Defence

Naval Vessel Transfer Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 22 October 2007

Naval Vessels Transfer Act of 2007 - Authorizes the President to transfer on a grant basis to: (1) Turkey, the OLIVER HAZARD PERRY class guided missile frigates GEORGE PHILIP and SIDES; and (2) Lithuania, the OSPREY class minehunter coastal ships CORMORANT and KINGFISHER. Authorizes the President to transfer on a sale basis to: (1) Taiwan, the OSPREY class minehunter coastal ships ORIOLE and FALCON; and (2) Turkey, the OSPREY class minehunter coastal ship SHRIKE. States that: (1) the value of such vessels transferred on a grant basis shall not be counted against the aggregate value of excess defense articles transferred to countries in any fiscal year under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961; (2) transfer costs shall be charged to the recipient; and (3) to the maximum extent practicable, the country to which a vessel is transferred shall have necessary vessel repair and refurbishment carried out at U.S. shipyards (including U.S. Navy shipyards). Terminates transfer authority two years after enactment of this Act.

Safety for Americans from Nuclear Weapons Testing Act

United States · United States Congress · 19 October 2007

Safety for Americans from Nuclear Weapons Testing Act - Deems the resumption of underground nuclear testing at the Nevada Test Site or the use of any other location for such testing to be a major federal action significantly affecting the quality of the human environment for which a separate environmental impact statement is required under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969. Outlines information required to be included in such statement, including: (1) the possibility of radiation containment failure and the effects of such failure; (2) possible long-term effects on the water table from underground radiation leakage; and (3) information with respect to categories of weapons subject to testing. Prohibits the United States from resuming any such testing unless authorized by a law enacted after the enactment of this Act. Requires: (1) advance (seven days) public notice of each test; (2) prompt notice of each release of radiation resulting from a test; and (3) a study by the National Academy of Sciences on the safety and health of citizens in the vicinity of the Site. Establishes a Nevada Test Site Citizens Review Board to address environmental, health, and safety issues related to nuclear testing at the Site. Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to make grants to institutions of higher education to acquire and operate for ten years radiation detection equipment and sensors. Directs the Secretary of Energy, through the Department of Energy (DOE) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), to monitor any radiation released into the atmosphere as a result of such testing. Requires: (1) DOE radiation containment assessment; and (2) public notice of monitoring data. Requires the: (1) Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to make a grant to establish the National Center for the Study of Radiation and Human Health; and (2) Secretary of Health and Human Services to conduct a study of individuals exposed to nuclear weapons tests.

A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate regarding the importance of a sovereign, democratic, and prosperous Lebanon and the need for free and fair presidential elections in Lebanon without intimidation or foreign interference.

United States · United States Congress · 18 October 2007

Calls for free presidential elections in Lebanon. Condemns the governments of Syria and Iran for their interference in Lebanon's internal political affairs. Affirms support for Lebanon's armed forces. Urges the Secretary of State to continue efforts in support of a Special Tribunal for Lebanon to end impunity for political assassinations. Urges the President to use all peaceful means to help promote an independent, democratic, and prosperous Lebanon.

To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to conduct a longitudinal study of the vocational rehabilitation programs administered by the Secretary.

United States · United States Congress · 18 October 2007

Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to conduct a longitudinal study for at least 20 years of the veterans who begin participating in a vocational rehabilitation program during FY2008.

Parents' Empowerment Act

United States · United States Congress · 18 October 2007

Parents' Empowerment Act - Authorizes a minor, through a person acting on his or her behalf under the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, to bring a civil action in U.S. district court for compensatory and punitive damages for the knowing sale or distribution in interstate or foreign commerce of an entertainment product containing material harmful to minors, if: (1) a reasonable person would expect a substantial number of minors to be exposed to the material; and (2) the minor as a result of such exposure is likely to suffer personal or emotional injury or injury to mental or moral welfare. Makes it an affirmative defense to such an action that: (1) a parent or guardian of the minor owned or possessed the entertainment product containing the material to which the minor was exposed; and (2) an act of that parent or guardian was the proximate cause of the minor’s exposure.

United States Airlift Requirements Act

United States · United States Congress · 18 October 2007

United States Airlift Requirements Act - Directs the Secretary of Defense to study alternatives for the asset size and mix for the Air Force intertheater airlift force, focusing on current and planned capabilities and costs of the C-5 and C-17 fleets. Requires that the study be conducted through a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC) in concert with the United States Transportation Command.

