NewzIntel.com

Category: US Senate

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Cotton to Introduce Bill to Reform, Improve, and Streamline ODNI

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas Tom Cotton
    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEContact: Caroline Tabler or Patrick McCann (202) 224-2353June 27, 2025
    Chairman Cotton to Introduce Bill to Reform, Improve, and Streamline ODNI 
    Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, today will introduce the Intelligence Community Efficiency and Effectiveness Act, legislation that would realign resources to intelligence missions, eliminate duplicative efforts and inefficient, non-functioning bureaucracies across the intelligence community (IC) and return the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) to its original size, scope, and mission.
    Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Mike Rounds (R-South Dakota), Ted Budd (R-North Carolina), and James Lankford (R-Oklahoma) are cosponsoring the legislation.
    “Created after the September 11th attacks, ODNI was intended to be a lean organization to align America’s intelligence resources and authorities, not the overstaffed and bureaucratic behemoth that it is today, where coordinators coordinate with other coordinators. These reforms will be vital to keeping our country safe from the wide range of threats that we continue to face,” said Senator Cotton. 
    Text of the Intelligence Community Efficiency and Effectiveness Act may be found here.
    The Intelligence Community Efficiency and Effectiveness Act would:
    Cap ODNI full-time staff at 650.
    Eliminate certain reporting requirements and the transfer of personnel authorities.
    Modify the National Intelligence Council’s duties and terminate the National Intelligence Managers’ positions.
    Terminate the National Counterintelligence and Security Center (NCSC) at ODNI and transfer its responsibilities to the FBI.
    Redesignate the National Counterterrorism Center as the National Counterterrorism and Counternarcotics Center, and limit its mission to foreign intelligence authorities. 
    Terminate the National Counterproliferation and Biosecurity Center (NCBC) at ODNI, transfer NCBC’s responsibilities to the CIA, and redesignate it as the National Counterproliferation Center.
    Repeal various positions (including the Director of the NCSC, the Director of the NCBC, and the Intelligence Community Chief Data Officer), and seven units, centers, councils, offices, and programs (including obsolete bureaucratic entities that have failed to function, such as the Joint Intelligence Community Council).  
    Prohibit National Intelligence Program funds from being used to outsource IC analytic efforts to organizations that take funds from foreign governments.  
    Require the DNI to wind down and terminate the National Intelligence University within 180 days.
    Prohibit use of National Intelligence Program funds to implement any diversity, equity, or inclusion practice in the intelligence community.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Air Force Leaders Detail Support and Updates for Little Rock, Fort Smith Missions to Boozman

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman
    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR), a Senate Air Force Caucus Co-Chair and member of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, elicited strong support for the missions and personnel at both Little Rock Air Force Base and Ebbing Air National Guard Base, home of the F-35 foreign pilot training center, from Secretary of the U.S. Air Force Troy Meink and Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David Allvin.

    Boozman noted the recent graduation of the first two pilots as part of the F-35 Foreign Military Sales (FMS) mission, now hosted in Fort Smith at Ebbing, and how the milestone reflects the growing importance of training our allies on U.S. platforms and systems. 
    “We’ve discussed the critical role the F-35 FMS training mission at Ebbing Air National Guard Base plays not only in maintaining our air superiority but also in strengthening alliances,” Boozman said. “[There is] excitement [among] our allies [in] having this type of plane.”
    “I think the training – training with international partners – that’s stuff that helps forever. I think it’s a combination of simplifying FMS so it allows them to get the platforms, and then allowing them to train with us on the platforms, is one of the best ways to get integrated effects between us and our international partners,” Meink stated.
    “If we’re selling them the best equipment, you want them to be trained by the best. So we want to be able to do that at Ebbing,” Allvin added.
    The senator also noted an announcement about the Air Force’s Deployable Combat Wing concept and the change it represents with how the service seeks to ensure readiness upon deployment. 
    “Earlier this year the Air Force announced that Little Rock Air Force Base and four other installations were selected as the first tranche of the Deployable Combat Wing initiative. Can you talk about what that means?” Boozman asked.
    “The Deployable Combat Wing allows us to move away from a pattern we’ve had over the past few decades in which we crowdsource airmen from across our Air Force, put them together, and then put them over in the theater. I can’t in good conscience continue to send airmen over that are trained as individuals, and not trained as units, to fight as units and understand the new complexities of the strategic environment,” Allvin responded. “I think we’re going to see not only an impact on fighting effectiveness, but also morale. Units that train together have a common esprit de corps that I think is pushing that warrior ethos we’re trying to enhance.”
    According to the Air Force, the installations selected will see growth in the population of assigned airmen to ensure adequate staffing for accomplishing their missions.
    “We have an increase in airmen that will make sure when that entire wing picks up and goes, that the base is still supported,” Allvin confirmed.
    Boozman again echoed his and his colleagues’ ongoing concerns with the impact that temporary funding and authorities – in the form of continuing resolutions – have on military missions and commitments.
    He also reiterated his desire to work with the Air Force and Department of Defense to pursue legislative solutions for combating the threat of armed drones to U.S. military installations and assets.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Air Force Leaders Detail Support and Updates for Little Rock, Fort Smith Missions to Boozman

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman
    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR), a Senate Air Force Caucus Co-Chair and member of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, elicited strong support for the missions and personnel at both Little Rock Air Force Base and Ebbing Air National Guard Base, home of the F-35 foreign pilot training center, from Secretary of the U.S. Air Force Troy Meink and Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David Allvin.

    Boozman noted the recent graduation of the first two pilots as part of the F-35 Foreign Military Sales (FMS) mission, now hosted in Fort Smith at Ebbing, and how the milestone reflects the growing importance of training our allies on U.S. platforms and systems. 
    “We’ve discussed the critical role the F-35 FMS training mission at Ebbing Air National Guard Base plays not only in maintaining our air superiority but also in strengthening alliances,” Boozman said. “[There is] excitement [among] our allies [in] having this type of plane.”
    “I think the training – training with international partners – that’s stuff that helps forever. I think it’s a combination of simplifying FMS so it allows them to get the platforms, and then allowing them to train with us on the platforms, is one of the best ways to get integrated effects between us and our international partners,” Meink stated.
    “If we’re selling them the best equipment, you want them to be trained by the best. So we want to be able to do that at Ebbing,” Allvin added.
    The senator also noted an announcement about the Air Force’s Deployable Combat Wing concept and the change it represents with how the service seeks to ensure readiness upon deployment. 
    “Earlier this year the Air Force announced that Little Rock Air Force Base and four other installations were selected as the first tranche of the Deployable Combat Wing initiative. Can you talk about what that means?” Boozman asked.
    “The Deployable Combat Wing allows us to move away from a pattern we’ve had over the past few decades in which we crowdsource airmen from across our Air Force, put them together, and then put them over in the theater. I can’t in good conscience continue to send airmen over that are trained as individuals, and not trained as units, to fight as units and understand the new complexities of the strategic environment,” Allvin responded. “I think we’re going to see not only an impact on fighting effectiveness, but also morale. Units that train together have a common esprit de corps that I think is pushing that warrior ethos we’re trying to enhance.”
    According to the Air Force, the installations selected will see growth in the population of assigned airmen to ensure adequate staffing for accomplishing their missions.
    “We have an increase in airmen that will make sure when that entire wing picks up and goes, that the base is still supported,” Allvin confirmed.
    Boozman again echoed his and his colleagues’ ongoing concerns with the impact that temporary funding and authorities – in the form of continuing resolutions – have on military missions and commitments.
    He also reiterated his desire to work with the Air Force and Department of Defense to pursue legislative solutions for combating the threat of armed drones to U.S. military installations and assets.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Air Force Leaders Detail Support and Updates for Little Rock, Fort Smith Missions to Boozman

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman
    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR), a Senate Air Force Caucus Co-Chair and member of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, elicited strong support for the missions and personnel at both Little Rock Air Force Base and Ebbing Air National Guard Base, home of the F-35 foreign pilot training center, from Secretary of the U.S. Air Force Troy Meink and Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David Allvin.

    Boozman noted the recent graduation of the first two pilots as part of the F-35 Foreign Military Sales (FMS) mission, now hosted in Fort Smith at Ebbing, and how the milestone reflects the growing importance of training our allies on U.S. platforms and systems. 
    “We’ve discussed the critical role the F-35 FMS training mission at Ebbing Air National Guard Base plays not only in maintaining our air superiority but also in strengthening alliances,” Boozman said. “[There is] excitement [among] our allies [in] having this type of plane.”
    “I think the training – training with international partners – that’s stuff that helps forever. I think it’s a combination of simplifying FMS so it allows them to get the platforms, and then allowing them to train with us on the platforms, is one of the best ways to get integrated effects between us and our international partners,” Meink stated.
    “If we’re selling them the best equipment, you want them to be trained by the best. So we want to be able to do that at Ebbing,” Allvin added.
    The senator also noted an announcement about the Air Force’s Deployable Combat Wing concept and the change it represents with how the service seeks to ensure readiness upon deployment. 
    “Earlier this year the Air Force announced that Little Rock Air Force Base and four other installations were selected as the first tranche of the Deployable Combat Wing initiative. Can you talk about what that means?” Boozman asked.
    “The Deployable Combat Wing allows us to move away from a pattern we’ve had over the past few decades in which we crowdsource airmen from across our Air Force, put them together, and then put them over in the theater. I can’t in good conscience continue to send airmen over that are trained as individuals, and not trained as units, to fight as units and understand the new complexities of the strategic environment,” Allvin responded. “I think we’re going to see not only an impact on fighting effectiveness, but also morale. Units that train together have a common esprit de corps that I think is pushing that warrior ethos we’re trying to enhance.”
    According to the Air Force, the installations selected will see growth in the population of assigned airmen to ensure adequate staffing for accomplishing their missions.
    “We have an increase in airmen that will make sure when that entire wing picks up and goes, that the base is still supported,” Allvin confirmed.
    Boozman again echoed his and his colleagues’ ongoing concerns with the impact that temporary funding and authorities – in the form of continuing resolutions – have on military missions and commitments.
    He also reiterated his desire to work with the Air Force and Department of Defense to pursue legislative solutions for combating the threat of armed drones to U.S. military installations and assets.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bipartisan Senate Appropriators Oppose Abrupt Job Corps Center Closures, Urge Reversal

