Defence

Expressing the sense of Congress regarding reconsideration of the merits of awarding the Medal of Honor posthumously to Doris Miller for acts of valor during World War II for which he was originally awarded the Navy Cross.

United States · United States Congress · 17 November 2016

Expresses the sense of Congress that the Navy should reconsider, pursuant to provisions governing consideration of proposals for decorations not previously submitted in a timely fashion, whether the award of the Navy Cross to Doris Miller for acts of valor during the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, while a member of the Navy should be upgraded to the Medal of Honor on account of possible racial bias in the original decision to award the Navy Cross.

To authorize the President to award the Medal of Honor posthumously to Doris Miller for acts of valor during World War II while a member of the Navy.

United States · United States Congress · 17 November 2016

This bill authorizes the President, notwithstanding otherwise applicable time requirements, to award the Medal of Honor posthumously to Doris Miller for acts of valor during World War II while a member of the Navy.

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives regarding the vital role the Civil Air Patrol has played, and continues to play, in supporting the homeland security and national defense of the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 16 November 2016

Applauds the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) for 75 years of continuous service. Recognizes the critical emergency services, training support, and mission capabilities that the CAP offers state and national homeland security agencies, as well as the Armed Forces. Commends the more than 23,500 youth and 32,500 adult volunteers of the CAP.

To name the Department of Veterans Affairs health care system in Long Beach, California, the "Tibor Rubin VA Medical Center".

United States · United States Congress · 15 November 2016

This bill designates the Department of Veterans Affairs health care system at 5901 East 7th Street, Long Beach, California, as the "Tibor Rubin VA Medical Center."

Give Veterans Home Loan Choices Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 15 November 2016

Give Veterans Home Loan Choices A ct of 2016 This bill amends the National Housing Act to require that a Federal Housing Administration mortgage notice for a prospective borrower who is a veteran include, in addition to comparative rate and fee information about conventional loans, similar comparative information about Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) home loans. The Federal Housing Finance Agency shall direct the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae) and the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac) to revise the uniform residential loan application by December 31, 2017, to include: (1) a check box to indicate that the applicant is a veteran; (2) the statement "If you are a veteran, you may be eligible for a VA mortgage"; and (3) a blank line for the borrower to initial and a statement that all applicants must initial the line to confirm that they have read the VA mortgage eligibility statement. The bill requires pre-separation counseling for a member of the Armed Forces who is separating from active duty to include: information on the availability of VA home loan services and housing assistance benefits, including the authority of a member to use an honorable discharge certificate as a certificate of eligibility for a VA guaranteed housing loan or to request a specific certificate of eligibility for such loan; and counseling on responsible borrowing practices.

National Guard Pay Integrity Act

United States · United States Congress · 15 November 2016

National Guard Pay Integrity Act This bill requires the Department concerned (the Department of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Homeland Security, Commerce, or Health and Human Services) to: (1) absolve any debt resulting from any bonus, incentive pay, or similar benefit (including any student loan payment or repayment) that was paid to a member of the California National Guard for recruitment or reenlistment during FY2004-FY2010; and (2) refund any such amount such person already repaid to the United States. Such requirement shall not apply with respect to a debt resulting from any such amount that was paid under circumstances involving fraud or misrepresentation on the part of the California National Guard member.

VET Bonus Act

United States · United States Congress · 15 November 2016

Veterans Earned Their Bonus Act or the VET Bonus Act This bill prohibits the Department of the Army from recouping a bonus or similar benefit that was provided to a member of the California Army National Guard between January 1, 2004, and December 31, 2010, unless the Army proves, after a hearing opportunity, that the member knowingly: (1) participated in fraud or misrepresentation to receive the bonus or benefit, or (2) failed to satisfy the service requirement upon which the bonus or benefit was conditioned. A member shall be presumed to have acted in good faith in procuring the bonus or benefit and to have satisfied the service requirement. The Army shall: (1) reimburse a member for any amount previously recouped, plus interest; (2) notify each consumer reporting agency that any debt and recoupment measures linked to the bonus or benefit were not valid; and (3) provide financial assistance to a member who is facing financial hardship because of the recoupment measures.

A bill to authorize the award of the Medal of Honor to James C. McCloughan for acts of valor during the Vietnam War.

United States · United States Congress · 15 November 2016

This bill authorizes the President to award the Medal of Honor to James C. McCloughan for acts of valor during the Vietnam War for which he was previously awarded the Bronze Star Medal with "V" Device.

A joint resolution approving the location of a memorial to commemorate and honor the members of the Armed Forces that served on active duty in support of Operation Desert Storm or Operation Desert Shield.

