Defence

EMERGING UNITED STATES DEFENSE CHALLENGES AND WORLDWIDE THREATS

United States · United States Senate · 9 February 2016

Newborn Care Improvement Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 February 2016

Newborn Care Improvement Act This bill increases from 7 to 14 the number of days that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) may furnish health care services, including post-delivery care, to the newborn child of a woman veteran who delivered the child in a VA facility or another facility pursuant to a VA contract for such services.

Fort Knox Energy Security Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 February 2016

Fort Knox Energy Security Act This bill authorizes the Department of the Army, effective as of August 2, 2007, to provide by contract or otherwise for the production, treatment, management, and use of natural gas located under Fort Knox, Kentucky. Such natural gas may only be used to support activities and operations at Fort Knox and may not be sold for use elsewhere. The Army may take ownership of any gas production and treatment equipment and facilities and associated infrastructure from a contractor in accordance with the terms of a contract or other agreement. The authority provided by this bill applies only to Fort Knox, Kentucky, and nothing in this bill authorizes the production, treatment, management, or use of natural gas resources underlying any other Department of Defense installation.

Military SAVE Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 February 2016

Military Sexual Assault Victims Empowerment Act or the Military SAVE Act This bill amends the Veterans Access, Choice, and Accountability Act of 2014 to make eligible for treatment in a non-Department of Veterans Affairs entity any veteran who was the victim of a sexual trauma which occurred while the veteran was serving on active duty, active duty for training, or inactive duty training.

Army Arsenal Revitalization Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 9 February 2016

Army Arsenal Revitalization Act of 2016 This bill requires the Defense Logistics Agency to report to Congress regarding Department of Defense (DOD) legacy items with a contract value equal to $5 million or more. DOD shall use Army arsenals for the production of these legacy items. DOD shall: (1) report to Congress listing all sole source contracts for the procurement of manufactured items the lack of which would constitute a critical national security issue, and (2) establish Army arsenals as a second source for production of any such manufactured item. DOD shall report to Congress regarding: DOD contracts awarded during FY2011-FY2015 using noncompetitive procedures for the procurement of equipment, weapons, weapons systems, and components with a contract value of $3 million or more; plans to update practices on Diminishing Manufacturing Sources and Material Shortages (DMSMS), including through the use of the organic industrial base as a resource in the implementation of a DMSMS management plan; and critical capabilities and minimum workloads of the Army arsenals, and fundamental elements for implementing the United States Army Organic Industrial Base Strategic Plan 2012-2022. DOD shall establish a three-year pilot program to permit Army arsenals to adjust their labor rates periodically throughout the year based upon changes in workload and other factors.

Gold Star Families Voices Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 February 2016

Gold Star Families Voices Act This bill amends the Veterans' Oral History Project Act to require the veterans oral history program to include the collection of video and audio recordings of biographical histories by immediate family members of members of the Armed Forces who became missing in action or who died as a result of their wartime service.

Authorizing the use of Emancipation Hall in the Capitol Visitor Center for a ceremony to present the Congressional Gold Medal collectively to the 65th Infantry Regiment, known as the "Borinqueneers".

United States · United States Congress · 9 February 2016

Authorizes Emancipation Hall in the Capitol Visitor Center to be used on April 13, 2016, for a ceremony to present the Congressional Gold Medal to the 65th Infantry Regiment (Borinqueneers) in recognition of its pioneering military service, devotion to duty, and many acts of valor in the face of adversity.

To authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to make grants to State and local entities to carry out peer-to-peer mental health programs.

United States · United States Congress · 9 February 2016

This bill authorizes the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to establish the PFC Joseph P. Dwyer Veteran Peer Support program to make grants to eligible entities for peer-to-peer mental health programs for veterans. "Eligible entity" means: (1) a nonprofit organization having historically served the mental health needs of veterans; (2) a congressionally chartered veteran service organization; or (3) a state, local, or tribal veteran service agency, director, or commissioner. The VA shall establish an advisory committee to create appropriate program standards.

