NewzIntel.com

Category: Weather

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £7m beach management scheme reduces flood risk in Lincolnshire

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    £7m beach management scheme reduces flood risk in Lincolnshire

    Sand will be topped up on beaches between Saltfleet and Gibraltar Point to reduce the risk of flooding for Lincolnshire’s coastal communities.

    Beach renourishment work being carried out in Lincolnshire. Image: Van Oord

    • Over the next 4 to 5 weeks, around 200,000 to 500,000 cubic metres of sand will be topped up on beaches between Saltfleet and Gibraltar Point.
    • This reduces the risk of flooding for 20,000 homes and businesses, 24,500 static caravans and 35,000 hectares of land.
    • The Environment Agency has been restoring sand levels on the Lincolnshire coast every year since 1994.

    The work will begin on May 11 and is the second phase of works under the strategy for the coastline. The strategy aims to better protect the environment and support the prosperity of the coast for years to come.

    The Environment Agency’s annual beach management involves dredging sand from licensed seabed areas and pumping it onto beaches, replacing the sand naturally lost to the sea throughout the year.  This reduces the risk of flooding for 20,000 homes and businesses, 24,500 static caravans and 35,000 hectares of land.

    Replenishing the sand means that the beaches, instead of hard defences like sea walls, take the brunt of the waves’ force and energy. This reduces the amount of damage and erosion to those hard defences and lessens the risk of water overtopping them.

    The Environment Agency has been restoring sand levels on the Lincolnshire coast every year since 1994. In addition to reducing flood risk, the work brings supplementary social and economic benefits by retaining the sandy beaches for a vibrant tourism industry.

    Deborah Higton, Flood Risk Manager at the Environment Agency, said:

    Our current coastal management approach of re-nourishing the beaches between Saltfleet and Gibraltar Point is vital to managing tidal flood risk for Lincolnshire. As well as maintaining the county’s sandy beaches for us all to enjoy.

    But despite our best efforts, much of Lincolnshire is at, or below, sea level meaning flooding can still happen. That’s why we urge people to prepare and plan for the worst by signing up to receive our free flood warnings.

    The £7 million beach management work is funded as part of the Environment Agency’s capital programme. The Environment Agency is committed to delivering Government’s £2.65 billion investment over the next 2 years to protect thousands of homes and business from the dangers of flooding. Plus prevent billions of pounds worth of damages.

    The Environment Agency urges people to plan ahead for flooding. They can find out if their property is in an at-risk area by signing up for free flood warnings. Further information on all these steps and more is available at GOV.UK/Flood and by calling Floodline on 0345 988 1188.

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Car Clubs Help Drive Sustainable Transport

    Source: Scotland – City of Dundee

    As part of its drive to promote sustainable transport choices for people in Dundee, the city council is working with car club operators to highlight the environmental and economic benefits of car sharing. 

    Councillors Heather Anderson and Siobhan Tolland met up with representatives of Co Wheels and Enterprise to discuss how car clubs are growing locally – with cars located across the city and special offers for local people  

    The council has worked with both companies to help them find new street locations for cars. 

    Climate, Environment and Biodiversity convener Councillor Anderson said: “Car clubs offer an alternative to car ownership which help in our efforts to cut pollution and improve air quality, which include the introduction of the city centre Low Emission Zone. 

    “We want to work as closely as we can with car drivers to help enhance our environment for everyone.” 

    Fair Work, Economic Growth and Infrastructure convener Councillor Tolland added: “We are keen to have a range of options available for sustainable transport and these clubs offer real choice for people. 

    “Reducing congestion and the resulting pollution is a key aim, and car clubs help to assist with this.” 

    Richard Falconer, Head of Mobility at Co Wheels: “As the longest-established car club operator in Dundee, Co Wheels is proud to have served the city for over 14 years, providing convenient, flexible and sustainable transport options. We were the first to introduce electric vehicles for hire in Dundee, and we continue to lead the way with a growing fleet that now includes nine vehicles across the city centre, including four EVs and brand-new hybrid MG ZS models. 

    “With hundreds of members across Dundee, Co Wheels offers a practical alternative to car ownership, helping reduce congestion and emissions while supporting a cleaner, greener future for the city. We’re also proud to be the highest-rated national car club in the UK — a reflection of our commitment to quality, exceptional customer service and community impact.” 

    You can find details on the Co Wheels website here  

    Jason Parks, Enterprise Car Club Director, UK & Ireland, said: “We are proud to have been part of the Dundee community for more than a decade, providing residents, businesses and visitors with more choice in how they travel and supporting the city’s ambition to reduce congestion and promote shared and active travel.  

    “Our expansive, nationwide car club network connects customers to where they need to go, whether that’s in and around the city, or at train stations, transport hubs and on-street locations across the UK.  

    “Through Enterprise Car Club, members have 24/7 access to vehicles, including cars and vans, that they can rent by the hour or by the day through the convenience of a mobile app. We are committed to providing the residents and businesses of Dundee with accessible mobility solutions that get them to where they need to be in the most efficient and effective way.”  

    You can find details on the Enterprise website here 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Contract awarded for next phase of major flood defence works

    Source: City of Derby

    One of the city’s biggest infrastructure projects has moved a step closer, with Derby City Council awarding a £38m contract to John Sisk and Son to deliver the next phase of the Our City, Our River programme.

    This package of works, known as Derby Riverside, will provide significant flood resilience protection to many properties along the left (east) bank of the Derwent from Causey Bridge to Derwent Bridge.

    The newly appointed contractors will be responsible for delivering a new flood wall and floodgates that will offer enhanced protection for Exeter House and properties on Meadow Road and Meadow Lane. They will also carry out demolition of the riverside office blocks on Stuart Street to create a new riverside green area. This will provide more space for flood water to pass through the city in a controlled corridor.

    Enabling works will begin shortly, with demolition and construction work due to start in May.

    This will involve the removal a number of trees along the route, not only to enable defences to be built, but because the riverside park area will only work effectively as a flood conveyance corridor by limiting obstructions.

    Councillor Carmel Swan, Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Transport and Sustainability, said:

    I’m delighted that the contract is now signed with John Sisk and Sons to deliver the vital second phase of the Our City, Our River flood defence project. These works are crucial as we continue to future proof the city against extreme weather and unlock the potential for regeneration along the river. We can now look forward to seeing work begin on site in the near future.

    Alan Rodger, Managing Director – Sisk Infrastructure & UK North, said:

    We’re delighted to be working with Derby City Council on this phase of the Our City, Our River programme. We understand how vital this project is for further flood prevention and the regeneration of this area in the centre of the city. Our team of dedicated professionals will leverage the latest innovations and sustainability practices to help deliver this fantastic scheme, alongside social value projects in the local community.

    David Turnbull, Area Flood and Coastal Risk Manager – Derbyshire and Leicestershire for the Environment Agency, said:

    This contract award marks another step forward in delivering the Our City Our River Programme and making Derby more resilient to the threat of climate change. The Environment Agency are proud to be in partnership with Derby City Council for this journey, and we are delighted to see this complex but vital phase of the programme begin very soon.

    The Our City, Our River programme is one of the Environment Agency’s largest local authority-led projects and has already delivered enhanced flood protection to over 2000 properties. Derby Riverside will extend this protection to the east bank of the Derwent and unlock the potential for regeneration in this part of the city.

    John Sisk and Son has a track record of delivering landmark projects across Ireland, the UK and Europe, covering a range of sectors. With a sustainable approach, they look to maximise sustainable construction and minimising the environmental effects of a project, and are also investing significantly in energy efficiency.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC – No MDs are in effect as of Fri May 9 05:02:02 UTC 2025

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Current Mesoscale DiscussionsUpdated:  Fri May 9 05:08:02 UTC 2025 No Mesoscale Discussions are currently in effect.

    Notice:  The responsibility for Heavy Rain Mesoscale Discussions has been transferred to the Weather Prediction Center (WPC) on April 9, 2013. Click here for the Service Change Notice.
    Archived Convective ProductsTo view convective products for a previous day, type in the date you wish to retrieve (e.g. 20040529 for May 29, 2004). Data available since January 1, 2004.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: It’s almost winter. Why is Australia still so hot?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Andrew King, Associate Professor in Climate Science, ARC Centre of Excellence for 21st Century Weather, The University of Melbourne

    This year, for many Australians, it feels like summer never left. The sunny days and warm nights have continued well into autumn. Even now, in May, it’s still unusually warm.

    Much of the southern half of the continent is experiencing both unseasonable warmth and dry conditions. This is linked to persistent high atmospheric pressure (called “blocking”) to the south and southeast of Australia.

    While temperatures will fall across southern Australia as we approach the winter solstice, early indications are that this winter will be a warm one. Rainfall predictions are less certain.

    The extra warmth we’ve experienced raises obvious questions about the influence of human-caused climate change. The warming signal is clear and it’s a sign of things to come.

    A warm and dry autumn for many

    March and April brought unseasonal heat to much of Australia.

    March was widely hot, with temperatures several degrees above normal across much of the country. But April’s heat was largely restricted to the southeast.

    Australia had its hottest March on record and the heat has continued, especially in Victoria and parts of New South Wales.
    Bureau of Meteorology

    Victoria had its warmest April on record, and parts of the state experienced temperatures more than 3°C above normal across both March and April.

    Temperatures normally fall quite quickly over the southeast of Australia during April and May as the days shorten and the continent’s interior cools. But this year, southern Australia was unusually warm at the start of May. Some locations experienced days with maximum temperatures more than 10°C above normal for the time of year.

    Records were broken in Hobart and parts of Melbourne, which had their warmest May nights since observations began.

    The start of May saw daytime maximum temperatures across much of Australia well above average for the time of year.
    Bureau of Meteorology

    While Queensland and the New South Wales coast have had very wet spells, including downpours from Tropical Cyclone Alfred at the start of March, other parts of Australia have been quite dry.

    The area between Adelaide and Melbourne has been exceptionally dry. A drought is unfolding in the region after a severe lack of rainfall, with deficits stretching back over the past year or so. Western Tasmania is also suffering from a severe lack of rainfall since the start of autumn, although welcome rain fell in the past week.

    And it’s not just on land that unusual heat has been observed. The seas around Australia have been warmer than normal, causing severe coral bleaching to the west and east of the continent, harmful algal blooms and other ecosystem disruptions.

    Warm seas likely triggered the microalgal bloom in coastal waters of South Australia.
    Anthony Rowland

    Blocking highs largely to blame

    A high pressure system has dominated over the south and southeast of Australia over the past few months.

    High pressure in the Tasman Sea can sometimes get stuck there for a few days. This leads to what’s known as “blocking”, when the usual passage of weather systems moving from west to east is obstructed. This can lock in weather patterns for several days or even a week.

    Repeated blocking occurred this autumn. As winds move anticlockwise around high pressure systems in the Southern Hemisphere, blocking highs in the Tasman Sea can bring moist, onshore winds to the New South Wales and Queensland coasts, increasing rainfall. But such high pressure systems also bring drier conditions for the interior of the southeast and much of Victoria and South Australia.

    Often, these high pressure systems also bring northerly winds to Victoria, and this can cause warmer conditions across much of the state.

    High pressure systems also tend to bring more clear and sunny conditions, which increases daytime temperatures in particular. Air in high pressure systems moves down towards the surface and this process causes warming, too.

    Australia sits between the Pacific and Indian Oceans and is subject to their variability, so we often look there to help explain what’s happening with Australia’s climate. In autumn though, our climate influences, such as the El Niño-Southern Oscillation and the Indian Ocean Dipole, are less active and have weaker relationships with Australian climate than at other times of year. Neither of these climate influences is in a strong phase at the moment.

    A warm winter on the cards

    One big question is how long the heat will last. In parts of southeast Australia, including Melbourne, average temperatures drop quickly at this time of year as we approach the winter solstice.

    However, the seasonal outlook from the Bureau of Meteorology points to a high likelihood of a relatively warm winter.

    Australians rarely escape having a winter without any significant cold spells, but the long-range forecast suggests we should anticipate above-normal temperatures on average. Both daytime maximum temperatures and nighttime minimum temperatures are expected to be above average generally this winter.

    Climate and water long-range forecast, issued 1 May 2025 (Bureau of Meteorology)

    Global warming is here

    The elephant in the room is climate change. Human-caused climate change is increasing autumn temperatures and the frequency of late season heat events. As greenhouse gas emissions continue at a record pace, expect continued warming and a greater chance of autumn heatwaves in future.

    The effect of climate change on rainfall is less clear though. For the vast majority of Australia, there is high uncertainty as to whether autumn will become wetter or drier as the world warms.

    Andrew King receives funding from the ARC Centre of Excellence for 21st Century Weather and the National Environmental Science Program.

    – ref. It’s almost winter. Why is Australia still so hot? – https://theconversation.com/its-almost-winter-why-is-australia-still-so-hot-256071

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Flood resilience projects completed at pace

    Source: NZ Music Month takes to the streets

    Wairarapa flood resilience has been shored up with the completion of five projects funded by the Regional Infrastructure Fund, with more on the way, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones says.
    “These five projects, supported by Greater Wellington Regional Council, were among 42 priority flood resilience projects across 11 regions announced last year and approved for a total of $101.1 million in funding through the Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF).
    Greater Wellington Regional Council was approved for funding up to $16.1m across Kāpiti and Wairarapa.
    “The completed Wairarapa projects are an upgrade of Pukio East Stopbank, protection upgrades at two sites on Waipoua River, and Stages 2 and 3 of the River Road Flood Protection Upgrade on Ruamāhanga River.
    Mr Jones today attended an event hosted by Greater Wellington Regional Council at Fullers Bend on Waiōhine River to mark the completion of the five projects and to view progress of another 11 flood protection projects underway.
    “I announced the first tranche of projects about this time last year. We wanted projects that would be ready to start as soon as they got the green light – what we have here is delivery on our promises,” Mr Jones says.
    “Doing this work now protects local communities, provides local jobs, and builds a sense of security and confidence. It underpins a broader willingness to invest in our local economies
    “It also protects Crown assets such as roads, railways, hospitals and schools. It also saves the costs of deploying government emergency services in clean-up operations and eases the demand on other social services. 
    Minister Jones also today held a joint regional growth summit for Kāpiti and Wairarapa in Carterton today where he engaged with stakeholders on economic growth, regional priorities, prosperity and resilience.
    “Today’s summit was a great chance to discuss further growth opportunities for both of these regions and I look forward to seeing RIF applications through this engagement,” Mr Jones says.
    GWRC Projects
    To support councils to deliver essential works at pace, the RIF invested as grants to 42 flood resilience projects across 12 councils.
    Flood resilience projects in Kāpiti benefitting from RIF investment are:

    Otaki Cliffs River Bank Protection: $2.50 million.

    Flood resilience projects in the Wairarapa benefitting from RIF investment are:

    River Rd Masterton Flood Protection Upgrade – Stage 2: $1.48 million (completed)
    River Rd Masterton Flood Protection Upgrade – Stage 3 Remaining Groynes: $2.11 million (completed)
    Waipoua SH2 Left Bank Protection Upgrade: $80,000 (completed)
    Waipoua Industrial Site – Akura Road Edge Protection Programme: $880,000 (completed)
    Fullers Bend Protection: $1.39 million
    Awaroa Floodway Spillover Sill: $530,000
    Tawaha Floodway Spillover Sill: $1.02 million
    Pukio East Stopbank Upgrade, South Wairarapa: $540,000 (completed)
    Flood Gates – Fish Passage Upgrades, South Wairarapa: $220,000
    Masterton Water Supply Protection Project: $570,000
    Hood Aerodrome Masterton Waingawa River Flood Protection: $950,000
    South Masterton Stopbank Upgrade: $520,000
    Homebush Wastewater Treatment Plant Resilience Works: $270,000
    Upper Ruamāhanga Buffer Establishment: $2.16 million
    Whakawhiriwhiri Stream – Project Rescope: $860,000

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Prepare for Heavy Rain and Potential Flooding Through This Weekend

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today directed State agencies to prepare for heavy rain and the potential for localized flooding as parts of the state are forecast to be impacted by periods of heavy rain through this weekend. New Yorkers across the Mohawk Valley, Southern Tier, Mid-Hudson and Capital Region could see up to 3 inches of rain beginning tonight into Saturday and are cautioned to be vigilant in impacted areas. Parts of the North Country, Finger Lakes and Central New York could see between 1 to 1.5 inches of rain. Following recent heavy rains, minor to moderate flooding could occur in these areas. The Governor also launched Triple Three Triple One today — a real-time text-based emergency and weather alert system. New Yorkers are strongly encouraged to text their county or borough of residence to 333111 to stay up-to-date on the rain and potential flooding expected this weekend.

    “As heavy rains approach parts of the State, I’m directing State agencies to be on standby to support New Yorkers in the path of rainfall and potential flooding,” Governor Hochul said. “All New Yorkers should take out their phones and text their county or borough of residence to 333111 to sign up for our new emergency alert system and get real-time weather information — this is how we better prepare ourselves for inclement weather.”

    Triple Three Triple One
    New Yorkers are encouraged to sign up for the new text-based emergency and weather alert system — providing real-time updates and quickening preparedness during weather events. It’s easy to get started and free to sign up. New Yorkers can simply text the name of the county they’d like to receive alerts for to 333111. Once the text message is sent, users will automatically be enrolled and begin receiving emergency and weather alerts when they occur in their selected county. In New York City, text the name of your borough with no spaces. For example, StatenIsland. For the entire New York City metro area, text NewYorkCity. The system is not case sensitive. Users can also register to receive alerts for multiple counties by texting additional county names, one at a time. This will allow residents to stay up to date on alerts in areas where their loved ones may live. It is free to sign up for Triple Three Triple One and the service is available on all cellular carriers. Standard text messaging and data rates may apply.

    Flood Watches and Warnings are currently in effect for several areas of the state. For a complete listing of weather alerts, visit the National Weather Service website at alerts.weather.gov.

    Agency Preparations

    Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services
    The Division’s Office of Emergency Management is in contact with their local counterparts and is prepared to facilitate requests for assistance. OEM has enhanced their monitoring, and the Office of Fire Prevention and Control has activated the Fire Operations Center. Water rescue teams will be pre-staged to deploy if needed and state stockpiles are ready to deploy emergency response assets and supplies as needed. The State Watch Center is monitoring the storm track and statewide impacts closely.

    Department of Transportation
    The State Department of Transportation is monitoring weather conditions and prepared to respond with 3,649 supervisors and operators available statewide. All field staff are available to fully engage and respond.

    Statewide equipment numbers are as follows:

    • 1,503 large dump trucks
    • 333 large loaders
    • 89 chippers
    • 85 tracked and wheeled excavators
    • 33 water pumps
    • 32 traffic and tree crew bucket trucks
    • 30 traffic tower platforms
    • 16 vacuum trucks with sewer jets

    The need for additional resources will be re-evaluated as conditions warrant throughout the event. For real-time travel information, motorists should call 511 or visit 511ny.org, New York State’s official traffic and travel information source.

    Thruway Authority
    The Thruway Authority has 658 operators and supervisors prepared to respond to any wind or flood related issues across the state with small to medium sized excavators, plow/dump trucks, large loaders, portable VMS boards, portable light towers, smaller generators, smaller pumps and equipment hauling trailers, as well as signage and other traffic control devices available for any detours or closures. Variable Message Signs and social media are utilized to alert motorists of weather conditions on the Thruway.

    Statewide equipment numbers are as follows:

    • 353 Large and Small Dump Trucks
    • 62 Loaders
    • 31 Trailers
    • 6 Vac Trucks
    • 15 Excavators
    • 9 Brush Chippers
    • 101 Chainsaws
    • 20 Aerial Trucks
    • 27 Skid Steers
    • 86 Portable Generators
    • 66 Portable Light Units

    The Thruway Authority encourages motorists to download its mobile app which is available to download for free on iPhone and Android devices. The app provides motorists direct access to live traffic cameras, real-time traffic information and navigation assistance while on the go. Motorists can also sign up for TRANSalert e-mails which provide the latest traffic conditions along the Thruway, follow @ThruwayTraffic on X, formerly known as Twitter, and visit thruway.ny.gov to see an interactive map showing traffic conditions for the Thruway and other New York State roadways.

    Department of Public Service
    New York’s utilities have approximately 5,500 workers available statewide to engage in damage assessment, response, repair and restoration efforts across New York State, as necessary. Agency staff will track utilities’ work throughout the event and ensure utilities shift appropriate staffing to regions that experience the greatest impact.

    New York State Police
    State Police instructed all Troopers to remain vigilant and will deploy extra patrols to affected areas as needed. All four-wheel drive vehicles are in service, and all watercraft and specialty vehicles are staged and ready for deployment.

    Department of Environmental Conservation
    The Department of Environmental Conservation’s (DEC) Emergency Management staff, Environmental Conservation Police Officers, Forest Rangers, and regional staff remain on alert and continue to monitor weather forecasts. Working with partner agencies, DEC is prepared to coordinate resource deployment of all available assets, including first responders, to targeted areas in preparation for potential impacts due to heavy rainfall and flooding.

    DEC reminds local officials to watch for potential flooding in their communities. Municipalities are encouraged to undertake local assessments of flood-prone areas and to remove any accumulating debris. DEC permits and authorization are not required to remove debris unless stream banks or beds will be disturbed by debris removal and/or the use of heavy equipment. Municipalities and local governments are advised to contact DEC’s Regional Permit Administrators if assistance is required and to help determine if a permit is necessary.

