Defence

Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Enhancement Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 April 2014

Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Enhancement Act - Amends the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 (FISA) to include the Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board as a recipient of: (1) FISA court procedural rule changes, decisions, and pleadings; (2) the Attorney General's (DOJ) annual report to the Administrative Office of the U.S. Court regarding applications and orders for electronic surveillance; (3) the Attorney General's reports to Congress concerning electronic surveillance, physical searches, pen registers and trap and trace devices, production of tangible things (commonly referred to as business records), the number of persons targeted by the government under FISA authorities, and procedures for targeting persons; (4) reports by the Attorney General and the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) assessing compliance with minimization procedures for targeting persons reasonably believed to be located outside the United States other than U.S. persons, including reviews of the number of targets who were later determined to be located in the United States; and (5) annual reports of each element of the intelligence community authorized to acquire targeted foreign intelligence information.

Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2015

United States · United States Congress · 17 April 2014

Military Construction and Veterans Affairs and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2015 - Appropriates funds for FY2015 for the Department of Defense (DOD) for: (1) military construction for the Army, Navy and Marine Corps, and Air Force (military departments), DOD, the Army and Air National Guard, and the Army, Navy, and Air Force reserves; (2) the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Security Investment Program; (3) family housing construction and operation and maintenance for the military departments and DOD; (4) the Department of Defense Family Housing Improvement Fund; (5) DOD chemical demilitarization construction; and (6) the Department of Defense Base Closure Account. Appropriates funds for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for: (1) the Veterans Benefits Administration, including for readjustment benefits, veterans insurance and indemnities, the Veterans Housing Benefit Program Fund, the Vocational Rehabilitation Loans Program Account, and the Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program Account; (2) the Veterans Health Administration; (3) the National Cemetery Administration; and (4) departmental administration, including for the Board of Veterans Appeals, the Veterans Benefits Administration, the Office of Inspector General, construction for major and minor projects, and grants for the construction of extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries. Appropriates funds for: (1) the American Battle Monuments Commission, (2) the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims, (3) Army cemeterial expenses, and (4) the Armed Forces Retirement Home. Specifies restrictions and authorities regarding the use of funds appropriated in this Act.

[H.A.S.C. No. 113-110] THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE'S READINESS POSTURE

United States · United States House of Representatives · 10 April 2014

COPS Improvements Act of 2014

United States · United States Congress · 10 April 2014

COPS Improvements Act of 2014 - Amends the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to modify the public safety and community policing grant program (COPS ON THE BEAT grant program) to: (1) establish within the Department of Justice (DOJ), under the general authority of the Attorney General, the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services to be headed by a Director; and (2) authorize the Attorney General to carry out more than one such program. Repeals provisions authorizing: (1) the Attorney General to give preferential consideration to applications for hiring and rehiring additional career law enforcement officers that involve a non-federal contribution exceeding a 25% minimum; and (2) the use of such grants to develop and implement either innovative programs to permit members of the community to assist state, tribal, and local law enforcement agencies in the prevention of crime in the community or new administrative and managerial systems to facilitate the adoption of community-oriented policing as an organization-wide philosophy. Authorizes the use of such grants to: (1) hire school resource officers and establish local partnerships to combat crime, gangs, drug activities, and other problems in elementary and secondary schools; (2) establish and implement innovative programs to reduce and prevent illegal drug manufacturing, distribution, and use; (3) meet emerging law enforcement needs; (4) hire former members of the Armed Forces to serve as career law enforcement officers for deployment in community-oriented policing; (5) pay for additional community prosecuting programs to handle cases from specific geographic areas and to address counter-terrorism problems and violent crime in local communities; and (6) develop new technologies to assist state and local law enforcement agencies in crime prevention and training. Authorizes the Attorney General to extend grant periods and to renew grants if the grant recipient can demonstrate significant progress in achieving the objectives of the initial grant application. Includes officers for the Amtrak Police Department within the definition of "career law enforcement officer" for purposes of such grant program. Increases and extends the authorization of appropriations for the program for FY2014-FY2019.

Military and Veteran Caregiver Services Improvement Act of 2014

United States · United States Congress · 10 April 2014

Military and Veteran Caregiver Services Improvement Act of 2014 - Expands eligibility for the family caregiver program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to include members of the Armed Forces or veterans who are seriously injured or who became ill on active duty prior to September 11, 2001 (currently, limited to service after September 11, 2001). Expands services to caregivers of veterans under such program to include child care services, financial planning services, and legal services. Authorizes the transfer of entitlement to post 9/11 education assistance to family members by veterans who are retired for a physical disability or who are seriously injured veterans in need of family caregiver services, without regard to length-of-service requirements. Authorizes the VA Secretary to pay monthly special compensation to seriously injured or ill veterans in need of personal care services and to their caregivers. Excludes from gross income, for income tax purposes, such compensation paid to injured or ill veterans. Authorizes flexible work schedules or telework for federal employees who are caregivers of veterans. Amends the Public Health Service Act to designate a veteran participating in the program of comprehensive assistance for family caregivers as an adult with a special need for purposes of the lifespan respite care program. Establishes in the executive branch an interagency working group to review and report on policies relating to the caregivers of veterans and members of the Armed Forces. Directs the Secretary to provide for studies on members of the Armed Forces who commenced service after September 11, 2001, and veterans who have incurred a serious injury or illness, including a mental health injury, and their caregivers.

Social Security Identity Defense Act of 2014

United States · United States Congress · 10 April 2014

Social Security Identity Defense Act of 2014 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to require the Secretary of the Treasury to make certain disclosures to individuals who were validly assigned a social security account number and to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) if the Secretary determines that there is a substantial likelihood that there has been a fraudulent use of such account number in the employment context. Authorizes the FBI Director to disclose information received from the Secretary to federal, state, and local law enforcement officials, provided such an official enters into a memorandum of understanding regarding the confidentiality of such information, but restricts the use of such information to carrying out criminal investigations or prosecutions. Requires employers who have been notified of suspected misuse of an employee's social security account number to cease including such account number on statements provided to such employee.

