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Category: US Senate

  • MIL-OSI USA: Following their Letter, Duckworth, Durbin Applaud Biden Administration for Approving Illinois Disaster Declaration Following Summer Tornadoes, Extreme Weather

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth

    September 23, 2024

    The Senators led the Illinois delegation in calling for federal assistance for seven counties

    [SPRINGFIELD, IL] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) applauded the Biden Administration for approving Governor JB Pritzker’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to the State of Illinois, to support seven Illinois counties in recovering from severe storms in which more than 40 tornadoes spun through Central and Northern Illinois and downstate Illinois flooded between July 13 and July 16, 2024.  On August 29, Duckworth and Durbin led the Illinois delegation in sending a letter to President Biden in support of Governor Pritzker’s request for federal assistance.

    “As communities across Illinois continue recovering from this summer’s severe storms, it’s clear we must do everything possible to better prepare for and mitigate additional loss in the future,” said Duckworth.  “I’m thankful President Biden is heeding our request for assistance and providing this federal support to impacted communities.  I’ll continue working to bring home critical resources that help folks in every corner of the state prepare for and recover from future hazardous weather and natural disasters.”

    “Severe summer storms have become increasingly common, placing strain on communities left in its wake.  This summer, Illinois saw tornadoes, flooding, and damaging winds that put Illinoisans in danger and impacted several counties across the state,” said Durbin.  “Thankfully, President Biden has recognized the severity of the situation and responded to our request.  Illinoisans will have access to the federal support they need to rebuild and prepare for the next disaster.”

    The federal assistance includes grants for individuals to recover from the storms, as well as take hazard mitigation measures to prevent or reduce long-term risk to life and property from future natural disasters.  The counties eligible for the assistance are Cook, Fulton, Henry, St. Clair, Washington, Will, and Winnebago Counties.

    Residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance today by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362) or by using the FEMA App.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo, Risch, Fulcher Demand Update on Elkhorn Fire Investigation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and U.S. Representative Russ Fulcher (R-Idaho) sent a letter to U.S. Forest Service (USFS) Chief Randy Moore demanding an update on the investigation to determine the origin of the Elkhorn Fire.

    “This investigation, which was originally meant to take only a few weeks, has been ongoing for well over a year now[. . .],” wrote the lawmakers.  “For victims of wildfire, life does not move on after the fire burns out.  Losses must be documented, insurance claims filed, and to the extent possible, infrastructure that was destroyed must be rebuilt.  Property and business owners have been unable to file insurance claims – their recovery held hostage by the ongoing, and unusually long, USFS investigation.”

    The full letter can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo, Padilla, Risch Honor Forensic Scientists with Resolution

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.— The U.S. Senate unanimously agreed to a Senate Resolution designating September 15-21, 2024, as National Forensic Science Week.  The resolution, introduced by U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Alex Padilla (D-California), and co-sponsored by U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho), recognizes the role forensic science plays in the investigation, prosecution and conviction of crimes, as well as exoneration of the innocent.

    “Forensic science frees the innocent and provides justice for victims,” said Crapo.  “This work delivers the scientific truth to the criminal justice system.  The Idaho State Police is a leader and shining example of the significance of these essential services.  This Senate Resolution acknowledges their invaluable efforts and the efforts of all forensic scientists around the nation.”

    “America’s justice system relies on accurate forensic science,” said Padilla.  “That’s why I’ve partnered with Senators Crapo and Risch in this bipartisan effort to highlight the critical role of partnerships between forensic science laboratories and federal agencies in protecting public safety and fighting injustice.”

    “National Forensic Science Week recognizes the critical work done to convict dangerous criminals, provide closure for victims, and free the innocent,” said Risch.  “Thank you to the forensic scientists in Idaho and across the country who do this important work for our criminal justice system.”

    “Forensic science practitioners provide vital information to the United States criminal justice system,” said Matthew Gammette, Idaho State Police Forensic Services Laboratory System Director.  “We appreciate the support of the United States Senate, and specifically our Senators from Idaho, in recognizing the important contributions of forensic scientists to advance the science in forensic science, provide critical information to law enforcement and the courts, and to bring resolution to victims of crime and their families.  We appreciate the support of Congress in funding forensic science providers, including medical examiner and coroner offices, to assist them in being more efficient, effective, and innovative in solving forensic science cases.”  

    Read the full text of the resolution HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Announces September Grant Workshop Locations

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) announced that his team will be setting up satellite offices across the state from September 24-27, 2024, to assist with grants, casework, and listen to constituents’ concerns. 

    The purpose of these temporary locations is to provide accessibility for constituents who might not live near one of Senator Tuberville’s permanent office locations. Members of Senator Tuberville’s team will be on site and no appointment is required for these meetings.

    A complete list of times, dates, and locations for each satellite office can be found here or below.

    Tuesday, September 24
    ALICEVILLE (Pickens County)
    10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. CT
    Aliceville City Hall Auditorium
    419 Memorial Parkway
    Aliceville, AL 35442

    Tuesday, September 24
    MONTGOMERY (Montgomery County)
    2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. CT
    Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce
    600 S Court Street, Suite 215
    Montgomery, AL 36104

    Thursday, September 26
    GREENVILLE (Butler County)
    10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. CT
    Greenville City Hall
    119 E Commerce Street
    Greenville, AL 36037

    Friday, September 27
    GUNTERSVILLE (Marshall County)
    8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. CT
    Marshall County Economic Development office
    524 Gunter Ave
    Guntersville, AL 35976

    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, and HELP Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hagerty, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Protect American Assets From Unlawful Seizure by AMLO’s Mexico

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Tennessee Bill Hagerty

    In violation of USMCA, the Mexican President has repeatedly threatened to declare an American company’s property as a “Protected Natural Area” to unjustifiably seize their assets

    WASHINGTON—United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, today led his colleagues in introducing the Defending American Property Abroad Act, legislation to impose retaliatory prohibitions that deter and punish any Western Hemisphere nation that unlawfully seizes American assets. This legislation responds to ongoing efforts by the Government of Mexico to seize a deep-water port owned by U.S.-based Vulcan Materials Company, which is a flagrant violation of the United Sates-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) governing trade between our two nations.

    Specifically, this legislation would prohibit vessels from entering a U.S. port if they had previously used a port, land, or infrastructure that had been illegally seized from a U.S. entity by a foreign nation in the Western Hemisphere. It also requires the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to identify and ban illegally seized ports from U.S. trade and requires the United States Trade Representative to report to Congress on how such expropriations would be addressed during the upcoming review of the United Sates-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), scheduled for 2026. The legislation is co-sponsored by Senators John Barrasso (R-WY), Katie Britt (R-AL), Ted Budd (R-NC), Tim Kaine (D-VA), and Tommy Tuberville (R-AL).

    “I strongly condemn AMLO’s threats against Vulcan Materials Company and am pleased to see this bipartisan rebuke from the United States Senate,” said Senator Hagerty. “No nation or president, and especially one of our largest trade partners, should be allowed to bully an American firm without consequences. Our legislation will help to undermine any attempt by AMLO to profit from his illegal actions and, in the event of a seizure, would strengthen our nation’s position in trade negotiations with Mexico.”

    “Mexico seizing American-owned property is outrageous and unacceptable,” said Senator Barrasso. “The United States will always defend American business assets from illegal seizures. Senator Hagerty’s bill will ensure foreign countries cannot profit off of stealing from American companies abroad.”

    “Make no mistake–President López Obrador’s scheme to seize Vulcan’s deep-water port would represent a flagrant expropriation of a lawfully permitted, U.S.-owned operation, and his administration’s assault on the rule of law is putting America’s and Alabama’s economic and national security interests in jeopardy,” said Senator Britt. “We have repeatedly warned him that there will be substantial ramifications if his administration crossed this line. Our bipartisan Defending American Property Abroad Act makes it clear that we will keep our promises. The United States is prepared to meet President López Obrador’s illegal actions, which violate both Mexican and international law, with crushing consequences.” 

    “The United States and Mexico have an important trade and economic relationship,” said Senator Budd. “The illegal seizure of American property and infrastructure in Mexico is unacceptable and undermines that relationship. I am proud to partner with Senator Hagerty to stand up for American’s right to engage in international commerce without being extorted.” 

    “In recent years, Mexican President López Obrador has unfairly targeted Vulcan Materials Company, a U.S.-based company that employs over 1,000 people in Virginia,” said Senator Kaine, Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere. “That’s why I’m introducing this bipartisan legislation with my colleagues to deter Mexico and any country in our hemisphere from illegally seizing U.S. assets. We must make it clear that this behavior will not be tolerated. On the heels of Mexico’s controversial judicial reforms, this behavior only further harms the economic relationship between our two countries, as well as global investor confidence in Mexico.” 

    “For more than a year, Mexican President López Obrador has continued to show undue aggression toward American businesses, primarily Alabama’s Vulcan Materials,” said Senator Tuberville. “The continued escalation against Vulcan’s operation in Mexico is a disgrace to the longstanding trade agreement between our two countries for the last 30 years. The Biden-Harris administration has refused to stand up to President López Obrador’s threats, which is why it’s time for Congress to take action and urgently move this legislation to ensure this doesn’t happen to more American companies under a new Mexican president.”

    Background:

    In May 2022, Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO) abruptly shut down Vulcan’s operations with false claims that the firm was violating its contract, and since then the Mexican Government, under AMLO’s direction, has waged an unceasing pressure campaign against Vulcan, including multiple lawsuits and at times sending military and law enforcement to its facilities. Last month, AMLO announced that he is pushing to designate the port and mine a “Protected Natural Area”.