    If a permit is necessary, DEC can issue Emergency Authorizations to expedite approval of projects in place of an individual permit. DEC approves Emergency Authorizations for situations that are deemed an emergency based on the immediate protection of life, health, general welfare, property, or natural resources.

    Unpredictable weather and storms in the Adirondacks, Catskills, and other backcountry areas can create unexpectedly hazardous conditions. Visitors should be prepared with proper clothing and equipment for rain, snow, ice, and colder temperatures to ensure a safe outdoor experience. Trails have mixed conditions of snow, ice, slush, and mud.

    Hikers are advised to temporarily avoid all high-elevation trails, as well as trails that cross rivers and streams. Hikers in the Adirondacks are encouraged to check the Adirondack Backcountry Information webpages for updates on trail conditions, seasonal road closures, and general recreation information.

    Backcountry visitors should Hike Smart and follow proper safety guidelines. Plan trips accordingly. In an emergency, call 9-1-1. To request Forest Ranger assistance, call 1-833-NYS-RANGERS.

    Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation
    New York State Park Police and park personnel are on alert and closely monitoring weather conditions and impacts. Park visitors should visit parks.ny.gov, check the free mobile app, or call their local park office for the latest updates regarding park hours, openings and closings.

    Flood Safety

    • Know your area’s type of flood risk — visit FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center.
    • Have a flood emergency plan in place that includes considerations for your children, pets and neighbors.
    • If you live in a flood-prone area, document your belongings and valuables. Keep important documents in a waterproof container. Create digital, password-protected copies of important documents, pictures, and other items.
    • Obtain flood insurance coverage under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Homeowner’s policies do not cover flooding.
    • Monitor your local weather forecast and follow any warnings that may be broadcast.
    • If you are advised by emergency officials to take immediate action such as evacuation, do not wait – follow all orders promptly.
    • Traveling during a flood can be extremely dangerous. One foot of moving water can sweep a vehicle away. Never walk, swim or drive through flood waters. If you have doubts, remember: “Turn Around, Don’t Drown!”
    • Consider those with access and functional needs to determine if they are prepared for a flood emergency where they live and work.

    For more preparedness information and safety tips from DHSES, visit dhses.ny.gov/safety. The National Weather Service website also includes Flood Safety Tips and Spring Safety Resources.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Latimer County, Oklahoma

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Latimer County, Oklahoma

    Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Latimer County, Oklahoma

    DENTON, Texas – Preliminary flood risk information and updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are available for review in Latimer County, Oklahoma

    Residents and business owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements

    The updated maps were produced in coordination with Tribal

    local, state and FEMA officials

    Significant community review of the maps has already taken place, but before the maps become final, community residents can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and participate in the 90-day appeal and comment period

    The 90-day appeal and comment period will begin on or around May 8, 2025

    Appeals and comments may be submitted through Aug

    6, 2025, for:The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma; the city of Wilburton; the towns of Fanshawe, Red Oak and Talihina; and the unincorporated areas of Latimer CountyResidents may submit an appeal if they consider modeling or data used to create the map to be technically or scientifically incorrect

    An appeal must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim

    Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress

    If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information — such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary — they can submit a written comment

    The next step in the mapping process is to resolve all comments and appeals

    Once these are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps

    To review the preliminary maps or submit appeals and comments, visit your local floodplain administrator (FPA)

    A FEMA Map Specialist can identify your community FPA

    Specialists are available by telephone at 877-FEMA-MAP (877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema

    dhs

    gov

    The preliminary maps may also be viewed online:The Flood Map Changes Viewer at http://msc

    fema

    gov/fmcv FEMA Map Service Center at http://msc

    fema

    gov/portalThe Base Level Engineering-to-FIRM Viewer at https://webapps

    usgs

    gov/fema/ble_firmFor more information about the flood maps:Use a live chat service about flood maps at floodmaps

    fema

    gov/fhm/fmx_main

    html (just click on the “Live Chat Open” icon)

    Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone at 877-FEMA-MAP (877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema

    dhs

    gov

    There are cost-saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone

    Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent or visiting floodsmart

    gov

    toan

    nguyen
    Thu, 05/08/2025 – 15:27

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Minutes – Thursday, 8 May 2025 – Strasbourg – Final edition

    Source: European Parliament

    PV-10-2025-05-08

    EN

    EN

    iPlPv_Sit

    Minutes
    Thursday, 8 May 2025 – Strasbourg

    IN THE CHAIR: Christel SCHALDEMOSE
    Vice-President

    1. Opening of the sitting

    The sitting opened at 09:00.


    2. Composition of political groups

    Volker Schnurrbusch was no longer sitting as a non-attached Member and had joined the ESN Group as of 8 May 2025.


    3. Composition of committees and delegations

    The ESN Group had notified the President of the following decision changing the composition of the committees and delegations:

    – TRAN Committee: Volker Schnurrbusch to replace Siegbert Frank Droese

    The decision took effect as of that day.


    4. 80 years after the end of World War II – freedom, democracy and security as the heritage of Europe (debate)

    Statements by Parliament: 80 years after the end of World War II – freedom, democracy and security as the heritage of Europe (2025/2694(RSP))

    The following spoke: Sebastião Bugalho, on behalf of the PPE Group, Marc Angel, on behalf of the S&D Group, Kinga Gál, on behalf of the PfE Group, Patryk Jaki, on behalf of the ECR Group, Marie-Pierre Vedrenne, on behalf of the Renew Group, Thomas Waitz, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Konstantinos Arvanitis, on behalf of The Left Group, René Aust, on behalf of the ESN Group, Sandra Kalniete, Javi López, Hermann Tertsch, Adrian-George Axinia, Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, who also answered blue-card questions from Arkadiusz Mularczyk and Petr Bystron, Nela Riehl, Marina Mesure, Stanislav Stoyanov, Ruth Firmenich, Łukasz Kohut, Evelyn Regner, António Tânger Corrêa, Bert-Jan Ruissen, Michał Kobosko, Benedetta Scuderi, Danilo Della Valle, Zsuzsanna Borvendég, Ondřej Dostál, Wouter Beke, Francisco Assis, who also answered a blue-card question from Sebastião Bugalho, Anders Vistisen, Rihards Kols, Charles Goerens and Arkadiusz Mularczyk to put a blue-card question to Charles Goerens.

    IN THE CHAIR: Esteban GONZÁLEZ PONS
    Vice-President

    The following spoke: Charles Goerens, who answered a blue-card question from Arkadiusz Mularczyk, Jaume Asens Llodrà, João Oliveira, Ivan David, Danuše Nerudová, Cecilia Strada, Alexandre Varaut, Stephen Nikola Bartulica, Dan Barna, Anna Strolenberg, Rudi Kennes, Paulius Saudargas, René Repasi, who also answered blue-card questions from Bogdan Rzońca and Arkadiusz Mularczyk, Marieke Ehlers, Aurelijus Veryga, Anna-Maja Henriksson, Sunčana Glavak, Vytenis Povilas Andriukaitis, Sebastian Tynkkynen, who also declined to take a blue-card question from Petras Gražulis, Martin Hojsík, Evin Incir, who also answered a blue-card question from Bogdan Rzońca, Adam Bielan, who also answered a blue-card question from Petras Gražulis, Engin Eroglu, Nils Ušakovs, Christophe Grudler, Nikos Papandreou, Thomas Pellerin-Carlin and Matjaž Nemec.

    The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Juan Fernando López Aguilar, Viktória Ferenc, Arkadiusz Mularczyk, Siegbert Frank Droese, Lefteris Nikolaou-Alavanos and Lukas Sieper.

    The debate closed.


    5. Old challenges and new commercial practices in the internal market (debate)

    Question for oral answer O-000012/2025 by Anna Cavazzini, on behalf of the IMCO Committee to the Commission: B10-0005/2025 (2025/2542(RSP))

    Anna Cavazzini moved the question.

    Stéphane Séjourné (Executive Vice-President of the Commission) answered the question.

    The following spoke: Andreas Schwab, on behalf of the PPE Group, Laura Ballarín Cereza, on behalf of the S&D Group, Klara Dostalova, on behalf of the PfE Group, Stefano Cavedagna, on behalf of the ECR Group, Svenja Hahn, on behalf of the Renew Group, Alice Kuhnke, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Hanna Gedin, on behalf of The Left Group, Pablo Arias Echeverría, Alex Agius Saliba, Ernő Schaller-Baross, Kamila Gasiuk-Pihowicz, Biljana Borzan, Elisabeth Dieringer, who also answered a blue-card question from Lukas Sieper, Tomislav Sokol, Pierre Jouvet, Zala Tomašič, Dimitris Tsiodras and Regina Doherty.

    The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Vytenis Povilas Andriukaitis, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Bogdan Rzońca, João Oliveira and Lukas Sieper.

    The following spoke: Stéphane Séjourné.

    Motions for resolutions tabled under Rule 142(5) to wind up the debate: minutes of 8.5.2025, item I.

    The debate closed.

    Vote: 8 May 2025.

    (The sitting was suspended at 11:51.)


    IN THE CHAIR: Javi LÓPEZ
    Vice-President

    6. Resumption of the sitting

    The sitting resumed at 12:04.

    ⁂

    The following spoke: René Aust, concerning an incident on Parliament’s premises in Brussels on 30 April 2025 (the President provided some clarifications).


    7. Voting time

    For detailed results of the votes, see also ‘Results of votes’ and ‘Results of roll-call votes’.


    7.1. Arrest and risk of execution of Tundu Lissu, Chair of Chadema, the main opposition party in Tanzania (vote)

    Motions for resolutions RC-B10-0260/2025 (minutes of 8.5.2025, item I), B10-0260/2025, B10-0261/2025, B10-0262/2025, B10-0263/2025, B10-0264/2025 and B10-0265/2025 (minutes of 7.5.2025, item I) (2025/2690(RSP))

    (Majority of the votes cast)

    JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

    Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0095)

    (Motion for a resolution B10-0262/2025 fell.)

    (‘Results of votes’, item 1)






    7.4. Ninth report on economic and social cohesion (vote)

    Report on the ninth report on economic and social cohesion [2024/2107(INI)] – Committee on Regional Development. Rapporteur: Jacek Protas (A10-0066/2025)

    (Majority of the votes cast)

    MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

    Adopted by single vote (P10_TA(2025)0098)

    (‘Results of votes’, item 4)


    7.5. CO2 emission performance standards for new passenger cars and new light commercial vehicles for 2025 to 2027 ***I (vote)

    Amending Regulation (EU) 2019/631 to include an additional flexibility as regards the calculation of manufacturers’ compliance with CO2 emission performance standards for new passenger cars and new light commercial vehicles for the calendar years 2025 to 2027 – (COM(2025)0136 – C10-0062/2025 – 2025/0070(COD)) – Committee on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety

    (Majority of the votes cast)

    COMMISSION PROPOSAL and AMENDMENTS

    Approved (P10_TA(2025)0099)

    Parliament’s first reading thus closed.

    (‘Results of votes’, item 5)


    7.6. The protection status of the wolf (Canis lupus) ***I (vote)

    Amending Council Directive 92/43/EEC as regards the protection status of the wolf (Canis lupus) – (COM(2025)0106 – C10-0044/2025 – 2025/0058(COD)) – Committee on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety

    (Majority of the votes cast)

    PROPOSAL TO REJECT THE COMMISSION PROPOSAL

    Rejected

    COMMISSION PROPOSAL

    Approved (P10_TA(2025)0100)

    Parliament’s first reading thus closed.

    (‘Results of votes’, item 6)


    7.7. The role of gas storage for securing gas supplies ahead of the winter season ***I (vote)

    Report on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulation (EU) 2017/1938 as regards the role of gas storage for securing gas supplies ahead of the winter season [COM(2025)0099 – C10-0041/2025 – 2025/0051(COD)] – Committee on Industry, Research and Energy. Rapporteur: Borys Budka (A10-0079/2025)

    The debate had taken place on 7 May 2025 (minutes of 7.5.2025, item 16).

    (Majority of the votes cast)

    COMMISSION PROPOSAL and AMENDMENTS

    Approved (P10_TA(2025)0101)

    REQUEST FOR REFERRAL BACK TO COMMITTEE

    Approved

    The following had spoken:

    Borys Budka (rapporteur), after the vote on the Commission proposal, to request that the matter be referred back to the committee responsible, for institutional negotiations, under Rule 60(4). Parliament agreed to the request.

    (‘Results of votes’, item 7)


    7.8. Screening of foreign investments in the Union ***I (vote)

    Report on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the screening of foreign investments in the Union and repealing Regulation (EU) 2019/452 of the European Parliament and of the Council [COM(2024)0023 – C9-0011/2024 – 2024/0017(COD)] – Committee on International Trade. Rapporteur: Raphaël Glucksmann (A10-0061/2025)

    (Majority of the votes cast)

    COMMISSION PROPOSAL and AMENDMENTS

    Approved (P10_TA(2025)0102)

    REQUEST FOR REFERRAL BACK TO COMMITTEE

    Approved

    The following had spoken:

    Raphaël Glucksmann (rapporteur), after the vote on the Commission proposal, to request that the matter be referred back to the committee responsible, for institutional negotiations, under Rule 60(4). Parliament agreed to the request.

    (‘Results of votes’, item 8)


    7.9. Suspending certain parts of Regulation (EU) 2015/478 as regards imports of Ukrainian products into the European Union ***I (vote)

    Report on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council suspending certain parts of Regulation (EU) 2015/478 as regards imports of Ukrainian products into the European Union [COM(2025)0107 – C10-0042/2025 – 2025/0056(COD)] – Committee on International Trade. Rapporteur: Karin Karlsbro (A10-0059/2025)

    (Majority of the votes cast)

    REQUEST TO POSTPONE THE VOTE (ESN Group) (Rule 206(4))

    Rejected

    COMMISSION PROPOSAL and AMENDMENTS

    Approved (P10_TA(2025)0103)

    Parliament’s first reading thus closed.

    The following had spoken:

    – Hans Neuhoff, on behalf of the ESN Group, to request that the vote be postponed pursuant to Rule 206(4), and Bernd Lange, against the request.

    – Karin Karlsbro (rapporteur), before the vote, to make a statement under Rule 165(4).

    – Costas Kadis (Member of the Commission), before the vote, to make a statement.

    (‘Results of votes’, item 9)


    7.10. Competition policy – annual report 2024 (vote)

    Report on competition policy – annual report 2024 [2024/2079(INI)] – Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs. Rapporteur: Lara Wolters (A10-0071/2025)

    The debate had taken place on 7 May 2025 (minutes of 7.5.2025, item 12).

    (Majority of the votes cast)

    MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

    Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0104)

    The following had spoken:


    Majdouline Sbai, to move an oral amendment to Amendment 1. Parliament agreed to put the oral amendment to the vote.

    (‘Results of votes’, item 10)


    7.11. Banking Union – annual report 2024 (vote)

    Report on Banking Union – annual report 2024 [2024/2055(INI)] – Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs. Rapporteur: Ralf Seekatz (A10-0044/2025)

    The debate had taken place on 7 May 2025 (minutes of 7.5.2025, item 17).

    (Majority of the votes cast)

    MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

    Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0105)

    (‘Results of votes’, item 11)


    7.12. Objection pursuant to Rule 115(2) and (3): genetically modified soybean MON 87705 × MON 87708 × MON 89788 (vote)

    Motion for a resolution, tabled by the ENVI Committee, pursuant to Rule 115(2) and (3), on the draft Commission implementing decision authorising the placing on the market of products containing, consisting of or produced from genetically modified soybean MON 87705 × MON 87708 × MON 89788 pursuant to Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 of the European Parliament and of the Council (D105678/01 – 2025/2647(RSP)) (B10-0244/2025) – Members responsible: Anja Hazekamp, Martin Häusling, Biljana Borzan, Sirpa Pietikäinen.

    (Majority of the votes cast)

    MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

    Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0106)

    (‘Results of votes’, item 12)




    IN THE CHAIR: Ewa KOPACZ
    Vice-President

    8. Resumption of the sitting

    The sitting resumed at 15:00.


    9. Approval of the minutes of the previous sitting

    The minutes of the previous sitting were approved.


    10. EU action on treating and preventing diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular neurological diseases and measles (debate)

    Commission statement: EU action on treating and preventing diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular neurological diseases and measles(2025/2696(RSP))

    Costas Kadis (Member of the Commission) made the statement.

    The following spoke: Tomislav Sokol, on behalf of the PPE Group, Vytenis Povilas Andriukaitis, on behalf of the S&D Group, Margarita de la Pisa Carrión, on behalf of the PfE Group, Aurelijus Veryga, on behalf of the ECR Group, Vlad Vasile-Voiculescu, on behalf of the Renew Group, Tilly Metz, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Milan Mazurek, on behalf of the ESN Group, Seán Kelly, Christophe Clergeau, Manuela Ripa and Laurent Castillo.

    The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: András Tivadar Kulja, Lukas Sieper and Diana Iovanovici Şoşoacă.

    The following spoke: Costas Kadis.

    The following spoke: Lukas Sieper, concerning the intervention by Diana Iovanovici Şoşoacă.

    The debate closed.


    11. Explanations of vote


    11.1. Ninth report on economic and social cohesion (A10-0066/2025 – Jacek Protas ) (oral explanations of vote)

    Seán Kelly, Lukas Sieper


    11.2. The role of gas storage for securing gas supplies ahead of the winter season (A10-0079/2025 – Borys Budka ) (oral explanations of vote)

    Seán Kelly, Lukas Sieper


    11.3. Competition policy – annual report 2024 (A10-0071/2025 – Lara Wolters) (oral explanations of vote)

    Seán Kelly


    11.4. Old challenges and new commercial practices in the internal market (B10-0246/2025) (oral explanations of vote)

    Lukas Sieper


    11.5. Written explanations of vote

    Explanations of vote submitted in writing under Rule 201 appear on the Members’ pages on Parliament’s website.


    12. Approval of the minutes of the sitting and forwarding of texts adopted

    In accordance with Rule 208(3), the minutes of the sitting would be put to the House for approval at the start of the next sitting.

    With Parliament’s agreement, the texts adopted during the part-session would be forwarded to their respective addressees without delay.


    13. Dates of the next part-session

    The next part-session would be held on 21 May 2025 and 22 May 2025.


    14. Closure of the sitting

    The sitting closed at 15:50.


    15. Adjournment of the session

    The session of the European Parliament was adjourned.

