Defence

Wounded Warrior Employment Improvement Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 July 2014

Wounded Warrior Employment Improvement Act - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to develop and publish an action plan for improving the training and rehabilitation services and assistance provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for veterans with service-connected disabilities. Requires such plan to include: a comprehensive analysis of, and recommendations and a proposed implementation plan for remedying, workload management challenges at regional offices of the VA, including steps to reduce counselor case loads of veterans participating in a rehabilitation program; a comprehensive analysis of the reasons for the disproportionately low percentage of veterans with service-connected disabilities who served in the Armed Forces after September 11, 2001, who opt to participate in a VA rehabilitation program relative to the percentage of such veterans who use their entitlement to VA educational assistance; recommendations and a proposed implementation plan for encouraging more veterans with service-connected disabilities who served in the Armed Forces after September 11, 2001, to participate in VA rehabilitation programs; and a national staff training program for vocational rehabilitation counselors, that includes the provision of training to assist counselors in understanding the very profound disorientation experienced by warriors because of their injury, training to assist counselors in working in partnership with veterans on individual rehabilitation plans, and training on post-traumatic stress disorder and other mental health conditions and on moderate to severe traumatic brain injury that is designed to improve the ability of such counselors to assist veterans with such conditions.

Veterans Small Business Support Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 July 2014

Veterans Small Business Support Act - Amends the Small Business Act to prohibit the Administrator of the Small Business Administration (SBA) from assessing a guarantee fee in connection with a loan made under the SBA Express Program to a veteran or spouse of a veteran on or after October 1, 2014. Directs the Administrator to report to Congress on: (1) the feasibility of providing financial planning and counseling to owners of small business concerns who are members of a reserve component prior to deployment; (2) the level of outreach to and consultation with female veterans by women's business centers and veterans business outreach centers; and (3) the Military Reservists Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program, which shall include a discussion of SBA outreach efforts to increase participation, the number of loans made, and an analysis of the effectiveness of, and recommendations for improving, the Program.

Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2014

United States · United States Congress · 8 July 2014

Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2014 - Authorizes the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) to furnish additional dental services and treatment, and dental appliances, needed to restore functioning in a veteran that is lost due to VA services or treatment furnished to such veteran. Directs the Secretary to: (1) carry out a three-year pilot program for furnishing dental care to veterans not otherwise eligible for dental services and treatment under current VA programs, (2) carry out a program of education to promote dental health for veterans, and (3) enable private sector dental care providers to submit information on dental care provided to veterans under the pilot program for inclusion in VA electronic medical records.

VALUES Act

United States · United States Congress · 8 July 2014

Veterans' Assistance to Lower Unemployment and Enhance VA Services Act or the VALUES Act - Entitles disabled veterans and the mothers or spouses of certain deceased or disabled veterans to receive an additional 15 points on their examination for entrance into the competitive service at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Entitles certain veterans who served on active duty in the Armed Forces to receive an additional 10 points on their examination for entrance into the competitive service at the VA.

HEROES Grant Act of 2014

United States · United States Congress · 30 June 2014

Help Employ and Recruit Our Excellent Servicemembers Grant Act of 2014 or the HEROES Grant Act of 2014 - Amends the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to authorize the use of public safety and community policing (COPS ON THE BEAT) grants to hire veterans and other individuals as employees of law enforcement agencies for positions that do not require sworn authority.

Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2015

United States · United States Congress · 27 June 2014

Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2015 - Makes FY2015 appropriations for the Department of State for: administration of foreign affairs and diplomatic and consular programs; the Capital Investment Fund; the Office of Inspector General; educational and cultural exchange programs; representation allowances; protection of foreign missions and officials; U.S. embassy security, construction, and maintenance; emergencies in the diplomatic and consular service; the repatriation loans program account; the American Institute in Taiwan; the Foreign Service Retirement and Disability Fund; international organizations, peacekeeping, and commissions; the International Boundary and Water Commission, United States and Mexico; salaries and expenses; plan preparation and construction of authorized projects; the International Joint Commission, the International Boundary Commission, United States and Canada, and the Border Environment Cooperation Commission; international fisheries commissions; international broadcasting operations and capital improvements; the Asia Foundation; the United States Institute for Peace; the Center for Middle Eastern-Western Dialogue Trust Fund; the Eisenhower Exchange Fellowships, Incorporated; the Israeli Arab Scholarship Program; the National Endowment for Democracy; the Commission for Preservation of America's Heritage Abroad; the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom; the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe; the Congressional-Executive Commission on the People's Republic of China; and the United States-China Economic and Security Review Commission. Makes FY2015 appropriations for: operating expenses of the U. S. Agency for International Development (USAID), the capital investment fund, and the Office of Inspector General; expenses of the President in carrying out certain programs under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, global health and child survival; specified development assistance; international disaster assistance; transition initiatives; development credit authority; the Economic Support Fund; promotion of democracy; migration and refugee assistance; the Peace Corps; the Millennium Challenge Corporation; the Inter-American Foundation; the African Development Foundation; the Department of the Treasury for international affairs technical assistance activities; international narcotics control and law enforcement; nonproliferation, anti-terrorism, and demining; international peacekeeping operations; international military education and training; foreign military financing grants; international organizations and programs; the Global Environment Facility; the International Development Association; the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development; the Global Agriculture and Food Security Program; the Inter-American Development Bank; the Asian Development Bank; the Asian Development Fund; the African Development Bank; the African Development Fund; the International Fund for Agricultural Development; the Export-Import Bank of the United States, including the Office of Inspector General; the Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC); and the Trade and Development Agency. Sets forth limitations on callable capital subscriptions with respect to: the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development; the Inter-American Development Bank; the Asian Development Bank; and the African Development Bank. Sets forth certain limits and prohibitions on the use of appropriations for specified activities.

A bill to require a report on military assistance to Ukraine.

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2014

Expresses the sense of Congress that the President, working with North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) allies, should provide the armed forces of Ukraine with appropriate non-lethal military assistance and military training support requested by the government of Ukraine. Directs the Secretary of Defense (DOD), every 180 days until January 31, 2017, to report to Congress regarding military assistance to Ukraine. Requires such report to include matters concerning: military equipment, supplies, and defense services requested by Ukraine; military equipment, supplies, and defense services that the United States has provided, is currently providing, and plans to provide; an assessment of U.S. military assistance that would most effectively improve Ukraine's military capabilities; an assessment of the need for, and force protection concerns, of U.S. military advisors that may be made available to Ukraine; military training requested by Ukraine, and military training the United States has conducted with Ukraine in the previous six months or plans to conduct in the next year; and an assessment of the military assistance provided by the Russian Federation to irregular forces in Ukraine since February 22, 2014.

A bill to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to revoke bonuses paid to employees involved in electronic wait list manipulations, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2014

Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs: (1) within 180 days after the Inspector General of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) submits a report to Congress in 2014 that identifies VA medical facilities at which scheduling practices did not comply with VA policies and procedures, to identify each VA employee who, during any of FY2011-FY2014, contributed to the purposeful omission of the names of veterans from an electronic wait list for health care at such a facility, who was a VA supervisor who knew or should have known that the employee contributed to such omission, and who received a bonus in part because of such omission; and (2) after notice and an opportunity for a hearing, to order such employee to repay the bonus.

Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2015

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2014

Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2015 - Makes appropriations for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for FY2015 for: the Offices of the Secretary of Homeland Security, the Under Secretary for Management, the Chief Financial Officer, the Chief Information Officer, and the Inspector General; intelligence analysis and operations coordination activities; U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), including for border security fencing, infrastructure, and technology; U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE); the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), including for civilian aviation security services, surface transportation security activities, intelligence and vetting activities, and transportation security support; the Coast Guard, including for environmental compliance and restoration functions; the U.S. Secret Service; the National Protection and Programs Directorate, including for the Federal Protective Service and the Office of Biometric Identity Management; the Office of Health Affairs; the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), including for the U.S. Fire Administration; U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (CIS), including for the E-Verify program; the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center; the Office of the Under Secretary for Science and Technology; science and technology research; and the Domestic Nuclear Detention Office. Prohibits the use of funds under this Act: to amend the oath of allegiance required under the Immigration and Nationality Act; to prevent an individual not in the business of importing a prescription drug from importing a prescription drug that complies with the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act from Canada for personal use; for planning, testing, piloting, or developing a national identification card; to transfer, release, or assist in the transfer or release to or within the United States Khalid Sheikh Mohammed or any other detainee who is not a U.S. citizen or a member of the U.S. Armed Forces and who is or was held on or after June 24, 2009, at the U.S. Naval Station, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, by the Department of Defense (DOD); or by a federal law enforcement officer to facilitate the transfer of an operable firearm to an agent of a drug cartel unless U.S. law enforcement personnel continuously monitor or control the firearm at all times. Prohibits the Secretary from imposing any new border crossing fee on individuals crossing the southern or northern U.S. borders at a land port of entry or from conducting any study relating to imposition of such a fee.

Restoring Accountability in Veterans Access to Health Care Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2014

Restoring Accountability in Veterans Access to Health Care Act - Directs the Inspector General of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to annually determine, and publish in the Federal Register, the five occupations of health care providers for which there is the largest staffing shortage throughout the VA. Authorizes the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, based upon such determination, to recruit and appoint highly qualified health care providers to positions in those occupations. Requires the Secretary to submit biennial reports assessing the staffing of each VA medical facility, including: (1) information on wait times and workload levels, (2) a plan to fill staffing shortages, and (3) an analysis of succession planning. Directs the Secretary to implement a clinic management training program to provide in-person, standardized education on health care management to all managers of, and health care providers at, VA medical facilities, including training on how to: (1) manage the schedules of health care providers, (2) optimize the use of technology, (3) use data to meet the demand for health care, (4) use the VA appointment scheduling system, and (5) use physical plant space at VA facilities to ensure efficient flow and privacy for patients and staff.

COVER Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2014

Creating Options for Veterans Expedited Recovery Act or the COVER Act - Establishes the Veterans Expedited Recovery Commission to: examine the efficacy of the evidence-based therapy model used by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs for treating mental health illnesses of veterans and identify areas to improve wellness-based outcomes; conduct a patient-centered survey within each of the Veterans Integrated Service Networks to examine the experience of veterans with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) when seeking medical assistance for mental health issues through the VA health care system, their experience with non-VA facilities and health professionals for such issues, their preferences regarding available treatments for such issues and which methods they believe to be most effective, their experience with complementary alternative treatment therapies, the prevalence of prescribing prescription medication among veterans seeking treatment through the VA health care system to address mental health issues, and the Secretary's outreach efforts regarding the availability of benefits and treatments for such issues; examine available research on complementary alternative treatment therapies for mental health issues (including music, yoga, and meditation therapy) and identify what benefits could be made with the inclusion of such treatments for veterans; and study the potential increase in the approval by the Secretary of claims for compensation relating to mental health issues for veterans who served in Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation New Dawn. Directs the Secretary, upon a report by the Commission, to submit: (1) an action plan for implementing recommendations and a time frame for implementing complementary alternative treatments, or (2) a justification for not doing so and an alternative solution to improve the efficacy of the therapy model.

Military Separation Pay Fairness Act of 2014

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2014

Military Separation Pay Fairness Act of 2014 - Directs the Secretary of Defense (DOD) to determine whether former members of the Armed Forces who were separated for a violation of the policy concerning homosexuality in the Armed Forces as in effect before the effective date of the Don't Ask, Don't Tell Repeal Act of 2010 were paid: (1) the full amount of separation pay to which they should have been entitled under standard military separation pay laws, or (2) a reduced amount because of homosexuality pursuant to administrative instructions in place at the time of the separation. Requires the Secretary to pay such a former member who has not received the full military separation pay: (1) the amount of the difference between the full amount and the amount actually paid, and (2) interest on the amount of the difference. Excludes former members who joined the class-action settlement in Collins v. United States from receiving additional payments for the difference in amounts under such procedures, but provides for former members in such settlement to receive payment for interest on such amount.

Voices for Veterans Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2014

Voices for Veterans Act - Expands the membership of the Advisory Committee on Minority Veterans to include veterans who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender. Terminates the Commission on December 31, 2017 (currently, 2014).

Ask Veterans Act

United States · United States Congress · 25 June 2014

Ask Veterans Act - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) to contract with an experienced non-government entity to conduct an annual survey, over a five-year period, of a statistically significant sample of veterans who reside in the geographic area served by each VA medical facility to determine the experiences of such veterans in obtaining hospital care and medical services at such facility. Requires those surveys to include questions relating to: the veteran's ability to obtain hospital care and medical services at the facility in a timely manner, the time that expires between the date the veteran requests an appointment and the date on which the appointment is scheduled, the frequency with which scheduled appointments are cancelled, and the quality of hospital care or medical services the veteran receives. Requires the non-government entity to consult with veterans service organizations in designing and conducting the surveys. Prohibits the non-government entity from conducting a survey before the Comptroller General (GAO) certifies the survey as scientifically valid and the proposed sample size of veterans as statistically significant. Directs the Secretary to make the results of the surveys publicly available on the VA's Internet website.

DELIVER Act

United States · United States Congress · 25 June 2014

Doctors' Education Loans Impact VA Employee Retention Act or the DELIVER Act - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) to establish and carry out a program to make each monthly payment owed by a VA employee on a covered loan during such employee's period of service to the VA. Defines a "covered loan" as a loan under the Federal Family Education Loan program or the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan program that is in repayment under an income-based repayment plan under the Higher Education Act of 1965.

Condemning and disapproving of the failure of the Obama administration to comply with the lawful statutory requirement to notify Congress before transferring individuals detained at United States Naval Station, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and expressing concern about the national security risks over the transfer of five Taliban leaders and the repercussions of negotiating with terrorists.

