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Defence

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351 records in US in 2004

Records

Bill· SS. 2310 (108th)referred

A bill to promote the national security of the United States by facilitating the removal of potential nuclear weapons materials from vulnerable sites around the world, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 8 April 2004

Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) removing potential nuclear weapons materials from vulnerable sites around the world would reduce the threat that such materials would fall into the hands of al Qaeda and other groups and states hostile to the United States; and (2) such removal should be a top priority. Directs the President to establish the Task Force on Nuclear Material Removal to ensure that such materials are entirely removed from the most vulnerable sites around the world as soon as practicable. Authorizes the Secretary of Energy to provide specified assistance to the Task Force, including funding for the cost of: (1) removing such materials, as well as arranging for their shipment to the United States or other countries willing to accept and secure them; and (2) upgrading security and accounting at sites where such materials will remain for an extended period.

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 339 (108th)referred

A resolution urging the President to immediately instruct the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Defense to respectively begin initiating consultations with other members of the United Nations Security Council concerning a United Nations Security Council Resolution for Iraq, and with the Secretary General of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) concerning a mandate for a NATO commitment for security in Iraq, with the goal of securing both not later than May 15, 2004.

United States · United States Congress · 8 April 2004

States that the Senate: (1) applauds the dedication, professionalism, and patriotism of U.S. military members serving in Iraq, Afghanistan, and around the world, and remains committed to providing them with the resources that they need; (2) reaffirms its commitment to the creation of a democratic Iraq; (3) recognizes the important role that a United Nations mandate to assist the new Iraqi Government and a North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) mandate for peacekeeping in Iraq could play in achieving these goals; (4) urges the President to instruct the Secretary of State to begin consultations with other members of the United Nations Security Council concerning the United Nations mandate for Iraq, with the goal of securing a United Nations Security Council Resolution authorizing such mandate not later than May 15, 2004; and (5) urges the President to instruct the Secretary of Defense to initiate consultations with the Secretary General of NATO and other NATO members with the goal of securing a decision by NATO, not later than May 15, 2004, to deploy forces in Iraq beginning June 30, 2004, in order to assist Iraqi military and security forces and to establish and maintain a security umbrella to facilitate the work of the United Nations and the interim Iraqi government in preparing for nationwide elections in 2005.

Bill· SS. 2296 (108th)open

A bill to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to give the Commonwealth of Kentucky the first option on the Louisville Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Kentucky, upon its conveyance, lease or other disposal by the Department of Veterans Affairs.

United States · United States Congress · 7 April 2004

Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, upon determining to convey, lease, or otherwise dispose of the Louisville Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Kentucky, or any portion thereof, to negotiate for such disposal solely with the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Requires such exclusive negotiations to continue for one year after their commencement.

Bill· SS. 2300 (108th)referred

Defense of Medicare Act

United States · United States Congress · 7 April 2004

Defense of Medicare Act - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services, in applying risk adjustment factors to payments to Medicare+Choice organizations under part C (Medicare+Choice) of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA), to ensure that payments to such organizations are adjusted based on factors that ensure that the health status of the enrollee is reflected in such adjusted payments, including adjusting for the difference between the health status of the enrollee and individuals enrolled under the original Medicare fee-for-service program under Medicare parts A (Hospital Insurance) and part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance). Requires payments to such organizations, in the aggregate, to reflect such differences. Amends SSA title XVIII part C, as amended by the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act of 2003, to: (1) revise the formula for determination of the minimum annual Medicare+Choice (Medicare Advantage) capitation rate for 2005 and subsequent years (making it the same as the minimum rate for 2004); and (2) eliminate the Medicare Advantage (MA) Regional Plan Stabilization Fund. Repeals the Comparative Cost Adjustment Program. Amends SSA title XVIII, as amended by the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act of 2003, to require the Secretary to ensure that each individual eligible for such program has available a choice of enrollment in at least two prescription drug plans (currently, at least two qualifying plans, which may be a prescription drug plan or a specified Medicare Advantage-Prescription Drug (MA-PD) plan).

Bill· HRH.R. 4130 (108th)open

Operation Hero Miles Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 2 April 2004

Operation Hero Miles Act of 2004 - Authorizes the Secretary of Defense to accept the donation of frequent traveler miles, credits, and tickets for air or surface transportation to facilitate the travel of: (1) a member of the Armed Forces who is deployed on active duty away from his or her permanent duty station and granted leave during such deployment; or (2) family members of such member to be reunited with the member. Directs the Secretary to reimburse members who participated in the Department of Defense Rest and Recuperation Leave program during the period beginning on September 15, 2003, and ending on December 18, 2003, for travel expenses incurred by the member (or family members on behalf of the member) to travel to or from a designated embarkation point before the program was expanded to include a domestic travel component.

Bill· SS. 2268 (108th)referred

Cockpit Security Technical Corrections and Improvements Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 1 April 2004

Cockpit Security Technical Corrections and Improvements Act of 2004 - Amends Federal aviation law to revise requirements for the program for deputizing eligible pilots as Federal law enforcement officers (Federal flight deck officers) to defend against acts of criminal violence or air piracy. Shifts responsibility for the program from the Under Secretary of Transportation for Security of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to the Secretary of Homeland Security. Revises eligibility requirements for pilots to be a Federal flight deck officer, adding mental standards and firearms training. Makes a special exception from ordinary requirements for certain active or reserve members of the armed forces or a Federal, State, or local law enforcement agency. Revises certain Federal flight deck officer training requirements and adds requalification training requirements. Revises requirements for the carrying of firearms by Federal flight deck officers outside of the United States, including designation as Federal air marshals, and the authority to use force to defend an aircraft against terrorism by a Federal flight deck officer. Extends to entities and individuals the prohibition (currently limited to air carriers) against prohibiting a pilot employed by an air carrier from becoming or threatening retaliatory action against such a pilot for becoming a Federal flight deck officer. Specifies further prohibited disciplinary actions. Authorizes a Federal flight deck officer or pilot who is adversely affected by a failure by the Secretary to comply with any requirements under this Act to file a petition for judicial review with the appropriate U.S. district court. Sets forth requirements to: (1) prohibit the disclosure of information related to a pilot's participation in the Federal flight deck officer program; (2) provide certain adjudication procedures for pilots who have been determined ineligible to be a Federal flight deck officer or has had other adverse action taken against them; (3) provide certain authorities with respect to Federal flight deck officers, including issuance of credentials, use of force to prevent terrorism or defend life, exposure to security inspections, and access to sensitive security information; (4) require certain reports to Congress on the Federal flight deck officer program; and (5) require the Secretary to promote and publicize the Federal flight deck officer program.