United States · United States Congress · 15 November 2016

This joint resolution approves the location within Washington, D.C. and the surrounding area of the National Desert Storm and Desert Shield Memorial authorized to be established under the Carl Levin and Howard P. `Buck' McKeon National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2015.

Veteran Mental Health Care Expansion Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 15 November 2016

Veteran Mental Health Care Expansion Act of 2016 This bill provides that a bar on veterans benefits shall not apply to counseling and related mental health services for an individual if the Department of Veterans Affairs determines that, at the time of the commission of an offense leading to such individual's court-martial, discharge, or resignation, such individual had a service-connected disability related to mental health.

Military Hunger Prevention Act

United States · United States Congress · 14 November 2016

Military Hunger Prevention Act This bill excludes the value of a housing allowance for a member of a uniformed service from any income, assets, or resources calculation for determining eligibility for the supplemental nutrition assistance program (SNAP, formerly known as the food stamp program) and the family subsistence supplemental allowance program.

ALLOW Act

United States · United States Congress · 14 November 2016

Alternatives to Licensing that Lower Obstacles to Work Act of 2016 or the ALLOW Act This bill declares, for purposes of establishing an individual's authorization to engage in an occupation on a military installation located on federally-owned land, that the federal government endorses occupational licenses and certifications granted by a state (including the District of Columbia [DC]), regardless of whether the installation is located in the issuing state or DC, provided that: the license or certification is not expired, revoked, or suspended by the issuing state; and there are no outstanding enforcement actions against the individual brought by the licensing board or certifying authority for that occupation in the issuing state. District of Columbia Occupational Licensing Reform Act The bill declares DC policy regarding occupational licensing laws. The bill establishes an Office of Supervision of Occupational Boards in the office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia, or another appropriate DC government agency, to be responsible for exercising active supervision over each occupational licensing board to ensure compliance with occupational licensing policy. The bill prescribes procedures for the Office's review, approval, or rejection of occupational licensure actions before their adoption. The DC Council shall establish a legislative committee to analyze occupational regulations and review any proposed legislation to impose or modify an occupational regulation to ensure compliance. An individual may engage in a lawful occupation without being subject to occupational regulations that are arbitrary or unnecessary and substantially burdensome. The DC government and its boards may not require an occupational license, certification, or registration for a person, or impose any other occupational regulation that imposes a substantial burden on a person, unless: the government has an important interest in protecting against present and recognizable harm to public health, safety, or welfare; and the regulation is substantially related to achievement of that interest. Any person providing tour guide services for a fee at certain national parks and memorials shall not be required to obtain a license, certification, or permit to provide those services.

To designate facilities of the United States Postal Service, to establish new ZIP Codes, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 14 November 2016

This bill designates: the United States Postal Service (USPS) facility located at 1221 State Street, Suite 12, Santa Barbara, California, as the "Special Warfare Operator Master Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Louis 'Lou' J. Langlais Post Office Building"; the facility located at 23323 Shelby Road, Shelby, Indiana, as the "Richard Allen Cable Post Office"; the facility located at 3031 Veterans Road West, Staten Island, New York, as the "Leonard Montalto Post Office Building"; the facility located at 401 McElroy Drive, Oxford, Mississippi, as the "Army First Lieutenant Donald C. Carwile Post Office Building"; the facility located at 14231 TX-150, Coldspring, Texas, as the "E. Marie Youngblood Post Office"; the facility located at 810 N. U.S. Highway 83, Zapata, Texas, as the "Zapata Veterans Post Office"; the facility located at 2886 Sandy Plains Road, Marietta, Georgia, as the "Marine Lance Corporal Squire 'Skip' Wells Post Office Building"; the facility located at 6300 N. Northwest Highway, Chicago, Illinois, as the "Officer Joseph P. Cali Post Office Building; the facility located at 1 Chalan Kanoa VLG, Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands, as the "Segundo T. Sablan and CNMI Fallen Military Heroes Post Office Building"; and the facility located at 1101 Davis Street, Evanstan, Illinois, as the "Abner J. Mikva Post Office Building." The USPS must designate, by September 30, 2017, a single, unique ZIP code for each of: Miami Lakes, Florida; Storey County, Nevada; Flanders, Northampton, and Riverside in Southampton, New York; Ocoee, Florida; and Glendale, New York.

