Defence

Limiting the issuance of a letter of offer with respect to a certain proposed sale of defense articles and defense services to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

United States · United States Congress · 21 May 2008

Prohibits issuance of a letter of offer respecting specified proposed sales of defense articles and services to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia unless such country: (1) increases its oil production, within 30 days of the enactment of this joint resolution, by one million barrels of oil per day in excess of its oil production as of January 1, 2008; and (2) maintains such increased oil production for at least 90 days after such increased oil production is reached.

Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 5658) to authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2009 for military activities of the Department of Defense, to prescribe military personnel strengths for fiscal year 2009, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 21 May 2008

Sets forth the rule for consideration of the bill (H.R. 5658) to authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2009 for military activities of the Department of Defense, to prescribe military personnel strengths for fiscal year 2009.

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2009

United States · United States Senate · 20 May 2008

Foreign Intelligence and Information Commission Act

United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2008

Foreign Intelligence and Information Commission Act - Establishes in the legislative branch a Foreign Intelligence and Information Commission to undertake certain evaluations, and provide recommendations, relating to the collection, coordination, and reporting of foreign intelligence and information.

Federal Land Avalanche Protection Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2008

Federal Land Avalanche Protection Act of 2008 - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture, acting through the Chief of the Forest Service, to establish an avalanche protection program to: (1) identify the potential for avalanches on federal land and inform the public about the probability of avalanches and the potential adverse effects; (2) carry out ongoing research to improve avalanche forecasting; and (3) reduce the risks and mitigate the effects of avalanches. Requires the Secretary: (1) to coordinate the program to ensure protection for recreational users of public land under the Secretary's and Secretary of the Interior's jurisdiction, using resources of the Forest Service's National Avalanche Center; (2) to establish an advisory committee to assist in program development and implementation; and (3) with the Secretary of Transportation and the Secretary of the Army, to establish a central depository for weapons, ammunition, and parts for avalanche control purposes. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to carry out projects and activities to: (1) assist in the prevention, forecasting, detection, and mitigation of avalanches; (2) maintain essential transportation, utilities, and communications; (3) assist avalanche artillery users to ensure the availability of adequate supplies of artillery and explosives required for avalanche control in specified areas; and (4) assist persons in providing public education about avalanches and in conducting research and development activities for alternatives to minimize reliance on military weapons for avalanche control. Directs the Secretary to give priority to projects carried out in avalanche zones with a high frequency or severity of avalanches or in which deaths, injuries, or damage to public facilities and communities have occurred. Requires the Administrator of General Services to transfer specified property suitable for avalanche control purposes to a user of surplus ordnance.

To make emergency supplemental appropriations for Katrina recovery for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2007, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2008

Makes emergency supplemental FY2008 appropriations for disaster relief and recovery related to Hurricanes Katrina, Wilma, Dennis, and Rita to the Department of Defense (Civil) for construction, flood control, and coastal emergencies.

Carmelo Rodriguez Military Medical Accountability Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2008

Carmelo Rodriguez Military Medical Accountability Act of 2008 - Amends the Federal Tort Claims Act to allow claims for damages to be brought against the United States for personal injury or death of a member of the Armed Forces arising out of a negligent or wrongful act or omission in the performance of medical, dental, or related health care functions that: (1) takes place other than in the context of combat; and (2) is provided by persons acting within the scope of their office or employment by or at the direction of the Armed Forces, whether inside or outside the United States. Provides for a reduction of claims under this Act by the present value of other benefits attributable to such death or injury received by the member and by that member's estate, survivors, and beneficiaries pursuant to other federal law.

Honoring the Armed Forces from the Inland Empire in California and their families for their extraordinary sacrifices serving the United States in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom.

United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2008

Recognizes that Armed Forces members from the Inland Empire region of southern California, including San Bernardino and Riverside Counties, gave, and continue to give, to our nation. Commits to providing wounded warriors with the highest quality of medical care available, including for their families. Commends Inland Empire citizens and organizations who volunteer to support America's wounded warriors. Encourages Members and citizens to show support and appreciation for returning troops. Honors the sacrifices made by Armed Forces members from the Inland Empire and their families. Understands that the American people are forever grateful to Armed Forces members from the Inland Empire for their service to the United States.

Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 5658) to authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2009 for military activities of the Department of Defense, to prescribe military personnel strengths for fiscal year 2009, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2008

Sets forth the rule for consideration of the bill (H.R. 5658) to authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2009 for military activities of the Department of Defense, to prescribe military personnel strengths for fiscal year 2009.

Concurrent resolution commending the members of the Nevada Army and Air National Guard and the Nevada Reserve members of the Armed Forces for their dedicated, unselfish, and professional service, commitment, and sacrifices to the State of Nevada and the United States during more than five years of deployments to and in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.

United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2008

Commends the members of the Nevada Army National Guard and Air National Guard for their brave service to Nevada and the United States.

A bill to amend the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2008 to provide for the conveyance to the United States of certain non-Federal land to be used by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs for the construction of a veterans medical facility.

United States · United States Congress · 19 May 2008

Authorizes the city of Aurora, Colorado, to convey by donation to the United States nonfederal lands consisting of parcel I of the former United States Army Garrison Fitzsimons, Colorado, as more specifically described in the deed, and the parcel of land described in the deed, for construction of a veterans' medical facility.

