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Official portrait of Sen. Cranston, Alan [D-CA]

Sen. Cranston, Alan [D-CA]

United States · Official source

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4,407 records where Sen. Cranston, Alan [D-CA] is listed as a sponsor, author, or other actor. Search with topics and years

Bill· SS. 2630 (102nd)referred

A bill to amend Title 38, United States Code, to clarify the authority of the Department of Veterans Affairs' Chief Medical Director or designee regarding review of the performance of probationary title 38 health care employees.

United States · United States Congress · 29 April 1992

Revises Federal law concerning performance evaluations and disciplinary actions for certain health care employees of the Veterans Health Services and Research Administration of the Department of Veterans Affairs. Allows review boards to review the performance of such employees at any time during the two-year probationary period following their appointment and to recommend appropriate personnel actions to the Chief Medical Director. Permits the Director to accept, reject, or modify such recommendations. Requires the Director to justify any action taken which was not so recommended.

Bill· SS. 2635 (102nd)referred

Social Security Equity Act of 1992

United States · United States Congress · 29 April 1992

Social Security Equity Act of 1992 - Amends title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) (OASDI) of the Social Security Act to provide that the combined earnings of a married couple which are attributable to the period of their marriage shall be shared equally between them for purposes of determining the eligibility for, and amount of, OASDI benefits to which each spouse is or may become separately entitled. Credits the survivor of the marriage with 100 percent of the combined total wages for the period of the marriage. Provides that this Act shall not apply in specified cases where it would result in a reduction of OASDI benefits. Sets forth certain age and marriage requirements with which married couples must comply in order for this Act to apply.

Bill· SS. 2626 (102nd)referred

Veterans' Compensation Rates and Pension Eligibility Reform Act of 1992

United States · United States Congress · 28 April 1992

Veterans' Compensation Rates and Pension Eligibility Reform Act of 1992 - Title I: Disability Compensation and Dependency and Indemnity Compensation Rate Increases - Increases the rates of: (1) veterans' disability compensation; (2) additional compensation for veterans' dependents; (3) the clothing allowance for certain disabled veterans; (4) dependency and indemnity compensation for surviving spouses and children; and (5) supplemental dependency and indemnity compensation for disabled adult children. Requires such increases to be the same percentage as the increase in benefit amounts payable under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) (OASDI) of the Social Security Act. Authorizes the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to make consistent adjustments administratively to the rates of disability compensation payable to certain persons who are not in receipt of compensation for service-connected disability or death. Requires the Secretary to publish such increases in the Federal Register at the same time that OASDI benefit increases are required to be published. Title II: Wartime Service Requirement for Pension - Increases the minimum service period required for a war veteran to qualify for a pension due to permanent and total disability that is not service-connected to 180 days or more (currently 90) during a period of war or for an aggregate of 180 days or more (currently 90) in two or more separate periods of service during more than one period of war. Makes such amendment applicable only to veterans who first enter into active military service after the end of the Persian Gulf conflict.

Bill· SS. 2624 (102nd)referred

A bill to authorize appropriations for the Interagency Council on the Homeless, the Federal Emergency Management Food and Shelter Program, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 28 April 1992

Title I: Interagency Council on the Homeless - Amends the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act to extend the authorization of appropriations for the Interagency Council on the Homeless, and the Council's authority, through October 1, 1994. Title II: Federal Emergency Management Food and Shelter Program - Amends the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act to extend the authorization of appropriations for the Federal emergency management food and shelter program.

Bill· SS. 2622 (102nd)referred

Khmer Rouge Prosecution and Exclusion Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 April 1992

Khmer Rouge Prosecution and Exclusion Act - Establishes an Office of Cambodian Genocide Investigation within the Department of State to: (1) investigate crimes against humanity committed by Khmer Rouge leaders between 1975 and 1979; (2) provide the people of Cambodia with access to evidence held as a result of such investigation; (3) submit relevant data to an international penal tribunal that may be convened to hear and judge the genocidal acts committed by the Khmer Rouge; and (4) develop the U.S. proposal for the establishment of an international criminal tribunal for the prosecution of those accused of genocide in Cambodia. Authorizes appropriations. Directs the President to report to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and the House Foreign Affairs Committee every six months on: (1) the activities of the Office and new facts learned about Khmer Rouge practices; and (2) the steps taken by the President to promote human rights, support efforts to bring to justice the leadership of the Khmer Rouge, and to prevent the recurrence of human rights abuses through actions that are unrelated to United Nations activities in Cambodia and are consistent with the Cambodian political settlement agreement signed in October 1991. Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to exclude from admission into the United States any alien who was a member of the national Khmer Rouge military or political leadership between April 17, 1975, and January 7, 1979. Lists specified individuals to be excluded. Urges the President to encourage foreign governments to exclude from their countries former and present Khmer Rouge leaders described by this Act.

Bill· SS. 2609 (102nd)referred

Small Business Access to Surety Bonding Survey Act of 1992

United States · United States Congress · 9 April 1992

Small Business Access to Surety Bonding Survey Act of 1992 - Requires the Comptroller General to conduct a survey and report to specified congressional committees on the experiences of businesses, especially small businesses, in obtaining surety bonds from corporate surety firms.

Bill· SS. 2575 (102nd)open

Department of Veterans Affairs Nurse Pay Amendments of 1992

United States · United States Congress · 9 April 1992

Department of Veterans Affairs Nurse Pay Amendments of 1992 - Revises the current pay grade schedule for nurses employed in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) of the Department of Veterans Affairs (Department), replacing the four-grade pay schedule with a five-grade schedule. Makes permanent (currently expires September 30, 1992) the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to waive certain restrictions with respect to the receipt of retirement pay by nurses in the VHA. Authorizes the Secretary to establish and adjust the basic pay rates for covered employees at the Veterans Memorial Medical Center in the Philippines and at Department health-care facilities located outside of the United States in order to recruit and retain a sufficient number of health-care personnel. Authorizes the director of a Department health-care facility, in conducting a survey of the local labor market in order to determine competitive rates of pay for Department personnel, to conduct such survey in another labor market area when the size or composition of the local labor market area is insufficient to establish competitive salary rates. Provides similar provisions allowing certain alternate data to be used in determining any required adjustments to the pay rates of Department certified registered nurse anesthetists in a local labor market area when survey results are insufficient. Requires a director, when surveying for the "beginning rate of compensation" to be paid to a health-care employee, to survey the minimum rates actually paid to (currently, established for) corresponding personnel in non-Department health-care facilities. Authorizes the Secretary to establish, for a Department health-care employee who transfers at the request of the Secretary to another Department facility, a higher rate of pay than is otherwise paid at such facility when determined necessary to recruit the employee for such facility. Requires the Secretary to report to the Congress on the use of such pay increase authority. Makes permanent (currently expires September 30, 1992) the authority of the Secretary to furnish respite care to veterans eligible for Department hospital, nursing home, or domiciliary care. Extends through December 31, 1996 (currently, September 30, 1992) the authority to contract with the Veterans Memorial Medical Center in the Philippines to furnish medical care to U.S. veterans. Makes permanent (currently expires September 30, 1992) the authority of the Department to: (1) carry out the Department Health Professional Scholarship Program; and (2) make grants to States for the construction or renovation of veterans' nursing homes.

