Defence

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the current economic slowdown in the United States is directly related to the enormous costs of the ongoing occupation of Iraq, consigning the United States to what can only be called the Iraq recession, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 4 March 2008

Expresses the the sense of the House of Representatives that: (1) the current U.S. economic slowdown is directly related to the enormous costs of the ongoing occupation of Iraq; and (2) Congress should move to redeploy U.S. Armed Forces and contractor security forces from Iraq as quickly and as safely as practical and refocus its efforts on addressing vital domestic priorities.

Recognizing the tremendous service that members of the Armed Forces have given to the Nation, especially those who have been wounded in combat.

United States · United States Congress · 4 March 2008

Recognizes the service that our soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines have given to the nation, especially those who have sustained injury in combat. Declares that the House of Representatives is committed to providing wounded warriors with the highest quality medical care available and to supporting wounded Armed Forces members and their families during their recovery. Commends the actions of private citizens and organizations who volunteer their continued support to wounded warriors. Encourages support and appreciation for returning troops, especially those who have been wounded.

A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to modify certain authorities relating to educational assistance benefits for veterans, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 3 March 2008

Amends federal provisions concerning veterans' educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill to: (1) allow the accelerated payment of such assistance for the pursuit of education leading to employment in high-technology industry only for programs of education which do not lead to an associate or higher degree; (2) terminate the June 30, 2010, delimiting period on an expanded scope of work activities that may be assigned to individuals participating in Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) work-study programs; and (3) authorize appropriations for VA payments to state agencies which approve programs of education for purposes of participation in the VA educational assistance program.

Code Talkers Recognition Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 29 February 2008

Code Talkers Recognition Act of 2008 - Directs the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President pro tempore of the Senate to arrange for the award of gold medals in recognition of the service of Native American code talkers of specified Indian tribes. Defines "code talker" as a Native American who served in the Armed Forces during a foreign conflict and who participated in miliatary communications using a native language. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury, in consultation with the Secretary of Defense and Indian tribes, to identify Native American code talkers eligible for a gold medal.

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS FOR 2009

United States · United States House of Representatives · 28 February 2008

[H.A.S.C. No. 110-123]NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2009 AND OVERSIGHT OF PREVIOUSLY AUTHORIZED PROGRAMS BEFORE THE COMMITTEE ON ARMED SERVICES HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ONE HUNDRED TENTH CONGRESS SECOND SESSION

United States · United States House of Representatives · 28 February 2008

[H.A.S.C. No. 110-122]NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2009 AND OVERSIGHT OF PREVIOUSLY AUTHORIZED PROGRAMS BEFORE THE COMMITTEE ON ARMED SERVICES HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ONE HUNDRED TENTH CONGRESS SECOND SESSION

United States · United States House of Representatives · 28 February 2008

America's Wounded Warriors Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 February 2008

America's Wounded Warriors Act - Amends federal armed forces provisions to add new provisions concerning the retirement for disability of members of the Armed Forces (members) following the implementation of an enhanced Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) disability compensation system (implemented under this Act). Authorizes the Secretary of Defense to continue after discharge or separation from active duty respite care and aid and other extended care benefits for members who incur a serious injury or illness while serving on such duty. Directs the Secretary of Defense to conduct a study to determine the number of retired members who will be eligible for medical and dental care following implementation of the enhanced VA disability compensation system. Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (Secretary) to conduct a study to determine the appropriate: (1) amount of compensation for service-connected disability payable to veterans for each assigned rating of disability; and (2) amounts and duration of transition payments and rehabilitation transition allowances payable to veterans participating in a rehabilitation program. Requires the Secretary to conduct a study on measures to assist and encourage veterans in the completion of their vocational rehabilitation plans. Directs the Secretary to submit to Congress a proposal on the purposes and amounts of veterans' disability compensation and veterans' transition benefits. Provides for congressional consideration (by way of a joint resolution) of such proposal. Makes the effective date of implementation of the enhanced VA disability compensation system the date on which the authority of Congress to disapprove the Secretary's proposal expires, as long as Congress does not disapprove the proposal before such date. Revises the current VA schedule of disability ratings to take into account losses of earning capacity and quality of life as a result of the disability. Provides revised compensation and transition payments in connection with service-connected disabilities. Allows a retired veteran entitled to compensation for a service-connected disability to elect to provide a monthly supplemental survivor benefit to the veteran's surviving spouse and/or children. Authorizes such election by veterans: (1) at the time of award of the disability compensation; (2) not married at the time of award of the compensation who later marry; and (3) married at the time of award of the compensation who later remarry. Allows a veteran to revoke the election of a benefit to a surviving spouse. Provides for the receipt of such benefit on the first day of the first month after the veteran dies. Requires the: (1) reduction of disability compensation due to the election of the supplemental survivor benefit; and (2) offset of the supplemental survivor benefit by the amount of dependency and indemnity compensation received.