Heroes Earnings Assistance and Relief Tax Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 16 May 2008

Heroes Earnings Assistance and Relief Tax Act of 2008 - Amends Internal Revenue Code provisions relating to military personnel to: (1) deem spouses of members of the Armed Forces with valid identification numbers to have a valid identification number for purposes of claiming a 2008 recovery rebate; (2) require tax-qualified pension plans to entitle survivors of plan participants who die while on active military duty to certain additional benefits and benefit accruals; (3) treat differential wage payments to employees who serve on military active duty as wages for withholding and retirement plan purposes; (4) extend the limitation period for filing refund claims arising from Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) disability determinations; (5) allow tax-free rollovers of military death gratuities and life insurance benefits into survivor Roth individual retirement accounts (Roth IRAs) and education savings plans; (6) allow Peace Corps volunteers a five-year suspension of the use and ownership requirements applicable to the tax exclusion of gain from the sale of a personnel residence; (7) allow employers a tax credit for differential wage payments made to their employees who are active duty members of the uniformed services; (8) treat state payments to members of the uniformed services as qualified military benefits for purposes of the tax exclusion of such benefits; (9) permit members of the military reserve called to active duty to withdraw amounts held in a flexible spending account without penalty; and (10) affirm that excludable tax rebates and other benefits paid to volunteer firefighters are not subject to employment or unemployment taxes. Makes permanent: (1) the election to include combat pay as earned income for purposes of the earned income tax credit; (2) the authority to use qualified mortgage bonds to finance residences for veterans; (3) penalty-free retirement account withdrawals for individuals called or ordered to active military duty; (4) the authority of the Social Security Administration (SSA) to disclose tax return information to the VA for benefit determinations; and (5) exclusion of gain provisions relating to the sale of a principal residence by certain employees of the intelligence community. Amends title XVI (Supplemental Security Income for the Aged, Blind, and Disabled) of the Social Security Act to treat cash remuneration paid to members of the uniformed services as earned income. Excludes certain state annuity payments to blind, disabled, or aged veterans and cash or in-kind benefits paid to AmeriCorps volunteers from supplemental security income determinations. Revises tax rules relating to U.S. citizens and permanent residents (expatriates) who relinquish citizenship or residency to avoid U.S. taxation. Treats certain foreign subsidiaries of U.S. companies performing services under a contract with the U.S. government as U.S. employers for purposes of Social Security and Medicare employment taxes. Increases the minimum penalty for failure to file an individual income tax return. Extends through 2008 mental health parity requirements for group health plans.

DEFENSE BASE ACT INSURANCE: ARE TAXPAYERS PAYING TOO MUCH?

United States · United States House of Representatives · 15 May 2008

Veterans' Benefits Improvement Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 15 May 2008

Veterans' Notice Clarification Act of 2008 - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to prescribe regulations specifying the contents of a currently-required notice to claimants of a complete or substantially complete application, including regarding: (1) different contents for notice depending on whether the claim is an original claim, a claim for reopening a prior decision on a claim, or a claim for increased benefits; (2) additional or alternative contents depending on the benefit or services sought; (3) for each type of claim for benefits, the general information and evidence required; and (4) the timing of the notice issuance.

National Guard and Reserve Mental Health Access Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 15 May 2008

National Guard and Reserve Mental Health Access Act of 2008 - Requires the Secretary of Defense to: (1) provide for the implementation of the Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program for members of the National Guard and reserves and their families required by section 582 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008 by not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act; and (2) report to the congressional defense committees on that Program's implementation. Directs the Secretary to carry out a joint psychological health program to: (1) increase access to and the provision of psychological health care and related services for members of the National Guard following their deployment, and their families; (2) improve coordination among DOD components in the provision of such care during members' transition from active duty to civilian life; and (3) coordinate and oversee DOD efforts to assist members of the National Guard with mental illness and members with traumatic brain injury post-deployment. Requires the Chief of the National Guard Bureau to establish the National Guard Psychological Health Council. Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to jointly carry out: (1) one or more pilot programs on the provision of mental health services to members of the National Guard and reserves, both before and after deployment, through telemental health technologies; and (2) an outreach program intended to reduce the stigma, among members of the National Guard and reserves returning from deployment, and their families, associated with seeking and obtaining mental health services. Requires the Secretary, as part of the Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program, to assign community outreach coordinators to assist members of the National Guard and reserves returning from deployment.

Interagency Cooperation Commission Act

United States · United States Congress · 15 May 2008

Interagency Cooperation Commission Act - Establishes the Interagency Cooperation Commission to examine the long-term global challenges facing the United States and develop legislative and administrative proposals to improve interagency cooperation. Requires the Commission to: (1) address the role and impact in facilitating or impeding interagency cooperation of a variety of budgetary, planning, and operational factors; and (2) examine interdepartmental cooperation within the Department of Defense (DOD), including the common organizational structures, reference materials, and budget processes, and examine the value of such structures as models for broader government commonality. Lists as the subjects of required assessments: (1) past examples of successful and unsuccessful interagency cooperation; (2) the impact of the Goldwater-Nichols Act within DOD; (3) the effectiveness of current interagency structures and processes to engage in strategic planning and oversee and implement long-term United States policy in global affairs; (4) simulation-based assessments of global scenarios the United States may face in the long-term; and (5) the legal decision-making authority and resources needed in each department and at the highest levels of government to execute reforms proposed by the Commission.