Crimea Annexation Non-recognition Act of 2014

United States · United States Congress · 10 April 2014

Crimea Annexation Non-recognition Act of 2014 - States that it is U.S. policy to not recognize the de jure or de facto sovereignty of the Russian Federation over Crimea, its airspace, or its territorial waters. Prohibits: (1) any federal department or agency from taking any action that recognizes or implies recognition of sovereignty of the Russian Federation over Crimea, its airspace, or its territorial waters; (2) the Government Printing Office (GPO) from printing any map, document, or other paper indicating Crimea as part of the territory of the Russian Federation; and (3) any federal department or agency from taking any action to facilitate, finance, or guarantee any investment in Crimea that involves any official or entity of the government of the Russian Federation, or any business, bank, or other financial entity whose headquarters or principal place of business is in the Russian Federation. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to require the U.S. representatives to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the World Bank Group, and certain other international financial institutions to oppose any loan, loan guarantee, or transfer of funds to Crimea related to activity involving: (1) any official or entity of the government of the Russian Federation, or (2) any financial institution or other entity whose headquarters or principal place of business is in the Russian Federation. States that in any matter before a U.S. court the Department of Justice (DOJ) shall affirm the U.S. policy of not recognizing the de jure or de facto sovereignty of the Russian Federation over Crimea, its airspace, or its territorial waters. Prohibits: (1) a foreign vessel arriving from a port in Crimea from entering a U.S. port if it is transporting goods for which export documents are issued or approved by Russian Federation customs authorities; (2) the Secretary of Defense (DOD) from taking any action that implies recognition of the sovereignty of the Russian Federation over Crimea, its airspace, or its territorial waters; and (3) any U.S. flagged vessel or U.S. certified aircraft or air carrier from taking any action that implies recognition of the sovereignty of the Russian Federation over Crimea or its territorial waters. Prohibits the obligation or expenditure of any amounts to provide economic support fund assistance, development assistance, or security assistance to the government of any country that has recognized the sovereignty of the Russian Federation over Crimea, its airspace, or its territorial waters.

A resolution expressing the gratitude and appreciation of the Senate for the acts of heroism and military achievement by the members of the United States Armed Forces who participated in the June 6, 1944, amphibious landing at Normandy, France, and commending them for leadership and valor in an operation that helped bring an end to World War II.

United States · United States Congress · 10 April 2014

Recognizes: (1) the 70th anniversary of the Allied amphibious landing on D-Day, June 6, 1944, at Normandy, France, during World War II; and (2) the efforts of the government of France and the people of Normandy to preserve, for future generations, the unique world heritage represented by the Normandy beaches and the sunken material remains of the Normandy landing by inscribing them on the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage List. Expresses appreciation to the members of the U.S. Armed Forces who participated in the D-day operations. Thanks the young people of Normandy and the United States for their involvement in recognizing and celebrating the 70th Anniversary of the Normandy landings with the aim of making future generations aware of the acts of heroism and sacrifice performed by the Allied forces.

Fair Military Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 April 2014

Furthering Accountability and Individual Rights within the Military Act of 2014 or the Fair Military Act - Directs each Secretary of a military department to ensure that: (1) the written performance appraisals of each member of the Armed Forces include an assessment of the extent to which the member supports that Armed Force's sexual assault prevention and response program, and (2) the performance appraisals of each commanding officer indicate the extent to which such officer has established a command climate in which allegations of sexual assault are properly managed and fairly evaluated and in which a victim can report criminal activity without fear of retaliation. Requires modification of the Military Rules of Evidence to clarify that the general military character of an accused is not admissible for the purpose of showing the probability of his or her innocence, except that an accused may offer evidence of a trait of his or her military character when that trait is relevant to an element of the offense for which he or she has been charged. Directs the Secretaries of the military departments and any department in which the Coast Guard is operating to ensure that the provisions of Title XVII (Sexual Assault Prevention and Response and Related Reforms) of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY2014 and this Act apply to the United States Military Academy, the Naval Academy, the Air Force Academy, and the Coast Guard Academy. Requires the independent judicial proceedings panel to conduct assessments of: (1) the use of mental health records by the defense during preliminary hearing and court-martial proceedings, and (2) the use of such records in similar civilian proceedings to determine whether any significant discrepancies exist between the two legal systems. Directs the Comptroller General (GAO) to submit to the Senate and House Armed Services Committees a report describing the status of the implementation of the sexual assault provisions contained in the NDAAs for FY2012, FY2013, and FY2014 and the sexual assault prevention initiatives announced in memoranda by the Secretary of Defense (DOD) on May 6, 2013, and August 14, 2013.

Cut Taxes for the Middle Class Act of 2014

United States · United States Congress · 10 April 2014

Cut Taxes for the Middle Class Act of 2014 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend through 2014: (1) the tax deduction for state and local general sales taxes in lieu of state and local income taxes, (2) the tax deduction for qualified tuition and related expenses, (3) the tax deduction for expenses of elementary and secondary school teachers, (4) the tax credit for differential wage payments to employees who are active duty members of the Uniformed Services, (5) the work opportunity tax credit, (6) the new markets tax credit, and (7) the tax credit for increasing research activities. Amends the Housing Assistance Tax Act of 2008 to extend through 2014 the exemption of the basic military housing allowance from the income test for programs financed by tax-exempt housing bonds. 

Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake Security Enhancement Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 April 2014

Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake Security Enhancement Act - Amends the Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2014 to provide that the withdrawal and reservation of public land located within the boundaries of the Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake, in Inyo, Kern, and San Bernardino Counties, California, shall not terminate except pursuant to: (1) an election and determination by the Secretary of the Navy to relinquish such land, or (2) a transfer by the Secretary of the Interior of permanent administrative jurisdiction over such land to the Secretary of the Navy. (Currently the withdrawal and reservation of such land shall terminate on March 31, 2039.) Withdraws from all forms of appropriation under the public land laws, including the mining laws, the mineral leasing laws, and the geothermal leasing laws the public land (including interests in land) known as the Cuddeback Lake Air Force Range and additional public land in San Bernardino County, California, identified as the Cuddeback Land Area (excluding any public land included within the Grass Valley Wilderness and all private lands otherwise located within the boundaries of the withdrawal area). Requires the Secretary of the Navy to ensure that the owners of the excluded private land continue to have reasonable access to their land.

Dignified Interment of Our Veterans Act of 2014

United States · United States Congress · 10 April 2014

Dignified Interment of Our Veterans Act of 2014 - Requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) to conduct a study on matters relating to the identification, claiming, and interring of unclaimed remains of veterans, including: (1) estimating the number of unclaimed remains; (2) assessing the effectiveness of VA procedures for claiming and interring unclaimed remains of veterans; (3) assessing state and local laws that affect the ability of the Secretary to identify, claim, and inter such remains; and (4) recommending appropriate legislative or administrative action. .

[H.A.S.C. No. 113-108]NATIONAL DEFENSE PRIORITIES FROM MEMBERS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 2015 NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT

United States · United States House of Representatives · 9 April 2014

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2015

United States · United States Senate · 9 April 2014

MEPS Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 April 2014

Medical Evaluation Parity for Servicemembers Act of 2014 or the MEPS Act - Directs the Secretary of the military department concerned to: (1) provide an individual with a mental health assessment before such individual enlists, or is commissioned as an officer, in the Armed Forces; and (2) use assessment results as a baseline for any subsequent mental health examination. Prohibits such Secretary from considering the results of such assessment in determining the assignment or promotion of a member of the Armed Forces. Requires the National Institute of Mental Health of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to submit to Congress and the Secretary of Defense (DOD) a report on preliminary mental health assessments of members, including recommendations regarding: (1) establishing such an assessment to bring mental health screenings to parity with physical screenings of members; and (2) the composition of the assessment, best practices, and how to track assessment changes relating to traumatic brain injuries, post-traumatic stress disorder, and other conditions. Requires the Secretary concerned to provide a comprehensive physical examination and a mental health screening to each member who, after a period of active duty of more than 180 days, is undergoing separation from the Armed Forces and is not otherwise provided such examination or screening in connection with such separation from either DOD or the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Directs the Secretary of Defense to submit to Congress an assessment of DOD's capacity to provide each member who is undergoing separation an electronic copy of the member's service treatment record at the time of separation.

Howard P. "Buck" McKeon National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2015

United States · United States Congress · 9 April 2014

National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2015 - Authorizes appropriations for the Department of Defense (DOD) for FY2015. Authorizes appropriations to DOD for: (1) procurement, including aircraft, missiles, weapons and tracked combat vehicles, ammunition, shipbuilding and conversion, and other procurement; (2) the Joint Improvised Explosive Device Defeat Fund; (3) research, development, test, and evaluation; (4) operation and maintenance; (5) active and reserve military personnel; (6) Working Capital Funds; (7) the Joint Urgent Operational Needs Fund; (8) chemical agents and munitions destruction; (9) drug interdiction and counter-drug activities; (10) the Defense Inspector General; (11) the Defense Health Program; (12) the Armed Forces Retirement Home; (13) chemical demilitarization; (14) the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Security Investment Program; (15) Guard and reserve forces facilities; and (16) base closure and realignment activities. Sets forth provisions or requirements concerning: (1) military personnel policy, including education and training; (2) military pay and allowances; (3) military health care; (4) acquisition policy and management; (5) DOD organization and management; (6) financial matters; (7) civilian personnel matters; (8) matters relating to foreign nations; (9) overseas contingency operations; (10) military construction; (11) real property and facilities administration; and (12) military land withdrawals. Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2015 - Authorizes appropriations for FY2015 for military construction for the Armed Forces and defense agencies.

Africa Counter Terrorism Initiative Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 April 2014

Africa Counter Terrorism Initiative Act - Directs the Secretary of Defense (DOD) to develop, submit to Congress, and implement within one year after enactment of this Act a plan to transfer the headquarters of AFRICOM from Stuttgart, Germany, to a location in the continental United States. Requires the plan to provide for: (1) the 65th Air Base Wing to be an AFRICOM asset; (2) AFRICOM permanent assets to be located at Lajes Field, Azores, Portugal; (3) the transfer of U.S. assets at Lajes Field from United States European Command to AFRICOM for purposes of being the forward operating location, logistical hub, and location of AFRICOM assets; and (4) the relocation of the Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response (SP-MAGTF CR) from Moron Air Base, Spain, to Lajes Field. Directs the Secretary to conduct a review of the Agreement on Cooperation and Defense Between the United States and Portugal, signed at Lisbon on June 1, 1995, to ensure that such Agreement accurately reflects and accounts for such plan. Requires Lajes Field to continue operating 24 hours a day, at or above its 2012 levels of readiness, effective until at least the date of completion of the 2018 quadrennial defense review.

