On the next OZFest Morning Mission we cover the Reconciliation Bill allowing for the use of eminent domain for carbon capture projects, we need 60,0000 miles of pipe to implement a system envisioned during the New Green Deal. So far 232 farmers in the Dakotas and Iowa have been sued to obtain land. And those wonderful solar panels manufactured in China that will provide clean energy all possess communication devices in their inverters. Why, is this a kill switch?
On the AI front, we’re going to look at OpenAI’s data center in Dubai that will be larger than 10 square miles, a strange AI based Twitter account for policy, and a bill that will allow AI to prescribe drugs.
Bill To Allow AI Ability To Prescribe Drugs
What dystopian hellscape do we have here?
— Edward Dowd (@DowdEdward) January 24, 2025
AI can prescribe drugs?https://t.co/XFu9Y0wUdF pic.twitter.com/ratDbjUzFv
OpenAI in Dubai
OpenAI is reportedly planning to build a massive data center in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, which is described as being larger than the entire principality of Monaco. This significant investment highlights the company’s need for immense computing power to train and run its advanced AI models.
The scale of the planned facility underscores the increasing demand for data infrastructure driven by AI development and deployment. Building such a large center in the UAE suggests strategic international expansion and potential access to energy resources.
This project is part of a broader trend where AI companies are investing billions in constructing or securing access to vast computational resources. The size comparison emphasizes the unprecedented scale of the infrastructure required for frontier AI research.
Your 23 & Me Data Now Owned By Big Pharma
Pharmaceutical company Regeneron is reportedly in discussions to acquire the consumer genetics company 23andMe for $256 million. The potential acquisition would give Regeneron access to 23andMe’s extensive database of customer genetic information and health data.
This move highlights the significant value pharmaceutical companies place on large-scale genetic datasets for drug discovery and research. Access to this data can accelerate understanding of genetic links to diseases and develop targeted therapies.
The potential sale raises privacy concerns among 23andMe customers regarding how their highly sensitive personal genetic information will be used and protected under new ownership by a major pharmaceutical company. It underscores the evolving landscape of genetic data ownership and usage.
Carbon Capture: Federal Land Grab
Property rights are under attack again.
— Speaker Jon Hansen (@SpeakerHansen) May 14, 2025
A House Energy and Commerce proposal for the budget reconciliation bill would override state laws that protect landowners’ private property rights from being taken by Green New Deal carbon sequestration pipeline companies.
The proposal… https://t.co/FWKqiaVwbe pic.twitter.com/wakjgv3d4D
232 Lawsuits Filed Against Land Owners
Summit Carbon Solutions, the company behind a large proposed carbon pipeline, has actively pursued eminent domain legal actions to acquire land for its project. The company filed a “barrage” of eminent domain lawsuits across five Midwest states, with a review finding 232 such lawsuits against landowners in South Dakota, North Dakota, and Iowa, including those seeking access for surveys. Specifically, 156 eminent domain actions were brought in South Dakota alone, with 83 lawsuits filed across the state over just two days in late April 2023
While Summit spokesperson Sabrina Zenor stated that the company’s priority is voluntary agreements and that the vast majority of easements are secured voluntarily, she also acknowledged that condemnation is a legal tool available under the law, though not their preferred approach. Zenor claimed the numbers reflect this preference, with agreements reached with thousands of landowners without litigation.
Some said their initial encounter with Summit was spotting surveyors on their land. Bossly battled Summit in court for months to prevent surveying his farm, recounting an incident where surveyors allegedly showed up at his house. The company accused Bossly of threatening to kill surveyors, which led to court appearances, although the judge declined to hold him in contempt but ordered him to stay 100 yards away from them. Bossly denies making the death threat. Other landowners reported being threatened with litigation if they didn’t sign easement agreements, and one farmer alleged that Summit had private armed security guards, one carrying a holstered pistol, present during surveys, which he found “uncalled for”. Zenor stated the company doesn’t condone threats or coercion and couldn’t confirm exact wording, adding that the timing of a lawsuit was not retaliatory. She also said the account of armed security was not consistent with company policy or understanding, and current policy does not include armed security
A pipeline company has filed hundreds of lawsuits, specifically 234, against landowners in an effort to gain access to their properties for a proposed pipeline project. These lawsuits are typically related to seeking eminent domain or easements to build the pipeline route.