    In May 2022, Hagerty urged President Joe Biden to take action against the Mexican government’s moves to expropriate the property of U.S. companies with investments and operations in Mexico.

    In March 2023, Hagerty pressed Secretary of State Antony Blinken on the seizure by Mexican military troops and civilian authorities of U.S.-based Vulcan Materials Company’s assets in Mexico.

    In December 2023, Hagerty and Kaine spoke on the Senate floor imploring President López Obrador to halt harmful actions against American companies’ lawfully owned assets in Mexico, noting that these unlawful actions violate agreements made between the two countries under the USMCA and jeopardize a key U.S. trade relationship.

    In May 2024, Hagerty, Tuberville, Britt, and Kaine sent a letter to Secretary of Foreign Affairs of Mexico Alicia Bárcena urging her to take action regarding the Mexican government’s mistreatment of Vulcan Materials Company.

    Full text of the Defending American Property Abroad Act can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Peters Applauds New Biden Administration Rule Banning Chinese Vehicle Software and Technologies to Protect National Security

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) released the following statement on the U.S. Department of Commerce’s new rule banning key Chinese and Russian-controlled software and hardware in vehicles. The proposal would help safeguard American consumers and companies against the national security threat posed by allowing certain vehicles and technologies made by Chinese Community Party-backed (CCP) companies to be imported or sold in the United States:

    “I applaud the Administration for taking this needed step to protect American citizens and critical infrastructure from the serious national security threats posed by Chinese and Russian vehicle components. We simply cannot allow technologies controlled by foreign entities of concern on our roads that are capable of storing and sharing Americans’ personal data, committing espionage, and even manipulating our cars.

    “Vehicle technologies made by Chinese Communist Party-backed companies, assisted by China’s unfair trade practices, also present a real threat to U.S. economic competitiveness, intellectual property, and automotive manufacturing. This rule would help improve the security of the U.S. automotive supply chain and keep Michigan at the forefront of global mobility innovation and the creation more good-paying, union jobs here at home.”

    Peters has consistently worked to combat the national security and economic threats posed by Chinese-made vehicles. Peters recently sent a letter to several Chinese automakers pressing for more transparency into their ties to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). The letter highlighted the significant national security concerns associated with importing vehicles made by companies with CCP ties into the U.S, such as allowing the CCP to access Americans’ sensitive personal data and gathering information about our critical infrastructure by leveraging certain connected vehicle technologies. During a Senate Appropriations Subcommittee hearing earlier this year, Peters urged U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo to ensure the Commerce Department takes further action to combat threats posed by vehicles and high-risk technologies controlled by Chinese Communist Party-backed companies. In March, Peters also wrote a letter to Secretary Raimondo and the United States Trade Representative Katherine Tai highlighting the need for continued application of Section 301 tariffs on Chinese-made vehicles and supporting the Department of Commerce’s announcement of an investigation into the national security concerns posed by Chinese-made vehicles which led to this proposed rule. Peters then applauded the Commerce Department’s decision to raise tariffs on Chinese-made electric vehicles and other goods across numerous key sectors, including steel and aluminum imports, lithium batteries, critical minerals, solar cells, semiconductors, and medical equipment. 

    Peters has also consistently worked to boost American development of connected vehicles and other critical roadway safety technologies to support Michigan’s auto industry and create good-paying jobs for Michiganders. Last year, Peters – who Chairs the Senate Subcommittee on Surface Transportation, Maritime, Freight, and Ports – called on the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to allow the deployment of safe, secure Cellular Vehicle to Everything (C-V2X) technology in order to accelerate the use of this lifesaving mobility safety technology and ensure the U.S. does not fall behind other countries in its development and adoption. Following this bipartisan call from Peters, the FCC approved the deployment of C-V2X technology – which is an intelligent transportation system (ITS) technology that enables data sharing between vehicles, the infrastructure they operate on, and nearby road users – improving roadway safety and efficiency. In 2022, Peters welcomed the U.S. Department of Commerce’s $52.2 million investment in the Global Epicenter of Mobility to drive and advance mobility innovation across Michigan’s automotive sector. Peters secured this funding through the American Rescue Plan he helped enact. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Rubio, Clement Present Plan to Stop Antisemitism on College Campuses

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Florida Marco Rubio

    ICYMI: Rubio, Clement Present Plan to Stop Antisemitism on College Campuses
    Sep 23, 2024 | Press Releases

    Congress Can Protect Jews on College Campuses
    U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Paul Clement
    September 23, 2024
    Wall Street Journal

    The ancient poison of antisemitism has infected American higher education…. Campus antisemitism isn’t restricted to…widely publicized incidents…. A survey by Alums for Campus Fairness finds “44% of Jewish students report never or rarely feeling safe identifying as a Jew at their school.”
    College administrators and local authorities have the power and responsibility to protect Jewish students, but they have often failed…. Universities and law enforcement need better leaders, but the U.S. also needs a legal structure prohibiting antisemitic harassment on college campuses with clarity and teeth. 
    Doesn’t this structure already exist? Yes and no. Title VI of the 1964 Civil Rights Act prohibits discrimination based on race, color or national origin in federally-funded institutions of education. But it doesn’t specifically prohibit discrimination against Jews, and [it] doesn’t cover religious discrimination….
    The Preventing Antisemitic Harassment on Campuses Act…would extend Title VI of the Civil Rights Act to cover religious discrimination (with an exception for religious institutions)…. The bill affirmatively respects and preserves free speech rights. It targets [harassment that] the U.S. Supreme Court has already held the First Amendment doesn’t protect….
    The bill would also address a status quo in which the Education Department gives schools a slap on the wrist when they fail to protect Jewish students. Academic programs would receive a clear warning for the first offense, escalating to a 10% reduction of federal assistance after the second and a 33% reduction after the third….
    Read the rest here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy Readout Of Meeting With Foreign Minister Of Lebanon

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    September 23, 2024

    NEW YORK–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, on Monday released the following statement after meeting with Foreign Minister of Lebanon Abdallah Bou Habib.

    “This is a critical moment where the focus on the region and world must be on de-escalating the deepening conflict between Hezbollah and Israel. I spoke with Foreign Minister Bou Habib today and we exchanged views on how the United States, Lebanon and Israel can take steps to avoid the devastating consequences of a larger conflict breaking out in the Middle East. We had a candid, serious discussion about the importance of de-escalation in the immediate term, but also the need to establish a plan for the day after in Gaza and a credible path forward for a Palestinian state.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Tillis Discusses State Travel, Bipartisanship on Spectrum News’ In Focus with Loretta Boniti

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Carolina Thom Tillis
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Thom Tillis recently appeared on Spectrum News’ In Focus with Loretta Boniti to discuss his state travel and recent bipartisan legislative achievements, including the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and theBipartisan Safer Communities Act, legislation that Senator Tillis helped write, negotiate, and pass into law.
    Watch the full interview HERE.

    Senator Tillis on the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law:
    “We are approaching $13 billion coming to North Carolina. I was just in Wilmington yesterday, where we were celebrating a $250 million grant, about half of what it’s going to take to upfit the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge, and a $100 million grant for the Alligator River Bridge. Every county in the state is benefitting from this bill. This bill includes a billion dollars in connectivity for broadband, and it’s proving to have the impact that I thought it would. That’s why I was willing to take the hits to get it done.”
    Senator Tillis on the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act:
    “The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act is the single largest investment in mental health in the history of this country… I’m working very hard to make sure that everyone understands a full implementation of this bill is transformational. And I think North Carolina is on pace to be one of the most successful states to implement it. It’s coming at a perfect time. We are making progress on a challenge that still exists, and it’s the stigma of mental health.” 
    Senator Tillis on the Bipartisanship:
    “The reason why being bipartisan is so difficult today is that people can spread what I think are blatant lies in some cases about what we are trying to accomplish, and it causes people to be very careful and not take risks. I think that the American people suffer when we do that. We’re in D.C. to make changes, we’re not up there to get re-elected.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bicameral Statement of Bipartisan Task Forces for Combating Antisemitism on Release of 2023 FBI Hate Crime Statistics Report

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

    Anti-Jewish Hate Crimes Increased By Nearly 63 Percent, Reaching Highest Level In Decades
    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and James Lankford (R-OK), and Representatives Kathy Manning (NC-06) and Chris Smith (NJ-04), co-chairs of the Senate and House Bipartisan Task Forces for Combating Antisemitism, respectively, released the following statement in response to the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) 2023 Hate Crime Statistics Report. The FBI data shows anti-Jewish hate crimes increased in 2023 by nearly 63 percent from 2022, which is the highest number recorded in almost three decades.
    “We are deeply alarmed by the dramatic increase in hate crimes targeting Jewish Americans over the past year, as noted in the FBI’s 2023 Hate Crimes Statistics Report,” said the members. “With antisemitism skyrocketing across the United States following Hamas’s October 7 terrorist attack on Israel, a whole-of-government approach is needed to protect Jewish communities from violence and hate.”
    Anti-Jewish hate crimes rose from 1,122 to 1,832 incidents from 2022 to 2023. According to the FBI, a total of 16,009 law enforcement agencies, which represent 95.2 percent of the agencies enrolled in the hate crime data collection program, participated in hate crimes reporting for 2023.
    They continued: “As the co-chairs of the House and Senate Bipartisan Task Forces for Combating Antisemitism, we remain steadfast in our commitment to root out the scourge of antisemitism. We’ll continue working across party lines to ensure the federal government keeps Jewish Americans safe from discrimination.”
    Jewish Americans make up around two percent of the U.S. population, yet antisemitic hate crimes accounted for 15.4 percent of all hate crimes reported by the FBI. Anti-Jewish incidents comprised a little over two-thirds of all religion-based hate crimes. 
    As co-chair of the Senate Bipartisan Taskforce for Countering Antisemitism, Senator Rosen has been leading the fight against rising antisemitism. Senator Rosen, along with the co-chairs of the Senate and House Bipartisan Task Forces, introduced a bipartisan bill to take historic action to counter antisemitism in the United States by establishing a first-ever National Coordinator to Counter Antisemitism. In May, Senators Rosen and Lankford sent a bipartisan letter urging the Department of Education to designate a senior official to oversee efforts to combat antisemitism on college campuses. They also called on the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee to hold a full hearing on rising antisemitism on college campuses.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rubio, Scott Support Florida Request for Pre-landfall Emergency Declaration