Honor Our National Guard Act

United States · United States Congress · 14 November 2016

Honor Our National Guard Act This bill prohibits the department concerned (the Department of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Homeland Security, Commerce, or Health and Human Services) from requiring the repayment by a member of the uniformed services of any bonus or similar payment under provisions regarding special pay and repayment of an unearned portion of a bonus, incentive pay, or a similar benefit unless the Department, in the case of such a required repayment for failure to perform the required service: obtains a signed statement from a commanding officer of at least at the grade of O-6 in the member's chain of command, provides notice to the member of the intent to require repayment, and provides specified notice for the member to respond and provide evidence that the member fulfilled the required service. In the case of such a required repayment by reason that the contract providing for the payment of the bonus is found invalid, the department shall: appoint an investigating officer; confirm that such officer determines that the member committed fraud or did not complete the service requirement; and obtain the written concurrence of a general or flag officer in the member's chain of command. The department shall repay, and pay interest on, any amount a member repaid the Department of Defense for a bonus or similar payment the contract for which was found to be invalid.

Recognizing the 75th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor and the lasting significance of National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day.

United States · United States Congress · 14 November 2016

Declares that Congress, on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the December 7, 1941, attack on Pearl Harbor, Hawaii: pays tribute to the members of the Armed Forces and civilians who died in the attack; honors the men and women of the Armed Forces who gave their lives in defense of freedom and liberty during World War II; acknowledges the peaceful and mutually beneficial U.S-Japan relationship; appreciates Japan's efforts as one of the most reliable security partners of the United States; and encourages Japan to continue to develop strategic and economic policies, in partnership with the United States, that promote stability throughout Asia and reduce trade barriers between the two nations.

Acknowledging and honoring brave young men from Hawaii who enabled the United States to establish and maintain jurisdiction in remote equatorial islands as prolonged conflict in the Pacific led to World War II.

United States · United States Congress · 14 November 2016

Honors the accomplishments of the Hui Panala 'au colonists and the young men who helped secure and maintain U.S. jurisdiction over equatorial islands in the Pacific Ocean during the years leading up to and the months immediately following the bombing of Pearl Harbor and the entry of the United States into World War II. Acknowledges the local, national, and international significance of the seven-year colonization of such islands by the United States, which resulted in the United States extending sovereignty into the Equatorial Pacific. Recognizes the dedication of the young men, the majority of whom were Native Hawaiian, who participated in the Equatorial Pacific colonization project. Extends condolences to the families of Carl Kahalewai, Joseph Keliihananui, and Richard Whaley for the loss of their loved ones in the service of the United States.

Homeless Veterans Services Protection Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 14 November 2016

Homeless Veterans Services Protection Act of 2016 This bill eliminates the minimum continuous active duty service requirement for homeless veterans to receive certain benefits, including: (1) outreach, (2) rehabilitative services, (3) vocational counseling and training, (4) transitional housing assistance, (5) supportive services for very low-income veteran families in permanent housing, and (6) health care for homeless veterans with special needs. Homeless veterans are exempted from disqualification for such benefits because of discharge or dismissal from the Armed Forces under conditions other than honorable, except for discharge by reason of a general court-martial. "Veteran" is defined for purposes of such benefits as a person who served in the active military, naval, or air service, regardless of length of service and who was discharged or released from service other than by a dishonorable discharge or by reason of a general court-martial. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) shall conduct related training and education for appropriate VA and grant recipient personnel. Services for which a homeless veteran receives a grant under the VA comprehensive service programs for homeless veterans may include furnishing care for a dependent under the veteran's care.

Afghanistan Accountability Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 14 November 2016

Afghanistan Accountability Act of 2016 This bill expresses the sense of Congress with respect to U.S. assistance and accountability in Afghanistanment. The bill states that it is U.S. policy: to conduct assistance programs that result in effective development outcomes for the people of Afghanistan while maintaining accountability for U.S. taxpayers; that all U.S. government agencies and entities working in Afghanistan coordinate plans to develop U.S. policy and assistance programming; to support the development of effective government of Afghanistan oversight institutions; to abide by resource commitments made as part of the Tokyo Mutual Accountability Framework; to provide incentivized assistance to Afghanistan's governing institutions based upon development outcomes and on-budget assistance based upon demonstrated capacity improvements; to support the development of democratic governing institutions in Afghanistan, promote the development of a growing private sector, and strengthen civil society; to support the Afghan efforts to build strong regional economic connectivity with the country's neighbors; to support programs that promote private sector job creation in Afghanistan; and that assistance programs in support of Afghan women and girls remain a U.S. priority. The Department of State shall develop an interagency strategy for U.S. assistance that is sustainable and is not counter-productive to combating corruption in Afghanistan. Such strategy should include: multi-year goals for targeted activities to strengthen selected Afghan official institutions and nongovernmental organizations to prevent and prosecute corruption, an operational plan incorporating all U.S. programming to implement anti-corruption goals, a summary of U.S. efforts to coordinate anti-corruption efforts with international donors, a focus on the development of governmental and nongovernmental Afghan capacity to ensure accountability and combat corruption, and an evaluation of Afghan civil society anti-corruption capacities. The President is authorized to provide technical and financial assistance to government of Afghanistan anti-corruption and audit institutions and Afghan civil society watchdog groups in support of anti-corruption priorities identified by the United States and Afghanistan. The State Department is authorized to provide support for efforts of the government of Afghanistan to improve oversight and accountability of the Afghan National Security Forces, including the Afghan national and local police, and strengthen Afghan civil society and investigative journalists to provide oversight of these institutions. The State Department shall, annually through 2024, submit a report listing each individual who the President determines: is a government of Afghanistan official, a senior associate, or close relative of such an official who is responsible for or complicit in ordering or directing acts of significant corruption, including the expropriation of private or public assets for personal gain, corruption related to government contracts or the extraction of natural resources, bribery, or the facilitation or transfer of the proceeds of corruption to foreign jurisdictions; or has materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services in support of such an activity. The Government Accountability Office shall submit a report on civilian-military assistance efforts that: describes lessons learned from development programming in Afghanistan to include recommendations to improve coordination between U.S. development agencies and the Armed Forces; assesses the U.S. Agency for International Development's ability to advance development goals within Afghanistan operating alongside providers of U.S. military assistance; and assesses whether funding under the Commander's Emergency Response Program achieved the program's counterinsurgency goals and whether this program had any long term development impact, including any negative unintended consequences.

