Defence

Veterans' Disability Compensation Automatic COLA Act of 2019

United States · United States Congress · 7 February 2019

Veterans' Disability Compensation Automatic COLA Act of 2019 This bill provides that whenever there is a cost-of-living increase in benefits for Social Security recipients, the Department of Veterans Affairs shall increase by the same percentage the amounts payable for veterans' disability compensation, additional compensation for dependents, the clothing allowance for certain disabled veterans, and dependency and indemnity compensation for surviving spouses and children.

Hold the LYNE Act

United States · United States Congress · 7 February 2019

Hold the Low-Yield Nuclear Explosive Act or the Hold the LYNE Act This bill prohibits the Department of Defense or the Department of Energy from using funds for the research and development, production, or deployment of the Trident D5 low-yield nuclear warhead.

Defense of Environment and Property Act of 2019

United States · United States Congress · 7 February 2019

Defense of Environment and Property Act of 2019 This bill revises the scope, jurisdiction, and requirements of the Clean Water Act. It specifies the types of water bodies that are navigable waters and therefore receive protection. It defines navigable waters as waters of the United States that are (1) navigable-in-fact; or (2) permanent, standing, or continuously flowing bodies of water that form geographical features commonly known as streams, oceans, rivers, and lakes that are connected to waters that are navigable-in-fact. The bill limits the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) over such waters, including by stating that ground water is under the jurisdiction of states. The bill prohibits the EPA from using a significant nexus test to determine federal jurisdiction over navigable waters and waters of the United States. The bill nullifies the 2015 Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule, the Migratory Bird rule, and a related guidance document issued in 2008. The bill prohibits the EPA and the Corps from issuing new rules or guidance that expands or interprets the definition of navigable waters unless expressly authorized by Congress. Federal agencies must obtain consent from private property owners to collect information about navigable waters on their land. If regulations relating to navigable waters or waters of United States diminish the value of a property, then the federal government must pay the property owner an amount equal to twice the value of the loss.

Servicemembers and Veterans Empowerment and Support Act of 2019

United States · United States Congress · 7 February 2019

Servicemembers and Veterans Empowerment and Support Act of 2019 This bill expands treatment for veterans with psychological trauma caused by sexual abuse or harassment that occurred during military service.

A bill to provide for the retention and service of transgender individuals in the Armed Forces.

United States · United States Congress · 7 February 2019

This bill prohibits (1) an individual serving as a member of the Armed Forces from being involuntarily separated from the Armed Forces, or denied reenlistment or continuation in service, solely on the basis of the member's gender identity; and (2) an individual from being denied initial enlistment, commissioning, or other accession into the Armed Forces solely on such basis.

A resolution honoring the life of Rosemary Mariner.

United States · United States Congress · 7 February 2019

This resolution honors the life of Captain Rosemary Mariner and expresses deep appreciation for her service to the United States.

MARKUP OF: H.J. RES 37, DIRECTING THE REMOVAL OF UNITED STATES ARMED FORCES FROM HOSTILITIES IN THE REPUBLIC OF YEMEN THAT HAVE NOT BEEN AUTHORIZED BY CONGRESS

United States · United States House of Representatives · 6 February 2019

[H.A.S.C. No. 116–3]EVALUATION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE’S COUNTERTERRORISM APPROACH

United States · United States House of Representatives · 6 February 2019

SFC Sean Cooley and SPC Christopher Horton Congressional Gold Star Family Fellowship Program Act

United States · United States Congress · 6 February 2019

SFC Sean Cooley and SPC Christopher Horton Congressional Gold Star Family Fellowship Program Act This resolution establishes in the House of Representatives the Congressional Gold Star Family Fellowship Program under which certain family members of a member of the Armed Forces who is a hostile casualty or died from a training-related injury may serve a 12-month fellowship in the office of a Member of the House.

Veteran Spouses Equal Treatment Act

United States · United States Congress · 6 February 2019

Veteran Spouses Equal Treatment Act This bill amends the definition of spouse for purposes of veterans' benefits to require the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to recognize a marriage based on the law of the state where the marriage occurred. When a marriage occurs outside a state, the VA shall recognize it if the marriage is lawful in the place where it occurs and could have been entered into under the laws of any state. The bill also amends the definitions of spouse and surviving spouse to remove the requirement that the spouse be of the opposite sex.

