Defence

Homeowners' Defense Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 6 November 2007

Homeowners' Defense Act of 2007 - Establishes the National Catastrophe Risk Consortium as a nonprofit, nonfederal entity to: (1) maintain an inventory of catastrophe risk obligations held by state reinsurance funds, and state residual insurance market entities; (2) issue, on a conduit basis, securities and other financial instruments linked to catastrophe risks insured or reinsured through Consortium members; and (3) act as a centralized repository of state risk information accessible by certain private-market participants. Instructs the Secretary of the Treasury to implement a national homeowners' insurance stabilization program to make liquidity loans and catastrophic loans to qualified reinsurance programs to: (1) ensure their solvency; (2) improve the availability and affordability of homeowners' insurance; (3) provide incentive for risk transfer to the private capital and reinsurance markets; and (4) spread the risk of catastrophic financial loss resulting from natural disasters and catastrophic events. Authorizes the Secretary to establish and collect, from qualified and precertified reinsurance programs, a reasonable fee to offset expenses of the program. Instructs the Secretary to require full repayment of all loans made under this Act.

A resolution supporting and encouraging greater support for Veterans Day each year.

United States · United States Congress · 6 November 2007

Encourages the people of the United States to demonstrate their support for veterans on Veterans Day each year. Encourages schools and teachers to educate students on the great contributions veterans have made to the country and its history, both while serving as members of the Armed Forces and after completing their service.

SAVE Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 6 November 2007

Secure America Through Verification and Enforcement Act of 2007 or SAVE Act of 2007 - Sets forth border security and enforcement provisions, including provisions respecting: (1) increases in Border Patrol and investigative personnel; (2) recruitment of former military personnel; (3) use of Department of Defense (DOD) equipment; (4) infrastructure improvements; (5) aerial and other surveillance; (5) a national strategy to secure the borders; (6) emergency deployment of Border Patrol agents; and (7) expansion of the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism along the northern and southern borders. Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act and specified maritime law sections to revise alien smuggling provisions. Sets forth provisions respecting border security on certain federal lands under the jurisdiction of the Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary of the Interior. Border Law Enforcement Act - Authorizes a border relief grant program for a tribal, state, or local law enforcement agency in a county within 25 miles of the southern border of the United States. Amends the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996 to make the basic employment eligibility confirmation pilot program permanent. Sets forth conditions for the mandatory use of the E-verify system. Requires: (1) employer/employee notification of social security number mismatches and multiple uses, and related information sharing with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS); and (2) establishment of electronic birth and death registration systems. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) penalize specified employers for failure to correct information returns; and (2) prohibit employers from deducting from gross income wages paid to unauthorized aliens, with an exception for an employer participating in the basic employment eligibility confirmation program. Increases criminal alien program (CAP) personnel. Establishes within DHS a rewards program to assist in the elimination of commercial operations to produce or sell fraudulent immigration-related documents and to assist in the investigation, prosecution, or disruption of commercial alien smuggling operations. Provides for: (1) increased alien detention facilities; (2) additional district court judgeships; and (3) a media campaign to inform the public of changes made by this Act including a multilingual media campaign explaining noncompliance penalties.

To amend title 10, United States Code, to prohibit the disposal by the Department of Defense of surplus military items designated as Identification Friend or Foe items, to amend title 18, United States Code, to make it a misdemeanor to possess or traffic in Identification Friend or Foe items, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 6 November 2007

Prohibits the sale or donation of Department of Defense designated as Identification Friend or Foe equipment or accessories, with specified exceptions. Subjects to civil or criminal penalties, or both, persons who manufacture, sell, or possess such items without authorization.

To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the collective bargaining rights and procedures for review of adverse actions of certain employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 6 November 2007

Repeals specified exceptions to rights of certain Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) employees to engage in collective bargaining. Requires a final decision of the VA with respect to the review of an adverse personnel action against a VA employee to be issued not later than 60 days after such action has been appealed. Subjects such decision to judicial review in the appropriate U.S. District Court or, if the decision is made by a labor arbitrator, in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit.

Veterans Quality of Life Study Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 6 November 2007

Veterans Quality of Life Study Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to contract with the Institute of Medicine, or other appropriate entity, to conduct a study analyzing the extent to which the Department of Veterans Affairs schedule for rating disabilities accounts for or should be amended to account, measure, and compensate for loss of quality of life to veterans due to a disability resulting from a personal injury suffered or disease contracted in the line of duty. Provides that if a veteran who is a claimant dies before completing the submission of a claim for benefits, the person who would receive any accrued benefits due to such veteran shall be treated as the claimant for purposes of completing submission of the claim. Requires an annual report from the chief judge of the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims (Court) to the congressional veterans' committees summarizing the Court's workload. Expresses the sense of Congress that the Court should be provided with appropriate office space, without undue disruption, inconvenience, or cost. Requires a report from the Administrator of General Services to the veterans' committees on the feasibility of leasing additional space for the Court, and using the entire building in which the Court is now housed as a Veterans Courthouse and Justice Center.

Military Service Tax Relief Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 6 November 2007

Military Service Tax Relief Act of 2007 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to make permanent: (1) penalty-free distributions from individual retirement plans to individuals called or ordered to active military duty; and (2) the taxpayer election to include combat zone compensation as earned income for purposes of computing the earned income tax credit.

Impeaching Richard B. Cheney, Vice President of the United States, of high crimes and misdemeanors.

United States · United States Congress · 6 November 2007

Impeaches Richard B. Cheney, Vice President of the United States, for high crimes and misdemeanors. Sets forth articles of impeachment stating that Vice President Cheney: (1) has purposely manipulated the intelligence process to deceive the citizens and Congress of the United States about a threat of Iraqi weapons of mass destruction, and about an alleged relationship between Iraq and al Qaeda, to justify the use of the U.S. Armed Forces against Iraq in a manner damaging to U.S. national security interests; and (2) has openly threatened aggression against Iran absent any real threat to the United States, and has done so with the U.S. proven capability to carry out such threats, thus undermining U.S. national security.

