Defence

A bill to amend the Asia Reassurance Initiative Act of 2018 to require the Secretary of Defense to carry out the Pacific Deterrence Initiative.

United States · United States Congress · 23 July 2020

This bill requires the Department of Defense (DOD) to implement the Pacific Deterrence Initiative. The initiative shall only take actions to (1) increase the lethality of the joint force in the Indo-Pacific region; (2) enhance the defense and posture of the joint force; (3) strengthen alliances and partnerships; and (4) carry out a program of exercises, experimentation, and innovation for the joint force. DOD shall report a plan to Congress to expend in FY2021 and FY2022 certain minimum amounts to implement the initiative. The bill also repeals authorization for DOD to carry out an earlier program known as the Indo-Pacific Stability Initiative.

A concurrent resolution expressing the sense of Congress that the Secretary of the Navy should name the next Virginia-class submarine of the United States Navy the "USS Wisconsin".

United States · United States Congress · 23 July 2020

This concurrent resolution expresses the sense of Congress that the Navy should name the next Virginia-class submarine the USS Wisconsin .

RISE Act of 2020

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2020

Research Investment to Spark the Economy Act or the RISE Act This bill authorizes the Departments of Agriculture, Commerce, Defense, Education, Energy, the Interior, and Health and Human Services and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), National Science Foundation, and Environmental Protection Agency to provide support for research regarding COVID-19 (i.e., coronavirus disease 2019) or research disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Support under this bill shall be provided through federal science agencies with at least $50 million in basic and applied research obligations in FY2020. Support may be used to provide supplemental funding to extend the duration of a grant to a research institution or national laboratory that was awarded prior to the enactment of this bill, or to expand the purposes of such a grant as specified; provide supplemental funding through existing competitively awarded cooperative agreements and contracts to cover the increased costs of construction of scientific facilities and equipment that have been delayed because of COVID-19; and award grants and cooperative agreements to institutions of higher education to conduct research on the behavioral, social, or economic effects of COVID-19 and the responses to the disease or on the effectiveness of such responses. Agencies must provide the support as rapidly as possible. Provided funds shall remain available for expenditure for up to two years.

Burial Equity for Guards and Reserves Act of 2020

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2020

Burial Equity for Guards and Reserves Act of 2020 This bill prohibits the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) from establishing a condition for a cemetery grant that restricts the ability of a state to inter certain reservists (or spouses) at a state-owned veterans' cemetery solely because such individuals are ineligible for burial in an open national cemetery. Specifically, as a condition for grants, the VA cannot restrict the ability of a state to inter a member of a reserve component whose service was terminated under honorable conditions; member of the Army National Guard or Air National Guard whose service was terminated under honorable conditions; member of the Reserve Officers' Training Corps of the Army, Navy, or Air Force who died under honorable conditions while a member; and spouse of any member described above. The VA is prohibited from (1) denying an application for a grant solely on the basis that the recipient state may use funds to expand, improve, operate, or maintain a veterans' cemetery to allow for the internment of the specified reservists; and (2) enforcing certain conditions on grants for state veterans' cemeteries that were established before the date of enactment of this bill.

COVID–19 Benefits for Active Duty Servicemembers, the Reserve Components, and their Survivors Act of 2020

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2020

COVID-19 Benefits for Active Duty Servicemembers, the Reserve Components, and their Survivors Act of 2020 This bill establishes, for purposes of Department of Veterans Affairs benefits, a presumption of service-connection if COVID-19 symptoms manifest within a specified time period in individuals serving in the military or reserves during qualified periods of duty (i.e., active duty, training duty, or full-time National Guard duty). For individuals who become disabled or die as a result of COVID-19, it shall be presumed the individual became disabled or died during a qualified period of duty. An individual who was disabled or died due to COVID-19 and was on training duty or full-time National Guard duty shall be furnished death or disability benefits as if the individual were a veteran, without regard to whether such individual's duty period would constitute active military service.