Bill· SS. 2560 (102nd)open

A bill to reclassify the cost of international peacekeeping activities from international affairs to national defense.

United States · United States Congress · 9 April 1992

Requires, beginning with FY 1993, the cost of the "Contributions to International Peacekeeping Activities" account of the Department of State to be treated as a national defense cost and expense of the Department of Defense. Prohibits the Director of the Office of Management and Budget for FY 1993 from adjusting the discretionary spending limits for the defense and international categories under the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 in order to conform with such reclassification. Declares that nothing in this Act alters the role of the Department of State with respect to international peacekeeping activities.

Bill· SS. 2553 (102nd)open

Civil Liberties Act Amendments of 1992

United States · United States Congress · 8 April 1992

Civil Liberties Act Amendments of 1992 - Amends the Civil Liberties Act of 1988 to increase the authorization of appropriations to the Civil Liberties Public Education Fund. Modifies requirements regarding payments made in the case of deceased persons. Terminates the duties of the Attorney General a specified period after the Fund terminates (currently, when the Fund terminates). Excludes any payments made under such Act from consideration as income for purposes of eligibility for benefits under all laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, effective as of August 10, 1988. Includes non-Japanese spouses and parents of an individual of Japanese ancestry within the definition of the term "of Japanese ancestry."

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 283 (102nd)passed

A resolution to express the sense of the Senate concerning Filipino veterans of World War II.

United States · United States Congress · 8 April 1992

Expresses the sense of the Senate that the President should: (1) issue a proclamation designating April 9, 1992, as the Day of Recognition for Filipino War Veterans; and (2) present such proclamation to Filipino veterans and the Filipino people in Manila during ceremonies observing the 50th anniversary of the fall of Bataan as an expression of goodwill and a reaffirmation of Filipino-American friendship.

Bill· SS. 2537 (102nd)referred

Democracy in Peru Act of 1992

United States · United States Congress · 7 April 1992

Democracy in Peru Act of 1992 - Calls upon the Peruvian President Alberto Fujimori and the Peruvian armed forces to: (1) restore the Peruvian Congress and judiciary to power; (2) respect the Peruvian Constitution; (3) restore and respect individual and human rights; and (4) renounce violence as a means of achieving political goals. Calls upon: (1) Peru's armed forces to submit to civilian control; and (2) the Organization of American States and the international community to consider measures to ensure that constitutional order is restored in Peru. Suspends all U.S. assistance (except humanitarian assistance) to Peru until the President certifies to the Congress that the conditions of this Act have been met.

Bill· SS. 2515 (102nd)referred

Veterans' Employment and Training Act of 1992

United States · United States Congress · 2 April 1992

Veterans' Employment and Training Act of 1992 - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (Secretary) and the Secretary of Labor to assist eligible veterans in obtaining employment with eligible employers in permanent and stable positions that require significant training by providing: (1) training assistance payments to employers who employ and train eligible veterans; and (2) training benefits and appropriate counseling to eligible veterans. Requires the Assistant Secretary of Labor for Veterans' Employment and Training to assist the Secretary of Labor in carrying out this Act. Makes eligible for such training programs veterans who: (1) are unemployed at the time they apply; and (2) have either been unemployed for ten of the previous 15 weeks prior to applying, or were separated from active duty not more than ten weeks before starting the program. Requires such eligible veterans to submit to the Secretary of Labor an application for a certificate of eligibility for participation in the training program. Outlines provisions concerning the granting or denial of such certificates, including the right to appeal a denial to the Secretary of Labor. Requires a veteran to commence participation in an appropriate training program within 90 days after the certificate is issued. Provides for certificate renewal. Defines as eligible employers employers who intend to provide training in a field of employment providing reasonable probability of stable, long-term employment. Provides job training program requirements, including the provision of compensation to a veteran during such training and the employment of such veteran in the position for which trained, if practicable. Provides certain positions of employment for which an employer is prohibited from training eligible veterans (those involving seasonal or temporary employment, training outside of the United States, or those which will displace current workers or delay the return of previously laid-off workers). Authorizes an eligible employer to provide job training through educational instruction, if appropriate. Limits the duration of such training periods to no less than six months and no more than two years, with an exception. Directs the Secretary of Labor to approve each job training program established by an employer for purposes of this Act. Requires each employer who intends to carry out a job training program to submit an application to the Secretary of Labor. Provides: (1) application requirements; (2) program approval requirements; (3) that apprenticeship or other on-job training shall be considered a job training program for this Act's purposes; and (4) conditions under which the approval of a job training program may be discontinued by the Secretary of Labor. Requires notification to an employer and any affected veterans of the disapproval of a job training program. Provides for reapproval of such program in appropriate circumstances. Directs the Secretary to pay training assistance to employers who provide job training to veterans in programs under this Act. Provides for payment amounts and requires such payments to be made on a quarterly basis, with an exception. Requires the Secretary of Labor to transmit to the Secretary notice of program approval before such payments may be made. Directs the Secretary to pay accommodation assistance to permit employers to modify their facilities or equipment in order to facilitate the training and employment of disabled veterans. Requires an employer desiring such assistance to submit to the Secretary of Labor a detailed proposal relating to such modifications as well as documentation of the completion of such modifications and their costs. Requires the Secretary of Labor to approve each proposal for modifications, approve modification costs, and transmit to the Secretary notice of such approval. Directs the Secretary, after receiving such notice, to pay the appropriate accommodation assistance. Limits such payments to $3,000 per employer. Requires each employer so paid to permit facility access to ensure compliance with modification requirements. Outlines provisions concerning the determination of overpayment of job training program assistance under this Act and the recovery by the Secretary of such overpayments. Directs the Secretary to pay training benefits to veterans who participate in programs under this Act in order to defray work-related expenses. Limits such payments to $1,500 per veteran. Requires a veteran desiring such payment to apply to the Secretary of Labor, stating the amount of expenses incurred. Requires the Secretary of Labor to approve such application before any payment may be made. Outlines provisions concerning payment administration, determinations of overpayments, and recovery of overpayments. Authorizes the Secretary to waive recovery of overpayments when recovery would be against equity and good conscience. States that an employer: (1) may not provide a veteran with job training under a program if the Secretary determines that there are insufficient funds; (2) must notify the Secretary 14 days before furnishing job training to a veteran and to commence such program unless advised otherwise by the Secretary within such period; and (3) who provides training under this Act shall provide the veteran with a copy of the application for approval of the program as submitted to the Secretary of Labor. Directs the Secretary of Labor to ensure that the job training programs are carried out in compliance with this Act. Authorizes the Secretary of Labor to investigate matters related to a program, to enter onto an employer's premises, and to have access to records maintained by an employer with respect to a job training program. Prohibits an employer from being paid training assistance on behalf of a veteran under this Act if, during the training period, the employer is allowed a tax credit or is paid an allowance for such veteran under various Federal provisions. Provides an identical prohibition for the payment to a veteran of training benefits under this Act for work-related expenses. Prohibits either such payment if the veteran has completed a program of job training under this Act or under the Veterans' Job Training Act. Authorizes the Secretary and the Secretary of Labor to provide certain employment counseling and guidance services to veterans who are issued certificates of eligibility for participation in a job training program under this Act. Requires such services to be coordinated with similar services under Federal veterans' benefits provisions. Directs the Secretary of Labor to establish a program of case management services under which each veteran participating in a job training program approved under this Act is provided a case manager who is a veterans' outreach program specialist. Outlines the case management services to be provided. Provides that the Secretary of Labor is not required to provide a veteran with case management services if: (1) the outreach specialist recommends that the veteran does not need such services; or (2) the Secretary of Labor determines that the employer has an appropriate assistance program or that the rate of successful completion of the program is more than 60 percent. Directs the Secretary and the Secretary of Labor to provide eligible veterans with notice and information with respect to the counseling and guidance services, the case management services, and certain supportive services available to service-connected disabled veterans who are recently separated from military service as provided under the Job Training Partnership Act. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into contracts with and pay (up to a specified limit) entities for the provision of all such services. Directs the Secretary and the Secretary of Labor to carry out a public information and outreach program under which the Secretaries: (1) inform veterans of job training and employment programs; (2) inform private businesses, institutions of higher education, trade associations, and labor organizations of such training programs and employment opportunities; and (3) promote the development of job training and employment opportunities for veterans by various means. Requires coordination of such program with other Federal, State, and local programs. Directs each Secretary to make available in his or her respective local and regional offices such personnel and services as determined necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act. Directs the Secretary of Labor to obtain from the Administrator of the Small Business Administration a list of small businesses that are suitable to carry out job training programs under this Act. Requires the Administrator to update such list on a regular basis. Directs the Secretary of Labor to use resources made available under this Act to assist service-connected disabled veterans and veterans recently separated from military service under provisions of the Job Training Partnership Act. Directs the Secretary of Labor to inform veterans who are denied certificates of eligibility for programs provided under this Act of the opportunities available to such veterans under the Job Training Partnership Act or other similar programs. Directs the Secretary of Labor, in each of FY 1993 through 1997, to award grants to nonpublic entities having appropriate expertise in such matters for providing employment assistance (including counseling) to homeless veterans. Provides a fiscal year funding limitation for such grants. Directs the Secretary of Labor, in consultation with the Secretary, to evaluate on an annual basis the status of the programs authorized and carried out under this Act in order to ensure that programs satisfy their purposes. Directs the Secretary of Labor to submit to the Senate and House veterans' and labor committees preliminary and annual reports on actions taken and costs to implement this Act and their assessments with respect to the programs provided. Terminates the provision of training assistance to employers and training benefits to a veteran under this Act for any training provided after September 30, 1997. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1993 through 1997. Prohibits the obligation of any more than five percent of such authorized amounts for administrative activities by either Secretary.