Forging Peace Through Strength in Ukraine and the Transatlantic Alliance Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 April 2014

Forging Peace Through Strength in Ukraine and the Transatlantic Alliance Act - Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) the continuing practice by the Russian Federation of physical, diplomatic, and economic aggression toward neighboring countries is clearly intended to undermine regional security and stability; (2) the Russian military build-up and aggressive posture on the eastern border of Ukraine represents an intent to intimidate Ukraine and its citizens to submit to Russian control; (3) the Russian Federation should immediately cease all improper and illegal activities in Ukraine and President Putin should direct an immediate return of Russian forces; (4) the United States reaffirms its commitment to explicitly secure the independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity and borders of Ukraine; (5) the United States supports the expansion of security cooperation with states in Central and Eastern Europe, including NATO member states, NATO aspirants, and appropriate Eastern Partnership countries; (6) the United States reaffirms support of NATO efforts to resolve the conflict peacefully and diplomatically; and (7) the United States should take immediate steps to enhance its military presence and readiness posture in Europe to deter aggression and assure its allies and partners through forward presence and engagement. Directs the Secretary of Defense (DOD) (Secretary) to develop and report on a strategic framework for U.S. security force assistance and cooperation in the European and Eurasian regions. Directs the President to submit a plan to: (1) increase U.S. intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities devoted to monitoring the situation in Ukraine; (2) increase U.S. intelligence information sharing and situational awareness to the maximum extent practicable with Ukraine utilizing appropriate bilateral channels and the NATO-Ukraine Commission; (3) provide military advice and technical assistance to the Ukrainian military to enhance their defensive preparations and posture; (4) convene NATO member states and Ukraine to review options and implement prudent steps to increase the defense of U.S., NATO, and Ukraine cyber networks; and (5) work with NATO member states and the Ukrainian military to counter Russian propaganda. Expresses the sense of Congress in support of the immediate augmentation of U.S. Armed Forces in the area of responsibility of the U.S. European Command in order to meet operational plan requirements for response in support of a NATO ally. Directs the Secretary to provide notification of such augmentation, as well as related information. Calls for the President to immediately correct deficiencies in the readiness of U.S. Armed Forces in such area and to provide appropriate additional resources to NATO as needed. Requires the Secretary to ensure the operational availability of the Aegis Ashore system site in Poland. Authorizes the Secretary to relocate the necessary assets of the Aegis weapon system between and within the DDG-51 Class Destroyer program and the Aegis Ashore program to meet mission requirements. States that it is the policy of the United States that available short-range air and missile defense systems and terminal missile defense systems of the United States with operational missiles be rotationally deployed to central and eastern European allies to strengthen their air and missile defense capabilities. Requires the Secretary: (1) by December 31, 2014, and pursuant to an agreement between the United States and Poland, to deploy to Poland a system providing a short-range air and missile defense capability and/or terminal missile defense capability and the personnel required to operate and maintain such system; (2) to stop plans for the relocation and consolidation of U.S. dual-capable aircraft that are based in Europe and develop plans to temporarily base such aircraft in NATO member states that request to host such aircraft; (3) to conduct siting studies for the construction of weapon storage and security systems and protective aircraft shelters in NATO member states that notify the Secretary of an interest in hosting such systems and shelters and to provide for reasonable burden sharing of associated costs; and (4) to coordinate with NATO member states on the policy considerations of a decision to alter the posture of forward deployed nuclear weapons and related capabilities of the United States. Prohibits FY2015 DOD funds from being used for any bilateral military-to-military contact or cooperation between the United States and the Russian Federation until the Secretary makes certain certifications with respect to Russian recognition of the sovereignty of all Ukrainian territory and related matters. Allows a waiver in the U.S. national security interest. Prohibits FY2015 Department of Energy (DOE) National Nuclear Security Administration funds from being used for any contract, cooperation, or transfer of technology between the United States and the Russian Federation until the Secretary of Energy makes certain certifications with respect to Russia's respect of Ukrainian territory and compliance with the Treaty Between the United States of America and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics on the Elimination of Their Intermediate-Range and Shorter-Range Missiles and the Treaty on Conventional Armed Forces in Europe. Allows a waiver in the national security interest. Directs the Secretary to report annually on the current and future military power of the Russian Federation.

[H.A.S.C. No. 113-107]FISCAL YEAR 2015 BUDGET REQUEST FOR ATOMIC ENERGY DEFENSE ACTIVITIES AND NUCLEAR FORCES PROGRAMS

United States · United States House of Representatives · 8 April 2014

[H.A.S.C. No. 113-106] HEARING ON NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2015 AND OVERSIGHT OF PREVIOUSLY AUTHORIZED PROGRAMS BEFORE THE COMMITTEE ON ARMED SERVICES HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ONE HUNDRED THIRTEENTH CONGRESS SECOND SESSION

United States · United States House of Representatives · 8 April 2014

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2015 AND THE FUTURE YEARS DEFENSE PROGRAM

United States · United States Senate · 8 April 2014

A bill to require a Comptroller General of the United States report on the sexual assault prevention activities of the Department of Defense and the Armed Forces.

United States · United States Congress · 8 April 2014

Directs the Comptroller General (GAO) to submit to the congressional defense committees by September 30, 2015, a report on the sexual assault prevention activities of the Department of Defense (DOD) and the Armed Forces. Requires such report to include: an assessment of DOD's sexual assault prevention strategy; an assessment of the actions taken by each of the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps to implement its sexual assault prevention strategy; a comprehensive description of the current sexual assault prevention activities of the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps and those planned for the next 12 months; a comprehensive description of the current and planned sexual assault prevention activities at joint installations and the collaborative efforts of the military departments involved; a comparative assessment of the sexual assault prevention activities of the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps, including the extent to which any differences arise from unique qualities of a particular Armed Force or the efforts of an Armed Force to pursue an innovative approach; an assessment of the procedures and mechanisms used by each Armed Force to ensure that its sexual assault prevention strategy and training are effective in achieving intended objectives; and an assessment of the report required to be submitted by the Secretary of Defense and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff to the President by December 1, 2014, on efforts of DOD and the Armed Forces to improve the prevention of and response to sexual assault in the Armed Forces.

A resolution designating October 30, 2014, as a national day of remembrance for nuclear weapons program workers.

United States · United States Congress · 8 April 2014

Designates October 30, 2014, as a national day of remembrance for U.S. nuclear weapons program workers, including uranium miners, millers, and haulers.

