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Category: US Senate

  • MIL-OSI USA: Remarks by President  Biden and First Lady Jill  Biden at the United Nations General Assembly Leaders’ Reception | New York,  NY

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    Metropolitan Museum of ArtNew York, New York
    5:49 P.M. EDT
    THE FIRST LADY: Good evening. (Applause.)
    Aren’t all of our U.S. military musicians spectacular? (Applause.) Thank you for all that you — for joining us this evening. It’s great to be with so many friends here.
    For Joe, diplomacy is personal. It’s why, for more than 50 years, he’s created deep personal bonds with world leaders. He shows up for our allies and our partners. He listens and is always eager to debate complex international issues to find common ground.
    Serving as first lady has be- — of the United States is the honor of my life. This is our — (applause). Thank you.
    This is our fi- — our United Nations — our final United Nations General Assembly as president and first lady. So, tonight, I want to take this moment to celebrate Joe and honor the relationships he’s built with all of you — (applause) — to honor these relationships with all of you to shape a brighter future for people around the world.
    Please join me in welcoming my husband, President Joe Biden. (Applause.)
    THE PRESIDENT: (Laughs.) That was worth the trip. (Laughter.)
    Well, welcome, everyone. I’m delighted to see you all. You know, my fellow leaders and friends we’ve honored here, it’s an honor to welcome you here tonight.
    I should start off by saying we owe a special thanks tonight to — to Mayor Bloomberg. He’s not the mayor right now, but he’s still the mayor. (Laughter.) Mr. Mayor, thank you for all you’ve done.
    I want to begin by quoting someone who I wish was here tonight: my mom, Catherine Eugenia Finnegan Biden. (Applause.) Growing up, my mom had an expression. She had a lot of expression. She had a backbone like a ramrod. But my mom, she used to say, “Joey, remember, never bow, never bend, never yield, and never give up.”
    Folks, as I said yesterday at the United Nations, I recognize the challenges the world faces: Ukraine, Gaza, Sudan, Haiti, war, hunger, poverty, climate change. But my message to you tonight is this: We must never, ever, ever bow, bend, yield, or give up. And most importantly, we must never lose faith — lose faith in our abilities to do so much.
    I was first elected to the United States Senate when I was 29 years old, 280 years ago. (Laughter.) Since then, I’ve seen the impossible become — the impossible become reality, for real. I’ve seen the Berlin Wall come down. I’ve seen Poland leave the (inaudible) — I shouldn’t go on, I guess. But I’ve seen apartheid end. I’ve seen humanity pull together to prevent a nuclear war. I’ve seen war criminals and dictators face justice and accountability for human rights violations. And I’ve seen countries in the Middle East make peace. We must always remember.
    In America, I was (inaudible) — I spent a lot of time with Xi of China, and we were in the Tibetan Plateau, and it was one of my 90-some hours alone with him. And he looked at me; he said, “Can you define America for me?” This is an absolutely true story. He said, “Can you define America for me?” I said, “Yes. In one word: possibilities — possibilities.” (Applause.) We believe anything is possible. No, I really mean it. Remember, nothing is impossible.
    And, folks, look, in our time, we turn the page on the — on the — on a whole range of issues. We turned the page. Nothing is impossible, as I said, but we turned the page on the worst pandemic in a century. We defended Ukraine as a tyrant threatened to wipe it off the map. We made the largest investment in history to fight climate change, the existential threat to humanity.
    And, folks, time and again — and I mean this sincerely — time and again, our nation and our world found a way forward. But make no mistake: It didn’t happen by accident. Nothing was inevitable. It took people like all of you assembled here tonight refusing to give up, rejecting the forces that pull us apart, believing that change is possible, and fighting to make it so every single day. That’s what you in this room assembled have done.
    Ladies and gentlemen, that’s our change. Together, we can broker deals, end wars and suffering. We can stop the spread of disease and dangerous weapons alike. We can make AIempower people, not shackle them. We can cut our emissions and achieve our climate ambitions. We can leave our children, literally, a better world.
    That’s our obligation, and we can. We can do this.
    I can say to you — and I mean this sincerely — I’ve never more optimistic in my life because of all of you, and I mean it from the bottom of my heart.
    So, thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Keep it up.
    And every time I’d walk out of my grandpop’s house up in Scranton, he’d yell, “Joey, keep the faith.” My grandmother would go, “No, Joey, spread it.” Spread it. Spread it. Spread it. (Applause.)
    Folks, remember, nothing is beyond our capacity when we work together. Nothing at all.
    So, thank you, thank you, thank you for all you’re doing. I appreciate it very, very much.
    It’s an honor to be with you. Thank you. (Applause.)
    5:54 P.M. EDT

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Joint Statement by the United  States, Australia, Canada, European Union, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom,  Qatar

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    The situation between Lebanon and Israel since October 8th, 2023 is intolerable and presents an unacceptable risk of a broader regional escalation. This is in nobody’s interest, neither of the people of Israel nor of the people of Lebanon.  
    It is time to conclude a diplomatic settlement that enables civilians on both sides of the border to return to their homes in safety.
    Diplomacy however cannot succeed amid an escalation of this conflict.  
    Thus we call for an immediate 21 day ceasefire across the Lebanon-Israel border to provide space for diplomacy towards the conclusion of a diplomatic settlement consistent with UNSCR 1701, and the implementation of UNSCR 2735 regarding a ceasefire in Gaza
    We call on all parties, including the Governments of Israel and Lebanon, to endorse the temporary ceasefire immediately consistent with UNSCR 1701 during this period, and to give a real chance to a diplomatic settlement.  
    We are then prepared to fully support all diplomatic efforts to conclude an agreement between Lebanon and Israel within this period, building on efforts over the last months, that ends this crisis altogether.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Joint statement by President  Biden and President  Macron

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    It is time for a settlement on the Israel-Lebanon border that ensures safety and security to enable civilians to return to their homes. The exchange of fire since October 7th, and in particular over the past two weeks, threatens a much broader conflict, and harm to civilians. We therefore have worked together in recent days on a joint call for a temporary ceasefire to give diplomacy a chance to succeed and avoid further escalations across the border. The statement we have negotiated is now endorsed by the United States, Australia, Canada, European Union, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and Qatar. We call for broad endorsement and for the immediate support of the Governments of Israel and Lebanon.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: September 25th, 2024 Zuni Indian Tribe and Navajo Nation Rio San José Stream System Water Rights Settlements Bills Receive Key Committee Hearing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich
    Before legislative hearing, Heinrich’s bipartisan Indian Buffalo Management Act also advanced out of Senate Committee
    WASHINGTON – Today, the Zuni Indian Tribe Water Rights Settlement Act and the Navajo Nation Rio San José Stream System Water Rights Settlement Act, bills sponsored by U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), received a key hearing before the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs.