Prohibiting Unauthorized Military Action in Venezuela Act

United States · United States Congress · 6 February 2019

Prohibiting Unauthorized Military Action in Venezuela Act This bill prohibits funds made available to federal departments or agencies from being used to introduce the Armed Forces of the United States into hostilities with Venezuela, except pursuant to (1) a declaration of war, (2) a specific statutory authorization that meets the requirements of the War Powers Resolution and is enacted after the enactment of this bill, or (3) a national emergency created by attack upon the United States or the Armed Forces.

Burn Pit Veterans Revision Act

United States · United States Congress · 6 February 2019

Family Member Access to Burn Pit Registry Act

United States · United States Congress · 6 February 2019

Full Military Honors Act of 2019

United States · United States Congress · 6 February 2019

Full Military Honors Act of 2019 This bill requires full military honors to be provided for the funerals of certain veterans. Specifically, a veteran shall receive full military honors if the veteran (1) is first interred or inurned in Arlington National Cemetery, (2) was awarded the medal of honor or the prisoner-of-war medal, and (3) is not entitled to full military honors because of such veteran's grade.

To amend title 10, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Defense to provide space-available travel on aircraft of the Department of Defense to children, surviving spouses, and siblings of members of the Armed Forces who die while serving in the active military, naval, or air service.

United States · United States Congress · 6 February 2019

This bill authorizes the Department of Defense to offer, on a space-available basis, transportation on military aircraft to the children, surviving spouses, and siblings of members of the Armed Forces who die during active service.

RIGHT Act of 2019

United States · United States Congress · 6 February 2019

Restoring Integrity, Governance, Honesty, and Transparency Act of 2019 or the RIGHT Act of 2019 This bill revises ethics requirements applicable to certain federal government employees. Specifically, the bill requires candidates for President or Vice President to disclose 20 years of tax returns, which the Office of Government Ethics (OGE) may publish after making necessary redactions; the disclosure of information regarding contributions to a government official's legal defense fund; the OGE to prohibit any executive branch officer or employee from receiving reimbursement for, or payment of, legal fees incurred in connection with executive branch service; the Office of Special Counsel to report and recommend disciplinary action for certain ethics violations by an employee of the White House or the Executive Office of the President; and travel reports regarding the use of government aircraft to be submitted quarterly and to include an explanation of the decision to use such aircraft and the estimated cost to the government. The bill prohibits the use of federal funds to pay for expenses incurred at a property owned or operated by the President, Vice President, or any federal employee if such payment would result in a financial benefit for such individuals; and government contractors from donating to inaugural committees. The bill further provides that executive agencies subject to ethics reporting and disclosure requirements include the Executive Office of the President, the Office of the Vice President, and the White House; and restrictions on the employment of relatives include the White House and the Executive Office of the President.

Trade Security Act of 2019

United States · United States Congress · 6 February 2019

Trade Security Act of 2019 This bill revises provisions related to the adjustment of U.S. imports due to a national security threat. The bill allows Congress to block a presidential import adjustment through a joint resolution. This provision retroactively applies to adjustments made on or after July 1, 2018. However, it shall not apply to specified steel and aluminum import adjustments. The Department of Defense (currently, the Department of the Treasury) must investigate the national security threat of a U.S. import, and report to the President the results of that investigation. Treasury must provide recommendations regarding such imports upon request by the President.

Trade Security Act of 2019

United States · United States Congress · 6 February 2019

Trade Security Act of 2019 This bill revises provisions related to the adjustment of U.S. imports due to a national security threat. The bill allows Congress to block a presidential import adjustment through a joint resolution. This provision retroactively applies to adjustments made on or after July 1, 2018. However, it shall not apply to specified steel and aluminum import adjustments. The Department of Defense (currently, the Department of Commerce) must investigate the national security threat of a U.S. import, and report to the President the results of that investigation. Commerce must provide recommendations regarding such imports upon request by the President.