Veterans' Job Corps Act

United States · United States Congress · 8 April 2014

Veterans' Job Corps Act - Authorizes the President to establish and operate a Veterans' Job Corps to employ veterans and veterans' widows or widowers who are otherwise unemployed in the construction, maintenance, and carrying on of public works in connection with: (1) the forestation of U.S. or state lands; (2) the prevention of forest fires, floods, and soil erosion; (3) public safety; (4) plant pest and disease control; and (5) the construction, maintenance, or repair of paths, trails, and fire-lanes in National Park System units and other public lands. Directs the President to employ individuals in the Corps in the following order of preference: (1) unemployed veterans, and (2) widows or widowers who are eligible for unemployment compensation immediately before employment in the Corps. Authorizes the President to provide individuals employed in the Corps with housing, necessary subsistence, clothing, medical attendance and hospitalization, a cash allowance, and transportation to and from the places of employment. Prohibits the employment in the Corps of an individual convicted of a felony or a veteran who was discharged from the Armed Forces under dishonorable conditions.

Military Mental Health Review Board Improvement Act

United States · United States Congress · 7 April 2014

Military Mental Health Review Board Improvement Act - Requires any medical advisory opinion issued to a civilian board for the correction of a military record, with respect to a current or former member of the Armed Forces diagnosed while serving in the Armed Forces as experiencing a mental health disorder, to include the opinion of a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist if the request for the correction of the records concerned relates to a mental health disorder. Requires any physician on a board for review of a discharge or dismissal of certain former members of the Armed Forces, who after deployment were diagnosed as experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or traumatic brain injury, or as having a mental health disorder, to have training on mental health issues connected with PTSD or traumatic brain injury (as applicable), or special training on mental health disorders.

A resolution reaffirming the strong support of the United States Government for freedom of navigation and other internationally lawful uses of sea and airspace in the Asia-Pacific region, and for the peaceful diplomatic resolution of outstanding territorial and maritime claims and disputes.

United States · United States Congress · 7 April 2014

States that the Senate: (1) condemns coercive actions or the use of force to impede freedom of operations in international airspace to alter the status quo or to destabilize the Asia-Pacific region, (2) urges China to refrain from implementing the declared East China Sea Air Defense Identification Zone and to refrain from taking similar provocative actions elsewhere in the Asia-Pacific region, and (3) commends Japan and the Republic of Korea for their restraint. Sets forth U.S. policy regarding: (1) supporting allies and partners in the Asia-Pacific region; (2) opposing claims that impinge on the rights, freedoms, and lawful use of the sea; (3) managing disputes without intimidation or force; (4) supporting development of regional institutions to build cooperation and reinforce the role of international law; and (5) assuring continuity of operations by the United States in the Asia-Pacific region.

[H.A.S.C. No. 113-104] HEARING ON NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2015 AND OVERSIGHT OF PREVIOUSLY AUTHORIZED PROGRAMS BEFORE THE COMMITTEE ON ARMED SERVICES HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ONE HUNDRED THIRTEENTH CONGRESS SECOND SESSION

United States · United States House of Representatives · 4 April 2014

Guam Military Training and Readiness Act of 2014

United States · United States Congress · 4 April 2014

Guam Military Training and Readiness Act of 2014 - Authorizes the Secretary of the Navy to establish a surface danger zone over the Guam National Wildlife Refuge if its establishment will support the operation by the Department of the Navy of a live-fire training range complex on Andersen Air Force Base, Northwest Field, to support training and operations. Deems the operation of such complex and the associated surface danger zone to be authorized uses of the Refuge. Authorizes the Secretary to close to public use any road or trail within, or any portion of, such Refuge if military operations, public safety, or national security require such closure. Directs the Secretary to: (1) limit such a closure to the minimum appropriate area and period, and (2) post and maintain appropriate warning notices and notify the public before and for the duration of such a closure.

Comprehensive Department of Veterans Affairs Performance Management and Accountability Reform Act of 2014

United States · United States Congress · 4 April 2014

Comprehensive Department of Veterans Affairs Performance Management and Accountability Reform Act of 2014 - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, in implementing the federal performance appraisal system for senior executives of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), to annually issue the organizational performance requirements to be achieved by each executive. Requires at least half of the annual rating of each executive to be based on such requirements. Directs the Secretary to certify to the congressional veterans committees, annually, that such requirements are being utilized and that each executive's rating accurately reflects use of such requirements. Provides additional implementation requirements. Directs the Secretary to provide a detailed explanation to any executive who receives an annual rating lower than fully successful. Requires each executive who receives: (1) two annual ratings of less than fully successful to be removed from the Senior Executive Service; or (2) three consecutive ratings of the highest performance level to be given an opportunity to obtain a different position within the VA with more responsibility, if such a position is available. Requires the Secretary to report annually on the VA's senior executive performance appraisal system. Allows VA physician and dentist performance pay only to those who received a fully successful level of performance in their most recent appraisal. Directs the Secretary to report semiannually on health care trends to be used in determining VA physician and dentist recruitment and retention needs. Requires: (1) the establishment of a performance appraisal system for VA physicians and dentists; and (2) their performance to be evaluated based on goals and objectives specifically linked to improved health care outcomes and quality, as well as overall effectiveness in providing quality health care services. Requires each VA physician or dentist be provided a copy of his or her annual rating under the system, as well as an opportunity to respond and have the rating reviewed by the VA's Under Secretary for Health. Prohibits a VA physician or dentist who has not maintained an appropriate professional license from being paid. Directs the Secretary to report on the VA training program for senior executives.

DoD LABS Research Act

United States · United States Congress · 4 April 2014

DoD Laboratory Authorities for Breakthrough Scientific Research Act or the DoD LABS Research Act - Prohibits the Secretary of Defense (DOD) from disallowing an employee of a defense laboratory from traveling to a technical symposium or conference if the head of such laboratory determines that there is a sufficient amount available to the laboratory for such travel and approves such travel using standard travel approval procedures. Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2014 to allow the director of any DOD science and technology laboratory to appoint as an employee, through 2019, any student enrolled in a program of undergraduate or graduate instruction leading to a bachelor's or master's degree in a scientific, technical, engineering, mathematical, or medical course of study. (Under current law, such a director may only appoint through such period a candidate already possessing a bachelor's degree or a qualified veteran.) Directs the Secretary to report to the congressional defense committees on the implementation and use by DOD of specified hiring authorities provided under federal law, prior defense authorization Acts, and the Intergovernmental Personnel Act. Amends the Strom Thurmond National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1999 to reinstate and make permanent a DOD personnel program for the hiring of scientific and technical personnel.

