The state of California provides several veteran benefits. This section offers a brief description of each of the following benefits.

Housing Benefits

Financial Assistance Benefits

Employment Benefits

Veteran Business Benefits

Education Benefits

Other State Veteran Benefits

California Veteran Housing Programs

Veterans Homes of California The Benefits: Professional and low cost residential, assisted living and medical care facilities throughout California. Who May Be Eligible: Aged or disabled U.S. veterans who are residents of California. Learn more about the Veterans Homes of California

Calvet Farm and Home Loans Direct loans from the State of California, highly competitive rates, quick processing, unbeatable earthquake and disaster coverage, and proven ability to work well with our homeowner veterans. Who May Be Eligible: Any veteran who served honorably on active duty in the Armed Forces of the United States, who resides in and wishes to purchase a farm or home in California.

Apply at any California Department of Veterans Affairs CalVet District Office (located in the state government section of your telephone book), or California Department of Veterans Affairs. Farm and Home Loan Division, 1227 „O‟ Street, Sacramento, CA 95814 Tel: 1-800-952-5626 or visit www.cdva.ca.gov/CalVetLoans/ on our web site. Learn more about Calvet Farm and Home Loans

California Financial Assistance Benefits

Property Tax Exemptions Property tax exemptions on the assessed value of a home of: a) up to $111,296 if the total household income from all sources is over $49,979 per year. b) up to $166,944 if the total household income from all sources is under $49,979 per year. Who May Be Eligible:

a) Wartime veterans who are in receipt of service-connected disability compensation at the totally disabled rate.

b) Unmarried surviving spouses or registered domestic partners of veterans who are in receipt of service-connected death benefits.

c) Wartime veterans who are service-connected for loss the use of two or more limbs.

d) Wartime veterans who are service-connected for blindness.

To apply contact your local County Assessors Office (located in the county government section of your telephone book) or at: www.boe.ca.gov/proptaxes/assessors.htm. Learn more about Property Tax Exemptions

Motor Vehicle Registration Fees Waived Waiver of registration fees and free license plates for one passenger motor vehicle, or one motorcycle, or one commercial motor vehicle of less than 8001 pounds unladen weight. Who May Be Eligible: Medal of Honor recipients, American Ex-Prisoners of War and “disabled veterans” as defined in the “Disabled Veterans License Plate” section of this pamphlet. Learn more about Motor Vehicle Registration Fees

California Employment Benefits

Employment and Unemployment Insurance Assistance Assistance in obtaining training and employment as well assistance in obtaining unemployment insurance. Who May Be Eligible: All veterans. Learn more about Employment and Unemployment Insurance Assistance

Veterans Preference in California Civil Service Examinations Additional points added to the final score of a civil service examination as follows:

a) Open Entrance Exams-15 points for a disabled veteran and 10 points for other veterans and surviving spouses.

b) Open Non-promotional Entrance Exams-10 points for disabled veterans and 5 points for other veterans. Who May Be Eligible:

a) Veterans with service-connected disabilities rated at 10% or greater.

b) “Wartime” veterans who served have served with honor.

c) A veteran who served under honorable conditions for a period of at least 181 days

d) Spouses of totally disabled service-connected veterans.

e) Unmarried, surviving spouses of a veteran who has died of service-connected causes. Learn more about Veterans Preference in California

California Veteran Business Benefits

Business License, Tax and Fee Waiver Waiver of municipal, county and state business license fees, taxes and fees, for veterans who hawk, peddle or vend any goods, wares or merchandise owned by the veteran, except spirituous, malt, vinous or other intoxicating liquor, including sales from a fixed location. Who May Be Eligible: Honorably discharged veterans who engage in sales (not services) activities may be eligible. Eligibility criteria differs based upon local jurisdiction. Learn more about the Business License, Tax and Fee Waiver

Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Opportunities Certified veteran owned businesses can participate in the state goal of awarding 3% of all state contracts to disabled veterans through the Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) Program. Who May Be Eligible: Veterans with a service-connected disability rated at 10% or greater who own at least 51% of a business, and who meet other eligibility criteria.

Learn more about Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Opportunities

California Education Benefits

College Tuition Fee Waivers for VeteransÂ’ Dependents Waiver of mandatory system-wide tuition and fees at any State of California Community College, California State University or University of California campus. Who May Be Eligible:

Plan A: The spouse, registered domestic partner, child (under the age of 27) or unmarried surviving spouse of a veteran who is totally service-connected disabled, or who has died of service-connected causes may qualify.

Plan B: The child of a veteran who has a permanent service-connected disability. The child‟s income and value of support provided by a parent cannot exceed the national poverty level. Learn more about College Tuition Fee Waivers for VeteransÂ’ Dependents

Non-Resident College Fee Waiver Waiver of non-resident fees (pay at California resident rate) at all State of California Community Colleges, California State University or University of California campuses. Eligibility includes the following individuals:

 A student who is a veteran of the armed forces of the United States stationed in this state on active duty for more than one year immediately prior to being discharged from the armed forces is entitled to resident classification for the length of time he or she lives in this state after being discharged up to the minimum time necessary to become a resident.

 An undergraduate student who is a member of the Armed Forces of the United States stationed in this state on active duty, except a member of the Armed Forces assigned for educational purposes to a state-supported institution of higher education.

 An undergraduate student who is a natural or adopted child, stepchild, or spouse who is a dependent of a member of the armed forces of the United States stationed in this state on active duty.

 A student seeking a graduate degree who is a member of the Armed Forces of the United States stationed in this state on active duty, except a member of the Armed Forces assigned for educational purposes to a state-supported institution of higher education. There is a two-year limit for graduate level studies.

 A student seeking a graduate degree who is a natural or adopted child, stepchild, or spouse who is a dependent of a member of the armed forces of the United States stationed in this state on active duty. There is a one-year limit for graduate level studies.

Eligible students can apply at the Admissions Office of any California system campus.

Other California State Veteran Benefits

Disabled Veteran License Plates Waiver of registration fees and free “DV” handicap parking license plates for one passenger motor vehicle, or one motorcycle, or one commercial motor vehicle of less than 8001 pounds unladen weight. Who May Be Eligible: A “disabled veteran” is any person who, as a result of injury or disease suffered while on active service with the armed forces of the United States, suffers any of the following:

a) Has a disability which has been rated at 100 percent by the Department of Veterans Affairs or the military service from which the veteran was discharged, due to a diagnosed disease or disorder which substantially impairs or interferes with mobility or,

(b) Is so severely disabled as to be unable to move without the aid of an assistant device or,

(c) Has lost, or has lost use of, one or more limbs or,

(d) Has suffered permanent blindness, as defined in Section 19153 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.

Obtain a signed doctor‟s statement that indicates that the veteran in question has a service-connected disability with at least one of the above listed mobility impairments, complete DMV forms REG 195 and REG 256A, and mail the completed package to: DMV PLACARD, P.O. Box 942869, Sacramento, CA 94269-0001 Tel: 1-800-777-0133 or www.dmv.ca.gov

Learn more about Disabled Veteran License Plates

Free License Plates Who May Be Eligible: a) Legion of Valor plates for recipients of the Medal of Honor, Distinguish Service Cross, Navy Cross or the Air Force Cross. b) Purple Heart Medal recipients c) Pearl Harbor Survivors d) Former Prisoners of War

Recipients should complete a DMV form REG 17A, and provide proof they received a medal as described above or the evidence of being stationed at Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. Former POW‟s complete DMV form REG 17. Learn more about Free License Plates

Vehicle Registration Fee Waiver Waiver of registration fees and free license plates for one passenger motor vehicle, or one motorcycle, or one commercial motor vehicle of less than 8001 pounds unladen weight.

Available to Medal of Honor recipients, American Ex-Prisoners of War and “disabled veterans” as defined in the “Disabled Veterans License Plate” section of this pamphlet.

Medal of Honor recipients should complete a DMV form REG 17A, and proof of receipt of the Medal of Honor. Ex-Prisoners of War should complete a DMV form REG 17, and proof of former status as a POW.

Applications and necessary documentation should be mailed to: Department of Motor Vehicles, P.O. Box 932345, Sacramento, CA 94232 Tel: 1-800-777-0133 or www.dmv.ca.gov

Veterans Claims Representation The Benefit: Professional, accredited, USDVA claims and ratings review, and representation in appellate processes. Who May Be Eligible: Any veteran, dependent or veteranÂ‟s survivor applying for USDVA benefits. Learn more about Veterans Claims Representation

Fishing and Hunting Licenses The Benefits: Reduced annual fees for fishing and hunting licenses. Who May Be Eligible: Any veteran with a 50% or greater service-connected disability.

First time applicants must submit proof of their service-connected disability from the USDVA.

The California Department of Fish and Game, License and Revenue Branch, 1740 N. Market Blvd., Sacramento, or any Department of Fish and Game Office. Learn more about Fishing and Hunting Licenses

State Parks and Recreation Pass The Benefits: A lifetime State of California Parks pass for only $3.50. Who May Be Eligible: Any veteran with a service-connected disability rated at 50% or greater, or a former Prisoner of War.

To apply by mail, a veteran should submit:

(1) a completed Department of Parks and Recreation form DPR 619

(2) a letter from the USDVA verifying a service-connected disability rated at 50% or greater, or former Prisoner of War status

(3) a copy of the veterans drivers license to verify California residency, and

(4) a check or money order for $3.50 made payable to the Department of Parks and Recreation.

Send to California Department of Parks and Recreation, Field Services Division, P.O. Box 942896, Sacramento, CA 94296-0001 Tel: (916) 653-4272 or http://www.parks.ca.gov/

Learn more about the State Parks and Recreation Pass

State of California Veterans Cemetery The Benefit: Complete, professional burial services at no cost to veterans ($500 fee for spouses or dependents). Who May Be Eligible: Veterans, dependents and survivors who meet USDVA eligibility requirements for burial in a national cemetery. Learn more about the State of California Veterans Cemetery

Veterans License Plates These special California license plates may be ordered with the armed force or veterans service organization logo/emblem of your choice. Over 100 insignias are available, and your logo will be prominently displayed to the left of a six number/letter combination. Sequential plates are only $30 per year. You may also “personalize” your Vets Plates (your choice of up to 6 characters) for an additional one-time fee of $10.

Learn more about Veterans License Plates

The California Women Veterans Roster Unfortunately, women veterans have not applied for or utilized their veterans benefits as have their male counterparts, which ultimately dilutes the voice of veterans overall. The California Women Veterans Roster is an information bridge that connects California’s women veterans to the various resources and benefits available to them. The roster is strictly confidential and used solely as a link among California’s women veterans. Help give women the voice they earned through service to our country. If you are a woman veteran, join the California Women Veterans Roster! If you are not a woman veteran, please give the gift of information and pass a copy of the roster application form (see below) on to a woman veteran or someone you know associated with women veterans. Learn more about the California Women Veterans Roster

The California Veterans Registry at the California Veterans Memorial The California Veterans Registry is a permanent record of all California Veterans — past and present — who have served our nation since statehood was established in 1850. Whether cook or fighter pilot, mechanic or chief of staff, this memorial will honor them all, and forever immortalize the contributions that California veterans have made to their nation. Each California veteran is entitled to the basic information of name, rank and branch of service. To create a truly living memorial, California veterans are encouraged to expand on the basic information by contributing to the enhanced registry. Learn more about the California Veterans Registry

[Source: www.military.com/benefits/veteran-benefits/california-state-veterans-benefits Aug 2010 ++]

THIS BULLETIN CONTAINS THE FOLLOWING ARTICLES

== Tricare User Fee [51] ————- (Secretary Robert Gates Plan)

== TSP [15] ————————– (Automatic Enrollment Begins)

== Agent Orange & Graves Disease ——————- (Link Found)

== Agent Orange Stateside Use [02] ————- (Fort Detrick MD)

== North Carolina Vet Child Scholarship ——————- (4 year)

== Pennsylvania Veterans’ Homes [03] ———— (Seizing Assets)

== VA Prostate Cancer Program [08] ——— (Proscar Treatment)

== VA EDPI ————————— (Standard Identifier Adopted)

== Mobilized Reserve 10 AUG 2010 —————- (394 Increase)

== ALS [08] ————————— (QOL Notable Improvement)

== DoD Benefit Cuts [02] —————– (Benefits Unsustainable)

== Military Golf Courses [01] ——————— (San Diego Area)

== GI Bill [82] ——————————— (S.3447 Passes SVAC)

== Military Death Benefits ——————————– (H.R.5921)

== Tricare Retired Reserve [02] ——————- (Rates Published)

== Army Retiree Council [03] ———- (2010 Recommendations)

== RSO Locations [01] ———————————— (Aug 2010)

== Military Stolen Valor [21] ———————– (Michael Frisoli)

== Military Stolen Valor [22] —– (Second Lt. Douglas Sofranko)

== Vet Insurance ~ Life [01] ——– (Federal Regulation Lacking)

== Vet Insurance ~ Life [02] ———— (Prudential Inquiry Letter)

== Vet Insurance ~ Life [03] —- (Mandated Lump Sum Payment)

== Military Compensation Review [07] – (Personnel Commission)

== Congressional Spending ————————- (YouCut Project)

== Military Golf Courses [01] —————————- (San Diego)

== VA Claims Backlog [43] —– (Online Signature Requirement)

== NDAA 2011 [05] ———————— (Summer Recess Delay)

== SVAC [05] ————————— (Committee Action 5 AUG)

== VA Budget 2010 [06] ——– (Recovery Act Funds Expended)

== Nevada Vet Cemetery ———————————- (Overview)

== VA Burial ~ Gravesite Locator ———————– (Overview)

== Prescription Drug Disposal [01] ——————– (What to do)

== VAT Tax [01] ———————————– (European Rates)

== Tricare Breast Cancer MRI’s [01] ——————- (Locations)

== IRS Tax Brackets —————————– (Proposed Change)

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== Military Discounts [04] ——————————– (Groceries)

== Gout —————————————————— (Overview)

== VA Presumptive VN Vet Diseases [09] – (60 day Countdown)

== Cantaloupes ————————————– (How to Choose)

== COLA 2011 [04] —————— (CBO S.3018 Cost Estimate)

== Communicating with Congress [03] ————— (Fewer Vets)

== Veteran Charities [13] ——- (U.S. Fallen Heroes Foundation)

== Veteran Charities [14] ——————————– (Scammers)

== VA Care ~ Sleep Apnea ——————- (Sharp Rise in Cases)

== DFAS AOP —————————— (Retiree Arrears of Pay)

== Thrift Savings Plan YTD 2010 ————- (July Bounce Back)

== VA Performance [02] ——– (Vet Care Obama Commitment)

== VA HIV Testing [02] ————- (Positive Results Treatment)

== Flag Presentation [05] —————- (Indoor/Outdoor Display)

== Medicare Fraud ZPICs ————– (Performance Questioned)

== Medicare Fraud [46] —————————- (1-15 Aug 2010)

== Medicad Fraud [19] —————————– (1-15 Aug 2010)

== State Veteran’s Benefits ——————————- (California)

== Military History ————————————- (Purple Heart)

== Military History Anniversaries ——— (Aug 16-31 Summary)

== Military Trivia 10————————————- (Number 10)

== Tax Burden for North Dakota Retirees —–..————- (2009)

== Congressional Alphalist —————————- (Index F & G)

== Veteran Legislation Status 13 Aug 2010 —- (Where we stand)

== Have You Heard? ——– (Bumper Stickers on Military Bases)

Attachment – House Veteran Legislation

Attachment – Senate Veteran Legislation

Attachment – California State Veteran’s Benefits

Ant

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Tricare User Fee Update 51: On 9 AUG, Defense Secretary Robert Gates held a press conference to announce a series of initiatives to cut defense spending and state his intent to increase Tricare fees. Asked by a reporter when it would be time to control rising health care costs, either through Tricare premium increases or reducing plan coverage, Secretary Gates said, “Yesterday.” Gates went on to say, “There are no sacred cows, and health care cannot be excepted.” With billions of dollars being spent on tens-of-thousands of federal pork projects and numerous supplemental funding bills, the Secretary focused on reducing earned benefits to offset the costs of national security. For the past several months Gates has been working on a plan to cut $100 billion in defense spending over the next five years. While there are many aspects of his plan that deserve close review, it is clear that shifting the cost of earned healthcare benefits from DoD to the retiree is a key component of the Secretary’s plan. [NAUS Weekly Update 13 Aug 2010 ++]

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TSP Update 15: As of 1 AUG all civilian federal employees – including those working with the Defense Department – are automatically being enrolled into the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), the government-sponsored, tax-deferred retirement and savings program that compares with the private sector‘s 401(k) plans. Under the automatic enrollment, 3% of civilian employees‘ base pay will be deposited into their TSP accounts. The government will

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match that initial three percent dollar-for-dollar; the next 2% will be matched at 50 cents on the dollar. To learn more, or to make changes to accounts, refer to https://www/tsp.gov/index.shtml. [Source: Armed Forces News 13 Aug 2010 ++]

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Agent Orange & Graves Disease: Medical researchers have long realized that severe long-term health effects were caused by the U.S. military’s use of Agent Orange chemical defoliant during the Vietnam War, both within the Vietnamese civilian population as well as among American veterans. However, research announced in 2010 added one more item to the list: exposure to Agent Orange in Vietnam also seems to have increased veterans’ (and presumably civilians’) risk of contracting a thyroid condition called Graves’ disease. A State University of New York at Buffalo study found in 2010 that Agent Orange was linked to an increased risk of Graves’ disease. The research indicates that one of the chemicals found in the Agent Orange defoliant binds with cells in the body’s immune system and may cause abnormal growth there. Overall, American veterans of the Vietnam War who were exposed to Agent Orange were three times more likely to develop Graves’ disease than the general population.

Graves’ disease is an autoimmune condition caused by overproduction of hormones in the thyroid. Normally it is an inherited condition, and is several times more likely among women than men. Untreated, it leads to a wide range of serious complications in the body, including weakened bones, heart damage, eye problems, and thyroid storms (a rare condition in which the thyroid becomes so overactive that the effects become life-threatening and require urgent treatment). Neurological symptoms are also common, including serious mood swings. Proper therapy can reduce the symptoms, depending upon how far the disease has progressed, but the most effective option available to today’s medicine may be surgery to remove part of the thyroid gland (a thyroidectomy). [Source: Helium health & fitness D. Vogt article Aug 2010 ++]

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Agent Orange Stateside Use Update 02: A West Virginia man, who never set foot in Vietnam, is receiving compensation from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs for exposure to Agent Orange during military service at Maryland’s Fort Detrick from NOV 62 to 1964. Sixty-eight-year-old Gary Abram filed with the VA for compensation in 2007. Abram says he received a letter from the VA in AUG 08 that acknowledged his presence at Fort Detrick during a time when the Department of Defense told the VA it spray-tested 1,410 compounds at Fort Detrick greenhouses, including Agent Orange. ‘Because you were stationed at Fort Detrick during the spraying of these compounds, we conclude the likelihood of exposure to Agent Orange,’ the letter from the VA states.” Agent Orange is the nickname for a blend of herbicides the U.S. military sprayed during the Vietnam War to remove plants and leaves that provided enemy cover. The VA has recognized certain cancers and diseases associated with Agent Orange exposure. Abram was treated for lymphoma, has diabetes and has had thyroid problems since the 1970s. [Source: Roanoke VA WSLS 10 AP Exchange article 7 Aug 2010 ++]

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North Carolina Vet Child Scholarship: The North Carolina Division of Veterans Affairs offers scholarships to children of certain disabled, deceased or POW/MIA veterans. The scholarships may be used at schools in North Carolina that are state-owned institutions of higher education, community colleges and technical institutions; or privately owned, nonprofit colleges and universities. Scholarships, with one exception, provide free tuition, certain fees, and a reasonable room and board allowance in state-owned institutions, and $4,500 per

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academic year in private institutions. All awards are for four academic years. Interested individuals can call (910) 251-5704. The office is located at 3240 Burnt Mill Drive, Suite 2, Wilmington NC. [Source: Star News article 6 Aug 2010 ++]

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Pennsylvania Veterans’ Homes Update 03: When Rosella Stitzell checked into the state-run Southwestern Veterans Center in 2002, the WWII veteran was told 80% of her monthly pension would pay for her stay. Twenty percent would go into a personal savings account maintained by the home in Lincoln-Lemington. Over the next seven years, the savings account grew, eventually topping $20,000. But when Stitzell, 97, checked out late last year, she and her three children got a surprise. Not only did the state Department of Military and Veterans Affairs refuse to let her have the $20,000, the family learned she owed more than $200,000 for her stay. The Stitzells had run headlong into a little-known knot of state bureaucracy, a knot that grabbed up the savings of dozens of deceased veterans, including homes and a coin collection. What’s more, some relatives must go to court to fight the state for money to bury their kin. A review of court records across the state and interviews with family members show many were unaware they would be billed for thousands of dollars after their loved ones died. State officials say the practices are fair and legal.

Attorneys say the policies appear contradictory. Some question whether veterans and their loved ones realize when they sign key documents what it will mean. “I can’t believe that people believe they are signing away their rights to access their own funds. It does seem pernicious,” said Kyle Fisher of the Pennsylvania Health Law Project. Attorney Carol Sikov, who specializes in elder law and represented two veterans’ families, said the restrictions placed on the savings accounts of veterans exceed those imposed on the personal-needs money provided to nursing home patients under the state and federally funded Medicaid program. Rep. Russell Fairchild, minority chairman of the House Committee on Military and Veterans Affairs, said he was not aware of the policy but planned to look into it. “It needs to be clarified,” said Fairchild, R-Snyder County. Dennis Guise, chief counsel for the state Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, said patients and their families are supposed to be informed upon admission that they ultimately are responsible for the full cost of care. The homes charge veterans at a rate equal to 80% of their monthly retirement incomes, he said. The state computes the actual costs annually and seeks to recover the difference between the amount paid and the actual cost under its Estate Recovery Program after a patient dies. He said the repayment policy typically is waived when there is a surviving spouse, though that is relatively rare.

Collections from former patients’ estates total about $3 million per year, which goes toward the $172 million annual funding for the six-home system. Interviews with dozens of family members reveal that although patients are encouraged to use savings accounts at the veterans homes, the state sharply restricts use of the money. Most families said they decided not to contest the state’s efforts to seize savings accounts and other assets. Sikov, who represented survivors of two veterans who died at Southwestern, said she recovered some money to at least cover administrative and funeral expenses. “What they do is send out a letter stating that they are holding this money but there are financial obligations that have to be addressed. It’s really frightening. People think that if they say something, they’ll have to pay the whole bill,” she said. Guise said the department put annual limits on withdrawals from savings accounts in 2004 to prevent abuses and protect patients’ assets. “It was not designed to prevent people from getting their own money,” he said. Sikov said the system effectively forces families of deceased veterans to hire lawyers to protect their rights, a step which can be expensive and that many are either afraid or unwilling to take. She noted that Medicaid patients in private nursing homes get $45 a month in personal needs money that they can spend any way they want. Giving the veterans money and then not allowing them to spend it “doesn’t make sense,” she said. Guise said the 2004 memo could be revised as part of an effort to qualify some patients for the federally funded Medicaid program. “We are now looking at this policy as part of that process,” Guise said. [Source: Pittsburgh Tribune-Review Walter F. Roche article 9 Aug 2010 ++]

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VA Prostate Cancer Program Update 08: Researchers urged doctors to discuss with patients the benefits of Merck & Co.‘s Proscar for preventing prostate cancer, after a study found that prescribing of the product didn‘t increase when a 2003 trial showed the medicine wards off tumors. The drug, also sold generically as finasteride, was shown to reduce some men‘s risk of developing prostate cancer by 18% from 24%, in a trial described in the New England Journal of Medicine in JUL 03. Over the next two years, there was no increase in finasteride prescriptions aimed at preventing that disease, according to a 10 AUG report in the journal Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention. Doctors‘ failure to prescribe more of the medicine may have resulted in more cases of prostate cancer, said Ian M. Thompson, lead author of the 2003 study and chairman of the department of urology at the University of Texas Health Science Center, in San Antonio. If men over the age of 55 with certain risk factors were given finasteride, diagnoses of prostate cancer in the U.S. would shrink by 40,000 to 60,000 a year, he said. ―There are no other proven ways of reducing your risk of prostate cancer — this is the only one,‖ said Thompson, who wasn‘t involved in the study released today. If people at risk took the medicine, ―tens of thousands wouldn‘t be diagnosed‖ or get sick, he said in a telephone interview yesterday. Risk factors include being black, having a family history, being over the age of 65, or showing elevated levels of prostate-specific antigen, or PSA, according to today‘s study.

The National Cancer Institute estimates that 217,730 men in the U.S. will be diagnosed with prostate cancer this year and that about 32,000 will die of it. The disease is the second- leading cause of cancer death in American men, after lung cancer, according to the American Cancer Society, based in Atlanta. The new study, by doctors at the Veterans Health Association in Durham, North Carolina; Duke University School of Medicine in Durham; and the University of Toronto offers several explanations why physicians seven years ago didn‘t act on the data on finasteride. The research was funded by the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Defense Department.

 Tumors. While the results, which were based on a study called the Prostate Cancer Prevention Trial, showed reduced risk for the disease overall, there was also evidence that finasteride might raise the some men‘s likelihood of developing aggressive tumors. Subsequent research showed these worries were overstated, according to the new study. Three articles published since 2003 ―suggest finasteride does not increase the risk of high-grade disease,‖ the authors wrote. ―The rate of true high-grade disease may have been lower‖ among men taking finasteride.

 Chemoprevention. Concerns about aggressive tumors weren‘t the only reason physicians failed to prescribe the drug more. Doctors and patients at that time weren‘t familiar with the idea of ―chemoprevention,‖ or the use of drugs to stave off cancer, said Linda Kinsinger, one of the new study‘s authors and chief consultant for preventive medicine at the VHA. ―It‘s not surprising that doctors didn‘t all jump on the bandwagon to prescribe finasteride because it is unclear to what extent we are ready for preventive medications,‖ Kinsinger said in a telephone interview yesterday. ―We don‘t yet have the tools to predict very well who will develop cancer. There should be more discussion between patients and doctors about potential benefits and downsides of the drug. Prevention is not reimbursed very well in medicine and doctors are paid basically to treat cancer, but we are seeing a gradual increase in interest,‖ Thompson said.

 Hair Growth. Finasteride, which is most commonly prescribed to shrink an enlarged prostate and to facilitate urination, is also the active ingredient in Propecia, a hair-growth product sold by Whitehouse Station, New Jersey-based Merck. The dose for prostate treatment is 5 milligrams, compared with 1 milligram for hair growth.

Finasteride prescriptions in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) increased between 2000 and 2005, but the increase probably was not due to doctors prescribing it for prostate cancer chemoprevention, according to the published research. ales for Proscar were about $291 million in 2009, and sales of Propecia that year came to about

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$440 million, according to the company‘s annual filing. For the six months ended 30 JUN, sales for Proscar fell 25% from a year earlier to $114.1 million, according a company filing. The drug is also widely available in generic form. Sales of the generic finasteride were $186 million and 5.1 million prescriptions of the drug were filled in 2009, according to data compiled for Bloomberg by IMS Health Inc., of Norwalk, Connecticut. ―We don‘t know if the 1 milligram dosage reduces the risk, but my gut feeling says that there would be some reduction,‖ Thompson said. Taking a higher dosage wouldn‘t increase hair growth, he said. The study released today asked 325 urologists and 1,200 general physicians who prescribed Finasteride in 2006 whether they gave patients the drug for chemoprevention. Some 64% of the urologists and 80% of the general physicians didn‘t prescribe for that purpose, according to the study. Neither physicians nor patients appear to be worried about side effects from finasteride, Thompson said. ―The worst side effect of finasteride is growing more hair,‖ he said. [Source: Bloomberg Arielle Fridson article 10 Aug 2010 ++]

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VA EDPI: The Veterans Affairs Department has adopted a standard identifier for all veterans to use in all its systems, including one to build electronic health records that will follow them from enlistment to death, VA’s chief information officer said on Wednesday. The identifier will apply to the department’s entire universe of beneficiaries and will support data exchange for a joint project with the Defense Department called the Virtual Lifetime Electronic Record for active-duty military personnel and veterans, which President Obama announced in April 2009, CIO Roger Baker said during a press briefing. The standard is based on a 2004 presidential directive that established common identification standards for all federal employees and contractors. Baker said VA uses the Electronic Data Interchange Personal Identifier (EDPI) , which the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) employs to identify military personnel and contractors, to assign the universal identifiers to veterans in its health care and benefits information systems. The 10-digit EDPI is part of a unique identification system for federal employees mandated by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 and appears on a bar code on the Common Access Card (CAC) that Defense employees use to access military computer systems.

VA adopted the EDPI standard six weeks ago and Baker said it is a critical and “exciting” component for development of the Virtual Lifetime Electronic Record. The move is “a great first step along the road to dealing with the many issues that have been practical barriers to reaching what everyone really wants for our servicemen and veterans: development of a lifetime electronic medical record,” said Ed Meagher, director of health care strategic initiatives at SRA International and a former deputy CIO at VA. Baker emphasized EDPI will be used internally in VA information technology systems, and the department will pair it with an existing identifier in its health care systems to identify patients. A congressional source said the idea to use HSPD-12 and EDPI standards was originally included in the 2006 Veterans Identity and Credit Security Act, which Rep. Steve Buyer (R-IN) introduced. But the House Armed Services Committee and the Office of Management and Budget had the language removed.

