Defence

To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide for enhanced protections against identity theft related to the public filing of separation forms of members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2006

Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish guidelines for: (1) states and local governments for protecting against identity theft related to the public filing of a separation form of a member of the Armed Forces; and (2) veterans for demonstrating that their personal identification information was misused by an unauthorized person as a direct result of such filing. Requires the Secretary to provide credit monitoring services and fraud remediation for one year to an adversely affected veteran, including: (1) providing one copy of the veteran's credit report every three months; (2) fraud resolution services; and (3) identity theft insurance of up to $30,000 in aggregate liability for the insured.

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that Members of the House should actively engage with employers and the American public at large to encourage the hiring of members and former members of the Armed Forces who were wounded in service and are facing a transition to civilian life.

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2006

Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that: (1) Members of the House should actively engage with employers and the American public at large to encourage the hiring of members and former members of the Armed Forces who were wounded in service and are facing a transition to civilian life; and (2) a strong relationship should be forged between Congress, local businesses, and such members and former members towards the goal of finding employment for those who have sacrificed so much.

Expressing deep concern over the use of civilians as "human shields" in violation of international humanitarian law and the law of war during armed conflict, including Hezbollah's tactic of embedding its forces among civilians to use them as human shields during the recent conflict between Hezbollah and the State of Israel.

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2006

Condemns the use of innocent civilians as human shields, including Hezbollah's recent use of this brutal and illegal tactic. Calls on: (1) the international community to recognize the breaches of international law through the use of human shields; and (2) the community of U.S. and international jurisprudential scholars and practitioners and the leadership of the Armed Forces to review the current international legal regime and to make recommendations to prevent the future use of human shields during armed conflicts.

Waiving points of order against the conference report to accompany the bill (H.R. 5122) to authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2007 for military activities of the Department of Defense, for military construction, and for defense activities of the Department of Energy, to prescribe military personnel strengths for such fiscal year, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2006

Waives points of order against consideration of the conference report on H.R. 5122 (John Warner National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2007).

Requesting the President to provide to the House of Representatives certain documents in his possession relating to United States policy toward Iran.

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2006

Requests the President to provide to the House of Representatives all documents in his possession regarding: (1) intelligence on Iran's nuclear program and Iran's capability to threaten the United States with nuclear weapons; (2) any decision to remove the ruling regime from power in Iran; (3) covert action being conducted by any U.S. Armed Forces in Iran and training by such forces of any group or organization for the conduct of operations hostile to that regime; (4) creation of a new Department of Defense (DOD) office similar to the former Office of Special Plans; (5) "Prepare to Deploy" orders by the U.S. Navy to waters near Iran; and (6) all National Intelligence Estimates or other intelligence community analysis regarding the consequences of attacking Iran.

Urging the Government of the United States to declare that it does not intend to establish a long-term or permanent military occupation of Iraq, and to work with the United Nations to convene an international conference on Iraq's future.

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2006

Urges the U.S. government to: (1) declare that it does not intend to establish a long-term or permanent military occupation of Iraq, including establishing permanent military bases in Iraq; and (2) work with the United Nations to convene an international conference with the participation of the League of Arab States, the European Union, Russia, China, Japan, and Israel. States that at such conference the United States should work with the other nations to: (1) develop a plan for the peaceful accommodation of Iraq's diverse cultural groups, including Shias, Sunnis, and Kurds, within Iraq; (2) establish a system to help settle disputes among such groups; (3) bring terrorists in Iraq to justice; (4) assist in the productive involvement of countries of the region with the rest of the world; and (5) adopt an international program to address and eliminate terrorist organizations in Iraq and elsewhere around the world.

FRONT-LINE DEFENSE: SECURITY TRAINING FOR MASS TRANSIT AND RAIL EMPLOYEES

United States · United States House of Representatives · 28 September 2006

Comprehensive Assistance for Veterans Exposed to Traumatic Stressors Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2006

Comprehensive Assistance for Veterans Exposed to Traumatic Stressors Act of 2006 - Extends eligibility for readjustment counseling services for Vietnam-era veterans. Requires implementation of a Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)-Department of Defense (DOD) Health Care Sharing Incentive Fund. Requires: (1) the DOD to assist the VA with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental health-related data collection; (2) substance use disorder questions in pre- and post-deployment screens and related treatment protocols; and (3) routine preventative maintenance intervention for returning members of the Armed Forces. Requires a study of factors that decrease the likelihood of developing combat-related chronic PTSD. Extends the enhanced eligibility period for VA health services for certain veterans. Provides for a joint demonstration project that stations VA psychologists and psychiatrists at major demobilization sites and military treatment facilities. Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) carry out a program of veteran peer counseling to other veterans on mental health matters; and (2) develop model programs to address mental health disorders prevalent among veterans of Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. Requires: (1) performance measures that ensure appropriate deployment of resources to implement the Iraq war clinical practice guidelines; (2) establishment of the DOD/VA Council on Post-Deployment Mental Health; (3) a plan for expanded access to specialized PTSD care; and (4) additional mental health services personnel for certain VA programs and locations. Requires counseling for immediate family members of disabled veterans and Armed Forces personnel killed in action. Establishes a National Steering Committee on PTSD Education. Addresses deficiencies in compensation and pension examinations with regard to PTSD. Requires development of criteria for determining which medical conditions are likely associated with PTSD and when secondary service-connection should be granted for those conditions. Provides for an outreach program to enhance PTSD awareness.