Bill· SS. 2274 (108th)referred

21st Century Citizen Soldier Benefits Act

United States · United States Congress · 1 April 2004

21st Century Citizen Soldier Benefits Act - Amends Federal law relating to the Armed Forces to provide for expanded and improved benefits for members of the National Guard and Reserves who are called or ordered to active duty, with respect to retired pay, burial, education, and other mobilization benefits.

Bill· HRH.R. 4123 (108th)referred

Military Sexual Assault Crimes Revision Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 1 April 2004

Military Sexual Assault Crimes Revision Act of 2004 - Amends the Uniform Code of Military Justice to rewrite current provisions concerning the military crime of rape and carnal knowledge to conform with Federal sexual assault crimes. Makes it a crime (aggravated sexual abuse) not only to use force to engage in a sexual act, but to obtain a sexual act by threatening or placing a person in fear that any person will otherwise be subjected to death, serious bodily injury, or kidnapping. Includes within the act of aggravated sexual abuse: (1) rendering another person unconscious, or administering a drug or intoxicant, prior to engaging in a sexual act; and (2) engaging in a sexual act with a person under 12 years of age. Defines as the military crime of sexual abuse when a person: (1) causes another person to engage in a sexual act by threatening or placing that other person in fear; (2) engages in a sexual act with another person who is incapable of either appraising the nature of the conduct or declining such participation; or (3) engages in a sexual act with a person over 12 but under 16, or at least four years younger than the person. States that, in the prosecution of either type of sexual abuse, it need not be proven that a person knew the age of the other person engaging in the sexual act, or the requisite age difference. Requires the accused to prove as an affirmative defense that the accused believed the other person to be at least 16 years of age. Makes the above crimes punishable by court-martial.

Bill· HRH.R. 4111 (108th)referred

To amend title 37, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of a military department to pay a monthly bonus to members of the Armed Forces whose retirement or separation is suspended as a result of a stop-loss order, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 1 April 2004

Directs the Secretary of the military department concerned to pay a monthly bonus of $500 to each member of the Armed Forces: (1) who is subject to a stop-loss order issued since October 1, 2001; and (2) whose ability to retire or be separated from the Armed Forces is suspended as a result of such order. Provides for retroactive bonus payments since October 1, 2001, for qualifying members.

Bill· HRH.R. 4104 (108th)open

Intelligence Transformation Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 1 April 2004

Intelligence Transformation Act of 2004 - Amends the National Security Act of 1947 to establish the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (Director), to be composed of: (1) the Director and Deputy Director of National Intelligence; (2) the Deputy Director of National Intelligence for Operations; (3) the Deputy Director of National Intelligence for Resources; (4) the National Intelligence Council (Council); (5) the General Counsel to the Director; (6) the Inspector General of the Intelligence Community; (7) the Senior Advisor to the Director of National Intelligence for Homeland Security; and (8) such other offices and officials as may be established or designated. Establishes within the Council the National Intelligence Council Alternative Analysis Unit for challenging the accuracy of Council intelligence estimates. Includes among the Director's responsibilities: (1) providing national intelligence to the President, the heads of Federal departments and agencies, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and senior military commanders, and, where appropriate, Congress; (2) developing an annual budget for intelligence and intelligence-related activities; (3) establishing requirements and priorities to govern the collection of national intelligence by elements of the intelligence community (IC); and (4) protecting intelligence sources and methods from unauthorized disclosure. Recodifies provisions establishing the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), designating as its lead official the Director of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA Director) (currently, the Director of Central Intelligence), and removing provisions which established specified CIA deputy and assistant director positions. Prohibits an individual from serving simultaneously as Director of National Intelligence and CIA Director. Establishes: (1) a Joint Tasking Organization to assist in the tasking of collection, analysis, and dissemination of all elements of the IC under the National Foreign Intelligence Program; (2) the Weapons of Mass Destruction Proliferation Threat Integration Center to provide integrated tasking of collection and analysis of national intelligence relating to weapons of mass destruction that threaten U.S. national security; and (3) a Joint Intelligence Comptroller to prepare and execute that part of the defense budget relating to IC elements and their intelligence programs. Requires the: (1) President to establish and implement policies and procedures governing access to, and use of, specified database information by IC officers and employees and Federal law enforcement personnel; (2) Director to establish all-source analysis training programs for all IC analysts; and (3) Director and Secretary of Defense to develop an integrated communications network that provides communications capabilities to all IC elements. Establishes a Joint Acquisition Office for the oversight of acquisition programs of specified IC agencies. Outlines Director authority with respect to IC personnel, including the management of IC specialists. Provides a ten-year term for the CIA Director.

Bill· HRH.R. 4126 (108th)referred

Cockpit Security Technical Corrections and Improvements Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 1 April 2004

Cockpit Security Technical Corrections and Improvements Act of 2004 - Amends Federal aviation law to revise requirements for the program for deputizing eligible pilots as Federal law enforcement officers (Federal flight deck officers) to defend against acts of criminal violence or air piracy. Shifts responsibility for the program from the Under Secretary of Transportation for Security of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to the Secretary of Homeland Security. Revises eligibility requirements for pilots to be a Federal flight deck officer, adding mental standards and firearms training. Makes a special exception from ordinary requirements for certain active or reserve members of the armed forces or a Federal, State, or local law enforcement agency. Revises certain Federal flight deck officer training requirements and adds requalification training requirements. Revises requirements for the carrying of firearms by Federal flight deck officers outside of the United States, including designation as Federal air marshals, and the authority to use force to defend an aircraft against terrorism by a Federal flight deck officer. Extends to entities and individuals the prohibition (currently limited to air carriers) against prohibiting a pilot employed by an air carrier from becoming or threatening retaliatory action against such a pilot for becoming a Federal flight deck officer. Specifies further prohibited disciplinary actions. Authorizes a Federal flight deck officer or pilot who is adversely affected by a failure by the Secretary to comply with any requirements under this Act to file a petition for judicial review with the appropriate U.S. district court. Sets forth requirements to: (1) prohibit the disclosure of information related to a pilot's participation in the Federal flight deck officer program; (2) provide certain adjudication procedures for pilots who have been determined ineligible to be a Federal flight deck officer or has had other adverse action taken against them; (3) provide certain authorities with respect to Federal flight deck officers, including issuance of credentials, use of force to prevent terrorism or defend life, exposure to security inspections, and access to sensitive security information; (4) require certain reports to Congress on the Federal flight deck officer program; and (5) require the Secretary to promote and publicize the Federal flight deck officer program.

