Defence

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the President should declare lung cancer a public health priority and should implement a comprehensive inter-agency program that will reduce lung cancer mortality by at least 50 percent by 2015.

United States · United States Congress · 28 March 2006

Urges the President to: (1) declare lung cancer a public health priority and immediately lead a coordinated effort to reduce the mortality rate of lung cancer by 50% by 2015; (2) direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to increase funding for lung cancer research; (3) direct the Secretary of Defense to develop a lung cancer screening and disease management program among military personnel and veterans and diagnostic programs for the early detection of lung cancer; (4) appoint a Lung Cancer Scientific and Medical Advisory Committee; and (5) convene a National Lung Cancer Public Health Policy Board to oversee and coordinate all efforts to reduce the lung cancer mortality rate.

Urging the Government of China to reinstate all licenses of Gao Zhisheng and his law firm, remove all legal and political obstacles for lawyers attempting to defend criminal cases in China, including politically sensitive cases, and revise law and practice in China so that it conforms to international standards.

United States · United States Congress · 28 March 2006

Commends "rights defense" lawyers and activists of the People's Republic China (PRC) for their courage and integrity, and expresses moral support for this grass-roots rights defense movement in the PRC. Urges the government of the PRC to: (1) reinstate all licenses of Gao Zhisheng and his law firm; (2) remove all legal and political obstacles for lawyers attempting to defend criminal and politically sensitive cases in the PRC; (3) revise law and practice in the PRC to conform to international standards; and (4) allow religious believers in China to practice their religion without interference, and release Pastor Cai Zhuohua, his wife, and others imprisoned with him, and allow Pastor Cai to resume religious activities. Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) the U.S. government should support democracy and human rights programs in the PRC that strengthen protection of basic rights and freedoms, and should initiate programs to train lawyers, judges, academics, and students about international human rights law; (2) the U.S. government should seek grant proposals and fund programs to promote legal protections and cultural awareness of the right to freedom of religion or belief; and (3) the President should raise the issue of the PRC's harassment, arrest, and persecution of rights defense lawyers and activists and the need to respect the basic human rights of its citizens and the rule of law during his planned April 2006 meeting with Chinese President Hu Jintao.

A resolution designating August 16, 2006, as "National Airborne Day".

United States · United States Congress · 27 March 2006

Designates August 16, 2006, as National Airborne Day (to recognize the airborne forces of the U.S. Armed Forces). Requests that the President issue a proclamation calling on federal, state, and local administrators and the people of the United States to observe National Airborne Day with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.

[H.A.S.C. No. 109-95]FISCAL YEAR 2007 NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT--BUDGET REQUEST FROM THE U.S. SOUTHERN COMMAND

United States · United States House of Representatives · 16 March 2006

[H.A.S.C. No. 109-72]NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2007 AND OVERSIGHT OF PREVIOUSLY AUTHORIZED PROGRAMS BEFORE THE COMMITTEE ON ARMED SERVICES HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ONE HUNDRED NINTH CONGRESS SECOND SESSION