    Alessandro Chiocchetti

    Roberta Metsola

    Secretary-General

    President


    LIST OF DOCUMENTS SERVING AS A BASIS FOR THE DEBATES AND DECISIONS OF PARLIAMENT


    I. Motions for resolutions tabled

    Arrest and risk of execution of Tundu Lissu, Chair of Chadema, the main opposition party in Tanzania

    Joint motion for a resolution tabled under Rule 150(5) and Rule 136(4):

    on the arrest and risk of execution of Tundu Lissu, Chair of Chadema, the main opposition party in Tanzania (2025/2690(RSP)) (RC-B10-0260/2025)
    (replacing motions for resolutions B10-0260/2025, B10-0261/2025, B10-0263/2025, B10-0264/2025 and B10-0265/2025)
    Sebastião Bugalho, Reinhold Lopatka, Michael Gahler, David McAllister, Željana Zovko, Michał Szczerba, Antonio López-Istúriz White, Ana Miguel Pedro, Davor Ivo Stier, Tomas Tobé, Liudas Mažylis, Ingeborg Ter Laak, Isabel Wiseler-Lima, Mirosława Nykiel, Wouter Beke, Luděk Niedermayer, Vangelis Meimarakis, Milan Zver, Tomáš Zdechovský, Danuše Nerudová, Miriam Lexmann, Jan Farský, Loránt Vincze, Jessica Polfjärd, Andrey Kovatchev, Inese Vaidere
    on behalf of the PPE Group
    Yannis Maniatis, Francisco Assis, Marit Maij
    on behalf of the S&D Group
    Adam Bielan, Jadwiga Wiśniewska, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Joachim Stanisław Brudziński, Assita Kanko, Waldemar Tomaszewski, Alberico Gambino
    on behalf of the ECR Group
    Jan-Christoph Oetjen, Oihane Agirregoitia Martínez, Petras Auštrevičius, Malik Azmani, Dan Barna, Benoit Cassart, Olivier Chastel, Engin Eroglu, Svenja Hahn, Karin Karlsbro, Moritz Körner, Ilhan Kyuchyuk, Urmas Paet, Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, Hilde Vautmans, Michal Wiezik, Lucia Yar
    on behalf of the Renew Group
    Catarina Vieira
    on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group

    Return of Ukrainian children forcibly transferred and deported by Russia

    Joint motion for a resolution tabled under Rule 150(5) and Rule 136(4):

    on the return of Ukrainian children forcibly transferred and deported by Russia (2025/2691(RSP)) (RC-B10-0249/2025)
    (replacing motions for resolutions B10-0249/2025, B10-0250/2025, B10-0252/2025, B10-0255/2025 and B10-0258/2025)
    Sebastião Bugalho, Jessika Van Leeuwen, Michael Gahler, David McAllister, Sandra Kalniete, Željana Zovko, Andrzej Halicki, Michał Szczerba, Antonio López-Istúriz White, Ana Miguel Pedro, Dariusz Joński, Davor Ivo Stier, Tomas Tobé, Reinhold Lopatka, Liudas Mažylis, Ingeborg Ter Laak, Isabel Wiseler-Lima, Mirosława Nykiel, Wouter Beke, Luděk Niedermayer, Vangelis Meimarakis, Milan Zver, Tomáš Zdechovský, Danuše Nerudová, Miriam Lexmann, Ondřej Kolář, Jan Farský, Loránt Vincze, Jessica Polfjärd, Andrey Kovatchev, Ewa Kopacz, Matej Tonin, Inese Vaidere
    on behalf of the PPE Group
    Yannis Maniatis, Francisco Assis, Thijs Reuten, Evin Incir, Pina Picierno
    on behalf of the S&D Group
    Adam Bielan, Rihards Kols, Jadwiga Wiśniewska, Aurelijus Veryga, Reinis Pozņaks, Alexandr Vondra, Maciej Wąsik, Veronika Vrecionová, Ondřej Krutílek, Joachim Stanisław Brudziński, Michał Dworczyk, Assita Kanko, Jaak Madison, Mariusz Kamiński, Roberts Zīle, Charlie Weimers, Beatrice Timgren, Dick Erixon, Sebastian Tynkkynen
    on behalf of the ECR Group
    Petras Auštrevičius, Oihane Agirregoitia Martínez, Abir Al-Sahlani, Malik Azmani, Dan Barna, Helmut Brandstätter, Benoit Cassart, Olivier Chastel, Veronika Cifrová Ostrihoňová, Engin Eroglu, Svenja Hahn, Karin Karlsbro, Ľubica Karvašová, Michał Kobosko, Moritz Körner, Ilhan Kyuchyuk, Nathalie Loiseau, Jan-Christoph Oetjen, Urmas Paet, Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, Eugen Tomac, Hilde Vautmans, Lucia Yar, Dainius Žalimas
    on behalf of the Renew Group
    Villy Søvndal
    on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group
    Hanna Gedin, Jonas Sjöstedt, Merja Kyllönen

    Violations of religious freedom in Tibet

    Joint motion for a resolution tabled under Rule 150(5) and Rule 136(4):

    on violations of religious freedom in Tibet (2025/2692(RSP)) (RC-B10-0248/2025)
    (replacing motions for resolutions B10-0248/2025, B10-0251/2025, B10-0254/2025, B10-0256/2025 and B10-0259/2025)
    Sebastião Bugalho, Danuše Nerudová, Michael Gahler, Antonio López-Istúriz White, Ana Miguel Pedro, Davor Ivo Stier, Tomas Tobé, Reinhold Lopatka, Liudas Mažylis, Ingeborg Ter Laak, Isabel Wiseler-Lima, Mirosława Nykiel, Wouter Beke, Luděk Niedermayer, Vangelis Meimarakis, Milan Zver, Tomáš Zdechovský, Miriam Lexmann, Ondřej Kolář, Jan Farský, Loránt Vincze, Jessica Polfjärd, Andrey Kovatchev, Inese Vaidere
    on behalf of the PPE Group
    Yannis Maniatis, Francisco Assis, Hannes Heide
    on behalf of the S&D Group
    Adam Bielan, Joachim Stanisław Brudziński, Assita Kanko, Maciej Wąsik, Veronika Vrecionová, Ondřej Krutílek, Alexandr Vondra, Mariusz Kamiński, Małgorzata Gosiewska, Michał Dworczyk, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Waldemar Tomaszewski, Carlo Fidanza
    on behalf of the ECR Group
    Engin Eroglu, Oihane Agirregoitia Martínez, Petras Auštrevičius, Dan Barna, Helmut Brandstätter, Benoit Cassart, Olivier Chastel, Svenja Hahn, Karin Karlsbro, Moritz Körner, Ilhan Kyuchyuk, Ľubica Karvašová, Jan-Christoph Oetjen, Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, Hilde Vautmans, Lucia Yar, Dainius Žalimas
    on behalf of the Renew Group
    Ville Niinistö
    on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group

    Old challenges and new commercial practices in the internal market

    Motion for a resolution tabled under Rule 142( 5) to wind up the debate:

    on the old challenges and new commercial practices in the internal market (2025/2542(RSP)) (B10-0246/2025)
    Anna Cavazzini
    on behalf of the IMCO Committee


    II. Decisions to draw up own-initiative reports

    Decisions to draw up own-initiative reports (Rule 55)

    (Following the Conference of Presidents’ decision of 30 April 2025)

    AFET Committee

    – EU-US political relations (2025/2084(INI))
    (opinion: INTA)

    – EU political strategy on Latin America (2025/2083(INI))
    (opinion: DEVE)

    – Relations between the EU and Saudi Arabia (2025/2082(INI))

    AGRI Committee

    – EU agri-food promotion policy (2025/2089(INI))

    DEVE Committee

    – Humanitarian aid in a time of polycrisis – reaffirming our principles for a more effective and ambitious response to humanitarian crises (2025/2085(INI))
    (opinion: FEMM)

    ENVI, AGRI committees

    – Ensuring faster registration and uptake of biological control agents (2025/2086(INI))

    SANT Committee

    – Public health aspects of biotechnology and life sciences (2025/2087(INI))

    SEDE Committee

    – Drones and new systems of warfare – the EU‘s need to adapt to be fit for today‘s security challenges (2025/2088(INI))

    SEDE, TRAN committees

    – Military mobility (2025/2090(INI))

    (Following the Conference of Presidents’ decision of 3 April 2025)

    CULT Committee

    – Impact of social media and the online environment on young people (2025/2081(INI))
    (opinion: IMCO, LIBE, FEMM)

    Decisions to draw up own-initiative reports (Rules 47 and 55)

    (Following the Conference of Presidents’ decision of 3 April 2025)

    EMPL Committee

    – Digitalisation, artificial intelligence and algorithmic management in the workplace – shaping the future of work (2025/2080(INL))
    (opinion: LIBE)

    JURI Committee

    – The 28th Regime: a new legal framework for innovative companies (2025/2079(INL))


    III. Petitions

    Petitions Nos 0377-25 to 0527-25 had been entered in the register on 6 May 2025 and had been forwarded to the committee responsible, in accordance with Rule 232(9) and (10).

    The President had, on 6 May 2025, forwarded to the committee responsible, in accordance with Rule 232(15), petitions addressed to Parliament by natural or legal persons who were not citizens of the European Union and who did not reside, or have their registered office, in a Member State.


    IV. Documents received

    The following documents had been received from Members:

    – Maria Zacharia. Motion for a resolution on the crime at Tempi and waiving the immunity of ministers and government officials (B10-0200/2025)
    referred to committee responsible: LIBE
    opinion: TRAN

    – Jean-Paul Garraud. Motion for a resolution on protecting the sovereignty of the Member States in democratic decision-making (B10-0238/2025)
    referred to committee responsible: LIBE

    – Christine Anderson, Marieke Ehlers and Virginie Joron. Motion for a resolution on the criteria and methods for establishing intent behind the dissemination of misleading information (B10-0239/2025)
    referred to committee responsible: LIBE

    – Pernando Barrena Arza, Marc Botenga, Lynn Boylan, Per Clausen, Danilo Della Valle, Kathleen Funchion, Estrella Galán, Hanna Gedin, Giorgos Georgiou, Kateřina Konečná, Vicent Marzà Ibáñez, Ana Miranda Paz, João Oliveira, Mounir Satouri, Jonas Sjöstedt and Maria Zacharia. Motion for a resolution on the immediate suspension of the EU-Israel Association Agreement (B10-0240/2025)
    referred to committee responsible: AFET

    – Anja Arndt, René Aust, Zsuzsanna Borvendég, Irmhild Boßdorf, Markus Buchheit, Petr Bystron, Elisabeth Dieringer, Siegbert Frank Droese, Tomasz Froelich, Roman Haider, Marc Jongen, Alexander Jungbluth, Mary Khan, Rada Laykova, Milan Mazurek, Hans Neuhoff, Alexander Sell, Petra Steger, António Tânger Corrêa, Milan Uhrík and Petar Volgin. Motion for a resolution on a joint and strong response to the Federal Republic of Germany’s departure from financial stability (B10-0241/2025)
    referred to committee responsible: ECON

    – Mathilde Androuët, Marie-Luce Brasier-Clain, Anne-Sophie Frigout, Catherine Griset, Fabrice Leggeri, Julien Leonardelli, Thierry Mariani, Aleksandar Nikolic, Pascale Piera, Julie Rechagneux, André Rougé, Pierre-Romain Thionnet and Alexandre Varaut. Motion for a resolution on protecting multilingualism in the EU (B10-0242/2025)
    referred to committee responsible: CULT

    – Pina Picierno, Massimiliano Salini and Antonella Sberna. Motion for a resolution on the establishment of a European Day in Remembrance of the Victims of Accidents at Work and for the Protection and Dignity of Workers: ‘8 August – European Day in Remembrance of the Victims of Accidents at Work and for the Protection and Dignity of Workers’ (B10-0245/2025)
    referred to committee responsible: EMPL


    ATTENDANCE REGISTER

    Present:

    Abadía Jover Maravillas, Adamowicz Magdalena, Aftias Georgios, Agirregoitia Martínez Oihane, Agius Peter, Agius Saliba Alex, Alexandraki Galato, Allione Grégory, Al-Sahlani Abir, Anadiotis Nikolaos, Anderson Christine, Andersson Li, Andresen Rasmus, Andrews Barry, Andriukaitis Vytenis Povilas, Androuët Mathilde, Angel Marc, Antoci Giuseppe, Arias Echeverría Pablo, Arimont Pascal, Arłukowicz Bartosz, Arnaoutoglou Sakis, Arndt Anja, Arvanitis Konstantinos, Asens Llodrà Jaume, Assis Francisco, Attard Daniel, Aubry Manon, Auštrevičius Petras, Axinia Adrian-George, Azmani Malik, Bajada Thomas, Baljeu Jeannette, Ballarín Cereza Laura, Bardella Jordan, Barna Dan, Barrena Arza Pernando, Bartulica Stephen Nikola, Bartůšek Nikola, Bay Nicolas, Bay Christophe, Beke Wouter, Beleris Fredis, Bellamy François-Xavier, Benea Dragoş, Benifei Brando, Benjumea Benjumea Isabel, Berendsen Tom, Berger Stefan, Berlato Sergio, Bernhuber Alexander, Biedroń Robert, Bielan Adam, Bischoff Gabriele, Blinkevičiūtė Vilija, Blom Rachel, Bloss Michael, Bocheński Tobiasz, Boeselager Damian, Bogdan Ioan-Rareş, Bonaccini Stefano, Borchia Paolo, Borrás Pabón Mireia, Borvendég Zsuzsanna, Borzan Biljana, Bosanac Gordan, Boßdorf Irmhild, Bosse Stine, Botenga Marc, Boyer Gilles, Boylan Lynn, Brasier-Clain Marie-Luce, Bricmont Saskia, Brudziński Joachim Stanisław, Bryłka Anna, Buchheit Markus, Buczek Tomasz, Buda Daniel, Buda Waldemar, Budka Borys, Bugalho Sebastião, Buła Andrzej, Bullmann Udo, Burkhardt Delara, Buxadé Villalba Jorge, Bystron Petr, Bžoch Jaroslav, Camara Mélissa, Canfin Pascal, Carberry Nina, Cârciu Gheorghe, Carême Damien, Casa David, Caspary Daniel, Cassart Benoit, Castillo Laurent, del Castillo Vera Pilar, Cavazzini Anna, Cavedagna Stefano, Cepeda José, Ceulemans Estelle, Chahim Mohammed, Chaibi Leila, Chastel Olivier, Chinnici Caterina, Christensen Asger, Cifrová Ostrihoňová Veronika, Ciriani Alessandro, Clausen Per, Clergeau Christophe, Corrado Annalisa, Costanzo Vivien, Cotrim De Figueiredo João, Cowen Barry, Cremer Tobias, Crespo Díaz Carmen, Cristea Andi, Crosetto Giovanni, Cunha Paulo, Dahl Henrik, Danielsson Johan, Dávid Dóra, David Ivan, Decaro Antonio, de la Hoz Quintano Raúl, Della Valle Danilo, Deloge Valérie, De Masi Fabio, De Meo Salvatore, Devaux Valérie, Dibrani Adnan, Diepeveen Ton, Dieringer Elisabeth, Dîncu Vasile, Di Rupo Elio, Disdier Mélanie, Doherty Regina, Doleschal Christian, Dömötör Csaba, Do Nascimento Cabral Paulo, Dorfmann Herbert, Dostalova Klara, Dostál Ondřej, Droese Siegbert Frank, Dworczyk Michał, Ecke Matthias, Ehler Christian, Ehlers Marieke, Eriksson Sofie, Erixon Dick, Eroglu Engin, Everding Sebastian, Falcă Gheorghe, Falcone Marco, Farantouris Nikolas, Farský Jan, Ferber Markus, Ferenc Viktória, Fernández Jonás, Fidanza Carlo, Fiocchi Pietro, Firea Gabriela, Firmenich Ruth, Fita Claire, Fourlas Loucas, Fourreau Emma, Fragkos Emmanouil, Freund Daniel, Frigout Anne-Sophie, Fritzon Heléne, Froelich Tomasz, Fuglsang Niels, Funchion Kathleen, Furet Angéline, Furore Mario, Gahler Michael, Gál Kinga, Galán Estrella, Gambino Alberico, García Hermida-Van Der Walle Raquel, Garraud Jean-Paul, Gasiuk-Pihowicz Kamila, Geadi Geadis, Gedin Hanna, Geese Alexandra, Geier Jens, Geisel Thomas, Gemma Chiara, Georgiou Giorgos, Gerbrandy Gerben-Jan, Germain Jean-Marc, Gerzsenyi Gabriella, Geuking Niels, Gieseke Jens, Giménez Larraz Borja, Girauta Vidal Juan Carlos, Glavak Sunčana, Glück Andreas, Glucksmann Raphaël, Goerens Charles, Gomart Christophe, Gomes Isilda, Gómez López Sandra, Gonçalves Bruno, Gonçalves Sérgio, González Casares Nicolás, González Pons Esteban, Gori Giorgio, Gosiewska Małgorzata, Gotink Dirk, Gozi Sandro, Gražulis Petras, Griset Catherine, Gronkiewicz-Waltz Hanna, Groothuis Bart, Grossmann Elisabeth, Grudler Christophe, Guarda Cristina, Győri Enikő, Gyürk András, Hadjipantela Michalis, Hahn Svenja, Haider Roman, Halicki Andrzej, Hansen Niels Flemming, Hauser Gerald, Häusling Martin, Hava Mircea-Gheorghe, Heide Hannes, Heinäluoma Eero, Henriksson Anna-Maja, Herbst Niclas, Herranz García Esther, Hetman Krzysztof, Hohlmeier Monika, Hojsík Martin, Holmgren Pär, Homs Ginel Alicia, Humberto Sérgio, Incir Evin, Inselvini Paolo, Iovanovici Şoşoacă Diana, Jamet France, Jarubas Adam, Jerković Romana, Jongen Marc, Joński Dariusz, Joron Virginie, Jouvet Pierre, Joveva Irena, Junco García Nora, Jungbluth Alexander, Kabilov Taner, Kalfon François, Kaljurand Marina, Kalniete Sandra, Kamiński Mariusz, Karlsbro Karin, Kartheiser Fernand, Katainen Elsi, Kefalogiannis Emmanouil, Kelleher Billy, Keller Fabienne, Kelly Seán, Kennes Rudi, Knafo Sarah, Knotek Ondřej, Kobosko Michał, Köhler Stefan, Kohut Łukasz, Kokalari Arba, Kolář Ondřej, Kollár Kinga, Kols Rihards, Konečná Kateřina, Kopacz Ewa, Körner Moritz, Kountoura Elena, Kovařík Ondřej, Kovatchev Andrey, Krištopans Vilis, Kruis Sebastian, Krutílek Ondřej, Kubín Tomáš, Kuhnke Alice, Kulja András Tivadar, Kulmuni Katri, Kyuchyuk Ilhan, Lakos Eszter, Lange Bernd, Langensiepen Katrin, László András, Latinopoulou Afroditi, Laureti Camilla, Laykova Rada, Lazarov Ilia, Leggeri Fabrice, Lenaers Jeroen, Lewandowski Janusz, Lexmann Miriam, Liese Peter, Lins Norbert, Løkkegaard Morten, Lopatka Reinhold, López Javi, López Aguilar Juan Fernando, Lövin Isabella, Lucano Mimmo, Luena César, Łukacijewska Elżbieta Katarzyna, Lupo Giuseppe, Maestre Cristina, Magoni Lara, Magyar Péter, Maij Marit, Maląg Marlena, Manda Claudiu, Mandl Lukas, Maniatis Yannis, Mantovani Mario, Maran Pierfrancesco, Marczułajtis-Walczak Jagna, Maréchal Marion, Mariani Thierry, Marino Ignazio Roberto, Marquardt Erik, Martín Frías Jorge, Mavrides Costas, Maydell Eva, Mayer Georg, Mazurek Milan, Mažylis Liudas, McNamara Michael, Mebarek Nora, Mehnert Alexandra, Meimarakis Vangelis, Mendes Ana Catarina, Mendia Idoia, Mesure Marina, Metsola Roberta, Metz Tilly, Mikser Sven, Millán Mon Francisco José, Minchev Nikola, Miranda Paz Ana, Montero Irene, Montserrat Dolors, Morace Carolina, Morano Nadine, Moratti Letizia, Moreira de Sá Tiago, Moreno Sánchez Javier, Moretti Alessandra, Motreanu Dan-Ştefan, Mularczyk Arkadiusz, Mullooly Ciaran, Mureşan Siegfried, Muşoiu Ştefan, Nagyová Jana, Navarrete Rojas Fernando, Negrescu Victor, Nemec Matjaž, Nerudová Danuše, Nesci Denis, Neuhoff Hans, Neumann Hannah, Nevado del Campo Elena, Niebler Angelika, Niedermayer Luděk, Niinistö Ville, Nikolaou-Alavanos Lefteris, Nikolic Aleksandar, Ní Mhurchú Cynthia, Noichl Maria, Nordqvist Rasmus, Novakov Andrey, Nykiel Mirosława, Ódor Ľudovít, Oetjen Jan-Christoph, Ohisalo Maria, Oliveira João, Olivier Philippe, Omarjee Younous, Ó Ríordáin Aodhán, Orlando Leoluca, Ozdoba Jacek, Paet Urmas, Pajín Leire, Palmisano Valentina, Panayiotou Fidias, Papadakis Kostas, Papandreou Nikos, Pappas Nikos, Pascual de la Parte Nicolás, Patriciello Aldo, Paulus Jutta, Pellerin-Carlin Thomas, Penkova Tsvetelina, Pennelle Gilles, Peter-Hansen Kira Marie, Petrov Hristo, Picaro Michele, Picierno Pina, Picula Tonino, Piera Pascale, Pietikäinen Sirpa, Pimpie Pierre, Piperea Gheorghe, de la Pisa Carrión Margarita, Pokorná Jermanová Jaroslava, Polato Daniele, Polfjärd Jessica, Popescu Virgil-Daniel, Pozņaks Reinis, Prebilič Vladimir, Princi Giusi, Protas Jacek, Pürner Friedrich, Rackete Carola, Radtke Dennis, Ratas Jüri, Razza Ruggero, Rechagneux Julie, Regner Evelyn, Repasi René, Repp Sabrina, Ressler Karlo, Reuten Thijs, Riba i Giner Diana, Ricci Matteo, Riehl Nela, Ripa Manuela, Rodrigues André, Rougé André, Ruissen Bert-Jan, Ruotolo Sandro, Rzońca Bogdan, Saeidi Arash, Salini Massimiliano, Salis Ilaria, Sánchez Amor Nacho, Sanchez Julien, Sancho Murillo Elena, Saramo Jussi, Sardone Silvia, Satouri Mounir, Saudargas Paulius, Sbai Majdouline, Sberna Antonella, Schaldemose Christel, Schaller-Baross Ernő, Schenk Oliver, Scheuring-Wielgus Joanna, Schieder Andreas, Schilling Lena, Schneider Christine, Schnurrbusch Volker, Schwab Andreas, Scuderi Benedetta, Seekatz Ralf, Sell Alexander, Serrano Sierra Rosa, Sidl Günther, Sienkiewicz Bartłomiej, Sieper Lukas, Singer Christine, Sinkevičius Virginijus, Sjöstedt Jonas, Śmiszek Krzysztof, Smith Anthony, Smit Sander, Sokol Tomislav, Solier Diego, Solís Pérez Susana, Sommen Liesbet, Sonneborn Martin, Sorel Malika, Sousa Silva Hélder, Søvndal Villy, Squarta Marco, Staķis Mārtiņš, Stancanelli Raffaele, Steger Petra, Stier Davor Ivo, Storm Kristoffer, Stöteler Sebastiaan, Stoyanov Stanislav, Strack-Zimmermann Marie-Agnes, Strada Cecilia, Streit Joachim, Strik Tineke, Strolenberg Anna, Sturdza Şerban Dimitrie, Stürgkh Anna, Sypniewski Marcin, Szczerba Michał, Szydło Beata, Tamburrano Dario, Tânger Corrêa António, Tarquinio Marco, Târziu Claudiu-Richard, Tavares Carla, Tegethoff Kai, Teodorescu Georgiana, Teodorescu Måwe Alice, Terheş Cristian, Ter Laak Ingeborg, Terras Riho, Tertsch Hermann, Thionnet Pierre-Romain, Timgren Beatrice, Tinagli Irene, Tobback Bruno, Tobé Tomas, Tolassy Rody, Tomašič Zala, Tomaszewski Waldemar, Tomc Romana, Tonin Matej, Toom Jana, Topo Raffaele, Torselli Francesco, Tosi Flavio, Toussaint Marie, Tovaglieri Isabella, Tridico Pasquale, Trochu Laurence, Tsiodras Dimitris, Tudose Mihai, Turek Filip, Tynkkynen Sebastian, Ušakovs Nils, Vaidere Inese, Valchev Ivaylo, Vălean Adina, Valet Matthieu, Van Brempt Kathleen, Van Brug Anouk, van den Berg Brigitte, Vandendriessche Tom, Van Dijck Kris, Van Lanschot Reinier, Van Leeuwen Jessika, Vannacci Roberto, Van Sparrentak Kim, Varaut Alexandre, Vasconcelos Ana, Vasile-Voiculescu Vlad, Vautmans Hilde, Vedrenne Marie-Pierre, Ventola Francesco, Veryga Aurelijus, Vicsek Annamária, Vieira Catarina, Vigenin Kristian, Vilimsky Harald, Vincze Loránt, Vistisen Anders, Vivaldini Mariateresa, Volgin Petar, von der Schulenburg Michael, Vondra Alexandr, Vrecionová Veronika, Vázquez Lázara Adrián, Waitz Thomas, Walsh Maria, Walsmann Marion, Warborn Jörgen, Warnke Jan-Peter, Wąsik Maciej, Wawrykiewicz Michał, Wcisło Marta, Wechsler Andrea, Weimers Charlie, Werbrouck Séverine, Wiesner Emma, Wiezik Michal, Winkler Iuliu, Winzig Angelika, Wiseler-Lima Isabel, Wiśniewska Jadwiga, Wölken Tiemo, Wolters Lara, Yar Lucia, Yon-Courtin Stéphanie, Zacharia Maria, Zalewska Anna, Zan Alessandro, Zarzalejos Javier, Zdechovský Tomáš, Zdrojewski Bogdan Andrzej, Zijlstra Auke, Zingaretti Nicola, Złotowski Kosma

    Excused:

    Verheyen Sabine

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom announces upgrades to 21 state fish hatcheries to boost salmon populations

    Source: US State of California 2

    May 8, 2025

    What you need to know: California continues to support and build its salmon and trout populations, with new upgrades to 21 trout and salmon hatcheries.

