Defence

A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow Federal civilian and military retirees to pay health insurance premiums on a pretax basis and to allow a deduction for TRICARE supplemental premiums.

United States · United States Congress · 6 March 2007

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to permit: (1) federal civilian and military retirees to pay Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHBP) and TRICARE supplemental premiums on a pretax basis (i.e., exclude premiums from gross income); and (2) a tax deduction (available to itemizers and nonitemizers) for TRICARE supplemental premiums or enrollment fees. Directs the Director of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and the Secretary of Defense to ensure that the option of paying FEHBP and TRICARE supplemental premiums on a pretax basis is available to federal civilian and military retirees for the first open enrollment period beginning not less than 90 days after the enactment of this Act.

Troops to Teachers Improvement Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 6 March 2007

Troops to Teachers Improvement Act of 2007 - Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 with respect to the Troops-to-Teachers program (which provides armed forces veterans with teacher certification stipends in exchange for three years of service in a high-need local educational agency (LEA) or public charter school). Allows a program participant, if a high-need LEA or public charter school is not located within 50 miles of his or her residence, to teach within an LEA or at a public charter school: (1) experiencing a shortage of highly qualified teachers, especially in science, mathematics, special education, or vocational or technical education; or (2) receiving grant funds because of concentrations of children from low-income families.

Student Privacy Protection Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 6 March 2007

Student Privacy Protection Act of 2007 - Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to revise provisions for military recruiter access to secondary school student information. Requires ESEA-assisted local educational agencies (LEAs) to notify each secondary school student's parent of the option to consent to a release of the student's name, address, and telephone listing to military recruiters, and to give the parent the opportunity to provide such consent in writing. Requires such LEAs to provide military recruiters, upon their request, with access to such information on a student only if the student's parent has given such written consent.

To direct the Comptroller General of the United States to conduct a study on the use of Civil Air Patrol personnel and resources to support homeland security missions, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 6 March 2007

Civil Air Patrol Homeland Security Support Act of 2007 - Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to direct the Secretary of Homeland Security (the Secretary) to enter into agreements with the Secretary of Defense to use Civil Air Patrol personnel and resources to support homeland security missions. Authorizes the Secretary to consider the use of such personnel and resources to provide: (1) aerial reconnaissance or communications capabilities to the Border Patrol to protect against illegal entry and trafficking; and (2) capabilities to respond to an act of terrorism, natural disaster, or other man-made event by assisting in damage assessment and situational awareness, search and rescue operations, evacuations, and transporting time-sensitive materials. Directs the Secretary to consider the Civil Air Patrol as an available resource for purposes of national preparedness and response planning activities.

Lane Evans Veterans Health and Benefits Improvement Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 6 March 2007

Lane Evans Veterans Health and Benefits Improvement Act of 2007 - Makes a veteran who served on active duty during a period of war eligible for a mental health evaluation and hospital care, medical services, nursing home care, and family and marital counseling for any identified mental health condition, notwithstanding insufficient medical evidence to conclude that the condition is attributable to such service. Requires: (1) post-deployment medical and mental health screenings to be conducted within 30 days after a deployment; (2) each member, upon discharge, to be provided an electronic copy of all military records of such member; and (3) the Secretary of Defense to ensure appropriate outreach to members of the National Guard and reserves concerning benefits and services available upon discharge or deactivation. Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish and maintain a Global War on Terrorism Veterans Information System. Requires quarterly reports from the Secretaries of Veterans Affairs, Labor, and Defense on the effects on veterans and on each such department of participation in the Global War on Terrorism.

To extend the period during which members of the Armed Forces deployed in contingency operations may request and receive reimbursement for helmet pads, which are designed to protect the wearer from bomb blasts and non-ballistic impacts, that are purchased by such members.

United States · United States Congress · 6 March 2007

Amends the Ronald W. Reagan National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2005 to extend the period during which members of the Armed Forces deployed in connection with Operations Noble Eagle, Enduring Freedom, or Iraqi Freedom may request and receive reimbursement for purchasing protective helmet pads.