Children of Military Families Natural Born Citizen Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 February 2008

Children of Military Families Natural Born Citizen Act - Declares that the term "natural born Citizen" in article II, section 1, clause 5 of the Constitution, dealing with the criteria for election to President of the United States, includes any person born to any U.S. citizen while serving in the active or reserve components of the U.S. armed forces.

To designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 7231 FM 1960 in Humble, Texas, as the "Texas Military Veterans Post Office".

United States · United States Congress · 28 February 2008

Designates the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 7231 FM 1960 in Humble, Texas, as the "Texas Military Veterans Post Office."

Noble Warrior Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 February 2008

Noble Warrior Act - Amends federal armed forces provisions to add new provisions concerning the retirement for disability of members of the Armed Forces (members) following the implementation of an enhanced Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) disability compensation system (implemented under this Act). Authorizes the Secretary of Defense to continue after discharge or separation from active duty respite care and aid and other extended care benefits for members who incur a serious injury or illness while serving on such duty. Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (Secretary) to conduct a study to determine the appropriate: (1) amount of compensation for service-connected disability payable to veterans for each assigned rating of disability; and (2) amounts and duration of transition payments and rehabilitation transition allowances payable to veterans participating in a rehabilitation program. Requires the Secretary to conduct a study on measures to assist and encourage veterans in the completion of their vocational rehabilitation plans. Directs the Secretary to submit to Congress a proposal on the purposes and amounts of veterans' disability compensation and veterans' transition benefits. Provides for congressional consideration (by way of a joint resolution) of such proposal. Makes the effective date of implementation of the enhanced VA disability compensation system the date on which the authority of Congress to disapprove the Secretary's proposal expires, as long as Congress does not disapprove the proposal before such date. Revises the current VA schedule of disability ratings to take into account losses of earning capacity and quality of life as a result of the disability. Provides revised compensation and transition payments in connection with service-connected disabilities. Allows a retired veteran entitled to compensation for a service-connected disability to elect to provide a monthly supplemental survivor benefit to the veteran's surviving spouse and/or children. Authorizes such election by veterans: (1) at the time of award of the disability compensation; (2) not married at the time of award of the compensation who later marry; and (3) married at the time of award of the compensation who later remarry. Allows a veteran to revoke the election of a benefit to a surviving spouse. Provides for the receipt of such benefit on the first day of the first month after the veteran dies. Requires the: (1) reduction of disability compensation due to the election of the supplemental survivor benefit; and (2) offset of the supplemental survivor benefit by the amount of dependency and indemnity compensation received.