A resolution supporting the designation of October 8, 2016, as "40 Years of Women Cadets at the United States Air Force Academy Day".

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2016

Expresses support for the designation of October 8, 2016, as 40 Years of Women Cadets at the United States Air Force Academy Day. Commends the service and accomplishments of the women cadets and graduates of the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Honors women who serve in the Air Force.

A resolution recognizing the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency on its 20th anniversary.

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2016

Congratulates the men and women of the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency on the occasion of the agency's 20th anniversary. Honors the professional men and women, past and present, of the agency for their selfless service and dedication. Expresses gratitude to all the men and women of the agency for their past and continued efforts to provide timely, relevant, and accurate geospatial intelligence support in delivering overwhelming advantages to warfighters, defense planners, and national security policymakers in the defense and security of the United States.

A resolution supporting the goals and ideals of National Veterans Small Business Week.

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2016

Expresses support for the goals and ideals of National Veterans Small Business Week. Celebrates the millions of people in the United States, especially veterans and their spouses, who benefit from Small Business Administration programs. Expresses appreciation for the continued service to the United States by the nation's veterans through small business ownership and entrepreneurship.

[H.A.S.C. No. 114-142] Department of Defense Laboratories: Innovation Through Science and Engineering In Support of Military Operations

United States · United States House of Representatives · 28 September 2016

Glenn Fine, of Maryland, to be Inspector General, Department of Defense, vice Jon T. Rymer, resigned.

United States · United States Senate · 28 September 2016

Veterans' Health Care Safety Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Veterans' Health Care Safety Act of 2016 This bill prohibits implementation of a proposed Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) rule to permit full practice authority of all VA advanced practice registered nurses when they are acting within the scope of their VA employment.

VA Health Care Provider Education Debt Relief Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

VA Health Care Provider Education Debt Relief Act of 2016 This bill increases the annual and five-year caps on the amount of education debt reduction available to Veterans Health Administration health care professionals under the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) education debt reduction program. The VA may waive such caps for a participant working in a geographical area designated by the Department of Health and Human Services as a health professional shortage area with respect to such participant's specialty or assignment.

VA Provider Pay Modernization Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

VA Provider Pay Modernization Act of 2016 This bill provides that market pay (one of the three salary components of Veterans Health Administration [VHA] physicians and dentists) shall be the same for each physician or dentist with the same specialty or assignment in the same Integrated Service Network (VISN). The market pay of a physician or dentist may exceed the market pay generally available to a physician or dentist with the same specialty or assignment in the same VISN by up to 5%. Such amount shall take into account the pay in the relevant health service area, as designated by the Department of Health and Human Services. Market pay in a health professional shortage area for a physician's or dentist's specialty may exceed by up to 25% the market pay for a physician or dentist in a health service area with a specialty or assignment not relevant to the health professional shortage area. The VA shall: (1) evaluate the market pay of a physician or dentist every 12 months; and (2) in implementing a promotion system, create parity between the grades and annual rates of basic pay for VHA employees performing similar duties in the same facility, regardless of service time.