Lawrence J. Hackett Jr. Vietnam Veterans Agent Orange Fairness Act

United States · United States Congress · 4 April 2014

Lawrence J. Hackett Jr. Vietnam Veterans Agent Orange Fairness Act - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) to establish a task force to assess and make recommendations about the care and compensation that should be provided to veterans who have been exposed to Agent Orange, their spouses, and multiple generations of their offspring. Requires the task force to make recommendations: (1) to establish the Agent Orange Illness Compensation Program to provide an exposed veteran or eligible survivor a lump sum payment for the veteran's injury, illness, or death; (2) for the establishment of a national outreach and education campaign to communicate information about Agent Orange exposures and health conditions to veterans who are affected by incidents of toxic exposures and their families; (3) for compensation and health care for individuals with Spina Bifida, birth defects, or other illnesses who are the children or descendants of members of the Armed Forces who served in Vietnam or in or near the demilitarized zone in Korea during certain time periods determined by the task force; and (4) for the establishment of a unified policy to deal with the consequences of exposure to hazardous materials in the military. Terminates the task force not later than two years after its establishment.

Affirming the support of the United States for Macedonia's accession to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).

United States · United States Congress · 4 April 2014

Supports Macedonia's aspirations to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Recognizes the cooperation between Vermont and Macedonia and the joint military partnership between the Vermont National Guard and the Army of Macedonia. Recognizes the significant benefits of closer economic and political ties between NATO members and Macedonia. Appreciates Macedonia's efforts in advancing peace, democracy, and stability. Calls on the Administration and the Department of State to work with Greece and NATO allies to ensure that bilateral disputes do not impede Macedonia's NATO accession. Urges NATO members to formally extend an invitation to Macedonia to join NATO at the NATO Summit in the United Kingdom in September 2014.

[H.A.S.C. No. 113-103] FISCAL YEAR 2015 NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION BUDGET REQUEST FOR NATIONAL SECURITY SPACE ACTIVITIES

United States · United States House of Representatives · 3 April 2014

[H.A.S.C. No. 113-102] THE 2014 QUADRENNIAL DEFENSE REVIEW

United States · United States House of Representatives · 3 April 2014

A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate with respect to the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the Republic of Moldova.

United States · United States Congress · 3 April 2014

Affirms that it is U.S. policy to support the Republic of Moldova's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. Calls upon the government of the Russian Federation to remove its military forces from the Republic of Moldova. Supports constructive engagement between the government of Moldova and the authorities in Transnistria in order to secure a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Expresses the Senate's belief that a resolution to the Transnistria issue can only be accomplished by ensuring the freedom of the government and the people of Moldova to determine their own future without external pressure. Urges the President to consider increasing security and intelligence cooperation with the government of Moldova. Affirms that stability in Europe is a U.S. priority that can only be achieved if the territorial integrity and sovereignty of all parties is respected.

America HEALS Act

United States · United States Congress · 3 April 2014

America Helping Encourage Advancements in Lifesaving Science or the America HEALS Act - Establishes a Biomedical Research Fund to be administered by the Secretary of the Treasury to provide for an expanded and sustained national investment in biomedical research. Requires amounts to be transferred from the Fund for each fiscal year to accounts related to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Department of Defense (DOD) health program, and the medical and prosthetics research program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to ensure that funding for such programs and agencies does not fall below 105% of the level of funding provided for the preceding fiscal year and an additional amount to account for any increases in the Gross Domestic Product for the year involved. Requires that amounts appropriated for each of such programs and agencies for a fiscal year be not be less than the amounts appropriated for FY2014. Authorizes and appropriates to the Fund such sums as necessary in each fiscal year to enable such transfers. Amends the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act to exempt the Fund from any sequestration order issued under such Act.

[H.A.S.C. No. 113-99] HEARING ON NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2015 AND OVERSIGHT OF PREVIOUSLY AUTHORIZED PROGRAMS BEFORE THE COMMITTEE ON ARMED SERVICES HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ONE HUNDRED THIRTEENTH CONGRESS SECOND SESSION

United States · United States House of Representatives · 2 April 2014

[H.A.S.C. No. 113-100] HEARING ON NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2015 AND OVERSIGHT OF PREVIOUSLY AUTHORIZED PROGRAMS BEFORE THE COMMITTEE ON ARMED SERVICES HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ONE HUNDRED THIRTEENTH CONGRESS SECOND SESSION

United States · United States House of Representatives · 2 April 2014

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2015 AND THE FUTURE YEARS DEFENSE PROGRAM