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION FOR APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2020 AND THE FUTURE YEARS DEFENSE PROGRAM

United States · United States Senate · 5 February 2019

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that there is a need to rebuild the Navy and ensure that it is prepared to engage with adversaries around the world through an increased investment in the United States naval power.

United States · United States Congress · 5 February 2019

This resolution recognizes the need for the U.S. Navy to increase its long-term capabilities. The resolution recommends a Navy force structure by 2050 to include specified numbers of various types of submarines and ships. The resolution also recognizes the need for constant innovation and analysis.

American Patriots of WWII through Service with the Canadian and British Armed Forces Gold Medal Act of 2019

United States · United States Congress · 5 February 2019

American Patriots of WWII through Service with the Canadian and British Armed Forces Gold Medal Act of 2019 This bill directs the award of a Congressional Gold Medal in honor of the dedicated service of U.S. nationals who voluntarily joined the Canadian and British armed forces during World War II. Following the award, the medal shall be given to the Smithsonian Institution for display and research. The U.S. Mint may strike duplicates in bronze.

Walter B. Jones Restoring Power to Congress Act

United States · United States Congress · 5 February 2019

Walter B. Jones Restoring Power to Congress Act This bill repeals the Authorization for Use of Military Force signed into law September 18, 2001.

Department of Veterans Affairs Procurement Efficiency and Transparency Act of 2019

United States · United States Congress · 5 February 2019

Department of Veterans Affairs Procurement Efficiency and Transparency Act of 2019 This bill addresses procurement procedures in the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Specifically, the bill requires the VA to record the amount of any cost savings realized by using competitive procedures in awarding contracts reported in the Federal Procurement Data System (or successor systems). The VA shall make available and use on a VA-wide basis the standardized procurement templates already used internally at certain VA offices.

Agent Orange Exposure Fairness Act of 2019

United States · United States Congress · 5 February 2019

Agent Orange Exposure Fairness Act of 2019 This bill expands eligibility for a presumption of service-connection for veterans exposed to certain herbicide agents (e.g., Agent Orange) during military service in Vietnam. Specifically, the bill removes the manifestation period required for the presumption of service-connection for chloracne and porphyria cutanea tarda. Additionally, the bill provides statutory authority for a presumption of service-connection for certain cases of acute and subacute peripheral neuropathy without a manifestation period. Under a presumption of service-connection, specific disabilities diagnosed in certain veterans are presumed to have been caused by the circumstances of their military service. Health care benefits and disability compensation may then be awarded.

VA Newborn Emergency Treatment Act

United States · United States Congress · 4 February 2019

VA Newborn Emergency Treatment Act This bill authorizes the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to furnish transportation in connection with the receipt of covered health care services for a newborn child of a woman veteran (and the child's parents). The bill expands covered health care services to include services furnished at health care facilities other than the facility where the child was delivered. Under the bill, the VA may furnish more than seven days of health care services and transportation to such services if a child is in need of additional care. Expenses incurred for transportation furnished in order for a newborn child of a veteran to receive health care services prior to the enactment of this bill may be waived or reimbursed to the veteran by the VA.

Women Veterans and Families Health Services Act of 2019

United States · United States Congress · 4 February 2019

Women Veterans and Families Health Services Act of 2019 This bill addresses fertility treatments, counseling, and other health-related programs for veterans and members of the Armed Forces. Specifically, the bill requires the Department of Defense (DOD) and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to provide fertility treatments and counseling to covered veterans and active duty servicemembers or a spouse, partner, or gestational surrogate of such veteran or servicemember. A covered veteran or service member is a severely wounded, ill, or injured former or current member of the Armed Forces who has an infertility condition incurred or aggravated while serving on active duty. DOD must establish procedures related to gamete retrieval and storage. Fertility counseling and treatment are included within authorized VA medical services. The VA may pay the adoption expenses (for up to three adoptions) for a covered member who is enrolled in the VA health care system. The VA must facilitate specified reproduction and infertility research conducted collaboratively by DOD and the Department of Health and Human Services. The VA shall enhance the capabilities of the VA women veterans contact center to respond to assistance requests and refer such veterans to federal or community resources. The bill permanently extends and expands a VA pilot program related to group reintegration and readjustment services for certain women veterans. The bill provides child care assistance to qualified veterans receiving (1) mental health care services or intensive health care services, and (2) readjustment counseling and related mental health services.