Preventing Authoritarian Policing Tactics on America’s Streets Act

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2020

Preventing Authoritarian Policing Tactics on America's Streets Act This bill imposes limitations on federal law enforcement officers and members of the Armed Forces (or the National Guard) engaging in law enforcement activities related to crowd control. When engaged in certain law enforcement activities related to crowd control, such an officer or member (1) shall clearly display certain identifying information, such as the individual's last name or unique identifier; and (2) shall not use an unmarked vehicle to apprehend or arrest civilians. Such an officer or member may only engage in certain law enforcement activities, such as crowd or riot control and arrest of individuals engaged in civil disobedience, on or in the immediate vicinity of federal property, unless (1) a state or local government has requested federal support, or (2) the President has invoked certain authorities to suppress insurrection. If such an officer or member is conducting a law enforcement function in violation of the limitations in this bill, the officer or member may not arrest an individual in the United States. If such an officer or member is deployed to respond to any riot, public disturbance, or crowd control incident, the responsible federal agency or branch of the Armed Forces shall, within 24 hours of the deployment, notify the public and provide certain information on its website.

A bill to require a report to Congress on certain efforts in connection with the financial management systems of the Department of Defense.

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2020

This bill requires the Department of Defense to report on its progress in modernizing its financial management enterprise.

COVID–19 Benefits for Active Duty Servicemembers, the Reserve Components, and their Survivors Act of 2020

United States · United States Congress · 22 July 2020

COVID-19 Benefits for Active Duty Servicemembers, the Reserve Components, and their Survivors Act of 2020 This bill establishes, for purposes of Department of Veterans Affairs benefits, a presumption of service-connection if COVID-19 symptoms manifest within a specified time period in individuals serving in the military or reserves during qualified periods of duty (i.e., active duty, training duty, or full-time National Guard duty). For individuals who become disabled or die as a result of COVID-19, it shall be presumed the individual became disabled or died during a qualified period of duty. An individual who was disabled or died due to COVID-19 and was on training duty or full-time National Guard duty shall be furnished death or disability benefits as if the individual were a veteran, without regard to whether their duty period would constitute active military service.

Matthew Moury, of Maryland, to be a Member of the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board for a term expiring October 18, 2021, vice Joseph Bruce Hamilton, term expired.

United States · United States Senate · 21 July 2020

NOPP Revitalization Act

United States · United States Congress · 21 July 2020

National Oceanographic Partnership Program Revitalization Act or the NOPP Revitalization Act This bill directs the Department of the Navy to establish the National Oceanographic Partnership Program the purpose of which, among other things, is to promote the national goals of assuring national security, advancing economic development, protecting quality of life, ensuring environmental stewardship, and strengthening science education and communication through improved knowledge of the ocean. The bill also establishes (1) an Ocean Policy Committee, and (2) an Ocean Research Advisory Panel.

Special Operations and International Security Education Act

United States · United States Congress · 21 July 2020

Special Operations and International Security Education Act This bill prohibits the Department of Defense (DOD) from eliminating, divesting, downsizing, or reorganizing specified programs of the National Defense University until DOD issues a related report to Congress.

U.S. Military Right to Carry Act

United States · United States Congress · 21 July 2020

U.S. Military Right to Carry Act This bill requires a state that receives funds under the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program to have implemented (1) a law or policy authorizing members of the Armed Forces who are outside of their state of residence under orders to renew a permit to carry a concealed firearm through the mail, and (2) a law or policy that treats members of the Armed Forces on active duty in the state as residents of the state for purposes of issuing a permit to carry a concealed firearm in the state. The Department of Justice must reduce by 5% the amount that a state would otherwise receive under the grant program if the state fails to comply with either requirement.

American Family and Private Property Defense Act

United States · United States Congress · 21 July 2020

American Family and Private Property Defense Act This bill establishes various defenses a defendant charged with a crime of violence may assert and contains other related provisions. It shall be an affirmative defense if the defendant used force, including deadly force, against another person if the defendant reasonably believed such force was necessary to defend the defendant or a third party from what the defendant reasonably believed was the person's use (or imminent use) of unlawful force. (An affirmative defense allows a defendant to escape criminal liability, but the defendant has the burden to prove that the defendant is entitled to the defense.) A defendant who used deadly force may also assert this defense if the force was used against a person who unlawfully enters, attempts to unlawfully enter, or remains after unlawfully entering the private property lawfully occupied by a third party. If such a defendant was the initial aggressor, the defendant may still assert this affirmative defense in certain instances. A defendant has no duty to retreat from any location where the defendant has a right to be. The bill also establishes an affirmative defense for a defendant who used physical force on another to the extent the defendant reasonably believed such force was necessary to prevent what the defendant reasonably believed to be the commission or attempted commission of theft or damage of property. Evidence of a defendant suffering from battered spouse syndrome shall be admissible as to the issue of whether the defendant lawfully acted in self-defense or defense of another.