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman
    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) joined Senate Appropriations Committee Chair Susan Collins (R-ME), Vice Chair Patty Murray (D-WA) and fellow committee members Senators Jack Reed (D-RI), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS) and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) in voicing their concerns over the sudden closure of all Job Corps Centers to the Department of Labor (DOL). In a letter to Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer, the lawmakers urged her to reverse the decision and work with Congress to improve the program.
    “Job Corps has served millions of young people, ages 16 to 24, many of whom face significant economic and social challenges, develop the skills and resilience they need to succeed in work and in life through intensive education, training, and support services in a residential setting since its creation in 1964,” the senators wrote. 
    “Abruptly canceling contracts for the nation’s Job Corps centers will leave students and communities in the lurch and will undermine opportunities for young people to get education and training to succeed in valuable trades. While we would be pleased to work with you to improve the Job Corps program to do even more to serve our young people and address growing workforce needs, it is essential that you faithfully implement the program in accordance with the FY 2025 Continuing Resolution and reopen all Job Corps Centers,” they continued.
    Job Corps is the largest residential career training program in the country, operating centers across all 50 states including a contractor-operated campus in Little Rock. Over 60,000 new students enroll in the program nationwide every year and each center supports an average of 228 jobs.
    Full text of the letter can be found here and below.
    The Honorable Lori Chavez-DeRemerU.S. Department of Labor200 Constitution Avenue, NWWashington, D.C. 20210
    Dear Secretary Chavez-DeRemer: 
    The sudden announcement that the Department of Labor began the process of closing all Job Corps Centers on May 29, 2025, will harm students and local economies in every state across the nation. We urge you to retract this announcement and to faithfully implement the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Full-Year Continuing Resolution Act, which President Trump signed into law and which includes $1,760,155,000 for Job Corps. That includes funding to enroll students in Job Corps Centers for the new program year that starts July 1, 2025. We expect the Department to prevent any interruptions or delays in serving students or program options by making the necessary changes or extensions to contracts and quickly restarting background checks.
    Job Corps has served millions of young people, ages 16 to 24, many of whom fact significant economic and social challenges, develop the skills and resilience they need to succeed in work and in life through intensive education, training, and support services in a residential setting since its creation in 1964. Today, many jobs require training beyond a high school diploma but not a college degree, including those of strategic national importance, such as electricians needed to build data centers to power artificial intelligence, machinists, pipefitters, and welders to manufacture the next generation of submarines and destroyers, wildland firefighters to keep our communities safe, and nurses to help care for our families. Job Corps is one of the few national programs that fills the gap by recruiting young people who are out of the labor force and providing them with the career and technical education to address these critical workforce needs. 
    Job Corps Centers contribute to their local communities and economies. They have developed partnerships with employers, local workforce development boards, local government agencies, and community-based organizations. The sudden closure of Job Corps Centers not only puts young people’s lives at risk, but local communities will pay a steep price, especially the thousands of individuals who work at the Centers and will lose their livelihoods.
    Abruptly canceling contracts for the nation’s Job Corps centers will leave students and communities in the lurch and will undermine opportunities for young people to get education and training to succeed in valuable trades. While we would be pleased to work with you to improve the Job Corps program to do even more to serve our young people and address growing workforce needs, it is essential that you faithfully implement the program in accordance with the FY 2025 Continuing Resolution and reopen all Job Corps Centers. 
    Thank you for your attention to this request, and we request your prompt reply no later than June 24, 2025. 
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Condemns Supreme Court’s Hypocritical Ruling Condoning Trump’s Lawlessness 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution, released the following statement condemning the Supreme Court’s hypocritical ruling condoning President Trump’s attacks on the rule of law: 
    “This ruling smacks of hypocrisy. For the past four years, Republicans ran to their handpicked judges in select districts seeking universal injunction against Biden Administration policies they disliked. Now, mere months into his administration, President Trump’s Supreme Court has decided to limit lower courts’ ability to hold him accountable. Let’s be clear: this is another instance of the Court bending over backwards to insulate this administration from any restraint on its power. 
    “In this case, the Trump Administration blatantly violated the Constitution and 100-year-old Supreme Court precedent. Instead of reining in President Trump’s unconstitutional actions, the court has condoned them. Untold numbers of children born in the United States may be denied the citizenship they are entitled to as a result. 
    “Many of us, Republicans and Democrats alike, have discussed the need to reform nationwide injunctions, and members of both parties have put forth ideas. But the today’s implications of ruling should worry anyone who thinks courts should have a role in defending the rule of law and our constitutional rights—from health care rights, to gun rights. Now is the time for my Republican colleagues to decide whether they are willing to exercise their constitutional obligation to hold a lawless administration accountable.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley Statement on Supreme Court’s Universal Injunctions Decision

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
    WASHINGTON – Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) issued the following statement in light of the Supreme Court’s 6-3 ruling in Trump v. CASA, Inc., affirming universal injunctions “likely exceed the equitable authority that Congress has given to federal courts.”  
    “Today’s decision is a significant step towards addressing the bipartisan problem of universal injunctions. I’m heartened to hear a supermajority of the Supreme Court echo what I’ve said repeatedly: judges’ constitutional authority is limited to deciding cases and controversies. Universal injunctions are an unconstitutional afront to our nation’s system of checks and balances, and ought to be stopped for good. 
    “The Supreme Court has now affirmed that federal courts are overstepping in their use of universal injunctions, and the Department of Justice has a right to forcefully challenge such overreach. As Judiciary Chairman, I’ve secured parliamentarian-approved provisions in Republicans’ One Big Beautiful Bill that will help the Justice Department fight back against injunctions, and I’ll continue working to move additional legislative solutions, including my Judicial Relief Clarification Act, towards the finish line.” 
    Background:
    Grassley’s provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill to address universal injunctions include: hiring additional federal attorneys to challenge universal injunctions, requiring courts to track and publish metrics on universal injunctions and establishing judicial training programs regarding the lack of legal basis for universal injunctions. 
    Grassley is also spearheading legislation to limit federal court orders to parties directly before the court – ending the practice of universal injunctions and clarifying the constitutional role of the judicial branch. 
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley Statement on Supreme Court’s Universal Injunctions Decision

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
    WASHINGTON – Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) issued the following statement in light of the Supreme Court’s 6-3 ruling in Trump v. CASA, Inc., affirming universal injunctions “likely exceed the equitable authority that Congress has given to federal courts.”  
    “Today’s decision is a significant step towards addressing the bipartisan problem of universal injunctions. I’m heartened to hear a supermajority of the Supreme Court echo what I’ve said repeatedly: judges’ constitutional authority is limited to deciding cases and controversies. Universal injunctions are an unconstitutional afront to our nation’s system of checks and balances, and ought to be stopped for good. 
    “The Supreme Court has now affirmed that federal courts are overstepping in their use of universal injunctions, and the Department of Justice has a right to forcefully challenge such overreach. As Judiciary Chairman, I’ve secured parliamentarian-approved provisions in Republicans’ One Big Beautiful Bill that will help the Justice Department fight back against injunctions, and I’ll continue working to move additional legislative solutions, including my Judicial Relief Clarification Act, towards the finish line.” 
    Background:
    Grassley’s provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill to address universal injunctions include: hiring additional federal attorneys to challenge universal injunctions, requiring courts to track and publish metrics on universal injunctions and establishing judicial training programs regarding the lack of legal basis for universal injunctions. 
    Grassley is also spearheading legislation to limit federal court orders to parties directly before the court – ending the practice of universal injunctions and clarifying the constitutional role of the judicial branch. 
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla Delivers Remarks at Senator Feinstein Tree Dedication Ceremony

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) hosted a tree dedication ceremony in Washington, D.C. in honor of former California Senator Dianne Feinstein that was attended by members of the Feinstein family, Feinstein’s Senate and House colleagues, and former members of Feinstein’s staff. In addition to Padilla, other speakers included Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y), Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.-11), Senator Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), and Thomas Austin, the Architect of the Capitol.
    Padilla’s remarks as prepared for delivery are available here:
    Once again, it is my honor to lead this effort to celebrate a towering figure not just in modern California political history, but in the history of our nation.
    As so many of you can attest to, there was a time when it was impossible to imagine a United States Senate without Dianne Feinstein.
    I say that not just as her former staffer, and not just as someone who served alongside her, but as a lifelong Californian.
    I first entered public office in the summer of 1999, when I was elected to serve on the Los Angeles City Council.
    By that time, she had already been in the Senate for over six years — and that was after her historic and barrier breaking time in San Francisco city politics.
    So for me and for so many Californians, when we thought of the model for what it meant to be a leader, we thought of Dianne Feinstein.
    She was relentless about the issues she cared about, from:
    Environmental conservation
    To gun safety laws
    To health care reform
    To national security
    From her days in San Francisco City Hall to the halls of the U.S. Senate, she set the standard for leading with grace and strength in the face of adversity.
    And she committed herself to bipartisan collaboration to get things done for California and for our country.
    I don’t think many of my colleagues in Washington fully appreciate just how much Dianne Feinstein singlehandedly shaped the State of California. And I mean that literally, when you look at her legacy on natural resources: from water, to Lake Tahoe and the Redwoods, to the preservation of millions of acres of the California desert.
    Now, back home in California, we’ve already begun working to enshrine Senator Feinstein’s legacy for generations to come, from renaming a federal building to a post office to a visitor center in Joshua Tree National Park.
    But it’s only right that we also honor her here in Washington — the place where she dedicated so much of her time and effort for her beloved California.
    As I mentioned earlier, today’s dedication is fitting for a number of reasons — from her birthday to this location on the Senate side of the Capitol.
    But it’s also fitting because of the tree we’ve come to dedicate in her name: the willow oak.
    For those who never had the chance to visit during her lifetime, Senator Feinstein’s home away from home here in Washington, D.C. was nicknamed “Willow Oaks.”
    As we memorialize her today with her own permanent willow oak on the Capitol grounds, we take comfort in knowing that the life and legacy of Dianne Feinstein will always be remembered at the United States Capitol.
    Once again, I want to thank you all for being here, and with that, I’d like to hand it back over to Thomas who will conclude this dedication ceremony.
    Following Senator Feinstein’s passing, Senator Padilla and his colleagues unanimously passed a resolution to honor her life and legacy, adjourning the Senate to allow members to travel to her funeral services out of respect. The resolution recognized Senator Feinstein as the longest serving Senator to represent California and the longest serving female Senator in the history of the United States. Padilla’s legislation to name a federal building for Senator Feinstein and dedicate a San Francisco post office in Senator Feinstein’s name became law last year. Padilla also introduced a bill to rename a Joshua Tree Visitor Center after the late Senator, which advanced out of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NEWS: Sanders Successfully Pushes to Restore $17 Million for Vermont Schools Cancelled by the Trump Administration