Tom Lantos Block Burmese JADE (Junta's Anti-Democratic Efforts) Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 18 October 2007

Block Burmese JADE (Junta's Anti-Democratic Efforts) Act of 2007 - Amends the Burmese Freedom and Democracy Act of 2003 to: (1) waive the requirement that Congress annually enact renewal resolutions for the continuation of import restrictions against Burmese products; and (2) continue such sanctions until they are terminated by a joint resolution of Congress or by the President (under current law, until terminated by the President). Prohibits the importation of gemstones or rough unfinished geological material mined or extracted from Burma. Expands the ban on the issuance of visas and admission to the United States to former and present leadership of the State Peace and Development Council (SPDC) or the Union Solidarity Development Association (Burmese regime) to include Burmese military members (including their families) involved in the repression of protests in Burma in August, September, and October 2007, and Burmese officials who have engaged in gross violations of internationally recognized human rights. Waives such ban only if the President certifies to Congress that it is in the national interests of the United States. Expands current law provisions providing for the freezing of assets in the United States of Burmese regime members to provide for the blocking of all property and assets in the United States: (1) that are owned by members of the Burmese regime and Burmese military and Burmese officials who have engaged in gross violations of internationally recognized human rights; and (2) of persons and financial institutions associated with such individuals. Sets forth, with specified exceptions, certain prohibited activities related to the blocking of such property. Subjects persons who violate such prohibitions to certain penalties. Denies tax deductions or tax credits with respect to amounts paid or incurred by the Burmese regime, or a joint production agreement involving the Yadana gas field or pipeline.

William Wilberforce Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 18 October 2007

William Wilberforce Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act of 2007 - Amends the the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000 to direct the Secretary of State (Secretary) to establish within the Department of State an Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking. (Current law authorizes such Office's establishment.) Directs the President to: (1) carry out programs to prevent and deter trafficking in persons; and (2) implement an anti-trafficking program monitoring system. Authorizes the President to establish the Presidential Award for Extraordinary Efforts to Combat Trafficking in Persons. Sets forth consular officer responsibilities respecting anti-trafficking and related information to be given at nonimmigrant alien visa interviews. Sets forth protections for: (1) aliens who may be trafficking victims or who may testify against traffickers (including parole entry for certain family members); and (2) work-based nonimmigrants or alien workers recruited abroad. Sets forth provisions respecting: (1) assistance for trafficking victims, including child victims and U.S. citizens; (2) penalties for trafficking, unlawful compelled service, sex tourism, and aliens in prostitution. Directs: (1) the Attorney General to establish within the Office of the Deputy Attorney General a Coordinator to Combat Human Trafficking; and (2) the Secretary of Labor to establish within the Department of Labor a Coordinator to Combat Human Trafficking. Directs the Secretary to develop: (1) policies and procedures to ensure that unaccompanied alien children in the United States are safely repatriated to their country of nationality or of last habitual residence; and (2) a safe repatriation pilot program for alien children. States, with specified exceptions, that the care and custody of unaccompanied alien children in the United States shall be the responsibility of the Secretary of Health and Human Services. Sets forth related provisions and authorizations of appropriations. Child Soldier Prevention Act of 2007 - Prohibits, with a national interest waiver, funds for specified military and related areas from being made available to the government of a country identified by the Department of State as having governmental armed forces or government supported armed groups that recruit or use child soldiers. Authorizes the President to reinstate assistance upon certifying to Congress that a government is implementing: (1) compliance measures; and (2) mechanisms to prohibit future use of child soldiers. Authorizes the President to provide assistance to a country for international military education and training otherwise prohibited under this Act upon certifying to Congress that such assistance is for implementation of measures to demobilize child soldiers and for programs to support professionalization of the military. Requires a report on child soldiers in Burma.

Captain Scott Corwin Armed Forces Protection Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 18 October 2007

Captain Scott Corwin Armed Forces Protection Act of 2007 - Amends the federal criminal code to: (1) provide enhanced criminal penalties for killing, or conspiring or attempting to kill, any member of the Armed Forces; and (2) add as an aggravating factor in death penalty deliberations the killing of a member of the Armed Forces.

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives regarding the violation of the human rights of United Nations Special Rapporteur on Trafficking in Persons, Sigma Huda, and others, by the caretaker government of Bangladesh.

United States · United States Congress · 18 October 2007

Calls on the Secretary of State to determine if the charges brought against United Nations Special Rapporteur on Trafficking in Persons, Sigma Huda, constitute a retaliation by the military-backed government of Bangladesh for her family's alleged political activities. Asks the President to direct the U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations to submit a resolution to the United Nations condemning the caretaker government for its human rights violations. Proposes that the President recognize the return of democracy to Bangladesh as a high priority of U.S. foreign policy.

To amend title 38, United States Code, to change the length of the obligated period of service on active duty required for receiving certain education benefits administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 17 October 2007

Shortens the length of the obligated period of active duty service required of certain members of the Armed Forces to receive certain veterans' education benefits.

Enhancing America's Security through Strategic Redeployment from Iraq Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 October 2007

Enhancing America's Security through Strategic Redeployment from Iraq Act - Sets forth the following findings: (1) ending the war in Iraq is necessary, however, how the war is ended is of even greater importance for U.S. national security, the safety U.S. Armed Forces members serving in Iraq, and stability in both Iraq and the Middle East; (2) an open-ended U.S. involvement in Iraq is not in the interest of U.S. national security and U.S. military forces must be redeployed or risk becoming severely overstrained; and (3) redeployment from Iraq will be a lengthy process. Declares that: (1) it is critical that a comprehensive security plan is developed for Iraq and the region that accepts the necessity for a deliberate U.S. redeployment of forces from Iraq; (2) a planned end to U.S. involvement in Iraq will serve to force Iraqi leaders to assume responsibility for security and governance while providing Iran and Syria the incentive to prevent violence otherwise caused by the U.S. redeployment; and (3) a "goal" for the redeployment's end rather than a "date certain" end is a necessary compromise to ensure a strategic approach for U.S. security and to create to a greater level of post-redeployment Iraqi stability. States that: (1) with specified exceptions, redeployment of U.S. Armed Forces in Iraq shall begin within three months, and that within six months troop levels shall be at least 15,000 below the pre-surge level of 130,000 troops; and (2) the goal is that all U.S. Armed Forces in Iraq shall be deployed outside of Iraq within 20 months. States that funds for the Department of Defense (DOD) for Operation Iraqi Freedom may not be obligated or expended to support more than 115,000 U.S. Armed Forces members within Iraq, with a goal of no funding for troops in Iraq within 20 months. States that the United States should take a leadership role in diplomatic efforts necessary for countries in the region, including Iran and Syria, to work together to ensure Iraq's long-term stability of Iraq.

