Defence

To provide Medicare beneficiaries with access to prescription drugs at Federal Supply Schedule prices.

United States · United States Congress · 22 December 2005

Provides that any individual entitled to benefits under part A (Hospital Insurance), or enrolled under part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance), of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) shall be eligible to obtain prescription drugs at the prices specified in the Federal Supply Schedule. Amends SSA title XVIII to repeal provisions prohibiting the Secretary of Health and Human Services from: (1) interfering with the negotiations between drug manufacturers and pharmacies and prescription drug plan sponsors; or (2) requiring a particular formulary to institute a price structure for the reimbursement of covered Medicare part D (Voluntary Prescription Drug Benefit Program) drugs. Grants the Secretary, instead, authority similar to that of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, the Secretary of Defense, and the heads of other federal agencies and departments that purchase prescription drugs in bulk to negotiate contracts with manufacturers of covered Medicare part D drugs, consistent with the requirements and in furtherance of the goals of providing quality care and containing costs.States that the purpose of this grant of authority is to ensure that beneficiaries enrolled under prescription drug plans and Medicare Advantage prescription drug (MA-PD) plans pay the lowest possible price.

Requesting the President and directing the Secretary of Defense to transmit to the House of Representatives all information in the possession of the President or the Secretary of Defense relating to the collection of intelligence information pertaining to persons inside the United States without obtaining court-ordered warrants authorizing the collection of such information and relating to the policy of the United States with respect to the gathering of counterterrorism intelligence within the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 22 December 2005

Requests the President and directs the Secretary of Defense to transmit to the House of Representatives all documents in their possession relating to: (1) the scope of activities undertaken by the Department of Defense (DOD), the Counterintelligence Field Activity, or related agencies with regard to the Threat and Local Observation Notice reports; and (2) the legal authority serving as the basis for the National Security Agency (NSA) or DOD to conduct surveillance and gather counterterrorism intelligence within the United States without warrants.

Global Pathogen Surveillance Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 21 December 2005

Global Pathogen Surveillance Act of 2005 - Prohibits assistance under this Act to an eligible developing country that does not: (1) permit World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDCP) personnel to investigate infectious disease outbreaks within its borders; and (2) provide pathogen surveillance data to appropriate U.S. and international agencies and organizations. Prohibits any participating foreign national from having unsupervised access to agents that may be used in a biological weapon. Establishes a public health education and training fellowship program for eligible nationals to pursue: (1) a master of public health degree with a concentration in epidemiology; or (2) advanced public health training in epidemiology. Directs the Secretary of State to support short training courses in-country (not in the United States) for laboratory technicians and other public health personnel in: (1) laboratory techniques relating to the identification, diagnosis, and tracking of pathogens responsible for possible infectious disease outbreaks; and (2) syndrome surveillance reporting and rapid analysis of syndrome information using Geographic Information System (GIS). Authorizes the President to furnish assistance to eligible developing countries to purchase and maintain: (1) public health laboratory equipment necessary to collect, analyze, and identify pathogens which may cause disease outbreaks or may be used as a biological weapon; and (2) related communications equipment and information technology. Authorizes a federal agency head, upon the request of a U.S. chief of diplomatic mission or an international health organization, and with the Secretary's concurrence, to assign to the respective U.S. mission or organization any public health officer or employee of the agency for the purpose of enhancing disease and pathogen surveillance efforts in developing countries. Directs CDCP and the Department of Defense (DOD) to: (1) increase the number of personnel assigned to their respective laboratories located in eligible developing countries that conduct infectious disease research; and (2) expand the operations of those laboratories, especially in the implementation of on-site training of foreign nationals and regional outreach efforts. Authorizes: (1) the President to provide assistance to enhance the surveillance and reporting capabilities for WHO and existing regional and international health networks, and develop new health networks; and (2) the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish new country or regional foreign epidemiology training programs in eligible developing countries. Directs the President to establish the Office of Foreign Biological Threat Detection and Warning.

A bill to require the submittal to Congress of any Presidential Daily Briefing relating to Iraq during the period beginning on January 20, 1997, and ending on March 19, 2003.

United States · United States Congress · 21 December 2005

Requires the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) to submit to the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence and the House of Representatives Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence any Presidential Daily Briefing, or any portion of a Briefing, of the Director of Central Intelligence during the period January 20, 1997-March 19, 2003, that refers to Iraq or otherwise addresses Iraq in any fashion.

