Defence

American Manufacturing Jobs Retention Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 17 September 2003

American Manufacturing Jobs Retention Act of 2003 - Amends Federal defense procurement provisions and the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949 to prohibit the head of a military department or executive agency, in the case of a contract for the procurement of goods and services, from considering a covered prospective contractor as a responsible source unless such contractor employs at least 50 percent of its employees in the United States. Defines a prospective contractor as covered if at least ten percent of its annual gross receipts during the preceding year were attributable to Government contracts.

To require a report on reconstruction efforts in Iraq.

United States · United States Congress · 17 September 2003

Requires a report from the President setting forth: (1) the economic, political and military situation in Iraq; (2) measures taken to protect the U.S. troops serving in Iraq; (3) a detailed plan for establishing civil, economic, and political security in Iraq; (4) the monetary costs currently incurred and projected to be incurred by the United States, United Nations, Iraq, and the international community; (5) the actions taken and to be taken by the President to secure increased international participation in peacekeeping efforts and in the economic and political reconstruction of Iraq; (6) a detailed schedule for restoring self-government to the Iraqi people; and (7) U.S. and international military and civilian personnel requirements.

Temporary Federal Aviation Administration Reauthorization Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 16 September 2003

Temporary Federal Aviation Administration Reauthorization Act of 2003 - Amends Federal transportation law to authorize appropriations for October 1, 2003, through March 31, 2004, for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), including: (1) air navigation facilities and equipment; (2) airport and noise compatibility planning and development; (3) aviation programs; and (4) aviation research. Extends authority for the apportionment of funds for the same period for: (1) the Contract Air Traffic Control Tower Program; and (2) airport improvement projects (AIP) at primary airports. Increases to 95 percent the Federal share of allowable AIP costs for a grant made during such period. Authorizes the Secretary to decide that the costs of revenue producing aeronautical support facilities, including fuel farms and hangars, are allowable for an AIP at a nonprimary airport if: (1) the Federal share of such costs is paid only with funds apportioned to the airport sponsor; and (2) the sponsor has made adequate provision for financing airside needs of the airport. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into a reimbursable agreement with the Secretary of the Interior to fund airport development at Midway Island Airport between for October 1, 2003, and March 31, 2004. Makes the sponsors of airports in the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, and Republic of Palau eligible for grants during the same period. Authorizes during the same period essential air service and small community air service. Prohibits the Under Secretary for Border and Transportation Security of the Department of Homeland Security from implementing, except on a test basis, the proposed computer assisted passenger prescreening system (CAPPS2) before providing to Congress a specified certification. Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to report to specified congressional committees on the potential impact of CAPPS2 on the privacy and civil liberties of U.S. citizens. Revises requirements for flight training operators with respect to aliens or others specified by the Secretary of Homeland Security (currently, the Under Secretary of Transportation for Security), including mandatory training applicant information (including fingerprints), notifications, expedited processing of information and background checks, assessment of investigation fees, and exemption from all such procedures and processes of certain foreign military pilots. Prohibits the Secretary of Transportation from authorizing the privatization of the air traffic separation and control functions or any functions related to certification of national airspace systems and services (except certain contract traffic control towers) currently operated by the FAA. Requires the Secretary to report to specified congressional committees on the FAA plan to revamp the flight service station program. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend Airport and Airway Trust Fund expenditure authority until October 1, 2004. Prescribes a special rule for air transportation tax paid for domestic segments beginning after 2002. Declares that, if an amount is paid during a calendar year for a domestic segment beginning in a later calendar year, then the rate of tax shall be the rate in effect for the calendar year in which such amount is paid.

A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to exempt certain members of the Armed Forces from the requirement to pay subsistence charges while hospitalized.

United States · United States Congress · 16 September 2003

Exempts from the requirement to pay subsistence charges while hospitalized in a military facility an officer or former officer, or an enlisted member or former enlisted member not entitled to retired or retainer pay or equivalent pay, who is hospitalized in a military facility because of an injury or disease incurred: (1) as a direct result of armed conflict; (2) while engaged in hazardous service; (3) in the performance of duty under conditions simulating war; or (4) through an instrumentality of war.