DEERS, the central repository for military personnel data, uses EDPI as the primary identifier for everyone in the Defense Department, according to a 8 MAR 08, memo from David S.C. Chu, who at the time was the Defense undersecretary for personnel and readiness. Chu said Defense uses EDPI only for machine-to-machine transactions and the identifier “is not a number that is known to the individuals, and it is never intended that the EDPI be used outside of machine-to-machine transactions.” The Military Health System uses EDPI as a patient identifier for more than 9 million service health care beneficiaries, according to a presentation by Mary Dixon, director of the Defense Manpower Data Center (DMDC), and Janine Groth, chief of the DEERS division, which is part of the DMDC. They spoke at an MHS conference in January. Dixon and Groth said unique identifiers can never be changed or reissued, and can be cross-referenced to other identifiers such as Social Security numbers and Medicare identifiers. They said EDPI can be used to unite information across a variety of Defense and VA systems, including joint indemnity

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repositories, the VA master patient index, the Defense clinical data repository and the AHLTA electronic health record system. [Source: NextGov Bob Brewin article 11 Aug 2010 ++]

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Mobilized Reserve 10 AUG 2010: The Department of Defense announced the current number of reservists on active duty as of 10 AUG 2010. The net collective result is 394 more reservists mobilized than last reported in the 1 AUG 2010 RAO Bulletin. At any given time, services may activate some units and individuals while deactivating others, making it possible for these figures to either increase or decrease. The total number currently on active duty from the Army National Guard and Army Reserve is 76,357; Navy Reserve, 6,519; Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve, 15,201; Marine Corps Reserve, 4,459; and the Coast Guard Reserve, 787. This brings the total National Guard and Reserve personnel who have been activated to 103,413 including both units and individual augmentees. A cumulative roster of all National Guard and Reserve personnel who are currently activated may be found at http://www.defense.gov/news/d20100810ngr.pdf. [Source: DoD News Release No. 715-10 dtd 11 AUG 2010 ++]

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ALS Update 08: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), more commonly known as Lou Gehrig‘s disease, is a progressive neurological disorder that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. As the motor neurons degenerate, they no longer can send pulses to the muscle fibers, resulting in muscle weakness. Arms and legs, speech, swallowing, and breathing most commonly are affected. ALS afflicts an estimated 30,000 Americans, most of whom are white males over the age of 40. Half of those afflicted live at least three years after diagnosis. Twenty percent live five or more years, and up to 10 percent live more than 10 years. In recent months, ALS has become an issue of special concern for DoD and the VA because of an Institute of Medicine report that supports a frightening link between military service and the later development of ALS. How strong a link? Studies have found veterans deployed in the first Gulf War are twice as likely as the civilian population to develop the usually fatal condition. The ALS Association has worked with Congress and the VA to increase funding for ALS research, including looking into why veterans appear to be at greater risk for developing the disease. When the first studies were published that found a link between ALS and service in the Gulf War, the ALS Association strongly supported former Secretary of the VA Anthony Principi‘s policy of providing aid to Gulf War veterans with ALS. Under the policy, the disease is considered a service-related condition for veterans who served in the Gulf War between Aug. 2, 1990, and July 31, 1991.

Other veterans diagnosed with ALS, however, currently are left in the cold, despite research that has demonstrated elevated levels of the disease in all veterans, regardless of which war they served in. ―The Institute of Medicine‘s conclusion helps to validate what the ALS community knows all too well — that if you served in the military, you are more likely to die from ALS,‖ says Steve Gibson, vice president of Government Relations and Public Affairs for the ALS Association. ―We strongly support calls for expanding ALS research at both the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Defense.‖ DoD has listened. It recently funded a currently ongoing study at Duke University‘s Human Center for Genetics in Durham, N.C., that is looking at possible gene-environment interaction in the veteran population that could explain the mysterious increase in incidence. However, it likely will take years before the study‘s findings are published. In the meantime, a growing number of ALS patients are finding a notable improvement in their quality of life via participation in an ALS management program at the Duke University Health Center Neurology Clinic, also in Durham.

The facility opened in 2001 and now has three satellite branches in the state. More than 300 ALS patients from throughout the eastern U.S. are enrolled in the program, which sees an average of three new patients a week. Twenty

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percent of the program‘s patients are veterans. The clinic‘s multidisciplinary approach uses a team of health care professionals, including a physician, a nurse practitioner, a physical therapist, an occupational therapist, a speech therapist, a nutritionist, a social worker, a respiratory therapist, an assistive technologist, a nurse psychologist, and a representative from the ALS Association. During a typical visit, which can last four to five hours, a patient sees each team member for a thorough evaluation of the effects of ALS. The team members address issues and specific problems, determine the need for specialty equipment, and educate the patient and his or her caregiver about the disease and the team‘s recommendations. Referrals are made for supplies, additional support services, and treatment in the patient‘s home. ―We develop close relationships with our patients,‖ says Social Worker Stacey Asnani, the clinic coordinator. ―We are like one big family here.‖ The results of the program can be dramatic. ―What we didn‘t know when we started nine years ago is people who come to a comprehensive clinic like this one live longer,‖ says Dr. Rick Bedlack, director of the clinic. ―They live up to nine months longer and have a better quality of life throughout their whole disease.‖

A unique feature of the Duke Neurology clinic is its relationship with the nearby Durham VA Medical Center. Veterans are able to receive all of their necessary medical equipment such as specialty wheelchairs, walkers, limb supports, and computers on-site. The Duke Neurology Clinic also is involved deeply in ALS research. A study launched this summer will evaluate a brain-computer interface device for veterans with ALS who are unable to move or communicate. The device consists of a cap with electrodes that connect to a laptop. Users are taught to communicate by spelling in their mind the words they want to speak. The cap‘s electrodes sense the resulting brain waves and send the data to the computer, which spells and speaks the words. ALS still is an incurable disease, and for now, the focus remains on improving quality of life for those afflicted. For most, the team approach established at the Duke Neurology Clinic appears to be the way to go. ―In 100 years of research,‖ says Bedlack, ―We have never come close with any drug to doing what we have been able to do with this multidisciplinary model when it comes to prolonging a life and improving quality of life.‖ The American Association of Neurology appears to agree: It recently changed its treatment guidelines for ALS to advocate the use of a multidisciplinary team approach. [Source: MOAA News Exchange Nanette Lavoie-Vaughan article 11 Aug 2010 ++]

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DoD Benefit Cuts Update 02: A consensus is building among current and former military leaders and defense industry executives that rising military personnel costs threaten the viability of the all-volunteer force. In July, two separate advisory groups reached the same general conclusions regarding what needs to be done to sustain the force. In the nearer term, they say, one step that must be taken is to make military retirees pay more out of pocket for their health care benefit. “Unless retirees contribute more for their Tricare insurance, medical costs will not be brought under control and the national defense they served, and for which they fought and sacrificed, will be harmed,” says the final Hadley-Perry panel report of the Quadrennial Defense Review Independent Panel. Longer term, and for the future force, panelists say, work must begin on designing new retirement, compensation and promotion systems to replace inefficient and rigid systems adopted after World War II. The situation is so critical that the panel asks Congress to establish a new National Commission on Military Personnel to lead the reform effort. Arnold Punaro, a defense industry executive and retired Marine Corps Reserve major general, chairs a task force for the Defense Business Board that will deliver its final report to Defense Secretary Robert Gates in October. This Task force’s initial observations for cutting defense costs through best business practices, briefed to the board 22 JUL, reinforces the notion that personnel accounts must be brought under control by modernizing retirement, pay, health benefits and the “up-or-out” promotion systems.

Both studies deal with a far wider range of initiatives to restructure forces and streamline organizations. The Hadley-Perry report can be read online at http://www.usip.org/files/qdr/qdrreport.pdf, and task force observations are at http://dbb.defense.gov/meetings.html. What both conclude on the need to control health costs and modernize

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compensation systems, Punaro said, is consistent with findings of the 10th Quadrennial Review of Military Compensation and the 2006 Defense Advisory Commission on Military Compensation. But now, with Defense Secretary Gates’ leadership and a new awareness among military leaders to the burden of mounting personnel costs, there’s a fresh groundswell for change, he said. “I’ve heard a four-star military leader comment that DoD is turning into a benefits company that will occasionally kill a terrorist,” Punaro said in a phone interview 3 AUG. The remark plays off a popular critique of General Motors before its recent bail out, that union contracts had transformed it into a health care company that occasionally built a car. Both the business board task force and the Hadley-Perry panel agree that the current force must be protected from the changes to retirement, pay or promotion policies needed to create a more efficient future force.

“Updating military compensation and redesigning some benefits does not necessitate cuts in pay or benefits for current service members,” said the Hadley-Perry report. “These are areas where any adjustment you make will take decades to change,” Punaro said. “With something like military retirement, you are not going to break faith with people who joined expecting a certain benefit, even though only 20% stay long enough to earn a retirement.” But rapid expansion of military entitlements has become part of “the nation’s mandatory spending problems,” the task force found. Among “significant unsustainable trends” that the task force listed is paying military retirees and their families “for 60 years after they have served only 20.” Another task force slide give details of how military entitlements have expanded “rapidly” over the last decade with Congress passing Tricare for Life, a more robust pharmacy benefit, concurrent receipt for disabled retirees, extra-size active duty pay raises, an improved survivor benefit plan, sharp growth in housing allowances, a bigger death gratuity and more. Punaro declined to criticize any specific initiative. But he said nobody ever sat down and said, “What’s the cumulative effect of all this?” The Hadley-Perry report says the effect is personnel costs have grown drastically on a per capita basis.

As the economy recovers and the job market rebounds, Punaro said, the cost of sustaining the military will accelerate even more. He noted that much of the recent entitlement growth has helped only retirees and their families, a population that now outnumbers the active duty community. “Tricare for Life, the largest new benefit ever passed, was not subject to any kind of serious review or debate, as best as I can tell. Is that the way to pass something like that? And, okay, just because you passed it, does it have to be in existence for 100 years? Bob Gates makes a pretty compelling argument that ‘health care costs are eating us alive’.” Punaro criticized military associations that, he said, push continually for benefits with little heed to more pressing defense priorities. Military leaders and lawmakers this decade have been complicit, he suggested. “It doesn’t take a profile in courage to stand up and be for every benefit that anybody has ever dreamed up. That’s easy. It takes a lot of courage to be responsible…It looks to some of us that we’ve changed the slogan ‘Praise the Lord and pass the ammunition’ to ‘Praise the Lord and pass the benefit.’ I remember working with military associations when their number one goal was a strong national defense, not more benefits.” [Source: Military.com Tom Philpott article 5 Aug 2010 ++]

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Military Golf Courses Update 01: San Diego is home to the U.S. Navy’s Pacific Fleet and large military bases throughout the city. The North Island Naval Air Station (NASNI) in Coronado, CA, the Miramar Marine Corps Air Station off of I-15 in San Diego, the Camp Pendleton Marine Corp Base just North of San Diego in Oceanside, CA, the Naval Submarine Base at Pt. Loma and San Diego Naval Station 32nd St. are the largest of many other smaller Naval and Marine Corps bases and facilities located in San Diego, CA. What all these large bases have in common is…they all support very nice and affordable Military Golf Courses for active duty military, retirees and their civilian guests. Choose from these varied and challenging courses: Admiral Baker Golf Course (two 18 Hole Championship Golf Courses), Miramar Memorial Golf Course, Pendleton Marine Memorial Golf Course, Marine Corp Recruiting Depot (MCRD) and the San Diego Naval Station Executive Golf Course. Lastly, the Sea n’ Air Golf Course on the North Island Naval Air Station in Coronado is the only golf course in San Diego

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besides Torrey Pines Golf Course that sits right on the Pacific Ocean. In fact, it distinguishes itself from Torrey Pines Golf Course in that it not only has fabulous Pacific Ocean views like Torrey Pines, but unlike Torrey Pines, a few of the holes actually play “at sea level” right along the beach and Pacific Ocean. Civilians can play as accompanied guests of active duty and retired military. For a complete rundown on each course’s amenities, green and cart fees, location, reservation and contact info refer to www.golfsd.com/sd_milit_courses.html. [Source: www.golfsd.com Aug 2010 ++]

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GI Bill Update 82: A Senate committee has taken a first step toward what veterans groups are calling ―GI Bill 2.0‖ a revised version of the year-old Post-9/11 GI Bill that attempts to simplify and clarify the education benefits program. If finally approved, the revised GI Bill would boost tuition payments, book allowances and living stipends for tens of thousands, as well as improve other benefits. Supporters of the changes say S.3447, the Post-9/11 Veterans Education Assistance Act, passed 5 AUG by the Senate Veterans‘ Affairs Committee, could become law later this year, though many changes would not take effect until the fall 2011 school term. ―This is a very good bill, and fixes many flaws. We are on our way to getting the GI Bill 2.0,‖ said Tim Embree of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, who predicted the bill could become law before Election Day on 2 NOV. Eric Hilleman of Veterans of Foreign Wars was equally supportive, if a bit less optimistic about quick enactment. ―We do not yet know the full cost of these improvements, and that would be a factor in whether there are enough votes to pass it,‖ he said.

The Senate bill, a compromise between veterans groups and the Veterans Affairs and Defense departments, has two big things going for it, Hilleman said: It includes many changes that fix problems in the program — so there is a strong case for pushing ahead quickly — and the measure has the support of the chairmen of the House and Senate Veterans‘ Affairs committees. In most cases, the bill would make a generous program even more so. But it would trim some benefits. For example, active-duty members attending private schools, who now have their full tuition and fees paid, would have their reimbursements capped at $20,000 a year. Living stipends for people attending school less than full time also could decrease for some students. Instead of providing a full stipend for eligible students who attend school more than halftime, stipends would be paid to those who attend classes half-time or more – a slight expansion of eligibility – but payments would be adjusted for the number of credits taken. The bill also would open up the possibility that the Pentagon might limit which service members may share their GI Bill benefits with family members, a right currently extended to almost all of the career force. While the bill would not block transfer rights, it has language clarifying that the purpose of transferability of benefits is to promote recruiting and retention, not to create a new military wide benefit.

Sponsored by Sen. Daniel Akaka (D-HI), Senate Veterans‘ Affairs Committee chairman, the bill is similar to H.R.5933, introduced 29 JUL by Rep. Walt Minnick, D-Idaho, and co-sponsored by Rep. Bob Filner (D-CA) House Veterans‘ Affairs Committee chairman. Under this bill:

 Stipends would be available to those attending classes as more than half-time students, but payments would be prorated for those who are less than full-time students. For many, this would be less than the full stipend now paid to all students who are more than half-time.

 Distance-learning students would get reduced payments. Living stipends would be paid to students taking solely distance-learning classes, but they would get half the rate given to those attending so-called brick-and-mortar institutions.

 Annual adjustments would happen 1 AUG, to reflect changes made the previous 1 JAN in the military housing allowances on which stipends are based. Current law requires stipends to match military allowances without clearly stating when the stipends should be adjusted.

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 Vocational and nondegree classes. On-the-job training and apprenticeships would become covered by the Post-9/11 GI Bill, with participants eligible to receive living stipends based on the location of their employers. They also would be eligible for the book allowance.

 Licensing and certification. The $2,000 benefit for these types of courses no longer would be a one-time benefit. Multiple courses or tests would be reimbursed as long as total reimbursement does not top $2,000.

[Source: NavyTimes Rick Maze article 9 Aug 2010 ++]

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Military Death Benefits: A California lawmaker wants to refund Social Security taxes when a service member dies in the line of duty. In what he says would be a new death benefit for survivors, Rep. Jerry McNerney (D-CA) wants to return to the family any Social Security payroll deductions ever paid by a service member, includ-ing self-employment taxes. He would make the payments retroactive to cover deaths in the line of duty since Sept. 11, 2001. Line-of-duty deaths would include any member of the armed forces killed as the direct result of armed conflict or while in other hazardous service, or while training under combat conditions or using combat equipment. The amount of the payment would depend on a person‘s age and income, but it would equal roughly 6.2% of gross income for most service members. For example, an E-5 with six years of service will have paid about $5,500 in Social Security payroll taxes, officially called the Federal Insurance Contributions Act, or FICA, Tax. For someone who has been working longer, such as a self-employed National Guard member with 20 or more years of service, the tax refund could be more than $150,000. Technically, payments would not be refunds. The bill is written so that survivors would be paid an additional death benefit calculated to match Social Security payments made by a member before and during service. Funding for the new benefit would come from the Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund, the U.S. Treasury account where payroll taxes are deposited.

Dipping into the Social Security trust fund to provide a death benefit makes McNerney‘s bill a controversial idea that is unlikely to pass until lawmakers are able to study a report coming in December from the independent Com-mission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform, known as the ―debt commission.‖ That report might recommend an overhaul of Social Security benefits and other federal entitlements, according to congressional aides who work on military benefits. McNerney‘s bill, the Support for Families of the Fallen Act (H.R.5921), was referred to the House Ways and Means Committee, which is responsible for Social Security, and to the House Armed Services Committee, which oversees military death benefits. In a statement, McNerney said the bill grew out of his meetings with military survivors. ―One of my most somber responsibilities is to visit with families who have recently lost a loved one fighting overseas,‖ he said. ―I‘ve seen their grief, and I believe that providing extra help to these families is the right thing to do.‖ [Source: NavyTimes Rick Maze article 9 Aug 2010 ++]

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Tricare Retired Reserve Update 02: The Department of Defense on 6 AUG 2010, through its Tricare Management Activity (TMA), published the long awaited premium rates for the new Tricare coverage available to Gray Area retirees; those retired members of the Reserve under the age of 60 who are eligible to collect Reserve retirement pay at age 60. The monthly premium rates for members only will be $388.31 in 2010 and $408.01 in 2011. However, the monthly rate for member and family will be $976.41 in 2010 and $1,020.60 in 2011. These premium rates are significantly greater than anticipated. The new program will bear the name Tricare Retired Reserve (TRR), but it is not to be confused with the full Tricare benefit eligible retired Reserve members will receive at age 60, which is provided at no cost. The TMA announcement marks the first published details of the long awaited implementation of the breakthrough legislation signed into law on 28OCT 09 in section 705 of the FY2010 National Defense authorization Act (NDAA) which authorized Tricare Standard eligibility for Gray Area retires at full premium cost to DoD. With respect to the premium to be charged for the coverage, the law provides: The

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monthly amount of the premium in effect for a month for Tricare Standard coverage under this section shall be the amount equal to the cost of coverage that the Secretary determines on an appropriate actuarial basis. See 10 USC 1076 e (d)(3).

The National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS) NGAUS has known that the premium for the coverage would be the full cost to the government, but was led to believe by TMA in earlier meetings that the cost would be $169.68 for an individual member and $643.46 for a family, which would reflect the actual cost to the government in providing Tricare Standard under the Tricare Reserve Select (TRS) program. TRS beneficiaries pay only 28% of the full TRS cost of coverage to the government. The current TRS rates of $47.51 for member only and $180.17 for member and family are 28% of the full government coverage costs which are $169.68 for an individual member and $643.46 for a family. Unfortunately the TRR indicated rates reflect a coverage cost determination that is nearly double the costs of the Tricare Standard coverage that DoD is providing an individual member under the TRS program, and 50% greater than the cost of family coverage under TRS.

If the proposed premium costs hold, this will render the program too costly for many of the deserving beneficiaries. NGAUS is asking reservists to contact their Representative and/or Senators to urge them to ask the Government Accounting Office (GAO) to review the accuracy of the premium rates published by the Department of Defense for Tricare Gray Area retirees. One quick and effective method of expressing your views to Congress is to use the ―Write to Congress‖ feature on the NGAUS Web site at www.ngaus.org/writetocongress where you can immediately e-mail your elected representatives. It allows you to compose your own message or use one of their preformatted messages on this and other areas of concern to the Reserve retired community. [Source: NGAUS Leg Up 9 Aug 2010 ++]

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Army Retiree Council Update 03: The CSA Retiree Council marked its 50th meeting 26-30 APR 2010, in the Pentagon. They reviewed 32 issues submitted by installation Retiree councils. Subsequently, they made their 15th CSA report to the Army’s Chief of Staff. Briefings from DoD, Army and other leaders, along with pre-meeting research are the tools the Council uses when preparing its report. Health care continues to be the highest priority issue for both current and future Retired Soldiers. Their report raised ongoing health care initiatives including preventive health care, case management, quality outcomes and consistent communication, saying they would enhance health care for all Retirees and their Families. It stated that attempts to reduce the level of benefits of the Military Health Care System raise concerns that the earned entitlement will be eroded based strictly on budgetary constraints. The report contained a number of recommendations.

In the area of health care the Council recommended that the Army:

 Sustain the viability of the military health care program by fully resourcing DoD health programs.

 If Tricare fees must be increased, limit any increase in those fees to the annual future rate of growth in retired pay, with special consideration to not overburdening Retired NCOs, E-7 and below.

 Raise the Tricare provider reimbursement levels to create the physician network needed to make care accessible for all beneficiaries.

 Support legislation to authorize pretax payment of Tricare Prime enrollment fees and premiums for Tricare supplemental, long-term care, and Tricare Retiree Dental Insurance.

 Provide Retirees with a choice of eyeglass frames through a self-funded voluntary Optical Insurance Plan similar to the Retiree Dental Insurance Program. Retirees have long advocated a low-cost option that allows them more choices than the standard brown Army frames currently available at Medical Treatment Facilities.

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 Encourage use of the Tricare Mail Order Pharmacy by eliminating copayments for generic and chronic care drugs.

 Continue to support ongoing efforts between DoD and the VA to improve the compatibility of the two health care systems and preserve the benefits for all beneficiary groups.

In the area of communication the Council recommended that the Army:

 Increase the understanding of Soldiers and their spouses of their entitlements and benefits throughout their careers. The Council recommended adding retirement modules to courses for mid-grade and senior grade officers and NCOs and to courses preparing Soldiers for command. They suggested that spouses receive similar instruction in Family Readiness Groups and through Army Community Services.

 Continue to fund three hardcopy issues a year of Army Echoes, the bulletin for Retired Soldiers and Families, while encouraging, but not forcing, recipients to switch from the paper to the e-mail copy.

 Enhance retirement services available to retiring and Retired Soldiers by raising the level of funding for Pre-Transition Services and Post-Transition Services for all installations/garrisons worldwide.

 Ensure that fiscal requirements are part of the annual budget process and that funding for Retirement Services, including Retiree Appreciation Days, is protected in the budget.

 • Through IMCOM, complete the establishment of RSO positions in accordance with the already approved

 IMCOM Standard Garrison Organization at the target grade by the end of FY10 or the completion of the established contracted service support.

 Complete the establishment of Retirement Services Offices at major Army Reserve and Army National Guard commands to ensure all retiring and Retired Army Reserve and National Guard Soldiers, their Families and survivors are properly informed about retirement-related benefits and entitlements.

 Support a test program under which Retired Soldiers who are supported by APOs in Germany would be allowed to send and receive parcels weighing up to five pounds, to quantify the impact on postal workload, service and costs.

 Recognize the contributions of Surviving Spouses by authorizing space-available air travel. As a lower priority category than active duty Soldiers, Surviving Spouses would not burden the stand-by system.

In the area of benefits, the Council recommended that the Army:

 Take care of Surviving Spouses by supporting efforts to eliminate the Dependency and Indemnity Compensation offset to the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) annuity.

 Recognize the extraordinary service and sacrifice of Army Reserve and Army National Guard Soldiers by including mobilization periods in support of contingency operations on or after Sept. 11, 2001 when determining the eligibility date for retired pay (instead of the current effective date of Jan. 28, 2008) and by providing medical benefits concurrently with the start of retired pay.

 Support efforts to provide full concurrent receipt of military retired pay and disability compensation to all eligible military Retirees regardless of disability rating or years of service.

 Support the DFAS initiative to forgive any overpayment of retired pay for any period after the date of death of a Retiree through the last day of the month in which death occurs.

 Acknowledge their long-term commitment to the Army by issuing eligible Surviving Spouses an indefinite ID card at age 65.

[Source: Army Echoes May-Aug Issue 2010 ++]

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RSO Locations Update 01: Army Retirement Services Officers are available to answer questions and assist retirees dependents, and survivors from all service branches as needed on benefits, SBP, Retiree Appreciation

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Days or anything else retirement-related,. To contact the RSO nearest to you, refer to the following or go to the Army Retirement Services website http://www.armyg1.army.mil/retire:

ALABAMA:

• Redstone Arsenal (256) 876-2022 [email protected]

• Ft Rucker (334) 255-9124 [email protected]

ALASKA:

• Ft Richardson 1-800-478-7384 or AK only(907) 384-3500 [email protected]

• Ft Wainwright (907) 353-2102 [email protected]

ARIZONA: Ft Huachuca (520) 533-5733 [email protected]

ARKANSAS: Ft Sill, OK

CALIFORNIA: Presidio of Monterey 1-877-354-2634 [email protected]

COLORADO: Ft Carson (719) 526-2840 [email protected]

CONNECTICUT: West Point, NY

DELAWARE: Ft Meade, MD

D.C: Ft Myer, VA

FLORIDA:

• Central & West – MacDill AFB (813) 828-0163 [email protected]

• Rest of FL Ft Stewart, GA

GEORGIA:

• Ft Benning (706) 545-1805 [email protected]

• Ft Gordon (706) 791-2654 [email protected]

• Ft McPherson (404) 464-3219 [email protected]

• Ft Stewart (912) 767-5013 [email protected]

HAWAII: Schofield Barracks (808) 655-1514 [email protected]

IDAHO: Ft Carson, CO, or Ft Lewis, WA

ILLINOIS: Ft L.Wood, MO; Ft McCoy, WI; Ft Knox, KY

INDIANA: Ft Knox, KY

IOWA: Ft McCoy, WI

KANSAS:

• Ft Leavenworth (913) 684-2425 [email protected]

• Ft Riley (785) 239-3320 [email protected]

KENTUCKY:

• Ft Campbell (270) 798-5280 [email protected]

• Ft Knox (502) 624-1765 [email protected]

LOUISIANA: Ft Polk (337) 531-0363 [email protected]

MAINE: Ft Drum, NY

MARYLAND:

•Aberdeen Pr. Grd. (410) 306-2320 [email protected]

• Ft Meade (301) 677-9603 [email protected]

MASSACHUSETTS: West Point, NY

MICHIGAN:

• Ft McCoy, WI

• Lower MI – Selfridge ANGB (586) 239-5580 (or Ft McCoy)

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MINNESOTA: Ft McCoy, WI

MISSISSIPPI: Ft Rucker, AL

MISSOURI: Ft Leonard Wood (573) 596-0947 [email protected]

MONTANA: Ft Lewis, WA

NEBRASKA: Ft Riley, KS

NEVADA: Presidio of Monterey, CA

NEW HAMP: Ft Drum, NY

NEW JERSEY:

• ASA Dix (609) 562-2666 [email protected]

• Ft Monmouth (732) 532-4673 [email protected]

NEW MEXICO: Ft Bliss, TX

NEW YORK:

• Ft Drum (315) 772-6434 [email protected]

• Ft Hamilton (718) 630-4552 [email protected]

•Watervliet-Wed/Thurs (518) 266-5810 [email protected]

• West Point (845) 938-4217 [email protected]

NO. CAROLINA: Ft Bragg (910) 396-5304 [email protected]

NO. DAKOTA: Ft Riley, KS

OHIO: Ft Knox, KY

OKLAHOMA: Ft Sill (580) 442-2645 [email protected]

OREGON: Ft Lewis, WA

PENNSYLVANIA:

• Carlisle Barracks (717) 245-4501 [email protected]

• Tobyhanna Army Depot (Tues/Wed/Thurs) (570) 615-7409 [email protected]

RHODE ISLAND: West Point, NY

SO. CAROLINA: Ft Jackson (803) 751-6715 [email protected]

SO. DAKOTA: Ft Riley, KS

TENNESSEE: Ft Campbell, KY

TEXAS:

• Ft Bliss (915) 568-5204 [email protected]

• Ft Hood (254) 287-5210 [email protected]

• Ft Sam Houston (210) 221-9004 [email protected]

UTAH: Ft Carson, CO

VERMONT: Ft Drum, NY

VIRGINIA:

• Ft Belvoir (703) 805-2675 [email protected]

• Ft Eustis (757) 878-3648 [email protected]

• Ft Lee (804) 734-6555 [email protected]

• Ft Monroe (757) 788-2093 [email protected]

• Ft Myer (703) 696-5948 [email protected]

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W. VIRGINIA: Ft Knox, KY

WASHINGTON: Joint Base Lewis-McChord (253) 966-5884 [email protected]

WISCONSIN: Ft McCoy 1-800-452-0923 [email protected]

WYOMING: Ft Carson, CO

PUERTO RICO: Ft Buchanan (787) 707-3842 [email protected]

Overseas RSOs

Europe: 06202-80-6029 [email protected]

Germany:

 Ansbach 0981-183-3301 [email protected]

 Bamberg 0951-300-9181 [email protected]

 Baumholder 06783-6-6080 [email protected]

 Grafenwoehr 09641-83-8814 @eur.army.mil

 Heidelberg 06221-57-8399 [email protected]

 Kaiserslautern 0631-411-7333 [email protected]

 Mannheim 0621-730-3371 [email protected]

 Schweinfurt 09721-96-8812 [email protected]

 Stuttgart 07031-15-3442 [email protected]

 Wiesbaden 0611-705-5338 [email protected]

Belgium: 0032-65-44-6238 [email protected]

England: see Kaiserslautern

Italy/So. Europe/Africa/Mid-East: Vicenza 0444-71-7262 [email protected]

Netherlands: 0031-46-443-7320 [email protected]

Japan: 046-407-3940 [email protected]

Okinawa: 06117-44-4186 [email protected]

Korea: 0505-730-4133 [email protected]

Guard And Reserve RSO: Human Resources Command, St Louis, MO, office serving all Guard and Reserve Retired Soldiers and their Families. 1-800-318-5298 ext 4 or (314) 592-0123 [email protected] or [email protected]

[Source: Army Echoes May-Aug 2010 ++]

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Military Stolen Valor Update 21: A Marine Corps veteran, who faked a chestful of medals, posed with Mayor Thomas M. Menino, and accepted an award from Toys for Tots soon may be changing bedpans at a veterans hospital to pay society back for the shameful charade after he was sentenced 4 AUG in federal court. ―I accept full responsibility for my actions,‖ Michael Frisoli, 46, told a U.S. District Court judge in Boston during sentencing. ―I‘d like to put this behind me and do what I can for my boys.‖ Prosecutors said Frisoli, 46, of Millbury posed for pictures and accepted awards dressed as a first sergeant pinned with the Purple Heart, a Bronze Star, Navy Commendation and Army Commendation – all with Vs for valor. He also gussied up a Navy/Marine Corps Combat Action Ribbon with two gold stars. Prosecutor Anthony Fuller – who asked Judge Timothy Hilman to sentence Frisoli to four months in jail – recommended that Frisoli, ―clean bed pans at the VA hospital.‖ Such service to disabled vets would, Fuller said, ―force him to confront the people who are earning these medals.‖

Frisoli – who passed himself off as a gunnery sergeant at a 2001 Toys for Tots event, but by May 08 had promoted himself to first sergeant at an event with Menino – served two stints in the Reserves in the ‘80s and early ‘90s. He

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earned a single good conduct medal. Fuller said he requested jail time because while Frisoli was on pretrial release, he was arrested in Millbury for dealing heroin out of his home. He is due in court for that charge later this month. Frisoli‘s lawyer, William Fick, said his client supports a 19-year-old son and two younger boys, ages 4 and 5, by working at auto dealerships. ―There‘s no question that this conduct is deeply offensive and triggers incredible currents of anger, and rightly so,‖ Fick said. In addition to three years probation, Frisoli must also complete 200 hours of community service, seek therapy and abide by the therapist‘s recommendations. [Source: Boston Herald O’Ryan Johnson article 5 Aug 23010 ++]

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Military Stolen Valor Update 22: Second Lt. Douglas Sofranko has spent the last year impressing his fellow soldiers in the Florida Army National Guard with stories of his days as a Navy SEAL, while proudly wearing the distinctive Trident insignia on his Army uniform. He even had the SEAL Creed hung on the wall of his office. The problem is, it was all a lie. The 33-year-old Army officer and former enlisted sailor, who works at the Ballard Armory in Miami as rear support for the Guard‘s 1st Battalion, 124th Infantry, did attend Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL training in Coronado, Calif., in 1996. But according to Naval Special Warfare Command, he washed out of training. His class graduated without him in FEB 07. ―He did not complete training, and he is not authorized to wear the Trident insignia,‖ said Lt. Cate Wallace, spokeswoman for Naval Special Warfare Command. Sofranko has lived his SEAL lie for much of the last year, sources with his Army unit said. Recently, unit members became suspicious of his claims and started making inquiries.

