Defence

To amend the Federal Charter of the Boy Scouts of America in title 36, United States Code, to ratify the authority of the Secretary of Defense and military installations and units of the Armed Forces to officially sponsor units of the Boy Scouts of America serving dependents of members of the Armed Forces and to make facilities of the Department of Defense available for Boy Scout meetings and activities, such as national and world Boy Scout Jamborees.

United States · United States Congress · 15 March 2005

Authorizes the Secretary of Defense and U.S. military installations and units to support the Boy Scouts of America by: (1) officially sponsoring Boy Scout units serving dependents of members of the Armed Forces; and (2) making facilities of the Department of Defense available for Boy Scout meetings and other activities such as national and world Boy Scout Jamborees.

To amend title 10, United States Code, to establish a combat badge for helicopter medical evacuation ambulance (Medevac) pilots and crews.

United States · United States Congress · 15 March 2005

Directs the Secretary of the military department concerned to issue a Combat Medevac Badge to each person who served in combat on or after June 25, 1950, as a pilot or crew member of a helicopter medical evacuation ambulance.

To amend the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Act of 1990 to require the 2005 base closure and realignment process to adhere to certain requirements regarding the preservation of military depot capabilities.

United States · United States Congress · 15 March 2005

Amends the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Act of 1990 to require 2005 base closure and realignment actions to strictly adhere to requirements for the maintenance of Government-owned and operated depot-level maintenance, repair, and logistics capabilities within the Department of Defense. Prohibits waivers from such adherence.

Radioprotectant Procurement Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 15 March 2005

Radioprotectant Procurement Act of 2005 - Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to direct the Secretaries of Health and Human Services, Homeland Security, and Defense to utilize and expend funds necessary for rapidly developing, bringing to market, and procuring whole-body radioprotectants. Requires the Secretary of Homeland Security: (1) to report to Congress on the threat of a nuclear or radiological attack against the United States and the availability of effective radioprotectant medical countermeasures; and (2) upon determining that an effective radioprotectant is available or may become available within a reasonable time, to enter into agreements with private companies for the procurement of enough effective, safe, stable, and low-cost radioprotectants to protect the people of the United States.

To make technical corrections to the Veterans Benefits Improvement Act of 2004.

United States · United States Congress · 15 March 2005

Amends Federal veterans' benefits provisions to restore the specially adapted housing assistance for certain active-duty members of the Armed Forces which was deleted by provisions of the Veterans Benefits Improvement Act of 2004 and which created similar assistance for certain disabled veterans.

Expressing the grave concern of Congress regarding the recent passage of the anti-secession law by the National People's Congress of the People's Republic of China.

United States · United States Congress · 15 March 2005

Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) the anti-secession law of the People's Republic of China (PRC) provides a legal justification for the use of force against Taiwan, altering the status quo in the region, and thus is of grave concern to the United States; (2) the President of the United States should direct all appropriate U.S. officials to reflect the grave concern with which the United States views the passage of China's anti-secession law in particular, and the growing Chinese military threats to Taiwan in general, to their counterpart officials in the Government of the PRC; and (3) the U.S. Government should reaffirm its policy that the future of Taiwan should be resolved by peaceful means and with the consent of the people of Taiwan, and continue to encourage dialogue between Taiwan and the PRC.

Veterans Prescription Drugs Assistance Act

United States · United States Congress · 14 March 2005

Veterans Prescription Drugs Assistance Act - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to furnish such drugs and medicines as may be ordered on prescription of a duly licensed physician as specific therapy in the treatment of any illness or injury suffered by each veteran who is receiving additional compensation or allowance due to a service-connected disability, or increased pension as a veteran of a period of war, by reason of being permanently housebound or in need of regular aid and attendance. Allows any Medicare-eligible veteran to elect to be furnished by the Secretary, on an outpatient basis, such drugs and medicines as ordered on prescription of a duly licensed physician as specific therapy for any illness or injury suffered by the veteran. Requires such election to last for a calendar year and to be irrevocable. Allows for election renewal. Requires appropriate information to be furnished to each veteran prior to such election. Authorizes the Secretary to administer immunizations to voluntary eligible veterans in connection with the provision of care in any Department of Veterans Affairs health care facility. Provides for appropriate copayments for the drugs and medicines received by veterans under authority of this Act.

