Defence

Justice for the Wrongfully Accused Act

United States · United States Congress · 23 July 2009

Justice for the Wrongly Accused Act - Amends the federal judicial code to make an exception to the requirement of a motion to the court of appeals before the filing of certain second or subsequent petitions for habeas corpus. Declares that the motion requirement does not apply if the second or subsequent petition application rests solely on a claim of actual innocence arising from: (1) newly discovered evidence from forensic testing; (2) exculpatory evidence withheld from the defense at trial; or (3) newly discovered accounts by credible witnesses who recant prior testimony or establish improper action of state or federal agents. States also that the exhaustion of remedies requirement does not apply, if the application for a writ of habeas corpus on behalf of a person in custody pursuant to a state court judgment is based on a claim that the police or prosecution withheld exculpatory, impeachment, or other evidence favorable to the defendant. Requires the court to hold an evidentiary hearing to determine the facts relating to a claim of actual innocence if the applicant makes a credible proffer of evidence supporting the claim based on certain circumstances. Prescribes a standard for the admissibility of a witness' evidentiary hearing testimony.

Supporting the goals and ideals of "National Purple Heart Recognition Day".

United States · United States Congress · 23 July 2009

Supports the goals and ideals of National Purple Heart Recognition Day.

Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2010

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2009

Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2010 - Authorizes appropriations for FY2010 for the conduct of intelligence and intelligence-related activities of the: (1) Office of the Director of National Intelligence (DNI); (2) Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); (3) Department of Defense (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 (DHS). Specifies that the amounts authorized and the authorized personnel ceilings as of September 30, 2010, 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 DNI to authorize employment of civilian personnel in excess of the number authorized for FY2010 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 FY2010, as well as for full-time personnel for elements within such Account. Authorizes appropriations for FY2010 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 the intelligence community, including: (1) personnel matters; (2) education programs; (3) acquisition matters; and (4) congressional oversight, plans, reports, and other matters. Outlines provisions relating to: (1) the Office of the DNI; (2) the CIA; and (3) defense intelligence components. Establishes: (1) an Office of Inspector General of the Intelligence Community; (2) a Chief Financial Officer of the Intelligence Community; (3) a National Space Intelligence Office; and (4) a Deputy Director of the Central Intelligence Agency. Amends the Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2001 to provide for a reorganization of the Diplomatic Telecommunications Service. Foreign Intelligence and Information Commission Act - Establishes the Foreign Intelligence and Information Commission.

Service Dogs for Veterans Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2009

Service Dogs for Veterans Act of 2009 - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) to commence a three-year pilot program to assess the benefits, feasibility, and advisability of using service dogs for the treatment or rehabilitation of veterans with physical or mental injuries or disabilities, including post-traumatic stress disorder. Requires related reports to Congress.

A bill to designate the current and future Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Louisville, Kentucky, as the "Robley Rex Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center".

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2009

Designates the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center in Louisville, Kentucky, and any successor to such medical center, as the "Robley Rex Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center."

A concurrent resolution expressing the sense of Congress that a commemorative postage stamp should be issued to honor the crew of the USS Mason DE-529 who fought and served during World War II.

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2009

Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) the U.S. Postal Service should issue a postage stamp honoring the crew of the USS Mason DE-529 (the only World War II U.S. Navy destroyer with a predominantly black enlisted crew) who fought and served during World War II.; and (2) the Citizens' Stamp Advisory Committee should recommend to the Postmaster General that such a stamp be issued.

To amend title 10, United States Code, to authorize the Department of Defense to support the Ocean for Life Program of the National Marine Sanctuaries under the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, including covering the cost of participants in the Ocean for Life Program.

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2009

Authorizes the Department of Defense (DOD), including combatant commands and Regional Centers, to: (1) provide material and personnel support to assist in the planning and execution of the Ocean for Life Program of the National Marine Sanctuaries under the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA); and (2) pay all or a portion of the costs for citizens of the United States and foreign nationals to participate in the Program. Allows amounts available to the Regional Centers from the DOD "Voice" programs to be used to make those payments.

Raising a question of the privileges of the House.

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2009

Requires the House Committee on Standards of Official Conduct to immediately establish an investigative subcommittee and begin an investigation into the relationship between: (1) the source and timing of past campaign contributions to Members of the House related to the raided prominent defense-lobbying firm; and (2) earmark requests made by Members on behalf of the firm's clients.