No Funds to China’s Military Act of 2020

United States · United States Congress · 21 July 2020

No Funds to China's Military Act of 2020 This bill prohibits using federal funds to purchase goods or services from an individual or entity that the Department of Defense has determined is controlled by or affiliated with China's military or defense industrial base. This prohibition applies to federal funds provided to a state or local government or private entity. Before an executive agency provides federal funds to such a government or private entity, the recipient shall certify that it will comply with this bill.

Burial Equity for Guards and Reserves Act

United States · United States Congress · 21 July 2020

Burial Equity for Guards and Reserves Act This bill prohibits the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) from establishing a condition for a cemetery grant that restricts the ability of a state to inter certain reservists (or spouses) at a state-owned veterans' cemetery solely because such individuals are ineligible for burial in an open national cemetery. Specifically, as a condition for grants, the VA cannot restrict the ability of a state to inter a member of a reserve component whose service was terminated under honorable conditions; member of the Army National Guard or Air National Guard whose service was terminated under honorable conditions; member of the Reserve Officers' Training Corps of the Army, Navy, or Air Force who died under honorable conditions while a member; and spouse of any member described above. The VA is prohibited from (1) denying an application for a grant solely on the basis that the recipient state may use funds to expand, improve, operate, or maintain a veterans' cemetery to allow for the internment of the specified reservists; and (2) enforcing certain conditions on grants for state veterans' cemeteries that were established before the date of enactment of this bill.

Pandemic Care for Burn Pits Exposure Act of 2020

United States · United States Congress · 20 July 2020

Pandemic Care for Burn Pits Exposure Act of 2020 This bill requires the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to ensure that the first health assessment conducted for a member of the Armed Forces or veteran after such an individual tests positive for a virus certified as a pandemic includes an evaluation of whether the individual has been (1) based or stationed at a location where an open burn pit was used, or (2) exposed to toxic airborne chemicals or contaminants relating to service in the Armed Forces. A burn pit is an area used for burning solid waste in open air without equipment. If such an evaluation establishes that an individual was based or stationed at a location where an open burn pit was used, or that the individual was exposed to toxic airborne chemicals or contaminants, the individual must be enrolled in the Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry unless they opt out of enrollment. The VA's Airborne Hazards and Burn Pits Center of Excellence must conduct a study on the health impacts of infection with a virus designated as a global pandemic, including the coronavirus (i.e., the virus that causes COVID-19), to members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have been exposed to open burn pits and other toxic exposures. The study must be analyzed to assist in preparation for potential future pandemics.

Sudan Democratic Transition, Accountability, and Fiscal Transparency Act of 2020

United States · United States Congress · 20 July 2020

Sudan Democratic Transition, Accountability, and Fiscal Transparency Act of 2020 This bill requires the Department of State to submit a strategy outlining U.S. support for a transition to civilian-led government in Sudan, and it authorizes certain measures to support and assist such a political transition. Specifically, the bill requires the State Department to submit a strategy that includes (1) an articulation of specific U.S. objectives for the political transition in Sudan and a plan to achieve such objectives; (2) an assessment of reforms necessary to promote human rights, essential freedoms, and accountability, as well as a description of efforts to address such reforms; and (3) an assessment of security sector reforms by the Sudanese government, such as demobilizing militias and fostering civilian control of the armed forces. The bill also authorizes the President to provide certain support for (1) democratic governance, rule of law, human rights, and fundamental freedoms; (2) programs to advance economic growth, private-sector productivity, and market-based solutions to development challenges; (3) conflict mitigation strategies to support long-term peace, stability and oversight of Sudanese security and intelligence services; and (4) accountability for war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide. The President must impose sanctions on individuals who the President determines are committing human rights abuses, exploiting natural resources, or undermining the political transition in Sudan. Upon certification that Sudan has taken steps to improve fiscal transparency, the Department of the Treasury and the State Department must engage with international financial institutions to restructure, reschedule, or cancel the sovereign debt of Sudan. During the transitional period in Sudan, Treasury may also support the use of certain funds to respond to the COVID-19 (i.e., coronavirus disease 2019) outbreak in Sudan.

Directing the Clerk of the House of Representatives to make corrections in the engrossment of H.R. 6395.

United States · United States Congress · 20 July 2020

This resolution directs the Clerk of the House of Representatives to make a correction in the engrossment of H.R. 6395 (William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021) to change the title of the division relating to Department of State authorities and activities to the Eliot L. Engel Department of State Authorization Act of 2020.