Accountability in Contracting Act

United States · United States Congress · 6 March 2007

Accountability in Contracting Act - Requires the revision of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to restrict the period of specified noncompetitive federal contracts to the minimum period necessary to: (1) meet the urgent and compelling requirements of the work to be performed; and (2) enter into another contract for the required goods and services using competitive procedures. Amends the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949 to require specified executive agency heads to develop and implement plans to minimize the use of: (1) noncompetitive contracts; and (2) cost-reimbursement type contracts. Requires agencies to make justification and approval documents for noncompetitive contracts, including defense agency contracts, publicly available. Requires agencies to submit quarterly reports on unjustified contractor costs and audits identifying deficiencies in contractor performance. Requires 1% of the amount of contracts awarded by an agency to be used for contract personnel, planning, administration, and oversight. Amends the Office of Federal Procurement Policy Act to: (1) extend the period following federal employment, and add to the roles or circumstances, for which a former federal contracting official is prohibited from accepting compensation from a contractor; (2) require federal procurement officers to disclose contacts of relatives by contractors regarding non-federal employment; and (3) prohibit a federal government employee who is a former employee of a government contractor from being involved with the award or administration of that contract for two-years after being employed by that contractor.

To amend title 10, United States Code, to extend the time limit for the use of education assistance by members of the Selected Reserve and members of the reserve component supporting contingency operations and certain other operations.

United States · United States Congress · 6 March 2007

Extends the conditional time limit for the use of basic educational assistance by members of the Selected Reserve and members of the reserve components supporting contingency operations and certain other operations to 14 years after the date on which the person first becomes entitled to such assistance (current law) or ten years after the date on which (currently, the date on which) the person is separated from the Selected Reserve or reserve component.

A bill to authorize appropriations for the Department of Defense to address the equipment reset and other equipment needs of the National Guard, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 5 March 2007

Authorizes appropriations for FY2008-FY2013 for the Department of Defense (DOD) for the Army and Air National Guards for equipment reset (resupply) requirements, and to otherwise remedy other equipment shortfalls in order to bring the Army and Air National Guards to full equipment readiness. Requires a report from the Secretary to Congress on the capability of the U.S. defense industrial base to produce the necessary equipment.

A bill to prohibit the use of funds for military operations in Iran.

United States · United States Congress · 5 March 2007

Prohibits funds from being obligated or expended for military operations or activities within or above Iran's territory or within Iran's territorial waters except pursuant to a specific congressional authorization enacted after the date of the enactment of this Act. Exempts from such prohibition military operations or activities: (1) to directly repel an attack launched from within Iran's territory; (2) to directly thwart an imminent attack to be launched from within Iran's territory; (3) in hot pursuit of forces engaged outside the territory of Iran who thereafter enter into Iran; and (4) connected with U.S. government intelligence or intelligence-related activities. Requires the President within 24 hours after determining to use funds for such a military purpose to report to the Senate Committees on Armed Services and Foreign Relations and the Select Committee on Intelligence, and the House Committees on Armed Services and Foreign Affairs and the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence.

OPEN Government Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 5 March 2007

Openness Promotes Effectiveness in our National Government Act of 2007 or the OPEN Government Act of 2007 - Amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to prohibit a federal agency from denying a requester status as a news media representative for purposes of determining FOIA request processing fees solely on the absence of institutional association. Requires an agency to consider the requester's prior publication history or stated intent to distribute information to a reasonably broad audience. Provides that, for purposes of recovery of attorney fees and other litigation costs under FOIA, a complainant has substantially prevailed if the complainant has obtained relief through either: (1) a judicial order, an administrative action, or an enforceable written agreement or consent decree; or (2) a voluntary or unilateral change in position by the opposing party in a case in which the complainant's claim or defense was not frivolous. Directs the Attorney General to notify the Special Counsel of and report to Congress on civil actions taken for arbitrary and capricious rejections of requests for agency records. Prohibits the tolling of the time limit within which agencies determine whether to comply with a request for records without the consent of the party filing the request. Requires agencies to establish systems to track requests. Adds requirements for reports by agencies to the Attorney General on such requests. Establishes the Office of Government Information Services in the National Archives to: (1) provide, as a non-exclusive alternative to litigation, guidance to FOIA requesters; (2) review policies and procedures by administrative agencies under FOIA; and (3) recommend to Congress and the President policy changes to improve FOIA's administration. Requires the: (1) Comptroller General to annually report on implementation of provisions for the protection of voluntarily shared critical infrastructure information; and (2) Office of Personnel Management to report on personnel policies related to FOIA.

Veterans' Benefits Protection Act

United States · United States Congress · 5 March 2007

Veterans' Benefits Protection Act - Repeals the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to prescribe qualifications and standards of, and to set fees charged by, agents or attorneys representing veterans in claims before the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Authorizes the Secretary to require that such individuals show that they are of good moral character, and qualified and competent to assist claimants. Removes some instances under which the Secretary may suspend or exclude an agent or attorney from such representation. Repeals the Secretary's authority to review and order a reduction in the fee charged to a claimant by an agent or attorney. Imposes fines and criminal penalties for soliciting, contracting for, charging, or receiving any part of a benefit or claim allowed to a claimant (or attempting such acts).