Honoring and thanking the soldiers that served the top secret units for the United States Military Intelligence Service under the project name "Post Office Box 1142".

United States · United States Congress · 17 October 2007

Honors and extends appreciation to the soldiers that served in the top secret units for the U.S. Military Intelligence Service under the project name Post Office Box 1142 for their service to our nation during World War II.

IMPROVING FINANCIAL AND BUSINESS MANAGEMENT AT THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

United States · United States Senate · 16 October 2007

Saffron Revolution Support Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 16 October 2007

Saffron Revolution Support Act of 2007 - States that it is U.S. policy to: (1) support the democratic aspirations of Burma's people; (2) condemn the repression carried out by the State Peace and Development Council (SPDC); and (3) hold accountable individuals responsible for the repression of peaceful political activity in Burma. Directs the President to submit to the appropriate congressional committees a list of: (1) SPDC officials who play or have played a substantial role in political repression in Burma or in the commission of human rights abuses; and (2) other Burmese SPDC supporters. Subjects persons so identified to U.S. entry prohibition and financial sanctions (blocked property, financial transaction prohibitions, and banking sanctions). Terminates such prohibitions upon a presidential certification to the committees that the SPDC has: (1) released all political prisoners, including Aung San Suu Kyi and other members of the National League for Democracy; (2) entered into a dialogue with democratic forces led by the National League for Democracy and the ethnic minorities of Burma on transitioning to democratic government; and (3) allowed humanitarian access to populations affected by armed conflict in all regions of Burma. Amends the the Burmese Freedom and Democracy Act of 2003 to prohibit the importation into the United States of Burmese gems, teak, or other hardwood timber. Prohibits any U.S. person (as defined by this Act) from investing in Burma. Authorizes: (1) the Secretary of State to award grants to nongovernmental organizations, universities, and other organizations to establish an Internet database of SPDC human rights abuses; and (2) the President to assist nonviolent democracy activists in their efforts to promote freedom, democracy, and human rights in Burma. Directs the Secretary to report to the appropriate committees respecting countries that provide military aid to Burma.

To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to guarantee the right of deployed members of the Armed Forces who are elected members of State and local legislatures to vote on matters pending before such legislatures.

United States · United States Congress · 16 October 2007

Amends the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to state that a person who is an elected member of a state or local legislature who is absent from the state or local area in compliance with military or naval orders shall not, solely by reason of that absence, be denied the right to vote on any pending legislative matter.

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

United States · United States Congress · 16 October 2007

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

Expressing support for designation of the month of October 2007 as "Country Music Month" and to honor country music for its long history of supporting America's armed forces and its tremendous impact on national patriotism.

United States · United States Congress · 16 October 2007

Supports the designation of a Country Music Month (October). Honors country music for its long history of supporting America's armed forces and its tremendous impact on national patriotism.

Veterans' Mental Health and Other Care Improvements Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 15 October 2007

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

Veterans Pain Care Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 15 October 2007

Veterans Pain Care Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out at each Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care facility an initiative on pain care which shall include, for each individual receiving treatment at such facility: (1) an assessment for pain at the time of admission or initial treatment, and periodic assessments thereafter; and (2) appropriate pain care including, when necessary, access to specialty pain management services. Directs the Secretary to carry out within the Medical and Prosthetic Research Service of the Veterans Health Administration a program of research and training on acute and chronic pain. Requires the Secretary, under such program, to designate cooperative centers for research and education on pain, with at least one center as a lead center for research on pain attributable to central and peripheral nervous system damage commonly associated with battlefield injuries characteristic of modern warfare.

American Freedom Agenda Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 15 October 2007