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Vermont – Bernie Sanders
    WASHINGTON, June 27 — Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Ranking Member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, today announced that the Department of Education reversed its decision to cancel nearly $17 million in federal K-12 COVID-19 funding for Vermont school districts and some $2.5 billion for schools across the country. The administration’s announcement follows a successful lawsuit led by 16 states and the District of Columbia to prevent the department from revoking this important education funding. 
    Sanders worked with Secretary of Education Linda McMahon to make certain that Vermont received its fair share. Sanders and his staff also worked with 19 school districts in Vermont to submit 88 applications to appeal these cancellations. 
    “I am very happy to announce that the U.S. Department of Education has reversed its decision to deny $17 million of COVID-19 funding to schools in Vermont and billions across the nation. This means that 19 school districts in our state will receive funding that had been denied so that they can go forward with a variety of projects — summer programs, afterschool programs and school renovation,” Sanders said in a video message. “At a time when so many of our school districts are suffering and struggling economically, this is an important step forward.” 
    In March, the Trump administration canceled an estimated $2.5 billion nationwide in unspent funding for K-12 schools provided under the American Rescue Plan Act and established a bureaucratic appeals process. Sanders had several conversations with the Secretary of Education to urge her to change course. 
    Sanders’ office promptly contacted all affected school districts and worked with local school leaders to overcome administrative barriers to appeal the cancelations. The department is expected to provide funding to states next week. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bipartisan Resolution Honoring Melissa Hortman, Mark Hortman, and Condemning Political Violence Unanimously Passes Senate

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn)

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN), along with Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD), Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) announced their resolution to honor the life of Minnesota State House Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark Hortman, and condemn political violence unanimously passed the Senate. The resolution also passed in the House, where it was sponsored by Representatives Kelly Morrison (D-MN), Betty McCollum (D-MN), Tom Emmer (R-MN), Pete Stauber (R-MN),  Angie Craig (D-MN), Ilhan Omar (D-MN), Michelle Fischbach (R-MN), and Brad Finstad (R-MN).

    Full text of the resolution is available HERE and below:

    Whereas, on June 14, 2025, a gunman entered the home of Minnesota State Senator John Hoffman and shot and critically injured him and his wife, Yvette Hoffman;

    Whereas the gunman then entered the home of Minnesota State House Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and assassinated her and her husband Mark Hortman;

    Whereas the gunman had documents that listed dozens of lawmakers targeted for assassination;

    Whereas the law enforcement officers of Brooklyn Park and Champlin saved additional lives by intervening with their bravery and rapid response to the attack;

    Whereas Speaker Emerita Hortman was a formidable public servant who served her community and the people of Minnesota with deep devotion, compassion, and strength;

    Whereas acts of political violence have no place in the United States and represent a grave threat;

    Whereas swift condemnation of political violence by elected officials is necessary to preserve and protect the democracy of the United States;

    Whereas, when these violent acts expose division, the people of the United States must persevere in the pursuit of democratic principles, resolving their differences through debate and civil discourse; and

    Whereas political violence not only attacks the life and liberty of the representatives of the people of the United States, it also attacks the right of the people to be represented: Now, therefore, be it

    Resolved, That the Senate, in this moment of tragic loss—

    (1) strongly condemns and denounces the attacks on Minnesota State legislators in Brooklyn Park and Champlin, Minnesota on June 14, 2025;

    (2) honors the life of Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman for her devotion to public service and her tireless efforts to serve the people of Minnesota and the life of her husband, Mark Hortman;

    (3) honors Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette Hoffman, who were shot and critically injured, and wishes for their full and speedy recovery;

    (4) honors the courageous law enforcement officers who saved additional lives with their rapid response to the attack and successfully apprehended and charged the suspected perpetrator on June 15, 2025;

    (5) calls on all community leaders and elected officials to publicly and unequivocally denounce acts of political violence; and

    (6) calls on all people of the United States to unite in this moment of pain and tragedy and reaffirm the commitment of the people of the United States to a safe, civil, and peaceful democracy in which violent rhetoric and acts are not tolerated.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bipartisan Resolution Honoring Melissa Hortman, Mark Hortman, and Condemning Political Violence Unanimously Passes Senate

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn)

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN), along with Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD), Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) announced their resolution to honor the life of Minnesota State House Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark Hortman, and condemn political violence unanimously passed the Senate. The resolution also passed in the House, where it was sponsored by Representatives Kelly Morrison (D-MN), Betty McCollum (D-MN), Tom Emmer (R-MN), Pete Stauber (R-MN),  Angie Craig (D-MN), Ilhan Omar (D-MN), Michelle Fischbach (R-MN), and Brad Finstad (R-MN).

    Full text of the resolution is available HERE and below:

    Whereas, on June 14, 2025, a gunman entered the home of Minnesota State Senator John Hoffman and shot and critically injured him and his wife, Yvette Hoffman;

    Whereas the gunman then entered the home of Minnesota State House Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and assassinated her and her husband Mark Hortman;

    Whereas the gunman had documents that listed dozens of lawmakers targeted for assassination;

    Whereas the law enforcement officers of Brooklyn Park and Champlin saved additional lives by intervening with their bravery and rapid response to the attack;

    Whereas Speaker Emerita Hortman was a formidable public servant who served her community and the people of Minnesota with deep devotion, compassion, and strength;

    Whereas acts of political violence have no place in the United States and represent a grave threat;

    Whereas swift condemnation of political violence by elected officials is necessary to preserve and protect the democracy of the United States;

    Whereas, when these violent acts expose division, the people of the United States must persevere in the pursuit of democratic principles, resolving their differences through debate and civil discourse; and

    Whereas political violence not only attacks the life and liberty of the representatives of the people of the United States, it also attacks the right of the people to be represented: Now, therefore, be it

    Resolved, That the Senate, in this moment of tragic loss—

    (1) strongly condemns and denounces the attacks on Minnesota State legislators in Brooklyn Park and Champlin, Minnesota on June 14, 2025;

    (2) honors the life of Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman for her devotion to public service and her tireless efforts to serve the people of Minnesota and the life of her husband, Mark Hortman;

    (3) honors Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette Hoffman, who were shot and critically injured, and wishes for their full and speedy recovery;

    (4) honors the courageous law enforcement officers who saved additional lives with their rapid response to the attack and successfully apprehended and charged the suspected perpetrator on June 15, 2025;

    (5) calls on all community leaders and elected officials to publicly and unequivocally denounce acts of political violence; and

    (6) calls on all people of the United States to unite in this moment of pain and tragedy and reaffirm the commitment of the people of the United States to a safe, civil, and peaceful democracy in which violent rhetoric and acts are not tolerated.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bipartisan Resolution Honoring Melissa Hortman, Mark Hortman, and Condemning Political Violence Unanimously Passes Senate

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn)

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN), along with Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD), Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) announced their resolution to honor the life of Minnesota State House Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark Hortman, and condemn political violence unanimously passed the Senate. The resolution also passed in the House, where it was sponsored by Representatives Kelly Morrison (D-MN), Betty McCollum (D-MN), Tom Emmer (R-MN), Pete Stauber (R-MN),  Angie Craig (D-MN), Ilhan Omar (D-MN), Michelle Fischbach (R-MN), and Brad Finstad (R-MN).

    Full text of the resolution is available HERE and below:

    Whereas, on June 14, 2025, a gunman entered the home of Minnesota State Senator John Hoffman and shot and critically injured him and his wife, Yvette Hoffman;

    Whereas the gunman then entered the home of Minnesota State House Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and assassinated her and her husband Mark Hortman;

    Whereas the gunman had documents that listed dozens of lawmakers targeted for assassination;

    Whereas the law enforcement officers of Brooklyn Park and Champlin saved additional lives by intervening with their bravery and rapid response to the attack;

    Whereas Speaker Emerita Hortman was a formidable public servant who served her community and the people of Minnesota with deep devotion, compassion, and strength;

    Whereas acts of political violence have no place in the United States and represent a grave threat;

    Whereas swift condemnation of political violence by elected officials is necessary to preserve and protect the democracy of the United States;

    Whereas, when these violent acts expose division, the people of the United States must persevere in the pursuit of democratic principles, resolving their differences through debate and civil discourse; and

    Whereas political violence not only attacks the life and liberty of the representatives of the people of the United States, it also attacks the right of the people to be represented: Now, therefore, be it

    Resolved, That the Senate, in this moment of tragic loss—

    (1) strongly condemns and denounces the attacks on Minnesota State legislators in Brooklyn Park and Champlin, Minnesota on June 14, 2025;

    (2) honors the life of Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman for her devotion to public service and her tireless efforts to serve the people of Minnesota and the life of her husband, Mark Hortman;

    (3) honors Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette Hoffman, who were shot and critically injured, and wishes for their full and speedy recovery;

    (4) honors the courageous law enforcement officers who saved additional lives with their rapid response to the attack and successfully apprehended and charged the suspected perpetrator on June 15, 2025;

    (5) calls on all community leaders and elected officials to publicly and unequivocally denounce acts of political violence; and

    (6) calls on all people of the United States to unite in this moment of pain and tragedy and reaffirm the commitment of the people of the United States to a safe, civil, and peaceful democracy in which violent rhetoric and acts are not tolerated.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bipartisan Resolution Honoring Melissa Hortman, Mark Hortman, and Condemning Political Violence Unanimously Passes Senate

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn)

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN), along with Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD), Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) announced their resolution to honor the life of Minnesota State House Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark Hortman, and condemn political violence unanimously passed the Senate. The resolution also passed in the House, where it was sponsored by Representatives Kelly Morrison (D-MN), Betty McCollum (D-MN), Tom Emmer (R-MN), Pete Stauber (R-MN),  Angie Craig (D-MN), Ilhan Omar (D-MN), Michelle Fischbach (R-MN), and Brad Finstad (R-MN).

