Defence

Military Quality of Life and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Act, 2006

United States · United States Congress · 23 May 2005

Military Quality of Life and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Act, 2006 - Appropriates funds for FY 2006 for the Department of Defense (DOD) for: (1) military construction for the Army, Navy and Marine Corps, and Air Force (military departments), DOD, the Army and Air National Guards, and the Army, Naval, and Air Force reserves; (2) the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Security Investment Program; (3) family housing and related operation and maintenance for the military departments and DOD; (4) the Department of Defense Family Housing Improvement Fund; (5) the Department of Defense Base Closure Account 1990 and the Department of Defense Base Realignment and Closure Account 2005; (6) basic allowance for housing for the military departments (active-duty and reserve) and the Army and Air National Guard; (7) facilities sustainment, restoration, and modernization for the military departments (active-duty and reserve), DOD, and the Army and Air National Guard; (8) environmental restoration for the Army, Navy, Air Force, DOD, and at formerly used defense sites; and (9) the Defense Health Program. Appropriates funds for the Department of Veterans Affairs for: (1) the Veterans Benefits Administration; (2) readjustment benefits; (3) veterans insurance and indemnities; (4) the Veterans Housing Benefit Program Fund; (5) the Vocational Rehabilitation Loans Program; (6) the Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program; (7) guaranteed transitional housing loans for homeless veterans; (8) the Veterans Health Administration; (9) construction for major and minor projects; and (10) grants for the construction of State extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries. Appropriates funds for: (1) the American Battle Monuments Commission; (2) the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims; (3) cemeterial expenses, Army; and (4) the Armed Forces Retirement Home. Specifies restrictions and authorizations regarding the use of funds appropriated in this Act.

To amend titles 10 and 14, United States Code, to provide for the use of gold in the metal content of the Medal of Honor.

United States · United States Congress · 23 May 2005

Requires the metal content of the Medal of Honor, awarded by the President to members of the armed forces and Coast Guard, to be 90 percent gold and ten percent alloy.

Americans in Uniform Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 19 May 2005

Americans in Uniform Act of 2005 - Requires the Department of Defense (DOD), in awarding any contract for the procurement of goods and services, to use as an evaluation factor whether entities intend to carry out the contract using employees or individual subcontractors who are members of the Selected Reserve. Requires entities claiming the intention to use such employees or subcontractors to document to DOD the number that the entity will employ, or contract with, for the contract in question. Authorizes the Secretary of the military department concerned to waive such requirement for national security purposes. Increases by specified amounts the following special pays and allowances for reserve personnel: (1) hardship duty pay; (2) reenlistment bonuses; and (3) the family separation allowance. Makes eligible for burial in Arlington National Cemetery: (1) a member or former member of the reserves who was under age 60 at the time of death and who, but for such age, would have been eligible for military retired pay; and (2) his or her dependents. Makes eligible for space-available travel on DOD aircraft: (1) a member or former member of the reserves under 60 years of age who, but for such age, would be eligible for military retired pay; and (2) his or her spouse. Requires a report from the Comptroller General to Congress on difficulties faced by members of the National Guard and reserves with respect to employment as a result of being ordered to full-time National Guard duty or active-duty service, respectively.

To postpone the 2005 round of defense base closure and realignment until the completion of certain specified activities by the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Homeland Security.

United States · United States Congress · 19 May 2005

Amends the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Act of 1990 to postpone the 2005 round of defense base closures and realignments, as currently required under such Act, until the last of the following occurs: (1) the complete analysis, consideration, and implementation by the Secretary of Defense (Secretary) of the recommendations of the Commission on Review of Overseas Military Facility Structure of the United States; (2) the return from deployment in Iraq of substantially all major U.S. combat units and assets; (3) the receipt by the congressional defense committees of the report on the quadrennial defense review to be submitted by the Secretary in 2006; (4) the complete development and implementation by the Secretary and the Secretary of Homeland Security of the National Maritime Security Strategy; (5) the complete development and implementation by the Secretary of the Homeland Defense and Civil Support directive; and (6) the receipt by the defense committees of a report from the Secretary assessing military installation needs. States that, upon the enactment of this Act, the list of recommendations for 2005 base closures and realignments submitted by the Secretary pursuant to such Act, as well as all other actions carried out under such Act by the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Commission or the President before the date of enactment of this Act, shall have no further force and effect.

Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2006

United States · United States Congress · 19 May 2005

Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2006 - Authorizes appropriations for FY 2006 for the conduct of intelligence and intelligence-related activities of the: (1) Office of the Director of National Intelligence; (2) Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); (3) Department of Defense (DOD); (4) Defense Intelligence Agency; (5) National Security Agency (NSA); (6) Departments of the Army, Navy, and Air Force; (7) Departments of State, the Treasury, Energy, and Justice; (8) Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); (9) National Reconnaissance Office; (10) National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency; (11) Coast Guard; and (12) Department of Homeland Security. Specifies that the amounts authorized and the authorized personnel ceilings as of September 30, 2006, for such activities are those specified in the classified Schedule of Authorizations, which shall be made available to the Senate and House Appropriations Committees and the President. Allows the Director of Central Intelligence, with the approval of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, to authorize employment of civilian personnel in excess of the number authorized for FY 2006 when necessary for the performance of important intelligence functions. Requires notification of the congressional intelligence committees on the use of such authority. Authorizes appropriations for the Intelligence Community Management Account for FY 2006, as well as for full-time personnel for elements within such Account. Authorizes appropriations for FY 2006 for the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability Fund. Specifies that the authorization of appropriations by this Act shall not be deemed to constitute authority for the conduct of any intelligence activity which is not otherwise authorized by the Constitution or laws of the United States.

To provide that members of the National Guard who served in the counties declared Federal disasters areas in response to the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the United States, and who served under State duty so that they could immediately assist in the response to the terrorist attacks should have that service counted as Federal active duty for purposes of military retirement credit under chapter 1223 of title 10, United States Code.

United States · United States Congress · 19 May 2005

Counts as federal active duty for military retirement credit purposes full-time State active duty service performed by a member of the Army or Air National Guard on or after September 11, 2001, and before October 1, 2001, in specified counties of New York and Arlington County, Virginia, to support a federal declaration of emergency following the terrorist attacks on the United States of September 11, 2001.

Recognizing the sacrifices being made by the families of members of the Armed Forces and supporting the designation of a week as National Military Families Week.

United States · United States Congress · 19 May 2005

Recognizes the sacrifices of military families and the support they provide for their loved ones serving as members of the Armed Forces. Supports the designation of a week as National Military Families Week.

A bill to postpone the 2005 round of defense base closure and realignment.

United States · United States Congress · 18 May 2005

Amends the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Act of 1990 to postpone the 2005 round of defense base closures and realignments, as currently required under such Act, until the last of the following occurs: (1) the complete analysis, consideration, and implementation by the Secretary of Defense (Secretary) of the recommendations of the Commission on Review of Overseas Military Facility Structure of the United States; (2) the return from deployment in Iraq of substantially all major U.S. combat units and assets; (3) the receipt by the congressional defense committees of the report on the quadrennial defense review to be submitted by the Secretary in 2006; (4) the complete development and implementation by the Secretary and the Secretary of Homeland Security of the National Maritime Security Strategy; (5) the complete development and implementation by the Secretary of the Homeland Defense and Civil Support directive; and (6) the receipt by the defense committees of a report from the Secretary assessing military installation needs. States that, effective May 13, 2005, the list of recommendations for 2005 base closures and realignments submitted by the Secretary pursuant to such Act shall have no further force and effect.

A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to extend child care eligibility for children of members of the Armed Forces who die in the line of duty.

United States · United States Congress · 18 May 2005

States that if a member of the Armed Forces or reserves dies either on active duty or while in active service, any child of such member who is enrolled in a Federal child care program shall be eligible to continue receiving services under such program for 24 months following such member's death.

Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act, 2006

United States · United States Congress · 18 May 2005

Makes appropriations for energy and water development for FY 2006 for: (1) the Department of the Army (including the Corps of Engineers) for civil functions pertaining to rivers and harbors, flood and storm damage reduction, and aquatic ecosystem restoration; (2) the Department of the Interior for the Central Utah Project Completion Account and the Bureau of Reclamation; and (3) the Department of Energy for energy supply and conservation, including nuclear waste disposal, atomic energy defense activities, and environmental and other defense activities. Makes appropriations for: (1) the Appalachian Regional Commission; (2) the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board; (3) the Delta Regional Authority; (4) the Denali Commission; (5) the Nuclear Regulatory Commission; (6) the Office of Inspector General; and (7) the Nuclear Waste Technical Review Board.

To repeal the Military Selective Service Act.

United States · United States Congress · 18 May 2005

Repeals the Military Selective Service Act. Prohibits the Office of Selective Service Records from being reestablished upon such repeal. Transfers the assets, property, and records held by the Selective Service System (SSS), as well as unexpended balances, to the Administrator of General Services. Requires the Director of the Office of Personnel Management to assist officers and employees of the SSS to transfer to other positions in the executive branch. Prohibits any person from being denied a right, privilege, benefit, or employment position under Federal law on the grounds that the person failed to register under the Military Selective Service Act before its repeal.

To postpone the 2005 round of defense base closure and realignment.