Bill· HRH.R. 4094 (108th)open

Geothermal Energy Initiative Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 31 March 2004

Geothermal Energy Initiative Act of 2004 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to include geothermal energy and certain geothermal energy facilities as qualified energy resources and appurtenant facilities eligible for the renewable electricity production credit. Directs the Secretary of Energy to: (1) review and publish annually the available assessments of geothermal energy resources available within the United States; and (2) undertake new assessments as necessary, taking into account changes in market conditions, available technologies, and other relevant factors. Requires such report to contain a detailed inventory describing the available amount and characteristics of geothermal energy resources. Directs the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture to expedite development of geothermal energy in making revisions to certain land use plans for public lands and National Forest System lands, respectively. Directs the Secretary of the Interior to report to Congress on recommendations for geothermal energy development on Federal land, including a list, developed in consultation with the Secretaries of Energy and of Defense, of lands under their jurisdictions, that would be suitable for development for geothermal energy, and recommended statutory and regulatory mechanisms for such development. Instructs the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture to enter into and submit to Congress a memorandum of understanding regarding leasing and permitting for geothermal development of public lands under their respective jurisdictions. Amends the Geothermal Steam Act of 1970 to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to reimburse certain persons through royalty credits, for reasonable amounts paid for preparation of project-level analysis, documentation, or related study required under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 with respect to the lease.

Bill· HRH.R. 4058 (108th)referred

United States Assistance for Civilians Affected by Conflict Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 30 March 2004

United States Assistance for Civilians Affected by Conflict Act of 2004 - Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to authorize the President to: (1) appoint a Special Coordinator to ensure that Federal departments and agencies responsible for the conduct of foreign affairs and national security undertake advance planning, coordinated action, and harmonized execution to respond to complex humanitarian emergencies in foreign countries and to ensure that such planning and action is consistent with the national interests of the United States; and (2) take specified actions to respond to such emergencies. Authorizes fiscal year appropriations to the President for international disaster assistance. Authorizes the President to develop and undertake protection initiatives, including protection initiatives for women and children who are refugees or displaced persons, or living in areas affected by a complex humanitarian emergency. Expresses the sense of Congress that the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees should review its personnel practices to: (1) ensure that senior protection officers are assigned to the posts where women and children are in the most danger of gender-based violence or exploitation, and to ensure that more female staff are present in refugee or displaced persons camps; and (2) facilitate the permanent hiring of successful junior professional officers following their initial tours of duty. Declares that it shall be U.S. policy to ensure that U.S.-funded organizations that respond to complex humanitarian emergencies in foreign countries have the resources to address the specific health needs of women affected by such emergencies. Amends the Act to authorize the President to provide assistance: (1) to prevent, prepare for, and respond to foreign crises, including acts of ethnic cleansing, mass killings and genocide, peace and humanitarian intervention operations, and armed ethnic or civil conflicts; (2) to support the transition to democracy and long-term development in countries emerging from political instability or conflict; (3) to victims of foreign civil strife and warfare; and (4) for famine relief. Directs the Secretary of State to develop a strategy for the protection of women and children who are internally displaced, made refugees, or otherwise affected by a complex humanitarian emergency. Directs the Special Coordinator to maintain an information database and develop an early warning list related to occurrences of gender-based violence or exploitation of children during a complex humanitarian emergency. Directs the The Secretary to urge the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees to work with nongovernmental organizations to implement a model `whistleblower' system under which humanitarian workers, refugees, and internally displaced persons can report gender-based violence or exploitation of children. Prohibits assistance to a nongovernmental organization that assists refugees or displaced persons if such organization does not adopt a code of conduct that incorporates specified provisions respecting sexual exploitation of children and others by humanitarian workers. Expresses the sense of Congress that all U.S. agencies, nongovernmental organizations, and multilateral organizations that are implementing U.S. humanitarian assistance programs should review their administrative, management, and employment practices at refugee and displaced persons camps for the purposes of: (1) increasing the number of women involved in the distribution of food and humanitarian supplies; and (2) educating providers and beneficiaries of humanitarian assistance about the seriousness of gender-based violence and exploitation of children. Amends the Act to include in foreign military training and education the protection of displaced civilians, especially women and children.

Bill· HRH.R. 4056 (108th)referred

Commercial Aviation MANPADS Defense Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 30 March 2004

Commercial Aviation MANPADS Defense Act of 2004 - Urges the President to pursue further strong international diplomatic and cooperative efforts (including bilateral and multilateral treaties) in the appropriate forum to: (1) limit the availability, transfer, and proliferation of man-portable air defense systems (MANPADS) worldwide; and (2) assure the destruction of excess, obsolete, and illicit stocks of MANPADS worldwide. Directs the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to establish a process for conducting airworthiness and safety certification of missile defense systems used to defend commercial aircraft against MANPADS. Urges the President to pursue strong programs to reduce the number of MANPADS worldwide. Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to report to specified congressional committees describing the Department of Homeland Security's plans to secure airports and the aircraft arriving and departing from airports against MANPADS attacks.

Bill· HRH.R. 4065 (108th)open

Veterans Housing Affordability Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 30 March 2004

Veterans Housing Affordability Act of 2004 - Increases the maximum amount of Department of Veterans Affairs-guaranteed home loans to veterans for the purchase or construction of a home from $60,000 to the dollar amount equal to 22.5 percent of the Freddie Mac conforming loan limitation determined under the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation Act, as adjusted for the year involved.