Veterans' Benefits Improvement Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 5 March 2007

Authorizes the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide specially adaptive housing assistance for disabled members of the Armed Forces residing temporarily in housing owned by a family member if such military member suffers from a disability which is permanent and total in nature and is the result of an injury incurred or disease contracted or aggravated in the line of duty in active military service.

Freedom of Information Act Amendments of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 5 March 2007

Freedom of Information Act Amendments of 2007 - Amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to prohibit a federal agency from denying a requester status as a news media representative for purposes of determining FOIA request processing fees solely on the absence of institutional association. Requires an agency to consider the requester's prior publication history or stated intent to distribute information to a reasonably broad audience. Provides that, for purposes of recovery of attorney fees and other litigation costs under FOIA, a complainant has substantially prevailed if the complainant has obtained relief through either: (1) a judicial order, an administrative action, or an enforceable written agreement or consent decree; or (2) a voluntary or unilateral change in position by the opposing party in a case in which the complainant's claim or defense was not frivolous. Directs the Attorney General to notify the Special Counsel of and report to Congress on civil actions taken for arbitrary and capricious rejections of requests for agency records. Prohibits the tolling of the time limit within which agencies determine whether to comply with a request for records without the consent of the party filing the request. Requires agencies to establish systems to track requests. Adds requirements for reports by agencies to the Attorney General on such requests. Establishes the Office of Government Information Services in the National Archives to: (1) provide, as a non-exclusive alternative to litigation, guidance to FOIA requesters; (2) review policies and procedures by administrative agencies under FOIA; and (3) recommend to Congress and the President policy changes to improve FOIA's administration. Requires the: (1) Comptroller General to annually report on implementation of provisions for the protection of voluntarily shared critical infrastructure information; and (2) Office of Personnel Management to report on personnel policies related to FOIA. Declares that the government's policy is to release information in response to a request if such release is: (1) required by law; or (2) allowed by law and the agency does not reasonably foresee that disclosure would be harmful to an interest protected by an applicable exemption.

To authorize a major medical facility project for the Department of Veterans Affairs at Denver, Colorado.

United States · United States Congress · 5 March 2007

Authorizes the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a major medical facility project for a replacement facility for the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Denver, Colorado.

To urge the Secretary of State to designate the Quds Force, a unit of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps, as a foreign terrorist organization.

United States · United States Congress · 5 March 2007

Urges the Secretary of State to designate the Quds Force (Qods Force), a unit of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps, as a foreign terrorist organization under the Immigration and Nationality Act in order to focus attention on the threat this organization poses to the United States and the international community. Condemns: (1) the acts of terrorism perpetrated by the Quds Force; and (2) the support provided by the Quds Force for Shiite armed elements reportedly conducting operations against U.S. military forces in Iraq and for terrorist organizations conducting operations against Israel.

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that a United Nations Emergency Peace Service capable of intervening in the early stages of a humanitarian crisis could save millions of lives, billions of dollars, and is in the interests of the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 5 March 2007

Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the United States should use its voice and vote at the United Nations to support the creation of a permanent United Nations Emergency Peace Service which should: (1) be able to act immediately in an emerging humanitarian crisis; and (2) be recruited from member nations with a single command structure able to provide an integrated service encompassing 12,000 to 18,000 civilian, police, judicial, military, and relief professionals.

Defense Travel Simplification Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 2 March 2007

Defense Travel Simplification Act of 2007 - Requires the Secretary of Defense to: (1) redesignate the Defense Travel System as the Defense Travel Accounting and Voucher Processing System; and (2) establish an intra-agency task force to recommend measures to streamline and simplify the commercial travel system used by the Department of Defense (DOD) through the establishment of a successor system to replace the Defense Travel Accounting and Voucher Processing System. Requires the successor system to include an Internet-based travel system designed to identify modes of travel, hotels or other accommodations, or rental vehicles. Prohibits any successor system from being deployed until 90 days after successful operational testing by the Secretary.

A bill to authorize to be appropriated $1,800,000 for fiscal year 2008 to acquire real property and carry out a military construction project at Kirtland Air Force Base, New Mexico.