United States · United States Congress · 18 May 2005

Amends the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Act of 1990 to postpone the 2005 round of defense base closures and realignments, as currently required under such Act, until the last of the following occurs: (1) the complete analysis, consideration, and implementation by the Secretary of Defense (Secretary) of the recommendations of the Commission on Review of Overseas Military Facility Structure of the United States; (2) the return from deployment in Iraq of substantially all major U.S. combat units and assets; (3) the receipt by the congressional defense committees of the report on the quadrennial defense review to be submitted by the Secretary in 2006; (4) the complete development and implementation by the Secretary and the Secretary of Homeland Security of the National Maritime Security Strategy; (5) the complete development and implementation by the Secretary of the Homeland Defense and Civil Support directive; and (6) the receipt by the defense committees of a report from the Secretary assessing military installation needs. States that, effective May 13, 2005, the list of recommendations for 2005 base closures and realignments submitted by the Secretary pursuant to such Act shall have no further force and effect.

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2006

United States · United States Senate · 17 May 2005

Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2006

United States · United States Congress · 17 May 2005

Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2006 - Authorizes the Secretary of Defense (Secretary) and the Secretaries of each military department to acquire real property and carry out military construction projects in specified amounts at specified installations and locations. Authorizes each department Secretary to construct or acquire family housing units and improve existing military family housing in specified amounts. Authorizes appropriations to the Department of Defense (DOD) and each military department for fiscal years after 2005 for military construction, land acquisition, and military family housing functions. Limits the total cost of authorized construction projects. Modifies certain prior-year construction projects. Authorizes the Secretary to make contributions for the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Security Investment Program and authorizes appropriations for fiscal years after 2005 for such Program. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years after 2005 for the Guard and reserve forces for acquisition, architectural and engineering services, and construction of facilities. Terminates all authorizations contained in this Act on October 1, 2008, or the date of enactment of an Act authorizing funds for military construction for FY2009, whichever is later, with exceptions. Extends certain prior-year military construction projects. Authorizes specified military land conveyances.

Department of Energy National Security Act for Fiscal Year 2006

United States · United States Congress · 17 May 2005

Department of Energy National Security Act for Fiscal Year 2006 - Authorizes appropriations to the Department of Energy (DOE) for FY2006 for: (1) activities of the National Nuclear Security Administration in carrying out programs necessary for national security, with specified allocations for weapons activities, defense nuclear nonproliferation, naval reactors, and the Office of the Administrator for Nuclear Security; and (2) environmental management activities in carrying out national security programs, with specified allocations for defense environmental management, other defense activities, and defense nuclear waste disposal. Requires reports from the Secretary of Energy on: (1) achieving compliance under the Design Basis Threat issued by DOE; (2) a cost estimate for the Waste Treatment and Immobilization Plant Project at the Hanford Site, Richland, Washington; and (3) the management of border security programs in countries of the former Soviet Union and other countries. Authorizes appropriations for FY2006 for the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board. Revises required receipt objectives for previously authorized disposals from the National Defense Stockpile.

National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2006

United States · United States Congress · 17 May 2005

National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2006 - Authorizes appropriations for the Department of Defense, military construction, and national security programs of the Department of Energy for FY2006. Authorizes appropriations to DOD for: (1) procurement, including aircraft, missiles, weapons and tracked combat vehicles, ammunition, shipbuilding and conversion, and other procurement; (2) research, development, test, and evaluation, including science and technology projects, ballistic missile defense, and manufacturing technology; (3) operation and maintenance, including defense working capital funds, the defense health program, and environmental restoration; (4) active and reserve military personnel, including end strengths; (5) the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Security Investment Program; (6) Guard and Reserve forces facilities; and (7) the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board. Extends certain bonus, special, and incentive pay authorities. Authorizes certain: (1) travel and transportation allowances; and (2) military retired pay and survivor benefits. Sets forth provisions or requirements concerning: (1) active and reserve military personnel policy; (2) military justice, including statutes of limitations with respect to murder, rape, and child abuse, and the establishment of the offense of stalking; (3) defense dependents' education, including assistance to local educational agencies; (4) military health care; (5) acquisition policy and management, including the establishment of defense contract support acquisition centers and certain defense acquisition workforce improvements; (6) DOD organization and management, including an advisory committee on DOD space control, and the authority to exempt from public disclosure certain operational files of the Defense Intelligence Agency; (7) budget and financial matters, including the use of unmanned aerial vehicles for U.S. border reconnaissance, and certain counter-drug activities; (8) DOD civilian personnel policy; (9) matters relating to other nations, including increased assistance for the detection and clearing of landmines; (10) cooperative threat reduction with states of the former Soviet Union; and (11) the national defense stockpile. Authorizes emergency supplemental appropriations for DOD for FY2006 for operations in Iraq, Afghanistan, and the global war on terrorism, specifically for: (1) procurement; (2) operation and maintenance; (3) the defense health program; (4) military personnel; and (5) the Iraq Freedom Fund. Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2006 - Authorizes military construction, military family housing, and certain military land conveyances.