    Full text of the resolution is available HERE and below:

    Whereas, on June 14, 2025, a gunman entered the home of Minnesota State Senator John Hoffman and shot and critically injured him and his wife, Yvette Hoffman;

    Whereas the gunman then entered the home of Minnesota State House Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and assassinated her and her husband Mark Hortman;

    Whereas the gunman had documents that listed dozens of lawmakers targeted for assassination;

    Whereas the law enforcement officers of Brooklyn Park and Champlin saved additional lives by intervening with their bravery and rapid response to the attack;

    Whereas Speaker Emerita Hortman was a formidable public servant who served her community and the people of Minnesota with deep devotion, compassion, and strength;

    Whereas acts of political violence have no place in the United States and represent a grave threat;

    Whereas swift condemnation of political violence by elected officials is necessary to preserve and protect the democracy of the United States;

    Whereas, when these violent acts expose division, the people of the United States must persevere in the pursuit of democratic principles, resolving their differences through debate and civil discourse; and

    Whereas political violence not only attacks the life and liberty of the representatives of the people of the United States, it also attacks the right of the people to be represented: Now, therefore, be it

    Resolved, That the Senate, in this moment of tragic loss—

    (1) strongly condemns and denounces the attacks on Minnesota State legislators in Brooklyn Park and Champlin, Minnesota on June 14, 2025;

    (2) honors the life of Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman for her devotion to public service and her tireless efforts to serve the people of Minnesota and the life of her husband, Mark Hortman;

    (3) honors Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette Hoffman, who were shot and critically injured, and wishes for their full and speedy recovery;

    (4) honors the courageous law enforcement officers who saved additional lives with their rapid response to the attack and successfully apprehended and charged the suspected perpetrator on June 15, 2025;

    (5) calls on all community leaders and elected officials to publicly and unequivocally denounce acts of political violence; and

    (6) calls on all people of the United States to unite in this moment of pain and tragedy and reaffirm the commitment of the people of the United States to a safe, civil, and peaceful democracy in which violent rhetoric and acts are not tolerated.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bipartisan Resolution Honoring Melissa Hortman, Mark Hortman, and Condemning Political Violence Unanimously Passes Senate

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn)

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN), along with Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD), Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) announced their resolution to honor the life of Minnesota State House Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark Hortman, and condemn political violence unanimously passed the Senate. The resolution also passed in the House, where it was sponsored by Representatives Kelly Morrison (D-MN), Betty McCollum (D-MN), Tom Emmer (R-MN), Pete Stauber (R-MN),  Angie Craig (D-MN), Ilhan Omar (D-MN), Michelle Fischbach (R-MN), and Brad Finstad (R-MN).

    Full text of the resolution is available HERE and below:

    Whereas, on June 14, 2025, a gunman entered the home of Minnesota State Senator John Hoffman and shot and critically injured him and his wife, Yvette Hoffman;

    Whereas the gunman then entered the home of Minnesota State House Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and assassinated her and her husband Mark Hortman;

    Whereas the gunman had documents that listed dozens of lawmakers targeted for assassination;

    Whereas the law enforcement officers of Brooklyn Park and Champlin saved additional lives by intervening with their bravery and rapid response to the attack;

    Whereas Speaker Emerita Hortman was a formidable public servant who served her community and the people of Minnesota with deep devotion, compassion, and strength;

    Whereas acts of political violence have no place in the United States and represent a grave threat;

    Whereas swift condemnation of political violence by elected officials is necessary to preserve and protect the democracy of the United States;

    Whereas, when these violent acts expose division, the people of the United States must persevere in the pursuit of democratic principles, resolving their differences through debate and civil discourse; and

    Whereas political violence not only attacks the life and liberty of the representatives of the people of the United States, it also attacks the right of the people to be represented: Now, therefore, be it

    Resolved, That the Senate, in this moment of tragic loss—

    (1) strongly condemns and denounces the attacks on Minnesota State legislators in Brooklyn Park and Champlin, Minnesota on June 14, 2025;

    (2) honors the life of Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman for her devotion to public service and her tireless efforts to serve the people of Minnesota and the life of her husband, Mark Hortman;

    (3) honors Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette Hoffman, who were shot and critically injured, and wishes for their full and speedy recovery;

    (4) honors the courageous law enforcement officers who saved additional lives with their rapid response to the attack and successfully apprehended and charged the suspected perpetrator on June 15, 2025;

    (5) calls on all community leaders and elected officials to publicly and unequivocally denounce acts of political violence; and

    (6) calls on all people of the United States to unite in this moment of pain and tragedy and reaffirm the commitment of the people of the United States to a safe, civil, and peaceful democracy in which violent rhetoric and acts are not tolerated.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Grassley Pushes for Improvements to DOJ Program Servicing Fallen or Disabled Officers and their Families

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    Associated Press: Sen. Grassley calls delays at a benefits program for deceased officers ‘absolutely unacceptable’
    By Ryan Foley
    June 24, 2025

    A powerful U.S. senator on Tuesday called on the Trump administration to fix a growing backlog and longtime management problems at the program that promises benefits when police and firefighters die or become disabled in the line of duty.

    Republican Chuck Grassley of Iowa, chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, said the Public Safety Officers’ Benefits program is failing the spouses and children of deceased and disabled first responders and needs new leadership. He said the mismanagement has caused significant hardship for grieving families, who often experience yearslong delays in processing and approving claims.

    “This is absolutely unacceptable,” he wrote in a letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi, in which he suggested she consider replacing longtime program leader Hope Janke.

    …

    Grassley cited a Government Accountability Office report issued last year that detailed deficiencies in the program’s management dating back to 2009. He said the program had failed to make changes recommended by outside reviewers but that “government bureaucrats” such as Janke have never been held accountable.

    …

    Grassley demanded the Department of Justice (DOJ) provide updates and documents within two weeks related to the status of those changes.

    Texas widow Lisa Afolayan, who is still fighting the program for benefits 16 years after her husband died while training for the Border Patrol, welcomed Grassley’s oversight of the program.

    “We need movement. We need change and not only for my family,” she said. “They’ve lost sight of why the program was started.”

    Read the full article HERE.

    Read Grassley’s letter to DOJ HERE.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley, Klobuchar Introduce Legislation to Increase Support for Identifying and Returning Kidnapped Ukrainian Children

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    WASHINGTON – Sens. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) introduced their bipartisan Abducted Ukrainian Children Recovery and Accountability Act. This legislation would support Ukraine’s efforts to investigate and track the nearly 20,000 Ukrainian children who have been abducted during Putin’s brutal invasion. The bill would assist with the rehabilitation and reintegration of children who are returned and provide justice and accountability for perpetrators of these abductions.  

    “After he started the largest war in Europe since World War II, Putin kidnapped thousands of Ukrainian children to brainwash and Russify them, trying to destroy their cultural identity and heritage. These children should be returned home as soon as possible. Our bipartisan legislation supports critical tools to identify and track the location of these children and reintegrate them into their homeland. We’re also helping hold perpetrators accountable for their atrocities to ensure justice is served,” Grassley said.

    “The mass kidnapping of Ukrainian children by Russia is an atrocity. We cannot accept a world where children are abducted during wartime and used as a form of hostage-taking for negotiations. Our bipartisan legislation will provide the necessary resources to bring them home and hold the perpetrators accountable,” Klobuchar said.  

    Download text of the bill HERE.

    Background:

    This legislation follows a bipartisan resolution Grassley and Klobuchar led in May condemning Russia’s abduction and forcible transfer of Ukrainian children and demanding their return before reaching a final peace agreement.   

    In March, Grassley and Klobuchar, along with Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), led a bipartisan letter calling on the State Department to continue supporting efforts to investigate Russia’s abduction and deportation of Ukrainian children.  

    To date, Ukrainian authorities have received at least 19,546 confirmed reports of unlawful deportations and forced transfers of Ukrainian children to Russia, Belarus or Russian-occupied Ukrainian territory. The abductions aim to erase the children’s Ukrainian names, language and identity. As of April 16, Ukraine and its partners have only managed to return 1,274 abducted children.

    The State Department’s 2024 Trafficking in Persons Report found Russia recruits or uses child soldiers, has a state-sponsored policy or pattern of human trafficking and is among the worst hubs for human trafficking in the world.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Grassley Kicks Off ‘YouTube in Session’ Series with Wide-Ranging Conversation Alongside UnHerd’s Emily Jashinsky

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) was featured as the inaugural guest in YouTube’s new series, ‘YouTube in Session,’ which brings together members of Congress and YouTube content creators to foster conversation and civic engagement. Grassley sat down with Emily Jashinsky, host of UnHerd’s “Undercurrents” podcast, to reflect on his time in public service and discuss the latest on Iran, government oversight, the One Big Beautiful Bill and more.

    Watch the full video HERE and below. Excerpts of Grassley’s remarks follow.

    [embedded content]

    On President Trump’s efforts to broker peace between Israel and Iran:

    “I don’t think Iowans are different than Americans [on this issue]. They prefer peace to war, they prefer diplomacy to war… I think it’s not a war against Iran, it’s [a] war against Iran’s nuclear capability. I haven’t had the briefing on it that we’re going to get Thursday, but we assume that what’s been reported so far that…it’s decimated the Iranian nuclear program. 

    “I think it proves that the President says he’s a peacemaker. Look it – he had 60 days. He wanted to negotiate. At the end of 60 days, he put on another two weeks that really turned out to be two days. I think he worked very closely with the Israelis, and I think he had plans for the Israelis to accomplish a heck of a lot before we put our efforts in jeopardy. And I think now that this…ceasefire, if it holds – you don’t know what the Ayatollah’s thinking right now – but maybe it’ll bring about peace for another decade or two, or maybe longer than that.”

    On what motivates Grassley’s public service:

    “…I think [it’s] the responsibilities that we have to leave a better nation than we receive… I think since the pilgrims came here, this is about nine generations. Each generation’s left the country better than the previous generation. That’s a little bit in question now, but it’s my responsibility to continue that as best we can. 

    “And…being number one in the United States Senate, as far as seniority is concerned, puts me in a position for my number one interest – the state of Iowa, to represent that. But it goes way beyond the state of Iowa… I think it’s just the problems the country confronts, and your ability to help solve those problems.”

    On the media’s developing role in political discourse:

    “[Podcasts are] something we’ve found out in the 2024 election made a big impact, particularly on people under 50 years of age, or maybe under 40 years of age. 

    “I was maybe one of the first ones [in the Senate] to get a fax machine, and I did satellite back to Iowa once a month, on a TV interview that I did. But whether it’s that or radio programs I do – there’s three that I do every week, but there’s others I do once a month, maybe 10 or 12… [J]ournalism is a policeman, policing the political system we have. It’s to keep government constitutional, to keep those of us in government abiding by the law [and] being ethical… You expect the freedom of the press, the First Amendment and the people that practice journalism to take that seriously and keep government functioning, and reduce the cynicism that people have towards government or towards politicians. All of that is to build respect – because we may have the best Constitution in the world and the longest living Constitution in the world, but that very good piece of paper is useless if people don’t have respect for it. [Respect] for the institutions of government and for those of us that serve in government.”

    On the importance of representative government:

    “Whether it’s Twitter, or whether it’s the fax machine, or whether it’s radio programs, or whether it’s on podcasts…representative government is a dialogue with our constituents…

    “I try to explain at my town meetings that I’m one-half of the process of representative government. You, my constituents, [are] the other one-half, and this face-to-face meeting we’re having is the best way to do it. But I only see a few thousand people face-to-face as I visit each one of the 99 counties every year for a Q&A. So, I have to depend upon email and postal mail and telephones and any way people want to communicate with me. Because I only see a few thousand people, but I’ve got three and one-tenths million constituents…You’re the other half of representative government, and you’ve got to have dialogue. I’ve got to know what’s on your mind.”