United States · United States Senate · 2 April 2014

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2015

United States · United States Senate · 2 April 2014

SEA Jobs Act

United States · United States Congress · 2 April 2014

Southern Energy Access Jobs Act or the SEA Jobs Act - Directs the Secretary of the Interior (Secretary) to promulgate regulations that establish management of the surface occupancy of each portion of the South Atlantic planning area for the coastline of a state for any lease sale authorized under this Act. Requires the state under such regulations to have sole authority to restrict or allow surface facilities above the waterline for the purpose of producing oil or gas resources in any area within 12 nautical miles seaward from its coastline. Allows the installation of only sub-surface production facilities in areas located between points 12 and 20 nautical miles seaward from the state coastline, unless the state authorizes permanent surface occupancy. Requires new offshore production facilities to be encouraged and the impacts on coastal vistas minimized. Requires that onshore facilities be allowed that facilitate development and production of oil and gas resources of the South Atlantic planning area within 12 nautical miles seaward of a state coastline. Directs the Secretary to conduct Virginia Lease Sale 220. Requires the Secretary to conduct a lease sale within two years after enactment of this Act in areas off the coast of South Carolina that: (1) have the most geologically promising hydrocarbon resources, and (2) constitute at least 25% of the leasable area located within certain offshore administrative boundaries. Requires the Secretary to conduct before June 30, 2017, three lease sales in the South Atlantic planning area that contains the most hydrocarbon resource potential. Directs the Secretary to: (1) include the South Atlantic planning area within a specified outer Continental Shelf (OCS) leasing program for FY2017-FY2022; and (2) conduct one lease sale in the South Atlantic planning area during each year of the program, for a total of five lease sales. Directs the Secretary and the Secretary of Defense (DOD) to implement lease sales jointly to: (1) preserve the ability of the Armed Forces to maintain an optimum state of readiness through their continued use of the OCS; and (2) allow exploration, development, and production of U.S. oil, gas, and renewable energy resources. Prohibits exploration, development, or production of oil or natural gas on the OCS that would conflict with military operations set forth in specified documents. Prescribes specified percentages of qualified revenues for: (1) deposit into the Treasury, (2) deficit reduction, and (3) allocation to certain states. Establishes the Oil and Gas Production Veterans Workforce Training Fund. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Director of the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM), to partner with certain institutions of higher education to facilitate the study of geological and geophysical sciences on the Atlantic OCS and elsewhere on the U.S. Continental Shelf. Requires the BOEM Director to establish an Atlantic regional office in an area with the most potential resource development that is also in a certain OCS leasing program for FY2017-FY2022.

Burma Human Rights and Democracy Act of 2014

United States · United States Congress · 2 April 2014

Burma Human Rights and Democracy Act of 2014 - Prohibits FY2014 or FY2015 funds from being made available for security assistance to the government of Burma unless the Secretary of State certifies to Congress that: (1) Burma has taken steps toward establishing civilian oversight of the armed forces, addressing human rights abuses by the military, and terminating military relations with North Korea; (2) Burma has taken steps to establish a fair and inclusive process to amend the Constitution of Burma, including the full participation of the political opposition and ethnic minority groups; (3) Burma has amended its constitution and laws to ensure civilian control of the military; (4) Burma is promoting peace agreements or political reconciliation and is addressing the resettlement and humanitarian situation of displaced persons; and (5) the Burmese military is improving its human rights record, taking steps to withdraw forces from conflict zones, and implementing a code of conduct. States that nothing in this Act should be construed to prevent participation by Burmese authorities in training on civil-military relations and human rights, as carried out by the Defense Institute of International Legal Studies, or to prevent U.S. disaster assistance in Burma. Directs the Secretary of State to report annually to Congress on the status of military-to-military engagement between the U.S. Armed Forces and the Burmese military.

Biological Implant Tracking and Veteran Safety Act of 2014

United States · United States Congress · 2 April 2014

Biological Implant Tracking and Veteran Safety Act of 2014 - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) adopt the unique device identification system developed for medical devices by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), or implement a comparable standard identification system, for identifying biological implants intended for use in medical procedures conducted in Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical facilities; (2) implement a compatible system for tracking the implants from donor to implantation; and (3) implement inventory controls compatible with such tracking system so that all patients who have received, in a VA medical facility, a biological implant subject to a recall by the FDA can be notified of the recall. Authorizes the Secretary to procure biological implants only from vendors that meet specified conditions, including that the vendor uses the standard identification system, consents to periodic VA inspections and audits, is registered with the FDA, and maintains national accreditation specific to biological implants. Requires the Secretary to: (1) procure such implants under General Services Administration (GSA) Federal Supply Schedules, (2) accommodate reasonable vendor requests to undertake specified outreach efforts to educate VA medical professionals about the use and efficacy of implants that are listed on such Schedules, and (3) procure biological implants that are unavailable for procurement under such Schedules using competitive procedures in accordance with the Federal Acquisition Regulation. Makes any VA procurement employee found responsible for a biological implant procurement transaction with intent to avoid, or with reckless disregard of, the requirements of this Act ineligible to hold a certificate of appointment as a contracting officer or to serve as the representative of an ordering officer, contracting officer, or purchase card holder.

Veterans Information Security Improvement Act

United States · United States Congress · 2 April 2014

Veterans Information Security Improvement Act - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) carry out certain information security activities, (2) ensure that officials and staff of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) possess specified qualifications in such areas, and (3) coordinate the staffing of related information technology and security offices. Requires the Secretary to ensure that: (1) the Assistant Secretary for Information and Technology, the head of the Office of Information Security (OIS), and relevant field staff possess certain levels of information technology education, certifications, and experience; (2) Office of Information and Technology (OIT) staff are assigned to the OIS; and (3) subordinate OIT offices maintain appropriate information security functions. Directs the Secretary to ensure that subordinate OIT offices maintain functions to: (1) integrate the VA's security architecture into the VA's overall enterprise architecture strategy, (2) restrict the development of new data warehouses and data marts holding sensitive personal information of veterans, and (3) reduce the number of data marts holding such personal information. Defines: (1) "data mart" as a subset of a data warehouse that contains information for a specific entity of an organization rather than the entire organization, and (2) "data warehouse" as a collection of data designed to support management decision making that contains a wide variety of data presenting a coherent picture of business conditions for an entire organization at a single point in time and whose development includes systems to extract data from operating systems plus installation of a warehouse database system that provides managers flexible access to the data. Requires the Secretary to safeguard VA network infrastructure, computers, and servers. Directs the Secretary to protect the confidentiality of sensitive personal information of veterans by: (1) providing upgrades or phaseouts of outdated or unsupported operating systems to protect against harmful viruses and malicious software, and (2) securing VA web applications and the Veterans Health Information Systems and Technology Architecture (commonly referred to as the "Vista system," which allows for an integrated inpatient and outpatient electronic health record for patients and provides administrative tools to VA employees). Directs the Secretary to submit certifications to Congress regarding the VA's compliance with information security requirements, including actions required by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). Requires the Secretary to submit monthly reports to Congress regarding security vulnerabilities discovered after performing regular scans of VA computers and servers.