Resolution· HRESH.Res. 587 (108th)referred

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives regarding the recent outbreak of violence in Kosovo.

United States · United States Congress · 30 March 2004

Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives: (1) condemning the outbreak of violence, including attacks on places of worship, in Kosovo; (2) that the elected leaders of Kosovo have a primary responsibility to stop any continuing violence; (3) supporting the presence of additional military forces in the NATO-led multinational peace operation in Kosovo; (4) that the international community should take necessary measures to protect people and property in Kosovo; and (5) that authorities in Serbia should maintain efforts to protect people and property vulnerable to retaliatory violence.

Bill· HRH.R. 4051 (108th)referred

Better Access to Chiropractors to Keep our Veterans Healthy (Back Our Veterans Health) Act

United States · United States Congress · 29 March 2004

Better Access to Chiropractors to Keep our Veterans Healthy (Back Our Veterans Health) Act - Includes chiropractic services and counseling, as well as periodic and preventative chiropractic examinations and services, among the medical, rehabilitative, and preventive health services available to veterans. Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to permit eligible veterans to receive medical, rehabilitative, and preventative health services from a licensed doctor of chiropractic on a direct access basis at the election of the veteran, if such services are within the State scope of practice of such doctor. Prohibits the Secretary from discriminating among licensed health-care providers in the determination of needed services.

Resolution· HRESH.Res. 580 (108th)passed

Providing for the consideration of the bill (H.R. 3966) to amend title 10, United States Code, and the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to improve the ability of the Department of Defense to establish and maintain Senior Reserve Officer Training Corps units at institutions of higher education, to improve the ability of students to participate in Senior ROTC programs, and to ensure that institutions of higher education provide military recruiters entry to campuses and access to students that is at least equal in quality and scope to that provided to any other employer.

United States · United States Congress · 29 March 2004

Sets forth the rule for the consideration of H.R. 3966 (ROTC and Military Recruiter Equal Access to Campus Act of 2004).

Resolution· HCONRESH.Con.Res. 400 (108th)referred

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

United States · United States Congress · 29 March 2004

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

Bill· SS. 2239 (108th)referred

First Responders Homeland Defense Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 25 March 2004

First Responders Homeland Defense Act of 2004 - Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to establish a toll-free hotline through which local governments and nonprofit organizations may obtain information regarding all Federal grant programs that make funds available for the assistance of first responders and for terrorism preparedness. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to: (1) nonprofit organizations for training and equipping first responders; and (2) States, local governments, local law enforcement agencies, and local fire departments to assist in improving or purchasing communication systems to permit real-time, interoperable communication between State and local first responders.

Bill· HRH.R. 4032 (108th)open

Veterans Fiduciary Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 25 March 2004

Veterans Fiduciary Act of 2004 - Defines "fiduciary," for purposes of Federal veterans' benefits provisions, as a guardian or any other person having been appointed or legally vested with the responsibility or care of a veterans' benefit claimant or beneficiary, or of money paid for the use and benefit of a minor, incompetent, or other beneficiary. Requires any certification of a person as a fiduciary for such purposes to be made on the basis of: (1) an investigation of their fitness to so serve; (2) adequate evidence that such certification is in the best interest of such beneficiary; and (3) the furnishing of any required bond. Requires the investigation to include whether the person has been convicted of any offense which resulted in imprisonment for more than one year. Prohibits a fiduciary from collecting a fee from a beneficiary for any month with respect to which the Secretary of Veterans Affairs or a court finds that the fiduciary misused all or part of the individual's benefit. Provides liability for fiduciaries for misused benefits. Requires the Secretary to pay a beneficiary any amounts or benefits misused by a fiduciary when the negligent failure of the Secretary to investigate or monitor a fiduciary results in such misuse. Provides additional protections for beneficiaries with fiduciaries, including: (1) periodic onsite reviews of institutional fiduciaries such as certified community-based nonprofit social service agencies; (2) requiring a fiduciary to file a report or accounting; (3) civil monetary penalties; and (4) authority for judicial orders of restitution.

Bill· HRH.R. 4039 (108th)referred

Korean Defense Service Combat Recognition Act

United States · United States Congress · 25 March 2004

Korean Defense Service Combat Recognition Act - Directs the Secretary of the Army to provide that, with respect to service in the Republic of Korea after July 28, 1953, eligibility of a member of the Army for the Combat Infantryman Badge or the Combat Medical Badge shall be met under criteria and eligibility requirements that, as nearly as practicable, are identical to those applicable to service elsewhere without regard to specific location or special circumstances such as: (1) serving in a hostile fire area; (2) a minimum number of instances in which the member was engaged with the enemy in active ground combat; or (3) a personal recommendation or approval by a commander in the member's chain of command.

Resolution· HCONRESH.Con.Res. 398 (108th)open

A concurrent resolution expressing the concern of Congress over Iran's development of the means to produce nuclear weapons.

United States · United States Congress · 25 March 2004

States that Congress: (1) condemns Iran's continuing deceptions to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the international community about its nuclear programs and activities, and demands that Iran immediately and permanently cease efforts to acquire nuclear fuel cycle capabilities and cease nuclear enrichment activities; (2) calls upon all State Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), including the United States, to use all appropriate means to deter Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, including ending all nuclear and other cooperation with Iran, until Iran fully implements the Additional Protocol between Iran and the IAEA for the application of safeguards; (3) calls upon all countries to intercede with their commercial entities to ensure that these entities refrain from or cease all investment and investment-related activities that support Iran's energy industry; (4) urges the IAEA Board of Governors to report to the United Nations Security Council that Iran is in noncompliance with its agreements; (5) urges the United Nations Security Council, the Nuclear Suppliers Group, the Zangger Committee, and other international entities to declare that non-nuclear-weapon states under NPT who commit violations of their safeguards agreements regarding uranium enrichment or plutonium reprocessing, or engage in activities which could support a military nuclear program, thereby forfeit their right to engage in nuclear fuel-cycle activities; (6) urges the United Nations Security Council to consider measures to support IAEA inspection efforts; and (7) urges the President to keep the Congress fully and currently informed concerning the matters addressed in this resolution.