Protecting Firefighters from PFAS Act

United States · United States Congress · 20 July 2020

Protecting Firefighters from PFAS Act This bill addresses firefighter and veteran exposure to perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, commonly referred to as PFAS. These substances are man-made and may have adverse human health effects. A variety of products contain the compounds (e.g., weatherproof clothing). The bill authorizes the use of pre-disaster hazard mitigation funding for the remediation of PFAS at fire training facilities. The National Institute of Standards and Technology in the Department of Commerce must commence a study and report on the contents and composition of new and unused personal protective equipment worn by firefighters in relation to PFAS. For certain conditions associated with exposure to PFAS, the bill provides eligibility for Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) hospital care and medical services to veterans who served on active duty at military installations at which individuals were exposed to PFAS. Service by veterans as reservists or civilian firefighters shall be considered active duty service for eligibility purposes if such service occurred during a period specified by the VA on the applicable military installations. The bill also provides eligibility for VA hospital care and medical services for exposure-related conditions to the family members of such veterans and civilian firefighters. The bill establishes a presumption of service-connection for specified illnesses or diseases related to PFAS exposure that manifest in veterans (including reservists or veterans serving as civilian firefighters) who served on active duty at a military installation where they were exposed to PFAS. Under a presumption of service-connection, specific conditions diagnosed in certain veterans are presumed to have been caused by the circumstances of their military service. Health care benefits and disability compensation may then be awarded.

Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 6395) to authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2021 for military activities of the Department of Defense and for military construction, to prescribe military personnel strengths for such fiscal year, and for other purposes; providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 7027) making additional supplemental appropriations for disaster relief requirements for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2020, and for other purposes; providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 7327) making additional supplemental appropriations for disaster relief requirements for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2020, and for other purposes; and providing for consideration of the Senate amendments to the bill (H.R. 1957) to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modernize and improve the Internal Revenue Service, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 20 July 2020

Sets forth the rule for consideration of the bill (H.R. 6395) to authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2021 for military activities of the Department of Defense and for military construction, to prescribe military personnel strengths for such fiscal year, and for other purposes; providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 7027) making additional supplemental appropriations for disaster relief requirements for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2020, and for other purposes; providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 7327) making additional supplemental appropriations for disaster relief requirements for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2020, and for other purposes; and providing for consideration of the Senate amendments to the bill (H.R. 1957) to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modernize and improve the Internal Revenue Service.

South China Sea Freedom of Navigation Act

United States · United States Congress · 20 July 2020

South China Sea Freedom of Navigation Act This bill extends updates of the Department of Defense Freedom of Navigation Report under the Freedom of Navigation Operations (FONOPS) program through December 31, 2025. The bill requires (1) the report to be submitted on a biannual basis, and (2) each report to document the types and locations of excessive maritime claims that the Armed Forces of the United States have challenged in the previous six months in order to preserve the rights, freedoms, and uses of the sea and airspace guaranteed to all countries by international law. The bill modifies elements of the report to include a summary of each excessive maritime claim challenged jointly with international partners and allies.

Strengthening American Manufacturing Act of 2020

United States · United States Congress · 20 July 2020

Strengthening American Manufacturing Act of 2020 This bill requires the Department of Defense (DOD) to report on its use of waivers with respect to requirements for buying certain articles only from U.S. sources (i.e, Buy American requirements). DOD must assess in its report the impact on the use of such waivers due to the COVID-19 (i.e., coronavirus disease 2019) pandemic.

Military Mental Health Stigma Reduction Act

United States · United States Congress · 20 July 2020

Military Mental Health Stigma Reduction Act This bill requires the Department of Defense, as part of required reports concerning suicide among members of the Armed Forces, to include a description of military programs that address and reduce the stigma associated with seeking assistance for mental health or suicidal thoughts.

A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate regarding preconditions for the readmission of the Russian Federation into a reconstituted Group of Eight or participation in the Group of Seven.

United States · United States Congress · 20 July 2020

This resolution calls on Russia, as precondition for readmission into a reconstituted Group of Eight, to end its illegal occupation of Crimea and Donbas in Ukraine, cease malign activities against the United States and its allies, and terminate any bounties against members of the U.S. Armed Forces.