    SACRAMENTO — Governor Newsom today announced that the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) is upgrading 21 fish hatcheries to boost the state’s salmon and trout populations and protect hatcheries from the impacts of climate change. The project helps build the California salmon and trout supply, which are central to the health of California’s biodiversity but also indigenous peoples, communities, and the state’s multimillion-dollar fishing industry.

    “Our salmon populations are not only an important part of our state’s biodiversity, but a rich component of our history and heritage. We have a responsibility to prepare for the future and protect the ecosystems and people whose well-being are connected to the continued success of these important species.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Over the past decade, state-operated hatcheries have experienced a host of climate-driven impacts, including reduced cold-water availability, increased disease outbreaks, emergency fish evacuations due to extreme weather events and wildfire threats, which caused temporary facility closures. These issues have strained hatchery operations and threaten CDFW’s ability to meet its fish production goals, including those for federally and state listed species.

    The “Climate Induced Hatcheries Upgrade Project” launched today was first funded with $15 million in emergency drought funding in 2021. Since that funding was allocated, CDFW has been working with leading hatchery and hydrology consultants to identify specific concerns with regard to water quality and quantity, fish rearing and water supply infrastructure and operational inefficiencies at the hatcheries. Consultants developed individual reports for each hatchery with recommendations and changes needed to address climate issues and provide reliable operations for the next 40 or more years.

    “As climate disruption continues to reshape California’s landscape, CDFW is committed to innovative action to support our state’s fisheries and the communities that depend on them,” said CDFW Director Charlton H. Bonham. “The Climate Induced Hatcheries Upgrade Project is a roadmap to ensure that our state-operated hatcheries can meet the challenges of the future while promoting ecological health and economic vitality.”
     
    Jay Rowan, CDFW Fisheries Branch Chief, said: “CDFW recognizes the important role our hatcheries play in species conservation and providing commercial and recreational fishing opportunities for Californians. Our hatcheries are on the front lines experiencing some of these rather dramatic changes in the environment that are impacting our operations. These upgrades and modernization efforts are key elements of the California Salmon Strategy for a Hotter, Drier Future.”

    Project Highlights

    The Climate Induced Hatcheries Upgrade Project included a thorough assessment of each hatchery’s water supply, fish-rearing infrastructure and operational efficiency.
    Key findings and proposed upgrades include:

    • Resilient Infrastructure: Replacement of aging plumbing and valving systems to prevent costly emergency repairs and ensure reliable operations into the future. Many state-operated hatcheries are more than 80 years old.
    • Enhanced Water Management and Treatment: Implementation of partial recirculating aquaculture systems, water treatment, and temperature management systems to reduce water demand and improve efficiency, while reducing pathogens that can cause disease.
    • Energy and Sustainability Innovations: Integration of advanced control systems and passive energy generation to minimize water use, operational costs and environmental impacts.
    • Climate-Driven Design: Infrastructure upgrades tailored to withstand more extreme climate events projected over the next 20 to 40 years, ensuring production remains sustainable.

    Supporting California’s salmon supply 

    Governor Newsom has worked with tribes, communities, and industry partners to help build and protect the state’s vital salmon populations.  Last year, Governor Newsom announced California’s first strategy to protect the iconic fish species for generations to come, through the California Salmon Strategy for a Hotter Drier Future.  In March 2024, Governor Newsom distributed $50 million in grants to support a diverse array of habitat restoration projects in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, McCloud River, and wetland and meadow projects statewide. And in August, as a result of the administration’s Klamath Restoration Project, a  collaboration between local, state, and tribal partners, fish began swimming freely again in the Klamath river for the first time in more than 100 years.

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    May 7, 2025

    News What you need to know: The State Board of Education voted today to approve funding to support 458 schools sites and build on the nation-leading community schools initiative, which provide families the resources and support they need to thrive, like health care…

    May 7, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced his nomination of three Court of Appeal Justices: Associate Justice Helen Zukin as Presiding Justice of the Second District Court of Appeal, Division Four, Judge Mark Hanasono as Associate Justice of the Second…

    May 7, 2025

    News What you need to know: California and 16 other states today filed a federal lawsuit accusing President Trump of unlawfully withholding billions of dollars approved by bipartisan majorities in Congress for electric vehicle charging infrastructure that would reduce…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Litter in the Mediterranean – E-000824/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission is aware of the study by its Joint Research Centre revealing that the deepest point of the Mediterranean Sea has a very high concentration of marine litter[1].

    The Marine Strategy Framework Directive[2] requires Member States to monitor and assess quantities and impacts of marine litter and take measures to reduce them so that they do not harm the coastal and marine environment. Under this directive, there is an agreed limit of 20 macro litter items per 100 metres of coastline[3]; threshold values for seafloor macro litter are being discussed with Member States.

    In addition, the EU Strategy for Plastics[4], the Single-Use Plastics Directive[5] and the Port Reception Facilities Directive[6] also aim to reduce marine litter from land and sea sources. The regulation on preventing plastic pellets losses to reduce microplastic pollution[7] proposed by the Commission in October 2023 will strengthen the legislative framework.

    The Zero Pollution Action Plan[8] sets a 50% reduction target for plastic litter at sea by 2030. According to the recent monitoring and outlook report[9] the EU is on track to meet the target.

    The Extended Producer Responsibility provisions are embodied in EU legislation, including the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation[10], to ensure that producers contribute to this goal.

    The EU also supports regional organisations[11], to combat marine litter and developing an ambitious global Treaty against plastic pollution.

    EU funds, such as Horizon Europe[12], the EU programme for the environment and climate action[13], and the European Maritime Fisheries and Aquaculture fund[14] finance activities against marine litter[15].

    These measures can be effective: a recent report showing that marine litter on the EU coastline is down by almost one-third.

    • [1]  26 715 items/km2, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0025326X25000852#bb0640
    • [2]  Directive 2008/56/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 June 2008 establishing a framework for community action in the field of marine environmental policy, OJ L 164, 25.6.2008, p. 19-40.
    • [3]  https://environment.ec.europa.eu/topics/marine-environment/descriptors-under-marine-strategy-framework-directive_en
      Communication from the Commission — Commission Notice on the threshold values set under the Marine Strategy Framework Directive 2008/56/EC and Commission Decision (EU) 2017/848, C/2024/1268, OJ C, C/2024/2078, 11.3.2024.
    • [4]  https://environment.ec.europa.eu/strategy/plastics-strategy_en
    • [5]  Directive (EU) 2019/904 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 5 June 2019 on the reduction of the impact of certain plastic products on the environment, OJ L 155, 12.6.2019, p. 1-19.
    • [6]  Directive (EU) 2019/883 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 April 2019 on port reception facilities for the delivery of waste from ships, amending Directive 2010/65/EU and repealing Directive 2000/59/EC, OJ L 151, 7.6.2019, p. 116-142.
    • [7]  Proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on preventing plastic pellet losses to reduce microplastic pollution, COM/2023/645 final.
    • [8]  https://environment.ec.europa.eu/strategy/zero-pollution-action-plan_en
    • [9]  https://environment.ec.europa.eu/strategy/zero-pollution-action-plan/zero-pollution-targets_en#:~:text=The%20Zero%20Pollution%20Monitoring%20and%20Outlook%20offers%20a,are%20likely%20to%20achieve%202030%20zero%20pollution%20targets
    • [10]  Regulation (EU) 2025/40 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 December 2024 on packaging and packaging waste, amending Regulation (EU) 2019/1020 and Directive (EU) 2019/904, and repealing Directive 94/62/EC, OJ L, 2025/40, 22.1.2025.
    • [11]  E.g. Barcelona Convention in the Mediterranean.
    • [12]  https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/funding/funding-opportunities/funding-programmes-and-open-calls/horizon-europe_en; https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/funding/funding-opportunities/funding-programmes-and-open-calls/horizon-europe_en
    • [13]  LIFE: Regulation (EU) 2021/783 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 29 April 2021 establishing a Programme for the Environment and Climate Action (LIFE), and repealing Regulation (EU) No 1293/2013, OJ L 172, 17.05.2021, p.53.
    • [14]  https://oceans-and-fisheries.ec.europa.eu/funding/emfaf_en
    • [15]  https://joint-research-centre.ec.europa.eu/jrc-news-and-updates/marine-litter-eu-coastline-down-almost-one-third-2025-02-04_en
    Last updated: 8 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Making use of the infrastructure that has been implemented in Greece and that can ensure the energy security of the EU – E-000579/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Between August 2022 to December 2024, the EU has reduced its natural gas demand by 18% compared to the average of the years 2017-2021, resulting in 175 billion cubic meters (bcm) of gas saved.

    As substantiated in the impact assessment of the Climate Target Plan 2040[1], the projections show 90 bcm of gaseous fuels (including biogas and biomethane) will still be used by 2050. Gaseous fuels will be part of our energy mix in the future but at a reduced level and in cleaner form, including biogas and biomethane.

    The Central and South-Eastern Europe Energy Connectivity (CESEC) High-Level Group is working on maximising the use of the Trans-Balkan Pipeline, which can significantly contribute to the regional diversification of supply.

    CESEC has been addressing barriers to its full use, notably gas quality, regulatory barriers (including tariffs) and market barriers. Through CESEC, the Commission follows the evolution of the Vertical Corridor while maintaining that maximised use of existing natural gas infrastructure should be a pre-condition to capacity developments.

    The EU-Türkiye High-Level Energy Dialogue was suspended in 2019 following Turkish unauthorised drilling activities in the East-Med region.

    The Commission and the High Representative presented a Joint Communication on EU-Türkiye relations[2] in November 2023 recommending that the High-Level Energy Dialogue be reopened, under strict conditions.

    In April 2024, EU Leaders underlined that the EU has a strategic interest in a stable and secure environment in the Eastern Mediterranean and in a cooperative and mutually beneficial relationship with Türkiye and tasked the Committee of the Permanent Representatives of the Governments of the Member States to the European Union (Coreper) to advance work on the recommendations of the Joint Communication in a phased, proportionate and reversible manner.

    • [1] SWD/2024/63 final (https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A52024SC0063).
    • [2] JOIN(2023) 50 final (https://enlargement.ec.europa.eu/joint-communication-european-council-state-play-eu-turkiye-political-economic-and-trade-relations-0_en).

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Hidden connections of more than 100 migratory marine species revealed in interactive map

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lily Bentley, Postdoctoral Research Fellow, School of the Environment, The University of Queensland

    Wirestock Creators/Shutterstock

    From the enormous blue whale to the delicate monarch butterfly, animals of all shapes and sizes migrate across the globe. These migrations connect distant habitats, from the tropics to the poles. They are also crucial to both the health of species making these epic journeys, and the habitats where they live.

    It is hard to visualise these epic, globe-spanning journeys and the habitats they connect. But an interactive map we developed, alongside an international team of scientists from the University of Queensland and Duke University and in partnership with the Global Ocean Biodiversity Initiative, can help.

    Known as Mico (Migratory Connectivity in the Ocean), this map is a valuable conservation tool that demonstrates just how connected our oceans are due to animal migration. It is freely available here, and has just been updated with our newly published research in Nature Communications. This research synthesises thousands of records of more than 100 species of birds, mammals, turtles and fish that connect almost 2,000 crucial habitats.

    Mico brings together the migratory movements of more than 100 migratory marine species, including the Arctic tern.
    Migratory Connectivity in the Ocean/Mico

    An evolving science

    Humans have contemplated animal migrations for millennia. Representations of and theories about these journeys are observable in Stone Age rock art and the writings of Ancient Greek philosophers. Indigenous peoples and local communities have also long relied upon and understood the seasonal movements of culturally important species.

    But for much of human history, identifying specific destinations of migratory species was an inexact science. This has started to change in recent decades, as scientists have developed and deployed animal-borne satellite tags which can record and transmit an animal’s location as it migrates.

    These tags can be very expensive to deploy and collect data from. They also require enormous investments of time and expertise. But they are crucial if we are to understand where migratory species go when they’re outside the range of normal human observations.

    Animal-borne satellite tags can be expensive, but are crucial for understanding where turtles and other migratory animals travel.
    NOAA/NMFS/Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center Blog

    The journeys of migratory species also span multiple jurisdictions. This means cooperation between countries is required to ensure they are protected.

    For example, many albatross species receive significant conservation investment at their nesting islands within national jurisdictions. But they are at high risk of being incidentally caught and killed or injured in longline fisheries operating in international waters.

    Synthesising more than 1,300 studies

    For our new study, we reviewed the literature on the movements of marine migratory species from 1990 to 2017. We synthesised the start and end points of migrations reported in more than 1,300 individual studies. These studies covered 109 marine species.

    This information was then aggregated to remove duplicate data and combine sites very near to each other (on a global scale) into one “metasite” to make it easier to display. Each data point is also linked to the study from which it comes. This means you can always find the work of the original team who tagged those animals.

    In synthesising the studies in this manner, we created an interactive map and downloadable dataset estimating the measured migratory connections of the global ocean.

    If you look up the green turtle map, for example, you can see just how much information there is for this highly-studied species. The red links show many tracked movements from breeding to foraging areas within each ocean basin.

    Sperm whales, on the other hand, are globally distributed – you can toggle on the species distribution in the top menu. But we only have information about connectivity for animals in the Atlantic and east Pacific oceans. You can see these sites on the map, mostly in North America and in the Mediterranean.

    Because researchers are yet to track animals in all parts of the globe, the map is missing some information about the migratory movements of key species in particular areas. We are planning updates as more information becomes available.

    Sperm whales are globally distributed, but Mico currently only captures their connectivity in the Atlantic and east Pacific oceans.
    Migratory Connectivity in the Ocean/Mico

    A tool for conservation

    This summary of migratory information is important for improving global conservation.

    Scientists have published many papers on migrations, both of single populations or species, and combining data about taxonomy from several different sources. But these can be difficult to keep up with for managers or policymakers who may not have time to engage with every single piece of emerging scientific literature.

    Our information can help identify stakeholders when planning or managing a conservation project. Many of these stakeholders may be across an ocean basin or even in a different hemisphere.

    The scientific synthesis we provide can help countries take more informed actions to achieve the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework’s target of conserving a “well-connected” 30% of terrestrial, inland water, coastal and marine areas by 2030. This is particularly true in the high seas, as a mechanism to implement protected areas outside of national waters is developed under the soon-to-be-ratified High Seas Treaty.

    Various seabirds, including the Amsterdam Albatross, are included in the new research.
    Sergey 402/Shutterstock

    In addition to sharing the enormous scope of work that has been conducted on the migration of large ocean animals over the last decades, our work has already fed into policy processes.

    For example, it has been used by seven United Nations conventions or organisations. We hope to formalise the role of our map as a node of the Convention on Migratory Species’ Atlas of Animal Migration at their next meeting in March 2026.

    More broadly, we hope this work will support better international collaboration to conserve our incredible oceanic migrants for years to come.

    Lily Bentley receives funding from a Queensland-Smithsonian Fellowship on understanding migratory connectivity of seabirds in the Great Barrier Reef. She has presented on the work discussed at policy fora including the Conference of Parties (COP) for the Convention on Biological Diversity and the Convention on Migratory Species. She works on the Migratory Connectivity in the Ocean (MiCO; mico.eco) system, which has been previously supported by the German International Climate Initiative (IKI) and UNEP-WCMC.

    Autumn-Lynn Harrison directs the Smithsonian’s National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute’s Migratory Connectivity Project, supported by a gift to the Smithsonian by ConocoPhillips. She is also a Partner Investigator on an Australian Research Council Discovery Grant for understanding migratory connectivity in the ocean.

    Daniel Dunn receives funding to support the development of the Migratory Connectivity in the Ocean (MICO) system from a grant to the Global Ocean Biodiversity Initiative (GOBI) from the International Climate Initiative (IKI), UNEP-WCMC, and from an Australian Research Council Discovery Project grant. The German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety (BMU) supports the IKI on the basis of a decision adopted by the German Bundestag.

    – ref. Hidden connections of more than 100 migratory marine species revealed in interactive map – https://theconversation.com/hidden-connections-of-more-than-100-migratory-marine-species-revealed-in-interactive-map-255972

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NEW SCHUMER ANALYSIS: TRUMP’S BUDGET PROPOSAL IS ALL-OUT ASSAULT ON FEDERAL PROGRAMS UPSTATE NY RELIES ON MOST, RAISING COSTS FOR SENIORS, FAMILIES, & SMALL BUSINESSES AND SLASHING CRITICAL INVESTMENT…

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Charles E Schumer

    Trump Just Released His “Skinny Budget” Blueprint Of Next Year’s Spending – And It Completely Zeroes Out And Slashes Many Of The Programs Most Important To Communities From Albany, To Buffalo, To Watertown, To Westchester  

    Schumer Data Shows Upstate NY Families Would Lose BILLIONS – Ripping Away Support For Seniors & Families To Heat Their Homes In The Winter, Community Grants Our Cities Rely On For Economic Development, Decimating Support To Reduce Housing Costs, Ending Funding To Fight Opioid Crisis, Slashing Funding For Removing Lead Pipes, Cutting Support For Rural Air Service, & More

    Schumer: Trump’s Budget Is All-Out Assault On Upstate NY Families, Seniors & Communities

    After President Trump released his “skinny budget” plan for the next year, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer revealed how these devastating cuts would totally eliminate and slash many of the federal programs Upstate NY relies on the most. Schumer is sounding the alarm on the most dangerous and severe of these cuts for Upstate NY, which could cost our seniors, families, local governments, and small businesses billions.

    “Trump’s budget proposal is an all-out assault on hardworking Upstate New York families and seniors and the programs our communities rely on most – from totally eliminating funding to help our seniors keep the heat on during cold winters, to slashing funding to fight the opioid crisis, to cutting funding for rural air service in the North Country, to decimating the CDBG and HOME grant programs that deliver tens of millions of dollars every year for cities from Buffalo to Rochester to Albany to reduce housing costs and create local jobs. The chaos and cruelty of these cuts to incredibly effective, popular and essential federal programs show no one is safe from government by chainsaw,” said Senator Schumer. “Donald Trump’s budget is dead on arrival in the Senate, and all NY House Republicans should stand up and be vocal against these cuts, which are so damaging to Upstate NY, and get them reversed and removed from this misguided budget proposal.”

    Schumer highlighted some of the most severe and alarming cuts proposed in Trump’s budget that would hit Upstate NY hardest:

    Totally Eliminates LIHEAP – Ripping Away Nearly $400 Million Per Year For NY Seniors & Families To Heat And Cool Their Homes

    Trump’s budget proposal completely eliminates all federal funding for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), zeroing out the funding. LIHEAP is the program that provides federal support to seniors & families to help pay their winter heating bills or summer cooling bills.

    Schumer said, “We all know Upstate winters can be harsh, and it is beyond cruel Trump could turn off the heat for thousands of seniors who rely on this program to stay safe and warm in their homes.”

