Israel following the brutal terrorist attack to meet with Israeli officials and ensure Israel had the support they needed to defend themselves. She also hosted a screening for a bipartisan group of her colleagues in Congress of footage from the day of the attack to bear witness to the atrocities committed. Additionally, Senator Rosen made sure the United States transferred two additional Iron Dome batteries to Israel following her bipartisan push to bolster this life-saving defense system. She also sent a bipartisan letter calling on President Biden to leverage the U.S. relationship with Qatar to secure the immediate release of the remaining hostages held in Gaza by Hamas.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hawley Statement on Anniversary of October 7 Attacks

    US Senate News:

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

    Monday, October 07, 2024

    Today U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) issued the following statement on the one-year anniversary of the brutal October 7th Hamas attacks on Israel:”One year ago today our great ally Israel was savagely attacked. A year later, they’re still fighting to defend their nation,” Sen. Hawley wrote. “Now more than ever, we must stand with Israel.” 

    Sen. Hawley has been a vocal supporter of Israel. Last year, the Senate passed his resolution condemning Hamas and the antisemitic student groups on college campuses that celebrated the Oct. 7 attack.

    Senator Hawley demanded Secretary Mayorkas terminate a DHS employee who has a documented history of making blatantly antisemitic, pro-Hamas statements.  

    He has also called for a DOJ investigation into third-party funding behind the violent antisemitic protests that convulsed college campuses across the country, supported deportations and visa cancellations for undocumented students participating in these protests, and exposed Biden administration nominees with antisemitic ties.   

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Casey Delivers $4.5 Million to Lower Energy Costs for Farmers and Small Business Owners

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Pennsylvania Bob Casey
    Grants funded by Casey-backed Inflation Reduction Act
    Grants will go towards purchasing and installing solar energy systems and improving waste digestion to help farmers and small businesses save on energy costs  
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) secured a total of $4,537,255 to lower energy costs for farmers and small businesses across the Commonwealth. The twenty awards will help businesses and farms purchase and install solar photovoltaic systems, which will convert captured solar energy into electricity to power machines and operations and save Pennsylvanians thousands of dollars per year. These funds will also help a Pennsylvania dairy farm purchase and install a new engine for their anerobic digester. The funding comes from the U.S Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Rural Energy for America (REAP) program, made possible by the Inflation Reduction Act.
    “When we invest in technology that lowers energy costs for our businesses and farmers, we are investing in the Commonwealth’s long-term success,” said Senator Casey. “Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, farmers and small businesses can continue supporting their families and their communities and save thousands of dollars each year. I will always fight for investments that lower costs, support businesses, and protect our Commonwealth’s environment for generations to come.”
    See below for a list of project recipients of the Inflation Reduction Act funding.
    Table of Funding Recipients
    Recipient
    Grant
    City/County

    Denis Beachel

    $329,831

    Danville, Montour County

    Charles L. Fisher

    $648,800

    Unionville, Centre County

    McNaughton Bros Inc.

    $152,600

    Indiana, Indiana County

    GeoTech Engineering Inc.

    $49,894

    Morrisdale, Clearfield County

    Ambassador Towers LLC

    $483,300

    Huntington County

    Pax-Terra LLC

    $610,420

    Meyersdale, Somerset County

    Schrack Farms LP

    $479,161

    Loganton, Clinton County

    Unity Lab Corp.

    $387,300

    Dunshore, Sullivan County

    Bruce King Jr.

    $306,150

    Troy, Bradford County

    Ebensburg Animal Hospital Inc.

    $165,773

    Ebensburg, Cambria County

    Mr. B’s Lawn Service Inc.

    $29,080

    Ellwood City, Lawrence County

    Talview Dairy LLC

    $200,704

    Lebanon, Lebanon County

    Philip Wise

    $79,000

    Berks County

    Mann Plumbing and Heating LLC

    $49,810

    Fayetteville, Franklin County

    Shree Sai Nivas LLC

    $81,142

    Mifflin County

    Joeseph Nolt

    $81,216

    Lancaster County

    Bellaire Farms LLC

    $184,050

    Elizabethtown, Lancaster County

    McCartney’s Inc.

    $56,024

    Altoona, Blair County

    Peter G. Reifsnyder Inc.

    $66,250

    Bernville, Berks County

    Eagle Rental Inc.

    $96,750

    Lebanon County

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Casey, Fetterman, Reschenthaler, Deluzio, Lee Urge Army Corps to Respond to Navigation Concerns on Monongahela River, Help Mon Valley Economy

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Pennsylvania Bob Casey
    Army Corps is leading on lock and dam removal in broader effort to modernize Monongahela River, key for region’s economy
    Members: “We understand that the various agencies of the Commonwealth are already standing ready to support the needed work on the Mon River. The Corps must do the same, as quickly as possible”  
    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-PA) and John Fetterman (D-PA) and U.S. Representatives Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA-14), Chris Deluzio (D-PA-17), and Summer Lee (D-PA-12) continued to demand action on significant navigation issues on the Monongahela River and the ongoing impacts to the local economy. Due to significant changes in water levels, commercial barges continue to encounter shallow areas that damage equipment and impede regional commerce. The Members pressed the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to act swiftly to do all in its power to help alleviate the depth and navigational issues to keep the Mon—and Southwestern Pennsylvania’s economy—flowing.
    “We recognize that addressing shallow areas that hinder navigation is a shared priority for all stakeholders involved. Because the dam removal led to the current navigational challenges, we believe it is imperative that the Corps does everything in its power to assist in remedying the navigational issues on the Mon River,” the Members wrote.
    In the letter, the Members highlighted how the project will be extensive and require a multi-party effort to address and urged USACE to commit to assist in determining outstanding dredging needs with the U.S Coast Guard, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), and industry stakeholders.
    The Members continued, “We understand that the various agencies of the Commonwealth are already standing ready to support the needed work on the Mon River. The Corps must do the same, as quickly as possible.”
    The removal of the Elizabeth Locks and Dam is part of a broader effort to modernize the Monongahela River, a key waterway for Southwestern Pennsylvania’s economy. Earlier this summer, USACE began the dam removal project with help from the U.S. Coast Guard to keep the river safe and navigable during the project. Unfortunately, due to a resulting shallowness in the lock chamber, commercial barges could not initially navigate the Mon River at standard draft. The Members alerted the Corps to the ongoing issue and urged the Corps to do everything in its power to remedy the navigational challenges that continue to threaten the economy in Southwestern Pennsylvania.
    Senators Casey and Fetterman and Representatives Reschenthaler, Deluzio, and Lee have consistently pressed USACE to act swiftly to restore commercial barge navigability to normal. In August, the Members raised alarms to the Corps after learning that the water levels in the Elizabeth Locks were too shallow to accommodate traditional commercial vessels. In July, the Members urged USACE to prioritize the restoration of the nine-foot draft and provide ongoing updates about the project’s status. They also reminded USACE about the steep economic costs of delaying this project.  
    Read the letter HERE or below:
    Dear Lieutenant General Graham:
    We write to reiterate our ongoing concerns with the impact of the dam removal at Locks and Dam (LD) 3 on navigation traffic on the Monongahela River (“Mon River”) near Elizabeth, Pennsylvania. The project’s goal was to create one, continuous pool of water between Charleroi, PA and Braddock, PA, reducing travel times for commercial vessels and boosting the regional economy. While some overall reduction in water levels were expected, the drop observed after the initial demolition at Elizabeth has been unexpectedly detrimental to navigation. The resulting low water levels have created new navigational challenges on the river, that must be remedied to ensure that the benefits of the removal become a reality. 
    We recognize that addressing shallow areas that hinder navigation is a shared priority for all stakeholders involved. Because the dam removal led to the current navigational challenges, we believe it is imperative that the Corps does everything in its power to assist in remedying the navigational issues on the Mon River. We understand that the Corps’ support for this work could include, but is not limited to:
    Developing and sharing all relevant data, including all survey results that may be helpful to determining outstanding dredging needs with the Coast Guard, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), and industry stakeholders;
    Exploring potential beneficial uses of dredged materials produced as a result of Corps dredging and any supplementary dredging;
    Expediting permitting for dredge work on the Mon River;
    We appreciate the Corps’ ongoing work to respond as it can to the high points by using existing funding to quickly begin dredge work on problematic areas. However, the outstanding work required to return the river to its pre-demolition functionality is extensive and will require a multi-party effort to address. To facilitate that essential collaboration, we respectfully request answers to the following questions:
    Will USACE commit to taking all action possible to return the Mon to its pre-demolition functionality, including but not limited to sharing all relevant river survey results with the Coast Guard, PennDOT, and industry stakeholders, exploring potential beneficial uses of dredged material, and expediting permitting as possible and appropriate? 
    What is USACE’s plan for the remainder of the dam at the Elizabeth Locks and Dam? Will USACE and its contractors continue to detonate and remove the dam? If so, does USACE anticipate that this will have any impact on water levels?
    How is USACE prepared to work with other permitting agencies to expedite any needed permit adjustments?
    We understand that the various agencies of the Commonwealth are already standing ready to support the needed work on the Mon River. The Corps must do the same, as quickly as possible. We appreciate your prompt attention to the urgent needs on the Mon River and the questions above. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 10.07.2024 Sen. Cruz Statement on Anniversary of October 7th Attacks on Israel