To provide for the establishment of separate campaign medals to be awarded to members of the uniformed services who participate in Operation Enduring Freedom and to members of the uniformed services who participate in Operation Iraqi Freedom.

United States · United States Congress · 16 September 2003

Directs the President to establish separate campaign medals to recognize service by members of the armed forces in Operation Enduring Freedom or Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Veterans Timely Access to Health Care Act

United States · United States Congress · 16 September 2003

Veterans Timely Access to Health Care Act - Makes the standard for access to care for a veteran seeking primary care from the Department of Veterans Affairs 30 days from the date the veteran contacts the Department. Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to prescribe an appropriate standard for waiting times at Department health-care facilities as measured from the time a visit is scheduled until the time the veteran is seen. Directs the Secretary to periodically review the performance of Department health-care facilities in meeting such standards. Authorizes the Secretary to contract for health care services in non-Department facilities in a case in which the Secretary is unable to meet access standards. Prohibits such contracting-out with respect to a Department geographic service area that has a compliance rate in meeting such standards of 90 percent or more. Requires quarterly reports from the Secretary to the congressional veterans' committees on the Department's experience with respect to waiting times.

A bill to amend title 37, United States Code, to make permanent the rates of hostile fire and imminent danger special pay and family separation allowance for members of the uniformed services as increased by the Emergency Wartime Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2003.

United States · United States Congress · 15 September 2003

Makes permanent the $150 to $225 increase in imminent danger special pay and the $100 to $250 increase in the family separation allowance for members of the uniformed services (currently, both terminate at the end of FY 2003).

A resolution commemorating the 100th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the United States and Bulgaria.

United States · United States Congress · 15 September 2003

Recognizes: (1) the 100 years of diplomatic relations between the United States and Bulgaria; (2) Bulgaria's continued contributions towards bringing peace, stability, and prosperity to southeastern Europe; (3) Bulgaria's cooperation and increasingly vital role as an ally in the war against terrorism; and (4) the importance of Bulgaria's participation in regional initiatives such as the Stability Pact for Southeast Europe, the Southeast Europe Cooperative Initiative, and the Southeast Europe Cooperation Process in preparing Bulgaria and Southeast Europe for membership in the European Union. Encourages opportunities for greater U.S.-Bulgarian cooperation in political, military, economic, and cultural spheres.

A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate on the second anniversary of the terrorist attacks against the United States on September 11, 2001.

United States · United States Congress · 11 September 2003

Recognizes September 11 as both a day to remember those killed and a day for recommitment to our national purpose. Extends sympathies to the victims of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks and their families and friends. Honors the heroic actions of first responders, law enforcement personnel, and others who aided the victims. Extends gratitude to the members of the armed forces who are defending the United States from future attack. Praises the people of the United States for donating time and money to support the victims and their families and friends. Expresses gratitude to the leaders and citizens of all nations who have assisted and continue to stand in solidarity with the United States against terrorism. Reaffirms that the Senate will honor the memory of those who lost their lives as a result of those attacks and will act to defend U.S. citizens in all future challenges.

A bill the amend title 18 of the United States Code, to prohibit the unauthorized use of military certificates, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 10 September 2003

Amends the Federal criminal code to (1) apply the prohibition against knowingly manufacturing or selling any military decoration or medal without authorization to any certificate or similar document awarding such a decoration or medal; (2) increase the penalty for violating such prohibition to two years' imprisonment; and (3) increase the penalty with respect to a Congressional Medal of Honor to five years' imprisonment.

A bill to authorize major medical facility projects for the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with the Capital Asset Realignment for Enhanced Services initiative and to satisfy Department of Veterans Affairs requirements on natural disasters, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 10 September 2003

Authorizes the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out the following major medical facility projects, in specified amounts: (1) construction of a health care facility at a location selected by the Secretary in East Central Florida, as part of the Capital Asset Realignment for Enhanced Services (CARES) initiative; (2) improvements at the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in San Juan, Puerto Rico, to bring that facility into compliance with the CD-54 Natural Disasters Directive; and (3) construction of a health care facility in Las Vegas, Nevada, as part of the CARES initiative.