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

United States · United States Congress · 4 February 2019

This resolution recognizes Black History Month as an important time to reflect on the significant contributions of African Americans in the history of the United States, including in the Armed Forces.

Recognizing the difficult challenges Black veterans faced when returning home after serving in the Armed Forces, their heroic military sacrifices, and their patriotism in fighting for equal rights and for the dignity of a people and a Nation.

United States · United States Congress · 4 February 2019

This concurrent resolution recognizes the difficult challenges black veterans faced when returning home after serving in the Armed Forces, their heroic military sacrifices, and their patriotism in fighting for equal rights and for the dignity of a people and a nation. The concurrent resolution also recognizes the need for the Department of Veterans Affairs to continue to work to eliminate any health and benefit disparities for minority veterans.

Expressing the sense of Congress that a commemorative postage stamp should be issued in honor of the Buffalo Soldiers.

United States · United States Congress · 4 February 2019

This concurrent resolution calls for the Citizens' Stamp Advisory Committee to recommend that the Postmaster General issue a commemorative postage stamp honoring the Buffalo Soldiers.

Women Veterans and Families Health Services Act of 2019

United States · United States Congress · 4 February 2019

Women Veterans and Families Health Services Act of 2019 This bill addresses fertility treatments, counseling, and other health-related programs for veterans and members of the Armed Forces. Specifically, the bill requires the Department of Defense (DOD) and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to provide fertility treatments and counseling to covered veterans and active duty servicemembers or a spouse, partner, or gestational surrogate of such veteran or servicemember. A covered veteran or service member is a severely wounded, ill, or injured former or current member of the Armed Forces who has an infertility condition incurred or aggravated while serving on active duty. DOD must establish procedures related to gamete retrieval and storage. Fertility counseling and treatment are included within authorized VA medical services. The VA may pay the adoption expenses (for up to three adoptions) for a covered member who is enrolled in the VA health care system. The VA must facilitate specified reproduction and infertility research conducted collaboratively by DOD and the Department of Health and Human Services. The VA shall enhance the capabilities of the VA women veterans contact center to respond to assistance requests and refer such veterans to federal or community resources. The bill permanently extends and expands a VA pilot program related to group reintegration and readjustment services for certain women veterans. The bill provides child care assistance to qualified veterans receiving (1) mental health care services or intensive health care services, and (2) readjustment counseling and related mental health services.

Increasing Veteran Access to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act of 2019

United States · United States Congress · 31 January 2019

Increasing Veteran Access to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act of 2019 This bill directs the Department of Veterans Affairs to ensure that the colorectal cancer screening guidelines used in medical facilities at which veterans receive hospital care or medical services include the strategies for screenings included in both the latest recommendations of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force and the Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set issued by the National Committee for Quality Assurance.

Bicameral Congressional Trade Authority Act of 2019

United States · United States Congress · 31 January 2019

Bicameral Congressional Trade Authority Act of 2019 This bill requires congressional approval for a presidential import adjustment due to a national security threat from an import related to military equipment, energy resources, or critical infrastructure essential to national security. Specifically, the bill requires the President to submit a proposal to Congress, which Congress may approve by a joint resolution. Under current law, the President determines whether any adjustment of an import is necessary and must submit to Congress the reasons for any action taken or not taken. The Department of Defense (currently, the Department of Commerce) must investigate the effect of these imports on national security. The bill retroactively applies to any proposed action made four years before enactment of this bill. In general, any rate of duty modification occurring in the time period beginning four years before and ending the day before enactment of this bill must revert to the previous rate unless it receives congressional approval.