American Freedom Agenda Act of 2007 - Repeals the Military Commissions Act of 2006. Authorizes the President to establish military commissions for the trial of war crimes only in places of active hostilities against the United States where an immediate trial is necessary to preserve fresh evidence or to prevent local anarchy. Prohibits the President from detaining any individual indefinitely as an unlawful enemy combatant absent proof by substantial evidence that the individual has directly engaged in active hostilities against the United States. Prohibits the detention of any U.S. citizen as an unlawful enemy combatant. Entitles any individual detained as an enemy combatant by the United States to petition for a writ of habeas corpus. Prohibits any civilian or military tribunal of the United States from admitting as evidence statements extracted from the defendant by torture or coercion. Prohibits any federal agency from gathering foreign intelligence in contravention of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act. Subordinates the President's constitutional power to gather foreign intelligence to such prohibition. Gives the House of Representatives and Senate standing to file a declatory judgment action in an appropriate federal district court to challenge the constitutionality of a presidential signing statement that declares the president's intent to disregard provisions of a bill he has signed into law because he believes they are unconstitutional. Prohibits any U.S. officer or agent from kidnapping, imprisoning, or torturing any person abroad based soley on the president's belief that the subject of the action is a criminal or enemy combatant. Allows kidnapping if undertaken with the intent of bringing the kidnapped person for prosecution or interrogation to gather intelligence before a tribunal that meets international standards of fairness and due process. Provides that nothing in the Espionage Act of 1917 shall prohibit a journalist from publishing information received from the executive branch or Congress unless the publication would cause direct, immediate, and irreparable harm to U.S. national security. Prohibits the use of secret evidence by the President or any other member of the executive branch to designate an individual or organization with a U.S. presence as a foreign terrorist or foreign terrorist organization for purposes of the criminal law or civil sanctions.

Active Duty Military Tax Relief Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 15 October 2007

Active Duty Military Tax Relief Act of 2007 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) allow certain small business owners (businesses having 100 or fewer employees) and self-employed individuals a tax credit for wages paid to members of the Ready Reserve of the Armed Forces and to temporary replacement employees for such members while on active military duty; (2) treat differential wage payments made to members of the Ready Reserve as earned income for tax withholding and retirement plan purposes; (3) allow the rollover of military death gratuities to individual retirement accounts, health savings accounts, Archer medical savings accounts, and education savings accounts; (4) increase the standard tax deduction by $1,000 in 2007 and 2008 for members of the uniformed services on active duty for more than 30 days; and (5) make permanent the taxpayer election to treat combat pay as earned income for purposes of computing the earned income tax credit and tax-free retirement plan distributions to individuals called to active duty.

REPAIR Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 12 October 2007

Relocation Empowerment and Placement Assistance for Iraqi Refugees Act of 2007 or REPAIR Act of 2007 - Waives visa and related fees relating to special immigrant status for Afghan or Iraqi nationals who worked with the U.S. Chief of Mission or the U.S. Armed Forces as interpreters or translators. Waives numerical limitations with respect to such special immigrants. Expands such category to include persons who: (1) performed such services with a U.S. contractor; or (2) performed other services. Makes additional U.S. military officers eligible to recommend such nationals for special immigrant status. Directs the Secretary of State (Secretary) to make every effort to ensure that aliens applying for special immigrant status and visas, and aliens applying for refugee status and visas, may apply and interview within Iraq in Baghdad and Irbil through in-country processing mechanisms. Directs the Secretary and the Secretary of Defense to jointly establish a program to offer federal employment to relocated Iraqi special immigrants as translators, interpreters, and cultural awareness instructors. States that such special immigrants shall be eligible for the same resettlement assistance as refugees. Directs the Secretary to provide such special immigrants with computer literacy and vocational training, English language training, and employment and counseling services. Expresses the sense Congress that the United States should provide an orientation into life in the United States for Iraqi special immigrants and should make all reasonable efforts to provide temporary safe haven for alien applicants who are in imminent danger in Iraq.

[H.A.S.C. No. 110-94] SECURITY CHALLENGES INVOLVING PAKISTAN AND POLICY IMPLICATIONS FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

United States · United States House of Representatives · 10 October 2007

National Guard Employment Protection Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 10 October 2007

National Guard Employment Protection Act of 2007 - Provides employment and reemployment rights for certain individuals ordered to full-time National Guard duty.

Supporting Prosecutions of International Espionage Schemes Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 10 October 2007

Supporting Prosecutions of International Espionage Schemes Act of 2007 - Amends the federal criminal code to: (1) revise criminal prohibitions against unauthorized gathering and disclosure of national defense information and recklessly losing such information; (2) increase maximum prison terms for the crimes of misprision of treason, rebellion, and thefts of classified information and financial records by computer; (3) impose a fine and/or prison term of up to 30 years for damaging or impeding the operation of a nuclear facility or attempting or conspiring to do so; and (4) impose a fine and/or prison term of up to 20 years for violations of certain export control requirements. Directs the Attorney General to: (1) notify appropriate officials at the Departments of Homeland Security (DHS), State, and Commerce of any indictments, convictions, or dispositions of any criminal investigations under the Arms Export Control Act or the Export Administration Act; (2) develop an Internet import and export control database; and (3) provide technical assistance to investigators and prosecutors to improve and increase enforcement and prosecution of export control laws.

Military Financial Assistance Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 10 October 2007

Military Financial Assistance Act of 2007 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend through 2008: (1) the exemption from tax penalties for withdrawals from retirement plans made by active duty military personnel; and (2) mortgage revenue bond issuance authority for financing of home purchases by veterans.

You Were There, You Get Care Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 10 October 2007

You Were There, You Get Care Act of 2007 - Presumes specified diseases, and any other disease found by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to result from exposure to depleted uranium or the byproducts of the burn-off that occurs when a depleted uranium munition penetrates a target, among those diseases that will be presumed to be service-connected (and therefore compensable) when appearing in radiation-exposed veterans. Includes, for purposes of such coverage, service during the Persian Gulf War or any subsequent conflict in which depleted uranium munitions are used. Directs the Secretary to provide for an independent medical study to determine other diseases that may result from exposure to depleted uranium. Requires study results to be submitted to the congressional veterans' committees.