Bill· SS. 2528 (102nd)referred

Native American Veterans' Home Loan Equity Act of 1992

United States · United States Congress · 2 April 1992

Native American Veterans' Home Loan Equity Act of 1992 - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish and implement a pilot program under which the Secretary may make direct housing loans to aid Native American (Indian, Alaska or Hawaii native, or Pacific Islander) veterans in purchasing, constructing, or improving dwellings on trust land. Requires such loans to be made in a variety of geographic areas and in areas experiencing a variety of economic circumstances. Prohibits any such loans from being made after the end of FY 1997. Authorizes the Secretary to make such a direct housing loan to a Native American if: (1) the Secretary has entered into a memorandum of understanding with respect to such loans with the tribal organization having jurisdiction over such veteran; and (2) the memorandum is in effect when the loan is made. Outlines provisions to be included in each such memorandum. Prohibits entering into any such memorandum unless the Secretary determines that it provides standards and procedures necessary for the reasonable protection of the financial interests of the United States. Limits to $80,000 the principal amount of any such loan. Sets forth provisions governing loan interest rates. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish minimum requirements for planning, construction or improvement, and general acceptability relating to any direct loan; and (2) establish credit underwriting standards to be used in evaluating such loans. Requires loans to be repaid in monthly installments. Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) make advances to provide for repairs, alterations, and improvements and to meet incidental expenses of the loan transaction; and (2) take any other actions and make any necessary determinations with respect to expenses, rules and regulations, and the use of persons, organizations, or departments or agencies to carry out his functions. Establishes in the Treasury a revolving fund to be known as the Native American Veterans Housing Loan Fund to carry out financial activities relating to the making of loans under this Act. Directs the Secretary, in carrying out the pilot program, to consider the views and recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Native-American Veterans established under the Veterans' Health-Care Amendments of 1986. Directs the Secretary to report annually in 1994 through 1998 to the Senate and House Veterans' Affairs Committees on the pilot program and recommendations for legislation regarding the program. Authorizes appropriations.

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 280 (102nd)referred

A resolution to express the sense of the Senate concerning the tropical rain forests of Malaysia.

United States · United States Congress · 2 April 1992

Expresses the sense of the Senate that it should be U.S. policy to call upon the Government of: (1) Malaysia to act immediately to end the uncontrolled exploitation of the rain forests of Sarawak by reducing the annual rate of timber cutting by at least two-thirds and by formally recognizing and upholding the customary land rights and internationally established human rights of all indigenous peoples of such Government; and (2) Japan to investigate the activities of certain private companies in Japan contributing to the destruction of the Sarawak rain forest.

Bill· SS. 2512 (102nd)open

A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish a program to provide certain housing assistance to homeless veterans, to improve certain other programs that provide such assistance, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 1 April 1992

Authorizes the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to make loans to nonprofit organizations, States, and political subdivisions to finance the purchase of property for housing assistance for homeless veterans. Outlines loan conditions and requirements. Directs the Secretary to ensure that the terms and conditions are similar to those applied to housing and small business loans under applicable Federal provisions. Authorizes the Secretary to limit the number and amount of loans under this Act. Directs the Secretary to make available as housing for homeless veterans and their families during each fiscal year at least ten percent of the total properties in possession of the Secretary at the beginning of such fiscal year as a result of a default on a housing loan made, guaranteed, or insured through the Department of Veterans Affairs. Directs the Secretary to lease such properties to nonprofit organizations and State or local governments whose applications are approved. Directs the Secretary to collect from each approved entity a nominal rental charge for the property. Directs an approved entity to use such property solely for the provision of housing for homeless veterans and their families and to collect rent from occupants in an amount which may not exceed the costs incurred by the entity in operating and maintaining the property. Requires such entity to utilize the services of homeless veterans in maintaining, operating, and renovating the property. Prohibits the Secretary from making any properties available for such acquisition after FY 1997. Authorizes the Secretary to lease to a representative of the homeless for a term in excess of three years any real property for which an application has been approved by the Secretary of Health and Human Services under appropriate provisions of the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act. Requires such representative to use the property for the provision of services to homeless veterans and their families. Amends such Act to authorize appropriations through FY 1995 for a project aimed at reintegrating homeless veterans into the labor force.