United States · United States Congress · 25 June 2014

Condemns and disapproves of the Obama administration's failure to comply with the lawful 30-day statutory reporting requirement in releasing the five senior Taliban members from detention at U.S. Naval Station, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. Expresses concern over: (1) national security implications that may arise from the Taliban members' release; and (2) the repercussions of negotiating with terrorists, and the risk that such negotiations may further encourage hostilities and the abduction of Americans. Stipulates that further violations of appropriate law are unacceptable. Declares misgivings about the prospect of any similar transfers from Guantanamo, even if undertaken pursuant to statutory requirements. States that the Obama administration's release of the five detainees has burdened unnecessarily the trust in the administration's commitment and ability to work with the legislative branch, and therefore works against the best interest of the people of the United States.

Calling for further defense against the People's Republic of China's state-sponsored cyber-enabled theft of trade secrets, including by the People's Liberation Army.

United States · United States Congress · 25 June 2014

Calls for: the People's Republic of China (PRC) to end the practice of cyber-enabled espionage against U.S. firms and cooperate in cybersecurity efforts; the President to implement and coordinate the Strategy on Mitigating the Theft of United States Trade Secrets; the Department of Justice (DOJ) to advance investigations into cyber espionage by actors originating in the PRC; the U.S. government to condemn cyber-enabled espionage for the purposes of stealing intellectual property and trade secrets, pursue counter intelligence capacities, and prosecute such individuals should they enter U.S. territory; the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) to estimate the loss from cyber theft, compile a list of actors that cause the most damage to U.S. firms, and pursue a dispute settlement case at the World Trade Organization; the U.S. Office of the National Counterintelligence Executive to update the unclassified report to Congress on Foreign Economic Collection and Industrial Espionage in 2009-2011; the Department of Defense (DOD) to restrict military-to-military contacts with the People's Liberation Army; the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to expand warnings to U.S. companies about the broad scope of tools to illicit trade secrets used by actors originating in the PRC; DOD and the Department of State to provide briefings of the U.S.-China cybersecurity working group meetings in 2013; and federal agencies to expand cooperation with partners to coordinate defense against cyber threats.

Directing the Secretary of Defense to transmit to the House of Representatives copies of any emails in the possession of the Department of Defense or the National Security Agency that were transmitted to or from the email account(s) of former Internal Revenue Service Exempt Organizations Division Director Lois Lerner between January 2009 and April 2011.

United States · United States Congress · 25 June 2014

Directs the Secretary of Defense (DOD) to transmit to the House of Representatives copies of any electronic communications in the possession of the Secretary, the Director of the National Security Agency (NSA), or any office that reports to the Secretary or the Director that were transmitted to or from any electronic mail accounts used by Lois Lerner, former Director of the Exempt Organizations Division of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), between January 1, 2009, and April 30, 2011.

Supporting the goals and ideals of Vietnam Veterans Day.

United States · United States Congress · 25 June 2014

Expresses support for the goals and ideals of Vietnam Veterans Day. Encourages the President and the people of the United States to pay tribute to veterans of the Vietnam War.

[H.A.S.C. No. 113-114] FILIPINO VETERANS EQUITY COMPENSA- TION FUND: EXAMINING THE DEPART- MENT OF DEFENSE AND INTERAGENCY PROCESS FOR VERIFYING ELIGIBILITY

United States · United States House of Representatives · 24 June 2014

American Energy Opportunity Act of 2014

United States · United States Congress · 24 June 2014

American Energy Opportunity Act of 2014 - Deems the Draft Proposed Outer Continental Shelf Oil and Gas Leasing Program 2010-2015 issued by the Secretary of the Interior to be approved as a final oil and gas leasing program under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act. Deems the Secretary to have issued a final environmental impact statement for the Program under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969. Directs the Secretary to: conduct a lease sale in each outer Continental Shelf (OCS) planning area for which there is a commercial interest in purchasing federal oil and gas production leases; prepare an inventory of U.S. offshore energy resources; and promulgate regulations concerning the production of oil or gas resources of the OCS, including regulating the installation of surface facilities, mitigating the impact of such facilities on coastal vistas, and allowing onshore facilities to draw upon such resources that are within 10 miles of shore. Extends from three geographical miles to nine nautical miles a coastal state's allowable seaward boundary. Repeals the moratorium on oil and gas leasing in: (1) any area east of the Military Mission Line in the Gulf of Mexico, (2) any area in the Eastern Planning Area that is within 125 miles of the Florida coastline, and (3) specified areas within the Central Planning Area and within 100 miles of the Florida coastline. Requires the Secretary of the Interior to issue a final leasing plan for the Eastern Gulf of Mexico for all areas where there exists commercial interest in purchasing federal oil and gas leases for production. Specifies revenue sharing percentages for sums received from leasing offshore pursuant to this Act, including 30% for producing states. Authorizes the President authority to waive requirements relating to the approval of oil and natural gas activity deemed to be important to national interests. Amends the Clean Air Act to: (1) revise the definition of "renewable biomass" to include trees, tree residue, and slash and pre-commercial thinnings that are from forestlands on public lands; and (2) require new source review regulations relating to the construction of a new source or the modification of an existing source to provide that routine maintenance and repair do not constitute a modification of an existing source. Requires the Secretary of Energy (DOE) to: implement a grant and loan program for the construction or modernization of coal fired generation units to enable use of technology to reduce greenhouse gases, publish a plan to exchange a specified amount of light grade petroleum from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve for heavy grade petroleum plus additional cash bonus bids that reflect the difference in market value; and set aside net proceeds from such exchange for the Energy Independence and Security Fund (established by this Act). Prescribes Energy Independence and Security Fund allocations to the Energy Transformation Acceleration Fund, specified Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy accounts, the Weatherization Assistance Program, specified Fossil Energy Research and Development accounts, the Basic Energy Sciences account. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: extend through 2019 tax credits for energy conservation and production, including credits for producing electricity from renewable resources, alternative fuel vehicles and refueling property expenditures, residential energy efficiency and solar energy and fuel cell property expenditures, and biodiesel and renewable diesel used as fuel; extend through 2018 the tax deduction for energy efficient commercial buildings; increase the limitation on the issuance of new clean renewable energy bonds; allow an additional tax deduction for the cost of installing mechanical insulation property; extend through 2019 the tax credit for fuel cell motor vehicles, advanced lean burn technology motor vehicles, hybrid motor vehicles, alternative fuel motor vehicles, and plug-in conversions; repeal the limitation on the number of hybrid and advanced lean-burn technology vehicles eligible for such credit; extend through 2019 the tax credit for plug-in electric drive motor vehicles; allow a new tax credit for the purchase of a motor vehicle identified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as the most efficient vehicle in its class; and allow an excise tax credit through 2019 for alternative fuels and fuel mixtures involving compressed or liquefied natural gas or liquefied petroleum gas. Prescribes requirements for the use of electric drive vehicles and alternative fuel motor vehicles. Requires that at least 10% of the federal fleet be plug-in electric drive vehicles by FY2014, with such percentage increasing by at least 2% (up to 50%) each fiscal year. Directs DOE to: (1) provide grants to assist local governments in the installation of recharging facilities for electric drive vehicles, and (2) guarantee loans for any purchaser of at least 5,000 battery systems that use advanced battery technology. Includes innovative low-carbon technology projects as projects eligible for loan guarantees made by DOE for innovative technologies. Requires programs or directives established by this Act concerning increasing diversification and efficiency of transportation and electric systems, but not extensions of tax credits, to be offset with funds in the Carbon Free Reserve.