Targeted Lethal Force Transparency Act

United States · United States Congress · 2 April 2014

Targeted Lethal Force Transparency Act - Directs the President to make public an annual report on the use of targeted lethal force by remotely-piloted aircraft, which shall include the total numbers of combatants, civilians, and other persons killed or injured outside the United States by remotely-piloted aircraft each calendar year. Excludes: (1) any use of targeted lethal force in Afghanistan prior to the end of U.S. combat operations, or (2) any use of such force in a foreign country described by a future declaration of war or authorization for the use of military force. Requires the first report submitted to also include such information for the six preceding calendar years.

Paycheck Fairness Act

United States · United States Congress · 1 April 2014

Paycheck Fairness Act - Amends the portion of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 (FLSA) known as the Equal Pay Act to revise remedies for, enforcement of, and exceptions to prohibitions against sex discrimination in the payment of wages. Revises the exception to the prohibition for a wage rate differential based on any other factor other than sex. Limits such factors to bona fide factors, such as education, training, or experience. States that the bona fide factor defense shall apply only if the employer demonstrates that such factor: (1) is not based upon or derived from a sex-based differential in compensation, (2) is job-related with respect to the position in question, and (3) is consistent with business necessity. Makes such defense inapplicable where the employee demonstrates that: (1) an alternative employment practice exists that would serve the same business purpose without producing such differential, and (2) the employer has refused to adopt such alternative practice. Revises the prohibition against employer retaliation for employee complaints. Prohibits retaliation for inquiring about, discussing, or disclosing the wages of the employee or another employee in response to a complaint or charge, or in furtherance of a sex discrimination investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, or an investigation conducted by the employer. Makes employers who violate sex discrimination prohibitions liable in a civil action for either compensatory or (except for the federal government) punitive damages. States that any action brought to enforce the prohibition against sex discrimination may be maintained as a class action in which individuals may be joined as party plaintiffs without their written consent. Authorizes the Secretary of Labor (Secretary) to seek additional compensatory or punitive damages in a sex discrimination action. Requires the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs to train EEOC employees and affected individuals and entities on matters involving wage discrimination. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to eligible entities for negotiation skills training programs for girls and women. Directs the Secretary and the Secretary of Education to issue regulations or policy guidance to integrate such training into certain programs under their Departments. Directs the Secretary to conduct studies and provide information to employers, labor organizations, and the general public regarding the means available to eliminate pay disparities between men and women. Establishes the Secretary of Labor's National Award for Pay Equity in the Workplace for an employer who has made a substantial effort to eliminate pay disparities between men and women. Amends the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to require the EEOC to collect from employers pay information data regarding the sex, race, and national origin of employees for use in the enforcement of federal laws prohibiting pay discrimination. Directs: (1) the Commissioner of Labor Statistics to continue to collect data on woman workers in the Current Employment Statistics survey, (2) the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs to use specified types of methods in investigating compensation discrimination and in enforcing pay equity, and (3) the Secretary to make accurate information on compensation discrimination readily available to the public. Directs the Secretary and the Commissioner [ sic ] of the EEOC jointly to develop technical assistance material to assist small businesses to comply with the requirements of this Act.

Hire More Heroes Act of 2014

United States · United States Congress · 1 April 2014

Hire More Heroes Act of 2014 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to permit an employer, for purposes of determining whether such employer is an applicable large employer and thus required to provide health care coverage to its employees under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, to exclude employees who have coverage under a health care program administered by the Department of Defense (DOD), including TRICARE, or the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

Work for Warriors Act of 2014

United States · United States Congress · 1 April 2014

Work for Warriors Act of 2014 - Directs the Chief of the National Guard to carry out a pilot program, to be known as the Work for Warriors Program, to enhance Department of Defense (DOD) efforts to provide job placement assistance and related employment services to members of the reserve components. Requires each participating state to provide at least 30% in matching funds. Requires the Program to follow a direct employment program model, with one-on-one job placement and follow-up services to such individuals. Requires the Chief to: (1) develop outcome measures to evaluate the success of the Program in each state, and (2) report to the congressional defense committees on Program results. Grants the Chief authority to carry out the Program during FY2015-FY2018, with an authorized extension for up to two additional years.

Honor Guardsmen and Reservists Act

United States · United States Congress · 1 April 2014

Honor Guardsmen and Reservists Act - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) to make available for purchase a memorial headstone or marker for the marked or unmarked grave of: (1) an individual who performed inactive duty training or active duty for training as a member of a reserve component, but did not serve on active duty and is not otherwise ineligible for a memorial headstone or marker on account of the nature of the individual's separation from the Armed Forces or other cause; or (2) such an individual whose remains are unavailable.

Department of Veterans Affairs Information Security Protection Act

United States · United States Congress · 1 April 2014

Department of Veterans Affairs Information Security Protection Act - Requires the Assistant Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Information and Technology to submit to the congressional veterans committees (under current law, only to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs) quarterly reports on Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) compliance with federally-required information security improvements. Directs the Assistant Secretary to submit to such committees: (1) quarterly, a plan of action to address critical known VA information security vulnerabilities; and (2) annually, a plan for identifying and replacing VA operating systems that are out-of-date or unsupported. Requires the Assistant Secretary to ensure that any software or Internet applications used on VA operating systems are secure from vulnerabilities that could affect the confidentiality of sensitive personal information on veterans. Directs the Secretary to report, quarterly, to such committees on any incidents of failure to comply with established information security policies, any actions taken in response to such incidents, and certain related information. Requires the Secretary to submit a strategic plan for improving VA information security and to update such plan at least every two years. Requires VA contractors with access to sensitive personal information to provide protective measures to safeguard from possible information security threats any information provided by the VA that will be resident on, or transiting through, information systems controlled by that contractor.