    On FBI oversight and whistleblowers:

    “There is great respect, maybe in both political parties, for the FBI. But then…what journalists exposed, as well as Chuck Grassley and other people… You find out that [the FBI] can’t be trusted, and that the word ‘political weaponization’ is entirely legitimate. I think I proved that with what I exposed about Special Agent Thibault and lot of other people that aren’t as famous as him. But I mean, they actually [said] within their job in the FBI that ‘we’re going to see how we can get Trump.’

    “This all goes back to a pretty basic principle of government. What you learn in eighth grade civics: checks and balances of government. We not only appropriate money, we not only pass laws, and that’s not the end of it – you’ve got a responsibility to make sure that the executive branch faithfully executes those laws. That’s what it’s all about. 

    “And then these big departments – or even a small department – the people, the head of it, they can’t know what’s going on underneath. They ought to be listening to their whistleblowers… I think I have a reputation for taking most whistleblowing very seriously and some of this stuff has been exposed, and then you find out they’re retaliated against. Now, we’ve got a friendly administration in, and we’re getting some of these whistleblowers back into their job or we’re getting them back their reputation…but you shouldn’t treat whistleblowers that way. And if people like Christopher Wray and, before him, Comey – if they had listened to whistleblowers, this stuff would’ve never happened. Unless they wanted it to happen. And I can’t say they wanted it to happen, but you can’t know what’s going on below. And just patriotic people that I call whistleblowers – they just want the government to do what the government’s supposed to do and spend money the way Congress [and the people of this country] want it spent. 

    “So it’s just important that Congress do its oversight work, and it’s important that the executive branch listens to whistleblowers. There’s no reason for a whistleblower to come to me if the people that are in management in that department – from low to high – start listening to them.

    “Everything that has been covered up in the first Trump administration, without Trump knowing it, and in the Biden administration – we’re getting the cooperation that I need to bring transparency to government, to show what was wrong and to get protection for the whistleblowers, getting them back their job. We’re getting full cooperation on that [from this administration], and we never got it out of Wray.”

    On Congress delegating away too much of its authority:

    “Just think, the recent trade policies of this administration [are] just a little bit more severe than previous administrations under both Republicans and Democrats. But that’s all because Congress in 1962 and 1974 delegated one of its 18 powers to regulate interstate and foreign commerce to the president. Now, you can take that back, but you can imagine – if you don’t have two-thirds vote to take it back, the president isn’t going to give it up.

    “You‘ve got to write legislation [that’s] more specific. And it’s really easy to say, ‘Well, we don’t really know whether we should use this word or that sentence. Let’s just say, let’s give a broad authority and then let the regulators figure it out.’ That’s what the Supreme Court is now turning a corner on… In other words, anything over $100 million I think [in] economic impact – you better show us in the law exactly where Congress gave you the authority to do it. Now, this is going to put a big burden on Congress to write this legislation more specifically. That’s what we should be doing all the time anyway.”

    On bipartisanship:

    “Let me start with saying something I’m very sincere about saying: I don’t think a single senator dislikes me, and there’s no senator I dislike. And if anybody dislikes me, I don’t want to know who they are.

    “And then another thing I think is pretty important is the fact that I try to work in a bipartisan way. So don’t take my word for it – go to the Georgetown University website. Click on Senator Lugar Center, and they do an index every year. And I’m always in the top 12, sometimes in the top five – nobody can beat Senator Collins; it’d be useless to try. But then also remember the Senate, as an institution, drives bipartisanship because [of] the 60-vote requirement to shut off debate to get to finality on a bill. 

    On Washington then vs. now:

    “The biggest way [the Senate’s] changed in the 45 years I’ve been in the Senate is the first 25 or 30 years, we used to start at 10 a.m. on Monday and go to 4 p.m. on Friday. And now… we start the first vote at 5:30 on Monday, we work a full day Tuesday, a full day Wednesday, and usually by two in the afternoon, Thursday, it’s shut down.

    “Now I want to make very clear – for an individual senator, there’s enough work between Iowa and here. You can work seven days a week if you want to… There’s plenty of work to do, more than just when the Senate’s in session. But if you’re going to solve this country’s problems, you’ve got to spend more than two and a half days a week doing it. 

    “…[W]e’ve got to do things more efficiently than we’re doing it. We’re basically nothing but a confirmation body, confirming nominations all the time.

    “This Senate, under [Majority Leader] Thune, has passed more legislation than [former Majority Leader] Schumer did in the last two years, but there’s still a lot more we’ve got to do. I keep bringing up [that] we haven’t passed a new five-year Farm Bill. It’s supposed to be done in [20]23 and it hasn’t been done. I think it’ll be done this year. And then there’s 65 or 70 of us [senators] who want to get prescription drug prices down by bringing Pharmaceutical Benefit Managers under control – PBMs, nobody knows what they do, and if we knew what they do, we’d be find[ing] out some way of reducing prescription drug prices. How are you going to get those things [done] if you’re just working two and a half days a week?”

    On the One Big Beautiful Bill:

    “The [Senate Majority] Leader – and I’m proud of him for saying this – [said] we’re going to stay in session till we get this [bill] done… It’s got to be done. 

    “If you don’t get this bill passed, you’re going to have the largest tax increase in the history of the country – four and seven-tenths trillion dollars, over a 10-year period of time. It’s going to really hurt the middle class if we don’t do it.

    “The Democrats are saying this bill is nothing but [to] cut taxes for billionaires. But there isn’t a rate change from [the] 2017 [tax cuts], so that’s intellectually dishonest to say that. And [the bill] does a lot for working men and women, like through the not taxing tips. And it helps senior citizens with a special credit for them, and it helps overtime pay and the economic benefits that comes from that.

    “We’ve got to get this bill passed, because the economy is going to be disrupted very much if we have that big tax increase. And if we do pass it, it’s going to really help the economy grow.”

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Judiciary Committee Advances Judicial Nominations for Sixth Circuit and Missouri District Courts, U.S. Attorney Nominations for Idaho and Pennsylvania

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    WASHINGTON – The Senate Judiciary Committee today advanced the following nominations:

    • Whitney D. Hermandorfer, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Sixth Circuit, by a vote of 12-10;
    • Zachary M. Bluestone, to be United States District Judge for the Eastern District of Missouri, by a vote of 12-10;
    • Joshua M. Divine, to be United States District Judge for the Eastern and Western Districts of Missouri, by a vote of 12-10; 
    • Maria A. Lanahan, to be United States District Judge for the Eastern District of Missouri, by a vote of 12-10;
    • Cristian M. Stevens, to be United States District Judge for the Eastern District of Missouri, by a vote of 12-10; 
    • Bart McKay Davis, to be United States Attorney for the District of Idaho, by a voice vote; and
    • David Metcalf, to be United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, by a voice vote.

    Watch the executive business meeting HERE. A recording of the judicial nominations hearing can be found HERE.

    Read Chairman Chuck Grassley’s (R-Iowa) opening statement at the executive business meeting HERE, and his statement at the judicial nominations hearing HERE.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley Presses U.S. Postal Service to Improve Service, Address Long-Term Viability Concerns Following Outreach from Iowans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) wrote to the United States Postal Service (USPS) about concerns the institution is not fulfilling its service mission and sustaining financial self-sufficiency through its policies. Iowans from across the state have contacted Grassley’s office this year to share their challenges with the mail, prompting Grassley to take action. New Postmaster General David Steiner is anticipated to formally join USPS in July. 

    “I often hear from postal customers that they are facing issues with sending and receiving their mail in a timely and reliable manner. In addition, businesses that utilize the postal service for the delivery of market dominant products are facing postage rate price hikes that are impacting business operations and causing companies to decrease mailing volume,” Grassley wrote. 

    Specifically, Iowans have reported issues with bills and checks not being delivered on time, missing mail and increased delays in mail pickup. Businesses reported challenges maintaining mail volumes given dramatic rate increases of more than 50% and poor handling of packages.  

    “Delivering to every corner of the United States is no small feat, and I applaud the dedicated postal workers that serve their communities daily and USPS for the successes of decreasing its projected losses. That said, USPS must not let the quality of its service decline as reforms to achieve stronger financial footing are considered and implemented,” Grassley continued. 

    Grassley noted that, in addition to quality service, USPS must focus on long-term viability to continue serving the American people for another 250 years and beyond. He is encouraging the agency to take an innovative approach to rightsize the institution, as well as support flexibility when reforms are not working. 

    Background:

    Unlike regular federal agencies, USPS does not receive congressionally appropriated funding. Instead, it’s self-financed with revenue from postage, packages and shipping. For many years, USPS has faced a significant decline in first-class mail volume and has operated with revenue losses. 

    Previous administrations, lawmakers and government watchdogs have recommended reforms to strengthen the Postal Service’s ability to modernize its operations, uphold commitments to its workforce and maintain its fundamental mission of universal service. 

    Text of the letter can be found HERE and below. 

    June 26, 2025 

    Ms. Amber F. McReynolds
    Chair, Board of Governors
    United States Postal Service
    475 L’Enfant Plaza, SW 
    Washington, DC 20260 

    Dear Ms. McReynolds and members of the Board of Governors, 

    As the United States Postal Service (USPS) approaches 250 years of its establishment as an institution that serves the American people, I write to you with skepticism that the institution is delivering on its mission. I often hear from postal customers that they are facing issues with sending and receiving their mail in a timely and reliable manner. In addition, businesses that utilize the postal service for the delivery of market dominant products are facing postage rate price hikes that are impacting business operations and causing companies to decrease mailing volume. 

    I have been a partner of the USPS to ensure that it remains self-sufficient and, as advised by USPS, direct Iowans to the proper channels to seek remedies for the problems they face. Though, the persistence of issues with USPS’s services remains. For example, so far in 2025, no fewer than two dozen Iowans have contacted me outlining the challenges they are having with bills and checks being delivered on time, mail missing, and increased duration of mail pickup and delivery times. These issues are not location specific and span across every congressional district in Iowa. Additionally, I have heard from businesses about difficulties in maintaining mail volumes given the dramatic rate increases of more than 50% on USPS market dominant products, or that there is poor handling of packages and improper planning to satisfy shipping demand. Further, changes to rural delivery are impacting postal workers and customers alike. 