A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to modify eligibility for income replacement payments for Reserves experiencing extended and frequent mobilization for active duty service.

United States · United States Congress · 21 December 2005

Amends federal military pay provisions to reduce from 18 to six continuous months of active duty service under an involuntary mobilization order the eligibility requirement for income replacement payments for reserve personnel subject to extended and frequent mobilization for active duty service.

National Homeland Security Academy Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 21 December 2005

National Homeland Security Academy Act of 2005 - Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to establish within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) a National Homeland Security Academy consisting of: (1) a National Homeland Security Education and Strategy Center to provide fundamental instruction and develop a homeland security curriculum; (2) a communications network capable of delivering distance learning opportunities; (3) the programs of the Office of State and Local Government Coordination and Preparedness' Center for Homeland Defense and Security; and (4) a National Homeland Security Education Network composed of representatives from all of the academies and training centers within DHS jurisdiction.. Directs the Secretary to appoint a State and Local Education and Training Coordinator in the Office of State and Local Government Coordination and Preparedness to serve as the primary point of contact between federal, state, and local training facilities, the Academy, and the Office of State and Local Government Coordination and Preparedness.

Kendell Frederick Citizenship Assistance Act

United States · United States Congress · 21 December 2005

Kendell Frederick Citizenship Assistance Act - Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to use the fingerprints provided by an individual at the time of military enlistment to satisfy any fingerprint requirements as part of an application for naturalization if the individual: (1) may be naturalized under provisions of the Immigration and Nationality Act; (2) was fingerprinted in accordance with requirements of the Department of Defense (DOD) at the time of enlistment; and (3) submits an application for naturalization within 12 months after the date of enlistment. Requires the Secretary of Defense to establish the position of Citizenship Advocate at each military entry processing station to provide information and assistance to members of the Armed Forces on the naturalization process. Requires the Secretary of Homeland Security to: (1) establish a toll-free naturalization assistance telephone number available only to members and their families; and (2) after any modification of naturalization laws, update the appropriate application form, instructions and guidebook, and Internet website to reflect such modification. Directs the Comptroller General to: (1) report to the congressional defense and judiciary committees on the entire process for adjudication of an application for naturalization; and (2) conduct a study on the implementation of this Act by the Secretaries of Homeland Security and Defense.

Armed Forces Education Benefits Improvement Act

United States · United States Congress · 21 December 2005

Armed Forces Education Benefits Improvement Act - Increases for FY2005 and thereafter the amount of monthly basic educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill (GI Bill) for veterans whose obligated period of active duty for such entitlement is three years. Increases such amounts, for FY2006 and thereafter, by the percentage increase in the Consumer Price Index. Directs the Secretary of Defense to work expeditiously with the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure that members of the Selected Reserve receive their educational benefits in a timely manner. Requires a study from the Secretary of: (1) Defense analyzing the effect of all GI Bill educational benefits on recruitment and retention; and (2) Veterans Affairs analyzing the effect of such benefits on the readjustment of veterans eligible for the increased benefits, above. Increases for FY2005 and thereafter the amount of monthly educational assistance for members of the Selected Reserve who agree to remain members for at least six years. Increases such amounts, for FY2006 and thereafter, by the percentage increase in the Consumer Price Index. Allows eligible members of the Armed Forces to make an irrevocable election to receive basic educational assistance under the GI Bill. Defines as eligible members those who: (1) first became a member or first served on active duty before July 1, 1985; (2) served on active duty without a break in service since such date; (3) continue to so serve during the one-year period following enactment of this Act; (4) have successfully completed the requirements of a secondary school diploma and the equivalent of 12 semester hours toward a standard college degree; and (5) when discharged or released, receive an honorable discharge.

Honor Our Fallen Prisoners of War Act

United States · United States Congress · 21 December 2005

Honor Our Fallen Prisoners of War Act - Requires the Secretary concerned, for purposes of awarding the Purple Heart, to treat members of the Armed Forces who die in captivity under circumstances establishing eligibility for the prisoner-of-war medal but not for the Purple Heart as a member who is killed or wounded in action. Applies this Act to members who died on or after December 7, 1941.

A resolution recognizing the Republic of Croatia for its progress in strengthening democratic institutions, respect for human rights, and the rule of law and recommending the integration of Croatia into the North Atlantic Treaty Organization.