Bill· SS. 2503 (102nd)referred

A bill to amend the Foreign Relations Authorization Act, Fiscal Years 1992 and 1993, to make available additional funds to the Department of State for the United States contributions to international peacekeeping activities.

United States · United States Congress · 31 March 1992

Amends the Foreign Relations Authorization Act, Fiscal Years 1992 and 1993 to authorize additional funding (to be transferred from a specified Department of Defense account) for international peacekeeping activities. Provides that such funds shall not be counted as new budget authority or outlays for FY 1993 under spending limitations of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974.

Bill· SS. 2399 (102nd)open

Appropriations Category Reform Act of 1992

United States · United States Congress · 24 March 1992

Appropriations Category Reform Act of 1992 - States that the Congress declares that it is essential that the Nation achieve savings in national defense beyond those agreed to in the budget summit agreement of 1990, reduce the deficit, and invest in areas of pressing domestic need that have been neglected since the 1980s. Amends the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 to revise the discretionary spending limit for FY 1993 by merging the defense and domestic categories into a national category. Makes conforming changes to the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act).

Bill· SS. 2387 (102nd)referred

Every Fifth Child Act

United States · United States Congress · 24 March 1992

Every Fifth Child Act - Makes appropriations for FY 1993, out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, in specified amounts to begin a phase-in toward full funding of: (1) the special supplemental food program for women, infants, and children (WIC) under the Child Nutrition Act of 1966; (2) Head Start programs under the Head Start Act; and (3) the Job Corps program under the Job Training Partnership Act. Expresses the sense of the Congress that such programs should receive specified minimum levels of funding to allow: (1) the WIC program to be fully funded through FY 1996; (2) Head Start programs to be fully funded through FY 1998; and (3) the Job Corps to establish at least 50 additional centers and serve at least 50 percent more of low-income disadvantaged youth by the year 2000.

Law· SS. 2378 (102nd)enacted

A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to extend certain authorities relating to the administration of veterans laws, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 20 March 1992

Extends through March 31, 1994, the authority of the Department of Veterans Affairs to operate a regional office in the Philippines. Ratifies any action taken by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs in maintaining such regional office during the period between October 1, 1991, and the date of enactment of this Act. Extends from January 31 to December 31, 1992: (1) a temporary program of trial work periods and voluntary vocational rehabilitation evaluations for veterans receiving disability compensation at the total disability rate; (2) a program of vocational training for non-service-disabled veterans who are awarded a needs-based pension through the Department; and (3) the protection of Department health-care eligibility for a veteran whose entitlement to pension is terminated due to the receipt of income from work or training. Makes such extensions effective as of January 31, 1992. Ratifies specified actions taken by the Secretary with respect to such programs during the period beginning on February 1, 1992, and ending on the date of enactment of this Act. Extends from three to four years after its establishment the period during which a nonprofit corporation established at a Department medical center for medical research purposes must achieve recognition as a tax-exempt entity under provisions of the Internal Revenue Code. Extends through December 31, 1992, the authorized period for establishing such nonprofit corporations. Ratifies certain actions taken by the Secretary with respect to dissolving or establishing such nonprofit corporations during the period between October 1, 1991, and the date of enactment of this Act. Amends the Veterans' Health-Care Amendments of 1986 to extend through FY 1992 a required annual report from the Secretary to the Congress on the furnishing of hospital care.

Bill· SS. 2385 (102nd)referred

A bill to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to permit the admission to the United States of nonimmigrant students and visitors who are the spouses and children of United States permanent resident aliens, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 20 March 1992

Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to provide for U.S. admission of a nonimmigrant spouse or child of a permanent resident alien in order to: (1) visit the permanent resident spouse or parent; or (2) study in the United States. Makes such an alien who overstays the authorized visa period ineligible for an immigrant visa for up to one year after his or her priority date has been reached.

Bill· SS. 2382 (102nd)referred

A bill to amend titles 26 and 38, United States Code, to make permanent certain income verification and pension provisions of the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1990.

United States · United States Congress · 20 March 1992

Amends the Internal Revenue Code and other Federal law to provide for the permanent use of Internal Revenue Service and social security data by the Department of Veterans Affairs for income verification. Makes permanent the reduction in pension for a veteran who does not have a spouse or a child and receives Medicaid-covered nursing home care.

Bill· SS. 2381 (102nd)referred

Medical Care Cost Recovery Amendment of 1992

United States · United States Congress · 20 March 1992

Medical Care Cost Recovery Amendment of 1992 - Makes permanent the authority of the United States to collect reimbursement from third-party health insurers for care or services provided to veterans through the Department of Veterans Affairs for non-service-connected disabilities to the extent that the veteran would be eligible to receive such care or services from the third party if the care or services had not been furnished by the Department or another Federal department or agency. (Currently, such reimbursement authority is permitted only for care or services furnished before October 1, 1993.)

Bill· SS. 2379 (102nd)open

Veterans' Home Loan Improvement Act of 1992

United States · United States Congress · 20 March 1992

Veterans' Home Loan Improvement Act of 1992 - Revises the following fee for a housing loan to a veteran that is made, insured, or guaranteed by the Department of Veterans Affairs: (1) two percent of the total amount of a loan made to purchase a manufactured home or lot; and (2) 2.5 percent of the total loan amount in the case of a veteran who has previously obtained a Department-guaranteed loan or for a direct loan made to a veteran in a housing credit shortage area without respect to the purpose for which the loan was made or the amount of any downpayment. Provides exceptions to the 2.5 percent loan fee requirement. Repeals a Federal provision which increases by a specified percentage such fee for each loan closed between November 1, 1990, and September 30, 1991. Amends Federal provisions concerning default procedures on such Department-guaranteed loans to: (1) include losses sustained on the resale of such property in the determination of net value of such property; and (2) repeal the December 31, 1992, termination date for such provisions. Increases from five to ten percent the downpayment required for Department-guaranteed manufactured home loans. Provides that the amount of the loan made or guaranteed for a veteran who has previously received a guaranteed or direct loan from the Department may not exceed 90 percent of the reasonable value of the dwelling or farm residence securing the loan, with exceptions.