    In Congress, we often hear from USPS leaders that the legislative branch tends to hinder USPS’s ability to adapt to address the challenges it faces because members and the American people do not want any change to how USPS operates. While there may be some truth to that as change is often met with resistance, the initial years of the implementation of USPS’ self-help “Delivering for America Plan,” has not demonstrated that USPS is striking a needed balance of financial self-sufficiency and quality service. Delivering to every corner of the United States is no small feat, and I applaud the dedicated postal workers that serve their communities daily and USPS for the successes of decreasing its projected losses. That said, USPS must not let the quality of its service decline as reforms to achieve stronger financial footing are considered and implemented. 

    I recognize the challenges USPS faces and understand that given the advent of the internet and competition with other entities, there has been a considerable decrease in mail volume which has impacted the Postal Service’s operations and bottom line. The need for innovation is apparent. It appears that efforts, such as recovering market dominant revenue, are in practice facilitating counterproductive outcomes. The long-term viability of USPS ought to be the focus, so the institution remains to serve the American people for another 250 plus years. 

    As the USPS awaits to formally welcome Mr. David Steiner as the new Postmaster General; I strongly encourage you and Mr. Steiner to be innovative in the approaches to right size the institution as well as flexible when reforms are not working to ensure that it fulfills its mission successfully. Americans depend on it. 

    Sincerely, 

    Chuck Grassley 

    United States Senator 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: New Hampshire Delegation Announces $900K Investment for NH Manufacturing Sector

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen

    (Washington, DC) – Today, U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH)—a top member and former chair of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies that funds the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)—and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) announced with U.S. Representatives Chris Pappas (NH-01) and Maggie Goodlander (NH-02) that the New Hampshire Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NH MEP) will receive $924,376 in funding from NIST to help New Hampshire’s small and medium-sized manufacturers fully participate in the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) National Network National Supply Chain Optimization and Intelligence Network.

    “Investing in American manufacturing is critical in order to grow our economy, advance American national security and out build competitors, like China,” said Senator Shaheen. “New Hampshire is a small business state, and this funding will help ensure that Granite State manufacturers have the support they need to drive that progress. MEPs are proven winners that bolster our economy, generate growth and support good-paying jobs in Granite State communities. I’ll continue working to secure investment in them.”

    “When Granite Staters are given a fair shot and the freedom to compete and thrive, there’s no limit to what they can do, and the NH Manufacturing Extension Partnership provides vital technical support and assistance that help manufacturers succeed,” said Senator Hassan. “Thanks to the advocacy of the leaders of New Hampshire MEP, we overcame attempts by the Trump Administration to dismantle the Manufacturing Extension Partnership in New Hampshire and across the country and got this funding restored. I look forward to continuing to get New Hampshire’s small businesses the support that they need.”

    “Smart investments in American manufacturing can grow our economy, create jobs, increase our global competitiveness, and bolster national security. The Manufacturing Extension Partnership National Network is one effective way we do this,” said Congressman Pappas. “This funding will support their work to help small and medium-sized New Hampshire manufacturers make more products and create more good-paying jobs in our state. I’ll always support investing in American innovation and manufacturing.”

    “Today is a good day for the future of manufacturing in New Hampshire,” said Congresswoman Goodlander. “The federal funding we are announcing today for New Hampshire manufacturers is going to strengthen the economic and national security of hardworking people across our state. I’ve been on the frontlines of the fight to protect and strengthen the Manufacturing Extension Partnership because in the midst of lawless and costly trade wars that threaten to put small businesses out of business, these investments will actually bring good paying manufacturing jobs back to New Hampshire.”

    The CHIPS and Science Act, which Shaheen, Hassan and Pappas supported, created the National Supply Chain Optimization and Intelligence Network, a supply chain and manufacturing resiliency initiative designed to assist small and medium-sized manufacturers build resilient, local supply chains and strengthen manufacturing capabilities. The MEP National Network helps manufacturers to meet critical needs, ranging from process improvement and workforce development to specialized business practices, including supply chain integration, innovation, and technology transfer.

    Since 1988, MEP has worked with over 150,000 manufacturers, leading to nearly $150 billion in sales, creating or retaining more than 1.6 million jobs, and saving firms nearly $31.6 billion. In the past year alone, firms assisted by MEP served as critical parts of our defense industrial base supply chain, made innovations in hazardous waste removal for the industries that power American energy production and invested in workforce development programming and certifications.

    During an Appropriations Committee hearing earlier this month, Shaheen raised concerns over U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick’s plans to eliminate the Manufacturing Extension Partnership, noting that in Fiscal Year 2023, every dollar of federal investment in the program generated $24.60 in new sales growth and $27.50 in new client investment.

    Goodlander and Pappas have been advocating to protect NH MEP funding in the House since potential cuts were first announced in April of this year. Goodlander and Pappas sent a letter to the Trump Administration urging support for domestic manufacturers in New Hampshire and across the country in the wake of the Trump Administration’s move to end contracts for 10 Manufacturing Extension Partnership programs. They also urged Chairman Rogers and Ranking Member Meng to support NH MEP funding in the FY26 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies appropriations bill.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Collins Receives Inaugural Lieberman Award from No Labels

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins

    Click HERE, HERE for individual photos

    Washington, D.C. – Today, at a bicameral meeting of congressional No Labels members, U.S. Senator Susan Collins was presented with the inaugural Senator Joseph I. Lieberman Award.

    The award, established by No Labels in memory of its co-founder Senator Joseph Lieberman, recognizes courageous leaders who embody his legacy of principled pragmatism and bipartisanship. These individuals have endeavored to persuade and forge consensus for the good of the country, often in opposition to powerful constituencies within their own parties. By acting according to principle rather than party allegiance, they inspire others to follow their lead, just as Senator Lieberman did during his many illustrious years in public service.

    “I had the privilege of serving in the Senate alongside Joe Lieberman, and I saw firsthand his deep commitment to public service and bipartisanship. Joe believed that respectful dialogue could bridge even the deepest divides, and he never stopped working to bring his colleagues on both sides of the aisle together to solve problems,” said Senator Collins. “I’m honored to receive this inaugural award in memory of my good friend, and I remain committed to carrying on his spirit of cooperation as we confront the many challenges facing our nation.”

    “Susan Collins is a giant of the United States Senate who should be a model for every member of Congress who comes to Washington,” said No Labels board chair Andy Bursky. “She exudes decency, works tirelessly to understand the issues that matter most to her constituents, and has authored and led the passage of the most consequential bipartisan legislation in modern American history. She is both courageous and pragmatic, and I cannot think of anyone who better deserves No Labels’ Lieberman award.”

    Senator Collins has ranked as the most bipartisan member of the Senate in 9 of the last 11 years, according to the Lugar Center and Georgetown University’s Bipartisan Index.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Announces Special Guest at Entrepreneur Expo

    US Senate News:

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

    Published: June 26, 2025

    SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler to participate in the 3rd annual event.

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, is announcing that she will host Small Business Administration (SBA) Administrator Kelly Loeffler as a featured speaker at her upcoming Entrepreneur Expo.
    The third annual event, which will take place at Iowa State University on Tuesday, August 12, will provide Iowa small businesses an unparalleled chance to learn about opportunities across the federal marketplace with networking and hands-on instruction.
    “Administrator Loeffler has been a leading champion for Iowa small businesses in Washington,” said Ernst. “I have worked hand in hand with her and the Trump administration to Make Main Street Great Again. Her expertise is part of the invaluable knowledge attendees will gain from my Expo to ensure that small businesses can not only compete but thrive in the federal marketplace.”
    “I’m thrilled to be part of this year’s Entrepreneur Expo led by Senator Ernst, and to work with her as Chair of the Senate Small Business Committee,” said Loeffler. “President Trump knows that small businesses are our nation’s economic and innovation engine. This Administration is returning the focus to Main Streets in Iowa and across America to ensure they have the resources they need to succeed.”
    Click here to learn more and RSVP for the event.
    Background:
    Last year, 40 federal and state entities came to Ernst’s Expo to connect with small businesses on opportunities in federal contracting and innovation programs.
    Hundreds of Iowans attended Ernst’s 2023 Expo, which featured 31 federal and state entities.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst: Washington-opoly is a Losing Game for Taxpayers

    US Senate News:

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

    WASHINGTON – With the federal government clinging to a bloated and costly real estate portfolio of 7,700 vacant buildings and 2,265 largely empty properties, U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) says it’s game over for Washington-opoly, the swamp’s backwards game where taxpayers always lose.
    Ernst unveiled her board of underutilized federal fixer uppers that her FOR SALE Act will put on the auction block to generate hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue and save taxpayers billions more in overdue maintenance.

    Click here to watch Ernst play the game.
    Ernst’s full remarks below:
    “Uncle Sam is the nation’s largest landlord.
    “Yet, he will never win a round of Monopoly, the classic boardgame where players try to make money—and avoid going bankrupt—by buying, renting, and selling property.
    “That’s because Uncle Sam, who is already $37 trillion in debt, refuses to sell off unused and unneeded properties that are costing tens of millions of dollars a year to maintain.
    “Many of Uncle Sam’s properties are also fixer uppers, requiring billions of dollars in much-needed renovations and overdue upgrades.
    “Some of which are listed on this board. 
    “Holding onto unaffordable properties that are nearly vacant, while being just a roll or two away from going bankrupt, is not only a losing strategy in Monopoly, but also a bad gameplan in real life.
    “But Uncle Sam gets away with it because Washington plays by its own set of rules.
    “And no matter how you roll the dice, Washington-opoly is a losing game for taxpayers.
    “To demonstrate, why don’t we play a round? 
    “We rolled a three!
      
    “We landed on the Department of Agriculture, South Building in Washington, D.C.
    “And guess what folks?
    “It’s owned by good ole Uncle Sam!
    “Let’s look at the stats for the USDA South Building.
    “78% of this building isn’t even being used on a day-to-day basis.
    “Yet, we are paying more than $11 million for utilities every year;
    “And the building requires $1.7 billion for repairs and upgrades.
    “We could hold onto this property and pay these costs for a nearly empty building…
    “Or we could sell it and make $261 million or more.
    “What would you do?
    “Well, Uncle Sam has decided to keep it and is passing along the costs to taxpayers.
    “Let’s roll again… 
    “Two!
      
    “We landed on Community Chest!
    “Let’s pick up a card.
    “PAY $81 MILLION FOR UNUSED PROPERTY.
    “That’s right folks, every year, Uncle Sam pays out over $81 million maintaining underutilized offices. 
    “This includes nearly 7,700 vacant buildings and another 2,265 that are largely empty.
    “No wonder the non-partisan Public Buildings Reform Board, says Washington’s ‘wasteful real estate practices would not endure for so long in a private sector company.’
    “But when playing Washington-opoly, Uncle Sam doesn’t pay the costs for his wasteful decisions, you do!
    “How about take one more turn…
    “Six!
      
