Defence

A bill to require the Comptroller General to address certain questions in connection with the closure of Fort Monmouth, New Jersey, and the transfer of personnel, functions, and activities from Fort Monmouth to Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 19 July 2007

Directs the Comptroller General to require methodological, scientific, and technical experts within the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to undertake a new investigation to address specified questions relating to Fort Monmouth, New Jersey, including: (1) cost estimates with respect to its closing and the transfer of its personnel, functions, and activities to Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland; (2) a shortfall of defense scientists and engineers; and (3) the failure of the Department of Defense (DOD) to timely provide a report required by the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Commission as to whether the transfer of such personnel, functions, and activities will be accomplished without disruption of their support to the Global War on Terror or other critical contingency operations.

South Texas Veterans Access to Care Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 19 July 2007

South Texas Veterans Access to Care Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to determine, and notify Congress, whether the needs of veterans for acute inpatient hospital care in 24 counties comprising Far South Texas should be met through: (1) a public-private venture to provide such services and long-term care to veterans in an existing facility in Far South Texas; (2) a project for construction of a new full-service, 50-bed hospital with a 125-bed nursing home in Far South Texas; or (3) a sharing agreement with a military treatment facility in Far South Texas. Requires the Secretary to take appropriate action depending on the option selected.

A bill to require a report and audit on the transfer of personnel and functions from Fort Monmouth, New Jersey.

United States · United States Congress · 19 July 2007

Prohibits either the Secretary of Defense or the Secretary of the Army from funding the transfer of personnel or functions from Fort Monmouth, New Jersey, pursuant to the recommendations of the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Commission under the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Act of 1990, until at least 30 days after the Comptroller General completes an audit of a report of the Secretary of Defense stating that: (1) such transfer to Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, will be accomplished without disruption of their support to the Global War on Terror or other critical contingency operations; and (2) safeguards exist to mitigate potential degradation of such support and ensure maximum retention of critical workforce.

Commission on Wartime Contracting Establishment Act

United States · United States Congress · 19 July 2007

Commission on Wartime Contracting Establishment Act - Establishes the Commission on Wartime Contracting to investigate and report to Congress on federal agency contracting for: (1) the reconstruction of Iraq and Afghanistan; and (2) the logistical support of coalition forces and the performance of security and intelligence functions in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. Includes contracts entered into and/or performed in both in the United States and abroad. Requires the Commission to assess: (1) the extent and impact of reliance on contractors; (2) the extent of waste, fraud, abuse, or mismanagement under such contracts and the extent to which those responsible have been held accountable; and (3) the appropriateness of the organizational structure, policies, and practices of the Department of Defense and the Department of State for handling contingency contract management and support. Requires the Special Inspector General for Iraq Reconstruction to conduct audits to identify potential waste, fraud, abuse, or mismanagement in the performance of: (1) Department of Defense contracts for the logistical support of coalition forces in such Operations; and (2) federal contracts for the performance of security, intelligence, and reconstruction functions in such Operations. Prohibits the termination of the Office of such Special Inspector General until 60 days after the Commission's final report. Reaffirms the Special Inspector General's duties and responsibilities.

A bill to ensure proper administration of the discharge of members of the Armed Forces for personality disorder, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 19 July 2007

Prohibits the Secretary of a military department from discharging due to a personality disorder a member of the Armed Forces who has served on active duty in a combat zone until the later of the date of: (1) completion by the Secretary of Defense (Secretary) of a review of Department of Defense (DOD) policies and procedures for diagnosing such a disorder; (2) issuance by the Secretary of policies and procedures to ensure the appropriate use of such a discharge; (3) establishment by the Secretary of an independent review board for personality disorder discharges; (4) submittal by the Secretary of a report to Congress on progress in implementing the requirements under (1) through (3), above; or (5) the date that is 45 days after the date of the submission of the report referred to in (4), which period shall permit Congress to consider the report. Provides an exception to such requirement in the case of a member who, during recruitment for or enlistment in the Armed Forces, provided false or misleading information, or omitted providing information about past criminal behavior, that is material to a discharge for personality disorder.

Interest Relief Act

United States · United States Congress · 19 July 2007

Interest Relief Act - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to provide that no interest shall accrue on student loans under the Federal Direct Loan program for individuals and the spouses of individuals who are serving on active duty or performing National Guard duty during a war or other military operation or national emergency. Limits receipt of such benefit to 60 months.

Interest Relief Act

United States · United States Congress · 19 July 2007

Interest Relief Act - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to provide that no interest shall accrue on student loans under the Federal Direct Loan program for individuals and the spouses of individuals who are serving on active duty or performing National Guard duty during a war or other military operation or national emergency. Limits receipt of such benefit to 60 months.

A resolution calling for the urgent deployment of a robust and effective multinational peacekeeping mission with sufficient size, resources, leadership, and mandate to protect civilians in Darfur, Sudan, and for efforts to strengthen the renewal of a just and inclusive peace process.

United States · United States Congress · 19 July 2007

Urges the President of the United States to: (1) work with members of the U.N. Security Council and the African Union (AU) to ensure deployment of the United Nations-African Union peacekeeping force to protect civilians in Darfur, Sudan; (2) work bilaterally and with member states of the North Atlantic Trade Organization (NATO), the United Nations, the European Union (EU), the AU, and other partners to assist such force; and (3) work with Congress to ensure funding for such force. Urges: (1) the Secretary-General of the United Nations and the Chairperson of the AU to expedite such force's deployment; and (2) President al-Bashir and the government of Sudan to facilitate such deployment without condition; and (3) the President's Special Envoy to Sudan to continue his legislative outreach to bring peace to Darfur through an inclusive political process. Urges President Bush, the Security Council, the AU, the EU, the League of Arab States, regional nations, and individual nations with economic or political influence over Sudan to: (1) hold President al-Bashir and the government of Sudan accountable for any failure to facilitate such force's deployment; and (2) be prepared to implement meaningful measures, including sanctions, an arms embargo, and a no fly zone for Sudanese military flights over Darfur if the government of Sudan obstructs the peacekeeping mission's deployment.

To require the Comptroller General to address certain questions in connection with the closure of Fort Monmouth, New Jersey, and the transfer of personnel, functions, and activities from Fort Monmouth to Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 19 July 2007

Directs the Comptroller General to require methodological, scientific, and technical experts within the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to undertake a new investigation to address specified questions relating to Fort Monmouth, New Jersey, including: (1) cost estimates with respect to its closing and the transfer of its personnel, functions, and activities to Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland; (2) a shortfall of defense scientists and engineers; and (3) the failure of the Department of Defense (DOD) to timely provide a report required by the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Commission as to whether the transfer of such personnel, functions, and activities will be accomplished without disruption of their support to the Global War on Terror or other critical contingency operations.

Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial Enhancement Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 19 July 2007

Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial Enhancement Act of 2007 - 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, whenever such Secretary determines that specified land within the proposed boundary on the map entitled "Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial, Proposed Boundary", dated August 2005, is excess to military needs, to transfer such land to the administrative jurisdiction of the Secretary of the Interior. Instructs the Secretary of Defense, as part of such land transfer, to perform all environmental remediation actions necessary to respond to environmental contamination attributable to former military activities on the property. 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, in order to preserve the Memorial for future generations, that the Secretaries of Defense and the Interior should work together to: (1) repair storm damage to the Port Chicago site; and (2) develop a process by which future repairs and necessary modifications to the site can be achieved in as timely and cost-effective a manner as possible.

National Guard and Reserve Higher Education Fairness Act

United States · United States Congress · 19 July 2007

National Guard and Reserve Higher Education Fairness Act - Allows educational assistance to continue to be provided to a member of the Selected Reserve of the Ready Reserve who incurs a break in service from the Selected Reserve of any period of time (current law prohibits such break from being more than 90 days) if the member continues to serve in the Ready Reserve during and after such break in service.

To condition the transfer of personnel and functions from Fort Monmouth, New Jersey, pursuant to the base closure process.

United States · United States Congress · 19 July 2007

Prohibits either the Secretary of Defense or the Secretary of the Army from funding the transfer of personnel or functions from Fort Monmouth, New Jersey, pursuant to the recommendations of the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Commission under the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Act of 1990, until at least 30 days after the Comptroller General completes an audit of a report of the Secretary of Defense stating that: (1) such transfer to Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, will be accomplished without disruption of their support to the Global War on Terror or other critical contingency operations; and (2) safeguards exist to mitigate potential degradation of such support and ensure maximum retention of critical workforce.

Veteran's Choice in Nursing Home Care Act

United States · United States Congress · 19 July 2007

Veteran's Choice in Nursing Home Care Act - Allows the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into agreements with non-Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) nursing homes of the veteran's choice to provide nursing home care to veterans eligible for such care through the VA. Requires the: (1) Secretary to pay the non-VA facility for the provision of such care, with payment limits; and (2) veteran who requests such care to assume responsibility for costs that exceeds the VA limits.

To increase the authorization for the major medical facility project to consolidate the medical centers of the Department of Veterans Affairs at the University Drive and H. John Heinz III divisions, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

United States · United States Congress · 19 July 2007

Amends the Veterans Benefits, Health Care, and Information Technology Act of 2006 to increase the authorization of appropriations for a major medical facility project to consolidate the Department of Veterans Affairs medical centers at the University Drive and H. John Heinz III divisions in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

To prohibit the use of funds for military operations in Iran.

United States · United States Congress · 19 July 2007

Prohibits funds from being obligated or expended for military operations or activities within or above Iran's territory or within Iran's territorial waters except pursuant to a specific congressional authorization enacted after the date of the enactment of this Act. Exempts from such prohibition military operations or activities: (1) to directly repel an attack launched from within Iran's territory; (2) to directly thwart an imminent attack to be launched from within Iran's territory; (3) in hot pursuit of forces engaged outside the territory of Iran who thereafter enter into Iran; and (4) connected with U.S. government intelligence or intelligence-related activities. Requires the President within 24 hours after determining to use funds for such a military purpose to report to the Senate Committees on Armed Services and Foreign Relations and the Select Committee on Intelligence, and the House Committees on Armed Services and Foreign Affairs and the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence.

Ocean Thermal Energy Tax and Energy Credits Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 19 July 2007

Ocean Thermal Energy Tax and Energy Credits Act of 2007 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow the tax credit for electricity produced from renewable resources and the investment energy tax credit for ocean thermal energy conversion. Extends eligibility for the tax credit for production of electricity from ocean thermal energy conversion resources to transactions taking place in: (1) Guam, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands, the U.S. Virgin Islands, or Puerto Rico; (2) the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, or the Republic of Palau; or (3) any U.S. installation worldwide, including military bases, embassies, and other facilities.

Recognizing the 20th anniversary of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act and the impact it has made on homelessness and endeavoring to continue working to eliminate homelessness in the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 19 July 2007

Recognizes the 20th anniversary of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act and its impact upon hundreds of thousands of homeless men, women, children, and youth in the United States, including the substantial contributions of Representatives Stewart B. McKinney and Bruce Vento in addressing homelessness. Supports the efforts of federal, state, and local governments and private non-profit organizations to prevent and end homelessness through the development of affordable housing, including efforts to prevent and end homelessness among armed forces veterans. Commends the dedication and commitment of service providers, including faith-based and nonprofit organizations, to end homelessness in their communities and provide emergency food, shelter, and services to homeless Americans. Declares that the House of Representatives endeavors to work with the same courage, dignity, and determination exemplified by Representatives McKinney and Vento to eliminate homelessness in the United States.

A bill to require the Secretary of Defense to submit to Congress reports on the status of planning for the redeployment of the Armed Forces from Iraq and to require the Secretary of Defense, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and appropriate senior officials of the Department of Defense to meet with Congress to brief Congress on the matters contained in the reports.

United States · United States Congress · 18 July 2007

Requires the President to develop and transmit to Congress a comprehensive strategy for the redeployment of the Armed Forces in Iraq.

Montgomery GI Bill Degree Extension Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 18 July 2007

Montgomery GI Bill Degree Extension Act of 2007 - Extends the time limitation (generally ten years from the original eligibility date) for the use of educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill all-volunteer force educational assistance program, in the case of an individual who has completed at least 50% of the credit or time requirements leading to a degree or certificate before the last day of the ten-year period, to the earlier of: (1) the date on which the individual completes such requirements; or (2) two years after the last day of the ten-year period.