Department of Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2006

United States · United States Congress · 17 May 2005

Department of Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2006 - Authorizes appropriations for the Department of Defense (DOD) for FY2006. Authorizes appropriations to DOD for: (1) procurement, including aircraft, missiles, weapons and tracked combat vehicles, ammunition, shipbuilding and conversion, and other procurement; (2) research, development, test, and evaluation, including science and technology projects, ballistic missile defense, and manufacturing technology; (3) operation and maintenance, including defense working capital funds, the defense health program, and environmental restoration; and (4) active and reserve military personnel, including end strengths. Extends certain bonus, special, and incentive pay authorities. Authorizes certain: (1) travel and transportation allowances; and (2) military retired pay and survivor benefits. Sets forth provisions or requirements concerning: (1) active and reserve military personnel policy; (2) military justice, including statutes of limitations with respect to murder, rape, and child abuse, and the establishment of the offense of stalking; (3) defense dependents' education, including assistance to local educational agencies; (4) military health care; (5) acquisition policy and management, including the establishment of defense contract support acquisition centers and certain defense acquisition workforce improvements; (6) DOD organization and management, including an advisory committee on DOD space control, and the authority to exempt from public disclosure certain operational files of the Defense Intelligence Agency; (7) budget and financial matters, including the use of unmanned aerial vehicles for U.S. border reconnaissance, and certain counter-drug activities; (8) DOD civilian personnel policy; (9) matters relating to other nations, including increased assistance for the detection and clearing of landmines; and (10) cooperative threat reduction with states of the former Soviet Union. Authorizes emergency supplemental appropriations for DOD for FY2006 for operations in Iraq, Afghanistan, and the global war on terrorism, specifically for: (1) procurement; (2) operation and maintenance; (3) the defense health program; (4) military personnel; and (5) the Iraq Freedom Fund.

Matthew Boisvert Help Extend Respect Owed to Every Soldier (HEROES) Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 May 2005

Matthew Voisbert Help Extend Respect Owed to Every Soldier (HEROES) Act - Requires: (1) the Secretary of Defense to establish minimum uniform standards for postdeployment medical examinations; (2) that such examinations include screening for mental health and substance abuse disorders; and (3) follow-up services in appropriate cases. Directs the Secretary of Defense to foster the early identification and treatment of mental health and substance abuse disorders experienced by members of the Armed Forces, with special emphasis on members who have served in a theater of combat operations within the preceding 12 months. Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to employ at least one psychiatrist and a complementary medical team at each Department of Veterans Affairs (Department) medical center to conduct a specialized program for the diagnosis and treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder, and to employ additional mental health services specialists at such center. Authorizes such Secretary to contract for mental health and substance abuse treatment services in non-Department facilities when such services are not available in Department facilities. Requires the Secretary of Defense to transmit to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs: (1) within seven days the medical records of all military personnel being discharged, released from active duty, or retired; and (2) a roster of all personnel who have served in the theater of operations during Operations Iraqi Freedom or Enduring Freedom. Directs the Secretary of Defense to assist eligible persons in obtaining employment in stable and permanent positions. Requires individualized transitional services to be provided to separating military personnel. Includes additional elements within a program under which the Secretary of Labor provides services and information to separating military personnel and their spouses. Requires the Secretaries of Defense and Homeland Security to: (1) ensure that transition programs are provided at each military installation, National Guard armory and military family support center, and inpatient medical care facility; (2) ensure that military and veterans' service organizations and representatives are permitted to participate in such transition programs; and (3) facilitate the access of such State organizations and representatives to provide preseparation counseling and services to separating members. Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to facilitate the access of such organizations and representatives to provide member information on the care and services available. Requires the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to facilitate the sharing between their respective departments of information concerning member duties and assignments, exposures to toxic or hazardous substances, and illnesses or injuries incurred or aggravated in the course of such duties and assignments. Rescinds a Department Memorandum entitled "Status of VHA Enrollment and Associated Issues." Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to provide mortgage assistance to members who are seriously injured during military service. Repeals the $1,200 reduction in basic pay currently required for participation in the Montgomery GI Bill educational assistance program.

Depleted Uranium Munitions Study Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 May 2005

Depleted Uranium Munitions Study Act - Requires the Director of the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry and the Director of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention to study and report jointly to Congress on: (1) the health effects of exposure to depleted uranium munitions upon veterans and their children born after such exposure; and (2) a public health assessment of persons thought to have an epidemiological link to any U.S. military installation or production facility at which depleted uranium munitions have either been, or currently are being, used or produced. Instructs the Secretary of Defense to provide to the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency a list of all sites in the United States where depleted uranium munitions have been used or produced, and a site-specific map of each site. Directs the Administrator to report to the Secretary and to certain congressional committees on the results of a comprehensive environmental evaluation of possible contamination of the soil, air, water, and vegetation by depleted uranium at the listed sites. Requires the Secretary to develop and implement a plan for the mitigation and cleanup of depleted uranium at the pertinent sites.

Fairness in Veterans Education Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 17 May 2005

Fairness in Veterans Education Act of 2005 - Eliminates reductions in basic pay applicable to eligibility for basic educational assistance for veterans under the Montgomery GI Bill.

To provide for a continuation of the mission of the Department of Veterans Affairs medical center in Kerrville, Texas, including the maintenance of acute care beds at that medical center.

United States · United States Congress · 17 May 2005

States that the Secretary of Veterans Affairs: (1) may not implement a change in the mission of the Department of Veterans Affairs medical center in Kerrville, Texas; and (2) shall continue to maintain a minimum of 25 acute care beds there.

Eric S. Edelman, of Virginia, to be Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, vice Douglas Jay Feith.

United States · United States Senate · 16 May 2005

Daniel R. Stanley, of Kansas, to be an Assistant Secretary of Defense, vice Powell A. Moore.

United States · United States Senate · 16 May 2005

Immediate and Full Repeal of the Disabled Veterans Tax Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 16 May 2005

Immediate and Full Repeal of the Disabled Veterans Tax Act of 2005 - Amends federal military retired pay provisions to: (1) repeal a required a phase-in, during the period beginning on January 1, 2004, and ending on December 31, 2013, of the full concurrent receipt by qualified individuals of military retired pay and veterans' disability compensation; and (2) include as a qualifying disability, for purposes of eligibility for such concurrent payments, a service-connected disability (or combination of service-connected disabilities) rated at not less than ten (currently 50) percent by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Montgomery GI Bill Flexibility Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 16 May 2005

Montgomery GI Bill Flexibility Act of 2005 - Extends the period of entitlement to educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill to 14 (currently, ten) years after the date of an individual's last discharge or release from active duty.

In Memory Medal For Forgotten Veterans Act

United States · United States Congress · 16 May 2005

In Memory Medal For Forgotten Veterans Act - Establishes the "Jesus (Chuchi) Salgado Medal" to be issued by the Secretary of Defense to a qualifying veteran who: (1) died after serving in the Vietnam War but whose death is determined to be a direct result of such service; (2) was exposed to herbicide agents while serving in the Republic of Vietnam and is eligible for health care; (3) was exposed to ionizing radiation and is eligible for health care; or (4) served in Southwest Asia during the Persian Gulf War and is entitled (or was at the time of death entitled) to disability benefits for illnesses associated with Gulf War service.

Troops Phone Home Free Extension Act

United States · United States Congress · 16 May 2005

Troops Phone Home Free Extension Act - Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2004, as amended by the Ronald W. Reagan National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2005, respecting the Department of Defense (DOD) telecommunications benefit program to: (1) expand coverage from Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom to any contingency operation (including Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom); (2) revise the deadline from September 30, 2006, through the date that is 60 days after the date on which the Secretary of Defense determines that a contingency operation has ended; and (3) include members of the Armed Forces who are hospitalized as a result of wounds or other injuries incurred while serving in direct support of a contingency operation. Defines "contingency operation."

Vets Rx Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 16 May 2005

Vets RX Act of 2005 - Requires Department of Veterans Affairs pharmacies to dispense medications to eligible veterans on prescriptions written by private practitioners.

Honor Our Fallen Prisoners of War Act

United States · United States Congress · 16 May 2005

Honor Our Fallen Prisoners of War Act - Requires the Secretary concerned to award the Purple Heart to members of the Armed Forces who die in captivity under circumstances not otherwise establishing eligibility for the Purple Heart. Makes this Act effective as to members of the Armed Forces who die on or after December 7, 1941, including those who die prior to enactment.

Supporting Our Patriotic Businesses Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 12 May 2005

Supporting Our Patriotic Businesses Act of 2005 - Authorizes appropriations for the Small Business Administration's (SBA) Office of Veteran Business Development. Amends the Veterans Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development Act of 1999 to permanently extend the authority and duties of the SBA's Advisory Committee on Veterans Business Affairs. Amends the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to exempt service members called to active duty from professional or occupational continuing education requirements while they are called up, or within the 120-day period after active duty release. Amends the Small Business Act to allow small businesses owned by veterans and service-disabled veterans to extend their SBA program participation time limitations by the length of time of active duty. Requires the Secretary of each military department to take measures to counsel Guard and Reserve members about the importance of timely notifying their employers after they receive active duty orders (other than training).

Military Personnel Financial Services Education Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 12 May 2005

Military Personnel Financial Services Education Act of 2005 - Provides financial services and life insurance consumer education for members of the Armed Forces and their spouses, which shall be provided as a component of initial entry and recurring training. (Such training shall include information on financial services marketing practices that are particularly prevalent at a military installation and vicinity.) Provides financial services counseling for members of the Armed Forces, and upon request, for their spouses. Requires a full-time trained counselor at installations with at least 750 assigned personnel, and other counseling at smaller installations. Requires counselors to provide members or spouses with information on Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance when providing information on private sector life insurance. Prohibits E-1 through E-4 members to pay for private sector insurance through pay allotments without a written certification of counseling.