Supporting the goals and ideals of Black History Month and honoring the outstanding contributions of African-American Medal of Honor recipients.

United States · United States Congress · 9 February 2016

Recognizes Black History Month as an important time to acknowledge and reflect on the significant contributions of African-Americans in the nation's history. Honors the contributions of African-American service members, including the 88 who have been awarded the Medal of Honor for military bravery, heroism, and valor.

Military Child Care Protection Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 9 February 2016

Military Child Care Protection Act of 2016 This bill requires that the criminal background check of military child care system employees that is required pursuant to the Crime Control Act of 1990 be conducted pursuant to regulations prescribed by the Department of Defense in accordance with the Child Care and Development Block Grant Act of 1990, which includes: searches of state criminal and sex offender registries and child abuse and neglect registries, a search of the National Crime Information Center, and a Federal Bureau of Investigation fingerprint check. A provider of military child care services or youth program services must comply with criminal background check requirements under the Child Care and Development Block Grant Act of 1990 for the state in which such services are provided.

To amend title 10, United States Code, to provide a one-year extension of the special survivor indemnity allowance provided to widows and widowers of deceased members of the Armed Forces affected by required Survivor Benefit Plan annuity offset for dependency and indemnity compensation received under section 1311(a) of title 38, United States Code.

United States · United States Congress · 8 February 2016

This bill extends through FY2018 (at $400 per month) the special survivor indemnity allowance for a surviving or former spouse of a deceased member of the Armed Forces whose annuity under the survivor benefit program is offset by the amount of dependency and indemnity compensation received from the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Sound of Freedom Act

United States · United States Congress · 8 February 2016

Sound of Freedom Act This bill states that it shall be Department of Defense (DOD) policy that flyovers of public events in support of community relations activities may only be flown as part of an approved training mission at no additional expense to the federal government. The Adjutant General of a state in which an Army National Guard or Air National Guard unit is based shall be the approval authority for all Air National Guard and Army National Guard flyovers in that state, including any flyover request in any civilian domain at a non-aviation related event. DOD shall maintain records of flyover requests and approvals in a publicly accessible database updated annually. "Flyover" means aviation support: in which a straight and level flight limited to one pass by a single military aircraft, or by a single formation of four or fewer military aircraft of the same type, from the same military department over a predetermined point on the ground at a specific time; that does not involve aerobatics or demonstrations; and that uses bank angles of up to 90 degrees if required to improve spectator visibility of the aircraft.

BRAVE Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 4 February 2016

Be Responsive to all Veterans Expeditiously Act of 2016 or the BRAVE Act of 2016 This bill requires the primary telephone line for any Department of Veterans Affairs facility to include voice mail. The introductory message of any voice mail shall inform the caller of: (1) the facility's name, (2) the expected response time, and (3) an emergency telephone number.

Draft America's Daughters Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 4 February 2016

Draft America's Daughters Act of 2016 This bill amends the Military Selective Service Act to extend the registration and conscription requirements of the Selective Service System to all U.S. citizens and residents between the ages of 18 and 26. (Currently such provisions apply only to men.)

Medal of Honor Surviving Spouses Recognition Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 4 February 2016

Medal of Honor Surviving Spouses Recognition Act of 2016 This bill requires the payment of a Medal of Honor special pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased Medal of Honor recipient if that person was married to the recipient for: (1) at least one year; or (2) any period of time if a child was born of the marriage, or was born to them before the marriage. The special pension for a living Medal of Honor recipient is increased to $1,299.61 per month.

A resolution recognizing the contributions of the Montagnard indigenous tribespeople of the Central Highlands of Vietnam to the United States Armed Forces during the Vietnam War, and condemning the ongoing violation of human rights by the Government of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

United States · United States Congress · 4 February 2016

Recognizes the contributions of the Montagnards who fought loyally and bravely with U.S. Armed Forces during the Vietnam War, and who continue to suffer persecution in Vietnam as a result of this relationship. Condemns actions taken by the government of Vietnam to suppress basic human rights and civil liberties for all its citizens. Calls on Vietnam to allow human rights groups access to all regions of the country and to end restrictions of basic human rights, including the right for Montagnards to practice their Christian faith freely, the right to land and property, freedom of movement, the right to retain ethnic identity and culture, and access to an adequate standard of living. Urges the President and Congress to develop policies that: (1) support Montagnards and other marginalized ethnic minority and indigenous populations, and (2) reflect U.S. interests and commitment to upholding human rights and democracy abroad.