According to his Navy records, after washing out of BUD/S, Sofranko (then a radioman) spent three years at a radio station in Hawaii and was discharged in 24 OCT 99 as an RM3. In JUN 2000, he enlisted in the Pennsylvania National Guard and was assigned to Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 111th Infantry. Two years later, he received a general discharge under honorable conditions for unsatisfactory participation, meaning he missed too many drills and other training periods. “He was basically AWOL from the time he joined,” said Sgt. Matt Jones, a spokesman for the Pennsylvania National Guard. “He never made an annual training period that we can see, and he was discharged as an E-3.” But Sofranko was given another chance. In APR 07, he got a waiver from the Florida National Guard despite his poor Pennsylvania service and was allowed to join in Florida as an E-4. Artley said waivers like this are common in the Guard and are based on a review of the member’s service record and personal interviews. A year later, Sofranko entered the Florida National Guard Officer Candidate Program, graduating one year ago.

Sofranko admitted he never graduated from BUD/S training and, when asked why he would wear a badge he did not rate, he answered: ―No excuse, really. Just poor, poor judgment.‖ He refuted co-workers‘ claims that he told them he was a SEAL. ―I stated that I had been to the training,‖ he said. According to the Florida National Guard, Sofranko could face disciplinary action if found guilty of wearing the Trident. Though Guardsmen on state duty aren‘t subject to the Uniform Code of Military Justice, they do fall under their state‘s military codes, according to A.J. Artley, spokesman for the Florida National Guard. Under Florida code, ―Wearing an unauthorized award or insignia is a prohibited act … If he is found guilty of misconduct, the unit commander would be the one to determine punishment. Punishment could range from making sure Sofranko doesn‘t wear the award again and a written reprimand, to fines or any number of punishments.‖ [Source: NavyTimes Mark D. Faram article 9 Aug 2010 ++]

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Vet Insurance ~ Life Update 01: Veterans for Common Sense Executive Director Paul Sullivan “said in an e-mail” that his organization is “disappointed so many administration officials appear to have been asleep at the wheel while Prudential,” which, according to Bloomberg News, is the “sole provider of life insurance for 6

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million US military personnel” and veterans, “stole hundreds of millions of dollars in secret profits from grieving families.” Sullivan’s comment referred to the fact that in NOV 09, when the Advisory Council on Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance last met, none of the “half-dozen members of President Barack Obama’s Cabinet” sitting on the council attended. John Gingrich, chief of staff for US Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric Shinseki, said that it is customary for department heads to send expert representatives to Federal government advisory council meetings and that “VA — all of us — remain committed to having the most knowledgeable people serving” on the Advisory Council on Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance. “‘The advisory council gets briefed on what’s going on, how much money is going out, how many death benefits,’ says…Gingrich.” While Shinseki and other Cabinet members have joined a growing number of lawmakers calling for an overhaul of insurer practice, Prudential has defended retained-asset accounts as helpful to survivors, especially the loved ones of soldiers. ‘For some families, the account is the difference between earning interest on a large amount of money and letting it sit idle,’ company spokesman Bob DeFillippo told Bloomberg.”

During an appearance on Fox News’ Fox And Friends 5 AUG Fox News legal analyst Peter Johnson, Jr., said that while “Missouri and Kansas and other state insurance regulators” are looking at the practice of companies retaining death benefits, there is no Federal regulation against it. Johnson argued that VA needs to “look at this issue immediately.” On 4 AUG, the “National Conference of Insurance Legislators called for a ‘beneficiaries bill of rights’ to protect consumers against abuse by carriers that, for decades, have earned income by retaining death benefits.” The group plans to develop a model bill that lawmakers can introduce in state legislatures to protect customers. Defense Secretary Robert Gates, meanwhile, has pledged to help the US Department of Veterans Affairs investigate the practice of companies retaining death benefits, a practice that has been criticized by US Sens. Charles Schumer (D-NY) and John McCain (R-AZ), as well as US Rep. Debbie Halvorson (D-IL), who “introduced legislation last week requiring profit disclosure.” [Source: Bloomberg News Evans Capaccio article 5 Aug 2010 ++]

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Vet Insurance ~ Life Update 02: The company responsible for providing life insurance benefits to the families of fallen soldiers hasn’t handled payouts properly and has failed to provide beneficiaries automatic cash payments, a Democratic lawmaker said on Tuesday. In an 10 AUG letter to Prudential Chairman and Chief Executive Officer John Strangfeld, Rep. Edolphus Towns (D-NY) expressed concern that families of participants in the Servicemembers Group Life Insurance (SGLI) program and the Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI) program are not fully informed about the procedures for receiving benefits. “I am particularly concerned that some families of soldiers killed while serving their country may not understand that they have the right to this money upfront,” the chairman of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee said in a statement. “It seems unjust that the insurance company can take control of this money without first being granted permission from those it belongs to.”

The SGLI and VGLI programs feature retained-asset accounts, in which insurance benefits are paid not as a lump sum, but are held in an account from which beneficiaries can withdraw funds using what appear to be checks. The funds are not protected by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, and a financial institution must cash the checks. The account management firm controls the money until beneficiaries cash out the accounts in full. Towns also noted that Prudential receives 4% interest on these accounts, but pays beneficiaries much less. Though the funds earn more, Prudential pays beneficiaries 0.5% interest on deposits, a rate that is “commensurate and competitive” for this type of account, said Prudential spokesman Bob DeFillippo. Participants in the Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance program also are paid through retained-asset accounts. In the letter, Towns requested more information about Prudential’s management of the insurance programs, including details on account security, checks provided to beneficiaries, investment decisions and interest rates. He also expressed interest in whether families were fully informed of their options, the money was adequately guaranteed and the interest paid was adequate. The letter requested a response by24 AUG.

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DeFillippo on 11 AUG confirmed the company had received the letter. “We’re going to cooperate fully with the inquiry and welcome the opportunity to assure everyone that the insurance program for the military is being well-managed and is in the best interest of the beneficiaries,” he said. Prudential in July announced that it was in discussions with the Veterans Affairs Department to address concerns raised about the SGLI program. [Source: GovExec.com Emily Long article 11 Aug 2010 ++]

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Vet Insurance ~ Life Update 03: Comparable bills pending before both the House and Senate would require contractor insurance companies to change the way they handle the Servicemembers Group Life Insurance (SGLI) and Veterans Group Life Insurance (VGLI) policies they underwrite. The Senate bill would make the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and Office of Personnel Management (OPM) tell insurers to offer lump-sum payouts of government-sponsored death benefits to beneficiaries of service members and federal workers as defaults, rather than options. The measure would end contractor insurance companies‘ practice of offering so-called “retained asset accounts,” under which the companies collect as much as 4% interest on money intended for beneficiaries, and hold it in corporate accounts. The money, as such, is earning interest for the companies rather than beneficiaries, says Sen. Charles E. Schumer (D-NY), sponsor of the bill. “It‘s deeply troubling that insurance companies would promote these accounts as if they were run-of-the-mill checking accounts, yet the insurance companies profit from the interest and provide no FDIC guarantee that the money itself is insured,” Schumer said. The House bill, H.R.5993, would require the VA to make contractor insurance companies provide full counseling and disclosure regarding insurance benefits to families of fallen service members. “This legislation will ensure these policies are transparent and life insurance companies are held accountable,” said Rep. Debbie Halvorson (D-IL) who sponsored the measure. [Source: Armed Forces News 13 Aug 2010 ++]

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Military Compensation Review Update 07: On 3 AUG the Senate Armed Services Committee heard testimony from former Secretary of Defense William Perry and former National Security Adviser Stephen Hadley, chairmen of the Quadrennial Defense Review Independent Panel. Congress created the panel last year to provide a bipartisan assessment of the Pentagon’s 2010 Quadrennial Defense Review (QDR). Overall, the panel’s findings call for an increase in defense spending. It concludes that the military currently does not possess enough capabilities to meet national strategic goals. The Panel also concluded that “while the volunteer military has been an unqualified success, there are trends that threaten its sustainability” citing “recent and dramatic growth in cost”. The Panel recommends establishing a National Commission on Military Personnel, similar to the 1970 Gates Commission, which proposed the all-volunteer force, to map out compensation and retirement benefit reforms. The Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) acknowledges the need to control costs, but take’s exception to some of the panel’s claims. Once again the late 90’s were used as a base to project personnel cost growth. This baseline is disingenuous at best. Personnel spending hit rock bottom in the late 90’s before a recruiting and retention crisis prompted Congress to plus up personnel spending (including the creation of Tricare For Life). MOAA firmly believes the period of rapid growth on personnel spending is behind us. Congress must remain prudent when considering compensation and benefit reform. The all-volunteer force has remained resilient in the midst of almost 10 years of war, and defense reforms must preserve the most precious resource in our nation‘s arsenal, its people in uniform. [Source: MOAA Leg Up 6 Aug 2010 ++]

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Congressional Spending: Tired of standing by while our government puts us deeper in debt. In addition to contacting your legislators there is now an alternative means of expressing your concerns through YouCut. This is a Republican party initiative designed to defeat the permissive culture of runaway spending in Congress. It allows taxpayers to vote, both online and on their cell phones, on spending cuts that they want to see the House enact. Weekly it provides a number issues, along with a short explanation of each and the savings that would be accrued on how government can save money or eliminate fraud/waste/abuse through legislation. At http://republicanwhip.house.gov/YouCut/ you can vote on weekly choices for your priorities for reducing federal government spending. After you vote on the current week’s choices, the site offers you a means to submit your ideas on program and spending cuts that you feel should be featured on the website in the following weeks. An example of choices for spending cut priorities offered for the week of 2 thru 8 AUG is:

 Prohibit Mandated Project Labor Union Agreements That Increase Government Construction Costs. Saves: 10 to 20 percent per construction project, totaling hundreds of millions of dollars

 Suspend Federal Land Purchases. Saves $266 million next year and $2.66 billion over ten years

 Require Collection of Unpaid Taxes From Federal Employees. Savings of potentially $1 billion

 Prohibit Taxpayer Funding for Campaigns in Foreign Countries and Recoup the Misspent Funds. Saves $23 million

 Eliminate the “Dodd Clinic” Earmark From Obamacare. Savings of $100 million over ten years

[Source: Rep. Darrell E. Issa (R-49-CA) Ltr dtd 3 Aug 2010 ++]

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Military Golf Courses Update 01: San Diego is home to the U.S. Navy’s Pacific Fleet and large military bases throughout the city. The North Island Naval Air Station (NASNI) in Coronado, CA, the Miramar Marine Corps Air Station off of I-15 in San Diego, the Camp Pendleton Marine Corp Base just North of San Diego in Oceanside, CA, the Naval Submarine Base at Pt. Loma and San Diego Naval Station 32nd St. are the largest of many other smaller Naval and Marine Corps bases and facilities located in San Diego, CA. What all these large bases have in common is…they all support very nice and affordable Military Golf Courses for active duty military, retirees and their civilian guests. Choose from these varied and challenging courses: Admiral Baker Golf Course (two 18 Hole Championship Golf Courses), Miramar Memorial Golf Course, Pendleton Marine Memorial Golf Course, Marine Corp Recruiting Depot (MCRD) and the San Diego Naval Station Executive Golf Course. Lastly, the Sea n’ Air Golf Course on the North Island Naval Air Station in Coronado is the only golf course in San Diego besides Torrey Pines Golf Course that sits right on the Pacific Ocean. In fact, it distinguishes itself from Torrey Pines Golf Course in that it not only has fabulous Pacific Ocean views like Torrey Pines, but unlike Torrey Pines, a few of the holes actually play “at sea level” right along the beach and Pacific Ocean. Civilians can play as accompanied guests of active duty and retired military. For a complete rundown on each course’s amenities, green and cart fees, location, reservation and contact info refer to www.golfsd.com/sd_milit_courses.html. [Source: www.golfsd.com Aug 2010 ++]

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VA Claims Backlog Update 43: As part of Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki’s effort to streamline access to benefits, VA officials have removed the signature requirement for veterans who electronically submit an online 10-10EZ Application for Health Benefits. “This singular action will reduce days, if not weeks, for veterans who apply online to access their hard-earned medical benefits and upholds the promise to reduce access barriers to needed care for this nation’s veterans,” Secretary Shinseki said. Previously, veterans filling out the online application were required to print a copy, sign it and send to their local medical center or wait for a copy to be mailed to them for signature and mailing before enrollment into the VA health care system could occur. For

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additional information, go to this VA website or call VA’s toll-free number at (877) 222-8387. The online form can be accessed at www.1010ez.med.va.gov/sec/vha/1010ez .

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NDAA 2011 Update 05: The full Senate plans to consider its version of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), S.3454, in September upon return from a month long summer recess. In addition to a 1.4% across-the-board pay raise for all members of the uniformed services, S.3454 would provide full funding of Tricare and include language barring Tricare fee increases through FY 2011. The House has already approved a 1.9% pay increase so the difference will have to be worked out in conference. The Senate bill would also authorize extension of Tricare coverage for eligible dependents up to age 26 and direct DoD to send 6,000 National Guard troops to the US-Mexico border. And it contains two explosively controversial issues—repeal of the 1993 law prohibiting homosexual conduct in the military and provision of abortion services in the military health system. Any one of these provisions could make progress through the Senate difficult. Though the bill does not at this time expand concurrent receipt (CR) or repeal the offset of SBP against DIC compensation, it is likely that these amendments would be offered when the measure comes to the full Senate. A provision extending concurrent payments to medically retired personnel with less than 20 years of service was stripped out of recently-passed H.R.4213, The American Jobs and Closing Tax Loopholes Act. It’s anticipated that this legislation will be offered as an amendment to S. 3454. Even if the Senate begins work in mid September it may be quite some time before we see a final bill. A joint conference must still be conducted with the House to iron out differences between the two chambers. The House version of the FY 2011 National Defense Authorization Act (H.R.5136) has been in place since it passed on 28 MAY. [Source: NAUS Weekly Update 6 Aug 2010 ++]

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SVAC Update 05: The Senate Veteran Affairs Committee (SVAC) on 5 AUG marked up and approved the following legislation, some of which were amended. The measures will now go before the whole Senate for a vote, and will have to pass the House before they become law:

 S.3107, which would increase the compensation rates for veterans with disabilities as well as the dependency and indemnity compensation rates for the survivors of certain disabled veterans.

 S.3234, which would create new programs aimed at assisting veterans with employment training and placement services, especially those who have served in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.

 S.3325, which would waive copayments for veterans using tele-health services, create an outreach program for veterans in economically distressed areas, and authorize two medical facility construction projects in New Orleans and Long Beach, California. The goal of the legislation is to improve the quality of health care and benefits provided by the Department of Veterans‘ Affairs, to increase access to health care and benefits and to authorize the construction of the two major medical facilities.

 S.3447, which would make changes and improvements to education benefits for veterans who served after September 11, 2001 by amending title 38 of the United States Code.

 S.3517, which would make changes to the disability compensation claims processing system, such as authorizing certain individuals to sign claims on behalf of individuals who are incompetent of physically incapable of signing.

 S.3609, which would extend until the end of 2012 temporary authority for VA medical disability examinations to be performed by physician contractors.

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 An original draft bill that would, in addition to other provisions, amend title 38 of the United States Code regarding the Service Members‘ Group Life Insurance program‘s provision of compensation and pensions to surviving spouses of veterans in the months after the deaths of the veteran.

 Draft legislation that would authorize employees of the Veterans Affairs Department to collectively bargain on compensation issues also passed (by a 10-6 vote). The amendment was offered by Senator Sherrod Brown (D – OH), and was subsequently made into its own stand-alone bill.

Several amendments were rejected, including attempts by Senator Richard Burr (R-NC) to have the VA cover health care expenses for Marines and their dependents who were exposed to tainted drinking water during the 1980s at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina and to cut the proposed 20% budget increase in FY 2011 at the VA‘s Congressional Affairs Office to a 3% increase. The Committee rejected the Camp Lejeune request because Senator David Akaka (D -HI) and others felt that the issue was the Department of Defense‘s to handle, since they created the problem. In other words, having VA take over DOD‘s responsibility would take away from VA‘s ability to better serve veterans in other areas. Senator Burr‘s attempt to cut the VA Congressional Affairs Office budget increase from 20% to 3% failed mainly due to the Committee‘s feeling that the office required the funds in order to better respond to Congress‘ increased interest in veteran affairs. [Source: TREA Washington Update 6 Aug 2010 ++]

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VA Budget 2010 Update 06: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) committed the last of its $1.8 billion in Recovery Act funds 31 JUL, one of the first federal agencies to achieve that milestone. Projects at more than 1,200 sites in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico will increase access to health care and services to Veterans, while creating jobs and stimulating the economy. “Veterans across the Nation are benefiting from these Recovery Act funds,” said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki. “Recovery Act projects are improving medical care, speeding claims processing, enhancing our national cemeteries, advancing our energy efficiency, and generating jobs for Americans.” VA rapidly put American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (Recovery Act) funding to work to improve its medical facilities, revitalize its national cemeteries, hire claims processors, upgrade technology systems and assist states in acquiring, building or remodeling state nursing homes and domiciliary facilities for Veterans. The funding received by VA is part of President Obama’s economic recovery plan to improve services to America’s Veterans. By obligating these funds quickly, VA is revitalizing its infrastructure and moving needed money into the economy. Using Recovery Act funds, VA entered into 1,521 contracts with 696 contractors. Three-quarters of the contractors were Veterans owned businesses, either service disabled Veteran owned businesses or Veteran owned small businesses. [VA News Release 5 Aug 2010 ++]

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Nevada Vet Cemetery: The Northern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery averages about 40 burials per month, and with a $499,900 Department of Veterans Affairs grant, the local cemetery is now able to provide burial sites for veterans for an estimated 10 years. The grant funds will be used to construct full casketed gravesites, cremains burial areas, additional visitor parking, landscaping, irrigation, and supporting infrastructure. Veterans Cemetery Superintendent Wes Block said the grant is important to the NNVMC and will also be used to develop three acres on the east side of the property, which will include 451 standard burial plots and 1,619 in-ground cremains sites. According to the Nevada Office of Veterans Services (NOVS), the grant funds were sought to meet the growing demands of the cemetery. There are currently about 7,000 veterans laid to rest at the NNVMC. NOVS Executive Director Tim Tetz said they appreciated the support of VA Secretary Shinseki, but noted that the grant does not cover all the anticipated costs. “The State has been unable to allocate additional funds to complete the expansion. Private donors have pledged their support to the project, but additional contributions will likely be needed,” said Tetz.

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In Nevada eligible veterans and their spouse, may be buried at either the Northern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Fernley or the Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Boulder City. There is no charge for the plot or for opening and closing of the grave site of a veteran. A $450.00 fee is charged for the burial of a family member. Headstones are provided at no cost by the federal government. Military honors are provided by military units, however, a cemetery staff member can assist in making these arrangements. Both cemeteries are located in quiet, peaceful surroundings, and provide an atmosphere of respect and dignity to those who have served. The cemeteries were established in 1990 and have become the final resting place for over 10,000 veterans and their family members. One plot is allowed for the interment of each eligible veteran and for each member of their immediate family, except where soil conditions or the number of decedents of the family require more than one plot. Specific plots may not be reserved as plots are assigned by the cemetery superintendent. Casket and cremation burials can be accommodated at both cemeteries.

National Veteran Cemeteries now allow for married veterans to have separate burial entitlements — meaning that women veterans can now be buried side by side with their veteran husbands. The Nevada Veterans Cemetery does have an established procedure allowing the space next to an interred veteran to be reserved for the veteran’s spouse if they choose separate internment. This is a great change in procedure to honor our women veterans! If you have any questions, would like to pre-register, or make any pre-registration changes, you can contact the Northern or Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery directly. To determine if you are eligible, to make advanced reservations, or if you have any questions, call either cemetery office at: Northern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery: (775) 575-4441 or Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery: (702) 486-5920. To search for burial locations of veterans refer to the Nationwide Gravesite Locator http://gravelocator.cem.va.gov/j2ee/servlet/NGL_v1. [Source: Reno Gazette-Journal article & www.veterans.nv.gov 29 Jul 2010 ++]

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VA Burial ~ Gravesite Locator: At http://gravelocator.cem.va.gov/j2ee/servlet/NGL_v1 you can search for burial locations of veterans and their family members in VA National Cemeteries, state veterans cemeteries, various other military and Department of Interior cemeteries, and for veterans buried in private cemeteries when the grave is marked with a government grave marker. The Nationwide Gravesite Locator includes burial records from many sources. These sources provide varied data; some searches may contain less information than others. Information on veterans buried in private cemeteries was collected for the purpose of furnishing government grave markers. VA does not have information available for burials prior to 1997. Erroneous information can be corrected, but there is no means to add to the information contained in the existing record. If your search returns incorrect information about a veteran or family member buried in a national cemetery, contact the cemetery directly to discuss your findings. To report incorrect information about a veteran buried in a private cemetery, click on “Contact the VA” at the bottom of the site’s page. Names cannot be added to the listing if a government grave marker was not furnished for the grave, or if the existing government grave marker was furnished prior to 1997. For more complete information concerning individual records, suggest you contact the cemetery or local officials.

The American Battle Monuments Commission provides information on service members buried in overseas cemeteries. If you cannot locate the person you are searching for, provide the below information on each individual and send it to: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, National Cemetery Administration (41C1), Burial Location Request, 810 Vermont Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20420. Most requests take approximately four weeks for a reply. Be sure to include your return mailing address, phone number or Internet e-mail address with your request :

 Full name, including any alternate spellings

 Date and place of birth

 Date and place of death

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 State from which the individual entered active duty

 Military service branch

[Source: http://gravelocator.cem.va.gov/j2ee/servlet/NGL_v1 Aug 2010 ++

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Prescription Drug Disposal Update 01: Leftover medicine has a way of causing trouble. Flushed down the drain, it pollutes lakes and rivers as well as our drinking water. Kept at home, it‘s a poison risk for small kids and teen. And passed along to a family member or a friend, it encourages people to dose themselves without a prescription. Of more than 4 billion prescriptions written yearly, it is estimated that that some 40% go unused. That‘s about 200 million pounds of meds, including those in liquid form. To help dispose of unused medications properly; the National community Pharmacists Association has launched a ―Dispose My meds‖ campaign. More than 800 community pharmacies in 40 states have signed on. To locate one go to www.DisposeMyMeds.org and enter your zip code to find a participating pharmacy near you. If one is near you just bring them the drugs and it will send them to a medical-waste disposal facility. Or you can get a prepaid postage envelop and mail the drugs from your home. If a drug take-back or collection program is not available in your area, refer to Federal Guidelines from the Office of National Drug Control Policy on the proper disposal of medications at www.WhiteHouseDrugPolicy.gov. These are:

 Do not flush prescription drugs down the toilet or drain unless the label or accompanying patient information specifically instructs you to do so. For information on drugs that should be flushed refer the FDA website http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/ResourcesForYou/Consumers/BuyingUsingMedicineSafely/EnsuringSafeUseofMedicine/SafeDisposalofMedicines/ucm186187.htm

 To dispose of prescription drugs not labeled to be flushed, you may be able to take advantage of community drug take back programs or other programs, such as household hazardous waste collection events, that collect drugs at a central location for proper disposal. Call your city or county government household trash and recycling service and ask if a drug take back program is available in your community.

 If a drug take back or collection program is not available:

1. Take your prescription drugs out of their original containers.

2. Mix drugs with an undesirable substance, such as cat litter or used coffee grounds.

3. Put the mixture into a disposable container with a lid, such as an empty margarine tub, or into a sealable bag.

4. Conceal or remove any personal information, including Rx number, on the empty containers by covering it with black permanent marker or duct tape, or by scratching it off.

5. Place the sealed container with the mixture, and the empty drug containers, in the trash.

[Source: Parade Magazine Dr. Ranit Mishori article 4 Jul 2010 ++]

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VAT Tax Update 01: Use of a national VAT sales tax is one option our government has for reducing the U.S. deficit. Each 1% of assessed VAT tax could generate approximately $1 trillion of revenue for the federal government over the next 10 years according to the Congressional Budget Office. The list of European countries below indicates what their citizens now pay. If implemented in the United States the initial% age most likely would not be anywhere near the numbers you now see in Europe. However, in each European country noted they started out right around the 1% or 2%.

 United Kingdom: Income Tax: 50% VAT: 17.5%

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 Germany: Income Tax: 45% VAT: 19%

 France: Income Tax: 40% VAT: 19.6%

 Greece: Income Tax: 40% VAT: 25%

 Spain: Income Tax: 45% VAT: 16%

 Portugal: Income Tax: 42% VAT: 20%

 Sweden: Income Tax: 55% VAT: 25%

 Norway: Income Tax: 54.3% VAT: 25%

 Netherlands: Income Tax: 52% VAT: 19%

 Denmark: Income Tax: 58% VAT: 25%

 Finland: Income Tax: 53% VAT: 22%

[Source: Various Jul 2010 +]

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Tricare Breast Cancer MRI’s Update 01: Tricare covers mammograms every year beginning at age 40. However, if you and your doctor determine you fall into a higher risk category, Tricare will cover mammograms beginning at age 35. Mammograms are part of Tricare’s clinical preventive services, so Tricare beneficiaries can receive them at no cost and without prior authorization. To find a mammography facility near you: Go to • www.triwest.com/mammogram ; Click on “Search by Facility”; Enter your ZIP code and a search radius; Select “Radiology Centers” from the “Facility Type” menu ; and Click the “Search Facilities” button. For more information about breast cancer prevention and other important health issues, visit the “Healthy Living” portal at www.triwest.com .

Your risk for breast cancer increases if you have a close relative with the disease, but 70 to 80% of women who develop breast cancer have no family history of it, according to the American Cancer Society. It is important that you get regular screenings and mammograms based on your age and risk factors. Know Your Risks

The best way to determine when to begin regular mammograms is by discussing your risk factors with your doctor. Some possible risk factors include:

 Gender: Breast cancer is 100 times more common in women than men, but men can get it too.

 Age: Breast cancer risk increases as you age. Two of three invasive breast cancers develop in women 55 and older.

 Genetics: Between 5 and 10% of breast cancer cases could be due to heredity.

 Family history: If you have a close blood relative with breast cancer, your risk doubles.

 Dense breast tissue: Women with denser breast tissue have a greater risk of developing breast cancer than those with more fatty tissue.

 Not having children or having them later in life: Women who never had children, or had them after 30, have a slightly higher risk.

 Recent birth control use: Women who use oral contraceptives are at a slightly greater risk for developing breast cancer. However, once oral contraceptive use stops, the risk may decline back to normal over time.

 Obesity: Especially after menopause, obesity can be a continual risk factor for breast cancer.

 Lack of exercise: Evidence suggests that lack of exercise increases a woman‘s risk for breast cancer. However, more studies are needed to determine how much exercise will decrease the risk.

For more information on the risk factors for breast cancer, visit the American Cancer Society‘s Web site at www.cancer.org . [Source: Tricare Health Matters Dr. Jack Smith article Issue 5 2010 ++]

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IRS Tax Brackets: The Bipartisan Tax Fairness and Simplification Act of 2010 (S.3018) introduced FEB 2010 by Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Judd Gregg (R-NH), aims to make the Federal income tax system simpler, fairer, and more fiscally responsible. The bill is currently referred to the Senate Committee on Finance and has no additional co-sponsors. The proposed legislation would reduce the number of individual tax brackets from the current six to three: 15%, 25%, and 35% as follows.

1. Current: Single / Married Filing Jointly 2009 Tax brackets

 10% Bracket $0 – $8,375 / $0 – $16,750

 15% Bracket $8,375 – $34,000 / $16,750 – $68,000

 25% Bracket $34,000 – $82,400 / $68,000 – $137,300

 28% Bracket $82,400 – $171,850 / $137,300 – $209,250

 33% Bracket $171,850 – $373,650 / $209,250 – $373,650

 35% Bracket $373,650+ / $373,650+

2. Proposed: Single / Married Filing Jointly / Head of Household 2011 S.3018 Tax brackets

 15% Bracket $0 – $37,500 / $0 – $75,000 / $0 – $56,250

 25% Bracket $37,501 – $70.000 / $75,001 – $140,000 / $56,251 – $105,000

 35% Bracket Over $140,000 / $140,000 / $105,000

Additional provisions of the bill as amended would revise the Internal Revenue Code to:

 Increase the standard tax deduction;

 Eliminate miscellaneous itemized tax deductions after 2010;

 Exclude from gross income 35% of certain dividend income and gain on capital assets

 Allow a new tax credit for interest on state and local bonds

 Revise rules for tax-exempt retirement plans and education tax credits and create tax-exempt Lifetime Savings Accounts

 Deny a tax deduction for punitive damages.