    VIDEO: U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich testifies in support of the Zuni Indian Tribe Water Rights Settlement Act and the Navajo Nation Rio San José Stream System Water Rights Settlement Act during a hearing before the U.S. Senate Committee on Indian Affairs onSeptember 25, 2024.
    “The failure of the United States to work with Tribal Governments to ensure that they could use the water they have always owned has reverberated through generations,” said Heinrich. “It has a direct impact on the well-being of Tribal members today. It’s time we make this right for Zuni and the Navajo Nation.”
    Heinrich and U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) introduced the Zuni Indian Tribe Water Rights Settlement Act in July. The bill would unlock federal funding to support a trust for sustainable water management and infrastructure development that upholds the federal government’s trust responsibility while protecting the sacred Zuni Salt Lake. The bill ratifies the settlement between the federal government, State of New Mexico, and Zuni Tribe that affirms their water rights for irrigation, livestock, storage, and domestic and other uses. During the hearing, Zuni Tribe Governor Arden Kucate testified in support of the legislation.
    Heinrich and U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.) introduced the Navajo Nation Rio San José Stream System Water Rights Settlement Act earlier this month to approve the water rights settlement for the Navajo Nation as well as participating non-Tribal parties in the Rio San José watershed. During the hearing, Navajo Nation President Dr. Buu Nygren testified in support of the legislation.
    Heinrich and Leger Fernández previously introduced the Rio San José and Rio Jemez Water Settlements Act, which would implement the water settlements agreed to by the Pueblos of Acoma and Laguna, the United States, the State of New Mexico, and non-Tribal parties, in the Rio San José watershed. That bill received a hearing and was reported out of the Senate Indian Affairs Committee in December. The House version of this bill received a legislative hearing in the House Water, Wildlife and Fisheries Subcommittee in July. The bill introduced this month and heard today in the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs would further resolve Tribal water claims in the Rio San José basin by settling the Navajo Nation’s claims.  
    Before the hearing on Tribal water rights settlements legislation, the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs also held a business meeting in which members voted to advance Heinrich’s Indian Buffalo Management Act. That legislation received a hearing before the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs in June.
    “This legislation will further foster growth of Tribal bison herds, and I am grateful for the committee’s support,” said Heinrich.
    The Indian Buffalo Management Act, which Heinrich introduced last year alongside U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), provides secure, consistent funding for Tribes and Tribal organizations that have established buffalo herds, as well as provides resources for Tribes that would like to establish new herds.
    The bill creates a permanent buffalo restoration and management program within the Department of Interior to:
    Promote and develop the capacity of Tribes and Tribal organizations to manage buffalo and buffalo habitat;
    Protect and enhance buffalo herds for the maximum benefit of Tribes; and
    Ensure that Tribes are directly involved in the Interior Department decision-making regarding buffalo.
    The bill has been endorsed by the InterTribal Buffalo Council, the National Bison Association, The Nature Conservancy, the National Wildlife Federation, and the National Parks Conservation Association.
    Full video of the Senate Indian Affairs Committee Business Meeting and Legislative Hearing can be found here.
    Heinrich’s full remarks as prepared for delivery are below: 
    Chairman Schatz and Vice Chairman Murkowski, I want to first thank you for considering the Indian Buffalo Management Act a few minutes ago. 
    This legislation will further support growth of Tribal bison herds, and I am grateful for the committee’s support. 
    Turning to the hearing agenda, I want to thank you for holding this hearing on the Zuni Indian Tribe Water Rights Settlement Act and the Navajo Nation Rio San José Stream System Water Rights Settlement Act, two bills of critical importance for the water future of New Mexico’s Tribes. 
    I am happy to welcome the Governor of Zuni Pueblo, Arden Kucate, who is here today to provide testimony on the Zuni Water Rights Settlement Act.?
    The Zuni people have been stewards of the Zuni River Basin for millennia. 
    Their traditional agricultural practices and careful stewardship of water sustained the tribe over thousands of years. 
    Unfortunately, the United States has failed to protect Zuni’s water rights and has allowed their water to be diverted to other purposes. 
    Overuse of water in the Zuni Basin has caused the Zuni people to suffer from a lack of water for their community, their businesses, and their traditional agricultural practices.  
    This injustice continues today. Without reliable access to clean water, it is difficult for Zuni to attract new businesses that create jobs and revenue for the Tribe. 
    This legislation would not only fully settle Zuni’s water rights claims in the Zuni River Basin; it would also provide funding for several key water infrastructure projects.  
    It is an opportunity for the United States to make the Zuni Tribe whole for the water that they have always been entitled to. 
    And it will support Zuni’s traditional irrigation practice, their people, and their future business development, in a manner that builds resilience in the face of a drying climate. 
    This piece of legislation would also protect the Zuni Salt Lake, a sacred place of great cultural significance to the Zuni Tribe and others in the region.
    I am also happy to welcome the President of Navajo Nation, Dr. Buu Nygren, who is here to provide testimony for the Navajo Nation Rio San José Stream System Water Rights Settlement Act.
    This legislation would settle the water rights of the Navajo Nation in the Rio San José basin – it is the final step in an adjudication process that began more than forty years ago. 
    In that time, we’ve seen aridification in the Southwest further strain water resources for Tribes, including the Navajo Nation, that don’t have the resources to fully use their water rights.
    This settlement is an important step towards giving the Navajo Nation an equal voice amongst water users in the southwest. 
    Today, there are more than 200 Navajo households within the Rio San José and Rio Puerco Basins without access to running water. 
    These households instead have to rely on hauling water. 
    The lack of reliable drinking water systems in these communities contributed to the widespread health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Navajo Nation, which took the lives of far too many. 
    I am committed to working with the Navajo Nation to build a future where they have full access to their water rights. 
    This access to water will facilitate the preservation of Navajo culture and tradition.
    Both of these pieces of legislation would implement settlement agreements that have been carefully negotiated between the Tribes, the State of New Mexico, neighboring water users, and the United States. 
    I want to thank all of the parties for their tireless work in reaching settlements for these basins, and Senator Luján for cosponsoring these settlements along with me. 
    The failure of the United States to work with Tribal Governments to ensure that they could use the water they have always owned has reverberated through generations.
    It has a direct impact on the well-being of Tribal members today. 
    It’s time we make this right for Zuni and the Navajo Nation.
    Thank you to the committee for your consideration today, and I yield back the remainder of my time. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: September 25th, 2024 Heinrich, Luján Secure Hermit’s Peak Claims Office Extension in Continuing Resolution

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich
    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) issued the following statement after securing an extension to the period that victims may file claims with the Hermit’s Peak Claims Office as part of the Continuing Resolution:
    “Today, we voted for a Continuing Resolution to keep the government open and avoid a costly shutdown for millions of Americans. As part of this Continuing Resolution, the period to file claims with the Hermit’s Peak Claims Office has been extended to December 20, 2024, which will give victims of the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire additional time to apply for relief.
    “But make no mistake, the job is not over yet. We will continue to work with our colleagues to deliver a long-term federal funding solution for the American people and keep the Hermit’s Peak Claims Office open longer. We continue to encourage New Mexicans to apply for assistance as soon as possible.”
    The extension will run the length of the Continuing Resolution to December 20, 2024. In October 2023, Heinrich, Luján, and U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fernández introduced the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Extension Act, legislation that would extend the period a victim can file a claim with the Hermit’s Peak Claims Office. Since the devastating wildfire, Heinrich, Luján, and the N.M. Delegation has delivered a total of $3.95 billion in federal funding for the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire recovery.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senate Confirms Baldwin-Johnson Nominee for U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Wisconsin

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin
    Published: 09.25.2024

    WISCONSIN – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) applauded the Senate’s bipartisan vote to confirm Byron Conway to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Wisconsin.
    “The people of Wisconsin deserve to have qualified, experienced, impartial judges working for them – and I am confident that’s just what we will get with Byron Conway. I was proud to work with Senator Johnson to stand up our bipartisan nominating commission and earn the support from both Democrats and Republicans alike in the Senate. Byron Conway has a proven track record and temperament for this position, and I look forward to seeing him faithfully serve Wisconsin’s Eastern District with fairness and distinction,” said Senator Baldwin.
    Conway was recommended to Senators Baldwin and Ron Johnson (R-WI) by the bipartisan Wisconsin Federal Nominating Commission that they established to help find candidates for federal judicial positions and United States Attorneys during the 118th Congress. The Senators then recommended Conway to the White House and, in July, the White House announced that they heeded that call and nominated Conway for the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Wisconsin. Later that month, both Senators returned their blue slips to the Senate Judiciary Committee, leading to the Judiciary Committee’s bipartisan vote in support of his nomination and teeing up his confirmation by the full Senate today.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Supports Bill to Keep Government Open, Vows to Keep Fighting for Disaster Recovery Funding in December Budget Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) released the following statement on the Senate and House passage of a Continuing Resolution, which will fund the government through December 20th and avoid a costly government shutdown: 
    “It’s unacceptable that some in Congress view paying your bills and keeping the lights on as ‘optional.’ Tonight, we should have negotiated and passed a bipartisan budget bill that looks forward to 2025 and beyond. It’s long-past time every one of my colleagues—in the Senate and the House—commits to passing a budget every year, instead of using government funding and the economic security of hardworking Vermont families as a bargaining chip.
    “By its very function, a Continuing Resolution should continue the government services and funding our communities rely on. This bill does not hit that mark. The disaster relief and recovery provisions in this package will not meet the long-term needs of Vermont, or any state recovering from a disaster. This bill risks another depletion of FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund. Spending down next year’s funds early, especially as we deal with more catastrophic weather, threatens to create a perfect storm by our next funding deadline. 
    “It is our responsibility to fund the government and avoid a shutdown, so tonight I voted for this bill—despite its flaws. But I will keep working across the aisle and across the Capitol to secure the disaster recovery funding Vermont and every state devastated by natural disasters needs.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Baldwin Votes to Avoid Harmful Shutdown, Keep Government Open