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas Ted Cruz
    Published: 10.07.2024
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) released the following statement commemorating the one-year anniversary of October 7th, the worst one-day massacre of Jews since the Holocaust.
    Sen. Cruz said, “One year ago, on October 7, the people of Israel faced the greatest act of terror in their nation’s history. Hamas murdered more Jews in a single 24-hour period than at any time since the Holocaust. In the face of evil, Israel arose and defended himself. I am awed by Israel’s spirit, and I fully support Israel’s right to defend itself and to utterly eradicate Hamas. America’s policy should be absolutely unequivocal to ensure that Israel has the military and diplomatic support to accomplish this mission for as long as it takes. This is a battle between good and evil and good must triumph. Stand strong, never again. Is now.”
    He also released a video calling for the United States to stand unequivocally with Israel as it eradicates the genocidal terrorist groups threatening its existence, for as long as it takes.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cotton Statement on One-Year Anniversary of the October 7 Terror Attacks

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas Tom Cotton
    Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) released the following statement on the one-year anniversary of the October 7 Hamas terrorist attacks against Israel:
    “I join Arkansans in commemorating the thousands of Israelis and Americans who were attacked, brutalized, kidnapped, and murdered one year ago today by Hamas. Over the last year, Iran’s terror network has waged war on Israel and besieged our own soldiers and sailors, leading to the death of American troops. The United States has a simple strategic and moral imperative, which is also the best way to rescue the hostages and honor the memory of the lost: back Israel to the hilt and let Israel win.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Boozman Joins Senate Republicans Marking Anniversary of Oct. 7 Attack on Israel

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) joined Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) and all 46 of their Senate Republican colleagues marking the first anniversary of the Oct. 7 terrorist attacks that killed dozens of Americans. The senators will introduce a resolution fully condemning Iran-backed Hamas for its actions, supporting the forever survival of Israel and calling for the safe release of American hostages.
    The entire Senate Republican Conference stands united in opposing violent antisemitic protests and Iran-backed Hamas’ use of rape as a weapon of war. They also reiterate Israel’s right to defend itself and emphasize the importance of denying Hamas the ability to reconstitute in the region to ensure the horrific events of that day are never repeated. 
    “Hamas’ brutal attack on innocent victims will never be forgotten. As families still wait to be reunited with loved ones captured one year ago, our resolve is unwavering to bring these hostages home. The United States stands with Israel, one of our closest friends and allies, as it continues to defend itself and its people. I remain committed to supporting our partner in its fight against Iran-backed terrorists,” Boozman said.
    “This time last year, I woke up in the Middle East to the unbearable news that Israel was under attack by Iran-backed terrorists and Americans were being killed and taken hostage,” said Ernst. “I immediately traveled into Israel to show that our nation’s friendship is unwavering, in good times and bad. Regardless of whether I have been in Jerusalem, Washington, or Iowa, I have worked around the clock to hold the White House accountable to its ‘ironclad’ commitment, bring our hostages home, and cut off the source of terrorism in Tehran. One year since that day, as Israel remains under attack on all fronts, Senate Republicans stand united with our greatest ally in the Middle East.”
    Click here to view the resolution.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Klobuchar, Smith Announce Federal Funding for Rochester International Airport

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn)
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN) announced they secured significant federal funding for Rochester International Airport for infrastructure improvements. The grant provides $15,774,313 to construct 1,647 feet of Runway 31’s safety area, reconstruct 6,450 feet of existing Runway 3/21, construct 2.5 miles of new service road, install 15,000 feet of wildlife perimeter fencing, and extend Runway 3/21 an additional 1,647 feet in length to bring the airport into conformity with current standards.
    “Rochester International Airport is an essential link for residents and businesses in Olmsted County and beyond,” said Klobuchar. “This federal grant will make needed infrastructure updates to ensure the airport can continue serving travelers for years to come.”
    “I’m glad to see the Biden-Harris administration once again delivering for travelers in Minnesota and around the country,” said Smith. “Small and regional airports like the Rochester International Airport are vital parts of their communities and this funding will go directly towards constructing runways and services to ensure it is safe and functional for travelers.”
    This funding is from the Airport Improvement Program (AIP), which provides federal grants for airport infrastructure projects such as runways, taxiways, signage, lighting, and markings.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Capito Statement on Anniversary of October 7th Attack on Israel

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito
    [embedded content]
    **Click here or the image above to watch Senator Capito’s video.**
    ***Click here to download Senator Capito’s video.***
    CHARLESTON, W.Va. – U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today shared a video statement marking the one-year anniversary of the brutal attacks in Israel that killed more than one thousand innocent civilians, including American citizens.
    Additionally, this month, Senator Capito joined a resolution—led by U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa)—condemning this attack one year later.
    Full video transcript included below:
    “One year ago today, Israel was brutally and indiscriminately attacked by Hamas terrorists in an act of sheer evil.
    “On what Israelis will forever remember as ‘Black Saturday,’ more than one thousand innocent people in Israel were viciously murdered by terrorists.
    “We watched in horror as Hamas and other terror groups took women, children, and elderly Israelis as hostages, many of them gravely wounded.
    “Some of these hostages were survivors of the Holocaust.
    “I am particularly sickened by Hamas’s use of sexual violence on this dark day, an inexcusable and disgusting war crime that must be universally condemned and never again used as a weapon of war.
    “As we mark the one-year anniversary of October the 7th, the deadliest day for the Jewish people since the Holocaust, I unequivocally stand with Israel and with the Jewish people, including our communities in West Virginia.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Capito Joins GOP Colleagues in Resolution Standing with Israel, Condemning Hamas on October 7 Attack Anniversary

    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.) joined all of her Senate Republican colleagues—led by U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-W.Va.)—in a resolution marking one year since the October 7 terrorist attacks that killed dozens of Americans in Israel, fully condemning Iran-backed Hamas terrorists for their actions, supporting the survival of Israel, and calling for the safe release of American hostages.
    Senate Republicans stand united in opposing violent antisemitic protests and Hamas’s use of rape as a weapon of war. The senators also reiterated Israel’s right to defend itself and emphasized the importance of denying Hamas the ability to reconstitute in the region to ensure the horrific events of October 7, 2023 are never repeated.
    “One year ago today, Israel was brutally and indiscriminately attacked by Hamas terrorists in an act of sheer evil that resulted in more than one thousand innocent people viciously murdered by terrorists. I am particularly sickened by Hamas’s use of sexual violence on this dark day, an inexcusable and disgusting war crime that must be universally condemned and never again used as a weapon of war. One year after these terrorist attacks and more recent attacks against the Israeli state, I unequivocally stand with the Jewish people, including our communities in West Virginia,” Senator Capito said.
    Full text of the resolution can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Risch, Crapo, Ernst and Senate Republicans Stand with Israel, Condemning Iran-backed Hamas

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho James E Risch

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho) ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, joined Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), and every Senate Republican, one year since the Oct. 7 terrorist attacks that killed dozens of Americans, in a resolution fully condemning Iran-backed Hamas for its actions, supporting the forever survival of Israel, and calling for the safe release of American hostages.

    The entire Senate Republican Conference stands united in opposing violent anti-Semitic protests and Iran-backed Hamas’ use of rape as a weapon of war. They also reiterate Israel’s right to defend itself and emphasize the importance of denying Hamas the ability to reconstitute in the region to ensure the horrific events of that day are never repeated.

    “Today, people across the world are remembering those lives lost and the hostages who remain in captivity in Gaza. Unfortunately, a year later, Iran-backed groups continue to threaten the safety and security of the Israeli people. Hamas continues to hold innocent hostages in Gaza, while the Houthis in Yemen and Hezbollah in Lebanon fire rockets and missiles towards Israel,” said Risch. “The United States can and should continue to do all it can to support our ally Israel and hold Iran and its proxies accountable for their brutal attacks. This resolution is an important message to the people of Israel that we remain committed to defending them.”

    “Just as the sun began to rise one year ago, barbaric Hamas terrorists stormed into Israel and launched a widescale attack on thousands of innocent Israeli citizens. Hamas kidnapped, tortured and brutally murdered thousands of innocent people, plunging the Middle East into turmoil once again. I continue to press for the release of the remaining hostages and to stand unwaveringly with our strongest ally in the Middle East and its right to defend itself from ongoing threats from Iran and Iranian-backed terrorists,” said Crapo.

    “This time last year, I woke up in the Middle East to the unbearable news that Israel was under attack by Iran-backed terrorists and Americans were being killed and taken hostage,” said Ernst. “I immediately traveled into Israel to show that our nation’s friendship is unwavering, in good times and bad. Regardless of whether I have been in Jerusalem, Washington, or Iowa, I have worked around the clock to hold the White House accountable to its ‘ironclad’ commitment, bring our hostages home, and cut off the source of terrorism in Tehran. One year since that day, as Israel remains under attack on all fronts, Senate Republicans stand united with our greatest ally in the Middle East.”