Bill· SS. 2380 (102nd)referred

A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to target entitlement for vocational rehabilitation benefits under chapter 31 to veterans with service-connected disabilities rated 30 percent or more; to adjust the basic military pay reduction for chapter 30 Montgomery GI Bill participants in proportion to the increased amount of assistance provided under such chapter, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 20 March 1992

Limits entitlement to a Department of Veterans Affairs training and rehabilitation program to veterans with service-connected disabilities rated at 30 (currently 20) percent or more. Amends the Montgomery GI Bill educational assistance program to: (1) increase to $117 monthly the military basic pay reduction taken for coverage under such program for individuals first entering onto active duty on or after October 1, 1992 (currently, $100 monthly regardless of the date of initial active duty); and (2) increase to $1,400 the basic pay reduction charged to certain active-duty personnel to enroll in such program before being involuntarily separated from service for individuals whose involuntary separation is effective on or after October 1, 1992 (currently, $1,200 regardless of the date of involuntary separation).

Bill· SS. 2383 (102nd)referred

A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to ratify the Department of Veterans Affairs' interpretation of the provisions of section 1151 of title 38, United States Code.

United States · United States Congress · 20 March 1992

Prohibits the payment of Federal veterans' disability compensation (or additional disability compensation) or death compensation in the case of any veteran who suffers or aggravates an injury or dies as a result of hospitalization, medical or surgical treatment, rehabilitation, or examination by the Department of Veterans Affairs for the expected or reasonably foreseeable results of approved medical or surgical care properly administered, in the absence of a showing of carelessness, negligence, lack of proper skill, error in judgment, or similar instance of fault on the part of the Department. Provides that such benefits are payable in the event of an accident which causes additional disability or death from Department hospitalization or medical or surgical care. Provides that a person who receives compensation pursuant to a claim under the Federal Tort Claims Act for personal injury or death shall not receive benefits under the additional compensation provisions until the amount of compensation distributed to that person equals the amount of benefits that would have been paid under the Department provisions. Provides that where a settlement, compromise, or judgment under the Federal Tort Claims Act is entered after benefits have been awarded under Department provisions: (1) the United States shall be entitled to a credit in the tort action for benefits already paid by the Department; and (2) further Department benefits shall be withheld beginning on the month following the month in which the settlement is sent to the General Accounting Office for payment. Outlines additional provisions for the: (1) award of benefits where entitlement is established, but benefits have not been paid prior to a tort claims settlement; and (2) determination by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs of the amount of compensation distributed to a person in a Federal Tort Claims Act settlement.

Bill· SS. 2373 (102nd)open

Community Works Progress Act of 1992

United States · United States Congress · 19 March 1992

Community Works Progress Act of 1992 - Amends the Job Training Partnership Act (JTPA) to establish a new title VI, Community Works Progress and Youth Community Corps Programs. Establishes in the Employment and Training Administration (ETA) of the Department of Labor a Community Works Progress Office (the Office), to be headed by an Administrator. Directs the Administrator to prepare a plan for implementation of programs of the Office and submit a report summarizing it to the Secretary of Labor (the Secretary), who shall send a copy of the report to the appropriate congressional committees, and promulgate regulations to carry out the plan. Sets forth requirements relating to contracts made by administrative entities carrying out projects under this Act. Requires that such projects comply with nonduplication and nondisplacement requirements under the National and Community Service Act of 1990. Provides that compensation or benefits received by project participants under this Act shall be excluded from consideration under the Higher Education Act of 1965, specified provisions of the Social Security Act, and other determinations of Federal benefits. Requires administrative entities carrying out such projects to submit quarterly progress reports to the State Governor. Directs the Comptroller General to evaluate programs under this Act and report to the Secretary and appropriate congressional committees. Directs the Secretary, acting through the Administrator, to establish in the Office a Community Works Progress (CWP) program. Provides for CWP program allotments to States, including bonuses to States demonstrating progress in the preceding fiscal year in securing employment for individuals who were receiving AFDC and who no longer require such aid as a result of such employment. Allows States to use such allotments to award grants for CWP projects. Sets forth requirements for State Governors' award of CWP grants to eligible entities (including public agencies, private contractors, and private nonprofit organizations) for CWP projects that will serve a significant public purpose in a community service field (as described under the National and Community Service Act of 1990). Requires compliance with criteria established by the Secretary for job training, job search, and volunteer services. Sets forth requirements for job training plans for such CWP grant projects. Requires the Governor to enter into a written grant agreement with the administrative entity, including requirements for: (1) limits on administrative expenses and construction contracts; (2) use of at least 70 percent of the grant for compensation and supportive services for participants; (3) a three-year completion deadline; and (4) jobs opportunities and basic skills training program requirements for AFDC recipients. Sets forth requirements for nonpartisan selection and eligibility of unemployed individuals as project participants. Allows project participation, under specified conditions, of individuals who are also participants in the job opportunities and basic skills training program under AFDC provisions of the Social Security Act. Allows participation of individuals receiving unemployment compensation if certain age, education, residence, and unemployment period criteria are met. Allows participation of individuals who are not receiving unemployment compensation and who are discouraged workers if the other criteria are met. Requires, if possible, that at least 25 percent of project participants not be AFDC training program participants. Makes ineligible for project participation any individual eligible for specified retirement benefits. Sets forth restrictions on project participation, including: (1) 32-hour maximum project work per week; (2) 20-hour maximum on any additional part-time employment; (3) job search requirements; and (4) testing and education requirements. Sets forth requirements for compensation and supportive services for project participants, including unemployment compensation recipients, AFDC recipients, and individuals not receiving unemployment compensation. Sets forth duties of State units with respect to the CWP program in each State. Directs the Secretary, acting through the Administrator, to establish in the Office a youth community corps (YCC) program. Provides for YCC program allotments to States to award grants for YCC projects. Sets forth requirements for State Governor's award of YCC grants to eligible entities (community-based organizations, local educational agencies, or partnerships of local education agencies with local public community service agencies) for YCC projects to employ participants in projects in community service fields. Sets forth requirements for job training plans. Requires YCC grant agreements to limit administrative expenses and construction contracts, require 70 percent of grant funds for compensation and benefits for participants, and limit length of individual participation to not more than 250 hours per year. Sets forth requirements for selection and eligibility of YCC participants. Makes eligible elementary and secondary school students aged 14 to 21 who are children of participants in the AFDC job opportunities and basic skills training program or who are members of families receiving AFDC benefits, or of eligible households under the food stamp program, or of families with incomes at or below the official poverty line. Allows employment of other eligible students who do not meet such poverty criteria if the project requires a greater number of participants and preference in such selection is given to students with work experience related to the project. Prohibits employment as a participant in a YCC project of any individual who is not making progress toward attainment of a high school diploma or equivalent. Requires payment to YCC participants of either: (1) a monetary credit for use at institutions of higher education, based on hours of participation; or (2) a cash benefit equal to one-half the amount of the educational credit. Sets forth duties of State units with respect to the YCC program in the State. Directs the Secretary, acting through the Administrator, to establish in the Office a national youth community corps (NYCC) program. Directs the Secretary to make equal allotments to ETA regional offices to make NYCC grants and to make administrative cost grants to States in which NYCC projects are carried out. Authorizes a regional office to make one grant for each fiscal year to establish and carry out an NYCC project to employ participants aged 17 to 22 in a project related to community service fields within the region served by that office. Makes eligible to receive such a grant a State or local public agency or a private nonprofit organization that provides such community services within that region. Sets forth requirements for job training plans. Requires NYCC grant agreements to: (1) limit administrative expenses and construction contracts; (2) use at least 70 percent of the grant for compensation and benefits for participants; (3) limit individual participant employment to not more than two years; (4) provide for training participants in accordance with specified provisions of the National and Community Service Act of 1990; and (5) provide for periodic and confidential evaluations of each participant. Sets forth requirements for selection and eligibility of NYCC project participants. Requires individual applications to the Governor to indicate the NYCC projects in which the individual seeks to participate. Requires the Governor to refer such application to each administrative entity administering such projects. Requires an individual to be age 17 to 22 to be eligible to participate in a NYCC project. Requires the administrative entity to make offers to eligible individuals to become participants in the project. Provides for living allowances and payments to NYCC participants. Provides for a choice of higher educational credits equal to $10,000 per year or cash benefits equal to $5,000 per year. Sets forth duties of State units with respect to an NYCC program conducted in the State. Authorizes appropriations under JTPA to carry out this Act. Amends the Social Security Act with respect to programs under this Act in ways relating to: (1) disregard of income earned as compensation by a program participant under this Act; (2) employability plans; (3) referral to projects under the CWP, YCC, and NYCC programs; (4) work supplementation program; and (5) community work experience program. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to exclude: (1) compensation for service under this Act as wages for unemployment compensation purposes; and (2) compensation and benefits for service under this Act from gross income for income tax purposes.