[H.A.S.C. No. 114-85] OUTSIDE VIEWS ON BIODEFENSE FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

United States · United States House of Representatives · 3 February 2016

AN INDEPENDENT PERSPECTIVE OF UNITED STATES DEFENSE POLICY IN THE ASIA- PACIFIC REGION

United States · United States Senate · 3 February 2016

Female Veteran Suicide Prevention Act

United States · United States Congress · 3 February 2016

Female Veteran Suicide Prevention Act This bill directs the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to identify: (1) VA mental health care and suicide prevention programs that are most effective for women veterans, and (2) such programs with the highest satisfaction rates among women veterans.

Chris Kotch VA Education Access Act

United States · United States Congress · 3 February 2016

Chris Kotch VA Education Access Act This bill makes eligible under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program an individual who is: (1) discharged or released from the Armed Forces (under current law, from active duty in the Armed Forces) due to a service-connected disability; or (2) transferred to the temporary disability retirement list.

A bill to expand eligibility for hospital care and medical services under section 101 of the Veterans Access, Choice, and Accountability Act of 2014 to include veterans who are age 75 or older, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 3 February 2016

This bill amends the Veterans Access, Choice, and Accountability Act of 2014 to extend hospital and medical services under the Veterans Choice Program to veterans who are 75 years or older.

Electronic Warfare Capabilities Enhancement Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 3 February 2016

Electronic Warfare Capabilities Enhancement Act of 2016 This bill permits the use of appropriations authorized for electromagnetic spectrum warfare systems and electronic warfare in order to develop and field electromagnetic spectrum warfare systems and electronic warfare capabilities. The Bob Stump National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2003 is amended to include electronic warfare programs in the rapid acquisition authority program. Electronic warfare is military action involving the use of electromagnetic and directed energy to control the electromagnetic spectrum or to attack the enemy, and includes electromagnetic spectrum warfare, which encompasses military communications and sensing operations that occur in the electromagnetic operational domain. The Department of Defense shall delegate to the senior electronic warfare executive the authority to review and validate all Joint Capabilities Integration and Development System documents for electronic warfare acquisition programs. The Electronic Warfare Executive Committee shall submit to the congressional defense committees a strategic plan with measurable and timely objectives to achieve its mission according to specified metrics.

Reaffirming the right for the United States to use all available options, including the use of military force, to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon.

United States · United States Congress · 3 February 2016

Reaffirms: (1) the right for the United States to use all available options, including military force, to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon; and (2) that it is U.S. policy to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon for the life of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPA) and afterward. Supports Israel's right to defend itself from nations and non-state actors that wish to do it harm. Calls on the Administration to provide Israel with military and intelligence support and cooperation to confront new threats to Israel's security by maintaining its strategic and qualitative military edge. Calls on United Nations member states to take all necessary measures to prevent the transfer of ballistic or cruise missile technology or technical assistance to Iran. Calls on the President to engage with Congress and international partners to ensure that the International Atomic Energy Agency receives the full yearly amount necessary to fulfill its JCPA verification responsibilities. Supports full funding for the Department of State's Coordinator for Iran Nuclear Implementation and for the Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control. Remains committed to confronting the Iranian regime's destabilizing actions in the Middle East through increased cooperation with U.S. regional partners. Demands action by the Administration to raise Iran's recent ballistic missile testing with the Security Council and seek an appropriate response for Iran's disregard for Security Council Resolution 1929. Calls on the Iranian government to assist in the investigation of the disappearance of U.S. citizens within its borders. Condemns Iran's record of human rights violations and supports the Iranian people's pursuit of civil liberties. Reaffirms that nothing in the JCPA limits the ability of Congress to pass sanctions legislation to address future Iranian terrorism activities, ballistic or cruise missile development, human rights abuses, or to reauthorize existing sanctions that are not lifted under the JCPA. Calls on the Administration to keep Congress informed about how it will work with other P5+1 countries to respond to JCPA violations. Calls for the creation of a bipartisan Iran Study Group composed of senior and expert policy-makers to report to Congress on a broader Middle East strategy to counter Iran and leverage more constructive Iranian behavior.