United States · United States House of Representatives · 16 March 2006

Securing America's Borders Act

United States · United States Congress · 16 March 2006

Securing America's Borders Act - Provides for increases in the numbers of federal immigration enforcement-related positions and technological assets for use along the borders, including Department of Defense (DOD) equipment. Provides for: (1) border control facilities construction; (2) land border port of entry construction and improvements; (3) border patrol checkpoints; and (4) fencing, barrier, and road construction and improvements in the Yuma and Tucson sectors. Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security (Secretary) to develop: (1) a comprehensive land and maritime border surveillance plan; (2) a National Strategy for Border Security; and (3) a southern border study. Directs the Secretary of State to: (1) report to Congress on improving the exchange of North American security information; (2) work with Canada and Mexico to assist Guatemala and Belize in border security activities; and (3) work with appropriate countries to share information and track Central American gang members. Provides for biometric data (including entry-exit data collection), document, and other border security enhancements. Makes all aliens inadmissible on terrorism-related grounds ineligible for asylum. Increases the class of aliens ineligible on security-related grounds for cancellation of removal or voluntary departure. Makes alien members of criminal street gangs inadmissible and deportable. Denies temporary protected status to gang members. Revises alien smuggling provisions. Directs the Secretary to establish the American Local and Interior Enforcement Needs (ALIEN) Task Force to respond to the use of government transportation infrastructure to further unlawful alien trafficking. Provides a mandatory minimum sentence for carrying or using a firearm during an alien smuggling crime. Revises illegal entry, reentry after removal, and related criminal penalty provisions. Makes it a crime to knowingly be illegally present in the United States. Revises passport and visa provisions. Criminalizes: (1) trafficking in passports; (2) executing a scheme to defraud a person in connection with any federal immigration matter; and (3) knowing use of any immigration document issued or designed for use by another. Makes an alien convicted of a passport or visa violation inadmissible and removable. Revises and increases penalties for marriage fraud. Continues the institutional removal program (IRP) and authorizes its expansion to all states. Revises voluntary departure provisions. Prohibits the knowing sale of firearms to, or the possession of firearms by, an alien parolee. Establishes a ten-year statute of limitations for specified immigration-related offenses. States that no provision of law shall be construed to provide immigration benefits to an alien who poses a security threat, is under investigation for removal, or for whom background checks have not been completed. Provides reimbursement to states and local government for costs associated with: (1) processing undocumented criminal aliens through the criminal justice system; and (2) immigration enforcement training. Authorizes grants for Indian tribes with lands adjacent to an international border of the United States that have been adversely affected by illegal immigration. Revises alien registration provisions. Requires, with exceptions, mandatory detention of an alien apprehended illegally seeking to enter the United States at a U.S. port of entry or land or maritime border as of October 1, 2006. Provides that during the interim period an alien must post a bond of at least $5,000 for release pending a removal hearing. Includes in the definition of aggravated felony a third drunk driving conviction. Requires expedited removal of an illegal alien apprehended within 100 miles of the border and within 14 days of entry. Prohibits certain sex offenders from sponsoring an immigrant applicant. Affirms state law enforcement authority to assist (including transfer to federal custody) the federal government in enforcing U.S. immigration laws during the normal course of law enforcement duties. Provides for related federal reimbursement of state costs. Provides for listing of immigration violators in the National Crime Information Center Database. Makes it unlawful to: (1) knowingly hire, recruit, or refer an unauthorized alien; or (2) hire, recruit, or refer a person without complying with identification and employment documentation verification requirements. Directs the Secretary to implement, and sets forth the provisions of, an electronic employment verification system. Establishes in the Treasury the Employer Compliance Fund. Provides for visa backlog reductions. Authorizes unused visa number recapture. Exempts immediate relatives of U.S. citizens from the annual cap on family-based immigration. Increases: (1) employment-based green cards; and (2) per-country limits for family-sponsored and employment-based immigrants. Reallocates immigrant visas. Revises student visa and advanced degree visa provisions. Makes the J-1 visa (medical services in underserved areas) program permanent. Consolidates immigration appeals into the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit. Authorizes the Board of Immigration Appeals to reverse an immigration judge's removal decision without remand. Eliminates judicial review of visa revocation. Authorizes reinstatement of a prior removal order against an alien illegally reentering the United States. Requires an alien applying for withholding of removal to establish that his or her life or freedom would be threatened in the country of return, and that race, religion, nationality, or political or social group would be a central factor in such threat. Subjects removal appeals to an initial certification of reviewability process by a single judge of the Federal Circuit Court of Appeals. Limits attorney awards in final orders of removal. Requires, with exceptions, the Board of Immigration Appeals to hear cases in three-member panels.

Rural Veterans Care Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 16 March 2006

Rural Veterans Care Act of 2006 - Establishes the Assistant Secretary for Rural Affairs in the Department of Veterans Affairs to: (1) formulate and implement all Department policies and procedures that affect veterans living in rural areas; (2) carry out demonstration projects to examine alternatives for expanding veterans' care in rural areas; (3) reevaluate, and revise as necessary, Department guidance and procedures related to the use of fee basis care nationwide; and (4) establish and operate at least one and up to five centers of excellence for rural health research, education, and clinical activities. Directs the Secretary to conduct a pilot program for improving the access of veterans who reside in highly rural or geographically remote areas to certain health care services.

Dignity for Military Funerals Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 16 March 2006

Dignity for Military Funerals Act of 2006 - Prohibits states or local governments from issuing permits for picketing during the funeral of a member or former member of the Armed Forces. Amends the federal criminal code to prohibit persons from picketing at the funeral of a member or former member of the Armed Forces. Imposes a fine and/or imprisonment of up to five years. Defines "picketing" as protest activities within 300 feet of a cemetery, mortuary, or church from one hour before to one hour after a funeral of a member of the Armed Forces.

Safe Foreign Investments Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 16 March 2006

Safe Foreign Investments Act of 2006 - Amends the Defense Production Act of 1950 to direct the President or his designee, no later than seven days before the completion of an investigation of a proposed or pending merger, acquisition, or takeover (transaction) that could affect persons engaged in commerce in the United States or the national security, and before any such determination becomes effective, to submit to the congressional homeland security committees a draft report of its findings. Requires mandatory investigations of a transaction involving an entity controlled by or acting on behalf of a foreign person other than a foreign government only in the case in which the transaction involves critical infrastructure and could affect U.S. national security. States that the President's designee, for purposes of such investigations, shall be the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS).

American Fuels Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 16 March 2006

American Fuels Act of 2006 - Establishes in the Executive Office of the President the Office of Energy Security to oversee all federal energy security programs, including the coordination of efforts of federal agencies to assist the United States in achieving full energy independence. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide: (1) a tax credit for production of qualified flexible fuel motor vehicles, including allowance of the credit against the alternative minimum tax; and (2) an alternative fuel retail sales credit. Amends the Clean Air Act to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to promulgate regulations to ensure that diesel sold or introduced into commerce in the United States, on an annual average basis, contains the applicable volume of alternative diesel fuel. Requires such regulations to provide for the generation of an appropriate amount of credits by any person that refines, blends, or imports diesel that contains a quantity of alternative diesel fuel greater than prescribed quantities. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend the alcohol fuel mixture excise tax credit to cellulosic biomass ethanol. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 1992 to include within the term alternative fueled vehicle a medium or heavy duty hybrid vehicle. Sets a deadline by which: (1) any federal property with at least one fuel refueling station must include at least one alternative fuel refueling station; and (2) any alternative fuel refueling station on federally-owned property must permit full public access for the purpose of refueling using alternative fuel. Amends federal transportation law to require that any bus purchased with funds from the Mass Transit Account of the Highway Trust Fund to be a clean fuel bus. Requires the Secretary of Defense to implement a program to evaluate the commercial and technical viability of advanced technologies for the production of alternative transportation fuels having applications for the Department of Defense.

A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to reduce the age for receipt of military retired pay for nonregular service from 60 years of age to 55 years of age.

United States · United States Congress · 16 March 2006

Reduces from 60 to 55 the minimum age for the receipt of military retired pay for non-regular service.

A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate that all people in the United States should participate in a moment of silence to reflect upon the service and sacrifice of members of the Armed Forces both at home and abroad.

United States · United States Congress · 16 March 2006

Expresses the sense of the Senate that all people in the United States should participate in a moment of silence (on March 26, 2006, National Support the Troops Day) to reflect upon the service and sacrifice of members of the U.S. Armed Forces both at home and abroad.

National Heroes Credit Protection Act

United States · United States Congress · 16 March 2006

National Heroes Credit Protection Act - Amends the Soldiers' and Sailors' Civil Relief Act of 1940 to require any consumer credit information entity that receives from a creditor a negative report of nonpayment or late payment with respect to the account of a person in military service to enter a notation that the account is delinquent or paid slowly due to military service. Requires any future potential creditor that receives a credit report that includes such a notation to disregard any negative information so noted.

To require the Department of Veterans Affairs to provide mental health services in languages other than English, as needed, for veterans and family members with limited English proficiency, to expand the scope of mental health services provided to family members of veterans, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 16 March 2006

Amends federal veterans' benefits provisions to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, in providing counseling and other mental health services to a veteran who has limited proficiency in English, to ensure that such services are available in both English and a language in which that veteran is proficient, if requested by the veteran. Requires such availability also for the family members of such a veteran. Requires the Secretary to implement a system by which persons with limited English proficiency can access services provided by the Department of Veterans consistent with, and without unduly burdening, the Department's fundamental mission. Requires a report from the Secretary to the congressional veterans' committees on the implementation by the Department's Veterans Health Administration of a specified directive to implement prohibitions on discrimination on the basis of national origin for persons with limited English proficiency in federally-conducted programs and activities and in federal financial-assisted programs.

Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 16 March 2006

Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Act of 2006 - Requires the Secretary of Homeland Security to: (1) establish criteria for designating chemical sources, using specified risk factors, and evaluating the types of facilities (other than Department of Defense or Department of Energy facilities) in consideration; and (2) designate chemical sources already in existence. Directs the Secretary to promulgate rules establishing a risk-based tier system of chemical sources, based on such criteria, which enables a chemical source to develop appropriate site-specific measures to meet the security performance standards established for the applicable tier. Requires such rules to provide guidance to the chemical source owner or operator on steps that would enable the source to move to a lower risk tier. Directs the Secretary to promulgate regulations that require chemical source owners or operators to make vulnerability assessments, site security plans, and emergency response plans. Requires chemical sources regulated under the Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA-regulated facilities) to comply with this Act. Requires the Secretary to establish an office under the Assistant Secretary for Infrastructure Protection that shall be responsible for implementing and enforcing this Act. Directs the Secretary to establish in each Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Region an Infrastructure Protection Regional Security Office. Establishes Area Security Committees for geographic areas designated by the Secretary, which shall prepare Area Security Plans for the Secretary's approval. Directs the Secretary to conduct drills and exercises periodically in each area for which an Area Security Plan is required and under the site security plan and emergency response plans of relevant chemical sources. Authorizes the Secretary to order mandatory security measures for a chemical source if the Secretary determines that additional measures are necessary to respond to a threat assessment or to a specific threat against the chemical sector. Prescribes administrative, civil, and criminal penalties for failure to comply with an order or directive issued by the Secretary under this Act or with a site security plan.