CERT Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Collaborating for Economic Reintegration of Troops Act or the CERT Act This bill establishes the Commission on Veteran Certification Standards which shall: examine the challenges confronting members of the Armed Forces and their spouses upon post-service entry into the civilian workforce; determine best state practices and evaluate efforts to assist members of the Armed Forces in obtaining professional credentials to facilitate the transfer of military skills and certifications to civilian settings; identify industries and jobs that can most benefit from military experience; develop recommended Blue Star credentialing standards and design evaluation criteria that the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs can use to evaluate state and territory utilization of such standards; and develop related administrative recommendations.

Sell the VA's Hotel Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Sell the VA's Hotel Act This bill requires the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to sell Pershing Hall for fair market value, transfer to the purchaser all right, title, and interest of the United States to the property, and return to the American Legion any personal property in the VA's possession that was located in or otherwise associated with Pershing Hall on the date of such sale, including memorabilia regarding General Pershing and the American Expeditionary Forces in France during World War I. The Pershing Hall Revolving Fund shall be abolished and its funds shall be deposited in the General Fund.

Private Corrado Piccoli Purple Heart Preservation Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Private Corrado Piccoli Purple Heart Preservation Act of 2016 This bill provides that regulations restricting the purchase, production, sale, or exchange of military medals or decorations may not authorize the sale of a Purple Heart awarded to a member of the Armed Forces.

SAAFE Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Safeguarding America's Armed Forces and Effectiveness Act or the SAAFE Act This bill amends the federal judicial code to limit civil claims against a foreign state for injuries, death, or damage that occurs inside the United States as a result of an act of international terrorism or a tortious act. Specifically, it limits such claims to only those for injuries, death, or damage that occurred on September 11, 2001.

Unsecured Server Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Unsecured Server Act of 2016 This bill amends the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 to prohibit federal agencies from granting or renewing security clearances to federal officers or employees, military members on active duty or in an active status, or federal contractors if an agency head determines that they have knowingly stored classified information on, or transmitted classified information to or from, an unsecured computer server that is not authorized by federal intelligence agencies. This prohibition applies retroactively to individuals who used an unsecured server during the 10-year period before enactment of this bill. Agencies may waive security clearance prohibitions to grant clearances to disqualified individuals, but only if the agency notifies Congress 30 days before the proposed waiver. The use of an unsecured server for classified information shall be grounds for revoking an individual's security clearance. The bill establishes a criminal penalty of a fine or imprisonment for up to 10 years for anyone who knowingly stores classified information on, or transmits classified information to or from, an unsecured server or who causes such information to be so stored or transmitted.

Providing Veterans Overdue Care Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Providing Veterans Overdue Care Act of 2016 This bill authorizes the Department of Veterans Affairs to carry out major medical facility leases in specified amounts for: outpatient clinics in Ann Arbor, Michigan; Daytona Beach, Gainesville, and Ocala, Florida; Hampton Roads, Virginia; Missoula, Montana; Northern Colorado, Colorado; Oxnard and Santa Rosa, California; Pike County, Georgia; Portland, Maine; and Raleigh, North Carolina; an outpatient mental health clinic and an outpatient specialty clinic in Birmingham, Alabama; research space in Boston, Massachusetts; Charleston, South Carolina; and Mission Bay, California; Chief Business Office Purchased Care office space in Denver, Colorado; and replacement outpatient clinics in Corpus Christi, Texas; Jacksonville and Tampa, Florida; Pontiac, Michigan; Rochester, New York (phase II); and Terre Haute, Indiana.

ACTivate Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

ACT to Improve VA Timing and Efficiency or the ACTivate Act This bill directs the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to: (1) seek to award contracts to private entities to assist with scheduling and managing appointments for veterans enrolled in the VA health care system, and (2) ensure that such private entity assistance augments the VA's scheduling and appointment process.

Expressing support for policies that maintain a robust Veterans Health Administration of the Department of Veterans Affairs and do not jeopardize care for veterans by moving essential resources to the private sector.

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Declares that the House of Representatives: supports policies that provide necessary resources to serve veterans by maintaining a robust Veterans Health Administration (VHA); opposes policies that would jeopardize care for veterans by moving essential resources away from the VHA and into the private sector; and supports policies that would create integrated health care networks for veterans, with the VHA serving as the coordinator and primary provider of care and selected high-quality community partners providing care as needed to ensure timely and convenient access for enrolled veterans.