    Last year, more than 1.8 million families across New York State received nearly $400 million in funding thanks to LIHEAP. A full county-by-county breakdown of New Yorkers receiving LIHEAP can be found HERE, with some of the largest counties highlighted below:

    Upstate NY Major Counties LIHEAP Benefits

    Counties

    Households

    Benefits

    Erie

    119,693

    $41.7 million

    Monroe

    65,920

    $19.7 million

    Onondaga

    41,559

    $15.1 million

    Oneida

    28,545

    $13.8 million

    Albany

    19,603

    $6.7 million

    Westchester

    34,060

    $3.3 million

    Broome

    20,166

    $9.6 million

    St. Lawrence

    13,940

    $8.6 million

    Cuts $4.2+ Billion for CDBG and HOME Grants, Eliminating the Programs – These Investments Are Some of the Main Tools Local Governments Use To Reduce Housing Costs And Revitalize Neighborhood

    Trump’s budget proposal eliminates the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships Programs. Schumer said CDBG and HOME have long been cornerstones of funding for building new housing to reduce costs and increase access, economic development, and community revitalization creating jobs for Upstate NY.

    Below is a breakdown of the CDBG and HOME funding levels Upstate NY communities are receiving for Fiscal Year 2025 that would be eliminated under the Trump budget proposal:

    Upstate CDBG and HOME Grant Breakdown

    Grantee

    2025 CDBG Award

    2025 HOME Award

    Total Combined

    State of New York

    $47,644,860

    $23,805,148

    $71,450,008

    Buffalo

    $13,103,636

    $3,092,955

    $16,196,591

    Rochester

    $8,068,072

    $2,316,840

    $10,384,912

    Syracuse

    $4,795,536

    $1,278,624

    $6,074,160

    Westchester County

    $4,646,543

    $1,027,065

    $5,673,608

    Yonkers

    $3,248,745

    $1,223,019

    $4,471,764

    Erie County

    $2,994,630

    $921,687

    $3,916,317

    Albany

    $3,043,143

    $857,575

    $3,900,718

    Rockland County

    $2,691,786

    $970,993

    $3,662,779

    Schenectady

    $2,050,241

    $1,187,096

    $3,237,337

    Monroe County

    $1,842,072

    $1,146,571

    $2,988,643

    Onondaga County

    $2,272,403

    $673,565

    $2,945,968

    Utica

    $2,320,311

    $590,075

    $2,910,386

    Orange County

    $1,645,340

    $1,110,380

    $2,755,720

    Niagara Falls

    $2,150,047

    $449,818

    $2,599,865

    Dutchess County

    $1,497,550

    $884,623

    $2,382,173

    Binghamton

    $1,790,607

    $442,780

    $2,233,387

    Mount Vernon

    $1,548,930

    $591,829

    $2,140,759

    New Rochelle

    $1,385,726

    $446,046

    $1,831,772

    Troy

    $1,725,397

    $0

    $1,725,397

    Union Town

    $1,253,674

    $390,411

    $1,644,085

    Tonawanda Town

    $1,592,983

    $0

    $1,592,983

    Amherst

    $625,669

    $838,600

    $1,464,269

    Jamestown

    $1,105,265

    $313,260

    $1,418,525

    Elmira

    $1,095,403

    $239,101

    $1,334,504

    Ends The Northern Border Regional Commission, Great Lakes Authority, and Economic Development Administration – Federal Investments Aimed Specifically At Spurring Economic Growth and Job Creation In Upstate NY

    Trump’s budget proposal would completely get rid of the Northern Border Regional Commission, which has delivered more than $48 million for 78 projects across Upstate NY since its creation, and the Great Lakes Authority which specifically benefit NY counties. These agencies provide targeted help for Upstate NY infrastructure, rural health care, child care access, workforce training, small business support, and community projects that otherwise would go unfunded. The Trump budget also eliminates the Economic Development Administration (EDA), which has delivered well over $320 million for New York State projects since 2018 alone. These EDA investments have created or supported nearly 40,000 New York jobs and spurred more than $4.4 billion in private investment.

    At the end of last year, the Economic Development Administration was reauthorized with wide bipartisan support. This bill that passed into law also reauthorized the Northern Border Regional Commission for another 5 years, increasing funding and expanding the critical grant program.

    1. The Northern Border Regional Commission includes: Cayuga, Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Fulton, Genesee, Greene, Hamilton, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Livingston, Madison, Montgomery, Niagara, Oneida, Orleans, Oswego, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, Schoharie, Seneca, St. Lawrence, Sullivan, Washington, Warren, Wayne, Wyoming and Yates counties.
    2. The Great Lakes Authority includes: Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Allegany, Erie, Niagara, Genesee, Wyoming, Jefferson, Orleans, Oswego, Wayne, Monroe, Cayuga, Lewis, Herkimer, Hamilton, Oneida, Seneca, Onondaga, Tompkins, Schuyler, Yates, Ontario, Madison, Cortland, Chemung, Steuben, Livingston, St. Lawrence, Franklin, Essex, and Clinton counties.

    Slashes $1 Billion For Fighting The Opioid Epidemic And Combating Addiction

    Trump’s budget slashes the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration’s (SAMSA) budget by over $1 billion, a nearly 15% reduction. This will make it harder for Upstate NY to fight the opioid epidemic reducing critical treatments and mental health care, especially rural programs that uniquely rely on this funding.

    New York State-based institutions received nearly $650 million in grant funding in FY2024. A 15% reduction would rip away nearly $100 million from NY’s efforts to combat the opioid epidemic.

    Devastating 40% Cut to NIH Funding – Harming Medical Research On Cancer, Alzheimer’s And More: Hurting Healthcare and Jobs In Upstate NY

    Trump’s budget slashes the National Institutes of Health budget by approximately $18 billion, a roughly 40% reduction. Every corner of New York is using this funding to study cures for cancer, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and other life-threatening diseases.

    Schumer said, “These extreme cuts will lead to layoffs in Upstate NY and make it more difficult for sick people to receive care, and set our country back decades in developing lifesaving medical treatment.”

    New York State institutions received more than $3.5 billion in grant funding in FY2024. A 40% reduction in the total NIH budget means that all of the money New York receives is at risk. Institutions could see millions of dollars ripped away for research efforts across NY. A full list of NIH grant recipients and federal funding awards can be found here.

    Examples of Upstate NIH Cut Subsidy Summary

    Recipient

    FY2024 Grants

    University of Rochester

    $187,470,266

    University at Buffalo

    $90,062,504

    Roswell Park Cancer Institute

    $48,999,339

    Albany Medical College

    $13,233,444

    University at Albany

    $11,007,516

    89% Slash For Federal Funds For Clean Drinking Water And Eliminating Lead Pipes

    Trump’s budget proposal cuts nearly $2.5 billion from the Drinking Water and Clean Water State Revolving Funds, amounting to an overall budget of $305 million which is a nearly 89% cut. The SRFs are one of the primary federal tools for municipalities to get low-cost financing for water and sewer infrastructure projects that ensures the water New Yorkers rely on is safe and clean.

    Schumer said, “Upstate NY has some of the oldest water infrastructure, and our cities like Buffalo and Troy have more lead pipes than most places in the country.  No amount of toxic lead exposure is safe for our children, and these cuts would leave communities high and dry when it comes to upgrading their water and sewage infrastructure.”

    According to the EPA, New York State received more than $368 million in funding from the Clean Water State Revolving Fund and nearly $294 million from the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund for a total of more than $662 million in FY2024. Under Trump’s proposed FY2026 funding levels, New York State would see a reduction of nearly $580 million.

    Cutting Rural Air Service Support For North Country Airports

    Trump’s budget proposal slashes funding for FAA’s Essential Air Service (EAS) program by 50%. The EAS provides federal support to bring air service to underserved & rural communities, and specifically all five of the North Country’s major airports. All of NY’s airports that rely on EAS are in the North Country: Ogdensburg, Massena, Plattsburgh, Watertown, and Adirondack Regional Airport.

    Cuts Funding For Programs That Help Seniors And People With Disabilities Pay Rent

    Trump’s budget proposal would consolidate funding for Tenant-Based Rental Assistance, Public Housing, Project-Based Rental Assistance, Housing for the Elderly, and Housing for Persons with Disabilities into a new State Rental Assistance Block Grant, cutting nearly $27 billion across these programs and foisting responsibility over these programs onto state and local governments, reducing their ability to help people in need. Over half a million New Yorkers rely on this assistance, the vast majority of whom are seniors, people with disabilities, and children. Schumer explained that as rent costs continue to go up across the country, the administration is slashing funding for rental assistance. 

    In FY2023, New York State received more than $7.4 billion across these programs that would not be consolidated into a new State Rental Assistance Block Grant and receive a massive cut of 42.8%. Below is a breakdown of funding for each program and how much would be allocated to New York State if Trump’s major cuts to the programs were to go through.

    NY State Rental Assistance Block Grant Breakdown

    Grant

    FY2023 Funding Levels

    Award Based on Proposed FY2026 HUD Funding Levels

    Amount Cut Based on Proposed FY2026 HUD Funding Levels

    Tenant-Based Rental Assistance

    $140,182,508

    $80,184,395

    $59,998,113

    Public Housing

    $5,239,042,468

    $2,996,732,292

    $2,242,310,176

    Project-Based Rental Assistance

    $1,907,344,837

    $1,091,001,247

    $816,343,590

    Housing for the Elderly

    $122,626,159

    $70,142,163

    $52,483,996

    Housing for Persons with Disabilities

    $14,109,993

    $8,070,916

    $6,039,077

    Total

     $7,423,305,965

    $4,246,131,012

    $3,177,174,953

    Cancels $1.3 Billion For NOAA- Essential To The Health Of Great Lakes & Weather Monitoring

    Trump’s budget proposal eliminates more than $1.3 billion for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) grants and research programs which uniquely support the Great Lakes, including programs which helps identify storm water infrastructure in need of upgrades to ensure community safety during extreme weather events.

    In addition, Trump wants to cancel $209 million for weather satellites and infrastructure critical for Upstate NY communities to get timely and accurate forecasts, and without could put safety at risk.

    Senator Schumer said, “Trump’s seismic cuts to the NOAA Great Lakes programs are the equivalent of wandering outside during a blizzard in Buffalo without a jacket. It’s not just dumb, it’s dangerous. NOAA Great Lakes scientists are how we monitor the health of Lake Erie, how we keep our waterways clean, how Western NY gets daily weather reports and this funding is one of our best tools for knowing when a lake effect snow will drop and how extreme it will be.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: GREAT DEAL FOR AMERICA: President Trump’s “Breakthrough” Trade Deal

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    In February, President Donald J. Trump promised “a great trade agreement” with the United Kingdom — and today he delivered with a “breakthrough” trade deal that expands market access, curbs non-tariff barriers, and levels the playing field for American exporters.
    Promises made, promises kept — and he’s just getting started.
    It’s the first such deal under President Trump’s transformational plan to liberate Americans from globalist trade policies that make foreign countries rich while Americans get robbed. It’s all part of President Trump’s vision of economic prosperity: fair trade, historic tax cuts, deregulation, and a manufacturing revival that will cement America’s new Golden Age for decades to come.
    Here’s what they’re saying:
    National Cattlemen’s Beef Association President Buck Wehrbein: “With this trade deal, President Trump has delivered a tremendous win for American family farmers and ranchers. For years, American cattle producers have seen the United Kingdom as an ideal partner for trade. Between our countries’ shared history, culture, and their desire for high-quality American beef, securing a trade agreement is a natural step forward. Thank you President Trump for fighting for American cattle producers.”
    Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper: “We sincerely thank President Trump and his trade negotiators for ensuring that American-made ethanol is an important part of the trade agreement announced today with the United Kingdom. While we are still awaiting the specific details of the agreement, we are excited about the prospects of expanded market access that will help boost our farm economy, while also delivering lower-cost, cleaner fuel to UK drivers.”
    International Dairy Foods Association President and CEO Michael Dykes, D.V.M.: “On behalf of America’s dairy processors and producers, IDFA applauds President Trump’s announcement today that the United States and the United Kingdom have reached the terms for a significant trade deal between our two markets that promises to expand access for U.S. agricultural goods, reduce tariffs, and remove barriers to trade … For too long, the UK has limited America’s food and agricultural exports to the world’s sixth largest economy and now President Trump’s deal promises to level the playing field. IDFA looks forward to studying the details of this agreement as they emerge, especially specifics on relief and new market access opportunities for U.S. dairy products. The United States offers the world’s most wholesome, high-quality and affordable dairy products and IDFA is excited to work with our member companies to bring these delicious products to more consumers in the United Kingdom.”
    Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor: “In terms of trade with the UK, the American ethanol industry had its best year ever last year of exports valued at over $535 million. This trade agreement puts us on track to set another record, all to the benefit of American farmers, biofuel producers, and UK consumers. We look forward to learning more, and finding new ways to help the UK achieve its economic and environmental goals through the increased use of American biofuels. We commend the President and his team for making this deal and creating new opportunities for American ethanol and rural America.”
    Job Creators Network CEO Alfredo Ortiz: “Trump’s trade deal with the United Kingdom is a big victory for small businesses, American consumers, and the Trump administration itself. By reducing tariffs and trade barriers, American small businesses will be able to expand their markets and more easily sell to the relatively wealthy UK, whose population is 70 million. American consumers — including small businesses — will also get cheaper access to British goods. President Trump’s tough tariff stance is starting to pay dividends in the form of fairer and freer trade deals that put America first. The many more deals to come will greatly improve the small business economy, financial markets, and American prosperity.”
    Consumer Brands Association President and CEO Melissa Hockstad: “Consumer Brands commends the Trump administration’s successful completion of a comprehensive trade deal with the United Kingdom. As President Trump and his team pursues the America First Trade Policy agenda, the consumer packaged goods industry — America’s largest domestic manufacturing sector by employment — supports the creation of new opportunities for U.S. businesses and efforts to address unfair trade barriers around the world. As the administration continues to pursue deals with other countries, we encourage U.S. trade representatives to examine the needs of different manufacturing sectors and prioritize maintaining access to unavailable natural resources. Ensuring continued trade flows of those key ingredients, which are not available from U.S. sources, is critical to achieving the president’s economic vision, fighting grocery inflation and protecting the 22.3 million American jobs supported by food, beverage, household and personal care manufacturers.”
    HSBC USA President & CEO Lisa McGeough: “Today’s landmark US – UK trade agreement marks a significant step in strengthening transatlantic economic ties and expanding opportunities for businesses and investors. As a British-headquartered bank with a strong US footprint, we’re uniquely positioned to help American companies and investors seize new growth opportunities domestically, in the UK, and beyond. In the US, we stand ready to leverage our position as the world’s leading trade bank to facilitate cross-border commerce, support job creation, and drive investment. We commend the administration on the first of what we hope will be many forward-looking trade agreements.”
    American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall: “Farm Bureau appreciates the work between the administration and the United Kingdom to secure a new trade agreement. We have long advocated for new trade deals, and this is an important first step in expanding markets in the four countries … We’re encouraged by progress to create market opportunities for farmers.”
    Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen: “Trade matters to Nebraska because our farmers and ranchers produce the absolute best – and feed the world. America’s relationship with the U.K. is longstanding, and there is great potential for expanded trade between our countries. President Trump and his administration know that we need more trade with fewer barriers, and they are working around the clock to finalize trade deals with partners across the globe. That’s good news for Nebraska.”
    Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig: “A new trade deal with a key ally like the United Kingdom is great news and so I am very encouraged by President Trump’s announcement today. I am particularly pleased to hear the President tout expanded market access for ethanol, beef, and, as he put it, ‘virtually all the products produced by our great farmers’ … Today’s trade announcement demonstrates that there is real progress being made toward opening additional markets for Iowa products across the globe. I hope this deal is the first of many that will be announced with other trading partners in the coming weeks and months.”
    Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso: “It’s good to have the dealmaker-in-chief back in the White House. President Trump’s historic trade deal with the U.K. will mean more jobs and increased investment right here in America. More promises kept.”
    Sen. Jim Banks: “Art of the Deal!”
    Sen. John Boozman: “I just spoke on the phone with USTR Ambassador Greer to discuss the good news. He’s doing a great job, and I look forward to working with him and @SecRollins to ensure agriculture market access remains a priority as the details continue to be worked out.”
    Sen. John Cornyn: “@POTUS Donald Trump will unveil his first post-Liberation Day trade deal this morning — a “major” agreement with the United Kingdom on rolling back tariffs.”
    Sen. Joni Ernst: “President Trump continues to deliver and is opening new markets for Iowa farmers!”
    Sen. Bill Hagerty: “No surprise that our Dealmaker-in-Chief President Donald Trump is rapidly delivering on his promise to ensure our trading partners are operating in good faith and that America is being treated fairly. The deal the President struck with the UK is proof that countries are responding to tariffs and want to enter into trade agreements with the United States that benefit both parties. I look forward to many more announcements in the near future.”
    Sen. Roger Marshall: “Promises made. Promises kept. We are opening up new markets for our world class Kansas beef! Big win.”
    Sen. Jerry Moran: “The UK offers a strategic market for American aviation & agricultural products. I introduced legislation earlier this year to lay the groundwork for a strong bilateral trade relationship, & President Trump’s announcement of a new trade agreement with the UK is a positive step forward.”
    Sen. Bernie Moreno: “An absolutely historic pro America deal by the most pro America President of my lifetime. We will no longer be ripped off and will no longer tolerate trade imbalances that have destroyed the opportunities for working Americans.”
    Sen. Eric Schmitt: “After years of getting ripped off, America is finally playing to win. More exports, more products made here, and record-breaking investment thanks to President Trump’s trade deals.”
    Sen. Rick Scott: “Great news! Thank you, President Trump, for working with our allies while putting America first and protecting American jobs!”
    Sen. Tim Sheehy: “The Art of the Deal. President Trump just delivered a huge win for hardworking Americans. Let’s keep them coming!”
    Sen. Thom Tillis: “A big win secured by @POTUS with the United Kingdom, our greatest ally and one of our largest trade partners. This is a significant step toward establishing fair and mutually beneficial trade relationships with our global partners.”
    Sen. Tommy Tuberville: “Today’s trade deal with the UK is the first of many to come. Like I always say: Never bet against @realDonaldTrump. THE ART OF THE DEAL”
    House Majority Whip Tom Emmer: “The master negotiator succeeds again. @POTUS promised to bring our trading partners to the table and secure deals that put AMERICA FIRST—and that’s exactly what he did. More to come!”
    House Republican Conference Chair Lisa McClain: “Promises Made, Promises KEPT! @POTUS brought countries to the negotiation table and has already DELIVERED a historic trade deal.”
    House Republican Leadership Chair Elise Stefanik: “President @realDonaldTrump delivers AGAIN. Thanks to his bold leadership and tough tariffs, the UK is the first to come to the table—with a new trade deal that puts American workers and businesses FIRST. This is what economic strength and real leadership looks like. Fair trade. Better deals. America wins.”
    Rep. Mark Alford: “Fact check: President Trump’s tariff strategy works. Boosting American manufacturing and fighting for our farmers. ANOTHER WIN FOR AMERICA.”
    Rep. Rick Allen: “Another VICTORY! @POTUS is bringing our trading partners to the table and securing billions in new market access for American workers, businesses, and producers. Today’s trade deal with the U.K. will be the first of many. Economic strength is national strength!”
    Rep. Don Bacon: “I congratulate @POTUS on striking a trade deal with the U.K. While we wait for the finer details of the agreement, including more than $700 million in ethanol exports and $250 million in other AG products like beef, every Nebraskan will surely feel it.”
    Rep. Aaron Bean: “President Trump announced the first historic trade deal with the UK—something the legacy media said was ‘impossible.’ Today’s deal will make our economy stronger, put American workers first, and unleash the full potential of American industry.”
    Rep. Vern Buchanan: “President Trump has once again delivered for the American people with a historic trade agreement that puts our workers and businesses first. This new deal with the United Kingdom dramatically expands access for American exports—especially agriculture—and levels the playing field for our manufacturers.”
    Rep. Tim Burchett: “.@realDonaldTrump is fulfilling his promise to protect American workers and businesses. The UK trade deal slashes tariffs against the U.S. and is Making America Prosperous Again.”
    Rep. Buddy Carter: “This new trade deal with the United Kingdom is just the start to the Golden Age of America. President Trump is keeping his promise, bringing fair trade to America by using the art of the deal!”
    Rep. Andrew Clyde: “ART OF THE DEAL in action!”
    Rep. Mike Collins: “President Trump’s tariff strategy works. Today’s trade deal with the U.K. will make our economy stronger and put American workers first. The only people upset are the Democrats and liberal media who wanted him to fail.”
    Rep. Warren Davidson: “A glaring example of why we need to trust President Trump’s tariff strategy—it’s working. Stay the course.”
    Rep. Pat Fallon: “Another day, another deal!”
    Rep. Michelle Fischbach: “More promises made and kept by @POTUS. He said he would hold our trade partners accountable and put America first, and he’s delivering. This is just the beginning!”
    Rep. Julie Fedorchak: “@POTUS is delivering exactly what our producers need. North Dakota grows and raises some of the best products in the world, and now we have greater access to one of the world’s largest markets. This is just the first of many trade victories to come under President Trump!”
    Rep. Chuck Fleischmann: “@POTUS is ending decades of unfair trade deals that have ripped off the American People and is moving at lightning speed to negotiate and deliver America First trade deals. The US-UK trade deal announced today is historic and is only just the beginning!”
    Rep. Mike Flood: “Over the last four years, President Biden did nothing on trade. Within a matter of months, President Trump’s dealmaking experience resulted in a trade deal with the United Kingdom, one of our country’s oldest allies.”
    Rep. Virginia Foxx: “The Art of The Deal.”
    Rep. Lance Gooden: “In four years, Joe Biden signed ZERO major trade deals. In just over 100 days, President Trump negotiated and signed a major trade deal with the United Kingdom. America is leading once again.”
    Rep. Mark Green: “Once again, the Negotiator-in-Chief is closing deals to safeguard American manufacturers and grow our trade bigger and better than ever. On Victory in Europe Day, there isn’t a better anniversary to solidify our partnership with the United Kingdom.”
    Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene: “Another incredible trade deal just secured by President Trump! The Golden Age of America is here!!”
    Rep. Diana Harshbarger: “This is a HUGE WIN! Because of @POTUS’s leadership, America is securing historic economic deals—and this is just the beginning!”
    Rep. Ashley Hinson: “Huge win—and many more to come! @POTUS is fighting to right the wrongs of the past, return to fair trade, and build a more abundant America. Thank you for prioritizing new market opportunities for Iowa’s farmers and biofuels producers.”
    Rep. Richard Hudson: “This is what decisive leadership looks like. Thank you, @POTUS!”
    Rep. Wesley Hunt: “Economic Security IS National Security — and PRESIDENT TRUMP is doing it again! This HISTORIC DEAL delivers:A stronger industrial baseTougher export controlsProtection of U.S. techBoosted steel productionThis is the Art of the Deal — the world is taking notes!”
    Rep. Jim Jordan: “President Trump’s trade deal with the UK is the first of many to come. There’s no better negotiator. There’s no one better to fix Joe Biden’s broken economy.”
    Rep. Young Kim: “I’m glad to see the Trump administration work with our ally Britain to promote fair trade and expand market opportunity for U.S. agricultural producers.”
    Rep. David Kustoff: “Today, @POTUS unveiled a historic U.S.-UK trade deal. $5B in new market access, $6B in tariff revenue, and a stronger alliance! @realdonaldtrump keeps delivering on his promises! This is America First!”
    Rep. Barry Loudermilk: “America has spent far too long on the losing end of global trade. President Trump pledged to put America’s interests first, and he is doing so beginning with this trade deal with one of our oldest allies. #promiseskept.”
    Rep. Tom McClintock: “The freer the trade, the greater the benefits for all countries involved. The UK agreement takes us in the right direction. Let’s keep going toward a new golden age of global free trade and the peace and prosperity it produces.”
    Rep. Dan Meuser: “This is a strong step forward. Fairer trade, lower energy costs, and pro-growth tax policies will keep driving investment here at home. I also laid out how we can responsibly reduce spending while extending key provisions of President Trump’s Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which delivered significant benefits for families and small businesses.”
    Rep. Mary Miller: “THE ART OF THE DEAL!”
    Rep. Riley Moore: “Absolute genius to announce this deal on V-E Day!”
    Rep. Troy Nehls: President Trump is the Dealmaker in Chief. He has reached a historic trade deal with the United Kingdom. President Trump and his entire administration are working hard to protect American industries, protect American workers, and grow our economy. AMERICA FIRST!”
    Rep. Ralph Norman: “MASSIVE win for our farmers who will have the opportunity for a wider range in markets!! Art of the deal.”
    Rep. Andy Ogles: “President Trump delivers again!! This deal will bring billions home and make America stronger, richer, and more respected. A huge win for the American people.”
    Rep. Gary Palmer: A win for our nation secured by President Trump! This is what it looks like to have leadership in the White House.”
    Rep. August Pfluger: “President Trump just secured a huge trade deal—one I believe will be the first of many. This massive win for all Americans brings us one step closer to restoring fair trade policies.”
    Rep. Adrian Smith: “I’m pleased the Trump administration has struck an initial trade deal with one of our nation’s greatest trade partners and longest-standing allies. This is a significant step toward eliminating barriers to American products in foreign markets and friendshoring supply chains. I commend President Trump and his administration for conducting negotiations swiftly to the mutual benefit of our producers, job creators, and consumers. This agreement builds upon the groundwork laid in the President’s first term, and I am pleased the administration has indicated it continues to pursue dynamic dialogue with the United Kingdom to address additional concerns.”
    Rep. Marlin Stutzman: “As @POTUS says, the first of many, this is a great day for America! A combination of Trump’s trade deals and the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill will make our country strong for generations to come.”
    Rep. Claudia Tenney: “.@POTUS is continuing to put America FIRST, working to strengthen our economy & national security by achieving historic trade deals. This is a huge win for American manufacturers & farmers, & there is only more winning to come!”
    Rep. Beth Van Duyne: “The first of many historic trade deals!! Better market access for US products!”
    Rep. Daniel Webster: Once again, @POTUS delivers for the American people by securing a historic trade deal with our key ally, the United Kingdom. This agreement lowers trade barriers, opening $5 billion of increased market access for American exports, especially for American farmers. Thank you President Trump for putting America’s farmers, businesses, and workers first!”
    Rep. Tony Wied: “The Art of the Deal.”
    Rep. Rudy Yakym: “President Trump is bringing countries to the table and securing fair trade deals. The first of many!”
    Rep. Ryan Zinke: “Great news for Montana! The UK is our 6th largest trade partner and this will help that grow!”
    House Committee on Agriculture: “This announcement is a big win for American agriculture! @POTUS is unlocking billions in new market access for U.S. exports like beef, ethanol, and more—boosting our GREAT farmers and rural economies!”
    Republican Study Committee: “Another day, another historic deal secured by President Trump! This is a MASSIVE victory for American workers. PROMISES MADE, PROMISES KEPT!”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Alberta has long accused Ottawa of trying to destroy its oil industry. Here’s why that’s a dangerous myth