United States · United States Congress · 2 March 2007

Authorizes the Secretary of the Air Force to acquire real property and carry out a military construction project at Kirtland Air Force Base, New Mexico, using amounts authorized to be appropriated under this Act.

[H.A.S.C. No. 110-23] HEARING ON NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2008 AND OVERSIGHT OF PREVIOUSLY AUTHORIZED PROGRAMS BEFORE THE COMMITTEE ON ARMED SERVICES HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ONE HUNDRED TENTH CONGRESS FIRST SESSION

United States · United States House of Representatives · 1 March 2007

[H.A.S.C. No. 110-24]NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2008 AND OVERSIGHT OF PREVIOUSLY AUTHORIZED PROGRAMS BEFORE THE COMMITTEE ON ARMED SERVICES HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ONE HUNDRED TENTH CONGRESS FIRST SESSION

United States · United States House of Representatives · 1 March 2007

A bill to amend title 36, United States Code, to modify the individuals eligible for associate membership in the Military Order of the Purple Heart of the United States of America, Incorporated.

United States · United States Congress · 1 March 2007

Amends the federal charter of the Military Order of the Purple Heart of the United States of America, Incorporated (the corporation), to authorize the corporation to extend eligibility for associate membership in the corporation to the parents, spouse, siblings, and lineal descendants (currently, to parents and lineal descendants) of a Purple Heart recipient.

Montgomery GI Bill Enhancement Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 1 March 2007

Montgomery GI Bill Enhancement Act of 2007 - Exempts members of the Armed Forces and Selected Reserve on active duty between November 16, 2001, and the termination date of Executive Order 13235 from the mandatory payroll deductions ($100 for the first 12 months of active duty pay) under the veterans' basic educational assistance program. Provides for reimbursement of payroll deductions taken prior to the enactment of this Act. Allows such members to withdraw an election not to receive basic educational assistance.

Ban Asbestos in America Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 1 March 2007

Ban Asbestos in America Act of 2007 - Amends the Toxic Substances Control Act to require the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health to conduct a study that: (1) describes the science concerning the disease mechanisms and health effects of exposure to asbestos and other biopersistent durable fibers and methods for measuring and analyzing asbestos; (2) describes labeling practices relating to asbestos-containing material; and (3) recommends future asbestos-related disease research and exposure assessment practice needs. Requires the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to promulgate regulations that prohibit the importing, manufacturing, processing, or distributing of asbestos-containing products, subject to limited exemption upon petition and specified exemptions sought by the Department of Defense (DOD) and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Requires the disposal of asbestos-containing products within two years. Exempts products that are no longer in the stream of commerce or that are in the possession of an end user. Requires the Administrator to establish a plan to: (1) increase awareness of the dangers posed by asbestos-containing products and contaminants in homes and workplaces and by asbestos-related diseases; (2) provide information to, and encourage participation in research and treatment endeavors by, asbestos-related disease patients and their families and front-line health care providers; and (3) encourage health care providers and researchers to provide to patients and their families information relating to research, diagnostic, and clinical treatments relating to asbestos. Amends the Public Health Service Act to: (1) direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to expand and coordinate research programs on diseases caused by asbestos exposure, particularly mesothelioma, asbestosis, and pleural injuries; (2) provide for establishment of a national clearinghouse for data and specimens relating to asbestos-related diseases; (3) require the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to establish an asbestos-related disease research and treatment network; and (4) direct the Secretary to support research on mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases that is directly relevant to the health of the Armed Forces.

Army Specialist Joseph P. Micks Federal Flag Code Amendment Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 1 March 2007

Army Specialist Joseph P. Micks Federal Flag Code Amendment Act of 2007 - Amends federal law with regard to the flying of the national flag at half-staff to: (1) allow a governor of a state, territory, or possession of the United States (governor) to proclaim that the national flag be flown at half-staff upon the death of a member of the Armed Forces from the governor's state, territory, or possession who dies while serving on active duty; and (2) require, when a governor issues such a proclamation, the national flag flown at any federal installation or facility in that state, territory, or possession to be flown at half-staff consistent with that proclamation.

Terrorist Hoax Improvements Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 1 March 2007

Terrorist Hoax Improvements Act of 2007 - Amends the federal criminal code to: (1) extend the prohibition against conveying false information and hoaxes to include false information and hoaxes about any federal crime of terrorism; (2) increase maximum prison terms for hoaxes involving a member of the Armed Forces during war; (3) expand civil liability provisions relating to expenses incurred by emergency personnel in responding to a hoax; and (4) extend the prohibition against mailing threatening communications to include threats against corporations or governmental entities (as well as individuals).