Military Spouses Residency Relief Act

United States · United States Congress · 15 May 2008

Military Spouses Residency Relief Act - Amends the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to prohibit, for purposes of voting for a federal, state, or local office, deeming a person to have lost a residence or domicile in a state, acquired a residence or domicile in any other state, or become a resident in or of any other state solely because the person is absent from a state because the person is accompanying the person's spouse who is absent from the state in compliance with military or naval orders. Prohibits a servicemember's spouse from either losing or acquiring a residence or domicile for purposes of taxation because of being absent or present in any U.S. tax jurisdiction solely to be with the servicemember in compliance with the servicemember's military orders if the residence or domicile is the same for the servicemember and the spouse.

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2009

United States · United States Senate · 14 May 2008

A resolution designating May 15, 2008 as Military Kids Day.

United States · United States Congress · 14 May 2008

Recognizes the daily sacrifices made by, and expresses gratitude toward, families across the country and the world in support of members of the U.S. Armed Forces. Supports efforts of the Armed Forces YMCA and the many other organizations that work to assist U.S. military families. Designates May 15, 2008, as Military Kids Day in the United States and at U.S. military installations throughout the world.

To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to provide for the protection of child custody arrangements for parents who are members of the Armed Forces deployed in support of a contingency operation.

United States · United States Congress · 14 May 2008

Amends the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to provide for the protection of child custody arrangements for parents who are members deployed in support of a contingency operation. States that if a motion for change of custody of a child of such a member is filed while the member is so deployed, no court may enter an order modifying or amending a previous child custody judgment, except if there is clear and convincing evidence that it is in the best interest of the child. Prohibits any court from considering a member's absence due to deployment, or possible deployment, in support of a contingency operation in determining the best interest of the child.

Energy Improvement and Extension Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 14 May 2008

Energy and Tax Extenders Act of 2008 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend various provisions relating to energy production and conservation and to individual and business-related activities. Extends through 2009 the tax credit for producing electricity from wind facilities and through 2011 for closed and open-loop biomass, geothermal, small irrigation, hydropower, landfill gas, and trash combustion facilities. Includes marine and hydrokinetic renewable energy as a renewable resource for purposes of such tax credit. Extends through 2014: (1) the energy tax credits for solar energy, fuel cell, and microturbine property; and (2) the residential energy efficient property tax credit. Increases the authorization levels for new clean renewable energy bonds. Allows tax credits for investment in advanced coal electricity and coal gasification projects. Extends through 2018 the temporary increase in coal excise taxes. Sets forth special rules for refunds of coal excise taxes to certain producers or exporters. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to study and report to Congress on: (1) Internal Revenue Code provisions that have the largest effects on carbon and other greenhouse gas emissions; and (2) current biofuel production. Allows a new tax credit for the production of cellulosic biofuels. Extends through 2009 income and excise tax credits for biodiesel and renewable diesel. Allows a tax credit for new qualified plug-in electric drive motor vehicles. Allows a tax credit against payroll liabilities of New York Liberty Zone governmental units (i.e., New York State, the City of New York, or any agencies or instrumentalities thereof) for expenditures involving transportation infrastructure projects in or connecting with the New York Liberty Zone. Increases and extends through 2010 the tax credit for alternative fuel vehicle refueling property expenditures. Extends through 2013 the tax deduction for energy efficient commercial building expenditures. Extends through 2009 the tax credit for energy efficient appliances. Extends through FY2012 tax-exempt bond financing for qualified green building and sustainable design projects. Extends through 2008: (1) the election to deduct state and local sales taxes in lieu of state and local income taxes; (2) the tax deductions for qualified tuition and related expenses and for certain expenses of elementary and secondary school teachers; (3) the special rules relating to regulated investment companies and for charitable contributions of capital gain real property for conservation purposes; (4) tax-free distributions from individual retirement plans (IRAs) for individuals called or ordered to active military duty and for charitable purposes; (5) the election to include combat pay as earned income for purposes of the earned income tax credit; (6) authority for use of qualified mortgage bonds to finance residences for veterans; (7) the tax exclusion for amounts received under qualified group legal services plans; and (8) the tax credit for nonbusiness energy property. Extends through 2008 various business-related tax provisions, including: (1) the tax credit for increasing research activities; (2) the tax credits for Indian employment and railroad track maintenance; (3) accelerated depreciation for qualified leasehold and restaurant improvements, for motorsports racing track facilities, and for business property on Indian reservations; (4) the expensing allowance for environmental remediation costs; (5) the tax deduction for income attributable to domestic production activities in Puerto Rico; (6) the special rule for the tax treatment of certain payments to tax-exempt organizations by a controlled subsidiary; (7) issuance authority for qualified zone academy bonds; (8) tax incentives for investment in the District of Columbia; (9) the economic development credit for American Samoa; (10) the special rule for charitable contributions of food and book inventories; (11) the increased tax deduction for corporate contributions of computer equipment and technology for educational purposes; (12) the special rule for reductions in the basis of S corporation stock for charitable contributions of property; (13) work opportunity tax credit eligibility for Hurricane Katrina employees; and (14) increases in alcohol excise taxes payable to Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. Extends through 2009: (1) the new markets tax credit; (2) the subpart F exemption for active financing income earned on business operations overseas; (3) special rules for the tax treatment of payments between related controlled foreign corporations; and (4) expensing of costs of certain film and television productions. Makes permanent authorities for: (1) Internal Revenue Service (IRS) disclosure of tax information relating to terrorist activities; (2) IRS undercover operations; and (3) Social Security Administration (SSA) disclosure of tax information for veterans' benefit determinations. Allows individual taxpayers an additional standard tax deduction in 2008 for state and local real property taxes. Lowers in 2008 (from $10,000 to $8,500) the earned income threshold amount for determining the refundable portion of the child tax credit. Increases the AMT refundable credit amount for individual taxpayers with long-term unused tax credits in prior taxable years. Abates any underpayment of tax and related interest and penalties attributable to the application of special AMT rules for the treatment of incentive stock options. Allow attorneys a tax deduction in the current taxable year for reimbursable expenses and court costs which they pay or incur in connection with contingency fee cases. Modifies criteria for penalties on tax return preparers who understate tax liabilities. Allows taxpayers who claimed a casualty loss deduction for damage to a personal residence caused by Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, or Wilma and who subsequently received a grant as compensation for such damage to file an amended tax return to disallow the casualty loss deduction without payment of any tax penalty. Waives deadlines for starting construction for property in the Gulf Opportunity (GO) Zone eligible for bonus depreciation. Includes Colbert and Dallas Counties in Alabama within the GO Zone for purposes of tax-exempt bond financing. Sets forth revenue provisions relating to: (1) the inclusion in gross income of deferred compensation paid by certain foreign entities; and (2) increases in estimated tax payments of certain large corporations. Delays until 2019 the application of special rules for the worldwide allocation of interest for purposes of computing the limitation on the foreign tax credit.