District of Columbia Military Retirement Equity Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 10 September 2003

District of Columbia Military Retirement Equity Act of 2003 - Amends the Policemen and Firemen's Retirement and Disability Act to permit a member or former member of the District of Columbia Metropolitan Police force, the DC Fire Department, the U.S. Park Police force, the U.S. Secret Service Uniformed Division, and the U.S. Secret Service Division to count previously performed military service as creditable service for purposes of calculating the retirement annuity payable to such member. Requires the member or former member, in order to qualify for such creditable service, to pay the member's employment office (or former member's appropriate benefits administration) an amount equal to seven percent of the amount of the military basic pay paid to the member for each period of military service after December 1956. Requires payments to be based on evidence of such basic pay or estimates of it, as the Mayor determines. Provides that payment of such amount by an active member must be completed before the member's date of retirement or October 1, 2006, whichever is later, for the member to retain credit for the service. Declares that in any case where military service interrupts such creditable service and reemployment pursuant to Federal employment and reemployment rights of members of the uniformed services occurs on or after August 1, 1990, the deposit may not exceed the amount that would have been deducted and withheld under this Act from basic pay during the period of creditable service if the member had not performed the period of military service. Provides that any such deposit made more than two years after the later of October 1, 2004 or the date on which the member first becomes a member following the period of military service concerned shall include interest computed and compounded annually, beginning on the expiration of the two-year period. Limits the percentage of military basic pay for any period of military service after November 10, 1996, to the same percentage applicable for similarly interrupted creditable service under current law. Amends the National Capital Revitalization and Self-Government Improvement Act of 1997 to provide that, in determining the amount of a Federal benefit payment made to an officer or member of the DC Police force or the DC Fire Department, the benefit payment to which the officer or member is entitled under the District Retirement Program shall include any amounts which would have been included under such Program (military service adjustment) if this Act's amendments had taken effect before June 30, 1997 (the freeze date).

To authorize major medical facility projects for the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with the Capital Asset Realignment for Enhanced Services initiative and to satisfy Department of Veterans Affairs requirements on natural disasters, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 10 September 2003

Authorizes the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out the following major medical facility projects, in specified amounts: (1) construction of a health care facility at a location selected by the Secretary in East Central Florida, as part of the Capital Asset Realignment for Enhanced Services (CARES) initiative; (2) improvements at the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in San Juan, Puerto Rico, to bring that facility into compliance with the CD-54 Natural Disasters Directive; and (3) construction of a health care facility in Las Vegas, Nevada, as part of the CARES initiative.

Urging the President to establish an Iraq service medal to recognize service by members of the Armed Forces in Operation Iraqi Freedom.

United States · United States Congress · 10 September 2003

Urges the President to establish the Iraq Service Medal to be awarded to all members of the armed forces who serve in the theater of operations for Operation Iraqi Freedom during a period prescribed by the President or the Secretary of Defense.

A bill to require a report on reconstruction efforts in Iraq.

United States · United States Congress · 9 September 2003

Requires a report from the President setting forth: (1) the economic, political and military situation in Iraq; (2) measures taken to protect the U.S. troops serving in Iraq; (3) a detailed plan for establishing civil, economic, and political security in Iraq; (4) the monetary costs currently incurred and projected to be incurred by the United States, United Nations, Iraq, and the international community; (5) the actions taken and to be taken by the President to secure increased international participation in peacekeeping efforts and in the economic and political reconstruction of Iraq; (6) a detailed schedule for restoring self-government to the Iraqi people; and (7) U.S. and international military and civilian personnel requirements.

Small Business Military Reservist Tax Credit Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 September 2003

Small Business Military Reservist Tax Credit Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to establish, with respect to individuals participating in qualified military reserve component duty, a tax credit equal to the sum of: (1) in the case of a small business employer, the employment credit with respect to all qualified employees and qualified replacement employees of the taxpayer; and (2) the self-employment credit of a qualified self-employed taxpayer.