 Make permanent specified provisions of the Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001 that: increased the earned income, dependent care, and child tax credits; and repealed limits on personal exemptions and itemized tax deductions.

 Impose a tax on Internet gambling.

 Eliminate the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) which raises taxes for millions of middle-class Americans.

 Eliminate the foreign earned income exclusion which concerns all US taxpayers living and working abroad. American Citizens Abroad (www.aca.ch) is reviewing the text of the bill,to ascertain its potential impact on overseas Americans and its chances of passing.

[Source: The Tax Baron Report Jul 2010 ++]

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Military Discounts Update 04: With the economy down and consumers looking for ways to trim their budgets, business is booming at the hundreds of ―scratch and dent‖ stores scattered around the country. Such stores sell groceries at huge discounts off what the same items would cost in your local supermarket, often 50% or more. That‘s because the stores buy up truckloads of nonperishable food, cleaning supplies, paper goods, pet food and other items that have been returned by supermarkets. The reasons for returns: Packages have been scratched or dented or otherwise damaged, the items are near or beyond their ―sell-by‖ dates, they have been overstocked or discontinued, they are no longer seasonal (think Halloween in November), or they just didn‘t sell well. You never

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know what you‘re going to find in one of these places, so you‘ll need a flexible shopping list. One week there will be shelves of canned corn and detergent, the next week no corn but plenty of orange juice and artichoke hearts. Salvage stores are plentiful in some states, scarce in others. Go to Anderson‘s Country Market at www.andersonscountrymarket.net/directory for a state-by-state list maintained by one store as a public service. [Source: AARP Joan Rattner Heilman article 6 Jul 2010 ++]

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Gout: Once called the disease of kings not only because so many royals came down with it, but also because it seemed to afflict those who overindulged in food and wine, and only the very rich could afford to spoil themselves that way. In fact gout is a form of arthritis. It is an inflammatory joint disease that causes acute pain and swelling. It develops when uric acid crystals form in and around the joints; commonly affecting the big toe joint (this symptom is called podagra). Symptoms of gout usually begin suddenly, often at night. The main symptom of gout is pain, sometimes so severe that patients report waking up in the middle of the night feeling as though their joint (often the big toe) is on fire. It causes warmth, pain, swelling, redness, and extreme tenderness of the affected joint, and it may cause chills and fever. Gout can involve episodes of nearly unbearable pain in one or more of the joints. of the feet, ankles, knees, wrists, fingers, and elbows. The intense pain is the result of a buildup of the compound uric acid in the joint, although not everybody with high levels of uric acid gets gout. Some speculate that uric acid is more likely to deposit where blood pools, which is often at the extremities, and specifically the big toe. Other risk factors include taking certain medications, such as some types of water pills for high blood pressure, and having a family member who suffers with gout.

While gout has been prominent in historical figures, nowadays it is a disease of ordinary people. According to the Arthritis Foundation, more than 2 million Americans, mostly men at a younger age, are dealing with it. New cases of gout have doubled in the last few decades. It is often associated with food and drink. Drink too little water or too much alcohol and you run the risk of increasing uric-acid levels in your body. Eat foods rich in purine, and your risk of having an attack is increased. High purine foods include dried beans, game meats, gravy, certain fishes (anchovies, herring, mackerel, sardines) liver, and mushrooms. Recent studies have found that drinking coffee may help lower uric-acid levels. And a 20-year study of more than 49,000 men in the U.S. published in a 2009 issue of Archives of Internal medicine reported that vitamin in C seemed to reduce the risk as well: Men who took 1000mg to 1499mg a day had a 34% lower risk of gout; those who took 1500mg a day had a 45% lower risk.

Treating pain and inflammation is the goal when a patient seeks help for an acute attack. Among the medications used for this purpose is colchicine, a first century A.D. treatment. While colchicine is very effective, it often causes nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. These side effects are uncommon when this drug is given intravenously. Because of the unpleasant side effects of colchicine, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have become the treatment of choice for most acute attacks of gout. The NSAID that is most widely used to treat acute gout is indomethacin. NSAIDs may also have significant toxicity, but if used for the short-term, are generally well tolerated. Aspirin and aspirin-containing products should be avoided during acute attacks.

Once an attack is over doctors will try to prevent flare-ups by lowering excess amounts of uric-acid, either by limiting the uric acid the body produces or by improving the kidney‘s ability to remove it from the body. Until recently the main drugs for that purpose were Allopurinol, used since 1964, and Probebecid, used since 1950. The choice between these two types of drugs depends on the amount of uric acid in the urine. Unfortunately, these have serious side effects for people with impaired kidney function, who are unable to take a full dose. Recently the FDA approved the first new gout medication in 40 years called Uloric (generic name febuxostat). It also lowers uric-acid levels but is more easily tolerated by those with kidney problems. Other mew medications now in clinical trials should be safer as well. So while gout continues to be a painful affliction, it is also one of the most treatable forms of

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arthritis. If you want to find a rheumatologist in your area, check the American College of Rheumatology membership directory at www.rheumatology.org/directory/geo.asp. If you want more information on this or any other form of arthritis, contact the Arthritis Foundation at (800) 283-7800 or visit the Arthritis Foundation web site at www.arthritis.org. [Source: Parade Magazine Dr. Ranit Mishori article Jul 2010 ++]

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VA Presumptive VN Vet Diseases Update 09: The Department of Veterans Affairs likely will begin in October to pay thousands of disability claims to Vietnam veterans with ischemic heart disease, Parkinson’s disease and B-cell leukemia — illnesses newly associated with exposure to defoliants, including Agent Orange, used in that war. A 60-day countdown to the day that VA can start compensating up to 86,000 veterans retroactively for these diseases will begin when VA publishes its final implementing regulation, which could be in early AUG. Congress sent a strong signal of support to these veterans in JUL when first the Senate and, on 27 JUL, the House passed the Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2010 (H.R.4899) which included $13.4 billion for VA to pay the first wave of compensation claims for these diseases. VA estimates this expansion of Agent Orange-related claims, which VA Secretary Eric Shinseki announced last OCT, will benefit over time more than 153,000 and cost more than $42 billion in its first decade of payments. The White House’s Office of Management and Budget is near to clearing the VA regulation through its last review hurdle. Once the final regulation is published in the Federal Register, Congress will have 60 days to review and possibly block the regulation.

Sen. Jim Webb (D-VA) showed his intent to lead that review by adding language to the war supplemental stating that, as the Congressional Review Act requires, none of the $13.4 billion can be spent for 60 days. This gives Congress time to weigh the cost and review the science behind the decision. Sen. Daniel Akaka (D-HI), chairman of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee on which Webb serves, has scheduled a 23 SEP hearing where presumably VA officials and independent medical researchers will explain why these diseases should be compensable for any veteran who suffers from them and served even a day in Vietnam. Webb has argued the VA is interpreting the Agent Orange Law of 1991 too liberally, linking ailments generally associated with aging to wartime exposures, and committing VA to billions of dollars in added compensation payment, because Congress chose to forfeit its own oversight responsibilities. Webb notes that the 2001 decision linking Type II diabetes to Agent Orange has resulted in more than 220,000 veterans — nearly one in 10 who served in Vietnam — drawing disability compensation for an illness often associated with unhealthy diets, aging or family history. That Congress kept $13.4 billion in the war supplemental to pay for expansion of Agent Orange presumptive diseases dampens prospects that Webb can block the regulation at this late hour.

Since MAR, VA has been urging veterans with these diseases, or their survivors, to file claims immediately because payment will be retroactive to the claim filing date. VA lawyers conceded to a federal appeals court last week that the department missed deadlines set in the Agent Orange Act for reviewing the latest science report and for publishing rules to expand claims eligibility to these diseases. Those missed deadlines spurred several advocacy groups for Vietnam veterans to mount a legal challenge to force VA to pay claims now. VA lawyers are arguing the delays were unavoidable, given the complexity and budgetary implications involved. Also, they told the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit that the impact of the missed deadlines is minimized by the fact that payments, when they begin, will be retroactive to the date original claims were filed. So the same groups who have filed the lawsuit, including Paralyzed Veterans of America and the Non-Commissioned Officers Association, can provide the relief they seek “by encouraging their members to file benefits claims immediately, thereby establishing an effective date for their benefits prior to publication of the final regulation,” VA advised the appeals court. Thomas E. Riley, an attorney for the veterans, conceded that veterans who have filed claims will get retroactive payments and thus are protected. But most eligible veterans haven’t filed claims yet, aren’t likely to until the regulation is published, and thus are losing out on months of payments. “Out of 200,000 expected claims,” the brief explains, “only 50,000

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claims have been received so far. Thus 150,000 Vietnam veterans continue to be prejudiced by the VA’s delay, and there is simply no basis for the VA’s suggestion that petitioners ‘can and have obtained’ the relief they seek.”

Barton F. Stichman, co-director of the National Veterans Legal Services Program in Washington D.C., also helped prepare the lawsuit. He disagrees with Webb that VA is applying the Agent Orange law more broadly than Congress intended by compensating for diseases often associated with aging. The facts don’t support that analysis, Stichman said. What scientists found for these diseases — “sufficient evidence to suggest an association” to Agent Orange exposure — “is the exact same characterization the National Academy of Sciences has used for all the other diseases previous VA secretaries have service-connected,” Stichman said. Also, he said, “there’s nothing to indicate Congress was only thinking rare diseases would get this presumptive service connection.” In fact, with every fairly common disease added to the Agent Orange presumptive list — lung cancer in 1994, prostate cancer in 1996, Type-II diabetes in 2001 — Congress not only didn’t protest but it soon codified the decisions in the law. “Whenever the VA added a new disease,” Stichman said, Congress “would amend the Agent Orange Act to stick the disease into the law so that no future secretary could change the decision. They put the congressional seal of approval on the decision…That weakens [Webb’s] argument.” [Source: Mil.com Tom Philpott article 29 Jul 2010 ++]

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Cantaloupes: (Not veteran related but good to know if you like cantaloupes as much as I do): Cantaloupes can have up to 20% sugar, the sweetest of any melon — but a bum specimen often tastes no more exciting than a cucumber. They are unique among melons in that they are the only ones that continue to ripen after they’re harvested. It’s not a lot; most of the sugar-and-perfume-making has to happen while it’s on the vine, but the good news is that when you buy a freshly harvested melon that already smells terrific, you can go to bed knowing that it’s going to get even better. The other thing that’s unique about cantaloupes is that when they’re fully mature, they “slip” from the vines and don’t need to be cut from the plant. Look at the stem end, where it’s connected to the vine. You want what’s called a “full slip” — an “innie” of a belly button, nice and clean. If it’s an outie, that means the picker tore the fruit away before it’s ready, and it won’t ripen. It’s a sure sign of a flavorless melon. Next, pick it up and take a look at the whole thing, making sure it’s got a nice symmetrical shape and is heavy for its size. Feel the netting, that webby layer of skin. It should feel dry or “corky,” not tacky or waxy. And the background color should have very little, if any, green — you want it yellow or a creamy color. Green skin means that it’s unripe or worse, immature, meaning that it can’t ripen. Smell the melon, particularly at the blossom — the other side from the stem end. It should be just a little softer than the rest of the melon, and the smell should be terrific, tropical and sweet and floral. They can be so fragrant that in the 1800s, pocket-size variants were bred to be kept on your person as an air freshener. If you can sign off on all of the above, all signs point toward a serious cantaloupe. If you’re buying the fruit from a farmer and can find out when it was harvested, know that peak ripeness is usually two or three days after it was picked. Take it home and let it sit at room temperature, checking on it daily. If it seems to be getting more fragrant and whatever green color that’s on it is fading, it’s still ripening. After a day of that, keep it in the fridge, where it will stay at peak ripeness for another day or two. [Source: Salon Daily Newsletter Francis Lam article 6 Aug 2010 ++]

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COLA 2011 Update 04: As ordered reported by the Senate Committee on Veterans‘ Affairs on 5 AUG 2010, Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2010 (S.3107) would increase the amounts paid to veterans for disability compensation and to their survivors for dependency and indemnity compensation (DIC) by the same cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) payable to Social Security recipients. The increase would take effect on 1 DEC 2010, and the resulting adjustment would be rounded to the next lower dollar. The COLA that would be authorized by this bill is assumed in the Congressional budget Office‘s (CBO‘s) baseline, consistent with section

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257 of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act, and savings from rounding it down were achieved by the Balanced Budget Act of 1997 (Public Law 105-33) as extended by the Veterans Benefits Act of 2003 (Public Law 108-183). Because the COLA is assumed in CBO‘s baseline, the COLA provision would have no budgetary effect relative to the baseline. Relative to current law, CBO estimates that enacting this bill would increase spending for those programs by $50 million in fiscal year 2011. (The annualized cost would be about $70 million in subsequent years.) This estimate assumes that the COLA effective on 1 DEC 2010, would be 0.1%. S.3107 contains no intergovernmental or private-sector mandates as defined in the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act and would not affect the budgets of state, local, or tribal governments. Enacting S. 3107 would not affect direct spending or revenues relative to CBO‘s baseline; therefore, pay-as-you-go procedures do not apply. On 12 MAR 2010, CBO transmitted a cost estimate for H.R.4667, the Veterans‘ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2010, as ordered reported by the House Committee on Veterans‘ Affairs on 10 MAR 2010. The two bills are similar and their estimated costs are the same. [Source: CBO Cost estimate Report 5 Aug 2010 ++]

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Communicating With Congress Update 03: The estimated population of the United States on 1 AUG 2010 was 307,874,000. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 228,614,000 are in the work force. Throw in another 20,000,000 illegal aliens (no one really knows with certainty how many illegal aliens are in the United States), and you have a population base of roughly 327,874,000 that is being defended by 1,400,000. That equates to only four tenths of a percent (0.4%) of the population is defending the other 99.6%! If you include the 1.3 million in the Guard and Reserve who are now used as if they were active duty forces, there are a total of roughly 2.7 million people defending the 327,874,000, or roughly eight tenths of a percent (0.8%) defending the other 99.2%. In 1970, there were over 45 million living veterans in the United States. In 1999 there were nearly 30 million veterans of which 18 million were in the work force. Today, the BLS reports there are 22,060,000 living veterans of which 11,794,000 are in the work force. Depending on the survey, over 1,000 veterans now die each day!

This data has many ramifications. With 38 years of an all volunteer military, America now has two generations of citizens that have no idea of what really goes on in the military and the importance of having a strong military. This lack of understanding impacts political and social attitudes towards the military. The population base for veteran service organizations is dwindling rapidly which is why many are changing their membership rules in order to maintain membership in a rapidly declining demographic environment. Today, there are fewer defenders of our freedoms living who understand the importance of maintaining a strong military. And without a strong military, we cannot maintain our freedoms, our free market capitalist economy and our constitutional republic. Remember these numbers when you next talk to your representatives in Congress. [Source: VetJobs Veteran Eagle article 1 Aug 2010 ++]

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Veteran Charities Update 13: Questions have been raised about a $50 million project in Kennedale TX to honor veterans who have died since the September 11 terrorist attacks. The Texas Attorney General is looking into documentation behind the United States Fallen Heroes Foundation which is soliciting funds for the project. The memorial project was introduced to the public during a slick presentation at a news conference two months ago. An animation showed 15 acres of land in Kennedale that would be the site of a memorial. A Web site honoring veterans was set up at www.fallenheroesfoundation.com and TV spots in which families of vets were used to solicit money. “This memorial will also include all military personnel that have died post-9/11 and have died as a result of combat and non-combat injuries and trauma,” said Walter Coleman, the alleged Chairman of the U.S. Fallen Heroes Foundation. But while Coleman was happy to be on TV to raise money, he canceled two appointments with WFAA

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News 8 to discuss the organization. When he finally did show up, he would not let them record an interview. “I’ll be interviewed, but not on camera,” he said. Coleman also did not want to be interviewed about his application to the IRS for tax-exempt status.

The IRS has no record of the U.S. Fallen Heroes Foundation. News 8 discovered Coleman signs documents with two signatures and two names: Evan Coleman and “Walter Coleman. ―I’m both,” he said when asked about the dual identity. “I’m Walter Raleigh Evan Coleman Jr.” He said his use of one name of the other “depends on the documents.” Records indicate that Coleman used “Walter” as a first name after a credit union sued him for $10,000 in debt under the name of “Evan Coleman. Another question surrounds Coleman’s military record. Kennedale City Manager Bob Hart is one of several people who say Coleman represented himself as a veteran. “My impression is that he would have served in Vietnam, because he’s made comments in that regard,” Hart said. But when pressed, Coleman told News 8 he was never in the military.

Coleman runs the Fallen Heroes Foundation from his home in Mansfield, which until recently was also the home of the Texas/Louisiana Fallen Heroes Foundation. Although Coleman has given documents to the City of Kennedale which include a non-existent employer identification number, or EIN, Coleman passes it off as an innocent error. In Kennedale, construction crews are already working on a new road that would have gone by the memorial. The City of Kennedale says it will now investigate the background of the Fallen Heroes Foundation. The city has signed a contract to sell 15 acres of land to the foundation, but Hart says Kennedale has not lost any money in the deal. “They’ve signed the contract, yes. But the contract allows for an 18-month window in which to raise funds to acquire the land,” Hart said. The Texas Attorney General has asked the Fallen Heroes Foundation for all of their records. [Source: WFAA Byron Harris article 28 Jul 2010 ++]

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Veteran Charities Update 14: Tommy Clack, field manager and veterans‘ service officer for the Georgia Department of Veterans Services for the east side of Atlanta, warns “Things aren‘t always what they seem”. Telephone solicitors may not be who they say they are and just because a guy with a pair of camouflage pants and a flag sets up a table outside a local retail store, he may not be a veteran. Clack says scam artists are running rampant in an effort to circumvent government funding and charitable donations intended for veterans. ―It‘s an epidemic going on in Georgia and the country,‖ he said. ―All these billions of dollars the federal government is acknowledging they are putting into the veterans‘ arena, there are unscrupulous people out there who want to partake of that. They fake being a veteran, fake credentials, have fake offices and collect money from an unknowing public. The reason is simple — the word ‘veteran; evokes an emotional response. When you use the word ‗veteran‘ in public, you‘re going to get a response,‖ he said. ―Americans want to take care of them.‖

Newton County resident Randy Upton said he was curious about a group he found soliciting money in front of one of the area Wal-Mart stores and struck up a conversation with them. He said the solicitors acknowledged they were not veterans, had never served, much less been wounded, in military service and were being paid to sit in front of the store, dressed in paramilitary outfits and collect funds. Clack says emphatically citizens should not donate to any group without knowing if the money is actually going to be used for the stated purpose. ―I suggest before anybody gives them money, you find out about them by getting a financial sheet showing where their money goes and if they are putting most of it back into the community. What services are they providing. What veterans are they benefiting? Legitimate groups are going to take your name and address and mail you a financial statement. Those groups are required to do a monthly, quarterly, yearly statement to show where their money goes,‖ he said. The work of the Disabled American Veterans, the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Georgia Vietnam Veterans of America and Vietnam Veterans of America and the Order of the Purple Heart are legitimate charities

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and the money given to them does go to benefit veterans. ―All those are national groups with national headquarters. They are registered with the state of Georgia, they have credentials and we know where their money goes,‖ he said.

Citizens should take note, however, of the exact names of these organizations because a favorite ploy of unscrupulous groups is to call themselves by names very similar to these in hopes that contributors won‘t notice. As to telephone calls and mailings soliciting money, Clack again says use caution. ―I tell everybody, don‘t respond to phone calls. You don‘t know where that is going — not just veterans, but anybody,‖ he said. ―A lot of phone solicitations, they‘re hiring people to make those phone calls and it is a very lucrative business.‖ He said with mailings, citizens can check those organizations out. ―In every state you can go to the Secretary of State‘s Office and find out if they are legitimately registered. Find out if they are a 501-(c)3 (non-profit, tax-exempt) organization, meaning they are doing this as volunteer work. If they‘re not, 501-(c)3, then they‘re using part of the money raised to pay salaries, per diems and a lot of other things,‖ he said.

Clack said other disturbing scams are seminars telling about veterans benefits and offers to complete paperwork for veterans. While they may not be illegal, they are an unnecessary expense. ―It‘s another attempt to tap into billions of dollars in the veterans arena,‖ he said. ―In Georgia and in every state, you have Veterans Affairs offices with service officers who are trained, accredited and certified to help veterans, widows and family members do their paperwork properly.‖ Those services are offered free, and, in fact, that is what Clack‘s Conyers office and 48 others throughout the state do on a daily basis. ―What we do, we do at no charge. Therein lies a big difference between what I call the fraudulent side of this. Individuals go on the Internet or ask for a VA pamphlet, read what needs to be done and then they announce they have a seminar going on in our local assisting living … or nursing homes. Then they charge $85 to $150 to come to that seminar. They pass out the paperwork and that‘s never complete,‖ Clack said. ―In one of the cases we have out here on our side of town, they will actually charge for the seminar, give the veteran the paperwork and tell them to bring it to my office to make sure it‘s correct. In reality, they could come to our office and never pay the charge.‖

He invites citizens to call his Veterans Services office at (770) 388-5075 or the headquarters at (404) 656-2300 to check out organizations before making charitable donations or spending money for so-called veterans services. For those who are looking for ways to help veterans, Clack invited them to call, as well. ―Anybody who puts the uniform on, earns certain benefits … but you don‘t get them unless you ask for them in writing. That‘s what we do,‖ he explained. ―We maximize the language, the direction you want to go in, what is real, what is not, what is achievable, what‘s not achievable … by doing that we end up maximizing what each veteran is entitled to.‖ He acknowledged that applying and collecting veterans benefits is often a time-consuming and tedious process, but having someone fill out the paperwork does not speed anything up. In fact, it often slows the process down because it is done incorrectly. Clack, who has worked for Veterans Services for 40 years, said the Veterans Administration and the Veterans Services offices are different. ―The VA doesn‘t like to hear this, but I am a firm believer … the VA is in the business of finding a way to say no and minimize. We‘re in the business of being able to find a way to say yes and maximize,‖ he said. [Source: Newton News Barbara Knowles article 7 Aug 2010 ++]

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VA Care ~ Sleep Apnea: The number of veterans receiving disability benefits for a sleeping disorder has increased 61% in the past two years and now costs taxpayers more than $500 million per year, according to Veterans Affairs data released to USA TODAY. More than 63,000 veterans receive benefits for sleep apnea, a disorder that causes a sleeping person to gasp for breath and awaken frequently. It is linked to problems ranging from daytime drowsiness to heart disease. The top risk factor for contracting the disorder appears to be obesity, though a sleep expert at the VA and a veteran’s advocacy organization cite troops’ exposure to dust and smoke in places such as Afghanistan and Iraq as contributing factors. More claims are likely to be made in the future as Baby

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Boomers age and get heavier, says Max Hirshkowitz, director of the Sleep Disorder Center at the Houston Veterans Affairs Medical Center. Veterans are four times more likely than other Americans to suffer from sleep apnea, Hirshkowitz said. About 5% of Americans have the disorder, he said, compared with 20% of veterans. Veterans with a disability rating of 50% require breathing assistance with the airway pressure device, the VA said. The breathing machines work well, Hirshkowitz said, and can prevent veterans from developing more serious heart and lung problems.

Veterans benefits for sleep apnea are more generous than those for workers in the private sector, records show. Elaine Fischer, a spokeswoman for the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries, which handles workers’ compensation in that state, said the department is not aware of any occupational exposure that would cause sleep apnea. “We’re unaware of it being directly caused by something work related,” she said. In 2007, Congress asked the Department of Veterans Affairs to pay closer attention to sleep apnea among veterans. Greater awareness of the disorder has prompted more veterans to seek treatment, Hirshkowitz said. The result has been a sharp increase in claims and disability payments to veterans: According to data provided to USA TODAY by Veterans Affairs:

 The number of veterans claiming sleep apnea as a disability has jumped to 63,118 in 2010 from 39,145 in 2008, a 61% increase.

 Payments to apnea patients with a disability rating of 50 — by far the largest group receiving benefits — rose to a minimum of $534 million in 2010 from $306 million in 2008. The minimum payment for a disability with a rating of 50 is $9,240 a year but increases if a veteran is married and has children.

The Social Security Administration recognizes sleep apnea as a disability. It pays benefits to those who can’t work because of a disability that is likely to last at least one year or will kill them. The VA says veterans, however, can receive benefits and hold jobs. Hirshkowitz said, “Some veterans may be predisposed to sleep apnea because many are built like football players. They’re big men, and as they age, many become sedentary and gain an enormous amount of weight. When you get to middle age or late middle age your level of exercise does not maintain particularly when you have knee problems and hip problems.” Daniel Chapman, a psychiatric epidemiologist at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, agreed: “I really can’t think of a reason other than what’s happening in the general population, which is that we’re growing increasingly obese.” Chapman and Hirshkowitz said some sleep apnea cases may be caused by exposure to toxins from smoke or fires. Along with increased screening, the rise in sleep apnea cases may also be due to exposure to dust, sand and grit in Iraq and Afghanistan, said Thom Wilborn, a spokesman for the Disabled American Veterans organization. “Give a guy a rifle and put him in a desert, and he’s going to suffer some respiratory issues,” Wilborn said. Losing weight can help some people with sleep apnea, Hirshkowitz said. Though he notes that some thin men and some women also have the disorder. [Source: USA Today Tom Vanden Brook article 7 Jun 2010 ++]

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DFAS AOP: Retiree arrears of pay (AOP) is any pay due the retiree but unpaid at the time of their death, to which a named beneficiary is entitled. Typically, this is a prorated amount that covers the first day of the month through the retiree’s date of death. The retirement pay of a military member stops on the first day of the month in which the retiree dies. Therefore, all pay deposited after the date of death – including pay deposited for that month – is automatically recouped by DFAS from the retiree’s checking account. After a complete audit of the retirement account, any arrears of pay is calculated and paid to the retiree’s named beneficiary. Prompt reporting of a retiree’s death is necessary to avoid extensive recoupment of unearned payments.

Arrears of Pay distribution is based exclusively on the retiree’s beneficiary election on their retired pay account. If no beneficiary was elected on the retired pay account, payment will be distributed in accordance with the federally-mandated Order of Precedence. Questions about arrears of pay can be directed to the DFAS Contact

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Center at 1-800-321-1080 between 7:00 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. EST M-F. Two documents are needed by DFAS to process an Arrears of Pay claim. Both must be forwarded to DFAS either via FAX at (800) 469-6559) or mail addressed to: DFAS, P.O. Box 7130, London, KY 40742-7130. Note that all outstanding funds must be returned to DFAS before an Arrears of Pay can be made. The documents needed are:

 SF1174 claim form for each beneficiary. This form can be downloaded at www.dtic.mil/whs/directives/infomgt/forms/eforms/sf1174.pdf . Supplemental instructions for completing the form are available at www.dfas.mil/rapay/forms/SF1174-Instructions.pdf .

 A copy of the retiree’s Death Certificate that specifies the cause of death

[Source: www.dfas.mil/rapay/retirementpay/arrearsofpay.html Aug 2010 ++]

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Thrift Savings Plan YTD 2010: After two very tough months, TSP participants likely are breathing a sigh of relief at the July returns; all 10 funds saw gains in July:

 The I Fund, which invests in overseas companies, rebounded in July, gaining 10.78%. That followed months of losses, most notably an 11.2% drop in May. Despite the gain, the fund remains down 4.81% this year to date.

 The S Fund, which invests in small and mid-size companies and tracks the Dow Jones Wilshire 4500 Index, showed about 7% returns in July. This gain reversed trends from May and June. In June, the S Fund lost 6.9% . The S Fund is up 6.15% this year to date

 The C Fund, invested in common stocks of large companies on the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index, showed about 7% return in July. This gain reversed trends from May and June. In June, C funds lost 5.24%. The C Fund is still down slightly for the year, with losses of 0.11%.

 The F Fund, invested in fixed-income bonds, saw a 1.07% increase in July, below the 1.56% growth posted in June.

 The government securities (G) fund, TSP’s most stable offering, earned 0.23% in July, almost identical to June’s 0.24% gain.

The life-cycle funds, designed to shift investors from a more aggressive portfolio earlier in their careers to more stable investments as they near retirement, made small gains in July. The funds had struggled in May and June, each posting losses in those months. All five life-cycle funds are up for the year. The L Income Fund, for people who have reached their target retirement date and are withdrawing money from their TSP accounts monthly, has gained 1.89% so far this year; the L 2010, 1.81% ; the L 2020, 1.22% ; the L 2030, 1.1% ; and the L 2040, 0.94% . [Source: GovExec.com Elizabeth Newel article 2 Aug 2010 ++]

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VA Performance Update 02: Caring for veterans is a moral obligation, President Barack Obama said 2 AUG in a speech at the Disabled American Veterans National Convention in Atlanta. “Every American who has ever worn the uniform must know this: your country is going to take care of you when you come home,” Obama said. “Our nation’s commitment to our veterans – to you and your families – is a sacred trust.” The president lauded Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric K. Shinseki for “building a 21st century VA,” calling the administration’s commitment to the veteran community historic. “We need to keep our military strong, our country safe and our veterans secure,” the president said, noting VA’s $15 billion budget increase last year, the largest hike in 30 years. The additional budget is improving health care benefits for Vietnam War veterans suffering from Agent Orange-related illnesses. Gulf War veterans also now receive care for chemical exposure during Desert Storm.