Bill· SS. 2229 (108th)referred

National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2005

United States · United States Congress · 24 March 2004

National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2005 - Authorizes appropriations for the Department of Defense (DOD) for FY 2005. Authorizes appropriations to DOD for: (1) procurement, including for aircraft, missiles, weapons and tracked combat vehicles, ammunition, and shipbuilding and conversion; (2) research, development, test, and evaluation, including ballistic missile defense capabilities; (3) operation and maintenance, including for defense working capital funds, the Armed Forces Retirement Home, the Defense Health Program, and chemical agents and munitions destruction; and (4) active and reserve military personnel, including end strengths. Extends certain bonus, special, and incentive pay authorities. Expands certain travel and transportation allowances. Sets forth provisions or requirements concerning: (1) environmental policy, including the protection of sunken State craft and the remains of their crews; (2) active and reserve military personnel policy, including the extension of age limits for reserve and National Guard general and flag officers, and revised retirement rules for officers; (3) ROTC and the military service academies, including the establishment of a Board of Visitors at each academy; (4) acquisition policy and management, including enhanced small business participation in defense contracting; (5) DOD organization and management; (6) budget and financial matters; (7) the establishment of auxiliaries for military departments and a National Defense Heritage Foundation; (8) DOD civilian personnel policy; and (9) matters relating to other nations, allies, and friendly foreign nations. Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2005 - Authorizes the Secretary of Defense and the Secretaries of the military departments to acquire real property and carry out specified military construction projects. Authorizes appropriations for: (1) military construction, land acquisition, and military family housing functions; (2) the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Security Investment Program; (3) chemical demilitarization construction; and (4) National Guard and reserve forces facilities. Authorizes the Secretary of the Army to establish the Museum Center of the National Museum of the United States Army at Fort Belvoir, Virginia.

Bill· HRH.R. 4020 (108th)open

State Veterans Home Nurse Recruitment Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 24 March 2004

State Veterans Home Nurse Recruitment Act of 2004 - Amends Federal veterans' benefits provisions to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to make payments to States for assisting State veterans' homes in the hiring and retention of nurses and the reduction of nursing shortages at such homes. Makes eligible for such assistance State homes that: (1) currently receive per diem payments from the Secretary for the care of veterans; and (2) have in effect an employee incentive scholarship or other program designed to promote the hiring and retention of nursing staff and reduce nursing shortages. Limits such assistance to no more than 50 percent of the fiscal year costs of such a program. Requires the assistance program to be implemented as expeditiously as possible, so that payments are made to eligible States commencing no later than January 1, 2005.

Bill· HRH.R. 4023 (108th)referred

To amend the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Act of 1990 to postpone the 2005 round of base closures and realignments until 2007.

United States · United States Congress · 24 March 2004

Amends the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Act of 1990 to postpone until: (1) 2007 the implementation of recommendations for military base closures and realignments currently scheduled for 2005; and (2) corresponding dates two years later certain dates for reviews, recommendations, and reports related to to such closures and realignments.

Bill· SS. 2219 (108th)referred

Motherhood Protection Act

United States · United States Congress · 22 March 2004

Motherhood Protection Act - Amends the Federal criminal code and the Uniform Code of Military Justice UCMJ to provide that anyone who engages in conduct that violates any of specified prohibitions under the Federal criminal code, the Controlled Substances Act of 1970, the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, or the UCMJ and thereby causes the termination of a pregnancy or the interruption of the normal course of pregnancy is guilty of a separate offense. Makes the punishment for that offense the same as that provided for such conduct had that injury or death occurred to the pregnant woman. Provides that an offense under this Act does not require proof that: (1) the person engaging in the conduct had, or should have had, knowledge that the victim of the underlying offense was pregnant; or (2) the defendant intended to cause the termination or interruption of the pregnancy. Prohibits prosecution: (1) for conduct relating to an abortion for which the consent of the pregnant woman has been obtained or is implied by law in a medical emergency; (2) for conduct relating to the pregnant woman's medical treatment or matters related to the pregnancy; or (3) of any woman regarding her pregnancy.

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 322 (108th)passed

A resolution designating August 16, 2004, as "National Airborne Day".

United States · United States Congress · 22 March 2004

Designates August 16, 2004 as National Airborne Day (to recognize the airborne forces of the U.S. Armed Forces). Requests that the President issue a proclamation calling on Federal, State, and local administrators and the people of the United States to observe National Airborne Day with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.

Resolution· HCONRESH.Con.Res. 393 (108th)passed

Establishing the congressional budget for the United States Government for fiscal year 2005 and setting forth appropriate budgetary levels for fiscal years 2004 and 2006 through 2009.

United States · United States Congress · 19 March 2004

Sets forth the congressional budget for the Federal Government for FY 2005, including the appropriate budgetary levels for FY 2004 and 2006 through 2009. Lists recommended budgetary levels and amounts, for FY 2004 through 2009, with respect to: (1) Federal revenues; (2) new budget authority; (3) budget outlays; (4) deficits (on-budget); (5) debt subject to limit; and (6) debt held by the public. Lists the appropriate levels of new budget authority and outlays for specified major functional categories for FY 2004 through 2009. Sets forth reconciliation instructions for the House Committees on Agriculture, on Education and the Workforce, on Energy and Commerce, on Government Reform, and on Ways and Means. Requires the House Committee on: (1) Ways and Means to report a reconciliation bill providing for specified reductions in revenues; and (2) Armed Services to report to the House Budget Committee on its findings that identify specified savings from activities determined to be a low priority to the successful execution of current military operations, or to be wasteful or unnecessary to national defense. Provides for deficit-neutral reserve funds for: (1) health insurance for the uninsured; (2) medicaid coverage for children with special needs (the Family Opportunity Act); (3) increasing the survivor's benefits under the Military Survivors' Benefit Plan; and (4) pending legislation that provides for the safe importation of FDA-approved prescription drugs or places limits on medical malpractice litigation. Provides for contingency procedures to adjust budget aggregates and new budget authority allocation for surface transportation and infrastructure. Specifies adjustments for highway and transit outlays. Prohibits House legislation that would require advanced appropriations, with a specified exception. States that if legislation is reported that makes supplemental appropriations for FY 2005 for contingency operations related to the global war on terrorism, or for any emergency requirements, then the resulting new budget authority, new entitlement authority, outlays, and receipts shall not count for certain purposes of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 for the provisions of such measure that are designated as making appropriations for such contingency operations. Declares the sense of the House on: (1) spending accountability; and (2) entitlement reform.