Welcome Home G.I. Bill Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 12 May 2005

Welcome Home G.I. Bill Act of 2005 - Increases and extends the duration of basic educational assistance for individuals who serve at least six consecutive months (with exceptions from the six consecutive months requirement due to medical, hardship, or involuntary separation ) on active duty outside the United States as part of a combat or contingency operation (including a humanitarian or peacekeeping operation) beginning on September 11, 2001, and ending five years after enactment of this Act. Permits assistance use for student loan repayment. Provides for refund of educational contributions made under the Montgomery G.I. Bill program. Increases and extends the duration of educational assistance for reserve component members called or ordered to active service in response to a war or national emergency who perform active duty service for 180 consecutive days before the five-year period beginning on the date of enactment of this Act. Permits assistance use for student loan repayment. Provides $5,000 for a residential purchase downpayment for a veteran who: (1) performs active duty service outside the United States as part of a combat or contingency operation (including a humanitarian or peacekeeping operation) for at least six consecutive months (or a lesser time period for an individual with a service-connected disability) after September 11, 2001; and (2) has not previously obtained a veterans' guaranteed or insured housing loan. Makes such benefit available for five years from the date eligible service is completed. Amends the the Internal Revenue Code to exclude such housing benefit from gross income. Provides transitional health care benefits during the five-year period after separation from active duty for an individual who is not covered under an employer-provided or a spouse's employer-provided group health plan who: (1) serves in the active military, naval, or air service; (2) after September 11, 2001, is deployed outside the United States as part of a combat or contingency operation (including a humanitarian or peacekeeping operation) for at least six consecutive months (or a lesser time period for an individual with a service-connected disability); and (3) is discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable. Revises predeployment and postdeployment medical exam provisions.

A resolution expressing support for the withdrawal of Russian troops from Georgia.

United States · United States Congress · 12 May 2005

Expresses the sense of the Senate that: (1) the Russian Federation should respect the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the Republic of Georgia; (2) President Mikheil Saakashvili and the Government and people of Georgia deserve congratulations for the successful reforms carried out since President Saakashvili's inauguration; (3) the United States should support such reforms and assist Georgia in strengthening its democratic institutions and resolving its separatist conflicts peacefully; and (4) the United States should support Georgia in negotiating an agreement to end Russia's military presence in Georgia, in accordance with Russia's obligations under the ``Istanbul Commitments.'' Supports President Bush's efforts to encourage Russia and Georgia to reach agreement on the closure of Russian military bases in Georgia. Commends President Bush for being the first U.S. President to visit Georgia since its recognition as an independent and sovereign country.

To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the payment of dependency and indemnity compensation to the survivors of former prisoners of war who died on or before September 30, 1999, under the same eligibility conditions as apply to payment of dependency and indemnity compensation to the survivors of former prisoners of war who die after that date.

United States · United States Congress · 12 May 2005

Amends veterans' benefit provisions to provide for the payment of dependency and indemnity compensation to the survivors of veterans rated totally disabled at the time of death who were former prisoners of war (currently, to the survivors of such veterans who died after September 30, 1999).

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2006

United States · United States Senate · 11 May 2005

State Criminal Alien Assistance Program II

United States · United States Congress · 11 May 2005

State Criminal Alien Assistance Program II - Amends the Immigration and Reform and Control Act of 1986 to provide for the reimbursement of State and local costs incurred for: (1) the imprisonment of any illegal alien who is convicted of a felony by such State; and (2) indirect costs including court proceedings, attorneys for local government, illegal alien detention, indigent defense, State and local prosecution, autopsies, and translation and interpreter services. Obligates reimbursement funds. Allocates such amount based upon the percentage of undocumented aliens in a State compared to the total number of undocumented aliens in all States. Obligates additional funds for each of the six States with the highest number of apprehended undocumented aliens.

Veterans Road to Health Care Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 11 May 2005

Veterans Road to Health Care Act of 2005 - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to pay the travel expenses of a veteran whose travel is in connection with treatment or care for a non-service-connected disability at a non-Department of Veterans Affairs facility if the treatment or care: (1) is provided upon the recommendation of Department medical personnel; and (2) is not available at the Department facility at which the recommendation is made. Requires the Secretary, in calculating travel expenses under the Veterans Beneficiary Travel Program, to utilize the current Federal mileage reimbursement rates for the use on official business of privately owned vehicles.

To amend title 38, United States Code, to extend eligibility for pension benefits under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to veterans who received an expeditionary medal during a period of military service other than a period of war.