Protecting American Jobs and Exports Act

United States · United States Congress · 24 June 2014

Protecting American Jobs and Exports Act - Amends the Export-Import Bank Act of 1945 to reauthorize the Export-Import Bank of the United States through FY2021. Extends through FY2021 and gradually increases (with a specified exception) the Bank's aggregate outstanding loan, guarantee, and insurance authority. Extends through FY2021 Bank authority to provide financing for the export of nonlethal defense articles or services whose primary end use will be for civilian purposes.

VA Investigation and Accountability Act

United States · United States Congress · 24 June 2014

VA Investigation and Accountability Act - Makes emergency supplemental appropriations for FY2014 for the Office of the Inspector General of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

A resolution designating the month of June 2014 as "National Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Awareness Month".

United States · United States Congress · 23 June 2014

Designates June 2014 as National Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Awareness Month. Expresses support for the efforts of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA), the Secretary of Defense (DOD), and the entire medical community to educate Armed Forces members, veterans, their families, and the public about the causes, symptoms, and treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder.

Underserved Veterans Access to Health Care Act

United States · United States Congress · 23 June 2014

Underserved Veterans Access to Health Care Act - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) to establish medical residency programs, or ensure a sufficient number of residency positions in medical residency programs, at VA medical facilities that the Secretary determines: (1) are experiencing a shortage of physicians, and (2) are located in communities that are designated as a health professional shortage area. Requires the Secretary to determine the specialty of health care professionals that a location is experiencing a shortage of and allocate residency positions based on such determination. Directs the Secretary, during the five-year period beginning on the enactment of this Act, to establish not fewer than 2,000 graduate medical education residency positions, giving priority to VA medical facilities that: (1) do not have medical residency programs, and (2) are located in communities that have a high concentration of veterans.

Guantanamo Bay Detainee Transfer Suspension Act of 2014

United States · United States Congress · 23 June 2014

Guantanamo Bay Detainee Transfer Suspension Act of 2014 - Prohibits the obligation or expenditure of funds to transfer or release any covered detainee at the U.S. Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba (Guantanamo) to the custody or control of such individual's country of origin, any other foreign country, or any other foreign entity until the earlier of 90 days after the submittal to Congress of a report required by this Act or 180 days after this Act's enactment, except pursuant to an order issued by a court or competent tribunal of the United States having lawful jurisdiction. Makes a U.S. officer or employee liable in his or her individual capacity for a civil penalty of $10,000 for each covered detainee transferred or released in violation of such prohibition. Prohibits the U.S. government from providing representation to, or retaining or reimbursing private counsel for the representation of, such officer or employee. Authorizes a person to bring a civil action for a violation of such prohibition in the name of the government, subject to specified requirements. Requires the Secretary to submit a report regarding the risk that the five detainees transferred from Guantanamo to Qatar on May 31, 2014, would reengage in terrorist activity after transfer. Prohibits the transfer or release of a covered detainee from Guantanamo to a foreign country without the President's express written authorization. Defines a "covered detainee" as Khalid Sheikh Mohammed or any other detainee who: (1) is not a U.S. citizen or a member of the U.S. Armed Forces; (2) is or was held on January 20, 2009, at Guantanamo by the Department of Defense (DOD); and (3) is held as of the date of enactment of this Act at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, by DOD.

Regulatory Agency Demilitarization Act

United States · United States Congress · 23 June 2014

Regulatory Agency Demilitarization Act - Prohibits a federal agency from purchasing or using a firearm. Excludes the Departments of Defense (DOD), Justice (DOJ), and Homeland Security (DHS), the military departments, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), the U.S. Capitol Police, the Bureau of Diplomatic Security, and the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). Directs the Comptroller General to submit a report to Congress annually that includes: information regarding each federal agency that has specialized units that receive special tactical or military-style training or use hard-plated body armor, shields, or helmets and that respond to high-risk situations that fall outside the capabilities of regular law enforcement officers; a description of each such unit; a description of the training and weapons of each such unit; the criteria for activating each such unit and how often each such unit was activated for each of the previous ten years; the annual cost of equipping and operating each such unit; and any other information that is relevant to understanding the usefulness and justification for the units. Amends the Inspector General Act of 1978 to repeal provisions authorizing law enforcement powers for an Inspector General, any Assistant Inspector General for Investigations under an Inspector General, and any special agent supervised by such an Assistant Inspector General.

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the Secretary of the Navy should name an appropriate Navy ship in honor of Marine Corps General Clifton B. Cates of Tiptonville, Tennessee.

United States · United States Congress · 23 June 2014

Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the Secretary of the Navy should name an appropriate Navy ship in honor of Marine Corps General Clifton B. Cates of Tiptonville, Tennessee.

Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2015

United States · United States Congress · 20 June 2014

Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2015 - Makes appropriations for energy and water development and related agencies for FY2015. Appropriates funds for FY2015 to the Department of the Army, Corps of Engineers-Civil, for: (1) civil functions pertaining to river and harbor, flood and storm damage reduction, shore protection, and aquatic ecosystem restoration (including the Mississippi River alluvial valley below Cape Girardeau, Missouri); (2) the regulatory program pertaining to navigable waters and wetlands; (3) the formerly utilized sites remedial action program for clean-up of early atomic energy program contamination; (4) flood control and coastal emergencies, including hurricanes and other natural disasters; and (5) the Office of Assistant Secretary of the Army (Civil Works). Makes appropriations for FY2015 to the Department of the Interior for: (1) the Central Utah Project Completion Account; (2) the Bureau of Reclamation, including for water and related natural resources; (3) the Central Valley Project Restoration Fund; (4) California Bay-Delta Restoration; (5) administrative expenses in the Office of the Commissioner (the Denver office); and (6) offices in the five regions of the Bureau of Reclamation. Makes appropriations for FY2015 to the Department of Energy (DOE) for energy and science programs, including: (1) energy efficiency and renewable energy, (2) electricity delivery and energy reliability, (3) nuclear energy, (4) fossil energy research and development, (5) naval petroleum and oil shale reserves, (6) the Elk Hills School Lands Fund, (7) the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) and the Northeast Home Heating Oil Reserve, (8) the Energy Information Administration, (9) non-defense environmental cleanup, (10) the Uranium Enrichment Decontamination and Decommissioning Fund, (11) science activities, (12) Nuclear Waste Disposal, (13) the Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E), (14) the Title 17 Innovative Technology Loan Guarantee Loan Program, (15) the Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing Loan Program, (16) departmental administration, (17) the Office of the Inspector General, (18) the National Nuclear Security Administration and atomic energy defense weapons activities, (19) defense nuclear nonproliferation activities, (20) naval reactors activities, (21) Office of the Administrator in the National Nuclear Security Administration, (22) defense environmental cleanup, and (23) other defense activities. Approves expenditures from the Bonneville Power Administration Fund for for the Black Canyon Trout Hatchery. Makes FY2015 appropriations for operation and maintenance of: (1) the Southeastern Power Administration, (2) the Southwestern Power Administration, (3) the Western Area Power Administration, including construction and rehabilitation, (4) the Falcon and Amistad Operating and Maintenance Fund, and (5) the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). Makes FY2015 appropriations to: (1) the Appalachian Regional Commission; (2) the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board; (3) the Delta Regional Authority; (4) the Denali Commission; (5) the Northern Border Regional Commission; (6) the Southeast Crescent Regional Commission; (7) the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), including the Office of Inspector General; and (8) the Nuclear Waste Technical Review Board. Prohibits the use of funds: (1) to conduct closure of adjudicatory functions, technical review, or support activities associated with the Yucca Mountain (Nevada) geologic repository license application; or (2) for actions that irrevocably remove the possibility that Yucca Mountain may be a repository option in the future. Sets $0.00 as the amount by which the applicable allocation of new budget authority made by the House Committee on Appropriations exceeds the amount of proposed new budget authority under the Congressional Budget Act of 1974.