Montgomery GI Bill Revitalization Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 14 March 2005

Montgomery GI Bill Revitalization Act of 2005 - Amends Federal basic educational assistance provisions (the Montgomery GI Bill) to authorize enhanced educational assistance to a member of the armed forces who, after September 30, 2005: (1) first enters on active duty; (2) reenlists or continues to serve on active duty; (3) serves a continuous period of active duty of four years; or (4) serves and is discharged or released for a service-connected disability, at the convenience of the Government (after serving at least 42 months of such duty), or due to a reduction in force. Limits to 36 months the period for such enhanced assistance. Requires the payment of educational expenses under such program. Provides: (1) a monthly stipend for approved programs of education; and (2) tutorial assistance. Repeals, with respect to such assistance: (1) a required monthly reduction in pay for individuals who do not elect to participate in such assistance program; (2) a provision authorizing individuals to elect not to receive such assistance; (3) the requirement that participants complete the requirements of a high school diploma or equivalency certificate prior to the end of their initial obligated period of service in order to be eligible to receive such assistance; and (4) provisions limiting an individual's opportunity to withdraw an election not to enroll in such assistance program.

A bill to require the Secretary of the Army to award the Combat Medical Badge or another combat badge for Army helicopter medical evacuation ambulance (Medevac) pilots and crews.

United States · United States Congress · 14 March 2005

Directs the Secretary of the Army to award the Combat Medical Badge, or establish and award a badge to be known as the Combat Medevac Badge, for Army helicopter medical evacuation ambulance (Medevac) pilots and crews. Makes qualifying service effective beginning June 25, 1950.

Expressing support for the members of the uniformed services and their families, particularly those wounded or severely injured in service to the Nation, and support for the newly established Military Severely Injured Joint Support Operations Center in the Office of the Secretary of Defense.

United States · United States Congress · 14 March 2005

Reiterates support for all members of the uniformed services and their families, particularly those members wounded or severely injured during service. Applauds the action of the Department of Defense in establishing the Military Severely Injured Joint Support Operations Center, which integrates service branch efforts to provide resources for severely injured service members and their families. Expresses strong commitment to the Center and the accomplishment of its mission. Pledges to ensure that the Center receives the resources necessary to fulfill such mission.

An original concurrent resolution setting forth the congressional budget for the United States Government for fiscal year 2006 and including the appropriate budgetary levels for fiscal years 2005 and 2007 through 2010.

United States · United States Congress · 11 March 2005

Sets forth the congressional budget for the Federal Government for FY 2006, including the appropriate budgetary levels for FY 2005 and 2007 through 2010. Lists recommended budgetary levels and amounts, for FY 2005 through 2010, with respect to: (1) Federal revenues; (2) new budget authority; (3) budget outlays; (4) deficits; (5) debt subject to limit; and (6) debt held by the public. Lists the appropriate levels of new budget authority, outlays, and administrative expenses for Social Security and specified major functional categories for FY 2005 through 2010. Sets forth reconciliation instructions for the Committees on: (1) Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry; (2) Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs; (3) Commerce, Science, and Transportation; (4) Energy and Natural Resources; (5) Environment and Public Works; (6) Finance; and (7) Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Requires the Committee on Finance to report a reconciliation bill to the Senate that increases the statutory debt limit. Provides for certain reserve funds for: (1) health information technology and pay-for-performance; (2) an Asbestos Injury Trust Fund; (3) the uninsured; (4) the Land and Water Conservation Fund; (5) the Federal Pell Grant Program; (6) higher education; (7) energy legislation; and (8) safe importation of prescription drugs. Provides for adjustments with respect to discretionary spending for surface transportation. Prohibits Senate legislation that would require advanced appropriations, with a specified exception. Enables Congress, if in the absence of an extension of the discretionary spending limits and PAYGO requirements under the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act), to designate provisions of legislation as an emergency (meeting specified criteria) in order to exempt such measures from enforcement of this resolution with respect to the new budget authority, outlays, and receipts resulting from them. Includes measures making supplemental appropriations for FY 2006 for overseas contingency operations related to the global war on terrorism. Continues the supermajority enforcement requirements of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 as a Senate rule through FY 2010. Establishes specified discretionary spending limits in the Senate. Declares the sense of the Senate on: (1) precluding consideration of unauthorized appropriations; (2) establishing a committee to review the performance of programs; (3) granting access to TRICARE for members of the Department of Defense Reserve Components; (4) restraining Medicaid growth; (5) funding tribal colleges and universities; (6) supporting the President's request for Federal funding of State and local homeland security assistance programs; (7) rejecting the President's proposed elimination of per diem reimbursement to State Veterans Homes; (8) funding Impact Aid; and (9) modifying payment limitations in mandatory agricultural programs.

Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Act for Defense, the Global War on Terror, and Tsunami Relief, 2005

United States · United States Congress · 11 March 2005

Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Act for Defense, the Global War on Terror, and Tsunami Relief, 2005 - Makes emergency supplemental appropriations for FY 2005 for the Department of Defense (DOD) for: (1) military personnel; (2) operation and maintenance (O&M); (3) overseas humanitarian, disaster, and civic aid; (4) the Afghanistan Security Forces Fund; (5) the Iraq Security Forces Fund; (6) procurement; (7) research, development, test and evaluation; (8) Defense Working Capital Funds and the National Defense Sealift Fund; (9) drug interdiction and counter-drug activities related to Afghanistan and Central Asia; (10) the Office of the Inspector General; and (11) the Intelligence Community Management Account. Allows DOD funds to be used for support for counter-drug activities of the Governments of Afghanistan and Pakistan. Increases the: (1) maximum benefit under the Servicemen's Group Life Insurance program from $250,000 to $400,000 (or lesser amounts in increments of $50,000); and (2) military death gratuity from $12,000 to $100,000. Provides a special death gratuity with respect to certain service in Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. Makes emergency supplemental appropriations to DOD for: (1) military construction; (2) military personnel, Army; (3) O&M, Army; and (4) the Defense Health Program. Makes emergency supplemental appropriations for: (1) international disaster and famine assistance; (2) the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID); (3) the Economic Support Fund; (4) international narcotics control and law enforcement; (5) migration and refugee assistance; (6) nonproliferation, anti-terrorism, demining and related programs; (7) the Foreign Military Financing Program; and (8) peacekeeping operations. Requires audits and reports concerning uses of appropriated funds. Makes emergency supplemental appropriations for: (1) diplomatic and consular programs; (2) embassy security, construction, and maintenance; (3) international peacekeeping activities; (4) international broadcasting operations; (5) certain agricultural grants; (6) defense nuclear nonproliferation; (7) the U.S. Coast Guard; (8) salaries and expenses of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); (9) emergency relief, rehabilitation, and reconstruction aid to countries affected by the tsunami and earthquakes of December 2004; (10) geological surveys, investigations, and research; and (11) the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Humanitarian Assistance Code of Conduct Act of 2005 - Prohibits certain appropriated funds from being obligated to an organization that fails to adopt a code of conduct that provides for the protection of beneficiaries of assistance from sexual exploitation and abuse in humanitarian relief operations.

REVIEW OF DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE DETENTION AND INTERROGATION POLICY AND OPERATIONS IN THE GLOBAL WAR ON TERRORISM

United States · United States Senate · 10 March 2005

Foreign Affairs Authorization Act, Fiscal Years 2006 and 2007

United States · United States Congress · 10 March 2005

Foreign Affairs Authorization Act, Fiscal Years 2006 and 2007 - Foreign Relations Authorization Act, Fiscal Years 2006 and 2007 - Authorizes FY 2006 and 2007 appropriations for: (1) the Department of State; and (2) U.S. international broadcasting activities. Revises provisions respecting Department: (1) authorities and activities, including protective and security functions, grants, establishment of a Victims of Crime Office, and educational programs in the Islamic world; and (2) personnel. Limits the U.S. share for United Nations (UN) peacekeeping operations. International Broadcasting Authorization Act, Fiscal Years 2006 and 2007 - Amends the United States International Broadcasting Act of 1994 to: (1) make funds available available to Middle East Broadcasting Networks; (2) extend funding for Radio Free Asia; and (3) pay personnel dependent school costs in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. Amends the Radio Broadcasting to Cuba Act to enhance broadcasting to Cuba. Reconstruction and Stabilization Civilian Management Act of 2005 - Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to authorize the President to provide reconstruction and stabilization assistance. Amends the State Department Basic Authorities Act of 1956 to direct the Secretary of State to establish within the Department an Office of the Coordinator for Reconstruction and Stabilization. Foreign Assistance Authorization Act, Fiscal Years 2006 and 2007 - Authorizes FY 2006 and 2007 appropriations for: (1) development assistance and related programs; (2) counternarcotics, security assistance, and related programs; and (3) independent agencies. Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 respecting: (1) development policy; (2) nongovernmental organizations; (3) unanticipated contingencies; (4) lethal excess property; (5) reconstruction and famine assistance; (6) the Independent States of the former Soviet Union; (7) war reserve stockpiles for allies; (8) economic support funds for Lebanon; (9) demining programs; (10) military coups; (11) alternative dispute resolution; (12) law enforcement assistance; (13) debt relief for the poorest countries; (14) Congo Basin Forest Partnership; (15) landmine clearance; (16) Middle East Foundation; and (17) Millennium Challenge assistance. Amends the Arms Export Control Act, including provisions respecting: (1) FREEDOM Support Act waiver authority; and (2) Pakistan, Indonesia, and Haiti. Radiological Terrorism Security Act of 2005 - Sets forth provisions respecting: (1) embassy threat assessments; and (2) foreign first responders. Global Pathogen Surveillance Act of 2005 - Provides assistance for specified pathogen surveillance, personnel training, and regional health programs. Safe Water: Currency for Peace Act of 2005 - Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to: (1) authorize the President to provide assistance to improve water access and sanitation; and (2) establish a clean water infrastructure development program. Protection of Vulnerable Populations During Humanitarian Emergencies Act of 2005 - Directs the Secretary to develop a protection strategy for vulnerable populations, especially women and children, during humanitarian emergencies. Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to authorize the President to provide assistance to protect vulnerable populations during humanitarian emergencies. Expresses the sense of Congress that the UN should strengthen its ability to protect civilians, especially women and children, from sexual exploitation by peace mission personnel. Conventional Arms Disarmament Act of 2005 - Directs the Secretary to carry out a global program to secure or eliminate stocks of man-portable air defense systems (MANPADS), other conventional weapons, and tactical missile systems that pose a proliferation threat.