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Obama also noted the elimination of co-payments for catastrophically disabled veterans as well as proposed legislation that would allow severely disabled retirees to draw military retirement and VA disability benefits. “It’s the right thing to do,” the president said. “We’ve drastically improved health care across the board.” Other VA initiatives include efforts to create a single lifetime electronic medical record that veterans will be able to download from the VA website. This makes it easier for veterans to share their records outside the VA health system. VA is also tackling records and claim application backlogs by hiring thousands of claim processors. VA officials are working to remove paper from the claims process, which they believe will end the backlog once and for all, Obama said. Obama recognized VA efforts to end homelessness among veterans and improve veteran employment opportunities. “We’re not going to be satisfied until every veteran who has fought for American has a home in America,” he said. Shinseki has spoken candidly many times during his tenure as VA secretary about his desire to end veteran homelessness. VA has initiatives with the Housing and Urban Development Department as well as new programs to treat drug addiction and psychological issues before homelessness can become an issue.

Initiatives such as the Post-9/11 GI Bill and job-placement programs also may help in keeping veterans off the streets, Obama said, noting directives he’s given for the federal government to make hiring veterans a priority. “Every business in America needs to know our vets have the training, they’ve got the skills, and they’re ready to work,” Obama said. “Our country is stronger when we tap the incredible talents of our veterans.” Obama spoke about improved care for wounded warriors and disabled veterans. “We’re continuing to direct unprecedented support to our wounded warriors in uniform — more treatment centers, more case managers and delivering the absolute best care available,” he said. “For those who can, we want to help them get back to where they want to be — with their units. And that includes servicemembers with a disability, who still have so much to offer our military.” Still, the president acknowledged, much work remains for VA and his administration to further improve veteran care. Servicemembers and veterans, Obama said, have taught Americans to remain vigilant and resilient in the face of challenges. “You are the very essence of America — the values that sustain us as people and the virtues our nation needs most right now,” he said. [Source: AFPS Michael J. Carden article 2 Aug 2010 ++]

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VA HIV Testing Update 02: If HIV is ignored, it can lead to illness and death. It is the virus that causes AIDS This is why it is so important to get medical care if you find out you have it. Do not be afraid to seek a doctor or nurse practitioner with experience in treating HIV-infected patients–he or she can help you to stay well. Most VA doctors who treat HIV are specialists in infectious disease. They work with a team of other health professionals who focus on HIV as a chronic, or lifelong, disease. Treatments for HIV are not perfect (no medicine is), but can be very effective for many people. A doctor or other health care provider can explain the best options for you. If you work with your health care provider in planning your care, you can deal with the disease in a way that is best for you. Things you can do are:

Before Appointments. Start with a list or notebook. Prepare for your appointment with your doctor by writing down the following. That way you won’t forget anything during the appointment. You may want to ask a friend or family member to come with you and take notes. It can be difficult for you to take notes and pay attention to what your doctor is saying at the same time:

1. Any questions that you have (print out questions to ask your doctor and take it to your appointment).

2. Any symptoms or problems you want to tell the doctor about (include symptoms such as poor sleep, trouble concentrating, feeling tired).

3. A list of the medications that you are taking (include herbs and vitamins).

4. Upcoming tests or new information you’ve heard about.

5. Changes in your living situation, such as a job change.

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During Appointments. Go over your lab work, and keep track of your results. If your doctor wants you to have some medical tests, make sure you understand what the test is for and what your doctor will do with the results. If you don’t understand what your doctor is saying, ask the doctor to explain it in everyday terms. If you feel your doctor has forgotten something during the appointment, it is better to ask about it than to leave wondering whether something was supposed to happen that didn’t. It’s your right to ask questions of your doctor. You also have a legal right to see your medical records. After all, it’s your body. Be honest. Your doctor isn’t there to judge you, but to make decisions based on your particular circumstances. Tell your doctor about your sexual or drug use history. These behaviors can put you at risk of getting other sexually transmitted diseases as well as hepatitis. If your body is fighting off these other diseases, it will not be able to fight off HIV as effectively. You may get sicker, faster. If you have sex with someone of the same sex or someone other than your spouse, it’s OK to tell your doctor. The VA is not the military. It does not have a “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy. You cannot get kicked out of the VA or lose your benefits if you have sex with someone of your same sex, or someone other than your spouse.

Monitor your Health. Once you have been diagnosed with HIV, you need to pay closer attention to your health than you did before. You can keep track of your immune system in two ways. First, have regular lab tests done. Lab tests often can show signs of illness before you have any noticeable symptoms. Second, listen to what your body is telling you, and be on the alert for signs that something isn’t right. Note any change in your health–good or bad. And don’t be afraid to call a doctor. Your doctor will use laboratory tests to check your health. Some of these tests will be done soon after you learn you are HIV positive. For your first few doctor visits, be prepared to have a lot of blood drawn. For information on specific tests, go to the Understanding Laboratory Tests www.hiv.va.gov/vahiv?page=diag-02-00. The lab tests look at several things:

 How well your immune system is functioning

 How rapidly HIV is progressing

 Certain basic body functions (tests look at your kidneys, liver, cholesterol, and blood cells)

 Whether you have other diseases that are associated with HIV

Be Aware of Possible Complications. Certain changes can happen to HIV-positive people who are living longer and taking HIV medicines. Some people have experienced visible changes in body shape and appearance. Sometimes these changes can raise the risk of heart disease and diabetes. Also, by weakening your immune system, HIV can leave you vulnerable to certain cancers and infections. These infections are called “opportunistic” because they take the opportunity to attack you when your immune system is weak. You don’t need to panic every time you have a headache or get a runny nose. But if a symptom is concerning you or is not going away, it is always best to have a doctor check it out even if it doesn’t feel like a big deal. The earlier you see a doctor when you have unusual symptoms, the better off you are likely to be. The following symptoms may or may not be serious, but don’t wait until your next appointment before calling a doctor if you are experiencing them.

 Breathing problems: persistent cough, wheezing or noisy breathing, sharp pain when breathing, difficulty catching your breath

 Skin problems: Appearance of brownish, purple or pink blotches on the skin; Onset of rash–especially important if you are taking medication

 Eye or vision problems: blurring, wavy lines, sudden blind spots; eye pain; sensitivity to light

 Aches and pains: numbness, tingling, or pain in hands and feet; headache, especially when accompanied by a fever; stiffness in neck; severe or persistent cough; persistent cramps; pain in lower abdomen, often during sex (women in particular)

 Other symptoms: mental changes–confusion, disorientation, loss of memory or balance; appearance of swollen lymph nodes, especially when larger on one side of the body; diarrhea–when severe, accompanied by fever, or lasting more than 3 days; weight loss; high or persistent fever; fatigue; frequent urination

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Protect Others. Once you have HIV, you can give the virus to others by having unprotected sex or by sharing needles (or, if you are pregnant or have an infant, during pregnancy, childbirth, or by breast-feeding). This is true even if you are feeling perfectly fine. Using condoms and clean needles can prevent infecting other people. It can also protect you from getting other sexually transmitted diseases. Sometimes it can be difficult to explain that you have HIV to people you have had sex with or shared needles with in the past. However, it is important that they know so that they can decide whether to get tested. If you need help telling people that you may have exposed them to HIV, most city or county health departments will tell them for you, without using your name. Ask your doctor about this service. Before telling your partner that you have HIV, take some time alone to think about how you want to bring up the subject. Decide when and where would be the best time and place to have a conversation. Choose a time when you expect that you will both be comfortable, rested, and as relaxed as possible. Think about how your partner may react to stressful situations. If there is a history of violence in your relationship, consider your safety first and plan the situation with a case manager or counselor.

Know when to Consider Treatment. Whether or not to start treatment for HIV is a decision that each person must make with his or her doctor. While anti-HIV drugs (also known as antiretrovirals) can be lifesavers, there are good reasons to delay taking them right away. In general, you and your doctor will need to consider: how well you feel; how healthy your immune system is (this is usually measured by your CD4 count); whether or not you have AIDS; whether you can stick to a treatment plan. Life does not end with a diagnosis of HIV. In fact, with proper treatment, people with HIV can live very healthy lives. Taking care of your overall health can help you deal with HIV:

 Get regular medical and dental checkups.

 Eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly.

 Avoid smoking, recreational drug use, and go easy on alcohol.

 Practice safer sex (it can protect others from getting HIV, and can protect you from other sexually transmitted diseases)

[Source: http://www.hiv.va.gov Jul 2010 ++]

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Flag Presentation Update 05: The United States Flag Code establishes advisory rules for display and care of the flag of the United States. It is Section 1 of Title 4 of the United States Code (4 U.S.C. § 1 et seq). The following guidelines for displaying the flag indoors and should be followed:

Indoor Display

 The union is always in the upper left corner. When on display, the flag is accorded the place of honor, always positioned to its own right. Place it to the right of the speaker or staging area or sanctuary. Other flags should be to the left.

 The flag of the United States of America should be at the center and at the highest point of the group when a number of flags of states, localities, or societies are grouped for display.

 When one flag is used with the flag of the United States of America and the staffs are crossed, the flag of the United States is placed on its own right with its staff in front of the other flag.

 When displaying the flag against a wall, vertically or horizontally, the flag’s union (stars) should be at the top, to the flag’s own right, and to the observer’s left.

Outdoor Display

 When the flag is displayed from a staff projecting from a window, balcony, or a building, the union should be at the peak of the staff unless the flag is at half-staff. When it is displayed from the same flagpole with another flag, the flag of the United States must always be at the top except that the church pennant may be

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flown above the flag during church services for Navy personnel when conducted by a Naval chaplain on a ship at sea.

 When the flag is displayed over a street, it should be hung vertically, with the union to the north or east. If the street runs north-south, the stars should face east. For streets running east-west, the stars should face north. If the flag is suspended over a sidewalk, the flag’s union should be farthest from the building and the stars facing away from it.

 When flown with flags of states, communities or societies on separate flag poles which are of the same height and in a straight line, the flag of the United States is always placed in the position of honor—to its own right. The other flags may be the same size but none may be larger.

 No other flag should be placed above it. The flag of the United States is always the first flag raised and the last to be lowered.

 When flown with the national banner of other countries, each flag must be displayed from a separate pole of the same height. Each flag should be the same size. They should be raised and lowered simultaneously. The flag of one nation may not be displayed above that of another nation in time of peace.[8]

 The flag should be raised briskly and lowered slowly and ceremoniously.

 Ordinarily it should be displayed only between sunrise and sunset, although the Flag Code permits night time display “when a patriotic effect is desired.” Similarly, the flag should be displayed only when the weather is fair, except when an all weather flag is displayed. (By presidential proclamation and law, the flag is displayed continuously at certain honored locations like the United States Marine Corps Memorial in Arlington and Lexington Green.)

 It should be illuminated if displayed at night.

 The flag of the United States of America is saluted as it is hoisted and lowered. The salute is held until the flag is unsnapped from the halyard or through the last note of music, whichever is the longest.

[Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_Flag_Code Jul 2010 ++]

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Medicare Fraud ZPICs: According to congressional investigators, It took private contractors (sleuths) hired by Medicare an average of 178 days last year to refer fraud cases to law enforcement. By that time, many cases go cold, making it difficult to catch perpetrators, much less recover money for taxpayers. A recent inspector general report also raised questions about the contractors, who play an important role in Medicare’s overall effort to combat fraud. Out of $835 million in questionable Medicare payments identified by private contractors in 2007, the government was only able to recover some $55 million, or about 7%, the report found. Medicare overpayments, which can be anything from a billing error to a flagrant scam, totaled more than $36 billion in 2009, according to the Obama administration. President Barack Obama has set a high priority on battling health care fraud and waste, hoping for savings to help pay for the new law covering millions now uninsured. Medicare’s private eyes don’t seem to be helping much.

Sen. Charles Grassley (R-IA) questions whether taxpayers are getting good value from for-hire fraud busters. His office, which is investigating the contracting program, obtained Medicare data for the last four years on how long it took to refer cases to federal agents. “Medicare is already a pay-and-chase system when it comes to fraud, waste and abuse,” said Grassley. “Providers are paid first, then questioned if there’s a problem. Add to that mix contractors who sit on cases of ongoing fraud when they should be referring them to law enforcement, and you have a recipe for disaster.” As ranking Republican on the Senate panel that oversees Medicare, Grassley is trying to find out why it takes the contractors so long, and how much the government is currently paying the companies. In 2005, taxpayers paid them $102 million. At least seven private companies Medicare calls “Program Safeguard Contractors” are working to detect fraud, part of a program that dates to the late 1990s. They oversee specific areas of jurisdiction, and some have more than one contract with Medicare.

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The contractors investigate allegations of wrongdoing, acting as scouts for the government’s criminal investigators. And they’re also supposed to conduct “proactive” analysis to spot emerging fraud trends. For instance, they can use sophisticated computer models to scan millions of Medicare records for suspicious patterns to identify dishonest providers. In practice, their performance has been uneven. The contractors have widely different track records. One identified $266 million in overpayments in 2007, while another found just $2.5 million, the Health and Human Services inspector general said in May. Earlier, the inspector general found gaping differences in the number of new cases the contractors generate for law enforcement. Some had hundreds of cases, while others were in the single digits. Most were doing a poor job at spotting new fraud trends, with “minimal results from proactive data analysis,” the inspector general concluded.

The Obama administration says it’s aware of the problem and is close to completing a reorganization of the contractors, to consolidate their work, define their jurisdictions more clearly, and help them coordinate better with claims processors and law enforcement. The private sleuths will now be called “Zone Program Integrity Contractors” — or ZPICs for short. “By using these new contractors that can review claims across multiple providers and benefit categories, we will be better able to identify cases of waste, fraud or abuse,” said Medicare spokesman Peter Ashkenaz. “And, we will be better able to monitor both the ZPICs’ overpayment and collection efforts to make sure that they are performing their own oversight responsibilities.” In fairness to the contractors, the low collection rate may not just be their fault. Investigators say that when Medicare notifies a provider about a disputed payment, the fraudulent ones often just close up shop and move on. [Source: USA Today Ricardo Alonso-Zaldivar article 8 Aug 2010 ++]

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Medicare Fraud Update 46:

 McAllen TX – Office staff at a Mission clinic continued to see patients and bill federally funded health care programs well after the doctor they worked for had become incapable of practicing medicine, federal prosecutors said Thursday. Despite not having medical degrees, Eliza Lozano Lumbreras, 63, and San Juanita Gallegos Lozano, 54, made diagnoses, wrote prescriptions and racked up more than $270,000 in Medicare and Medicaid bills in their employer‘s name — often while he sat nearby in a near vegetative state, according to a 13-count indictment filed against them. FBI agents arrested both women 1 AUG, nearly a week after another man pleaded guilty to charges that he had used the incapacitated doctor‘s name to defraud Medicare and Medicaid. The 71-year-old physician — identified in court filings only by the initials R.J.P. — was declared unfit to practice medicine in 2001 after being diagnosed with Parkinson‘s disease. But Lumbreras and Lozano kept his office open for four more years and submitted nearly 8,000 bills to federally funded health care programs.

 Miami FL – Rolando Nogueira, 48, and Jose Nogueira, 52, pleaded guilty 2 AUG for their roles in a $13.7 million HIV infusion Medicare fraud scheme. They were among six South Floridians indicted in March. Rolando was an owner and operator of T&R Rehabilitation Professional Corp. Jose worked at T&R. Rolando Nogueira admitted that, between JAN 05 and JUL 05, he and his co-defendants enlisted recruiters and patients into a scheme that billed Medicare for services that were not provided or medically necessary. Medicare paid about $4.1 million of the fraudulent claims. Sentencing is set for 5 NOV.

 Miami FL – Clinic operator David Marrero, who recruited his 76-year-old aunt as a patient to trick Medicare into paying him for bogus HIV therapy, has been sentenced to 10 years in prison. Marrero’s ex-wife, Maria Valero Marrero, one-time owner of the Tendercare Medical Center, was also sentenced to almost six years in prison. U.S. District Judge Ursula Ungaro ordered the divorced couple to repay $2.7 million to the federal health care program. In May, Marrero was convicted of committing health care fraud in a scheme with his former wife and two other employees, billing Medicare $5.8 million for HIV therapy

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that was never provided to patients between 2005 and 2007. Earlier this year, his ex-wife and two patient recruiters, brothers Keith Ernest Humes and Lawrence Edward Humes, pleaded guilty to one health care fraud conspiracy charge. According to court records, David Marrero transferred ownership of the fraudulent HIV clinic to his ex-wife as part of their divorce settlement.

 Atlanta GA – Robert M Ritchea, MD, has been sued in a federal complaint on charges of submitting false or fraudulent claims to Medicare. Dr. Ritchie allowed an unlicensed medical assistant to inject patients with pain medications and then improperly billed Medicare for the treatments. In so doing he violated the False Claims Act by improperly billing Medicare for pain injections administered by an unlicensed medical assistant. The unlicensed medical assistant, acting at the direction of Ritchea, performed unnecessary pain injection procedures that were billed to Medicare as nerve blocks. The Alabama State Board of Medical Examiners does not permit medical assistants to perform the pain injection procedures for which Ritchea billed. He admitted to both the Alabama State Board of Medical Examiners and the Georgia Composite State Board of Medical Examiners that the procedures were not medically necessary and that they were over-prescribed and over-utilized. RITCHEA billed Medicare for more expensive procedures than were actually performed and he billed Medicare for other services that are not reimbursable by more than $2.2 million in over 4300 separate claims. Pursuant to the False Claims Act, if Ritchea is found liable, the government is entitled to treble damages and civil monetary penalties ranging from $5,500-$11,000 per claim.

 McAllen TX – On 3 AUG former Hidalgo County Commissioner Guadalupe Garces Jr. and his wife Araceli Garces were sentenced to 41 months and 33 months in prison respectively for defrauding government health programs through their ambulance service. The judge also ruled that they must pay about $637,000 in restitution. The Garces submitted $14 million in fraudulent claims to Medicare and Medicaid and used their Edinburg ambulance companies to transport people to and from dialysis clinics when ambulance transport was not necessary.

 Scottsdale AZ – Dr. Stewart C. Mann, 58, was sentenced 2 AUG for billing Medicare for at least $480,000 worth of malignant lesion excisions that were never performed between MAR 05 and JAN 08. Apparently, during visits for unrelated conditions, Mann told several patients that they had lesions located on their backs that might be cancerous and needed to be removed. These patients came to Mann‘s office for frequent removals of the lesions that Mann removed by excision rather than curetting or shaving them off. He reportedly billed Medicare for excisions because they paid more than billing for shaving or curetting. Mann falsely diagnosed most of the lesions as malignant because he received more money for excisions when malignancy was found. He also billed Medicare for excisions on dates when patients did see him. Mann falsified patient records to make it seem his billings were legitimate when he was audited by Medicare.

 Seattle WA – One of the largest providers of diagnostic imaging services for doctors and hospitals has agreed to pay at least $1.2 million to settle an allegation of Medicaid billing fraud. The fraud allegation came in a whistle-blower lawsuit filed by a Seattle doctor and a former company vice president. The lawsuit was filed against Minnesota-based Center for Diagnostic Imaging five years ago. Earlier this week, the Department of Justice announced it intended to intervene in the case and was on the verge of settling the billing issue. Lawyers for the whistle-blowers Seattle radiologist Dr. Alexander Serra and Patricia West say the settlement amount is inadequate and they will fight for more in court.

 Miami FL – Jose Garcia, 56, admitted operating a Little Havana clinic that submitted $11 million in false claims for HIV medical services and that he paid kickbacks to Medicare patients to bilk the federal healthcare program. Garcia, who pleaded guilty 6 AUG, operated Global Med-Care Corp., a Miami clinic that was actually owned by Carlos, Luis and Jose Benitez, three Miami-Dade brothers charged in a related Medicare fraud scheme in 2008. The clinic received $6 million in Medicare payments. The Benitez brothers, who billed Medicare a total of $109 million for bogus HIV treatments at a dozen Miami-Dade clinics, fled to the Dominican Republic in 2008, according to the FBI. But authorities believe the brothers,

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all naturalized U.S. citizens, have since moved to Cuba where they remain in jail on immigration violations. Garcia, who fled to Mexico after being indicted on Medicare fraud charges in 2008, offenses could send him to prison for up to 15 years.

 Naples FL – In a whistleblower lawsuit unsealed 2 AUG, former hospital CEO J. Michael Mastej accused his former employer of offering money, free rent and private jet trips to entice doctors to refer Medicare patients to the company’s hospitals and filing fraudulent claims on services HMA‘s facilities provided the ill-gotten Medicare patients. The fraud spanned from at least 2007 to the present at facilities ―in Florida and elsewhere.‖ HMA presently operates approximately 56 hospitals in 15 states. The petition states: ―(HMA) concealed their illegal activities from the United States in an effort to defraud the United States into paying Medicare claims it would not have otherwise paid.‖

 Chicago IL – Cardiologist Sushil Sheth, 50, lied thousands of times to Medicare and other insurers in order to receive millions of dollars he did not earn for patients he never treated. He used the fraud proceeds to live a lavish lifestyle, purchasing a suburban mansion, property in Arizona, luxury automobiles, and investing in various venture capital opportunities. Sheth regularly submitted claims seeking payment that, when added together, had him providing more than 24 hours of medical services and treatment in a single day. He was sentenced 10 AUG and ordered to begin serving the 60-month prison term in two months. He pleaded guilty a year ago to one count of health-care fraud after being charged in JAN 09. Sheth was also ordered to pay restitution totaling approximately $13 million and he agreed to forfeit property and funds totaling more than $11.3 million that the government seized from him. Sheth admitted that he obtained approximately $13 million between JAN 02 and JUL 07, including approximately $8.3 million from Medicare and some $5 million from other public and private health care insurers — in fraudulent reimbursement for the highest level of cardiac care when those services were not performed — and then used the proceeds for his own benefit. He used his hospital privileges at three hospitals to access and obtain information about patients without their knowledge or consent. He then hired individuals to bill Medicare and other insurance providers for medical services that he purportedly rendered to patients whom he knew he never treated. Typically waiting almost a year after the treatment was purportedly provided, Sheth submitted more than 14,800 false claims for reimbursement for providing the highest level of cardiac care — requiring hands-on treatment in an intensive care unit — on multiple days during patients’ hospital stays.

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Medicad Fraud Update 19:

 West Orange NJ – Isaac Arowosaye, 53, owner and operator of Be Kind Health Care Services located in Orange, pleaded guilty 4 AUG to second-degree health care claims fraud, according to the New Jersey Attorney General‘s Office. His wife, Emily Arowosaye, 43, also pleaded guilty to third-degree Medicaid fraud, officials said. She is vice president of Be Kind Health Care Services and also the nurse supervisor. Under the plea agreement, the state will recommend a sentence of three years in state prison for the husband and a probationary sentence for the wife. Sentencing is scheduled for 13 SEP. The Arowosayes agreed to pay $800,000 in restitution to the Medicaid program. In addition, the defendants agreed to pay an $800,000 civil penalty and to be debarred from the Medicaid program for five years.

 New York City NY – Garcia, 53, a former New York City supervising investigator for the state Office of Medicaid Inspector General (OMIG), admitted that he threatened a pharmacy owner with the filing of ―negative report‖ that could potentially lead to a fine of $36,000 or a Medicaid suspension unless the owner paid him $9,000. The pharmacy owner did not pay the bribe, but taped his conversations with Garcia and reported the wrongdoing to police. Garcia was prosecuted and pleaded guilty 4 AUG to bribe receiving in the third degree with sentencing set for 6 OCT. Garcia had supervised OMIG‘s New York City undercover

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unit, which investigates providers for Medicaid fraud. As a result of the investigation, he resigned from OMIG. on 11 AUG.

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State Veteran’s Benefits: The state of California provides several benefits to veterans. To obtain information on these refer to this Bulletin’s Attachment for an overview of those listed below. Benefits are available to veterans who are residents of the state. For a more detailed explanation of click on ―Learn more about …‖ wording highlighted in blue on the attachment.

 Housing Benefits

 Financial Assistance Benefits

 Employment Benefits

 Veteran Business Benefits

 Education Benefits

 Other State Veteran Benefits

[Source: www.military.com/benefits/veteran-benefits/california-state-veterans-benefits Aug 2010 ++]

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Military History: The original Purple Heart award was instituted by George Washington in 1782 to reward troops for “unusual gallantry” and “extraordinary fidelity and essential service.” The award was a purple cloth heart edged in silver braid, and was to be worn over the left breast of the uniform. Only three awards are known to have been issued, of which two are known to exist today.

The Purple Heart as we know it today was reestablished in 1932 by chief of Staff General Douglas MacArthur to coincide with the 200th anniversary of the birth of George Washington. The original criteria for award of the Purple Heart as published in the War Department Circular No. 6 of February 22, 1932 states that the medal be awarded to anyone serving in the Army who had received combat-related injuries or had received the AEF’s Meritorious Service Citation Certificate during WWI, the latter criteria harkening back to the intent of George Washington’s “Badge of Military Merit”. Although this award was retroactive to any soldier wounded from the Civil War on, eligible recipients were required to submit a formal application to the War Department for approval before the issuance of the medal. In 1942 the Army estimated that approximately 186,000 living veterans were eligible to receive a retroactive Purple Heart. Approximately 78,000 retroactive Purple Hearts were awarded between 1932 and 1942. The award of the Purple Heart was not authorized by the Navy until 1942, sailors and Marines who had been wounded prior to 1932 were eligible to apply for the medal. While no numbers are available concerning the award to Navy and Marine personnel, approximately 12,000 sailors and Marines were wounded between the Civil War and the Nicaragua Campaign of 1932.

In April 1942 the War Department amended its policy regarding the issuance of the Purple Heart. The new regulations authorized the posthumous award of the Purple Heart retroactive to December 7, 1941, and eliminated the use of the medal as a merit award. In December 1942 the Navy Department authorized the award of the Purple Heart for all fatal and non-fatal wounds retroactive to December 7, 1941. However, sailors and Marines wounded prior to this date were still eligible to receive a Purple Heart upon application. The award of the medal during WWII became increasingly decentralized. Authority for the award was given to hospital commanders and unit commanders in the case of non-fatal wounds, and the War Department in the case of fatal wounds awarded to the next of kin. Thus while no official count of the number of Purple Hearts issued can be established, official War

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Department records indicate approximately 964,000 battle casualties (non-fatal and fatal) for the period of December 7, 1941 through December 31, 1946. Again, due to the decentralization of awards, exact numbers of medals awarded for the Korean War cannot be established. There were approximately 33,600 fatal and 103,200 non-fatal casualties during this period.

Awards for Vietnam Era this period fall into two categories: awards for wounds received in the Vietnam Theatre of Operations (Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos) and other geographical areas, including the attack on the USS Pueblo, the Dominican Republic, and Cuba. Approximately 200,700 Purple Hearts were awarded during this period. Currently, in addition to awards to those killed or wounded “in any action against an enemy of the United States”, the criteria for the award of the medal was amended to include those killed or wounded as a result of an international terrorist attack, and as part of a peacekeeping force. Thus in addition to awards for Grenada (Operation Urgent Fury), Panama (Operation Just Cause) and Iraq (Operation Desert Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom) the medal is awarded for fatal and non-fatal wounds arising as a result of peacekeeping efforts such as Lebanon, Haiti, Somalia, and Bosnia-Croatia. [Source: www.purplehearts.net/id6.html Aug 2010 ++]

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Military History Anniversaries:

 Aug 16 1780 – Revolutionary War: American troops are badly defeated by the British at the Battle of Camden, South Carolina.

 Aug 16 1945 – WWII: Lieutenant General Jonathan Wainwright, who was taken prisoner by the Japanese on Corregidor on 6 MAY 42 is released from a POW camp in Manchuria by U.S. troops.

 Aug 17 1943 – WWII: Allied forces complete the conquest of Sicily.

 Aug 18 1914 – WWI: Germany declares war on Russia while President Woodrow Wilson issues his Proclamation of Neutrality

 Aug 18 1951 – Korea: Battle of Bloody Ridge began which continued until 5 SEP

 Aug 19 1812 – War of 1812: The USS Constitution earns the nickname “Old Ironsides” during the battle off Nova Scotia that saw her defeat the HMS Guerriere.

 Aug 21 1942 – WWII: U.S. Marines turn back the first major Japanese ground attack on Guadalcanal in the Battle of Tenaru.

 Aug 22 1945 – Vietnam: Conflict in Vietnam begins when a group of Free French parachute into southern Indochina, in response to a successful coup by communist guerilla Ho Chi Minh.

 Aug 23 1950 – Korea: Up to 77,000 members of the U.S. Army Organized Reserve Corps are called involuntarily to active duty to fight the Korean War.

 Aug 25 1921 – WWI: The U.S., which never ratified the Versailles Treaty ending World War I, finally signs a peace treaty with Germany.

 Aug 26 1942 – WWII: First black Marine (Howard Perry) entered first recruit training camp (Montford Point, NC) for black Marines

 Aug 27 1776 – Revolutionary War: British defeat Americans in Battle of Long Island

 Aug 27 1945 WWII: B-29 Superfortress bombers begin to drop supplies into Allied POW camps in China.

 Aug 27 1945 – WWII: US troops land in Japan after Japanese surrender

 Aug 29 1862 – Civil War: Battle of Bull Run, VA (Manassas, Gainesville, Bristoe Station)

 Aug 29 1916 – Congress creates US Naval Reserve

 Aug 29 1942- WWII: The American Red Cross announces that Japan has refused to allow safe conduct for the passage of ships with supplies for American POWs.

 Aug 29 1944 – WWII: 15,000 American troops liberating Paris march down Champs Elysees

 Aug 29 1990 – Iraq: Saddam Hussein declares America can’t beat Iraq

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 Aug 30 1813 – Creek Indians massacre over 500 whites at Fort Mims Alabama.

 Aug 30 1862 – Civil War: 2nd Battle of Bull Run – Confederates beat Union

 Aug 31 1941 – WWII: 23 U-boats sunk (80,000 ton) this month

 Aug 31 1942 – WWII: U boats sunk 108 ships (544,000 ton) this month

 Aug 31 1951 – Korea: The1st Marine Division begins its attack on Bloody Ridge. The 4 day battle results in 2,700 Marine casualties.

[Source: Various Aug 09 ++]

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Military Trivia 10:

 Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer paid a $127.80 premium for a life insurance policy in 1874, two years before the Battle of Little Bighorn. How much was his coverage? A: It was for $5,000.