GI Internship Program Act

United States · United States Congress · 20 June 2014

GI Internship Program Act - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) to establish a career transition internship program to match individuals who are eligible for veterans' educational assistance with employers to: (1) provide such individuals with work experience in the civilian sector, (2) address the growing skills gap in the U.S. economy, (3) increase the marketable skills of such individuals, and (4) assist such individuals in obtaining long-term employment. Requires the Secretary to establish criteria employers must meet to participate in the program. Excludes as program employers: (1) federal, state, and local government agencies; (2) employers who cannot provide the Secretary with certain assurances, including their intention to retain interns after their internship ends; and (3) employers that have previously participated in the program and failed to abide by its requirements. Directs the Secretary to pay individuals who are full-time participants in such an internship the amount of educational assistance they are due. Requires each internship to last for at least 180 days but for no more than one year. Considers each intern to be an employee of the VA for purposes of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Requires each intern and employer to provide the Secretary with a monthly certification that the intern worked at least 35 hours each week performing functions that provided the individual with valuable experience. Directs the Secretary and the Secretary of Labor to create and publicize an Internet website to serve as a portal for eligible individuals and employers to learn about the program and apply. Allows individuals to apply within 180 days of their expected discharge or release from the Armed Forces. Directs the VA Secretary to minimize the administrative burdens incurred by employers due to their participation in the program and ensure that employer participation is at no cost to the employer.

ROTC Act of 2014

United States · United States Congress · 20 June 2014

Readying Our Troops for Combat Act of 2014 or the ROTC Act of 2014 - Prohibits the Secretary of the Army from disestablishing, or initiating the disestablishment of, a Senior Reserve Officers' Training Corps program of the Army pursuant to specified administrative instructions of the Department of Defense (DOD) until July 1, 2020.

Expressing the sense of the House with respect to accountability for mismanagement at the Department of Veterans Affairs.

United States · United States Congress · 20 June 2014

Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that: actions by officials of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) represent a clear violation of the public's trust in the VA to provide veterans with access to quality health care and warrant criminal investigation, the inability of the Administration to objectively investigate its own wrongdoing warrants the appointment of a Special Counsel to determine whether VA mismanagement and misconduct were criminal, and the appointment of a Special Counsel would be in the public interest.

[H.A.S.C. No. 113-112] P5+1 NEGOTIATIONS OVER IRAN'S NUCLEAR PROGRAM AND ITS IMPLICA- TIONS FOR UNITED STATES DEFENSE

United States · United States House of Representatives · 19 June 2014

Guantanamo Bay Detainee Transfer Suspension Act of 2014

United States · United States Congress · 19 June 2014

Guantanamo Bay Detainee Transfer Suspension Act of 2014 - Prohibits the obligation or expenditure of funds to transfer or release any covered detainee at the U.S. Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba (Guantanamo) to the custody or control of such individual's country of origin, any other foreign country, or any other foreign entity until the earlier of 90 days after the submittal to Congress of a report required by this Act or 180 days after this Act's enactment, except pursuant to an order issued by a court or competent tribunal of the United States having lawful jurisdiction. Makes a U.S. officer or employee liable in his or her individual capacity for a civil penalty of $10,000 for each covered detainee transferred or released in violation of such prohibition. Prohibits the U.S. government from providing representation to, or retaining or reimbursing private counsel for the representation of, such officer or employee. Authorizes a person to bring a civil action for a violation of such prohibition in the name of the government, subject to specified requirements. Requires the Secretary to submit a report regarding the risk that the five detainees transferred from Guantanamo to Qatar on May 31, 2014, would reengage in terrorist activity after transfer. Prohibits the transfer or release of a covered detainee from Guantanamo to a foreign country without the President's express written authorization. Defines a "covered detainee" as Khalid Sheikh Mohammed or any other detainee who: (1) is not a U.S. citizen or a member of the U.S. Armed Forces; (2) is or was held on January 20, 2009, at Guantanamo by the Department of Defense (DOD); and (3) is held as of the date of enactment of this Act at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, by DOD.

United States Cadet Nurse Corps Equity Act

United States · United States Congress · 19 June 2014

United States Cadet Nurse Corps Equity Act - Deems service of a person as a member of the United States Cadet Nurse Corps between July 1, 1943, and December 15, 1945 (qualified service) to be active military service for purposes of all laws administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Requires: (1) the Secretary of Defense (DOD) to issue an honorable discharge to each person whose qualified service warrants one, and (2) the discharge to be issued within one year after enactment of this Act. Prohibits benefits from being paid to persons as a result of the enactment of this Act for any period before this Act's enactment date.

Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2015

United States · United States Congress · 19 June 2014

Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2015 - Makes FY2015 appropriations for the Department of State (Department) for: (1) administration of foreign affairs and diplomatic and consular programs; (2) the Capital Investment Fund; (3) the Office of Inspector General; (4) educational and cultural exchange programs; (5) representation allowances; (6) protection of foreign missions and officials; (7) U.S. embassy security, construction, and maintenance; (8) emergencies in the diplomatic and consular service; (9) the repatriation loans program account; (10) the American Institute in Taiwan; (11) the Foreign Service Retirement and Disability Fund; (12) international organizations and commissions; (13) the International Boundary and Water Commission, United States and Mexico; (14) salaries and expenses; (15) construction of authorized projects; (16) the International Joint Commission, the International Boundary Commission, United States and Canada, and the Border Environment Cooperation Commission; (17) international fisheries commissions; (18) international broadcasting operations and capital improvements; (19) the Asia Foundation; (20) the United States Institute for Peace; (21) the Center for Middle Eastern-Western Dialogue Trust Fund; (22) the Eisenhower Exchange Fellowships, Incorporated; (23) the Israeli Arab Scholarship Program; (24) the East-West Center; (25) the National Endowment for Democracy; (26) the Commission for Preservation of America's Heritage Abroad; (27) the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom; (28) the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe; (29) the Congressional-Executive Commission on the People's Republic of China; and (30) the United States-China Economic and Security Review Commission. Makes FY2015 appropriations for: (1) operating expenses of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), the capital investment fund, and the Office of Inspector General; (2) expenses of the President in carrying out certain programs under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961; (3) global health and child survival; (4) specified development assistance; (5) international disaster assistance; (6) transition initiatives; (7) development credit authority; (8) the Economic Support Fund; (9) promotion of democracy; (10) the Complex Foreign Crisis Fund; (11) migration and refugee assistance; (12) the Peace Corps; (13) the Millennium Challenge Corporation; (14) the Inter-American Foundation; (15) the United States African Development Foundation; and (16) the Department of the Treasury for international affairs technical assistance activities. Makes FY2015 appropriations for: (1) international narcotics control and law enforcement; (2) nonproliferation, anti-terrorism, and demining; (3) international peacekeeping operations; (4) international military education and training; and (5) foreign military financing grants. Makes FY2015 appropriations for: (1) international organizations and programs, (2) the Global Environment Facility, (3) the International Development Association, (4) the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development, (5) the Global Agriculture and Food Security Program, (6) the Inter-American Development Bank, (7) the Asian Development Bank, (8) the Asian Development Fund, (9) the African Development Bank, (10) the African Development Fund, (11) the International Fund for Agricultural Development, (12) the Enterprise for the Americas Multilateral Investment Fund, and (13) international monetary programs. Sets forth limitations on callable capital subscriptions with respect to: (1) the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development, (2) the Inter-American Development Bank, (3) the Asian Development Bank, and (4) the African Development Bank. Cancels certain drawing rights with respect to the International Monetary Fund loans under specified circumstances. Makes FY2015 appropriations for: (1) the Export-Import Bank of the United States, including the Office of Inspector General and administrative expenses; (2) the Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) credit and insurance programs, including administrative expenses; and (3) the Trade and Development Agency. Sets forth certain limits and prohibitions on the use of appropriations for specified activities.