Reaffirming the support of the House of Representatives for the legitimate, democratically-elected Government of Lebanon under Prime Minister Fouad Siniora.

United States · United States Congress · 14 May 2008

Reaffirms support for the legitimate, democratically-elected government of Lebanon under Prime Minister Fouad Siniora. Expresses sympathy to the people of Lebanon who have again been thrust against their will into a Hizballah-initiated conflict. Condemns: (1) Hizballah's illegitimate assault on Lebanon's sovereign government; and (2) Syria and Iran for providing military support to Hizballah in violation of U.N. Security Council Resolutions. Urges: (1) the U.S. government and the international community to support Lebanon's government; (2) the Security Council to condemn Syria and Iran; and (3) the European Union (EU) to designate Hizballah as a terrorist group.

Providing for consideration of the Senate amendment to the bill (H.R. 2642) making appropriations for military construction, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2008, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 14 May 2008

Sets forth the rule for consideration of the Senate amendment to the bill (H.R. 2642) making appropriations for military construction, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2008.

Honoring the dedication and outstanding work of military support groups across the country for their steadfast support of the members of our Armed Forces and their families.

United States · United States Congress · 14 May 2008

Honors military support groups for their support of members of the Armed Forces and their families.

Honoring past and current members of the Armed Forces of the United States and their families by encouraging every American to wear a red poppy on Memorial Day as a sign of admiration and thanks to those individuals who died to preserve freedom and democracy in the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 14 May 2008

Declares that Congress honors past and current members of the Armed Forces of the United States and their families by encouraging every American to wear a red poppy on Memorial Day as a sign of admiration and thanks to those individuals who died to preserve freedom and democracy in the United States. Declares that the authority on which this resolution rests is the constitutional authority of Congress to make all laws which shall be necessary and proper.

A joint resolution limiting the issuance of a letter of offer with respect to a certain proposed sale of defense articles and defense services to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

United States · United States Congress · 13 May 2008

Prohibits issuance of a letter of offer respecting specified proposed sales of defense articles and services to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia unless such country: (1) increases its oil production, within 30 days of the enactment of this joint resolution, by one million barrels of oil per day in excess of its oil production as of January 1, 2008; and (2) maintains such increased oil production for at least 90 days after such increased oil production is reached.

A resolution commemorating the 50th anniversary of the North American Aerospace Defense Command.

United States · United States Congress · 13 May 2008

Recognizes the contributions made by the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) to the security of North America and commemorates 50 years of excellence and distinctive service to the United States and Canada.

Clean Global War on Terror Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2008

United States · United States Congress · 13 May 2008

Clean Global War on Terror Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2008 - Makes emergency supplemental FY2008 appropriations for specified activities related to the war on terror, international affairs, and national defense matters to the Departments of Agriculture (including food relief to certain foreign countries), of Justice, of Defense (military, including funds for Afghan and Iraqi security forces), of Defense (military construction), and of State (including international peacekeeping activities). Rescinds certain funds made available in: (1) the U.S. Troop Readiness, Veterans' Care, Katrina Recovery, and Iraq Accountability Appropriations Act, 2007 for the Defense Health Program; and (2) the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2008 for the Joint Improvised Explosive Device Defeat Fund. Makes additional supplemental appropriations for the war on terror, international affairs, and national defense matters to the Departments of Agriculture (including food relief to certain foreign countries), of Justice, of Defense (military, including funds for Afghan and Iraqi security forces), and of State and related agencies. Designates each amount in this Act as an emergency requirement.

To provide for an evaluation factor for defense contractors employing or subcontracting with recipients of certain special immigrant visas.

United States · United States Congress · 13 May 2008

Defines, for this Act: (1) "covered contract" as a Department of Defense (DOD) procurement contract in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom regarding which proficiency in Arabic or knowledge of Iraq is useful; and (2) "covered special immigrant visa" as a visa issued under specified provisions of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008 (relating to special immigrant status for certain Iraqis) or the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2006 (relating to special immigrant status for persons serving as translators with the U.S. Armed Forces). Authorizes the Secretary of Defense, in evaluating any bid or proposal for a covered contract, to use as an evaluation factor whether an entity intends to carry out the contract using an employee or individual subcontractor who is a recipient of a covered special immigration visa, in which case the name of each individual must be submitted to the DOD. Prohibits construing this Act as requiring the granting of security clearances in violation of a law or regulation or superseding any regulation or law intended to protect classified information or national security. Directs the Secretary: (1) on request from a contractor, to post information on a public website to enable recipients of covered special immigration visas to apply for employment with the contractor; and (2) to establish a system for notifying recipients of covered special immigration visas about the information posted on the website.