San Joaquin River Restoration Settlement Act

United States · United States Congress · 5 November 2007

San Joaquin River Restoration Settlement Act - Directs the Secretary of the Interior to implement the Stipulation of Settlement dated September 13, 2006, in Natural Resources Defense Council, et al. v. Kirk Rodgers, et al. , United States District Court, Eastern District of California, in cooperation with the state of California. Directs the Secretary to: (1) enter into agreements with California to facilitate or expedite Settlement implementation; and (2) identify impacts and measures to mitigate impacts on adjacent and downstream water users and landowners. Provides that Settlement implementation and the reintroduction of Chinook salmon shall not result in the involuntary reduction in contract water allocations to Central Valley Project long-term contractors apart from Friant Division contractors. Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) acquire through purchase from willing sellers property needed to implement the Settlement; and (2) dispose of such property. Requires proceeds from the disposal of such property to be deposited into a San Joaquin River Restoration Fund. Declares that the Settlement satisfies and discharges the Secretary's obligations under the Reclamation Projects Authorization and Adjustment Act of 1992. Provides for the reintroduction of Chinook salmon into the San Joaquin River. Directs the Secretary to: (1) convert specified long-term contracts to provide for repayment of construction costs; (2) establish a conservation of resources fee for non-producing federal oil and gas leases in the Gulf of Mexico; and (3) provide direct financial assistance to the California Water Institute to study coordination and integration of sub-regional integrated regional water management plans into a unified Integrated Regional Water Management Plan.

Disabled Veterans Right to Commissaries and Space Available Travel Act

United States · United States Congress · 5 November 2007

Disabled Veterans Right to Commissaries and Space Available Travel Act - Requires veterans with disabilities rated at 30% or more to be permitted to use commissary and exchange stores on the same basis as members of the Armed Forces eligible for retired or retainer pay. Extends such benefit to dependents on the same basis. Directs the Secretary of Defense to provide transportation on Department of Defense aircraft on a space-available basis for any veteran with a service-connected disability rated at 50% or more on the same basis as members entitled to retired or retainer pay. Extends such benefit to dependents on the same basis.

Condemning the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) for its ongoing terrorist attacks against Turkey and the Turkish people.

United States · United States Congress · 5 November 2007

Reaffirms: (1) the House of Representatives' support for United States-Turkish relations; and (2) U.S. support for Turkey's right to self-defense. Condemns terrorist attacks by the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) against the Turkish people. Urges: (1) the Bush Administration to act to prevent the PKK from using bases in northern Iraq to attack Turkey; and (2) the national government of Iraq to remove the PKK from Iraqi territory. Calls on the Kurdish regional government in northern Iraq to act against the PKK.

A resolution encouraging all employers to target veterans for recruitment and to provide preference in hiring to qualified veterans.

United States · United States Congress · 2 November 2007

Urges all employers, private sector as well as state, county, and local government, to target veterans for recruitment and to afford qualified veterans hiring preference similar to the benefits provided with respect to federal civilian employment to preference eligibles. Encourages the President to issue a proclamation in connection with Veterans Day, November 11, 2007, calling upon all employers to make a special effort to target veterans for recruitment and to provide preference in hiring for qualified veterans.

National Bombing Prevention Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 1 November 2007

National Bombing Prevention Act of 2007 - Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to establish an Office for Bombing Prevention in the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) Protective Security Coordination Division of the Office of Infrastructure Protection. Assigns the Office primary responsibility for enhancing the ability and coordinating the efforts of the nation to deter, detect, prevent, protect against, and respond to terrorist explosive attacks. Directs the President to develop and periodically update a national strategy to prevent and prepare for terrorist attacks using explosives or improvised explosive devices in the United States. Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security, acting through the Under Secretary for Science and Technology, to: (1) coordinate federal nonmilitary research, development, testing, and evaluation activities relating to the detection and prevention of, protection against, and response to explosive attacks within the United States and the development of bomb squad tools and technologies necessary to neutralize and disable explosive devices; (2) coordinate with the Secretary of Defense and the heads of other relevant federal departments to ensure that military information and related activities are applied to nonmilitary uses; (3) establish a technology transfer program to facilitate the identification, modification, and commercialization of technology and equipment for use by governmental agencies, emergency response providers, and the private sector against such attacks; and (4) establish a working group to advise and assist in the identification of military technologies developed by the Department of Defense (DOD) or the private sector to protect against and respond to explosive attacks.

Small Business Contracting Revitalization Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 1 November 2007

Small Business Contracting Revitalization Act of 2007 - Amends the Small Business Act to provide federal review and oversight of the practice of contract bundling (the consolidation of two or more procurement contracts into a solicitation for a single prime contract that is unlikely, because of its size or complexity, to be suitable for award to a small business). Revises or adds federal provisions or requirements concerning: (1) increased small business participation in federal procurement subcontracts, including a pilot program to provide contractual incentives to prime contractors that exceed their small business subcontracting goals; (2) Small Business Administration (SBA) certification of small businesses owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans, women, and socially and economically disadvantaged individuals; (3) historically underutilized business zones (HUBZones) affected by military base closures; (4) the BusinessLINC program (business-to-business and mentor-protege relationships between large and small businesses); (5) information on contracts involving small businesses that were displaced by bundled or consolidated actions; (6) the reservation of certain prime contract awards to small businesses; (7) a Comptroller General study on federal procurement contracting reporting systems; (8) micropurchase guidelines; (9) reporting on overseas contracts; (10) federal agency accountability with respect to small business procurement contracting and subcontracting goals; (11) certification as a small business for purposes of eligibility for the award of federal contracts and subcontracts (including authority to protest a business as a small business for such purposes); (12) training for federal contracting and contract enforcement personnel; (13) revised size standards for qualification as a small business; and (14) small business size and status for purposes of multiple award contracts.