A bill to designate the Department of Veterans Affairs outpatient clinic in Alexandria, Minnesota, as the "Max J. Beilke Department of Veterans Affairs Outpatient Clinic".

United States · United States Congress · 21 July 2009

Designates the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) outpatient clinic in Alexandria, Minnesota, that is expected to open in September 2009, as the Max J. Beilke Department of Veterans Affairs Outpatient Clinic.

A concurrent resolution expressing the sense of Congress that a commemorative postage stamp should be issued to honor the crew of the USS Mason DE-529 who fought and served during World War II.

United States · United States Congress · 21 July 2009

Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) the U.S. Postal Service should issue a postage stamp honoring the crew of the USS Mason DE-529 (the only World War II U.S. Navy destroyer with a predominantly black enlisted crew) who fought and served during World War II.; and (2) the Citizens' Stamp Advisory Committee should recommend to the Postmaster General that such a stamp be issued.

To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out demonstration projects related to providing care for veterans in rural areas.

United States · United States Congress · 21 July 2009

Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) to carry out demonstration projects to examine alternatives for expanding care for veterans in rural areas. Requires a report on such projects.

To amend title 38, United States Code, to allow for reimbursement of certain travel at a set rate, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 21 July 2009

Authorizes the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to pay travel expenses for veterans receiving treatment at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities at the rate of 41.5 cents per mile. (Under current law the rate is that provided to federal employees in connection with the performance of official duties.) Requires an annual report concerning such expenses.

To amend title 38, United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs centers of excellence for rural health research, education, and clinical activities, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 21 July 2009

Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) to establish and operate at least one, and up to five, centers of excellence for rural health research, education, and clinical activities. Requires the submission of annual reports on those centers.

Military Voters' Equal Access to Voter Registration Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 21 July 2009

Military Voters' Equal Access to Voter Registration Act of 2009 - Amends the National Voter Registration Act of 1993 to require designating direct each Secretary of a military department to designate an office on each Armed Forces installation to ensure that certain individuals are provided the opportunity to register to vote in federal elections, update voter registrations, and request absentee ballots under the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act. Designates as those individuals those who are: (1) members of the Armed Forces and are undergoing a permanent change of duty station, deploying overseas for at least 6 months, returning from an overseas deployment of at least 6 months, or requests assistance related to voter registration; and (2) are dependents of members of the Armed Forces, request assistance, and are at least 18 years old. Considers an office so designated to be a voter registration agency for all purposes of the Act. Requires informing Armed Forces members and their dependents of the assistance available under this Act.

To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide certain veterans with readjustment and mental health care services, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 21 July 2009

Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) to establish a program to provide peer support, readjustment, and mental health services to veterans who served in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom (and related services to their family members). Requires an initial, and follow-up, report.

To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a grant program to assist veterans in highly rural areas by providing transportation to medical centers.

United States · United States Congress · 21 July 2009

Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) to establish a grant program to provide innovative transportation options to veterans in highly rural areas. Requires an annual report concerning such grants.

To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide relief with respect to the children of members of the Armed Forces of the United States who die as a result of service in a combat zone.

United States · United States Congress · 20 July 2009

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) increase to $5,000 the maximum dollar amount of the child tax credit for the surviving spouse and children of a member of the Armed Forces who dies while serving in a combat zone; and (2) waive the adjusted gross income limitation applicable to the child tax credit for such military families.

To establish a grant program to encourage the use of assistance dogs by certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans.

United States · United States Congress · 20 July 2009

Directs the Secretaries of Defense (DOD) and Veterans Affairs (VA) to jointly establish the Wounded Warrior K-9 Corps program for the awarding of grants to nonprofits to assist them in establishing programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines the term "assistance dog" to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense.

Military Family Leave Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 2009

Military Family Leave Act of 2009 - Entitles an employed family member of a member of the Armed Forces who receives notification of a call or order to active duty in support of a contingency operation, or who is deployed in connection with a contingency operation, to two workweeks of leave per year for each family member who is so called or deployed. Allows such leave to: (1) be taken intermittently or on a reduced leave schedule; and (2) consist of paid or unpaid leave, as the employer considers appropriate. Allows an employer to require certification of entitlement to such leave within a leave request. Provides employment and benefits protection for employees upon their return from such leave. Prohibits an employer from interfering with or otherwise denying the exercise of such leave rights.