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Ian Urquhart, Professor Emeritus, Political Science, University of Alberta

    “Alberta is a place soaked in self-deception.” Those words began Alberta-based journalist Mark Lisac’s 2004 book aimed at shattering the myths that have unhelpfully animated too much of Alberta’s politics over the past few decades.

    Current and former Alberta politicians are once again embracing and treating separatist grievances seriously. That means it’s time once again to highlight and challenge political misconceptions that have the potential to destroy Canada.

    Oil is the root of one such myth. The misconception? That Ottawa perenially opposes the oil and gas sector and is determined to stop its continued growth. The National Energy Program (1980), the Northern Gateway pipeline project (2016), the Energy East Pipeline (2017) and the proposed greenhouse gas pollution cap allegedly prove Ottawa’s hostility.

    Notably missing from these grievances is the Keystone XL pipeline and the Trans Mountain Expansion Project. Ottawa supported these projects aimed at transporting Alberta oilsands crude to foreign markets. The federal government even purchased the Trans Mountain project from Kinder Morgan in 2018 — not to kill it, but to build it.



    Read more:
    Justin Trudeau’s risky gamble on the Trans Mountain pipeline

    As for Keystone XL, Alberta Premier Jason Kenney thanked Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for supporting the project. This doesn’t fit the separatist narrative, so it’s largely ignored.

    Oilsands booster

    No one should dispute the National Energy Program’s devastating impact on Alberta’s conventional oil and gas sector 40 years ago. But the oilsands, not conventional oil, propelled Canada to its position as the world’s fourth largest oil producer.

    Has Ottawa facilitated or obstructed the spectacular post-1990 growth of oilsands production?

    The record shows that, since the mid-1970s, Ottawa has facilitated and supported the oilsands sector. The federal government helped keep the Syncrude project alive in 1975 when it took a 15 per cent interest in Canada’s second oilsands operation.

    Ironically, Ottawa’s enthusiasm for more, not less, petroleum from the oilsands also appeared in 1980 via the National Energy Program (NEP), the devil in Alberta’s conservative catechism. What most accounts of the NEP don’t mention is that Ottawa offered tax benefits to oilsands companies while stripping them from conventional oil producers.

    Furthermore, the NEP’s “made-in-Canada” pricing effectively guaranteed Syncrude would receive the world price for its production. At $38 per barrel, Syncrude received more than double what conventional producers received. If the NEP was harsh on conventional oil producers, it helped create a golden future for the oil sands.

    In the mid-1990s, Ottawa helped propel the post-1995 oilsands boom. The industry-dominated National Task Force on Oil Sands Strategies sought federal tax concessions to promote oilsands growth. The federal government delivered them in its 1996 budget, despite Prime Minister Jean Chretien’s general concern with cutting the deficit.

    Again, these measures clearly contradict the myth of federal opposition to the oil industry.

    Generous emissions caps

    Ottawa’s policy favouritism towards the oilsands didn’t end there. It has consistently animated the federal government’s treatment of the oilsands in its climate change policies.

    The federal Climate Change Plan for Canada (2002) treated oil and gas leniently. Its measures for large industrial emitters bore a striking resemblance to the climate change policy preferences of the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers. Suncor and Syncrude, the two leading oilsands producers, estimated these federal proposals would add a pittance, between 20 and 30 cents, to their per barrel production costs.

    Justin Trudeau’s response to Alberta’s 2015 oilsands emissions cap also underlined Ottawa’s favouritism, not hostility, to the dominant player in Canada’s oil patch.

    Rachel Notley’s NDP government set this cap at 100 million tonnes of GHG per year, plus another 10 million tonnes allowed to new upgrading and co-generation facilities. This cap was a whopping 39 million tonnes or 55 per cent higher than what the oilsands emitted in 2014.

    This generous cap contributed to a tremendous increase in oilsands production. Healthy profits became record profits in 2022. Ottawa embraced Alberta’s largesse, incorporating the province’s cap into its post-2015 climate policies.

    Furthermore, Ottawa increased its leniency towards the oilsands by exempting new in-situ (non-mining) oilsands projects in Alberta from the federal Impact Assessment Act. This exemption applies until Alberta’s emissions cap is reached. Canada’s latest National Inventory Report on greenhouse gas emissions reported record oilsands GHG emissions of 89 million tonnes in 2023, still 11 million tonnes shy of the 100 million tonne threshold.

    Weaponizing myths

    Finally, we have today’s proposed national cap on greenhouse gas emissions. Alberta is apoplectic about the cap. But whether or not it’s intentional, Premier Danielle Smith’s outrage feeds into secessionist sentiment by seemingly misrepresenting the cap’s impact on oil and gas production.

    Smith and her environment minister use the work of the Parliamentary Budgetary Officer (PBO) to nurture their “Ottawa hates oil” narrative. They claim the officer’s analysis of the cap’s economic impact showed it “will cut oil and gas production by five per cent, or more than 245,000 barrels per day.”

    This is simply not true.

    In fact, the PBO concluded that, with the cap, oilsands production “is projected to remain well above current levels” — 15 per cent higher than in 2022. The proposed federal emissions cap, like the Alberta NDP’s cap of a decade ago, is higher than current oilsands emissions levels. The PBO concluded the proposed ceiling for oilsands emissions would be six per cent higher than 2022 emissions.

    Ottawa’s proposed cap, in fact, continues its decades-long support of the oilsands.

    Myths are central to our being. When I tell my grandsons about the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, I hope to inspire curiosity, imagination and interest in their grandmother’s Irish heritage.

    But in politics, fanciful stories can be dangerous. Some weaponize myths, using the fictions at their core to encourage followers to let falsehoods rule their behaviour. That seems to be playing out yet again in Alberta. We must demand better from the political class.

    Ian Urquhart does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Alberta has long accused Ottawa of trying to destroy its oil industry. Here’s why that’s a dangerous myth – https://theconversation.com/alberta-has-long-accused-ottawa-of-trying-to-destroy-its-oil-industry-heres-why-thats-a-dangerous-myth-255908

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Magaziner Defends NOAA, Rhode Island Fishermen During House Natural Resources Committee Markup Debate

    Source: US Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Yesterday, U.S. Rep. Seth Magaziner (RI-02) led in Democrats’ defense of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) during the Natural Resources Committee markup of the House Republicans’ sweeping reconciliation tax bill, which proposes deep cuts to programs that Rhode Island’s fishermen and coastal communities depend on, in order to pay for tax cuts for the rich.

    The proposal includes deep cuts to NOAA, which plays a critical role in protecting national security by supplying data for military decision making, collects information on fish stocks that the livelihoods of Rhode Island fishermen depend on, and provides weather data used by meteorologists, farmers, and countless other Americans.

    House Republicans are attempting to pass a package of tax cuts expected to predominantly benefit the wealthy and big corporations, through a process called reconciliation that requires offsetting cuts to federal programs. Democratic members of the Natural Resources Committee submitted amendments to the legislation, with Magaziner proposing amendments to reverse all proposed cuts to NOAA in the bill, and to ensure that all NOAA services and operations that support military readiness are preserved – both of which were blocked by the Republican majority.

    “The House Natural Resources Committee should work together on a bipartisan basis to create good-paying clean energy jobs, support Rhode Island’s fishermen and growing coastal economy, and invest in national parks – a source of pride for our nation,” said Magaziner. “Instead, Republicans in the majority are pushing a partisan bill that guts critical programs like NOAA—not to help working people, but to hand out more tax breaks to billionaires and provide giveaways to Big Oil. The people of Rhode Island deserve better.”

    Magaziner also spoke out against proposed Republican funding cuts targeting national parks and environmental protection, as well as the proposed return of noncompetitive leasing in federal oil and gas lease sales. 

    You can view or download Rep. Magaziner’s opening remarks from this week’s committee markup here. 

    BACKGROUND 

    In Rhode Island, NOAA supports a fishing and aquaculture industry that supports thousands of jobs, provides lifesaving weather forecasting, and funds research that strengthens the state’s coastal economy and conservation of ocean resources.

    Despite its critical mission, NOAA has become a primary target of the Trump administration and Elon Musk’s DOGE. Since January, NOAA has faced an unprecedented wave of political interference: censorship of climate research, purging of expert staff, the shutdown of oversight committees, and forced layoffs. Just last week, the Trump Administration sent an agency-wide email announcing that it has eliminated 1,000 NOAA employees with over 27,000 years of collective experience. 

    Last month, Magaziner led House Natural Resources Committee Democrats in a congressional forum on the devastating impact of cuts to NOAA, highlighting how mass layoffs and facility closures at the agency hurt Rhode Island’s coastal economy and national security interests.

    The forum brought together voices from the fishing industry, environmental advocacy, and public service at the nation’s capital—including Sarah Schumann, a Rhode Island commercial fisher and Director of the Fishery Friendly Climate Action Campaign—to testify on the impact of Trump Administration cuts to NOAA.

    Previously, Magaziner hosted a roundtable in Providence to hear from Rhode Island fishing, aquaculture, environmental, and conservation leaders about their concerns surrounding a weakened NOAA.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Disaster Alert: Reed Warns Trump’s Efforts to Dismantle NOAA Threatens Economy, People, & Environment

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed

    WASHINGTON, DC – As hurricane season approaches, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) is leading Senate colleagues in sounding the alarm about President Trump’s attacks on the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the National Weather Service (NWS) and urging bipartisan action to protect the critical agency from privatization.  

    Every day, NOAA employees collect, analyze, and freely disseminate vast amounts of data through its National Weather Service – vital information all Americans count on.  American commerce – particularly the transportation sector – relies heavily on federal weather forecasts, flooding predictions, hurricane and storm alerts, air temperature readings, nautical charts, and other scientific data.  The research, services, and forecasts provided by these federal agencies is essential for everything from accurately predicting the next severe weather front to supporting farmers and fishermen to scientifically assessing the long-term costs of extreme weather events linked to climate change.

    In a letter to Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, Senator Reed led U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chris Coons (D-DE), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ed Markey (D-MA) in pointing to a new public letter released this week by five former Weather Service directors. The Senators say it offers an early warning on how the Trump Administration’s cuts to staff and programs could lead to “needless loss of life.”

    “On May 2, five former NWS Directors – who served under both Republican and Democratic administrations – wrote a letter expressing alarm that the NWS is operating at a dangerous staffing deficit, with more than 10% of its workforce lost in recent months due to the Trump Administration’s reckless buyouts and mass firings,” the Senators wrote.  “These massive staffing cuts, combined with the Trump Administration’s proposal to slash funding for the NWS’s parent agency – the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration – by 25%, led these Directors to conclude that their “worst nightmare is that weather forecast offices will be so understaffed that there will be needless loss of life.””

    In his preliminary budget request, President Trump called for a $1.5 billion cut to NOAA programs, including a $209 million cut for NOAA’s weather satellites which help to ensure accurate weather forecasting is available to Americans. 

    In their letter, the five Senators called on Secretary Lutnick to “reverse course on the Trump Administration’s staffing and funding cuts, which will prevent the National Weather Service (NWS) from being fully prepared and operational.”

    According to NWS, its employees collect over six billion weather observations every day, monitor local conditions through a host of field offices across the nation, issue daily forecasts, and circulate warnings before dangerous weather events. NWS provides the public with forecasts and alerts free of charge. Private companies like AccuWeather, Google, and Apple also rely on NOAA’s observational data and satellites, buoys, and weather sensors to power their own weather products.

    The Senators say that President Trump’s proposed cuts, paired with the administration’s efforts to significantly downsize NOAA and NWS, is already upending the agency’s ability to promptly alert and prepare Americans for imminent and dangerous severe weather events.

    “Forecasters at Colorado State University have predicted an “above-average” 2025 hurricane season, with an estimated nine hurricanes, four of which are expected to reach Category 3 status or stronger,” the Senators continued.  “Understaffed forecast offices mean longer wait times for critical alerts, slower radar maintenance, and a reduction in the high level of accuracy the public has come to rely upon. Any degradation in service risks loss of life, economic disruption, and long-term damage to public trust in our nation’s ability to prepare for and respond to extreme weather.”

    Earlier this year, the so-called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) either fired or pushed out more than 10 percent of NOAA’s workforce, including top meteorologists and researchers who are charged with providing the public with accurate, life-saving weather reports and data. The Administration is reportedly working on further diminishing NOAA’s workforce by another 10 percent.

    According to data obtained by the Associated Press, nearly half of all NWS forecast offices are now critically understaffed. Due to these shortages, NWS meteorologists are reportedly being forced to forego important surveys of storm damage that help inform and improve future forecasts and warnings.

    While researchers, scientists, and experts point to a connection between climate change and worsening extreme storms, the Trump Administration is reportedly planning to propose eliminating NOAA’s research office and cutting NOAA research funding by 74 percent. It is anticipated that cuts to NOAA climate programs and activities will also have impacts on the collection of key weather data.  

    In March, Senator Reed called attention to the Trump Administration’s staffing cuts at NOAA and NWS and warned about negative impacts for Rhode Islanders. And last fall, Senator Reed sounded the alarm about Project 2025’s extremist plan to dismantle NOAA, which it labelled “one of the main drivers of the climate change alarm industry.”  Reed warned plans to gut the National Weather Service and emergency management would be a major disaster.

    Full text of the letter follows:

    May 8, 2025

    The Honorable Howard Lutnick, Secretary

    U.S. Department of Commerce

    1401 Constitution Ave NW

    Washington, D.C. 20230

    Dear Secretary Lutnick:

    As we approach the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, which begins on June 1, we write to demand you reverse course on the Trump Administration’s staffing and funding cuts, which will prevent the National Weather Service (NWS) from being fully prepared and operational.

    The NWS and its employees play a critical role in protecting lives, property, and our national economy. From issuing tornado and hurricane warnings to providing essential weather information for aviation, shipping, agriculture, and emergency response, the NWS is integral to Americans’ daily lives. Its employees include highly trained meteorologists, technicians, and support staff who work hard to deliver life-saving data all across the United States.

    On May 2, five former NWS Directors – who served under both Republican and Democratic administrations – wrote a letter expressing alarm that the NWS is operating at a dangerous staffing deficit, with more than 10% of its workforce lost in recent months due to the Trump Administration’s reckless buyouts and mass firings. These massive staffing cuts, combined with the Trump Administration’s proposal to slash funding for the NWS’s parent agency – the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration – by 25%, led these Directors to conclude that their “worst nightmare is that weather forecast offices will be so understaffed that there will be needless loss of life.”

    Forecasters at Colorado State University have predicted an “above-average” 2025 hurricane season, with an estimated nine hurricanes, four of which are expected to reach Category 3 status or stronger. Understaffed forecast offices mean longer wait times for critical alerts, slower radar maintenance, and a reduction in the high level of accuracy the public has come to rely upon. Any degradation in service risks loss of life, economic disruption, and long-term damage to public trust in our nation’s ability to prepare for and respond to extreme weather.

    We urge you to provide a detailed plan on how you will ensure that this critical agency has the staffing and resources it needs to ensure Americans are safe heading into this hurricane season. We look forward to your prompt response to this important matter.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Kemp Signs Legislation Delivering Hurricane Helene Relief and Supporting Georgia Agriculture and Forestry

    Source: US State of Georgia

    ATLANTA – Governor Brian P. Kemp, joined by First Lady Marty Kemp, Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper, Georgia Forestry Commission Director Johnny Sabo, constitutional officers, and members of the Georgia General Assembly, signed three pieces of legislation that provides support for Georgia’s agriculture and forestry industry and delivers promised relief to farmers and timber producers impacted by Hurricane Helene.

    “Our farmers and foresters are tough people,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “Their commitment to moving forward after all they’ve faced is an inspiration to us all. There is still more work to be done, but I’m proud to sign these bills and deliver on our promises to the men and women who are the backbone of our state. I’m also grateful for the dedicated efforts of all of our partners in the General Assembly whose steadfast leadership and determination helped make today possible.”

    HB 223, a priority of Governor Brian Kemp, championed by Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones, Speaker Jon Burns, Commissioner Tyler Harper, Representative Chuck Efstration, and Committee Chairmen Shaw Blackmon, Chuck Hufstetler, Matt Hatchett, Blake Tillery, sponsored by Representative James Burchett, carried in the Senate by Senator Russ Goodman, exempts federal crop loss payments and disaster payments from state income tax, establishes a reforestation tax credit to help timber producers recover from the storm and encourage them to replant their crop, allows local governments to temporarily suspend their collection of harvest tax on timber producers to assist them in cleanup efforts, and provides a temporary addition to the Georgia Agricultural Tax Exemption (GATE) for building materials to repair and rebuild poultry houses, livestock facilities, greenhouses, and other agricultural structures.