First Step to Redeployment Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 16 March 2006

First Step to Redeployment Act of 2006 - Expresses appreciation to members of the National Guard (Guard) and all other members of the Armed Forces for their service and commends their achievements and sacrifices, and the sacrifices of their families. Declares that there is no more capable soldier than the citizen-soldiers of the Guard. Reaffirms the critical role of the Guard in defending the United States, carrying out combat missions, responding to domestic emergencies and disasters, and securing the homeland. Recognizes the importance of the Guard in ensuring a connection between the military and local communities. Opposes any attempt to reduce the role of the Guard within the Total Force concept of the Armed Forces. Directs the President to begin the redeployment of U.S. Armed Forces from Iraq, starting with the orderly redeployment of Guard units.

Commending the Patriot Guard Riders for shielding mourning military families from protesters and preserving the memory of fallen service members at funerals.

United States · United States Congress · 16 March 2006

Expresses appreciation to the Patriot Guard Riders who: (1) attend military funerals across the country to show respect for fallen members of the Armed Forces and, when needed, shield mourning family members and friends of the deceased from war protesters who interrupt, or threaten to interrupt, the dignity of a funeral; and (2) in so doing, help preserve the memory and dignity of the nation's fallen heroes.

Calling on the Government of the United Kingdom to immediately establish a full, independent, public judicial inquiry into the murder of Northern Ireland defense attorney Pat Finucane, as recommended by international Judge Peter Cory as part of the Weston Park agreement and a way forward for the Northern Ireland Peace Process.

United States · United States Congress · 16 March 2006

Calls on the government of the United Kingdom to reconsider its position on the Patrick Finucane case and establish an independent public judicial inquiry into the murder of Patrick Finucane. Commends Finucane family members for their courageous campaign to seek the truth in this case of collusion. Welcomes the passage of a resolution by the Dail Eireann on March 8, 2006, calling for the establishment of an independent public judicial inquiry into the Finucane murder as the Irish government's most recent expression of support for the Finucane family. Acknowledges the U.S. Helsinki Commission and the House of Representatives' International Relations' subcommittees for their work in highlighting this case. Supports the efforts of The Honorable Mitchell Reiss, President Bush's special envoy for the Northern Ireland Peace Process, in pushing for the full implementation of the Weston Park Agreement and the establishment of an independent judicial inquiry into the murder of Patrick Finucane.

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2007

United States · United States Senate · 15 March 2006

Veterans Employment and Training Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 15 March 2006

Veterans Employment and Training Act of 2006 - Permits accelerated payments of educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill to an individual enrolled in an approved program of education that either: (1) leads to employment in a high technology occupation in a high technology industry; or (2) lasts less than two years and leads to employment in a sector of the economy that is projected to experience a substantial increase in the number of jobs, positively affect the growth of another sector of the economy, or consists of existing or emerging businesses that are being transformed by technology and innovation and require new skills for workers. Includes as an authorized program for purposes of such assistance a program of education pursued at a tribally controlled college or university as defined under the Tribally Controlled College or University Assistance Act of 1978.

Veterans Burial Benefits Improvement Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 15 March 2006

Veterans Burial Benefits Improvement Act of 2006 - Increases the authorized allowance for burial and funeral expenses for deceased veterans who: (1) at the time of death were in receipt of veterans' disability compensation or veterans' pension benefits; or (2) were veterans of any war or were discharged or released from active military service for a service-connected disability and for whom there is no next of kin or sufficient resources to cover funeral and burial costs. Increases the burial plot allowance for veterans who, at the time of death, were receiving hospital or nursing home care in or through the Department of Veterans Affairs. Authorizes the annual adjustment of such allowances based on increases in the Consumer Price Index.

[H.A.S.C. No. 109-103] DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE QUADRENNIAL DEFENSE REVIEW

United States · United States House of Representatives · 14 March 2006

To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to expand the combat zone income tax exclusion to include income for the period of transit to the combat zone and to remove the limitation on such exclusion for commissioned officers.

United States · United States Congress · 14 March 2006

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to modify the tax exclusion for military combat zone compensation to: (1) include within the definition of service performed in a combat zone any period of direct transit to the combat zone; and (2) repeal the limitation on the tax exclusion for commissioned officers.

Military Retirees' Health Care Protection Act

United States · United States Congress · 14 March 2006

Military Retirees' Health Care Protection Act - Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) the Department of Defense (DOD) and the nation have a committed health benefits obligation to retired military personnel that exceeds the obligation of corporate employers to civilian employees; and (2) DOD has many additional options to constrain the growth of health care spending in ways that do not disadvantage beneficiaries, and should pursue such options rather than seeking large fee increases for beneficiaries. Prohibits an increase after December 31, 2005, in: (1) a premium, deductible, copayment, or other charge prescribed by the Secretary of Defense for medical and dental health care coverage for military personnel; and (2) the dollar amount of a cost-sharing requirement under the DOD pharmacy benefits program. Prohibits: (1) charges for DOD inpatient care from exceeding $535 per day; and (2) after December 31, 2005, an increase in premiums under TRICARE (a DOD managed health care program) for certain members of the Selected Reserve.

Calling on the President to take immediate steps to help improve the security situation in Darfur, Sudan, with a specific emphasis on civilian protection.

United States · United States Congress · 14 March 2006

Commends the Africa Union Mission in Sudan (AMIS) in monitoring the N'Djamena Ceasefire Agreement in Darfur and its role in diminishing some acts of violence. Condemns: (1) the continued genocide against civilians in Darfur by the government of Sudan and government-sponsored militias; and (2) the continued violations by both parties to the Agreement. Calls on both parties to the Agreement to abide by its terms and engage in good-faith negotiations to end the Darfur conflict. Calls on the government of Sudan to: (1) withdraw all military aircraft from the region; and (2) cease support for the Janjaweed militia and rebels from Chad; and (3) disarm the Janjaweed militias. Calls on: (1) the African Union (AU) to work closely with the United Nations and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) to strengthen its capacity to deter violence and instability until a U.N. peacekeeping force is fully deployed in Darfur; and (2) NATO to extend its AU advisor mission. Calls on the U.N. Security Council to approve a trained and adequate Darfur peacekeeping mission. Urges the President to take steps to improve the security situation in Darfur, including by: (1) proposing that NATO implement an interim civilian protection force; and (2) requesting supplemental funding to support AMIS and a NATO mission in Darfur.

Honoring the life and achievements of Charles Edward Taylor and recognizing the essential role of aviation maintenance technicians in ensuring the safety and security of civil and military aircraft, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 14 March 2006

Honors the life and achievements of Charles Edward Taylor. Recognizes the essential role of aviation maintenance technicians in ensuring the safety and security of civil and military aircraft. Supports the goals and ideals of Aviation Maintenance Technician Day.

A bill to transfer authority to review certain mergers, acquisitions, and takeovers of United States entities by foreign entities to a designee established within the Department of Homeland Security, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 13 March 2006

Amends the Defense Production Act of 1950 to repeal provisions concerning presidential authority to review certain proposed mergers, acquisitions, or takeovers (transactions) of U.S. entities by foreign entities. Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to authorize the President (or his designee) to undertake an investigation to determine the effects on national or homeland security of transactions which could result in foreign control of persons engaged in interstate commerce in the United States. Requires the President to first conduct a review of the proposed transaction to determine whether an investigation is warranted. Requires, with respect to any investigation conducted, the Director of National Intelligence to create a report consolidating the intelligence findings, assessments, and concerns of each of the relevant members of the intelligence community. Requires the President to conduct a mandatory investigation in any instance in which an entity controlled by or acting on behalf of a foreign government seeks to engage in any transaction which would result in control of a person engaged in interstate commerce in the United States. Establishes the Committee for Secure Commerce to act as the President's designee in the conduct of such investigations. Authorizes the President to suspend or prohibit a transaction if he finds that: (1) there is credible evidence to believe that the foreign interest exercising control might take action that threatens the national or homeland security; and (2) provisions of law other than the Homeland Security Act of 2002 and the International Emergency Economic Powers Act do not provide adequate and appropriate authority to protect the national or homeland security. States that the President's actions and findings shall not be subject to judicial review. Requires reports from the President to Congress: (1) each time an investigation is completed; and (2) quarterly on each transaction being reviewed.

Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Act for Defense, the Global War on Terror, and Hurricane Recovery, 2006

United States · United States Congress · 13 March 2006

Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Act for Defense, the Global War on Terror, and Hurricane Recovery, 2006 - Makes emergency supplemental appropriations for FY2006 for the global war on terror to the Department of Agriculture (DOA) in connection with Foreign Agricultural Service grants. Makes emergency supplemental appropriations to the Department of Defense (DOD) for: (1) military personnel; (2) operation and maintenance (O&M); (3) the Afghanistan Security Forces Fund; (4) the Iraq Security Forces Fund; (5) procurement; (6) research, development, test, and evaluation; (7) Defense Working Capital Funds; (8) the Defense Health Program; (9) drug interdiction and counter-drug activities related to Afghanistan and Central Asia; (10) the Office of the Inspector General; and (11) the Intelligence Community Management Account. Allows DOD funds to be used for support for counter-drug activities of the Governments of Afghanistan and Pakistan. Makes emergency supplemental appropriations for: (1) the United States Agency for International Development (USAID); (2) the Economic Support Fund; (3) the Democracy Fund; (4) international narcotics control and law enforcement; (5) migration and refugee assistance; (6) international affairs technical assistance; and (7) peacekeeping operations. Makes emergency supplemental appropriations for: (1) the U.S. Coast Guard; (2) military construction; (3) salaries and expenses of U.S. attorneys, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; (4) diplomatic and consular programs; (5) the Special Inspector General for Iraq Reconstruction; (6) educational and cultural exchange programs; (7) contributions to international peacekeeping activities; (8) international broadcasting operations and capital improvements; and (9) salaries and expenses of the Department of the Treasury. Makes emergency supplemental appropriations for further hurricane disaster relief and recovery for: (1) DOA for the Working Capital Fund, the Agricultural Research Service, and emergency watershed protection program; (2) DOD for military personnel, O&M, procurement, Defense Working Capital Funds and the National Defense Sealift Fund, commissary trust funds, and the Defense Health Program; (3) the Army Corps of Engineers for construction, flood control, and coastal emergencies; (4) the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for the Office of Inspector General, customs and border protection, and construction; (5) the U.S. Coast Guard for operating expenses and acquisition, construction, and improvements; (6) the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for administrative and regional operations, preparedness, mitigation, response and recovery, disaster relief, and the Disaster Assistance Direct Loan Program; (7) the Department of the Interior for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the National Park Service, the U.S. Geological Survey, and Minerals Management Service; (8) the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for environmental programs and management and the Leaking Underground Storage Tank Program; (9) DOA for the National Forest System; (10) DOD for military construction; (11) the Department of Veterans Affairs for construction, major projects; (12) the Department of Justice (DOJ) for salaries and expenses; (13) the Department of Commerce (DOC) for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration; (14) the Small Business Administration (SBA) for the Disaster Loans Program; (15) the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the community development fund; and (16) the General Services Administration (GSA) for the Federal Buildings Fund.