Preventing Authoritarian Policing Tactics on America’s Streets Act

United States · United States Congress · 20 July 2020

Preventing Authoritarian Policing Tactics on America's Streets Act This bill imposes limitations on federal law enforcement officers and members of the Armed Forces (or the National Guard) engaging in law enforcement activities related to crowd control. When engaged in certain law enforcement activities related to crowd control, such an officer or member (1) shall clearly display certain identifying information, such as the individual's last name or unique identifier; and (2) shall not use an unmarked vehicle to apprehend or arrest civilians. Such an officer or member may only engage in certain law enforcement activities, such as crowd or riot control and arrest of individuals engaged in civil disobedience, on or in the immediate vicinity of federal property, unless (1) a state or local government has requested federal support, or (2) the President has invoked certain authorities to suppress insurrection. If such an officer or member is conducting a law enforcement function in violation of the limitations in this bill, the officer or member may not arrest an individual in the United States. If such an officer or member is deployed to respond to any riot, public disturbance, or crowd control incident, the responsible federal agency or branch of the Armed Forces shall, within 24 hours of the deployment, notify the public and provide certain information on its website.

Defense, Commerce, Justice, Science, Energy and Water Development, Financial Services and General Government, Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development Appropriations Act, 2021

United States · United States Congress · 16 July 2020

Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2021 This bill provides FY2021 appropriations to the Department of Defense (DOD) for military activities. (The bill excludes military construction, military family housing, civil works projects of the Army Corps of Engineers, and nuclear warheads, which are all considered in other appropriations bills.) Within the DOD budget, the bill provides appropriations for Military Personnel; Operation and Maintenance; Procurement; Research, Development, Test and Evaluation; and Revolving and Management Funds. The bill provides appropriations for Other Department of Defense Programs, including the Defense Health Program, Chemical Agents and Munitions Destruction, Drug Interdiction and Counter-Drug Activities, and the Office of the Inspector General. The bill provides appropriations for (1) Related Agencies, including the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability System Fund and the Intelligence Community Management Account; and (2) Overseas Contingency Operations/Global War on Terrorism. The bill also sets forth requirements and restrictions for using funds provided by this and other appropriations Acts.

To impose sanctions with respect to Turkey's acquisition of the S-400 air and missile defense system.

United States · United States Congress · 16 July 2020

This bill directs the President to impose sanctions on Turkey due to Turkey's acquisition of the S-400 air and missile defense system from Russia. The President shall impose five or more specified sanctions, such as prohibiting (1) Export-Import Bank assistance in connection with export of goods to Turkey, (2) the issuance of a specific license for exporting certain goods or technologies to Turkey, or (3) U.S. financial institutions from making loans of a certain size to Turkey. The President may terminate such sanctions if Turkey (1) no longer possesses or operates the S-400 system, and (2) makes reliable assurances that it will no longer engage in activities subject to certain U.S. sanctions.

Making appropriations for energy and water development and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2021, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 15 July 2020

Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2021 This bill provides FY2021 appropriations for U.S. Army Corps of Engineers civil works projects, the Department of the Interior's Bureau of Reclamation, the Department of Energy (DOE), and independent agencies such as the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. The bill provides appropriations for U.S. Army Corps of Engineers civil works projects, including for Investigations, Construction, Mississippi River and Tributaries, Operation and Maintenance, the Regulatory Program, the Formerly Utilized Sites Remedial Action Program, Flood Control and Coastal Emergencies, Expenses, and the Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works. The bill provides appropriations to the Department of the Interior for the Central Utah Project and the Bureau of Reclamation. The bill provides appropriations to DOE for Energy Programs, including Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy; Cybersecurity, Energy Security, and Emergency Response; Electricity; Nuclear Energy; Fossil Energy Research and Development; Naval Petroleum and Oil Shale Reserves; the Strategic Petroleum Reserve; the Northeast Home Heating Oil Reserve; the Energy Information Administration; Non-Defense Environmental Cleanup; the Uranium Enrichment Decontamination and Decommissioning Fund; Science; Nuclear Waste Disposal; the Advanced Research Projects Agency--Energy; the Title 17 Innovative Technology Loan Guarantee Program; the Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing Loan Program; the Tribal Energy Loan Guarantee Program; the Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs; Departmental Administration; and the Office of the Inspector General. The bill also provides appropriations to DOE for Atomic Energy Defense Activities of the National Nuclear Security Administration, Environmental and Other Defense Activities, and the Power Marketing Administrations. The bill provides appropriations to several independent agencies, including the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. The bill sets forth permissible and prohibited uses for funds provided by this and other appropriations Acts.

To expand the scope of the Department of Veterans Affairs open burn pit registry.