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Florida Marco Rubio

    Rubio, Scott Support Florida Request for Pre-landfall Emergency Declaration
    Sep 23, 2024 | Press Releases

    Potential Tropical Cyclone Nine, soon to be Hurricane Helene, is expected to make landfall in Florida as a major hurricane later this week. The storm will bring strong winds, heavy rain, severe storm surge, flooding, and hazardous seas to Florida’s impacted areas. Additionally, this inclement weather has the potential to cause isolated tornadic activity across Florida. 
    U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Rick Scott (R-FL) sent a letter to President Joe Biden urging his immediate approval of the State of Florida’s request for a pre-landfall emergency declaration for 41 counties. 
    “Ensuring that the state has access to the federal resources it needs is imperative to protecting Floridians, property, and our communities. As such, we request that you promptly approve Governor DeSantis’s request for a pre-landfall emergency declaration.”
    The full text of the letter is below. 
    Dear Mr. President:
    We write in support of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’s request for a pre-landfall emergency declaration for 41 of Florida’s counties due to Potential Tropical Cyclone Nine (Helene), which is expected to strengthen into a major hurricane and impact Florida in the coming days.
    Currently, Potential Tropical Cyclone Nine (Helene) is expected to make landfall on Florida’s Gulf coast by Thursday afternoon. In addition to strong winds and heavy rain, this approaching storm is expected to bring severe storm surge, flooding, hazardous seas, and the potential for isolated tornadic activity across Florida. Although Florida is no stranger to hurricanes, this storm approaches as many areas of the Florida Big Bend coastline remain particularly vulnerable to tropical-related impacts due to damage caused by Hurricane Debby in August.
    Ensuring that the state has access to the federal resources it needs is imperative to protecting Floridians, property, and our communities. As such, we request that you promptly approve Governor DeSantis’s request for a pre-landfall emergency declaration.
    Thank you for your prompt attention to this important matter.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin, Duckworth, Quigley, Announce More Than $300 Million In Federal Funding For Transportation Infrastructure Improvements In Chicago

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
    09.20.24
    CHICAGO – U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and U.S. Representative Quigley (D-IL-05) today announced $305,467,517 in federal funding through the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Mega Program. With this federal funding, the Illinois Department of Transportation will receive $209,877,984 for the Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) Program and $95,589,533 for the I-290/IL171 (1st Avenue) Interchange Project. These projects will aim to reduce traffic delays, increase rail junction safety, and improve mobility throughout Chicago.
    DOT’s Mega Grant Program provides federal funding for large projects of regional significance and is funded through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act that the lawmakers worked to pass.
    “Today’s funding is a major investment in the future of our transportation infrastructure.  Chicagoans will be better connected because of these two infrastructure projects, which will improve the safety and quality of our rail system and roadways,” said Durbin. “Senator Duckworth, members of the Illinois Congressional Delegation, and I have long supported these investments, and I’m glad to see these federal dollars go toward improving safety and alleviating congestion in a region that desperately needs it.”
    “Investing in our transportation infrastructure is about more than just improving our roads, bridges and rail lines, it’s about growing our economy and making getting to work, school and throughout our communities faster, safer and more efficient,” Duckworth said. “I’m proud to see this federal funding coming to our state today for two critically important projects Senator Durbin and I have been championing for years and with it improvements in these local communities, and an increase in good-paying jobs in our region and more.”
    “This funding announcement is critical to helping CREATE in their mission to improve rail operations in Chicago for both passengers and freight.  As the Ranking Member of the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Subcommittee, I have an in-depth understanding of the needs facing our freight, commuter, and intercity passenger rail,”said Quigley. “Luckily, the CREATE Program has stepped up to the task and broken ground on numerous rail improvement projects throughout the region. In May, I visited their Forest Hill Flyover site, where I witnessed firsthand the efficiency and safety improvements CREATE is making. From adjacent neighborhoods to the nation’s supply chain, I know that the benefits of this funding will extend far beyond Chicago’s city limits.”
    The CREATE Program brings together the City of Chicago, the State of Illinois, the U.S. Department of Transportation, Metra, Amtrak, and the nation’s freight railroads in a partnership to eliminate transit bottlenecks, boost the economy, and improve overall safety of the Chicagoland area.
    Today’s announced funding will advance the 75th Street Corridor Improvement Project, a three-mile elevated rail corridor on Chicago’s South Side, which approximately 90 freight trains and 30 Metra commuter trains use daily. The project will reconfigure track segments and signals at Belt Junction, add a third track to the Norfolk Southern line, replace and restore 14 aging bridge and viaduct structures, and implement mobility improvements on surface streets throughout the corridor. Durbin and Duckworth have long championed rail improvements, having helped secure $132 million in federal funding to begin this project in 2018.
    The I-290/IL 171 (1st Avenue) Interchange Project will reconstruct portions of I-290, reconstruct and upgrade the 1st Avenue interchange, and implement signalized interchanges at Van Buren Street and Maybrook Drive. It also will install a supplemental trunk sewer along I-290 and a frontage road sewer along Bataan Drive. This work aims to alleviate congestion and address flooding issues.
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn, Rounds, Colleagues Introduce Resolution to Rectify Biden-Harris Admin’s FAFSA Fiasco

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Mike Rounds (R-SD) introduced a resolution yesterday along with 17 of their Senate GOP colleagues slamming the Biden-Harris Administration’s botched rollout of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the 2024-2025 school year. The resolution condemns the continued problematic rollout, calls for the U.S. Department of Education (ED) to identify and fix any issues for this year, and asks leaders to testify before congressional committees regarding the disastrous rollout.

    Text is below, and you can view the full resolution here.

    “Whereas the FAFSA Simplification Act was intended to make the Free Application for Federal Student Aid simpler and easier to complete for the 2024–2025 academic year;

    Whereas the Department of Education reported on May 24, 2024, that it had processed more than 10,000,000 FAFSA applications for the 2024–2025 academic year;

    Whereas, in previous years, the FAFSA application for an academic year opened on October 1st of the preceding year;

    Whereas the 2024–2025 FAFSA launched on December 31, 2023;

    Whereas, in previous years, the Department sent out student FAFSA data to institutions of higher education just days after the student filed their FAFSA application;

    Whereas, for the 2024–2025 school year, the Department did not start sending student FAFSA data to institutions of higher education until the beginning of March;

    Whereas many students did not receive financial aid awards until after National College Decision Day on May 1, 2024;

    Whereas Department officials were aware of implementation challenges associated with the rollout of the FAFSA Simplification Act as early as December 2020;

    Whereas students in pursuit of attending institutions of higher education across the United States depend on the resources made available by FAFSA;

    Whereas the FAFSA delays have been particularly burdensome for students in foster care and youth experiencing homelessness;

    Whereas the delay in the 2024–2025 FAFSA application timeline cut down the time students had to weigh options when considering financial components for attending institutions of higher education; and

    Whereas many offices of financial aid in institutions of higher education fear that this delay will discourage students from attending a college or university in the fall of 2024: Now, therefore, be it

    Resolved, That the Senate—

    (1) strongly condemns the delayed and problematic rollout of the FAFSA Simplification Act (title VII of division FF of Public Law 116-260);

    (2) calls for the Department of Education to take the necessary actions to identify the issues that

    led to the botched rollout of the FAFSA Simplification Act and fix them for the 2025–2026 Free Application for Federal Student Aid cycle; and

    (3) urges the Secretary of Education to testify before the relevant congressional committees regarding the rollout of the FAFSA Simplification Act.”

    The resolution was led by Sen. Mike Rounds (R-SD) and is cosponsored by Sens. Bill Cassidy (R-LA), John Barrasso (R-WY), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Mike Braun (R-IN.), Susan Collins (R-ME), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Steve Daines (R-MT), James Lankford (R-OK), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Joe Manchin (I-WV), Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Jim Risch (R-ID), Tim Scott (R-SC), Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Roger Wicker (R-MS). 

    Background:

    FAFSA historically has opened applications on October 1 of the year prior to the start of the academic school year. For the academic year of 2024-2025, the applications opened 3 months later in December. ED subsequently did not start sending FAFSA data to universities until March. Because of this delay, many students did not receive their financial aid awards until after May 1, 2024, the date that many institutions require students to commit to attending for the fall semester.

    For the academic year of 2025-2026, ED has already announced that the applications will again be delayed until December of this year.   

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: During Climate Week, Markey, Badum, Merkley, Barragán Lead Over 100 International Lawmakers in Urging Biden Administration to Reject New LNG Exports

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    Letter Text (PDF)

    Washington (September 23, 2024) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), chair of the Environment and Public Works Subcommittee on Clean Air, Climate, and Nuclear Safety, today partnered with Representative Lisa Badum, group coordinator in the German Bundestag’s Climate and Energy Committee and chairwoman of the Subcommittee on International Climate and Energy Policy, Senator Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Representative Nanette Barragán (CA-44), Senate and House colleagues, and leaders from around the world in sending a letter to President Joe Biden and Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm, urging the administration to reject new liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports amidst the global climate crisis.

    The United States is already the world’s largest exporter of LNG and is on track to exponentially increase export capacity – a full build-out that could yield hundreds of million metric tons of additional greenhouse gases at home and abroad. Pushing back on arguments that United States’ international allies need the country’s LNG, members of the U.S. Congress and Parliaments around the world are requesting that the administration reject these applications. 

    In their letter to the administration, the lawmakers wrote, “Far from being a clean ‘bridge’ fuel, LNG causes significant environmental harm. In addition to the greenhouse gas released when LNG is burned, the potent greenhouse gas effects of pervasive methane leaks throughout the LNG supply chain — which extends from initial exploration all the way through gas production, pipeline transportation, liquefaction, vessel transportation, regasification, distribution, and end-use consumption — likely eliminate any climate advantage of reduced greenhouse gas emissions.”

    The lawmakers continued, “In addition to the environmental and health benefits, limiting U.S. LNG exports will actually support global energy security, not jeopardize it. In both emerging and developed markets, overinvestment in LNG diverts resources away from cheaper, more stable, and less trade-dependent clean energy investments.”

    In Europe:

    “While Europe’s energy system was strained in the immediate aftermath of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in early 2022, it has since recovered. Europeans united to slash overall gas demand by 20 percent over the past two years. Gas prices are lower than before the start of the war, despite drastically lower supply from Russia.”

    In Asia:

    “China, the world’s largest LNG importer, has emerged as a major re-exporter within the region and globally, cashing in on lucrative price differentials that are facilitated by long-term agreements with the United States. Similarly, Japan, facing declining domestic demand and oversupply, is redirecting LNG trade volumes to emerging markets in South and Southeast Asia, bolstering profitable re-trading ventures.” Additionally, “South Korea, despite existing low terminal utilization and climate commitments, has invested significantly in expanding LNG infrastructure, highlighting a mismatch between capacity expansions and actual demand.”

    In Africa:

    “The expansion of LNG export infrastructure has sparked displacement, conflict, and environmental degradation, with many projects facing the risk of becoming stranded assets amid declining global demand. The African LNG export market parallels the United States in prioritizing foreign market interests over local needs amidst declining demand. U.S. participation in the LNG export market fuels this exploitative industry, undermining claims of leadership in a just global energy transition.”

    In the Americas:

    “Investments in new re-exporting infrastructure in Mexico will soon become stranded assets with poor financial viability, threatening the economic stability of the country for the benefit of short-term U.S. interests. Moreover, the export of U.S. LNG through Mexico also transfers environmental and climate justice burdens associated with LNG infrastructure, expanding the footprint of the industry’s harm to the country’s unique biodiversity and frontline communities in Mexico.”

    Cosigners in the U.S. include Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), and Representatives Jared Huffman (CA-02), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), and Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC). Cosigners internationally include 30 Members of the Thailand Parliament, 15 Members of the European Parliament, 10 Members of the German Parliament, 3 Members of the United Kingdom Parliament, 2 Members of the Flemish Parliament, 2 Members of the National Assembly of the Gambia, 2 Members of the South Sudan Parliament, 2 Members of the Tanzanian Parliament the Australian Senator for Victoria, Brazilian State Deputy for Para, Canadian Senator for Quebec, the Deputy Prime Minister of Belgium, 1 former Member of the Sierra Leone Parliament, 1 former Member of the Catalan Parliament, 1 former Member of the Flemish Parliament, 1 Member of the Timor-Leste Parliament, Member of Parliament and Special Envoy on Climate Change and Environment from the Republic of Vanuatu, 1 Member of the Sierra Leone Parliament, 1 Member of Tasmania’s Legislative Council, 1 Member of the Australian Parliament, 1 Member of the Austrian Parliament, 1 Member of the Cambodian Parliament, 1 Member of the Cameroon National Assembly, 1 Member of the Colombian Congress, 1 Member of the Gambian Parliament, 1 Member of the Ghanaian Parliament, 1 Member of the Liberian House of Representatives, 1 Member of the Northern Ireland Assembly, 1 Member of the Scottish Parliament, 1 Member of the Swedish Parliament, 1 Member of the Swiss Parliament (National Council), 1 Member of the Tasmanian House of Assembly, 1 Member of the Ugandan Parliament, 1 Member of the UK House of Lords, and 1 Member of the Victorian Parliament in Australia on behalf of the Victorian Greens Members of Parliament.

    In July 2023, Senator Markey and several New England Senators sent a letter to the Department of Energy urging it to consider the disproportionate negative impacts of LNG on New England as the department considers updates to its underlying environmental and economic analyses to improve export authorization decisions for LNG. 

    In May 2024, Senator Markey and Representative Yvette Clarke (NY-09) announced the reintroduction of the Block All New (BAN) Fossil Fuel Exports Act, legislation that would amend the Energy Policy and Conservation Act and ban the export of American crude oil and natural gas abroad to protect frontline communities from dangerous export infrastructure, prioritize U.S. consumers against fossil fuel profiteering, and help ensure the United States meets its climate and clean energy commitments on the world stage.

    In March 2023, Senator Markey and Representatives Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) and Rashida Tlaib (MI-12) reintroduced the Fossil Free Finance Act, legislation that would direct the Federal Reserve to require major banks and other Systemically Important Financial Institutions (SIFIs) to stop financing projects and activities linked to increased greenhouse gas emissions and submit a plan on how they would meet these requirements. In October 2022, Senator Markey reintroduced the OPEC Accountability Act, legislation to require the U.S. President to initiate consultations with the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and some non-OPEC countries to reduce crude oil production.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Statement on the Continued Need for Disaster Recovery Funding 

    US Senate News:

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

    Welch:  This Continuing Resolution will not meet the needs of Vermont, or any state recovering from a disaster.   
    WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) released the following statement in response to both Chambers of Congress reaching a bipartisan agreement on a short-term Continuing Resolution (CR), which would fund the government through December 20th but excludes additional disaster recovery funding for FEMA or other disaster recovery programs:  
    “For months, bipartisan members of Congress from states devastated by floods, fires, hurricanes, tornadoes and other climate disasters have asked their colleagues to step up and help in their time of need. I have come to the Senate Floor to advocate for Vermont’s flood victims, met with my colleagues, and asked Congressional leadership and the Administration for the assistance needed.  
    “I’ll often say, ‘There but for the grace of God go I’, because climate disasters do not discriminate based on state boundaries or political preferences. Climate change-related weather disasters have hurt blue states and red states alike. All of our constituents face the same threats. 
    “Vermont’s homeowners, farms, businesses and communities need FEMA’s Disaster Recovery Fund to be fully replenished, and they need they need the additional flexible funding that only Congress can provide. We are recovering from three catastrophic floods in 14 months, and we cannot recover alone. This Continuing Resolution will not meet the needs of Vermont, or any state recovering from a disaster.   
    “Though I’m glad a deal has been reached to keep the government open, we cannot keep pushing disaster aid off. There is bipartisan need for this funding, and there is bipartisan support to get it passed.”  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warren, Markey, Healey, Wu, Massachusetts Leaders Secure $472 Million in Federal Funding to Replace Draw One Bridge, Renovate North Station T Stop

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    September 23, 2024

    Largest federal award MBTA has won to date

    Funding will increase ridership, streamline operations, and improve resiliency along Amtrak’s Downeaster route and regional rail lines

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Ed Markey (D-Mass.), along with Representatives Stephen Lynch (D-MA-08), Katherine Clark (D-MA-05), Ayanna Pressley (D-MA-07), Lori Trahan (D-MA-03), Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, and MBTA General Manager and CEO Phillip Eng announced a grant of $472 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) to fully replace the North Station Draw One Bridge and renovate Platform F at North Station. The grant is the largest federal award the MBTA has won to date.

    The nearly half a billion dollar grant will provide critical support for one of MBTA’s top priority projects and a vital transportation asset to MBTA’s north-side operations. It will also support more than 14,500 jobs, make the bridge more climate resilient by bringing it above projected sea-level rise, and lower emissions. In April 2024, Senator Warren led a letter of support for the MBTA’s funding request to the Department of Transportation.

    Specifically, the new funding for MBTA’s North Station Renovation and the Draw One Bridge Replacement Project will support the full replacement of the existing drawbridge, the extension and activation of a platform with two tracks at North Station, and the replacement of track, signals, and switches to modernize and improve station infrastructure.

    “This $472 million investment is a game-changer for the thousands of passengers who pass through North Station every day — and will build a safer, more reliable public transit system for the Commonwealth. Massachusetts leaders worked together to secure the largest ever federal award for the T, and I won’t stop fighting to bring home even more investment to improve transit across the Commonwealth,” said Senator Warren.

    “With $472 million to replace the North Station drawbridge, we’re drawing up a new future for rail transit north of Boston. I’m grateful to the Biden-Harris administration, Governor Healey, General Manager Eng, Senator Warren, and our whole federal delegation for securing this funding. Together, we are delivering critical federal dollars to the T and building a modern, safe, and reliable public transit system for all,” said Senator Markey.

    “We know that improving our transportation infrastructure is critical for improving quality of life and making sure Massachusetts remains the best place to live, work, raise a family and build a future,” said Governor Maura Healey. “That’s why our administration is competing so aggressively to win federal funding that can be put toward our roads, bridges and public transportation. Congratulations to General Manager Eng and the MBTA team for this award that will improve train service for millions of riders. We’re grateful to the Biden-Harris Administration and U.S. Department of Transportation for their continued investment in Massachusetts’ transportation infrastructure.” 

    The Draw One railbridge carries the MBTA Commuter Rail and Amtrak trains, serving approximately 11,250,000 passengers per year. It is particularly critical for Amtrak’s Downeaster, an intercity passenger rail service that travels from Maine and New Hampshire into Boston, which is projected to have some of the highest ridership in New England. Draw One is also a vital connection for all of MBTA’s north-side regional rail lines, including Fitchburg, Lowell, Haverhill, and Newburyport/Rockport. The new federal investment will improve service reliability and operations, reduce congestion along a known bottleneck, and increase capacity across the bridge. Additionally, the funding will allow for upgraded signaling and expanded track capabilities, further improving traffic flow.

    “I am pleased to join my colleagues in government to announce the State of Massachusetts was awarded over $472 million in federal funding that will help improve MBTA and Amtrak services,” said Rep. Lynch. “This funding is the result of our hard work and partnership with the Biden-Harris administration to ensure we invest into our nation’s transportation and infrastructure. People all over the Commonwealth rely on public transportation every day, and this DOT grant is critical to make the necessary repairs and replacements that will make train service more safe and reliable.”

    “This bridge is a critical connection point for the communities north of Boston. This federal investment will improve the quality of life for commuters, reduce traffic for everyone, and bring opportunity to the Commonwealth. We will have a faster, more modern, and more user-friendly public transportation system, and that’s exactly the direction we need to move in,” said Democratic Whip Katherine Clark.

    “Transit justice is a racial and economic justice issue, and a matter of public safety – and this massive federal investment helps make the Commonwealth more connected and our transportation system safer and more reliable for commuters,” said Congresswoman Pressley. “I’m glad that families in the Massachusetts 7th who depend on the commuter rail will be better able to access jobs, healthcare, education, and essential services in other parts of the state, and we won’t stop fighting to build the more just, equitable, and accessible transit system our communities deserve. I thank my delegation colleagues and the Healey-Driscoll Administration for their partnership, and the Biden-Harris Administration for continuing to invest in Massachusetts.”

    “The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law continues to deliver unprecedented federal investments to make our transit systems safer and more efficient,” said Congresswoman Trahan. “This massive award is proof that, thanks to the strong partnership between our federal delegation and the Healey-Driscoll administration, Massachusetts continues to punch above our weight when competing for federal funding.”

    “North Station Draw One is a connection point between Boston and Cambridge, and the many cities and towns north who rely on this train bridge to visit and work in our city. Thanks to the leadership of the MA federal delegation and the Healey-Driscoll administration in securing this funding, the Greater Boston area will see benefits from updated infrastructure and more reliable transportation. This funding for a bridge replacement represents our region’s commitment to our local economy and green transit,” said Mayor Michelle Wu.

    “I’m proud of the MBTA team that worked diligently to put this project in a strong position to win this highly competitive federal award. I thank the USDOT Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, Deputy Secretary of Transportation Polly Trottenberg, and our partners at the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), Acting Administrator Veronica Vanterpool, FTA Region 1 Administrator Pete Butler, and their entire team, for this incredible award allowing us to deliver the North Station Draw 1 project, freeing up state capital dollars for other essential needs,” said MBTA General Manager and CEO Phillip Eng. “This award continues to demonstrate our aggressive approach to pursuing all funding opportunities under the lead of the Healey-Driscoll Administration as we pursue every available federal grant. Our Grants and North Station Drawbridge teams deserve all the credit for their exceptional work to secure this funding which allows us to ensure the efficient and reliable movement of all North Station train lines while greatly improving our ability to provide more frequent, regional rail-style service across the entire northside corridor to serve future generations to come.”

    Senator Warren has worked hard to secure federal funding for Massachusetts transportation projects, including $1.7 billion to replace the Cape Cod Bridges, $335 million to reconnect communities and increase mobility through the Allston I-90 Multimodal Project, $108 million for West-East Rail, $75 million for schools to electrify their bus fleets, $60 million for transit agencies to acquire zero- and low-emission buses, and $24 million to rehabilitate Leonard’s Wharf in New Bedford. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Secret Service is Slow-Walking Investigation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Ron Johnson

    In the week since the second assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, we still have far more questions than answers about both events.Two attempts in a little over 60 days is horrendous and unacceptable.
    There’s just basic information we should have right now, and we don’t have it. Regarding the July 13 assassination attempt against President Trump, the Secret Service and FBI fail to provide unredacted documents and they are slow-walking witnesses to Congress. Subpoenas must be issued to compel compliance.
    The Secret Service’s budget has increased 65% over the past decade. They don’t lack resources, they simply lack good management. 
    READ Fox News: Sen. Ron Johnson describes ‘heavily redacted’ documents provided to lawmakers
    WATCH Real America’s Voice: Sen. Johnson talks about upcoming preliminary report on July 13 assassination attempt. 
    LISTEN to Clay & Buck Show: Why we cannot trust the FBI to investigate the Trump assassination attempts.
    WATCH Jesse Waters Show: Subpoenas must be issued to compel compliance.
    SAVE Act for Election Integrity

    I’m a co-sponsor of the SAVE Act (Safeguard American Voter Eligibility) because it should be obvious to everyone — even Democrats — that we should prevent illegal immigrants from voting. 
    Unfortunately most Democrats in Congress don’t agree. This legislation aims to secure our elections by requiring proof of citizenship to vote.
    This op-ed I wrote for The Federalist outlines why the SAVE Act is important. 
    READ: Democrat-Controlled States Refuse To Clean Voter Rolls And Fix Election Problem
    Why is Social Security in Trouble? 

    During the Senate Finance Committee on September 12, I talked about why Social Security is in trouble.
    Here are the issues I raised in my questioning. Since the inception of Social Security: 
    — Life expectancy increased 16 years,— Worker-to-beneficiary ratio fell from 30+:1 to 2.7:1, and— Government spent the money instead of properly investing it.
    Only taxing the “wealthy” won’t solve the problem — it will hurt economic growth and make things worse.
    Tune in Monday!

    On Monday, September 23 at 2pm ET,  I will lead a roundtable discussion titled, “American Health and Nutrition: A Second Opinion.” A panel of experts will provide a foundational and historical understanding of the changes that have occurred over the last century within public sanitation, agriculture, food processing, and healthcare industries which impact the current state of national health.
    Watch Monday’s livestream on the Senator Ron Johnson Rumble channel.
    Angels in Adoption

    I had the honor to congratulate Scott and Dawn Ripkey from Fontana, Wisconsin for being this year’s Angels in Adoption honorees representing our state. 
    Each year, the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute selects individuals, families or organizations across the nation who have demonstrated a commitment to improving the lives of children in need of permanent, loving homes. As past co-presidents of the Gift of Adoption Wisconsin chapter, the Ripkeys grew the organization in size and reach, helping make the dream of a family a reality for many more children.
    If you know someone who should be nominated for this award next year, please email my office. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 09/23/2024 VIDEO: Blackburn Discusses Fentanyl Epidemic with Tennessee Mom Who Lost Her 17-Year-Old Son

    US Senate News:

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following video detailing her conversation with a Middle Tennessee mother named Kathy, who tragically lost her 17-year-old son, Vaughn-Thomas, after he unknowingly took a pill laced with fentanyl.

     

    Click here to download this video of Senator Blackburn’s conversation about the fentanyl epidemic with Kathy.

    “Most all of us know at least one person through friends, through family that has been affected, their lives have been torn apart by fentanyl. Over 100,000 Americans a year die [from drug overdoses], and it’s primarily fentanyl. The precursors come from China into Mexico, and then drug cartels bring it into the country. What we know is that across our great state, there are so many physicians and nurses and healthcare professionals who are on the front line of this every day. That is why we say thank you to our law enforcement and our healthcare community for the work that they are doing to fight back against fentanyl.” – Senator Blackburn

    “Vaughn-Thomas… was our firstborn, our oldest of three sons. He was very strong in his faith, he loved his friends, he was a good student, he was athletic, he loved golf – life was going really well for him… He was supposed to play golf with his dad the next day, and when Vaughn-Thomas didn’t wake up to his alarm, that’s when we found him. He took what he thought was a Xanax – it was a counterfeit Xanax. Our borders are inviting tragedy into the lives of our children. One mistake should not have been a death sentence for Vaughn-Thomas.” – Kathy

    BACKGROUND:
    • Fentanyl poisoning is the leading cause of death for Americans age 18-45. 
    • According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), CBP’s fentanyl seizures increased more than 860% from fiscal years 2019 to 2023, and they nearly doubled from fiscal years 2022 to 2023.
    • Just last month, CBP officers in Arizona seized roughly 4 million blue fentanyl pills – weighing more than 1,000 pounds and the largest singular fentanyl seizure in CBP history. 
    • So far in 2024, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has seized enough fentanyl to kill 269 million Americans.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ***MEDIA ADVISORY*** Cassidy Announces Themes of Upcoming Energy Security Summit in Baton Rouge

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, announced the themes of his upcoming summit, “Louisiana Energy Security Summit: Unleashing American Abundance in a Changing Global Landscape,” in Baton Rouge on Wednesday, October 16, 2024. The Energy Security Summit will bring together leaders from the federal, state, and local government, industry, research community, and more. Speakers and the full agenda will be announced in the coming weeks.
    Themes will be the guide panels and fireside chats throughout the day-long summit. They include:

    Advancing Energy Security in a Changing Global Landscape
    Exposing Threats to Global Trade and Energy Security
    Implications for U.S. Industries and Competitiveness
    Supporting Accountability and Fair Competition in Global Trade 
    Enhancing U.S. Competitiveness Through Louisiana’s Industrial Exports
    Strengthening U.S. Geopolitical Influence and Advancing Energy Security

    Registration is open to attend in-person HERE.
    Press must RSVP to shawn_hanscom@cassidy.senate.gov.
    WHAT: Energy Security Summit
    WHO: Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA)
    WHEN: Wednesday, October 16
                   9:00am – 4:00pm CT  
    WHERE: Louisiana State Museum – Capitol Park Museum
                     660 N. 4th Street
                     Baton Rouge, LA 70802
    Background
    Cassidy frequently highlights the geopolitical challenges confronting U.S. manufacturers operating internationally. Adversaries exploit lax environmental and labor standards to gain an unfair trade advantage over American companies. Cassidy advocates for a U.S. foreign policy integrating national, economic, and energy security.
    He and U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) introduced their Foreign Pollution Fee Act to level the playing field with Chinese manufacturing and expand American production.
    Earlier this month, he released the 3rd episode of Bill on the Hill, which highlights his Foreign Pollution Fee Act and discusses China’s growing economy and military at the expense of the American worker. After hearing fellow Americans share his concerns, Cassidy presented his plan to address the nexus between economic development, national security, and the environment. His Foreign Pollution Fee Act would even the playing field while holding China accountable.
    He penned editorials in Foreign Affairs, The Washington Times, and jointly in the USA Today Network with State Senator Caleb Kleinpeter (R-Port Allen), and State Representative Blake Miguez (R-Erath) discussing the geopolitical threats China poses to U.S. global standing. Cassidy also joined Greta Van Susteren on Newsmax to discuss his foreign pollution fee, noting the competitive advantage China receives from intentionally ignoring environmental standards. 
    Last Spring, the Louisiana Senate and House of Representatives unanimously adopted a resolution urging Congress to pursue an industrial manufacturing and trade policy to counter competition from China. Learn more here. 
    Last Congress, Cassidy released a landmark energy policy outline in response to the Biden administration’s assault on domestic energy. The outline details how we can successfully reset U.S. energy policy, including Cassidy’s plan for an Energy Operation Warp Speed to cut permitting red tape and unleash domestic energy and manufacturing. In support of this complete vision and in addition to the Foreign Pollution Fee, Cassidy led Republican colleagues in opposition to a domestic carbon tax and introduced the first comprehensive judicial reform for permitting bill. He also pushed back on disastrous proposals from the Biden administration to limit development in the Outer Continental Shelf with the introduction of the WHALE Act and the Offshore Energy Security Act of 2023.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: King, Rubio Urge FDA for Guidance on Stronger, Cheaper Drug Manufacturing Process

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Angus King

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME) and Marco Rubio (R-FL) are urging the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to clarify its approval process for pharmaceutical companies considering advanced manufacturing technologies (AMTs) — such as continuous manufacturing, a means of production that involves a more uninterrupted process. In a letter to FDA Commissioner Dr. Robert Califf, the senators encouraged the FDA to incentivize the pharmaceutical industry to invest in AMTs to help address drug shortages and quality control issues, which contribute to more than 60% of the drug shortage problem.

    AMTs have great potential to lower the cost of drug production and can increase the possibility of domestic manufacturing. Compared to other industries, the pharmaceutical industry tends to operate in more outdated processes. Currently, much of the industry still employs what is called “batch” process, an active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) production method that takes place at multiple sites and can lead to sterilization issues. By implementing continuous manufacturing, companies can ensure a more sterile process at one single production site and reduce the risk of drug shortages.

    “For several years, the United States has grappled with a concerning uptick in shortages of key APIs and medications. Quality issues resulting from weak manufacturing standards abroad are the most common cause for shortages. Unsurprisingly, most of these quality issues occur in traditional manufacturing facilities overseas. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the U.S.’ heavy reliance on foreign entities, particularly China, for our drugs and medical supplies. The lack of domestic medical manufacturing has created dangerous vulnerabilities for American public health and national security,” wrote the senators.

    “We are concerned that the FDA has not yet created a feasible pathway for stakeholders to invest confidently in domestic AMTs. As the FDA continues to evaluate its AMT regulations, we urge you to prioritize domestic manufacturing facilities and commit to frequent engagement with industry and patient stakeholders, ensuring a clear and efficient approval process for AMTs and their products,” continued the senators.

    “As the FDA works toward finalizing its AMT Designation Program and continues to evaluate and approve AMTs for commercial use, we urge you to ensure that these efforts prioritize domestic supply chain resilience and enforce clear guidelines for manufacturers to take part in this program,” the senators wrote.

    The full text of the letter can be found here or below.

    +++

    Dear Commissioner Califf:

    We write to urge the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to promote domestic pharmaceutical supply chain resilience through the implementation of programs to manufacture drugs and Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) using advanced manufacturing technologies (AMTs), such as continuous manufacturing processes. We commend the FDA’s work to issue industry guidance for considerations specific to continuous manufacturing of APIs, but greater action is needed to promote a resilient domestic API supply chain. We are concerned that the FDA has not yet created a feasible pathway for stakeholders to invest confidently in domestic AMTs. As the FDA continues to evaluate its AMT regulations, we urge you to prioritize domestic manufacturing facilities and commit to frequent engagement with industry and patient stakeholders, ensuring a clear and efficient approval process for AMTs and their products.

    For several years, the United States has grappled with a concerning uptick in shortages of key APIs and medications. Quality issues resulting from weak manufacturing standards abroad are the most common cause for shortages. Unsurprisingly, most of these quality issues occur in traditional manufacturing facilities overseas. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the U.S.’ heavy reliance on foreign entities, particularly China, for our drugs and medical supplies. The lack of domestic medical manufacturing has created dangerous vulnerabilities for American public health and national security.

    AMTs, such as continuous manufacturing sites, provide a promising pathway to lower the cost of domestic drug manufacturing, and accelerate the reshoring of key API production here in the United States. Yet, the FDA has not yet invested sufficient resources toward developing clear regulatory guidelines for these innovative manufacturing tools. The FDA must quickly finalize and implement the AMT Designation Program, as directed by Congress, to provide companies regulatory clarity as they evaluate whether to invest and seek approval of AMTs for their products.

    Though the FDA has identified current regulatory barriers that are preventing more companies from adopting AMTs in their manufacturing pipelines, we are concerned that the FDA has not addressed these barriers adequately. A 2021 National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine report found that significant regulatory challenges to implementing advanced manufacturing for drugs include challenges within the FDA’s approval process for each step in the manufacturing process and the lack of guidance and expertise within the FDA related to advanced manufacturing technologies. Industry stakeholders must be able to establish the business case for the use of an AMT, but current ambiguities in the regulatory environment exacerbate challenges for arguing the business incentives for AMTs, deterring investment in these technologies. Though the agency expressed a willingness to address the barriers the report identified, a 2023 GAO report on the status of the FDA’s efforts in supporting investment in AMTs found that only a few drugs manufactured using an AMT are currently approved for marketing in the United States. Between 2015 and 2022, the FDA had only approved 16 out of the 112 applications or supplemental applications that used an AMT. This low rate of approval does not inspire investor confidence and proves that the FDA has considerable work to do to improve the regulatory environment for AMTs.

    As the FDA works toward finalizing its AMT Designation Program and continues to evaluate and approve AMTs for commercial use, we urge you to ensure that these efforts prioritize domestic supply chain resilience and enforce clear guidelines for manufacturers to take part in this program. As such, we request answers to the following questions:

    1. What strategies has the FDA implemented to encourage greater investment by domestic drug manufacturers into AMTs, such as continuous manufacturing?
      1. How has the FDA engaged with industry to further refine its regulations and expand opportunities for approval?
    1. How is the FDA ensuring that the AMT Designation program will benefit more domestic manufacturing facilities than foreign-based facilities?
    2. Based on the current application pool for AMTs seeking FDA approval through currently active pathways, what is the ratio of domestic versus foreign-based facility applications that the FDA has received?
      1. What is the ratio of domestic versus foreign based facilities that have been approved?
    1. Has the FDA received any new continuous manufacturing applications for generics, especially among pharmaceuticals experiencing domestic shortages?
      1. Will the FDA consider a drug or API’s risk for shortage when evaluating applications for the AMT Designation program?
    1. How is the FDA communicating about the AMT Designation Program to eligible entities and the public?
      1. How is the FDA ensuring the drug manufacturers of all sizes are aware of the program and understand the requirements to apply?
    1. How is the FDA ensuring the timely approval of continuous manufacturing technologies?
    2. Has the FDA seen continued growth in the number of approved continuous manufacturing products since 2022?
    3. What is the implementation status of the AMT Designation Program?
      1. Has the FDA made progress on implementing the required program since the draft guidance period, which closed on March 13, 2024?
      1. Has the program accepted any designation requests for new technologies?