National Security Culture and Language Training Act

United States · United States Congress · 13 May 2008

National Security Culture and Language Training Act - Establishes an: (1) Assistant Secretary of Defense for Irregular Warfare, Cultural Training, and Social Sciences Initiatives; and (2) Office of Irregular Warfare, Cultural Training, and Social Sciences Initiatives. Requires the Office to, among other things: (1) devise and implement a training doctrine that includes the development of cultural, sociological, and psychological knowledge and skills for members of the Armed Forces; and (2) use existing military cultural training programs to expand training efforts for all military personnel. Authorizes the Secretary of the military department concerned (Secretary concerned) to pay: (1) a skill proficiency bonus to a regular or reserve member in training to acquire proficiency in a foreign language or expertise in foreign cultural studies or a related skill designated as critical by the Secretary concerned; and (2) incentive pay to a person enrolled in an officer training program to also participate in an education or training program to acquire such proficiency. Directs the Secretary of Defense to conduct a pilot program to provide a skill proficiency bonus to a member of the reserves receiving compensation for inactive-duty training while participating in an education or training program to acquire such proficiency.

To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide wartime disability compensation for certain veterans with Parkinson's Disease.

United States · United States Congress · 13 May 2008

Adds Parkinson's disease (manifested to a degree of disability of 10% or more) to the list of diseases considered to have been incurred in or aggravated by military service in Vietnam, notwithstanding that there is no evidence of the disease during the period of service, provided a veteran served between specified dates and was exposed to an herbicide used in military operations during that period.

Urging the President to designate a National Airborne Day in recognition of persons who are serving or have served in the airborne forces of the Armed Services.

United States · United States Congress · 13 May 2008

Urges the President to designate a National Airborne Day (honoring the airborne forces of the Armed Forces).

HONOR Warriors Act

United States · United States Congress · 12 May 2008

Honoring Our Nation's Obligation to Returning Warriors Act or HONOR Warriors Act - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide scholarships to individuals pursuing education or training in behavioral health care specialties that are critical to the operations of Vet Centers (centers for readjustment counseling and related mental health services for veterans) in order to recruit and retain individuals with such specialties for service in Vet Centers. Conditions the scholarship agreeing to serve in such a capacity for whatever period the Secretary specifies in the agreement. Makes any Armed Forces member who serves in Operation Iraqi Freedom or Operation Enduring Freedom eligible for readjustment counseling and related mental health services through Vet Centers regardless of whether the member is on active duty at the time of receipt of counseling and services. Directs the Secretary, on receipt of a request for counseling from an individual who has been discharged or released from active service, to: (1) provide referrals to assist the individual in obtaining mental health care and services outside the Department of Veterans Affairs; and (2) if pertinent, advise such individual of the individual's rights to apply for review of the discharge or release. Treats the suicide of a former member that occurs within two years after separation or retirement, if the member had a medical history of a combat-related mental health condition, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), or Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), as a death in line of duty for purposes of the survivors' eligibility to burial benefits and benefits under the Survivor Benefit Plan, laws administered by the Secretary, and the Social Security Act. Directs the Secretary of Defense to award grants to nonprofit organizations that provide emotional support services for survivors of deceased members of the Armed Forces and deceased veterans through the survivors' peers. Directs the Secretary of the Army to carry out at Fort Carson, Colorado, and Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, a pilot program to assess the feasibility and advisability of various means of enhancing awareness among members of the Army of PTSD.

Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009

United States · United States Congress · 12 May 2008

Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009 - Terminates all authorizations contained in this Act on October 1, 2011, or the date of enactment of an Act authorizing funds for military construction for FY2012, whichever is later, with exceptions. Authorizes the Secretary of Defense (Secretary) and the Secretaries of each military department to acquire real property and carry out military construction projects in specified amounts at specified installations and locations. Authorizes each department Secretary to construct or acquire family housing units and to improve existing military family housing in specified amounts. Authorizes appropriations to the Department of Defense (DOD) and each military department for fiscal years after 2008 for military construction, land acquisition, and military family housing functions. Limits the total cost of authorized construction projects. Modifies or extends certain prior-year construction projects. Authorizes the Secretary to carry out a chemical demilitarization at the Blue Grass Army Depot, Kentucky. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years after 2008 for military construction and land acquisition for chemical demilitarization. Authorizes the Secretary to make contributions for the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Security Investment Program and authorizes appropriations for fiscal years after 2008 for such Program. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years after 2008 for: (1) National Guard and reserve forces for acquisition, architectural and engineering services, and construction of facilities; (2) base closure and realignment activities funded through the Department of Defense Base Closure Accounts of 1990 and 2005; and (3) war-related military construction.

Department of Energy National Security Act for Fiscal Year 2009

United States · United States Congress · 12 May 2008

Department of Energy National Security Act for Fiscal Year 2009 - Authorizes appropriations to the Department of Energy (DOE) for FY2009 for: (1) activities of the National Nuclear Security Administration in carrying out programs necessary for national security, with specified allocations for weapons activities, defense nuclear nonproliferation, naval reactors, and the Office of the Administrator for Nuclear Security; and (2) new plant projects and environmental restoration and waste management management activities in carrying out national security programs, with specified allocations for defense environmental cleanup, other defense activities, and defense nuclear waste disposal. Authorizes appropriations for FY2009 for the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board.