United States Fair Currency Practices Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2006

United States Fair Currency Practices Act of 2006 - Amends the Exchange Rates and International Economic Policy Coordination Act of 1988 to direct the Secretary of the Treasury to consider in the annual analysis of foreign exchange rate policies whether countries have a currency that is in fundamental misalignment (as defined by this Act), and if so, to initiate bilateral corrective negotiations. Directs the Secretary, prior to U.S. approval of a change in an international financial institution's governance, to determine whether a member who would benefit from such change has a currency that is manipulated or in fundamental misalignment, and if so, oppose such change. Amends the Tariff Act of 1930, in determining a nonmarket economy country, to consider whether such country's manipulation or fundamental misalignment of its currency adversely affects the U.S. economy. Includes exchange rate misalignment (as defined by this Act) as a countervailable subsidy. Amends the Trade Act of 1974 to include exchange rate misalignment by the People's Republic of China (PRC) as a condition in determining market disruption. Prohibits the Department of Defense (DOD) from procuring defense articles imported from the PRC if such articles are competitive with domestic industry articles critical to the defense industrial base of the United States. Applies provisions of this Act respecting countervailable subsidies and nonmarket economy status to goods from Canada and Mexico.

Assured Compensation for First Responders Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2006

Assured Compensation for First Responders Act - Repeals the Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness Act (Division C of the Department of Defense, Emergency Supplemental Appropriations to Address Hurricanes in the Gulf of Mexico, and Pandemic Influenza Act, 2006). Amends the Public Health Service Act to establish the Biodefense Injury Compensation Program to provide compensation for death or any injury, illness, disability, or condition that is likely to have been caused by the administration of a covered countermeasure pursuant to a declaration by the Secretary of Health and Human Services that an actual or potential bioterrorist incident or public health emergency makes such administration to a category of individuals advisable. Requires the Secretary: (1) after making such a declaration, to enter into a contract for the Institute of Medicine to provide its recommendations on the injuries, disabilities, illnesses, and conditions likely to have been caused by the countermeasure; and (2) after receiving such recommendations, to specify those injuries, disabilities, illnesses, and conditions deemed to be included in the Vaccine Injury Table. Sets the effective date for such Program as November 25, 2002.

Securing Aircraft Cockpits Against Lasers Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2006

Securing Aircraft Cockpits Against Lasers Act of 2006 - Amends the federal criminal code to prohibit the aiming of the beam of a laser pointer at an aircraft or in its flight path. Imposes a fine and/or prison term of up to five years. Exempts from such prohibition: (1) individuals conducting research and development or flight test operations for an aircraft manufacturer or the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA); (2) Department of Defense or Department of Homeland Security personnel conducting research, development, operations, testing or training; or (3) an individual using a laser emergency signaling device to send a distress signal.

Responsible Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2006

Responsible Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness Act - Repeals the Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness Act (Division C of the Department of Defense, Emergency Supplemental Appropriations to Address Hurricanes in the Gulf of Mexico, and Pandemic Influenza Act, 2006). Amends the Public Health Service Act to establish the Biodefense Injury Compensation Program to provide compensation for death or any injury, illness, disability, or condition that is likely to have been caused by the administration of a covered countermeasure pursuant to a declaration by the Secretary of Health and Human Services that an actual or potential bioterrorist incident or public health emergency makes such administration to a category of individuals advisable. Requires the Secretary: (1) after making such a declaration, to enter into a contract for the Institute of Medicine to provide its recommendations on the injuries, disabilities, illnesses, and conditions likely to have been caused by the countermeasure; and (2) after receiving such recommendations, to specify those injuries, disabilities, illnesses, and conditions deemed to be included in the Vaccine Injury Table. Sets the effective date for such Program as November 25, 2002. Extends liability protection for health professionals administering small pox countermeasures to covered countermeasures under this Act. Excludes from such protection the administration by a qualified person of a covered countermeasure to an individual who was not within a category of individuals covered by the declaration where such qualified person did not have reasonable grounds to believe such individual was within such a category. Makes the United States liable for any claims arising out of the manufacture, distribution, or administration of a covered countermeasure, including claims brought by U.S. military personnel.

Lane Evans Veterans Health and Benefits Improvement Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2006

Lane Evans Veterans Health and Benefits Improvement Act of 2006 - 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.

Intelligence Community Audit Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2006

Intelligence Community Audit Act of 2006 - Reaffirms the authority of the Comptroller General to audit and evaluate financial transactions, programs, and activities of elements of the intelligence community (those elements identified in the National Security Act of 1947) and obtain access to records for such purposes. Allows the Comptroller General to conduct an audit or evaluation of intelligence sources and methods or covert actions only upon a request of a congressional intelligence committee or the majority or minority leader of the Senate or the House of Representatives. Requires the Comptroller General to disclose the results of any such audit or evaluation only to the original requestor, the Director of National Intelligence, and the head of the relevant element of the intelligence community. Requires the Comptroller General to establish safeguards to protect the unauthorized disclosure of all classified and other sensitive information furnished to the Comptroller General in conducting an audit or evaluation. Requires elements of the intelligence community to cooperate with the Comptroller General in providing documentation and information necessary for audits and evaluations.