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2009

United States · United States Senate · 27 February 2008

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE FISCAL YEAR 2009 BUDGET

United States · United States House of Representatives · 27 February 2008

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION FOR APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2009

United States · United States Senate · 27 February 2008

[H.A.S.C. No. 110-121]NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2009 AND OVERSIGHT OF PREVIOUSLY AUTHORIZED PROGRAMS BEFORE THE COMMITTEE ON ARMED SERVICES HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ONE HUNDRED TENTH CONGRESS SECOND SESSION

United States · United States House of Representatives · 27 February 2008

[H.A.S.C. No. 110-119]FISCAL YEAR 2009 NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT--BUDGET REQUEST FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF THE AIR FORCE

United States · United States House of Representatives · 27 February 2008

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2009

United States · United States Senate · 27 February 2008

Fully-Funded United States Military Redeployment and Sovereignty of Iraq Restoration Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 27 February 2008

Fully-Funded United States Military Redeployment and Sovereignty of Iraq Restoration Act of 2008 - States that it is the policy of the United States to: (1) commence the safe and orderly redeployment of U.S. troops and military contractors from Iraq; (2) pursue security and stability in Iraq through diplomacy; (3) help preserve the territorial integrity of Iraq and establish a democratic central government there; (4) account for missing U.S. personnel and citizens in Iraq; and (5) turn over all internal security activities and military operations in Iraq to its elected government within one year after the enactment of this Act. Repeals the Authorization for Use of Military Force Against Iraq Resolution of 2002. Requires the withdrawal of U.S. Armed Forces and contractor security forces from Iraq within one year. Prohibits the further use of any funds to continue such deployments. Prohibits the construction of permanent or long-term military installations in Iraq unless explicitly approved by Congress. Authorizes the President to deploy an international stabilization force to Iraq. Requires the closure of U.S. detention centers in Iraq. Permits actions for damages by a citizen or national of Iraq (or of any other foreign country who was imprisoned or detained in Iraq) against the United States for certain acts committed by specified U.S. personnel against prisoners or detainees in Iraq. Limits the total number of U.S. government personnel at the United States Embassy in Iraq. Prohibits U.S. production-sharing agreements for Iraqi petroleum resources. Establishes an Iraqi-American Interparliamentary Group. Authorizes the President of the United States Institute for Peace to provide political reconciliation assistance to Iraq. States that it is the policy of the United States to work with Iraq and the international community to provide for the reconstruction of Iraq. Directs the President to: (1) establish and implement a plan to initiate a diplomatic surge to bring an end to the occupation of Iraq; and (2) deploy U.S. Armed Forces outside the United States to target global terrorism. Establishes the Commission on Funding the Reconstruction of Iraq.

Expressing sincere congratulations to the United States Navy and the Department of Defense for successfully intercepting the disabled National Reconnaissance Office satellite, NROL-21, on February 20, 2008.

United States · United States Congress · 27 February 2008

Congratulates the Department of Defense (DOD), Secretary of Defense Robert Gates, the Department of the Navy, and the crews of the USS Lake Erie, the USS Decatur, and the USS Russell for successfully intercepting the disabled National Reconnaissance Office satellite, NROL-21, on February 20, 2008.

[H.A.S.C. No. 110-117]NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2009 AND OVERSIGHT OF PREVIOUSLY AUTHORIZED PROGRAMS BEFORE THE COMMITTEE ON ARMED SERVICES HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ONE HUNDRED TENTH CONGRESS SECOND SESSION

United States · United States House of Representatives · 26 February 2008

Iraq Redeployment Timetable and Political Reconciliation Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 26 February 2008

Iraq Redeployment Timetable and Political Reconciliation Act of 2008 - Directs the Secretary of Defense to: (1) begin U.S. military redeployment from Iraq within 90 days after the enactment of the Act; and (2) complete such redeployment within 180 days. States that the redeployment shall be carried out in order to protect U.S. national security interests and improve U.S. military readiness. Authorizes the Secretary to retain U.S. military forces in Iraq as required for protection of the U.S. Embassy compound in Baghdad, Iraq. Directs the Secretary of State to: (1) continue to work with the government of Iraq to provide for the security and stability of Iraq and its transition to democratic rule through diplomatic means; and (2) begin negotiations for the creation of a multilateral security and economic organization for the Middle East region (the Middle East Security and Economic Organization).

Joseph A. Benkert, of Virginia, to be an Assistant Secretary of Defense, vice Peter Cyril Wyche Flory, resigned.

United States · United States Senate · 25 February 2008

Protect America Short-term Extension Act

United States · United States Congress · 25 February 2008

Protect America Short-term Extension Act - Amends the Protect America Act of 2007 to extend its authority until 30 days after the date of enactment of this Act. States that the preceding amendment shall take effect as if enacted on February 15, 2008.

A bill to amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to extend from 90 days to one year the period after release of a member from the Armed Forces from active duty during which the member is protected from mortgage foreclosure.

United States · United States Congress · 25 February 2008

Amends the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act of 1940 to extend from 90 days to one year the period following release from active duty during which a member of the Armed Forces shall be protected from mortgage foreclosure.

Protect America Long-term Extension Act

United States · United States Congress · 25 February 2008

Protect America Long-term Extension Act - Amends the Protect America Act of 2007 to extend its authority until July 1, 2009. States that the preceding amendment shall take effect as if enacted on February 15, 2008.

Military Pay Improvement Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 25 February 2008

Military Pay Improvement Act of 2008 - Waives, during FY2009, the basic military pay adjustment tied to increases in the Employment Cost Index. Increases, effective January 1, 2009, such basic pay by 3.9%.

A bill to prohibit the transport of hydrolysate from the Pueblo Chemical Depot, Colorado, to an off-site location.

United States · United States Congress · 15 February 2008

Prohibits the Secretary of Defense from transporting hydrolysate (derived from the neutralization of VX nerve gas) from the Pueblo Chemical Depot, Colorado, to an off-site location for treatment, storage, or disposal.

A bill to provide relief for veterans with a disability rated as total.

United States · United States Congress · 15 February 2008

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to exempt veterans with a disability rated as total from the tax on social security benefits. Requires the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to amend federal housing regulations to exclude the disability and pension benefits of veterans with a disability rated as total from income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain public housing programs.

Encouraging the United States Geological Survey, the National Science Foundation, and the Department of Defense to support a recovery mission for the human remains of the crew killed in the George One crash in Antarctica, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 15 February 2008

Encourages the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the National Science Foundation (NSF), and the Department of Defense (DOD) to support a mission to recover the human remains and the makeshift tombstone of the crew of the George One Navy patrol plane that crashed on Thurston Island in Antarctica.

Citizen Soldier and Military Veteran Travel Reimbursement Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 14 February 2008

Citizen Soldier and Military Veteran Travel Reimbursement Act of 2008 - Repeals the requirement that the Secretary of Veterans Affairs adjust the amount (similar to a copay or deductible) charged to a member who is reimbursed by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for travel expenses connected with the receipt of vocational rehabilitation, counseling, or required medical care. Requires the Secretary, in determining the amount of the allowance or reimbursement, to use the reimbursement rate for the use of privately-owned vehicles by government employees on official business. Authorizes the Secretary of the military department concerned to reimburse a member of the reserves for expenses incurred in connection with round-trip travel in excess of 100 miles to an inactive duty training location, requiring the same reimbursement rate as above.

A bill to clarify and improve information for members and former members of the Armed Forces on upgrades of discharge, to prohibit personality disorder discharges in cases of post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 14 February 2008

Requires: (1) each member of the Armed Forces being considered for any type of military discharge to receive written notice that an upgrade in the characterization of such discharge will not automatically result from review by a discharge review board; (2) such notice to also advise the member of the right to discuss discharge options with military legal counsel prior to electing a characterization or type of discharge; (3) each member to acknowledge receipt of such notice; and (4) each military department Secretary to annually make public information on discharge reviews. Directs the Secretary of Defense to ensure that each member receives, at the time of discharge, comprehensive information on the effect of the discharge status of the member on benefits and services available through the Department of Defense (DOD), Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), or any other federal department or agency providing benefits to former members. Prohibits the Secretary of a military department from discharging for a personality disorder a member: (1) unless the member has undergone testing by DOD for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), traumatic brain injury (TBI), and any related mental health disorder or injury prior to a final action with respect to the discharge; or (2) determined by the Secretary to suffer from PTSD, TBI, or a related mental health disorder or injury. Requires the Secretary to waive the 15-year time limit generally applicable to discharge reviews in the case of reviews of discharges for personality disorder of a former member who has been diagnosed with PTSD, TBI, or a related mental health disorder or injury.