To extend the deadline for the submittal of the final report required by the Commission on Care.

United States · United States Congress · 2 February 2016

This bill amends the Veterans Access, Choice, and Accountability Act of 2014 to extend the deadline for the Commission on Care's final report to June 30, 2016.

Cyber Command Employment Personnel Training Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 2 February 2016

Cyber Command Employment Personnel Training Act of 2016 This bill directs the Department of Defense (DOD) to provide training to DOD employment personnel on matters relating to recruitment and retention of employees at the United States Cyber Command who: (1) carry out human resources management functions or who write hiring and pay guidance, or (2) are employed in supervisory positions or have responsibilities relating to the hiring of individuals for such positions.

Early Pell Promise Act

United States · United States Congress · 1 February 2016

Early Pell Promise Act This bill amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to authorize the Department of Education to carry out a program of grants to state educational agencies under which a student who is in eighth grade and is eligible for a free or reduced price lunch under the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act may be provided a commitment to receive a Federal Pell Grant early in the student's academic career. Pursuant to such a commitment, the student shall receive a Pell Grant during the first two years of attendance at an institution of higher education (IHE) as an undergraduate if the student: files the FAFSA form during the senior year of secondary school and the succeeding year, and enrolls at the IHE not later than three years after receiving a secondary school diploma or after release from the Armed Forces. A student may not receive the early Pell Grant for a succeeding year if the expected family contribution for either year is more than twice the threshold amount for Pell Grant eligibility for that year.

Rural Guard Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 1 February 2016

Rural Guard Act of 2016 This bill authorizes the removal, on a case by case basis, of the $300 cap on travel expense reimbursements to certain members of the Selected Reserve of the Ready Reserve who: (1) live in a rural area in the same state as the inactive duty training location; and (2) are required to travel to the inactive training location using a boat or aircraft due to limited or nonexistent vehicular routes, or from a permanent residence more than 75 miles from that location.

Colonel Charles Young Congressional Gold Medal Act

United States · United States Congress · 1 February 2016

Colonel Charles Young Congressional Gold Medal Act This bill 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 to Colonel Charles Young in recognition of his pioneering U.S. Army career during exceptionally challenging times. Following its award, the medal shall be given to the National Afro-American Museum and Cultural Center in Wilberforce, Ohio. It is the sense of Congress that the National Afro-American Museum and Cultural Center should make the gold medal received available for display or loan so that it may be displayed elsewhere, particularly at other locations associated with Colonel Young's life.

Fairness to United States Distant Water Fishermen Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 1 February 2016

Fairness to United States Distant Water Fishermen Act of 2016 This bill prohibits certain economic support funds from being used to provide assistance to the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency under the Agreement Between the Government of the United States of America and the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency. Certain military education/training funds may not be used to provide assistance to any foreign country that is a party to the South Pacific Forum Fisheries Agency Convention, signed at Honiara (Solomon Islands) on July 10, 1979.