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin
    Published: 09.25.2024

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) released the following statement on the Senate’s passage of a bill to keep the government funded until December:
    “American families suffer if we let the government shut down. It threatens to take Border Patrol off the beat, halt benefits for our Veterans, and block food for families in need. I joined my Democratic and Republican colleagues to vote to avoid a harmful shutdown, boost funding for the Secret Service, and keep the lights on as we work to pass our bipartisan funding bills. I will continue to make sure Wisconsin has a seat at the table in our ongoing negotiations and that our full year government funding bills support our Made in America economy, lower costs for working families, and tackle the opioid and fentanyl crisis.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cardin Statement on Deceptive Attempt to Engage in Fraudulent Communication

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maryland Ben Cardin

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued the following statement regarding a recent deceptive attempt to engage in communication under false pretenses:
    “In recent days, a malign actor engaged in a deceptive attempt to have a conversation with me by posing as a known individual. After immediately becoming clear that the individual I was engaging with was not who they claimed to be, I ended the call and my office took swift action, alerting the relevant authorities. This matter is now in the hands of law enforcement, and a comprehensive investigation is underway.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Capito Statement on Senate Passage of Continuing Resolution

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), a leader on the Senate Appropriations Committee, issued the following statement after voting to pass a continuing resolution that will avoid a government shutdown:

    “As I have said many times, each year we have a responsibility to fund the government and keep it open. That is a priority, and that is why I voted for this continuing resolution. While I am glad we took the responsible step to avoid a shutdown—which would have a detrimental impact on our armed forces, planned research projects, and other basic government functions—we should not have been in this predicament in the first place. We have done our work on the Appropriations Committee, but Leader Schumer’s inaction on these committee-passed bills has forced us into the current ‘govern by CR’ scenario. I look forward to working with my colleagues on a more permanent funding solution to prevent further uncertainty,” Senator Capito said.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven Statement on Government Funding

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven
    09.30.23
    WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven issued the following statement on an agreement to fund the government.
    “This short-term continuing resolution will keep government open. At the same time, we’re working to get back to regular order, where we pass appropriations bills through the committee and debate them on the floor. We need to get back to regular order so we can fund the priorities of the American people, while also finding savings to get control of our debt and deficit.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven: Project Tundra Receives First Portion of $350 Million Award, Supporting Final Stage of Development

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven
    09.25.24
    WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Energy and Water Development Appropriations Committee, today announced that Project Tundra, a carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) effort led by Minnkota Power Cooperative, has received an initial $4.2 million from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). The funds come as part of a $350 million award Hoeven secured for the project last year, with Hoeven having:
    Worked to fund DOE’s Carbon Capture Demonstration Projects Program.
    Led the North Dakota delegation in outlining the benefits of the project to DOE.
    Previously secured $43 million in federal funding for the project, as well as loan guarantees and the 45Q tax credit necessary to make the CCUS projects commercially viable.
    “Every day, our nation relies on affordable baseload power that is available 24/7, regardless of weather. Project Tundra is about implementing new technologies to ensure a future for critical baseload power sources like coal,” said Hoeven. “We’ve worked to put the tools in place to move this and other CCUS efforts forward on a commercially-viable basis. Today’s award, which is the first distribution from the $350 million of funding we secured last year, is an important milestone as Project Tundra progresses through its final stage of development.”
    The initial award comes as part of Hoeven’s efforts to advance Project Tundra to provide a way forward for the state’s coal-fired electric industry and ensure the affordability and reliability of the electric grid. Last year, Minnkota announced that Project Tundra had entered its final stage of development as new affiliates, including TC Energy, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Kiewit, were added to build the project.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Klobuchar Statement on Continuing Resolution Vote

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Minnesota Amy Klobuchar

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) released the statement below on her vote to support the Continuing Resolution which would keep the government funded and avoid a shutdown through December 20, 2024. 

    “The Senate and the House just came together across the aisle to avoid a shutdown as we continue to negotiate on the budget. This means federal law enforcement pay will be uninterrupted, critical clinical trials and medical research can continue, small businesses will still be able to access financing, and our economy will not be subject to a preventable shockwave. Brinkmanship only hurts the American people and our economy, and I’m committed to working in a bipartisan way to get things done.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy, Risch, Colleague Introduces Bill to Ban Handgun Rosters

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Jim Risch (R-ID), and several colleagues today introduced the Modern Firearms Safety Act, which would prohibit states from enforcing handgun rosters. These lists of pre-approved handguns require manufacturers to include costly features like microstamping, loaded chamber indicators, and magazine disconnect mechanisms on firearms, preventing law-abiding citizens from purchasing the firearm of their choice.
    “Blue states look for every avenue to ban guns for law-abiding citizens,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Requiring unnecessary and imaginary modifications that don’t improve safety is just another tactic out of this playbook. The Second Amendment is a Constitutional right that shouldn’t be infringed upon just because of the state in which you reside.” 
    “Unconstitutional handgun rosters create unnecessary, burdensome requirements for firearm manufacturers while undermining the Second Amendment,” said Senator Risch. “The Modern Firearms Safety Act stops Democrats arbitrary handgun catalogs and protects law-abiding gun owners’ right to bear arms.”
    Several states, including California, New York, Maryland, Massachusetts, and D.C., have recently enacted unconstitutional handgun rosters. A 2024 federal district court ruling found California’s handgun roster requirements unconstitutional.
    Cassidy and Risch were joined by U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-ID), Mike Braun (R-IN), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), John Cornyn (R-TX), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Steve Daines (R-MT), John Hoeven (R-ND), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), and Thom Tillis (R-NC) in introducing the legislation.
    “Those on the Left continue to use every creative avenue possible to stifle Second Amendment rights and restrict gun ownership for law-abiding citizens,” said Senator Crapo. “These practices must stop.”
    “Trying to impose unnecessary and overly stringent requirements on what features handguns must have is a blatant attempt to strip away core constitutional rights,” said Senator Cornyn. “This legislation ensures law-abiding gun owners in Texas can continue to exercise their Second Amendment right in a safe and responsible way without being subject to impractical restrictions.”
    “Our Founding Fathers were clear—the right to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed,” said Senator Daines. “Forcing Americans to outfit their firearms with onerous and costly features is a clear attempt to undermine the Second Amendment and law-abiding citizens’ constitutional rights, and it must stop.”
    “I am proud to join Senator Risch in our fight against the Democrats’ never-ending attack on our Second Amendment rights and our constitutional freedoms,” said Senator Marshall. “The Modern Firearm Safety Act will end the unconstitutional gun grab currently underway in far-Left states like California, New York, Maryland, and Massachusetts. Our legislation rightfully blocks Democrats from enforcing illegal handgun roster requirements designed to target law-abiding Americans.”
    “This commonsense legislation safeguards the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding citizens by eliminating unnecessary barriers to purchase firearms,” said Senator Tillis. “I am proud to support responsible gun owners by introducing this legislation, which aims to prevent government overreach and uphold our constitutional freedoms.”
    The Modern Firearms Safety Act has received support from the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation, National Shooting Sports Foundation, and National Rifle Association.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Votes to Keep Government Open, Extend Flood Insurance Program, Fund Disaster Relief