Veterans Emergency Care Fairness Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 10 October 2007

Veterans Emergency Care Fairness Act of 2007 - Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reimburse certain veterans without a service-connected disability enrolled as active participants of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care plan for the cost of emergency treatment received in a non-VA facility until such time as such veterans are transferred to a VA facility. Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary to reimburse certain veterans with a service-connected disability or a non-service-connected disability associated with or aggravating a service-connected disability for the value of emergency treatment for which such veterans have made payment from sources other than the VA.

Veterans Guaranteed Bonus Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 10 October 2007

Veterans Guaranteed Bonus Act of 2007 - Provides that, in the case of a member of the Armed Forces who is retired or separated for disability due to a combat-related injury, the Secretary of Defense shall require the continued payment of any bonuses or special pay to which the member: (1) was entitled to immediately before the retirement or separation; and (2) would continue to be entitled to if not retired or separated. Requires such payment in a lump sum within 30 days after such retirement or separation.

Recognition of Forgotten Atomic Veterans and their Surviving Spouses Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 10 October 2007

Recognition of Forgotten Atomic Veterans and their Surviving Spouses Act of 2007 - Directs the Attorney General (AG) to: (1) obtain from files of the Operations Office of the Department of Energy in Nevada records showing the identity of all atomic veterans (those exposed to ionizing radiation or fallout from the atmospheric detonation of a nuclear device); (2) locate such veterans; and (3) advise them of the provisions of the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act, including the right to file a claim thereunder. Directs the AG, with respect to each identified veteran who is deceased, to locate and advise his or her surviving spouse of such Act and their right to file a claim. Directs the AG to assist each such veteran or surviving spouse in filing such a claim. Expands the number of diseases considered service-connected when appearing in radiation-exposed veterans.

Nuclear Gold Standard Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 10 October 2007

Nuclear Gold Standard Act of 2008 - Directs the Secretary of Energy, the Secretary of State, and the Secretary of Defense to develop a framework for a global alliance against nuclear terrorism that would incorporate the "gold standard" developed under this Act for the security of nuclear materials. Directs the Secretary of Energy to work with: (1) the Secretary's Russian counterpart to develop a formal set of verifiable and enforceable standards to which all U.S. and Russian nuclear materials shall be secured and against which inspectors can test ("gold standard"); and (2) the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to extend such standards to all other countries with nuclear materials. Directs the Secretary of Energy and the Secretary of State to: (1) separately and jointly, provide assistance to other countries to implement the measures required by U.N. Security Council Resolution 1540; and (2) jointly develop a set of incentives as part of such assistance. Authorizes, subject to specified conditions, appropriations for: (1) specified Department of Energy and Department of Defense (DOD) nuclear materials safety and weapons reduction programs; and (2) securing nuclear materials in Russia.

New Diplomatic Offensive for Iraq Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 October 2007

New Diplomatic Offensive for Iraq Act - Directs the President to implement a regional diplomatic plan in conjunction with the U.N. Security Council to: (1) curtail the ongoing civil war in Iraq; (2) prevent the spread of violence from Iraq into neighboring countries; (3) prevent the establishment of safe havens for al-Qa'ida and other terrorist organizations; (4) prevent regional conflict; (5) prevent genocide, ethnic cleansing, and other crimes against humanity; and (6) promote a national process of reconciliation within Iraq. States that it is U.S. policy to: (1) undertake a sustained diplomatic effort to engage the governments of regional nations on issues that impact the situation in Iraq; (2) continue and expand U.S. direct bilateral talks with nations neighboring Iraq on issues of mutual interest; (3) support the goals specified in the International Compact for Iraq; and (4) encourage the increased engagement of international organizations in working to achieve stability and security in Iraq. Directs the President to appoint a Presidential Special Envoy for Iraq Regional Security whose duties shall include: (1) discussions with the government of Iraq and governments of neighboring countries to support Iraq's efforts to achieve peace and stability and to take necessary actions to prevent regional instability, including organizing a related Iraq Support Group; and (2) working with Iraqi officials and other domestic stakeholders to organize a forum for negotiations on national reconciliation. Directs the Secretary of State to organize an international donors conference to solicit additional international commitments of funding and support for reconstruction and economic development in Iraq. Directs the President direct the U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations to seek a Security Council resolution that: (1) supports regional and international cooperation in promoting stability and development in Iraq; (2) encourages increased support for efforts to rebuild and expand Iraq's economy and critical infrastructure; and (3) authorizes renewed U.N. assistance to promote security and political reconciliation in Iraq, including a commitment to an increased U.N. role following the beginning of a U.S. Armed Forces' redeployment from Iraq.