Express Appeals Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 28 January 2016

Express Appeals Act of 2016 This bill directs the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to: (1) carry out a five-year pilot program to provide the option of an alternative appeals process to determine appeals of claims for disability compensation more quickly, and (2) inform claimants about such program. Appeals filed under the pilot program are described as "fully developed appeals." A claimant may elect to file a fully developed appeal by filing with the VA: (1) a notice of disagreement along with the claimant's written election to have the appeal determined under the pilot program, (2) all evidence that the claimant believes is needed for the appeal, and (3) a statement of the argument in support of the claim. A claimant who elects the pilot program may elect to revert to the standard appeals process at any time. Such reversion, however, shall be final. Such a claimant or an electing claimant who is later determined to be ineligible for the pilot program shall revert to the standard appeals process without any penalty other than the loss of docket number. The VA shall transfer jurisdiction over a fully developed appeal directly to the Board of Veterans' Appeals. The Board shall: maintain fully developed appeals on a separate docket; hear fully developed appeals in the order received; decide not more than one fully developed appeal for each four traditional appeals decided, though this ratio may be adjusted for fairness purposes beginning one year after the pilot program begins; and decide each fully developed appeal within one year of a claimant's filing the notice of disagreement. A claimant may not submit or identify to the Board any new evidence relating to a fully developed appeal after filing such appeal unless the claimant reverts to the standard appeals process. The Board shall establish an office to develop necessary federal records, independent medical opinions, and new medical exams. The Board may not provide hearings for fully developed appeals.

To repeal the provision permitting the use of rocket engines from the Russian Federation for the evolved expendable launch vehicle program.

United States · United States Congress · 28 January 2016

This bill amends the Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2016 to repeal, and deem never to have been enacted, the requirement that the Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle service competitive procurements be open for award to all certified providers of such systems offering the best value to the government, regardless of the rocket engine's country of origin (including the Russian Federation), for the evolved expendable launch vehicle program.

A bill to repeal the provision permitting the use of rocket engines from the Russian Federation for the evolved expendable launch vehicle program.

United States · United States Congress · 28 January 2016

This bill amends the Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2016 to repeal, and deem never to have been enacted, the requirement that the Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle service competitive procurements be open for award to all certified providers of such systems offering the best value to the government, regardless of the rocket engine's country of origin (including the Russian Federation), for the evolved expendable launch vehicle program.

SAFETY Act

United States · United States Congress · 27 January 2016

Safe Academic Facilities and Environments for Tribal Youth Act or the SAFETY Act This bill directs the Department of the Interior to carry out a Tribal School Construction Demonstration Program to award grants to Indian tribes for the construction of replacement tribal schools. The program provides additional funding and opportunities for tribes to construct schools. Tribes on the Interior priority list for construction of tribal schools receive the highest priority for a grant under this program. This bill amends the Tribally Controlled Colleges and Universities Assistance Act of 1978 to revise the grant program for construction at tribal colleges and universities. The bill eliminates the requirements for Interior to identify the need for construction and tribal colleges and universities to provide matching funds. Restrictions on grant amounts and the use of constructed facilities are removed. This bill amends the Housing Act of 1949 to authorize the Department of Agriculture to award grants to Indian tribes, tribal organizations, and tribal housing entities for the construction or renovation of housing in rural areas for educators at Indian schools and schools where at least 25% of the students are Indian. The Bureau of Indian Education and the Office of Management and Budget must develop a 10-year plan to bring up to good condition certain Bureau of Indian Education school facilities. The Government Accountability Office must report on Impact Aid for construction provided to local education agencies impacted by military dependent children and children who reside on Indian lands.

Defense Acquisition Workforce Human Capital Management Improvement Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 21 January 2016

Defense Acquisition Workforce Human Capital Management Improvement Act of 2016 This bill requires the Department of Defense (DOD) strategic workforce plan to include information on the use of certain special hiring authorities by the military departments and the defense agencies, and a description of the additional authorities required to enhance DOD's civilian employee workforce. DOD shall transmit to Congress each report submitted to DOD by the military departments and the heads of the defense agencies relating to the strategic workforce plan.

Authorization for Use of Military Force Against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant and its Associated Forces

United States · United States Congress · 20 January 2016

Authorization for Use of Military Force Against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant and its Associated Forces This joint resolution authorizes the President to use all necessary and appropriate force to defend U.S. national security against the threat posed by the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), its associated forces, organizations, and persons, and any successor organizations. Congress declares that this joint resolution is intended to constitute specific statutory authorization within the meaning of section 5(b) of the War Powers Resolution. Nothing in this joint resolution supersedes any requirement of the War Powers Resolution. The President shall report to Congress at least every 60 days on matters relevant to this joint resolution.