United States · United States Congress · 13 July 2020

This bill expands the scope of the Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry of the Department of Veterans Affairs by including burn pits located in Egypt and Syria under the definition of open burn pits . The registry allows certain veterans and service members to document their exposures and report health concerns related to exposure to toxic airborne chemicals and fumes caused by open burn pits (areas used for burning solid waste in open air without equipment) while serving in certain locations.

To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize individuals who are pursuing programs of rehabilitation, education, or training under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to receive work-study allowances for certain outreach services provided through congressional offices, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 13 July 2020

This bill expands the list of work-study activities that qualify for payment of work-study allowances under Department of Veterans Affairs rehabilitation, training, and education programs. Under the bill, the following activities carried out at the offices of Members of Congress qualify as work-study activities: the distribution of information to members of the Armed Forces, veterans, and their dependents concerning benefits and services; and the preparation and processing of documents, including those used to file veterans benefits claims.

State, Foreign Operations, Agriculture, Rural Development, Interior, Environment, Military Construction, and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Act, 2021

United States · United States Congress · 13 July 2020

Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2021 This bill provides FY2021 appropriations for the Department of State, foreign operations, and related programs. The bill provides appropriations to the State Department for Administration of Foreign Affairs, International Organizations, and International Commissions. The bill provides appropriations for Related Agencies and Related Programs, including the U.S. Agency for Global Media, the Asia Foundation, the U.S. Institute of Peace, the Center for Middle Eastern-Western Dialogue Trust Fund, the Eisenhower Exchange Fellowship Program, the Israeli Arab Scholarship Program, the East-West Center, and the National Endowment for Democracy. The bill provides appropriations for Other Commissions, including the Commission for the Preservation of America's Heritage Abroad, the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom, the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe, the Congressional-Executive Commission on the People's Republic of China, and the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission. The bill provides appropriations to the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), the State Department and the President for International Security Assistance, and the President and International Financial Institutions for Multilateral Assistance. The bill provides appropriations for Bilateral Economic Assistance to the President; the State Department; Independent Agencies, including the Peace Corps, the Millennium Challenge Corporation, the Inter-American Foundation, and the U.S. African Development Foundation; and the Department of the Treasury. The bill provides appropriations for Export and Investment Assistance to the Export-Import Bank of the United States, the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation, and the U.S. Trade and Development Agency. The bill also includes provisions that provide emergency funding for expenses to prevent, prepare for, and respond to the coronavirus (i.e., the virus that causes COVID-19); establish the People-to-People Partnership for Peace Fund to fund projects that help build the foundation for a peaceful coexistence between Israelis and Palestinians and a sustainable two-state solution; and establish the Joint Investment of Peace Initiative to support the development of the Palestinian private sector economy and increased economic cooperation between Israelis and Palestinians. The bill sets forth requirements and restrictions for using funds provided by this and other appropriations Acts.

To direct the Joint Committee on the Library to replace the bust of Roger Brooke Taney in the Old Supreme Court Chamber of the United States Capitol with a bust of Thurgood Marshall to be obtained by the Joint Committee on the Library and to remove certain statues from areas of the United States Capitol which are accessible to the public, to remove all statues of individuals who voluntarily served the Confederate States of America from display in the United States Capitol, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 13 July 2020

This bill provides for the removal of certain statues and a bust from display in the Capitol. The bill directs the Architect of the Capitol (AOC) to remove the bust of Roger Brooke Taney in the Old Supreme Court chamber of the Capitol and replace it with a bust of Thurgood Marshall to be obtained by the Joint Committee on the Library. The AOC must remove the statues of Charles Brantley Aycock, John Caldwell Calhoun, and James Paul Clarke from areas of the Capitol accessible to the public. Furthermore, the AOC must store each statue until it and the state that provided the statue arrange for its return to the state. Additionally, the bill prohibits the display of statues in National Statuary Hall of persons who served as officers or voluntarily with the Confederate States of America or of the military forces or government of a state while it was in rebellion against the United States; requires the AOC to identify such statues and arrange for their transfer and deliverance from the Capitol to the Smithsonian Institution, subject to the approval of the joint committee; requires the Smithsonian to follow its preexisting policies and procedures regarding the storage and display of such transferred statues; requires each statue to be returned to the providing state, including its ownership, if the state requests and agrees to pay any transportation-related costs; and permits a state that has a statue removed to replace the statue.