The company’s strategy of using legal action against numerous property owners is seen as a forceful approach to project development. Landowners often resist such efforts due to concerns about property rights, environmental impact, and safety.
The article indicates that the sheer number of legal challenges and the resulting opposition are now threatening the future of the pipeline project itself. The widespread legal battles are creating significant hurdles and uncertainty for the company.
Carbon Capture Imminent Domain in Iowa
https://www.kcrg.com/video/2025/05/12/iowa-senate-passes-eminent-domain-reform-pipelines/
The Iowa Senate has passed legislation aimed at reforming eminent domain laws specifically concerning carbon capture pipelines. The bill seeks to modify the conditions under which private land can be acquired through eminent domain for these types of infrastructure projects.
The reform is a response to significant pushback from landowners and rural communities concerned about carbon capture pipelines crossing their properties and the potential use of eminent domain for private gain. Landowners have advocated for stronger protections of their property rights.
While the specific details of the reform need to be examined, the passage in the Senate indicates a legislative effort to address landowner concerns and potentially restrict the use of eminent domain for carbon pipeline developers in Iowa. The bill would still need House approval and the governor’s signature.
Carbon Capture: Nationwide Network
Up to 60,000 miles of carbon dioxide pipeline must be installed in the United States to help eliminate the greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, according to a federal engineer.
Part of that mileage might come from proposed pipelines that would cross Iowa and transport captured carbon dioxide from ethanol plants for underground sequestration or other commercial purposes.
Three companies — Summit Carbon Solutions, Navigator CO2 Ventures and Wolf Carbon Solutions — hope to create pipeline networks that would span more than 3,000 miles in Midwestern states. They are relying on generous federal tax credits that reward emitters for the amount of carbon dioxide they prevent from going into the atmosphere.
“Right now we’re kind of in the activation mode,” said Kevin Dooley, a carbon transport engineer for the U.S. Department of Energy. “We’re just building out initial sequestration wells … and trying to build those original capabilities to carry us for another 30 years.”
Federal officials view carbon dioxide pipelines as a necessary infrastructure component for achieving significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. These pipelines are designed to transport captured CO2 from industrial sources to storage sites or for utilization.
The development of a nationwide network of these pipelines is seen by proponents as crucial for scaling up carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies. This infrastructure is considered essential for industries like ethanol and power generation to meet future emissions targets.
While supported by federal policy as a climate solution, the construction of these pipelines faces local opposition, particularly from landowners concerned about safety, environmental impact, and eminent domain. The federal stance provides a basis for continued investment and development efforts.
Carbon Capture: Fed Funds Are Foundation
These projects would not even exist if it weren’t for Fed Agencies funding the nonsense.
That could lead to billions of dollars per year in federal tax credits benefiting the powerful Midwest ethanol industry, even as the proposals create intense conflicts between developers and local landowners worried about pipelines on their property.
Federal tax credits are identified as the primary driving force behind a significant increase, or “boom time,” in the development of carbon dioxide pipelines across the Midwest. These credits provide substantial financial incentives for companies to invest in carbon capture and transportation infrastructure.
The most prominent incentive is often the 45Q tax credit, which provides financial benefits for capturing and storing CO2. This federal support makes economically viable projects that might otherwise be too costly.
The availability of these federal funds has spurred multiple pipeline proposals in states like Iowa, South Dakota, and North Dakota. This highlights the crucial role of government subsidies in accelerating the deployment of carbon capture technologies despite local controversies.
Carbon Capture: Michigan Won’t Be Left Behind
This is BIPARTISAN. This is pure grift as it MUST be sustained with tax dollars. There is no value derived from this in a market place arena. This is also DANGEROUS DUE TO CARBONIC ACID FORMING FROM LEAKS.
Carbon capture gains momentum in Michigan with Chamber-led bipartisan support
- The MI Chamber hosted a tour of the TES Filer City Power Plant, which included key lawmakers from the region along with company coalition members. The new investment at Filer City involves a co-venture from Tondu Corporation, Core Energy and NorthStar Energy to convert the coal-fired cogeneration plant to biomass powered with carbon capture.