A concurrent resolution calling on the North Atlantic Treaty Organization to assess the potential effectiveness of and requirements for a NATO-enforced no-fly zone in the Darfur region of Sudan.

United States · United States Congress · 10 March 2005

Condemns the continued civilian attacks in Darfur, Sudan, and calls on the Government of Sudan to withdraw all military aircraft from the region and disarm the janjaweed militias. Commends the Africa Union Mission in Sudan for its actions in monitoring the implementation of the N'Djamena cease-fire agreement in Darfur. Urges the President to direct the U.S. Permanent Representative to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) to propose that NATO assess the effectiveness of a NATO-enforced no-fly zone across Darfur.

To amend title 10, United States Code, to provide health care coverage for spouses and children of members of the uniformed services on active duty through the Federal Employees Health Benefits program.

United States · United States Congress · 10 March 2005

Directs the Secretary of Defense to enter into an agreement with the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) under which eligible beneficiaries may enroll in health benefits plans offered through the Federal Employees Health Benefits program (FEHBP). Defines as eligible beneficiaries members of the uniformed services on active duty for more than 30 days with either a wife or a dependent child or children. Allows FEHBP enrollment under either self or self and family coverage. Prohibits dependents covered under such enrollment from receiving care at a military medical treatment facility or enrolling in a health care plan under the TRICARE program (a Department of Defense managed health care program).

To award a congressional gold medal on behalf of the Tuskegee Airmen, collectively, in recognition of their unique military record, which inspired revolutionary reform in the Armed Forces.

United States · United States Congress · 10 March 2005

Directs the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President pro tempore of the Senate to make appropriate arrangements for the presentation, on behalf of Congress, of a gold medal collectively to the Tuskegee Airmen in recognition of their unique military record, which inspired revolutionary reform in the Armed Forces.

Veterans' Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 10 March 2005

Veterans' Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2005 - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to increase, as of December 1, 2005, the rates of veterans' disability compensation, additional compensation for dependents, the clothing allowance for certain disabled adult children, and dependency and indemnity compensation for surviving spouses and children. Requires each such increase to be the same percentage as the increase in benefits provided under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act, on the same effective date. Codifies under veterans' disability compensation provisions the increases to such compensation provided under the Veterans' Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2004.

Latin America Military Training Review Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 10 March 2005

Latin America Military Training Review Act of 2005 - Directs the Secretary of the Army to suspend operation of the Western Hemisphere Institute for Security Cooperation (Institute). Suspends the authority of the Secretary of Defense to operate such an education and training facility until submission of a report containing the results of an investigation in response to violations of human rights to which training at such Institute contributed. Establishes: (1) a joint congressional task force to assess appropriate education and training for DOD to provide to military personnel of Latin American nations; and (2) a commission to investigate activities of the United States Army School of the Americas and its successor institution, the Institute.

Berry Amendment Notification Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 March 2005

Berry Amendment Notification Act - Provides that if the Secretary of Defense makes an exception to the requirement that certain items procured by the Department of Defense must be grown, reprocessed, reused, or produced in the United States, then the Secretary must post a notification of such exception on the Internet site maintained by the General Services Administration known as FedBizOps.gov (or any successor site). Adds clothing materials and components to the items for which such Buy American requirement will apply.