Proposing a balanced budget amendment to the Constitution of the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 13 January 2016

Constitutional Amendment This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment prohibiting total outlays for a fiscal year from exceeding total receipts for the year, excluding outlays for repayment of debt principal and receipts derived from borrowing. The President must submit an annual budget in which total outlays for the fiscal year do not exceed total receipts. Congress may waive the requirements for any fiscal year in which: a declaration of war is in effect, the United States is engaged in a military conflict which causes an imminent and serious military threat to national security as declared by a joint resolution, or a national emergency has been declared by a joint resolution. Any waiver must identify and be limited to the specific increase for the year that is necessary for the military conflict or emergency. Any increase in spending pursuant to a waiver must be offset by a budget surplus within 10 years of the end of the waiver.

Condemning and censuring President Barack Obama.

United States · United States Congress · 13 January 2016

Censures and condemns President Barack Obama for having willfully disregarded the President's constitutional responsibilities as Commander in Chief of the United States through his continued failed lack of foreign affairs strategy, failure to follow the advice of military and intelligence advisors, and failed national security policy. Puts President Obama on notice and strongly urges him to reverse course and begin fulfilling his constitutional responsibilities.

Veterans Administration Bonus Elimination Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 13 January 2016

Veterans Administration Bonus Elimination Act of 2016 This bill amends the Veterans Access, Choice, and Accountability Act of 2014 to deny certain awards or bonuses to senior executive employees of the Veterans Health Administration who fail to satisfy requests for Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) hospital or medical services within the VA's wait-time goals or within the time line specified by the requesting individual, whichever is later.

Servicemember Retirement Improvement Act

United States · United States Congress · 13 January 2016

Servicemember Retirement Improvement Act This bill amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow members of the Ready Reserve of a reserve component of the Armed Forces to make the maximum allowable contribution ($18,000 in 2016) to their Thrift Savings Plans without limiting the amount such members may contribute to a retirement plan based upon other employment. The bill also doubles the maximum allowable contribution amount to the Thrift Savings Plans of federal employees in the Ready Reserve.

Todd A. Weiler, of Virginia, to be an Assistant Secretary of Defense, vice Jessica Lynn Wright, resigned.

United States · United States Senate · 11 January 2016

Women Airforce Service Pilot Arlington Inurnment Restoration Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 11 January 2016

Women Airforce Service Pilot Arlington Inurnment Restoration Act of 2016 This bill directs the Department of the Army to ensure that the cremated remains of persons who served as Women's Air Forces Service Pilots are eligible for inurnment in Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors.

Authorization for Use of Military Force Against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant and its Associated Forces

United States · United States Congress · 11 January 2016

Authorization for Use of Military Force Against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant and its Associated Forces Authorizes the President to use all necessary and appropriate force to defend U.S. national security against the threat posed by the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), its associated forces, organizations, and persons, and any successor organizations. States that: (1) Congress declares that this joint resolution is intended to constitute specific statutory authorization within the meaning of section 5(b) of the War Powers Resolution, and (2) nothing in this joint resolution supersedes any requirement of the War Powers Resolution. Directs the President to report to Congress at least every 60 days on matters relevant to this concurrent resolution.

Faster Care for Veterans Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 8 January 2016

Faster Care for Veterans Act of 2016 This bill directs the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to begin an 18-month pilot program in at least three Veterans Integrated Service Networks (VISNs) under which veterans use an Internet website to schedule and confirm appointments at VA medical facilities. The pilot program's duration may be extended and the number of VISNs may be increased.