United States · United States Congress · 21 December 2005

States that: (1) since the Republic of Croatia became an independent country, the government and people of Croatia have made significant progress in strengthening democratic institutions, respect for human rights, and the rule of law in Croatia; and (2) Croatia's membership in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) would contribute to stability in Southeast Europe; Expresses the sense of the Senate that: (1) the government and people of Croatia should be commended for their progress on protecting minority rights in Croatia, progress toward achieving the political, economic, military, and other requirements of the NATO's Membership Action Plan, contribution to the International Security Assistance Force and the war against terrorism, and for their constructive participation in the Proliferation Security Initiative and in the United States-Adriatic Charter; (2) the government of Croatia should be commended for its cooperation with the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia which led to the apprehension and transfer of several individuals indicted for war crimes to the Tribunal; (3) the government of Croatia should continue its cooperation with the Tribunal; (4) the government of Croatia should continue and strengthen its role as a partner on nonproliferation and its support in the war against terrorism and in Iraq; (5) the government of Croatia should continue its efforts to implement defense reforms; (6) the United States should continue and increase its defense and security cooperation with the Croatia; and (7) upon complete satisfaction of NATO membership criteria, Croatia should be invited to be a full member of NATO at the earliest possible date.

A concurrent resolution correcting the enrollment of H.R. 2863.

United States · United States Congress · 21 December 2005

Directs the Clerk of the House of the Representatives to make corrections in the enrollment of H.R. 2863 (Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2006) by striking Division C, the American Energy Independence and Security Act of 2005 (allowing oil well drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge) and Division D, the Distribution of Revenues and Disaster Assistance.

James I. Finley, of Minnesota, to be Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Technology, vice Michael W. Wynne.

United States · United States Senate · 20 December 2005

Fair Share for Military Children in Public Schools Act

United States · United States Congress · 20 December 2005

Fair Share for Military Children in Public Schools Act - Amends title VIII (Impact Aid) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to authorize appropriations for basic payments for heavily impacted local educational agencies (LEAs) for eligible federally connected children. Authorizes such funds in amounts equal to increasing portions of the full amount computed for each such LEA for each of FY2007-FY2010, until the full amount is reached for FY2011.

A bill to extend the period of time which a veteran's multiple sclerosis is to be considered to have been incurred in, or aggravated by, military service during a period of war.

United States · United States Congress · 20 December 2005

Eliminates the period following separation from service within which a veteran's multiple sclerosis must have developed to a degree of disability of 10% or more to be considered to have been incurred in or aggravated by such service during a period of war.

Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 19 December 2005

Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Act of 2005 - 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.

A bill to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to conduct a study to determine the suitability and feasibility of designating the Solders' Memorial Military Museum located in St. Louis, Missouri, as a unit of the National Park System.

United States · United States Congress · 19 December 2005

Directs the Secretary of the Interior to carry out a study to determine the suitability and feasibility of designating the Soldiers' Memorial Military Museum, located at 1315 Chestnut, St. Louis, Missouri, as a unit of the National Park System.

Requesting the President to provide to the House of Representatives certain documents in his possession relating to electronic surveillance without search warrants on individuals in the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 18 December 2005

Requests the President to provide to the House of Representatives all documents in his possession relating to, and the identities of all individuals subject to, electronic surveillance without search warrants by the National Security Agency (NSA) within the United States since September 11, 2001.

Waiving points of order against the conference report to accompany the bill (H.R. 2863) making appropriations for the Department of Defense for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2006, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 18 December 2005

Waives points of order against consideration of the conference report on H.R. 2863 (Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2006).

To amend the David L. Boren National Security Education Act of 1991 to allow scholarship and fellowship recipients to work in a field of education if no position in the Federal Government relating to national security is available.

United States · United States Congress · 17 December 2005

Amends the David L. Boren National Security Education Act of 1991 to revise the service requirements for certain National Security Scholarship and Fellowship recipients. Repeals the conditions that a recipient work: (1) one year of service for each year for which the scholarship or fellowship assistance was provided; and (2) in order to utilize the unique language and region expertise acquired by the recipient pursuant to such study. Requires the recipient to work at least one year in a position contributing to national security in the Department of Defense (as under current law), any element of the intelligence community (as under current law), the Department of Homeland Security, or the Department of State. Allows the recipient to work at least one year in such a position in any other federal agency if none is available in any of the primary departments specified, or if none is available in another federal agency, at least one academic year in a position in a field of education in a discipline related to the studies supported by the scholarship or fellowship.