National Aquatic Invasive Species Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 1 March 2007

National Aquatic Invasive Species Act of 2007 - Amends the Nonindigenous Aquatic Nuisance Prevention and Control Act of 1990 to establish aquatic invasive species reduction and prevention requirements for vessels (including towed vessels and structures) operating in U.S. waters. Requires the Secretary of Homeland Security (Secretary) to promulgate ballast water management regulations and certification procedures. Requires a program for Department of Defense (DOD) vessels to minimize the risk of invasive species through towed vessel hull and associated hull aperture transfers. Directs the Aquatic Invasive Species Task Force to establish a priority pathway management program that identifies those pathways that pose the highest risk for the introduction of aquatic invasive species. Prohibits the importation of an aquatic organism of a species not in trade without specified screening and approval. Requires the Director of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to implement a national system of ecological surveys for rapid early detection and monitoring of invasive species. Establishes the Emergency Rapid Response Fund to assist states in implementing rapid response measures for aquatic invasive species. Requires the Task Force to approve state rapid response contingency strategies. Requires the National Invasive Species Council to establish a federal rapid response team for each of the ten federal regions. Consolidates the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal Dispersal Barrier Project and the project relating to the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal Dispersal Barrier into one project and requires certain actions regarding the project. Requires NOAA, the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, and the U.S. Geological Survey (Administering Agencies) to develop and conduct a marine and freshwater research program to assess rates of, patterns of, and conditions surrounding introductions of nonindigenous aquatic species in aquatic ecosystems and efforts to prevent the introduction of, and detect and eradicate, such species. Requires the EPA Administrator to develop an environmentally sound, cost-effective technology development, demonstration and verification grant program. Requires the Secretary and the EPA to develop a vessel pathway standards research program. Requires the National Science Foundation to establish a grant program for researchers at institutions of higher education and museums to carry out research in systematics and taxonomy. Requires the National Invasive Species Council to coordinate with the Task Force to combat aquatic invasive species. Requires the Task Force to recommend to appropriate federal agencies additions to the list of aquatic invasive species. Requires the Task Force, the Council, and the Secretary of State to ensure that international efforts to prevent and manage aquatic invasive species are coordinated with U.S. policies.

To amend title 10, United States Code, to provide that an officer of the Army or Air Force on the active-duty list may not be promoted to brigadier general unless the officer has had a duty assignment of at least one year involving the administration of the National Guard or Reserves.

United States · United States Congress · 1 March 2007

Requires officers on the active-duty list of the Army or Air Force to complete a tour of duty of at least one year in a Guard or Reserve duty assignment (other than a Reserve Officers Training Corps unit) in order to be eligible for promotion to brigadier general. Authorizes the Secretary of Defense to waive this requirement: (1) when necessary for the good of the service; (2) in cases where the proposed promotion is based primarily upon scientific and technical qualifications for which Guard or Reserve requirements do not exist; (3) in the case of specified medical, chaplaincy, or judge advocate positions; or (4) if the officer selected for appointment to brigadier general by a promotion board had completed at least 180 days of a Guard or Reserve duty assignment on the date such board was convened. Requires the Secretary to prescribe regulations to carry out this Act that specifically identify those categories of officers for whom the waiver applicable to scientific and technical qualifications is available.

Dignity for Wounded Warriors Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 1 March 2007

Dignity for Wounded Warriors Act of 2007 - Requires each recovering servicemember who is assigned to a military barracks or dormitory to be assigned to one that is maintained at the highest service standard in effect for enlisted members of the Armed Forces. Requires at least semiannual inspections of, and appropriate repairs to, any such quarters, as well as alternate housing during periods of unremedied housing deficiencies. Outlines requirements to be implemented for recovering servicemembers and their families, including: (1) physical disability evaluation system changes; (2) supervising officer and caseworker support; (3) increased training for caseworkers and social workers on particular servicemember conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); (4) increased support services, including an Ombudsman for Recovering Servicemembers; (5) a prohibition on discrimination in employment of family members caring for such servicemembers; and (6) meal benefits for recovering servicemembers and family members caring for such servicemembers. Establishes the Oversight Board for the Wounded.