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION FOR APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2007

United States · United States Senate · 10 March 2006

[H.A.S.C. No. 109-102]HEARING ON NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2007 AND OVERSIGHT OF PREVIOUSLY AUTHORIZED PROGRAMS BEFORE THE COMMITTEE ON ARMED SERVICES HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ONE HUNDRED NINTH CONGRESS SECOND SESSION

United States · United States House of Representatives · 9 March 2006

[H.A.S.C. No. 109-54]HEARING ON NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2007 AND OVERSIGHT OF PREVIOUSLY AUTHORIZED PROGRAMS BEFORE THE COMMITTEE ON ARMED SERVICES HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ONE HUNDRED NINTH CONGRESS SECOND SESSION

United States · United States House of Representatives · 9 March 2006

Border Security Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 9 March 2006

Border Security Act of 2006 - Provides for increases in: (1) Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement personnel; (2) Bureau of Customs and Border Protection personnel; (3) Department of Homeland Security (DHS) immigration personnel, including attorneys; (4) Federal Defenders Program attorneys; (5) U.S. attorneys; (6) Office of Immigration Litigation attorneys; (7) deputy marshals in the United States Marshals Service; and (8) immigration judges. Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to: (1) report on the feasibility of using National Guard personnel and Department of Defense (DOD) assets to assist the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection, and implement such plan if found feasible; (2) initiate a planning process for an international border fence/wall; (3) establish demonstration programs to evaluate border security and port of entry technologies; (4) acquire unmanned vehicles and other assets and technologies for border use; and (5) provide grants for state, local, and tribal border security activities. Directs the Attorney General to acquire additional immigration detention facilities. Wage Equity Act - Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to limit wage requirements for employer H-2A visa (temporary agricultural worker) petitions. Increases penalties for: (1) alien smuggling; and (2) document fraud. Sets forth criminal penalties for an illegal alien who commits or conspires to commit a violent crime or drug trafficking offense. Makes criminal street gang members inadmissible, deportable, and ineligible for temporary protected status. Continues the institutional removal program (IRP) and extends it to all States within five years. Authorizes state or local law enforcement authorities to temporarily detain an alien who is removable or illegally in the United States after such alien's sentence completion pending transfer to federal custody. Provides federal reimbursement for such costs. Provides for listing of immigration violators in the National Crime Information Center Database.

A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate that all people in the United States should participate in a moment of silence to reflect upon the service and sacrifice of members of the Armed Forces both at home and abroad.

United States · United States Congress · 9 March 2006

Declares it is the sense of the Senate that all people in the United States should participate in a moment of silence (on March 26th, 2006, National Support the Troops Day) to reflect upon the service and sacrifice of members of the U.S. Armed Forces both at home and abroad.

Veterans' Choice of Representation Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 March 2006

Veterans' Choice of Representation Act - Amends federal law concerning a veteran's representation by an agent or attorney to allow the payment of attorney fees from the date the claimant files a Notice of Disagreement in the case. (Currently, such fees may not be paid before the Board of Veterans' Appeals first makes a final decision in the case.) Repeals the requirement that, in order to be paid, an attorney must be retained within a one-year period after the case has begun. Authorizes: (1) the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to review an attorney's fee agreement and order a reduction if the Secretary finds that the fee is excessive or unreasonable; and (2) judicial review of such findings. Requires (currently, authorizes) the Secretary to direct the payment of attorney fees out of any past-due benefits awarded to a veteran in a proceeding.