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) today voted to pass a bill to keep the government open until December 20th, 2024. Cassidy has urged Congress to extend the authorization of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and secure additional funding for disaster relief following Hurricane Francine.
    “Nobody wants a shutdown. We must keep the National Flood Insurance Program going, put more money into FEMA’s disaster relief fund, continue to pay our troops, and give the Secret Service additional resources to protect President Trump. While I’m disappointed the SAVE Act was not included, this bill gives us the time to find a lasting solution without harming Americans,” said Dr. Cassidy.
    Background
    Cassidy spoke on the Senate floor last week about the need to reauthorize and reform NFIP. That speech was the sixth installment of a series of Senate floor speeches Cassidy is using to focus attention on unsustainable flood insurance premiums.
    In January, the U.S. Senate Banking Committee held a hearing on NFIP at the request of Cassidy. The hearing highlighted the urgent need for Congress to act and featured a Louisiana witness. Cassidy also participated in a roundtable hosted by GNO, Inc. and the Coalition for Sustainable Flood Insurance before introducing the bill to hear from community leaders and advocates on the issue. Last year, Cassidy traveled St. Bernard Parish to talk with residents about their flood insurance premiums, resulting in the second episode of his series Bill on the Hill.
    Earlier this month, President Biden approved a disaster declaration in the wake of Hurricane Francine. Ascension, Assumption, Lafourche, St. Charles, St. James, St. John the Baptist, St. Mary, and Terrebonne Parishes were all covered by the declaration.
    Following the second assassination attempt against former President Donald Trump, Cassidy and seven Senate Republican colleagues called for President Trump to receive the same level of Secret Service protection as a sitting president.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner and Kaine on Congressional Passage of Legislation to Keep Government Funded Temporarily

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner

    Today, U.S. Sens. Mark Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) released the following statement after the Senate approved a temporary funding bill to prevent a government shutdown on October 1. This bill – passed earlier today by the U.S. House of Representatives – will keep the government open through December 20 by extending Fiscal Year 2024 spending levels.

    “Nobody hurts more than Virginia when Congress fails to do its job of keeping the government open. With just a few days until the government funding deadline, we are glad Congress did the right thing and passed a stopgap bill that will renew funding until December 20. While we should not rely on continuing resolutions to govern, we are glad to know that this bill will help avoid a painful government shutdown. We look forward to working with our colleagues these next three months on long-term funding legislation, and we remain committed to ensuring that any final package includes dedicated dollars for specific projects in communities all throughout Virginia.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lankford Statement on Continuing Resolution

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Oklahoma James Lankford

    WASHINGTON, DC – Senator James Lankford (R-OK), issued the following statement after voting to support a Continuing Resolution to fund the federal government, averting a government shutdown on October 1:

    “Today I voted to support a Continuing Resolution to keep the government operating. This provides certainty for our military, veterans, law enforcement, border personnel, and others who rely on the continuity of essential services. However, we cannot continue down this path. This marks yet another year in which we are voting on stopgap measures rather than doing the serious work of passing appropriations bills.

    Majority Leader Schumer has not brought a single appropriations bill to the Senate floor. This failure is deeply concerning. Our national debt continues to grow, and runaway spending remains unchecked because we aren’t taking the time to engage in real debate over how to responsibly manage taxpayer dollars.

    While avoiding a government shutdown is critical, it is equally important that we do the hard work of governing. Congress must get back to passing individual appropriations bills to address both the immediate needs of the nation and plan for the future. Kicking the can down the road is not a plan—it’s just hoping nobody notices the mess. Oklahomans deserve better than the uncertainty of last-minute CRs, and I will continue to push for regular order in the Senate.”

    Sen. Lankford has introduced the Prevent Government Shutdowns Act of 2023, which would take government shutdowns off the table and force Congress to stay in town until their work is done.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst, Grassley Demand Accountability on ATF’s Unlawful Misclassification Scandal

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) are pushing for accountability after the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) decided to reinstate the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives’ (ATF) position classification authority, even after claims that ATF repeatedly and unlawfully labeled administrative positions as “law enforcement,”costing taxpayers at least $20 million. 
    “Appropriate corrective action must be taken in regards to all employees that allowed taxpayer dollars to be wasted after notification of the aforementioned misconduct,” the senators wrote. “The American public must know ATF will not revert to its previous impropriety after the restoration of its classification authority.”
    The senators are revealing the far-reaching failures among the agencies and demanding OPM release the full, unredacted Human Capital Management Evaluation (HCME) audit, and questioning why ATF’s five-year position classification review has been put on hold and for the Justice Management Division (JDM) of the Department of Justice (DOJ) to provide all documents related to the classification of law enforcement positions.
    View the letters to the ATF, DOJ’s JDM, and OPM.
    Background:
    Last year, Ernst called out the ATF for posing as law enforcement to scam taxpayers and followed up earlier this year by demanding corrective action.
    Ernst previously blasted ATF’s unwarranted “knock and talk” tactics in which ATF agents in full gear visit private residences without a warrant to request that residents show a recently purchased firearm as proof they did not conduct a straw purchase.
    Ernst and Grassley previously grilled the agency for inappropriately targeting federal firearms license (FFL) holders and stifling Second Amendment rights by abusing its federal regulatory powers.
    To protect gun dealers, Ernst introduced her Fighting Irrational Regulatory Enforcement to Avert Retailers’ Misfortune (FIREARM) Act which would create a safe harbor for lawful gun dealers at risk of having their federal firearm license stripped for a single, minor, clerical error.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Slams White House for Underfunding Veterans After Giving Millions to Taliban and China

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)

    WASHINGTON – After a report revealed the Biden-Harris administration underbudgeted promises to veterans by $15 billion, U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), a combat veteran, blasted the White House for handing over $293 million to the Taliban and having no clue how many millions it gave to Chinese labs for risky research.
    After the Biden-Harris administration lost track of tax dollars being sent to mad scientists in China, Ernst is introducing the Chinese Laboratory Accountability and Watchful Spending (CLAWS) Act, which would require the Office of Management and Budget to annually disclose all taxpayer-funded research conducted in China.
    “Joe Biden and Kamala Harris are undervaluing our heroes and underwriting our adversaries,” said Ernst. “When you ask why there are millions for the Taliban and China but not enough for veterans, it appears the cat has this administration’s tongue. We can claw back taxpayer dollars by ending support for terrorist groups, exposing all funding for batty experiments in China, and giving our veterans the highest quality of care.”
    “Taxpayers have a right to know how much of their money is being recklessly shipped to Chinese animal labs that butcher beagles, poison puppies, and supercharge viruses in cruel and dangerous experiments. As the organization that first exposed Fauci’s funding for the Wuhan animal lab and ongoing U.S. government funding for dog tests and dozens of other animal labs in China, we applaud Senator Ernst and Representative Langworthy for introducing the common-sense CLAWS Act to crack down on Uncle Sam’s wasteful spending in China’s unaccountable animal labs,” said Justin Goodman, White Coat Waste Project Senior Vice President.
    Background:
    Over the past four years, Ernst has led the charge in conducting oversight investigations exposing the millions of taxpayer dollars being paid to laboratories and institutions in China and led the successful effort to defund and debar China’s Wuhan Institute of Virology.
    She is the sponsor of the Accountability in Foreign Animal Research (AFAR) Act banning taxpayer funding of animal research in Chinese, Russian, and Iranian labs.
    Last month, Senator Ernst blasted the White House for sending $293 million to the Taliban and amended her TRACKS Act to track and publicly disclose any tax dollars the Pentagon sends to the Taliban or any other foreign adversary.
    Last week, she championed the Protecting Regular Order (PRO) for Veterans Act to hold the Department of Veterans Affairs accountable for a Veterans Benefits Administration budget shortfall of $15 billion.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sinema Introduces Sharad Desai, Nominee for U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona to the Senate Judiciary Committee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Kyrsten Sinema (Arizona)
    Sinema worked directly with the White House to nominate Sharad Desai to serve as a U.S. District Court Judge 