K-16 Critical Foreign Language Pipeline Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 December 2005

K-16 Critical Foreign Language Pipeline Act - Amends the David L. Boren National Security Education Act of 1991 to create a Critical Foreign Language Program. Directs the Secretary of Defense to provide grants to five institutions of higher education to establish such program to collaborate with elementary schools and secondary schools for language learning pipelines to train students from kindergarten through college to be proficient in those foreign languages that the Secretary identifies as being the most critical in the interests of U.S. national security.

Veterans Housing Fairness Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 16 December 2005

Veterans Housing Fairness Act of 2005 - Authorizes the use of veterans' housing loan benefits to purchase stock or membership in a development, project, or structure (structure) of a cooperative housing corporation as long as such structure: (1) complies with criteria prescribed by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs; and (2) is a single family residential unit.

Disaster Relief Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 16 December 2005

Disaster Relief Act of 2005 - Amends the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act to include a foreseeable catastrophic event as a major disaster for which the President may provide federal assistance. Revises requirements with respect to or provides for: (1) extension of the predisaster hazard mitigation program; (2) coordinating officers; (3) recovery of federal assistance from persons liable, through gross negligence, for causing a condition for such such assistance is provided; (4) utilization of Department of Defense resources; (5) hazard mitigation; (6) congressional notification; (7) federal assistance to individuals and households; (8) emergency public transportation, including cases of emergency evacuation; and (9) evacuees. Establishes in the Treasury a Disaster Relief Fund.

A resolution honoring the memory of the members of the Armed Forces of the United States who have given their lives in service to the United States in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.

United States · United States Congress · 16 December 2005

Honors the memory of, and identifies, 2398 members of the Armed Forces who died in service to the United States in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom as of December 12, 2005.

Filipino Veterans Equity Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 16 December 2005

Filipino Veterans Equity Act of 2006 - Deems certain service performed before July 1, 1946, in the organized military forces of the Philippines and the Philippine Scouts as active military service for purposes of eligibility for veterans' benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs. Repeals certain provisions discounting such service as qualifying service.

To provide Medicare beneficiaries with access to prescription drugs at Federal Supply Schedule prices.

United States · United States Congress · 16 December 2005

Provides that any individual entitled to benefits under part A (Hospital Insurance), or enrolled under part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance), of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) shall be eligible to obtain prescription drugs at the prices specified in the Federal Supply Schedule. Amends SSA title XVIII to repeal provisions prohibiting the Secretary of Health and Human Services from: (1) interfering with the negotiations between drug manufacturers and pharmacies and prescription drug plan sponsors; or (2) requiring a particular formulary to institute a price structure for the reimbursement of covered Medicare part D (Voluntary Prescription Drug Benefit Program) drugs. Grants the Secretary, instead, authority similar to that of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, the Secretary of Defense, and the heads of other federal agencies and departments that purchase prescription drugs in bulk to negotiate contracts with manufacturers of covered Medicare part D drugs, consistent with the requirements and in furtherance of the goals of providing quality care and containing costs.States that the purpose of this grant of authority is to ensure that beneficiaries enrolled under prescription drug plans and Medicare Advantage prescription drug (MA-PD) plans pay the lowest possible price.

Code Talkers Recognition Act

United States · United States Congress · 16 December 2005

Code Talkers Recognition Act - Directs the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President Pro Tempore of the Senate to make arrangements for the presentation of a congressional gold medal: (1) to persons, including specified individuals, who served as Sioux or Comanche Code Talkers during World War II; (2) honoring the Choctaw Code Talkers of World War I; and (3) to any other Native American member of the armed forces, identified by the Secretary of Defense, who served as a Code Talker in any foreign conflict in which the United States was involved during the 20th Century. Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to strike and sell duplicates in bronze of the gold medals struck under this Act and to deposit the proceeds in the United States Mint Public Enterprise Fund to pay for the costs of the medals awarded under this Act.