    “This time we landed on Chance, so we get to pick another card.
    “There’s our Chance card.
    “PASS THE FOR SALE ACT AND ADVANCE TO GO.
    “Folks, that is exactly the type of chance we need to protect taxpayers.
    “Selling off Uncle Sam’s unneeded property has long been tied up by overly restrictive red tape and bureaucratic barriers.
    “To revamp Washington’s real estate rules, I introduced The FOR SALE Act.
    “Passing this bill will put six pieces of prime property in the nation’s capital on the auction block immediately.
    “Selling just these spots will bring in at least $400 million while also canceling costs, including $2.9 billion for overdue maintenance.
    “This is just the first step in downsizing Uncle Sam’s unused, unneeded, and unaffordable real estate holdings.
    “To any interested potential buyers, you can build a house, or even a hotel, on these properties and earn rent, just like in Monopoly.
    “But best of all, taxpayers finally get to advance to ‘Go’ and collect $400 million.
    “That, folks, is how you win the game!”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: With Medicaid in GOP Crosshairs, Reed Helps Introduce Bill to Provide Federal Support for Home and Community-Based Services

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed

    WASHINGTON, DC – As Congressional Republicans are seeking to slash Medicaid, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) is teaming up with U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) to improve the health, safety, and independence of older adults and people with disabilities by introducing the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Relief Act (S.2076).

    This legislation would provide dedicated Medicaid funds for home and community-based services (HCBS) for older adults, children, and youth and adults with disabilities for two years.  The HCBS Relief Act would decrease the need to move people into congregate settings and allow them to receive the services and support they need from their own homes. The bill is also designed to bolster the home care workforce by supporting service provider agencies and direct care workers who provide services in homes.

    HCBS — used by older adults and people with disabilities — include services like home health aides and personal care attendants (help with bathing, laundry, and mobility assistance), supportive housing, adult day health services, and supported employment. These services allow people with physical, cognitive, intellectual, and mental health disabilities to live independently outside of nursing homes or other institutions.  HCBS services are difficult to afford out of pocket and are not typically covered by private insurance or Medicare.  Medicaid is the primary payer for HCBS, financing two-thirds of services annually according to KFF.

    “Right now, millions rely on HCBS for basic everyday needs – help getting dressed, taking medications, preparing meals, and so much more,” said Senator Luján. “To support Americans who depend on home and community-based care, I’m proud to introduce my HCBS Relief Act. My bill would address chronic underfunding that has pushed families into crisis and forced many into institutions simply because they can’t access support at home.”

    “Everyone deserves to live with dignity and be a valued member of society.  Medicaid’s home and community-based services make independent, inclusive living possible for millions of older adults and people with disabilities.  This bill is severely needed at a time when Medicaid is facing unprecedented Republican cuts that would force more vulnerable Americans into institutions and untenable living situations, leaving individuals isolated and families in crisis.  The HCBS Relief Act would provide dedicated Medicaid funds to states to stabilize their HCBS service delivery networks, bolster their HCBS workforce, and ensure the federal government serves as a reliable partner when it comes to compensating in-home caregivers and ensuring the right supports are there for people in need,” said Senator Reed.

    In addition to Luján and Reed, the HCBS Relief Act is also cosponsored by U.S. Senators: Tim Kaine (D-VA), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Fetterman (D-PA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Tina Smith (D-MN), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Peter Welch (D-VT), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).

    Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI-12) has introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.

    The National Association of Counties reports: “The rapidly aging population in the United States has increased demand for home and community-based services, resulting in a long-term care services and supports financing crisis, said Lisa Harootunian, director of health for the Bipartisan Policy Center. More than 4 million people rely on Medicaid-funded home and community-based services — including those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, older adults and people with complex medical needs. A “crucial” element of accessing those services is having a strong and robust direct-care workforce, she said.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed Encouraged by Bipartisan Skepticism of Trump’s Rescissions Package

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed

    WASHINGTON, DC — During a contentious hearing before the Senate Appropriations Committee, White House budget chief Russell T. Vought was challenged on a bipartisan basis regarding the Trump Administration’s efforts to cancel billions of dollars in spending for humanitarian aid, public health, National Public Radio (NPR), and the Public Broadcasting System (PBS).

    U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) a leading Democratic member of the Appropriations Committee, and other senators questioned Mr. Vought, director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), about a host of issues.  Reed took Vought to task for failing to produce any cost-benefit analysis and instead attempting to impose ideological preferences on the American people in a harmful and unproductive manner.

    The Republican-controlled U.S. House of Representatives has already voted to claw back $9.4 billion as requested by the Trump Administration. Now, the U.S. Senate is considering the proposed package ahead of a July 18 deadline for legislative action, which only requires a simple majority vote in the U.S. Senate, where Republicans currently hold a 53-47 majority.

    During the hearing, senators from both parties raised questions about several types of public interest programs that the Trump Administration has proposed to slash and the consequences of clawing back this funding.

    Senator Reed came away from the hearing cautiously optimistic that enough Republicans could join Democrats in voting against the reckless rescission package, but the outcome of the vote is far from a foregone conclusion and Republicans have shown a propensity this Congress to vote the way Trump wants.

    “I sensed real skepticism from many of my colleagues during the hearing, both Democrats and Republicans.  They raised valid concerns about the harms this rescission package would do and Mr. Vought failed to provide a compelling rationale for ending lifesaving nutrition assistance and public broadcasting support,” said Senator Reed, who took Mr. Vought to task for trying to run a “backroom empire.”

    Reed noted that former Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) sounded alarmed by such a reckless claw back and noted the importance of the U.S. maintaining “soft power” overseas:  “Reforming the way we invest in peace and stability is certainly worthwhile,” McConnell told Vought before going on to note: “But the Administration’s attempt to root it out has been unnecessarily chaotic. In critical corners of the globe, instead of creating efficiencies, you’ve created vacuums for adversaries like China to fill.”

    During the hearing, the Chair of the powerful Senate Appropriations Committee Susan Collins (R-ME) told Mr. Vought:  “I am puzzled why you would be cutting funds that the president signed in March as part of the continuing resolution,” referring to the appropriations funding Trump signed to keep the federal government operating through the end of the fiscal year in September.

    Regarding the $1 billion in cuts to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CBP), which provides some funding to NPR and PBS, several senators raised the importance of supporting public broadcasting and the negative impacts the proposed cuts would have for local stations in the next fiscal year.  The proposed cuts to PBS and NPR would undermine efforts to ensure that all Americans have access to unbiased news, educational programs, and diverse broadcasts that are not available through commercial media.

    Senator Collins stated: “The vast majority of this funding, more than 70 percent, actually flows to local television and radio stations.  In Maine this funding supports everything from emergency communications in rural areas to coverage of high school basketball championships and a locally produced high school quiz show. Nationally produced television programs such as ‘Antiques Roadshow,’ ‘Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood,’ are also enjoyed by many throughout our country.”

    Republican senators from Alaska, Nebraska, and South Dakota also highlighted the importance of public broadcasting to their constituents in rural communities. 

    Speaking about public broadcasting in South Dakota, Senator Mike Rounds (R-SD) noted: “They get their funding through NPR – 90 some percent of what they use. They will not continue to exist if we don’t find a way to take care of their needs.  It’s not a large amount of money, but would you be willing to work with us to try and find a way for these places where, literally, they’re not political in nature?  These are the folks that put out the emergency notifications. They talk about community events and so forth. But they’re in very, very rural areas where there simply isn’t an economy to support buying advertising on these stations.”

    The Corporation for Public Broadcasting received $525 million in federal funding in 2024 and $535 million in 2025.  If the Trump rescissions package is passed into law, CBP would see its federal budget completely eliminated for 2026 and 2027. 

    During his first term, President Trump attempted a similar maneuver to rescind federal funds but was unsuccessful, even though Republicans controlled a majority of both the House and Senate at the time.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lummis Bill Seeks to Give State, Municipalities a Tool to Help Tackle National Debt

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming Cynthia Lummis

    June 26, 2025

    Washington, D.C. – Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) have introduced the Pay Down the Debt Act, legislation that would allow state and municipal governments to return federal grant money they receive directly toward lowering the federal deficit. 
    “Three years have passed since I first proposed this legislation, during which time our national debt has ballooned from $28 trillion to nearly $37 trillion,” said Lummis. “This explosive growth is unacceptable, fiscally irresponsible, and fundamentally contrary to American values. Our state and local governments currently lack any mechanism to meaningfully address the debt crisis. This bill would empower them to return surplus or unnecessary federal funds they’ve received back to the Treasury, specifically for debt reduction. We must change course immediately to avoid financial catastrophe – every dollar returned makes a difference in this fight.”
    Background:
    If a state or local government does not accept a grant from the federal government, an equal amount to be awarded to the state or local government is rescinded from the applicable appropriation account. Amounts rescinded are deposited in the general fund of the Treasury for the sole purpose of deficit reduction. 
    Read the entire bill here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Marshall, Tuberville, & Blackburn Call for the Senate Parliamentarian to be Term Limited

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Washington – On Thursday, U.S. Senators Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), Tommy Tuberville (R-Alabama), and Marsha Blackburn (R-Tennessee), introduced a resolution to implement term limits on the Senate Parliamentarian, a key figure in the United States Senate who advises on rules, procedures, and precedents as it relates to the reconciliation process. The Senators call for the parliamentarian to serve one six-year term, which would prevent power entrenchment, promote accountability, and encourage fresh perspectives.
    “Based upon early reports, the Senate Parliamentarian may eliminate some $500 billion in savings for the American people, all of which are arbitrary decisions, with minimal guidance,” said Senator Marshall. “The current parliamentarian has been in office since 2012, appointed by former Democrat Senator Harry Reid. This is NOT an elected position. Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely. Term limits on a person with this absolute power need to be implemented. Therefore, we are dropping a resolution calling for just that, limiting a parliamentarian of the Senate to a maximum of 6 years.”
    “The woke, Radical Left Senate Parliamentarian, who was appointed by Harry Reid and was an advisor to Al Gore, is actively trying to undermine President Trump’s agenda,” said Senator Tuberville. “Unelected bureaucrats should not be able to overturn the will of the 77 million Americans who voted for President Trump and his agenda. This is exactly why Americans hate the swamp. Proud to join my friend Senator Roger Marshall in introducing this resolution imposing 6-year term limits for the Senate Parliamentarian.”
    “The Senate parliamentarian holds unchecked power over major legislation, despite never being elected by the American people,” said Senator Blackburn. “This individual has served for a decade, having been appointed by Harry Reid, we must act now to impose term limits on the Senate parliamentarian to ensure this position is accountable to the will of the people.”
    Background:

    The parliamentarian of the Senate serves at the will of the Secretary of the Senate, who is chosen by the Senate Majority Leader.
    Since 1981 only three different individuals have served as parliamentarian of the Senate. Each served on average 15 years.