 By what name did Chief Crazy Horse know the Little Bighorn River, the scene of Custer’s last stand? A: The Greasy Grass River.

 At a 1986 auction, what was the winning bid for two arrows from the Battle of Little Bighorn? A: $17,000.

 What state was the setting of the Battle of the little Bighorn, where George Armstrong Custer made his infamous last stand? A: Montana.

 What was George Armstrong Custer’s rank when he was killed at Little Bighorn in1876. A: Lieutenant Colonel.

 Who fired the first Union shot of the Civil War? A: Gen. Abner Doubleday, in 1861, at Fort Sumter. He is the same Abner Doubleday who is often incorrectly given credit for inventing baseball.

 What nation was the first to use frogmen in warfare? A: Italy, in December 1941, against the British in the Mediterranean. Three frogmen disabled the British battleships Valiant and Queen Elizabeth, as well as a tanker and a destroyer, in Alexandria harbor.

 What did the U.S. military name in honor of American physiologist Ancel Keys? A: The K ration–the small packet of food, containing all the essential nutrients, that served as emergency rations for soldiers in the field.

 What major Japanese company made the famous Zero fighter plane during World war II? A: Mitsubishi, The company now known for its cars, TVs and hundreds of other products, was prohibited from producing aircraft to seven years after the war.

 How long –in days–did the 1991 Persian Gulf War last? A:42 days from January 16 to February 27.

 Translated from Pentagon doublespeak, what is a “combat emplacement evacuator”? A: A shovel.

 The site of what state capital was given to the Marquis de Lafayette for his services during the Revolutionary War? A: Tallahassee, Florida. Lafayette never occupied the then-wilderness site, but one of the city’s early residents was a nephew of Napoleon Bonaparte, Prince Napoleon Achelle Murat, who married a grandniece of George Washington.

 When Adolph Hitler declared himself ruler of the Third Reich, what did he view as Germany’s first and second Reich’s? A: The first was the Holy Roman Empire of Charlemagne; the second was Bismarck’s united Germany, declared in 1871 and known as the German Empire.

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 To celebrate the patriots’ success in getting the British to evacuate Boston on this day in 1776, Gen. George Washington chose “Boston” as his army’s password of the day. What did he pick as the proper response? A: St. Patrick.

[Source: www.triviafool.com/page93.htm Jul 2010 ++]

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Tax Burden for North Dakota Retirees: Many people planning to retire use the presence or absence of a state income tax as a litmus test for a retirement destination. This is a serious miscalculation since higher sales and property taxes can more than offset the lack of a state income tax. The lack of a state income tax doesn‘t necessarily ensure a low total tax burden. Following are the taxes you can expect to pay if you retire in North Dakota:

Sales Taxes

State Sales Tax: 5% (food and prescription drugs exempt); 6% on lodging, 7% on alcoholic beverages. Cities or counties which have adopted home rule charters may levy additional sales and use taxes up to 2.5%. Gasoline Tax: 23 cents/gallon Diesel Fuel Tax: 23 cents/gallon Cigarette Tax: 44 cents/pack of 20

Personal Income Taxes Tax Rate Range: Low – 1.84%; High – 4.86% (Rates for single person) Income Brackets: 5 – Lowest $33,950; Highest $372,950 (Rates for single person)

Personal Exemptions: ** Single – $3,500; Married – $7,000; Dependents – $3,500. There is also a new marriage income tax credit with a maximum limit of $300. State allows personal exemption as provided in the Internal Revenue Code. Standard Deduction: Federal amount ($5,450 – single, 10,900 – joint). State allows standard deductions as provided in the Internal Revenue Code. Medical/Dental Deduction: Full Federal Income Tax Deduction: *None

Retirement Income:

Retirement Income Taxes: A total of $5,000 can be excluded from military, civil service, some state/local government, and qualified pensions, minus amount of Social Security received. Out-of-state government pensions are fully taxed. Call 701-328-3275 for more information. Retired Military Pay: If Form ND-2 is used, an exclusion is allowed if a retiree is at least 50 years of age. The exclusion is equal to the lesser of (1) the total amount of taxable military retirement benefits reduced by any Social Security benefits received, or (2) $5,000 reduced by any Social Security retirement benefits received. SBP benefits are taxed according to federal tax rules. Military Disability Retired Pay: Retirees who entered the military before Sept. 24, 1975, and members receiving disability retirements based on combat injuries or who could receive disability payments from the VA are covered by laws giving disability broad exemption from federal income tax. Most military retired pay based on service-related disabilities also is free from federal income tax, but there is no guarantee of total protection. VA Disability Dependency and Indemnity Compensation: VA benefits are not taxable because they generally are for disabilities and are not subject to federal or state taxes. Military SBP/SSBP/RCSBP/RSFPP: Generally subject to state taxes for those states with income tax. Check with state department of revenue office.

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Property Taxes All real property in the state is subject to tax by the state, counties, townships, and municipalities. Residential property is taxed as 9% of assessed value. North Dakota exempts all personal property from taxation (except certain oil and gas refineries and utilities). That means no property tax on items like office equipment, inventory, accounts receivable, or materials in process.

There is also a Homestead Tax Credit available to senior citizens (65+) or disabled persons who own or rent their home. Your income, plus the income of your spouse and any dependents, may not exceed $26,000 for the calendar year preceding the assessment. Refer to www.nd.gov/tax/misc/faq/property or call (701) 328-3127 for details. Personal property is not taxed.

Inheritance and Estate Taxes – North Dakota does not have an inheritance tax. It was repealed in 1927 and replaced with an estate tax. There is an estate tax based on a decedent’s total gross estate and limited to the credit for state death taxes allowed on the Federal 706 estate tax return. For further information, visit the North Carolina Dakota State Tax Department site www.nd.gov/tax or call (701) 328-3275. [Source: www.retirementliving.com Aug 2010 ++]

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Congressional Alphalist: To better understand what is happening to veteran legislation as it proceeds through Congress it is useful to know the language used by our representatives as they conduct business. Following are some of the words or expressions you will see while reading about or listening to House and Senate sessions:

 FAST-TRACK. Refers to special expedited procedures meant to speed up the regular legislative process. Both the House and Senate must make special arrangements to set aside the regular order and use “fast-track” procedures instead. Fast-track rules have been used most often when considering trade agreements. They limit debate and prohibit, or severely restrict, amendments.

 FEDERAL DEFICIT. The amount by which federal expenditures exceed federal revenues.

 FILIBUSTER. The term used for an extended debate in the Senate which has the effect of preventing a vote. Senate rules contain no motion to force a vote. A vote occurs only once debate ends. The term comes from the early 19th century Spanish and Portuguese pirates, “filibusteros”, who held ships hostage for ransom.

 FIREWALL. A budgetary term for the legal barrier separating defense from domestic spending. Firewalls prevent savings in one category from being applied toward increased spending in another.

 FIRST READING. First Reading of a bill occurs at the time of its introduction. In modern congressional practice, bills are no longer read in full at this stage, unless a member of Congress so demands. The practice stems from the old English practice when many legislators were illiterate.

 FISCAL YEAR. The FISCAL YEAR for the federal government begins on October 1 and ends on September 30. For example, fiscal year 1999, or “fy ’99” began on Oct. 1, 1998 and ended on Sept. 30, 1999.

 FIVE MINUTE RULE. The rule that governs debate on amendments in the Committee of the Whole. It allows five minutes for and five minutes against each amendment. However, Members routinely extend this time.

 FLOOR. Refers to the chamber in the Capitol where members assemble to conduct debate and vote. Members are said to be “on the Floor” when they assemble, and “to have the Floor” when they speak.

 FLOOR MANAGER. The floor manager leads the effort on the House or Senate floor to debate and pass a bill, resolution, or conference report. The floor manager, usually the chairman of the committee or

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subcommittee which reported the bill, controls and allocates the debate time to Members on his/her side of the issue.

 FLOOR PRIVILEGES. Floor Privileges allow non-members on the Floor. They are granted to only a few staff members at a time. Floor privileges are also extended to the President, Vice-President, Cabinet members, members of the other chamber, and former members.

 FRANKING PRIVILEGES. Franking Privileges allow members to send official mail using his/her signature instead of a stamp.

 FRONTLOADED OR BACKLOADED. Terms to describe the placement of changes in a multi-year budget plan. Tax or spending changes set for the first years are frontloaded. Those for the last years are backloaded.

 THE GALLERIES. The balconies overlooking the House and Senate chambers. Separate seating areas are provided for the public, press, staff, and family members.

 GAO. The General Accounting Office. It audits federal agencies and programs for Congress.

 GERMANE. The technical term for “relevant.” Amendments are said to be germane or non-germane to a bill. The House requires germaneness of amendment at all times unless an exception is made by special rule. In most circumstances, the Senate does not require germaneness. Senate tradition permits Senators to offer amendments on any subject even if unrelated to the bill’s topic.

 GOP. “Grand Old Party.” Used for the Republican party, the term originated in the late 1870’s, coined by newspaper headlines, to refer to the dominance of the Republican party. Until Franklin Roosevelt’s election in 1933, Republicans had controlled the White House for 56 years, the Senate for 60 years, and the House of Representatives for 50 years.

 GPO. The Government Printing Office. It prints laws, bills, committee reports, etc. GPO sells these documents to the public and distributes an allotted number of them free to members.

[Source: C-SPAN Congressional Glossary Aug 2010 ++]

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Veteran Legislation Status 13 AUG 2010: The House and Senate will be in recess through 12 & 13 Sep respectively. For or a listing of Congressional bills of interest to the veteran community that have been introduced in the 111th Congress refer to the Bulletin‘s House & Senate Veteran Legislation attachments. Support of these bills through cosponsorship by other legislators is critical if they are ever going to move through the legislative process for a floor vote to become law. A good indication on that likelihood is the number of cosponsors who have signed onto the bill. Any number of members may cosponsor a bill in the House or Senate. At http://thomas.loc.gov you can review a copy of each bill‘s content, determine its current status, the committee it has been assigned to, and if your legislator is a sponsor or cosponsor of it. To determine what bills, amendments your representative has sponsored, cosponsored, or dropped sponsorship on refer to http://thomas.loc.gov/bss/d111/sponlst.html.

Grassroots lobbying is perhaps the most effective way to let your Representative and Senators know your opinion. Whether you are calling into a local or Washington, D.C. office; sending a letter or e-mail; signing a petition; or making a personal visit, Members of Congress are the most receptive and open to suggestions from their constituents. The key to increasing cosponsorship on veteran related bills and subsequent passage into law is letting legislators know of veteran‘s feelings on issues. You can reach their Washington office via the Capital Operator direct at (866) 272-6622, (800) 828-0498, or (866) 340-9281 to express your views. Otherwise, you can locate on http://thomas.loc.gov your legislator‘s phone number, mailing address, or email/website to communicate with a message or letter of your own making. Refer to http://www.thecapitol.net/FAQ/cong_schedule.html for dates that you can access your legislators on their home turf. [Source: RAO Bulletin Attachment 13 Aug 2010 ++]

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Have You Heard? Bumper Stickers Seen On Military Bases:

 Except For Ending Slavery, Fascism, Nazism and Communism, WAR has Never Solved Anything.

 U.S. Marines – Certified Counselors to the 72 Virgins Dating Club.

 U.S. Air Force – Travel Agents To Allah

 Stop Global Whining

 When In Doubt, Empty The Magazine

 Naval Corollary: Dead Men Don’t Testify.

 The Marine Corps – When It Absolutely, Positively Has To Be Destroyed Overnight

 Death Smiles At Everyone – Marines Smile Back

 Marine Sniper – You can run, but you’ll just die tired!

 What Do I Feel When I Kill A Terrorist? A Little Recoil

 Marines – Providing Enemies of America an Opportunity To Die For their Country Since 1775

 Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Anyone Who Threatens It

 Happiness Is A Belt-Fed Weapon

 It’s God’s Job to Forgive Bin Laden – It’s Our Job To Arrange The Meeting

 Artillery Brings Dignity to What Would Otherwise Be Just A Vulgar Brawl

 One Shot, Twelve Kills – U.S. Naval Gun Fire Support

 My Kid Fought In Iraq So Your Kid Can Party In College

 Machine Gunners – Accuracy By Volume

 A Dead Enemy Is A Peaceful Enemy – Blessed Be The Peacemakers

 If You Can Read This, Thank A Teacher.. If You Can Read It In English, Thank A Veteran

 Some people spend an entire lifetime wondering if they made a difference in the world. But the U.S. ARMED FORCES don’t have that problem. …Ronald Reagan

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Don’t be a fool and die for your country. Let the other sonofabitch die for his.

— George S. Patton (1885 – 1945) attributed

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Lt. James ―EMO‖ Tichacek, USN (Ret)

Associate Director, Retiree Assistance Office, U.S. Embassy Warden & IRS VITA Baguio City RP

PSC 517 Box RCB, FPO AP 96517

Tel: (951) 238-1246 in U.S. or Cell: 0915-361-3503 in the Philippines.

Email: [email protected] Web: http://post_119_gulfport_ms.tripod.com/rao1.html

AL/AMVETS/DAV/FRA/NAUS/NCOA/MOAA/USDR/VFW/VVA/CG33/DD890/AD37 member

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Arkansas State Veteran’s Benefits

The state of Arkansas provides several veteran benefits. This section offers a brief description of each of the following benefits.

-Arkansas Veterans Home

-Financial Assistance Benefits

-Education Benefits

-Other State Veteran Benefits

Arkansas Veteran Housing Programs

Arkansas Veterans Home Founded in Little Rock in 1980, as a domiciliary, the Arkansas Veterans Home now provides 55 domiciliary and 61 intermediate care nursing beds. The home provides a meaningful living environment for honorably discharged veterans. Residents also have full access to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System. With twenty-four hour nursing service and a staff physician, medical needs are fully met. With licensed social workers and an activities director, each resident has the support and encouragement he or she might need to promote a healthy active lifestyle. Learn more about the Arkansas Veterans Home

Arkansas Financial Assistance Benefits

Homestead and Personal Property Tax Exemption Arkansas Veterans who have been rated, by the VA, as 100% service connected (Permanent and Total) or awarded Special Monthly Compensation for loss or loss of use of one or more limbs total blindness in one or both eyes are entitled to exemption of Homestead and Personal Property Tax. Widows, so long as they do not remarry, dependent children, during their minority, continue this entitlement. Widows, so long as they do not remarry, dependent children, during their minority, are also eligible for this entitlement if the veteran was killed or died in the scope of his military duties, is missing in action, or died from service connected causes as certified by the Veterans Administration. Learn more about the Homestead and Personal Property Tax Exemption Gross Receipt of Tax Exemption or gross proceeds derived from the sale of motor vehicles and adaptive equipment to disabled veterans who have purchased the vehicles or equipment with the financial assistance of the Veterans Administration as provided under 38 U.S.C. 1901-1905 (AR Code 26-52-401 (7) et. seq.) Gross receipts or proceeds derived from the sale of a new automobile to a veteran who is blind as a result of a service-connected injury. Registration will require an entitlement letter form the VA and will be limited to one new vehicle every two (2) years. This exemption defines automobile as a passenger vehicle or pick up truck but does not include trucks with a maximum goes load in excess of three-quarter (3/40 ton and does not include any trailer. Learn more about the Gross Receipt of Tax Exemption Income Tax Exemption Provides an exemption of the first $6,000.00 of service pay or retired pay for members of the Armed Forces to include Reserve Components or for retired members who are residents of the State of Arkansas.

Learn more about the Income Tax Exemption

Arkansas Education Benefits

Educational Benefits Arkansas Department of Higher Education (ADHE) has the authority to provide free tuition and fees at any state supported college, university, technical school, or vocational school; to the wife and children of any Arkansan who has been declared to be Prisoner of War or placed in a missing-in-action status since January 1, 1960. The same provisions apply to the surviving spouse and children of any Arkansas resident killed in action since 1960. Learn more about Educational Benefits

Other Arkansas State Veteran Benefits

Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism Arkansas resident veterans permanently service connected at a 100% disability rate may camp for half price in Arkansas State Parks. Proof of 100% status is required. Learn more about the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism

Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Resident 3- year Disability Fishing License- RDC ($10.50) entitles all 100% totally and permanently disabled persons privileges of the Resident Sportsman’s License (hunting) and the Resident Fisheries Conservation License (fishing). HIP registration is required to hunt game birds. To hunt waterfowl, state and federal waterfowl stamps are required in addition to HIP. A Trout permit must also be purchased to fish in certain waters. Certification will be accepted from Social Security, Veteran’s Affairs or Railroad Retirement. Proof of one year’s Arkansas residency is required to apply for this license. Valid for three years from date of purchase, recertification is required for renewal. These two licenses are only available from the Commission’s Little Rock office. If you wish to purchase a license, bring proof of one year Arkansas residency, such as driver’s licenses, state ID, property assessments, Arkansas state income tax forms and acceptable proof of disability. Learn more about the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission License Plates The Revenue Division will provide (upon receipt of proper certification letters) a number of special privileges and benefits for Arkansas residents, including special license plates for Congressional Medal of Honor recipients, Purple Heart recipients, Ex-Prisoners of War, Disabled Veterans, Pearl Harbor Survivors, Armed Forces Retired, and Military Reserve.

Learn more about Special License Plates Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery Dedicated in 2001, our cemetery is dedicated to providing an honorable place of rest for the veterans of the State of Arkansas. Our mission is to preserve the dignity, beauty and serenity of this cemetery to honor all who sacrificed to make possible the freedom that we are able to enjoy today.

Learn more about the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery

[Source: http://www.military.com/benefits/veteran-benefits/arkansas-state-veterans-benefits Jul 2010 ++]

Of the 5916 House and 3654 pieces of legislation introduced in the 111th Congress to date, the following are the Senate bills of interest to the non-active duty veteran community. Bill titles in green (if any) are new additions to this summary, titles in orange have either passed either the House or Senate and been passed to the other for consideration or been incorporated into another bill, and those highlighted in blue have become public law. A good indication on the likelihood a bill of being forwarded to the House or Senate for passage and subsequently being signed into law by the President is the number of cosponsors who have signed onto the bill. An alternate way for it to become law is if it is added as an addendum to another bill such as the annual National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and survives the conference committee assigned to iron out the difference between the House and Senate bills. At http://thomas.loc.gov you can review a copy of each bill’s text, determine its current status, the committee it has been assigned to, who your representative is and his/her phone number, mailing address, or email/website to communicate with a message or letter of your own making, and if your legislator is a sponsor or cosponsor of it. To separately determine what bills, amendments your representative has sponsored, cosponsored, or dropped sponsorship on refer to http://thomas.loc.gov/bss/d111/sponlst.html. To review a numerical list of all bills introduced refer to http://thomas.loc.gov/bss/111search.html. The key to increasing cosponsorship is letting legislators know of their constituent’s views on issues. Those bills that include a website in red are being pushed by various veterans groups for passage and by clicking on that website you can forward a preformatted message to your legislator requesting he/she support the bill.

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S.46 : Medicare Access to Rehabilitation Services Act of 2009 to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to repeal the Medicare outpatient rehabilitation therapy caps.

Sponsor: Sen Ensign, John [NV] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (32) Related Bill: H.R.43

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

To support this bill and/or contact your Senators send a message via

http://capwiz.com/moaa/issues/alert/?alertid=14486941&type=CO

________________________________________

S.66 : Disabled Vet Space A. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to permit former members of the Armed Forces who have a service-connected disability rated as total to travel on military aircraft in the same manner and to the same extent as retired members of the Armed Forces are entitled to travel on such aircraft.

Sponsor: Sen Inouye, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

________________________________________

S.67 : Disabled POW Commissary/Exchange Use. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to authorize certain disabled former prisoners of war to use Department of Defense commissary and exchange stores.

Sponsor: Sen Inouye, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

________________________________________

S.68 : Filipino Service Certification. A bill to require the Secretary of the Army to determine the validity of the claims of certain Filipinos that they performed military service on behalf of the United States during World War II.

Sponsor: Sen Inouye, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

________________________________________

S.94 : Long-Term Care Family Accessibility Act. A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide for a nonrefundable tax credit for long-term care insurance premiums.

Sponsor: Sen Vitter, David [LA] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Finance

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

Major Action: 1/13/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.239 : Veterans Health Equity Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to ensure that veterans in each of the 48 contiguous States are able to receive services in at least one full-service hospital of the Veterans Health Administration in the State or receive comparable services provided by contract in the State.

Sponsor: Sen Shaheen, Jeanne [NH] (introduced 1/14/2009) Cosponsors (1) Companion Bill H.R.190

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/14/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.246 : Veterans Health Care Quality Improvement Act. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the quality of care provided to veterans in Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities, to encourage highly qualified doctors to serve in hard-to-fill positions in such medical facilities, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Durbin, Richard [IL] (introduced 1/14/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/14/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.252 : Veterans Health Care Authorization Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to enhance the capacity of the Department of Veterans Affairs to recruit and retain nurses and other critical health-care professionals, to improve the provision of health care veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 1/15/2009) Cosponsors (11)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’

Affairs. Ordered to be reported without amendment favorably.

To support this bill and/or contact your Senators send a message via http://capwiz.com/dav/issues/alert/?alertid=14008476&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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S.263 : Servicemembers Access to Justice Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the enforcement of the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act of 1994, and for other purposes. Companion Bill H.R.1474.

Sponsor: Sen Casey, Robert P., Jr. [PA] (introduced 1/15/2009) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/29/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.274 : Veterans Jobs Opportunity Act of 2009. A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide an incentive to hire unemployed veterans.

Sponsor: Sen Baucus, Max [MT] (introduced 1/16/2009) Cosponsors (1) Related Bill: H.R.4443

Committees: Senate Finance

Latest Major Action: 1/16/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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S.296 : Fair Tax Act of 2009. A bill to promote freedom, fairness, and economic opportunity by repealing the income tax and other taxes, abolishing the Internal Revenue Service, and enacting a national sales tax to be administered primarily by the States.

Sponsor: Sen Chambliss, Saxby [GA] (introduced 1/22/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: Senate Finance

Latest Major Action: 1/22/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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S.307 : Critical Access Hospital Flexibility Act of 2009. A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide flexibility in the manner in which beds are counted for purposes of determining whether a hospital may be designated as a critical access hospital under the Medicare program and to exempt from the critical access hospital inpatient bed limitation the number of beds provided for certain veterans. Companion Bill H.R.668

Sponsor: Sen Wyden, Ron [OR] (introduced 1/22/2009) Cosponsors (15)

Committees: Senate Finance

Latest Major Action: 1/22/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

________________________________________

S.315 : Veterans Outreach Improvement Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the outreach activities of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. Companion Bill H.R.32

Sponsor: Sen Feingold, Russell D. [WI] (introduced 1/26/2009) Cosponsors (2) Related Bill H.R.2257

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/29/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.347 : Vet Hand Loss Traumatic Injury Protection. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to allow the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to distinguish between the severity of a qualifying loss of a dominant hand and a qualifying loss of a non-dominant hand for purposes of traumatic injury protection under Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Ensign, John [NV] (introduced 1/29/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/29/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

________________________________________

S.402 : Keeping Our Promise to America’s Military Veterans Act. A bill to improve the lives of our Nation’s veterans and their families and provide them with the opportunity to achieve the American dream.

Sponsor: Sen Snowe, Olympia J. [ME] (introduced 2/10/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/10/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.404 : Veterans’ Emergency Care Fairness Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to expand veteran eligibility for reimbursement by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs for emergency treatment furnished in a non-Department facility, and for other purposes. Companion Bill H.R.1377.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 2/10/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/10/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.407 : Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2009. A bill to increase, effective as of December 1, 2009, the rates of compensation for veterans with service-connected disabilities and the rates of dependency and indemnity compensation for the survivors of certain disabled veterans, and for other purposes. Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 2/10/2009) Cosponsors (17) Related bill H.R.1513 Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs Senate Reports: 111-24 Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 111-37 [GPO: Text, PDF]

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S.423 : Veterans Health Care Budget Reform and Transparency Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize advance appropriations for certain medical care accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs by providing two-fiscal year budget authority, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 2/12/2009) Cosponsors (56)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 8/6/2009 Senate floor actions. Status: Returned to the Calendar. Calendar No. 101.

To support this bill and/or contact your Senators send a message http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12703276

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S.491 : Federal and Military Retiree Health Care Equity Act. A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow Federal civilian and military retirees to pay health insurance premiums on a pretax basis and to allow a deduction for TRICARE supplemental premiums.

Sponsor: Sen Webb, Jim [VA] (introduced 2/26/2009) Cosponsors (48) Companion Bill H.R.1203

Committees: Senate Finance

Latest Major Action: 2/26/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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S.498 : Vet Dental Insurance. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize dental insurance for veterans and survivors and dependents of veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Burr, Richard [NC] (introduced 2/26/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/26/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.514 : Veterans Rehabilitation and Training Improvements Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to enhance vocational rehabilitation benefits for veterans, and for other purposes. Companion Bill H.R.297.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 3/3/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/29/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.535 : SBP DIC Offset Elimination. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to repeal requirement for reduction of survivor annuities under the Survivor Benefit Plan by veterans’ dependency and indemnity compensation, and for other purposes. Companion Bill H.775. Sponsor: Sen Nelson, Bill [FL] (introduced 3/5/2009) Cosponsors (58) Committees: Senate Armed Services Latest Major Action: 3/5/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services. To support this bill and/or contact your Senator send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=14275496&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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S.543 : Veteran and Servicemember Family Caregiver Support Act of 2009. A bill to require a pilot program on training, certification, and support for family caregivers of seriously disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces to provide caregiver services to such veterans and members, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Durbin, Richard [IL] (introduced 3/6/2009) Cosponsors (14) Companion Bill H.R.785.

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/6/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.546 : Retired Pay Restoration Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to permit certain retired members of the uniformed services who have a service-connected disability to receive both disability compensation from the Department of Veterans Affairs for their disability and either retired pay by reason of their years of military service of Combat-Related Special Compensation. Companion Bill H.R.811.

Sponsor: Sen Reid, Harry [NV] (introduced 3/9/2009) Cosponsors (45)

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 3/9/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

To support this bill and/or contact your Senators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12904686&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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S.572 : Purple Heart Forever Stamp. A bill to provide for the issuance of a “forever stamp” to honor the sacrifices of the brave men and women of the armed forces who have been awarded the Purple Heart. Companion Bill H.R.1305.

Sponsor: Sen Webb, Jim [VA] (introduced 3/11/2009) Cosponsors (17)

Committees: Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/23/2009 Referred to Senate subcommittee. Status: Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs referred to Subcommittee on Federal Financial Management, Government Information, Federal Services, and International Security.

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S.597 : Women Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and improve health care services available to women veterans, especially those serving in operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, from the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. Companion Bill H.R.1211

Sponsor: Sen Murray, Patty [WA] (introduced 3/16/2009) Cosponsors (20)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/16/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.606 : Veterans Corps Program. A bill to amend the National and Community Service Act of 1990 to establish a Veterans Corps program.

Sponsor: Sen Warner, Mark R. [VA] (introduced 3/17/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions

Latest Major Action: 3/17/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions.

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S.614 : WASP Gold Medal Award. A bill to award a Congressional Gold Medal to the Women Airforce Service Pilots (“WASP”). Sponsor: Sen Hutchison, Kay Bailey [TX] (introduced 3/17/2009) Cosponsors (75) Companion Bill H.R.2014 Committees: Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 111-40 [GPO: Text, PDF]

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S.642 : Health Care for Members of the Armed Forces Exposed to Chemical Hazards Act of 2009. A bill to require the Secretary of Defense to establish registries of members and former members of the Armed Forces exposed in the line of duty to occupational and environmental health chemical hazards, to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide health care to veterans exposed to such hazards, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Bayh, Evan [IN] (introduced 3/19/2009) Cosponsors (7)

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 3/19/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

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S.644 : National Guard and Reserve Retired Pay Equity Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to include service after September 11, 2001, as service qualifying for the determination of a reduced eligibility age for receipt of non-regular service retired pay.

Sponsor: Sen Chambliss, Saxby [GA] (introduced 3/19/2009) Cosponsors (13) Companion Bill H.R.208 Related Bill S.831

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 3/19/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

To support this bill and/or contact your Senators send a message via http://capwiz.com/ncoausa/issues/alert/?alertid=12995086&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id] or http://capwiz.com/moaa/issues/bills/?bill=12960556

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S.658 : Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve health care for veterans who live in rural areas, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Tester, Jon [MT] (introduced 3/19/2009) Cosponsors (10)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/19/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the

Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.663 : Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War II Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish the Merchant Mariner Equity Compensation Fund to provide benefits to certain individuals who served in the United States merchant marine (including the Army Transport Service and the Naval Transport Service) during World War II.

Sponsor: Sen Nelson, E. Benjamin [NE] (introduced 3/19/2009) Cosponsors (51)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/29/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.669 : Veterans Second Amendment Protection Act. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to clarify the conditions under which certain persons may be treated as adjudicated mentally incompetent for certain purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Burr, Richard [NC] (introduced 3/23/2009) Cosponsors (18)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/16/2009 Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 78.

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S.691 : Colorado National Cemetery for Veterans. A bill to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a national cemetery for veterans in southern Colorado region, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Bennet, Michael F. [CO] (introduced 3/25/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/29/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.699 : South Texas Veterans’ Hospital. A bill to provide for the construction by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs of a full service hospital in Far South Texas.

Sponsor: Sen Cornyn, John [TX] (introduced 3/25/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/25/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.700 : Ending the Medicare Disability Waiting Period Act of 2009. A bill to amend title II of the Social Security Act to phase out the 24-month waiting period for disabled individuals to become eligible for Medicare benefits, to eliminate the waiting period for individuals with life-threatening conditions, and for other purposes. Companion Bill H.R.1708.

Sponsor: Sen Bingaman, Jeff [NM] (introduced 3/25/2009) Cosponsors (21)

Committees: Senate Finance

Latest Major Action: 3/25/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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S.728 : Veterans’ Insurance and Benefits Enhancement Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to enhance veterans’ insurance benefits, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 3/26/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/7/2009 Senate floor actions. Status: Returned to the Calendar. Calendar No. 155.