    For a broadcast-quality HD clip, click HERE.
    For an MP3 soundbite, click HERE.WASHINGTON – Arizona senior Senator Kyrsten Sinema introduced Sharad Desai, nominee to the U.S. District Court Judge for the District of Arizona to the Senate Judiciary Committee. Sinema recommended Mr. Desai and worked directly with the White House on his nomination to the U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona.  “Sharad Desai represents the best of the Arizona legal community. He possesses the experience, integrity, and intellect to serve honorably as a federal judge in the U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona,” said Sinema.  Earlier this year, Sinema applauded Sharad Desai’s nomination to serve as a U.S. District Court Judge for the District of Arizona. Mr. Desai is a native Arizonan and, if confirmed by the U.S. Senate, he would be Arizona’s first South Asian federal district judge. Mr. Desai currently serves as Vice President and General Counsel for Honeywell’s Integrated Supply Chain and Information Technology groups, where he manages legal risk, ensures compliance with laws and regulations across the globe, resolves disputes prior to litigation, and more. At Honeywell, Mr. Desai has served in numerous roles, including as Litigation Counsel for Honeywell’s Aerospace division and Chief Litigation Counsel for the Safety and Productivity Solutions division. In these roles, Mr. Desai managed a docket of federal and state court matters and arbitrations – including commercial, qui tam, product liability, and toxic tort matters. Mr. Desai also selected outside counsel, developed the litigation strategy, and coordinated discovery efforts. He was also responsible for handling government subpoenas and civil investigatory demands, as well as subpoenas received in connection with civil and criminal matters. Mr. Desai also worked almost for a decade at the Arizona law firm Osborn Maledon, becoming a partner in the litigation group where he represented clients – including individuals, small business, and Fortune 100 companies – in commercial litigation and appellate matters. In this role, Mr. Desai regularly appeared in both federal and state courts, mental health court proceedings, and lawyer ethics matters. After graduating from New York University Law School in 2006, Mr. Desai clerked for Arizona Supreme Court then-Vice Chief Justice Rebecca White Berch. Mr. Desai earned a Bachelor of Science in Molecular and Cellular Biology, Magna Cum Laude, and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, Magna Cum Laude, from the University of Arizona in 2003, where he was a Flinn Scholar. Sinema has a track record of earning broad bipartisan support for judicial nominees. Earlier this year, Sinema celebrated the Senate confirmation of Arizona’s Angela Martinez and Krissa Lanham as federal judges for the U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona – which Sinema personally ensured both nominees earned a broad bipartisan vote. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Risch Statement on Continuing Resolution

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho James E Risch
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho) released the following statement after voting against the Continuing Resolution:
    “Passing a continuing resolution merely kicks the can down the road, and by doing so Congress has shirked its constitutional duty to fund the government and ensure the responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars. It is not fair to Idahoans to delay another funding fight until after a pivotal election and before the holidays. Congress must do better.”
    The Continuing Resolution funds the government through December 20, 2024. The measure passed the Senate 78-18.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Casey Introduces Legislation to Improve Flood Insurance Affordability for Families, Help Pennsylvanians Protect Their Homes

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Pennsylvania Bob Casey

    Fair Flood Protection Act caps insurance premiums, cuts fees

    Casey bill to provide long-term stability for Pennsylvania homeowners

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) introduced legislation to cap the cost of flood insurance, making homeownership more affordable for working families. Across Pennsylvania, as floods become more frequent and intense, homeowners are struggling to keep up with significant increases in flood insurance costs, which can be as high as thousands of dollars per year. The Fair Flood Protection Act would lower the cost of flood insurance by creating a sliding scale premium cap to ensure that families pay fair amounts based on their income.

    “Throughout the Commonwealth, including in my home county of Lackawanna, families’ budgets are being increasingly squeezed by the rising costs of flood insurance. This bill will cut fees and cap flood insurance costs to help ensure that Pennsylvanians can afford to keep their homes safe for generations to come,” said Senator Casey. “Hardworking homeowners should be able to protect their homes without worrying about how to pay the bills.”

    With many Pennsylvanians struggling to get by and raise their families, flooding poses a looming financial threat. Most home insurance does not include flood insurance, making the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) a key safety net to protect against the devastating impacts of flooding. After hearing concerns about rising costs of flood insurance, coupled with reports of increased heavy rain and flood risk, Casey introduced the Fair Flood Protection Act to help working families protect their homes without breaking the bank. This bill would help make and keep flood insurance affordable and strengthen the NFIP. This legislation would help expand flood insurance coverage by reauthorizing NFIP for ten years, increasing the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)’s authorization to provide funding for flood protection and mitigation projects, and creating a cap for NFIP premiums based on a sliding scale determined by income. Currently FEMA has instituted a premium model that sets rates based on an individual’s flood risk, which can lead to prohibitively high costs of flood insurance. Adjusting premium rates to account for income, rather than risk alone, would help to ensure that working class homeowners are not priced out of flood protection.

    Senator Casey has long worked to help Pennsylvania communities mitigate and recover from the devastating impacts caused by floods. Most recently, he successfully pushed President Biden to provide federal disaster relief support to Pennsylvania communities affected by the devastating flooding last month. Additionally, Casey has championed infrastructure investments to improve flood control infrastructure, including through community project funding and FEMA grant programs. Additionally, Casey voted to pass the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which poured billions of additional federal funding into programs like the Flood Mitigation Assistance grant program and the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities grant program.  

    Senator Casey has always fought to lower costs for working families in Pennsylvania. From creating tax credits for renewable energy development, to negotiating the price of prescription drugs, Casey has consistently worked to bring prices down Pennsylvania families.

    Read more about the Fair Flood Protection Act HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla, LaMalfa, Fong Urge President Biden to Approve Major Disaster Declaration Following Park and Borel Fires

    US Senate News:

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

    Padilla, LaMalfa, Fong Urge President Biden to Approve Major Disaster Declaration Following Park and Borel Fires

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and Representatives Doug LaMalfa (R-Calif.-01) and Vince Fong (R-Calif.-20) urged President Biden to grant Governor Gavin Newsom’s request for a major disaster declaration in response to the severe impacts of the Park and Borel Fires on Butte, Tehama, and Kern counties.
    The fires, both exacerbated by extreme heat across the state from July 24 to August 26, damaged homes and businesses throughout these counties. The extensive harm caused by the Park and Borel fires have stretched local resources thin and disproportionately impacted vulnerable communities.
    “The intensity and damages caused by these fires have overwhelmed state resources and require federal assistance, coordination, and action to supplement state and local efforts,” wrote the lawmakers. “These fires have caused extensive damage that have threatened the lives and livelihoods of thousands of Californians.”
    “The severity of these fires requires additional coordination and a wider range of long-term federal recovery programs. Therefore, we urge you to expeditiously approve California’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration and to provide all categories of individual assistance and all additional assistance set forth in the Governor’s request,” continued the lawmakers.
    Full text of the letter is available here and below:
    Dear President Biden:
    We write in support of the State of California’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration in response to the Park and Borel Fires impacting Butte, Tehama, and Kern counties, and we ask that you approve it expeditiously.
    The State has experienced several fires during the extreme heat event beginning July 24, 2024, and lasting through August 26, 2024. The intensity and damages caused by these fires have overwhelmed state resources and require federal assistance, coordination, and action to supplement state and local efforts.
    These fires have caused extensive damage that have threatened the lives and livelihoods of thousands of Californians. The Park and Borel fires damaged homes and businesses throughout Butte, Tehama, and Kern. The brunt of these impacts was born by the most vulnerable communities.
    The severity of these fires requires additional coordination and a wider range of long-term federal recovery programs. Therefore, we urge you to expeditiously approve California’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration and to provide all categories of individual assistance and all additional assistance set forth in the Governor’s request.
    Thank you for your consideration of this request.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla, Deluzio Introduce Bill to Protect Voters and Election Workers at Election Centers