    In addition to HB 223 Governor Kemp signed the following pieces of legislation:

    SB 201, sponsored by Senator Larry Walker and carried in the House by Representative Leesa Hagan, provides increased protection for consumers when entering into contracts with contractors following natural disasters. 

    HB 143, sponsored by Representative Robert Dickey, carried in the Senate by Senator Sam Watson, and championed by the Georgia Environmental Protection Division, shifts the burden of agricultural water metering equipment installation and maintenance from farmers back to the state.

    Governor Kemp extends his appreciation to all of those whose diligent work and efforts led to him being able to sign these bills today.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Brownley and House Natural Resources Democrats Reject Republicans’ Plan to Sacrifice our Public Lands, Waters and Wildlife for Billionaire Tax Cuts

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Julia Brownley (D-CA)

    Washington, DC – On Tuesday, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (CA-26) and House Natural Resources Committee Democrats rejected House Republicans’ plan to sell off our lands, waters, and wildlife to fund tax cuts for billionaires in the Committee’s portion of the Republican reconciliation package. Democrats were united in the bipartisan opposition to a Republican amendment offered in the dead of night to sell off thousands of acres of public lands. While House Republicans remained silent, Democrats presented a unified front to protect communities, the American taxpayers, and our most cherished places. 

    “Republicans have launched one of the most egregious attacks on our public lands, our waters, and our health that we have ever witnessed. It hands over our national parks, forests, and precious natural resources to oil and gas corporations, putting their profits over the safety and well-being of the American people,” said Congresswoman Brownley. “In exchange for giveaways to the wealthiest polluters, American families will face higher energy costs, dirtier air and water, and more frequent environmental disasters. This is the same ‘polluters over people’ agenda that has defined the Trump Administration, where corporate greed comes first and the American people pay the price. This Republican proposal will add billions to the deficit while selling off our environment, our economy, and our future to the highest bidder. This bill is shameful, and the American people deserve better.”

    “Republicans just rammed the most extreme, anti-environment legislation in American history through the Natural Resources Committee. It’s a billionaires-first, Americans-last giveaway to benefit Big Oil and polluters,” said Ranking Member Jared Huffman (CA-02). “It guts clean air and water protections, slashes funding for our national parks, and sells off, auctions off, and even allows for giving away our public lands to special interests. For the first time, Americans who simply want their voices heard on Big Oil projects on federal land will be slapped with fees for daring to protest. House Republicans not only voted in lock-step for this cartoonishly extreme bill, they refused to participate in any public debate or discussion about it. I’m sure they had plenty of discussion with their corporate polluter puppet masters, but in the only public hearing before this bill goes to the House Floor they refused to even discuss it. The American people deserve better policy and process than what they’re getting from this GOP Congress. I’m proud that Democrats showed up and fully engaged in debating and challenging this terrible bill. We fought back. And we’ll keep fighting for Americans’ basic freedoms, which include clean air, safe water, healthy communities, and a livable planet for future generations.”

    “The only thing these budget gimmicks will do is drive up Big Oil profits, CEO pay, and shareholder dividends at the expense of our public lands and the American taxpayer,” said Congresswoman Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03). “We should be caring about the everyday Americans who are going to be suffering from the consequences of these decisions for years. Our constituents, who are already facing a climate crisis with heat wave after heat wave, who are getting sick from the pollution released by coal fired power plants and petrochemical facilities next door, all compounded by threats of serious cuts to Medicaid healthcare coverage.”

    “House Republicans are once again putting polluters over people. But as a mother, I refuse to let my children’s future be auctioned off to Big Oil. I offered common-sense amendments that range from blocking funds to agencies that refuse to comply with the courts to stopping oil and gas drilling near schools and hospitals,” said Congresswoman Maxine Dexter (OR-03). “This bill is a giveaway to Big Oil and billionaires. My amendments demand House Republicans choose: people or polluters?”

    “Instead of advancing a budget that helps address the challenges Americans are confronting, House Republicans are combining the most extreme attack on our nation’s natural resources with enormous cuts to Medicaid, Social Security, and other critical programs working families depend on every single day,” said Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-06). “We should be focusing on expanding public access to federal lands, not auctioning them off. And we should be investing in our National Parks System and National Wildlife Refuges, not making it harder for Americans to visit these special places. This bill doesn’t put Americans first—it gives massive handouts to pad polluters’ pockets with no regard for the environment.”

    “This is a fire sale on our federal land and waters,” said Congresswoman Sarah Elfreth (MD-03). “This bill reduces corporate fees and eliminates environmental and judicial safeguards that our constituents deserve. And, all for what? There is no guarantee that any of those resources will benefit Americans or lower the cost of energy for our taxpayers. We’ll still be exporting this oil just like before. We’ll still be importing oil to our refineries. We’re putting at real risk the natural resources and national security assets that I’ll address with my amendments. Taxpayers will once again be footing the bill for large corporations from all over the world who score a lease to pillage our land with no recourse. I believe that our taxpayers simply deserve better.”

    “This bill is a giveaway to big oil and gas companies at the expense of our environment, workers, and communities,” said Congresswoman Val Hoyle (OR-04). “Instead of investing in bipartisan priorities like wildfire prevention or strengthening our coastal communities, it prioritizes polluters and weakens the very protections Americans rely on. I stand firmly against this reckless and misguided approach.”

    “This bill is nothing more than a billion-dollar giveaway to corporations,” said Congresswoman Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03). “House Republicans are selling off our lands, slashing corporate royalty rates, and raising fees on clean energy—all to pay for tax breaks for billionaires. They’re making our families pay the price in higher energy bills, polluted water, and more extreme climate disasters. I offered amendments to protect Tribal sovereignty, keep revenues in oil and gas producing states like New Mexico, and block foreign adversaries from exploiting our resources. These are common sense protections—but Republicans chose to protect polluters over working families.”

    “The devastating effects of climate change will cost us trillions of dollars and lead to catastrophic threats to our civilization,” said Congressman Dave Min (CA-47). “We have both a moral and economic imperative to fight back and give our children the opportunity to grow up in a world where they can breathe clean air, drink clean water, and have the freedom to chase the American dream. That’s why I led four amendments to stand up for our environment and fight back against the Trump administration.”

    “The GOP is trying to pass a massive tax break to billionaires, and it will cost the American people $7 trillion on the backs of the American people and the expense of the environment,” said Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury (NM-01). “I was truly shocked when I read this reconciliation package before the Natural Resources Committee. It has mandatory oil and gas leasing, mining, and logging requirements. It gives away public lands and resources, not to the highest bidder, but to the lowest bidder. And, it takes away the rights of the American people to participate in planning, permitting, and holding bad actors accountable. That means impacts on public lands and waters without accountability. Furthermore, it is based on a completely false premise that will undermine the protection of our economy, our communities, and the environment. That’s why I am prepared to sit here as long as it takes to fight this bill.”

    Background

    House Republicans are squandering Americans’ money, health, and safety to pad polluters’ pockets. The House Natural Resources Committee’s portion of the Republican reconciliation package, which was pushed through without support from Committee Democrats, does the following:

    • Instantly boosts big oil and gas company profits by letting them drill and frack at bargain-basement prices while robbing taxpayers blind.
    • Puts polluters before people by letting the wealthy companies pay for legal immunity for inadequate environmental reviews and slapping Americans with exorbitant fees to protest oil and gas pollution.
    • Slashes funding for critical and popular public services like NOAA’s coastal restoration and resilience efforts and the National Parks workforce, making it harder for Americans to protect their communities from natural hazards and visit our nation’s most scenic and inspiring places.
    • Locks up 4 million acres for unprofitable coal mining – more land than the entire state of Connecticut – taking our energy policy back to the 19th century.
    • Mandates dirty mining and drilling deals that will create toxic disasters in our nation’s most pristine lands and waters, permanently polluting places like the Boundary Waters and the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.
    • Crushes clean energy development by jacking up fees for wind and solar while slashing fees for oil and coal.
    • Wipes out protections for endangered species, including dooming the planet’s most endangered whale to extinction by waiving all sensible safeguards for offshore oil and gas operations.
    • Sells off public lands to pay for handouts to big oil and tax cuts for billionaires – a surprise, late-night amendment paves the way for a fire sale of public lands.

    Republicans had the opportunity to support common-sense safeguards and improve the bill. However, they rejected numerous Democratic amendments, including those to do the following:

    Bolster essential and lifesaving public services:

    • Congresswoman Brownley’s amendment (#65) redirecting funding to NOAA climate monitoring, weather forecasts, and disaster preparedness.
    • Congressman Magaziner’s amendment (#213) striking recissions of IRA funds for National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration investments in coastal communities and climate resilience and facilities.
    • Congresswoman Leger Fernandez (#69) and Representative Hoyle’s (#70) amendments to fund wildland firefighting and fuels reduction.
    • Congresswoman Randall’s amendment (#18) to fund the Bureau of Indian Education, and Congresswoman Ledger Fernandez’s amendment (#38) to fund the Indian Health Service.

    Hold oil, gas, and mining companies accountable and ensure a fair return for taxpayers:

    • Congresswoman Brownley’s amendment (#61) to require DOI to assess a fee on oil and gas operators to pay for the decommissioning of offshore pipelines in the event of bankruptcy.
    • Congressman Min’s amendment (#44) to require DOI to increase financial assurances from oil and gas companies before reduced royalties can take effect.
    • Congresswoman Ansari’s amendment to (#19) to deny new leases for oil and gas companies if they have been found liable for collusion.
    • Congresswoman Stansbury’s amendment (#9) to prevent bad actor mining companies from operating on federal land if they are owned by foreign adversaries, have a history of using slave labor, or otherwise break the law.

    Prevent dangerous pollution:

    • Congresswoman Elfreth’s amendment (#129) to prohibit offshore drilling where the Defense Department has determined it is incompatible with military readiness, including off the coast of Virginia, other Atlantic Coast states, and the Eastern Gulf.
    • Ranking Member Huffman’s amendments (#20 and #35) to protect the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and the Boundary Waters.
    • Congresswoman Rivas’s amendment (#210) striking the rescission of funding for the Council on Environmental Quality’s environmental justice screening tool.

    Stop corruption and illegal actions:

    • Congresswoman Rivas’s amendment (#183) prohibiting funding for new contracts with Elon Musk’s companies until Inspectors General determine there are no conflicts of interest.
    • Congresswoman Ansari’s amendment (#301) striking the text of the bill and inserting the STOCK Act 2.0, to prevent government officials from being able to trade individual stocks.
    • Congresswoman Stansbury’s amendment (#150) directing funds to applicable Inspectors General to report to Congress on the impacts of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) actions on staffing, program services, funding, and data security.

    Ensure healthy and accessible public lands and waters:

    • Congressman Neguse’s amendment (#139) striking the language that rescinds funding National Park Service staffing.
    • Congressman Soto’s amendment (#13) to redirect funding to coral reef conservation.
    • Congresswoman Randall’s amendment (#144) restoring funding for the Fish and Wildlife Service fish passage restoration program.
    • Congresswoman Dingell’s amendment (#82) to prohibit any recissions of funds for Great Lakes fisheries, harmful algal blooms, and resilience.

    Protect Americans’ rights to provide public input:

    • Congresswoman Dexter’s amendment (#15) striking protest filing fees.
    • Ranking Member Huffman’s amendment (#247) striking the section creating a “pay-to-play” process for NEPA.

    Advance clean and affordable energy:

    • Resident Commissioner Hernández’s amendment (#201) to ensure utility-scale solar financing is implemented on schedule.
    • Congressman Min’s amendment (#45) preventing lease sales until the Trump Administration’s national energy policy includes wind and solar energy.
    • Congresswoman Hoyle’s amendment (#186) to ensure the recent firings at the Power Marketing Administrations will not result in a loss of power for ratepayers.

    A full list of amendments offered by Committee Democrats and blocked by Republicans can be found here.

    ###

    Issues: 119th Congress, Climate Crisis, Disaster Relief, Energy and Environment

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Franklin Electric Announces Appointment of Jennifer L. Sherman as Chairperson; Mark Carano Elected to be a Director of the Company

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORT WAYNE, Ind., May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Board of Directors of Franklin Electric Co., Inc. (NASDAQ: FELE) has elected Jennifer L. Sherman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Federal Signal Corporation, as Chairperson effective as of May 2, 2025 for a term expiring at the 2026 Annual Meeting of Shareholders. Ms. Sherman has been a Director of the Company since 2015. Joe Ruzynski, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer, commented: “I want to congratulate Jennifer on her election as Chairperson of Franklin Electric. She knows the Company well, having served on our Board of Directors for 10 years, and I am looking forward to working closely with her to further develop and refine Franklin’s strategy.”

    In addition, the Company is pleased to announce that Mark A. Carano, Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of SPX Technologies, Inc. has been appointed as a director of the Company effective May 7, 2025 for a term expiring at the 2027 Annual Meeting of Shareholders. Mr. Carano has served in that role since 2023. Prior thereto, Mr. Carano served as Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of Insteel Industries, Inc., and Chief Financial Officer of Big River Steel LLC, following 14 years in investment banking.

    Mr. Carano earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Vanderbilt University and an MBA from Northwestern University’s Kellogg Business School.

    Ms. Sherman, Franklin’s Chairperson of the Board, commented: “I have confidence that Mark’s extensive financial and manufacturing sector experience will provide a unique perspective to our deliberations. His investment banking and corporate deal-making experience will be invaluable as Franklin Electric continues to look for opportunities to grow through accretive acquisitions. I join my fellow directors in welcoming Mark to the Board and we look forward to benefitting from his leadership and expertise.”

    About Franklin Electric
    Franklin Electric is a global leader in the production and marketing of systems and components for the movement of water and energy. Recognized as a technical leader in its products and services, Franklin Electric serves customers worldwide in residential, commercial, agricultural, industrial, municipal, and fueling applications. Franklin Electric is proud to be recognized in Newsweek’s lists of America’s Most Responsible Companies 2024, Most Trustworthy Companies 2024, and Greenest Companies 2025; Best Places to Work in Indiana 2024; and America’s Climate Leaders 2024 by USA Today.

    “Safe Harbor” Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Any forward-looking statements contained herein, including those relating to market conditions or the Company’s financial results, costs, expenses or expense reductions, profit margins, inventory levels, foreign currency translation rates, liquidity expectations, business goals and sales growth, involve risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to, risks and uncertainties with respect to general economic and currency conditions, various conditions specific to the Company’s business and industry, weather conditions, new housing starts, market demand, competitive factors, changes in distribution channels, supply constraints, effect of price increases, raw material costs, technology factors, integration of acquisitions, litigation, government and regulatory actions, the Company’s accounting policies, future trends, epidemics and pandemics, and other risks which are detailed in the Company’s Securities and Exchange Commission filings, included in Item 1A of Part I of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2024, Exhibit 99.1 attached thereto and in Item 1A of Part II of the Company’s Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. These risks and uncertainties may cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated by the forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements made herein are based on information currently available, and the Company assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements.

    Contact:
    Russ Fleeger
    Franklin Electric Co., Inc.
    260.824.2900

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Private School Settles with Justice Department to Address Discrimination Against Children with Disabilities

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Richard G. Frohling, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on May 8, 2025, Wisconsin Montessori Society, Inc., d/b/a Milwaukee Montessori School (MMS) agreed to injunctive relief and payment of $290,000 to resolve allegations that it failed to provide full and equal enjoyment of its educational services to children with disabilities, in violation of Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), 42 U.S.C. §§ 12131-12189.

    MMS is a private day school that offers pre-K through grade 8 education.  Private schools, day care centers, and other places of education are generally prohibited from discriminating on the basis of disability under Title III of the ADA. Disabled individuals protected under Title III include both individuals with an actual disability—meaning “a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities of such individual”—as well as individuals “regarded as having such an impairment.”

    Since at least 2018, MMS has discriminated against young children with disabilities.  MMS has: (1) denied, on the basis of disability, participation in its educational services to disabled children by expelling and refusing to admit them; (2) denied disabled children equal participation in MMS’s educational services by repeatedly sending them to the office, seating them separately from other students, and sending them home early because of manifestations of their disabilities; and (3) failed to make reasonable modifications for disabled children.  MMS’s discriminatory actions are evidenced by the experiences of ten children described in the Settlement Agreement.

    “Children with disabilities have the right to access the educational opportunities offered by private schools, including Montessori schools,” said Acting United States Richard Frohling.  “This settlement is an important reminder that the ADA’s obligations extend to private schools and their treatment of students with disabilities.”

    Under the settlement agreement, MMS will pay monetary damages of $240,000 to compensate aggrieved persons as well as a civil penalty of $50,000 to the United States.  It also includes injunctive relief that requires monitoring and reporting, and MMS has voluntarily taken some steps to address the government’s findings.

    The ADA authorizes the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate complaints and undertake periodic reviews of covered entities. The Department of Justice is also authorized to commence a civil lawsuit in federal court and to seek injunctive relief, monetary damages, and civil penalties.

    Assistant United States Attorneys Lisa Yun and Nia Schmaltz represented the government in this matter.  The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only; MMS does not admit liability for the allegations.

    # #  #

    For Additional Information Contact:

    Public Information Officer

    Kenneth.Gales@usdoj.gov

    414-297-1700

    Follow us on Twitter

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven: Secretary Rollins Prioritizes Fully Staffing Farm Service Agency, Field Offices

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven

    05.08.25

    USDA Application Process for Weather-Based Disaster Aid to Begin in Coming Weeks

    WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven, chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee, this week secured a commitment from Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins to prioritize Farm Service Agency (FSA) staff and field offices to ensure frontline support for the nation’s farmers and ranchers. Additionally, the senator outlined the importance of the $33.5 billion in agriculture disaster aid he secured at the end of the year in providing farmers and ranchers with a bridge as Congress works to improve crop insurance and update reference prices in the next farm bill. Hoeven thanked Secretary Rollins for delivering the $10 billion in market-based agriculture disaster assistance, and continues working with the Secretary to advance the $21 billion in weather-related assistance. Secretary Rollins indicated that USDA’s application process for the weather-based ag aid will open in the coming weeks.

    “We have to make sure we’re getting it done for our farmers and our ranchers every single day. We want to work together to find savings, but we have to know that we’re still going to deliver the service that keeps our family farms and ranches going, to the benefit of every single American,”  said Hoeven. “We appreciate Secretary Rollins making it a priority to fully-staff and keep open FSA offices. These front-line FSA officers are the ones who work directly with our farmers and ranchers and help provide the service they deserve.

    “We secured $33.5 billion to help our producers with challenges, whether it’s markets, whether it’s prices, and certainly always the weather – none of which they control. Secretary Rollins worked to get out the $10 billion in market-based disaster agriculture aid within 90 days, with North Dakota producers having already received about half a billion dollars from that tranche. We want to continue working together to implement the $21 billion weather-based assistance and we appreciate USDA’s commitment to begin that process in the coming weeks,” the senator said.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How Tove Jansson’s Moomins illustrations taught us to imagine, resist and belong

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Amelia Huw Morgan, Senior Lecturer Illustration, Cardiff Metropolitan University

    There is a world beyond our own, where imagination and reality meet, and where, for 80 years, Tove Jansson’s Moomins illustrations have offered readers a way to recognise themselves.

    Before Moomin books began to be published in 1945, early Moomin characters appeared, grumpily, in publications like the Finnish satirical magazine Garm. Jansson had started her career there in 1929. Her witty caricatures led to her making a name for herself, relishing the opportunity to be “beastly to Stalin and Hitler”.

    But as war engulfed the world in the 1940s, Jansson turned away from direct satire. Instead, she took the Moomins to the soft refuge of her newly imagined Moominvalley, to live more safely, simply and happily, where they continued to grapple with serious issues. She later recalled that at the time she “felt that the only thing one could do was to write fairy tales”.

    Cover of the 1950 paperback edition of Finn Family Moomintroll.
    Tove Jansson/Wikimedia

    Since then, her creations have provided a haven where melancholy, joy and wonder can exist side by side. Through their soft, contrary, strange and heavy lightness, the Moomins’ theorise and share wisdom.

    Illustrated children’s books like the Moomins can turn into our forever books. For this reason, children’s literature should always be taken seriously, as former children’s laureate Lauren Child has argued.

    But in today’s publishing world, illustrations often seem designed simply to fatten pages up. They look like something but can feel like nothing.

    Golden age

    During the golden age of illustration between 1890 and 1930, illustrators gave children a new and vital aspect of childhood. They created books that supported young readers as they grew.

    Illustrators like Kate Greenaway and Beatrix Potter who Jansson much admired, took children seriously. They met them unpatronisingly and valued their imaginations.

    Greenaway’s illustrations for songs, parlour games and nursery rhymes, as well as her famous drawings for the Pied Piper of Hamelin, and Potter’s courageous problem-solving animals, charm the child who will one day become an adult.

    Front cover of The Moomins and the Great Flood.
    Tove Jansson/Wikimedia

    Jansson’s tiny ink marks continued this tradition. As you travel through the expanse of Moominvalley, she holds the reader close, transporting them to the Moomins’ consciousness. The texture of her illustrations make them almost tangible.