United States · United States Congress · 11 May 2005

Redefines the term "period of war" for purposes of eligibility for veterans' pension benefits to include any period of active military, naval, or air service not specifically referenced for which a veteran received an expeditionary medal.

To amend title 38, United States Code, to extend eligibility for pension benefits under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to veterans who served during certain periods of time in specified locations.

United States · United States Congress · 11 May 2005

Amends the definition of "period of war" to extend eligibility for veterans' pension benefits to those veterans who served during specified time periods in the Republic of Korea, Lebanon, Granada, or Panama.

Montgomery GI Bill Improvements Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 11 May 2005

Montgomery GI Bill Improvements Act of 2005 - Amends the Montgomery GI Bill to authorize enhanced educational assistance to a member of the Armed Forces who, after September 30, 2005: (1) first enters on active duty; (2) reenlists or continues to serve on active duty; (3) serves a continuous period of active duty of four years; or (4) serves and is discharged or released for a service-connected disability, at the convenience of the Government (after serving at least 42 months of such duty), or due to a reduction in force. Limits to 36 months the period for such enhanced assistance. Requires the payment of educational expenses under such program. Provides a monthly stipend for approved programs of education. Increases the rates of basic educational assistance. Repeals, with respect to such assistance: (1) a required monthly reduction in pay for individuals who do not elect to participate in such assistance program; (2) a provision authorizing individuals to elect not to receive such assistance; and (3) the requirement that participants complete the requirements of a high school diploma or equivalency certificate prior to the end of their initial obligated period of service in order to be eligible to receive such assistance. Excludes educational assistance payments from income for purposes of eligibility for Federal educational loans. Repeals the ten-year delimiting date for use of entitlement to basic educational assistance for: (1) veterans; (2) Selected Reserve members; and (3) members of the reserve components called or ordered to active service in response to a war or national emergency. Eliminates: (1) with respect to transfer of basic educational assistance to a dependent by a member of the Armed Forces with critical skills the requirements that such skill or specialty be designated by the Secretary concerned as eligible for such transfer; and (2) with respect to accelerated payments of basic educational assistance the requirement that the individual is enrolled in a program leading to employment in a high technology occupation. Increases student loan program repayment amounts for active duty and Selected reserve members. Limits total repayment amounts for: (1) active duty members with specialties to $40,000; and (2) Selected Reserve members with specialties to $20,000.

Family Budget Protection Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 11 May 2005

Family Budget Protection Act of 2005 - Amends the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 to eliminate the May 15 deadline for consideration of annual appropriations measures. Requires annual joint (currently, concurrent) budget resolutions signed by the President. Provides for an amendment to change the statutory limit on the public debt. Requires consideration of budget-related legislation before the budget resolution becomes law. Provides expedited procedures for presidential vetoes of joint budget resolutions. Provides for establishment of a reserve fund for emergencies. Requires: (1) biennial (currently, annual) budget resolutions; (2) biennial appropriations Acts; and (3) biennial government strategic and performance plans. Provides spending caps on the growth of entitlements and mandatory budget outlays. Excludes from such limitation until FY2008 direct spending programs and direct spending under part D (relating to the Voluntary Prescription Drug Benefit Program) of title XVIII (Health Insurance for the Aged and Disabled) under the Social Security Act (SSA) or spending under part C of such title (relating to the Medicare+Choice Program) that is attributable to such part D. Exempts benefits payable under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of SSA, Tier 1 railroad retirement benefits, and benefits payable under part A of title XVIII (relating to Hospital Insurance Benefits for the Aged and Disabled) of SSA and part C of such title (relating to the Medicare+Choice program) from required reductions under the Balanced Budget and Deficit Control Act of 1985 (Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act), along with specified government accounts and activities. Provides other exceptions, limitations, and special rules with respect to sequestration exemptions. Directs the Chairman of the House and Senate Committees on the Budget each to maintain a Budget Protection Mandatory Account and a Budget Protection Discretionary Account. Amends the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 to require: (1) an analysis of long-term unfunded obligations in the President's budget submission; and (2) long-term unfunded obligation analyses by the Congressional Budget Office (CBO). Makes it out of order to consider legislation, if upon enactment, it would increase the long-term unfunded obligation of the Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance (OASDI) as defined in the CBA. Freezes at current levels spending authority for each unearned entitlement and high-cost discretionary spending program unless such spending authority is reauthorized after the enactment of this Act. Establishes the Commission to Eliminate Waste, Fraud, and Abuse. Provides for accrual funding of the: (1) Civil Service Retirement and Disability Fund; (2) Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability System; and (3) Foreign Service Retirement and Disability System. Establishes in the Treasury: (1) the Public Health Service Commissioned Corps Retirement Fund; (2) the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Commissioned Officer Corps Retirement Fund; and (3) the Coast Guard Military Retirement Fund. Changes the name of the Department of Defense Medicare-Eligible Retiree Health Care Fund to Uniformed Services Health Care Fund (thus, providing health care programs for all uniformed service retirees, under certain conditions). (Currently, such programs are for Department of Defense Medicare-eligible beneficiaries.) Decreases the limit on the public debt from $6.4 trillion to $4.393 trillion. Repeals rule XXVII of the House of Representatives (the Gephardt Rule, relating to mandatory adjustment of the statutory limit on the public debt to conform to a budget resolution). Prohibits consideration of extraneous appropriations in omnibus appropriations measures.

To provide special immigrant status for aliens serving as translators with the United States Armed Forces.

United States · United States Congress · 11 May 2005

Authorizes the Secretary of Homeland Security to provide special immigrant status to otherwise eligible and admissible nationals of Iraq or Afghanistan who: (1) worked directly as translators with the U.S. Armed Forces for at least 12 months; (2) obtained a favorable recommendation from the first General or Flag officer in the the unit they supported; and (3) cleared a background check and screening. Provides derivative status for spouses and children accompanying or following to join such aliens. Limits to 50 the total number of principal aliens who may be provided status under this Act.

Veterans Outreach Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 11 May 2005

Veterans Outreach Act of 2005 - Rescinds a specified Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) memorandum (Status of VHA Enrollment and Associated Issues) from the Deputy Under Secretary for Health for Operations and Management. States that: (1) Veterans Integrated Service Networks' marketing activities shall be carried out without regard to such memorandum; and (2) no VA funds shall be used to carry out such memorandum. Directs the Secretary of the VA to annually prepare a plan for VA outreach activities for the following year which shall include plans to: (1) identify veterans who are not enrolled for VA benefits; and (2) inform veterans and their dependents of benefits changes, including medical and nursing care eligibility. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish procedures to coordinate VA outreach activities; and (2) assign VA employees to conduct outreach program services for eligible dependents (spouse, surviving spouse (whether or not remarried), child (regardless of age or marital status), or parent of a person who served in the active military, naval, or air service).

Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 808) to amend title 10, United States Code, to repeal the offset from surviving spouse annuities under the military Survivor Benefit Plan for amounts paid by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs as dependency and indemnity compensation.

United States · United States Congress · 11 May 2005

Sets forth the rule for consideration of the bill (H.R. 808) to amend title 10, United States Code, to repeal the offset from surviving spouse annuities under the military Survivor Benefit Plan for amounts paid by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs as dependency and indemnity compensation.

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2006

United States · United States Senate · 10 May 2005

Reservists Pay Security Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 10 May 2005

Reservists Pay Security Act of 2005 - Entitles Federal employees who are absent from their positions while on active duty in the uniformed services or the National Guard to receive the amount of their basic pay which, when taken together with their military pay and allowances, is no less than the amount of pay that they would have earned if there had been no interruption in their civilian employment. Expands the reemployment rights of Federal employees on active duty in the uniformed services.

A concurrent resolution to correct the enrollment of H. R. 1268.

United States · United States Congress · 10 May 2005

Authorizes and directs the Clerk of the House of Representatives to correct the enrollment of H.R. 1268 (Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Act for Defense, the Global War on Terror, and Tsunami Relief, 2005) to authorize up to 50,000 unused FY2001-FY2004 employment-based visas for foreign nurses.

War Memorial Preservation Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 10 May 2005

War Memorial Preservation Act of 2005 - Permits religious symbols recognizing the religious background of members of the U.S. Armed Forces to be included as part of: (1) a military memorial that is established or acquired by the U.S. Government; or (2) a military memorial that is not established by the Government, but for which the American Battle Monuments Commission cooperated in establishing.

Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 303) to amend title 10, United States Code, to permit certain additional retired members of the Armed Forces who have a service-connected disability to receive both disability compensation for the Department of Veterans Affairs for their disability and either retired pay by reason of their years of military service or Combat-Related Special Compensation and to eliminate the phase-in period under current law with respect to such concurrent receipt.

United States · United States Congress · 10 May 2005

Sets forth the rule for consideration of the bill (H.R. 303) to amend title 10, United States Code, to permit certain additional retired members of the Armed Forces who have a service-connected disability to receive both disability compensation for the Department of Veterans Affairs for their disability and either retired pay by reason of their years of military service or Combat-Related Special Compensation and to eliminate the phase-in period under current law with respect to such concurrent receipt.

Reservists Pay Security Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 9 May 2005

Reservists Pay Security Act of 2005 - Entitles Federal employees who are absent from their positions while on active duty in the uniformed services or the National Guard to receive the amount of their basic pay which, when taken together with their military pay and allowances, is no less than the amount of pay that they would have earned if there had been no interruption in their civilian employment. Expands the reemployment rights of Federal employees on active duty in the uniformed services. Makes this Act retroactive to pay periods beginning on October 11, 2002, subject to the availability of appropriated funds.