    US Senate News:

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

    Padilla, Deluzio Introduce Bill to Protect Voters and Election Workers at Election Centers

    WATCH: Padilla champions the right to vote free from intimidation or violenceWASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), a member of the Senate Rules and Administration Committee and California’s former Secretary of State, and Representative Chris Deluzio (D-Pa.-17) joined election security advocates to introduce bicameral legislation to protect voters and election workers from intimidation and threats of violence at the ballot box. The Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act would help ensure that every voter and election worker has the right to cast their ballot and conduct their official duties free from fear and intimidation.
    The bill would update existing anti-intimidation provisions of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 to limit the presence of visible firearms at locations where voters cast their ballot or election workers perform their official duties, empowering poll workers and election officials to continue safely administering elections. U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Laphonza Butler (D-Calif.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) are cosponsoring the bill in the Senate, and Representative Raul Ruiz (D-Calif.-25) is cosponsoring the bill in the House of Representatives.
    The right to vote is a central pillar of American democracy, but rising political violence against voters and poll workers threatens election security. False allegations of widespread voter fraud have further increased tensions at election centers. 38 percent of election workers have reported experiencing threats, harassment, or abuse as of May 2024.
    “In no corner of America should the fear of violence prevent voters from casting their ballot or keep elections workers from showing up to work,” said Senator Padilla. “Unfortunately, we have a long, dark history of voter suppression and intimidation in America, reignited by partisan rhetoric and false narratives about election fraud. That’s why our bicameral bill would keep visible firearms out of election centers to ensure election workers can do their jobs and all Americans feel safe exercising their right to vote.”
    “The right to vote is foundational to our democracy, and to protect that right we must keep polling places and official ballot drop sites free from intimidation,” said Representative Deluzio. “With the rising risk of political violence and ongoing attacks on our democracy, it’s clear that we need action to strengthen the sanctity of our elections. The Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act of 2024 would help protect the rights of America’s voters and election workers so that they can vote and perform their official duties free from intentional intimidation and threats of violence. I’m proud to introduce this bill today alongside fellow election security advocates.”   
    “The presence of firearms at polling places isn’t just dangerous—it’s a direct threat to our democratic process. As armed extremists fueled by rumors and conspiracy theories increasingly show up at the polls to bully voters and election workers, our message is clear: intimidation has no place at the ballot box. This legislation would take important steps to ensure every American feels safe to make their voice heard on election day,” said Senator Murphy.
    “Americans should be able to cast their votes without the threat of intimidation and harassment. That is why I introduced the Vote Without Fear Act,” said Representative Ruiz. “I am excited to help lead the Freedom from Intimidations Act to continue to build on the progress we’ve made working towards a future where polling places are safer for workers and voters.” 
    Specifically, the Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act would:
    Amend Section 11(b) of the Voting Rights Act to establish a rebuttable presumption that a person carrying a visible firearm while engaging in election-related activities is engaging in voter intimidation.
    Provide civil remedies for individuals who experience this type of intimidation, including an emergency injunction that would allow the voter or election official to carry out their duties in peace.
    Recognize an exception for law enforcement officers acting within their official duties. 
    Yesterday, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill into law to create these critical protections in California.
    The Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act is endorsed by organizations including the Brennan Center for Justice at NYU Law, GIFFORDS, Newtown Action Alliance, Brady: United Against Gun Violence, Everytown for Gun Safety, March for Our Lives, Institute for Responsive Government, League of Conservation Voters, Center for American Progress, End Citizens United Action Fund, Common Cause, Defend the Vote Action Fund, Fair Elections Center, Democracy SENTRY, League of Women Voters, Public Citizen, Faith in Public Life Action, Sierra Club, and Voto Latino.
    “Congress must pass the Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act. We are grateful to Representative Deluzio, Senator Padilla, and other members of Congress for their work to keep our elections safe for everyone involved in the process. This legislation would bolster federal protections that empower voters, election officials, and election workers to seek legal recourse if they are intimidated. The bill would help protect our democracy by keeping intimidation and violence out of voting,” said Sean Morales-Doyle, Director of the Voting Rights Program, Brennan Center for Justice at NYU Law.
    “Over the last four years, election officials have faced unprecedented threats and challenges. Immediately following the 2020 election, there was a deliberate effort to intimidate and terrorize election officials,” said Kathy Boockvar, former Pennsylvania Secretary of the Commonwealth and President of Athena Strategies LLC. “This has got to stop. This bill is a critical part of the solution. The Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act aims to protect voters and election workers by ensuring that voters can cast their ballots — and election workers can do their jobs – free of intimidation, during all stages of the election process from vote casting to canvassing to certification.”
    “All of our rights, including our rights to breathe clean air and drink clean water, depend on voters’ freedom to vote, which includes freedom from violence, intimidation, and fear while they make their voices heard,” said Doug Lindner, Senior Director of Judiciary & Democracy at the League of Conservation Voters. “LCV is proud to stand with Representative Chris Deluzio and Senator Alex Padilla in support of the Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act to ensure every eligible voter can safely register, vote, and have their vote counted.” 
    “It’s paramount for the health of our democracy that election officials can peacefully administer free and fair elections and Americans are able to exercise their constitutional right to vote without fear or intimidation,” said Center for American Progress Associate Director of Democracy Policy Greta Bedekovics. “Threats towards election officials have continued to persist while federal law enforcement have warned about the possibility of election-related violence. Congressional action like passing the Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act is desperately needed to protect American democracy and ensure that elections reflect the will of the people. Congress must fulfill its duty to protect the Constitution and that means protecting elections.” 
    “Intimidation has no place in our democracy,” Michelle Kanter Cohen, Policy Director and Senior Counsel at Fair Elections Center. “We need changes in our laws that make sure every American voter—no matter what state they live in—can vote safely and freely. We need the Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act to help make sure that the election workers who keep our democracy going can serve without fear, and that voters can safely have their voices heard.”
    “The League of Women Voters of the United States is proud to support the Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act, which will enshrine in law that every voter should have the right to cast their ballot free from fear and intimidation,” said Jessica Jones Capparell, Interim Senior Director of Advocacy and Litigation at the League of Women Voters of the United States. “This legislation reflects a growing recognition that the integrity of our elections must be preserved in the face of increasing threats. The chilling reality of armed protesters gathering outside ballot-counting facilities and the armed surveillance of drop boxes during the 2020 election has highlighted the urgent need for stronger legislation and safeguards in this bill. The League of Women Voters stands firmly in support of this bill to ensure that every voter can participate without fear.”
    “Passage of the Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act will help protect the dedicated Americans who keep our elections running,” said Sam Oliker-Friedland, Executive Director, Institute for Responsive Government. “The current threat environment means that election officials are devoting scarce resources to bullet proof glass, metal detectors, and security guards. Effectively protecting election officials from intimidation, which this bill will help to do, will ensure that election officials can allocate money towards core tasks like cybersecurity upgrades and increasing accessibility for eligible voters. We already know elections are severely underfunded, but Congress has the power to make a significant difference for election officials across the nation by supporting the Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act. It’s high time Congress puts those who safeguard our democracy above radical weapons of coercion by supporting this bill.” 
    Senator Padilla is a champion for more robust voting rights, bipartisan election administration reforms, and increased funding to modernize and secure our elections. Last month, Padilla called on the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) Civil Rights Division to investigate the recent targeted raids of several Latino voting rights organizers, officials, and candidates by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s election integrity unit. He also joined 21 of his colleagues in urging DOJ to take further action to counter threats targeting election workers ahead of the upcoming election. Additionally, Padilla recently introduced legislation to address the significant impact that election administration-related disinformation, made more pervasive with the use of Artificial Intelligence, has on communities of color. He is a staunch supporter of the Freedom to Vote Act, legislation he and Senate Democrats introduced to improve access to the ballot for Americans, advance commonsense federal election standards and campaign finance reforms, and protect our democracy.
    Photos and clips from the press conference are available here. 
    A one-pager on the bill is available here.
    Full text of the bill is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Manchin Votes To Avert Government Shutdown, Calls For Regular Order