Geospatial Data Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Geospatial Data Act of 2016 This bill establishes: (1) in the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) the Federal Geographic Data Committee (the committee), which shall be the lead entity in the executive branch for the development, implementation, and review of policies, practices, and standards relating to geospatial data; and (2) in the executive branch the National Geospatial Advisory Committee to provide advice and recommendations to the committee. The National Spatial Data Infrastructure (as defined in this bill) shall ensure that geospatial data from multiple sources is available and easily integrated to enhance the understanding of the physical and cultural world. The committee shall prepare a strategic plan for the implementation of the infrastructure consistent with national security, national defense, and emergency preparedness program policies regarding data accessibility. The committee shall operate GeoPlatform, an electronic service that provides access to geospatial data and metadata for geospatial data. Agencies whose functions involve geospatial data shall implement a strategy for advancing geographic information and related geospatial data activities appropriate to that agency's mission in support of the strategic plan for the infrastructure. Such agencies shall disclose each contract, cooperative agreement, grant, or other transaction that deals with geospatial data. Four years after enactment of this bill, federal funding shall not be made available for the collection, production, acquisition, maintenance, or dissemination of geospatial data that does not comply with applicable standards established by the committee. The committee and agencies using geospatial data shall rely upon and use private individuals and entities for the acquisition of commercially available surveying and mapping and the provision of geospatial services, to the maximum extent practical.

Foreign Service Optimization Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Foreign Service Optimization Act of 2016 This bill amends the Foreign Service Act of 1980 to require Foreign Service employees overseas to serve at a post for between four and six consecutive years. The Department of State may reduce such assignment period in the case of a first tour of duty or a post deemed unhealthful due to extreme conditions or hardship including war, armed conflict, or civil strife. The State Department shall assure that Foreign Service members who have demonstrated a useful knowledge of the principal languages or dialects of the countries in which they are posted shall be are assigned to two consecutive tours of duty. The tour of duty or period of assignment shall be between four and six years for: (1) a member of the Armed Forces serving as a defense attache, or (2) a civilian employee of the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) assigned to a Defense Attache Office outside the United States. The Department of Defense (DOD) may reduce a tour of duty or a period of assignment if: (1) it is at an unhealthful post, (2) it is the first tour of duty or first period of assignment, or (3) DOD determines such reduced tour to be appropriate for exigent circumstances. The State Department may assign a member of the armed forces serving as a defense attache or a civilian DIA employee assigned to a Defense Attache Office outside the United States who demonstrates a useful knowledge of the principal language or dialect of the country to two consecutive Defense Attache Office tours of duty.

Spending Safeguard Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Spending Safeguard Act This bill requires the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to establish spending limits for direct spending programs that: (1) are enacted or reauthorized after enactment of this bill, and (2) do not have a specific level of authorized spending expressed as a dollar amount. The spending limits must be equal to: (1) 120% of the cost of the program for defense, health, Medicare, income security, Social Security, and veterans benefits and services programs; and (2) 110% of the cost for any other program. The OMB must maintain a publicly available scorecard that displays the spending level for any program that is subject to the limits. The OMB and the President must submit specified reports to Congress comparing current spending to the limits. The bill prohibits obligations for programs that have reached the applicable spending limit. Agencies implementing programs listed on the OMB's scorecard must ensure that any contract, offer of benefits, or other material provided to program participants specifies that the program is subject to a spending limit that may impact future availability of funds to pay benefits.

A bill to transfer certain land from the Secretary of the Army, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

This bill requires the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to transfer certain property within the exterior boundaries of the Standing Rock Indian Reservation within North Dakota that was acquired by the United States for the Oahe Dam and Reservoir Project to the Department of the Interior to be held in trust for the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe of North and South Dakota. The Corps of Engineers shall convey to North Dakota all right of the United States to certain property in Burleigh County, Emmons County, or Morton County in North Dakota that was acquired by the United States for such project and and that is located above the top of the exclusive flood pool of the project. The transfer of such land shall not interfere with any of the authorized purposes of such project, any project of the Pick-Sloan Missouri River Basin Program, or any applicable law. The Corps of Engineers shall retain: (1) the right to inundate with water or cause erosion to the transferred lands as necessary for the operation of such projects; and (2) any land, structures, easements or other property interests necessary to carry out such projects. The Tribe and North Dakota shall be responsible for the payment of costs and administrative expenses associated with the transfers and for any coordination necessary with respect to requirements related to endangered species, cultural resources, and clean air.

MISSION ZERO Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Military Injury Surgical Systems Integrated Operationally Nationwide to Achieve ZERO Preventable Deaths Act or the MISSION ZERO Act This bill amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response to award grants to certain trauma centers to enable military trauma care providers and trauma teams to provide trauma care and related acute care at those trauma centers. Funds may be used to train and incorporate military trauma care providers into the trauma center, including expenditures for malpractice insurance, office space, information technology, specialty education and supervision, trauma programs, and state license fees. Grantees must allow the military trauma care providers to be deployed for military operations, training, or response to a mass casualty incident.

Calling for revisions to the existing rules of engagement under Operation Resolute Support in Afghanistan.