National Agriculture and Food Defense Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 2007

National Agriculture and Food Defense Act of 2007 - States that: (1) the Secretary of Homeland Security (Secretary) shall lead federal, state, local, tribal, and private efforts to enhance the protection of critical U.S. infrastructure and key resources, including the agriculture and food system; (2) the Secretary of Agriculture shall lead federal efforts relating to agriculture, meat, poultry, and egg food products; (3) the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) shall lead federal efforts relating to other food products; and (4) the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) shall lead federal efforts relating to drinking water and waste water. Establishes in the Department of Homeland Security (DHS): (1) a Chief Medical Officer who shall serve as the Assistant Secretary for Health Affairs; and (2) the agriculture and food defense rotational expertise program. Establishes in the Department of Agriculture the position of Under Secretary for Protection, Preparedness, and Response. Directs the Secretary of HHS to coordinate the public health surveillance of zoonotic diseases. Directs the Secretary to: (1) prepare and submit to the appropriate congressional committees the national agriculture and food defense strategy; (2) carry out vulnerability assessments of the agriculture and food system; (3) implement mitigation strategies to protect critical production and processing nodes from diseases, pests, and poisonous agents; (3) ensure that combined federal, state, and local capabilities are adequate to respond to a terrorist attack, disease outbreak, or other disaster affecting the U.S. agriculture and food system; (4) assist the states with food and agriculture protection activities; and (5) establish the Food and Agriculture Government Coordinating Council. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to: (1) develop a national veterinary stockpile; (2) develop a national plant disease recovery system; (3) establish a National Veterinary Stockpile Advisory Committee; (4) carry out a program (Agricultural Biosecurity Corps) to develop veterinary leaders with epidemiological expertise to respond to animal agriculture threats; (5) develop a national plant diagnostic network; (6) develop a national food emergency response network; (7) develop a national animal health laboratory network; (8) identify an increased production capacity goal for the rendering industry to meet animal disposal needs following a catastrophic animal disease outbreak; and (9) conduct a study of irradiation technology use to enhance food defense capabilities. Directs the Secretaries concerned to submit an integrated food system defense budget. Directs the Administrator to provide assistance to state, local, and tribal governments in assessing, decontaminating, and recovering from an agriculture or food emergency.

Interest Relief Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 2007

Interest Relief Act - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to provide that no interest shall accrue on student loans under the Federal Direct Loan program for individuals and the spouses of individuals who are serving on active duty or performing National Guard duty during a war or other military operation or national emergency. Limits receipt of such benefit to 60 months.

Compassionate Care for Servicewomen Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 2007

Compassionate Care for Servicewomen Act - Requires emergency contraception to be included on the basic core formulary of the uniform formulary of pharmaceutical agents for the pharmacy benefits program of the Department of Defense. States that prior authorization shall not be required for such contraception.

To amend title 38 United States Code, to modify the rate of reimbursement of State and local agencies administering veterans education benefits.

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 2007

Sets $19 million as the maximum amount per fiscal year for reimbursement to states and local agencies administering veterans' education benefits.

Iraq Redeployment and Regional Security Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 2007

Iraq Redeployment and Regional Security Act - Requires: (1) the President, within 30 days after the enactment of this Act, to commence the full redeployment of all U.S. Armed Forces from Iraq; and (2) such redeployment to be completed within one year after the enactment of this Act. Directs the President, as soon as practicable, to institute a regional diplomatic plan, in conjunction with the United Nations (UN) Security Council, to attempt to: (1) curtail the ongoing civil war in Iraq; (2) contain such civil war to prevent its spread into neighboring countries; (3) prevent the establishment of al Qaeda safe havens; (4) prevent regional war; and (5) prevent genocide. Requires a report from the President to Congress, within 30 days after the enactment of this Act and every 30 days thereafter, on the status and progress of the diplomatic plan.

Disabled Veterans' Caregiver Compensation Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 2007

Disabled Veterans' Caregiver Compensation Act - Requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to pay monthly compensation of $234 to a veteran if and while totally disabled and in need of regular aid and attendance and while unpaid aid and attendance is provided by an adult family member who is dependent upon such veteran for support.

A concurrent resolution commending the 1st Brigade Combat Team/34th Infantry Division of the Minnesota National Guard upon its completion of the longest continuous deployment of any United States military unit during Operation Iraqi Freedom.