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Joe Manchin
    September 25, 2024
    Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (I-WV), member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, voted for a continuing resolution to prevent a government shutdown, fund the federal government through December 20, 2024, and allow work on appropriations bills to continue.
    “The federal government’s fiscal year ends every year on September 30th and, despite this fact, Congress once again had to pass a stopgap spending bill. While I am relieved that we were able to come together in a bipartisan fashion to keep the government open, we must bring back regular order in the appropriations process to get our nation on a path to fiscal stability. Our reliance on continuing resolutions wastes taxpayer dollars, weakens our military’s capabilities and limits our economic growth. Hardworking West Virginians and Americans across our country go to work, pay their bills, and live within their means and the federal government should do the same. I stand ready to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to deliver on this essential responsibility of Congress.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 09.25.2024 ICYMI: Cruz-Kelly Chips Permitting Reform Bill Passed Congress with Widespread Bipartisan Support

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas Ted Cruz
    WASHINGTON, D.C. –– In case you missed it, earlier this week, U.S. Senate Commerce Committee Ranking Member Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Sen. Mark Kelly’s (D-Ariz.) semiconductor plant permitting reform bill cleared the House after unanimously passing the Senate last December. The bill, S.2228 as replaced by the Kelly-Cruz full substitute amendment, is now headed to the President’s desk to be signed into law. The legislation would expedite the process to construct semiconductor manufacturing plants by removing burdensome environmental reviews and permits for microchip projects.
    The Kelly-Cruz chips permitting reform bill received widespread bipartisan support, including from Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. The legislation is a critical step in decreasing dependency on China and creating more jobs and incentives for investment in Texas.
    Watch the interview and read more about the legislation below.
    Local News Live: Congress passes bill to streamline federal process for chip manufacturing projects in America
    CLICK HERE TO WATCH
    “Congress passed a bill this week that will streamline federal reviews for some microchip manufacturing projects in America.
    “The Building Chips in America Act passed in the House on Monday and is now on its way to President Joe Biden’s desk.
    “The bill streamlines the environmental review process for semiconductor manufacturing facilities that were incentivized by the CHIPS and Science Act.
    “Several projects are in the works but supporters of the bill have said that they have been delayed because of government red tape.
    “The bipartisan bill was authored in the Senate by Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) and Sen. Mark Kelly (D-AZ).
    “Cruz said that the passage of the bill will benefit communities across the country where the projects are happening like his home state of Texas.
    “‘What this is going to mean is new manufacturing plants will be built in Texas much faster. It will mean billions more dollars invested in the economy in Texas, and it will mean thousands more high-paying jobs in Texas. It’s a great victory for jobs in Texas,” said Sen. Cruz.
    “The senator also said the bill will also make America safer by manufacturing the chips domestically.”
    The Texas: U.S. House Passes ‘Kelly-Cruz Amendment’ to CHIPS Act, Sent to Biden’s Desk
    “The U.S. House of Representatives approved a bill on Monday aimed at streamlining permitting laws to facilitate the domestic construction of semiconductor factories.
    “The bipartisan legislation passed by a vote of 257 to 125, with 49 members not voting, and now moves to the president’s desk for approval.
    “The bill passed the Senate last year, and was passed in the House of Representatives this week as the “Kelly-Cruz substitute amendment.”
    “Sens. Ted Cruz (R-TX) and Mark Kelly (D-AZ) submitted the amended text of their Senate bill in December 2023.
    “When a bill passes as a “substitute amendment” in Congress, the original text is entirely replaced with new content. This new version of the bill, offered as an amendment, becomes the text that is voted on and passed.
    “It aims to accelerate the construction of U.S. semiconductor facilities, as the Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors (CHIPS) and Science Act of 2022 has made over $50 billion available to promote domestic production and innovation.
    “It will also streamline federal permitting by designating the Department of Commerce as the lead agency for National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) reviews, exempting certain projects from NEPA, providing the Secretary of Commerce with greater authority to expedite reviews in coordination with state and local governments, and limiting court challenge timelines.
    “Cruz and Kelly celebrated the amendment’s passage in a joint statement after the House passed it this week.
    “‘My number one priority in the Senate is delivering jobs for Texans. When soon signed into law, the Kelly-Cruz legislation will mean tens of thousands of good-paying jobs and hundreds of billions in new investments for the Lone Star State,” wrote Cruz.
    “‘I’m proud to have led this effort with Senator Mark Kelly to streamline environmental permitting for semiconductor factories, a crucial step in onshoring jobs and making our country less dependent on China for semiconductors critical to national defense.”
    “Cruz continued to exchange jabs with Rep. Colin Allred (D-TX-32), who voted to pass the most recent act, over the past year regarding Cruz’s “no” vote on related legislation last year.
    “At the time, Cruz supported one portion of the CHIPS Act but disagreed with another.
    “Cruz explained in 2023 that the CHIPS Act consisted of two key parts: the Facilitating American-Built Semiconductors (FABS) Act, offering a tax credit to boost domestic semiconductor manufacturing investment, and the CHIPS Act itself, providing billions in direct subsidies to companies. While Cruz co-sponsored the FABS Act, he voted against the CHIPS Act due to his opposition to direct subsidies, favoring the more indirect incentive of the tax credit.
    “Following this week’s passage of the Building Chips in America Act, Samsung celebrated by saying that the bill is “ensuring U.S. innovation continues to surge!”
    “Texas has seen businesses flocking to the state over the past few years, and semiconductor manufacturers have already started construction on facilities in towns like Taylor and Sherman.
    “The ongoing battle for semiconductor supremacy between China and the U.S. is intensifying as both nations invest heavily in domestic chip production and innovation, with the global semiconductor industry projected to reach a value of approximately $1 trillion by 2030.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Manchin Announces $14.5 Million For Infrastructure Upgrades, Economic Development In West Virginia

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Joe Manchin
    September 25, 2024
    Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (I-WV), member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced $14,507,612 from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) to support infrastructure upgrades and economic development projects across West Virginia.
    “Investing in our local communities creates good-paying jobs, spurs economic opportunity and sets up the community for future success,” said Senator Manchin. “These infrastructure improvements will attract new businesses and good-paying jobs, ensuring long-term economic growth across the Mountain State. As a member of the Senate Appropriations, I will continue to fight for meaningful investments to ensure that West Virginia continues to be a great place to live, work and raise a family.”
    Individual awards listed below:
    $4,000,000 — Boone County Public Service District
    This funding will support waterline extension improvements at the Mountain State Clean Energy complex in Danville, West Virginia.

    $3,801,600 – Wyoming County Economic Development Authority
    This funding will support expanding the Rockefeller Industrial Park in Welch, West Virginia.

    $3,402,000 – McDowell County Public Service District
    This funding will support installing new waterlines and all associated work in the Baker Ridge, Panther Creek Road, Rock Ridge, Lex areas of McDowell County.

    $2,506,500 – Kingwood Water Works
    This funding will supports making water infrastructure improvements in Preston County. 