Lance Corporal Josef Lopez Fairness for Servicemembers Harmed by Vaccines Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 16 July 2009

Lance Corporal Josef Lopez Fairness for Servicemembers Harmed by Vaccines Act of 2009 - Prohibits the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) from excluding from coverage under traumatic injury provisions with respect to the Servicemember's Group life Insurance program a member suffering a qualifying loss resulting from an adverse reaction to a vaccination administered by the Department of Defense (DOD), whether voluntarily or involuntarily, for purposes of military accession, training, or deployment. Makes such amendment retroactive to the establishment of such coverage under the Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Act for Defense, the Global War on Terror, and Tsunami Relief, 2005.

Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial Enhancement Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 16 July 2009

Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial Enhancement Act of 2009 - Amends the Port Chicago National Memorial Act of 1992 to require the Secretary of the Interior to administer the Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial as a unit of the National Park System. Directs the Secretary of Defense to transfer a specified parcel of land as identified on the map entitled "Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial, Proposed Boundary," dated August 2005, to the administrative jurisdiction of the Secretary of the Interior if the land is excess to military needs. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to enter into an agreement with the city of Concord, California, and the East Bay Regional Park District to establish and operate a facility for visitor orientation and parking, administrative offices, and curatorial storage for the Memorial. Expresses the sense of Congress that the Secretary of Defense should promptly remediate any remaining environmental contamination relating to the land. Expresses the sense of Congress that the Secretaries of Defense and the Interior should work together to: (1) repair storm damage to the Memorial; and (2) develop a process by which future repairs and necessary modifications to the Memorial can be achieved in as timely and cost-effective a manner as possible.

[H.A.S.C. No. 111-79] ADDRESSING A NEW GENERATION OF THREATS FROM WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION: DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY NONPROLIFERATION PROGRAMS AND THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE COOPERATIVE THREAT REDUCTION PROGRAM

United States · United States House of Representatives · 15 July 2009

To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs contracting goals and preferences for small business concerns owned and controlled by veterans.

United States · United States Congress · 15 July 2009

Requires (under current law, allows) a contracting officer of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) award a contract to a small business concern owned and controlled by veterans using other than competitive procedures (often referred to as a sole source contract) in specified circumstances. Prohibits using ownership and control by a veteran or veterans of more than one small business as grounds for disqualification from inclusion in an existing database of veteran-owned businesses.

Veterans' Benefits Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 15 July 2009

Veterans' Insurance and Health Care Improvements Act of 2009 - Makes permanent a current temporary extension of Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance (SGLI) coverage for totally disabled veterans. Allows veterans under age 60 to increase coverage under Veterans' Group Life Insurance (VGLI) in increments of up to $25,000 during each five-year period, to a maximum amount of $400,000. Eliminates a reduction by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) in the amount of an accelerated death benefit for terminally ill persons insured under SGLI and VGLI. Establishes, with respect to the provision of VA health care, a priority level for veterans awarded the Medal of Honor equal to the level of Purple Heart recipients. Provides permanent VA authority to provide hospital care, medical services, and nursing home care to Vietnam-era herbicide-exposed veterans and Persian Gulf War veterans who have insufficient medical evidence to establish a service-connected disability. Prohibits the Secretary from collecting copayments from catastrophically disabled veterans for the receipt of VA hospital care or medical services. Establishes within the Veterans Health Administration: (1) a Director of Physician Assistant Services; and (2) a Committee on Care of Veterans with Traumatic Brain Injury. Amends the Veterans' Mental Health and Other Care Improvements Act of 2008 to revise participant eligibility requirements under a pilot program of contract care for veterans residing in highly rural areas. Establishes in the Treasury the Qualified World War II Veterans Equity Compensation Fund to provide monthly payments of $1,000 to former active-duty World War II veterans who have not received benefits under the Servicemen's Readjustment Act of 1944.

EXAMINING THE PROGRESS OF ELECTRONIC HEALTH RECORD INTEROPERABILITY BETWEEN THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS AND U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

United States · United States House of Representatives · 14 July 2009

A bill to amend title 36, United States Code, to grant a Federal charter to the Military Officers Association of America, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 14 July 2009

Grants a federal charter to the Military Officers Association of America (a nonprofit corporation and incorporated under the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia).

A bill to amend title 36, United States Code, to grant a Federal charter to the Military Officers Association of America, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 14 July 2009

Grants a federal charter to the Military Officers Association of America (a nonprofit corporation and incorporated under the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia).