Modernizing the Trusted Workforce for the 21st Century Act of 2019

United States · United States Congress · 31 January 2019

Modernizing the Trusted Workforce for the 21st Century Act of 2019 This bill directs various agencies to report on, and devise plans to improve, systems for handling security clearances and background checks. The Security, Suitability, and Credentialing Performance Accountability Council shall provide Congress with a plan to reduce the background investigation backlog and to consolidate security clearance processes to improve efficiency. The Director of National Intelligence, or another individual selected by the President, shall serve as the Security Executive Agent for all U.S. departments and agencies. The agent shall establish a policy and implementation plan for improving security clearance procedures. The agent shall report to Congress on (1) ways to improve or simplify investigation procedures; (2) the feasibility of the clearance in person concept, which permits an individual to maintain access to classified information for up to three years after leaving a cleared position; and (3) protections for the confidentiality of whistleblower-related communications in continuous vetting programs. Federal departments and agencies shall report annually to the agent certain information related to reciprocal recognition of security clearances when an individual moves between positions within the department or agency, and the agent shall summarize and report such information to Congress. The bill imposes various targets for reducing the pendency of secret and top secret level clearance determinations. It also requires reports to Congress on various topics, such as the feasibility of having no more than three tiers of trust and security clearance positions.

Prevention of Arms Race Act of 2019

United States · United States Congress · 31 January 2019

Prevention of Arms Race Act of 2019 This bill restricts the appropriation of funds for the procurement, flight testing, or deployment of missiles banned by the Treaty between the United States of America and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics on the Elimination of Their Intermediate-Range and Shorter-Range Missiles (INF Treaty). Before such funds may be appropriated, the Department of Defense shall submit a report to Congress that includes (1) a memorandum of understanding from a North Atlantic Treaty Organization or Indo-Pacific ally committing to hosting the deployment of such a missile, (2) confirmation that the United States has not rejected any diplomatic offer to resolve Russia's violation of the INF Treaty, (3) discussion of the ramifications of a collapse of the treaty and of a U.S. withdrawal from the agreement, (4) discussion of the mission requirements with respect to Russia and China that would be met by weapons systems covered by the INF, and (5) discussion of the degree to which INF-compliant weapons can meet such mission requirements.

Bicameral Congressional Trade Authority Act of 2019

United States · United States Congress · 31 January 2019

Bicameral Congressional Trade Authority Act of 2019 This bill requires congressional approval for a presidential import adjustment due to a national security threat from an import related to military equipment, energy resources, or critical infrastructure essential to national security. Specifically, the bill requires the President to submit a proposal to Congress, which Congress may approve by a joint resolution. Under current law, the President determines whether any adjustment of an import is necessary and must submit to Congress the reasons for any action taken or not taken. The Department of Defense (currently, the Department of Commerce) must investigate the effect of these imports on national security. The bill retroactively applies to any proposed action made four years before enactment of this bill. In general, any rate of duty modification occurring in the time period beginning four years before and ending the day before enactment of this bill must revert to the previous rate unless it receives congressional approval.

A joint resolution to direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities in the Republic of Yemen that have not been authorized by Congress.

United States · United States Congress · 30 January 2019

This joint resolution directs the President to remove U.S. Armed Forces from hostilities in or affecting Yemen within 30 days unless Congress authorizes a later withdrawal date, issues a declaration of war, or specifically authorizes the use of the Armed Forces. Prohibited activites include providing in-flight fueling for non-U.S. aircraft conducting missions as part of the conflict in Yemen. This joint resolution shall not affect any military operations directed at Al Qaeda. The President must submit to Congress, within 90 days, reports assessing the risks that would be posed (1) if the United States were to cease supporting operations with respect to the conflict in Yemen, and (2) if Saudi Arabia were to cease sharing Yemen-related intelligence with the United States.

Venezuela Arms Restriction Act

United States · United States Congress · 30 January 2019

Venezuela Arms Restriction Act This bill prohibits the export of weapons and related services to security forces controlled by any Venezuelan government not recognized by the United States. (The United States recognizes Juan Guaido as interim president, not the government of President Nicolas Maduro.) The prohibition includes weapons, weapons systems, munitions, and equipment or materials necessary to produce such weapons. Defense services, including testing and repair of weapons, technical assistance, and training, are also prohibited. The Department of State shall report to Congress on the transfer of the prohibited items and services by foreign persons to the unrecognized Venezuelan government security forces. The report shall also include information on any known use of the prohibited items and services by such security forces. The unrecognized Venezuelan security forces include (1) the Bolivarian National Armed Forces, including the Bolivarian National Guard; (2) the Bolivarian National Intelligence Service; (3) the Bolivarian National Police; and (4) the Bureau for Scientific, Criminal and Forensic Investigations of the Ministry of Interior, Justice, and Peace.