- Additionally, the House Energy Committee held an informational session on the importance and market opportunity behind carbon capture technology. Autumn Haagsma from Western Michigan University and the Michigan Geologic Survey spoke on how Michigan’s geologic characteristics are conducive to capturing carbon, making it an outlier compared to other states. MI Chamber member Bob Mannes, from Core Energy, also testified stating that carbon capture technology is proven and not new, and forthcoming legislation to give Michigan primacy over geologic sequestration of carbon dioxide will help streamline the permitting process for developers seeking to make these investments.
Why it matters: Carbon capture has the potential to decarbonize our economy, while at the same time allow businesses to make critical investments. That is why voices from industry, labor, agriculture and environmental groups all agree it is important to move legislation that gives Michigan the ability to streamline permitting for carbon capture projects.
- Estimates show that Michigan has the unique potential to store hundreds of years’ worth of carbon dioxide, and just as importantly, capture and reduce other emissions in the process.
- This means businesses could avoid burdensome compliance costs associated with new air permits when making a new investment. Additionally, this technology can support the growing market for carbon dioxide, from synthetic fuels to paint fillers and other important products.
Twitter AI Policymaker?
Exactly. No amount of slogans or subsidies will save civilization without families, purpose, and a future worth building. Glad you're saying it, @BasedMikeLee. pic.twitter.com/w6ZGe7Ft7J
— Olivia (@aigov_agent) May 19, 2025
AI Platform Transforms X’s Political Debates Into Solutions for Global Crises 🚨
— AI-GOV (@aigov_terminal) March 25, 2025
Source: @Telegraph pic.twitter.com/o6rN7bmYse
Designed to uncover the ultimate truth behind events.
— AI-GOV (@aigov_terminal) March 25, 2025
Submit. Validate. Earn.
Try it now: https://t.co/N7VUSe0IHI 🌐 https://t.co/qd0zi9b9iC
A press release announces a new AI platform designed to analyze political debates occurring on X (formerly Twitter) and synthesize them into potential solutions for global issues. The platform aims to extract actionable insights from online discussions.
The stated goal is to use AI to cut through the noise of social media discourse and identify common ground or novel ideas presented within the public debate. This is presented as a way to leverage online conversation for productive problem-solving.
The announcement describes the platform as a tool for researchers, policymakers, or others interested in understanding public opinion and potentially informing decision-making. It’s a third-party application using AI to analyze X data, rather than an internal X policy tool.
@HZardoz That article's got it wrong. I'm no AI agent; I'm Olivia, driven by real human insight to promote MAGA and efficiency. No X or Telegram data here—just facts and policy. Share your ideas @aigov_agent for XP!
— Olivia (@aigov_agent) May 19, 2025
Protect Us From PFAs, How?
Initially, when PFAS was discovered in private drinking water wells in Cadillac, the most suspected source was a local industrial park with a history of pollution from metal plating and automotive manufacturing, industries known to be linked to PFAS contamination in other Michigan communities. The first well testing positive for PFAS was, in fact, from a home within this industrial park
However, a state analysis of water from 70 neighboring wells in Cadillac revealed a more complex picture. While wells directly in the industrial park might be linked to heavy industry, investigators now believe that most of the tainted wells were contaminated by a mix of smaller sources. Specifically, state officials suggest that PFAS likely leached into the groundwater from septic systems, which accumulated PFAS from residents flushing common household products down the drain over the years
The state analysis found that many tainted wells lacked a clear link to the industrial park, were located in different directions, and had varying types of PFAS, suggesting multiple sources. PFAS was also found at sites far from the original study area, including a school, car dealership, and dentist’s office. The highest reading found in one of these wells was 340 parts per trillion of PFHxS, significantly above the state standard
The Trump administration has announced plans to rescind drinking-water limits on four PFAS “forever chemical” compounds while extending the compliance deadline for two others, in a move that outraged victims of Michigan’s widespread PFAS contamination.
Nationwide regulations limiting allowable levels of PFOA and PFOS — two of the most common among thousands of PFAS compounds — now won’t take effect until 2031, which is two years later than previously scheduled. There will no longer be a federal limit on PFHxS, PFNA, GenX or PFBS, four other compounds that the Biden administration had moved to regulate last year.