Homeland Security Trust Fund Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2006

Homeland Security Trust Fund Act of 2006 - Establishes in the Treasury the Homeland Security and Neighborhood Safety Trust Fund. Expresses the sense of the Senate that the Senate Finance Committee should report legislation that: (1) increases revenues by $53.3 billion during taxable years 2007-2011 by reducing income tax reductions for taxpayers with taxable incomes exceeding $1 million; and (2) appropriates such revenues to the Fund. Makes amounts in the Fund available for and authorizes appropriations for specified expenditures for: (1) supporting law enforcement, including for hiring additional Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) field agents, customs agents, and rail police; (2) utilizing new technologies, including for consolidating terrorist watch lists and improving passport security, information sharing, and screening of airline passengers and ship and airline cargo; (3) protecting critical infrastructure and eliminating threats, including for hardening soft targets, reducing the risk of attack on dangerous chemicals, and responding to terrorist attacks and natural disasters; and (4) preventing the growth of radical Islamic fundamentalism. Requires specified reports with respect to implementation of recommendations of the National Commission on Terrorist Attacks upon the United States, including reports on: (1) creation of a national security workforce and a biometric entry-exit screening system; (2) improvements in cargo and passenger screening; (3) critical infrastructure risks and vulnerabilities; (4) efforts to secure weapons of mass destruction; (5) identifying and prioritizing terrorist sanctuaries; (6) progress toward engaging other countries in developing a comprehensive strategy for combating Islamist terrorism; (7) expansion of U.S. scholarship, exchange, and library programs in the Islamic world; (8) establishment of a unified Incident Command System and the National Counterterrorism Center; (9) the Director of National Intelligence; (10) homeland airspace defense; (11) the balance between security and civil liberties; (12) privacy guidelines for government sharing of personal information; (13) development of a common coalition approach toward the detention and humane treatment of captured terrorists; (14) development of economic policies to combat terrorism; (15) international collaboration on borders and document security; (16) standardization of secure identification; and (17) establishment of a national strategy for transportation security.

To amend title 38, United States Code, to recodify as part of that title the educational assistance programs for members of the reserve components.

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2006

Recodifies under federal veterans' benefits provisions former federal armed forces provisions relating to educational assistance programs for members of the reserve components. Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (Secretary) (currently, the Secretaries of each military department) to establish and maintain a program of educational assistance to members of the Selected Reserve who agree to remain members of the Selected Reserve for at least six years. Increases monthly educational assistance benefit amounts. Includes under such recodification provisions concerning Selected Reserve educational assistance allowances for: (1) apprenticeships and on-the-job training; (2) correspondence courses; (3) tutorial assistance; (4) courses beyond the baccalaureate degree level; and (5) persons with skills or specialties for which there is a critical shortage. Extends the time limitation for the use of such entitlement to ten years after separation from the Selected Reserve (currently, ten years after the person first becomes entitled to such assistance). Requires the Secretary (currently, the Secretaries of each military department) to establish and maintain a program to provide educational assistance to members of the Ready Reserve. Extends the time limitation for the use of such entitlement to ten years after separation from the Ready Reserve.

Desalination Energy Consumption Reduction Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2006

Desalination Energy Consumption Reduction Act of 2006 - Requires the Secretary of Energy to make specified incentive payments to the owners of qualified desalination facilities for up to ten years to encourage the utilization of the best available technology to reduce the consumption of electrical energy in the desalination process. Limits to 60% the amount of available funds to be provided to facilities that obtain source water directly from the sea, an estuary, or from in-bank extraction wells that are of seawater origin. Directs the Secretary, in awarding incentive payments, to give priority to projects that: (1) use innovative technologies to reduce its energy demand; (2) use renewable energy supplies; (3) provide regional water supply benefits; (4) provide a secure source of new water supplies for national defense activities; (5) reduce the threat of a water supply disruption as a result of a natural disaster or acts of terrorism; (6) use technologies that minimize the damage to marine life; or (7) provide significant water quality benefits.

Intelligence Community Audit Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2006

Intelligence Community Audit Act of 2006 - Reaffirms the authority of the Comptroller General to audit and evaluate financial transactions, programs, and activities of elements of the intelligence community (those elements identified in the National Security Act of 1947) and obtain access to records for such purposes. Allows the Comptroller General to conduct an audit or evaluation of intelligence sources and methods or covert actions only upon a request of a congressional intelligence committee or the majority or minority leader of the Senate or the House of Representatives. Requires the Comptroller General to disclose the results of any such audit or evaluation only to the original requestor, the Director of National Intelligence, and the head of the relevant element of the intelligence community. Requires the Comptroller General to establish safeguards to protect the unauthorized disclosure of all classified and other sensitive information furnished to the Comptroller General in conducting an audit or evaluation. Requires elements of the intelligence community to cooperate with the Comptroller General in providing documentation and information necessary for audits and evaluations.

Securing Aircraft Cockpits Against Lasers Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2006

Securing Aircraft Cockpits Against Lasers Act of 2006 - Amends the federal criminal code to prohibit the aiming of the beam of a laser pointer at an aircraft or in its flight path. Imposes a fine and/or prison term of up to five years. Exempts from such prohibition: (1) individuals conducting research and development or flight test operations for an aircraft manufacturer or the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA); (2) Department of Defense or Department of Homeland Security personnel conducting research, development, operations, testing or training; or (3) an individual using a laser emergency signaling device to send a distress signal.