Bill· SS. 2372 (102nd)referred

A bill to amend 1718 of title 38, United States Code, to provide that the compensation of veterans under certain rehabilitative services programs in State homes not be considered to be compensation for the purposes of calculating the pensions of such veterans.

United States · United States Congress · 19 March 1992

Prohibits a veteran's participation in an approved program of rehabilitative services provided as part of such veteran's care furnished in a State home, or the receipt of compensation by the veteran for such participation, from being considered as a basis for the denial or discontinuance of a total disability rating for purposes of compensation or pension based on a veteran's inability to secure gainful employment as a result of a disability. Considers such payment as a donation from a public or private relief or welfare organization.

Bill· SS. 2369 (102nd)open

A bill to amend section 7101 of title 38, United States Code, to provide for the reclassification of members of the Board of Veterans' Appeals and to ensure pay equity between those members and administrative law judges.

United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1992

Reclassifies the pay and benefits for members of the Board of Veterans Appeals other than the Chairman and Vice Chairman to equal those payable to a Federal administrative law judge. Prohibits the reduction of basic pay of a member of the Board below the rate payable on the day before the effective date of this Act.

Bill· SS. 2341 (102nd)open

Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act of 1992

United States · United States Congress · 11 March 1992

Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act of 1992 - Title I: Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction - Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to provide grants to State and local entities for lead-based paint hazard reduction activities (including testing of children) in private target housing. Authorizes appropriations, including a technical assistance set-aside. Establishes a ten percent minimum matching requirement. Amends specified Federal housing Acts to require assessments of lead-based paint hazards. Amends the Lead-Based Paint Poisoning Prevention Act to require the inspection and abatement of lead-based paint hazards in all pre-1978 federally owned residential properties prior to disposition. Amends the Cranston-Gonzalez National Affordable Housing Act to require State and local comprehensive housing affordability strategies to include estimates of housing units with lead paint problems and outline hazard abatement activities. Directs the Secretary to: (1) assess and reduce lead-based paint hazards as part of the National Housing Act mortgage insurance programs; and (2) establish a task force on private sector financing of lead-based paint hazard reduction. Title II: Assessment and Reduction Infrastructure - Requires Federal assessment and reduction of lead-based paint hazards to be conducted by federally certified contractors and laboratories. Directs the Secretary to: (1) issue lead-based paint hazard assessment and reduction guidelines; and (2) establish related monitoring systems. Subjects a contractor to contract disqualification (in addition to other remedies) for certification noncompliance or negligent compliance. Directs the Secretary to establish a National Clearinghouse on Residential Lead-Based Paint Poisoning. Sets aside specified funds for Clearinghouse activities. Title III: Public Information and Technical Assistance - Provides for the disclosure of information concerning lead-based paint hazards in contracts for purchase, sale, or leasing of target housing. Sets forth required contract Lead Warning Statements. Requires the Secretary to publish a related lead hazard information pamphlet. Sets forth penalties for disclosure violations. Directs the Secretary to: (1) develop a public awareness campaign regarding the dangers of childhood lead poisoning; and (2) establish a lead hazard hotline. Sets aside specified funds for such activities. Requires: (1) the Secretary to develop consumer information to be distributed by home improvement retailers regarding potential lead hazards of remodeling or renovation; and (2) manufacturers of hand tools used in such remodeling to affix a related warning label (to be developed by the Consumer Product Safety Commission). Title IV: Formulation of a National Strategy - Directs the Secretary to formulate a national strategy for eliminating lead-based paint hazards in housing. Title V: Research and Development - Subtitle A: HUD Research - Directs the Secretary to conduct research on: (1) lead exposure from non-paint sources such as exterior soil and lead dust; and (2) lead testing technologies. Sets aside specified funds for such activities. Subtitle B: GAO Report - Directs the General Accounting Office to assess the availability of liability insurance for owners of residential housing that contains lead-based paint and persons engaged in assessment and reduction activities. Title VI: Reports - Sets forth reporting requirements.