To pay a one-time bonus to members of the Armed Forces who served or serve in a combat zone designated for Operation Iraqi Freedom or Operation Enduring Freedom, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 9 September 2003

Requires the payment of a one-time bonus of $1,500 to each active-duty and reserve member of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard who served or serves for any period of time in a combat zone designated in connection with Operations Iraqi Freedom or Enduring Freedom.

Montgomery GI Bill Enrollment Extension Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 September 2003

Montgomery GI Bill Enrollment Extension Act - Requires active-duty and Selected Reserve personnel participating in the veterans' educational assistance program under the Montgomery GI Bill to designate a number of consecutive months (not to exceed 12) for basic pay reductions required for program participation. Requires an individual discharged or released from such duty before the aggregate reductions equal $1,200 to pay the difference. Allows such individuals to make an election to participate in such program at any time during the period beginning on the date of entering onto such duty and ending on the earlier of two years thereafter or the date of the individual's discharge or release.

To provide a 10 percent increase in the rate of basic pay for members of the uniformed services.

United States · United States Congress · 9 September 2003

Waives the FY 2004 military pay increases tied to increases in the General Schedule of Compensation for Government employees. Increases by ten percent, effective January 1, 2004, the rates of basic pay for military personnel.

Expanding Opportunities in Higher Education Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 9 September 2003

Expanding Opportunities in Higher Education Act of 2003 - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA) to revise and reauthorize various programs and provisions. Repeals HEA provisions, under the definition of institution of higher education, that: (1) currently require for-profit institutions of higher education to derive at least ten percent of their revenue from funds that do not come from HEA title IV student assistance programs (the 90/10 rule); and (2) currently restrict distance education in terms of the relative number of courses an institution may offer by telecommunications, and relative number of students enrolled in such courses, for purposes of student assistance program eligibility (the 50 percent rule). (Retains such rule for correspondence courses not offered by telecommunications.) Revises HEA title III (Institutional Aid) to extend authorizations of appropriations for: (1) part A grants for American Indian tribally controlled colleges and universities, and for Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian-serving institutions; (2) part B grants for historically Black colleges and universities (HBCU); (3) endowment challenge grants for institutions; (4) HBCU capital financing; and (5) the minority science and engineering improvement program. Revises HEA title V (Developing Institutions) to extend the authorization of appropriations for grants to Hispanic-serving institutions. Revises HEA title IV (Student Assistance) to treat as independent students those currently serving on active duty in the Armed Forces for other than training purposes (thus including active duty members of the National Guard and Reserves). Revises requirements, and extends authorizations of appropriations for, the following title IV programs: (1) Federal TRIO support services programs for disadvantaged students; (2) GEAR UP early intervention and college awareness programs for low-income students; and (3) HEP/CAMP special programs for students whose families are engaged in migrant and seasonal farmwork. Directs the Advisory Committee on Student Financial Assistance to study and report on the feasibility of simplifying the need analysis methodology for all for Federal student financial assistance programs and the process of applying for such assistance. Requires the Secretary of Education to initiate a redesign of the free application for Federal student aid (FAFSA). Revises requirements for a simplified needs test. Amends the Education of the Deaf Act of 1986 to extend the authorization of appropriations in general, as well as for monitoring and evaluation, and for Federal endowment programs for Gallaudet University and the National Technical Institute for the Deaf (NTID). Extends authorizations of appropriations for programs under the Tribally Controlled College or University Assistance Act of 1978, the Navajo Community College Act, and the United States Institute of Peace Act.

Sacrifice and Responsibility Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 September 2003

Sacrifice and Responsibility Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) raise the top two individual income tax rates back to 36 percent and 39.6 percent; and (2) repeal the amendments made by section 302 (Dividends of Individuals Taxed at Capital Gain Rates) of the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003. Appropriates, as emergency supplemental appropriations, for FY 2004 specified sums for: (1) military operations in Iraq and in support of the global war on terrorism; and (2) the relief and reconstruction of Iraq and Afghanistan.

Of inquiry requesting the President to transmit to the House of Representatives not later than 14 days after the date of adoption of this resolution the report prepared for the Joint Chiefs of Staff entitled "Operation Iraqi Freedom Strategic Lessons Learned" and documents in his possession on the reconstruction and security of post-war Iraq.

United States · United States Congress · 9 September 2003

Requests the President to transmit to the House of Representatives the report prepared for the Joint Chiefs of Staff entitled "Operation Iraqi Freedom Strategic Lessons Learned" and documents in his possession on the reconstruction and security of post-war Iraq.

Departments of Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban Development, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 2004

United States · United States Congress · 5 September 2003

Departments of Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban Development, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 2004 - Makes appropriations for FY 2004 for: (1) the Department of Veterans Affairs; (2) the Department of Housing and Urban Development; (3) the American Battle Monuments Commission; (4) the Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board; (5) the Department of the Treasury, Community Development Financial Institutions Fund Program Account; (6) the Consumer Product Safety Commission; (7) the Corporation for National and Community Service; (8) the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims; (9) the Department of Defense-Civil; (10) the Department of Health and Human Services, National Institutes of Health; (11) the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry; (12) the Environmental Protection Agency; (13) the Hazardous Substance Superfund, including transfers of funds; (14) the Executive Office of the President; (15) the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation; (16) the General Services Administration; (17) the Interagency Council on the Homeless; (18) the National Aeronautics and Space Administration; (19) the National Credit Union Administration; (20) the National Science Foundation; (21) the Neighborhood Reinvestment Corporation; and (22) the Selective Service System. Specifies certain uses and limits on or prohibitions against the use of funds appropriated by this Act.

A concurrent resolution to commend members of the United States Armed Forces for their services to the United States in the liberation of Iraq, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 5 September 2003

Commends members of the armed forces for their role and service in Operation Iraqi Freedom. Calls upon the people of the United States to honor those who fell in the line of duty during such Operation. Commends the families of personnel deployed to the Middle East for such Operation for their role and sacrifices in supporting such servicemembers. Expresses deep condolences to the families of the men and women who lost their lives during the conflict in Iraq.

A concurrent resolution to commend the Third Infantry Division (Mechanized) of the United States Army for its role in the lieberation of Iraq.

United States · United States Congress · 5 September 2003

Commends the men and women of the army's Third Infantry Division (Mechanized): (1) who participated in Operation Iraqi Freedom and subsequent military operations in Iraq; and (2) for their role in the fall of Baghdad. Expresses: (1) gratitude to those soldiers' families for their sacrifices during those operations; and (2) condolences to the families of those soldiers who lost their lives while fighting to liberate Iraq.

To amend the Soldiers' and Sailors' Civil Relief Act of 1940 to provide protections to servicemembers who terminate motor vehicle or residential leases entered into before permanent change of station or deployment orders or motor vehicle leases entered into before military service.

United States · United States Congress · 5 September 2003

Amends the Soldiers' and Sailors' Civil Relief Act of 1940 to allow a lessee to terminate a residential or motor vehicle lease which was entered into before military service or before receiving permanent change of station or deployment orders at any time after: (1) entry into military service; or (2) the date of the lessee's station or deployment orders. (Currently, a lessee may terminate only a residential lease and only after entry into military service.)

To authorize construction of a new (replacement) medical center for the Department of Veterans Affairs in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico at a site to be selected pursuant to a study by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs and Secretary of Defense as suitable for a new Federal medical center in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico that would best serve the needs of both veterans and Department of Defense medical beneficiaries in Puerto Rico.

United States · United States Congress · 5 September 2003

Authorizes the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a major medical facility project for the construction of a new (replacement) medical center in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. Directs the Secretary and the Secretary of Defense to conduct a joint study to determine which of two of the following locations would be preferable for the center: (1) Sabana Seca; or (2) Fort Buchanan.

To amend title 10, United States Code, to permit members of the Selected Reserve the use of Reserve Montgomery GI Bill education benefits for payment for licensing or certification tests.

United States · United States Congress · 5 September 2003

Permits members of the Selected Reserve to use up to $2,000 of Reserve Montgomery GI Bill educational assistance benefits for payment for licensing or certification tests.

To amend title 10, United States Code, to increase the military death gratuity from $6,000 to $12,000 and to provide that such death gratuity shall be excluded from gross income under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.

United States · United States Congress · 5 September 2003

Increases from $6,000 to $12,000 the death gratuity paid upon the active-duty death of a member of the armed forces. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to exclude any such death gratuity from gross income.

To authorize a major medical facility project at the San Juan, Puerto Rico, Department of Veterans Affairs medical center.

United States · United States Congress · 5 September 2003

Authorizes the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a major medical facility project at the Department of Veterans Affairs medical center in San Juan, Puerto Rico, in order to bring that facility into compliance with the Department directive designated as the CD-54 Natural Disasters Directive.

To amend chapter 89 of title 5, United States Code, and chapter 55 of title 10, United States Code, to provide that any health benefits plan which provides obstetrical benefits shall be required also to provide coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of infertility.

United States · United States Congress · 5 September 2003

Amends Federal laws concerning civilian and military health care to require any health benefits plan under the Federal Employees Health Benefit Program or TRICARE (a Department of Defense managed health care program) that provides obstetrical benefits to also provide coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of infertility, including nonexperimental assisted reproductive technology procedures.

To provide a 10 percent increase in the rate of basic pay for members of the uniformed services, effective January 1, 2004, to pay a one-time bonus to members of the Armed Forces who served or serve in a combat zone designated for Operation Iraqi Freedom or Operation Enduring Freedom, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 5 September 2003

Waives any FY 2004 military pay increases tied to increases in the General Schedule of Compensation for Government employees. Increases by ten percent, effective January 1, 2004, the rates of basic pay for military personnel. Requires the payment of a one-time bonus of $1,500 to each active-duty and reserve member of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard who served or serves for any period of time in a combat zone designated in connection with Operations Iraqi Freedom or Enduring Freedom.

Honoring the life and legacy of Bob Hope.

United States · United States Congress · 5 September 2003

Honors Bob Hope for his legendary career as an entertainer, his decades of dedicated service to the men and women of the armed forces, and his many philanthropic and humanitarian acts. Expresses condolences on his passing to his wife, children, and grandchildren.

Of inquiry requesting the President to transmit to the House of Representatives not later than 14 days after the date of adoption of this resolution the report prepared for the Joint Chiefs of Staff entitled "Operation Iraqi Freedom Strategic Lessons Learned" and other materials relating to the Administration's planning for the reconstruction and security of post-war Iraq.

United States · United States Congress · 5 September 2003

Requests the President to transmit to the House of Representatives the report prepared for the Joint Chiefs of Staff entitled "Operation Iraqi Freedom Strategic Lessons Learned" and other materials relating to the Administration's planning for the reconstruction and security of post-war Iraq.

Family Building Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 4 September 2003

Family Building Act of 2003 - Amends the Public Health Service Act, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA), the Federal Employees Health Benefits Plan, and defense health care plan provisions to require health plans to provide benefits for treatment of infertility in accord with specified standards.

To ensure by law the ability of the military service academies to include the offering of a voluntary, nondenominational prayer as an element of their activities.

United States · United States Congress · 4 September 2003

Authorizes the superintendent of a military service academy to have in effect a policy of offering a voluntary, nondenominational prayer at an authorized academy activity, subject to such limitations as the President may prescribe.

Commemorating the 100th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the United States and Bulgaria.

United States · United States Congress · 4 September 2003

Commemorates the 100th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the United States and Bulgaria. Recognizes Bulgaria's contributions toward bringing peace, stability, and prosperity to Southeastern Europe and its cooperation and increasingly vital role as an ally in the war against terrorism. Encourages opportunities for greater U.S.-Bulgarian cooperation in political, military, economic, and cultural spheres.

Michael W. Wynne, of Florida, to be Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics, vice Edward C. Aldridge, resigned.

United States · United States Senate · 3 September 2003

To amend title 10, United States Code, to provide permanent authority for the exemption for certain members of the uniformed services from an otherwise-applicable requirement for the payment of subsistence charges while hospitalized.

United States · United States Congress · 3 September 2003

Exempts from the requirement to pay subsistence charges while hospitalized in a military facility an officer or former officer, or an enlisted member or former enlisted member not entitled to retired or retainer pay or equivalent pay, who is hospitalized in a military facility because of an injury incurred: (1) as a direct result of armed conflict; (2) while engaged in hazardous service; (3) in the performance of duty under conditions simulating war; or (4) through an instrumentality of war.

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

United States · United States Congress · 3 September 2003

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

A bill to direct the Secretary of the Interior to replace the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as the Federal agency responsible for the administration, protection and preservation of the Midway Atoll within 90 days after the enactment of this Act, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 2 September 2003

Directs the Secretary of the Interior to: (1) review and report to the appropriate congressional committees on the administration of Midway Atoll and the designation of the Atoll as a National Memorial; and (2) designate another agency to replace the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as administrator of Midway Atoll and developer of the Memorial. Declares the intention of Congress that: (1) the National Memorial on Midway Atoll be given equal consideration with concerns over the preservation of wildlife in all matters related to the administration, development and preservation of the Atoll; (2) Midway's airport remain in use as an alternative emergency site in order to ensure the safety of civilian and military aircraft in the northern Pacific region; and (3) the public continue to have meaningful access to the Atoll so as to experience and benefit from its status as both a National Memorial to the Battle of Midway and a National Wildlife Refuge.

A bill to authorize the expansion of the pilot program of the Department of Veterans Affairs on assisted living for veterans to include three additional health care regions of the Department of Veterans Affairs.

United States · United States Congress · 2 September 2003

Amends the Veterans Millennium Health Care and Benefits Act to authorize three additional health care regions for the Department of Veterans Affairs assisted living for veterans pilot program. (Limits service in such additional areas to three years.)

Eric and Brian Simon Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 31 July 2003

Eric and Brian Simon Act of 2003 - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to pay a gratuity of $100,000 to: (1) each veteran who was treated with HIV-contaminated blood, blood components, human tissue, or organs as a result of a service-connected disability and can assert through acceptable medical evidence reasonable certainty of transmission of HIV as a result of such treatment; and (2) the current or former spouse and each natural child of such a veteran who can assert the transmission of HIV from such veteran. Provides for such payments in the case of deceased individuals. States that such payments shall not be considered payments for purposes of medical insurance or workers' compensation.

9-11 Memorial Intelligence Reform Act

United States · United States Congress · 31 July 2003

9-11 Memorial Intelligence Reform Act - Amends the National Security Act of 1947 to establish: (1) an Office of the Director of National Intelligence (Office); (2) a Director of National Intelligence (Director); (3) a Deputy Director of National Intelligence; (3) a Deputy Director of National Intelligence for Community Management; (4) a National Intelligence Council; (5) Assistant Directors of National Intelligence for Collection, Analysis and Production, and Administration; (6) a General Counsel to the Director; and (7) an Inspector General of the Intelligence Community. Renames the Director of Central Intelligence the Director of the Central Intelligence Agency. Provides for the coordination of functions and responsibilities between the Office and Director and the Central Intelligence Agency and its Director. Expresses the sense of Congress that the Director of National Intelligence should be a Cabinet-level officer. Directs the President to establish priorities for the intelligence, intelligence-related, and counterterrorism activities of the Government. Requires the: (1) National Security Council to prepare a Government-wide strategy for combating terrorism; (2) National Intelligence Officer on Terrorism to be included on the National Intelligence Council; (3) Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to enhance FBI counterterrorism capabilities; (4) Director of National Intelligence, Attorney General, and Secretary of Homeland Security to report on reforms in domestic intelligence programs and activities; (5) Attorney General to provide training to intelligence community personnel in addressing terrorist threats; (6) Director to improve and enhance the quality of personnel of the intelligence community, and to report on the budgeting and funding of Federal intelligence and counterterrorism activities; and (7) enhancement of access to relevant intelligence information among Federal agencies and of intelligence community accountability in the performance of intelligence activities. Requires the Director to: (1) establish the National Terrorist Watchlist Center; and (2) enhance efforts to identify the support or involvement of foreign governments in terrorist activities.

A bill to designate the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Prescott, Arizona, as the "Bob Stump Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center".

United States · United States Congress · 31 July 2003

Designates the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Prescott, Arizona, as the Bob Stump Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center.

Project BioShield Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 30 July 2003

Project BioShield Act of 2003 - Amends the Public Health Service Act regarding preparations for public health emergencies affecting national security, including a bioterrorist attack. Grants the Secretary of Health and Human Services (Secretary), through the National Institutes of Health (NIH), certain authority with respect to the research and development of qualified biomedical countermeasures, including: (1) expedited procurement authority; (2) expedited peer authority; and (3) authority for personal services contracts. Directs: (1) the Secretary of Homeland Security to assess current and emerging chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats, and determine which present a material risk to the United States; and (2) the Secretary to assess the public health consequences of such threats, and the availability and appropriateness of countermeasures. Authorizes the Secretaries to jointly propose to the President appropriate countermeasures and procurement. Directs the Secretaries, upon presidential approval, to procure the necessary countermeasures for stockpiling. Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to allow the Secretary to declare a national emergency under specified conditions and authorize the release into interstate commerce of a drug or device intended for use in an emergency. Directs the Secretary, as feasible, to: (1) impose requirements on such authorization, including emergency product labeling and ensuring that health care professionals administering the product and persons to whom the product is administered are informed about benefits, risks, and alternatives; and (2) periodically review, or revoke as circumstances warrant, an authorization. Provides civil monetary penalties for violations of such provisions. Allows the President, under specified circumstances involving the Armed Forces, to waive the requirement that individuals be allowed to refuse administration of a countermeasure. Amends the Social Security Act to revise the Secretary's authority to waive specified requirements during a national emergency.

Bob Hope Arlington Honors Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 30 July 2003

Bob Hope Arlington Honors Act of 2003 - Directs the Secretary of the Army to permit the burial of Leslie Townes (Bob) Hope of California, an honorary veteran of the armed forces, in Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia, upon the request of his family.

Citizens' Protection in Federal Databases Act

United States · United States Congress · 29 July 2003

Citizens' Protection in Federal Databases Act - Directs the Attorney General, the Secretaries of Defense, Homeland Security, and Treasury, and the Directors of Central Intelligence and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to submit to specified congressional committees and make available to the public a written report detailing any use by the agency, or by any national security, intelligence, or law enforcement element under that agency's jurisdiction, of databases that were obtained from or remain under the control of a nonfederal entity, or that contain information that was acquired initially by another Federal agency for purposes other than national security, intelligence, or law enforcement. Prohibits the obligation or expenditure of funds by those agencies on the procurement of or access to any commercially available database unless that report has been submitted within 60 days. Sets forth report requirements, including information on contracts entered into for the use of, access to, or analysis of databases that were obtained from a nonfederal entity for specified purposes.. Prohibits any Government entity, officer, or employee from conducting a search or other analysis of a database for national security, intelligence, or law enforcement purposes based solely on a hypothetical scenario or supposition of who may commit a crime or pose a threat to national security.

A bill to require the Secretary of the Army to award the Combat Medical Badge or another combat badge for Army helicopter medical evacuation ambulance (Medevac) pilots and crews.

United States · United States Congress · 29 July 2003

Directs the Secretary of the Army to award the Combat Medical Badge, or establish and award a badge to be known as the Combat Medevac Badge, for Army helicopter medical evacuation ambulance (Medevac) pilots and crews. Makes qualifying service effective beginning June 25, 1950.

A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate that Congress should adopt a conference agreement on the child tax credit and on tax relief for military personnel.

United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2003

Expresses the sense of the Senate that: (1) the committee of conference between the Senate and House of Representatives on H.R. 1308 should agree to a conference report before the August recess; (2) any conference report on H.R. 1308 should contain the provisions in the Senate Amendment to H.R. 1308 concerning the refundability of the child tax credit; (3) any conference report on H.R. 1308 should contain the provisions in the Senate Amendment to H.R. 1308 concerning the availability of the child tax credit for military families; (4) any conference report on H.R. 1308 should contain the provisions in the Armed Forces Tax Fairness Act of 2003; and (5) any conference report on H.R. 1308 should contain provisions to fully offset its cost.