United States · United States Congress · 16 July 2007

Commends the 1st Brigade Combat Team/34th Infantry Division of the Minnesota National Guard upon its completion of the longest continuous deployment of any U.S. military unit during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Recognizes the achievements of its members and their exemplary service to the United States.

Heroes at Home Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 16 July 2007

Heroes at Home Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) establish a program on training and certification of family caregivers of veterans and members with traumatic brain injury (TBI); and (2) conduct outreach to enhance awareness of veterans and the public about the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and TBI and the services provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs to veterans with such symptoms. Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to jointly: (1) establish a demonstration project to assess the feasibility and advisability of using telehealth technology to assess cognitive functioning of members who have sustained head trauma in order to improve their diagnosis and treatment; and (2) conduct an ongoing study of all matters relating to the telehealth and telemental health services of the Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs.

Veterans Claims Processing Innovation Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 16 July 2007

Veterans Claims Processing Innovation Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a work credit system for evaluating regional offices of the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) with respect to veterans' claims processing. Requires the Secretary to: (1) develop and maintain a system for processing veterans' disability compensation claims using artificial intelligence that utilizes medical and military service data to generate disability rating recommendations; and (2) maintain a regional office at which all such claims are processed exclusively electronically. Provides that if a veteran who is a claimant dies before completing the submission of a claim for benefits, the person who would receive any accrued benefit(s) due to such veteran shall be treated as the claimant for purposes of completing submission of the claim. Directs the Secretary to contract with a private entity to evaluate the training and assessment programs for VBA employees.

Expressing the ongoing concern of the House of Representatives for Lebanon's democratic institutions and unwavering support for the administration of justice upon those responsible for the assassination of Lebanese public figures opposing Syrian control of Lebanon.

United States · United States Congress · 16 July 2007

Condemns: (1) the attempts by Hezbollah and other pro-Syrian groups to undermine the government of Lebanon; (2) the assassination campaign targeting members of parliament and public figures in favor of Lebanese independence; and (3) Syria and Iran for their ongoing roles in arming Lebanese militias. Confirms U.S. support for U.N. Security Council resolutions concerning Lebanon, and the clear and binding mandate of the international community for the arms embargo and disarmament of all armed groups in Lebanon. Expresses appreciation to the countries whose military personnel serve in the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). Urges the government of Lebanon to request UNIFIL's assistance to secure the Lebanese-Syrian border. Affirms U.S. support for efforts to bring to justice those responsible for the terrorist bombing of February 14, 2005, and both prior and subsequent politically inspired assassinations. Pledges continued support for the government of Lebanon and the Lebanese people against the campaign of terror directed at the Lebanese people and at political and public figures opposing Syrian interference in Lebanon. Commends the many Lebanese who continue to adhere to the principles of the Cedar Revolution. Applauds the government of Lebanon's efforts to fully extend Lebanon's sovereignty over the entire country.

Concurrent resolution commending the 1st Brigade Combat Team/34th Infantry Division of the Minnesota National Guard upon its completion of the longest continuous deployment of any United States ground combat military unit in Operation Iraqi Freedom.

United States · United States Congress · 13 July 2007

Commends the 1st Brigade Combat Team/34th Infantry Division of the Minnesota National Guard upon its completion of the longest continuous deployment of any U.S. military unit during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Recognizes the achievements of its members and their exemplary service to the United States.

[H.A.S.C. No. 110-70]EMERGING CONTAMINANTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT AT DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE INSTALLATIONS

United States · United States House of Representatives · 12 July 2007

[H.A.S.C. No. 110-69]FINDINGS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE TASK FORCE ON MENTAL HEALTH

United States · United States House of Representatives · 12 July 2007

Maritime Administration Authorities Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 12 July 2007