Assured Funding for Veterans Health Care Act

United States · United States Congress · 14 February 2008

Assured Funding for Veterans Health Care Act - Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to make available to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs for programs, functions, and activities of the Veterans Health Administration for FY2008 130 percent of the amount obligated during FY2006. Adjusts the amount provided for fiscal years after FY2008 based on the number of enrolled veterans and the number of other persons eligible but not enrolled who are provided care, multiplied by the per capita baseline amount for FY2006, as increased by the percentage increase in the Consumer Price Index. Prohibits the availability of such funds for: (1) construction, acquisition, or alteration of veterans' medical facilities (other than for repairs provided for before the date of enactment of this Act); or (2) grants for the construction of state home facilities for the furnishing of veterans' domiciliary, nursing home, and hospital care.

Vessel Discharge Evaluation and Review Act

United States · United States Congress · 14 February 2008

Vessel Discharge Evaluation and Review Act - Directs the Coast Guard's Commandant to conduct an evaluation of vessel discharges, other than aquatic nuisance species, and report to specified congressional committees. Amends the Nonindigenous Aquatic Nuisance Prevention and Control Act of 1990 to suspend, beginning on the date of enactment of this Act and notwithstanding any other provision of law, any requirement to obtain a permit for a discharge incidental to the normal operation of a vessel. Requires promulgation of a final rule establishing enforceable uniform national discharge standards modeled on the regulatory program for vessels of the Armed Forces and based upon the best available technology. Preempts related state and local laws regarding a discharge incidental to the normal operation of a vessel, subject to exception. Lists certain discharges that are unaffected by or excluded from this Act, including Armed Forces vessels, discharges of vessel sewage, and discharges related to aquatic nuisance species. Makes this Act, notwithstanding any other provision of law, the exclusive statutory authority for federal regulation of vessel discharges to which these provisions apply.

America's National World War II Museum Expansion Act

United States · United States Congress · 14 February 2008

America's National World War II Museum Expansion Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Defense to make a grant to the National D-Day Museum Foundation for facilities and programs of America's National World War II Museum in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Veterans' Benefits Enhancement Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 14 February 2008

Veterans' Benefits Enhancement Act of 2008 - Revises veterans' insurance benefits matters to: (1) direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (Secretary) to grant level-premium term life insurance to certain service-disabled veterans; (2) increase the maximum amount of supplemental service disabled veterans' insurance for totally disabled veterans; (3) provide retroactive traumatic injury coverage under the Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance (SGLI) program for certain members of the Armed Forces who incurred a traumatic injury in the line of duty; (4) provide for the designation of a recipient of funds for traumatic injury coverage when the member is mentally incapacitated or experiencing an extended loss of consciousness; and (5) increase the maximum loan guarantee amount under the veterans' mortgage life insurance program. Revises veterans' housing benefits matters to: (1) allow home improvements and structural alterations for totally disabled members likely to be discharged or released from service; (2) make eligible for specially adapted housing benefits and assistance members with certain severe service-connected disabilities and veterans with such disabilities residing outside the United States; (3) authorize the provision of such assistance for veterans with a severe burn disability and disabled veterans residing temporarily in housing owned by a family member; and (4) increase specially adapted housing benefits for disabled veterans. Revises veterans' employment and education matters to: (1) require coordination of veterans' educational course approval activities with those performed by the Departments of Labor and Education and other appropriate entities; (2) enhance the authority for reimbursing expenses of state approving agencies; (3) waive the residency requirement for a Director for Veterans' Employment and Training; (4) extend through 2009 an increase in benefits for veterans pursuing apprenticeships or on-job training; and (5) increase supplemental educational assistance for members of the Selected Reserve with certain skills or specialties. Deems certain service performed with the military forces of the Philippines and the Philippine Scouts as active U.S. military service for purposes of eligibility for veterans' benefits. Entitles children of such Filipino veterans to the same rate of educational assistance entitlement as children of other veterans. Revises provisions concerning the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims to: (1) eliminate the service limit for retired judges who voluntarily return to the Court; (2) remove the annual limit on Court registration and practice fees; and (3) require reports on Court workloads and expansion of Court facilities. Revises veterans' compensation and pension matters to: (1) add osteoporosis to the disabilities presumed to be service-connected in former prisoners of war with post-traumatic stress disorder; and (2) provide an annual cost-of-living adjustment to temporary dependency and indemnity compensation (DIC) payable to surviving spouses with dependent children under 18 years old. Provides an annual adjustment for veterans' burial benefits. Increases eligibility for, and the amount of, assistance provided to disabled veterans for the purchase of automobiles and adaptive equipment. Allows for the termination or suspension of cellular phone contracts for members undergoing deployments of 90 days or more outside the United States. Provides for the maintenance, management, and availability for research of assets of the Air Force Health Study. Requires: (1) a study on the risk of developing multiple sclerosis as a result of certain military service; and (2) a report on the adequacy of DIC to support survivors of veterans who die from service-connected disabilities.