Servicemembers Telecom Contract Relief Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 October 2007

Servicemembers Telecom Contract Relief Act - Allows a person in military service to terminate a telecommunications contract for cellular phone service, cable or satellite television service, or internet service at any time after: (1) entry into military service; or (2) the date of the station or deployment orders. Requires for termination that: (1) the contract is executed by or on behalf of a person who thereafter and during the term of the contract enters military service (or receives order to enter military service) under an order specifying a period of not less than 90 days (or who enters military service under an order specifying a period of 90 days or less and who, without a break in service, receives orders extending the period of military service to a period of not less than 90 days); or (2) the person enters into the contract while in military service and thereafter receives military orders for a permanent change of station outside of the continental United States, or to deploy with a military unit for a period of not less than 90 days, to a location that does not support continuation of the service under the contract.

FISA Amendments Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 9 October 2007

Responsible Electronic Surveillance That is Overseen, Reviewed, and Effective Act of 2007 or RESTORE Act of 2007 - Amends the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 (FISA) to provide that a court order is not required for the acquisition of communication between non-U.S. persons who are not located within the United States for collecting foreign intelligence information, whether or not the communication passes through the United States or the surveillance device is located within the United States. Allows the acquisition by court order (through the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court (Court)) or by emergency authorization (both provided under this Act) of surveillance directed upon a person outside the United States who is a non-U.S. person. Requires the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) and the Attorney General (AG) to jointly apply to the Court for an order, or the extension of an order, authorizing for up to one year the acquisition of communications of persons outside the United States who are non-U.S. persons. Allows the DNI and the AG to authorize such an acquisition if an emergency situation exists, but requires the DNI and the AG, within seven days of such authorization, to apply to the Court for approval of the acquisition. Requires the DNI and AG to submit to the intelligence and judiciary committees copies of all applications and orders submitted to, or granted by, the Court. Directs the Inspector General of the Department of Justice to audit all federal programs involving the acquisition of communications conducted without a court order on or after September 11, 2001. Requires the DNI and AG to develop and maintain a recordkeeping system on instances where the identity of a U.S. person whose communications were acquired was disclosed by an element of the intelligence community to other federal departments and agencies.

Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Modernization Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 9 October 2007

Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Improvement and Enhancement Act of 2007 - Prescribes the federal law provisions governing domestic electronic surveillance. Directs the President to brief each member of the congressional intelligence committees on: (1) the Terrorist Surveillance Program of the National Security Agency (NSA); and (2) any program which involves the electronic surveillance of U.S. persons in the United States for foreign intelligence purposes which is conducted by any federal department or entity without fully complying with the prescribed federal law provisions. Amends the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 (FISA) concerning electronic surveillance to: (1) extend the period for the application for orders for emergency electronic surveillance; (2) increase the number of judges with jurisdiction to hear applications for and grant orders approving electronic surveillance within the United States; and (3) provide for the acquisition of foreign communications between or among non-U.S. persons. Provides for the implementation of a document management system for, and authorizes additional personnel for the preparation and consideration of, electronic surveillance applications. Expands electronic surveillance authority under specified conditions, including when Congress is unable to convene because of an attack upon the United States. Repeals the Protect America Act. States that on December 31, 2009: (1) this Act shall cease to have effect; and (2) the provisions of law amended by this Act are amended to read as they read before this Act's enactment.

Military Child College Affordability Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 October 2007

Military Child College Affordability Act - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to prohibit a state from charging members of the armed forces who are on active duty for more than 30 days and whose domicile or permanent duty station is in such state, and such members' dependents, more than the in-state tuition for attending a public institution of higher education (IHE) in that state. Provides that, even if such members' permanent duty station is subsequently changed to a location outside the state, they or their dependents must continue to be charged no more than the in-state tuition if they remain continuously enrolled at such IHE in the state.

[H.A.S.C. No. 110-93] THE ROLE OF THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE IN PROVINCIAL RECONSTRUCTION TEAMS IN AFGHANISTAN AND IRAQ

United States · United States House of Representatives · 4 October 2007

Department of Veterans Affairs Reorganization Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 4 October 2007

Department of Veterans Affairs Reorganization Act of 2007 - Increases the number of Department of Veterans Affairs': (1) authorized Assistant Secretaries from seven to eight and revises specified functions; and (2) authorized Deputy Assistant Secretaries from 19 to 27.

Veterans Emergency Care Fairness Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 4 October 2007

Veterans Emergency Care Fairness Act of 2007 - Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reimburse certain veterans without a service-connected disability enrolled as active participants of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care plan for the cost of emergency treatment received in a non-VA facility until such time as such veterans are transferred to a VA facility. Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary to reimburse certain veterans with a service-connected disability or a non-service-connected disability associated with or aggravating a service-connected disability for the value of emergency treatment for which such veterans have made payment from sources other than the VA.