Maritime Administration Authorities Act of 2007 - Authorizes appropriations for the Maritime Administration, including for operations and training, assistance to small shipyards and maritime communities, and disposal of obsolete vessels in the National Defense Reserve Fleet. Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to enter into agreements to purchase, charter, operate, or otherwise acquire the use of any vessels and any other related real or personal property. Subjects the following to the prior consent of the Secretary of Defense regarding vessels in the Ready Reserve Force or the National Defense Reserve Fleet: (1) the authority of the Secretary of Transportation to operate or lease vessels under the Secretary's control; (2) the charter of vessels in the National Defense Reserve Fleet (including Ready Reserve Force vessels) by any state, locality, or territory of the United States; and (3) the authority of the Secretary of Transportation to charter or otherwise make available a vessel under the jurisdiction of the Secretary to any other department. Amends the National Maritime Heritage Act of 1994 to modify requirements regarding disposal of certain National Defense Reserve Fleet vessels that are not in the Ready Reserve Fleet. Requires the Secretary of Transportation, in order to ensure Ready Reserve Fleet vessel readiness, to activate and conduct sea trials on each vessel at least once every 30 (under current law, 24) months. Sets forth a variety of provisions. Declares that such provisions make no substantive change in existing law and prohibits construing them as making a substantive change.

Military Reservist and Veteran Small Business Reauthorization and Opportunity Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 12 July 2007

Military Reservist and Veteran Small Business Reauthorization and Opportunity Act of 2007 - Increases funding, for each of FY2008-FY2010, for the Office of Veterans Business Development of the Small Business Administration (SBA), with the excess funds to be used to support veterans business outreach centers. Amends the Small Business Act to direct the President to establish an interagency task force to coordinate federal efforts to increase capital and business development opportunities for, and the award of federal contracts and subcontracts to, small businesses owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans and veterans. Extends permanently the SBA's Advisory Committee on Veterans Business Affairs. National Reservist Enterprise Transition and Sustainability Act of 2007 - Directs the SBA Administrator to establish a program to provide business planning assistance to small businesses owned and operated by reservists. Directs the Administrator to: (1) establish a loan pre-consideration process for small business loans to reservists; (2) develop an outreach and technical assistance program with respect to loans and grants made to reservists; and (3) give priority to reservists' loan applications. Increases the loan limit for such loans. Authorizes the Administrator to make noncollateralized small business loans to reservists. Provides relief from SBA time limits in the case of certain veteran or service-disabled veteran small business loans. Requires a: (1) report concerning types of assistance needed by service-disabled veterans who wish to become entrepreneurs; and (2) study on options for promoting positive working relations between employers and their reservist employees.

Military Spouses Memorial Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 12 July 2007

Military Spouses Memorial Act of 2007 - Authorizes the Military Spouse Legacy Association, Inc., to establish a commemorative work on federal land in the District of Columbia and its environs to honor all those who have put their country first as military spouses throughout our Nation's history. Prohibits the use of federal funds to pay any expense of the establishment of the commemorative work. Makes the Military Spouse Legacy Association, Inc., solely responsible for acceptance of contributions for, and payment of the expenses of, the establishment of such work.

Child Soldier Prevention Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 12 July 2007

Child Soldier Prevention Act of 2007 - Defines "child soldier." Prohibits, with a national interest waiver, funds appropriated or otherwise made available for specified military and related areas from being obligated or otherwise made available to the government of a country identified by the Department of State as having governmental armed forces or government supported armed groups, including paramilitaries, militias, or civil defense forces, that recruit or use child soldiers. Directs the Secretary of State to notify any government so identified. Authorizes the President to reinstate assistance upon certifying to Congress that a government is implementing: (1) compliance measures; and (2) mechanisms to prohibit future use of child soldiers and to ensure that no children are recruited, conscripted, or otherwise compelled to serve as child soldiers. Authorizes the President to provide assistance to a country for international military education and training otherwise prohibited under this Act upon certifying to Congress that such assistance is for programs that implement measures to demobilize child soldiers and for programs to support professionalization of the military.