Sowing the Seeds Through Science and Engineering Research Act

United States · United States Congress · 16 December 2005

Sowing the Seeds Through Science and Engineering Research Act - Authorizes appropriations for FY2007-FY2011 to: (1) the National Science Foundation (NSF), Department of Energy (DOE), National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), and National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) for support of basic research activities in the physical sciences, mathematics and computer sciences, and engineering; and (2) the Department of Defense (DOD) for support of basic research activities. Makes at least 8% of such amounts available for high-risk, potentially high-payoff research. Authorizes appropriations for FY2007-FY2011 to the NSF, National Institutes of Health (NIH), DOE, DOD, and NASA for the support of the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers program. Directs NSF to institute the Graduate Scholar Awards in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics program or GSA-STEM program, to award graduate fellowships in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics. Requires the NSF Director to establish an advisory board. Establishes a Presidential Innovation Award, which the President shall periodically award to individuals who develop one or more unique scientific or engineering ideas in the national interest. Directs the Office of Science and Technology Policy to establish a National Coordination Office for Research Infrastructure to: (1) identify and prioritize deficiencies in research facilities and instrumentation in academic institutions and national laboratories; and (2) make recommendations for resource allocation. Authorizes appropriations for FY2007-FY2011 to NSF and DOE for construction and maintenance of research facilities at institutions of higher education or national laboratories and other physical resources for performing leading-edge research.

To recognize and honor the Filipino World War II veterans for their defense of democratic ideals and their important contribution to the outcome of World War II.

United States · United States Congress · 16 December 2005

Reaffirms, recognizes, and honors the Filipino World War II veterans for their defense of American democracy and important contribution to the victorious outcome of World War II.

Expressing the appreciation of Congress for the contributions of the United Service Organizations, Incorporated (the USO), to the morale and welfare of the members of the Armed Forces and their families.

United States · United States Congress · 16 December 2005

Extends gratitude to the USO on its 65th anniversary and recognizes that their work in supporting servicemen and servicewomen is critical to the success and mission of the military.

Honoring the Hispanic Americans who have served in the Armed Forces, such as Captain Felix Sosa-Camejo, United States Army.

United States · United States Congress · 16 December 2005

Honors: (1) the Hispanic Americans who have served in the Armed Forces; and (2) the life of Captain Felix Sosa-Camejo, U.S. Army, in recognition of his achievements and sacrifice during service, including during the Vietnam War, and ending with his death in combat on February 13, 1968.

Providing that the new permanent Council of Representatives of Iraq is encouraged to debate and vote on whether or not a continued United States military presence in Iraq is desired by the Government of Iraq.

United States · United States Congress · 16 December 2005

States that the new permanent Council of Representatives of Iraq is encouraged to openly debate and vote on whether or not a continued U.S. military presence in Iraq is desired by the government of Iraq.

National Innovation Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 15 December 2005

National Innovation Act of 2005 - Directs the President to establish the: (1) President's Council on Innovation; and (2) Innovation Acceleration Grants Program to support and promote innovation in the United States. Requires the National Science Foundation (NSF) to: (1) submit a multiyear plan that describes how the funds authorized by this Act for doubling research funding shall be used; (2) study how the federal government should support the new discipline of service science; (3) expand the Graduate Research Fellowship Program and the Integrative Graduate Education and Research Traineeship Program; (4) establish a clearinghouse for sharing program elements used in successful professional science master's degree programs; (5) award grants for pilot programs to four-year institutions of higher education to facilitate the creation or improvement of such programs; and (6) award grants to local educational agencies to enable implementation of innovation-based experiential learning. Requires the Office of Science and Technology Policy to submit recommendations for an increase in funding for research and development in physical sciences and engineering. Requires the Department of Commerce to: (1) review federal programs that support local economic development and implement a strategy to fund initiatives that improve the ability of communities to participate successfully in the modern economy through innovation; (2) promote economic development opportunities for serving local communities as specified; and (3) coordinate activities focused on promoting innovation through development of regional innovation hot spots. Requires the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to support research and development for advanced manufacturing systems designed to increase productivity and efficiency and to create competitive advantages for U.S. businesses. Make permanent the research credit for qualified research expenses and provides for an alternative simplified credit for such expenses. Requires studies: (1) to explore methods for managing costs associated with catastrophic healthcare events and with chronic disease; and (2) for establishing lifelong learning accounts for educational or training purposes; and (3) of methods to mitigate new forms of risk for businesses that affect innovation. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to: (1) issue regulations relating to private foundation support of innovations in economic development; and (2) establish an advisory group to examine best practices for valuation of intangibles. Makes it the goal of the Department of Defense (DOD) to allocate: (1) at least 3% of the total DOD budget to science and technology; and (2) of such amount, at least 20% to basic research. Extends and expands the Science, Mathematics, and Research for Transformation (SMART) Defense Scholarship Pilot Program. Expands the National Defense Science and Engineering Graduate (NDSEG) fellowship program. Requires DOD to: (1) award institution-based traineeships in areas of importance to DOD in mathematics, science, or engineering; and (2) undertake specified actions with respect to defense manufacturing research and development.