Bill· HRH.R. 3994 (108th)reported

Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users

United States · United States Congress · 18 March 2004

Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users - Reauthorizes the Federal-aid surface transportation program through FY 2009. Reauthorizes appropriations from the Highway Trust Fund (HTF) for: (1) specified highway (including highway safety) programs; (2) research and technology; (3) motor carrier safety; and (4) transportation research. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to establish a National Commission on Future Revenue Sources to Support the HTF. Establishes: (1) a National Commission on the Future of the Dwight D. Eisenhower National System of Interstate Defense Highways; and (2) a Commission on Intelligent Transportation Systems Procurement Policy. Requires States with an urbanized area population of over 200,000 to obligate specified funds for congestion relief. Federal Public Transportation Act of 2004 - Sets forth revised provisions governing public transportation funding and the Secretary's authority to make specified grants, including grants for capital projects, planning, and transit and for commercial driver's license program improvements. Directs the Secretary to establish programs involving: (1) long-term bridge performance; (2) innovative highway safety technologies; (3) freight planning capacity building; (4) freight transportation research; (5) future strategic highway research; (6) surface transportation congestion solutions research; and (7) commercial remote sensing products and spatial information technologies. Intelligent Transportation Systems Act of 2004 - Directs the Secretary to conduct an ongoing intelligent system transportation program to research, develop, and operationally test and advance nationwide deployment of intelligent transportation systems as a component of the U.S. surface transportation systems. Incorporates Federal Highway Administration and Federal Transit Administration planning provisions. Reauthorizes the hazardous materials transportation program. Makes the guaranteed funding levels provided under this Act dependent on identifying additional budgetary resources.

Bill· HRH.R. 4000 (108th)referred

District of Columbia National Guard College Access Act

United States · United States Congress · 18 March 2004

District of Columbia National Guard College Access Act - Amends Federal armed forces provisions to authorize the Secretary of the military department concerned to provide financial assistance to an eligible member of the District of Columbia National Guard for expenses while enrolled in an approved institution of higher education in a degree, certificate, or other program leading to a recognized educational credential at such institution. Requires such members, in order to be eligible, to: (1) be such a member for at least 12 consecutive months preceding commencement of the assistance; (2) be enrolled or accepted for enrollment at such an institution; and (3) if already enrolled, maintain satisfactory progress in a course of study in accordance with requirements of the Higher Education Act of 1965. Prohibits assistance amounts from exceeding $2,500 per academic year and $12,500 altogether.

Bill· HRH.R. 3996 (108th)referred

Stabilization and Reconstruction Civilian Management Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 18 March 2004

Stabilization and Reconstruction Civilian Management Act of 2004 - States that the purpose of this Act is to provide for the development, as a core mission of the Department of State and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), of an expert civilian response capability to carry out stabilization and reconstruction activities in a country or region that is in, or is in transition from, conflict or civil strife. Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to authorize the President to furnish assistance and permit the export of goods and services to assist in stabilizing and reconstructing a country or region that is in, or is in transition from, conflict or civil strife. Amends the State Department Basic Authorities Act of 1956 to direct the Secretary of State to establish within the Department of State an Office of International Stabilization and Reconstruction. Authorizes: (1) the Secretary, in consultation with the Administrator of the USAID, to establish a Response Readiness Corps to provide stabilization and reconstruction activities in foreign countries or regions that are in, or are in transition from, conflict or civil strife (up to 250 personnel to serve in the Corps, and such other personnel as the Secretary may designate from the Department of State and USAID); and (2) the Secretary to establish a Response Readiness Reserve of Federal and non-Federal personnel to augment the Corps. Amends the Foreign Service Act of 1980 to authorize the Secretary, in cooperation with the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of the Army, to establish a stabilization and reconstruction curriculum for use in programs of the Foreign Service Institute, the National Defense University, and the United States Army War College. Sets forth related personnel provisions.

Resolution· HCONRESH.Con.Res. 390 (108th)open

Condemning the adoption of United Nations General Assembly Resolution ES-10/14 (December 8, 2003) which requests the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to render an advisory opinion concerning the international legal consequences arising from Israel's construction of a security fence in parts of the West Bank, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 18 March 2004

States that Congress: (1) condemns the adoption of United Nations General Assembly Resolution ES-10/14 (December 8, 2003) which requests the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to render an advisory opinion concerning the international legal consequences arising from Israel's construction of a security fence in parts of the West Bank; (2) deplores the use of the International Court of Justice by the United Nations General Assembly for political purposes that only do harm to the credibility of the General Assembly and the Court, and threaten to impede international and United States efforts to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict; (3) commends the Administration for its leadership in opposing the manipulation of the International Court of Justice into a political forum for denunciation of Israel and its legitimate self-defense; (4) expresses the continued commitment of the United States to Israel's right to exist as a Jewish democratic state, its security and its right of self-defense, including the right to build a security fence as a direct consequence of more than three years of Palestinian terrorism; (5) condemns the ongoing failure of the Palestinian leadership to take action to cease all violence and terrorism against Israel and to instead pursue misguided political alternatives to the Performance-Based Roadmap to a Permanent Two-State Solution to the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict, democratic reform, and direct peace negotiations; and (6) reiterates support for the President's June 2002 speech setting out the conditions necessary for resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and for the achievement of a negotiated two-state solution based on United Nations Security Council Resolutions 242 (1967), 338 (1973), and 1397 (2002) calling for the exchange of territory for peace, direct negotiations between the parties, and the immediate cessation of all violence.