To amend title 5, United States Code, to increase the maximum age limit for an original appointment to a position as a Federal law enforcement officer in the case of any individual who has been discharged or released from active duty in the armed forces under honorable conditions, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 1 March 2007

Sets a maximum age limit of 40 years for an original appointment to a position as a federal law enforcement officer in the case of individuals who have been discharged or released from active duty in the armed forces under honorable conditions. Increases the age at which such an individual must be separated from service as an officer to 60 years of age, with an authorized exemption until age 63.

Veterans' Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 1 March 2007

Veterans' Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to increase, as of December 1, 2007, the rates of veterans' wartime 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 [OASDI]) of the Social Security Act, on the same effective date.

Iraq Benchmarks Act

United States · United States Congress · 1 March 2007

Iraq Benchmarks Act - Directs that, if the President is unable to make a determination that the government of Iraq is achieving certain security, political, and economic benchmarks on or before July 1, 2007, and every 90 days thereafter, or if a joint resolution disapproving such a presidential determination is enacted into law, then the Secretary of Defense shall, within 30 days after the above applicable deadline or the enactment of the joint resolution, commence the redeployment of U.S. Armed from the non-Kurdish areas of Iraq, and complete such redeployment within 180 days. Prohibits any funds from being obligated or expended to deploy or continue the deployment of U.S. Armed Forces in such areas after the 180-day redeployment period. Provides exceptions for: (1) providing security for U.S. diplomatic facilities in Iraq; (2) engaging in limited operations to kill or capture members of al-Qaeda and other terrorist organizations that pose a threat to U.S. national security; and (3) training members of the Iraqi Security Forces. Requires that, if the President proposes a new plan to stabilize Iraq after the date of enactment of this Act and prior to U.S. Armed Forces redeployment from Iraq, then: (1) the President shall promptly transmit such plan to Congress; and (2) the plan may be implemented only if a joint resolution approving such plan is enacted into law.

To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to restore plot allowance eligibility for veterans of any war and to restore the headstone or marker allowance for eligible persons.

United States · United States Congress · 1 March 2007

Makes eligible for a $300 plot allowance for burial in a cemetery other than a national cemetery a veteran who is eligible for burial in a national cemetery and who: (1) was discharged from active service for a disability incurred or aggravated in the line of duty; or (2) is a veteran of any war. Authorizes the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, in lieu of furnishing a headstone or marker for an individual so entitled, to reimburse the person entitled to request such headstone or marker for acquiring a non-government headstone or marker for placement in any cemetery other than a national cemetery in connection with the burial or memorialization of the deceased individual.

VIP Act

United States · United States Congress · 1 March 2007

Veterans Identity Protection Act or VIP Act - Establishes as an independent office in the executive branch the Office of Veterans Identity Protection Claims, headed by a Director, to receive, process, and pay claims for injuries suffered as a result of the unauthorized use, disclosure, or dissemination of identifying information stolen from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) or otherwise compromised as a result of a security breach. Authorizes judicial review of claim determinations.

To permit the Secretary of Education to continue to waive certain regulatory requirements with respect to the use of aid funds for restarting school operations after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

United States · United States Congress · 1 March 2007

Amends the Department of Defense, Emergency Supplemental Appropriations to Address Hurricanes in the Gulf of Mexico, and Pandemic Influenza Act, 2006 to extend, through FY2008, the authority of the Secretary of Education to waive or modify certain requirements relating to maintenance of effort, supplementary use of funds, and matching funds in providing assistance to Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Texas and, through them, to local educational agencies and non-public elementary and secondary schools serving areas in which a major disaster was declared relating to Hurricane Katrina or Rita.

To repeal the Authorization for Use of Military Force Against Iraq Resolution of 2002 (Public Law 107-243), and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 1 March 2007

Repeals P.L. 107-243 (Authorization for Use of Military Force Against Iraq Resolution of 2002). Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) Congress should vote on a new authorization for use of force resolution that reflects the current Iraq situation, abandons the Bush Doctrine of preemption and unilateralism, and realigns U.S. policy with its long-held priorities of diplomacy, deterrence, and containment; (2) the United States should establish a quick-reaction U.S. military force with an over-the-horizon presence in the region; (3) the United States should intensify diplomatic relations to support the difficult internal steps that the government of Iraq should take to promote national reconciliation; (4) the United States should increase efforts to engage all neighboring countries and the League of Arab States in promoting Iraq's stability; (5) the United States should continue to provide humanitarian and reconstruction assistance in Iraq; (6) the United States should redirect diplomatic, economic, and military support to Afghanistan; and (7) the United States should aggressively pursue Osama Bin Laden, Ayman al-Zawahiri, al Qaeda and other terrorist organizations that continue to pose an imminent threat to the United States.