Securing Useful and Responsive Giving in Emergencies (SURGE) Act

United States · United States Congress · 15 December 2005

Securing Useful and Responsive Giving in Emergencies (SURGE) Act - Requires the Director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to report to specified congressional committees on the feasibility of establishing a publicly accessible disaster charities database of nongovernmental, private donor, private sector, and volunteer organizations that provide relief services following Incidents of National Significance and other disasters and emergencies, including organizations specializing in immediate relief and those specializing in longer-term community redevelopment. Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to require the FEMA Director, after the Secretary of Homeland Security declares an Incident of National Significance, to submit to such congressional committees initial, interim, and final immediate relief estimates of the money needed for immediate relief for Incident victims, and the portion of that total that private charities and nonprofit organizations should be reasonably expected to provide. Requires the Comptroller General to report to such congressional committees on the use by hurricane-relief charities of nongovernment funds donated for relief for the victims of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Directs the Inspector General of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to: (1) assess the performance of the American National Red Cross after the hurricanes with respect to its DHS partnership and related responsibilities pursuant to Emergency Support Function 6 of the National Response Plan under the Homeland Security Act of 2002; and (2) report on its designation as the only nongovernmental organization with primary agency responsibility under such Emergency Support Function. Directs the Secretary to establish a disaster call center network to facilitate responses to Incidents of National Significance, disasters, and emergencies. Amends the federal charter of the American Red Cross with respect to its annual report to the Secretary of Defense, its purpose, and mandatory management staff, partnership, and business enterprise initiative diversity. Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to amend the National Response Plan to include a similar diversity requirement.

Servicemembers Interest Rate Relief Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 15 December 2005

Servicemembers Interest Rate Relief Act of 2005 - Amends the Servicemembers' Civil Relief Act to revise the six percent maximum annual interest rate to be charged on debts incurred by a servicemember, and his or her spouse jointly, before the servicemember enters into military service and continuing for the duration of such military service, to five percent in the case of any interest incurred during the period beginning on October 1, 2006, and ending on September 30, 2009.

Expressing the commitment of the House of Representatives to achieving victory in Iraq.

United States · United States Congress · 15 December 2005

Declares that: (1) the House of Representatives is committed to achieving victory in Iraq; (2) the presence of the U.S. Armed Forces in Iraq will only be required until Iraqi forces can stand up on their own; and (3) an artificial timetable for terminating the deployment of U.S. Armed Forces in Iraq is inconsistent with achieving victory. Acknowledges the Iraqi December 15, 2005, election as a crucial victory for its new democracy. Encourages Americans to express solidarity with the Iraq people and their goal of a democratic society. Honors the sacrifices made by the U.S. Armed Forces, their families, and members of the Iraq and Coalition forces. Expresses confidence that the U.S. Armed Forces, along with Iraqi and Coalition forces, will achieve victory in Iraq.

Congratulating the people of Iraq on the three national elections conducted in Iraq in 2005.

United States · United States Congress · 15 December 2005

Congratulates the people of Iraq on their 2005 national elections. Encourages Americans to express support for the people of Iraq in their efforts to achieve a democratic society. Expresses thanks and admiration to the U.S. Armed Forces, other nations' armed forces in Iraq, and security forces of Iraq.

Expressing concern regarding nuclear proliferation with respect to proposed full civilian nuclear cooperation with India, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 15 December 2005

Supports strengthened economic, scientific, military, humanitarian, and anti-terrorism ties between the United States and India. States that the United States and India have a vital common interest in reducing the dangers posed by nuclear weapons through effective nonproliferation and disarmament endeavors. Expresses concern that the supply of nuclear fuel to India could result in the availability of India's existing fissile material stockpile, and in India's capacity to produce fissile material, for weapons purposes and thereby compromise U.S. ability to comply with the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. Finds that the proposal for full civilian nuclear cooperation between the United States and India poses potentially adverse implications for U.S. nuclear nonproliferation objectives. Disapproves of any nuclear cooperation proposal that would result in the export or transfer to any country that: (1) is not a party to the Treaty on the Nonproliferation of Nuclear Weapons and has detonated a nuclear explosive device; or (2) is a nonnuclear-weapon state under that Treaty, but has not accepted full International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards over all of its nuclear facilities, materials, equipment, or technology that could assist in nuclear weapons production.