A joint resolution clarifying that the use of force against Iran is not authorized by the Authorization for the Use of Military Force Against Iraq, any resolution previously adopted, or any other provision of law.

United States · United States Congress · 1 November 2007

States that nothing in the Authorization for the Use of Military Force Against Iraq of 2002 (P.L. 107-243), any act that serves as the statutory authority for Executive Order 13382 or Executive Order 13224, any resolution previously adopted, or any other provision of law including Executive Order 13382 or Executive Order 13224 shall be construed to authorize, encourage, or in any way address the use of the U.S. Armed Forces against Iran.

To amend title 11 of the United States Code to exempt for a limited period, from the application of the means-test presumption of abuse under Chapter 7, qualifying members of reserve components of the Armed Forces and members of the National Guard who, after September 11, 2001, are called to active duty or to perform a homeland defense activity for not less than 90 days.

United States · United States Congress · 1 November 2007

Amends the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2005 to prohibit the bankruptcy court from dismissing or converting a case based on means testing while the debtor: (1) is either on active duty or performing a homeland defense activity for at least 60 days; or (2) was either called to active duty or performed homeland defense activity as a member of a reserve component of the Armed Forces or a member of the National Guard after September 11, 2001.

Border Enforcement, Employment Verification, and Illegal Immigration Control Act

United States · United States Congress · 1 November 2007

Border Enforcement, Employment Verification, and Illegal Immigration Control Act - Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security (Secretary) to: (1) take all appropriate actions, including development of a national border strategy, to maintain operational control over the U.S. international land and maritime borders; (2) report on cross-border security agreements with Mexico and Canada; (3) provide for biometric data enhancements; (4) increase port of entry inspection personnel; (5) report on the airspace security mission's impact on the National Capital Region; (6) reimburse private owners along the border for certain property damage; (7) establish at least one Border Patrol unit for the Virgin Islands; (8) report on Central American gang travel across the U.S.-Mexico border; and (9) deploy radiation portal monitors at U.S. ports of entry to screen inbound cargo for nuclear and radiological material. Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) with respect to alien smuggling and illegal entry and presence to: (1) provide mandatory minimum sentences on smuggling convictions, and expand seizure and forfeiture authority; (2) make illegal U.S. presence a crime; (3) increase penalties for improper U.S. entry and for marriage fraud; (4) provide mandatory minimum sentences for aliens convicted of reentry after removal; (5) include among smuggling crimes the carrying or use of a firearm during such activity; and (6) revise voluntary departure provisions. Revises passport, visa, and immigration fraud provisions. Provides for immigration backlog reduction. Continues the institutional removal program (IRP) and expands it to all states. Authorizes appropriations for the state criminal alien assistance program (SCAAP). Directs the Secretary: (1) and the Secretary of Defense to develop a plan to increase the availability of Department of Defense (DOD) surveillance equipment along the U.S. international land and maritime borders; (2) to assess border security vulnerabilities on Department of Interior land directly adjacent to the U.S. border; (3) establish a Border Security Advisory Committee; and (4) establish a university-based Center of Excellence for Border Security. Expresses the sense of Congress with respect to border security cooperation with sovereign Indian Nations. Requires the mandatory detention of illegal aliens apprehended at a U.S. port of entry or along the U.S. land or maritime borders. Requires that the Secretary place an alien (other than from Mexico or Canada) who has not been admitted or paroled into expedited removal if apprehended within 100 miles of the border and within 14 days of unauthorized entry. Provides for listing of immigration violators in the National Crime Information Center database. Directs the Secretary to take specified actions to ensure coordination of Department of Homeland Security (DHS) border security efforts. Establishes in DHS an Office of Air and Marine Operations whose primary mission shall be to prevent the entry of terrorists, other unlawful aliens, instruments of terrorism, narcotics, and other contraband into the United States. Directs the Secretary to transfer to United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement all functions of the Customs Patrol Officers unit operating on the Tohono O'odham Indian reservation (the "Shadow Wolves" unit). Authorizes the Secretary to establish within United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement additional Customs Patrol units to operate on Indian lands. Bars an alien: (1) deportable on terrorist grounds from receiving withholding of removal; (2) convicted of an aggravated felony, unlawful procurement of citizenship, or domestic violence, stalking, or child abuse from admissibility; (3) convicted of an aggravated felony from refugee or asylee status adjustment; (4) removable on terrorist grounds from becoming naturalized; and (5) from being naturalized while in removal proceedings. Revises and enhances detention provisions for certain dangerous aliens subject to removal, including establishment of a detention review process for cooperating aliens. Increases penalties and sets mandatory minimum sentences for aliens who fail to comply with removal provisions. Makes an unlawful alien deportable for driving while under the influence or a similar violation. Authorizes (and reimburses) local sheriffs or sheriff coalitions in specified counties along the southern border to enforce the immigration laws and to transfer illegal aliens to federal custody. Sets forth provisions respecting inadmissibility and deportability of alien street gang members. Authorizes the Attorney General to designate a group or association as a criminal street gang. Requires mandatory detention of alien gang members subject to removal. Makes such aliens ineligible for asylum and protection from removal to certain countries. Bars naturalization of an alien determined to be or have been a terrorist. Authorizes expedited removal for aliens inadmissible for security or criminal grounds. Makes sexual abuse of a minor an aggravated felony for immigration purposes. Increases penalties for document fraud. Directs the Secretary to establish, and sets forth the provisions for, an employment eligibility verification system. Expands the employment eligibility verification system to include: (1) previously hired individuals; and (2) recruitment and referral. Sets forth civil and criminal penalty provisions for noncompliance. Provides for: (1) voluntary employer verification utilizing such system two years after enactment of this Act for previously hired individuals; (2) mandatory employer verification three years after enactment of this Act by federal, state, and local governments, and the military for employees not verified under such system working at federal, state or local government buildings, military bases, nuclear energy sites, weapons sites, airports, or critical infrastructure sites; and (3) mandatory employer verification six years after enactment of this Act for all employees not previously verified under such system. Makes employer participation in the basic pilot program mandatory two years after enactment of this Act. Employment Eligibility Verification and Anti-Identity Theft Act - Directs: (1) the Commissioner of the Social Security Administration to notify a person or entity that the name and Social Security account number submitted by the person or entity for an individual does not match Social Security Administration (SSA) records; (2) the Secretary to notify a person or entity that an immigration status document or employment authorization document required for employment eligibility verification was assigned to another person or that there is no agency record of document assignment; and (3) the Secretary to establish a verification system through which persons or entities that have received such notice shall verify an individual's employment authorization and identity. Provides for improved birth certificate security. Stop the Misuse of ITINS Act of 2007 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to require the Secretary of the Treasury to notify the Secretary of any employer tax return showing wages paid to an employee who is not authorized to be employed in the United States. Authorizes the Board of Immigration Appeals to reverse an immigration judge's removal decision without remand. Eliminates judicial review of visa revocation. Requires an alien applying for withholding of removal to establish that his or her life or freedom would be threatened in the country of return, and that race, religion, nationality, or political or social group would be a central factor in such threat. Provides for an international passenger prescreening pilot program. Security and Fairness Enhancement for America Act of 2007 or SAFE for America Act - Eliminates the diversity immigrant program. Taking Action to Keep Employees Accountable in Immigration Matters Act of 2007 or TAKE AIM Act of 2007 - Revises the structure of the Office of Security and Internal Investigation. Revises the temporary agricultural worker program.