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION FOR APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2006

United States · United States Senate · 9 March 2005

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2006

United States · United States Senate · 9 March 2005

Safety for Americans from Nuclear Weapons Testing Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 March 2005

Safety for Americans from Nuclear Weapons Testing Act - Deems each of the following actions undertaken by a Federal agency to be a major Federal action significantly affecting the quality of the human environment for which a detailed environmental impact statement is required in conformance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969: (1) any action having as a purpose the resumption of nuclear weapon or nuclear explosive device tests at the Nevada Test Site; or (2) use of any other location for such testing. Outlines information required to be included in such statement, including: (1) the possibility of radiation containment failure and the effects of such failure; (2) possible long-term effects on the water table from underground radiation leakage; and (3) information with respect to certain kiloton categories of weapons. Prohibits the United States from resuming any such testing unless authorized by a law enacted after the enactment of this Act. Requires: (1) advance public notice of each test; (2) prompt notice of each release of radiation beyond the boundaries of the Nevada Test Site; and (3) a public meeting after each test to discuss test results. Directs the National Academy of Sciences to conduct a study on the safety and health of citizens in the vicinity of the Nevada Test Site. Directs the Secretary of Energy to establish a Nevada Test Site Citizens Review Board. Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to make grants to institutions of higher education to acquire and operate, for ten years, radiation detection equipment and sensors. Directs the Secretary of Energy, through the Department of Energy (DOE) and Environmental Protection Agency, to monitor the nature and extent of any radiation released into the atmosphere as a result of such testing. Requires: (1) DOE radiation containment assessment; and (2) public notice of monitoring data. Requires the: (1) Director of the National Institutes of Health to make a grant to establish the National Center for the Study of Radiation and Human Health; and (2) Secretary of Health and Human Services to conduct a study of individuals exposed to nuclear weapons tests.

Disabled Veterans Right to Commissaries and Space Available Travel Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 March 2005

Disabled Veterans Right to Commissaries and Space Available Travel Act - Requires veterans with disabilities rated at 30 percent or more (and their dependents) to be permitted to use commissary and exchange stores on the same basis as members of the Armed Forces eligible for retired or retainer pay. Directs the Secretary of Defense to provide transportation on Department of Defense aircraft on a space-available basis for any veteran with a service-connected disability rated at 50 percent or more (and their dependents) on the same basis as members entitled to retired or retainer pay.

Department of Veterans Affairs Work-Study Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 9 March 2005

Department of Veterans Affairs Work-Study Act of 2005 - Includes as a "work-study activity" for qualifying veterans: (1) the provision of placement services at an educational institution; (2) the provision of counseling and assistance in identifying employment and training opportunities and related information and services to members of the Armed Forces being separated from active duty (and their spouses); and (3) any approved activity in support of a Senior Reserve Officers' Training Corps program at an educational institution or military installation. Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to conduct a five-year pilot project to test the feasibility and advisability of expanding the scope of qualifying work-study activities to include work-study positions available on site at educational institutions.

Military Stalking Prevention Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 9 March 2005

Military Stalking Prevention Act of 2005 - Amends the Uniform Code of Military Justice to define as the offense of stalking any person who knowingly engages in a course of conduct that would cause emotional distress to a reasonable person or would place a reasonable person in fear of injury to the person, property, or reputation of that person or any other person.

Veterans Carbon Tetrachloride Benefits Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 March 2005

Veterans Carbon Tetrachloride Benefits Act - Provides that any of certain listed diseases or disabilities becoming manifest in any veteran who served 90 days or more of active military duty during which such veteran was exposed to carbon tetrachloride shall be considered to be service-connected, and therefore compensable through veterans' disability compensation, notwithstanding that there is no record of evidence of such disease during such service.

A bill to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a national cemetery for veterans in the Colorado Springs, Colorado, metropolitan area.

United States · United States Congress · 8 March 2005

Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a national cemetery for veterans in the Colorado Springs, Colorado, metropolitan area.

Retired Pay Restoration Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 8 March 2005

Retired Pay Restoration Act of 2005 - Expresses the sense of Congress that military retired pay should not be reduced because a military retiree is also eligible for veterans' disability compensation awarded for a service-connected disability. Allows the receipt of both military retired pay and veterans' disability compensation with respect to any service-connected disability (currently, only a disability rated at 50 percent or more). Repeals provisions phasing in the full concurrent receipt of such pay through December 31, 2013. Makes eligible for the full concurrent receipt of both veterans' disability compensation and either military retired pay or combat-related special pay those individuals who were retired or separated from military service due to a service-connected disability.