Kendell Frederick Citizenship Assistance Act

United States · United States Congress · 14 December 2005

Kendell Frederick Citizenship Assistance Act - Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to use the fingerprints provided by an individual at the time of military enlistment to satisfy any fingerprint requirements as part of an application for naturalization if the individual: (1) may be naturalized under provisions of the Immigration and Nationality Act; (2) was fingerprinted in accordance with requirements of the Department of Defense (DOD) at the time of enlistment; and (3) submits an application for naturalization within 12 months after the date of enlistment. Requires the Secretary of Defense to establish the position of Citizenship Advocate at each military entry processing station to provide information to members of the Armed Forces on the naturalization process.

To amend title 5, United States Code, to deny Federal retirement benefits to individuals convicted of certain offenses, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 14 December 2005

Prohibits an individual (or a survivor or beneficiary thereof) from receiving federal annuity or retired pay if such individual is convicted, indicted, or has outstanding charges against him under the Uniform Code of Military Justice for specified offenses concerning: (1) bribery, graft, or conflicts of interest related to public officials and witnesses, Members of Congress, government officers or employees, or obtaining appointive public office; (2) embezzlement or theft of public money, property, or records; (3) the solicitation or use of gifts; (4) fraud and false statements or entries; (5) perjury; (6) subornation of perjury; or (7) false declarations before a grand jury or court. Refunds annuity contributions and deposits, excluding interest earned, to a convicted individual.

Kendell Frederick Citizenship Assistance Act

United States · United States Congress · 14 December 2005

Kendell Frederick Citizenship Assistance Act - Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to use the fingerprints provided by an individual at the time of military enlistment to satisfy any fingerprint requirements as part of an application for naturalization if the individual: (1) may be naturalized under provisions of the Immigration and Nationality Act; (2) was fingerprinted in accordance with requirements of the Department of Defense (DOD) at the time of enlistment; and (3) submits an application for naturalization within 12 months after the date of enlistment. Requires the Secretary of Defense to establish the position of Citizenship Advocate at each military entry processing station to provide information to members of the Armed Forces on the naturalization process.

Veterans Housing Fairness Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 14 December 2005

Veterans Housing Fairness Act of 2005 - Authorizes the use of veterans' housing loan benefits to purchase stock or membership in a development, project, or structure (structure) of a cooperative housing corporation as long as such structure: (1) complies with criteria prescribed by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs; and (2) is a one-family residential unit.

Congressional Pension Accountability Act

United States · United States Congress · 14 December 2005

Congressional Pension Accountability Act - Prohibits a Member of Congress, or a survivor or beneficiary, from receiving an annuity or retired pay if such Member is: (1) convicted of bribery of public officials and witnesses, conspiracy either to commit any offense against the United States or to defraud the United States, perjury, or subornation of perjury; or (2) indicted or has outstanding charges under the Uniform Code of Military Justice. Defines "Member of Congress" as the Vice President, a member of the Senate or the House of Representatives, a Delegate to the House of Representatives, and the Resident Commissioner from Puerto Rico.

Proposing a balanced budget amendment to the Constitution of the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 14 December 2005

Constitutional Amendment - Prohibits federal expenditures (except those for repayment of debt principal) from exceeding revenues (except those derived from borrowing) for any fiscal year unless three-fifths of the whole number of each chamber provides for a specific excess of expenditures over revenues by a rollcall vote. Authorizes Congress to waive such prohibition when a declaration of war is in effect or under other specified circumstances involving military conflict.

Michael L. Dominguez, of Virginia, to be Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness, vice Charles S. Abell, resigned.