A resolution recognizing Veterans Day 2014 as a special "Welcome Home Commemoration" for all who have served in the military since September 14, 2001.

United States · United States Congress · 19 June 2014

Recognizes Veterans Day 2014 as a special Welcome Home Commemoration for all who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces since September 14, 2001.

A resolution expressing condolences and supporting assistance for the victims of the historic flooding in the Western Balkans.

United States · United States Congress · 19 June 2014

Expresses: (1) sympathy to all those affected by the flooding in the Western Balkans for the terrible loss of life and massive destruction; and (2) solidarity with the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Republic of Croatia, and the Republic of Serbia. Supports humanitarian and reconstruction assistance provided by relief agencies and the international community. Commends: (1) local authorities, first responders and rescue personnel, NGOs, volunteers, and everyday citizens for their efforts to organize and deliver disaster relief; and (2) U.S. government agencies, including the Department of Defense (DOD) and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), for their efforts. Urges additional assistance by other nations and organizations to alleviate the difficult circumstances and suffering of the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Republic of Croatia, and the Republic of Serbia.

Lowering Gasoline Prices to Fuel an America That Works Act of 2014

United States · United States Congress · 19 June 2014

Lowering Gasoline Prices to Fuel an America That Works Act of 2014 - Amends the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (OCSLA) to direct the Secretary of the Interior to implement a leasing program that includes at least 50% of the available unleased acreage within each outer Continental Shelf (OCS) planning area considered to have the largest undiscovered, technically recoverable oil and gas resources, with an emphasis on offering the most geologically prospective parts of the planning area. Directs the Secretary to: (1) submit to Congress a new proposed oil and gas leasing program for the 5-year period from July 15, 2015, to July 15, 2021; and (2) approve a final oil and gas leasing program by July 15, 2016. Prohibits construction of this Act as authorizing the issuance of a lease under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to any person designated for the imposition of sanctions pursuant to specified law. Directs the Secretary to conduct offshore oil and gas Lease Sale 220 on the OCS offshore Virginia within one year after the date of enactment of this Act. Directs the Secretary to conduct a lease sale within two years after enactment of this Act for certain areas off the coast of South Carolina. Directs the Secretary to offer for sale by December 31, 2015, leases of tracts in the Santa Maria and Santa Barbara/Ventura Basins of the Southern California OCS Planning Area. Retains the authority of the Secretary of Defense (DOD) with the approval of the President, to designate national defense areas on the OCS. Establishes in the Department of the Interior: (1) an Under Secretary for Energy, Lands, and Minerals; (2) an Assistant Secretary of Ocean Energy and Safety; (3) an Assistant Secretary of Land and Minerals Management; (4) a Bureau of Ocean Energy; (5) an Ocean Energy Safety Service; and (6) an Office of Natural Resources Revenue. Abolishes the Minerals Management Service. Directs the Secretary to establish: (1) a National Offshore Energy Health and Safety Academy, and (2) an Outer Continental Shelf Energy Safety Advisory Board. Establishes in the Treasury the Ocean Energy Enforcement Fund as depository for non-refundable fees collected from the operators of facilities subject to inspection. Prohibits the Bureau of Ocean Energy and the Ocean Energy Safety Service from developing, proposing, finalizing, administering, or implementing any limitation on activities under their jurisdictions as a result of the coastal and marine spatial planning component of the National Ocean Policy developed under Executive Order 13547. Redefines the OCS to include all submerged lands lying within the U.S. exclusive economic zone and the Continental Shelf adjacent to any U.S. territory. Directs the Secretary to promulgate rules regarding the revenue streams contemplated by the Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act of 2006, including the timing and methods of disbursements of certain funds under such Act. Increases, for FY2024-FY2055, the maximum amount of qualified OCS revenues distributed to Gulf producing states. Prescribes requirements for judicial review of any action or decision by a federal official regarding the issuance of an energy lease under this Act. Federal Lands Jobs and Energy Security Act - Directs the Secretary, when practicable, to encourage the use of U.S. workers and equipment manufactured in the U.S. in all construction related to mineral resource development under this Act. Streamlining Permitting of American Energy Act of 2014 - Amends the Mineral Leasing Act (MLA) to direct the Secretary to decide whether to issue a permit to drill within 30 days after receiving a permit application, with specified allowable deadline extensions. Deems a permit application approved if the Secretary has not made a decision by 60 days after its receipt. Prescribes requirements for denial and resubmission of an application. Requires the Secretary to collect a single $6,500 permit processing fee per application at the time the decision is made whether to issue a permit. Directs the Secretary to collect a $5,000 documentation fee to accompany each protest for a lease, right of way, or application for permit to drill. Requires the Secretary to: (1) establish a Federal Permit Streamlining Project in every Bureau of Land Management (BLM) field office with responsibility for permitting energy projects on federal land, and (2) enter into a related memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Secretary of Agriculture, the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Chief of the Army Corps of Engineers. Requires the Secretary to provide matching funding of 50% for joint projects with states to conduct oil and gas resource assessments on federal lands with significant oil and gas potential. Providing Leasing Certainty for American Energy Act of 2014 - Directs the Secretary, in conducting lease sales under the MLA, to offer for sale at least 25% of the annual nominated acreage not previously made available for lease. Shields such acreage from protest and the test of extraordinary circumstances. Amends the MLA to prohibit the Secretary from: (1) withdrawing any covered energy project without finding a violation of lease terms by the lessee; (2) delaying indefinitely issuance of project approvals, drilling and seismic permits, and rights of way for activities under a lease; or (3) cancelling or withdrawing any lease parcel after a competitive lease sale has occurred and a winning bidder has made the last payment for the parcel. Requires federal land managers to follow existing resource management plans and continue to lease actively in areas designated as open when resource management plans are being amended or revised, until such time as a new record of decision is signed. Declares without force or effect BLM Instruction Memorandum 2010-117 (which establishes a process to ensure orderly, effective, timely, and environmentally responsible leasing of oil and gas resources on federal lands). Protecting Investment in Oil Shale the Next Generation of Environmental, Energy, and Resource Security Act or the PIONEERS Act - Deems the final regulations regarding oil shale management published by the BLM on November 18, 2008, to satisfy all legal and procedural requirements under any law, including the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976, the Endangered Species Act of 1973, and the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA). Directs the Secretary to implement those regulations, including the oil shale leasing program they authorize, without any other administrative action necessary. Directs the Secretary to hold a lease sale, within 180 days after enactment of this Act, that offers an additional ten parcels for lease for research, development, and demonstration of oil shale resources under the terms offered in the solicitation of bids published on January 15, 2009. Requires the Secretary, by January 1, 2016, to hold at least five separate commercial lease sales, in multiple lease blocs, in areas of at least 25,000 acres, which: (1) have been nominated through public comment, and (2) are considered to have the most potential for oil shale development. Planning for American Energy Act of 2014 - Amends the MLA to direct the Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of Agriculture (USDA) with regard to lands administered by the Forest Service, to publish every four years a Quadrennial Federal Onshore Energy Production Strategy to direct federal land energy development and department resource allocation in order to promote the energy and national security of the United States in accordance with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) mission to promote the multiple use of federal lands. Requires the Secretary to determine a domestic strategic production objective for the development of energy resources from such lands. Expresses the sense of Congress that federally recognized Indian tribes may elect to set their own production objectives as part of the Strategy. Grants the relevant Secretary all necessary authority to make determinations regarding which additional federal lands available for leasing at the time the lease sale occurs will be available to meet the production objectives established by the strategies. National Petroleum Reserve Alaska Access Act - Amends the Naval Petroleum Reserves Production Act of 1976 to require the mandatory program of competitive leasing of oil and gas in the National Petroleum Reserve (NPR) in Alaska to include at least one lease sale annually in those areas most likely to produce commercial quantities of oil and natural gas each year in the period 2014-2024. Directs the Secretary to ensure permits according to a specified time line for all surface development activities, including pipelines and roads construction, to: (1) develop and bring into production areas within the NPR that are subject to oil and gas leases, and (2) transport oil and gas from and through the NPR to existing transportation or processing infrastructure on the North Slope of Alaska. Requires the Secretary to ensure that any federal permitting agency shall issue construction permits for transportation of oil and natural gas under existing federal oil and gas leases with drilling permits within 60 days after enactment of this Act. Requires approval of drilling permits under new federal oil and gas leases within six months after submission of a permit request to the Secretary. Directs the Secretary to issue: (1) a new proposed integrated activity plan from among the non-adopted alternatives in the NPR Alaska Integrated Activity Plan Record of Decision dated February 21, 2013, and (2) an environmental impact statement under NEPA for issuance of oil and gas leases in the NPR-Alaska to promote efficient and maximum development of oil and natural gas resources of such reserve. Nullifies the February 21, 2013, Record of Decision, including its integrated activity plan and environmental impact statement. Prescribes requirements for the new proposed integrated activity plan. Requires the Secretary to assess all technically recoverable fossil fuel resources within the NPR, including all conventional and unconventional oil and natural gas. Directs the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), in cooperation with the state of Alaska and the American Association of Petroleum Geologists, to conduct and complete a resource assessment within 24 months after enactment of this Act. BLM Live Internet Auctions Act - Amends the MLA to authorize the Secretary to conduct onshore oil and gas lease sales through Internet-based live bidding methods. Requires each individual Internet-based lease sale to conclude within seven days. Directs the Secretary to analyze the first ten such lease sales and evaluate the effectiveness of different structures for lease sales.