Protection of Vulnerable Populations During Humanitarian Emergencies Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 8 March 2005

Protection of Vulnerable Populations During Humanitarian Emergencies Act of 2005 - Directs the Secretary of State to: (1) develop a comprehensive strategy for the protection of vulnerable populations, especially women and children, who are affected by a humanitarian emergency; and (2) designate an individual within the Department of State or the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) as the coordinator for such efforts. Authorizes USAID to establish a fellowship program to increase USAID expertise in carrying out protective activities of vulnerable populations, especially women and children, affected by a humanitarian emergency. Prohibits certain Department or USAID funds for refugees or internally displaced persons to be provided to a primary grantee or contractor unless the grantee or contractor has adopted a code of conduct that is consistent with the six core principles recommended by the United Nations (UN) Inter-Agency Standing Committee. Directs the coordinator to seek to provide health services to vulnerable populations, including: (1) prevention of of sexual violence; (2) reduction of HIV transmission; (3) provision of obstetric care; and (4) integrating women's health services into the primary health care services provided during a humanitarian emergency. Amends the Microenterprise for Self-Reliance Act of 2000 to seek to extend microcredit program availability to vulnerable populations. Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to: (1) permit providing military education and training where it would provide for the protection vulnerable populations; and (2) authorize the President to provide assistance for programs to protect vulnerable populations during humanitarian emergencies. Expresses the sense of Congress that the UN should strengthen the ability of its Department of Peacekeeping Operations to protect civilians, especially women and children, from sexual exploitation by peacekeeping personnel.

A bill to make technical corrections to the Veterans Benefits Improvement Act of 2004.

United States · United States Congress · 8 March 2005

Amends Federal veterans' benefits provisions to restore the specially adapted housing assistance for certain active-duty members of the Armed Forces which was deleted by provisions of the Veterans Benefits Improvement Act of 2004 and which created similar assistance for certain disabled veterans.

Freedom to Read Protection Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 8 March 2005

Freedom to Read Protection Act of 2005 - Amends the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 (FISA) to provide that no application by the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to a U.S. court for an order requiring the production of tangible things for an investigation to obtain foreign intelligence information from a U.S. person or to protect against international terrorism may be made for the sole purpose of searching for, or seizing from, a bookseller or library documentary materials that contain personally identifiable information concerning a patron. Provides that nothing in this Act shall be construed to preclude a physical search for documentary materials (including books, records, papers, documents, and other items) under other provisions of law. Defines "personally identifiable information" as information that identifies a person as having used, requested, or obtained specific reading materials or services from a bookseller or library. Revises congressional reporting requirements under FISA to require the Attorney General, in informing Congress with respect to applications for orders approving requests for the production of tangible things, to: (1) describe the specific purpose of each order application; (2) analyze the effectiveness of each application that was granted or modified in protecting U.S. citizens against terrorism; and (3) make public such information provided in a manner consistent with the national security of the United States.

Lebanon and Syria Liberation Act

United States · United States Congress · 8 March 2005

Lebanon and Syria Liberation Act - States that U.S. sanctions, controls, and regulations relating to Syria shall remain in effect until the President certifies that: (1) Syria has ceased support for terrorism, has dismantled biological, chemical, or nuclear weapons programs and has committed to combat their proliferation, has withdrawn from Lebanon and respects the boundaries and sovereignty of all neighboring countries, and upholds human rights and civil liberties; and (2) sovereignty has been restored to Lebanon. Imposes specified trade, assistance, and military sanctions, as appropriate, on persons or countries that transfer goods or technology so as to contribute to Syria's biological, chemical, nuclear, or advanced conventional weapons programs. Sets forth diplomatic measures intended to achieve such nonproliferation. Directs the President to provide assistance to support a democratic transition in Syria and the restoration of sovereign, democratic rule in Lebanon. Authorizes appropriations.

Reserves Pay and Benefits Modernization Act

United States · United States Congress · 8 March 2005

Reserves Pay and Benefits Modernization Act - Requires the Secretary of Defense to limit the length of assignment of reservists during U.S. Central Command deployments of not less than one year. Requires the Secretary to submit to specified congressional committees a report on Department of Defense policies and communications regarding the length of deployments for reservists in connection with Operation Iraqi Freedom. Directs the Secretary of the Army to designate a senior level official of the Department of the Army to implement recommendations for executive action to address military pay problems. Removes conditions on Ready Reserve members' eligibility for TRICARE enrollment. Makes such eligibility permanent. Requires the Secretary concerned to pay applicable premiums to continue qualified health benefit plan coverage for family members of eligible reservists serving on active duty for the benefits coverage continuation period. Authorizes the Secretary of Defense to fund child care for members of the Armed Forces on active duty for Operation Enduring Freedom or Operation Iraqi Freedom. Reduces from 60 to 55 the age at which members of Reserve components may receive military retirement pay. Establishes the position of Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness (Reserve Affairs). Eliminates the position of Assistant Secretary of Defense for Reserve Affairs. Reduces the number of Assistant Secretaries of Defense. Requires recruiters to fully define and disclose exactly what an individual's commitment to military service will entail, including an explanation of "Stop Loss" orders and their effect on the duration of such service.