    Our imaginations become fertile and awake. From the slippery feel of seaweed underfoot to the dim light of a cold room, everything is heightened by the Moomins’ glowing whiteness. Their thoughtful eyes widen to produce subtle emotions.

    Jansson’s techniques are much like the methods used by writers such as Katherine Mansfield (1888 – 1923). She was a pioneering modernist and her work is now praised for its accessible approach to writing short stories. Mansfield threw her readers into her characters’ experiences to feel their feelings and think their thoughts. Mansfield’s astute observations and empathy entwined to sustain sophisticated stories which feel fresh to this day.

    Similarly, Jansson’s drawings refuse to patronise or simplify. They respect the reader’s intelligence, offering stories that enchant and challenge in equal measure.

    Jansson placed her characters between reality and imagination. Her comic strips had spoken to a world of dictators, of vanity and class. This allowed her to form, in Moominvalley, a place also to observe, make comment, fight back, perhaps even ridicule. She kept the satirical qualities but made them more palatable to children as well as adults.

    The UK version of the Polish felt stop motion Moomins animation.

    Texture

    Perhaps the 1977 to 1982 Polish stop-motion Moomin animations captured the texture of Jansson’s world best. In these felted forms, the Moomins remained soft, slightly wobbly and imperfect, just as in the original ink lines.

    The more polished, digital and sharp-edged the Moomins become, the more their truth seems to recede. Commercialisation has pushed the Moomins into the bright, glossy world of merchandise – mugs, theme parks and endless shelf life. But in the rush to perfect and brand them, we risk losing the open, imaginative spaces Jansson drew.

    Her illustrations matter because they are portals, openings into parallel worlds that help us better understand ourselves. Early fairy tales were deliberately sparse and undetailed, leaving space for a child’s imagination to roam freely. Jansson’s illustrations do the same.

    In the penultimate chapter of her second Moomin book Comet in Moominland, Moominmama sings a lullaby to the children who have returned from their adventure:

    Snuggle up close and shut your eyes tight

    And sleep without dreaming the whole of the night

    The comet is gone and your mother is near

    To keep you from harm till the morning is near

    It’s a moment of comfort, of deep protection. A mother willing her children to forget what they’ve seen. But viewed from today’s perspective, in a world saturated with fear, uncertainty and noise, it also raises a question. Should we be lulled into forgetting, or, as Jansson’s illustrations suggest, should we remain half-awake?

    Her drawings never offer perfection. The ink lines wobble and hold tension and gentleness together, just as her stories balance safety with peril. Jansson’s illustrations invite us to embrace the vulnerability and the danger, the wholesome and the pure. They give us space to feel deeply and think clearly, in a world that often discourages both.

    Amelia Huw Morgan does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. How Tove Jansson’s Moomins illustrations taught us to imagine, resist and belong – https://theconversation.com/how-tove-janssons-moomins-illustrations-taught-us-to-imagine-resist-and-belong-254631

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wicker, Gillibrand Introduce Vieques Recovery and Redevelopment Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Mississippi Roger Wicker

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Roger Wicker, R-Miss., and Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., introduced the Vieques Recovery and Redevelopment Act. This bipartisan legislation would address the severe health inequities faced by the residents of Vieques off the coast of Puerto Rico. These severe health outcomes are a result of environmental contamination caused by the U.S. Navy’s decades-long usage of the island for military training exercises and as a bombing range.

    “The U.S. Navy left the island of Vieques over twenty years ago, but the thousands of American citizens who live there continue to suffer from contamination and high rates of illness,” said Senator Wicker. “It is time for the U.S. government to settle these victims’ claims and help improve the island’s healthcare infrastructure for the future.”

    “For too long, the people of Vieques have lived with the devastating health and environmental impacts of military testing on their island,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This bill delivers long overdue justice by providing compensation to those harmed, rebuilding access to healthcare, and strengthening efforts to clean up the toxic waste that continues to threaten the Vieques community. I’m proud to help lead this bipartisan effort to finally give the people of Vieques the support and resources they deserve.”

    Full text of the resolution can be found here. 

    Background:

    • From the 1940s until 2003, the U.S. Navy used the island for training exercises and as a bombing range.
    • Decades of munitions testing on the small island led to severe environmental contamination. Vieques’ residents have suffered from the health impacts of long-term exposure to this environmental contamination, including higher rates of cancer, cirrhosis, hypertension, diabetes, and heavy metal diseases.
    • To date, the U.S. government has not provided the residents of Vieques with compensation for damages to their health. Hurricane Maria destroyed Vieques’ only health care center in 2017, exacerbating the island’s health crisis.
    • Today, residents of Vieques must travel by ferry to the main island of Puerto Rico to receive medical care, a dangerous situation that is especially difficult for cancer and dialysis patients. The health crisis in Vieques only continues to worsen, demonstrating why Congress must act with urgency to pass this bipartisan legislation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Acts of Service Across Arkansas

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-04)

    Americans, and certainly Arkansans, are no strangers to adversity. In our most challenging times, folks across Arkansas have always been courageous, shown sincere determination and grit, and come together in order to emerge more united and stronger than we were before. Last week’s storms certainly brought adversity and uncertainty, and it was encouraging to see the state come together to provide relief and help to friends and neighbors.

    There wasn’t a single corner of the Natural State that didn’t find itself on the receiving end of rainfall levels unlike anything we’ve seen before. Flooding created road closures and life-threatening situations for many areas across the state. Tornadoes wreaked havoc on homes and businesses, laying waste and devastating everything in its path, including 3 people who lost their lives and 32 more injured.

    In these moments when Arkansans find themselves wondering how to move forward, the Arkansas National Guard steps up time and time again, fully embodying their motto of “Arkansas First.” Across the state, we witnessed these selfless men and women travel to the communities most heavily hit to administer aid like the 39th Brigade Support Battalion who traveled to Malvern to set up a potable water station to support the city and its surrounding areas until clean water could be restored. Other units were mobilized across the state to combat the issues brought by increased water levels and storm damage that would be the result of the severe weather passing through.

    Everyone from local businesses and governments, fire departments, law enforcement, EMS, and even friends and neighbors, have been eager to serve their fellow Arkansans in the wake of the devastation brought by these spring storms. It’s been immensely encouraging to see everyone come to the aid of Arkansans in need, painting a true depiction of the values that make the Natural State truly such a great place to live: hospitality, generosity, and service. It’s times like these that I’m especially proud to be an Arkansan, and it is my sincere hope that everyone stays safe as we continue to restore the damage across our state.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: New Yorkers Encouraged to Sign Up for ‘Triple Three Triple One’

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced the launch of “Triple Three Triple One” – a new real-time emergency and weather alert system – as part of the State’s Hurricane Preparedness Week recognition efforts. Managed by the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (DHSES), this text option allows New Yorkers to text their county of residence to 3-3-3-1-1-1 to begin receiving real time emergency and weather alerts and updates directly to their phones. In New York City, text the name of your borough with no spaces. The system is not case sensitive. If you want all of metro New York, text NewYorkCity. Additionally, State-initiated hurricane preparedness activities include initiating the distribution of $15 million in flood-related equipment to counties and conducting specialized training for State emergency operations personnel.

    “My highest priority is the safety of New Yorkers, especially during times of severe and unpredictable emergency events,” Governor Hochul said. “To best prepare for inclement weather – especially as hurricane season approaches – I am encouraging all New Yorkers to sign up for alerts so they can remain safe and vigilant when high-impact events occur.”

    It’s easy to get started and free to sign up. New Yorkers can simply text the name of the county they’d like to receive alerts for to 3-3-3-1-1-1. Once the text message is sent, users will automatically be enrolled and begin receiving emergency and weather alerts when they occur in their selected county. In New York City, text the name of your borough with no spaces. For example, StatenIsland. For the entire New York City metro area, text NewYorkCity. The system is not case sensitive. Users can also register to receive alerts for multiple counties by texting additional county names, one at a time. This will allow residents to stay up to date on alerts in areas where their loved ones may live. It is free to sign up for Triple Three Triple One and the service is available on all cellular carriers. Standard text messaging and data rates may apply.

    New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray said, “As Hurricane Season approaches, the launch of Triple Three Triple One alerting gives New Yorkers access to another tool that they can use to help keep themselves and their loved ones prepared for and safe during severe weather. And, it’s an additional way that we can assist our local emergency management partners. I encourage everyone to take a moment right now and text their county name to Triple Three Triple One.”

    In addition to launching the Triple Three Triple One text alerts, New York State recently signed Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with 51 counties to provide them with $15 million of flood-related equipment and supplies. The equipment, being procured by DHSES includes pumps, generators, chain saws, and flood barrier technology.

    Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30. On April 3, Colorado State University released its preseason hurricane forecast, calling for above average activity in the tropical Atlantic with 17 named storms, nine hurricanes, and four major hurricanes predicted. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is expected to release the 2025 Hurricane Outlook later in May.

    In December 2023, Governor Hochul announced the creation of New York’s State Weather Risk Communication Center (SWRCC) at the State University of New York at Albany. The Center is a first-of-its kind operational collaboration between university researchers and state emergency managers and serves as a clearinghouse for critical weather information. It also works to develop tools to help emergency managers make informed decisions to help protect communities and examines how communicating extreme weather risks to the public can be improved.

    New York State Weather Risk Communication Center Director Dr. Nick Bassill said, “Being prepared is crucial when it comes to extreme weather. New York is no stranger to the impacts hurricanes can have on our communities, so have a plan made ahead of time to ensure the safety of yourself and your loved ones in the event of an emergency. Follow trusted news sources such as the National Weather Service and state and local government alerts, so you can respond accordingly when severe weather strikes.”

    The National Weather Service said, “Everyone should learn their risk by considering the threats from tropical storms. Threats include storm surge, flooding from heavy rain, strong winds, tornadoes and rip currents. All of these threats can occur far from the center of a storm so pay attention to the latest forecasts and be alert for warnings.”

    State agencies undertake a number of activities to prepare for hurricane season including:

    The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services operates the State Office of Emergency Management (OEM). OEM routinely assists local governments, voluntary organizations, and private industry through a variety of emergency management programs including hazard identification, loss prevention, planning, training, operational response to emergencies, technical support, and disaster recovery assistance.

    In April, OEM launched a weeklong State Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Training and Simulation initiative created to introduce new staff to the major functions of the EOC. This initiative included EOC simulations, including one simulation focused on responding to a forecasted tropical storm. This training builds understanding across State OEM personnel so that during a real activation teams are prepared to respond accordingly.

    DHSES also conducts the Citizen Preparedness Corps training program, along with the New York National Guard and the American Red Cross. The course provides an introduction to responding to a natural or human-caused disaster. Participants are advised on how to properly develop family emergency plans and stock up on emergency supplies. To date, more than 400,000 people have been trained.

    The Department of Public Service reports New York’s utilities have approximately 5,500 workers available statewide to engage in damage assessment, response, repair and restoration efforts across New York State in the event of a hurricane or a major storm. Utilities maintain agreements with external contractors who may be able to assist in restoration efforts. Department of Public Service staff track utilities’ work throughout all events and work to ensure appropriate staffing for regions that experience the greatest impact.

    The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s hurricane preparedness efforts take place year-round. New and renewed assets are designed to meet or exceed the agency’s climate resilience guidelines, which consider the potential risks of climate change out to 2100. Across the agency’s airports, a host of flood protection measures have been implemented, including flood walls, flood rated doors, and deployable shields. At LaGuardia Airport, electrical substations, pumps, and newly constructed terminals have been elevated or protected to reduce the risk of hurricane flooding, even as sea levels rise. Other flood mitigation projects include installation of flexible floodproof barriers at the Holland Tunnel portals and a water intrusion protection system to seal off the iconic World Trade Center site from coastal storm surge. The Port Authority’s Office of Emergency Management tracks storm development, projecting eventual impacts on the New York and New Jersey region, and communicating with each Port Authority facility, where staff use customized information to respond to rapidly changing conditions.

    For more information, visit the Hurricane Safety page on the DHSES website.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Assessing the U.S. Climate in April 2025

    Source: US National Oceanographic Data Center

    Key Points:

    • A slow-moving storm system in early April brought widespread flooding and over 150 tornadoes to the South and Midwest, resulting in numerous injuries and at least 24 fatalities.
    • April temperatures were particularly warm across the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic, with near-record warmth observed in the Carolinas and neighboring states.
    • Alaska had its second-wettest April on record and its fourth-warmest year to date.
    • Heavy rain in Puerto Rico in late April triggered flash flooding and landslides.
    Map of the U.S. selected significant climate anomalies and events in April 2025.

    Other Highlights:

    Temperature

    April U.S. Mean Temperature Departures from Average Map

    The average temperature for the contiguous U.S. (CONUS) in April was 53.6°F, which is 2.6°F above the long-term average and ranks in the warmest third of the 131-year record. April temperatures were above average across much of the Lower 48, with much-above-average warmth observed across the South and Atlantic coastal regions. North Carolina and Virginia observed their second-warmest average April temperatures on record, with South Carolina and Georgia recording their third- and fourth-warmest (tied), respectively. For the year to date, the CONUS average temperature was 41.1°F, 2.0°F above average, ranking in the warmest third of the record for this January–April period.

    The Alaska statewide April temperature was 27.5°F, 4.2°F above the long-term average, ranking in the warmest third of the 101-year period of record. While temperatures were near average across much of western Alaska in April, above-average warmth dominated the eastern part of the state. Alaska’s January–April average temperature was 17.8°F, 7.5°F above the long-term average, ranking as the fourth warmest on record, with much of the state experiencing much-above-average temperatures during this period.

    Hawai’i had an average temperature of 65.9°F in April, 1.1°F above the 1991–2020 average and ranking in the warmest third of the 35-year record. Hawai’i had its second-warmest (tied) January–April average temperature of 64.8°F, 1.1°F above the 1991–2020 average for this period.

    Precipitation

    April 2025 U.S. Total Precipitation Percentiles

    April precipitation for the CONUS was 2.82 inches, 0.30 inch above average, ranking in the upper third of the historical record. Drier-than-average conditions were observed from the West to the central Rockies, and along parts of the Gulf and Atlantic coastal regions. Conversely, above-average precipitation fell across a broad area stretching from the southern Plains through the middle Mississippi Valley into the Ohio Valley and lower Great Lakes, as well as in portions of the northern Plains, upper Mississippi Valley and far Northeast. Kentucky recorded its second-highest average rainfall for the month of April, while Oklahoma and Missouri saw their third- and fourth-wettest Aprils, respectively. The January–April precipitation total for the CONUS was 8.77 inches, 0.70 inch below average, ranking in the driest third of the record for this period.

    Alaska’s average precipitation in April ranked as the second wettest in the 101-year record, with particularly wet conditions along the Gulf of Alaska coast and the northern Southeast region. Near-record-high snowfall was observed at the Alyeska (36.6 inches) and Denali National Park (26.5 inches) stations—these totals were the second-highest on record for April. The January–April precipitation total for Alaska was 10.97 inches, 1.80 inches above average, ranking in the wettest third on record for the period

    Precipitation averaged across Hawai’i in April totaled 4.11 inches, 0.90 inch below average, ranking in the middle third of the 1991–2025 record. Drier-than-average conditions were mostly observed on the eastern portions of Moloka’i, Maui and the Big Island, while most other areas experienced above-average rainfall. Precipitation across Hawai’i for January–April was 15.65 inches, 6.42 inches below average, ranking in the driest third of the 1991–2025 record.

    Drought

    According to the April 29 U.S. Drought Monitor report, approximately 37.0% of the contiguous U.S. was in drought, down about 6.4% from the beginning of the month. Drought conditions expanded or intensified across parts of the Southwest, southern Rockies, northern High Plains, Florida and Hawai’i. Meanwhile, drought contracted or was reduced in intensity across much of the central U.S., parts of southern Appalachia and the Great Lakes region.

    Monthly Outlook

    Much of the country is expected to be warmer than average in May, from the Rockies eastward to the Atlantic and southward to the Gulf Coast. Above-average precipitation is favored in parts of the West and Rockies, and is likely across the southern Plains, while drier-than-average conditions are expected in the upper Mississippi Valley and Great Lakes region.

    Drought conditions in May are likely to persist across the Southwest and northern Plains, with some improvement in the central Great Basin. Portions of the southern and central Plains should see some drought improvement and areas of removal, but the upper Mississippi Valley can expect some areas of drought development. Drought will likely persist and expand across the Carolinas and western Virginia; conditions in some areas further northeast are expected to improve.

    Visit the Climate Prediction Center’s Official 30-Day Forecasts and U.S. Monthly Drought Outlook website for more details.

    Significant wildland fire potential for May is above normal for parts of the Southwest and upper Mississippi Valley, and from the Mid-Atlantic coastal regions down to Florida. For additional information on wildland fire potential, visit the National Interagency Fire Center’s One-Month Wildland Fire Outlook.

    For more detailed climate information, check out our comprehensive April 2025 U.S. Climate Report scheduled for release on May 12, 2025. For additional information on the statistics provided here, visit the Climate at a Glance and National Maps webpages.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Philadelphia County Man Sentenced To 137 Months For Drug Trafficking And Firearm Possession In Furtherance Of Drug Trafficking

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    HARRISBURG- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Leon Weathersbe, age 38, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on May 7, 2025 to 137 months’ imprisonment by United States District Judge Keli M. Neary for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.

    According to Acting United States Attorney John Gurganus and court documents, on April 12, 2022, Pennsylvania State Police troopers conducted a traffic stop on Weathersbe’s vehicle. During the stop, troopers recovered $1600 from Weathersbe’s person. Weathersbe provided consent to search the vehicle; however, he fled the stop on foot as troopers began to search the vehicle. Weathersbe was not apprehended at the time. Troopers continued their search of Weathersbe’s vehicle and recovered distribution quantities of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and marijuana, as well as a loaded handgun under the driver’s seat. 

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    The case was investigated by the Pennsylvania State Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney David C. Williams prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: HomeTrust Bank Further Recognized for Strong Financial Performance and as a Most Loved Workplace

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ASHEVILLE, N.C., May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — HomeTrust Bancshares, Inc. (NYSE: HTB) (“Company”), the holding company of HomeTrust Bank (“HomeTrust” or the “Bank”), announced today that the Bank has been named one of Forbes’ America’s Best Banks for 2025 and recognized as a Top 50 Community Bank in the 2024 S&P Global Market Intelligence annual rankings. These awards are based on key metrics assessing the overall financial performance and strength of financial institutions. This is the second consecutive year that HomeTrust has been recognized in each of these publications.

    The Company was also recently included in the coveted 2025 KBW Bank Honor Roll. Only 5% of eligible banks were named to this elite group of 16 financial institutions based on their best-in-class earnings growth over the past ten years.

    In addition, HomeTrust has been re-certified as a Most Loved Workplace® by Best Practice Institute (BPI) and received recognition over the past two years as a Best Place to Work by Best Companies Group in all five states they serve.

    “Receiving these prestigious rankings is a continued testament to how we manage the Bank and the engagement and excitement of our HTB teammates,” said C. Hunter Westbrook, President & Chief Executive Officer. “HomeTrust set a goal to be a consistently high-performing regional community bank that is a regionally and nationally recognized ‘Best Place to Work.’ This isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. We’ll continue to create a higher standard by being relentless about improvement, embodying our fundamentals, and fostering a workplace and culture where our team members are engaged and belong.”

    www.htb.com

    About HomeTrust Bancshares, Inc.

    HomeTrust Bancshares, Inc. is the holding company for the Bank. As of March 31, 2025, the Company had assets of $4.6 billion. The Bank, founded in 1926, is a North Carolina state chartered, community-focused financial institution committed to providing value added relationship banking with over 30 locations as well as online/mobile channels. Locations include: North Carolina (the Asheville metropolitan area, the “Piedmont” region, Charlotte and Raleigh/Cary), South Carolina (Greenville and Charleston), East Tennessee (Kingsport/Johnson City, Knoxville and Morristown), Southwest Virginia (the Roanoke Valley) and Georgia (Greater Atlanta).

    HomeTrust Bank’s recent Q1 2025 earnings release is available here: HomeTrust Bancshares, Inc. Announces Financial Results for the First Quarter of the Year Ending December 31, 2025 and Declaration of a Quarterly Dividend | HomeTrust Bancshares, Inc.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are not statements of historical fact, but instead are based on certain assumptions including statements with respect to the Company’s beliefs, plans, objectives, goals, expectations, assumptions and statements about future economic performance and projections of financial items. These forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results anticipated or implied by forward-looking statements. The factors that could result in material differentiation include, but are not limited to, natural disasters, including the effects of Hurricane Helene; expected revenues, cost savings, synergies and other benefits from merger and acquisition activities might not be realized to the extent anticipated, within the anticipated time frames, or at all, costs or difficulties relating to integration matters, including but not limited to customer and employee retention, might be greater than expected, and goodwill impairment charges might be incurred; increased competitive pressures among financial services companies; changes in the interest rate environment; changes in general economic conditions, both nationally and in our market areas; legislative and regulatory changes; and the effects of inflation, a potential recession, and other factors described in the Company’s latest Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other documents filed with or furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission – which are available on the Company’s website at www.htb.com and on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Any of the forward-looking statements that the Company makes in this press release or in the documents the Company files with or furnishes to the SEC are based upon management’s beliefs and assumptions at the time they are made and may turn out to be wrong because of inaccurate assumptions, the factors described above or other factors that management cannot foresee. The Company does not undertake, and specifically disclaims any obligation, to revise any forward-looking statements to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events or circumstances after the date of such statements. 

    The MIL Network –