A bill to enable State homes to furnish nursing home care to parents any of whose children died while serving in the Armed Forces.

United States · United States Congress · 14 July 2009

Authorizes the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) to permit a state home to provide VA nursing home care to parents who had any children who died while serving in the Armed Forces.

COMBAT PTSD Act

United States · United States Congress · 14 July 2009

Compensation Owed for Mental Health Based on Activities in Theater Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Act or COMBAT PTSD Act - Defines "combat with the enemy," for purposes of proof of service-connection for veterans' disability compensation, as service on active duty: (1) in a theater of combat operations during a period of war; or (2) in combat against a hostile force during a period of hostilities.

EMT Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 14 July 2009

Emergency Medic Transition (EMT) Act of 2009 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to award grants to state entities with jurisdiction over emergency medical personnel to provide for the expedited training and licensing, as emergency medical technicians, of veterans who received training as such a technician while serving in the Armed Forces. Permits the use of grant funds to: (1) recruit such veterans; (2) provide to such veterans required course work and training that take into account training they received as members of the Armed Forces to enable them to satisfy emergency medical services personnel certification requirements in the civilian sector; and (3) reimburse individuals for the costs of receiving certification and licensing from the appropriate state entity pursuant to the program. Authorizes an eligible entity to contract with an institution of higher education or other educational institution certified to provide training to emergency medical personnel for purposes of providing training under this Act if such institution has developed a suitable curriculum. Sets forth provisions regarding proof of veteran eligibility. Directs an eligible entity to give priority to providing training to individuals who will serve as emergency medical technicians in areas that provide a high volume of emergency medical services and trauma care within the state in which the entity is located.

COMBAT PTSD Act

United States · United States Congress · 13 July 2009

Compensation Owed for Mental Health Based on Activities in Theater Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Act or COMBAT PTSD Act - Defines "combat with the enemy," for purposes of proof of service-connection for veterans' disability compensation, as service on active duty: (1) in a theater of combat operations during a period of war; or (2) in combat against a hostile force during a period of hostilities.

Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2010

United States · United States Congress · 13 July 2009

Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2010 - Makes appropriations for energy and water development and related agencies for FY2010. Appropriates funds to the Department of the Army, Corps of Engineers-Civil, for: (1) civil functions pertaining to rivers and harbors, flood and storm damage reduction, shore protection, and aquatic ecosystem restoration (including the Mississippi River alluvial valley below Cape Girardeau, Missouri); (2) the regulatory program pertaining to navigable waters and wetlands; (3) the formerly utilized sites remedial action program for clean-up of early atomic energy program contamination; and (4) the Office of Assistant Secretary of the Army (Civil Works). Makes appropriations for FY2010 to the Department of the Interior for: (1) the Central Utah Project; and (2) the Bureau of Reclamation, including for water and related natural resources, the Central Valley Project Restoration Fund, and the California Bay-Delta Restoration. Makes appropriations for FY2010 to the Department of Energy (DOE) for energy and science programs, including: (1) energy efficiency and renewable energy; (2) electricity delivery and energy reliability; (3) nuclear energy and nuclear waste disposal; (4) fossil energy research and development; (5) naval petroleum and oil shale reserves; (6) the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) and the Northeast Home Heating Oil Reserve; (7) the Energy Information Administration; (8) non-defense environmental cleanup activities; (9) the Uranium Enrichment Decontamination and Decommissioning Fund; (10) science activities; (11) the Title 17 Innovative Technology Loan Guarantee Loan Program; (12) the Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing Loans Program; (13) departmental administration; (14) Office of the Inspector General; (15) the National Nuclear Security Administration and atomic energy defense weapons activities; (16) defense nuclear nonproliferation activities; (17) naval reactors activities; (18) Office of the Administrator in the National Nuclear Security Administration; (19) defense environmental cleanup; (20) Defense Nuclear Waste Disposal; and (21) other defense activities. Approves specified expenditures from the Bonneville Power Administration Fund. Makes FY2010 appropriations for operation and maintenance of: (1) the Southeastern Power Administration; (2) the Southwestern Power Administration; (3) the Western Area Power Administration; (4) the Falcon and Amistad Operating and Maintenance Fund; (5) the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC); and (6) designated activities of DOE. Makes FY2010 appropriations to: (1) the Appalachian Regional Commission; (2) the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board; (3) the Delta Regional Authority; (4) the Denali Commission; (5) the Northern Border Regional Commission; (6) the Southeast Crescent Regional Commission; (7) Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), including the Office of Inspector General; (8) the Nuclear Waste Technical Review Board; and (9) the Office of the Federal Coordinator for Alaska Natural Gas Transportation Projects.

Military Family Leave Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2009

Military Family Leave Act of 2009 - Entitles an employed family member of a member of the Armed Forces who receives notification of a call or order to active duty in support of a contingency operation, or who is deployed in connection with a contingency operation, to two workweeks of leave per year for each family member who is so called or deployed. Allows such leave to: (1) be taken intermittently or on a reduced leave schedule; and (2) consist of paid or unpaid leave, as the employer considers appropriate. Allows an employer to require certification of entitlement to such leave within a leave request. Provides employment and benefits protection for employees upon their return from such leave. Prohibits an employer from interfering with or otherwise denying the exercise of such leave rights.

Wounded Warrior Retention Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2009

Wounded Warrior Retention Act of 2009 - Sets forth requirements applicable to the retention in the Armed Forces of members of the Armed Forces, including members of the National Guard or Reserve, who seek to remain in military service following an injury or disability suffered or incurred in the line of duty.

Honoring the citizen-soldiers of the National Guard of the State of Washington, including the 81st Brigade Combat Team (Heavy) of the Washington Army National Guard.

United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2009

Expresses the gratitude of the House of Representatives to the members of the Army National Guard and Air National Guard of the State of Washington and their families for their service and sacrifice on behalf of the United States. Commends the members of the 81st Brigade Combat Team (Heavy) of the Washington Army National Guard on the completion of their most-recent deployment to Iraq. Recognizes that Team's achievements and all other formerly and presently deployed Washington Army and Air National Guard units and members for their exemplary service.

Recognizing and commending the 2009 National Veterans Wheelchair Games, to be held in Spokane, Washington, July 13 through 18, 2009.

United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2009

Recognizes the significant contribution that the National Veterans Wheelchair Games make to the lives of disabled veterans who selflessly served the United States, including those veterans who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. Commends the organizers of and participants in the 2009 National Veterans Wheelchair Games for their efforts in the service of the United States.

Servicemembers Mental Health Care Commission Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 July 2009

Servicemembers Mental Health Care Commission Act - Establishes a commission on veterans and members of the Armed Forces (members) with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), traumatic brain injury (TBI), or other mental health disorders caused by military service. Requires the commission to: (1) oversee the monitoring and treatment of veterans and members with such disorders; and (2) conduct a study of the long-term adverse consequences of such disorders for such veterans and members.

Department of Veterans Affairs Hospital Quality Report Card Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 9 July 2009

Department of Veterans Affairs Hospital Quality Report Card Act of 2009 - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish and implement a Hospital Quality Report Card Initiative to report on health care quality in Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical centers. Requires the Secretary, at least semiannually, to make available to the public and to submit to the congressional Veterans' Committees reports on the quality of each VA medical center.

Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2010

United States · United States Congress · 9 July 2009

Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2010 - Makes FY2010 appropriations for the Department of State (Department) for: (1) administration of foreign affairs and diplomatic and consular programs; (2) the civilian stabilization initiative; (3) the Capital Investment Fund; (4) the Office of Inspector General; (5) educational and cultural exchange programs; (6) representation allowances; (7) protection of foreign missions and officials; (8) U.S. embassy security, construction, and maintenance; (9) emergencies in the diplomatic and consular service; (10) the buying power maintenance account; (11) the repatriation loans program account; (12) the American Institute in Taiwan; (13) the Foreign Service Retirement and Disability Fund; (14) international organizations, peacekeeping, and commissions; (15) the International Boundary and Water Commission, United States and Mexico; (16) plan preparation and construction of authorized projects; (17) the International Joint Commission and the International Boundary Commission, United States and Canada; (18) international fisheries commissions; (19) international broadcasting operations; (20) the Asia Foundation; (21) the United States Institute for Peace; (22) the Center for Middle Eastern-Western Dialogue Trust Fund; (23) the Eisenhower Exchange Fellowships, Incorporated; (24) the Israeli Arab Scholarship Program; (25) the East-West Center; (26) the National Endowment for Democracy; (27) the Commission for Preservation of America's Heritage Abroad; (28) the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom; (29) the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe; (30) the Congressional-Executive Commission on the People's Republic of China; and (31) the United States-China Economic and Security Review Commission. Makes FY2010 appropriations for: (1) operating expenses of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and the Office of Inspector General; (2) expenses of the President in carrying out certain programs under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961; (3) global health and child survival; (4) specified development assistance; (5) international disaster assistance; (6) transition initiatives; (7) emergency crises; (8) development credit authority; (9) the Economic Support Fund; (10) promotion of democracy; (11) assistance for Europe, Eurasia, and Central Asia; (12) international narcotics control and law enforcement; (13) nonproliferation, anti-terrorism, and demining; (14) migration and refugee assistance; (15) the United States Emergency Refugee and Migration Assistance Fund; (16) the Peace Corps; (17) the Millennium Challenge Corporation; (18) the Inter-American Foundation; (19) the African Development Foundation; and (20) the Department of the Treasury for international affairs technical assistance activities and debt restructuring. Makes FY2010 appropriations for: (1) international military education and training; (2) foreign military financing grants; and (3) international peacekeeping operations. Makes FY2010 appropriations for: (1) international organizations and programs; (2) the Global Environment Facility; (3) the International Development Association; (4) the Clean Technology Fund; (5) the Strategic Climate Fund; (6) the Inter-American Investment Corporation; (7) the Enterprise for the Americas Multilateral Investment Fund; (8) the Asian Development Fund; (9) the African Development Fund; and (10) the International Fund for Agricultural Development. Makes FY2010 appropriations for: (1) the Export-Import Bank, including the Office of Inspector General, direct and guaranteed loan and insurance programs, and administrative expenses; (2) Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) credit and insurance programs, including administrative expenses, and for the cost of direct and guaranteed loans; and (3) the Trade and Development Agency. Sets forth certain limits and prohibitions on the use of appropriations for specified activities.

Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2010

United States · United States Congress · 9 July 2009

Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2010 - Makes appropriations for energy and water development and related agencies for FY2010. Appropriates funds to the Department of the Army, Corps of Engineers-Civil, for: (1) civil functions pertaining to rivers and harbors, flood and storm damage reduction, shore protection, and aquatic ecosystem restoration (including the Mississippi River alluvial valley below Cape Girardeau, Missouri); (2) the regulatory program pertaining to navigable waters and wetlands; (3) the formerly utilized sites remedial action program for clean-up of early atomic energy program contamination; and (4) the Office of Assistant Secretary of the Army (Civil Works). Makes appropriations for FY2010 to the Department of the Interior for: (1) the Central Utah Project; and (2) the Bureau of Reclamation, including for water and related natural resources, the Central Valley Project Restoration Fund, and the California Bay-Delta Restoration. Makes appropriations for FY2010 to the Department of Energy (DOE) for energy and science programs, including: (1) energy efficiency and renewable energy; (2) electricity delivery and energy reliability; (3) nuclear energy and nuclear waste disposal; (4) fossil energy research and development; (5) naval petroleum and oil shale reserves; (6) the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) and the Northeast Home Heating Oil Reserve; (7) the Energy Information Administration; (8) non-defense environmental cleanup activities; (9) the Uranium Enrichment Decontamination and Decommissioning Fund; (10) science activities; (11) the Title 17 Innovative Technology Loan Guarantee Loan Program; (12) the Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing Loan Program; (13) departmental administration; (14) Office of the Inspector General; (15) the National Nuclear Security Administration and atomic energy defense weapons activities; (16) defense nuclear nonproliferation activities; (17) naval reactors activities; (18) Office of the Administrator in the National Nuclear Security Administration; (19) defense environmental cleanup; (20) Defense Nuclear Waste Disposal; and (21) other defense activities. Approves specified expenditures from the Bonneville Power Administration Fund. Makes FY2010 appropriations for operation and maintenance of: (1) the Southeastern Power Administration; (2) the Southwestern Power Administration; (3) the Western Area Power Administration; (4) the Falcon and Amistad Operating and Maintenance Fund; and (5) the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). Makes FY2010 appropriations to: (1) the Appalachian Regional Commission; (2) the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board; (3) the Delta Regional Authority; (4) the Denali Commission; (5) the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), including the Office of Inspector General; (8) the Nuclear Waste Technical Review Board; and (9) the Office of the Federal Coordinator for Alaska Natural Gas Transportation Projects.

National Guard and Reserve Soft Landing Reintegration Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 July 2009

National Guard and Reserve Soft Landing Reintegration Act - Requires that a member of a reserve component of the Armed Forces who was deployed for more than 179 days for a contingency operation or a homeland defense mission be: (1) retained on active duty in the Armed Forces for 90 days after the end of the member's demobilization from a deployment; (2) allowed to use accrued leave; and (3) paid specified pay and allowances. Allows a member to be released from such retention if the member requests release after the first 15 days of the retention. Directs the Secretary of the military department concerned to provide each member so retained (and, as practicable, appropriate family members) reintegration counseling and services.

To name the Department of Veterans Affairs outpatient clinic in Alexandria, Minnesota, as the "Max J. Beilke Department of Veterans Affairs Outpatient Clinic".

United States · United States Congress · 9 July 2009

Designates the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) outpatient clinic in Alexandria, Minnesota, that is expected to open in September 2009 as the "Max J. Beilke Department of Veterans Affairs Outpatient Clinic."

Caregiver Assistance and Resource Enhancement Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 July 2009

Caregiver Assistance and Resource Enhancement Act - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA), with respect to individuals providing noninstitutional extended care to disabled veterans, to make support services available to such caregivers, both family and non-family, including: (1) educational sessions teaching caring techniques, strategies, and skills; (2) respite care; (3) nursing care; (4) counseling and mental health services; (5) medical care; and (6) lodging and subsistence. Requires the Secretary to survey and report to specified congressional committees on such caregivers.

Israel Foreign Assistance Appropriations Act, 2010

United States · United States Congress · 9 July 2009

Israel Foreign Assistance Appropriations Act, 2010 - Appropriates FY2010 funds for Israel for: (1) refugee resettlement; and (2) foreign military credit sales. Conditions the availability of: (1) FY2010 appropriations for a voluntary contribution to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) upon a determination by the Secretary of State that Israel is not being denied IAEA participation; and (2) certain appropriations to support a Palestinian state upon a determination by the Secretary that the Palestinian governing entity has demonstrated a commitment to peaceful co-existence with Israel and is taking appropriate counterterrorism measures. Expresses the sense of Congress against the Arab League boycott of Israel. Prohibits the expenditure of specified funds to create in any part of Jerusalem a new government office of any U.S. department or agency for the purpose of conducting official U.S. business with the Palestinian Authority (PA) or successor governing entity over Gaza and Jericho.

Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 3082) making appropriations for military construction, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2010, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 9 July 2009

Sets forth the rule for consideration of the bill (H.R. 3082) making appropriations for military construction, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2010.

Military and Overseas Voter Empowerment Act

United States · United States Congress · 8 July 2009

Military and Overseas Voter Empowerment Act - Amends the Uniformed and Overseas Citizen Absentee Voting Act (UOCAVA) to require states to establish procedures for: (1) absentee uniform services voters and overseas voters to request and, states to send, federal election voter registration applications and absentee ballot applications by mail, electronically, and by facsimile; (2) transmittal of blank absentee ballots by mail, online, and by facsimile to absentee uniformed services voters and overseas voters; and (3) ensuring absentee uniformed services voters and overseas voters have time to vote. Directs the presidential designee to establish procedures for: (1) collecting marked absentee ballots of absentee overseas uniformed services voters in regularly scheduled federal general elections; and (2) delivering them to the appropriate state election officials. Authorizes the use of federal write-in absentee ballots in general, special, and runoff elections for federal office, and promotion and expansion of use of such ballots as a back-up measure. Prohibits refusal to accept otherwise valid voter registration and absentee ballot applications, marked absentee ballots, and federal write-ins absentee ballots for failure to meet technical requirements. Directs the presidential designee to develop standards for training, supporting, and emphasizing Voting Assistance Officers under the Federal Voting Assistance Program of the Department of Defense (DOD): (1) for all members of the uniformed services; and (2) on all installations and facilities of the uniformed services in the United States and overseas. Requires each state and the Secretary of Defense jointly to develop and implement procedures for persons to apply to register to vote at DOD pay, personnel, and identification offices. Requires the presidential designee to develop standards for states to report data on the number of absentee ballots transmitted and received and for storage of the data. Amends the Help America Vote Act of 2002 to require: (1) a state to use a requirements payment made using certain funds only to meet specified UOCAVA requirements; and (2) the state plan to describe how the state will use such requirements payment to meet UOCAVA requirements. Directs the presidential designee to establish one or more pilot programs to test the feasibility of new election technology for the benefit of absent uniformed services voters and overseas voters claiming UOCAVA rights.

North Korea Accountability Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 8 July 2009

North Korea Accountability Act of 2009 - Directs the Secretary of State to designate North Korea, for specified purposes of the Export Administration Act of 1979, the Arms Export Control Act, and the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, as a country that has repeatedly provided support for acts of international terrorism. Authorizes the President to waive such requirement upon a certification to Congress that North Korea has taken certain actions regarding: (1) nuclear program and proliferation disclosures; (2) the illegal transfer of missile or nuclear technology; (3) support of international terrorist groups; and (4) prisoner release. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to prohibit, with waiver authority, a financial institution from engaging in financial transactions with a foreign bank that is engaged in a financial transaction with the government or a governmental agent of North Korea or a senior government or military official of North Korea. Directs the President to strengthen military cooperation with Japan and South Korea. Sets forth reporting requirements regarding: (1) implementation of the North Korean Human Rights Act of 2004; (2) financial transaction with North Korea or trade in precious metals produced in North Korea; (3) the North Korean nuclear weapons program; (4) counterproliferation efforts; (5) implementation of specified U.N. Security Council Resolutions; and (6) North Korean refugees admitted into the United States. Authorizes appropriations for: (1) completion of ground-based missile interceptor deployment at Fort Greely, Alaska; (2) development of a variant of the F-22 fighter aircraft for sale to Japan; and (3) expansion of radio broadcasting to North Korea. Directs the Secretary of State to reallocate specified funds for programs to advance human rights for the people of North Korea.

Military Construction and Veterans Affairs and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2010

United States · United States Congress · 7 July 2009

Military Construction and Veterans Affairs and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2010 - Appropriates funds for FY2010 for the Department of Defense (DOD) for: (1) military construction for the Army, Navy and Marine Corps, and Air Force (military departments), DOD, the Army and Air National Guard, and the Army, Navy, and Air Force reserves; (2) the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Security Investment Program; (3) family housing construction and related operation and maintenance for the military departments and DOD; (4) the Department of Defense Family Housing Improvement Fund; (5) the Homeowners Assistance Fund: (6) DOD chemical demilitarization construction; and (7) the Department of Defense Base Closure Accounts of 1990 and 2005. Appropriates funds for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for: (1) the Veterans Benefits Administration; (2) readjustment benefits; (3) veterans insurance and indemnities; (4) the Veterans Housing Benefit Program Fund; (5) the Vocational Rehabilitation Loans Program; (6) the Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program; (7) guaranteed transitional housing loans for homeless veterans; (8) the Veterans Health Administration; (9) the National Cemetery Administration; (10) the Office of Inspector General; (11) construction for major and minor projects; and (12) grants for the construction of extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries. Appropriates funds for: (1) the American Battle Monuments Commission; (2) the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims; (3) cemeterial expenses, Army; and (4) the Armed Forces Retirement Home. Appropriates funds for overseas contingency operations for military construction for the Army and Air Force. Appropriates funds for the VA for: (1) medical services; (2) medical support and compliance; and (3) medical facilities. Specifies restrictions and authorities regarding the use of funds appropriated in this Act.

VETS Act of 2009

United States · United States Congress · 6 July 2009

Veterans Entitlement to Service Act of 2009 or the VETS Act of 2009 - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) to acknowledge the receipt of any claim for medical services, disability compensation, or pension under laws administered by the Secretary, or any other communication relating to such services, compensation, or pension, within 30 days after its receipt.

Department of Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2010

United States · United States Congress · 2 July 2009

Department of Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2010 - Authorizes appropriations for the Department of Defense (DOD) for FY2010. 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; (3) operation and maintenance; (4) active and reserve military personnel; (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) overseas contingency operations. Sets forth provisions or requirements concerning: (1) military personnel policy, including education and training and military family readiness; (2) military pay and allowances; (3) military health care, including wounded warrior matters; (4) acquisition policy and management; (5) DOD organization and management, including space and intelligence matters; (6) financial matters, including counter-drug activities; (7) civilian personnel matters; (8) matters relating to foreign nations, including assistance and training; (9) cooperative threat reduction; and (10) the National Defense Stockpile. Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center Act of 2009 - Provides for the joint DOD-Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) use of a medical facility in North Chicago and Great Lakes, Illinois, to be known as the Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center.