Veterans Care Financial Protection Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 8 January 2016

Veterans Care Financial Protection Act of 2016 This bill requires the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to work with federal agencies, states, and experts to develop and implement federal and state standards that protect individuals who are eligible for increased pension for a non-service-connected disability or death or for service on the basis of need for regular aid and attendance from dishonest, predatory, or otherwise unlawful practices. The Government Accountability Office must: (1) report standards that would be effective in protecting such individuals if the VA fails to submit such standards as required, and (2) complete a study on standards implemented under this Act.

Defending America's Small Contractors Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 7 January 2016

Defending America's Small Contractors Act of 2016 This bill amends the Small Business Act to revise requirements for: increasing prime federal contracting opportunities for small business concerns, and determining awards or contracts for the sale of government property to such concerns. The bill revises requirements for annual Small Business Administration (SBA) reports to the President and Congress analyzing the number and dollar amount of prime contracts awarded by federal agencies each fiscal year to specified kinds of small business concerns. The total value of federal procurement contract awards to small business concerns for a fiscal year may not be determined in a manner that excludes the value of a contract based on where the contract is awarded, where it is performed, or other specified criteria. The bill amends the Small Business Act to revise the range of the anticipated value of federal procurement contracts that must be reserved exclusively for small businesses. The range shall be between the micro-purchase threshold ($3,000) and the simplified acquisition threshold ($100,000). (Currently the range of the anticipated value must be between $2,500 and $100,000.) A procurement center representative (PCR) may review any solicitation for a contract or task order without regard to whether there are any set-asides for small businesses. The bill specifies the principal duties of Commercial Market Representatives (CMRs), who are government contracting staff stationed at area SBA offices and reporting to specified senior SBA officers. The bill also allows for the management of each Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) to be vested in an individual whose primary responsibilities were for the functions and duties of: (1) the procurement program for small business concerns owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans, and (2) the Historically Underutilized Business Zone (HUBZone) program. The OSDBU of each federal agency with procurement powers shall review agency purchases between the micro-purchase threshold and the simplified acquisition threshold to ensure that they have been made to comply with the Act and have been properly recorded in the Federal Procurement Data System, if the method of payment is a purchase card issued by the Department of Defense (DOD) or by an executive agency head. Each OSDBU shall assist a small business concern awarded a federal contract or subcontract under the Act, or under military or civilian procurement law, in finding resources for education and training on compliance with contracting regulations after such an award. The National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1991 is amended to require agreements under the Mentor-Protege Program of DOD to include, if applicable, the assistance the mentor firm will give the protege firm in understanding contract regulations of the federal government and the DOD after the award of a subcontract. The Small Business Act is amended to require the SBA to give small business development centers and entities participating in the Procurement Technical Assistance Cooperative Agreement (PTACA) Program a list of resources for small business concerns seeking education and assistance on post-award compliance with contracting regulations. The SBA, with respect to a non-DOD mentor-protege program, shall issue regulations to address the extent to which assistance to improve the ability of proteges to compete for federal prime contracts and subcontracts complies with post-award federal contracting requirements. A federal agency's PCR or CMR may delay acceptance of a subcontracting plan for 30 days if the plan fails to provide the maximum practicable opportunity for certain covered small businesses to participate under the applicable contract. The SBA shall establish a pilot program for a small business performing as a first tier subcontractor under certain federal contracts to request a past performance rating in the system used by the federal government to monitor and record contractor past performance. The bill amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1991 to revise the no-affiliation requirement in the eligibility criteria under the Mentor-Protege Program of the DOD for a mentor firm to receive the award of a federal contract and enter into an agreement with one or more protege firms to provide them certain assistance. The bill amends the Small Business Act to bar DOD from carrying out a Mentor-Protege Program for a small business unless: (1) it submits a plan to the SBA, and (2) the SBA approves that plan. The bill requires the SBA at least annually to provide a list of pertinent regulation changes, together with compliance training materials, to the Defense Acquisition University, the Federal Acquisition Institute, the individual responsible for mandatory training and education of the acquisition workforce of each executive agency, small business development centers, and PTACA participants. The bill makes permanent the prohibition against protests in connection with the issuance or proposed issuance of a task or delivery order for federal agency procurement of services or property except on specified grounds. The bill amends the Small Business Act to specify that any agricultural enterprise (farm) it covers is a small business concern regardless of whether its annual receipts, including those of any affiliates, exceed $750,000. The bill expands the definition of "small business concern owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans" to include certain small business concerns at least 51% of which, or at least 51% of whose stock, is owned by one or more veterans with permanent and total service-connected disabilities rendering them unable to manage daily business operations. The bill directs the Government Accountability Office to initiate a review of the Office of Government Contracting and Business Development of the SBA.