Immigrant Veterans Eligibility Tracking System (I–VETS) Act

United States · United States Congress · 30 January 2019

Immigrant Veterans Eligibility Tracking System (I-VETS) Act This bill directs the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to identify aliens serving or have served in the U.S. Armed Forces on active duty or reserve components, when such an alien is applying for an immigration benefit or is placed in an immigration enforcement proceeding. DHS shall annotate its records to reflect this service and to allow tracking of the immigration outcomes of such aliens.

Reaffirming the robust commitment of the House of Representatives to the importance of the United States-Greek strategic partnership.

United States · United States Congress · 30 January 2019

This resolution expresses support for relations between the United States and Greece and encourages a collaborative focus by the two countries on specific areas, including defense and energy.

Directing the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities in the Republic of Yemen that have not been authorized by Congress.

United States · United States Congress · 30 January 2019

This joint resolution directs the President to remove U.S. Armed Forces from hostilities in or affecting Yemen within 30 days unless Congress authorizes a later withdrawal date, issues a declaration of war, or specifically authorizes the use of the Armed Forces. Prohibited activites include providing in-flight fueling for non-U.S. aircraft conducting missions as part of the conflict in Yemen. This joint resolution shall not affect any military operations directed at Al Qaeda. The President must submit to Congress, within 90 days, reports assessing the risks that would be posed (1) if the United States were to cease supporting operations with respect to the conflict in Yemen, and (2) if Saudi Arabia were to cease sharing Yemen-related intelligence with the United States.

Rabbi Michoel Ber Weissmandl Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2019

United States · United States Congress · 30 January 2019

Rabbi Michoel Ber Weissmandl Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2019 This bill orders the posthumous award of a Congressional Gold Medal to Rabbi Michoel Ber Weissmandl, in recognition of his acts of valor during World War II. The U.S. Mint may strike and sell duplicates in bronze.

Responsible Withdrawal from Syria Act

United States · United States Congress · 30 January 2019

Responsible Withdrawal from Syria Act This bill prohibits the Department of Defense (DOD), absent a report that addresses specified issues, from spending FY2019 funds to reduce below 1,500 the number of active-duty servicemembers deployed to Syria. Specifically, DOD, the Department of State, and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence must report on issues including U.S. political and military strategies in the region and the potential effects of a withdrawal.

Yemen Refueling Prohibition Act

United States · United States Congress · 30 January 2019

Yemen Refueling Prohibition Act This bill prohibits obligating or expending federal funds to provide in-flight refueling for aircraft belonging to Saudi Arabia or the Saudi-led coalition as part of the ongoing military intervention in Yemen.

Merrill’s Marauders Congressional Gold Medal Act

United States · United States Congress · 30 January 2019

Merrill's Marauders Congressional Gold Medal Act This bill directs Congress to award a Congressional Gold Medal to the 5307th Composite Unit (Provisional), commonly known as Merrill's Marauders, in recognition of their bravery and outstanding service in the jungles of Burma (Myanmar) during World War II. Following its award, the gold medal shall be given to the Smithsonian Institution where it shall be displayed and made available for research.

Servicemember Retirement Improvement Act

United States · United States Congress · 30 January 2019

Servicemember Retirement Improvement Act This bill allows members of the Ready Reserve of a reserve component of the Armed Forces to make the maximum allowable contribution ($19,500 in 2020) to their Thrift Savings Plans (TSPs) without limiting the amount such members may contribute to a retirement plan based upon other employment. The bill also doubles the maximum allowable contribution amount to the TSPs of federal employees in the Ready Reserve who are not eligible to make contributions to any plan other than the TSP.