    Text of this resolution can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Statement on the U.S. Postal Service Reopening Montpelier Post Office

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)

    MONTPELIER, VT—Today, 65 weeks after the July 2023 floods displaced the downtown Montpelier Post Office and following the advocacy of Vermont’s postal customers, local postal workers, community and State leaders, and the Vermont Congressional Delegation, the U.S. Postal Service announced the opening of a fully-functional retail location at 89 Main Street in Montpelier, which will officially reopen to the public with a ‘Grand Reopening Celebration’ on October 12, 2024. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) released the following statement:
    “For over 450 days, Montpelier’s families, seniors, and businesses have waited for the U.S. Postal Service to stop stalling and restore service. After being pushed for months to act—by the Montpelier community, postal workers, local and State leaders, and the Vermont Congressional Delegation—Vermonters will finally have access to this essential service in their own community once again.
    “There is no justifiable reason for Postmaster General Louis Dejoy’s failures in Montpelier, which for 15 months was the only capital city without a fully-functional post office. Clearly, the internal benchmarks of the U.S. Postal Service to restore service after a disaster were entirely dismissed and the national management of the USPS has failed to respond to the needs of Vermont. Our state’s confidence in this essential service has been badly eroded, and we need to see concrete actions by the USPS Board of Governors and the national management to prove they can, indeed, deliver for small and rural communities. If opening a post office—a task this agency has done more than a thousand times in their 250-year history—is too challenging, they should consider a change in leadership.”
    Four months after Vermont’s 2023 floods the USPS temporarily relocated the post office to inoperable mail trucks with no power, bathrooms, or shelter from the elements. Then, PO box and retail postal services were relocated out of Montpelier altogether. Following advocacy by impacted Vermonters, community organizers, concerned workers, the press, and the Vermont Congressional Delegation, the Postal Service announced it had signed a lease for a new retail Post Office. Even after signing a lease, it took USPS an additional 22 weeks to open this new space.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn Op-Ed: America’s Next Commander in Chief Must Unapologetically Support Israel

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn

    WASHINGTON – To mark the one-year anniversary of Hamas’ unprovoked attack on Israel, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) authored the following op-ed in the Dallas Morning News highlighting the pressing need for America’s leaders to support Israel and stand up to terrorism around the world:

    America’s next commander in chief must unapologetically support Israel

    Senator John Cornyn

    Dallas Morning News

    October 3, 2024

    https://www.dallasnews.com/opinion/commentary/2024/10/05/cornyn-americas-next-commander-in-chief-must-unapologetically-support-israel/

    One year ago, Hamas launched an unprovoked attack on our closest ally in the Middle East: Israel.

    Hamas terrorist fighters entered Israel by land, air and sea. They brutally murdered, abused and kidnapped innocent civilians. They paraded hostages and dead bodies through the streets of Gaza like trophies. They killed nearly 1,200 people, making it the deadliest day for the Jewish people since the Holocaust. More than 200 people were kidnapped by Hamas, and sadly, more than 40 of our fellow Americans also lost their lives in the attack.

    On Oct. 7, the world saw evil in its purest form. In the days that have followed, we’ve seen heart-wrenching videos and heard firsthand accounts of the terror Hamas continues to unleash in the Middle East. These images and stories are painful to see and listen to, but it is imperative that we share them. People in the United States and around the world need to understand the magnitude of what happened and what continues to unfold in the Middle East.

    Texas is home to a vibrant Jewish community, and for them, the war in Israel is far more than a terrifying headline — it’s a deeply personal attack on their faith, family and heritage. I visited Temple Emanu-El in Dallas shortly after the attack to hear from members of the Jewish community impacted by the attacks. An elementary school teacher who had just moved to North Texas from a small kibbutz near Gaza cried as she told me about students who were slaughtered, and a mother of two young men in the Israel Defense Forces reserves told me about her beloved sons. It was difficult for them to share their stories, but they showed such courage in doing so to help all of us understand the personal and profound impact of a war happening on the other side of an ocean.

    Support for Israel ought to transcend party lines, religion, race and ethnicity. This is not an issue of opinion; this is a battle of right and wrong, of good and evil. Israel is our most steadfast ally in the Middle East, and it deserves our full support, both in words and action.

    I was honored to visit Israel earlier this year, and I was also extremely proud to have voted for widely-supported legislation that sent critical aid and military resources to Israel.

    However, not everyone has made good on their rhetoric about backing Israel. The Biden-Harris administration has tried to have it both ways after facing blowback from progressives and antisemitic protests on college campuses. Vice President Kamala Harris skipped out on attending Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s address to Congress. This administration delayed the sale of critical F-15s to Israel despite Congress’ approval. And it has withheld aid passed by Congress over disagreements on how Israel, a sovereign nation, should defend itself from terrorists.

    From the beginning of this war, I’ve said that Israel’s decisions on how to respond to this deadly attack must not be dictated by anyone but Israel. In the wake of 9/11, America’s allies didn’t attempt to micromanage our response. Instead, they stood in solidarity with the American people and pledged their support. Israel deserves the same, but the Biden-Harris administration continues to treat it like an untrustworthy antagonist.

    A year after Hamas’ horrific attack, the world has never been more dangerous. There is war in Eastern Europe and the Middle East, and tensions are escalating in the Indo-Pacific. This is a direct reflection of the Biden-Harris administration’s utter lack of leadership on the global stage, complete abandonment of deterrence and tepid support of our most critical allies.

    Our friends and enemies alike are watching how we respond. Iran’s missile attacks on Israel last week are a reminder that there is no daylight between Iran, its terrorist proxies and authoritarian leaders like Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping, who want nothing more than for America to abandon its allies.

    If Oct. 7 wasn’t a wake-up call for this administration, I don’t know what will be. We face a modern-day axis of evil, and we cannot be naive to the fact that our reaction to terrorism around the world can and will affect our national security here at home. We ignore this grim reality at our own peril. It is vital our nation’s next commander in chief understands the importance of being a strong, trustworthy ally.

    As we reflect upon this tragic day, may we mourn the innocent lives that were lost one year ago, vow to free those still held hostage and offer our unfaltering support to Israel as it continues its efforts to eradicate the evil that is Hamas.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn Leads Colleagues in Urging Restoration of NADBank’s Water Infrastructure Program

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX), along with Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) and Representatives Monica De La Cruz (TX-15), Vincente Gonzalez (TX-34), Tony Gonzales (TX-23), Veronica Escobar (TX-16), and Henry Cuellar (TX-28), today sent a letter to the North American Development Bank (NADBank) expressing strong support for the re-establishment of NADBank’s Water Infrastructure Fund and urging the board to take swift action in restoring this critical program to improve water security for border communities. 

    “The need for sustainable water management in the U.S.-Mexico border region is greater than ever. Re-establishing the fund would be a significant step in ensuring long-term water security for both municipal and agricultural communities,” they wrote.

    “As it did in previous years, NADBank should use funding from retained earnings to provide concessional financing such as grants or subsidized loans for water conservation and diversification projects. This investment is essential to the well-being of our American municipalities and agricultural projects, and we fully support the Bank’s role in overseeing and implementing the fund to ensure these resources are allocated effectively.”

    “We are confident that the re-establishment of the Water Infrastructure Fund will greatly benefit both sides of the border, ensuring that our communities have the water resources they need for the future,” the lawmakers concluded.

    Full text of the letter is here and below.

    October 7, 2024

    United States Board Members

    North American Development Bank

    203 S. St. Mary’s St., Ste 300

    San Antonio, Texas 78205

    Dear Members of the Board,

    We are writing to express our strong support for the re-establishment of NADBank’s Water Infrastructure Fund and to urge the Board to take swift action in restoring this critical program. The need for sustainable water management in the U.S.-Mexico border region is greater than ever. Re-establishing the fund would be a significant step in ensuring long-term water security for both municipal and agricultural communities.

    As it did in previous years, NADBank should use funding from retained earnings to provide concessional financing such as grants or subsidized loans for water conservation and diversification projects. This investment is essential to the well-being of our American municipalities and agricultural projects, and we fully support the Bank’s role in overseeing and implementing the fund to ensure these resources are allocated effectively.

    Any grant funding re-established through this program must be directed to both municipal and agricultural projects. These projects should not only conserve water, but also explore new ways to create additional water sources in the border region. In doing so, NADBank can address the urgent need for water security on both sides of the U.S.-Mexico border.

    The flexibility of the grant program is critical. NADBank must be permitted to fund partial project costs in coordination with loans to enable solutions for a wide variety of projects. Additionally, NADBank should not be prohibited from providing loan financing to cover any remaining costs so as to ensure the fund remains adaptable and accessible.

    Leveraging resources from other federal and state agencies such as the USDA-Rural Development, Bureau of Reclamation, and the Texas Water Development Board, will be critical in closing the funding gap for these water projects. We urge the Board to coordinate efforts with these entities to maximize the impact of NADBank’s investments.