Ending Iran's Nuclear Weapon Program Before Sanctions Relief Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 7 January 2016

Ending Iran's Nuclear Weapon Program Before Sanctions Relief Act of 2016 This bill requires the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) to report to Congress on the military dimensions of Iran's nuclear program. The U.S. government shall not provide any sanctions relief to Iran until 90 days after: (1) the report's submission; (2) the DNI, the Department of Energy, the Department of State, and the Department of Defense certify jointly to Congress that Iran has ended all military dimensions of its nuclear program; and (3) a joint resolution has been enacted into law approving such sanctions relief.

An act to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the inurnment in Arlington National Cemetery of the cremated remains of certain persons whose service has been determined to be active service.

United States · United States Congress · 6 January 2016

Women Airforce Service Pilot Arlington Inurnment Restoration Act This bill directs the Department of the Army to ensure that the cremated remains of persons who served as Women's Air Forces Service Pilots are eligible for interment in Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors.

Small and Disadvantaged Business Enhancement Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 6 January 2016

Small and Disadvantaged Business Enhancement Act of 2016 This bill amends the Small Business Act to allow for the management of each Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) to be vested in an individual whose primary responsibilities were for the functions and duties of: (1) the procurement program for small business concerns owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans, and (2) the HUBZone program. The OSDBU of each federal agency with procurement powers shall review agency purchases that are greater than the micro-purchase threshold ($3,000) and less than the simplified acquisition threshold ($100,000) to ensure that the purchases have been made to comply with the Act and have been properly recorded in the Federal Procurement Data System, if the method of payment is a purchase card issued by the Department of Defense or by an executive agency head. Each OSDBU must cite in its annual report to Congress any failure to comply with such a program.

Fiscal Year 2016 Department of Veterans Affairs Seismic Safety and Construction Authorization Act

United States · United States Congress · 6 January 2016

Fiscal Year 2016 Department of Veterans Affairs Seismic Safety and Construction Authorization Act This bill authorizes the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to carry out the following major medical facility projects (each with specified maximum authorized funds): seismic corrections to buildings, including retrofitting and replacement of high-risk buildings, in San Francisco, California; seismic corrections to facilities, including facilities to support homeless veterans, at the medical center in West Los Angeles, California; seismic corrections to the mental health and community living center in Long Beach, California; construction of an outpatient clinic, administrative space, cemetery, and columbarium in Alameda, California; realignment of medical facilities in Livermore, California; construction of a medical center in Louisville, Kentucky; construction of a replacement community living center in Perry Point, Maryland; and seismic corrections and other renovations to several buildings and construction of a specialty care building in American Lake, Washington. A specified amount is authorized to be appropriated to the VA for such projects for FY2016 or the year in which funds are appropriated for the Construction, Major Projects, account. Such projects may only be carried out using specified funds.

Education for Contracting Personnel Improvement Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 6 January 2016

Education for Contracting Personnel Improvement Act of 2016 This bill amends the Small Business Act to require the Small Business Administration (SBA) at least annually to provide to the Defense Acquisition University, the Federal Acquisition Institute, the individual responsible for mandatory training and education of the acquisition workforce of each executive agency, small business development centers, and entities participating in the Procurement Technical Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program: a list of all changes made in the prior year to regulations promulgated by the SBA that affect federal acquisition, and by the Federal Acquisition Council that implement changes to the Act; and any materials the SBA has developed to explain, train, or assist federal agencies or departments or small businesses to comply with such regulations.