To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a national cemetery for veterans in the Colorado Springs, Colorado, metropolitan area.

United States · United States Congress · 8 March 2005

Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a national cemetery for veterans in the Colorado Springs, Colorado, metropolitan area.

To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to conduct a study of the accuracy of expiration dates on certain prescription drugs maintained by the Department of Veterans Affairs.

United States · United States Congress · 8 March 2005

Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to study and report to Congress on the accuracy and possible extension of expiration dates on certain prescription drugs maintained by the Department of Veterans Affairs.

American Sovereignty Restoration Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 8 March 2005

American Sovereignty Restoration Act of 2005 - Repeals the United Nations Participation Act of 1945 and other specified related laws. Directs the President to terminate U.S. participation in the United Nations (UN), including any organ, specialized agency, commission, or other affiliated body. Requires closure of the U.S. Mission to the UN. Prohibits: (1) the authorization of funds for the U.S. assessed or voluntary contribution to the UN; (2) the authorization of funds for any U.S. contribution to any UN military operation; and (3) the expenditure of funds to support the participation of U.S. Armed Forces as part of any UN military or peacekeeping operation. Bars U.S. Armed Forces from serving under UN command.

PLEA Act

United States · United States Congress · 7 March 2005

Protect Law Enforcement Armor Act or PLEA Act - Amends the Federal criminal code to expand the definition of "armor piercing ammunition" to include a projectile that: (1) may be used in a handgun; and (2) the Attorney General determines to be capable of penetrating body armor. Directs the Attorney General to promulgate standards for the uniform testing of projectiles against Body Armor Exemplar (i.e., body armor that the Attorney General determines meets minimum standards for the protection of law enforcement officers), taking into account variations in performance related to the type of handgun used, the length of the barrel, the amount and kind of powder used to propel the projectile, and the projectile's design. Prohibits the manufacture, sale, possession, or transfer of the Fabrique Nationale Herstall Five-SeveN Pistol, 5.7 x 28mm SS190 and SS192 cartridges, or any other handgun that uses armor piercing ammunition, except: (1) where manufactured and sold exclusively to U.S. military, law enforcement, or intelligence agencies; and (2) by a licensed manufacturer or contractor for the purpose of examining and testing to determine whether such prohibition applies.

Anthony Joseph Principi, of California, to be a Member of the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Commission. (New Position)

United States · United States Senate · 4 March 2005

A bill to amend section 691 of title 10, United States Code, to increase the end strengths of the Army and the Marine Corps for fiscal years after fiscal year 2005, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 4 March 2005

Increases the authorized end strengths for the Army and Marine Corps for fiscal years after 2005. Amends the Ronald R. Reagan National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2005 to repeal the authority for additional increases in such end strengths for FY 2005 through 2009.

A bill to amend title 32, United States Code, to increase the maximum Federal share of the costs of State programs under the National Guard Youth Challenge Program, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 3 March 2005

Amends Federal provisions concerning the National Guard Youth Challenge Program (a civilian youth opportunities program conducted by the Secretary of Defense) to provide a maximum Federal matching funds level of 65 percent of the costs of operating the State program during FY 2006, 70 percent during FY 2007, and 75 percent during FY 2008 and beyond.

A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to rename the death gratuity payable for deaths of members of the Armed Forces as fallen hero compensation, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 3 March 2005

Renames the death gratuity, payable to survivors of members of the Armed Forces killed while serving on active duty or inactive duty training, as fallen hero compensation.

Education Begins at Home Act

United States · United States Congress · 3 March 2005

Education Begins at Home Act - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), in collaboration with the Secretary of Education, to: (1) allot grants to states for Parents as Teachers programs, or other programs of early childhood home visitation; and (2) make competitive grants to local educational agencies and other eligible applicants for early home visitation for families with English language learners. Directs the Secretary of Defense, in collaboration with the Secretary of Education, to make competitive grants to eligible applicants for early home visitation for military families. Amends the Head Start Act to direct the Secretary of HHS to establish standards for home visitor staff in Early Head Start programs with respect to their training, qualifications, and conduct of home visits. Revises Early Head Start programs to provide for: (1) training in parenting skills and child development; (2) certain home-based and family support services; (3) procedures for transition into Head Start or other local early childhood education programs; (4) staff communication and program coordination; and (5) professional development and personnel enhancement.