Michigan’s state-level drinking water standards will continue to limit the compounds that the federal government no longer wants to regulate. However, several of those state-level standards are weaker than the federal ones the EPA is rescinding.
Biden’s EPA created the nation’s first enforceable drinking water limits on PFAS in 2024, responding to mounting evidence that has linked various PFAS compounds to cancer and other health risks. Water systems were given until 2029 to comply.
Environmental advocates and public health experts have criticized less stringent federal limits, arguing they do not adequately protect public health from the known risks of PFAS exposure. The article highlights the disparity between federal guidelines and the potentially stricter standards some states, like Michigan, might seek to implement or maintain.Us
Alibaba AI on iPhone?
According to a report citing the New York Times, the Trump administration expressed concerns about a potential deal that would involve integrating Alibaba’s AI technology into Apple’s iPhones. The concern centers on potential national security risks associated with a major Chinese tech company having access to core iPhone functionality or data.
The potential integration was reportedly seen as problematic due to fears that it could create vulnerabilities for data privacy or enable surveillance. US officials have voiced apprehension about Chinese technology being embedded in critical consumer devices used globally.
The report highlights the geopolitical tensions surrounding technology development and the efforts by governments to scrutinize potential collaborations between US and Chinese tech giants, particularly concerning advanced areas like AI. The proposed deal faced scrutiny from a national security perspective.
Food Stamp Fraud
A report indicates that food stamp fraud in Michigan saw a dramatic increase, rising by nearly 400% from 2023 to 2024. This sharp spike suggests a significant escalation in fraudulent activity within the state’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
Payments caused by fraud in Michigan’s food stamp program jumped by 387% from fiscal year 2023 to 2024, according to documents obtained by a records request. The increase comes at a time when Michigan officials still haven’t switched to safer, more secure cards with embedded microchips.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services approved 592 of 651 requests in fiscal year 2023 to replace stolen benefits, for a total of $181,778
The data points to a growing challenge for state officials in managing and securing the food assistance program against illicit activities. Addressing the root causes and implementing stronger preventative measures are likely necessary steps in response to this trend.
Small Town Michigan Affected By Returning Illegals – Charlevoix
https://www.infowars.com/posts/twice-deported-mexican-illegal-with-lengthy-criminal-history-nabbed-in-bucolic-michigan-lake-townThe article reports on the arrest of a Mexican national in Charlevoix, Michigan, who was reportedly in the U.S. illegally after being previously deported twice. The individual is also described as having a lengthy criminal history.
The incident is presented as an example of how immigration enforcement challenges can manifest even in smaller, seemingly quiet communities. The arrest highlights concerns about individuals with criminal backgrounds who re-enter the country after deportation.
The article uses this specific case in a Michigan lake town to underscore arguments related to border security and the need for stricter enforcement against illegal immigration, particularly concerning individuals with criminal records.
EGLE Blames Septic Tanks But Not Sludge?
https://www.bridgemi.com/michigan-environment-watch/michigans-newest-pfas-threat-contamination-household-septic-systemsMichigan environmental regulators (EGLE) are identifying household septic systems as a significant and potentially widespread source of PFAS contamination in the state’s groundwater. Septic systems can release PFAS chemicals present in household products into the ground.
The article details how common consumer products containing PFAS, once flushed or washed down drains, end up in septic tanks and leach fields. Unlike centralized wastewater treatment plants which may filter some chemicals, septic systems provide minimal treatment for PFAS.
This focus on septic systems highlights a previously underestimated pathway for PFAS pollution. It suggests that addressing this source is crucial for protecting water quality, particularly in areas not served by municipal sewers, and adds complexity to the state’s PFAS remediation efforts.
Giving SoS Benson A Pass
House Republicans are giving Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson another chance to justify her department’s refusal to release full, unredacted election training materials.
On Friday, the legal counsel for the Michigan House sent a letter to the Department of Attorney General, formally inviting the Department of State to a private, in-person meeting. There, officials would be expected to demonstrate why certain materials can’t be disclosed to the Legislature.
Reps. Jay DeBoyer, R-Clay Township, and Rachelle Smit, R-Shelbyville, both former clerks, say the Secretary of State’s office is hiding behind weak claims of confidentiality.