Foreign Investment National Security Review Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 9 March 2006

Foreign Investment National Security Review Act of 2006 - Amends the Defense Production Act of 1950 to revise provisions concerning presidential authority to review pending or proposed mergers, acquisitions, or takeovers (transactions) which could result in foreign control of any person engaged in interstate commerce in the United States. Directs the President, after receiving written notification of a transaction, and acting through the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS), to conduct an investigation to determine the effects, if any, of the transaction on U.S. national security. Requires investigations to be completed within 75 days. Reestablishes CFIUS as a multi-agency committee (currently, a committee within the Department of the Treasury). Prohibits a transaction unless the President finds that it will not threaten to impair U.S. national security. Provides for enforcement of presidential findings. Prohibits judicial review of such determinations. Outlines factors to be considered during an investigation, including domestic production and national defense requirements. Requires the President, after a determination to approve or disapprove a transaction, to immediately notify (by written report) both Houses of Congress. Allows Congress 30 days after notification of an approved transaction to pass a joint resolution disapproving the transaction. Directs the President and designated agencies to submit biennial reports to Congress on: (1) evidence of coordinated strategies by one or more countries to acquire U.S. companies involved in research, development, or production of critical technologies for which the United States is a leading producer; and (2) U.S. critical infrastructure owned, controlled, or dominated by an alien, foreign corporation, or foreign government.

Protect America First Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 9 March 2006

Protect America First Act of 2006 - Amends the Defense Production Act of 1950 to direct the President, no later than five days after receipt of written notification of a proposed or pending corporate merger, acquisition, or takeover by an individual controlled or acting on behalf of a foreign government and which may be subject to an investigation for national security purposes, to notify congressional leadership of the receipt of such notification. Requires the President, no later than one day after commencing such an investigation, to provide such leadership notification of the investigation and relevant information regarding the proposed or pending merger, acquisition, or takeover. Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) should be transferred from the Department of the Treasury to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS); and (2) the Secretary of Homeland Security should serve as CFIUS Chairman.

Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States Reform Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 March 2006

Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States Reform Act - Amends the Defense Production Act of 1950 to revise provisions concerning presidential authority to review any mergers, acquisitions, and takeovers (transactions) that could result in foreign control of persons engaged in interstate commerce in the United States. Directs the President, after receiving written notification of a transaction, to determine whether the transaction may possibly have an effect on U.S. national security. Requires an investigation whenever a review determines that the transaction could result in foreign control of persons engaged in U.S. interstate commerce. Provides that, when a review determines that conditions must be established on the transaction before its approval, such determination shall not be final until approved by the President and either the Secretary or Deputy Secretary of the Treasury. Outlines national security investigation requirements and procedures. Authorizes the President to establish interim protections in the case of a withdrawal of written notice of a proposed or pending transaction before a review or investigation is completed. Provides additional factors to be considered in an investigation, including whether the transaction affects U.S. critical infrastructure. Requires annual and quarterly reports to Congress on such reviews and investigations. Reestablishes the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) as a multi-agency committee (currently, a committee within the Department of the Treasury).

[H.A.S.C. No. 109-123]DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE MANAGEMENT OF HISTORIC AND HISTORIC-ELIGIBLE FACILITIES

United States · United States House of Representatives · 8 March 2006

THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE QUADRENNIAL DEFENSE REVIEW

United States · United States Senate · 8 March 2006

Gulf Coast Protection and Restoration Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 8 March 2006

Gulf Coast Protection and Restoration Act of 2006 - Instructs the Secretary of the Interior to offer the 181 Area of the Gulf of Mexico for oil and gas leasing no later than one year after enactment of this Act. Prohibits the Secretary from offering for oil and gas leasing: (1) any area east of the Military Mission Line, unless the Secretary of Defense agrees in writing before the area is offered for lease that it can be developed in a manner that will not interfere with military activities; or (2) any area that is within 100 miles of the coastline of Florida. Requires the 181 Area to be offered for lease in spite of its omission from a specified leasing program under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act Requires the Secretary, without further appropriation, to disburse to producing states and coastal political subdivisions, 50% of the qualified outer Continental Shelf revenues generated from leases from the 181 Area during each fiscal year. Prescribes guidelines for allocation and authorized uses consistent with the coastal impact assistance program under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act.