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

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2006

Constitutional Amendment - Prohibits outlays for a fiscal year (except those for repayment of debt principal) from exceeding total receipts for that fiscal year (except those derived from borrowing) unless Congress, by a three-fifths rollcall vote of each Chamber, authorizes a specific excess of outlays over receipts. Requires a three-fifths rollcall vote of each Chamber to increase the public debt limit. Directs the President to submit a balanced budget to Congress annually. Prohibits any bill to increase revenue from becoming law unless approved by a majority of each Chamber by rollcall vote. Authorizes waivers of these provisions when a declaration of war is in effect or under other specified circumstances involving military conflict.

Waiving points of order against the conference report to accompany the bill (H.R. 5441) making appropriations for the Department of Homeland Security for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2007, and for other purposes and providing for consideration of the bill (S. 3930) to authorize trial by military commission for violations of law of war, and for other purposes and consideration of the bill (H.R. 4772) to simplify and expedite access to the Federal courts for injured parties whose rights and privileges under the United States Constitution have been deprived by final actions of Federal agencies or other governments officials or entities acting under color of State law, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2006

Waives points of order against the conference report to accompany H.R. 5441 making appropriations for the Department of Homeland Security for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2007, and for other purposes. Provides for consideration of S. 3930 to authorize trial by military commission for violations of the law of war, and for consideration of H.R. 4772 to simplify and expedite access to the federal courts for injured parties whose rights and privileges under the United States Constitution have been deprived by final actions of federal agencies or other government officials or entities acting under color of state law.

U.S. POLICY AND PRACTICE WITH RESPECT TO THE USE OF RIOT CONTROL AGENTS BY THE U.S. ARMED FORCES

United States · United States Senate · 27 September 2006

Women's Retirement Security Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 27 September 2006

Women's Retirement Security Act of 2006 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) require certain small employers who do not provide retirement plans for their employees to allow eligible employees to participate in a payroll deposit individual retirement account arrangement (automatic IRA); (2) increase the tax credit for retirement savings contributions (saver's credit) for certain low-income taxpayers; (3) allow certain part-time employees to participate in qualified cash or deferred arrangements; (4) allow the transfer of up to $500 of unused health plan benefits to qualified retirement plans; (5) treat wage replacement income (e.g., disability pay or unemployment compensation) as earned income for purposes of IRA contribution limits; (6) allow a rollover of military death benefits to IRAs and other benefit plans; (7) allow a limited tax exclusion for certain lifetime annuity payments; (8) allow certain small employers a tax credit for contributions to employee pension plans; (9) allow self-employed individuals to deduct pension plan contributions from their self-employment income; and (10) allow employees a tax exclusion for qualified retirement planning services. Allows divorced spouses and widows and widowers to remarry after attaining age 60 without losing retirement benefits under the Railroad Retirement Act. Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to make grants to qualified low-income taxpayer clinics to provide retirement savings counseling to low-income taxpayers. Requires the Commissioner of Social Security to prepare a financial reference handbook and a retirement readiness checklist for distribution to social security recipients.

Soldiers to Citizens Act

United States · United States Congress · 27 September 2006

Soldiers to Citizens Act - Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to state that, except for provisions relating to revocation of citizenship for separation from service under other than honorable conditions, noncitizens: (1) shall not be denied the opportunity to apply for Armed Forces membership; and (2) who become active duty Armed Forces members shall, consistent with active duty naturalization provisions and with the approval of their chain of command, be granted U.S. citizenship after performing at least two years of honorable active duty service. Requires citizenship to be granted within 90 days of application. Waives certain naturalization requirements, but requires that the applicant participate in the oath ceremony and demonstrate to his or her military chain of command English proficiency, good moral character, and knowledge of U.S. government and history. Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to use the fingerprints provided by an individual at the time of military enlistment to satisfy any naturalization fingerprint requirements if the individual: (1) may be naturalized; (2) was fingerprinted at the time of enlistment; and (3) submits a naturalization application within 12 months of enlistment. Requires the Secretary to: (1) establish a toll-free naturalization assistance telephone service for Armed Forces members and their families; (2) ensure that such service is operated by Department of Homeland Security (DHS) employees with specialized training on the naturalization process for Armed Forces members, and who are located in the same unit as the military processing unit that adjudicates naturalization applications; and (3) monitor the accuracy and quality of information provided by such employees.

American Fuels Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 27 September 2006

American Fuels Act of 2006 - Establishes in the Executive Office of the President the Office of Energy Security to oversee all federal energy security programs, including coordination of federal agency efforts to assist the United States in achieving full energy independence. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide: (1) a tax credit for production of qualified flexible fuel motor vehicles, including allowance of the credit against the alternative minimum tax; and (2) an alternative fuel retail sales credit. Amends the Clean Air Act to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to promulgate regulations to ensure that diesel sold or introduced into U.S. commerce, on an annual average basis, contains the applicable volume of alternative diesel fuel. Requires such regulations to provide for the generation of an appropriate amount of credits by any person that refines, blends, or imports diesel containing a quantity of alternative diesel fuel greater than certain prescribed quantities. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend the alcohol fuel mixture excise tax credit to cellulosic biomass ethanol. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 1992 to include within the term alternative fueled vehicle a medium or heavy duty hybrid vehicle. Sets a deadline by which: (1) any federal property with at least one fuel refueling station must include at least one alternative fuel refueling station; and (2) any alternative fuel refueling station on federally-owned property must permit full public access for the purpose of refueling using alternative fuel. Amends federal transportation law to require that any bus purchased with funds from the Mass Transit Account of the Highway Trust Fund be a clean fuel bus. Requires the Secretary of Defense to implement a program to evaluate the commercial and technical viability of advanced technologies for the production of alternative transportation fuels having applications for the Department of Defense.