Attorney-Client Privilege Protection Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 12 July 2007

Attorney-Client Privilege Protection Act of 2007 - Amends the federal criminal code to prohibit any U.S. agent or attorney, in any federal investigation or criminal or civil enforcement matter, from demanding, requesting, or conditioning treatment ("giving cooperation credit") on the disclosure by an organization (or affiliated person) of any communication protected by the attorney-client privilege or any attorney work product. Prohibits a U.S. agent or attorney from conditioning a civil or criminal charging decision relating to an organization (or affiliated person) on one or more specified actions, or from using one or more such actions as a factor in determining whether an organization or affiliated person is cooperating with the government. Numbers among the actions a U.S. agent or attorney may not use as a charging decision condition or a cooperation-determining factor: (1) any valid assertion of the attorney-client privilege or privilege for attorney work product; (2) the provision of counsel to, or contribution to the legal defense fees or expenses of, an employee of the organization; (3) entry into a joint-defense, information-sharing, or common-interest agreement with an employee of the organization if the organization determines it has a common interest in defending against the investigation or enforcement matter; (4) the sharing of relevant information with an employee; or (5) a failure to terminate an employee's employment, or otherwise sanction an employee, because of the employee's decision to exercise his or her constitutional rights or other legal protections in response to a government request. Prohibits a U.S. agent or attorney from demanding or requesting that an organization or an affiliated person not take any such action.

To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide additional educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill to veterans pursuing a degree in science, technology, engineering, or math.

United States · United States Congress · 12 July 2007

Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to pay to each individual entitled to basic educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill and pursuing a program of education with a focus on science, technology, engineering, or math a lump-sum payment of $2,000 per academic year, or fraction thereof for enrollment lasting less than a year. Makes such amount in addition to any other educational assistance to which the individual is entitled.

Expressing the unconditional support of the House of Representatives for the members of the National Guard.

United States · United States Congress · 12 July 2007

Unconditionally supports the members of the National Guard and recognizes their sacrifices made on behalf of the United States. States that the House of Representatives will: (1) do everything in its power to ensure that the National Guard receives the resources it needs; and (2) support the families of Guard members who have died while serving on active duty.

A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide an exception to the 60-day limit on Medicare reciprocal billing arrangements between two physicians during the period in which one of the physicians is ordered to active duty as a member of a reserve component of the Armed Forces.

United States · United States Congress · 11 July 2007

Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to create an exception to the 60-day limit on Medicare reciprocal billing arrangements in the case of arrangements between two physicians over a longer continuous period during all of which one of them is ordered to active duty as a member of a reserve component of the armed forces.

Cold War Medal Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 11 July 2007

Cold War Medal Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary of the military department concerned, upon application, to issue Cold War service medals to military personnel who served honorably during the Cold War era (September 2, 1945, through December 26, 1991).

A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to expedite the prompt return of the remains of deceased members of the Armed Forces to their loved ones for burial.

United States · United States Congress · 11 July 2007

Requires that, when transportation of the remains of a deceased member of the Armed Forces who dies during active duty or inactive-duty training includes transportation by aircraft, the Secretary of the military department concerned shall provide for the delivery of such remains to the commercial, general aviation, or military airport nearest to the place selected by the deceased's designee, or if such a selection is not made, nearest to the cemetery selected by the Secretary.

A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide an exception to the 60-day limit on Medicare reciprocal billing arrangements between two physicians during the period in which one of the physicians is ordered to active duty as a member of a reserve component of the Armed Forces.

United States · United States Congress · 11 July 2007

Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to create an exception to the 60-day limit on Medicare reciprocal billing arrangements in the case of arrangements between two physicians over a longer continuous period during all of which one of them is ordered to active duty as a member of a reserve component of the armed forces. Applies this exception to medical services provided before January 1, 2008.

Rural Veterans Services Outreach and Training Act

United States · United States Congress · 11 July 2007

Rural Veterans Services Outreach and Training Act - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a program to make competitive grants to provide financial assistance to state departments of veterans affairs for the training of rural county veteran service officers in order to improve outreach and assistance to veterans, as well as their spouses, children, and parents, who may be eligible to receive veterans' or veterans-related benefits and who are residing in rural counties. Limits each grant to $1 million. Requires grants to be made on an annual basis.

Military Retiree Dislocation Assistance Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 11 July 2007

Military Retiree Dislocation Assistance Act of 2007 - Entitles a member of the Armed Forces who is retired or placed on the temporary disability list to a dislocation allowance when moving from such member's last duty station to such member's residence.

To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide an exception to the 60-day limit on Medicare reciprocal billing arrangements between two physicians during the period in which one of the physicians is ordered to active duty as a member of a reserve component of the Armed Forces.