    $797,512 – Blue Ridge Community and Technical College
    This funding will support creating and integrating a new Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) certification program in Martinsburg.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 09.25.2024 Sen. Cruz Sends Letter Urging Biden Administration to Appeal LNG Decision Undermining American Energy

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas Ted Cruz
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) sent a letter today urging Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Chairman Willie L. Phillips to appeal the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit’s decision vacating permits for the Rio Grande liquified natural gas (LNG) project and Texas LNG project.
    In the letter, Sen. Cruz wrote, “The decision sets a chilling precedent that will harm the development of infrastructure for projects related to all forms of energy, directly undermining American energy security and therefore national security. If the permits are not reauthorized, over 7,000 high-paying jobs will disappear, and roughly $24 billion in investments in the Rio Grande Valley will be lost.
    …
    “Since 2016, America has become the largest exporter of LNG in the world, passing competitors such as Russia and Qatar. This achievement was made possible through the work, innovation, and investment of private companies willing to fund and build capital-intensive projects. That progress has now been put at acute risk by the court’s decision.”
    Read the full letter here or below:
    Dear Chairman Willie L. Phillips:
    On August 6, 2024, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit vacated reauthorizations for the Rio Grande LNG and Texas LNG projects and remanded the issue to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission for further proceedings.
    We write today to urge you to pursue an appeal and seek a stay of the decision pending the outcome of that appeal.
    State and local officials across Texas had already done extensive work related to the two projects. The Rio Grande LNG project already started construction a year ago. The Texas LNG project was less than two months away from securing enough offtake commitments for achieving a final investment decision.
    The decision sets a chilling precedent that will harm the development of infrastructure for projects related to all forms of energy, directly undermining American energy security and therefore national security. If the permits are not reauthorized, over 7,000 high-paying jobs will disappear, and roughly $24 billion in investments in the Rio Grande Valley will be lost.
    There is no precedent for this decision. Charles McConnell, the former Assistant Secretary of Energy at the Department of Energy in President Barack Obama’s Administration says “If allowed to stand, the precedent from this ruling would be absolutely draconian to investment progress.”
    The decision itself, as well as its unprecedented nature, will have far-reaching and negative cascade effects. The Brazos Island Harbor Channel Improvement Project, a $400 million project to deepen the Brownsville shipping channel from 42 to 52 feet, will likely stop. Over $20 billion in economic investment and 31 million tonnes per annum of liquified natural gas (LNG) exports will be wiped out. More broadly, if project developers come to believe that federal permits can be overturned due to procedural missteps by the regulator, apart from any actions or fault by the developers, U.S. infrastructure projects will slow and stall.
    Since 2016, America has become the largest exporter of LNG in the world, passing competitors such as Russia and Qatar. This achievement was made possible through the work, innovation, and investment of private companies willing to fund and build capital-intensive projects. That progress has now been put at acute risk by the court’s decision. We look forward to your prompt response on this matter.
    Sincerely,
    /X/

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Graham Introduces Bill To Restrict Birthright Citizenship

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Lindsey Graham
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today introduced a bill that would restrict one of the biggest magnets for illegal immigration into the United States. Graham’s Birthright Citizenship Act of 2024 stops the practice of granting citizenship to both the children of illegal immigrants and the children of non-immigrants in the U.S. on temporary visas.
    The exploitation of birthright citizenship is a major pull factor for illegal immigration and a weakness for our national security. The United States is one of only 33 countries in the world with no restrictions on birthright citizenship. In 2018, Senator Graham supported President Trump’s executive order eliminating birthright citizenship for children born to illegal immigrants on American soil.
    “It is long overdue for the United States to change its policy on birthright citizenship because it is being abused in so many ways,” said Senator Graham. “One example is birth tourism, where wealthy individuals from China and other nations come to the United States simply to have a child who will be an American citizen. When you look at the magnets that draw people to America, birthright citizenship is one of the largest. It is time for the United States to align itself with the rest of the world and restrict this practice once and for all.”
    The Biden-Harris Administration’s catch-and-release policies let migrants come into the U.S. illegally and stay for years, while enjoying many of the benefits of living in America.
    Illegal immigration has skyrocketed under the Biden-Harris Administration.
    In the last 3.5 years, there have been over 8.3 million encounters with illegal aliens at the southern border.
    Our adversaries are taking advantage of our laws.
    Recently, two individuals from California were found guilty in a “birth tourism” scheme. Predominantly Chinese clients paid the operators of a “maternity hotel” tens of thousands of dollars to come to the U.S. to give birth. Clients were coached on how to lie during the admissions process.
    A 2022 Senate Homeland Security & Governmental Affairs Committee report found a birthing company catering to the wives of Russian oligarchs, celebrities, athletes, and public figures.
    The Birthright Citizenship Act of 2024:
    Specifies who can receive citizenship by virtue of their birth in the United States, including children born to at least one parent who is either:
    A citizen or national of the U.S.,
    A lawful permanent resident of the U.S., or
    An alien performing active service in the armed forces.
    This bill only applies to children born after the date of enactment.
    To read the full bill text, click HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Brown Announces New Legislation to Block American Taxpayer Money from Going to Biofuels Made with Foreign Feedstocks

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Ohio Sherrod Brown
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) announced the introduction of his new bipartisan legislation to block taxpayer money from being used to subsidize biofuels produced using imported foreign feedstocks such as Chinese used cooking oil and Brazilian ethanol. The bill would also extend the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit. Brown announced the bill on a news conference call, where he was joined by Tadd Nicholson, Executive Director of the Ohio Corn and Wheat Growers Association.
    The 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit, which was passed as part of the Inflation Reduction Act, was intended to make America more energy independent and spur the production of biofuels made with American-produced feedstocks – building new markets for American farmers. But farmers are dealing with a surge in imports of Chinese used cooking oil being used to produce biofuels in the U.S. – and that is displacing the use of American feedstocks. In July, Brown called on Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and the Biden Administration to restrict the eligibility of the 45Z Credit to renewable biofuels fuels made from feedstocks sourced domestically. Brown’s bill would ensure eligibility for the tax credit is restricted to biofuels that are produced with domestic feedstocks.
    Brown’s legislation would also extend the credit for 10 years, giving the American ethanol industry the time and financial incentive to build up the infrastructure needed to produce sustainable aviation fuel. That will make the U.S. less reliant on foreign fuel, open new markets for farmers, and increase ethanol production across the Midwest.
    “American tax dollars should support American farmers – not imported feedstocks. To continue to grow the biofuels industry and open new markets for Ohio farmers, we must stop taxpayer money from subsidizing a surge in Chinese cooking oil or any other foreign feedstock from infiltrating the American market. Our bipartisan bill ensures these investments benefit Ohio farmers and Ohio energy producers,” said Brown.
    “Ohio’s family grain farms are strongest when their markets are close to home. Producing low carbon fuels has made them profitable for years, and the future of renewable fuels can keep those family businesses flourishing for generations to come. Senator Brown’s bill gives that market certainty and ensures that our national investment in renewable energy will benefit American energy producers first. That’s commonsense good policy,” said Tadd Nicholson, Executive Director, Ohio Corn and Wheat Growers Association.
    “Thank you to Sen. Brown and Rep. Kaptur for leading the way on this issue, prioritizing Ohio farmers and reducing the U.S. biofuels industry’s dependence on foreign feedstocks,” said Rusty Goebel, OSA president and Williams County soybean farmer. “While the use of foreign feedstocks can play a role in producing domestically manufactured biodiesel, renewable diesel, and sustainable aviation fuel, the American taxpayer-funded 45Z tax credit should only apply to biofuels produced from domestic feedstocks by domestic fuel producers.”
    This bill is co-led with Senator Roger Marshall (R-KS) and co-sponsored by Senators Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), and Tina Smith (D-MN). Representatives Tracey Mann (R-KS-01) and Marcy Kaptur (D-OH-09) introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives.
    Brown is the first Ohioan to serve on the Senate Agriculture Committee in nearly 50 years. He has long been a leader for Ohio’s rural communities.
    Full text of the legislation can be found HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –