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Category: US Senate

  • MIL-OSI USA: Capito Wishes West Virginians a Happy Independence Day

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito
    CHARLESTON, W.Va. – U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today issued the following statement wishing West Virginians a happy Independence Day ahead of July 4th. 
    “As you gather over barbecues and at parades to celebrate our great nation, I encourage you to take a moment to remember how blessed we are to call the United States of America home. We live in the most free and prosperous country in history, and I am so grateful to the brave men and women who have fought to preserve and protect the freedoms we hold dear. I hope you all enjoy a wonderful celebration surrounded by friends and family. May God continue to bless America,” Senator Capito said.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Markey, Booker, Duckworth Condemn Republican Cuts to Environmental Justice Grants, Slam GOP Weakening of Key Environmental Law

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey
    Washington (July 2, 2025) – Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), and Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), co-chairs of the Environmental Justice Caucus, today issued the following statement after Senate Republicans rammed through Trump’s so-called Big Beautiful Bill, which would rescind funds already appropriated by Congress through the Inflation Reduction Act for environmental and climate justice block grants, and undermine the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The co-chairs filed two amendments that would have saved these funds and removed “pay-for-play” permits. Republicans blocked both amendments.
    “Senate Republicans’ Big Ugly Bill is a direct attack on communities that have long been last in line for federal investments and is a part of a broader campaign to shield polluters from accountability,” said the co-chairs. “Cutting funds for projects that would deliver clean air, safe water, healthy land, and basic human dignity for all—along with efforts to defund air pollution monitoring and rubberstamp polluting infrastructure—will further harm communities already suffering devastating health consequences from living next door to our nation’s most polluting industries. As the House considers this Big Ugly Bill, we urge our colleagues to reject GOP efforts to claw back these funds and permit projects that jeopardize the health of millions of Americans. All Americans deserve a government that enacts—not eliminates—policies that protect public health, lower costs, and hold the fossil fuel industry accountable.”
    The co-chairs were joined by Senators Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) in cosponsoring the environmental justice grants amendment.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Markey, Booker, Duckworth Condemn Republican Cuts to Environmental Justice Grants, Slam GOP Weakening of Key Environmental Law

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey
    Washington (July 2, 2025) – Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), and Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), co-chairs of the Environmental Justice Caucus, today issued the following statement after Senate Republicans rammed through Trump’s so-called Big Beautiful Bill, which would rescind funds already appropriated by Congress through the Inflation Reduction Act for environmental and climate justice block grants, and undermine the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The co-chairs filed two amendments that would have saved these funds and removed “pay-for-play” permits. Republicans blocked both amendments.
    “Senate Republicans’ Big Ugly Bill is a direct attack on communities that have long been last in line for federal investments and is a part of a broader campaign to shield polluters from accountability,” said the co-chairs. “Cutting funds for projects that would deliver clean air, safe water, healthy land, and basic human dignity for all—along with efforts to defund air pollution monitoring and rubberstamp polluting infrastructure—will further harm communities already suffering devastating health consequences from living next door to our nation’s most polluting industries. As the House considers this Big Ugly Bill, we urge our colleagues to reject GOP efforts to claw back these funds and permit projects that jeopardize the health of millions of Americans. All Americans deserve a government that enacts—not eliminates—policies that protect public health, lower costs, and hold the fossil fuel industry accountable.”
    The co-chairs were joined by Senators Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) in cosponsoring the environmental justice grants amendment.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: King “Gravely Concerned” by Possible Weapons Pause in Delivering Military Aid to Ukraine

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Angus King
    WASHINGTON, D.C.— Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME) released the following statement in response to reports that the White House may be pausing congressionally-directed weapons shipments to Ukraine:
    “I am gravely concerned by the potential “pause” in the supply of crucial weapons necessary for the defense of the Ukrainian people. To slow or stop the delivery of promised weaponry (which reportedly were already in Poland on their way to Kiev) is a serious policy and humanitarian mistake.
    “These systems are designed to intercept and destroy incoming aerial attacks of exactly the type that Russia has escalated recently against civilian targets in Ukraine. Cutting off the delivery of this desperately needed shield puts civilian lives at greater risk and sends a dangerous signal to Moscow.
    “The only thing that will bring Putin to the table, as the President desires, is a demonstration of U.S. resolve and a continuing show of force in the face of intensifying Russian aggression. This decision undermines both of these objectives, significantly weakening the President’s hand in brokering peace.
    “Stopping Putin in Ukraine is critical to the preservation of Ukraine as a sovereign nation and the protection of her brave people, but it is in our interest as well by deterring further Russian aggression elsewhere in Eastern Europe which would lead to a much wider conflict. After all, America is sending our superior and sophisticated arsenal; Ukraine is sending its fathers, sons and brothers to the front – in defense of democratic values.
    “This regrettable decision should be reversed and repudiated at once—for Ukraine, for the United States, and for the world.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Following Senate Passage of Trump’s Disastrous Megabill, Shaheen Holds Roundtable Discussions on Health Care, Energy Impacts on Granite Staters

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen
    (Peterborough, NH) – Following Senate passage of the Republican-led reconciliation budget bill, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) held roundtables in Keene and Peterborough to highlight the disastrous effects the megabill would have on health care access and energy costs across the Granite State. Photos from both of today’s events can be found here.
    In Keene, Shaheen continued her “Medicaid Impact Tour” with a visit to Monadnock Family Services for a roundtable discussion with local caregivers, patients, advocates and providers about the impact of Republican-backed cuts to Medicaid. Under the Senate-passed version of the budget bill, 17 million Americans would lose health care coverage including more than 46,000 Granite Staters.
    “The Republican-backed bill that passed the Senate is the largest cut to health care in American history. It’s going to take health coverage away from tens of thousands of Granite Staters who rely on Medicaid or the Affordable Care Act and raise health care costs all to give billionaires a few extra bucks every year,” said Senator Shaheen. “I continued my ‘Medicaid Impact Tour’ at Monadnock Family Services in order to keep calling attention to the real consequences this bill will have for older adults, children, veterans, people living with disabilities and working families across the state.”
    The roundtable was the latest stop on Shaheen’s “Medicaid Impact Tour”—a series of discussions across the Granite State to underscore the harm cuts to Medicaid and the ACA in the Republican-led reconciliation budget bill will have on New Hampshire.
    Later, at the Peterborough Town Library, Shaheen led a discussion with town officials, advocates and regional businesses on how the Republican megabill will hurt New Hampshire’s growing clean energy economy.
    “For the many Granite State families who are worried about energy costs, the ‘Big Beautiful Betrayal’ only promises more pain. To give tax breaks to billionaires and corporations, Republicans are cutting highly effective tax credits that help people save money on their utility bills by making home energy efficiency updates,” said Senator Shaheen. “I heard from businesses and town leaders about so many successful energy projects that are already delivering cost savings for taxpayers. Now, future projects are on the chopping block, and good paying jobs will be lost because of this bill.”
    Shaheen leads legislative action in the U.S. Senate to support energy efficiency projects and initiatives. During the Senate “Vote-A-Rama” process, Shaheen forced a vote on her amendment to preserve four longstanding, bipartisan, consumer energy efficiency and clean energy tax credits that lower energy costs for families, make housing more affordable, protect American jobs and help give businesses the certainty they need to thrive. All but two Senate Republicans—Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK)—voted to block Shaheen’s amendment.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lummis Votes to Secure Huge Wins for Wyoming in One Big Beautiful Bill 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming Cynthia Lummis

    July 1, 2025

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) released the following statement after voting to advance President Trump’s historic One Big Beautiful Bill that shores up our southern border, makes tax cuts for hardworking Wyoming families permanent, and prioritizes Wyoming’s energy sector. 

    “Every weekend in Wyoming, constituents come up to me to share their priorities for Washington,” said Lummis. “They’re clear about what they expect: no tax increases, a secure border, elimination of waste and fraud in programs like Medicaid and SNAP, an end to Biden’s green energy scams, and most importantly, restoring America’s fiscal strength. While this bill certainly isn’t perfect, it’s a major step in the right direction that further unlocks Wyoming energy and delivers significant wins for working families across Wyoming. Congratulations, President Trump, we are one step closer to passing these reforms into law.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lummis Touts Major Senate Western Caucus Victories In One Big Beautiful Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming Cynthia Lummis

    Washington, D.C. – Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Chair of the Senate Western Caucus, today celebrated the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill, highlighting numerous provisions that she and other Senate Western Caucus members championed that will benefit Wyoming and western states.

    “The Senate passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill represents a tremendous victory for the west,” said Lummis. “As Chair of the Senate Western Caucus, I’m proud that our members’ relentless efforts secured critical wins that will further unleash American energy, strengthen rural economies, simplify coal leases, foster healthy forests, enhance wildfire prevention, increase on and offshore oil and gas production, and bring practical approaches back to federal land oversight. President Trump understands that a strong America starts with a strong American West – I’m looking forward to seeing him sign this bill into law.” 

    Background: 

    • In January, Senate Western Caucus Chair Cynthia Lummis sent a letter to Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) about the critical importance of addressing western priorities in any potential upcoming budget reconciliation legislation, along with a list of member priorities to include in the bill.
    • The Senate Western Caucus is composed of 29 Senators west of the Mississippi committed to upholding the fundamental western principles of self-reliance, local decision-making, love of the land and the pioneer spirit.  

    Senate Western Caucus Wins:

    Energy and Natural Resources

    • Expands onshore and offshore oil and gas leasing with mandatory minimum lease sales and extends drilling permit validity from 3 to 4 years.
    • Mandates six lease sales over ten years in the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska.
    • Increases revenue sharing from offshore drilling for Gulf of America states. 
    • Enhances revenue sharing from Cook Inlet oil and gas leases for Alaska. 

    Land Management and Conservation

    • Strengthens wildfire management and prevention capabilities through expanded timber sales on public lands.
    • Introduces optional expedited environmental review process under NEPA, allowing project sponsors to pay fees for faster timelines (one year for Environmental Impact Statements, six months for Environmental Assessments).

    Agricultural Support

    • Provides reimbursement programs for livestock losses due to predator attacks.
    • Expands producer access to the livestock forage disaster assistance program. 
    • Establishes supplemental agricultural trade promotion initiatives. 

    Tax Relief for Family Operations

    • Extends and enhances estate tax exemptions with higher thresholds and permanent provisions to facilitate intergenerational transfer of family ranches.
    • Allows full expensing of certain business property, enabling ranchers to immediately deduct equipment and infrastructure investments.
    • Provides special depreciation allowances for qualified production property, offering larger and accelerated deductions for ranch growth and resilience investments.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lummis Secures Win for Wyoming Gun Owners in One Big Beautiful Bill, Lifting Silencer & Short Barrel Rifle Taxes

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming Cynthia Lummis

    July 2, 2025

    Washington, D.C. – Senators Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and Mike Crapo (R-ID) successfully secured the inclusion of a provision in the One Big Beautiful Bill eliminating taxes under the National Firearms Act for gun owners.

    “I’m pleased that my legislation to remove the Depression-era $200 tax on suppressors, as well as short-barreled rifles and shotguns, was included in the recently passed One Big Beautiful Bill,” said Lummis. “This will allow more law-abiding Wyoming gun owners to protect their hearing while exercising their Constitutional rights. I will never stop fighting to cut taxes and ensure all Americans can fully enjoy their Second Amendment rights.”

    Background:

    • This provision eliminates the $200 Federal tax on the transfer of suppressors, short barreled rifles and short barreled shotguns under the National Firearms Act (26 U.S.C. 5811).
    • Senator Lummis introduced the Historical Firearms and Lawful Purpose Act in 2024, and is also a longtime sponsor of both the Hearing Protection Act and the SHORT Act.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lummis Unveils Digital Asset Tax Legislation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming Cynthia Lummis

    Washington, D.C.— U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) introduced comprehensive digital asset tax legislation that secures key victories for the digital asset industry and creates a level playing field for digital asset users across the country.

    “In order to maintain our competitive edge, we must change our tax code to embrace our digital economy, not burden digital asset users,” said Lummis. “This groundbreaking legislation is fully paid-for, cuts through the bureaucratic red tape and establishes common-sense rules that reflect how digital technologies function in the real world. We cannot allow our archaic tax policies to stifle American innovation, and my legislation ensures Americans can participate in the digital economy without inadvertent tax violations.”

    Senator Lummis said, “I welcome public comments on this legislation as we seek to get this package to the President’s desk.”

    BACKGROUND:

    Senator Lummis’ legislation addresses major digital asset taxation issues, including small transaction practicality (a $300 de minimis rule), ending the double taxation of digital asset miners and stakers, parity with other financial assets (digital asset lending, wash sales, mark-to-market tax treatment) and providing that charitable contributions do not require an appraisal. The legislation is estimated by the Congressional Joint Committee on Taxation to generate approximately $600 million in net revenue during the 2025-2034 budget window.

    De Minimis Gain from Sale or Exchange of Digital Assets

    Similar to foreign exchange, it creates a new Section 139J providing a de minimis exclusion for digital asset gains or losses unless the sale or exchange is for:

    • Cash or cash equivalents (including payment stablecoins)
    • Property used in active trade or business
    • Property held for income production

    Limitations:

    • $300 threshold for both transaction value and total gain with $5,000 yearly total cap
    • Aggregation rule for related transactions
    • Inflation adjustment beginning 2026

    This provision recognizes the impracticality of tracking every small digital asset transaction, such as buying coffee with Bitcoin, which creates enormous compliance burdens for ordinary users. The $300 threshold strikes a reasonable balance between tax compliance and practical usability of digital assets as a medium of exchange.

    Tax Treatment of Digital Asset Lending Agreements

    Expands Section 1058 securities lending rules to include digital assets:

    • Digital asset lending agreements are generally not taxable events
    • Appropriate basis adjustments required
    • Income recognition rules for lenders
    • Includes fixed-term transfers in ordinary course of business

    This prevents the absurd result where temporarily lending digital assets would trigger immediate tax consequences, which would discourage legitimate lending markets and create artificial barriers to capital efficiency. The provision ensures digital assets receive the same sensible treatment as securities lending, which has operated successfully for decades without creating tax compliance nightmares.

    Loss from Wash Sales of Digital Assets

    Revises Section 1091 to cover “specified assets” (both securities and digital assets):

    • 30-day wash sale rule applies to digital assets
    •  Covers options, forward contracts, futures, and derivatives
    • Exceptions for dealers and business/hedging transactions
    • Basis adjustment rules for disallowed losses

    This closes an unfair loophole where digital asset investors could engage in tax-loss harvesting strategies unavailable to traditional securities investors, creating an artificial advantage that distorts investment decisions. The provision ensures tax neutrality between asset classes while maintaining appropriate exceptions for legitimate business activities.

    Mark-to-Market Election

    Creates new Section 475(g) allowing dealers and traders in digital assets to elect mark-to-market treatment:

    • Dealers: mandatory application like securities dealers
    • Traders: optional election like securities traders
    • Limited to actively traded digital assets

    This provides digital asset dealers and traders with the same tax treatment available to their securities and commodities counterparts, eliminating arbitrary discrimination based on asset type. The election allows for more accurate income recognition that matches the economic reality of trading businesses while maintaining consistency with existing tax policy.

    Digital Asset Mining and Staking

    Adds new Section 451(l) deferring income recognition:

    • Mining and staking income not recognized until sale/disposition of produced assets
    • Treated as ordinary income when recognized

    This aligns the taxation of mining and staking rewards with the actual realization of economic benefit, rather than forcing recognition based on volatile and often uncertain fair market values at the time of receipt. The approach prevents cash flow problems where taxpayers owe taxes on assets they haven’t sold and may not be able to liquidate easily.

    Charitable Contributions and Qualified Appraisals

    Exempts actively traded digital assets from qualified appraisal requirements for charitable

    contributions.

    This removes an unnecessary bureaucratic barrier that has discouraged charitable giving of digital assets, even though these assets often have readily determinable fair market values through active trading. The provision encourages philanthropy while recognizing that actively traded digital assets should be treated similarly to publicly traded securities for valuation purposes.

    Click here for full bill text.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warren, Neguse, Raskin Lead 170+ Members of Congress in Amicus Brief, Arguing Trump Cannot Dismantle Department of Education

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    July 03, 2025

    The lawmakers argue that only Congress has authority to create, restructure, and abolish federal departments and agencies by constitutional mandate and through a long-established legal precedent. 

    The Department of Education is statutorily mandated and cannot be unilaterally abolished by the President.

    Text of Brief (PDF)

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), along with House Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Jamie Raskin (D-Md.), House Assistant Majority Leader Joe Neguse (D-Colo.), Representatives Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (D-Va.) and Rosa L. DeLauro (D-Conn.), led 174 of their colleagues in submitting an amicus brief in NAACP v. US, arguing to the United States District Court District of Maryland that President Trump’s attempts to dismantle the Department of Education (ED) violate separation of powers and lack constitutional authority.

    On March 20, 2025, President Trump signed an executive order instructing Education Secretary Linda McMahon to “take all necessary steps” to abolish ED. This came after the Trump Administration carried out a series of actions dismantling the Department, including mass firings of ED employees, the termination of contracts for congressionally authorized programs and activities, and the removal of crucial protections for student loan borrowers, while announcing plans to reorganize key ED functions into different departments.

    On March 24, 2025, a coalition of plaintiffs, including the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), the National Education Association (NEA), the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Maryland Council 3, and others, filed a lawsuit to halt the Trump Administration’s illegal efforts to dismantle ED. The lawsuit argues that dismantling a Congressionally created federal agency requires Congressional approval. 

    The lawmakers wrote: “Since the Department was created, presidents have taken different views of the Department and the role the federal government should play in education policy, but none has attempted what President Trump is attempting here: to unilaterally shutter the department… In short, the ‘President’s power, if any, to issue an order’ abolishing the Education Department ‘must stem either from an act of Congress or from the Constitution itself.’ Here, President Trump’s effort to unilaterally dismantle the Education Department defies the express will of Congress. Defendants lack the power to do what only Congress can do—restructure the federal government by shuttering a government department.”

    In addition to Leader Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Senator Warren, the brief was signed by U.S. Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.).

    The brief was signed by Speaker Jeffries (D-N.Y.) and Representatives Katherine Clark (D-Mass.), Pete Aguilar (D-Calif.), Gabe Amo (D-R.I.), Becca Balint (D-Vt.), Nanette Barragán (D-Calif.), Joyce Beatty (D-Ohio), Wesley Bell (D-Mo.), Donald S. Beyer Jr. (D-Va.), Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (D-Ga.), Suzanne Bonamici (D-Or.), Shontel Brown (D-Ohio), Julia Brownley (D-Calif.), Nikki Budzinski (D-Ill.), Salus O. Carbajal (D-Calif.), André Carson (D-Ind.), Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-La.), Ed Case (D-Haw.), Sean Casten (D-Ill.), Kathy Castor (D-Fla.), Judy Chu (D-Calif.), Yvette Clark (D-N.Y.), Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-Mo.), James E. Clyburn (D-S.C.), Steve Cohen (D-Tenn.), Herbert C. Conaway, Jr. (D-N.J.), J.Luis Correa (D-Calif.), Joe Courtney (D-Conn.), Angie Craig (D-Minn.), Jasmine Crockett (D-Tex.), Danny K. Davis (D-Ill.), Madeline Dean (D-Pa.), Diana DeGette, (D-Colo.), Suzan K. DelBene (D-Wash.), Chris Deluzio (D-Pa.), Mark DeSaulnier (D-Calif.), Maxine Dexter (D-Or.), Debbie Dingell (D-Mich.), Lloyd Doggett (D-Tex.), Sarah Elfreth (D-M.d.), Veronica Escobar (D-Tex.), Adriano Espaillat (D-N.Y.), Dwight Evans (D-Pa.), Cleo Fields (D-La.), Shomari Figures (D-Ala.), Lizzie Fletcher (D-Tex.), Bill Foster (D-Ill.), Lois Frankel (D-Fla.), Laura Friedman (D-Calif.), Maxwell Alejandro Frost (D-Fla.), John Garamendi (D-Calif.), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (D-Ill.), Robert Garcia (D-Calif.), Sylvia Garcia (D-Tex.), Maggie Goodlander (D-N.H.), Josh Gottheimer (D-N.J.), Jahana Hayes (D-Conn.), Pablo José Hernández (D-Puerto Rico), Steven Horsford (D-Nev.), Chrissy Houlahan (D-Pa.), Steny H. Hoyer (D-M.d.), Jared Huffman (D-Calif.), Glenn F. Ivey (D-M.d.), Jonathan L.Jackson (D-Ill.), Sara Jacobs (D-Calif.), Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.), Henry C. “Hank” Johnson, Jr. (D-Ga.), Julie Johnson (D-Tex.), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-Calif), William Keating (D-Mass.), Robin L. Kelly (D-Ill.), Timothy M. Kennedy (D-N.Y.), Ro Khanna (D-Calif.), Greg Landsman (D-Ohio), John B. Larson (D-Colo.), George Latimer (D-N.Y.), Summer L. Lee (D-Pa.), Susie Lee (D-Nev.), Teresa Leger Fernández (N.M.), Mike Levin (D-Calif.), Sam T. Liccardo (D-Calif.), Ted W. Lieu (D-Calif.), Zoe Lofgren (D-Calif.), Stephen F. Lynch (D-Mass.), Seth Magaziner (D-R.I.), John W. Mannion (D-N.Y.), Lucy McBath (D-Ga.), April McClain Delaney (D-M.d.), Jennifer L. McClellan (D-Va.), Betty McCollum (D-Minn.), Kristen McDonald Rivet (D-Mich.), James P. McGovern (D-Mass.), LaMonica McIver (D-N.J.), Gregory W. Meeks (D-N.Y.), Robert J. Menendez (D-N.J.), Grace Meng (D-N.Y.), Dave Min (D-Calif.), Joseph D. Morelle (D-N.Y.), Kelly Morrison (D-Minn.), Seth Moulton (D-Mass.), Frank J. Mrvan (D-Ind.), Jerrold Nadler (D-N.Y.), Richard E. Neal (D-Mass.), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.), Johnny Olszewski (D-Md.), Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-N.J.), Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif.), Chris Pappas (D-N.H.), Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), Scott H. Peters (D-Calif.), Brittany Petterson (D-Colo.), Chellie Pingree (D-Me.), Nellie Pou (D-N.J.), Mike Quigley (D-Ill.), Delia C.Ramirez (D-Ill.), Emily Randall (D-Wash.), Deborah K. Ross (D-N.C.), Andrea Salinas (D-Or.), Linda T. Sánchez (D-Calif.), Mary Gay Scanlon (D-Pa.), Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.), Brad Sherman (D-Calif.), Adam Smith (D-Wash.), Eric Sorenson (D-Ill.), Melanie A  Stansbury (D-N.M.), Greg Stanton (D-Ariz.), Haley Stevens (D-Mich.), Marilyn Strickland (D-Wash.), Suhas Subramanyam (D-Va.), Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.), Mark Takano (D-Calif.), Shri Thanedar (D-Mich.), Bennie G.Thompson (D-Miss.), Mike Thompson (D-Cal.), Dina Titus (D-Nev.), Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.), Norma J. Torres (D-Calif.), Ritchie Torres (D-N.Y.), Lori Trahan (D-Mass.), Derek T. Tran (D-Calif.), Lauren Underwood (D-Ill.), Juan Vargas (D-Calif), Nydia M. Velázquez (D-N.Y.), Eugene Vindman (D-Va.), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.), Maxine Walters (D-Calif.), Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-N.J.), Nikema Williams (D-Ga.), Frederica S.Wilson (D-Fla.).

    Senator Warren launched the Save Our Schools campaign in a coordinated effort to fight back against President Trump’s attempts to abolish the Department of Education:

    • On June 10, 2025, Senator Warren met with Secretary of Education Linda McMahon and delivered over 1,000 letters to McMahon that the senator had received from people in all 50 states who were worried about the Secretary’s efforts to dismantle ED.
    • On June 9, 2025, Senator Warren led her colleagues in pushing the Acting Inspector General of ED to open an investigation into new information obtained by her office revealing that DOGE may have gained access to two FSA internal systems, in addition to sensitive borrower data.
    • On May 20, 2025, Senator Warren and 27 other senators pushed for full funding for the Office of Federal Student Aid.
    • On May 20, 2025, Senator Warren and 27 other senators pushed for full funding to the Office of Federal Student Aid.
    • On May 14, 2025, Senator Warren led a Senate forum entitled “Stealing the American Dream: How Trump and Republicans Are Raising Education Costs for Families,” highlighting the consequences of Secretary Linda McMahon’s reckless dismantling of the Department of Education (ED) and President Trump’s “big, beautiful bill” for working- and middle-class students and borrowers.
    • On May 13, 2025, Senator Warren agreed to meet with Education Secretary Linda McMahon and promised to bring questions and stories from Americans across the country to highlight how the Trump administration’s attacks on education are hurting American families.
    • On May 6, 2025, Senator Elizabeth Warren highlighted the consequences of President Trump and Secretary Linda McMahon’s reckless dismantling of the Department of Education for American families in a Senate forum.
    • On April 24, 2025, Senator Warren launched a new investigation into the harms of President Trump’s attacks on the Department of Education, seeking information on the impact of the Trump administration’s actions from the members of twelve leading organizations representing schools, parents, teachers, students, borrowers, and researchers.
    • On April 10, 2025, following a request led by Senator Warren, the Department of Education’s Acting Inspector General agreed to open an investigation into the Trump administration’s attempts to dismantle the Department of Education.
    • On April 2, 2025, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Mazie Hirono, along with Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, sent a letter to Secretary of Education Linda McMahon regarding the Department of Government Efficiency’s proposed plan to replace the Department of Education’s federal student aid call centers with generative artificial intelligence chatbots.
    • On April 2, 2025, Senator Elizabeth Warren launched the Save Our Schools campaign to fight back against the Trump administration’s efforts to dismantle the Department of Education (ED) and highlight the consequences for every student and public school in America.
    • On March 27, 2025, Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) led a letter to Acting Department of Education Inspector General (IG) René Rocque requesting that the IG conduct an investigation of the Trump Administration’s attempts to dismantle the Department of Education.
    • On March 20, 2025, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders led a letter to Secretary of Education Linda McMahon regarding the Trump Administration’s decision to slash the capacity of Federal Student Aid to handle student aid complaints.
    • On February 24, 2025, in a response to Senator Warren, Secretary McMahon gave her first public admission that she “wholeheartedly” agreed with Trump’s plans to abolish the Department of Education.
    • On February 11, 2025, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Andy Kim sent Linda McMahon, Secretary-Designate for the U.S. Department of Education, a 12-page letter with 65 questions on McMahon’s policy views in advance of her nomination hearing.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murray, Kaptur Blast Energy Department’s Decision to Steer Hundreds of Millions of Dollars Away from Wind, Solar to Favored Industries—In Defiance of Bipartisan Spending Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    Washington, D.C. — Today, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee and Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, and Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (D-OH-09), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, issued the following joint statement on the Department of Energy’s (DOE) decision to illegally cut investments that Congress provided to support the research and development of wind and solar energy, instead steering funds to other favored energy sources, in defiance of the fiscal year 2025 full-year continuing resolution (CR) President Trump himself signed into law in March.

    “This outrageous, unlawful decision by the Trump administration is a direct attack on our energy independence and American families’ ability to afford their monthly energy bill. By slashing congressionally mandated investments in cutting-edge technologies, President Trump is driving up energy costs and ceding ground to our global competitors, who certainly aren’t throwing in the towel on the energy solutions of the future. This isn’t a bureaucratic misstep—it’s a deliberate, partisan effort to sabotage bipartisan law and redirect funding to the energy sources favored by Secretary Wright and his allies. We demand the Department immediately reverse this reckless decision and honor the funding levels Congress enacted and the President himself signed into law.”

    In fiscal year 2024, Congress provided $137 million for the Department of Energy to support wind energy initiatives and provided $318 million to support solar energy. The fiscal year 2025 full-year CR that House Republicans wrote and President Trump signed into law continued these fiscal year 2024 funding levels. But in a spend plan made public by DOE today, the Trump administration revealed it is steering hundreds of millions of dollars designated by Congress to support wind and solar energy to other, favored industries—jeopardizing critical progress and ceding ground on key energy solutions of the future—among other harmful cuts. Instead of funding wind energy initiatives at $137 million, the administration is funding them at $29.8 million (a 78% cut), and instead of funding solar initiatives at $318 million, it is funding them at $41.9 million (an 87% cut).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murray, Kaptur Blast Energy Department’s Decision to Steer Hundreds of Millions of Dollars Away from Wind, Solar to Favored Industries—In Defiance of Bipartisan Spending Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    Washington, D.C. — Today, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee and Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, and Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (D-OH-09), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, issued the following joint statement on the Department of Energy’s (DOE) decision to illegally cut investments that Congress provided to support the research and development of wind and solar energy, instead steering funds to other favored energy sources, in defiance of the fiscal year 2025 full-year continuing resolution (CR) President Trump himself signed into law in March.

    “This outrageous, unlawful decision by the Trump administration is a direct attack on our energy independence and American families’ ability to afford their monthly energy bill. By slashing congressionally mandated investments in cutting-edge technologies, President Trump is driving up energy costs and ceding ground to our global competitors, who certainly aren’t throwing in the towel on the energy solutions of the future. This isn’t a bureaucratic misstep—it’s a deliberate, partisan effort to sabotage bipartisan law and redirect funding to the energy sources favored by Secretary Wright and his allies. We demand the Department immediately reverse this reckless decision and honor the funding levels Congress enacted and the President himself signed into law.”

    In fiscal year 2024, Congress provided $137 million for the Department of Energy to support wind energy initiatives and provided $318 million to support solar energy. The fiscal year 2025 full-year CR that House Republicans wrote and President Trump signed into law continued these fiscal year 2024 funding levels. But in a spend plan made public by DOE today, the Trump administration revealed it is steering hundreds of millions of dollars designated by Congress to support wind and solar energy to other, favored industries—jeopardizing critical progress and ceding ground on key energy solutions of the future—among other harmful cuts. Instead of funding wind energy initiatives at $137 million, the administration is funding them at $29.8 million (a 78% cut), and instead of funding solar initiatives at $318 million, it is funding them at $41.9 million (an 87% cut).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: By The Numbers: What the GOP Tax Bill Means for Georgia

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

    Yesterday, Senator Reverend Warnock voted “NO” on the GOP Tax Bill, which passed by a vote of 50-50, with the Vice President breaking the tie

    The legislation will kick 750,000 Georgians off their health care, raise health care premiums for over 1.2 million Georgians, risk up to 42,000 Georgia jobs, threaten 66 rural hospitals, and add nearly $4 trillion to the national debt

    The legislation now goes to the House of Representatives for consideration

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) released the following data outlining the harms of the GOP Tax Bill for Georgians. The Senator voted “NO” on theOne Big Beautiful Bill Act, citing the tremendous consequences of the bill to hard-working families. 

    “The Senate just voted for legislation that will kick millions off their health care, close rural hospitals, and increase health care costs for everyone, all to give billionaires a tax break,” said Senator Reverend Warnock.“This vote is a disappointing reminder that Washington politicians aren’t working for ordinary people.” Read the full statement HERE.

    Below is a “By The Numbers” breakdown of what the GOP Tax Bill will mean for Georgia:

    Health Care:

    The GOP Tax bill takes away health care for nearly 17 million Americans and over 750,000 Georgians. The legislation will:

    • Kick nearly 12 million Americans off Medicaid, including 93,000 Georgians.
    • Raise premiums for nearly 20 million Americans, including over 1.2 million Georgians.
    • Threaten 66 rural hospitals and 37 nursing homes in Georgia. 
    • Raise health care costs for EVERYONE by kicking millions off health care, making them unable to cover their medical bills. Those costs are then passed on to hospitals and insurers, who pass those costs on to customers.

    Debt/Deficit:

    • The GOP Tax Bill will add roughly $4 trillion to the deficit.

    Job Loss:

    The GOP Tax Bill threatens 42,000 good-paying Georgia jobs, $28 billion in private sector investments to 51 Georgia projects.

    • The vast majority of projects announced following the passage of the clean energy tax credits have been investments in Congressional districts currently held by Republicans. 
    • This is particularly true in Georgia, where 83% of the projects, 94% of the total investment, and 75% of the jobs are in Republican districts. 
    • More than 95% of the new jobs and investments are in counties where the percentage of people with a bachelor’s degree is below the national average. 

    Energy Costs:

    The GOP Tax Bill will make it more expensive for Georgians to cover their utility bills. The legislation will:  

    • Increase electricity spending by up to $110 per year by 2026.

    Georgia Projects:

    The GOP Tax Bill will rescind funding that was intended to boost Georgia businesses. The legislation will:

    • Retract funding $158 million in federal investments for Atlanta’s The Stitch and $50 million to connect Atlanta’s southside communities, schools, hospitals, and MARTA stations to the Beltline.
    • Kill Georgia business expansion, including retracting $3.1 million in federal funding for Lanzajet’s SAF facility in Soperton, GA.

    Food Assistance

    This legislation will force Georgia seniors and children to go hungry. When this legislation is fully in effect, it is estimated to:

    • Cut some or all of food assistance for 729,000 Georgia families, including 121,000 Georgia families with children.
    • Cut some or all of food assistance for 22.3 million families nationwide.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Booker Hosts Veterans Town Hall Alongside Passaic County Board of County Commissioners, Spotlights Trump Administration’s Cuts to Vital Veteran Services

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker
    WAYNE, N.J. – This afternoon, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) hosted a town hall with over 150 veterans in partnership with the Passaic County Board of County Commissioners. Veterans spoke to Booker about the impacts the Trump administration and Congressional Republicans are having on vital services they rely on every day, from housing and health care to workforce development and food assistance.
    Booker presented a check to New Jersey SOS Veteran Stakeholder Group for $500,000 in Fiscal Year 2024 Congressionally Directed Spending for their project providing furnishing for homeless veterans receiving housing assistance. Booker also recognized seven New Jerseyans with Certificates of Special Recognition for their outstanding service improving the lives of New Jersey’s veterans.
    “We owe our veterans a debt of gratitude. They’ve sacrificed so we may enjoy the freedoms we so often take for granted. Despite this, the Trump administration and Congressional Republicans have taken steps to undermine the wellbeing of those who defended our nation, stripping many of the essential services upon which they rely. What I heard this afternoon was frustration, fear, and uncertainty. Our veterans deserve security, but what they’re getting from Washington is instability. I look forward to continuing to stand with veterans, fighting the Trump administration at every turn to ensure our vets have access to the housing, employment, health care, and comprehensive services they deserve,” said Senator Booker. 
    “It was an honor to welcome Senator Booker to Passaic County for this important conversation with our veterans. This town hall created a space for our heroes to share their stories directly with those who can effect real change. In Passaic County, we are deeply committed to supporting our veterans and advocating for the resources they’ve earned through their service and events like this help amplify their voices at every level of government,” said Sandi Lazzara, Deputy Director, Passaic County Board of County Commissioners.
    “We are honored that Senator Booker chose Passaic County for his Veteran Town Hall. It created a space for veterans to express their concerns and have their voices heard. It also gives their concerns that much needed place at the table where their issues can be addressed.  NJSOSVETS would like to thank Senator Booker for securing us funding for our Veteran Furniture Project. It will help turn an empty apartment into a home and help give veterans the dignity they deserve,” said David Pearson, Director, New Jersey SOS Veteran Stakeholder Group
    Booker was honored to present a Certificate of Special Recognition to the following New Jerseyans in recognition of and gratitude for their service to country and dedication to improving the lives of New Jersey’s veterans:
    David Cathcart, U.S. Army Vietnam veteran, former Secaucus Vet Center Director and veteran advocate
    Emerson Crooks, U.S. Marine Corps Vietnam Veteran and veteran advocate
    Lucy Del Gaudio, U.S. Army veteran, Operation Sisterhood Director and veteran advocate 
    Sherwood English, U.S. Army veteran, Passaic County Veterans Service Officer
    Anna Maria Vancheri, Paterson Veterans Council
    Anthony “Tony” Vancheri, U.S. Army Vietnam veteran, and President of the Paterson Veterans Council
    Michael Ventimiglia, U.S. Air Force Vietnam veteran

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Booker Tours Valley Hospital, Discusses Damaging Effects of Medicaid Cuts on NJ Families, Healthcare Providers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker
    PARAMUS, N.J. – This afternoon, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) met with Valley Hospital administrators, doctors, and nurses to tour the hospital’s state-of-the-art facilities and discuss the disastrous effects of the Senate GOP’s cuts to Medicaid—the largest cuts to the program in history—in their recently passed bill, which Booker termed a “moral obscenity.”
    “Valley Hospital is a pillar of Bergen County. It’s a site of community wellness, healing, and hope. We should be doing everything to support lowering costs for working families and increasing access to the programs that keep us all healthy, but instead Senate Republicans’ have enacted the largest cuts to Medicaid in recent history. It was clear in my conversations that these cuts will be disastrous. They’ll limit access to critical health services and raise the cost of health care for millions of Americans, including hundreds of thousands of New Jerseyans. These cuts pose a grave threat to our regional and community health centers. I greatly appreciate the work of the doctors, nurses, administrators, and hospital staff that keep our communities healthy. To support them, we must stand firm against the Trump administration and Congressional Republicans, making clear we won’t tolerate policies that jeopardize access to affordable health care,” said Senator Booker.
    “We thank Senator Cory Booker for visiting The Valley Hospital today,” said Robert Brenner, M.D., President and Chief Executive Officer of Valley Health System. “We greatly value his commitment to and passion for healthcare in New Jersey. I believe today’s tour of our new hospital gave Senator Booker keen insight into how Valley is using technology, sustainability and a deep commitment to its doctors and staff to provide care like no other in our region.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed Rips Senate Passage of Trump-Republicans’ ‘Big, Ugly Betrayal’ Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, following a vote of 51-50, U.S. Senator Jack Reed issued the following statement assailing Senate passage of Republicans’ ‘big, ugly’ reconciliation budget bill:

    “Rhode Islanders care about rising costs but Trump and this Republican Congress don’t care about costs.  Instead, they’re passing a huge tax giveaway for the wealthiest, slashing healthcare for millions, and adding trillions to the debt.  Future generations will be paying for this destructive, fiscally irresponsible monstrosity long after Donald Trump is gone.  This bill takes from the needy and gives to greedy special interests.

    “Congress should help lower costs and improve health care, not rip it away from millions of families and explode the deficit in order to give special tax treatment to billionaires and millionaires.

    “The Trump-Republican bill will contribute to higher health care prices, bigger bureaucratic hurdles, and shift heavier financial burdens onto working families, seniors, hospitals, and state and local governments.

    “Budgets are about priorities, and it’s clear Republicans prioritized the wealthiest at the expense of the working-class.  The big tax advantages go to the rich while all the cruelest cuts hit people struggling to pay for rent, food, health care, and energy bills.

    “This shameful bill is fiscally irresponsible and short-sighted.  It will force future generations to pick up the tab and sacrifices their economic future for a short-term money grab for the wealthy.

    “Many seniors, veterans, and children from low-income families will lose their health coverage due to the Republican vote.  Of course, not everyone will lose their coverage right away or feel the impact evenly.  But make no mistake: the cuts in this bill will cause higher premiums, hospital closures, crowded emergency rooms, and longer wait times, and it will add more burdens to state budgets.

    “Trump’s MAGA grift machine took full advantage of his own supporters.  Many won’t realize how bad this bill truly is until it’s too late and the safety net is no longer there when they need it. 

    “Congressional Republicans carved out big breaks for Big Oil polluters, while making it harder for families trying to send their kids to college.  The super-rich were granted a higher, permanent exemption of the estate tax so affluent couples can bequeath $30 million tax free to their heirs. Meanwhile the bill will make it harder to find a quality, affordable nursing home for seniors.  It undermines public education, gives gun manufactures a $1.7 billion tax break, and spends $40 million on a vanity sculpture garden for Donald Trump.  

    “This isn’t the end of the fight.  We’ve got to work even harder to limit the damage and then reverse it in the years ahead.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper, Polis, DeGette, Neguse, Crow, Pettersen Denounce Republicans’ Reckless Budget Bill, Pressure House Members to Vote Against It

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Colorado John Hickenlooper
    Yesterday, Senate Republicans passed their budget that’ll increase prices for Coloradans, strip health care from 17 million Americans, increase the deficit, and give tax cuts to the ultra-wealthy
    House Republicans are currently voting on the bill
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper, Colorado Governor Jared Polis, and U.S. Representatives Diana DeGette, Joe Neguse, Jason Crow, and Brittany Pettersen held a virtual statewide press conference to detail the impact the Republican budget bill will have on Colorado. They urged the House of Representatives to reject the extreme legislation after it passed the Senate yesterday. The elected officials were joined by leaders from across Colorado who would be impacted by the harmful cuts in the legislation.
    “This was a vote that would strip 17 million Americans, including many, many children, of their health care, push more than 300 rural hospitals to close, gut investments in affordable and clean energy, and would expand our national debt at a level that we have never imagined before. All this just to accommodate these lavish tax cuts for wealthy Americans,” said Hickenlooper. “This fight isn’t over, and people calling and organizing, putting pressure, has had a huge effect.”
    “Budgets reflect values, and Republicans in Congress – including members of our delegation – are making it clear that they don’t value health care access for Coloradans, access to food for children and families, job creators in clean energy, or balancing the budget,” said Polis.
    “The bottom line is, this bill is the worst bill I’ve ever seen in my many years in Congress,” said DeGette. “Colorado hospitals would lose $10 billion in federal funding in this legislation. Many of the rural hospitals, particularly in Western and Northern Colorado, will have to go out of business. This will not only hurt people who get Medicaid. It will hurt the entire community.”
    “It would be devastating for Western Colorado, Northern Colorado, Southern Colorado, for rural Colorado in particular…” said Neguse. “This will clearly exacerbate and turbo charge a poverty crisis in our country by virtue of the cruel cuts that have been included in the bill…. So we’re going to use every procedural tool that we can to try to stop and block this bill from proceeding.”
    “We can’t understate the disastrous impact in the life and death consequence of this bill,” said Crow. “This is the single largest – if this bill passes – this will be the single largest transfer of wealth from the working class to the top one percent and large corporations in the history of America. And on top of that, it’s going to blow up the budget and add over $3 trillion to the debt.”
    “It is heartbreaking to think about the impacts that this disastrous bill is going to bring to communities in Colorado and across the country,” said Pettersen. “Today, I’m thinking about the 40% of kids in the United States who rely on Medicaid for care, the 40% of pregnant women who rely on Medicaid, and people like my mom who work a low wage job and would be unable to access care. We’re leaving people like her behind and decimating all the progress we’ve made to build up our capacity and our system across Colorado. And it’s going to hit all of us.”
    The Senate-passed reconciliation bill includes a $3 trillion tax cut for the wealthiest Americans. It pays for those tax cuts by taking healthcare away from 17 million Americans, forcing rural hospitals in Colorado to close their doors, gutting clean energy investments, and ballooning our national debt by trillions of dollars.
    After more than 24 hours of voting with a record-setting number of amendments, Hickenlooper voted NO on the budget resolution after Republicans voted down critical Democratic-led amendments to prevent cuts to Medicaid, SNAP, and Inflation Reduction Act clean energy funding.
    The reconciliation bill now heads to the House for final passage. Only four House Republicans need to vote against the bill for it to fail.
    For video clips of the press conference, click HERE.
    Taking Health Care Away from 17 Million Americans
    The Republican budget proposal calls for extreme Medicaid cuts of more than $1 trillion, which would take away people’s health benefits; make it harder for them to see their health care providers; and prevent seniors from getting nursing home care. It also fails to extend the Affordable Care Act expanded premium tax credits, which expire at the end of 2025. As a result the Congressional Budget Office estimates that 17 million Americans will lose health insurance by 2034, and our national debt will increase by $3.3 trillion.
    “For every dollar invested in Medicaid in Colorado, we see more than double in economic activity and benefit returned. That means these cuts will have a huge ripple effect and severely harm our economy, and it will hit rural areas where Medicaid is most important the hardest,” said Adam Fox, Deputy Director at the Colorado Consumer Health Initiative. “At the end of the day, though, what this means, and what we hear from folks who rely on Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act, is this bill is going to force more Coloradans into impossible decisions between paying for the care that they need and keeping a roof over their head or food on their table.”
    “I can’t underscore how important Medicaid and the [ACA] health exchanges are for our patients for Sunrise and for our community…” said Mitzi Moran, CEO of Sunrise Community Health in Evans. “Medicaid expansion in 2008 and in 2013 changed things dramatically for our patients and for Sunrise… [our patients] still struggle with the tough choices, but at least medication is not in the mix, and they have coverage when they seek care at the hospital.”
    “Southwest Health Systems is a 20 bed, critical access hospital… Our physicians and advanced practice providers deliver primary care services for almost 9,000 members of our Southwest Colorado communities. Our emergency department provided services to more than 13,500 urgent and emergency conditions last year in 2024,” Joe Theine, CEO of Southwest Health System in Cortez. “Permanent cuts to the provider taxes and state directed payments, along with other changes to the Medicaid program, put at risk the services that we offer to people who live, work and travel throughout Southwest Colorado.”
    “I have two adult children with developmental disabilities, a 24 year old son and a 20 year old daughter. Our family members are recipients of Medicaid Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) waivers, and these are not known by the general public very well, but they are state specific programs under Medicaid that provide much more than basic health care and dental care,” said Deana Cairo, Disability Rights Activist. “[Eligibility redeterminations every six months] is likely to result in more problems… There’s going to be service interruptions, loss of care. People are going to fall off the rolls. People who don’t have people to advocate and appeal for them are going to become unhoused. It’s going to be a disaster.”
    Slashing Investments in Clean Energy and Driving up Energy Bills
    The Republicans voted to gut hundreds of billions in Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) clean energy investments, including tax credits for wind and solar. The results: over a million jobs lost, hundreds of billions in lost GDP and lost wages, electricity price inflation, and killing new renewable energy needed to prevent blackouts.
    “Republicans are always talking about independence and being dominant in our industries. This is how we become energy dominant. It’s not just wind. It’s not just solar. It’s not just natural gas plants. It’s not just nuclear power plants. It takes every single one of these technologies for us to create that.” said Josh Shipley, Owner of Alternative Power Enterprises in Ridgway. “And this is this bill is going to kill that – there’s no ifs, ands, or buts about it. Small businesses like mine will go out of business because of it. There will not be the workforce that is going to be required to create that energy dominance later, when they’ve realized what they’ve done.”
    “By cutting these energy tax credits, they are going to end so much of the thriving industry, the jobs and the new electrons that are being put on the grid, and ultimately, they’re going to hurt local communities and our low cost energy right now,” said KC Becker, CEO of Colorado Solar and Storage Association and former EPA regional administrator.
    Hickenlooper took to the Senate floor in the middle of the night in support of his amendment to protect the IRA’s residential clean energy credit. He also worked with his colleagues to alter a few of the worst clean energy proposals, including eliminating a devastating renewable energy excise tax.
    Crushing Safety Net Programs Coloradans Depend on
    The Republican bill also rips away financial safety nets and crucial programs from millions of Americans, including the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) that supports 55,000 Coloradans.
    “The majority of the households that would be affected by this bill, as mentioned, are working families with children, seniors, veterans and people with disabilities. With these high levels of food insecurity, food banks like ours cannot meet the increased need without vital federal assistance programs,” said Sue Ellen Rodwick, Western Slope Director of Food Bank of the Rockies. “One story I have is from a woman that one of my staff members was able to help out in Meeker. An older adult and she didn’t know that she would qualify for SNAP. We got her signed up for SNAP and our food program for older adults. She said it’s amazing, because even just the drive to the grocery store from Meeker to Rifle, that’s a 40 minute drive to get to a larger grocery store with affordable prices. This program makes a difference for so many people, and we need the funding for that outreach to help people give them assistance to enroll in SNAP.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 07/2/2025 Blackburn Statement on President Trump’s Tennessee U.S. Attorney Nominations

    US Senate News:

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

    NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following statement praising President Trump’s nominations of Mike Dunavant to serve as U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee and Braden Boucek to serve as U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee:

    “In nominating Mike Dunavant and Braden Boucek, President Trump is keeping his promise to Make America Safe Again,” said Senator Blackburn. “Both are experienced and principled federal prosecutors who know what it takes to lead a U.S. Attorney’s office. Mike and Braden will uphold the rule of law in Tennessee, restore law and order, and admirably serve the people of our incredible state. In my role on the Senate Judiciary Committee, I look forward to supporting their nominations and working to ensure they are swiftly confirmed.”

    BACKGROUND

    Mike Dunavant, Nominee for U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee:

    • Mr. Dunavant previously served as a U.S. Attorney during President Trump’s first term and was confirmed by the Senate in a unanimous vote.
    • Under his leadership, Memphis witnessed a 13.1% decrease in overall violent crime from 2017 to 2019.
    • Mr. Dunavant also instituted a successful carjacking initiative with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and local law enforcement to aggressively prosecute armed carjackings.
    • He reinvigorated the Project Safe Neighborhoods Task Force, expanding cooperation with local and federal law enforcement.
    • Mr. Dunavant brings the leadership, experience, and proven track record needed to reduce violent crime and restore public safety in Memphis.

    Braden Boucek, Nominee for U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee:

    • Mr. Boucek served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in both Nashville and Memphis and as a prosecutor for the state of Tennessee—as both an Assistant Attorney General and as Assistant District Attorney. 
    • He has prosecuted hundreds of cases, ranging from organized crime and drug trafficking cases to terrorism and immigration offenses.
    • Currently, he serves as Vice President of Litigation at the Southeastern Legal Foundation, where he has focused his work on protecting Americans’ constitutional rights.
    • Mr. Boucek brings a strong background in criminal and constitutional law that will serve the people of the Middle District of Tennessee well.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven: We Secured the Heart and Soul of the Farm Bill in One Big Beautiful Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven
    07.02.25
    Bill Approved by Senate Updates Reference Prices, Strengthens Crop Insurance
    FARGO, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven, chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee and a senior member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, today held a roundtable with North Dakota farm leaders to outline provisions he secured in the One Big Beautiful Bill, including:
    Updated reference prices, with built-in future increases.
    Elements of Hoeven’s FARMER Act to strengthen crop insurance and make higher levels of coverage more affordable for producers.
    Sugar Program Extension.
    Improvements to Livestock Disaster Programs.
    “The One Big Beautiful Bill provides significant tax relief for working Americans, including our farmers and ranchers, but we also secured the heart and soul of the farm bill in this legislation,” said Hoeven. “That includes priorities like updated reference prices for this crop year, stronger and more affordable crop insurance, as well as updates to the sugar program and improvements to livestock disaster programs. These are the core pieces of the farm bill and vital to farm country. The Senate has now passed what is essentially a seven year farm bill.”
    Specifically, the legislation:
    Increases reference prices for Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) by 10% to 20% (specific increase varies by commodity).
    Built-in future reference price increases with an inflation adjuster and an improved price escalator to prevent reference prices from becoming outdated when market and input costs change.
    New safety net begins right away – producers can receive the higher of the ARC or PLC payment for this crop year, 2025, with the new updated reference prices. North Dakota farmers will see tens of millions of dollars in relief in 2025 alone thanks to these updates.
    Key provisions of Hoeven’s FARMER Act to strengthen and expand access to affordable crop insurance:
    Increases premium support for individual-based coverage across nearly all levels – starting at 55% — by an additional 3-5%.
    Enhances the Supplemental Coverage Option by raising the coverage level from 86% to 90%, and boosts premium support from 65% to 80%.
    Extension of the sugar program through 2031, while increasing the sugar loan rate to better align with current market conditions.
    Improvements to livestock disaster programs
    Sets Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP) payments at 100% of market value for losses from federally protected predators and 75% for weather and disease losses.
    Improves the Livestock Forage Program (LFP) to provide one monthly payment to eligible producers with grazing land in counties rated D2 (severe drought) for at least four consecutive weeks and two payments if D2 persists during any seven of eight consecutive weeks within the normal grazing period.
    Tax Relief for Agriculture Producers
    The legislation permanently extends current individual tax rates and bracket changes of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, preserving $4 trillion in tax breaks, and increasing take-home pay by up to $10,900 in the first four years for the typical family as a result of economic growth and tax relief. The legislation also provides tax relief for farmers and ranchers and other small businesses, including:
    Permanent relief from the death tax by setting the exemption to $15 million or $30 million for those married filing jointly, adjusted for inflation.
    Permanently extending the Section 199A pass-through deduction for small businesses, farmers and ranchers.
    Permanently extending the Section 199A(g) deduction used by agricultural cooperatives.
    Increasing the Section 179 expensing amount to $2.5 million and increasing the phaseout for qualified property at $4 million.
    Making permanent the 30 percent interest expense allowance.
    Making permanent 100 percent bonus depreciation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven Outlines Permanent Tax Relief for American Families, Workers & Small Businesses

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven
    07.02.25
    One Big Beautiful Bill Preserves & Expands Tax Breaks for Low- and Middle-Income Households, Empowers Small Businesses, Farmers & Ranchers to Invest in Their Operations
    BISMARCK, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven today held a press conference with local business leaders and community members to discuss the benefits of the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) to families and small businesses in North Dakota. Hoeven stressed the legislation maintains and expands tax benefits for low- and middle-income households, reduces the tax burden on workers and boosts the U.S. economy. Combined, the bill’s provisions:
    Preserve $4 trillion in tax relief.
    Will increase take-home pay by up to $10,900 in the first four years for the typical family, resulting from economic growth and tax relief.
    For Families and Individuals:
    Permanently extends current individual tax rates and bracket changes of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.
    This includes maintaining the increased standard deduction, which benefits, and helps simplify income taxes for, the vast majority of taxpayers.

    Eliminates taxes on tips and overtime for millions of American workers.
    Supports families by increasing and making permanent the enhanced child tax credit at $2,200, with $1,700 of that amount being refundable, adjusted for inflation.
    Provides permanent relief from the death tax by setting the exemption to $15 million or $30 million for those married filing jointly, adjusted for inflation.
    Establishes savings accounts for newborns to help build financial security.
    Creates a new $6,000 tax deduction for millions of low- and middle-income seniors.
    Combined with other deductions, this will result in the average beneficiary paying zero taxes on Social Security.

    For Small Businesses:
    Permanently extending the Section 199A pass-through deduction for small businesses, farmers and ranchers, including the Section 199A(g) deduction used by agricultural cooperatives.
    Increasing the Section 179 expensing to $2.5 million and increasing the phaseout for qualified property at $4 million.
    Establishing a 100 percent accelerated depreciation for new industrial and manufacturing facilities that begin construction between 2025-2028.
    Making permanent the 30 percent interest expense allowance.
    Permanently extending the 100 percent research and development deduction.
    Making permanent 100 percent bonus depreciation.
    “At its core, the tax provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill are about allowing American workers and small businesses to keep more of their hard-earned money,” said Hoeven. “We worked to ensure this legislation provides trillions in tax relief for everyday Americans on a permanent basis. This includes preserving a higher standard deduction, expanding benefits for families with children and eliminating taxes on tips, overtime and Social Security for millions of workers and seniors, respectively. This will not only increase the quality of life for households throughout our country, but it will strengthen our economy by enabling businesses to invest in their operations, recoup their costs and create good-paying jobs across sectors.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: One Big Beautiful Bill Provides Important, Overdue Compensation for Idaho Downwinders

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo
    Washington, D.C.–Idaho Downwinders could finally receive compensation under the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) thanks to a provision in the One Big Beautiful Bill passed by the United States Senate.  U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) negotiated the inclusion of Idaho victims in the final language.   
    “Many Idahoans have died or suffered as a result of cancer related to fallout from 1950s to 1960s Cold War-era above-ground nuclear weapons testing with no recompense,” said Crapo.  “Idahoans have been unfairly left out of the RECA program for far too many years.  The Senate’s passage of language to include Idaho in the program marks one step closer to ensuring affected Idahoans will finally start to receive the compensation they rightfully deserve.  I urge the U.S. House of Representatives to preserve this provision.”
    The provision would:
    Extend RECA compensation through December 31, 2027;
    Include Idaho in the list of affected states;
    Extend downwind eligibility states through November 1962;
    Set compensation for Downwinders and onsite participants at $100,000; and
    Expand coverage for uranium miners.
    The provision needs to remain in the version of the reconciliation bill to be considered next by the U.S. House of Representatives, and then the reconciliation bill must be signed by the President for the expansion to become law.
    Crapo is a longtime Senate lead of expanding the RECA program.  In 2022, Crapo was successful in securing an extension of the RECA program for two years, allowing more individuals more time to apply for compensation.  In July 2023, the U.S. Senate passed, by a vote of 61-37, an amendment to the Fiscal Year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to strengthen RECA.  The program would have been expanded to include Idaho victims.  Later, in December, the amendment was stripped from the conference report of the NDAA.  The program expired June 7, 2024.
    To read Senator Crapo’s statement on the full passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill, click HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Secures a Win for Iowa Farm Families

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)
    Published: July 2, 2025
    Ernst-led provision eliminates FAFSA restrictions that limit opportunities for farm kids to attend college.
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst’s (R-Iowa) bipartisan Family Farm and Small Business Exemption Act that keeps higher education accessible for Iowa farm families has passed the Senate as part of the One Big Beautiful Bill.
    The bill reverses changes to the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) process that could reduce or even eliminate access to need-based aid for students of farm families and small business owners. It restores the original guidelines that exempt all farmland, machinery, other operational materials, and small businesses with fewer than 100 employees from being declared on the FAFSA form.
    “After the Biden administration botched the FAFSA rollout at the expense of farm families, I am proud to right that wrong and ensure unfair policies don’t hold Iowans back from investing in their child’s education,” Ernst said. “Reopening pathways to financial aid for rural students in need is yet another way the One Big Beautiful Bill takes a stand for Iowans and ensures the next generation of students will have the opportunity to pursue higher education.”
    Background:
    In the wake of the Biden administration’s botched FAFSA rollout, Ernst consistently stood up for Iowa families to ensure they aren’t left behind when it comes to college aid opportunities. She helped pass the FAFSA Deadline Act into law to give families the certainty they deserve, conducted critical oversight, demanded answers on behalf of agricultural communities, and worked to get input directly from impacted Iowans.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Announces $3.7 Million for Airport Upgrades Across Louisiana from His Infrastructure Law

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) announced the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is awarding Louisiana a total of $3,657,455.00 in funding from his Infrastructure Investments and Jobs Act (IIJA) for critical airport improvements in Tallulah, Slidell, Lake Charles, Farmerville, Sulphur, and Jena.
    “Upgrading airport infrastructure improves safety, efficiency, and the experience for travelers,”said Dr. Cassidy. “These investments will help local airports grow, better serve their regions, and support economic development across Louisiana.”

    Grant Awarded
    Recipient
    Project Description

    $1,068,750.00
    Vicksburg Tallulah Regional Airport (Tallulah)
    This grant will provide federal funding to reconstruct culverts and a water lift station to improve drainage and stormwater management.

    $332,500.00
    City of Slidell
    This grant will provide federal funding to reseal 5,002 feet of Runway 18/36 pavement to extend its useful life.

    $1,300,000.00
    Airport Authority District No. 1 (Lake Charles)
    This grant will provide federal funding to construct a terminal parking lot and reconstruct 2,600 feet of access roads serving the terminal and general aviation facilities.

    $300,000.00
    Union Parish Police Jury (Farmerville)
    This grant will provide federal funding to construct an 8,400 square foot sponsor-owned T-hangar complex to support airport self-sufficiency.

    $89,205.00
    Chennault International Airport Authority (Lake Charles)
    This grant will provide federal funding to design the rehabilitation of 1,425 feet of paved taxiways to maintain pavement integrity.

    $534,850.00
    West Calcasieu Airport Managing Board (Sulphur)
    This grant will provide federal funding to acquire and install a new automated weather observing system to provide accurate, site-specific weather information.

    $32,150.00
    LaSalle Economic Development District (Jena)
    This grant will provide federal funding to reconstruct the airport’s drainage system to correct failing infrastructure.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Markey Blasts Paramount’s $16 Million Settlement with Trump

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    Calls for full Commission vote on Paramount’s pending merger

    Washington (July 2, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, released the following statement after Paramount Global, the parent of CBS News, agreed to pay $16 million to settle a frivolous lawsuit brought by President Donald Trump. Paramount reportedly had pushed for the settlement to help facilitate approval of its merger with Skydance Media, which is currently being reviewed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

    “Paramount’s decision to pay $16 million to settle Trump’s baseless lawsuit is a blow to journalistic independence. With the FCC currently reviewing Paramount’s merger with Skydance, this timing also raises serious questions about FCC independence and Paramount’s true reason for settling with Trump. The public deserves to have complete confidence that the FCC’s merger review is free from political interference. For that reason, the FCC must proceed with the utmost transparency, and Chairman Carr must hold a full Commission vote on the merger. I will be watching the Commission’s next steps very closely.”

    Senator Markey has aggressively pushed back on the Trump administration’s efforts to attack news organizations and intimidate the media. In May 2025, Senators Markey and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) wrote to FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, urging the FCC to take a vote on the merger between Paramount Global and Skydance Media. In March 2025, Senators Markey and Luján, along with Senator Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), introduced the Broadcast Freedom and Independence Act, legislation that would prohibit the FCC from revoking broadcast licenses or taking action against broadcasters based on the viewpoints they broadcast. In February 2025, Senators Markey and Luján, along with Senator Gary Peters (D-Mich.), wrote to Chairman Carr and then-Commissioner Nathan Simington regarding the FCC’s recent, politically motivated actions against broadcasters and public media.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Capito, Justice Applaud Appointment of Matt Harvey and Moore Capito as U.S. Attorneys for West Virginia by President Trump

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito

    CHARLESTON, W.Va. – U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Jim Justice (R-W.Va.) released a statement following President Donald Trump’s nomination of Moore Capito as U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of West Virginia and Matt Harvey as U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of West Virginia:

    “As a respected attorney and former member of the West Virginia House of Delegates where he served as the chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, Moore Capito understands the issues that matter most to Appalachian communities—from combating the opioid epidemic to protecting our energy jobs and securing economic opportunity. His proven leadership and legal expertise make him the ideal candidate to uphold justice in the Southern District. As a dedicated prosecutor and leader in the Eastern Panhandle, Matt Harvey has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to public safety. His experience and proven leadership in addressing violent crime, drug trafficking, and community security aligns precisely with the needs of the Northern District,” Senator Capito said.

    “I am thrilled and extremely proud that President Trump has chosen these two stellar candidates to be West Virginia’s next U.S. Attorneys. I look forward to supporting their confirmations quickly so they can get to work on behalf of West Virginia,” Senator Capito continued.

    “Moore Capito and Matt Harvey are rock solid picks by President Trump for U.S. Attorney in West Virginia. These guys are serious conservatives, have lengthy experience in the legal realm, and are qualified beyond belief – which is why I’m proud to have recommended them to the President for their respective positions. I extend my congratulations to both Moore and Matt, I wish them the best of luck in their roles, and know they will do great things while serving as U.S. Attorney because they are truly both sons of West Virginia,” Senator Justice said.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Coons, Representative Chu lead bicameral letter demanding accountability for President Trump’s discriminatory travel ban

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Representative Judy Chu (D-Calif.) led 68 of their Democratic colleagues in sending a letter to President Donald Trump urging him to rescind his discriminatory travel ban that will keep families apart and devastate the U.S. economy. The members are demanding transparency into President Trump’s decision-making process and answers about how the travel ban will impact communities across the U.S.  