Duncan Hunter National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009

United States · United States Congress · 12 May 2008

National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009 - Authorizes appropriations for the Department of Defense (DOD), military construction, and national security programs of the Department of Energy (DOE) for FY2009. Authorizes appropriations to DOD for: (1) procurement, including aircraft, missiles, weapons and tracked combat vehicles, ammunition, shipbuilding and conversion, and other procurement; (2) research, development, test, and evaluation, including missile defense programs; (3) operation and maintenance, including environmental restoration; (4) active and reserve military personnel, including end strengths; (5) working capital funds; (6) the National Defense Sealift Fund; (7) the Defense Health Program; (8) chemical agents and munitions destruction; (9) drug interdiction and counter-drug activities; (10) the Defense Inspector General; (11) the Armed Forces Retirement Home; (12) additional costs due to operations in Iraq and Afghanistan; (13) chemical demilitarization programs; (14) the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Security Investment Program; (15) Guard and reserve forces facilities; (16) base closure and realignment activities; (17) war-related military construction; and (18) the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board. Sets forth provisions or requirements concerning: (1) active and reserve military personnel, including officer and enlisted personnel policy; (2) military education and training, including defense dependents' education matters; (3) military pay and allowances; (4) retired pay and survivor benefits; (5) military health care; (6) acquisition policy and management, including major defense acquisition programs; (7) DOD contractor matters; (8) matters relating to Iraq and Afghanistan; (9) DOD organization and management, including space matters and defense intelligence matters; (10) DOD financial, counter-drug, and wounded warrior matters; (11) civilian personnel matters; (12) matters relating to foreign nations, including DOD participation in bilateral, multilateral, and regional cooperation programs; and (13) cooperative threat reduction with states of the former Soviet Union. Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009 - Authorizes appropriations for FY2009 for military construction for the Armed Forces and defense agencies.

Department of Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009

United States · United States Congress · 12 May 2008

Department of Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009 - Authorizes appropriations to the Department of Defense (DOD) for FY2009. Authorizes appropriations to DOD for: (1) procurement, including aircraft, missiles, weapons and tracked combat vehicles, ammunition, shipbuilding and conversion, and other procurement; (2) research, development, test, and evaluation, including missile defense programs; (3) operation and maintenance, including environmental restoration; (4) active and reserve military personnel, including end strengths; (5) working capital funds; (6) the National Defense Sealift Fund; (7) the Defense Health Program; (8) chemical agents and munitions destruction; (9) drug interdiction and counter-drug activities; (10) the Defense Inspector General; (11) the Armed Forces Retirement Home; and (12) additional costs due to operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Sets forth provisions or requirements concerning: (1) active and reserve military personnel, including officer and enlisted personnel policy; (2) military education and training, including defense dependents' education matters; (3) military pay and allowances; (4) retired pay and survivor benefits; (5) military health care; (6) acquisition policy and management, including major defense acquisition programs; (7) DOD contractor matters; (8) matters relating to Iraq and Afghanistan; (9) DOD organization and management, including space matters and defense intelligence matters; (10) DOD financial, counter-drug, and wounded warrior matters; (11) civilian personnel matters; (12) matters relating to foreign nations, including DOD participation in bilateral, multilateral, and regional cooperation programs; and (13) cooperative threat reduction with states of the former Soviet Union.

Freedom to Serve Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 12 May 2008

Freedom to Serve Act of 2008 - Amends the federal criminal code to impose criminal penalties for: (1) using force or the threat of force or physical obstruction to injure, intimidate or interfere with anyone providing federal or state military recruiting services or anyone seeking to inquire about or volunteer for military service in the active or reserve Armed Forces or the National Guard of any state; or (2) intentionally damaging or destroying facilities that house or host military recruiting services.

Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009

United States · United States Congress · 8 May 2008

Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009 - Authorizes appropriations for FY2009 for the conduct of intelligence and intelligence-related activities of the: (1) Office of the Director of National Intelligence; (2) Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); (3) Department of Defense (DOD); (4) Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA); (5) National Security Agency (NSA); (6) Departments of the Army, Navy, and Air Force; (7) Coast Guard; (8) Departments of State, the Treasury, Energy, and Justice; (9) Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); (10) Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); (11) National Reconnaissance Office; (12) National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency; and (13) Department of Homeland Security. Specifies that the amounts authorized and the authorized personnel ceilings as of September 30, 2009, for such activities are those specified in the classified Schedule of Authorizations, which shall be made available to the congressional appropriations committees and the President. Allows the Director of National Intelligence (DNI), with the approval of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), to authorize employment of civilian personnel in excess of the number authorized for FY2009 when necessary for the performance of important intelligence functions. Requires notification of the intelligence committees on the use of such authority. Authorizes appropriations for the Intelligence Community Management Account for FY2009, as well as for full-time personnel for elements within such Account. Authorizes appropriations for FY2009 for the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability Fund. Allows authorizations for salary, pay, retirement, and other benefits to be increased by such additional or supplemental amounts as necessary for increases in such compensation or benefits authorized by law. Outlines provisions concerning: (1) DNI authority for flexible intelligence community (IC) personnel management; (2) annual IC personnel level assessments; (3) vulnerability assessments of major systems; (4) IC business systems modernization; (5) the control of excessive cost growth of major systems; (6) a prohibition on conflicts of interest in IC contracting; (7) future-year intelligence plans; (8) IC interrogation and detention techniques, procedures, and related matters; (9) FBI intelligence reform; (10) revision of the language and intelligence analyst training program; and (11) the protection of certain operational files within the Office of the DNI. Establishes: (1) an Office of the Inspector General of the Intelligence Community; (2) a Chief Financial Officer of the Intelligence Community; and (3) a National Space Intelligence Office. Foreign Intelligence and Information Commission Act - Establishes the Foreign Intelligence and Information Commission.