To authorize the conveyance of a portion of the campus of the Illiana Health Care System of the Department of Veterans Affairs to Danville Area Community College of Vermilion County, Illinois.

United States · United States Congress · 27 September 2006

Authorizes the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to convey to the Danville Area Community College of Vermilion County, Illinois, specified real property of the Illiana Health Care System of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

Waiving a requirement of clause 6(a) of rule XIII with respect to consideration of certain resolutions reported from the Committee on Rules.

United States · United States Congress · 27 September 2006

Waives a specified requirement of Rule XIII (Calendars and Committee Reports) to allow consideration or disposition of the following measures on the same day they are presented to the House: (1) a bill to authorize trial by military commission for violations of the law of war; (2) a bill to update the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978; and (3) a conference report on H.R. 5441 (FY2007 Department of Homeland Security appropriations).

Directing the Director of National Intelligence to submit to the House of Representatives not later than 14 days after the date of the adoption of this resolution, in unclassified form, all documents in the possession of the Director concerning the impact of the war in Iraq on terrorism and terrorist threats, including a National Intelligence Estimated entitled "Trends in Global Terrorism: Implications for the United States" dated on or about April, 2006, and any other actual or pending National Intelligence Estimates concerning Iraq.

United States · United States Congress · 27 September 2006

Requires the Director of National Intelligence to submit to the House of Representatives all documents in the Director's possession concerning the impact of the war in Iraq on terrorism and terrorist threats, including any actual or pending National Intelligence Estimates concerning Iraq.

[H.A.S.C. No. 109-127]ALTERNATIVE ENERGY AND ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROGRAMS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

United States · United States House of Representatives · 26 September 2006

Veterans Health Care Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 26 September 2006

Veterans Health Care Act of 2006 - Amends federal veterans' benefits provisions to, among other things: (1) authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, in certain cases, to furnish up to 14 days of postnatal care to the newborn child of a woman veteran; (2) revise third-party payer provisions relating to health care furnished through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for spina bifida and associated disabilities in the children of Vietnam veterans; (3) make permanent the homeless veterans' comprehensive services program; (4) include as authorized VA mental health service providers marriage and family therapists and professional mental health counselors; (5) provide a pay level adjustment for the Chief Nursing Officer; (6) authorize VA vs. private contractor cost comparison studies with respect to certain commercial or industrial products; (7) direct the Secretary to expand certain veterans' mental health clinical services and education programs; (8) provide an exception to the confidentiality of VA medical records in the case of possible organ donations; (9) direct the Secretary to expand the National Guard outreach program and telehealth services; (10) allow limited veterans' travel reimbursement in connection with treatment or care for a non-service-connected disability; (11) establish VA blind rehabilitation outpatient specialists; (12) provide priority health care and services for certain veterans affected by Hurricane Katrina; (13) authorize the Secretary to reimburse veterans for certain outstanding emergency treatment expenses for which they remain personally liable; and (14) authorize the Secretary to convey to the city of Fort Thomas, Kentucky, certain property located in the Tower Park area of Fort Thomas.

Victim-Activated Landmine Abolition Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 26 September 2006

Victim-Activated Landmine Abolition Act of 2006 - Expresses the sense of Congress that the government should continue to set an example for other countries by banning procurement of victim-activated landmines and other weapons designed to be victim-activated. Prohibits the federal government from procuring such landmines or weapons in any circumstance.

Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 6166) to amend title 10, United States Code, to authorize trial by military commission for violations of the law of war, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 26 September 2006

Sets forth the rule for consideration of the bill (H.R. 6166) to amend title 10, United States Code, to authorize trial by military commission for violations of the law of war.

Military Commissions Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2006

Military Commissions Act of 2006 - Authorizes the: (1) President to establish military commissions (commissions) to try alien unlawful enemy combatants engaged in hostilities against the United States for violations of the law of war and other triable offenses; and (2) commissions to impose upon any person found guilty any punishment, including death. Prohibits a combatant under trial from invoking the Geneva Conventions as a source of rights. Amends the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) to codify and establish procedures governing the use of commissions to try such combatants for violations of triable offenses. Makes eligible to serve on a commission any U.S. commissioned officer on active duty. Requires to be detailed to each commission a military judge, trial and military defense counsel, and reporters and interpreters. Requires at least five members in each commission. Prescribes, with respect to each established commission, pre-trial and trial procedures, including charges, rules of evidence, pleas, opportunity to obtain witnesses and other evidence, and defenses. Requires: (1) a two-thirds commission member vote for conviction; (2) a three-fourths member vote for a sentence of life imprisonment or confinement of more than ten years; and (3) a unanimous vote by at least 12 members in a case in which the death penalty is sought. Prescribes post-trial procedures and reviews of commission actions, including appeal by the United States, rehearings, and review by the Court of Military Commission Review, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia, and the U.S. Supreme Court. Outlines offenses triable by commissions. Amends the federal criminal code to add certain actions to be considered violations of the War Crimes Act.

Veterans Corporation Reauthorization and Enhancement Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2006

Veterans Corporation Reauthorization and Enhancement Act of 2006 - Amends Small Business Act provisions establishing a National Veterans Business Development Corporation (Corporation) to: (1) authorize appropriations for the Corporation in FY2008-FY2012; (2) require the Corporation to seek private funding; (3) make members of the reserve components eligible for business development programs sponsored by the Corporation; and (4) require the Secretaries of Veterans Affairs and Labor to provide information on services provided by the Corporation to veterans.