Coast Guard Combat-Injured Tax Fairness Act

United States · United States Congress · 13 July 2020

Coast Guard Combat-Injured Tax Fairness Act This bill extends the provisions of the Combat-Injured Veterans Tax Fairness Act of 2016 to the Department of Homeland Security, with respect to the U.S. Coast Guard when it is not operating in the Department of the Navy. That act directed the Department of Defense to identify (1) certain disability severance payments paid after January 17, 1991, to to veterans with combat-related injuries, from which it withheld amounts for tax purposes; and (2) the individuals to whom such severance payments were made.

To prohibit the President, the Vice President, an immediate family member of the President or the Vice President, and certain businesses from contracting with or receiving Federal funds, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 13 July 2020

This bill prohibits the President, the Vice President, immediate family members of either, or a significant business interest of such individuals from contracting with the federal government or receiving federal funds, with limited exceptions. Such exceptions include, among other things (1) a contract or agreement with the federal government entered into or negotiated before or after the period in which the President or the Vice President serves in office; and (2) a contract for employment with the federal government or a contract for service in the Armed Forces, or any benefits provided under such employment or service.

Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2021

United States · United States Congress · 13 July 2020

Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2021 This bill provides FY2021 appropriations for Military Construction, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), and related agencies. The bill provides appropriations to the Department of Defense (DOD) for Military Construction for the Army; the Navy and Marine Corps; the Air Force; Defense-wide agencies and activities; the Army and Air National Guard; and the Army, Navy, and Air Force Reserves. The bill also provides appropriations to DOD for the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Security Investment Program; the Base Closure Account; Construction and Operation and Maintenance of Family Housing for the Army, the Navy and Marine Corps, the Air Force, and Defense-wide agencies and activities; the Family Housing Improvement Fund; and the Military Unaccompanied Housing Improvement Fund. Within the VA budget, the bill provides appropriations for the Veterans Benefits Administration, the Veterans Health Administration, the National Cemetery Administration, and Departmental Administration. The bill provides appropriations for related agencies and programs, including the American Battle Monuments Commission, the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims, Cemeterial Expenses of the Army, and the Armed Forces Retirement Home. The bill provides appropriations to specified DOD military construction accounts for Overseas Contingency Operations. The bill also sets forth requirements and restrictions for using funds provided by this and other appropriations Acts.

To direct the Secretary of Defense to include information on exposure to open burn pits in postdeployment health reassessments of members of the Armed Forces.

United States · United States Congress · 13 July 2020

This bill requires the Department of Defense to include in post-deployment health reassessments a question regarding exposure of service members to open burn pits.

To direct the Secretary of Defense to submit to Congress a report on the research and studies being conducted or funded by the Department of Defense to assess the health effects of burn pits.

United States · United States Congress · 13 July 2020

This bill requires the Department of Defense (DOD) to report on all research being conducted or funded by DOD to assess the health effects of burn pits. The report must identify challenges to completing such research and must include recommendations to address those challenges.

To direct the Secretary of Defense to provide medical providers of the Department of Defense mandatory training with respect to the potential health effects of burn pits.

United States · United States Congress · 13 July 2020

This bill requires the Department of Defense (DOD) to provide DOD medical providers with mandatory training with respect to the potential health effects of burn pits.

Improving Congressional Oversight of CFIUS Determinations Act

United States · United States Congress · 13 July 2020

Improving Congressional Oversight of CFIUS Determinations Act This bill modifies the review process of the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) to require notice to Congress when it completes a review of certain expedited transactions with a foreign entity.

Transition for Success Act

United States · United States Congress · 13 July 2020

Transition for Success Act This bill allows members of the reserve components of the Armed Forces to participate in the Department of Defense's Skillbridge program. (The Skillbridge program provides job training to service members who are transitioning into civilian life.)

To direct the Secretary of Defense to provide budget information for incinerators and waste-to-energy waste disposal alternatives to burn pits.

United States · United States Congress · 13 July 2020

This bill requires the Department of Defense (DOD) to provide budget information regarding incinerators and waste-to-energy waste disposal alternatives to burn pits. DOD must include the information as a dedicated budget line item in the President's FY2022 budget.