Coal Fuels and Industrial Gasification Demonstration and Development Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 4 October 2007

Coal Fuels and Industrial Gasification Demonstration and Development Act of 2007 - Amends the Energy Policy Act of 1992 to instruct the Secretary of Energy to implement a grants program for obtaining or implementing services for the planning and permitting of certain eligible projects that produce liquid transportation fuels, industrial chemicals, or electricity. Requires the Secretary to make direct loans to eligible individuals and entities to implement such projects. Directs the Secretary to select eligible projects to receive loans through a reverse auction, giving priority to eligible projects with the greatest percentage reduction of lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions in comparison to facilities that use conventional feedstocks and do not use carbon capture and sequestration technologies. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to: (1) establish a methodology for determining the lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions of coal-derived liquid transportation fuels; (2) implement a research and demonstration program to evaluate the emissions of the use of coal-to-liquid fuel for transportation, including gasoline, diesel, marine, and jet fuel; and (3) evaluate the effect of using coal-to-liquid transportation fuel on vehicle emissions, including motor vehicles, nonroad vehicles, and aircraft. Directs the Secretary and the Secretary of Defense to study and report to specified congressional committees on the feasibility and suitability of maintaining coal-to-liquid products in the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR). Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide: (1) a business credit for sequestration of carbon dioxide captured within the United States; (2) a seven-year applicable recovery period for depreciation of qualified carbon dioxide pipeline property; (3) treatment of certain income and gains relating to industrial source carbon dioxide as qualifying income for publicly traded partnerships; and (4) extend and modify the alternative fuel credit.

National Guard and Reserve Educational Benefits Fairness Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 4 October 2007

National Guard and Reserve Educational Benefits Fairness Act of 2007 - Provides educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill for members of the National Guard and Reserve for extended service on continuous active duty that includes prolonged service in certain theaters of operation.

Security Contractor Accountability Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 4 October 2007

Security Contractor Accountability Act of 2007 - Provides that persons who, while employed under a federal agency contract in or in close proximity to an area where the Armed Forces are conducting a contingency operation, engage in conduct that would constitute an offense punishable by imprisonment for more than one year if engaged in within U.S. jurisdiction shall be punished as provided for that offense. Requires the Inspector General of the Department of Justice (DOJ) to report to Congress on the status of the Department's investigations of violations alleged to have been committed by contract personnel and findings and recommendations about the Department's capacity and effectiveness in prosecuting misconduct by contract personnel. Requires the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to ensure, through the creation of Theater Investigative Units, that there are adequate personnel to investigate allegations of criminal violations by contract personnel.

Servicemember Student Loan Interest Relief Act

United States · United States Congress · 4 October 2007

Servicemember Student Loan Interest Relief Act - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to provide that no interest shall accrue on student loans under the Federal Direct Loan program for individuals who are serving on active duty or performing National Guard duty during a war or other military operation or national emergency. Limits receipt of such benefit to 60 months. Requires the Secretary of Education to offer direct consolidation loans to eligible service members who want to avoid the accrual of interest on existing loans.

College Access and Opportunity Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 4 October 2007

College Access and Opportunity Act of 2007 - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA) to revise and reauthorize appropriations for HEA programs. Establishes a single definition of institutions of higher education (IHEs) for purposes of their participation in all HEA programs, including title IV student aid programs. Allows IHEs to enroll students who are also enrolled in secondary school. Revises higher education consumer information and public accountability requirements. Imposes educational loan disclosure requirements on lenders and IHEs. Replaces the Teacher Quality Enhancement Grants for States and Partnerships program under title II with a new Teacher Quality Partnership grant program for partnerships of high-need local educational agencies (LEAs), high-need schools, IHEs, and public or private educational organizations. Repeals part B (Preparing Tomorrow's Teachers to Use Technology) of title II. Creates a new title II: (1) Teacher Incentive Fund program to assist states, LEAs, and nonprofit organizations in implementing comprehensive performance-based compensation systems for teachers and principals; and (2) National Teacher Corps grant program to recruit, select, train, and support college graduates as new teachers for high-need LEAs. Revises and reauthorizes title III Institutional Aid programs providing grants to IHEs serving high percentages of minority and low-income students. Revises and reauthorizes title IV Student Assistance programs. Increases the maximum Pell grant and allows year-round grants. Makes homeless or unaccompanied youth eligible to participate in the TRIO and Gear UP programs. Turns the Robert C. Byrd Honors Scholarship program into: (1) scholarship and loan forgiveness programs for mathematics and science students; and (2) an adjunct teacher corps program to recruit and place secondary school mathematics, science, and critical foreign language teachers. Repeals the Learning Anywhere Partnerships program. Provides student loan forgiveness under the Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) program for service in areas of national need. Prohibits certain business arrangements and inducements between lenders, guaranty agencies, and IHEs. Requires the development of simplified paper and electronic student aid application forms. Increases the institutional and financial aid information which IHEs must provide to current and prospective students. Establishes a college affordability demonstration program for innovations in the delivery of higher education and student aid that reduce costs for students and IHEs. Requires all IHEs (currently, only for-profit IHEs) to have at least 10% of their revenues from sources other than title IV funds. Revises IHE accreditation requirements. Revises and reauthorizes the title V Developing Institutions grant program for Hispanic-serving institutions. Establishes a new grant program for graduate programs at such institutions. Revises and reauthorizes title VI International Education programs. Establishes under title VI: (1) a grant program for partnerships of IHEs and LEAs that establish articulated programs of study in critical-need foreign languages; and (2) an independent International Higher Education Advisory Board within the Department of Education. Revises and reauthorizes title VII Graduate and Post-Secondary Improvement programs. Establishes a new Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education program providing scholarships to the family members of veterans and military personnel. Eliminates the Urban Community Service grant program. Revises and reauthorizes various programs under the Education of the Deaf Act of 1986 and the Tribally Controlled College or University Assistance Act of 1978. Reauthorizes the Underground Railroad Educational and Cultural program under the Higher Education Amendments of 1998. Reauthorizes the Tribal Economic Development and Technology Related Education Assistance Act of 1990. Reauthorizes appropriations under the Navajo Community College Act and the (Higher) Education Amendments of 1992 for construction grants and Olympic Scholarships, respectively.