Continuing Appropriations Resolution, 2007

United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2006

Continuing Appropriations Resolution, 2007 - Makes continuing appropriations for FY2007. Appropriates amounts for continuing operations, projects or activities which were conducted in FY2006 and for which appropriations, funds, or other authority would be made available in the: (1) Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2007; (2) Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act, 2007 (in the House of Representatives) or the Energy and Water Appropriations Act, 2007 (in the Senate); (3) Foreign Operations, Export Financing, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2007 (in the House) or the Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2007 (in the Senate); (4) Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2007; (5) Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2007; (6) Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2007; (7) Legislative Branch Appropriations Act, 2007; (8) Military Construction, Military Quality of Life and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Act, 2007 (in the House) or the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2007 (in the Senate); (9) Science, State, Justice, Commerce, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2007 (in the House) or the Departments of Commerce and Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2007 (in the Senate); and (10) Transportation, Treasury, Housing and Urban Development, the Judiciary, the District of Columbia, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 2007 (in the House) or the Transportation, Treasury, Housing and Urban Development, the Judiciary, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2007 (in the Senate), and the District of Columbia Appropriations Act, 2007 (in the Senate). Provides funding under this resolution until the earliest of: (1) enactment of an appropriation for any project or activity provided for in this joint resolution; (2) enactment of the applicable appropriations Act by both Houses without any provision for such project or activity; or (3) November 17, 2006. Authorizes continuation of other specified activities (including activities for entitlements and other mandatory payments) through such date.

Waiving points of order against the conference report to accompany the bill (H.R. 5631) making appropriations for the Department of Defense for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2007, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2006

Waives points of order against consideration of the conference report on H.R. 5631 (Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2007).

Military Commissions Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 22 September 2006

Military Commissions Act of 2006 - Authorizes the: (1) President to establish military commissions (commissions) to try alien unlawful enemy combatants engaged in hostilities against the United States for violations of the law of war and other triable offenses; (2) commissions to impose upon any person found guilty any sentence appropriate to the offense, including death or imprisonment for life; and (3) Secretary of Defense to carry out such sentences. Prohibits a combatant under trial from invoking the Geneva Conventions as a source of rights. Amends the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) to codify and establish procedures governing the use of commissions to try such combatants for violations of triable offenses. Makes eligible to serve on a commission any U.S. commissioned officer on active duty. Requires to be detailed to each commission a military judge, trial and military defense counsel, and reporters and interpreters. Requires at least five members in each commission. Prescribes, with respect to each established commission, pre-trial and trial procedures, including charges, rules of evidence, pleas, opportunity to obtain witnesses and other evidence, and defenses. Requires: (1) a two-thirds commission member vote for conviction; (2) a three-fourths member vote for a sentence of life imprisonment or confinement of more than ten years; and (3) a unanimous vote by at least 12 members in a case in which the death penalty is sought. Prescribes post-trial procedures and reviews of commission actions, including appeal by the United States, rehearings, and review by the Court of Military Commission Review, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia, and the U.S. Supreme Court. Outlines offenses triable by commissions. Amends the federal criminal code to add certain actions to be considered violations of the War Crimes Act.

Terrorist Surveillance Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 22 September 2006

Terrorist Surveillance Act of 2006 - Amends the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 (FISA) to establish a new title relating to electronic surveillance programs (programs). Gives the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court (established under FISA) jurisdiction to review programs that seek to obtain foreign intelligence information or to protect against international terrorism. Allows the Court to issue an order that authorizes a program for up to 90 days, while allowing the Attorney General (AG) an unlimited number of times to seek reauthorization of an order with respect to a specific target. Outlines AG application requirements for approval of programs, including an explanation of how the program will ensure that communications acquired are of or with: (1) a foreign power, or agent of a foreign power, engaged in international terrorism; (2) a person believed to have communicated with or be associated with a foreign power or agent that engages in such activities; or (3) a foreign power or agent that poses an imminent threat of attack likely to cause death, serious bodily injury, or substantial economic damage to the United States. Provides for congressional oversight of approved programs through regular AG reports to the congressional intelligence committees. Directs the AG and the Director of National Intelligence to conduct a feasibility study to develop and implement a document management system that permits the prompt preparation, modification, and review of applications for orders approving programs by appropriate personnel of the Department of Justice (DOJ), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), National Security Agency (NSA), and other applicable elements of the intelligence community. Includes as an "agent of a foreign power" under FISA a person other than a U.S. person who engages in the development or proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, or activities in preparation therefor.

A bill to authorize military commissions to bring terrorists to justice, to strengthen and modernize terrorist surveillance capabilities, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 22 September 2006