To limit Department of Defense funds to support United States or Iraqi combat activities in or around Iraq, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 19 June 2014

Prohibits funds made available to the Department of Defense (DOD) from being obligated or expended to support any U.S. or Iraqi combat activities in or around Iraq. Defines "combat activities" to include the use of U.S. military personnel or equipment in direct physical conflict, or in combat supporting roles, including trainers or advisors. Allows funds to be made available until 90 days after the enactment of this Act to protect the safety of, or to evacuate, U.S. nationals, including military, diplomatic, and contractor personnel. Prohibits this Act from being construed to preclude the President from: (1) arranging asylum or other means of protection for Iraqi nationals who may be physically endangered because of associations with the U.S. government, (2) conducting intelligence activities necessary to protect U.S. interests, or (3) providing humanitarian assistance.

Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2015

United States · United States Congress · 19 June 2014

Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2015 - Makes appropriations for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for FY2015 for: the Offices of the Secretary, the Under Secretary for Management, the Chief Financial Officer, the Chief Information Officer, and the Inspector General; intelligence analysis and operations coordination activities; U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP); U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE); the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), including for civilian aviation security services, surface transportation security activities, intelligence and vetting activities, and, transportation security support; U.S. Coast Guard, including for environmental compliance and restoration functions; U.S. Secret Service; the National Protection and Programs Directorate, including for the Federal Protective Service and the Office of Biometric Identity Management; the Office of Health Affairs; the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), including for the U.S. Fire Administration; U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (CIS), including for the E-Verify program; the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center; the Office of the Under Secretary for Science and Technology; science and technology research; and the Domestic Nuclear Detention Office. Prohibits the use of funds under this Act: to amend the oath of allegiance required under the Immigration and Nationality Act; to prevent an individual not in the business of importing a prescription drug from importing a prescription drug that complies with the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act from Canada for personal use; for planning, testing, piloting, or developing a national identification card; to transfer, release, or assist in the transfer or release to or within the United States Khalid Sheikh Mohammed or any other detainee who is not a U.S. citizen or a member of the U.S. Armed Forces and who is or was held on or after June 24, 2009, at the U.S. Naval Station, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, by the Department of Defense (DOD); by a federal law enforcement officer to facilitate the transfer of an operable firearm to an agent of a drug cartel unless U.S. law enforcement personnel continuously monitor or control the firearm at all times; or to pay for an abortion, with exceptions where the mother's life would be endangered if the fetus were carried to term or in the case of rape or incest, or to require any person to perform or facilitate the performance of an abortion. Prohibits the Secretary from imposing any new border crossing fee on individuals crossing the southern or northern U.S. border at a land port of entry or from conducting any study relating to imposition of such a fee.

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2015

United States · United States Senate · 18 June 2014

A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate with respect to enhanced relations with the Republic of Moldova and support for the Republic of Moldova's territorial integrity.