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S.731 : TRICARE Coverage For “Gray Area” Reservists. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to provide for continuity of TRICARE Standard coverage for certain members of the Retired Reserve. Companion Bill H.R.270

Sponsor: Sen Nelson, E. Benjamin [NE] (introduced 3/26/2009) Cosponsors (23)

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 3/26/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services. ‘

To support this bill and/or contact your Senators send a message via http://www.ngaus.org/content.asp?bid=1805&False&False

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S.734 : Rural Veterans Health Care Access and Quality Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the capacity of the Department of Veterans Affairs to recruit and retain physicians in Health Professional Shortage Areas and to improve the provision of health care to veterans in rural areas, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 3/30/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/30/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.746 : Nebraska National Cemetery. A bill to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a national cemetery in the Sarpy County region to serve veterans in eastern Nebraska, western Iowa, and northwest Missouri.

Sponsor: Sen Nelson, E. Benjamin [NE] (introduced 3/31/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/29/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.760 : National World War I Memorial. A bill to designate the Liberty Memorial at the National World War I Museum in Kansas City, Missouri, as the “National World War I Memorial”.

Sponsor: Sen McCaskill, Claire [MO] (introduced 4/1/2009) Cosponsors (3) Related Bill H.R.1849

Committees: Senate Energy and Natural Resources

Latest Major Action: 12/3/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Energy and Natural Resources Subcommittee on National Parks. Hearings held.

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S.768 : Bataan Gold Medal Initiative. A bill to grant the Congressional Gold Medal to the soldiers from the United States who were prisoners of war at Bataan during World War II.

Sponsor: Sen Udall, Tom [NM] (introduced 4/1/2009) Cosponsors (7)

Committees: Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/1/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.

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S.772 : Honor Act of 2009. A bill to enhance benefits for survivors of certain former members of the Armed Forces with a history of post-traumatic stress disorder or traumatic brain injury, to enhance availability and access to mental health counseling for members of the Armed Forces and veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Bond, Christopher S. [MO] (introduced 4/1/2009) Cosponsors (12)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/1/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.793 : Department of Veterans Affairs Vision Scholars Act of 2009. A bill to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a scholarship program for students seeking a degree or certificate in the areas of visual impairment and orientation and mobility.

Sponsor: Sen Brown, Sherrod [OH] (introduced 4/2/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/2/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.801 : Family Caregiver Program Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to waive charges for humanitarian care provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs to family members accompanying veterans severely injured after September 11, 2001, as they receive medical care from the Department and to provide assistance to family caregivers, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 4/2/2009) Cosponsors (27)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 9/25/2009 Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 167.

To support this bill and/or contact your Senators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=13104956&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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S.820 : Veterans Mobility Enhancement Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to enhance the automobile assistance allowance for veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Sanders, Bernard [VT] (introduced 4/2/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/29/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.821 : VA Copay Collection Prohibition. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to prohibit the Secretary of Veterans Affairs from collecting certain copayments from veterans who are catastrophically disabled, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Sanders, Bernard [VT] (introduced 4/2/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/2/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read the second time and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.831 : National Guard and Reserve Retired Pay Equity Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to include service after September 11, 2001, as service qualifying for the determination of a reduced eligibility age for receipt of non-regular service retired pay.

Sponsor: Sen Kerry, John F. [MA] (introduced 4/20/2009) Cosponsors (34) Related Bill S.644

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/20/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

To support this bill and/or contact your Senators send a message via www.ngaus.org/content.asp?bid=1805

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S.832 : MOAA Federal Charter. A bill to amend title 36, United States Code, to grant a Federal charter to the Military Officers Association of America, and for other purposes. Sponsor: Sen Nelson, Bill [FL] (introduced 4/20/2009) Cosponsors (41) Companion Bill H.R.2017 Related Bill S.1449 Committees: Senate Judiciary Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 111-95 [GPO: Text, PDF]

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S.842 : VA Home Loan Payoff to Mortgagers. A bill to repeal the sunset of certain enhancements of protections of servicemembers relating to mortgages and mortgage foreclosures, to amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to pay mortgage holders unpaid balances on housing loans guaranteed by Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Kerry, John F. [MA] (introduced 4/21/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/21/2009 4/29/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.847 : SBP Education Assistance Limitation Exclusion. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide that utilization of survivors’ and dependents’ educational assistance shall not be subject to the 48-month limitation on the aggregate amount of assistance utilizable under multiple veterans and related educational assistance programs.

Sponsor: Sen Webb, Jim [VA] (introduced 4/21/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/29/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.883 : Medal of Honor Coin. A bill to require the Secretary of the Treasury to mint coins in recognition and celebration of the establishment of the Medal of Honor in 1861, America’s highest award for valor in action against an enemy force which can be bestowed upon an individual serving in the Armed Services of the United States, to honor the American military men and women who have been recipients of the Medal of Honor, and to promote awareness of what the Medal of Honor represents and how ordinary Americans, through courage, sacrifice, selfless service and patriotism, can challenge fate and change the course of history.

Sponsor: Sen Kerry, John F. [MA] (introduced 4/23/2009) Cosponsors (85)

Committees: Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/23/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.

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S.902 : Veteran’s Treatment Courts. A bill to provide grants to establish veteran’s treatment courts.

Sponsor: Sen Kerry, John F. [MA] (introduced 4/27/2009) Cosponsors (4) Related Bill H.R.2127

Committees: Senate Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

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S. 944 – The Wounded Warrior Transition Assistance Act. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to require the Secretaries of the military departments to give wounded members of the reserve components of the Armed Forces the option of remaining on active duty during the transition process in order to continue to receive military pay and allowances, to authorize members to reside at their permanent places of residence during the process, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Feingold, Russell D. [WI] (introduced 4/30/2009) Cosponsors (5)

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/30/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

To support this bill and/or contact your Senators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=13266571&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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S.977 : Prisoner of War Benefits Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide improved benefits for veterans who are former prisoners of war, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Murray, Patty [WA] (introduced 5/5/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.998 : Arthur Woolweaver, Jr., Social Security Act Improvements for the Terminally Ill Act. A bill to amend title II of the Social Security Act to eliminate the five-month waiting period in the disability insurance program, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Brown, Sherrod [OH] (introduced 5/7/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: Senate Finance

Latest Major Action: 5/7/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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S.1008 : Military Retired Pay Fairness Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to limit requirements of separation pay, special separation benefits, and voluntary separation incentive from members of the Armed Forces subsequently receiving retired or retainer pay.

Sponsor: Sen Shaheen, Jeanne [NH] (introduced 5/7/2009) Cosponsors (7) Companion bill H.R.2302

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 5/7/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

To support this bill and/or contact your Senators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=13682656&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id] or http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=13967481&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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S.1015 : Enhanced Disability Compensation for Certain Disabled Veterans. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to enhance disability compensation for certain disabled veterans with difficulties using prostheses and disabled veterans in need of regular aid and attendance for residuals of traumatic brain injury, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Burr, Richard [NC] (introduced 5/11/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/11/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.1016 : Vet Disability Compensation Award upon Separation. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commencement of the period of payment of original awards of compensation for veterans who are retired or separated from the Uniformed services for disability.

Sponsor: Sen Burr, Richard [NC] (introduced 5/11/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/11/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.1042 : Illegal Garnishment Prevention Act. A bill to prohibit the use of funds to promote the direct deposit of Veterans and Social Security benefits until adequate safeguards are established to prevent the attachment

and garnishment of such benefits.

Sponsor: Sen Kohl, Herb [WI] (introduced 5/14/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: Senate Finance

Latest Major Action: 5/14/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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S.1055 : Gold Medal Award for 100th Inf Bn & 442nd RCT. A bill to grant the congressional gold medal, collectively, to the 100th Infantry Battalion and the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, United States Army, in recognition of their dedicated service during World War II.

Sponsor: Sen Boxer, Barbara [CA] (introduced 5/14/2009) Cosponsors (71) Related bill H.R.347

Committees: Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/14/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.

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S.1106 : Selected Reserve Continuum of Care Act. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to require the provision of medical and dental readiness services to certain members of the Selected Reserve and Individual Ready Reserve based on medical need, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Lincoln, Blanche L. [AR] (introduced 5/20/2009) Cosponsors (7)

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 5/20/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

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S.1109 : PRO-VETS Act of 2009. A bill to provide veterans with individualized notice about available benefits, to streamline application processes or the benefits, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Gillibrand, Kirsten E. [NY] (introduced 5/20/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1118 : DIC Compensation Rate Increase to 55%. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for an increase in the amount of monthly dependency and indemnity compensation payable to surviving spouses by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Lincoln, Blanche L. [AR] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1128 : Atomic Veterans Service Medal Act. A bill to authorize the award of a military service medal to members of the Armed Forces who were exposed to ionizing radiation as a result of participation in the testing of nuclear weapons or under other circumstances.

Sponsor: Sen Roberts, Pat [KS] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (3) Related bill H.R.2553

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 5/21/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

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S.1160 : Homes for Heroes Act of 2009. A bill to provide housing assistance for very low-income veterans.

Sponsor: Sen Schumer, Charles E. [NY] (introduced 6/1/2009) Cosponsors (14)

Committees: Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/1/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.

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S.1166 : Voluntary Support for Reservists and National Guard Members Act of 2009. A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow taxpayers to designate part or all of any income tax refund to support reservists and National Guard members.

Sponsor: Sen Reid, Harry [NV] (introduced 6/3/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: Senate Finance

Latest Major Action: 6/3/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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S.1168 : Nationally Significant Battlefields Protection. A bill to authorize the acquisition and protection of nationally significant battlefields and associated sites of the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812 under the American Battlefield Protection Program.

Sponsor: Sen Schumer, Charles E. [NY] (introduced 6/3/2009) Cosponsors (1) Related Bill H.R.1694

Committees: Senate Energy and Natural Resources

Latest Major Action: 7/15/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Energy and Natural Resources Subcommittee on National Parks. Hearings held. With printed Hearing: S.Hrg. 111-92.

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S.1169 : Uniformed Services with Autism (USA) Heroes Act . A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to provide for the treatment of autism under TRICARE.

Sponsor: Sen Gillibrand, Kirsten E. [NY] (introduced 6/3/2009) Cosponsors (7)

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/3/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

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S.1204 : Chiropractic Care Available to All Veterans Act of 2009. A bill to amend the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Programs Enhancement Act of 2001 to require the provision of chiropractic care and services to veterans at all Department of Veterans Affairs medical centers, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Murray, Patty [WA] (introduced 6/8/2009) Cosponsors (9) Related bill H.R.1017

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1237 : Homeless Women Veterans and Homeless Veterans with Children Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to expand the grant program for homeless veterans with special needs to include male homeless veterans with minor dependents and to establish a grant program for reintegration of homeless women veterans and homeless veterans with children, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Murray, Patty [WA] (introduced 6/11/2009) Cosponsors (10)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/29/2010 Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No.

360.

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S.1337 : Filipino Veterans Family Reunification Act of 2009. A bill to exempt children of certain Filipino World War II veterans from the numerical limitations on immigrant visas.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 6/24/2009) Cosponsors (6)

Committees: Senate Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 6/24/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

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S.1347 : Carmelo Rodriguez Military Medical Accountability Act of 2009. A bill to amend chapter 171 of title 28, United States Code, to allow members of the Armed Forces to sue the United States for damages for certain injuries caused by improper medical care, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Schumer, Charles E. [NY] (introduced 6/24/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 6/24/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

To support this bill and/or contact your Senators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=13791596&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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S.1394 : Veterans Entitlement to Service Act of 2009. A bill to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to acknowledge the receipt of medical, disability, and pension claims and other communications submitted by claimants, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Gillibrand, Kirsten E. [NY] (introduced 7/6/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1427 : Department of Veterans Affairs Hospital Quality Report Card Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish a Hospital Quality Report Card Initiative to report on health care quality in Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Centers, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Wyden, Ron [OR] (introduced 7/9/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1429 : Servicemembers Mental Health Care Commission Act. A bill to establish a commission on veterans and members of the Armed Forces with post traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, or other mental health disorders, to enhance the capacity of mental health care providers to assist such veterans and members, to ensure such veterans are not discriminated against, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Wyden, Ron [OR] (introduced 7/9/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1449 : MOAA Federal Charter. A bill to amend title 36, United States Code, to grant a Federal charter to

the Military Officers Association of America, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Nelson, Bill [FL] (introduced 7/14/2009) Cosponsors (None) Related Bill H.R.2017 & S.832

Committees: Senate Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 7/14/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

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S.1450 : Deceased Servicemen Parental Nursing Home Care. A bill to enable State homes to furnish nursing home care to parents any of whose children died while serving in the Armed Forces.

Sponsor: Sen Ensign, John [NV] (introduced 7/14/2009) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/14/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.1452 : COMBAT PTSD Act. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to clarify the meaning of “combat with the enemy” for purposes of service-connection of disabilities.

Sponsor: Sen Schumer, Charles E. [NY] (introduced 7/14/2009) Cosponsors (5)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/14/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.1467 : Lance Corporal Josef Lopez Fairness for Servicemembers Harmed by Vaccines Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide coverage under Traumatic Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance for adverse reactions to vaccinations administered by the Department of Defense, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen McCaskill, Claire [MO] (introduced 7/16/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1495 : Service Dogs for Veterans Act of 2009. A bill to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program to assess the feasibility and advisability of using service dogs for the treatment or rehabilitation of veterans with physical or mental injuries or disabilities, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Franken, Al [MN] (introduced 7/22/2009) Cosponsors (7) Related Bill H.R.3266

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/22/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.1518 : Caring for Camp Lejeune Veterans Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to furnish hospital care, medical services, and nursing home care to veterans who were stationed at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, while the water was contaminated at Camp Lejeune.

Sponsor: Sen Burr, Richard [NC] (introduced 7/27/2009) Cosponsors (15)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1520 : NAIV Charter. A bill to grant a Federal charter to the National American Indian Veterans, Incorporated.

Sponsor: Sen Johnson, Tim [SD] (introduced 7/27/2009) Cosponsors (1) Related Bill H.R.3349

Committees: Senate Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 7/27/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

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S.1543 : Supporting Military Families Act of 2009. A bill to amend the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 and title 5, United States Code, to provide leave for family members of members of regular components of the Armed Forces, and leave to care for covered veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Dodd, Christopher J. [CT] (introduced 7/30/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions

Latest Major Action: 7/30/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions.

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S.1547 : Zero Tolerance for Veterans Homelessness Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, and the United States Housing Act of 1937 to enhance and expand the assistance provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Housing and Urban Development to homeless veterans and veterans at risk of homelessness, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Reed, Jack [RI] (introduced 7/30/2009) Cosponsors (19)

Committees: Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs; Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1556 : Veteran Voting Support Act of 2009. A bill to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to permit facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs to be designated as voter registration agencies, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Feinstein, Dianne [CA] (introduced 8/3/2009) Cosponsors (6)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1558 : Travel Reimbursement for Inactive Duty Training Personnel (TRIP) Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 37, United States Code, to provide travel and transportation allowances for members of the reserve components for long distance and certain other travel to inactive duty training.

Sponsor: Sen Lincoln, Blanche L. [AR] (introduced 8/3/2009) Cosponsors (8)

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 8/3/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

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S.1668 : National Guard Education Equality Act. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the inclusion of certain active duty service in the reserve components as qualifying service for purposes of Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Bennet, Michael F. [CO] (introduced 9/14/2009) Cosponsors (14)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

To support this bill and/or contact your Senators send a message via http://capwiz.com/ngaus/mail/compose/?mailid=14779496&azip=92571

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S.1685 : Emergency Senior Citizens Relief Act of 2009. A bill to provide an emergency benefit of $250 to seniors, veterans, and persons with disabilities in 2010 to compensate for the lack of a cost-of-living adjustment for such year, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Sanders, Bernard [VT] (introduced 9/17/2009) Cosponsors (10) Related Bills: H.R.3597

Committees: Senate Finance

Latest Major Action: 9/17/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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S.1695 : Congressional Gold Medal Award. A bill to authorize the award of a Congressional gold medal to the Montford Point Marines of World War II.

Sponsor: Sen Burris, Roland [IL] (introduced 9/23/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs

Latest Major Action: 9/23/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.

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S.1717 : VA Facility Leases. A bill to authorize major medical facility leases for the Department of Veterans Affairs for fiscal year 2010, and for other purposes. Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 9/25/2009) Cosponsors (1) Related Bill S.1310 Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 111-82

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S.1752 : Parkinson’s Disease VA Compensation. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide wartime disability compensation for certain veterans with Parkinson’s disease.

Sponsor: Sen Sanders, Bernard [VT] (introduced 10/5/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1753 : Disabled Veteran Caregiver Housing Assistance Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to increase assistance for disabled veterans who are temporarily residing in housing owned by a family member, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Sanders, Bernard [VT] (introduced 10/5/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1779 : Health Care for Veterans Exposed to Chemical Hazards Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38,

United States Code, to provide health care to veterans exposed in the line of duty to occupational and environmental health chemical hazards, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Bayh, Evan [IN] (introduced 10/14/2009) Cosponsors (7)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1780 : Honor America’s Guard-Reserve Retirees Act. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to deem certain service in the reserve components as active service for purposes of laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Sen Lincoln, Blanche L. [AR] (introduced 10/14/2009) Cosponsors (9) Related bill: H.R.3787

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/19/2010 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1798 : Automatic Reserve Component Enrollment Act of 2009. A bill to provide for the automatic enrollment of demobilizing members of the National Guard and Reserve in health care and dental care programs of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Sanders, Bernard [VT] (introduced 10/19/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/19/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.1932 : Post 9/11 Troops to Teachers Enhancement Act. A bill to amend the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to allow members of the Armed Forces who served on active duty on or after September 11, 2001, to be eligible to participate in the Troops-to-Teachers Program, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen McCain, John [AZ] (introduced 10/27/2009) Cosponsors (9)

Committees: Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions

Latest Major Action:

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S.1939 : Vet Presumptive Exposure in Vietnam. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to clarify presumptions relating to the exposure of certain veterans who served in the vicinity of the Republic of Vietnam, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Gillibrand, Kirsten E. [NY] (introduced 10/27/2009) Cosponsors (19)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/19/2010 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1963 : Caregivers and Veterans Omnibus Health Services Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide assistance to caregivers of veterans, to improve the provision of health care to veterans, and for other purposes. Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 10/28/2009) Cosponsors (7) Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 111-163 [GPO: Text, PDF]

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S.2096 : Parent VA Burial Eligibility. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the eligibility of parents of certain deceased veterans for interment in national cemeteries.

Sponsor: Sen Kerry, John F. [MA] (introduced 10/29/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/29/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.2743 : Cold War Service Medal Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to provide for the award of a military service medal to members of the Armed Forces who served honorably during the Cold War, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Snowe, Olympia J. [ME] (introduced 11/5/2009) Cosponsors (8) Related bill: H.R.4051

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 11/5/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

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S.2759 : Benefit Rating Acceleration for Veteran Entitlements Act of 2009. A bill to amend title II and XVI of the Social Security Act to provide for treatment of disability rated and certified as total by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs as disability for purposes of such titles.

Sponsor: Sen Brown, Sherrod [OH] (introduced 11/10/2009) Cosponsors (None) Related Bill: H.R.4054

Committees: Senate Finance

Latest Major Action: 11/10/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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S.2760 : VA Homeless Vets Appropriations. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for an increase in the annual amount authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out comprehensive service programs for homeless veterans.

Sponsor: Sen Udall, Tom [NM] (introduced 11/10/2009) Cosponsors (14)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 11/10/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.2769 : Post-9/11 Veterans’ Job Training Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the use of entitlement under Post-9/11 Educational Assistance for the pursuit of apprenticeships and on-job training, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Klobuchar, Amy [MN] (introduced 11/10/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 11/10/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.2770 : Veterans Business Center Act of 2009. A bill to amend the Small Business Act to establish a Veterans Business Center program, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Gillibrand, Kirsten E. [NY] (introduced 11/10/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship

Latest Major Action: 11/10/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the

Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship.

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S.3082 : VA Work Study Allowances. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize individuals who are pursuing programs of rehabilitation, education, or training under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to receive work-study allowances for certain outreach services provided through congressional offices, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Wyden, Ron [OR] (introduced 3/5/2010) Cosponsors (1) Related bill: H.R.4765

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/5/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.3107 : Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2010. A bill to amend title 38 , United States Code, to provide for an increase, effective December 1, 2010, in the rates of compensation for veterans with service-connected disabilities and the rates of dependency and indemnity compensation for the survivors of certain disabled veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 3/11/2010) Cosponsors (11) Related Bill: H.R.4667

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/19/2010 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.3118 : Veterans Pensions Protection Act. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide that monetary benefits paid to veterans by States and municipalities shall be excluded from consideration as income for purposes of pension benefits paid by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Sen Kerry, John F. [MA] (introduced 3/16/2010) Cosponsors (None) Related Bill: H.R.3485

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/16/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.3162 : VA Minimum Essential Coverage. A bill to clarify the health care provided by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs that constitutes minimum essential coverage.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 3/24/2010) Cosponsors (59) Related bills: H.R.5014

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/13/2010 Held at the desk.

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S.3171 : Veterans Training Act. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the approval of certain programs of education for purposes of the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program.

Sponsor: Sen Lincoln, Blanche L. [AR] (introduced 3/25/2010) Cosponsors (10) Related bills: H.R. 3813

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/25/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.3192 : Fair Access to Veterans Benefits Act of 2010. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the tolling of the timing of review for appeals of final decisions of the Board of Veterans’

Appeals, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Specter, Arlen [PA] (introduced 4/12/2010) Cosponsors (1) Related bills: H.R.5045, H.R.5064

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/12/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.3201 : TRICARE Dependent Coverage Extension Act. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to extend TRICARE coverage to certain dependents under the age of 26.

Sponsor: Sen Udall, Mark [CO] (introduced 4/14/2010) Cosponsors (31) Related bills: H.R.4923

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/14/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

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S.3234 : Veteran Employment Assistance Act of 2010. A bill to improve employment, training, and placement services furnished to veterans, especially those serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Murray, Patty [WA] (introduced 4/20/2010) Cosponsors (13) Related bills: H.R.5120

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/19/2010 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.3286 : VA Vet Claim Assistance Pilot Program. A bill to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program on the award of grants to State and local government agencies and nonprofit organizations to provide assistance to veterans with their submittal of claims to the Veterans Benefits Administration, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Specter, Arlen [PA] (introduced 4/29/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/19/2010 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.3356 : CHAMPVA Children Maximum Age increase. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to increase the maximum age for children eligible for medical care under the CHAMPVA program, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Feingold, Russell D. [WI] (introduced 5/13/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/13/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.3359 : Veterans’ Disability Compensation Automatic COLA Act. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for annual cost-of-living adjustments to be made automatically by law each year in the rates of disability compensation for veterans with service-connected disabilities and the rates of dependency and indemnity compensation for survivors of certain service-connected disabled veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Thune, John [SD] (introduced 5/13/2010) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/13/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.3367 : VA Pension Increase for Disabled Couples. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to increase the rate of pension for disabled veterans who are married to one another and both of whom require regular aid and attendance, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 5/13/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/19/2010 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.3371 : TRICARE Mental Health Care Access Act. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to improve access to mental health care counselors under the TRICARE program, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen McCaskill, Claire [MO] (introduced 5/13/2010) Cosponsors (8)

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 5/13/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

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S.3378 : Examination of Exposures to Environmental Hazards During Military Service and Health Care for Camp Lejeune and Atsugi Naval Air Facility Veterans and their Families Act of 2010. An original bill to authorize health care for individuals exposed to environmental hazards at Camp Lejeune and the Atsugi Naval Air Facility, to establish an advisory board to examine exposures to environmental hazards during military service, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 5/17/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Senate Reports: 111-189

Latest Major Action: 5/17/2010 Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 377.

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S.3394 : Strengthening Entrepreneurship for America’s Veterans Act of 2010. A bill to establish the veterans’ business center program, to improve the programs for veterans of the Small Business Administration, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Landrieu, Mary L. [LA] (introduced 5/20/2010) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship

Latest Major Action: 5/20/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship.

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S.3398 : Veteran Employment Transition Act of 2010. A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend the work opportunity credit to certain recently discharged veterans.

Sponsor: Sen Baucus, Max [MT] (introduced 5/24/2010) Cosponsors (3) Related bills: H.R.5400

Committees: Senate Finance

Latest Major Action: 5/24/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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S.3406 : Reserve Retirement Deployment Credit Correction Act. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to eliminate the per-fiscal year calculation of days of certain active duty or active service used to reduce the minimum age at which a member of a reserve component of the uniformed services may retire for non-regular service.

Sponsor: Sen Hagan, Kay [NC] (introduced 5/24/2010) Cosponsors (1) Related bills: H.R.4947

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 5/24/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

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S.3447 : Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Improvements Act of 2010. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve educational assistance for veterans who served in the Armed Forces after September 11, 2001, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 5/27/2010) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/21/2010 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

——————————————————————————– S.3454 : National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2011. An original bill to authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2011 for military activities of the Department of Defense, for military construction, and for defense activities of the Department of Energy, to prescribe military personnel strengths for such fiscal year, and for other purposes. Sponsor: Sen Levin, Carl [MI] (introduced 6/4/2010) Cosponsors (None) Related bills: H.R.5136, S.3455, S.3456, S.3457

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Senate Reports: 111-201

Latest Major Action: 6/4/2010 Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 414.

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S.3477 : Blue Star/Gold Star Flag Act of 2010. A bill to ensure that the right of an individual to display the Service Flag on residential property not be abridged.

Sponsor: Sen Webb, Jim [VA] (introduced 6/10/2010) Cosponsors (11) Related Bill: H.R.2546

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/10/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

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S.3499 : Fiduciary Benefits Oversight Act of 2010. A bill to require fiduciaries of individuals receiving benefits under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to authorize the Secretary to obtain financial records with respect to such individuals for purposes of administering such laws, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 6/16/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/16/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.3556 : Hire A Hero Act of 2010. A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow the work opportunity credit to small businesses which hire individuals who are members of the Ready Reserve or National Guard

Sponsor: Sen Brownback, Sam [KS] (introduced 6/30/2010) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: Senate Finance

Latest Major Action: 6/30/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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S.3609 : VA Contract Physicians. A bill to extend the temporary authority for performance of medical disability examinations by contract physicians for the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 7/19/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/19/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.3615 : Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2011.

Sponsor: Sen Johnson, Tim [SD] (introduced 7/19/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Appropriations

Senate Reports: 111-226

Latest Major Action: 7/19/2010 Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 469.

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[Source: http://thomas.loc.gov/home/LegislativeData.php?n=Browse 29 Jul 2010 ++]

(Conception thru Vietnam)

American Revolutionary War

The United States Navy was officially founded on October 13, 1775, when the Continental Congress authorized the outfitting of two vessels “of ten carriage guns…for a cruise of three months” against British supply ships. A Naval Committee of three men-Silas Deane, Christopher Gadsden and John Langdon- was appointed to supervise the project.

The Continental Congress had a very limited role in mind for the Navy. It was not expected to contest British control of the seas, but rather to wage a traditional guerre de course against British trade in conjunction with privateers outfitting in American ports. The Continental Navy’s ships were to raid commerce and attack the transports that supplied British forces in North America. To carry out this mission, the Continental Congress began to build up a cruiser Navy of small ships – frigates, brigs, sloops and schooners. For the most part Continental Navy ships tried to avoid fights with Royal Navy men-of-war. Few larger ships, in fact, ever put to sea.

During the Revolution, there were occasional triumphs in single-ship engagements – the capture, for example of the British sloop-of-war Drake by Captain John Paul Jones’ Ranger. Jones also operated against the British in the North Sea itself, and actually raided the coast of Great Britain. Jones, born a Scot, had actually fled to Virginia originally to avoid prosecution by Great Britain for murder. He also captained the Bonhomme Richard and is known as the father of the American Navy.

The Navy also employed the first undersea combat submarine during the Revolution, the Turtle, designed by David Bushnell of Connecticut. This was a one man submersible with two hand-held propellers and an outside screw designed to place a plug in the bottom of British ships with an explosive barrel attached which would then explode after its fuse burned. The Turtle was employed in action on only one date, 6 SEP 1776, in New York Harbor, against the H.M.S. Eagle. It failed to explode the Eagle, but is reported to have scared the devil out of the British sailors on board the attacked ship.

As expected, though, the Continental Navy never became a strategic check for the British fleet. But the course of the War did demonstrate to America the importance of sea power. New York, for example, has one of the biggest and deepest harbors in the world. And Lord William Howe, the British commander, wanted New York City because it protected the British power base (2/3rd’s of the City’s inhabitants were loyalists) and because its capture meant the Royal Navy could sail up the Hudson River into the heart of rebel territory. The British had a powerful navy, and they knew we did not have much of one. They knew, given all that, it was a must for them to maintain their occupation of New York City for the duration of the Revolution, which is exactly what they did. And the control of the Atlantic by the Royal Navy allowed Great Britain to transport a large army to North America and to sustain it there.

French sea power, allied with the American cause after 1778, allowed Washington to isolate and destroy the British army of Lord Cornwallis at Yorktown in 1781, ending Britain’s hope of crushing the Revolution. Two years after the end of the War the money-poor U.S. Congress sold off the last ship of the Continental Navy.

Barbary Coast

The refusal of Congress to embark on even a minimum naval program began to change when the question of aggressors, such as the Barbary Muslim states in North Africa preying on U.S. merchant shipping in the Mediterranean, became a national issue. Jefferson had said, as early as 1784 that: “We ought to be a naval power, if we mean to carry on our commerce.” Alexander Hamilton argued that while the United States could not challenge Europe’s principal maritime powers on the seas, in the event of a Franco-British war, a small American fleet could play the makeweight in the balance of power in the Western Hemisphere. Hamilton and his Federalists in fact felt

that a Navy could play a broad national role in projecting the interests of the United States, and should not be limited to merely protecting American commerce.

In the 1790s the Barbary Algerians again began to prey upon American merchant ships in the Mediterranean and, this time, Congress responded by passing a naval act that called for the construction of six frigates. As these large frigates were being built – Constitution, President, United States, Congress, Constellation, and Chesapeake – Napoleon’s France struck, by seizing hundreds of U.S. commercial ships and cargoes, mostly in the Caribbean. Congress responded by passing legislation expanding the Navy to 30 vessels and by creating an independent executive Department of the Navy. These ships aggressively began to patrol the Caribbean, effectively protecting U.S. merchantmen, gaining the Navy an excellent public impression by 1800.