Military Commissions Act of 2006 - Authorizes the: (1) President to establish military commissions (commissions) to try alien unlawful enemy combatants engaged in hostilities against the United States for violations of the law of war and other triable offenses; (2) commissions to impose upon any person found guilty any sentence appropriate to the offense, including death or imprisonment for life; and (3) Secretary of Defense to carry out such sentences. Prohibits a combatant under trial from invoking the Geneva Conventions as a source of rights. Amends the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) to codify and establish procedures governing the use of commissions to try such combatants for violations of triable offenses. Makes eligible to serve on a commission any U.S. commissioned officer on active duty. Requires to be detailed to each commission a military judge, trial and military defense counsel, and reporters and interpreters. Requires at least five members in each commission. Prescribes, with respect to each established commission, pre-trial and trial procedures, including charges, rules of evidence, pleas, opportunity to obtain witnesses and other evidence, and defenses. Requires: (1) a two-thirds commission member vote for conviction; (2) a three-fourths member vote for a sentence of life imprisonment or confinement of more than ten years; and (3) a unanimous vote by at least 12 members in a case in which the death penalty is sought. Prescribes post-trial procedures and reviews of commission actions, including appeal by the United States, rehearings, and review by the Court of Military Commission Review, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia, and the U.S. Supreme Court. Outlines offenses triable by commissions. Amends the federal criminal code to add certain actions to be considered violations of the War Crimes Act. Terrorist Surveillance Act of 2006 - Amends the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 (FISA) to establish a new title relating to electronic surveillance programs (programs). Gives the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court (established under FISA) jurisdiction to review programs that seek to obtain foreign intelligence information or to protect against international terrorism. Allows the Court to issue an order that authorizes a program for up to 90 days. Provides for congressional oversight of approved programs.

A bill to modify the calculation of back pay for persons who were approved for promotion as members of the Navy and Marine Corps while interned as prisoners of war during World War II to take into account changes in the Consumer Price Index.

United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2006

Amends the Floyd D. Spence National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2001 to increase the amount of back pay received by members of the Navy and Marine Corps selected for promotion while interned as prisoners of war during World War II to reflect increases in the cost of living since basic pay was paid to or for that person.

Darfur Accountability and Divestment Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2006

Darfur Accountability and Divestment Act of 2006 - Supports state, city, and university efforts to divest funds from, or restrict investments in, companies that conduct business operations in Sudan. Directs: (1) the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to require all companies trading in registered securities that conduct business operations directly or through parent or subsidiary companies in Sudan to disclose the nature of such operations; and (2) the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to investigate the existence and extent of such companies' Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board investments. Prohibits U.S. government contracts with such companies, with exceptions for companies whose activities are related to: (1) southern Sudan, southern Kordofan/Nuba Mountains State, Blue Nile State, or Abyei; (2) the implementation of the 2006 Darfur Peace Agreement; (3) the provision of military equipment for nongovernmental organizations in the Darfur region of Sudan, the African Union Mission in Sudan (AMIS), or the United Nations; or (4) the provision of humanitarian assistance that is of immediate and substantial benefit to the majority of people of the Darfur region of Sudan or the majority of people of eastern Sudan, including the Red Sea, Kassala, and Gedaref States. Authorizes a national security waiver of such prohibition on a case-by-case basis.

Third Higher Education Extension Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2006

Third Higher Education Extension Act of 2006 - Amends the Higher Education Extension Act of 2005 to extend the programs under the Higher Education Act of 1965 through June 30, 2007. Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to bar trustees of institutions of higher education (IHEs), or of institution-affiliated organizations, from serving as eligible lenders under the Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) program, unless the trusteeship continues pursuant to a contract entered into before the enactment of this Act. Alters the grant program for Hispanic-serving IHEs to: (1) move the time at which at least 25% of their full-time students must be Hispanic, from the time such IHEs apply for a new grant back to the end of the preceding grant year; (2) eliminate the requirement that at least 50% of their Hispanic students be poor; and (3) eliminate the two-year waiting period between grant applications. Requires that account maintenance fees payable to guarantee agencies under the FFEL program be calculated on the basis of .10% of the original principal amount of such outstanding loans on which insurance was issued. (Currently, such fees are capped at such percentage.) Directs the Secretary of Education to discharge or cancel the federal student loan indebtedness of spouses and parents of individuals who died (or die) or who became (or become) permanently and totally disabled from injuries suffered in the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. States that, in the case of a consolidation loan used jointly by a victim of such attacks and his or her spouse, the discharge or cancellation shall apply only to that portion of debt incurred on behalf of the victim; except that, where the victim served as a police officer, firefighter, other safety or rescue personnel, or member of the Armed Forces, all of the debt on such loan shall be discharged or canceled.

Directing the Secretary of Defense to provide certain information to the House of Representatives relating to Maher Arar.

United States · United States Congress · 20 September 2006

Directs the Secretary of Defense to provide to the House of Representatives, not later than 14 days after the adoption of this resolution, all documents and records in the Secretary's possession relating to Maher Arar.

Affirming support for the sovereignty and security of Lebanon and the Lebanese people.

United States · United States Congress · 20 September 2006

Commends: (1) the many Lebanese who continue to adhere to the principles of the Cedar Revolution; and (2) the democratically-elected government of Lebanon for its critical and courageous decision to deploy the Lebanese Armed Forces to the Lebanon-Israeli border. Affirms that the international community's intention, as expressed in UN Security Council Resolution 1701, is that the weapons flow to Hizballah should cease and that Hizballah should be disarmed. Calls on: (1) all countries, and particularly countries through which Iranian-supplied materiel passes en route from Iran to Hizballah, to take every possible measure to prevent the transfer of arms to Hizballah; (2) the international community to monitor Iranian and Syrian compliance with the arms embargo on Hizballah; and (3) Iran and Syria to cease supporting Hizballah with funds and arms. Condemns: (1) Syria's ongoing intimidation of Lebanon; and (2) the Syrian leader's claim that the deployment of international peace-keeping forces on the Lebanese-Syrian border would be "hostile" against Syria. Urges the government of Lebanon to request a robust international force deployment on the Lebanese-Syrian border to prevent weapons resupply to Hizballah and to ensure full implementation of Security Council Resolution 1701. Believes that without such an international deployment on the Lebanese-Syrian border another Hizballah-provoked war will break out. Pledges support for the democratically-elected government of Lebanon and the Lebanese people against Syrian intimidation. Reaffirms support for Lebanon's independence and the full sovereignty of the government of Lebanon over Lebanese territory through the instrument of the Lebanese Armed Forces.