Resolution· HCONRESH.Con.Res. 391 (108th)open

Expressing the sense of Congress concerning the well-being of members of the Armed Forces and calling on the Department of Defense to do its utmost to see that deployed military personnel have the best force protection equipment the Nation can make available, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 18 March 2004

Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) the well-being of deployed U.S. armed forces is of paramount importance; (2) the Department of Defense (DOD) should do its utmost to see that such personnel have the best force protection equipment available; (3) DOD and the military departments should increase the ability of currently unarmored vehicles that are deployed forward under Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom to resist improvised explosive devices; and (4) DOD should immediately release to the military departments all funds that have been authorized and appropriated, but not released, for defeating such improvised explosive devices and mitigating their effect on vehicles.

Bill· HRH.R. 3984 (108th)referred

To make 1 percent across-the-board rescissions in non-defense, non-homeland-security discretionary spending for fiscal year 2005.

United States · United States Congress · 17 March 2004

Makes a one percent rescission in the: (1) budget authority provided (or obligation limitation imposed) for FY 2005 for any non-defense, non-homeland-security discretionary account in any FY 2005 appropriation Act; (2) budget authority provided in any advance appropriation for FY 2005 for such account in any prior fiscal year appropriation Act; and (3) contract authority provided in FY 2005 for any program that is subject to a limitation contained in any FY 2005 appropriation Act for the account. Excludes any account: (1) included in a Department of Defense Appropriations Act, Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, or Military Construction Appropriations Act; or (2) for Department of Energy defense activities included in an Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act.

Bill· HRH.R. 3986 (108th)referred

To make 5 percent across-the-board rescissions in non-defense, non-homeland-security discretionary spending for fiscal year 2005.

United States · United States Congress · 17 March 2004

Provides a five percent rescission in the: (1) budget authority provided (or obligation limitation imposed) for FY 2005 for any non-defense, non-homeland-security discretionary account in any FY 2005 appropriation Act; (2) budget authority provided in any advance appropriation for FY 2005 for such account in any prior fiscal year appropriation Act; and (3) contract authority provided in FY 2005 for any program that is subject to a limitation contained in any FY 2005 appropriation Act for the account. Excludes any account: (1) included in a Department of Defense Appropriations Act, Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, or Military Construction Appropriations Act; or (2) for Department of Energy defense activities included in an Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act.

Bill· HRH.R. 3985 (108th)referred

To make 2 percent across-the-board rescissions in non-defense, non-homeland-security discretionary spending for fiscal year 2005.

United States · United States Congress · 17 March 2004

Provides a two-percent rescission in the: (1) budget authority provided (or obligation limitation imposed) for FY 2005 for any non-defense, non-homeland-security discretionary account in any FY 2005 appropriation Act; (2) budget authority provided in any advance appropriation for FY 2005 for such account in any prior fiscal year appropriation Act; and (3) contract authority provided in FY 2005 for any program that is subject to a limitation contained in any FY 2005 appropriation Act for the account. Excludes any account: (1) included in a Department of Defense Appropriations Act, Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, or Military Construction Appropriations Act; or (2) for Department of Energy defense activities included in an Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act.

Resolution· HRESH.Res. 564 (108th)referred

Relating to the liberation of the Iraqi people and the valiant service of the United States Armed Forces and Coalition forces.

United States · United States Congress · 17 March 2004

States that the House of Representatives: (1) acknowledges the belief that the United States and the world have been made safer with the removal of Saddam Hussein and his regime from power in Iraq, and the belief that a final judgment on the value of activities in Iraq cannot be made until Iraq is stable and secure; (2) commends the Iraqi people for their courage in the face of unspeakable oppression and brutality inflicted on them by Saddam Hussein's regime; (3) commends the Iraqi people on the adoption of Iraq's interim constitution; (4) commends the members of the U.S. Armed Forces and Coalition forces for liberating Iraq and expresses its gratitude for their valiant service; (5) expresses deep sorrow and regret for the deaths of more than 550 and the wounding of more than 3,500 U.S. armed forces members in Iraq and extends support to their families; and (6) expresses sorrow and regret for the deaths in Iraq of U.S. civilians, U.N. personnel, unknown numbers of Iraqi civilians, and other noncombatants. States that the House of Representatives urges the President to: (1) take all steps necessary to ensure that U.S. armed forces members in Iraq receive the best force protection equipment available, including protective body armor and extra-armored wheeled vehicle; (2) ensure that U.S. armed forces members who suffer wounds or other injuries, or who incur illness while serving in Iraq receive high-quality health care to treat the short-term and long-term consequences of such wounds, injuries, and illnesses; (3) recognize the key contributions made by members of the reserve components of the armed forces, and their families, in Operation Iraqi Freedom, and, in consultation with Congress, to address the civilian-military pay disparity that exists for many Reserve and Guard personnel when ordered to active duty; (4) acknowledge that there were serious deficiencies in U.S. pre-war intelligence on Iraq, particularly in light of the failure to find any evidence of significant weapons of mass destruction stockpiles, and to take steps to improve intelligence so that United States troops are better protected and future United States national security strategies are better informed; (5) request sufficient funding to fully support U.S. military operations in Iraq and the surrounding region in order to ensure the safety and well-being of U.S. troops deployed to Iraq and the surrounding region; (6) obtain international participation in the securing, reconstruction, and political development of Iraq, including the protection of women's and children's rights; and (7) take steps to correct the failure of the United States Government to plan adequately for the post-war occupation of Iraq, including the failure to integrate internal United States Government studies and outside expert opinions that predicted the onset of guerrilla activity and described how to promote effective reconstruction, democratization, and civil society development activities, and the failure to apply those studies and opinions today in order to improve current U.S. reconstruction efforts in Iraq.

Resolution· HCONRESH.Con.Res. 386 (108th)referred

Congratulating the United States Air Force Academy on its 50th Anniversary and recognizing its contributions to the Nation.

United States · United States Congress · 16 March 2004

Congratulates the United States Air Force Academy on its 50th Anniversary. Acknowledges the continued excellence of the Academy and its critical role in the defense of the United States. Recognizes the outstanding service to the Nation that graduates from the Academy have provided.

Resolution· HCONRESH.Con.Res. 385 (108th)referred

Calling on the President to negotiate a bilateral security agreement with the Iraqi Governing Council before June 30, 2004.