Child Welfare Provider Inclusion Act of 2019

United States · United States Congress · 30 January 2019

Child Welfare Provider Inclusion Act of 2019 This bill prohibits discrimination or adverse action against a child welfare provider that declines to provide services due to the provider's sincerely held religious beliefs or moral convictions. The prohibition applies to the federal government and any state, tribal, or local government that receives federal funding for child and family services or foster care and adoption assistance. However, government entities may still take adverse action against a provider that denies adoption or foster care placement based on the prospective parent or child's race, color, or national origin. If a state, tribal, or local entity engages in such prohibited actions, the Department of Health and Human Services shall withhold 15% of the federal funds the entity would have received to provide child and family services or foster care and adoption. The bill also provides a private right of action for child welfare providers to sue the government entity for such discrimination, and a prevailing provider shall be entitled to recover reasonable attorney's fees and costs. A government entity that accepts federal funding for child and family services or foster care and adoption assistance shall have waived sovereign entity as a defense to such discrimination allegations.

United States and Republic of Korea Alliance Support Act

United States · United States Congress · 30 January 2019

United States and Republic of Korea Alliance Support Act This bill prohibits the Department of Defense (DOD) from reducing below 22,000 the number of active-duty servicemembers deployed to South Korea unless DOD makes specified certifications, including that such a reduction is in the interest of national security.

Child Welfare Provider Inclusion Act of 2019

United States · United States Congress · 30 January 2019

Child Welfare Provider Inclusion Act of 2019 This bill prohibits discrimination or adverse action against a child welfare provider that declines to provide services due to the provider's sincerely held religious beliefs or moral convictions. The prohibition applies to the federal government and any state, tribal, or local government that receives federal funding for child and family services or foster care and adoption assistance. However, government entities may still take adverse action against a provider that denies adoption or foster care placement based on the prospective parent or child's race, color, or national origin. If a state, tribal, or local entity engages in such prohibited actions, the Department of Health and Human Services shall withhold 15% of the federal funds the entity would have received to provide child and family services or foster care and adoption. The bill also provides a private right of action for child welfare providers to sue the government entity for such discrimination, and a prevailing provider shall be entitled to recover reasonable attorney's fees and costs. A government entity that accepts federal funding for child and family services or foster care and adoption assistance shall have waived sovereign entity as a defense to such discrimination allegations.

Paycheck Fairness Act

United States · United States Congress · 30 January 2019

Paycheck Fairness Act This bill addresses wage discrimination on the basis of sex. It amends equal pay provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to (1) restrict the use of the bona fide factor defense to wage discrimination claims, (2) enhance nonretaliation prohibitions, (3) make it unlawful to require an employee to sign a contract or waiver prohibiting the employee from disclosing information about the employee's wages, and (4) increase civil penalties for violations of equal pay provisions. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs shall train EEOC employees and other affected parties on wage discrimination. The bill directs the Department of Labor to: (1) establish and carry out a grant program for negotiation skills training for girls and women, (2) conduct studies to eliminate pay disparities between men and women, and (3) make available information on wage discrimination to assist the public in understanding and addressing such discrimination. The Secretary of Labor's National Award for Pay Equity in the Workplace is established for an employer who has made a substantial effort to eliminate pay disparities between men and women. The bill requires the EEOC to issue regulations for collecting from employers compensation and other employment data according to the sex, race, and national origin of employees for use in enforcing laws prohibiting pay discrimination.

Paycheck Fairness Act

United States · United States Congress · 30 January 2019

Paycheck Fairness Act This bill addresses wage discrimination on the basis of sex. It amends equal pay provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to (1) restrict the use of the bona fide factor defense to wage discrimination claims, (2) enhance nonretaliation prohibitions, (3) make it unlawful to require an employee to sign a contract or waiver prohibiting the employee from disclosing information about the employee's wages, and (4) increase civil penalties for violations of equal pay provisions. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs shall train EEOC employees and other affected parties on wage discrimination. The bill directs the Department of Labor to: (1) establish and carry out a grant program for negotiation skills training for girls and women, (2) conduct studies to eliminate pay disparities between men and women, and (3) make available information on wage discrimination to assist the public in understanding and addressing such discrimination. The Secretary of Labor's National Award for Pay Equity in the Workplace is established for an employer who has made a substantial effort to eliminate pay disparities between men and women. The bill requires the EEOC to issue regulations for collecting from employers compensation and other employment data according to the sex, race, and national origin of employees for use in enforcing laws prohibiting pay discrimination.