    In a letter addressed to President Trump, Secretary of Homeland Security Noem, Secretary of State Rubio, and Attorney General Bondi, the members outlined the disastrous consequences that President Trump’s travel ban will have on both families and the American economy.

    “The effects of President Trump’s discriminatory travel ban will be devastating. In the last year alone over 126,000 visas have been issued to nationals from just the twelve countries on the fully restricted list. These are individuals who are looking to come to the United States to reunite with family, support our economy, or otherwise enrich our country in innumerable ways,” wrote the members.

    During his first term, President Trump enacted extreme travel bans that disrupted thousands of lives and weakened our nation’s economy and global standing. On his first day in office, President Joe Biden rescinded these bans, but on June 4, 2025, President Trump enacted another sweeping, discriminatory travel ban.

    President Trump is imposing full restrictions on entry into the United States from nationals of Afghanistan, Chad, Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Myanmar, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen, and partial restrictions on entry from nationals of Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela—meaning individuals from these countries cannot come to the U.S. permanently or apply for certain visas. President Trump is also reportedly considering imposing travel restrictions on an additional 36 countries.

    “President Trump’s actions once again disgrace the founding principles of our nation and enshrine cruelty into our immigration system,” the members continue. “Additionally, this travel ban will harm our economy by depriving the United States of workers in key fields experiencing labor shortages like medicine and agriculture and further devastating our domestic tourism industry which is already expected to decline by $12.5 billion in 2025.”

    As a result, the members demand accountability and answers from the Trump administration. The members wrote, “Given these severe impacts, we condemn this proclamation and urge President Trump to rescind it immediately. We also seek transparency into President Trump’s decision-making process and, accordingly, request answers to the following questions by July 3rd, 2025.”

    Earlier this year, Senator Coons and Representative Chu, alongside 130 of their colleagues, reintroduced the National Origin-Based Antidiscrimination for Nonimmigrants (NO BAN) Act, which would prevent any president from implementing a discriminatory travel ban by strengthening the Immigration and Nationality Act to prohibit discrimination based on religion. The bill would also require that any suspension of entry into the United States be narrowly tailored, backed by credible evidence, and subject to appropriate consultation with Congress.

    You can read the full letter here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Booker Surveys Major NJ TRANSIT, Amtrak Infrastructure Project

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker

    KEARNY, N.J. – This morning, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) was joined by NJ TRANSIT President & CEO Kris Kolluri and Amtrak Acting Senior Vice President of Capital Delivery Jim Short for a tour and status update on the progress on the new Portal North Bridge, which spans the Hackensack River between Kearny and Secaucus. The ongoing project is set to replace the current 114-year-old swing bridge, which opens for maritime traffic and is a frequent source of delays and frustration for the 200,000 NJ TRANSIT and Amtrak customers that cross the Hackensack River each day.

    “Hundreds of thousands of people rely on NJ TRANSIT and Amtrak every single day. It’s imperative we take steps to bolster their operations at every turn so that our public transit infrastructure continues to serve our region’s economy and passengers along the Northeast Corridor. I’m proud to have helped secure significant federal funding for this $2.2 billion project, including $495 million from Amtrak and roughly 50 percent of the remaining $1.73 billion from key federal transit programs I’ve long championed. I was pleased to see the project’s progress and hear it is on track to open on budget and ahead of schedule in 2026,” said Senator Booker.

    “Senator Booker has been a tireless advocate for infrastructure that delivers real results, and his support has been instrumental in bringing the Portal North Bridge project to this point,” said NJ TRANSIT President & CEO Kris Kolluri. “His visit today comes as we mark major progress, with structural work complete and the first track set to open in 2026.”

    “Portal North Bridge continues to be a model for all major infrastructure projects across America, and Senator Booker’s championing of the project is a major factor in driving the successful construction of this project,” said Amtrak Acting Senior Vice President of Capital Delivery Jim Short. “Between the great progress taking place on the project and the strong collaboration with our partners at NJ TRANSIT, and the advocacy of the United States Department of Transportation, the Federal Railroad Administration, Federal Transit Administration, and so many more, this is a project that will make train travel in New Jersey better than it has ever been.”

    The Portal North Bridge is a new, modern two-track, high-level, fixed-span bridge that will improve service and capacity along this section of the Northeast Corridor. The new Portal North Bridge rises 50 feet over the Hackensack River, nearly doubling the height clearance and will allow marine traffic to pass underneath without interrupting rail traffic.

    The Portal North Bridge project remains on time and on budget, with both tracks set to open in 2026.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Booker Statement on Republicans’ Voting to Slash Medicaid and Increase Costs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker

    WASHINGTON, D.C. –  Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), issued the following statement:

    “In this moment where I have heard the stories of so many families who are struggling to afford their basic needs, like groceries, housing, health care, and monthly bills, the Republican Party has failed them. 

    “Donald Trump promised to lower costs and help Americans make ends meet. 

    “Instead, this bill has something to hurt almost everyone – and Americans who are already struggling will pay the harshest price.  

    “The only winners are the wealthiest few, and the biggest corporations. 

    “This bill will strip health insurance from nearly 17 million Americans, cut more than $900 billion from Medicaid, increase annual health care costs by as much as $900 for families, and leave hundreds of hospitals at risk of closure, denying people access to quality care. 

    “Families will now also be paying more for energy, with electricity rates in New Jersey expected to rise 20 to 30 percent. Over 3 million Americans will lose access to much-needed food aid when they need it to help make ends meet. And the national debt will climb nearly $4 trillion higher. 

    “For months, I’ve heard from people across New Jersey and throughout the country who will suffer as a result of this bill. They are seniors, working parents, people with disabilities, small businesses, farmers, and low-income families. By passing this bill, Senate Republicans have failed them all.

    “There is only one beautiful thing about this bill: it is a clarion call for change in Washington. 

    “As we fight for the change we deserve, I will continue to stand up for New Jerseyans, for working people, for our nation’s children, for people with disabilities, and for all Americans who will be hurt by these disastrous policies.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NEWS: Sanders Statement on Paramount’s Decision to Settle Trump’s Bogus Lawsuit Against 60 Minutes  

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Vermont – Bernie Sanders

    WASHINGTON, July 2 – Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) today released a statement on Paramount’s decision to settle Trump’s bogus lawsuit against the program 60 Minutes.

    The decision by the Redstone family, the major owners of Paramount, to settle a bogus lawsuit with President Trump over a 60 Minutes report he did not like is an extremely dangerous precedent in terms of both the First Amendment and government extortion.

    Paramount’s decision will only embolden Trump to continue attacking, suing and intimidating the media which he has labeled “the enemy of the people.” It is a dark day for independent journalism and freedom of the press — an essential part of our democracy. It is a victory for a president who is attempting to stifle dissent and undermine American democracy.

    It’s pretty obvious why Paramount chose to surrender to Trump. The Redstone family is in line to receive $2.4 billion from the sale of Paramount to Skydance, but they can only receive this money if the Trump administration approves this deal. In other words, the Redstone family diminished the freedom of the press today in exchange for a $2.4 billion payday.

    Make no mistake about it. Trump is undermining our democracy and rapidly moving us towards authoritarianism and the billionaires who care more about their stock portfolios than our democracy are helping him do it.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NEWS: Baldwin Statement on Wisconsin Supreme Court Striking Down 1849 Abortion Ban

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) released the following statement on the Wisconsin Supreme Court ruling that strikes down the 1849 state law that had banned abortions in nearly every situation that went into effect after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade:

    “Three years ago, the activist U.S. Supreme Court stripped millions of Americans of their constitutional right to make their own health care decisions, sending Wisconsin women to live under an 1849 criminal abortion ban. This archaic criminal abortion ban was passed before the Civil War, decades before women had the right to vote, and just a year after Wisconsin became a state,” said Senator Baldwin. “Today’s ruling tells women across Wisconsin that we will not go back. Today’s ruling tells women that our government trusts you to make decisions about your own body and your future. Today’s ruling tells women in our state that they are not second-class citizens. But, this fight is not over. Every woman, in every zip code, in every state deserves the same rights and freedoms. I will not stop fighting until we make that a reality and pass my bill to restore the right to abortion nationwide and allow women to make their own health care decisions without interference from judges or politicians.”

    Senator Baldwin has long led the charge to restore abortion access nationwide, including leading the entire Senate Democratic caucus in introducing the Women’s Health Protection Act of 2025, legislation to guarantee access to abortion everywhere across the country and restore the right to comprehensive reproductive health care for millions of Americans. Last week, Senator Baldwin spoke on the Senate floor, underscoring the impact of the Dobbs decision in Wisconsin, which forced women to travel out of state just to access health care. Additionally, Senator Baldwin has introduced the  Right to Contraception Act, a bill at the federal level to put into law Americans’ right to contraception, which the Supreme Court first recognized more than half a century ago in its Griswold v. Connecticut decision, and the Reproductive Health Travel Fund Act, legislation to provide women the support they need to access reproductive health services by providing grants to organizations, including abortion funds, to offset the cost of travel-related expenses.

    A video of Senator Baldwin’s floor speech from the anniversary of Roe v. Wade is available for download here.
     

    MIL OSI USA News –