United States-Republic of Korea Defense Cooperation Improvement Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 14 February 2008

United States-Republic of Korea Defense Cooperation Improvement Act of 2008 - Amends the Arms Export Control Act to include the Republic of Korea among those countries given preferential consideration with respect to certain: (1) arms export presidential certification and legislative review requirements; and (2) military training reporting requirements.

Full Faith in Veterans Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 14 February 2008

Full Faith in Veterans Act of 2008 - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to accept as sufficient proof of service-connection of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) alleged to have been incurred in or aggravated by active military service a diagnosis of PTSD by a mental health professional, together with a written determination that such disorder is related to the veteran's service, if consistent with the circumstances, conditions, or hardships of such service, notwithstanding that there is no official record of such incurrence or aggravation during such service. Requires the Secretary to resolve every reasonable doubt in favor of the veteran. Allows PTSD service-connection to be rebutted by clear and convincing evidence. Directs the Secretary to require Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) employees responsible for rating disabilities, evaluating claims for disability compensation for PTSD, or adjudicating disability compensation ratings to complete a certification program established by the Secretary. Requires the Secretary to: (1) conduct audits of examinations of veterans who submit claims for disability compensation for PTSD; (2) update the schedule for rating disabilities with respect to PTSD, traumatic brain injury, and other mental disorders; (3) implement new PTSD criteria; (4) implement a holistic treatment approach for veterans with PTSD; and (5) require VA employees responsible for adjudicating disability compensation ratings to take into consideration veterans' treatment records from readjustment counseling centers and written opinions of mental health professionals.

To amend title 38, United States Code, to establish a presumption of service connection of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis for purposes of the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

United States · United States Congress · 14 February 2008

Presumes to be service-connected, and therefore compensable through veterans' disability compensation, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis developing a 10% degree of disability or more at any time, in the case of a veteran who served for 90 days or more during a period of war.

FISA Amendments Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 14 February 2008

Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 Amendments Act of 2008 or FISA Amendments Act of 2008 - Amends the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 (FISA) to authorize the Attorney General (AG) and Director of National Intelligence (DNI) to jointly authorize, for periods up to one year, the targeting (electronic surveillance) of persons located outside the United States in order to acquire foreign intelligence information, under specified limitations and requirements. Authorizes the AG and DNI to direct an electronic communication service provider to: (1) immediately provide the government with all information, facilities, and assistance necessary to accomplish an acquisition of communications; and (2) maintain under security procedures any records concerning such acquisition. Requires the AG and DNI, at least every six months, to: (1) assess compliance with required targeting and minimization procedures; and (2) submit assessment results to the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court (Court) and the congressional intelligence committees. States that FISA and the procedures of chapters 119 (Wire and Electronic Communications Interception and Interception of Oral Communications), 121 (Stored Wire and Electronic Communications and Transactional Records Access), and 206 (Pen Registers and Trap and Trace Devices) of the federal criminal code shall be the exclusive means by which electronic surveillance and the interception of domestic wire, oral, or electronic communications may be conducted. Allows the AG to authorize the emergency employment of electronic surveillance if the AG, among other things: (1) determines that an emergency exists; (2) informs a Court judge of such determination; and (3) applies for a Court order authorizing such surveillance. Requires the AG, after authorizing the installation and use of a pen register or trap and trace device on an emergency basis, to apply to the Court for an authorization order within seven days (current law requires 48 hours) after the emergency installation and use. Authorizes the Court to sit en banc when: (1) necessary to secure or maintain uniformity of Court decisions; or (2) the proceeding involves a question of exceptional importance. Authorizes the acquisition of foreign intelligence information in order to prevent the international proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. Prohibits: (1) civil actions against a communication service provider, or individual other than such a provider, furnishing surveillance assistance requested from an element of the intelligence community; and (2) a state from conducting investigations, imposing sanctions, or commencing or maintaining a civil action or other proceeding against a provider furnishing requested assistance.

Military Pain Care Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 14 February 2008

Military Pain Care Act of 2008 - Directs the Secretaries of Defense, Veterans Affairs, and Health and Human Services and the Surgeon General of the United States to develop and implement a pain care initiative in all military health care facilities. Requires the initiative to ensure that all active and retired military personnel and dependents receiving treatment in military health care facilities: (1) are assessed for pain at the time of admission or initial treatment, and periodically thereafter, using a professionally recognized pain assessment tool or process; and (2) receive appropriate pain care consistent with recognized means for assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and management of acute and chronic pain, including, as appropriate, access to specialty pain management services. Requires: (1) Department of Defense (DOD) contracts for medical care for military retirees, dependents, and survivors to include the provision of appropriate care for the treatment of pain; and (2) a Comptroller General study on the adequacy of pain care in DOD health care facilities, services, and programs.

To amend title 10, United States Code,to extend the special survivor indemnity allowance to survivors of certain members of the Armed Forces who die on active duty.

United States · United States Congress · 14 February 2008

Extends the special survivor indemnity allowance to survivors of members of the Armed Forces who die either in the line of duty or while on active duty after: (1) becoming eligible for retired pay; (2) qualifying, but not applying for, retired pay; or (3) completing 20 years of active service but before eligibility for retirement as a commissioned officer because the member has not completed ten years of active commissioned service.

To amend title 10, United States Code, to deny Federal funds for any State or city, county, or other political subdivision of a State that prohibits or unduly restricts the establishment or operation of a military recruiting office.

United States · United States Congress · 14 February 2008

Prohibits any federal funds from being provided to a state, city, county, or other political subdivision thereof if the Secretary of Defense determines that such state or political subdivision prohibits or unreasonably restricts, through zoning requirements more restrictive than those imposed on most small businesses in that jurisdiction, the ability of the Armed Forces to establish and operate a military recruiting office. Requires the Secretary to notify the President and Congress of each such determination.

Recognizing the courage and sacrifice of those members of the United States Armed Forces who were held as prisoners of war during the Vietnam conflict and calling for a full accounting of the 1,729 members of the Armed Forces who remain unaccounted for from the Vietnam conflict.

United States · United States Congress · 14 February 2008

Expresses gratitude for, and urges states, localities, and all Americans to honor the courage and sacrifice of, members of the Armed Forces, including Samuel R. Johnson of Texas, who were held as prisoners of war during the Vietnam conflict. Declares that the House of Representatives will continue to press for a full accounting of the 1,729 members of the Armed Forces who remain unaccounted for from that conflict. Honors all members of the Armed Forces who have fought and died in the defense of freedom.

Recognizing the exceptional sacrifice of the 69th Infantry Regiment, known as the Fighting 69th, in support of the Global War on Terror.