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Urges the President to: (1) revise the existing rules of engagement in Afghanistan and provide commanders the ability to target the Taliban outside of instances where they pose a direct threat to the United States or its allies; and (2) empower the commander of Operation Resolute Support with the authority to train, advise, and assist the Afghan National Defense Security Forces at the tactical level as missions require. Condemns terrorist activity in the Afghanistan region, especially the actions that Taliban forces have assisted and participated in against Afghan, U.S., and NATO forces. Expresses concern regarding the flow of foreign fighters to and from Afghanistan.

Recognizing the impact of tribology on the United States economy and competitiveness in providing solutions to critical technical problems in manufacturing, energy production and use, transportation vehicles and infrastructure, greenhouse gas emissions, defense and homeland security, health care, mining safety and reliability, and space exploration, among others, and recognizing the need for increased research and development investments in tribology and related fields.

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Recognizes the impact of tribology (a study that deals with the design, friction, wear, and lubrication of interacting surfaces in relative motion) on the United States economy and competitiveness in providing solutions to critical technical problems in various industries. Encourages federal agencies to develop and implement programs related to tribology. Encourages the formation of public-private partnerships to advance fundamental research and accelerate the development of tribology-related products. Encourages the National Academy of Engineering to conduct a survey on the status of tribology research in academia and government laboratories and to recommend a course of action to accelerate innovations in tribology.

A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a major medical facility project in Reno, Nevada.

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

This bill authorizes the Department of Veterans Affairs to carry out a major medical facility project that consists of seismic, life safety, and utilities upgrades and expansion of clinical services in Reno, Nevada.

Bring Our Heroes Home Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Bring Our Heroes Home Act of 2016 This bill: (1) requires the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) to establish the Missing Armed Forces Personnel Records Collection; and (2) establishes the Missing Armed Forces Personnel Records Review Board, which shall require all records that relate to the loss, fate, or status of missing Armed Forces personnel to be transmitted to NARA and disclosed to the public in the collection in the absence of clear and convincing evidence that a record is not such a record or that it qualifies for postponement of public disclosure. The board shall: (1) publish a schedule for review of all such records; and (2) establish processes for the transmission of records for the collection, the maintenance of the collection, and the disclosure of such records. Each government office shall: (1) identify, review, and organize each such record in its possession for transmission to NARA and disclosure to the public or for review by the board; and (2) identify and review for public disclosure each such record previously transferred to NARA that remains classified. Each presidential archival depository shall: (1) have as a priority the expedited review for public disclosure of such records in its possession, and (2) make such records available to the board. NARA shall: (1) make each such record identified as classified available for review by the originating body, and (2) prepare and make available to all government offices a standard form for collecting information relating to records subject to review under this bill. All such records shall be publicly disclosed in full and made available in the collection within five years after enactment of this bill unless the President certifies that: (1) continued postponement is necessary because of an identifiable harm to the military defense, intelligence operations, or conduct of foreign relations; and (2) the harm is of such gravity that it outweighs the public interest in disclosure. The Board shall: (1) render a decision on a determination of a government office to postpone the disclosure of any such record; (2) determine, within two years after enactment of this bill, whether all government offices have complied with it; (3) terminate after four years; and (4) transfer all of its records to NARA for inclusion in the collection. The Board may request the Attorney General to petition any U.S. or foreign court to release information relevant to the loss, fate, or status of missing Armed Forces personnel that is held under seal of such court.

Vietnam Helicopter Crew Memorial Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Vietnam Helicopter Crew Memorial Act This bill directs the Department of the Army to place in Arlington National Cemetery a memorial honoring helicopter pilots and crew members who served on active duty in the Armed Forces during the Vietnam era, subject to an agreement with the Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association under which the association shall pay all costs to construct, install, and maintain the memorial.

Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Improvement Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Improvement Act of 2016 This bill revises the enforcement of employment and reemployment rights of members of the Armed Forces with respect to state and private employers. The Department of Justice (DOJ) may initiate an action for relief: (1) with respect to a private or a state employer, and (2) when a state or private employer is engaged in a pattern or practice to infringe upon such rights. A person may bring an action against a state (as an employer), state instrumentality, or state officer or employee acting in his or her official capacity in U.S. district court or state court. The state, instrumentality, officer, or employee shall not be immune from such action under the Eleventh Amendment of the Constitution or under any doctrine of sovereign immunity. No such state, instrumentality, officer, or employee that receives or uses federal financial assistance for a program or activity shall be immune under the Eleventh Amendment or under any other doctrine of sovereign immunity from suit in federal or state court for any violation of such rights related to such program or activity. (Currently, a person may bring such an action against a state only in a state court.) The venue for an action against a private employer is expanded to include: (1) any district in which a substantial part of the events or omissions giving rise to the claim occurred; or (2) any district in which the employer is subject to the court's personal jurisdiction with respect to such action if there is no district in which an action may otherwise be brought. DOJ may issue civil investigative demands. Service-related disability coverage is extended to include a disability that is brought to the employer's attention within five years after the person resumes employment. The bill provides that the employer has the burden of identifying the appropriate reemployment positions.