Military Valor Roll of Honor Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 4 October 2007

Military Valor Roll of Honor Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary of Defense to establish the Military Valor Roll of Honor registry which shall: (1) contain the names and citations of all members of the Armed Forces, members of the U.S. merchant marine (including the Army Transport Service and the Naval Transport Service), and civilians affiliated with the Armed Forces who have been awarded the medal of honor or any other medal authorized by Congress for the Armed Forces, the U.S. merchant marine, or affiliated civilians; and (2) be a publicly available database.

Helping Families Save Their Homes in Bankruptcy Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 3 October 2007

Helping Families Save Their Homes in Bankruptcy Act of 2007 - Amends federal bankruptcy law to permit a bankruptcy plan to: (1) modify a loan secured by the principal residence (mortgage) of a chapter 13 debtor (individual with regular income); and (2) provide for payment of such loan at a fixed annual percentage rate of interest, over a 30-year period. Exempts a chapter 13 debtor from the requirement for credit counseling if the court receives certification that debtor's principal residence has been scheduled for a foreclosure sale. Conditions any fees, costs, or charges that may be added to the mortgage debt during pendency of the bankruptcy case upon notice to the court within a specified deadline. Requires the court to waive such additional fees, costs, or charges if the court has not been notified on time. Permits a bankruptcy plan to provide for waiver of any prepayment penalty contained on a claim secured by debtor's principal residence. Authorizes the trustee in bankruptcy to request joinder or substitution for the debtor as the real party in interest in any action in state or federal court with respect to a claim or defense asserted by an individual debtor that was not scheduled in the debtor's petition. Permits the debtor to proceed as the real party in interest if the trustee does not make such a request. Amends the judicial code to authorize the court in any core proceeding under bankruptcy law to hear and determine a proceeding in lieu of referral to arbitration if the case involves an individual debtor whose debts are primarily consumer debts. Exempts from the estate in bankruptcy up to $75,000 of the debtor's aggregate interest in real property used as debtor's principal residence if the debtor is age 55 or older. Prohibits the court from allowing a claim that is subject to any remedy for damages or rescission due to failure to comply with the Truth in Lending Act or any other state or federal consumer protection law.

A bill to require the Secretary of Defense to submit to Congress reports on the status of planning for the redeployment of the Armed Forces from Iraq and to require the Secretary of Defense, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and appropriate senior officials of the Department of Defense to meet with Congress to brief Congress on matters contained in the reports.

United States · United States Congress · 3 October 2007

Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) nothing in this Act shall be construed as a recommendation by Congress that any particular contingency plan be exercised; (2) it is necessary and prudent for the Department of Defense (DOD) to undertake robust and comprehensive contingency planning; (3) contingency planning for a redeployment of Armed Forces from Iraq should address appropriate protection for U.S. Armed Forces, civilians, contractors, and third party and Iraqi nationals who have aided the U.S. mission in Iraq, and the preservation of military equipment; and (4) such planning should describe a range of scenarios and timetables for redeployment, and describe possible missions of Armed Forces remaining in Iraq. Directs the Secretary of Defense to report to the congressional defense and appropriations committees on the status of planning for the redeployment of Armed Forces from Iraq. Requires the Secretary and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff to brief such committees on matters contained in the reports.

For the relief of certain members of the First Brigade Combat Team of the 34th Infantry Division of the Army National Guard.

United States · United States Congress · 3 October 2007

Provides for the relief of certain members of the First Brigade Combat Team of the 34th Infantry Division of the Army National Guard.

International Women's Freedom Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 2 October 2007

International Women's Freedom Act of 2007 - Establishes within the Department of State an Office of International Women's Rights to be headed by an Ambassador at Large for International Women's Rights. Directs the Secretary of State to: (1) establish a women's rights Internet site; and (2) maintain prisoner lists and issue briefs on women's rights concerns. Amends the Foreign Service Act of 1980 to include instruction on the internationally recognized rights of women and the various aspects and manifestations of violations of women's rights in Foreign Service officer training. Establishes the United States Commission on International Women's Rights. (Terminates the Commission 12 years after the date of the initial appointment of its members.) Amends the National Security Act of 1947 to express the sense of Congress that there should be within the National Security Council (NSC) staff a Special Adviser to the President on International Women's Rights. Directs the President to take specified actions in response to women's rights violations, including actions in response to particularly severe rights violations. Provides for prohibition of economic, multilateral, military, and export assistance in instances of particularly severe women's rights violations. Provides for the promotion of women's rights. Provides for women's rights-related training with respect to refugee, asylum, and consular matters. Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to provide for the inadmissibility of foreign government officials who have engaged in particularly severe women's rights violations. Expresses the sense of Congress that transnational corporations operating overseas should adopt codes of conduct upholding the rights of their female employees.