Maritime Administration Act for Fiscal Year 2009

United States · United States Congress · 8 May 2008

Maritime Administration Act for Fiscal Year 2009 - Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation, subject to limitation and sunset, to execute personal service contracts with adjunct professors to meet a United States Merchant Marine Academy temporary need. Requires the Academy's superintendent to prescribe a sexual harassment and sexual violence policy applicable to Academy cadets and other personnel. Amends the John Warner National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2007 to revise provisions concerning riding gang member requirements on vessels under Department of Defense (DOD) contracts. Requires, subject to appropriations, grants, loans, and loan guarantees to small shipyards for capital improvements and assistance for training programs to foster technical skills and operational productivity in communities with economies related to or dependent on the maritime industry. Allows state maritime academy student incentive payments to be made to the academy or the student. Doubles the level of payments, removes a requirement that the student be attending the academy when payments are made, allows the payments to be used for tuition, and requires recipients to accept midshipman and enlisted reserve (currently, enlisted reserve) status in the U.S. Navy Reserve (including the Merchant Marine Reserve). Extends to December 31, 2015, the expiration of the authority of the Secretary to provide war risk insurance and reinsurance.

Veterans to Paramedics Transition Act

United States · United States Congress · 8 May 2008

Veterans to Paramedics Transition Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to: (1) include among entities eligible for rural emergency medical service training and equipment grants entities that provide training for emergency medical services personnel, including institutions of higher education, technical colleges, community colleges, and other state-certified training entities; and (2) include among grant uses the provision of required coursework and training to enable military veterans to satisfy emergency medical services personnel certification requirements, as determined by the appropriate state regulatory entity.

Native American Veterans Access Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 8 May 2008

Native American Veterans Access Act of 2008 - Provides for treatment of a health facility of a tribal organization as a state home for purposes of grant payments to such homes for veterans' domiciliary care, nursing home care, and hospital care. Exempts a health facility of a tribal organization from the prohibition against the Secretary of Veterans Affairs treating a new facility as a state home after September 30, 2009. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to assist tribal organizations in constructing or acquiring facilities for furnishing domiciliary or nursing home care to veterans and in expanding, remodeling, or altering existing buildings for furnishing domiciliary care, nursing home care, adult day health care, or hospital care to veterans in homes. Authorizes the Secretary of Labor to include tribal organizations in veterans employment and training programs and grants.

To amend title 10, United States Code, to increase loan repayment limits for health professionals serving in the Armed Forces.

United States · United States Congress · 8 May 2008

Amends provisions authorizing educational loan repayment in exchange for service as a health professional in the Selected Reserved of an armed force and determined to be needed critically in order to meet identified wartime combat medical skill shortages to limit payment amounts to $60,000 (currently, $20,000) per year of service. Eliminates provisions limiting the total amount that may be repaid on behalf of any person to $50,000.

To amend title 10, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of a military department, and the Secretary of Defense with respect to the Defense Agencies, to participate in conservation banking programs and in-lieu-fee mitigation programs.

United States · United States Congress · 8 May 2008

Authorizes the Secretary of a military department, and the Secretary of Defense for a Defense Agency, when engaged or proposing to engage in military testing, operations, training, or another military readiness activity or military construction that may or will result in an adverse impact to one or more species protected (or pending protection) under any applicable provision of law, or habitat for such species, to make payments to a conservation banking program or "in-lieu-fee" mitigation sponsor approved in accordance with the Federal Guidance for the Establishment, Use and Operation of Mitigation Banks, the Guidance for the Establishment, Use, and Operation of Conservation Banks or any successor or related administrative guidance or regulation. Allows such payments to a conservation banking program or "in-lieu-fee" mitigation sponsor for military construction to be treated as eligible costs of the construction project.

Lance Corporal Jose Gutierrez Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 8 May 2008

States that any person who served honorably as a member of the U.S. Armed Forces (Armed Forces) in support of contingency operations shall be eligible for naturalization as if the person had served during a period of presidentially-designated military hostilities. Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to extend the period for filing a naturalization application after completion of eligible military service. Eliminates conditional permanent resident status for certain alien spouses (and sons or daughters) who are members or veterans of the Armed Forces. Sets forth factors to be considered in initiating removal proceedings against active duty members of the Armed Forces or veterans. Prohibits removal of an alien who is a member or veteran of the Armed Forces based upon: (1) illegal reentry; (2) expedited removal for commission of certain crimes; or (3) inspection for admissions or asylum. Exempts from specified grounds of inadmissibility or deportation an alien who is a member or veteran of the Armed Forces or an alien who is the spouse, child, son, daughter, parent, or minor sibling of a member serving in the Armed Forces. Authorizes the Secretary of Homeland Security or the Attorney General to waive other grounds (with specified exceptions) for such removal. Sets forth waiver factors. Exempts from worldwide immigrant visa numerical limitations an alien who is eligible for a family-sponsored immigrant visa and is either the spouse or child of a permanent resident alien who is serving in the Armed Forces. Directs the Secretary to adjust to permanent resident status an alien who is a parent, spouse, child, son or daughter, or minor sibling of a citizen or person eligible for naturalization through military service who is serving or has served in the Armed Forces during specified periods of hostilities. Permits posthumous benefits under specified circumstances. Waives certain grounds of inadmissibility.