PLEA Act

United States · United States Congress · 3 March 2005

Protect Law Enforcement Armor Act or PLEA Act - Amends the Federal criminal code to expand the definition of "armor piercing ammunition" to include a projectile that: (1) may be used in a handgun; and (2) the Attorney General determines to be capable of penetrating body armor. Directs the Attorney General to promulgate standards for the uniform testing of projectiles against Body Armor Exemplar (i.e., body armor that the Attorney General determines meets minimum standards for the protection of law enforcement officers), taking into account variations in performance related to the type of handgun used, the length of the barrel, the amount and kind of powder used to propel the projectile, and the projectile's design. Prohibits the manufacture, sale, possession, or transfer of the Fabrique Nationale Herstall Five-SeveN Pistol, 5.7 x 28mm SS190 and SS192 cartridges, or any other handgun that uses armor piercing ammunition, except: (1) where manufactured and sold exclusively to U.S. military, law enforcement, or intelligence agencies; and (2) by a licensed manufacturer or contractor for the purpose of examining and testing to determine whether such prohibition applies.

Patriot Penalty Elimination Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 3 March 2005

Patriot Penalty Elimination Act of 2005 - Directs the Secretary of the military department concerned to pay income preservation pay to a member of the reserves: (1) who is called or ordered to active duty (other than voluntarily); (2) who serves on such duty outside the United States during at least six out of 12 consecutive months; and (3) whose preservice income exceeds the amount earned from the military service. Provides a formula for determining the appropriate income preservation amount, with a limit of $50,000. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a Ready Reserve-National Guard employee credit equal to 50 percent of the lesser of the actual compensation amount with respect to the employee for the taxable year, or $30,000. Provides such credit, with respect to such employee, for: (1) active duty outside the United States under a call or order for a period in excess of 179 days or for an indefinite period, in connection with which the employee is entitled to reemployment rights and other benefits or to a leave of absence from employment; and (2) hospitalization incident to such duty.

Marriage Protection Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 3 March 2005

Marriage Protection Act of 2005 - Amends the Federal judicial code to deny Federal courts jurisdiction to hear or decide any question pertaining to the interpretation of: (1) the provision of the Defense of Marriage Act that provides that no State shall be required to give effect to any marriage between persons of the same sex under the laws of any other State; or (2) this Act.

To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow individuals who served in a combat zone as a member of the Armed Forces of the United States to make distributions from qualified retirement plans beginning at age 55 without being subject to the 10-percent additional tax for early withdrawal.

United States · United States Congress · 3 March 2005

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to permit members of the Armed Forces who have served in a combat zone to receive distributions from tax-qualified retirement plans at age 55 (currently, age 59 1/2) without incurring the ten percent penalty for early distributions.

Detention of Enemy Combatants Act

United States · United States Congress · 3 March 2005

Detention of Enemy Combatants Act - Authorizes the detention of a U.S. person or resident (excluding a prisoner of war) as an enemy combatant if that individual is an al Qaeda member or knowingly cooperated with an al Qaeda member in planning, authorizing, committing, aiding, or abetting a terrorist act against the United States. Directs the Secretary of Defense to prescribe, publish, and report the standards, process, and criteria: (1) to be used in determining that an American citizen or lawful resident is an enemy combatant; and (2) for that individual's detention. Requires rules for the detention of enemy combatants to: (1) establish clear standards and procedures that meet specified requirements, including preserving the Government's ability to detain those who may threaten the United States; and (2) guarantee timely access to judicial review and permit the detainee access to counsel. Authorizes a U.S. person to be detained as an enemy combatant only while there is in effect a presidential certification that: (1) the U.S. armed forces are in a state of armed conflict with al Qaeda and an investigation, prosecution, or post-trial proceeding regarding such person is ongoing; or (2) detention is warranted to prevent such individual from aiding persons attempting to commit terrorist acts against the United States. Grants the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia exclusive jurisdiction to review any detention under this Act. Requires that detainees be: (1) detained at an appropriate location; (2) treated humanely; (3) afforded adequate food, water, shelter, clothing, and medical treatment; (4) sheltered under hygienic conditions; and (5) allowed the free exercise of religion consistent with specified requirements.

[H.A.S.C. No. 109-5] HEARINGS ON NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2006 AND OVERSIGHT OF PREVIOUSLY AUTHORIZED PROGRAMS

United States · United States House of Representatives · 2 March 2005

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2006

United States · United States Senate · 2 March 2005