BORDERS Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 8 March 2006

Border Operations Reform and Development of Electronic Remote Surveillance Act of 2006 or the BORDERS Act of 2006 - Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to: (1) utilize aerial surveillance technologies, including unmanned aerial vehicles, to enhance U.S. international border security; (2) procure additional unmanned aerial vehicles and other technologies necessary to achieve border control, and to establish a border security perimeter known as a "virtual fence" to provide a barrier to illegal immigration (Integrated and Automated Surveillance Program); and (3) implement a plan to ensure clear and secure 2-way communication capabilities, including the specific use of satellite communications, among Border Patrol agents conducting operations between ports of entry, between Border Patrol agents and their respective Border Patrol stations, and between all appropriate border security agencies of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies. Amends the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Protection Act of 2004 to increase detention bed space. Directs the Secretary to: (1) construct or acquire additional detention facilities, including the use of federal facilities as alternative detention facilities; and (2) codify detention standards. Prohibits an alien's detention in a location that limits reasonable access to legal assistance. Provides for DHS increases in: (1) Customs and Border Protection personnel; (2) Border Patrol agents; (3) Immigration and Customs Enforcement investigators; (4) detention and removal personnel; (5) legal personnel; and (6) investigative personnel. Provides for Department of Justice increases in: (1) litigation, defense, and U.S. attorneys; (2) U.S. marshals; and (3) immigration judges. Authorizes appropriations for the state criminal alien assistance program. Provides reimbursement for costs related to the incarceration of illegal aliens for: (1) state preconviction costs; and (2) indirect related costs for border states or states with large numbers of undocumented aliens. Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to make criminal street gang activity a grounds for inadmissibility.

Combat-Related Special Compensation Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 8 March 2006

Combat-Related Special Compensation Act of 2006 - Authorizes monthly combat-related special compensation pay to any military retiree who is entitled to retired pay and has a combat-related disability. (Currently, a retiree must meet those requirements and also have completed at least 20 years of retirement-creditable military service.) Provides a special compensation rule with respect to retirees with less than 20 years of service.

A bill to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a national cemetery for veterans in the Pikes Peak Region of Colorado.

United States · United States Congress · 8 March 2006

Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a national cemetery for veterans in the Pikes Peak region of Colorado.

Common Sense Budget Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 8 March 2006

Common Sense Budget Act of 2006 - Requires certain reductions in amounts appropriated for FY2007 for specified Department of Defense (DOD) and Department of Energy (DOE) programs. Makes amounts from such reductions available for: (1) modernization of school facilities; (2) state child health plans; (3) adult and dislocated worker employment and training activities; (4) programs to increase energy efficiency and conservation and increase investment in sustainable and renewable energy alternatives; (5) sustainable development and humanitarian assistance programs to alleviate global poverty, illiteracy, unemployment, disease, and disaster; (6) homeland security safeguard improvements; (7) reduction of the deficit; and (8) medical research.

To require the Secretary of the Interior to offer the 181 Area of the Gulf of Mexico for oil and gas leasing.

United States · United States Congress · 8 March 2006

Instructs the Secretary of the Interior to offer the 181 Area of the Gulf of Mexico for oil and gas leasing no later than one year after enactment of this Act. Prohibits the Secretary from offering for oil and gas leasing: (1) any area east of the Military Mission Line unless the Secretary of Defense agrees in writing before the area is offered for lease that it can be developed so as not to interfere with military activities; or (2) any area within 100 miles of the coastline of Florida. Requires the 181 Area to be offered for lease in spite of its omission from a specified leasing program under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act.

To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a national cemetery for veterans in the Pikes Peak region of Colorado.

United States · United States Congress · 8 March 2006

Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a national cemetery for veterans in the Pikes Peak region of Colorado.

Expressing the continued support of Congress for requiring an institution of higher education to provide military recruiters with access to the institution's campus and students at least equal in quality and scope to that which is provided to any other employer in order to be eligible for the receipt of certain Federal funds.

United States · United States Congress · 8 March 2006

Expresses continued support for conditioning an institution of higher education's receipt of certain federal funds on its providing military recruiters with the same access to its campus and students as it provides to any other employer.

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2007

United States · United States Senate · 7 March 2006

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2007

United States · United States Senate · 7 March 2006

U.S. National Security Protection Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 7 March 2006

U.S. National Security Protection Act of 2006 - Revises the structure of the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) to: (1) add the Director of National Intelligence and the Director of Central Intelligence as members; (2) designate the Secretaries of Homeland Security and of Defense as vice chairs; and (3) require the President to establish a Subcommittee on Intelligence. Amends the Defense Production Act of 1950 to charge the Subcommittee with the tasks of providing review and comment both before and after investigations authorized or required under the Act to determine the national security effects of mergers, acquisitions, and takeovers ("takeovers," for purposes of this Act) involving foreign persons or foreign government-controlled entities that could result in foreign control of persons engaged in interstate commerce. Includes ownership, control, or operation of critical infrastructure as interstate commerce activity that could affect national security. Requires certification by the President or by the chair of CFIUS (when CFIUS is acting as the President's designee) of a final determination not to proceed with an investigation by the President of a takeover action. Requires persons controlled by or acting on behalf of a foreign government or person to notify the President (or the President's designee) in writing of any proposed takeover of critical infrastructure, providing information necessary to assess national security effects. Requires notice to Congress within 15 days of such notification and at the commencement of an investigation. Requires the President to report quarterly to Congress on all takeovers that were subject to investigation or review during the quarter. Makes CFIUS the President's designee for purposes of the takeover investigation provisions.