Main Street U.S.A. Energy Security Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 8 May 2008

Main Street U.S.A. Energy Security Act of 2008 - Refinery Permit Process Schedule Act - Authorizes the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), upon request of a state governor, to provide financial assistance to hire additional personnel with expertise in federal refinery authorizations. Directs the President to: (1) appoint a federal coordinator to implement a federal refinery authorization; and (2) designate certain closed military installations as potentially suitable refinery construction sites. Sets forth an oil and gas leasing program on the Coastal Plain of Alaska. Deep Ocean Energy Resources Act of 2008 - Amends the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (OCSLA) to revise the outer Continental Shelf leasing program. Federal Energy Natural Resources Enhancement Act of 2008 - Authorizes appropriations for a natural resources enhancement program for management of fish, wildlife, and natural resources. Rigs to Reefs Act of 2008 - Authorizes the Secretary to use decommissioned offshore oil and gas platforms for artificial reef and scientific research. Redesignates as the Energy and Mineral Schools Reinvestment Act specified law governing mining and petroleum schools. Revises requirements for the funding of certain state-chartered petroleum or mining schools. National Geo Fund Act of 2008 - Instructs the Secretary to establish: (1) a fuel production program using strategic unconventional resources and CO2 enhanced recovery; and (3) a grant program to produce geothermal and geopressure oil and gas. Grants the lessee of an existing oil and gas lease located completely within 100 miles of the coastline of California or Florida Adjacent Zones the option, without compensation, of exchanging such lease for a new oil and gas lease having a primary term of five years. Amends OCSLA to: (1) repeal the coastal impact assistance program; and (2) provide conditional funds for the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act of 2000. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to: (1) revise incentives for innovative technologies; (2) authorize construction of nuclear power plants by 2010 (Nuclear Power 2010 Program); and (3) instruct the Secretary of Labor to promulgate implementing regulations for a nuclear energy workforce program. Creates an interagency working group to recommend coordinated federal promotion of increased domestic nuclear manufacturing capacity and export of domestic nuclear energy products and services. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a qualifying nuclear power manufacturing tax credit. Directs: (1) the Secretary of Energy to establish a National Nuclear Energy Council; and (2) the President to establish a High Level Waste Authority with jurisdiction over nuclear waste contracts. Sets forth a program to develop coal-to-liquid manufacturing on federal land. Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation Tax Act of 2008 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend and modify tax credits for: (1) renewable energy; (2) electricity produced from marine and hydrokinetic renewable energy; (3) electricity produced from the production of substitute natural gas from refined coal or petcoke; (4) new clean renewable energy bonds; (5) residential energy efficient property; (6) plug-in hybrid vehicles; (7) production of cellulosic ethanol; and (8) alternative fuels and vehicles. Instructs the Secretary of Energy to: (1) implement a research and development program for blending transportation fuels derived from coal-to-liquids with transportation fuels derived from renewable sources; and (2) maintain four Bioenergy Research Centers.

National Trauma Institute Research Program Act

United States · United States Congress · 8 May 2008

National Trauma Institute Research Program Act - Directs the Secretary of Defense to establish a National Trauma Institute Research Program at the National Trauma Institute as a military-civilian public-private partnership to nationally fund trauma research.

Veterans to Paramedics Transition Act

United States · United States Congress · 8 May 2008

Veterans to Paramedics Transition Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to: (1) include among entities eligible for rural emergency medical service training and equipment grants entities that provide training for emergency medical services personnel, including institutions of higher education, technical colleges, community colleges, and other state-certified training entities; and (2) include among grant uses the provision of required coursework and training to enable military veterans to satisfy emergency medical services personnel certification requirements, as determined by the appropriate state regulatory entity.

Expressing condolences and sympathy to the people of Burma for the grave loss of life and vast destruction caused by Cyclone Nargis.

United States · United States Congress · 8 May 2008

Extends condolences to the people of Burma for the grave loss of life and vast destruction caused by Cyclone Nargis, and vows full support with the people of Burma. Calls on Americans to provide emergency assistance to cyclone victims in Burma through humanitarian agencies. Calls for the Burmese military junta to consider the well-being of its people and accept international assistance.

Armed Forces Housing Security Act

United States · United States Congress · 7 May 2008

Armed Forces Housing Security Act - Increases the maximum loan guaranty amount for certain veterans' housing loans guaranteed through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to review and streamline the process for guaranteeing veterans' home loans for the purchase of condominiums. Repeals the veterans' home loan fee. Authorizes the Secretary to provide loans to veterans to refinance loans of up to 100% (currently 90%) of the value of the dwelling or farm residence securing the loan. Allows the VA to guarantee refinanced loans not previously guaranteed by the VA. Amends the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to extend from 90 days to one year after completion of military service the grace period against the sale, foreclosure, or seizure of a defaulted mortgage. Prohibits a member of the Armed Forces from waiving such protection. Specifically applies such protection to members (regular and reserve) serving on active duty as part of Operations Iraqi Freedom or Enduring Freedom (covered member), and their dependents. Provides protections against loan owners or insurers for loan servicers who implement qualified loan modifications or workout plans for covered members and their dependents. Directs the Secretary of Defense to provide financial services counseling relating to a mortgage and mortgage foreclosure to a veteran, covered member, and their dependents.