Law· SS. 2344 (102nd)enacted

Veterans' Medical Programs Amendments of 1992

United States · United States Congress · 11 March 1992

Veterans Health Care Amendments Act of 1992 - Title I: Mental Health - Part A: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder - Veterans Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Treatment Act of 1992 - Directs that a veteran diagnosed by the Department of Veterans Affairs as suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) be furnished care and services for such disorder by the Department, even if such disorder has not been determined to be service-connected. Makes eligible for such care and services a veteran who served on active duty in a theater of combat operations during World War II, the Korean conflict, the Vietnam era, the Persian Gulf War, or in any other area during a period in which hostilities occurred in such area. Requires a veteran who is referred by a Vet Center to a Department general health-care facility for a determination regarding such veteran's eligibility for PTSD care and services to be evaluated for diagnostic purposes within seven days of such referral. Requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, upon request of any eligible veteran, to furnish counseling to assist the veteran in overcoming any psychological problems associated with such service. Directs the Secretary, no later than June 1, 1992, to devise and initiate a plan to: (1) increase the availability of treatment of veterans suffering from PTSD to levels commensurate with their needs; and (2) enhance outreach activities to inform combat veterans (and their families) of the availability of such treatment and to encourage such veterans to participate in such treatment. Directs the Secretary to report to the Senate and House Veterans' Affairs Committees on the description and implementation of such plan. Directs the Secretary, in preparing such report, to consult with the Special Committee on Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and the Advisory Committee on Readjustment of Vietnam and other War Veterans. Directs the Special Committee on Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (Special Committee) to report concurrently to the Secretary and the veterans' committees setting forth its evaluation of a study required under prior law of postwar psychological problems of Vietnam veterans. Requires the Special Committee in 1993 and 1994 to update certain reports required under prior law relating to PTSD and its treatment. Directs the Secretary, in the budgetary documents submitted to the Congress in conjunction with the President's budget submission for FY 1994 and 1995, to identify amounts in the appropriations requests for Department accounts that are estimated to be obligated for various purposes relating to the provision of treatment for PTSD. Directs the Secretary to ensure that there are PTSD units in locations that are readily accessible to veterans residing in rural areas. Part B: Mental Illness Research and Education - Directs the Secretary, upon the recommendation of the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the Department, to designate not more than five health-care facilities of the Department as locations for centers of mental illness research, education and clinical activities (especially for service-related conditions) and to establish and operate such centers at such locations. Requires the first such facility to be designated no later than January 1, 1993. Requires the Secretary to ensure the appropriate geographical distribution of such facilities. Prohibits the Secretary from designating any such facility as a mental illness research, education, and clinical center (MIC) unless such facility has an arrangement with an accredited medical school, graduate school of psychology, or nursing school which: (1) provides appropriate education and training in such matters; (2) has the ability to attract appropriate personnel for such research; (3) has a policy-making advisory committee; and (4) has the capability to conduct effective evaluations of the activities at such center. Authorizes appropriations for the operation of the MICs for FY 1993 through 1996. Requires such research to include an appropriate emphasis on the psychosocial dimension of mental illness and on proposals for furnishing care and treatment to veterans suffering from mental illness. Requires the CMD to ensure that useful information produced by MICs is disseminated through the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Requires reports during 1993 through 1995 from the Secretary to the veterans' committees on experiences under the MIC program. Part C: Program of Marriage and Family Counseling for Certain Veterans - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to conduct a program for furnishing marriage and family counseling services to veterans who were awarded a campaign medal for active-duty service during the Persian Gulf War, reservists who were called or ordered to active duty during such War, and their spouses, dependents, and parents. Authorizes the Secretary to provide marriage and family counseling services that the Secretary determines, based on an assessment by a mental-health professional, is necessary for the amelioration of psychological, marital, or familial difficulties resulting from such active-duty service. Outlines provisions concerning the manner in which such services will be furnished, as well as qualifications required of the marriage and family counselors performing such services. Outlines provisions concerning counseling services provided by mental health professionals pursuant to Department of Veterans Affairs contracts, including the length of marriage and counseling services to be performed under the program. Prohibits the same person who performs the counseling needs assessment from furnishing the marriage and counseling services under the program, with a waiver of such prohibition under specified circumstances. Directs the Secretary to reimburse the mental health professionals for the reasonable costs of such counseling services. Provides cost recovery provisions. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1993 and 1994. Requires the Secretary to report an interim and final report to the Congress on such program, with recommendations. Title II: General Health Care - Part A: General Health - Authorizes the furnishing of prosthetic devices and certain other medical items as part of outpatient care when necessary either to obviate the need for hospital admission or in preparation for such. Requires the Secretary, in order for such authority to become effective, to determine that its implementation would not result in a substantial delay in furnishing such items in connection with the treatment of service-connected disabilities or in the denial of such items in connection with such treatment. Increases the amount authorized to be expended per veteran for improvements and structural alterations necessary to assure the continuation of treatment for a disability or to provide access to the home or to lavatory and sanitary facilities. Directs the Secretary to require the directors of Department medical centers or regional benefits offices to assess the needs of homeless veterans living within their service areas, including the needs of such veterans with respect to health care, education and training, employment, shelter, counseling, and outreach services. Requires each assessment to indicate the extent to which such needs are being adequately met by programs of the Department and other Federal, State, and local governments and agencies, as well as nongovernmental organizations. Requires each such director to develop a plan for each of fiscal years 1993 through 1995 for the provision of outreach and other services to meet veterans needs. Requires the coordination of such plans with other Federal, non-Federal, and private plans and programs with respect to the provision of services to homeless persons. Requires each director to carry out such plan and to disseminate to all other appropriate entities information regarding the services provided to homeless veterans by the medical facility or benefits office. Directs the Secretary to conduct a pilot program to determine the effectiveness of providing, through existing community-based organizations, domiciliary care to homeless veterans eligible for such care from the Department under other provisions of law. Requires the pilot program to be conducted at not more than 15 locations throughout the United States. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into contracts with community-based organizations to provide services under such program, giving preference to those that offer the most comprehensive care and services to homeless individuals and those not being adequately met by existing programs. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1992 through 1995. Authorizes the transfer of certain other funds for continuing pilot programs, with certain transfer limitations. Authorizes the Secretary to accept donations of funds and services for providing one-stop, nonresidential services and mobile support teams and for expanding the medical services available to eligible homeless veterans. Amends the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Amendments Act of 1988 to extend the authorization of appropriations and the provision of certain programs for homeless veterans provided under such Act through FY 1993. Amends the Veterans' Benefits and Services Act of 1988 to extend through FY 1994 a program under such Act with regard to certain services for mentally ill homeless veterans. Requires the Secretary to report to the veterans' committees containing an evaluation of: (1) assessments and plans by medical center and benefits office directors with respect to homeless veterans; (2) the pilot program for the provision of domiciliary care to homeless veterans; and (3) the acceptance of gifts and services to provide nonresidential services and mobile support teams for expanding the medical services available to homeless veterans. Amends the Veterans' Benefits and Services Act of 1988 to extend through FY 1993 the authorization of appropriations for a pilot program which provides mobile health-care clinics for veterans residing in isolated rural areas. Directs the Secretary to establish the Advisory Committee on Prosthetics and Special-Disabilities Programs to advise the Secretary on: (1) all matters related to prosthetics and special-disabilities programs of the Department; (2) coordination of programs which develop and test prosthetic devices; and (3) the adequacy of funding for such programs within the Department. Requires the Advisory Committee to report to the Secretary and the veterans' committees annually in 1993 through 1995 on the effectiveness of the prosthetics and special-disabilities programs administered by the Secretary during the preceding fiscal year. Expands the definition of "medical services," for purposes of veterans' benefits provisions, to include services to overcome a service-connected disability impairing a veteran's ability to achieve procreation. Directs the CMD to appoint an advisory committee to advise the CMD on the exercise of authority to furnish such procreative-assistive services. Directs the Secretary, through FY 1996, to: (1) furnish annually at least two preventive health-care services that the Secretary determines are feasible and appropriate for any veteran being furnished hospital, nursing home, or domiciliary care or medical treatment under current veterans' benefits provisions; and (2) implement annually at each Department health-care facility a major preventive health-care and health-promotion initiative for such veterans. Limits the yearly expenditures for such activities. Requires the CMD to designate an official in the VHA to act as the Director of Preventive Health-Care and Health-Promotion Programs. Requires the Secretary to report on February 1 of 1994 and 1996 on interim and final experiences under the programs. Authorizes the Secretary to provide: (1) a service dog to a quadriplegic veteran who has a service-connected disability; and (2) a signal dog to a veteran who has a service-connected hearing impairment. Authorizes the payment of travel and incidental expenses to veterans for travel incurred in becoming adjusted to such service or signal dog. Directs the Secretary to report to the veterans' committees concerning the backlog that occurred in the procurement of prosthetic appliances in FY 1989 and on actions to be taken to prevent a recurrence of backlogs and failures to furnish appliances on a priority basis. Repeals the authority of the Department to furnish tobacco products to veterans receiving hospital or domiciliary care through the Department. Directs the Secretary to establish a task force to recommend policies and legislation for the elimination of inconsistencies among provisions of law relating to veterans' eligibility for certain health-care benefits. Requires the Secretary to review the report of the task force and either approve of its recommendations, make recommendations in lieu of such recommendations, or a combination of both and report thereon to the veterans' committees. Makes former prisoners of war eligible for outpatient medical services through the Department for any disability. Directs the Secretary, during FY 1992 through 1995, to conduct a pilot program to furnish assistive monkeys to quadriplegic veterans who have a service-connected disability rated at 50 percent or more. Directs the Secretary to: (1) consider the extent to which the veteran needs and can benefit from the assistance of the monkey; and (2) provide a preference for veterans who have service-connected quadriplegia. Requires a receiving veteran to be well-suited for caring for such monkey and for effectively using the monkey for the provision of assistance in performing daily living tasks. Provides administrative matters, including the making of contracts for the furnishing of such assistive monkeys. Requires the Secretary to evaluate and report to the veterans' committees on the pilot program. Requires the CMD, before furnishing such assistive monkeys under the pilot program, to provide for the conduct of an independent evaluation of the way that assistive monkeys would be treated during training and placement under the pilot program. Requires consultation with appropriate animal welfare organizations. Part B: Health-Care Personnel - Authorizes the provision of increased pay to any Department health-care personnel furnishing direct care to patients or providing incidental services on the same basis as pay is currently provided for nurses within the Department. Prohibits such added pay from exceeding by two times (currently, only exceeding) the amount by which the maximum for such pay grade exceeds the minimum for such grade. Directs the Secretary to increase the rates of pay for clinical or counseling psychologists who hold diplomas in psychology from an accredited authority recognized by the Secretary, unless the CMD determines that such psychologists are not needed to furnish the appropriate quality of psychological services for veterans. Makes such increase an amount needed to make their pay competitive with the pay of psychologists in comparable positions in a non-Department facility. Directs the Secretary to require the director of each Department medical facility and regional office to: (1) assess the needs of employees of such facility or office for child-care services; and (2) report annually to the Secretary on their findings, including a proposal to meet such needs. Includes board certification pay within certain other categories of special pay under Federal provisions guaranteeing that full and part-time physicians and dentists receiving special pay will continue to receive special pay of at least such amount after changes made to special pay provisions under the Department of Veterans Affairs Health-Care Personnel Act of 1991. Authorizes the Department to appoint and pay nonphysician directors of clinical support services within the VHA of the Department, as opposed to payment under a Federal employees' schedule. Title III: Minority Affairs - Reestablishes the Advisory Committee on Native-American Veterans as established under the Veterans' Health-Care Amendments of 1986. Requires the Advisory Committee to report to the Secretary, who in turn shall report to the veterans' committees, on findings and recommendations with respect to the needs of Native American veterans, including American Indians and Alaska Natives. Terminates such Advisory Committee 90 days after its second report. Title IV: Miscellaneous - States that the prohibition on the payment of attorneys' fees in connection with VA benefits proceedings applies only where the individual is applying for such benefits, and not when the Government is proceeding against a person to collect an indebtedness or in cases in which other attorneys' fees statutes apply. Authorizes the director of each national cemetery to display a prisoner of war/missing in action flag on a flagstaff at that cemetery. Prohibits any officer or employee of the Government from obligating appropriated funds for the purchase of such a flag at a national cemetery.