United States · United States Congress · 18 June 2014

Reaffirms that it is U.S. policy to support the Republic of Moldova's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. Supports the Strategic Dialogue as a means to strengthen relations between the Republic of Moldova and the United States and enhance the democratic, economic, rule of law, and security reforms being implemented by the Republic of Moldova. Encourages: (1) the President and the Department of State to enhance U.S. cooperation with the government of Moldova and civil society organizations, and (2) the President to expedite implementation of the Act relating to "United States International Programming to Ukraine and Neighboring Regions." Affirms the Republic of Moldova's sovereign right to determine its own partnerships free of external coercion and affirms Moldova's right to associate with the European Union (EU) or any regional organization. Urges the EU to continue to work for greater political, economic, and social integration with the Republic of Moldova. Calls upon the Government of Russia to: (1) withdraw its military forces from within the internationally recognized territory of the Republic of Moldova, (2) refrain from economic coercion, and (3) cease actions that support separatist movements in Moldova. Supports confidence-building measures between the government of Moldova and the authorities in the Transnistria region in order to secure a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Affirms that lasting stability and security in Europe is a key U.S. priority that can only be achieved if the territorial integrity and sovereignty of all European countries are respected.

Access to Veteran-Centered Community Care Act

United States · United States Congress · 18 June 2014

Access to Veteran-Centered Community Care Act - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) to: (1) determine that a VA facility is not capable of furnishing the care or services required if a veteran has been waiting for 14 days or longer for an appointment to receive hospital care or medical services, including primary care, in such a facility; and (2) ensure that such care or services are provided to such a veteran at a non-VA facility under contract with the VA. Requires: (1) any referral of a veteran who, in the course of receiving hospital care or medical services in a non-VA facility, is referred to another non-VA facility for specialty care, to be submitted to the Secretary; and (2) the Secretary, if he or she does not reject such referral during the 72-hour period following its submittal, to ensure that such specialty care is provided to the veteran at a non-VA facility under contract with the VA.

Military and Veteran Caregiver Services Improvement Act of 2014

United States · United States Congress · 18 June 2014

Military and Veteran Caregiver Services Improvement Act of 2014 - Expands eligibility for the family caregiver program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to include members of the Armed Forces or veterans who are seriously injured or who became ill on active duty prior to September 11, 2001 (currently, limited to service after September 11, 2001). Expands services to caregivers of veterans under such program to include child care services, financial planning services, and legal services. Authorizes the transfer of entitlement to post 9/11 education assistance to family members by veterans who are retired for a physical disability or who are seriously injured veterans in need of family caregiver services, without regard to length-of-service requirements. Authorizes the VA Secretary to pay monthly special compensation to seriously injured or ill veterans in need of personal care services and to their caregivers. Excludes from gross income, for income tax purposes, such compensation paid to injured or ill veterans. Authorizes flexible work schedules or telework for federal employees who are caregivers of veterans. Amends the Public Health Service Act to designate a veteran participating in the program of comprehensive assistance for family caregivers as an adult with a special need for purposes of the lifespan respite care program. Establishes in the executive branch an interagency working group to review and report on policies relating to the caregivers of veterans and members of the Armed Forces. Directs the Secretary to provide for studies on members of the Armed Forces who commenced service after September 11, 2001, and veterans who have incurred a serious injury or illness, including a mental health injury, and their caregivers.

Expanding Care for Veterans Act

United States · United States Congress · 18 June 2014

Expanding Care for Veterans Act - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) to develop a plan to expand the scope of the VA's research and education on, and delivery and integration of, complementary and alternative medicine services. Requires the Secretary to carry out, through the VA's Office of Patient Centered Care and Cultural Transformation, a three-year program to: (1) assess the feasibility and advisability of integrating the delivery of complementary and alternative medicine services selected by the Secretary with other VA health care services for veterans, and (2) identify and resolve barriers to providing such services and integrating them with other VA health services. Requires such program to be conducted, at not fewer than 15 VA medical centers, by integrating the provision of complementary and alternative medicine services with other VA health care services provided to veterans who have a mental health condition, experience chronic pain, or have a chronic condition. Requires veterans' participation to be voluntary. Directs the Secretary to contract with a qualified independent entity for comprehensive studies of the barriers encountered by veterans in receiving, and by administrators and clinicians in providing, complementary and alternative medicine services through the VA. Provides for the conduct of such studies through surveys of veterans and VA administrators and clinicians. Requires the Secretary to carry out a three-year program awarding grants to public or private nonprofit entities to assess the feasibility and advisability of using wellness programs to complement the provision of mental health care to veterans and family members who are eligible for readjustment counseling from the VA.

Jeremy Sanchez Social Security Disability Insurance Fairness Act

United States · United States Congress · 18 June 2014

Jeremy Sanchez Social Security Disability Insurance Fairness Act - Amends title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) (OASDI) of the Social Security Act to waive the waiting period for disability insurance benefits for a beneficiary under a disability if the individual is terminally ill or the Commissioner of Social Security determines that the application of the waiting period would work an undue hardship.

Egyptian Military Coup Act of 2014

United States · United States Congress · 17 June 2014

Egyptian Military Coup Act of 2014 - Prohibits U.S. government assistance to Egypt pursuant to the coup d'etat restriction under the Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Act, 2012. Suspends the provision of specified defense articles and services, and the processing of letters of offer and acceptance for future arms sales, until the President certifies to Congress that democratic national elections have taken place in Egypt followed by a peaceful transfer of power.

Equalizing Transparency for Veterans Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 June 2014

Equalizing Transparency for Veterans Act - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) to biennially publish information on the VA's provision of health care on a VA Internet database that is publicly available. Includes among that information for each VA medical facility: quality measures regarding inpatient and outpatient care that the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) is required to make publicly available under the Medicare program; the average length of stay, opioid prescription rate, and suicide rate for patients discharged from the facility; and the average number of days a patient waited for an appointment or procedure at such facility. Includes in such information for each VA nursing home any quality measures the Secretary of HHS makes publicly available regarding Medicare nursing homes. Directs the Secretary to establish a process to validate the published information. Requires the Secretary to annually submit a plan to Congress to improve each VA medical facility that ranks within the bottom quartile on each quality measure used by the Secretary to rank such facilities. Directs the Secretary to establish a toll-free telephone number for individuals to use to notify the Secretary of low-quality care being provided at a VA medical facility.

National Rare-Earth Cooperative Act of 2014

United States · United States Congress · 17 June 2014

National Rare Earth Cooperative Act of 2014 - Establishes the Thorium-Bearing Rare Earth Refinery Cooperative as a federal charter to provide for the domestic processing of thorium-bearing rare earth concentrates as residual unprocessed and unrefined ores. Requires the Cooperative's Board to establish a refinery and a Thorium Storage, Energy, and Industrial Products Corporation to develop uses and markets for thorium, including energy. Directs the Secretary of Defense (DOD) to coordinate with other federal agencies to advance and protect domestic rare earth mining, the refining of rare earth elements, basic rare earth metals production, and the development and commercialization of thorium. Mandates, beginning in January 2020, all purchased or procured weapon systems to contain only U.S. or North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) member nation produced and sourced rare earth materials, metals, magnets, parts, and components. Prohibits the inclusion of any rare earth materials that originate or pass through a non-NATO member nation. Bars any waivers from being granted unless the lead contractor can demonstrate that it has pursued all possible corrective actions, including direct investment into the supply chain.