United States · United States Senate · 13 December 2005

Montgomery GI Bill Enhancement Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 13 December 2005

Montgomery GI Bill Enhancement Act of 2005 - Authorizes an individual, during the year following enactment of this Act, to make an irrevocable election for entitlement to basic educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill if such individual: (1) first became a member of the armed forces or entered active duty before July 1, 1985; (2) has served on active duty without a break in service and continues to serve for some or all of the year before enactment of this Act; (3) has completed requirements of a secondary school diploma or the equivalent of 12 semester hours in a program leading to a standard college degree; and (4) is discharged or released from active duty honorably. Requires such individual's basic pay to be reduced, over an 18-month period, until the total reduction is $2,700, as a contribution toward such educational assistance.

Agricultural Employment and Workforce Protection Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 13 December 2005

Agricultural Employment and Workforce Protection Act of 2005 - Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to: (1) prepare and submit to Congress a comprehensive plan, including detailed strategies, timelines, and estimated costs, to establish operational control of U.S. borders and effectively enforce immigration laws within the United States; (2) develop a plan for using Department of Defense (DOD) equipment for surveillance of U.S. international land borders; and (3) increase the number of full-time Customs and Border Protection Officers. Authorizes the Secretary to construct additional land ports of entry to enhance U.S. border security. Authorizes state or local law enforcement officials to assist in the enforcement of federal immigration laws. Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) to: (1) require the Secretary to accept custody of illegal aliens held by state or local law enforcement officials; (2) reimburse states and local governments for the costs of holding and transporting such aliens; and (3) make aliens who are members of criminal street gangs ineligible for admission to the United States. Requires the Secretary to: (1) hire additional personnel to investigate immigration status violations; (2) provide the National Crime Information Center with information on certain classes of illegal aliens; and (3) build or acquire additional alien detention facilities. Amends the INA to: (1) revise requirements for the H-2A visa (temporary agricultural workers); (2) establish a cross-border commuter worker program (H-2AA) to allow Canadian and Mexican workers to enter and exit the United States for work purposes each day; and (3) establish a blue card program for undocumented agricultural workers who have at least 1600 hours of agricultural employment in the United States in 2005 and have no criminal record. Allows such workers to work in the United States for two years.

To prohibit the Secretary of Defense from purchasing certain steel or equipment, products, or systems made with steel that is not melted and poured in the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 13 December 2005

Prohibits the Secretary of Defense from purchasing steel, or equipment, products, or systems necessary to national security or defense that are made of steel, that is not melted and poured in the United States, with specified exceptions.

To amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to authorize a case-by-case waiver of certain naturalization requirements for children of members of the Armed Forces who are adopted outside the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 8 December 2005

Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to authorize the case-by-case waiver of certain naturalization requirements for a child adopted outside the United States by a member of the Armed Forces who at the time of adoption was stationed outside the United States.

Directing the Secretary of State, the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of Homeland Security, and the Attorney General, and requesting the President, to provide certain information to the House of Representatives relating to extraordinary rendition of certain foreign persons.

United States · United States Congress · 8 December 2005

Directs the Secretary of State, the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of Homeland Security, and the Attorney General, and requests the President, to provide to the House of Representatives all documents and records in their possession relating to the rendition, transfer, or return to a foreign country of any foreign person who has been imprisoned, detained, or held for transfer to another country by, or has otherwise been in the custody of, a department, agency, or official of the U.S. government, or any contractor of any such department or agency.

Enhancing America's Guard and Reserve Act

United States · United States Congress · 7 December 2005

Enhancing America's Guard and Reserve Act - Entitles a Federal employee who is a member of a reserve component to receive the difference in pay between military compensation and civilian compensation during periods of active duty exceeding 30 days. Directs the Secretary of the military department concerned to reimburse States or local governments for 50 percent of the civilian compensation paid by such governments to equalize military and civilian pay. Increases the reimbursement rate to 100 percent if active duty extends beyond nine months. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to establish an active-duty reserve component employee credit for employers who provide compensation to employees on active duty. Modifies age and service requirements for receipt of retired pay for non-regular service. Removes certain service commencement and continuation requirements for the receipt by members of the Selected Reserve of benefits under the TRICARE program (a Department of Defense (DOD) managed care program). Increases the amount of basic educational assistance for members of reserve components under the Montgomery GI Bill. Prohibits the termination of educational assistance for a member's failure to participate satisfactorily in required training due solely to a call to active duty. Authorizes the limited use of telecommuting to satisfy inactive-duty training. Requires the Secretary of Defense to give Selected Reserve members eligibility for travel on DOD aircraft on a space-available basis.