United States · United States Congress · 14 February 2008

Recognizes the 69th Infantry Regiment, or the Fighting 69th, as one of the great regiments in American military history that has continually participated in the Global War on Terror since the attack on September 11, 2001, as it deploys to Afghanistan.

Honoring the sacrifice of all mothers in the Armed Forces who have deployed to theaters of combat on behalf of the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 14 February 2008

Honors the sacrifice of all mothers in the Armed Forces who have deployed to theaters of combat on behalf of the United States. Commends the service of approximately 130,000 military mothers who have deployed to Afghanistan, Iraq, and the Horn of Africa in support of the Global War on Terror.

Recognizing the 60th anniversary of the beginning of the integration of the Armed Forces.

United States · United States Congress · 14 February 2008

Recognizes the 60th anniversary of President Truman's executive order declaring a policy of equality of treatment and opportunity for all persons in the armed services without regard to race, color, religion, or national origin, thereby beginning the process of ending segregation in the U.S. Armed Forces.

IMPROVEMENTS IMPLEMENTED AND PLANNED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE AND THE DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS FOR THE CARE, MANAGEMENT, AND TRANSITION OF WOUNDED AND ILL SERVICEMEMBERS

United States · United States Senate · 13 February 2008

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS FOR 2009

United States · United States House of Representatives · 13 February 2008

[H.A.S.C. No. 110-113] READINESS AT RISK: THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE SECURITY CLEARANCE PROCESS

United States · United States House of Representatives · 13 February 2008

Foreclosure Prevention Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 13 February 2008

Foreclosure Prevention Act of 2008 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) authorize use of the proceeds of a qualified mortgage bond issue to refinance a mortgage on a residence originally financed through a qualified subprime loan; (2) raise the ceiling and volume cap imposed upon certain state housing bonds; and (3) exclude from the meaning of tax preference item private activity bonds, for purposes of the alternative minimum tax, qualified mortgage bonds or veterans' mortgage bonds issued after enactment of this Act and before January 1, 2011. Makes FY2008 appropriations for: (1) emergency needs of states and local governmental units to redevelop certain abandoned and foreclosed homes; and (2) the Neighborhood Reinvestment Corporation for foreclosure mitigation activities, including grants for housing counseling. Helping Families Save Their Homes in Bankruptcy Act of 2008 - Authorizes a bankruptcy plan for individuals with regular income to: (1) modify an allowed secured claim secured by the debtor's principal residence if the debtor's income is insufficient to retain possession of the residence by curing a default and maintaining payments while the case is pending; (2) provide for payment of such claim for a period of up to 30 years; (3) set conditions for the addition of certain fees, costs, or charges to secured debt; and (4) waive any prepayment penalty on a claim secured by a debtor's principal residence. Waives the counseling requirement upon certification that a debtor's principal residence is scheduled for a foreclosure sale. Permits the debtor, in lieu of the trustee, to proceed as the real party in interest in certain state or federal actions respecting a claim or defense. Authorizes the bankruptcy court, in core proceedings involving an individual debtor with primarily consumer debts, to conduct the proceeding and enter orders and judgments in lieu of arbitration. Creates a principal residence homestead exemption for debtors over 55 years of age. Directs the bankruptcy court to disallow claims or interests subject to any remedy for damages or rescission due to noncompliance with state or federal consumer protection law, notwithstanding a prior foreclosure judgment. Mortgage Disclosure Improvement Act of 2008 - Amends the Truth in Lending Act to set forth additional disclosure requirements governing any extensions of credit (not only mortgages) secured by the dwelling of a consumer. Increases the actual damages for which a creditor is liable for noncompliance with such Act in the case of an individual action relating to a credit transaction not under an open end credit plan that is secured by real property or a dwelling. Replaces the current range of damages from $200 to $2,000 with a flat damages amount of $5,000, adjusted annually for inflation. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) set forth carryback rules for net operating losses for specified taxable years; and (2) suspend through taxable year 2008 the 90% of alternative minimum taxable income limit for certain adjustments to the alternative (minimum) tax net operating loss deduction.