Veterans' Pension Improvement Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 1 March 2007

Veterans' Pension Improvement Act of 2007 - Increases pension rates for: (1) veterans of a period of war for non-service-connected disability; and (2) surviving spouses and children of veterans.

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2008

United States · United States Senate · 28 February 2007

[H.A.S.C. No. 110-22]NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2008 AND OVERSIGHT OF PREVIOUSLY AUTHORIZED PROGRAMS BEFORE THE COMMITTEE ON ARMED SERVICES HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ONE HUNDRED TENTH CONGRESS FIRST SESSION

United States · United States House of Representatives · 28 February 2007

[H.A.S.C. No. 110-21]NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2008 AND OVERSIGHT OF PREVIOUSLY AUTHORIZED PROGRAMS BEFORE THE COMMITTEE ON ARMED SERVICES HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ONE HUNDRED TENTH CONGRESS FIRST SESSION

United States · United States House of Representatives · 28 February 2007

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2008

United States · United States Senate · 28 February 2007

Dignity for Wounded Warriors Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 28 February 2007

Dignity for Wounded Warriors Act of 2007 - Requires each recovering servicemember who is assigned to a military barracks or dormitory to be assigned to one that is maintained at the highest service standard in effect for enlisted members of the Armed Forces. Requires at least semiannual inspections of, and appropriate repairs to, any such quarters, as well as alternate housing during periods of unremedied housing deficiencies. Outlines requirements to be implemented for recovering servicemembers and their families, including: (1) physical disability evaluation system changes; (2) supervising officer and caseworker support; (3) increased training for caseworkers and social workers on particular servicemember conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); (4) increased support services, including an Ombudsman for Recovering Servicemembers; (5) a prohibition on discrimination in employment of family members caring for such servicemembers; and (6) meal benefits for recovering servicemembers and family members caring for such servicemembers. Establishes the Oversight Board for the Wounded.

Military Readiness Enhancement Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 28 February 2007

Military Readiness Enhancement Act of 2007 - Repeals current Department of Defense (DOD) policy concerning homosexuality in the Armed Forces. Prohibits the Secretary of Defense, and the Secretary of Homeland Security with respect to the Coast Guard when it is not operating as a service in the Navy, from discriminating on the basis of sexual orientation against any member of the Armed Forces or any person seeking to become a member. Authorizes the re-accession into the Armed Forces of otherwise qualified individuals previously separated for homosexuality, bisexuality, or homosexual conduct. Requires such Secretaries to ensure that regulations governing the personal conduct of members of the Armed Forces are written and enforced without regard to sexual orientation.

To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand eligibility for the basic educational assistance program of the Department of Veterans Affairs.

United States · United States Congress · 28 February 2007

Expands the eligibility of certain commissioned officers of the Armed Forces for the basic educational assistance program of the Department of Veterans Affairs.

To end the United States occupation of Iraq immediately.

United States · United States Congress · 28 February 2007

Requires that all U.S. Armed Forces be completely withdrawn from Iraq and returned to the United States or redeployed outside of the Middle East within three months of enactment of this Act. Prohibits fund use under any provision of law to deploy or continue to deploy members or units of the U.S. Armed Forces to Iraq as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Exempts from such prohibition fund use to: (1) provide for the Armed Forces' safe and orderly withdrawal from Iraq; (2) ensure the security of Iraq by carrying out consultations with the government of Iraq, other foreign governments, the United Nations, and other international organizations; or (3) ensure the security of Iraq by funding the U.N.-led peacekeeping mission.

Gulf Coast Hurricane Housing Recovery Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 28 February 2007