[H.A.S.C. No. 116-86] Department of Defense Authorities and Roles Related To Civilian Law Enforcement

United States · United States House of Representatives · 9 July 2020

Confederate Commemorative Works Inventory and Joint Resource Study Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 July 2020

Confederate Commemorative Works Inventory and Joint Resource Study Act This bill directs the Departments of the Interior, Defense, and Veterans Affairs to each conduct a full inventory of specified Confederate commemorative works, including flags and other symbols or signage, on the public lands under their jurisdiction. Using such inventories, the National Park Service shall conduct a special resource study to examine the works commemorating and interpreting the Civil War and commemorating, with respect to such war, the soldiers, people on the home front and battle lines, and related locations in the United States from 1861 through 1865. Among contents required to be identified by the study are historical assessments of each work, the suitability and feasibility of retaining works, identification of properties that could meet the criteria for designation as national historic sites, and an evaluation of historical research.

LEAD Act of 2020

United States · United States Congress · 9 July 2020

Lead Endangers Animals Daily Act of 2020 or the LEAD Act of 2020 This bill directs the Department of the Interior to issue final regulations prohibiting the discharge of any firearm using ammunition other than non-lead ammunition on all lands and waters under the jurisdiction and control of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Interior shall establish and annually update a list of non-lead ammunition. The prohibition shall not apply to (1) a government official or agent who is carrying out a statutory duty unrelated to the management of wildlife; (2) a state, local, tribal, or federal law enforcement officer, or the agent of such an officer, who is carrying out a statutory duty; or (3) an active member of the U.S. military who is carrying out official duties. A person that knowingly violates the prohibition may be assessed a civil penalty by Interior of (1) no more than $500 for the first violation, and (2) no less than $1,000 or more than $5,000 for a second or subsequent violation.

To amend title 10, United States Code, to identify additional factors for the design of the counseling pathways of the Transition Assistance Program.

United States · United States Congress · 9 July 2020

This bill adds additional factors for the design of the counseling pathways to address the needs of members of the Armed Forces under the Transition Assistance Program.

DEFEND Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 July 2020

Deadly Escalation by Foreign Entities Notification and Disclosure Act or the DEFEND Act This bill requires the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) to brief Congress if ODNI determines with moderate or high confidence that a foreign government is deliberately seeking to kill or cause serious bodily injury to any member of the Armed Forces, either directly or indirectly. The briefing shall include information such as a description of the nature and extent of the foreign government's efforts and an assessment of the foreign government's motivations. After giving an initial briefing, the ODNI shall give periodic updated briefings.

VA Clinical TEAM Culture Act of 2020

United States · United States Congress · 9 July 2020

VA Clinical Training in Evidence-based treatments And Military Culture Act of 2020 or the VA Clinical TEAM Culture Act of 2020 This bill requires the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to establish standards and requirements for the provision of mental health care by non-VA providers in the Veterans Community Care Program (VCCP). The established standards must be the same as the standards applicable to VA employees who provide mental health care. The VA must require non-VA mental health care providers to complete training courses on military culture, core competencies for health care professionals, suicide evaluation and management, post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, and military sexual trauma after the provider becomes approved under the VCCP. The VA must also (1) identify additional training areas for which to develop courses, and (2) require the non-VA providers to complete such courses.

VA Zero Suicide Demonstration Project Act of 2020

United States · United States Congress · 9 July 2020

VA Zero Suicide Demonstration Project Act of 2020 This bill requires the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to establish the Zero Suicide Initiative pilot program for the purpose of improving safety and suicide care for veterans. The program must be implemented at five VA medical centers, including one that serves veterans in rural and remote areas.

GI Internship Program Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 July 2020

GI Internship Program Act This bill requires the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to establish a program to match veterans who are entitled to educational assistance with internships to provide such veterans with work experience and marketable skills. The VA shall establish criteria that employers must meet to participate in the program. The following employers are excluded from participating in the program: (1) government agencies, (2) employers who cannot provide the VA with certain assurances, and (3) employers who have previously participated in the program and failed to abide by its requirements. The VA shall pay individuals who are full-time participants in such an internship the amount of educational assistance payable to those participating in a full-time apprenticeship or other on-job training programs. Interns shall be considered as employees of the VA, not the program employer, for purposes of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Additionally, each intern and employer shall provide the VA with a monthly certification that the intern worked at least 35 hours each week performing functions that provided the individual with valuable experience. The VA and the Department of Labor shall create and publicize a website to serve as a portal for the program. The VA shall (1) minimize the administrative burdens incurred by employers due to their participation in the program, and (2) ensure that employer participation is at no cost to the employer.

21st Century SCRA Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 July 2020

21st Century SCRA Act This bill specifies that a service member who is authorized under current law to terminate a lease of premises or a motor vehicle lease without incurring an early termination fee may provide notice of the termination by electronic delivery to an email address designated by the lessor or the lessor's agent.