United States · United States Congress · 11 July 2007

Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to create an exception to the 60-day limit on Medicare reciprocal billing arrangements in the case of arrangements between two physicians over a longer continuous period during all of which one of them is ordered to active duty as a member of a reserve component of the armed forces.

Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 2956) to require the Secretary of Defense to commence the reduction of the number of United States Armed Forces in Iraq to a limited presence by April 1, 2008, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 11 July 2007

Sets forth the rule for consideration of the bill (H.R. 2956) to require the Secretary of Defense to commence the reduction of the number of United States Armed Forces in Iraq to a limited presence by April 1, 2008.

Veterans' Authorities Expansion Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2007

Veterans' Authorities Expansion Act of 2007 - Makes permanent the authority of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to: (1) provide hospital care, medical services, and nursing home care to veterans who participated in tests conducted by the Department of Defense Deseret Test Center as part of a program for chemical and biological warfare testing; and (2) provide government markers or memorial headstones for the graves of veterans buried in private cemeteries. Amends the Veterans Benefits Improvement Act of 2004 to extend through December 30, 2010, the authority for an increase in basic educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill for individuals pursuing apprenticeship or on-job training. Extends through FY2010 the VA's work-study allowance program.

Higher Education Access Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2007

Higher Education Access Act of 2007 - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to remove the tuition sensitivity provision reducing the Pell grant available to students attending low-cost schools. Establishes a Promise grant program awarding grants to Pell-eligible students with the greatest need. Extends the deferral limit on Federal Family Education Loans (FFELs), Direct Loans (DLs), and Perkins loans (PLs) for certain borrowers suffering economic hardship and for certain military personnel. Establishes a new income-based repayment plan for student FFEL and DL borrowers. Alters the FFEL program by: (1) reducing the lender insurance percentage; (2) reducing the percentage of defaulted loan collections a guaranty agency may retain; (3) eliminating exceptional performer status for lenders, servicers, and guaranty agencies; (4) reducing special allowance payments to lenders; (5) increasing the loan fee charged lenders; and (6) changing the formula for determining the account maintenance fees paid to guaranty agencies. Redefines economic hardship to increase the number of borrowers qualifying for FFEL and DL repayment benefits. Provides DL forgiveness to certain borrowers who have made 120 payments under income-based or standard repayment plans while employed in certain public service jobs. Increases the income and assets of title IV financial aid applicants that are to be excluded from need analyses. Includes the recent unemployment of an independent student and homelessness within the special circumstances giving financial aid administrators extra discretion in making need analyses. Treats additional categories of students as independent. Eliminates student disqualification for title IV aid for drug convictions that occurred before their receipt of such aid, as well as their need to mention such convictions in applying for such aid. Establishes: (1) a Competitive Loan Auction Pilot program of biennial auctions held in each state allowing prequalified lenders to compete for the right to make FFEL program PLUS loans at all IHEs within the state; (2) a College Access Partnership Grant program providing grants to states to improve student access to postsecondary education; (3) a Financial Literacy Program awarding grants to entities to increase the financial literacy of students who are enrolled or will enroll in IHEs; and (4) a Secondary School Graduation and College Enrollment program awarding grants to consortia of nonprofit organizations and IHEs to assist LEAs with low secondary school graduation rates.

Responsible Redeployment from Iraq Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2007

Responsible Redeployment from Iraq Act - Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) the Authorization for Use of Military Force Against Iraq Resolution of 2002 authorized the President to use the Armed Forces as appropriate to defend U.S. national security against the continuing threat posed by the government of Iraq at the time; (2) the government of Iraq which was in power at that time has been removed; (3) the current Iraqi government does not pose a threat to the United States; and (4) after more than four years of efforts by members of the Armed Forces and U.S. civilians, the government of Iraq must now be responsible for Iraq's future course. Directs the Secretary of Defense to commence the reduction of the number of Armed Forces in Iraq beginning no later than 120 days after the enactment of this Act and complete the reduction and transition to a limited presence in Iraq by no later than April 1, 2008 Directs the President, by January 1, 2008, to transmit to the congressional defense, appropriations, and foreign relations committees a comprehensive U.S. strategy for Iraq. Requires the President to update such strategy no later than July 1, 2008, and every 90 days thereafter, including a description of the number of Armed Forces deployed to Iraq and the missions for which they are so deployed.