    Thank you for your attention to this important matter. We look forward to your prompt response.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senate Passes Scott, Manchin Bipartisan Resolution Dedicating September 2024 as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Tim Scott

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Senator Joe Manchin (I-W.Va.) applauded the Senate passage of their bipartisan resolution to designate September 2024 as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Cancer is the leading cause of death by disease among children past infancy; each year, more than 14,500 children under the age of 19 are diagnosed with cancer.

    “Cancer is tragically the most common cause of death by disease among children in America,” said Senator Scott. “I am proud to work with my colleagues to dedicate September to raising awareness and honoring the bravery of children and their families who are affected by this devastating disease. Let this occasion be a reminder that there is so much more work to be done to help every kid have the happy, healthy childhood they deserve.”

    “Every September, we honor the children taken from us too soon, recognize the strides we have made in treatment and recovery, and recommit ourselves to fighting this disease. Every child deserves to have a chance at a full and healthy life,” said Senator Manchin. “I am proud to help raise awareness around childhood cancer and the lives it affects every day. Gayle and I will continue to keep all cancer patients and their families across West Virginia and the country in our prayers.”

    “I’m proud to join my colleagues again in recognizing September as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Since my Childhood Cancer STAR Act became law and was reauthorized last year, we have secured better outcomes for children fighting this terrible disease and grown our research capabilities, especially with institutions in West Virginia. I will continue to support initiatives that improve our understanding of childhood cancer, provide high-quality care for childhood cancer patients, and create better outcomes for survivors until we enter a world where cancer is a disease of the past,” Senator Capito said.

    “We are deeply grateful to Senators Manchin and Scott for their continued support in designating September as National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. While we celebrate the progress that has been made in improving the survival rate for children diagnosed with cancer, there is still so much work to be done. Cancer remains the leading cause of death from disease among children, and too many young lives are lost. This resolution reminds us of the urgent need to fund research and find cures so that every child has the chance to grow up cancer-free,” the Alliance for Childhood Cancer said in a statement.

    Senators Scott and Manchin were joined on the resolution by Senators Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Bob Casey (D-Pa.), and Josh Hawley (R-Mo.). The resolution is supported by the Alliance for Childhood Cancer. To view the resolution, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 09.23.2024 Cruz, Warren, Babin, Garamendi Introduce Bipartisan RIDER Act to Improve Federal Assistance to Communities Recovering from Major Disasters

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas Ted Cruz
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) introduced the Regional Impact of Disasters and Emergencies Relief (RIDER) Act to improve access to and delivery of federal relief to disaster-struck communities. This bipartisan, bicameral bill would amend existing law to better address the on-the-ground experiences of communities affected by major disasters.
    Upon introduction, Sen. Cruz said, “Texas is no stranger to natural disasters, and we must do more to ensure our communities can rebuild in times of need. That’s why I’m focused on enhancing the disaster declaration process, ensuring Texans—from small towns and rural areas—can access the resources needed to restore our homes, businesses, and livelihoods. I am proud to partner with Senator Warren alongside Representatives Babin and Garamendi to introduce bipartisan legislation to ensure no community is left behind in the wake of catastrophe.”
    Sen. Warren, “The growing climate crisis means natural disasters and emergencies are only going to become more common. Part of tackling the crisis head on is making sure we’re ready to deliver critical relief to impacted communities when they need it most — the RIDER Act does exactly that.”
    Chief Nim Kidd, Texas Division of Emergency Management said, “Texans are no strangers to natural disasters, and bureaucratic processes that must be endured to unlock federal assistance. The RIDER Act would enhance the flow of federal aid, by cutting through the red tape of technicalities and subjective federal standards to ensure that Texans are able to receive the relief and resources needed to fully recover.”
    Reps. Brian Babin (R-Texas-36) and John Garamendi (D-Calif.-8) have introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives.
    BACKGROUND
    The RIDER Act will:
    Improve the distribution of disaster relief funds by allowing all communities directly affected by a major disaster to be eligible for federal relief, regardless of county or state lines.
    Enable the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to declare major disasters based on cumulative damage to a community over a 12-month period, addressing concerns that existing federal regulations do not sufficiently account for the impact of cumulative disasters on a region.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner and Kaine Announce Nearly $2 Million in Federal Funding for Water Infrastructure Projects in Southwest Virginia

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) announced $1,945,692 in federal funding for Lee and Wise counties and the Town of Clintwood to support infrastructure projects that will improve and extend waterline and sewer systems to additional homes. The funding is awarded by the Appalachian Regional Commission, an economic development partnership that invests in building community and strengthening local economies.
    “High-quality water infrastructure is crucial to the health and well-being of any community,” said the Senators. “We’re glad to have helped bring nearly $2 million in funding to Clintwood and Lee and Wise counties to expand waterlines to dozens of homes and improve our wastewater systems.”
    The funding is allocated as follows:
    $700,000 for Lee County to connect 12 households to the county public water system and ensure safe, reliable drinking water to residents in the county.
    $700,000 for the Town of Clintwood to support ongoing water and sewer renovations in Dickenson County. The funding will ensure that 45 households receive potable water along Backbone Ridge Road.
    $545,692 for Wise County to connect 22 households to the county wastewater system and address the lack of public wastewater service to underserved areas. This funding will ensure the community has access to a safe, reliable wastewater treatment system.  
    Sens. Warner and Kaine have long supported efforts to expand and improve infrastructure across the Commonwealth, including voting to pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law which has brought over $8.4 billion in funding to Virginia so far. Last November, the senators announced $62.4 million in federal funding to make clean water infrastructure upgrades across the Commonwealth. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper, Bennet, Colleagues Cheer Passage of Bipartisan Resolution Recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Hickenlooper – Colorado
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper and Michael Bennet introduced and voted to pass the bipartisan resolution formally recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrated from September 15th through October 15th. The resolution passed unanimously.
    “¡Feliz Mes de la Herencia Hispana! Colorado’s rich Latino community defines our state and has helped make it the best place to live,” said Hickenlooper.  
    “There is so much to celebrate about the Hispanic community’s deep roots in Colorado,” said Bennet. “This month, I’m grateful for the contributions of the more than 1.2 million Hispanic Americans who call our state home.”
    In 1968, President Lyndon B. Johnson first commemorated Hispanic Heritage by designating “Hispanic Heritage Week.” President Ronald Reagan expanded the celebration in 1988 for a full month. Hispanic Americans are the country’s largest racial or ethnic minority group, representing more than 65 million people and comprising nearly a fifth of the U.S. and Colorado’s population.
    The text of the resolution is available HERE. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Boozman, Heinrich Introduce Every Kid Outdoors Extension Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Martin Heinrich (D-NM) introduced the Every Kid Outdoors Extension Act to provide free access to national parks and other public lands to all American fourth graders and their families through 2031.  

    “Introducing young Americans to our national parks inspires an appreciation for the lands and resources that help define our country. I’m proud to support this legislation that allows the next generation to discover our national treasures and explore the outdoors,” said Boozman.  

    “As a father and a former outdoor educator, I know firsthand how much of a difference getting outside can make for our kids,” said Heinrich, a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. “I’m so proud of the doors we have opened to our public lands for fourth graders and their families since we passed my Every Kid Outdoors Act into law five years ago. Now, we can double down on this successful program, turning our national parks and other public lands into outdoor classrooms with endless opportunities for children to learn and families to make new memories.” 

    Starting in 2015, the U.S. Department of the Interior has offered fourth graders and their families free entrance to all federally managed public lands. The authorization is scheduled to expire in 2026.  

    Full text of the Every Kid Outdoors Extension Act can be found here.  

    The Every Kid Outdoors program has successfully encouraged tens of thousands of children and their families to explore America’s public lands, waters, historic sites and national parks – more than 2,000 sites in all. 

    The Every Kid Outdoors Extension Act has widespread support with endorsements from The Wilderness Society, Sierra Club and Outdoor Alliance for Kids. 