For the re-opening of investigative hearings into the Counter-Intelligence Program (COINTELPRO) and other intelligence and law enforcement programs and agencies, and an expansion of those hearings to include reneweal of previously curtailed abuses, and other activities sanctioned by the USA PATRIOT ACT.

United States · United States Congress · 20 September 2006

Declares that Congress will release classified documents that do not involve compromise of an existing source, agent, or method and will renew and administer hearings or form a select oversight committee to: (1) investigate past abuses and legal relief due to the victims of abuses carried out under COINTELPRO (the Counter Intelligence Program carried out by the Federal Bureau of Investigation [FBI]) and related programs; and (2) identify any renewal of similar abuses following the 9/11 attacks by federal or local agencies or executive branch orders or under the USA PATRIOT Act. Expresses the intent to renew legislation that will end such abuses and fully protect the rights of all U.S. citizens and others who fall under the protection of U.S. laws and international laws and treaties to which the United States is a signatory.

A resolution calling on the United States Government and the international community to support the successful transition from conflict to sustainable peace in Uganda.

United States · United States Congress · 19 September 2006

Commends the delegates from the government of Uganda and the Lord's Resistance Army for agreeing to a cessation of hostilities. Recognizes the government of Southern Sudan's leadership in mediating the cessation of hostilities and establishing a framework for peace. Expresses the support of the citizens of the United States for the people of Uganda who have endured decades of violence resulting from that conflict. Entreats all parties to address issues of accountability and impunity for war crimes and crimes against humanity and to support national reconciliation efforts. Encourages the government of Uganda to improve the professionalism of its military personnel, with an emphasis on enhancing respect for human rights, accountability for abuses, and effective protection of civilians. Urges the government of Uganda to augment its resettlement plan by: (1) expanding social services; (2) deploying professional civil servants; and (3) developing the legal, political, and security infrastructure necessary to facilitate the freedom of movement of civilians to their homes, land, and areas within and around camps, and essential to fulfill the needs of returnees and former combatants. Calls on the Department of State and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), as well as the international community to: (1) provide humanitarian assistance through nongovernmental organizations; (2) pay particular attention to victimized women and children; and (3) provide assistance for the demobilization and reintegration of rebel combatants and abductees, and diplomatic and logistical support for the cessation of hostilities agreement and progress towards peace in Uganda.

Reconstruction and Stabilization Civilian Management Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 19 September 2006

Reconstruction and Stabilization Civilian Management Act of 2006 - States that the purpose of this Act is to provide for the development, as a core mission of the Department of State and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), of an expert civilian response capability to carry out stabilization and reconstruction activities in a country or region that is in, or is in transition from, conflict or civil strife. Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to authorize the President to provide assistance in stabilizing and reconstructing a country or region that is at risk of, in, or is in transition from, conflict or civil strife. Amends the State Department Basic Authorities Act of 1956 to establish within the Department an Office of the Coordinator for Reconstruction and Stabilization, which shall be headed by a Coordinator. Sets forth Office functions, including: (1) monitoring political and economic instability; (2) assessing related potential crises and responses; (3) coordinating with relevant executive agencies; (4) identifying state, local, and private sector personnel available to participate in the Response Readiness Corps or the Response Readiness Reserve; (5) international coordination and information sharing; and (6) coordinating plans for joint military-civilian operations. Authorizes the Secretary: (1) in consultation with the Administrator of USAID, to establish a Response Readiness Corps to provide stabilization and reconstruction activities in foreign countries or regions that are in, or are in transition from, conflict or civil strife (up to 250 personnel to serve in the Corps, and such other personnel as the Secretary may designate from the Department of State and USAID); and (2) in consultation with relevant executive agencies, to establish a Response Readiness Reserve of federal and at least 500 non-federal personnel to augment the Corps. Sets forth personnel provisions.

Military Education Enhancement Opportunities Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 19 September 2006

Military Education Enhancement Opportunities Act of 2006 - Allows certain active duty members of the Armed Forces to elect to receive basic educational assistance benefits.

To extend the waiver authority for the Secretary of Education under title IV, section 105, of Public Law 109-148.

United States · United States Congress · 19 September 2006

Amends the Department of Defense, Emergency Supplemental Appropriations to Address Hurricanes in the Gulf of Mexico, and Pandemic Influenza Act, 2006 to extend, through FY2007, the authority of the Secretary of Education, in providing any grant or other assistance to entities in states in which a major disaster was declared relating to Hurricane Katrina or Rita, to waive or modify requirements relating to maintenance of effort, supplementary use of funds, and matching funds.

Stop Endangering the Records of Veterans (SERVE) Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 19 September 2006

Stop Endangering the Records of Veterans (SERVE) Act of 2006 - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) physically secure all sensitive personal information processed or maintained by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and all equipment containing such information; (2) encrypt all sensitive personal information; and (3) require VA contractors with access to sensitive personal information to encrypt or encode such information and physically secure all equipment containing such information. Defines "sensitive personal information" to include social security numbers, dates of birth, and individual financial information. Imposes criminal penalties for the unauthorized disclosure of sensitive personal information.