    Lastly, we request that U.S. Board members encourage Mexico to meet its capital commitments in a timely manner, and that the U.S. Board use its voice and vote to expedite the release of the remaining U.S. capital in line with Mexico’s payments.

    Thank you for your attention to this matter. We are confident that the re-establishment of the Water Infrastructure Fund will greatly benefit both sides of the border, ensuring that our communities have the water resources they need for the future.

    Sincerely,

    /s/

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Remarks by Vice President Harris Marking One Year Since Hamas’ October 7th Terrorist  Attacks

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    Vice President’s ResidenceU.S. Naval ObservatoryWashington, D.C.
    4:02 P.M. EDT
    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Good afternoon.  In a few moments, Doug and I will plant a tree here on the grounds of the Residence of the Vice President of the United States, and we dedicate this tree to the 1,200 innocent souls, in an act of pure evil on October 7, 2023, who were massacred by Hamas terrorists. 
    Forty-six of our fellow Americans were killed in this brutal terrorist attack, including a singer from Missouri who died shielding her son from bullets, an academic and peace activist who studied in Seattle and who was the grandson of Holocaust survivors, and a dancer from California who was killed alongside her fiancé while attending the Nova Music Festival. 
    I am devastated by the pain and loss that occurred on October 7, and Doug and I pray for the family and loved ones of all of those who were lost, and may their memories be a blessing. 
    Today, I know many Jews will be reciting and reflecting on the Jewish prayer for mourning, the Kaddish.  The words of the prayer are not about death; it is a prayer about our enduring belief in God, even in our darkest moments.  So, as we reflect on the horrors of October 7, let us please be reminded that we cannot lose faith. 
    The Jewish philosopher Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel wrote, and I quote, “Religion begins with a consciousness that something is asked of us.”  So, in this moment, on the one-year commemoration of October 7, what it — what is asked of us?  What is asked of us?
    First and foremost, I believe that we must never forget.  I will never forget October 7, and the world must never forget. 
    What is asked of us: We must work to ensure nothing like the horrors of October 7 can ever happen again.  And on this solemn day, I will restate my pledge to always ensure that Israel has what it needs to defend itself and that I will always work to ensure the safety and security of the Jewish people here and around the world.
    What is asked of us: We must reunite the hostages held in Gaza with their families, and I will never stop fighting for the release of all the hostages, including the American citizens, living and deceased: Omer, Edan, Sagui, Keith, Judi, Gadi, and Itay.
    What is asked of us: We must uphold the commitment to repair the world, an idea that has been passed on throughout generations of the Jewish people and across many faiths.  And to that end, we must work to relieve the immense suffering of innocent Palestinians in Gaza who have experienced so much pain and loss over the year. 
    What is asked of us: We must continue to see light amidst the darkness.  As the late Rabbi Jonathan Sacks said, “A people that can walk through the valley of the shadow of death and still rejoice is a people that cannot be defeated by any force or fear.” 
    That is why today we plant a pomegranate tree, which, in Judaism, is a symbol of hope and righteousness.  So, for years to come, this pomegranate tree will stand here, spreading its roots and growing stronger, to remind future vice presidents of the United States, their families, and all who pass through these grounds not only of the horror of October 7th but the strength and the endurance of the Jewish people. 
    It will remind us all not to abandon the goal of peace, dignity, and security for all.  And it will remind us all to always have faith. 
    Thank you.  And I will now turn it over to the second gentleman, my husband, Doug.
                            END                     4:08 P.M. EDT

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senate Passes Bipartisan Resolution Led by Peters to Honor James Earl Jones

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters

    WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. Senate passed a bipartisan resolution led by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) that honors the late actor James Earl Jones, who passed away in early September 2024. Jones was born in Arkabutla, Mississippi then moved to Manistee, Michigan, and later attended the University of Michigan. He was widely known for his roles in The Lion King, Star Wars, Field of Dreams, and more.

    Peters led the resolution with U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Roger Wicker (R-MS), and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS).

    See the full text of the resolution here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Peters’ Statement on One-Year Anniversary of October 7th Attack on Israel

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters

    DETROIT, MI –?U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) released the following statement on the one-year anniversary of the October 7th terrorist attack on Israel: 

    “One year ago, the world witnessed the deadliest attack on the Jewish people since the Holocaust. Hamas terrorists slaughtered innocent Israeli mothers, fathers, daughters, sons, and grandparents who were visiting family, attending a music festival, or simply going about their daily lives. We will never forget the horrors of October 7 and the more than 1,200 lives lost that day. One year later, we are still working to secure the release of the 101 hostages who have yet to return home safely. The United States will always stand with Israel and support its right to defend itself against such heinous attacks. 

    “This past year has been difficult for many Michiganders, who have been faced with rising antisemitic, anti-Muslim, and anti-Arab hate, ongoing fears about potential violence and their families’ safety at home and in the region, and who have seen little progress made towards ending the conflict sparked by Hamas’ actions. 

    “As we remember and honor the victims of that tragic day, as well as the hostages and civilians who remain in harm’s way, we must also come together to forge a path forward, to condemn the hate that has become so pervasive since that day, and to continue our pursuit of enduring peace, security, and stability in the region.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Markey Statement on One Year Since October 7 Hamas Attack on Israel

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey
    Boston (October 7, 2024) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) today released the following statement marking one year since the October 7 Hamas terrorist attack on Israel. 
    “Today marks one year since Hamas’ brutal and heinous terrorist attack on Israel. We must never forget the deadliest day for the Jewish people since the Holocaust. In the past year, we have grieved the murders of more than 1,200 innocent Israelis, including Americans, the hostages taken and kept from their loved ones, and those killed in captivity. I have met with families of hostages, mourned with them, and felt their pain deeply, including the family of Yarden Roman Gat, whom I hold in my thoughts and prayers today. It is long past time to bring the hostages home and reunite them with their families who have spent the last year in unimaginable fear and anguish. We need an immediate ceasefire to bring them home, to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza, and end the brutal war that has gripped the region for the past twelve months.
    “Every life is a universe, and every death is a universe destroyed. The death and destruction we have witnessed cannot continue to be the world we accept. I am steadfast in my commitment to the safety of the Jewish people, the security of Israel, and its right to exist. Israel has the right to defend itself from terrorists, and as we mourn, we must continue to strive toward a shared vision for a just future. Israelis and Palestinians alike have the right to safety and security. Even amidst war we must always work for peace.
    “Today, we mourn each life lost and may their memories each be a blessing.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Biden-Harris Administration Ignores Bipartisan Budd Request to Establish Bounty for Hamas Leaders

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ted Budd (R-North Carolina)

    Washington, D.C. — The Biden administration has ignored a bipartisan request from Senator Ted Budd (R-NC) and 11 other Senators to authorize a reward of up to $25 million for information that brings Hamas leaders to justice.

    On September 26, 2024, Senator Budd led a dozen Senators to request that the State Department establish “a reward of up to $25 million under the State Department’s Rewards for Justice (RFJ) program for information that leads to the arrest of, locates, or disrupts the financial support for Yahya Sinwar and other Hamas leaders or operatives responsible for the murder and kidnapping of Americans on October 7, 2023.”

    The deadline to respond was today, the one year anniversary of the October 7th attacks, and the senators have not received a response and no reward has been issued, as of this release.

    The letter was co-signed by Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Kevin Cramer (R-NC), Katie Britt (R-AL), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Deb Fischer (R-NE), and Lindsey Graham (R-SC).

    Senator Budd said in a statement:

    “One year ago, Hamas terrorists murdered and kidnapped dozens of American citizens. After 365 days, the State Department has failed to issue a bounty that would help bring these terrorists to justice. The fact that the Biden-Harris administration continues to leave tools unused shows a complete disregard for the safety and security of American citizens around the world.”

    Senate Armed Services Committee Ranking Member Roger Wicker said:

    “The Biden-Harris administration should have posted the reward for these monsters’ capture months ago. They are not using every tool at their disposal to defeat Hamas.”

    Full text of the letter:

    Dear Secretary Blinken:

    We write requesting the immediate authorization of a reward of up to $25 million under the State Department’s Rewards for Justice (RFJ) program for information that leads to the arrest of, locates, or disrupts the financial support for Yahya Sinwar and other Hamas leaders or operatives responsible for the murder and kidnapping of Americans on October 7, 2023. The United States must use every tool and resource at its disposal as leverage to secure the release of hostages, including seven Americans, still being held in Gaza and to bring those terrorists responsible to justice.

    As you know, Congress established the RFJ program when it passed the 1984 Act to Combat International Terrorism. We can think of no better way to fulfill congressional intent than to offer rewards for those Hamas leaders identified in the recently unsealed federal criminal complaint charging Yahya Sinwar, Mohammad Al-Masri, Khaled Meshaal, Ali Baraka, and others with terrorism, murder conspiracy, and sanctions-evasion charges related to October 7th.