    “Over the past nine years, hundreds of thousands of children have been able to enjoy our public lands with the support of the Every Kid Outdoors program. This program has helped to introduce and facilitate outdoors adventures and experiences to these children and their families during a critical formative period in their lives. The Outdoors Alliance for Kids is eager to see this program continue to benefit families and communities for generations to come,” said Julia Hurwit, Campaign Manager for Outdoors Alliance for Kids. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Baldwin Delivers Over $750,000 For Waukesha Police Department

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin
    Published: 09.23.2024
    Funding comes through the Baldwin-backed Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to improve roadway safety

    WISCONSIN – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) announced she helped deliver over $750,000 for the City of Waukesha Police Department to invest in personnel to keep drivers safe on the road. The funding from the Baldwin-backed Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will invest in personnel dedicated to keeping commercial vehicles safe in high-risk crash corridors.
    “Wisconsin’s roads do more than connect families to school and work. They are essential corridors that keep our local economies moving forward. I’m proud to deliver this funding that will keep more drivers safe as they travel and ensure Made in Wisconsin goods get to where they are going on time,” said Senator Baldwin.    
    The federal funding will increase the amount of personnel dedicated to the Waukesha Police Commercial Motor Vehicle and Crash Reduction Program to improve roadway safety in the area for commercial vehicles. The award comes from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s High Priority Commercial Motor Vehicle (HP-CMV) program, which aims to support and enhance commercial motor vehicle safety initiatives, including the safe transport of hazardous materials, improving the safety of goods and passenger transportation in international trade and demonstrating new technologies to enhance commercial vehicle safety.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Baldwin Successfully Pushes USPS to Pause Postage Pricing Increases

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Friday, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) announced that the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) will not raise prices in January 2025 for Market Dominant products, which includes First-Class mail. This announcement comes after Baldwin called out USPS leadership for unsustainable price hikes and poor service.
    “Wisconsinites rely on the USPS to run their businesses, pay their bills, and communicate with loved ones,” said Senator Tammy Baldwin. “The proposed price hikes would have burdened hard working Wisconsinites, and I’m pleased to see they heeded my calls and will not be raising the price of stamps at the postal counter. I will continue to push the USPS leadership to halt rate increases, especially as Wisconsin families and small businesses continue to be hurt by unprecedented mail delivery delays.” 
    Senator Baldwin has repeatedly called on the USPS to address rate hikes and delays Wisconsinites are experiencing. Last week, Senator Baldwin called on Postmaster General Louis DeJoy to immediately address costly mail delays suffered by Wisconsin newspapers that rely on the USPS. These delays have already resulted in lost revenue, customer complaints, and canceled subscriptions. In April, after USPS announced the price increase for First Class Mail stamps, Senator Baldwin questioned DeJoy’s leadership, which has resulted in higher prices for Americans and worse service. Despite the USPS enacting their new “Delivering for America” plan – which they promised would modernize and transform the Postal Service – customers continue to experience poor customer service and significant mail delays, including for rural newspaper delivery.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden, Merkley, Colleagues Urge Social Media and Encrypted Messages Companies to Increase Resources Toward Combating 2024 U.S. Election Disinformation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)
    September 23, 2024
    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley said today they have joined Senate colleagues in calling on 11 of the largest and most popular social media and encrypted chat companies in the United States to increase resources needed to combat 2024 U.S. election administration and certification disinformation. 
    “We are deeply concerned that the dissemination of election disinformation via your products and/or platforms – if left unmitigated – will suppress voter participation, sow doubt in U.S. democracy and incite political violence,” the senators wrote. “Considering the increase in election disinformation on digital platforms during recent elections, there is ample cause for concern.”
    “During the 2020 and 2022 U.S. federal elections, foreign adversaries supported the creation and targeting of election disinformation to undermine our democracy. During the 2020 elections, research showed that election disinformation in Spanish stayed up for longer on social media, as compared to English,” the senators continued.
    The senators urged Meta, Google (YouTube), TikTok, X (Twitter), Reddit, Snapchat, Amazon (Twitch), Discord, Signal, Telegram and Apple (Messages) to:
    Share information about the size and capacity of their 2024 U.S. elections safety resourcing – including personnel and technologies – broken down by language;
    Commit to increasing their 2024 U.S. election safety team and technology resourcing for the 10 most commonly spoken languages on their platform(s); 
    Share information about how they plan to de-amplify and/or remove election disinformation (whether created using AI or not) and/or user accounts who spread this disinformation, when in violation of their policies;
    Share their plans for amplifying official election information before, during and after the 2024 U.S. elections; the letter also encourages companies to offer translation of official election information as a public service; 
    For encrypted chat providers, explain whether they have a reporting system for their users to flag unwanted election disinformation and what enforcement measures are in place. 
    The letter was led by U.S Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.). In addition to Wyden and Merkley, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.).
    The full text of the letter is here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Merkley, Wyden Announce Over $4 Million to Boost Behavioral Health Services in Oregon

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)
    September 23, 2024
    Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden today announced that the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) is awarding seven Oregon health centers a total of $4.1 million?to launch and expand their behavioral health services. This federal funding is critical to providing Oregon communities with more resources to help address mental health and substance use disorder challenges. 
    “As I traveled the state to hold a town hall in each of Oregon’s 36 counties this year, I heard from Oregonians about how we need to increase behavioral health care access in our communities, especially for those living in rural areas” Merkley said. “These federal investments will help our health centers provide more mental health and substance use disorder resources, giving more Oregonians the help they need to live safe, healthy lives.” 
    “The challenges of behavioral health issues face so many Oregonians with the impact rippling out to their families, friends and communities,” Wyden said. “These challenges are statewide, and I’m both glad these federal funds are heading to help Oregon and resolute to keep battling for similar investments that improve treatment for mental health and substance abuse in every nook and cranny of our state.”
    Health centers are critical community providers, which serve as a primary source of care for individuals who are uninsured, underinsured, or enrolled in Medicaid. This makes them well-positioned to respond to the urgent need for accessible, high-quality behavioral health services. 
    HRSA—an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)—is investing a total of $240 million in awards to launch and expand mental health and substance use disorder services in more than 400 community health centers across the country that care for more than 10 million people.  
    The health centers in Oregon receiving awards from this federal funding are as follows: 
    $600,000 for Umpqua Community Health Center, Inc. in Roseburg 
    $600,000 for Mosaic Community Health in Prineville 
    $600,000 for One Community Health in Hood River 
    $600,000 for Multnomah County health centers in Portland 
    $600,000 for the Neighborhood Health Center in Portland 
    $600,000 for the Wallace Medical Concern in Portland 
    $500,000 for Asher Community Health Center in Fossil 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: In NYC, Gillibrand Touts Lower Costs For 10 Prescription Drugs And Announces Additional Legislation To Cap Prescription Drug Costs At $2k Annually

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Kirsten Gillibrand

    Today, at a press conference in NYC, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced historic Medicare savings and lower costs for 10 commonly used prescription drugs. These drugs are some of the most expensive and most frequently prescribed in the Medicare program and are used to treat conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. The new prices will go into effect for people with Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage beginning January 1, 2026. Gillibrand also announced the Capping Prescription Costs Act, which would extend the cap on annual out-of-pocket prescription drug costs to people with private health insurance, with a cap of $2,000 for individuals and $4,000 for families. 

    “No one should have to risk their health by skipping refills or rationing life-saving medication because they can’t afford the cost of their prescriptions. In 2022, the Biden-Harris administration delivered historic savings by passing the Inflation Reduction Act, which allowed Medicare to negotiate drug prices and capped the price of insulin at $35 a month for seniors. The $6 billion in predicted savings for the Medicare program following these drug price negotiations is proof that the Inflation Reduction Act is working for the American people,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Now, I’m fighting to get prices down on all drugs for all Americans. The Capping Prescription Costs Act imposes caps on out-of-pocket prescription drug costs for people with private insurance: a maximum of $2,000 a year for an individual and $4,000 a year for a family. Democrats are fighting to expand Medicare benefits and reduce prescription drug prices because access to high-quality, affordable health care is a human right, not a privilege.”

    “Every New Yorker deserves access to affordable life-saving medications without the fear of financial ruin. Senator Gillibrand’s legislation would be a critical step to ensure no one has to choose between their health and their financial well-being. By capping out-of-pocket drug costs for individuals and families, we can bring real relief to those struggling with chronic conditions. We must recognize that healthcare is a human right,” said New York State Senator Gustavo Rivera.

    “The Inflation Reduction Act took vital steps to lower beneficiary and Medicare costs, including by establishing a $2,000 cap on annual out-of-pocket prescription drug spending. As a result, for the first time in Medicare’s history, all Part D enrollees will have certainty about their cost obligations and protection against limitless expenses. The Medicare Rights Center is pleased to support Senator Gillibrand’s Capping Prescription Costs Act, which would create similar safeguards for people with other types of coverage, ensuring they too can plan more and worry less. We applaud Senator Gillibrand and her co-sponsors for championing this legislation and look forward to working together to ensure all Americans can get the care they need, when they need it,” said Fred Riccardi, President, Medicare Rights Center.

    “With this policy New York’s elders, who largely live on fixed incomes, will be able to concentrate on their health rather than the anxiety of how they can or cannot afford their prescription drugs. On a larger scale, this policy is timely as New Yorkers 65 years of age and older, as a cohort, are approaching 20 percent of the population. Implementing this policy addresses the infrastructural shift not only in New York State, but in the entire country,” said María Alvarez, Executive Director, New York StateWide Senior Action Council.

    “As Chair of the NYC Council Health Committee, I applaud Senator Gillibrand’s leadership in lowering prescription drug costs and her commitment to making life-saving medications more affordable,” said Council Member Lynn Schulman. “This new legislation is a critical step toward ensuring that no New Yorker has to choose between their health and financial stability.”

    The Capping Prescription Costs Act builds on transformational drug pricing reforms included in the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, which capped the price of insulin at $35 a month and out-of-pocket drug costs at $2,000 a year for Medicare Part D beneficiaries. The bill is cosponsored by Senators Bob Casey (D-PA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), John Fetterman (D-PA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Peter Welch (D-VT), and Patty Murray (D-WA). Representative Kathy Manning (D-NC) leads companion legislation in the House. 

    For more information on the Biden-Harris administration agreements for new, lower prices for the first 10 drugs selected for Medicare price negotiations, please click here. Gillibrand was joined in NYC by New York State Senator Gustavo Rivera, President of the Medicare Rights Center Frederic Riccardi, and Executive Director of New York StateWide Senior Action Council María Alvarez.

    MIL OSI USA News –