Gulf Coast Hurricane Housing Recovery Act of 2007 - Deems $1.2 billion, made available to the Louisiana Recovery Authority (LRA) under the Hazard Mitigation Grants program of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), to have been made available to the LRA under certain requirements: (1) for the community development fund of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) under the Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Act for Defense, the Global War on Terror, and Hurricane Recovery, 2006; and (2) approved by the HUD Secretary for use under the LRA's Road Home Program. Permits a state or locality to use, as a matching requirement, share, or contribution for any other federal program, certain community development block grant (CDBG) funds made available before enactment of this Act for disaster relief, long-term recovery, and infrastructure restoration in major disaster areas affected by Hurricane Katrina, Rita, or Wilma. Authorizes the appropriation to the Secretary of certain Hurricane-related unobligated disaster relief funds to assist metropolitan cities and urban counties that used amounts previously made available for rental housing assistance for families evacuated from their residences because of such Hurricanes. Directs the Secretary to provide for an independent survey of public housing residents of New Orleans about returning to a repaired public housing or comparable dwelling unit. Sets a deadline for the Housing Authority of New Orleans (Authority) to make a certain number of dwelling units available for occupancy. Grants a right of return to previous public housing households. Prohibits such Authority from: (1) preventing such households from occupying a replacement dwelling unit, except as prohibited by federal law; or (2) demolishing or disposing of any public housing dwelling unit operated or administered by it (including any uninhabitable unit and any unit previously approved for demolition), except pursuant to a replacement plan approved by the Secretary. Requires the Secretary to report to certain congressional committees on all public housing projects in the Katrina or Rita disaster areas for which plans exist to transfer ownership to other entities or agencies. Authorizes appropriations for repair and rehabilitation of such Authority's public housing. Extends to January 1, 2008, the HUD Disaster Voucher Program and the Secretary's authority to waive specified requirements related to section 8 rental assistance. Instructs the Secretary to make adjustments to voucher allocations under the Continuing Appropriations Resolution, 2007 for any public housing agency impacted by Hurricane Katrina or Rita in order to provide adequate funding for reduced voucher leasing rates and increased housing costs arising from such Hurricanes. Sets forth requirements for preservation of project-based housing assistance payments contracts for damaged or destroyed dwelling units. Provides for: (1) tenant replacement vouchers for all lost units; (2) voucher assistance for supportive housing; and (3) reimbursement to landlords for damages resulting from abrogation by FEMA of commitments entered into under the city lease program.

Keeping Faith With the Greatest Generation Military Retirees Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 February 2007

Keeping Faith With the Greatest Generation Military Retirees Act - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to waive the monthly part B premium (Supplementary Medical Insurance Benefits for the Aged and Disabled) with respect to: (1) an individual who is entitled to military retired or retainer pay based upon service that began before December 7, 1956; and (2) the spouse, widow, or widower of such individuals.

To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a scholarship program for students seeking a degree or certificate in the areas of visual impairment and orientation and mobility.

United States · United States Congress · 28 February 2007

Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish and carry out a scholarship program of financial assistance for individuals who: (1) are accepted for, or currently enrolled in, a program of study leading to a degree or certificate in visual impairment or orientation and mobility, or both; and (2) enter into an agreement to serve, after program completion, as a full-time Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) employee for three years within the first six years after program completion. Sets maximum assistance amounts of $15,000 per academic year and $45,000 total. Requires pro rate repayment for failure to satisfy education or service requirements, while allowing the Secretary to waive or suspend such repayment whenever noncompliance is due to circumstances beyond the control of the participant, or when waiver or suspension is in the best interests of the United States.

Keep Our Promise to America's Military Retirees Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 February 2007

Keep Our Promise to America's Military Retirees Act - Directs the Secretary of Defense to enter into an agreement with the Office of Personnel Management to provide Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) coverage to the following eligible beneficiaries: (1) a member or former member of the Armed Forces entitled to military retired or retainer pay; (2) an unremarried former spouse who was married to a member for at least 20 years, during which such member performed at least 20 years of retirement-creditable military service; (3) a dependent of a deceased qualifying member or former member; (4) a dependent of a living member or former member; and (5) a family member. Directs the Secretary to reimburse such eligible persons for pharmacy benefits received from a pharmacy that is not a TRICARE (Department of Defense managed health care plan) network pharmacy in the same manner as the Secretary would reimburse such person for such benefits received from a TRICARE network pharmacy. Requires such persons, in order to receive such reimbursement, to submit a certification from their physician stating that the person does not have access to a TRICARE network pharmacy due to physical or medical constraints.

Veterans' Survivors Education Enhancement Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 27 February 2007

Veterans' Survivors Education Enhancement Act of 2007 - Revises provisions concerning educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill to terminate the 45-month limitation on: (1) the use of such assistance for eligible veterans' survivors and dependents; and (2) the use of such assistance for special restorative training. Makes survivors and dependents eligible for educational assistance until their 30th (currently 26th) birthday. Makes the aggregate amount of educational assistance $80,000. (Currently, there are monthly limits for full-time, three quarter-time, or half-time educational pursuit.) Includes within authorized educational pursuits in such amounts: (1) a program of apprenticeship or other on-job training; and (2) a correspondence course. Makes survivors and dependents eligible for tutorial assistance.