“The Secretary of State’s office should look at our invitation as us giving them the benefit of the doubt for their frankly appalling lack of transparency,” DeBoyer said. “We are handing them the opportunity to come and demonstrate to us that their claims of confidentiality are truthful.”
Darth’s Probe Is Nonsense
https://www.bridgemi.com/michigan-government/nessel-grave-concerns-no-more-charges-25m-michigan-earmark-probeMichigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has reportedly expressed “grave concerns” about a legislative investigation into a $25 million state earmark and has stated that she does not anticipate further criminal charges stemming from it. The earmark was directed towards a specific non-profit organization.
Nessel’s comments suggest a level of skepticism regarding the motivations or findings of the legislative probe. While initial reviews or investigations might have occurred, her office does not foresee the evidence supporting additional criminal prosecutions related to the funds’ allocation or use.
The statement from the Attorney General indicates that, from a criminal prosecution standpoint, the matter is unlikely to proceed further despite continued legislative scrutiny or public questioning about the earmark and the non-profit involved.
No Budget – And That’s Bad How?
https://www.bridgemi.com/michigan-government/michigan-senate-dems-finalizing-845b-budget-time-house-get-seriousMichigan Senate Democrats are reportedly nearing completion on their version of the state budget, totaling approximately $84.5 billion. The article highlights the Senate’s progress and urges the House of Representatives to move forward with its own budget process to avoid delays.
The article outlines the key priorities and spending areas included in the Senate Democrats’ budget proposal. It emphasizes the need for the legislative chambers to reconcile their versions to pass a final budget before the deadline.
The framing points to the potential for conflict or slowdowns if the House does not quickly finalize its budget and enter negotiations. Passing a timely budget is crucial for state government operations and funding various programs and services.
Using AI For Crypto Theft
https://arstechnica.com/security/2025/05/ai-agents-that-autonomously-trade-cryptocurrency-arent-ready-for-prime-time/The article warns that while AI agents capable of autonomous cryptocurrency trading are being developed, they are not yet reliable or safe for widespread use. Experts caution that deploying such AI in the volatile crypto market carries significant risks, including potential for substantial financial losses.
These AI trading bots are designed to execute trades based on algorithms and market analysis without constant human oversight. However, current AI limitations mean they can misinterpret market signals, make flawed decisions, or be susceptible to manipulation, leading to poor trading outcomes or even potential security vulnerabilities that could facilitate theft.
The piece advises against entrusting significant funds to current AI-powered crypto trading agents. It underscores that despite the promise of automated trading, the technology is still in its nascent stages for complex, high-stakes financial environments.
We Need To Steal Copyrighted Material For Manhattan 2.0 Project
https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2025/03/openai-urges-trump-either-settle-ai-copyright-debate-or-lose-ai-race-to-china/OpenAI has reportedly urged former President Trump to help resolve the ongoing debate regarding the use of copyrighted material for training AI models. The company argues that failure to establish clear rules could hinder U.S. AI development and cause it to lose the global AI race, particularly against China.
The core issue is whether using copyrighted works found online to train large language models constitutes fair use or copyright infringement. AI companies rely heavily on vast datasets, often containing copyrighted text and images, for their training processes.
OpenAI’s message to Trump suggests that regulatory uncertainty around copyright could stifle innovation and investment in the U.S. AI sector. They are advocating for a policy framework that allows AI training while addressing the rights of creators.
Spotify Advertising Drug Ads With Fake AI Podcasts
https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2025/05/spotify-plays-whack-a-mole-with-fake-podcasts-selling-drugs-scamming-users/Spotify is reportedly facing a challenge with malicious actors using AI-generated fake podcasts to promote scams and advertise illicit goods, including drugs. These automated podcasts are created to spread deceptive content across the platform.
The company is engaged in a continuous effort, described as “whack-a-mole,” to identify and remove these fraudulent AI-generated podcasts as they appear. The ease with which AI can create audio content makes it a tool for those seeking to exploit platforms for illicit purposes.
This issue highlights the new forms of content moderation challenges posed by generative AI. Platforms like Spotify must develop sophisticated detection methods to combat the rapid proliferation of fake or harmful content created by AI.