    We respectfully request a response to this letter no later than October 7, 2024.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Scott, Hagerty, Colleagues Call Out DOJ for Refusing to Provide Answers on Prosecutions of Illegal Aliens Registering to Vote

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Tim Scott
    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) joined Senator Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.) and Congressman Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.) in calling out U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland on the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) failure to prevent illegal aliens from registering to vote in American elections or prosecute those who evidently have done so. 
    “We are deeply concerned by reports of non-citizens registering to vote and voting in federal elections,” the Members of Congress wrote. “As of today, there has been no response from you or your Department regarding the inquiry on July 12, 2024, seeking information on efforts undertaken by your Department to enforce laws prohibiting non-citizen voting. Given that the 2024 Presidential Election is in less than 34 days, your Department’s inaction and refusal to provide any information regarding its efforts to promote public trust and confidence in our elections is especially alarming.”
    State officials across the country have recently taken steps to prevent, deter, and investigate cases of illegal voter registration by non-citizens, including in South Carolina, Georgia, Ohio, and Tennessee. Since the Members of Congress sent their initial letter, cases have emerged in the states of Virginia and Texas.
    “Clearly, there is a non-negligible amount of voter participation by non-citizens in federal elections, which is not only a serious threat to the integrity of our elections and the democratic process they represent, but also has the potential to reduce Americans’ trust and confidence in election results,” the Members of Congress continued.
    The members of Congress, once again, requested the following information by October 16, 2024:
    1. Please provide the number of aliens who have been charged, tried, or convicted under 18 U.S.C. § 611 since January 20, 2021, including the status of each case.
    2. Please provide the number of aliens who been charged, tried, or convicted under 52 U.S.C. § 20511 since January 20, 2021, including the status of each case. 3. Please provide the number of aliens who have been prosecuted under 18 U.S.C. § 911 since 2021, including the status of each case.
    4. Please provide the number of referrals received from other government officials or the public in reference to the statutes cited in questions 1 through 3.
    5. How does the Department of Justice investigate allegations received of non-citizen voting or voter registration? 6. What affirmative steps have the Department of Justice taken to detect, prevent, and deter illegal aliens and other non-citizens from registering and voting in federal elections? 7. What affirmative steps have the Department taken to obtain relevant information from the Department of Homeland Security on aliens who have registered or voted in elections? 8. What steps have been taken by U.S. Attorneys and the Public Integrity Section of the Criminal Division, which is responsible for prosecuting election crimes and assisting U.S. Attorneys in prosecuting election crimes, to obtain jury-related information that indicates aliens have unlawfully registered to vote?
    9. As the 2024 election nears, what steps will the Department take to detect, investigate, and prosecute non-citizens who violate 18 U.S.C. § 911, 52 U.S.C. § 20511, or 18 U.S.C. § 611 by voting or registering to vote in the 2024 election?
    10. What steps have the Department taken to contact Virginia and Texas election officials to obtain information and the voter registration and voter history files on each of the aliens removed from the voter rolls who were unlawfully registered and voting in those states?
    A copy of the letter can be found here.
    In addition to Senators Scott and Hagerty, co-signers of the letter include Senators Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), John Thune (R-S.D.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), John Kennedy (R-La.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), and Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.).
    Additional co-signers in the House include Reps. Andy Harris (R-Md.), Clay Higgins (R-La.), Gary Palmer (R-Ala.), Matt Rosendale (R-Mont.), Ralph Norman (R-S.C.), Eli Crane (R-Ariz.), Andy Ogles (R-Tenn.), Aaron Bean (R-Fla.), Josh Brecheen (R-Okla.), Nancy Mace (R-S.C.), Bob Good (R-Va.), Eric Burlison (R-Mo.), Mike Ezell (R-Miss.), Chuck Fleischmann (R-Tenn.), Tom Tiffany (R-Wis.), Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.), Claudia Tenney (R-N.Y.), Michael Guest (R-Miss.), Diana Harshbarger (R-Tenn.), Ben Cline (R-Va.), Chip Roy (R-Texas), Barry Loudermilk (R-Ga.), Mary Miller (R-Ill.), Paul Gosar (R-Ariz.), Lance Gooden (R-Texas), Jeff Duncan (R-S.C.), Harriet Hageman (R-Wyo.), Barry Moore (R-Ala.), Mike Collins (R-Ga.), Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.), Greg Lopez (R-Colo.), Keith Self (R-Texas), Brian Babin (R-Texas), August Pfluger (R-Texas), Alex Mooney (R-W.Va.), Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.), Randy Weber (R-Texas), Rich McCormick (R-Ga.), and Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy, Lummis, Colleagues Introduce Resolution to Celebrate Domestic Energy Producers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), and colleagues introduced a resolution to designate October 4, 2024, as National Energy Appreciation Day to celebrate the men and women who work to power our nation and the world.
    “Louisiana energy workers are the reason we have the fuel to run our cars and electricity to power our homes,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Thanks for powering the American economy.”
    “Wyoming’s energy producers work tirelessly each and every day to power our nation, yet our domestic energy industry is under attack like never before due to the Biden-Harris administration’s war on energy production,” said Senator Lummis. “I introduced this resolution to recognize and celebrate the men and women in the Cowboy State and throughout the country who work to power not only our nation, but the entire world.”
    Cassidy and Lummis were joined by U.S. Senators John Barrasso (R-WY), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), James Lankford (R-OK), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), John Hoeven (R-ND), and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS) in cosponsoring the resolution.
    Background
    American energy plays an integral role in keeping energy affordable, reliable, and efficient while also supporting economic growth and creating upward mobility. Not only have domestic energy advancements greatly reduced emissions, but widespread access to energy has more than doubled life expectancy and reduced the percentage of people living in poverty to less than 10%.
    The American energy industry accounts for more than seven million jobs and ultimately supports more than 10 million jobs across the United States.
    The U.S. oil and natural gas industry generates nearly $1.8 billion in gross domestic product annually. Federal oil and natural gas leases for onshore and offshore development brought in $15.9 billion for the federal government in 2023. This is $6.3 billion less than 2022, due in large part to the administration’s war on American energy, including banning exports of liquified natural gas. 
    Since day one of the Biden-Harris administration, President Biden and Vice President Harris have taken several actions to greatly restrict domestic energy production including:
    Halting construction of the Keystone XL pipeline. 
    Banning exports of liquified natural gas (LNG). 
    Drastically increasing royalty rates for domestic gas production on federal lands.
    Putting Resource Management Plans (RMPs) in place to effectively end oil and gas production on federal lands.
    Halting offshore oil and gas leases in the gulf due to the potential for the Rices Whale to be impacted despite no scientific evidence the whale is impacted by offshore drilling.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fox11: U.S. Senator Visits Project Angel Food

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for California – Laphonza Butler
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  • MIL-OSI USA: Brown Calls on New Mexican President Sheinbaum to Take Action to Address Threat Posed by China’s Connected Vehicles

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Ohio Sherrod Brown
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) is pushing the new Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum to address the security threat posed by Chinese connected vehicles. Internet-connected vehicles use information and communications technology services to collect a range of sensitive information, including sensor data and images, biometric data like fingerprints and voice recordings, vehicle location, financial information, and vehicle information.
    Brown led a bicameral letter asking Sheinbaum – who was sworn in as Mexico’s President this week – to take steps to scrutinize the manufacturing and sale of Chinese “connected vehicles.”
    The letter comes a week after the U.S. Department of Commerce proposed restrictions on the import and sale of connected vehicles tied to the CCP.
    “We ask that you quickly turn your attention to a new and growing issue: the national security risks to both our nations from the widespread presence of ‘connected’ vehicles built by companies with deep ties to the Chinese Communist Party,” the members wrote. 
    Vehicles are becoming increasingly equipped with new technologies that enable safer and more fuel-efficient travel for drivers and passengers. However, information and communications technology and services that are integral to such connected vehicles (CVs) contain vulnerabilities that may pose risks to U.S. national security if exploited. Connected vehicles controlled by foreign adversaries like China can offer a direct entry point to sensitive technology and data and can potentially bypass security measures. Chinese-made cars and the underlying technology enable China to access sensitive personal data of Americans and of critical U.S. infrastructure, presenting unacceptable national security risks.
    China has offered significant subsidies to auto manufacturers enabling them to export their vehicles and capture significant shares of foreign markets. One example is Mexico, where Chinese automakers have more-than-tripled their market share since the beginning of the decade.
    “For our own national and economic security, the United States has taken action to confront this challenge, imposing targeted new tariffs on Chinese goods, including vehicles, because of these unfair trade practices,” the members continued. “The fact that Chinese companies, including automaker BYD, have announced plans for assembly plants in Mexico raises the potential for Chinese companies to attempt to circumvent these tariffs with production in Mexico.”
    Brown asked President Sheinbaum to take the following steps:
    Formalize the current government’s policy, outlined in media reports, of scrutinizing federal economic development incentives – such as tax incentives and reduced utility and land costs – to firms with ties to the Chinese Communist Party, and to urge Mexican states to follow suit. This should include business partnerships with firms affiliated with the Chinese Communist Party, such as joint ventures with Mexican entities.
    Establish a national security review process to address risks posed by the manufacture or sale of vehicles built by Chinese firms to Mexico’s people, Mexico’s national security, and the regional security of North American and Organization of American States nations. Such a process would follow-up the December 2023 Memorandum of Intent signed by the finance ministers of both our nations, which affirmed the importance of foreign investment screening in protecting national security.
    Send a delegation from her new administration to meet with officials from the U.S. Department of Commerce, the U.S. Department of Treasury, the Office of the United States Trade Representative, the National Economic Council, and the National Security Council by early 2025 to discuss how our nations can work together to address these risks.
    Brown was joined by U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Gary Peters (D-MI), and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI).
    U.S. Representatives Elissa Slotkin (D-MI-07), Yadira Caraveo (D-CO-08), André Carson (D-IN-07), Angie Craig (D-MN-02), Don Davis (D-NC-01), Chris Deluzio (D-PA-17), Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06), Val Hoyle (D-OR-04), Dan Kildee (D-MI-08), Greg Landsman (D-OH-01), Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03), Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ-11), Greg Stanton (D-AZ-04), Haley Stevens (D-MI-11), Tom Suozzi (D-NY-03), Emilia Sykes (D-OH-13), and Susan Wild (D-PA-07) also joined the letter.
    Brown is leading efforts to stop China from infiltrating the American auto industry. In July, he introduced his Countering Adversary Reconnaissance (CAR) Act of 2024, new legislation to protect U.S. national security facilities, critical infrastructure, and American citizens by prohibiting connected vehicles produced in China and other adversaries near U.S. military bases and other federal installations. In April, he called on the President to ban Chinese-made electric vehicles in the U.S. to combat the economic and national security threats posed by Chinese automakers. In May, he urged the Biden Administration to ban all Chinese internet-connected vehicles and smart vehicle technology that is designed, developed, manufactured, or supplied from China. He also slammed the Biden Administration’s decision to allow the electric vehicle tax credit to go toward cars made using a key battery component from China.
    Full text of the letter can be found HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner, Kaine & Wexton Announce $6 Million in Federal Funding for Land Acquisition Needed to Preserve President James Monroe’s Oak Hill Home as a New State Park

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine, (both D-VA), and U.S. Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton (D-VA-10) announced $6,000,000 in federal funds from the National Park Service’s (NPS) Land and Water Conservation Fund to help the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation acquire the property needed to preserve President James Monroe’s Oak Hill home as a new state park.  
    “Oak Hill is an important site with clear historic value to our nation,” the lawmakers said. “We’re glad this funding will help us take steps toward preserving this site to create public access, especially as we approach America’s semi-quincentennial celebration in 2026.”
    Warner, Kaine, and Wexton wrote to NPS last year to request a reconnaissance survey to evaluate the suitability of designating Oak Hill, the home of President James Monroe located in Loudoun County, as a unit of the National Park System. They also submitted a letter of support for Virginia’s LWCF application.
    Already listed as a National Historic Landmark, the mansion at Oak Hill, located in Aldie, Virginia, was home to James Monroe during and after his presidency. The historic property is currently privately owned. The mansion and outbuildings have been well preserved by the owners, who now wish for the property to come under state management to share with the public the story of the former president and the craftspeople and enslaved African Americans who also lived there.
    James Monroe was an influential founding father of America, whose long career of public service includes serving as a U.S. Senator from Virginia, the 12th and 16th Governor of Virginia, the U.S. Secretary of State under President James Madison, and the fifth President of the United States from 1817-1825. One of his most enduring achievements is the Monroe Doctrine, which continues to influence U.S. foreign policy.
    In addition to helping more Americans experience history at Oak Hill, the park will feature new outdoor recreation opportunities including overnight camping, trails, water sports, and fishing. The site will also include historic sites and a diverse landscape that includes fields, forests, streams, rivers, ponds, and wetlands.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lankford Calls Out Biden Admin for Using FEMA to Respond to Border, Weakening Storm Response Readiness

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Oklahoma James Lankford
    OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — Senator James Lankford (R-OK) led a letter to President Joe Biden calling out the Administration’s reliance on the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to address the border crisis which has diminished FEMA’s readiness for disaster relief, including hurricane response.
    “Yesterday, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas stated: ‘We are expecting another hurricane hitting—we do not have the funds, FEMA does not have the funds, to make it through the season.’…Your Administration has spent over $650 million on FEMA’s border-related programs in FY2024. Since taking office, the Biden-Harris Administration has spent around $1.5 billion on FEMA’s border-related programs. We are concerned that your Administration’s reliance on FEMA to address the ongoing border crisis, under Vice President Harris as ‘border czar,’ has diminished FEMA’s readiness for disaster relief, including hurricane response,” the Senators wrote in the letter. 
    “FEMA’s continued entanglement in DHS’s efforts to respond to the border crisis could impact its readiness and emergency response mission. Rather than ensuring FEMA is ready to respond to hurricanes and other emergencies, FEMA has been pulled into a border crisis mission. FEMA’s mission is ‘helping people before, during, and after disasters,’ not helping DHS clean up the impact of your Administration’s reckless border policies. We are very concerned that FEMA’s role at the border has impacted its readiness and preparation efforts for Hurricane Helene and its response efforts,” the Senators continued. 
    Lankford serves as the lead Republican on the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs (HSGAC)Subcommittee on Government Operations and Border Management. He was joined on the letter by Ranking Member of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee Senator Rand Paul, MD (R-KY) and Ranking Member of the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations Senator Ron Johnson (R-WI), along with HSGAC Committee MembersSenators Josh Hawley (R-MO) and Roger Marshall, MD (R-KS).
    View the letter here or below. 
    Dear President Biden:
    We write today to raise our concerns on the impact of the ongoing border crisis on Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) readiness. Yesterday, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas stated: “We are expecting another hurricane hitting—we do not have the funds, FEMA does not have the funds, to make it through the season.” Similarly, you indicated this week that you are considering requesting that Congress convene a special session to consider supplemental funding for FEMA. Congress has appropriated over $30 billion to FEMA for FY2024. Your Administration has spent over $650 million on FEMA’s border-related programs in FY2024. Since taking office, the Biden-Harris Administration has spent around $1.5 billion on FEMA’s border-related programs. We are concerned that your Administration’s reliance on FEMA to address the ongoing border crisis, under Vice President Harris as “border czar,” has diminished FEMA’s readiness for disaster relief, including hurricane response.
    On the first day of the Biden-Harris Administration, you took decisive action to open the border and invite the chaos we have seen over the past 3.5 years. You ended Remain in Mexico, stopped deporting illegal immigrants, and terminated border wall construction. Over 8.4 million migrants have been encountered since you took those actions to open the border. US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) set multiple records for the most encounters in a single day and in a single month during your Administration. We have repeatedly asked you, your Cabinet, and officials across the Federal government what the plan is for addressing this historic border crisis. By March 2021, FEMA was already mobilized to address the surge of unaccompanied minors after your Administration exempted them from the Title 42 order. As your Administration began planning for the end of the Title 42 order, we learned that you had placed a senior FEMA official as the senior coordinating official for your response to impending surge. 
    Since the end of the Title 42 order, FEMA has continued to play a role in addressing the ongoing border crisis through the Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) and through the Shelter and Services Program (SSP). These programs have supported the US Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) “Plan for Southwest Border Security and Preparedness,” which calls for FEMA to “bolster[…] the capacity of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to receive noncitizens after they have been processed by CBP and are awaiting the results of their immigration removal proceedings. And … coordination with and support for state, local, and community leaders to help mitigate increased impacts to their communities.” Oversight from the DHS Office of the Inspector General (OIG) found that some illegal aliens who were ineligible for EFSP and SSP funding ended up receiving benefits funded by these programs. All told, FEMA has received $1.7 billion for its southern border response efforts. Emblematic of this Administration’s approach, one FEMA official informed my Subcommittee staff during a site visit that the Biden-Harris border crisis is like a hurricane: “FEMA can buy its way out of the border crisis if Congress allocates it enough money.” 
    Each year under your Administration, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and DHS have regularly requested that Congress cut detention beds and funding for border enforcement measures. Those same budget requests asked Congress to continue funding FEMA’s border-related work. FEMA’s efforts responding to the border crisis could have been much more limited if your Administration would have instead used your authorities to secure the border. 
    FEMA’s continued entanglement in DHS’s efforts to respond to the border crisis could impact its readiness and emergency response mission. Rather than ensuring FEMA is ready to respond to hurricanes and other emergencies, FEMA has been pulled into a border crisis mission. FEMA’s mission is “helping people before, during, and after disasters,” not helping DHS clean up the impact of your Administration’s reckless border policies. We are very concerned that FEMA’s role at the border has impacted its readiness and preparation efforts for Hurricane Helene and its response efforts. To better understand the impact of FEMA’s border efforts on its hurricane response mission, we ask the following questions: 
    1.     Since January 20, 2021, how many FEMA full-time employees (FTEs) have been detailed or transferred to border-related mission duties? How many FEMA FTEs have joined a border-related volunteer force or related opportunity from DHS? 
    2.     Since January 20, 2021, how much money has FEMA reprogrammed to support its border-related mission duties? Please share a copy of each border-related reprogramming request. 
    3.     Has the Administration conducted any strategic planning or assessment on the impact of FEMA’s engagement at the southern border? If so, please share a copy of such strategic plan or assessment. If not, why not? 
    4.     The DHS OIG found that FEMA funds related to southern border programs have gone to ineligible illegal aliens. What is FEMA’s plan for recovering those funds?
    Thank you for your attention to this matter. We look forward to receiving your response by not later than October 18, 2024.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Senator Markey Discusses Flood Mitigation and Economic Development Efforts with Lawmakers, Community Organizations in the Berkshires

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey
     

    Left: Senator Markey presenting the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art with a certificate of Congressional Recognition on their 25th anniversary
    Right: Senator Markey with A.J. Enchill, President and Executive Director of the Berkshire Black Economic Council, Destiny Saunders, co-founder of Dolc’e Rose Beauty Supply, and Pittsfield Mayor Peter Marchetti
    Boston (October 4, 2024) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) was in the Berkshires this week to meet with local leaders, workers, and community organizations to discuss economic development initiatives, flood mitigation and infrastructure improvements, and expanding resources for small businesses.
    In North Adams, Senator Markey celebrated the 25th anniversary of the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA), which sees over 300,000 visitors each year from around the world.  The museum, a converted factory complex, showcases all types of art and is a hub for both local and international artists. 
    Later in North Adams, Senator Markey joined Mayor Jennifer Macksey for a briefing on the Hoosic River Flood Mitigation Study, a project that aims to evaluate potential flood risk reduction measures and support development of a new flood mitigation system built with 21st-century engineering standards. The project affords flood protection to roughly 85 percent of North Adams’ industrial and commercial firms and about 25 percent of the residential property. Senator Markey, Mayor Macksey, city staff, and local advocates viewed existing damage to flood control infrastructure at three sites. Senator Markey led the effort to get the study included in the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), advocated for $750,000 in funding for the Army Corps of Engineers this year, and has secured $950,000 in the pending appropriations bill for Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25).
    “When Mayor Macksey called earlier this year to let us know more support was needed from the federal government to continue the study, I went to work with my colleagues Congressman Neal and Senator Warren to advocate directly to the Army Corps of Engineers and ensure the necessary funds were allocated within the Corps Fiscal Year 2024 budget,” said Senator Markey. “This is the type of partnership that we need between local and federal government to mitigate the future impacts of our modern-day climate challenges. I applaud Mayor Macksey, all of the local officials, Senator Mark, Representative Barrett, and the dedicated advocates with the Hoosic River Revival who continue to keep this issue front and center.” 
    In Pittsfield, Senator Markey met with Mayor Peter Marchetti, city staff, Downtown Pittsfield Inc, 1Berkshire, the Berkshire Black Economic Council, and the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission to discuss economic development in the city. Senator Markey and Mayor Marchetti visited small, local businesses in downtown Pittsfield to assess progress that has been made.
    “Over the past three years, we have brought $6 million in Congressionally-directed spending back to Pittsfield from the federal government. That is money that has gone toward economic development by investing in the Berkshire Black Economic Council’s business incubator, childcare through the YMCA, and so much more,” said Senator Markey. “We will continue to work with Mayor Marchetti, Senator Mark, Rep. Farley-Bouvier, and all our local partners to continue delivering results.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murkowski & Colleagues Urge Biden Administration to Release LIHEAP Home Heating Aid

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Lisa Murkowski
    10.04.24
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – With colder weather around the corner and Congress continuing its work on appropriations bills, U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Susan Collins (R-ME), and Jack Reed (D-RI) and are leading a bipartisan call for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to release funds for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) as swiftly and at the highest level possible.
    “As Congress works to finalize the Fiscal Year 2025 appropriations bill for the Department of Health and Human Services, we urge you to immediately release the highest amount of Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) funding available under the Continuing Resolution (PL 118-83),” Murkowski, Collins and Reed wrote.
    The Senators say the federal LIHEAP funding is a crucial lifeline that keeps vulnerable citizens safe and warm during winter by helping low-income households and seniors on fixed incomes pay their energy bills. Murkowski helped provide a total of $4.1 billion for LIHEAP in fiscal year 2024, with $4 billion through appropriations and $100 million in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funds.  Nationwide, an estimated 5.1 million households received assistance with heating and cooling costs through LIHEAP in FY 2023. In Fiscal Year 2024, Alaskans got $21.3 million from LIHEAP.
    LIHEAP is administered by states, federally recognized tribes and tribal organizations, and territories.  Eligibility for LIHEAP is based on income, family size, and the availability of resources.
    Senior citizens and those receiving Social Security Disability or SSI benefits are encouraged to apply as early as possible, but applications will be open to everyone through spring of 2025 — or until the funding is exhausted.
    Full text of the letter follows:
    “Dear Secretary Becerra:
    As Congress works to finalize the Fiscal Year 2025 appropriations bill for the Department of Health and Human Services, we urge you to immediately release the highest amount of Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) funding available under the Continuing Resolution (PL 118-83). 
    As the main federal program that helps low-income households and seniors with their energy bills, LIHEAP provides critical assistance during the cold winter and hot summer months.  October marks the start of the heating season for many states, and with temperatures already dropping, low-income families and seniors are feeling additional strains on their household budgets. 
    As state agencies activate their LIHEAP programs for the coming winter, it is crucial that they have the resources on hand to help low-income households and seniors as soon as possible.  As such, we request that you quickly release LIHEAP funds at the highest level possible, so that low-income households do not have to choose between paying for heat and affording other necessities like food or medicine.
    We look forward to working with you on this critical program, and thank you for your attention to our concerns and those of our constituents.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lummis, Colleagues Introduce Resolution to Celebrate Domestic Energy Producers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming Cynthia Lummis

    Washington, D.C. – Senate Western Caucus Chair Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) introduced a resolution to designate October 4, 2024, as National Energy Appreciation Day to celebrate the men and women who work to power our nation and the world. Senators John Barrasso (R-WY), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), James Lankford (R-OK), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), John Hoeven (R-ND), Jim Risch (R-ID), Bill Cassidy (R-LA) and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS) cosponsored the resolution.

    “Wyoming’s energy producers work tirelessly each and every day to power our nation, yet our domestic energy industry is under attack like never before due to the Biden-Harris administration’s war on energy production,” said Lummis. “I introduced this resolution to recognize and celebrate the men and women in the Cowboy State and throughout the country who work to power not only our nation, but the entire world.”

    “American energy production fuels American success,” said Barrasso. “Wyoming is America’s energy breadbasket. Our workers produce the energy and resources that keep America running and our economy strong. While this administration wages war on American energy, Wyoming will proudly celebrate National Energy Appreciation Day and continue to unleash American energy.”

    “Louisiana energy workers are the reason we have the fuel to run our cars and electricity to power our homes,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Thanks for powering the American economy.”   

    “Oklahoma energy producers and energy innovators are leading America to energy dominance,”said Lankford. “They continue their great work to provide clean, affordable, and reliable energy to our state, despite the Biden-Harris Administration’s agenda to raise energy prices and surrender our energy future to China.” 

    “Energy generated in West Virginia, made possible by our skilled and dedicated workforce, continues to keep homes warm, lights on, and move our nation forward,” said Capito. “West Virginia energy producers have done this for generations, and this tradition will always be a central aspect of our identity and culture in the Mountain State. On National Energy Appreciation Day, we recognize how this sector strengthens our national security and improves the lives of our people, country, and world. I’m proud to join my colleagues to once again establish this day of appreciation and highlight the importance of American energy and the personnel behind it.” 

    “National Energy Appreciation Day recognizes the vital role that American energy and its workers play in our quality of life and the success of our economy,” said Hoeven. “That’s why we continue working to rescind costly federal rules and provide regulatory relief to ensure our nation can continue to utilize all of its abundant energy resources, including coal, oil and gas, making energy affordable again for Americans.”

    “The thousands of hardworking Mississippians and Americans producing domestic energy are vital to our daily lives and the very foundation of our national and economic security,” said Hyde-Smith. “It is undeniable that U.S.-produced energy is not only more affordable, but also cleaner and safer than the options our current administration favors from foreign adversaries.  I am proud to join Senator Lummis in championing this resolution, and I appreciate the efforts of the American energy industry that powers our nation’s progress.”

    “With American innovation and abundant natural resources, the United States has everything we need to be energy independent and secure,” said Risch. “I’m proud to join my colleagues in celebrating American energy and will continue pushing for policies that cut red tape, boost investment, and ensure affordable, reliable energy for every home and business in Idaho.” 

    BACKGROUND:

    American energy plays an integral role in keeping energy affordable, reliable and efficient while also supporting economic growth and creating upward mobility. Not only have domestic energy advancements greatly reduced emissions, but widespread access to energy has more than doubled life expectancy and reduced the percentage of people living in poverty to less than 10%.

    The American energy industry accounts for more than seven million jobs and ultimately supports more than 10 million jobs across the United States.

    The U.S. oil and natural gas industry generates nearly $1.8 billion in gross domestic product annually.  Federal oil and natural gas leases for onshore and offshore development brought in $15.9 billion for the federal government in 2023. This is $6.3 billion less than 2022, due in large part to the administration’s war on American energy, including banning exports of liquified natural gas. 

    Since day one of the Biden-Harris administration, President Biden and Vice President Harris have taken several actions to greatly restrict domestic energy production including:

    • Halting construction of the Keystone XL pipeline.
    • Banning exports of liquified natural gas (LNG).
    • Drastically increasing royalty rates for domestic gas production on federal lands.
    • Putting Resource Management Plans (RMPs) in place to effectively end oil and gas production on federal lands.
    • Halting offshore oil and gas leases in the gulf due to the potential for the Rices Whale to be impacted despite no scientific evidence the whale is impacted by offshore drilling.

    For a copy of the resolution, click here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Following Disturbing Reports Of Veteran Mistreatment At Buffalo VA, Gillibrand, Kennedy Pledge To Hold VA’s Feet To The Fire; Demand Comprehensive VA-Wide Review Of Community Care Practices

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Kirsten Gillibrand
    Today, following disturbing allegations of veteran mistreatment at the Buffalo VA, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand held a press conference at Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 416 to discuss the failures at the Buffalo VA and to pledge to hold it accountable. She is leading a bipartisan push demanding that the Government Accountability Office conduct a VA-wide review of the Veterans Integrated Services Networks’ (VISN) community care consult practices to ensure that no veteran in New York or anywhere in the country suffers egregious delays in care again. Gillibrand was joined by Congressman Tim Kennedy, Amherst Town Supervisor Brian Kulpa, and veterans of VFW Post 416.
    “Caring for our veterans is our most sacred duty,” said Senator Gillibrand. “But the Buffalo VA failed to honor that duty and caused unimaginable suffering for Western New York veterans and their families as a result. This can never happen again – in Buffalo, in New York, or anywhere in the country. Today, I’m demanding a VA-wide review of veteran community care consultpractices to ensure that no one is slipping through the cracks. I am pledging to hold the VA accountable for its egregious failures last year and ensure that every patient has access to high-quality and timely care moving forward.”
    “This egregious neglect and failure is a betrayal to the women and men who have made incredible sacrifices to safeguard our nation. I join in requesting that the GAO conduct a full review of community care practices, which did not meet the needs of our veterans. I will not rest until the Buffalo VA has the leadership, staff, funding, and infrastructure—including a new state-of-the-art facility—to deliver the care that our heroes have earned and deserve,” said Congressman Tim Kennedy. 
    “I am proud of the work my office has done to shine a spotlight on the unacceptable, and at times inhumane, practices at the Buffalo VA. This report confirms what we long suspected in painful detail: the Buffalo VA has failed in its mission, allowing veterans to suffer unnecessarily and neglecting to treat life-threatening conditions. Such failures are a grave disservice to those who have bravely served our country, and we are committed to ensuring accountability and meaningful change,” said Assemblymember Patrick Burke.
    “Thank you to Senator Gillibrand for addressing this important issue and her commitment to ensuring timely, effective and high-quality care for all veterans. I am honored to stand here today as our federal elected officials work together to address any failures in service, and take the necessary steps to do better going forward for all who served our country,” said Amherst Town Supervisor Brian Kulpa. 
    “As a member of the military community, I know the struggles facing veterans when it comes to their mental and physical recovery and wellbeing. I want to thank Senator Gillibrand for putting a spotlight on this issue. We all need to come together to make improvements and assist veterans as best we can. Every man and woman who served under the American flag deserves the best care and resources possible, and today’s announcement is the right step in that direction,” said Amherst Deputy Town Supervisor Shawn Lavin. 
    The full text of Senator Gillibrand’s letter to the Government Accountability Office is available HERE or below:
    Dear Mr. Dodaro:
                On Friday, September 27th, the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General (“OIG”) released its findings following its inspection of the VA Western New York Health System in Buffalo, New York. The report – Leaders Failed to Address Community Care Consult Delays Despite Staff’s Advocacy Efforts at VA Western New York Healthcare System in Buffalo – found a shocking pattern of apathy and incompetence on the part of Department facility and community care leaders in addressing the needs of patients with complex and high-risk conditions.
                As the report indicates, these delays caused or led to an increased risk of harm to the patients. One veteran passed away while waiting months to receive palliative care that would have helped manage cancer pain in their final months. Another patient  waited nine weeks to schedule radiation therapy for a new cancer malignancy, despite efforts by the chief of oncology to get the community care team to schedule treatment. Another veteran in their twenties continued to suffer from seizures for another 10 months as they waited for a consult to be scheduled, the delay partially caused by a referral being canceled by the community care medical director. These are only some of the cases highlighted by an OIG report that identified incompetence and bureaucratic red tape that failed the veterans in Buffalo again and again.
                The failure by the leadership at the Buffalo VA Medical Center must never occur again, and veterans across the United States must be reassured that they can receive timely and high-quality health care across the VA health care system.  Therefore, I request that the Government Accountability Office (GAO) conduct a review of Veterans Integrated Services Networks’ (VISN) community care consult practices. The review should include, but not be limited to: 
    Oversight of medical centers’ adherence to Veterans Health Administration (VHA) requirements for processing consults for conditions considered high-risk or complex; 
    Whether consults are appropriately prioritized and consistently processed within VHA’s timeliness requirements;
    Reviewing how medical facility, VISN leaders, and the VHA Office of Integrated Veteran Care respond to concerns regarding delays in consult scheduling from providers, staff, patients, and their families and how this is built into VHA’s quality and risk management programs;
    Best practices to prevent and address leadership deficiencies within the community care scheduling process, including the prioritization of patient safety;
    I request a briefing on the preliminary findings with final results to be submitted on a date and in form mutually agreed upon. Please include recommendations, as appropriate, for agency or congressional action in your evaluation.
    Sincerely, 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bennet, Hickenlooper Welcome $170 Million for Clean Water, Reliable Energy Infrastructure in Colorado

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Colorado Michael Bennet
    Denver — Colorado U.S. Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper welcomed over $170 million in loans and grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for 12 Colorado projects in rural and Tribal communities to expand access to safe drinking water and reliable energy. 
    “Everyone deserves access to clean and safe water, no matter where they live. However, far too many rural communities in Colorado face the challenges of aging or unsafe water infrastructure,” said Bennet. “I’m glad towns from Holly to Del Norte will receive this federal support to help them continue delivering reliable, clean water to Coloradans across the state.”’
    “Where you live shouldn’t determine if you have clean water to drink or reliable electricity to keep the lights on,” said Hickenlooper. “From Rocky Ford to Silverton, these investments will create thousands of good-paying jobs while expanding access to safe drinking water and reliable energy.” 
    The  funding announcement is part of a $1.3 billion nationwide investment to make water infrastructure and the electrical grid more resilient to extreme weather, while creating thousands of well-paying jobs in the process. This funding comes from USDA’s Water and Waste Disposal Loans and Grants and the Electric Infrastructure Loan and Loan Guarantee programs. It is divided between over $127 million in grant funding and over $42 million in federal loans to the 12 Colorado projects. 
    A full list of selected projects is below:

    Recipient

    Grant Awarded

    Loan Awarded

    Description

    Location

    Hunter Solar

    N/A

    $38,285,000

    Provide long term financing of a 75 MW solar farm

    Arapahoe County

    San Miguel Power Association

     
    N/A

    $29,784,000

    Build and improve power lines, invest in smart grid technologies

    San Miguel County

    City of Rocky Ford

    $7,935,000

    $20,351,000

    Replace problematic sections of the existing water system

    City of Rocky Ford

    Town of Del Norte

    $11,018,000

    $12,010,000

    Replace undersized and failing water piping and add fire hydrants to extend firefighting coverage

    Town of Del Norte

    Montezuma Water Company

    N/A

    $15,300,000

    Modernize the water system to increase capacity,  install new water pumps

    Montezuma County

    Town of Holly

    $6,189,000

    $4,740,000

    Construct a new well and treatment plant and improve system efficiency

    Town of Holly

    Town of Walsh

    $4,404,000

    $1,550,000

    Upgrade the water treatment system

    Town of Walsh

    Sedalia Water and Sanitation District

    $5,045,000

    $561,000

    Help replace an aging water distribution system and connect the system to Castle Rock’s water system

    Douglas County

    Town of Silverton

    $2,764,000

    $2,165,000

    Improve wastewater treatment facilities

    Town of Silverton

    Town of Bethune

    $2,662,000

    $1,523,000

    Decommission existing treatment plant and construct a new 3-pond evaporation system

    Town of Bethune

    Meadow Mountain Water Supply Company

     
    $1,974,000

     
    $441,000

    Repair failing water distribution system

    Allenspark, CO

    Marble Water Company

    $455,000

    $1,158,000

    Install new distribution lines, fire hydrants, and water pumps

    Town of Marble

    MIL OSI USA News –