    Click HERE to read the full text of the resolution

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo, Senate GOP Colleagues Introduce Resolution Supporting Operation Midnight Hammer

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo
    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) joined Senators John Cornyn (R-Texas), Roger Wicker (R-Missouri), Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina), Markwayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma), Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska), Katie Britt (R-Alabama), Dave McCormick (R-Pennsylvania), Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina), Rick Scott (R-Florida), Jim Justice (R-West Virginia), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Ted Budd (R-North Carolina) and Deb Fischer (R-Nebraska) in introducing a Senate resolution in support of U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran, including Operation Midnight Hammer, and praising President Trump’s efforts to reestablish deterrence and achieve lasting peace in the region as deserving of the Nobel Peace Prize.  Text is below, and you can view the full resolution here.
    “Whereas, in August 2002, the Islamic Republic of Iran’s secret nuclear program was revealed, including the existence of a fuel enrichment plant in Natanz, Iran, and the heavy-water plant in Arak, Iran;
    Whereas, on April 11, 2006, the Islamic Republic of Iran announced that it had enriched uranium for the first time to a level close to 3.5 percent at the Pilot Fuel Enrichment Plant in Natanz, Iran;
    Whereas, in 2018, during a raid on a warehouse in Tehran’s Turquzabad district, Israel’s Mossad seized a vast nuclear archive of approximately 100,000 documents (commonly known as ‘‘Iran’s Atomic Archive’’), which revealed Iran’s AMAD Plan, a structured nuclear weapons program aimed at producing 5 nuclear warheads, including detailed designs, high explosive tests, detonator development and integration of a warhead into the Shahab 3 ballistic missile;
    Whereas, on May 31, 2021, it was reported that the Islamic Republic of Iran failed to provide any explanation for the uranium remnants found at undeclared sites in Iran, and such an explanation had not been provided as of the date of the enactment of this resolution;
    Whereas, on May 30, 2022, the International Atomic Energy Agency (referred to in this preamble as the ‘‘IAEA’’) reported that the Islamic Republic of Iran had achieved a stockpile of 43.3 kilograms (95.5 pounds) of 60 percent highly enriched uranium, which is roughly enough material to construct a nuclear weapon;
    Whereas, on February 27, 2023, the IAEA reported that the Islamic Republic of Iran had enriched uranium to 83.7 percent, which is just short of the 90 percent threshold for weapons-grade fissile material;
    Whereas, on September 16, 2023, the IAEA reported that the Islamic Republic of Iran banned the activities of nearly one-third of the IAEA’s most experienced nuclear inspectors in Iran, a decision that, according to IAEA Director-General Rafael Grossi, harmed the IAEA’s ability to monitor Iran’s nuclear program;
    Whereas, on December 28, 2023, the Governments of the United States, of France, of Germany and of the United Kingdom jointly declared, ‘‘The production of high-enriched uranium by Iran has no credible civilian justification;”
    Whereas, on July 23, 2024, the Office of the Director of National Intelligence published an assessment, in accordance with the Iran Nuclear Weapons Capability and Terrorism Monitoring Act of 2022 (22 U.S.C. 8701 note; section 5593 of Public Law 117–263), stating that the Islamic Republic of Iran has ‘‘undertaken activities that better position it to produce a nuclear device, if it chooses to do so;”
    Whereas, on November 15, 2024, the IAEA reported that the Islamic Republic of Iran has continued to expand its enrichment facilities and install additional advanced centrifuges, including at the Natanz Nuclear Facility, where there are 15 cascades of advanced centrifuges, and the Fordow Fuel Enrichment Plant, where there are advanced preparations for the expansion of the facility;
    Whereas, on February 26, 2025, the IAEA reported that the Islamic Republic of Iran has between 5 and 7 metric tons of enriched uranium and had increased its total stockpile of 60 percent highly enriched uranium to 274.8 kilograms (605.83 pounds), which, if further enriched, could be sufficient to produce 6 nuclear weapons;
    Whereas, on May 31, 2025, the IAEA released a comprehensive report detailing Iran’s noncompliance with its Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons safeguards obligations, noting that Iran—
    (1) increased its stockpile of 60 percent highly enriched uranium to 408.6 kilograms as of May 17, 2025, which constitutes a 50 percent increase compared to its February 2025 report, a stockpile sufficient for approximately 9 nuclear weapons (if further enriched);
    (2) conducted undeclared nuclear activities at four sites—Lavisan-Shian, Varamin, Marivan, and Turquzabad—involving nuclear material and equipment; and
    (3) provided inaccurate or contradictory explanations, which severely obstructed IAEA verification efforts and raises serious concerns about the peaceful nature of its nuclear program;
    Whereas, on April 7, 2025, President Donald Trump stated, “You know, it’s not a complicated formula.  Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon.  That’s all there is;”
    Whereas, on April 8, 2025, a senior official of the Islamic Republic of Iran rejected the dismantlement of its nuclear program by stating, “Trump wants a new deal: end Iran’s regional influence, dismantle its nuclear program and halt its missile work.  These are unacceptable to Tehran.  Our nuclear program cannot be dismantled;”
    Whereas, on April 15, 2025, in an ultimatum issued to the Islamic Republic of Iran, President Trump—
    (1) demanded that a new nuclear deal be signed within 60 days to dismantle Iran’s nuclear program; and
    (2) warned that failure to comply with this demand would result in military action to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons;
    Whereas, on April 16, 2025, the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran rejected United States demands and asserted its right to maintain its nuclear program and missile capabilities, escalating tensions and setting the stage for subsequent military operations by Israel and the United States;
    Whereas, on June 13, 2025, Israel began Operation Rising Lion with strikes against the Iranian nuclear program, key Iranian military leaders and other strategic targets; and
    Whereas, on June 21, 2025, the United States launched Operation Midnight Hammer, conducting targeted strikes against Iranian nuclear facilities at Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan, which significantly degraded Iran’s nuclear program;
    Whereas Iran has developed advanced ballistic missile systems, including the Shahab-3, Ghadr and Khorramshahr missiles, with ranges of up to 2,000 kilometers and payloads capable of carrying nuclear warheads, which poses a significant threat as delivery systems for nuclear weapons to targets in the Middle East and parts of Europe;
    Whereas Iran, currently the world’s leading state sponsor of terrorism, is responsible for the deaths of hundreds of United States citizens, including more than 600 United States servicemembers in Iraq through Iranian-backed militias, and other terrorist activities: Now, therefore, be it
    Resolved, That the Senate—
    supports the United States’ decisive military strikes under Operation Midnight Hammer to degrade Iran’s nuclear program;
    affirms that the Islamic Republic of Iran must never be allowed to acquire a nuclear weapons capability, which would threaten the security of the United States and its allies and partners;
    commends the Trump administration for taking resolute military action and praises the bravery of United States servicemembers who participated in Operation Midnight Hammer;
    concurs that President Trump’s efforts to reestablish deterrence are aimed at achieving lasting peace in the Middle East and worthy of consideration for the Nobel Peace Prize;
    reaffirms the right of the United States Government to take any necessary measures to prevent the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons;
    commends Israel for its targeted strikes under Operation Rising Lion against Iran’s nuclear facilities, ballistic missile infrastructure and regime targets, including the Natanz enrichment facility and missile launchers, and recognizes these actions are critical to neutralizing existential threats to Israel and its allies; and
    condemns the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran for launching missiles at United States forces in Qatar and Iraq, and for launching 21 missile attacks that indiscriminately target Israeli civilians.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell Statement on SCOTUS Decision That Paves Way to Eliminate Health Care Access for Medicaid Patients

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell

    06.26.25

    Cantwell Statement on SCOTUS Decision That Paves Way to Eliminate Health Care Access for Medicaid Patients

    49% of Planned Parenthood patients access care via Medicaid and/or the Title X family planning program; FACT SHEET: In WA State – Planned Parenthood serves 100,000 patients annually, about half are Medicaid recipients

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled to allow South Carolina to end Planned Parenthood’s participation in the state’s Medicaid program –  denying South Carolinians easy access to preventive health care like birth control. The ruling opens the door for any anti-abortion state in the country to take the same action. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, issued the following statement in response to the decision:

    “Today’s Supreme Court ruling means that any state can blacklist Planned Parenthood or other health care providers, taking away access for Medicaid recipients,” said Sen. Cantwell. “This decision is another troubling step toward the anti-abortion movement’s ultimate goal — deciding for themselves what reproductive care American women are allowed to get.”

    The 1977 Hyde Amendment already bans the use of federal funding for abortion, with an exception for pregnancies that endanger the life of the pregnant person or that result from rape or incest. This decision paves the way for states to eliminate access for Medicaid patients to receive affordable cancer screenings, gynecological care, STD and STI screenings, and birth control services from Planned Parenthood clinics.

    According to a Planned Parenthood report, from 2023-2024 the provider accounted for 364,600 Pap tests and breast exams, 2.2 million birth control services, and 5.1 million STI tests and treatments. Half of all Planned Parenthood patients (49%) access care through Medicaid and/or the Title X family planning program. Allowing states to withhold Medicaid funding also puts rural communities at risk — 76% of Planned Parenthood health centers are located in rural or medically underserved areas, meaning patients would have to travel farther to receive care.

    Sen. Cantwell has been a champion for preserving Medicaid and access to reproductive health care. Earlier this week, on the three-year anniversary of the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization Supreme Court decision that overturned Roe v. Wade, Sen. Cantwell released a fact sheet detailing the dire consequences for Washington state’s reproductive health care delivery system if the Republican reconciliation bill is passed that would cut billions from Medicaid.

    Yesterday, Sen. Cantwell spoke on the Senate floor to urge her colleagues to vote against cuts to Medicaid that would effectively reverse the expansion of the program under the Affordable Care Act. Video of Sen. Cantwell’s speech is available HERE, and a transcript HERE.

    On Tuesday’s Dobbs anniversary, Sen. Cantwell joined the entire Democratic Senate Caucus in introducing the Women’s Health Protection Act of 2025, which would guarantee access to abortion everywhere across the country and restore the right to comprehensive reproductive health care for millions of Americans. Also this week, Sen. Cantwell joined nine of her Senate Democratic colleagues in a letter condemning the Trump Administration’s recent rescission of guidance that reaffirmed hospitals and providers’ obligations under the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA) to provide medically necessary emergency abortion care, regardless of where the patient lives.

    A full timeline of Sen. Cantwell’s actions to defend Medicaid from cuts is HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –