Defence

Pension Flexibility in Natural Disasters Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2005

Pension Flexibility in Natural Disasters Act of 2005 - Authorizes the Secretary of Labor to issue waivers, suspensions, or exemptions from requirements under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) in the case of individual account pension plans, or persons or service providers involved with or dealing with such plans, that are affected by Hurricane Katrina or Rita. Directs the Secretaries of Labor and of the Treasury and the Executive Director of the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC) to exercise authority under ERISA and the Internal Revenue Code to postpone certain deadlines, by reason of the presidentially declared disaster areas in Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Texas, and elsewhere, due to the effect of Hurricane Katrina or Rita. Amends ERISA to extend to regulations issued under ERISA and plan provisions the Secretary's current authority to prescribe a one-year extension of ERISA deadlines, under such regulations or plan provisions, in the event of presidentially declared disasters or terrorist or military actions.

Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2006

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2005

Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2006 - Authorizes appropriations for FY2006 for the conduct of intelligence and intelligence-related activities of the: (1) Office of the Director of National Intelligence (DNI); (2) Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); (3) Department of Defense; (4) Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA); (5) National Security Agency (NSA); (6) Departments of the Army, Navy, and Air Force; (7) Departments of State, the Treasury, Energy, and Justice; (8) Federal Bureau of Investigation; (9) National Reconnaissance Office; (10) National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency; (11) Coast Guard; and (12) Department of Homeland Security. Specifies that the amounts authorized and the authorized personnel ceilings as of September 30, 2006, for such activities are those specified in the classified Schedule of Authorizations. Allows the DNI, with the approval of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, to authorize employment of civilian personnel in excess of the number authorized for FY2006 (by not more than two percent) when necessary to the performance of important intelligence functions. Authorizes appropriations for the Intelligence Community Management Account of the DNI for FY2006 as well as for full-time personnel for elements within such Account. Earmarks a specified amount of such funds for the National Drug Intelligence Center. Authorizes appropriations for FY2006 for the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability Fund. Specifies that the authorization of appropriations by this Act shall not be deemed to constitute authority for the conduct of any intelligence activity which is not otherwise authorized by the Constitution or laws of the United States. Amends the National Security Act of 1947 to establish an Office of the Inspector General of the Intelligence Community. Repeals superseded authority to establish such position under the Inspector General Act of 1978. Protects from public disclosure certain operational files: (1) within the Office of the DNI; and (2) of the DIA. Establishes: (1) a Deputy Director of the CIA; (2) an Assistant Attorney General for the NSA; and (3) a National Security Division of the Department of Justice.

Foreign Investment Security Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2005

Foreign Investment Security Act of 2005 - Amends the Defense Production Act of 1950 relating to authorized investigations of the effects on national security of a proposed acquisition, merger, or takeover (transaction) by or with foreign persons which could result in foreign control of persons engaged in U.S. commerce to: (1) extend the time to commence such investigation; (2) require the findings and recommendations of any investigation to be sent immediately to the President and specified congressional committees for review; (3) require certain factors to be considered as part of such investigation, including the effect on domestic production and long-term projections of U.S. requirements for sources of energy and other critical resources; (4) direct the Secretary of the Treasury to report quarterly to such committees a detailed summary and analysis of each transaction being, or likely to be, reviewed; and (5) subject the President's decision not to suspend or prohibit a transaction to a congressional approval process.

Louisiana Katrina Reconstruction Act

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2005

Louisiana Katrina Reconstruction Act - Makes emergency supplemental appropriations for FY2005 related to Hurricane Katrina disaster relief. Makes appropriations for interoperable communications. Provides for reconstruction/repair of the New Orleans Regional VA Hospital. Directs the Secretary of the Navy to convey the Naval Support Activity to the City of New Orleans, Louisiana, or the Port of New Orleans, Louisiana, to facilitate their development and expansion. Amends the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act with respect to hazard mitigation measures in a major disaster area. Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security, acting through the Director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), to reimburse all costs associated with the restoration of privately-owned utility infrastructure damaged or destroyed by Hurricane Katrina. Helping to House the Victims of Hurricane Katrina Act - Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 with respect to Hurricane Katrina Emergency Assistance Vouchers. Prescribes requirements under the Home Program for families displaced as a result of Hurricane Katrina. Establishes in the Treasury the Home Business and Mortgage Protection Fund. Amends the TANF Emergency Response and Recovery Act of 2005 with respect to reimbursement of states for benefits under title IV (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) (TANF) part A of the Social Security Act (SSA)) provided to assist families from other states affected by Hurricane Katrina. Requires a state to provide medical assistance under SSA title XIX (Medicaid) to Disaster Relief Medicaid (DRM)-eligible Katrina Survivors under a plan established during the DRM coverage period. Provides for 100% federal matching payments for medical assistance provided in direct impact parishes. Establishes in the Treasury the United States Disaster Relief Fund. Amends the Internal Revenue Code and the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 to make Katrina survivors eligible for: (1) a refundable income tax credit for 100% of health insurance costs; and (2) assistance with health insurance coverage under national emergency grants. Provides that an area in which the President has declared that a major disaster exists shall be designated as a health professional shortage area. Waives, during the disaster relief period, certain quality reporting requirements under SSA title XVIII (Medicare) for hospitals located in any parish affected by Hurricane Katrina. Amends the federal bankruptcy code with respect to debtors who are victims of a natural disaster. Amends SSA title IX (Employment Security) to authorize the Secretary of the Treasury to transfer from the federal unemployment account to a state's account in the Unemployment Trust Fund an amount appropriate to ensure that the state account is not insolvent. Authorizes the use of certain Department of Defense (DOD) and Louisiana National Guard funds for the payment of: (1) departure allowances in connection with the relocation of dependents of members of the uniformed services serving on active duty or of members of reserve components deployed in state service; and (2) claims for personal property damage and losses incurred by such members. Declares that the departure of civilian DOD employees and their dependents from Louisiana parishes designated as major disaster areas on or after August 28, 2005, shall be considered an evacuation for the purpose of federal government payment for transportation to a location of the employee's choice. Amends the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 to authorize the Administrator of the Small Business Administration to guarantee the timely payment of any debenture issued for purposes of rebuilding or resuming operations in a damaged area. Amends the Small Business Act with respect to Supplemental Emergency Loans after Hurricane Katrina. Louisiana Hurricane Katrina Agriculture Disaster Relief Act of 2005 - Prescribes requirements for certain crop disaster assistance. Privately Owned Utility System Restoration Act of 2005 - Directs the President to compensate privately owned utilities in Louisiana for losses incurred as a result of Hurricane Katrina. Establishes a Protecting Essential Louisiana Infrastructure, Citizens, and Nature Commission (Pelican Commission). Directs the Secretary of Commerce to establish a program of grants for activities relating to transition, recovery, and relocation for federal and state agencies, businesses, institutions of higher education, and public-private partnerships in Louisiana that have been affected by Hurricane Katrina or a related condition. Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to provide for emergency grants for construction of public telecommunications facilities damaged or destroyed by Hurricane Katrina. Provides relief for the crawfish industry. Directs the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to report on the impacts of Hurricane Katrina on fisheries in affected states. Establishes an entrepreneurship redevelopment program to be administered by the Economic Development Administration to rebuild and diversify New Orleans and the ten surrounding parishes. Requires the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development to establish grant programs to: (1) construct, maintain, and repair evacuation and energy supply routes; (2) expand road and transit capacity in the community; (3) restore, protect, and improve the infrastructure of the Port of New Orleans and other affected ports. Authorizes appropriations to the Federal Aviation Administration for reimbursements to the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport for anticipated revenue shortfalls. AmeriCorps Disaster Relief Corps Act of 2005 - Establishes an AmeriCorps Disaster Relief Corps to carry out projects in a major disaster or emergency area that provide food, clothing, shelter, and other humanitarian assistance for disaster victims. Domestic Offshore Energy Reinvestment Act of 2005 - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to make payments to coastal states from certain offshore energy-related amounts for hurricane protection and protection of resources from natural disasters. Offshore Fairness Act of 2005 - Extends the seaward boundaries of Gulf of Mexico states from three geographical miles to three marine leagues if certain conditions are met. Louisiana Restoration Stamp Act of 2005 - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to issue a Louisiana Restoration Stamp and establish the Louisiana Restoration Stamp Fund to hold sale proceeds for coastal and wetland restoration activities. Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to authorize appropriations for the restoration of the Lake Pontchartrain basin. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to prescribe or revise emergency tax relief measures for residents of the Hurricane Katrina disaster area, including specified tax credits and deductions from gross income. Provides for suspension of air transportation excise taxes. Special Inspector General for Relief and Reconstruction Act of 2005 - Authorizes the Special Inspector General for Iraq Reconstruction to continue to serve as the Special Inspector General for Relief and Reconstruction in order to audit and investigate use of funds made available for Hurricane Katrina recovery. Directs the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to track and report to Congress quarterly on spending of Hurricane Katrina emergency supplemental appropriations. Amends the federal criminal code to create a federal crime of interfering with federal disaster relief efforts. Shields volunteers from lawsuits arising out of their rendering of aid to victims of Hurricane Katrina.

Enforcement First Immigration Reform Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2005

Enforcement First Immigration Reform Act of 2005 - Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act and other immigration-related provisions with respect to: (1) enforcement and detention of, and criminal penalties for, illegal aliens; (2) the institutional removal (IRP) and criminal alien assistance (SCAAP) programs; (3) alien smuggling, document fraud, gang violence, and drug trafficking; (4) border security, personnel increases, and border-related assignment of armed forces members; (5) provision of social security numbers; (6) work authorization and enforcement; (7) secure identification standards, including birth certificates; (8) reform of legal immigration, including elimination of the diversity lottery visa category and certain limitations on entrants from Mexico; (9) citizenship reform, including limitations on citizenship by birth; and (10) wages paid to unauthorized aliens.

Preserving the Sacredness of our National Cemeteries Act

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2005

Preserving the Sacredness of our National Cemeteries Act - Prohibits the interment or memorialization in a national cemetery of any person convicted of a State capital crime and sentenced to death or life imprisonment. (Currently, such prohibition extends only to those so convicted and sentenced without the possibility of parole.) Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to require a person submitting an application for interment or memorialization to certify whether the individual has been convicted of a capital crime.

Veterans Access to Health Care Act

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2005

Veterans Access to Health Care Act - Eliminates a $3 per round-trip deductible charged by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs in connection with the veterans beneficiary travel program (a program authorizing a travel allowance or reimbursement for beneficiaries providing transportation for veterans to obtain medical care). Directs the Secretary, in determining the amount of such allowance or reimbursement, to use the House of Representatives mileage reimbursement rate.

A joint resolution authorizing special awards to World War I and World War II veterans of the United States Navy Armed Guard.

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2005

Authorizes and urges the President to award the John Eopolucci United States Navy Armed Guard Service Medal to recognize service of members of the United States Navy Armed Guard during World War I or II as service in a special force or in a military organization of the Navy.

A resolution commending the efforts of the Department of Veterans Affairs in responding to Hurricane Katrina.

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2005

Commends the employees and volunteers of the Department of Veterans Affairs, who risked life and limb to assist veterans, staff, and their respective families who were affected by Hurricane Katrina.

Providing for consideration of the joint resolution (H.J. Res. 68) making continuing appropriations for the fiscal year 2006, and for other purposes; for consideration of motions to suspend the rules; and addressing a motion to proceed under section 2908 of the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Act of 1990.

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2005

Sets forth the rule for consideration of the joint resolution (H.J. Res. 68) making continuing appropriations for the fiscal year 2006, and for other purposes; for consideration of motions to suspend the rules; and addressing a motion to proceed under section 2908 of the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Act of 1990.

Expressing the sense of the Congress that the United States flag flown over the United States Capitol should be lowered to half-mast one day each month in honor of the brave men and women from the United States who have lost their lives in military conflicts.

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 2005

Expresses the sense of the Congress that the U.S. flag flown over the U.S. Capitol should be lowered to half-mast one day each month in honor of the men and women from the United States who have lost their lives in military conflicts.

NEEDED IMPROVEMENTS TO DEFENSE ACQUISITION PROCESSES AND ORGANIZATIONS

United States · United States Senate · 27 September 2005

To make 2 percent across-the-board rescissions in non-defense, non-homeland-security discretionary spending for fiscal year 2006.

United States · United States Congress · 27 September 2005

Makes 2% across-the-board rescissions in non-defense, non-homeland-security discretionary spending for FY 2006.

To make 1 percent across-the-board rescissions in non-defense, non-homeland-security discretionary spending for fiscal year 2006.

United States · United States Congress · 27 September 2005

Makes 1% across-the-board rescissions in non-defense, non-homeland-security discretionary spending for FY2006.

To make 5 percent across-the-board rescissions in non-defense, non-homeland-security discretionary spending for fiscal year 2006.

United States · United States Congress · 27 September 2005

Makes 5% across-the-board recissions in non-defense, non-homeland-security discretionary spending for FY2006.

To amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to exempt members of the Armed Forces from naturalization requirements relating to English language, knowledge of government, good moral character, and period of service.

United States · United States Congress · 27 September 2005

Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to exempt members of the armed forces from naturalization requirements respecting English language and government knowledge, good moral character, and period of service.

Making continuing appropriations for the fiscal year 2006, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 27 September 2005

Makes continuing appropriations for FY2006. Appropriates amounts for continuing operations, projects or activities which were conducted in FY2005 and for which appropriations, funds, or other authority would be made available in the: (1) Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2006; (2) Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2006; (3) Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act, 2006; (4) Foreign Operations, Export Financing, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2006 (in the House of Representatives) or the Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2006 (in the Senate); (5) Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2006; (6) Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2006; (7) Military Quality of Life and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Act, 2006 (in the House) or the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2006 (in the Senate); (8) Science, State, Justice, Commerce, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2006 (in the House) or the Departments of Commerce and Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2006 (in the Senate); (9) Transportation, Treasury, Housing and Urban Development, the Judiciary, the District of Columbia, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 2006 (in the House) or the Transportation, Treasury, the Judiciary, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2006 (in the Senate), and the District of Columbia Appropriations Act, 2006 (in the Senate). Provides funding under this resolution until the earliest of: (1) enactment of an appropriation for any project or activity provided for in this joint resolution; (2) enactment of the applicable appropriations Act by both Houses without any provision for such project or activity; or (3) November 18, 2005. Authorizes continuation of other specified activities (including activities for entitlements and other mandatory payments) through such date.

Requesting that the President transmit to the House of Representatives information in his possession relating to contracts for services or construction related to Hurricane Katrina recovery that relate to wages and benefits to be paid to workers.

United States · United States Congress · 27 September 2005

Requests the President to transmit to the House of Representatives information in his possession regarding federal contracts for services or construction related to Hurricane Katrina recovery or rebuilding and compliance with standards for wages and benefits to be paid to workers pursuant to the Davis-Bacon Act, the Service Contract Act of 1965, or the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938. Includes in such request: (1) copies of relevant portions of such contracts awarded or requested by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) or by the Departments of Labor, of Education, of Homeland Security, of Health and Human Services, or of Defense, or the Army Corps of Engineers; and (2) communications made or received by such agencies related to compliance with such Acts in the geographic areas specified in the President's Proclamation 7924 of September 8, 2005.

Gas PRICE Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 September 2005

Gas Petroleum Refiner Improvement and Community Empowerment Act or the Gas PRICE Act - Directs the Secretary of Commerce and the Economic Development Administration to give priority to the construction of petroleum-based refineries in communities affected by military base closures or realignments. Revises the process for issuing permits for the construction and operation of a refinery. Requires the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to (1) solicit applications for grants under the EPA Natural Gas STAR Program to reduce methane emissions in the oil and gas industries; and (2) conduct workshops to provide information to state officials on methane emission reduction techniques. Amends the Clean Air Act to: (1) hold states harmless for emission levels resulting from emergency waivers granted by EPA; and (2) require the Administrator to revoke the approval of certain fuels no longer included in a state implementation plan. Requires the Administrator to: (1) conduct a research and demonstration program to evaluate the air quality benefits of ultra-clean Fischer-Tropsch transportation fuel, including diesel and jet fuel; (2) evaluate the use of such fuel for reducing engine exhaust emissions; and (3) submit recommendations and reports to Congress. Authorizes loan guarantees for domestic coal and petroleum coke-based Fischer-Tropsch commercial demonstration projects.

Hurricane Katrina Emergency Housing Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 26 September 2005

Hurricane Katrina Emergency Housing Act of 2005 - Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to waive specified requirements under the section 8 (United States Housing Act of 1937) housing voucher and project-based assistance programs for an individual or family: (1) who resides or resided on August 29, 2005, in any area subject to a presidential disaster declaration in connection with Hurricane Katrina; and (2) whose residence became uninhabitable or inaccessible as a result of Hurricane Katrina. Authorizes the Secretary to directly administer section 8 vouchers if the appropriate public housing agency is unable to do so because of Hurricane Katrina. States that: (1) a project-based housing assistance contract covering a project damaged or destroyed by Hurricane Katrina shall not expire because of the damage or destruction of dwelling units in the project; and (2) the contract's expiration date shall be the later of the contract date or three months after the units are first made habitable. Directs the Secretary, the Secretary of Defense, the Administrator of the General Services Administration, the Secretary of Agriculture, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, other appropriate agency heads, the Federal National Mortgage Association (FNMA), and the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (FHLMC) to compile an inventory of federal civilian and defense facilities and other properties that can be used: (1) for emergency housing; or (2) as construction sites for temporary housing. Directs the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to report on state emergency planning.

Gasoline for America's Security Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 26 September 2005

Gasoline for America's Security Act of 2005 - Sets forth a statutory framework in the wake of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita to: (1) increase refinery capacity for gasoline, heating oil, diesel fuel, and jet fuel; (2) reduce environmental and other regulations affecting refineries under the Clean Air Act; and (3) coordinate permitting requirements and other regulations affecting refineries at the federal, state, and local levels. Sets guidelines for federal-state regulatory coordination, including financial, technical and legal assistance, to facilitate refinery siting, construction, expansion, or operation. Instructs the President to designate sites on federal lands for siting a refinery, including closed military installations and those closed pursuant to a base closure law. Designates the Department of Energy as the lead agency for coordinating all applicable federal refinery authorizations and related environmental reviews. Directs the Secretary of Energy to establish a federal refinery authorization schedule. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to repeal guidelines governing federal-state regulatory coordination and assistance for refinery revitalization. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into contracts with non-federal entities that the Secretary determines to be the first non-federal entities to enter into firm contracts after enactment of this Act to construct new refineries in the United States or refurbish and return to commercial operation existing but nonoperating refineries. Establishes in the Treasury the Standby Refinery Support Account to implement refinery revitalization. Authorizes the President to take specified steps necessary for refinery construction and operation and for the manufacture of petroleum products for the U.S. Armed Forces. Instructs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to: (1) reform expeditiously the New Source Review programs under the Clean Air Act; and (2) use maximum legal flexibility to enable energy industry facilities promptly to undertake projects to maintain such facilities in the least-costly manner. Amends Clean Air Act requirements governing air pollution prevention to authorize the President, in order to alleviate an extreme and unusual fuel or fuel additive supply emergency resulting from a natural disaster, to waive temporarily: (1) any control or prohibition respecting the use of a fuel or fuel additive; and (2) preempt any related or equivalent control or prohibition respecting the use of a fuel or fuel additive prescribed by a state or local entity. Sets forth guidelines to extend the attainment date for certain downwind areas. Provides for discounted sales of royalty-in-kind oil to qualified small refineries. Instructs the Administrator to recommend to Congress how to streamline certain paperwork requirements under the Clean Air Act and corresponding requirements under state laws, particularly with regard to states whose requirements are more stringent than the federal ones. Requires Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) authorization to site, construct, expand, or operate a crude oil or refined petroleum product pipeline facility in interstate commerce. Directs the Federal Trade Commission to investigate nationwide gasoline prices in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, including any evidence of price-gouging by subject companies. Authorizes the Secretary of Energy to drawdown and sell petroleum products from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to fill it to its maximum authorized level. Establishes the SPR Expansion Fund in the Treasury to accomplish such purpose.

Dorrance Smith, of Virginia, to be an Assistant Secretary of Defense, vice Victoria Clarke.

United States · United States Senate · 22 September 2005

Gulf Coast Recovery Act

United States · United States Congress · 22 September 2005

Gulf Coast Recovery Act - Prohibits any person or entity awarded a government contract to perform rescue, recovery, repair, or reconstruction work in any part of a disaster zone, as a result of the performance of that work, from being subject to liability that any private party may seek to impose under any provision of federal law (including any regulation) that: (1) is administered by the Secretary of the Army, the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), or the Secretary of Transportation; and (2) otherwise permits the filing of a lawsuit by a private individual. Sets forth provisions with respect to a federal cause of action for claims arising out of, relating to, or resulting from the performance of a government contract in a disaster zone for: (1) the search, rescue, or recovery of individuals or property dislocated by the disaster; (2) the demolition, removal, repair, or reconstruction of structures or utilities damaged by the disaster; (3) the clean-up or remediation of property polluted by the disaster; (4) the removal of debris deposited by the disaster (including dredging); or (5) the dewatering of property flooded by the disaster. Makes the Chief of Engineers of the Department of the Army exclusively responsible for the review of any government contract that any person or entity claims to be necessary for the recovery of a disaster zone from a disaster for the purpose of establishing a government contractor defense in any lawsuit for claims relating to the performance of a government contract.

A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to expand the State sentences for which burial in National Cemeteries and Arlington National Cemetery are prohibited to include any sentence of life imprisonment for a State capital crime.

United States · United States Congress · 22 September 2005

Expands the prohibition against interment or memorialization in the National Cemetery System for persons convicted of a State capital crime for which the person was sentenced to life imprisonment to include any sentence of life imprisonment. (Currently, the prohibition applies only to a sentence of life imprisonment without parole).

A bill to require the Secretary of the Army to remove the remains of Russell Wayne Wagner from Arlington National Cemetery.

United States · United States Congress · 22 September 2005

Directs the Secretary of the Army to remove the remains of Russell Wayne Wagner from Arlington National Cemetery.

To require the Secretary of the Navy to comply with certain reversionary requirements related to property donated to the Navy for use as a Navy homeport whenever the property ceases to be used for that purpose.

United States · United States Congress · 22 September 2005

Requires the Secretary of the Navy, when real property donated during the period beginning on January 1, 1980, and ending on the date of enactment of this Act for use as a Navy homeport ceases to be used for that purpose, to comply with the terms of any reversionary interest and promptly convey the property to the reversionary interest holder.

Pension Flexibility for Displaced Workers Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 22 September 2005

Pension Flexibility for Displaced Workers Act of 2005 - Authorizes the Secretary of Labor, for a one-year period, to provide appropriate waivers, suspensions, or exemptions from title I provisions of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) with respect to individual account plans affected by Hurricane Katrina. Exempts any person from liability for any violation of such title based upon acts or omissions covered by such waivers, suspensions, or exemptions and in compliance with their terms. Amends ERISA to extend the Secretary's current authority to postpone certain deadlines for up to one year in cases of pension or employee benefit plans, or any sponsor or other persons with respect to such plans, that are affected by presidentially-declared disasters or terrorist or military actions. Applies such postponement authority to actions required under any regulation issued or any plan provision (as well as, currently, to any action required or permitted to be completed under ERISA).

To provide for the designation of 3 closed military installations as appropriate sites for construction of an oil refinery.

United States · United States Congress · 22 September 2005

Requires the Secretary of Energy and the Secretary of Defense, within 90 days after enactment of this Act, to jointly designate three military installations closed pursuant to a base closure law as suitable for construction of an oil refinery. Prohibits the federal government, for two years, from selling or disposing of any such designated site except for purposes of oil refinery construction.

Remembering and commemorating the lives and work of Maryknoll Sisters Maura Clarke and Ita Ford, Ursuline Sister Dorothy Kazel, and Cleveland Lay Mission Team Member Jean Donovan, who were executed by members of the armed forces of El Salvador on December 2, 1980.

United States · United States Congress · 22 September 2005

Remembers and commemorates the lives and work of Sisters Maura Clarke, Ita Ford, and Dorothy Kazel and lay missionary Jean Donovan, and extends sympathy and support for the families, friends, and religious communities of the four U.S. churchwomen. Calls upon the people of the United States and religious congregations to participate in local, national, and international events commemorating the 25th anniversary of their martyrdom. Calls upon the President, the Secretary of State, the Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and the heads of other U.S. agencies to support the government of El Salvador and private sector, nongovernmental, and religious organizations in their efforts to reduce poverty and to promote educational opportunity, health care, and social equity for the people of El Salvador.

Special Inspector General for Relief and Reconstruction Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2005

Special Inspector General for Relief and Reconstruction Act of 2005 - Amends the Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Act for Defense and for the Reconstruction of Iraq and Afghanistan to redesignate the Office of the Special Inspector General for Iraq Reconstruction as the Office of the Special Inspector General for Relief and Reconstruction. Makes it the duty of the new Inspector General to conduct and coordinate audits and investigations of the treatment, handling, and expenditure of amounts appropriated or otherwise made available for Hurricane Katrina recovery by the federal government, and of the programs, operations, and contracts carried out utilizing such funds. Requires the Inspector General to appoint one or more Assistant Inspectors General for Auditing responsible for supervising the performance of auditing activities relating to programs and operations supported by the Iraq Relief and Reconstruction Fund and those relating to Hurricane Katrina recovery activities. Requires the Inspector General to appoint one or more Assistant Inspectors General for Investigations responsible for supervising the performance of investigative activities relating to such programs and operations.

A bill to amend the Food and Stamp Act of 1977 to exclude certain military housing allowances from the eligibility requirements for food stamps.

United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2005

Amends the Food Stamp Act of 1977 to exclude certain military housing allowances from food stamp eligibility requirements.

A resolution to express the sense of the Senate regarding the missions and performance of the United States Coast Guard in responding to Hurricane Katrina.

United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2005

Expresses the sense of the Senate that: (1) the U.S. Coast Guard should receive Congress's highest commendation for its response to the events surrounding Hurricane Katrina; (2) Congress should commit to providing the Coast Guard with resources it needs to modernize and maintain its fleet of vessels and aircraft; and (3) the Administration should ensure that the Coast Guard receives sufficient funding to cover its unexpected operational and capital costs associated with Hurricane Katrina.

A bill to extend the time during which persons affected by Hurricane Katrina may appeal certain decisions of the Board of Veterans' Appeals that are rendered during the period beginning June 1, 2005, and ending November 30, 2005.

United States · United States Congress · 20 September 2005

Allows a person who is adversely affected by a final decision of the Board of Veterans' Appeals and who is a Hurricane Katrina-affected person 240 days (that is, allows such person an additional 120 days) after such decision to file an appeal with the United States Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims, with respect to any Board decision rendered during the period beginning on June 1, 2005, and ending on November 30, 2005.

Military Victims of Violence Confidentiality Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 20 September 2005

Military Victims of Violence Confidentiality Act of 2005 - Amends the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) to provide that a client has a privilege to refuse to disclose, and to prevent any other person from disclosing, a confidential communication made between the client and a victim service organization, or between the client and a health care professional, in a case arising under the UCMJ, if such communication was made for securing advice, counseling, treatment, or assistance concerning the client's mental, physical, or emotional condition caused by domestic violence, family violence, dating violence, stalking, or sexual assault. Provides privilege exceptions.

Disapproving the recommendations of the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Commission.

United States · United States Congress · 20 September 2005

Disapproves the recommendations of the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Commission as submitted by the President on September 15, 2005.

Disapproving the recommendations of the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Commission.

United States · United States Congress · 20 September 2005

Disapproves the recommendations of the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Commission as submitted by the President on September 15, 2005.

Eric S. Edelman, of Virginia, to be Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, vice Douglas Jay Feith, resigned, to which position he was appointed during the recess of the Senate from July 29, 2005, to September 1, 2005.

United States · United States Senate · 19 September 2005

Peter Cyril Wyche Flory, of Virginia, to be an Assistant Secretary of Defense, vice Jack Dyer Crouch, II, to which position he was appointed during the recess of the Senate from July 29, 2005, to September 1, 2005.

United States · United States Senate · 19 September 2005

Prohibiting Reprehensible Increases in Costs of Essentials (PRICE) Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 15 September 2005

Prohibiting Reprehensible Increases in Costs of Essentials (PRICE) Act of 2005 - Amends the federal criminal code to prohibit price gouging in a time and place of disaster (as declared by the President or the chief executive of a state). Defines "price gouging" as charging a grossly disproportionate price (25 percent higher than the average price during the 30 days immediately prior to the declared emergency). Makes it a defense to such a prosecution that the increase in the amount charged is attributable to: (1) additional costs incurred in connection with the rental or sale of the commodity or rental or lease of any dwelling unit or self-storage facility; or (2) national or international market trends.

Military Family Assistance Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 15 September 2005

Military Family Assistance Act of 2005 - Authorizes the Secretary of Defense to make an emergency adjustment in the rates of the basic allowance for housing in a particular military housing area in response to a sudden increase in energy costs resulting from higher charges for utilities or other causes. Allows such increase to remain in effect for up to six months. Requires the Secretary to notify Congress of such an adjustment and the reasons for such adjustment. Authorizes the Secretary to make an emergency adjustment in the cost-of-living allowance and establish temporary high cost areas during a fiscal year in response to a sudden increase in gasoline prices in an area. Provides the same six-month limitation and congressional notification requirement.

REQUESTING THE PRESIDENT AND DIRECTING THE SECRETARY OF STATE TO TRANSMIT TO THE HOUSE ALL INFORMATION RELATING TO COMMUNICATION WITH THE U.K. BETWEEN 1/1/02 AND 10/16/02 RELATING TO THE POLICY OF THE U.S. WITH RESPECT TO IRAQ; REQUESTING THE PRESIDENT AND DIRECTING THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE TO TRANSMIT TO THE HOUSE ALL DOCUMENTS RELATING TO COMMUNICATIONS WITH THE U.K. RELATING TO THE POLICY OF THE U.S. WITH RESPECT TO IRAQ; AND DIRECTING THE SECRETARY OF STATE TO TRANSMIT TO THE HOUSE DOCUMENTS RELATING TO THE DISCLOSURE OF THE IDENTITY AND EMPLOYMENT OF MS. VALERIE PLAME

United States · United States House of Representatives · 14 September 2005

Disabled Veterans' Caregiver Compensation Act

United States · United States Congress · 14 September 2005

Disabled Veterans' Caregiver Compensation Act - Requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to pay monthly compensation of $234 to a veteran if and while totally disabled and in need of regular aid and attendance and while unpaid aid and attendance is provided by an adult family member who is dependent upon such veteran for support.

Home School Non-Discrimination Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 13 September 2005

Home School Non-Discrimination Act of 2005 - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA) with respect to: (1) student aid eligibility of home-schooled students who have satisfied certain secondary education standards; and (2) institutional aid eligibility of the higher education institutions that such students attend. Amends the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) to provide that, if a parent does not consent to an initial evaluation or special education or related services for a child with a disability, the local educational agency shall not be required to convene an individualized education program (IEP) meeting or develop an IEP for such child. Amends the Internal Revenue Code with respect to qualified elementary and secondary education expenses (the Coverdell Education Savings Account) to include home schools if they are treated as a home school or private school under state law. Amends the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 to prohibit release of certain information on and educational records of students in nonpublic education, including any student educated at home or in a private school in accordance with state law, without written parental consent. Amends HEA to include students at home schools, whether treated as a home school or a private school under state law, among those prospective secondary school graduates eligible to apply for the Robert C. Byrd Honors Scholarship Program for higher education. Amends the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to direct the Secretary of Labor to extend the hours and periods of permissible employment of employees between the ages of 14 and 16 years who are privately educated at a home school, whether the home school is treated as a home school or a private school under state law, beyond those hours and periods applicable to employees of such ages who are educated in traditional public schools. (Thus allows home-school students to be employed during the traditional school day.) Amends specified federal law with respect to policies on recruitment and enlistment of home schooled students in the Armed Forces.

Displaced Citizens Voter Protection Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 13 September 2005

Displaced Citizens Voter Protection Act of 2005 - Extends to individuals evacuated from their residences as a result of Hurricane Katrina the right to use the absentee balloting and registration procedures available to military and overseas voters under the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act. Requires each motor vehicle authority and each designated voter registration agency in a state to take necessary steps to notify individuals to whom services are provided of the protections provided by this Act and of the requirements for obtaining them, including the requirement to submit an affidavit stating that the individual intends to return to the place of residence where he or she is otherwise qualified to vote.

Home School Non-Discrimination Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 13 September 2005

Home School Non-Discrimination Act of 2005 - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA) with respect to: (1) student aid eligibility of home-schooled students who have satisfied certain secondary education standards; and (2) institutional aid eligibility of the higher education institutions that such students attend. Amends the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) to provide that, if a parent does not consent to an initial evaluation or special education or related services for a child with a disability, the local educational agency shall not be required to convene an individualized education program (IEP) meeting or develop an IEP for such child. Amends the Internal Revenue Code with respect to qualified elementary and secondary education expenses (the Coverdell Education Savings Account) to include home schools if they are treated as a home school or private school under state law. Amends the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 to prohibit release of certain information on and educational records of students in nonpublic education, including any student educated at home or in a private school in accordance with state law, without written parental consent. Amends HEA to include students at home schools, whether treated as a home school or a private school under state law, among those prospective secondary school graduates eligible to apply for the Robert C. Byrd Honors Scholarship Program for higher education. Amends the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to direct the Secretary of Labor to extend the hours and periods of permissible employment of employees between the ages of 14 and 16 years who are privately educated at a home school, whether the home school is treated as a home school or a private school under state law, beyond those hours and periods applicable to employees of such ages who are educated in traditional public schools. (Thus allows home-school students to be employed during the traditional school day.) Amends specified federal law with respect to policies on recruitment and enlistment of home schooled students in the Armed Forces.

To ensure that certain members of the United States Armed Forces are not subject to secondary airport security screening.

United States · United States Congress · 13 September 2005

Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to issue regulations to ensure that no secondary airport screening is conducted of a member of the Armed Forces who: (1) is on active duty; (2) is carrying orders that require travel; (3) is in uniform; and (4) has valid military identification.

Special Inspector General for Hurricane Katrina Recovery Act

United States · United States Congress · 13 September 2005

Special Inspector General for Hurricane Katrina Recovery Act - Establishes the Office of the Special Inspector General for Hurricane Katrina Recovery. Places at the head of such Office a Special Inspector General for Hurricane Katrina Recovery, who shall be appointed by the Secretary of Homeland Security. Provides for the Special Inspector General to report directly to the Secretaries of Homeland Security and Defense. Requires the Special Inspector General, among other specified duties, to conduct, supervise, and coordinate audits and investigations of the treatment, handling, and expenditure of amounts made available for Hurricane Katrina recovery by the federal government, and of the programs, operations, and contracts carried out utilizing such funds. Instructs the Special Inspector General, within ten days of being appointed, to: (1) open a 24-hour fraud, waste, and abuse hotline; (2) deploy auditors and investigators to the affected Gulf of Mexico region of the United States; (3) announce a strategic plan for oversight; (4) go to the media of that region with antifraud messages; (5) liaise with Hurricane Katrina recovery federal agencies to identify vulnerabilities; and (6) coordinate interagency oversight elements through the creation of a task force. Requires the Special Inspector General to: (1) submit specified quarterly and interim reports summarizing the activities of the Special Inspector General and the Hurricane Katrina recovery activities of the federal government; and (2) publish such reports on the websites of the Secretaries of Homeland Security and Defense.

To authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide emergency assistance to homeless veterans and their families affected by Hurricane Katrina, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 13 September 2005

Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to make available for use as temporary residences for Hurricane Katrina-affected individuals any residential properties on which the Department of Veterans Affairs has foreclosed under the Department's guaranteed home loan program. Requires a residential priority for veterans, surviving spouses of veterans, and children of veterans and their families. Authorizes the Secretary to make emergency grants to nonprofit organizations or states or political subdivisions thereof for providing housing assistance to homeless veterans who are Hurricane Katrina-affected individuals and their families for up to two years. Authorizes the Secretary, during or following a period of emergency or disaster, to use underutilized Department property to house, for up to 180 days, veterans and their dependents who are displaced as the result of such emergency or disaster. Authorizes the Secretary to make emergency grants to entities providing care for homeless veterans to repair or replace care facilities that are damaged or destroyed by a disaster.

To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend the tax treatment of members of the Armed Forces who die while serving in, or as a result of serving in, a combat zone to employees of contractors of the Federal Government.

United States · United States Congress · 13 September 2005

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend to employees of federal government contractors who die while, or as a result of, serving in a combat zone the same tax exclusions for decedent income and death gratuities allowed to members of the Armed Forces.

Working to Enhance Courts for At-Risk and Endangered Kids Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 12 September 2005

Working to Enhance Courts for At-Risk and Endangered Kids Act of 2005 - Amends part E (Foster Care and Adoption Assistance) of title IV of the Social Security Act (SSA) with respect to courts for at-risk children. Provides or revises requirements for: (1) collaboration among state IV-B (Child and Family Services) and IV-E agencies; (2) outcome performance standards for abuse and neglect courts; (3) court model standards; (4) state flexibility for public access to courts; (5) orderly and timely processing for interstate placement of children; (6) complete background checks, including child abuse registries, before approval of any foster or adoptive placement; (7) health and education records; (8) the right to be heard in foster care proceedings; (9) court improvement; and (10) use of interjurisdictional resources. Amends SSA title IV part D (Child Support and Establishment of Paternity) to allow courts access to the Federal Parent Locator Service to locate parents in foster care or adoptive placement cases. Amends SSA title XI part A (General Provisions) to require each state administering a program under SSA title IV part B or part E to establish a permanent, multidisciplinary, broad-based commission on state child welfare programs. Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to provide for loan forgiveness for: (1) family law, juvenile law, and domestic relations attorneys who work in the defense of low-income families, individuals, or children; and (2) child welfare workers. Amends the Victims of Child Abuse Act of 1990 to reauthorize at increased levels the Court Appointed Special Advocate Program, including such programs in rural and underserved urban areas. Expresses the sense of the Senate that the Chief Justice for each state and other state court leadership should take the lead in providing for the health, safety, and permanency of children before state abuse and neglect courts.