United States · United States Congress · 16 March 2004

Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) the President should use all means at his disposal to negotiate a bilateral security agreement with the Iraqi Governing Council before June 30, 2004; and (2) any such agreement should maintain maximum freedom of action for United States commanders to defeat insurgent elements in Iraq and to restore security throughout Iraq, and provide protections against local prosecution of United States Armed Forces personnel, consistent with other bilateral status-of-forces agreements.

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 321 (108th)passed

A resolution recognizing the loyal service and outstanding contributions of J. Robert Oppenheimer to the United States and calling on the Secretary of Energy to observe the 100th anniversary of Dr. Oppenheimer's birth with appropriate programs at the Department of Energy and the Los Alamos National Laboratory.

United States · United States Congress · 12 March 2004

Recognizes J. Robert Oppenheimer's service to the United States and his outstanding contributions to theoretical physics, the Los Alamos National Laboratory, the development of nuclear energy, and the defense and security of the United States. Calls on the Secretary of Energy to observe the 100th anniversary of the birth of J. Robert Oppenheimer with appropriate ceremonies, activities, or programs at the Department of Energy and the Los Alamos National Laboratory.

Bill· HRH.R. 3966 (108th)referred

ROTC and Military Recruiter Equal Access to Campus Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 12 March 2004

ROTC and Military Recruiter Equal Access to Campus Act of 2004 - Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to prohibit funds made available for the Department of Homeland Security from being provided by contract or grant to an institution of higher education determined by the Secretary of Defense to be ineligible due to a policy or practice of prohibiting or limiting its access to students for purposes of recruitment for the Senior Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) program. Amends Federal armed forces provisions to direct the Secretary to annually request, from each institution of higher education that has students participating at that institution in a Senior ROTC program during that academic year, a certification that the institution will, during the next academic year: (1) permit the Secretary of each military department to maintain a unit of the Senior ROTC at that institution, should the department Secretary elect to maintain such a unit; and (2) if the department Secretary elects not to maintain such a unit, permit a student of that institution to enroll in a Senior ROTC unit at another institution. Denies the provision of funds made available for certain Federal departments and agencies to institutions of higher education unless military recruiters are provided access to campuses at such institutions that is at least equal in quality and scope to the access to campuses and students that is provided to any other employer. Adds the Department of Homeland Security, the National Nuclear Security Administration, and the Central Intelligence Agency to the list of Federal departments and agencies whose funds will be denied to post-secondary schools that prevent ROTC access or military recruiting. Codifies under Federal armed forces law a provision of the Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2000 which excludes from such funding prohibition any amounts provided solely for student financial assistance, related administrative costs, or costs associated with attendance.

Bill· SS. 2204 (108th)referred

Stop Terrorist and Military Hoaxes Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 11 March 2004

Stop Terrorist and Military Hoaxes Act of 2004 - Amends the Federal criminal code to establish criminal penalties for knowingly engaging in conduct with intent to convey false or misleading information about an activity that would constitute a violation of various prohibitions under the Federal criminal code, the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, or other specified law relating to terrorism, including prohibitions regarding biological, chemical, or nuclear weapons, destruction of gas pipeline facilities, aircraft, or vessels, and aircraft piracy. Makes individuals engaging in such conduct liable in a civil action to any party incurring expenses incident to any emergency or investigative response. Establishes criminal penalties for making a false statement, without lawful authority, with intent to convey false or misleading information about the death, injury, capture, or disappearance of a member of the U.S. armed forces during a war or armed conflict in which the United States is engaged. Provides for enhanced penalties for obstruction of justice and false statements offenses that relate to international or domestic terrorism. Directs the U.S. Sentencing Commission to amend the sentencing guidelines to provide for an increased offense level for any such offenses that involve a matter relating to international or domestic terrorism.

Bill· SS. 2196 (108th)referred

A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to clarify that per diem payments by the Department of Veterans Affairs for the care of veterans in State homes shall not be used to offset payments that are made under the medicaid program for the purpose of assisting veterans.

United States · United States Congress · 11 March 2004

Amends Federal veterans' benefits provisions to state that per diem payments by the Department of Veterans Affairs for the care of veterans in State homes shall not be considered a liability of a third party for any purpose under Medicaid (title XIX of the Social Security Act). (Such payments, if considered a liability, would be required to be offset from the amount of authorized Medicaid assistance.)

Bill· HRH.R. 3962 (108th)referred

Support for Military Reserve Families Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 11 March 2004

Support for Military Reserve Families Act of 2004 - Directs the Secretary of Defense to establish, for members of the Ready Reserve (including the Coast Guard Reserve), a loan program to be known as the Ready Reserve Mobilization Loan Program. Directs the Secretary, upon application, to make a Program loan to a Ready Reserve member who has one or more dependents enrolled in the Department of Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System for any period during which the member performs active duty under an involuntary call or order to active duty in support of a contingency operation if: (1) the income of the member during such service is less than the member's income before being called or ordered to such service; and (2) the member incurs a financial hardship by reason of such service. Prohibits such loans from being used for investment purposes. Allows loan amounts of up to $500 for each full month of covered service. Makes such loans interest-free for: (1) five years after the end of such service, if the service is for less than 12 consecutive months; or (2) ten years after the end of such service, if the service is for 12 consecutive months or more. Mandates a five percent interest rate thereafter. Requires such loans to be repaid within the same period as the interest-free period, above.

Law· HRH.R. 3936 (108th)enacted

Veterans Health Programs Improvement Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 11 March 2004

Amends Federal veterans' administrative provisions to require the principal office of the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims (Court) to be in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area. (Currently, such office must be in the District of Columbia.) Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) a dedicated Veterans Courthouse and Justice Center (Center) should be provided for such Court; and (2) the Secretary of Defense should determine the feasibility of locating the Center at an appropriate site owned by the United States that is part of or proximate to the Pentagon Reservation in Arlington, Virginia.

Bill· HRH.R. 3947 (108th)referred

Veterans Pensions Protection Act

United States · United States Congress · 11 March 2004

Veterans Pensions Protection Act - Excludes monetary veterans' benefits paid to a veteran from a State or municipality from consideration as income for purposes of pension benefits paid by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

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