Mental Health Improvements Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 1 November 2007

Mental Health Improvements Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the provision of specified substance use disorder treatment services at each Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical center and community-based outpatient clinic. Requires the Secretary to ensure that treatment for a substance use disorder and a comorbid mental health disorder is provided concurrently by a team of experienced clinicians. Requires the Secretary to: (1) carry out a program of enhanced care and treatment for veterans with substance use disorders and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); and (2) establish at least six national centers of excellence on PTSD and substance use disorders. Requires a report on residential mental health care facilities of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Pays tribute to Justin Bailey. Requires a: (1) pilot program on peer outreach and support services, readjustment counseling services, and other mental health services for veterans of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom; (2) program of research into comorbid PTSD and substance use disorder; and (3) pilot program on the provision of readjustment and transition assistance to veterans and their families in cooperation with Vet Centers.

Atomic Veterans Relief Act

United States · United States Congress · 1 November 2007

Atomic Veterans Relief Act - Includes within the definition of a "radiation-risk activity" for purposes of eligibility criteria for veterans' disability compensation the exposure to ionizing radiation due to residual contamination resulting from participation in a nuclear detonation. Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to include in regulations pertaining to the service-connection of veterans' disabilities additional provisions to ensure, in the case of a claim by a radiation-exposed veteran for service-connection of a nonpresumptive disability, that the procedures for establishment of whether the disability is service-connected do not require imputation to the veteran, through a process known as dose reconstruction, of any particular level of exposure to ionizing radiation.

Aeronautics Competitiveness Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 31 October 2007

Aeronautics Competitiveness Act of 2007 - Authorizes appropriations for FY2009-FY2011 for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) for Science, Aeronautics, and Exploration for aeronautics research. Establishes an advisory committee on priorities in aeronautics research. Requires the NASA Administrator to develop particular aeronautics technologies, including for the Next Generation Air Transportation System, to a demonstration ready level. Sets the maximum number of NASA aeronautics scholarships at no more than seven at any one time. Requires the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to establish a program to provide fellowships for graduate students in research in aviation or aeronautics. Requires the Secretary of the Department of Defense (DOD) to prescribe regulations governing DOD's payment of contractors' costs for education and professional development of their aeronautics workforce.

Enhanced Opportunities for Formerly Homeless Veterans Residing in Permanent Housing Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 31 October 2007

Enhanced Opportunities for Formerly Homeless Veterans Residing in Permanent Housing Act of 2007 - Authorizes the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to conduct pilot programs of grants to: (1) coordinate the provision of supportive services available in the local community to very low income, formerly homeless veterans residing in permanent housing; (2) provide outreach to inform low-income and elderly veterans and their spouses who reside in rural areas of benefits for which they may be eligible; and (3) establish new, or expand or modify existing, programs or activities to furnish transportation, childcare, and clothing assistance to certain individuals with service-related disabilities who are entitled to a rehabilitation program.

International Violence Against Women Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 31 October 2007

International Violence Against Women Act of 2007 - Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to establish in the Department of State the Office of Women's Global Initiatives (which shall replace the Office of International Women's Issues) to coordinate U.S. government efforts respecting international women's issues. Establishes within the Department an Advisory Commission on International Violence Against Women. Directs the President to develop a comprehensive strategy to prevent violence against women and girls. Directs the Coordinator of the Women's Global Initiatives to ensure that foreign assistance programs incorporate measures to prevent and respond to violence against women and girls. Provides that U.S. training of foreign military and police forces incorporates training on prevention of violence against women and girls. Directs the Department and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to assist programs that prevent and respond to violence against women and girls in all humanitarian relief, conflict, and post-conflict operations. Directs the Secretary of State to: (1) encourage U.N. member states to expand the number of female members of U.N. peacekeeping missions; and (2) take emergency measures to respond to violence against women and girls during conflict or post-conflict operations. Expresses the sense of Congress that the United Nations should strengthen its ability to prevent violence against women and girls by U.N. military and civilian personnel. Provides that Foreign Service training include instruction on prevention of violence against women and girls. Authorizes appropriations to support the United Nations Development Fund for Women Trust Fund in Support of Actions to Eliminate Violence Against Women.

A resolution to permit the collection of donations in Senate buildings to be sent to United States military personnel on active duty overseas participating in or in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, and the war on terrorism.

United States · United States Congress · 31 October 2007

Authorizes a Senator, officer, or employee of the Senate to: (1) collect from another such individual, within Senate buildings, nonmonetary donations to be sent to U.S. military personnel on active duty overseas participating in or in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, and the war on terrorism; and (2) work with a nonprofit organization with respect to the delivery of such donations.

Christopher Van Der Horn Military Survivors Mental Health Access Act

United States · United States Congress · 31 October 2007

Christopher Van Der Horn Military Survivors Mental Health Access Act - Declares that preadmission authorization is not required for the first sixteen outpatient mental health visits for a dependent of a member of the Armed Forces who died while eligible to receive hostile fire pay or from a disease or injury incurred while eligible for such pay.

To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the collective bargaining rights and procedures for review of adverse actions of certain employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 31 October 2007

Repeals specified exceptions to rights of certain Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) employees to engage in collective bargaining. Requires a final decision of the (VA) with respect to the review of an adverse personnel action against a (VA) employee to be issued not later than 60 days after such action has been appealed. Subjects such decision to judicial review in the appropriate U.S. District Court or, if the decision is made by a labor arbitrator, in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit.

Military Success in Iraq Commemoration Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 31 October 2007

Military Success in Iraq Commemoration Act of 2007 - States that the Authorization for Use of Military Force Against Iraq Resolution of 2002 (P.L. 107-243) is the basis of authority under which the President launched the invasion of Iraq in March 2003, and that such Resolution authorized the President to use military force against Iraq to defend U.S. national security and to enforce all relevant United Nations (UN) Security Council resolutions regarding Iraq. Encourages the President to issue a proclamation calling upon the United States to observe a national day of celebration commemorating military success in Iraq. Authorizes the Secretary of Defense to award grants to state and local governments for suitable activities to commemorate such success. Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to award to each veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom a grant of $5,000 to facilitate the veteran's transition to civilian life.

Amending the Rules of the House of Representatives to require that general appropriations for military construction and veterans' affairs be considered as stand-alone measures.

United States · United States Congress · 31 October 2007

Amends Rule XXI (Restrictions on Certain Bills) of the Rules of the House of Representatives to make it out of order to consider any bill, joint resolution, or conference report, containing appropriations within the jurisdiction of the Subcommittee on Military Quality of Life and Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies of the Committee on Appropriations if such measure also contains appropriations within the jurisdiction of any other subcommittee of that Committee. (Thus requires that general appropriations for military construction and veterans' affairs be considered as stand-alone measures.) Exempts from such requirement any measure making supplemental appropriations or continuing appropriations for up to 60 days.

Tax Increase Prevention Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 30 October 2007

Temporary Tax Relief Act of 2007 - Amends Internal Revenue Code provisions relating to the alternative minimum tax, the discharge of mortgage indebtedness, and tax administration and extends certain expiring tax credits, deductions, and other tax incentives. Extends through 2007: (1) offsets against the alternative minimum tax for certain nonrefundable income tax credits; and (2) increased alternative minimum tax exemptions for individual taxpayers. Extends through 2008 various expiring tax provisions primarily affecting individual taxpayers, including: (1) the tax deductions for state and local sales taxes, for qualified tuition and related expenses, for qualified conservation contributions, for certain expenses of elementary and secondary school teachers, and for the travel expenses of state legislators while away from home; (2) tax-free distributions from individual retirement accounts for charitable purposes; (3) the taxpayer election to include combat pay as earned income for purposes of the earned income tax credit; (4) special rules for qualified mortgage bonds to finance home purchases by veterans; and (5) tax-free distributions from retirement plans for individuals called to active military service. Extends through 2008 various expiring tax provisions primarily affecting businesses, including: (1) the tax credits for increasing research expenses, for hiring workers on Indian reservations, for investment in new markets, for railroad track maintenance, and for hiring workers in areas affected by Hurricane Katrina; (2) accelerated depreciation for qualified leasehold and restaurant improvements, for motorsports entertainment complexes, and for business property on Indian reservations; (3) expensing allowances for environmental remediation costs; (4) tax deductions for contributions of food and book inventories and for computer equipment for educational purposes; and (5) tax incentives for investment in the District of Columbia and American Samoa. Extends through 2008 authorities for: (1) issuing qualified zone academy bonds; (2) making disclosures of tax information to facilitate student loan repayments and for combating terrorist activities; and (3) Internal Revenue Service (IRS) undercover operations. Allows an exclusion from gross income for up to $2 million of the income attributable to discharges of home mortgage indebtedness incurred after January 1, 2007. Extends through 2014 the tax deduction for mortgage insurance premiums. Sets forth alternative criteria for qualifying a corporation as a cooperative housing corporation for purposes of the tax deduction for payments to such corporations. Limits the exclusion from gross income of gain from the sale of a principal residence by denying an exclusion of the gain that is allocable to a nonqualified use of such residence (i.e., use other than as a principal residence). Repeals the authority of the IRS to enter into private debt collection contracts. Delays until 2012 the requirement for federal, state, and local agencies to withhold 3% of payments for goods and services provided to such agencies. Revises tax administration provisions and rules relating to: (1) tax returns of certain U.S. Virgin Island residents; and (2) the tax treatment of high-income individuals who relinquish U.S. citizenship or residency to avoid U.S. taxation (expatriates). Repeals the 36-month suspension of interest and penalties on tax underpayments for taxpayers not notified of a tax deficiency by the IRS. Increases tax penalties for failure to file accurate tax information returns. Amends the Tariff Act of 1930 to provide that wine of the same color shall be deemed to be commercially interchangeable for purposes of the duty drawback for unused merchandise.

Defenders of Freedom Tax Relief Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 30 October 2007

Heroes Earnings Assistance and Relief Tax Act of 2007 - Amends Internal Revenue Code provisions relating to members of the uniformed services to: (1) make permanent provisions relating to the earned income tax credit, mortgage bond financing for veterans, tax-free distributions from the retirement plans of active duty military personnel, and the authority of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to provide tax return information to the Department of Veterans Affairs for benefit determinations; (2) enhance pension plan benefits for active duty personnel and their survivors; (3) allow volunteer firefighters and emergency medical responders a tax exclusion for certain state benefits and payments; (4) allow tax-free rollovers of military death gratuities and life insurance benefits into survivor Roth individual retirement accounts (Roth IRAs) and education savings plans; and (5) allow Peace Corps volunteers a five-year suspension of the use and ownership requirements applicable to the tax exclusion of gain from the sale of a principal residence. Amends title XVI (Supplemental Security Income for the Aged, Blind, and Disabled) of the Social Security Act to increase supplemental security income (SSI) benefits for members of the uniformed services. Excludes certain state annuity payments to blind veterans and cash or in-kind benefits paid to an AmeriCorps participant from SSI benefit determinations. Increases penalties for failure to file individual, partnership, and S corporation tax returns and other tax information returns.

Military Family Job Protection Act

United States · United States Congress · 30 October 2007

Military Family Job Protection Act - Prohibits a covered family member who is caring for a servicemember who is undergoing medical treatment for an injury, illness, or disease incurred or aggravated while on active military duty from being denied retention in employment, promotion, or any employment benefit by an employer on the basis of the family member's absence from such employment for a period of not more than 52 weeks. Includes as a covered family member one who, while caring for the recovering servicemember, is: (1) on invitational orders; (2) a non-medical attendee; or (3) receiving per diem payments from the Department of Defense (DOD).

Native American Veterans Language Assistance Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 30 October 2007

Native American Veterans Language Assistance Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs to carry out a Native American Veterans Language Assistance Grant Program to improve the medical services provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs to Native American veterans who speak native languages by providing interpreters and other language resources.

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery Administration employees, volunteers, and veterans' service organizations that perform funeral honors and memorial honor details should be permitted to recite the 13 steps to fold an American flag (known as the "13-fold recital") at any national cemetery if requested by the family of the deceased.

United States · United States Congress · 30 October 2007

Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery Administration employees, volunteers, and veteran's service organizations that perform funeral honors and memorial honor details should be permitted to recite the 13 steps to fold an American flag (known as the "13-fold recital") at any national cemetery if requested to do so by the family of the deceased.

Recognizing and honoring, in community post offices, the service of men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces deployed overseas.

United States · United States Congress · 30 October 2007

Commends all U.S. Post Offices that display photographs of local community members who are serving in the Armed Forces and are deployed overseas. Reaffirms the authority of the U.S. Postal Service to display in post offices official photographs of members of the Armed Forces at the request of the community or the servicemembers' families. Urges U.S. Post Offices to reserve or designate space in their public areas for the purpose of displaying photographs of servicemembers.

Burma Democracy Promotion Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 29 October 2007

Burma Democracy Promotion Act of 2007 - States that it is U.S. policy to: (1) condemn the repression carried out by the State Peace and Development Council (SPDC); (2) support a peaceful transition to constitutional democracy in Burma; and (3) hold accountable individuals responsible for the repression of peaceful political activity in Burma. Directs the President to submit to the appropriate congressional committees a list of: (1) SPDC officials who play or have played a substantial role in political repression in Burma or in the commission of human rights abuses; and (2) other Burmese SPDC supporters. Subjects persons so identified to U.S. entry prohibition and financial sanctions (blocked property, financial transaction prohibitions, and banking sanctions). Exempts medical and humanitarian assistance from such restrictions. Authorizes additional waivers for diplomatic and travel purposes. Terminates such prohibitions upon a presidential certification to the committees that the SPDC has: (1) released all political prisoners, including Aung San Suu Kyi and other members of the National League for Democracy; (2) entered into a dialogue with democratic forces led by the National League for Democracy and the ethnic minorities of Burma on transitioning to democratic government; and (3) allowed humanitarian access to populations affected by armed conflict in all regions of Burma. Amends the the Burmese Freedom and Democracy Act of 2003 to prohibit the importation into the United States of Burmese gems, teak, or other hardwood timber. Directs the President to appoint a Special Representative and Policy Coordinator for Burma. Authorizes: (1) the Secretary of the Treasury to issue multi-year licenses for humanitarian or religious activities in Burma; and (2) the President to assist nonviolent democracy activists in their efforts to promote freedom, democracy, and human rights in Burma. Directs the Secretary of State to report to the appropriate committees respecting countries that provide military aid to Burma. Expresses the sense of Congress that the United States should lead U.N. Security Council efforts to impose an international arms embargo on Burma.

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

United States · United States Congress · 29 October 2007

Extends the time limit for the use of education benefits by members of the Selected Reserve and certain members of the reserve component to before the date that is ten years after the last day on which the member is deployed in support of a contingency operation.

Military Domestic and Sexual Violence Response Act

United States · United States Congress · 29 October 2007

Military Domestic and Sexual Violence Response Act - Establishes in the Department of Defense (DOD) an Office of the Victims' Advocate to facilitate access to services for victims of domestic or family violence, sexual assault, and stalking in the military. Directs the Secretary of Defense, acting through the Director of the Office, to require DOD policies for victim assistance, family advocacy, and equal opportunity programs to provide for a victims' advocates program within each military department. Authorizes the Secretary to award contracts to: (1) support DOD crisis intervention services for victims of such violence; and (2) provide training on prevention of such violence. Prohibits any person from restricting a member of the Armed Forces in communicating with the Office or from taking or withholding a personnel action in retaliation for making such a communication. Provides for: (1) employment of a sexual assault nurse examiner, a psychiatrist, and a complimentary clinical team at each DOD military treatment facility; and (2) DOD community level programs and shelter services for active duty members and their families who are victims of such violence shelter . Specifies the rights of victims of such violence reported to a military law enforcement agency. Directs a military commanding officer who receives a qualifying complaint alleging such violence to investigate it and report. Specifies circumstances under which military law enforcement officers shall arrest a person for committing domestic violence. Establishes a Director of Special Investigations in DOD to review investigations of allegations of such violence and refer cases for prosecution. Amends the Uniform Code of Military Justice to: (1) include as "aggravated assault" and specify penalty limits for an assault involving domestic or family violence; and (2) provide for court-martial punishment of violations of no contact or protective orders. Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) contract for treatment services for members of the Armed Forces who have committed such violence; and (2) ensure that sex offender treatment providers in the contracted program meet the state licensing or certification standards. Requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) ensure that Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) primary care providers receive training in the screening and referral of veterans who have suffered military sexual trauma; and (2) conduct related pilot programs. Prohibits the Secretary of the military department concerned from approving a financial award or a promotion for an officer or employee who has been convicted of or disciplined for committing such violence. Directs the Secretary to study: (1) the prevalence and nature of such violence, of intimate partner violence, and of child maltreatment, abuse, suicide, and homicide in the Armed Forces; and (2) military procedures after an incident is reported.

FISA Amendments Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 26 October 2007

Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 Amendments Act of 2007 or FISA Amendments Act of 2007 - Amends the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 (FISA) to authorize the Attorney General (AG) and Director of National Intelligence to jointly authorize, for periods up to one year, the targeting (electronic surveillance) of persons located outside the United States to acquire foreign intelligence information. Requires specified targeting and surveillance minimization procedures to be followed, with Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court (Court) review of such procedures. States that chapters 119 (Wire and Electronic Communications Interception and Interception of Oral Communications) and 121 (Stored Wire and Electronic Communications and Transactional Records Access) of the federal criminal code and FISA shall be the exclusive means by which electronic surveillance and interception of domestic communications may be conducted. Requires the AG to submit semiannually to the congressional intelligence committees copies of any orders of the Court or the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court of Review that include significant construction or interpretation of FISA. Revises generally provisions concerning the application for, and issue of, Court orders. Allows the AG to authorize the emergency employment of electronic surveillance under certain circumstances, including: (1) determining that an emergency exists; (2) informing a Court judge of such determination; and (3) applying for a Court order authorizing such surveillance. Provides similar authority an outlines similar procedures for the emergency employment of a physical search. Requires the AG, after authorizing the installation and use of a pen register or trap and trace device on an emergency basis, to apply to the Court for an authorization order within 168 (current law requires 48) hours after the emergency installation and use. Authorizes the Court to sit en banc when: (1) necessary to secure or maintain uniformity of Court decisions; or (2) the proceeding involves a question of exceptional importance. Provides limitations (and preempts state law) on civil actions against electronic communication service providers and persons providing assistance in connection with an intelligence activity.

Veterans Upward Bound Improvement Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 October 2007

Veterans Upward Bound Improvement Act - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to prohibit members of the Armed Forces Reserves who served on active duty in support of a contingency operation on or after September 11, 2001, from being deemed ineligible for participation in federal TRIO programs due to age. (TRIO programs prepare disadvantaged students for, and support their pursuit of, postsecondary education.)

A resolution affirming that any offensive military action taken against Iran must be explicitly approved by Congress before such action may be initiated.

United States · United States Congress · 25 October 2007

States that any offensive military action taken by the United States against Iran must be explicitly approved by Congress before such action may be initiated.

To amend the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2005 to exempt from the means test in bankruptcy cases, for a limited period, qualifying reserve-component members who, after September 11, 2001, are called to active duty or to perform a homeland defense activity for not less than 60 days.

United States · United States Congress · 25 October 2007

Amends the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2005 to prohibit the bankruptcy court from dismissing or converting a case based on means testing while the debtor: (1) is either on active duty or performing a homeland defense activity for at least 60 days; or (2) was either called to active duty or performed homeland defense activity as a member of a reserve component of the Armed Forces or a member of the National Guard after September 11, 2001.

Tax Reduction and Reform Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 25 October 2007

Tax Reduction and Reform Act of 2007 - Amends Internal Revenue Code provisions relating to individual income tax rates, the alternative minimum tax, partnerships and corporations and extends certain expiring tax credits, deductions, and other tax incentives. Increases and modifies: (1) the standard tax deduction for individual taxpayers; and (2) the earned income and child tax credits. Extends the increased alternative minimum tax exemptions for individual taxpayers through 2007. Repeals such tax after 2007. Imposes limitations on the itemized deductions and exemptions of taxpayers with adjusted gross incomes in excess of $250,000. Treats partnership income earned for providing investment management services (i.e., carried interest) as ordinary income. Extends through 2008 various expiring tax provisions primarily affecting individual taxpayers, including: (1) the tax deductions for state and local sales taxes, for qualified tuition and related expenses, for qualified conservation contributions, for certain expenses of elementary and secondary school teachers, and for mortgage insurance premiums; (2) tax-free distributions from individual retirement accounts for charitable purposes; (3) the taxpayer election to include combat pay as earned income for purposes of the earned income tax credit; (4) special rules for qualified mortgage bonds to finance home purchases by veterans; and (5) tax-free distributions from retirement plans for individuals called to active military service. Extends through 2008 various expiring tax provisions primarily affecting businesses, including: (1) the tax credits for increasing research expenses, for hiring workers on Indian reservations, for investment in new markets, and for railroad track maintenance; (2) accelerated depreciation for qualified leasehold and restaurant improvements, for motorsports entertainment complexes, and for business property on Indian reservations; (3) expensing allowances for environmental remediation costs; (4) tax deductions for contributions of food and book inventories and for computer equipment for educational purposes; and (5) tax incentives for investment in the District of Columbia and American Samoa. Extends through 2008 authorities for: (1) issuing qualified zone academy bonds; (2) making disclosures of tax information to facilitate student loan repayments, for combating terrorist activities, and for veterans programs purposes; and (3) Internal Revenue Service (IRS) undercover operations. Reduces the top marginal income tax rate for corporations from 35 to 30.5% and the tax deduction for dividends received by corporations. Repeals various provisions relating to corporate taxation, including the tax deduction for income attributable to domestic production activities, the LIFO and the lower of cost or market accounting methods, interest allocation rules for U.S. corporations with foreign assets, and special rules relating to domestic international sales corporations. Makes permanent the increased expensing allowance ($125,000) for small business assets. Increases the amortization period for goodwill and other intangibles from 15 to 20 years. Sets forth rules for the application of the economic substance doctrine to tax transactions. Imposes enhanced penalties for underpayments of tax due to transactions lacking in economic substance.

SHARING OF ELECTRONIC MEDICAL INFORMATION BETWEEN THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE AND THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS

United States · United States House of Representatives · 24 October 2007

A bill to recognize the Navy UDT-SEAL Museum in Fort Pierce, Florida, as the official national museum of Navy SEALS and their predecessors.

United States · United States Congress · 24 October 2007

Recognizes the Navy UDT-SEAL Museum in Fort Pierce, Florida, as the official national museum of Navy SEALs and their predecessors, including the Underwater Demolition Teams, Naval Combat Demolition Units, Office of Strategic Services Maritime Units, and Amphibious Scouts and Raiders.

Providing Military Honors for our Nation's Heroes Act

United States · United States Congress · 24 October 2007

Providing Military Honors for our Nation's Heroes Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reimburse a member of a veterans' service organization or other organization approved by the Secretary for transportation and other appropriate expenses incurred in connection with the voluntary provision of a funeral honors detail at the funeral of a veteran, including when requested by a funeral home.

To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide relief with respect to the children of members of the Armed Forces of the United States who die as a result of service in a combat zone.

United States · United States Congress · 24 October 2007

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) increase to $5,000 the maximum dollar amount of the child tax credit for the surviving spouse and children of a member of the Armed Forces who dies while serving in a combat zone; and (2) waive the adjusted gross income limitation applicable to the child tax credit for such military families.

James Shinn, of New Jersey, to be an Assistant Secretary of Defense. (New Position)

United States · United States Senate · 23 October 2007

Atomic Veterans Medal Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 23 October 2007

Atomic Veterans Medal Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary of Defense to: (1) design and produce an Atomic Testing Service Medal to honor members of the Armed Forces who were exposed to ionizing radiation as a result of U.S. atomic weapons tests conducted between 1945 and 1963; and (2) issue the Medal to such individuals (or their next-of-kin).

Share the Sacrifice Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 23 October 2007

Share the Sacrifice Act of 2007 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to impose an Iraq War surtax on the net income tax liabilities of individuals, estates and trusts, and corporations. Exempts from such surtax: (1) members of the Armed Forces who have received combat pay after September 11, 2001; (2) survivors of military personnel who received a death gratuity; and (3) taxpayers with adjusted gross income not in excess of $30,000.

Bring Our Troops Home Responsibly Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 23 October 2007

Bring Our Troops Home Responsibly Act of 2007 - Repeals the Authorization for Use of Military Force Against Iraq Resolution of 2002 (P.L. 107-243). States U.S. policy with respect to Iraq, including that the United States should: (1) begin withdrawing its Armed Forces from there; (2) continue assisting the Iraqi government with rebuilding and reconstruction efforts; and (3) provide humanitarian assistance to displaced Iraqi refugees. Directs the Secretary of Defense to begin the withdrawal of U.S. Armed Forces from Iraq within 30 days after the enactment of this Act, and to complete such withdrawal by January 20, 2009. Prohibits funds appropriated to the Department of Defense (DOD) from being expended: (1) to increase the number of U.S. forces in Iraq; or (2) for the construction of permanent U.S. military installations in Iraq. Allows DOD to retain members of the Armed Forces in Iraq for: (1) protection of the United States Embassy; (2) limited counterterrorism activities directed at the al-Qaeda terrorist network; (3) nonoffensive military actions to address humanitarian concerns; and (4) assisting the Iraqi military in securing Iraq's borders. Requires the Secretary of Defense to submit to Congress a strategy for removing U.S. Armed Forces from Iraq by the required deadline.

To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to permanently extend the election to include combat pay as earned income for purposes of the earned income tax credit and penalty-free distributions from retirement plans to individuals called to active duty, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 23 October 2007

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to make permanent: (1) the taxpayer election to include combat zone compensation as earned income for purposes of the earned income tax credit; and (2) the exemption from penalties for premature distributions from retirement plans to individuals called or ordered to active military duty. Amends title XVI (Supplemental Security Income for the Aged, Blind, and Disabled) of the Social Security Act to exclude from supplement security income benefit determinations any state annuity paid to a blind veteran.