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 271 (102nd)passed

A resolution relative to human rights in Tibet.

United States · United States Congress · 11 March 1992

Expresses the sense of the Senate that the U.S. Government should: (1) support resolutions like the European Community-led resolution on the situation in Tibet submitted to the United Nations Commission on Human Rights; (2) condemn Beijing's human rights abuses in Tibet in all appropriate international fora; and (3) raise human rights abuses in Tibet with senior Chinese officials.

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 270 (102nd)referred

A resolution concerning the conflict of Nagorno-Karabakh in the territory of Azerbaijan.

United States · United States Congress · 11 March 1992

Expresses the sense of the Senate that: (1) the United Nations (UN) Security Council should take up the issue of Nagorno-Karabakh (NK) to consider whether UN peacekeeping forces should be deployed to maintain order in the area; (2) a ceasefire between the warring parties should come into effect; (3) there should be free access to prisoners by foreign government representatives and independent human rights organizations; (4) foreign assistance extended to former Soviet republics, except for emergency and humanitarian aid, should be conditioned on the establishment of democratically elected governments and respect for internationally recognized human rights; (5) foreign assistance should be provided directly to NK, for both Armenian and Azerbaijani communities, through the assistance of impartial international organizations; (6) the human rights provisions of the September 23, 1991 communique negotiated at Zheleznovodsk between the Governments of Armenia and Azerbaijan should be fulfilled without delay by the parties; and (7) the U.S. Government should support and encourage the objectives of this resolution by all appropriate means.

Law· SS. 2322 (102nd)enacted

Veterans' Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 1992

United States · United States Congress · 5 March 1992

Increases the rates of veterans' disability compensation, additional compensation for dependents of certain disabled veterans, the clothing allowance for certain service-disabled veterans, dependency and indemnity compensation, and supplemental dependency and indemnity compensation for children. Increases each such rate by the same percentage as the increase in benefit amounts under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act. Authorizes the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adjust administratively the rates of disability compensation payable to persons who are not in receipt of compensation for service-connected disability or death. Requires the Secretary to publish such increases in the Federal Register at the same time that percentage increases under title II of the Social Security Act are required to be published.