Violence Against Women Veterans Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Violence Against Women Veterans Act This bill requires the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to carry out a program to assist veterans who have experienced or are experiencing domestic violence or sexual assault in accessing benefits from the VA, including by coordinating access to medical treatment centers, housing assistance, and other benefits. The VA shall carry out the program in partnership with specified health care or other service providers that serve domestic violence or sexual assault victims. The VA may: (1) conduct training for community-based domestic violence or sexual assault service providers on identifying veterans who have been victims, coordinating with local VA service providers, and connecting veterans with appropriate VA housing, mental health, medical, and other financial assistance or benefits; and (2) provide assistance to service providers to ensure veterans access to domestic violence and sexual assault emergency services. The VA may establish local coordinators to provide outreach under such program and ensure that each coordinator is knowledgeable about: the dynamics of domestic violence and sexual assault, including safety concerns, legal protections, and the need for confidential services; veteran eligibility for VA services and benefits relevant to recovery from domestic violence and sexual assault; and local community resources addressing domestic violence and sexual assault. Each coordinator shall assist domestic violence shelters and rape crisis centers in providing services to veterans. The VA shall: (1) establish a national task force to develop a comprehensive national program to address domestic violence and sexual assault among veterans, and (2) conduct a national baseline study to examine the scope of the problem of domestic violence and sexual assault among veterans and spouses of veterans.

Protection of Military Airfields from Wind Turbine Encroachment Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Protection of Military Airfields from Wind Turbine Encroachment Act This bill amends the Internal Revenue Code to make new wind facilities located near certain military installations ineligible for the tax credits for: (1) electricity produced from renewable resources, and (2) investments in qualified small wind energy property. The bill applies to facilities that are originally placed in service after the date of enactment of this bill and are located within a 30-mile radius of: (1) an airfield or airbase that is under the jurisdiction of a military department and in active use; or (2) an air traffic control radar site, weather radar site, or aircraft navigation aid that is owned or operated by the Department of Defense and is a permanent land-based structure at a fixed location.

Gold Star Families Forever Stamp Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Gold Star Families Forever Stamp Act This bill directs the Postmaster General to provide for the issuance of a forever stamp to honor the sacrifices of families who have lost a loved one who was a member of the Armed Forces in combat.

Gold Star Families Voices Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Gold Star Families Voices Act of 2016 This bill amends the Veterans' Oral History Project Act to require the veterans oral history program to include the collection of video and audio recordings of biographical histories by immediate family members of members of the Armed Forces who became missing in action or who died as a result of their wartime service.

Veteran Overmedication Prevention Act of 2016

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2016

Veteran Overmedication Prevention Act of 2016 This bill requires the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to contract with the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (or another private, not-for-profit entity with comparable expertise) to review the deaths of all covered veterans who died by suicide during the last five years. The review shall include: the total numbers of veterans who died by a violent death or by an accidental death during such period; each veteran's age, gender, race, and ethnicity; a list of medications and substances prescribed to such veterans, as annotated on toxicology reports; a summary of medical diagnoses by VA physicians that led to such prescriptions in cases of anxiety and depressive disorders; the number of instances in which such a veteran was concurrently on multiple medications prescribed by VA physicians; the number of such veterans who were not taking any VA-prescribed medication; the percentage of such veterans treated for anxiety or depressive disorders who received a non-medication first-line treatment compared to the percentage who received medication only; the number of instances in which a non-medication first-line treatment was attempted and deemed ineffective which led to prescribing medication; descriptions of how the VA determines and updates clinical practice guidelines for prescribing medications and of VA efforts to maintain appropriate staffing levels for mental health professionals; the percentage of such veterans with combat experience or related trauma; identification of VA medical facilities with markedly high prescription rates and suicide rates for treated veterans; an analysis of VA programs that collaborate with state Medicaid agencies and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services; an analysis of VA medical center collaboration with medical examiners' offices or local jurisdictions to determine veteran mortality and cause of death; identification of a best practice model to collect and share veteran death certificate data; an assessment of any apparent patterns based on the review; and recommendations to improve the safety and well-being of veterans. The VA shall ensure that such data is compiled in a manner that allows it to be analyzed across all data fields for purposes of informing and updating VA clinical practice guidelines. A "covered veteran" means any veteran who received VA hospital care or medical services during the five-year period preceding the veteran's death.