Jefferson won the election of 1800, but was immediately confronted by more depredations aimed at U.S. commerce in the Mediterranean by the Dey of Tripoli, the leading Barbary state. Jefferson decided to use the new Navy in an offensive, forward way, by blockading and bombarding Tripoli and providing support and logistics for a force organized from Egypt to march on Tripoli and topple the Dey. By 1807 there existed in the United States a clear political consensus supporting a naval establishment, but the primary, and limited, theme of that Navy was still the protection of U.S. maritime commerce, and not the projection of American power, or even the protection of vital national interests.

War of 1812

The War of 1812 with Great Britain resurrected the naval debate in the United States. The Navy was forced, in this War, to fight large British naval ships, and scored some tremendous victories for so small a force. In 1812, the Constitution, commanded by Captain Isaac Hull, destroyed the Royal Navy frigate Guerriere. The United States, commanded by Captain Stephen Decatur, Jr., captured then scuttled the British frigate Macedonian, and late in the first year of the War the Constitution, then commanded by William Bainbridge, captured the Java. U.S. men-of-war won many other single ship engagements.

Despite these victories, the cost to the United States of having a comparatively weak Navy were quickly driven home. Great Britain was able to send numerous naval squadrons and several armies across the Atlantic. The United States found its ports blockaded and its trade all but destroyed. The British raided the coast at will. In the summer of 1814 a small British force captured Washington and burned the Navy Yard and the White House. British victories on Lake Ontario gave Britain effective control of the Great Lakes. The British, however, had no desire to continue this struggle and signed a treaty of peace late in 1814. Word of this treaty reached New Orleans late where, in 1815, General Andrew Jackson, with an American force consisting largely of Tennessee volunteers, blacks, creoles, cajuns and privateers, scored a major victory over a British army advancing down the Mississippi, killing over 2,000 British troops at Chalmette Field in a battle lasting 50 minutes, and losing only 7 American dead. Thus was destroyed forever British chances of blocking our way westward by controlling the Mississippi River.

In the period after the War of 1812, the consensus for a strong Navy survived the peace. In the postwar years the Navy blockaded and bombarded Algiers and kept small ongoing squadrons in the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, off the west African coast, and in the Pacific.

The Navy also struggled during this period to keep up with rapidly changing technology which was quickly making the men-of-war built during the War, and all ships like them, obsolete. The Navy experimented with steam-powered propulsion systems, armor plating, breech-loaders, shell guns, and the telegraph. In 1839, the Navy’s first steam powered vessel was built, creating the need for engineers as well as sailors. An engineering-oriented Naval Academy was also established at Annapolis, Maryland, on the site of the former Ft. Severn, in 1845. President George Washington had asked for it, a long time previously. The Naval Academy’s first class was made up of fifty students, and taught by seven teachers.

Mexican-American War

During the Mexican War (1846-1848), the Navy blockaded Mexican ports and supported operations ashore both along the California coast and in the Gulf of Mexico. The Navy also transported General Winfield Scott’s Army to

Veracruz in 1847, from where it marched inland to capture Mexico City, thus ending the War. The Mexican-American War represented the first major projection by sea of American military power abroad. Transported and supplied in large part by the Navy, General Scott’s Army, outnumbered five to one in every engagement with Santa Anna’s forces, won every battle, took Chalpultepec Castle, and conquered Mexico City, bringing the war to a close with a speed that amazed knowledgeable military veterans of the day.

Civil War

During the War Between the States (1861-1865) the Union had a near monopoly on naval power. Naval officers, more so than Army officers, remained on the Union side. The average Union trooper was paid $4.00 a day for his service. At the beginning, in 1861, so many southerners volunteered for Confederate service that 1/3rd of them had to be turned away. By the end of the war that would change, as would many things.

When the South seceded in 1861, at the United States Military Academy in New York, the Superintendant of Cadets asked those Army cadets loyal to the Confederacy to fall out and re-form, which they did. They then paraded off the Plain at West Point to join the war with the South. As they marched, the story goes, the United States Military Academy Band played “Dixie” and the Southern cadets did an eyes-right to Old Glory for the last time, as their Union cadet brethern, to them, for the last time, presented arms.

The Naval Academy was moved to Newport, Rhode Island in 1861 because of fear of a Confederate attack. It was returned to Annapolis in 1865. The majority of the U.S. Navy’s men-of-war also were in northern ports and the absence of Confederate oceangoing sea power initially gave the Union de facto control of the seas. Union control of the seas allowed the North to blockade the coastal ports of the South, severely handicapping the Southern war effort.

It is only emerging now, in the early 21st century, that Southerners, given the Union blockade, were right and left improvising the building and operation of a number of naval submersibles since the first year of the war, 1861, especially in the waters of the Gulf of Mexico. One battle, in 1862, caused by the blockade, took place at the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay where a Confederate ironclad, C.S.S. Virginia, was attacking Union blockade ships. The Virginia was in turn attacked by a new Union ironclad, a true semi-submersible, the U.S.S. Monitor. In four hours of fighting, neither ship seriously damaged the other, but the Virginia withdrew. A Swedish-born inventor, John Ericcson, had created the Monitor. Ericcson actually hated the Navy because he felt it cheated him out of a contractor’s payment years before. But he was urged to build a ship designed specifically to counter the Virginia, which, it was feared, would cruise up the Potomac and shell the White House.

Confederate commanders had to maintain tens of thousands of troops to guard against Union forays from the sea. In the critical battles fought along the Mississippi River, Union oceangoing and inland-water naval forces combined in a classic campaign to cut the Confederacy in two. By the time General William Tecumseh Sherman marched his 62,000 troops to the Atlantic from Atlanta in 1864, the South had been cut up at least three ways by Union forces, and its armies were falling apart. General Robert E. Lee signed the instrument of surrender with Genral Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Courthouse in Virginia in April, 1865. The costliest war America would ever fight was over.

After 1865 Americans were tired of war and were struggling to reconstruct the nation and the Navy entered a 20-year period of decline. There was no obvious threat of a European invasion during this time and our Navy was allowed to age into obsolescence. By 1880, in terms of manpower, number of ships, and technology, the Navy was far behind all the major navies of Europe.

During the 1880s, when Americans looked abroad, they saw a technologically superior Europe on the march with a new imperialism. The Ottoman and Chinese empires, for example, long the target of U.S. commercial and missionary interest, were under severe and steady pressure from the European powers and at times appeared to be on the verge of collapse. Europeans were expanding their political and economic control into the hearts of Africa and Eurasia. In the Western hemisphere, the European powers became increasingly involved in the internal affairs of Central America and South America.

A strong Navy would allow the United States to prevent European powers from threatening the United States or the Western Hemisphere and a renewed consensus began growing supporting the development of naval power. Among those who worked to shape this new Navy as an aggressive force to project American power were civilian leaders,

such as President Benjamin Harrison, William McKinley, and Theodore Roosevelt and, most notably, historian and former U.S. Navy Captain Alfred Thayer Mahan.

Spanish-American War

The U.S.S. Maine exploded in Havana Harbor at 9:40 p.m. on the night of 15 FEB 1898. Costing an impressive $2.5 million to build, the battleship Maine had been in commission for only 29 months and had originally been sent into Caribbean waters to prevent Americans from the Florida Keys, called “filibusterers,” from invading Cuba in support of the Cuban insurgents’ uprising there against Spanish imperial rule. The explosion took place as the sailors of the U.S. Navy aboard were retiring to their hammocks for the night, killing 266 of our men, out of a total crew of 392.

The destruction of the Maine was America’s first experience with faceless terrorism, and “Remember the Maine” became a naval, and American, battlecry in a Spanish-American War (1898-1899) which would redefine the new roles of the U.S. Navy.

Far in the Pacific, Rear Admiral George Dewey’s Asiatic Squadron quickly entered Manila Bay and annihilated the Spanish fleet. In the Atlantic, other Navy squadrons blockaded Spanish naval forces based in Cuba, and transported U.S. troops to the island. Ultimately the Navy destroyed Spanish naval power in the western Atlantic, sealing the fate of Spain’s now forgotten New World Empire.

After the Spanish-American War, the United States continued to expand its naval forces. In 1907 and 1908, President Theodore Roosevelt sent the Great White Fleet of sixteen new battleships on a global cruise to demonstrate U.S. naval power to the world, and especially to Japan. Under the Administrations of both Roosevelt and William H. Taft, the United States continued to build battleships. The U.S. Navy had become the Nation’s first line of defense, defending a line now drawn far from American shores. In 1914, when the Panama Canal finally opened, allowing our Atlantic and Pacific Fleets to become mutually reinforceable, World War I began in Europe.

WWI

The Great War threatened U.S. freedom of the seas, as German submarines struck at Allied and neutral shipping indiscriminately. Great Britain also exploited its control of the seas to the detriment of U.S. commerce. In 1916, increasingly frustrated, President Woodrow Wilson and the U.S. Congress responded to these actions by launching a massive naval building program designed to make the U.S. Navy second to none. The following year, when the Germans resumed unrestricted submarine warfare, the U.S. declared war on Germany. Wilson then sent the U.S. Navy and the American Expeditionary Forces across the Atlantic in a move that ensured Allied victory in 1918

A widespread desire to reduce military expenditures set into both the Democratic and Republican parties after World War I. This fiscal conservatism was coupled with a desire for disarmament and, while a series of naval treaties signed in Washington in 1923 ensured parity between the United States and Great Britain, they also provide

WWII

On December 7, 1941, without warning, Japanese carrier-based aircraft attacked the Pacific Fleet at Pearl Harbor. The Fleet’s battleline was all but incapacitated. On December 10, Hitler declared war on the United States and the country immediately faced a two-ocean war.

The initial phases of World War II went poorly for the United States, and especially the Navy. We were defeated in Bataan, and lost the Philippines. In the Atlantic, U-boats torpedoed Allied commercial shipping within sight of the eastern seaboard. Victory in the Battle of the Atlantic was essential if the manpower and the products of the U.S. arsenal of democracy were to be transported to Britain and brought to bear against the Axis.

By the middle of 1943 The U.S. and the Navy had largely controlled the U-boat threat through technological advances, code breaking, and the productive capacity of American shipyards, which turned out new destroyers, tankers, freighters, escorts, and patrol aircraft in huge numbers. Once the Atlantic shipping lanes were secure, the Navy was able to transfer huge land forces to Britain and North Africa which, along with air power, began to crack Hitler’s Fortress Europe with massive amphibious invasions supported by naval firepower, including assaults in

North Africa in November 1942, Sicily in July and Italy in September 1943 , and Normandy in June 1944. 150,000 troops landed on the beaches of Normandy on June 6,1944, the greatest sea-borne invasion of troops onto enemy-held territory in the history of the world.

In the Pacific the Navy threw itself into battle with the Imperial Japanese Fleet, gradually making up for the debacle at Pearl Harbor. With growing strength at hand, its two major commanders- Chester Nimitz and William “Bull” Halsey- opted to seek out a modern-day Trafalgar – a decisive, annihilative battle against the Japanese Navy. A series of carrier battles fought in 1942 in the Coral Sea, at Midway, and in the Solomon Islands turned the seemingly inexorable tide of the Japanese advance. Large-scale amphibious operations, part of an island-hopping strategy, supported by carrier-borne aviation, carried the Americans back across the Pacific.

By 1943, the Japanese Zero fighter had been far surpassed in quality and speed, by the United States Navy’s Grumman Hellcat. By 1944, U.S. Navy pilots were at the cutting edge of military airmen worldwide. By then, the Navy was rotating its experienced naval aviators every two years as trainers for new pilots, and our rawest airmen had at least two years of training and flying experience behind them. The Japanese, by comparison, were forced to fly their pilots, new, inexperienced recruits included, until they died in combat, as most of them did. In 1944 the Battles of the Philippine Sea and Leyte Gulf virtually ended the threat posed by Japan.

By 1945 the United States was closing in on Japan. U.S. Navy submarines had devastated the Japanese merchant marine and isolated the home islands from the Asian mainland. Amphibious forces seized Iwo Jima and Okinawa, strategically placed islands guarding the approaches to Japan itself. From bases in the the Marianas, USAAF B-29 heavy bombers pounded Japanese cities with massive incendiary raids. Strikes from U.S. Navy carriers, ranging along the eastern coast of the Japanese main island, Honshu, added to the destruction. By the time President Harry Truman ordered the dropping of atomic bombs on Hiroshima amd Nagasaki it was over. The Japanese officially surrendered on board the battleship U.S.S. Missouri anchored in Tokyo Bay on September 2, 1945. Pearl Harbor had been avenged.

Cold War

At the end of World War II, both the U.S. and the Navy found themselves almost immediately entering a Cold War with Stalin’s Soviet Union. Of all the Allied Powers during World War II, only the United States still possessed the economic strength to be a military leader during this struggle, perhaps the greatest struggle the Western world was about to face.

By 1949, the Navy had developed a foreword maritime strategy which would become the core of Allied conventional naval thinking throughout the Cold War. In the event of war, navy and Allied carriers would strike hard at Soviet naval and air bases around the periphery of the U.S.S.R. Amphibious units would reinforce threatened positions or retake lost ones, perhaps conducting raids or invasions against the Soviet Union itself. U.S. submarines, armed with advanced sonar and eventually powered by nuclear energy, would no longer stalk merchant ships, but would hunt down Soviet submarines as they left their ports, before they could reach Allied sea lanes of communication (SLOCs). The outbreak of war in Korea in June 1950 further strengthened the hands of U.S. navalists. Most notably during the carrier-supported Inchon amphibious assault of September 1950, the Navy demonstrated that conventional naval power still had an important role to play in the atomic age.

Both the second Truman Administration and the Eisenhower Administration, in an attempt to lower federal spending, often tried to “pick and choose” among the Service Branches, pitting one Branch against another, to find a Branch (or Branches) which could provide a “silver bullet” for military spending, in other words, a Branch which could provide a great national defense at a cheap price, vis-a-vis the other Branches. In these inter-service battles forced on the Branches by the politicians, the Navy always seemed to be shortchanged, as demonstrated by the cancellation of the carrier United States. Many high-ranking naval officers refused to quietly accept these decisions as they applied to naval force structures, during a period known as the revolt of the admirals. These were policies (both Democratic and Republican) which were bound to fail, and which did in fact fail. In the election campaign of 1960, Presidential candidate John F. Kennedy, a decorated World War II Navy hero, criticized the Eisenhower Administration for weakening America’s defense and foreign policies. It was a criticism and argument that resonated with the American public.

One of the carryovers of military policy from the Eisenhower era was the doctrine of sufficient deterrence based on massive nuclear retaliation by the United States. The Navy was therefore nuclearized, with missile guidance technology leading to the development of mobile, stealthy, and therefore survivable nuclear powered submarines (SSBNs) capable of launching intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) as well as shorter range nuclear tipped missiles (IRBMs), all later to be armed with multiple warheads (MIRVs).

The height of the Cold War, if not its climax, may have come in 1962 when President Kennedy sat in the White House. The year previous, Nikita Khruschev, the Chairman of the Central Committee of the Politbureau of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union, had taken Kennedy’s mettle in discussions over Berlin at Vienna, and found Kennedy ‘”inexperienced,” even though Kennedy had told Khruschev he would not hesitate to use nuclear weapons if the Soviets attempted to take over West Berlin by force. By 1962, Khruschev was placing intermediate range nuclear ballistic missiles in Castro’s Cuba, targeted at the mainland of the United States. Kennedy told him to take them out, or we would, regardless of the cost, and placed a unilateral naval blockade on Cuba, as to incoming Warsaw Pact ships. Just as the U.S. Navy was about to interdict the first Soviet ship to enter the blockade zone, the Soviets blinked, and removed the missiles, even though Fidel later told Barbara Walters in an exclusive interview in 2003 that he , Fidel, had asked Khruschev to fire the missiles at the U.S. rather than dismantle them.

If this was the climax of the Cold War, it was a climax which shortly became moot. With the advent of naval SSBNs on both sides, submarines capable of firing, from undisclosed locations close offshore, ballistic nuclear missiles into the heartlands of both protagonists, the U.S. and the U.S.S.R., the need to station land-based offensive nuclear weapons near the territory of the other side, became an obsolete, and unnecessary, proposition.

The Navy found itself playing a sizable role in the debacle that was known as the Vietnam War. Although military and naval patriots called for the use of greater firepower to be brought to bear against Communist North Vietnam, these cries went unacted on in a Washington still fearful of the Chinese invasion of Korea in 1950-51, and the threat of a nuclear conflagration. 16 North Vietnamese Divisions attacked Saigon prior to its fall in April, 1975. Nixon’s “Vietnamization” policy finally resulted in the fall of Saigon in April, 1975 to Communist forces, giving international communism and the Soviet empire an impetus they never had before on the world stage, an impetus it took the U.S. another 15 years to finally overcome definitively.

[Source: www.navyvets.org/id50.html Jun 2010 ++]

House

Of the 5916 House and 3654 Senate pieces of legislation introduced in the 111th Congress to date, the following House bills are of interest to the non-active duty veteran community. Bill titles in green (if any) are new additions to this summary, titles in orange have either passed either the House or Senate and been passed to the other for consideration or been incorporated into another bill, and those highlighted in blue have become public law. A good indication on the likelihood a bill of being forwarded to the House or Senate for passage and subsequently being signed into law by the President is the number of cosponsors who have signed onto the bill. An alternate way for it to become law is if it is added as an addendum to another bill such as the annual National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and survives the conference committee assigned to iron out the difference between the House and Senate bills. At http://thomas.loc.gov you can review a copy of each bill’s text, determine its current status, the committee it has been assigned to, who your representative is and his/her phone number, mailing address, or email/website to communicate with a message or letter of your own making, and if your legislator is a sponsor or cosponsor of it. To separately determine what bills, amendments your representative has sponsored, cosponsored, or dropped sponsorship on refer to http://thomas.loc.gov/bss/d111/sponlst.html. To review a numerical list of all bills introduced refer to http://thomas.loc.gov/bss/111search.html. The key to increasing cosponsorship is letting legislators know of their constituent’s views on issues. Those bills that include a website in red are being pushed by various veterans groups for passage and by clicking on that website you can forward a preformatted message to your legislator requesting he/she support the bill.

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H.R.23 : Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War II Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish the Merchant Mariner Equity Compensation Fund to provide benefits to certain individuals who served in the United States merchant marine (including the Army Transport Service and the Naval Transport Service) during World War II.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (168)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/13/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/naus/issues/alert/?alertid=12497121

________________________________________

H.R.32 : Veterans Outreach Improvement Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the outreach activities of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. Companion Bill S.315

Sponsor: Rep McIntyre, Mike [NC-7] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (41)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/28/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Provisions of measure

incorporated into H.R. 3949 .

________________________________________

H.R.33 : Disability Benefit Fairness Act of 2009 to amend title II of the Social Security Act to eliminate the 5-month waiting period for entitlement to disability benefits and to eliminate reconsideration as an intervening step between initial benefit entitlement decisions and subsequent hearings on the record on such decisions.

Sponsor: Rep McIntyre, Mike [NC-7] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

________________________________________

H.R.43 : Medicare Access to Rehabilitation Services Act of 2009 to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to repeal the Medicare outpatient rehabilitation therapy caps.

Sponsor: Rep Becerra, Xavier [CA-31] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (187) Related bill S.46

Committees: House Energy and Commerce; House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/moaa/issues/alert/?alertid=14486941&type=CO

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H.R.82 : Veterans Outreach Improvement Act of 2009 to expand retroactive eligibility of the Army Combat Action Badge to include members of the Army who participated in combat during which they personally engaged, or were personally engaged by, the enemy at any time on or after December 7, 1941.

Sponsor: Rep Brown-Waite, Ginny [FL-5] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (19)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 1/30/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.84 : Veterans Timely Access to Health Care Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish standards of access to care for veterans seeking health care from the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Brown-Waite, Ginny [FL-5] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/25/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.108 : Disabled Veterans Commissary and Exchange Store Benefits Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to extend military commissary and exchange store privileges to veterans with a compensable service-connected disability and to their dependents.

Sponsor: Rep Fortenberry, Jeff [NE-1] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (9)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 1/30/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.114 : Veterans Entrepreneurial Transition Business Benefit Act to allow veterans to elect to use, with the approval of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, certain financial educational assistance to establish and operate certain business, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Fortenberry, Jeff [NE-1] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/10/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee Hearings Held.

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H.R.147 : Designate a Portion of Tax Payment for Homeless Vets. To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow taxpayers to designate a portion of their income tax payment to provide assistance to homeless veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Israel, Steve [NY-2] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (91)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 3/4/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12922516&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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H.R.161 : Social Security Beneficiary Tax Reduction Act to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the 1993 increase in taxes on Social Security benefits.

Sponsor: Rep Paul, Ron [TX-14] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (7)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.162 : Senior Citizens’ Tax Elimination Act to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the inclusion in gross income of Social Security benefits.

Sponsor: Rep Paul, Ron [TX-14] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.174 : Colorado Vet Cemetery. To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a national cemetery for veterans in the southern Colorado region.

Sponsor: Rep Salazar, John T. [CO-3] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (7)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 11/3/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.177 : Depleted Uranium Screening and Testing Act to provide for identification of members of the Armed Forces exposed during military service to depleted uranium, to provide for health testing of such members, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Serrano, Jose E. [NY-16] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 1/30/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.190 : Veterans Health Equity Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to ensure that veterans in each of the 48 contiguous States are able to receive services in at least one full-service hospital of the Veterans Health Administration in the State or receive comparable services provided by contract in the State. Companion Bill S.239.

Sponsor: Rep Shea-Porter, Carol [NH-1] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on

Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.198 : Health Care Tax Deduction Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow a deduction for amounts paid for health insurance and prescription drug costs of individuals.

Sponsor: Rep Stearns, Cliff [FL-6] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.208 : National Guardsmen and Reservists Parity for Patriots Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to ensure that members of the reserve components of the Armed Forces who have served on active duty or performed active service since September 11, 2001, in support of a contingency operation or in other emergency situations receive credit for such service in determining eligibility for early receipt of non-regular service retired pay, and for other purposes. Companion Bill S.644.

Sponsor: Rep Wilson, Joe [SC-2] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (166)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 1/30/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/vfw/dbq/officials and /or http://capwiz.com/ngaus/mail/compose/?mailid=13672261&azip=92571&bzip=7311

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H.R.210 : Vet Cemetery South Carolina Land Acquisition Study. To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to conduct a study on the acquisition of a parcel of land adjacent to Beaufort National Cemetery, Beaufort, South Carolina.

Sponsor: Rep Wilson, Joe [SC-2] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.217 : Vet Cemetery South Carolina Land Acquisition Purchase. To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to acquire a parcel of land adjacent to Beaufort National Cemetery, Beaufort, South Carolina.

Sponsor: Rep Wilson, Joe [SC-2] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.228 : Visual Impairment VA Scholarship Program to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a scholarship program for students seeking a degree or certificate in the areas of visual impairment and orientation and mobility.

Sponsor: Rep Jackson-Lee, Sheila [TX-18] (introduced 1/7/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/28/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Provisions of measure incorporated into H.R. 3949 .

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H.R.236 : Social Security Protection Act to amend the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 to protect Social Security beneficiaries against any reduction in benefits.

Sponsor: Rep Brown-Waite, Ginny [FL-5] (introduced 1/7/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Rules; House Budget

Latest Major Action: 1/7/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Rules, and in addition to the Committee on the Budget, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.237 : Military Retiree Health Care Relief Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow a refundable credit to military retirees for premiums paid for coverage under Medicare Part B.

Sponsor: Rep Emerson, Jo Ann [MO-8] (introduced 1/7/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/7/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12921516&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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H.R.247 : Protect Our Veterans Memorials Act of 2009 to amend section 1369 of title 18, United States Code, to extend Federal jurisdiction over destruction of veterans’ memorials on State or local government property.

Sponsor: Rep Green, Gene [TX-29] (introduced 1/7/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 2/9/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security.

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H.R.270 : TRICARE Continuity of Coverage for National Guard and Reserve Families Act of 2009 to amend title 10, United States Code, to provide for continuity of TRICARE Standard coverage for certain members of the Retired Reserve. Companion Bill S.731.

Sponsor: Rep Latta, Robert E. [OH-5] (introduced 1/7/2009) Cosponsors (72)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 1/30/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12923561&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id] or http://www.ngaus.org/content.asp?bid=1805&False&False

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H.R.293 : Homeless Women Veteran and Homeless Veterans with Children Reintegration Grant Program Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Labor to carry out a grant program to provide reintegration services through programs and facilities that emphasize services for homeless women veterans and homeless veterans with children.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 1/8/2009) Cosponsors (15)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/8/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.294 : Veteran Owned Small Business Promotion Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the reauthorization of the Department of Veterans Affairs small business loan program, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 1/8/2009) Cosponsors (19)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 9/24/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.295 : More Jobs for Veterans Act of 2009 to authorize appropriations for the veterans’ workforce investment programs.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 1/8/2009) Cosponsors (11)

Committees: House Education and Labor

Latest Major Action: 3/16/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Higher Education, Lifelong Learning, and Competitiveness.

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H.R.296 : Armed Forces Disability Retirement Enhancement Act of 2009 to amend title 10, United States Code, to revise the process by which a member of the Armed Forces is retired for disability and becomes eligible for retirement pay, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 1/8/2009) Cosponsors (7)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 1/30/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.297 : Veteran Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Subsistence Allowance Improvement Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for an increase in the amount of subsistence allowance payable by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to veterans participating in vocational rehabilitation programs, and for other purposes. Companion Bill S.514

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 1/8/2009) Cosponsors (10)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/4/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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

Sponsor: Rep Bilirakis, Gus M. [FL-9] (introduced 1/8/2009) Cosponsors (134)

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/30/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.309 : American Heroes’ Homeownership Assistance Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow certain current and former service members to receive a refundable credit for the purchase of a principal residence.

Sponsor: Rep Bilirakis, Gus M. [FL-9] (introduced 1/8/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/8/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.333 : Disabled Veterans Tax Termination Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to permit retired members of the Armed Forces who have a service-connected disability rated less than 50 percent to receive concurrent payment of both retired pay and veterans’ disability compensation, to eliminate the phase-in period for concurrent receipt, to extend eligibility for concurrent receipt to chapter 61 disability retirees with less than 20 years of service, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Marshall, Jim [GA-8] (introduced 1/8/2009) Cosponsors (163)

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/6/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on

Military Personnel.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12406456&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id] and http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12888756

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H.R.341 : Suspend Limitations Period for Tax Refund on VA Retroactive Payments. To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to suspend the running of periods of limitation for credit or refund of overpayment of Federal income tax by veterans while their service-connected compensation determinations are pending with the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Platts, Todd Russell [PA-19] (introduced 1/8/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/8/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.347 : Congressional Gold Medal Award. To grant the congressional gold medal, collectively, to the 100th Infantry Battalion and the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, United States Army, in recognition of their dedicated service during World War II.

Sponsor: Rep Schiff, Adam B. [CA-29] (introduced 1/8/2009) Cosponsors (297) – Related bill S.1055

Committees: House Financial Services; House Administration

Latest Major Action: 5/18/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.

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H.R.379 : State and Local Sales Tax Deduction Expansion Act to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to ensure that all taxpayers have the ability to deduct State and local general sales taxes. Companion Bill S.35.

Sponsor: Rep Blackburn, Marsha [TN-7] (introduced 1/9/2009) Cosponsors (26)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/9/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.394 : Medal of Honor Pension. To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to increase the amount of the Medal of Honor special pension provided under that title by up to $1,000.

Sponsor: Rep Brown, Henry E., Jr. [SC-1] (introduced 1/9/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/9/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

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H.R.403 : Homes for Heroes Act of 2009 to provide housing assistance for very low-income veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Green, Al [TX-9] (introduced 1/9/2009) Cosponsors (41)

Committees: House Financial Services; House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 6/17/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.

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H.R.423 : Samuel B. Moody Bataan Death March Compensation Act to provide compensation for certain World War II veterans who survived the Bataan Death March and were held as prisoners of war by the Japanese.

Sponsor: Rep Mica, John L. [FL-7] (introduced 1/9/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 2/6/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.433 : Ready Employers Willing to Assist Reservists’ Deployment (REWARD) Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow employers a credit against income tax equal to 50 percent of the compensation paid to employees while they are performing active duty service as members of the Ready Reserve or the National Guard and of the compensation paid to temporary replacement employees.

Sponsor: Rep Poe, Ted [TX-2] (introduced 1/9/2009) Cosponsors (40)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/9/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.442 : Veterans’ Heritage Firearms Act of 2009 to provide an amnesty period during which veterans and their family members can register certain firearms in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Rehberg, Denny [MT] (introduced 1/9/2009) Cosponsors (196)

Committees: House Judiciary; House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 2/9/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security.

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H.R.449 : Health Care for America’s Heroes Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to expand the availability of health care provided by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs by adjusting the income level for certain priority veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Sestak, Joe [PA-7] (introduced 1/9/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/9/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.456 : Disabled Veteran Small Business Eligibility Expansion Act of 2009 to amend the Small Business Act to make service-disabled veterans eligible under the 8(a) business development program.

Sponsor: Rep Wittman, Robert J. [VA-1] (introduced 1/9/2009) Cosponsors (5)

Committees: House Small Business

Latest Major Action: 1/9/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Small Business.

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H.R.466 : Wounded Veteran Job Security Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to prohibit discrimination and acts of reprisal against persons who receive treatment for illnesses, injuries, and disabilities incurred in or aggravated by service in the uniformed services.

Sponsor: Rep Doggett, Lloyd [TX-25] (introduced 1/13/2009) Cosponsors (8)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/9/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.482 : Frank Buckles World War I Memorial Act to authorize the rededication of the District of Columbia War Memorial as a National and District of Columbia World War I Memorial to honor the sacrifices made by American veterans of World War I.

Sponsor: Rep Poe, Ted [TX-2] (introduced 1/13/2009) Cosponsors (51)

Committees: House Natural Resources

Latest Major Action: 2/4/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on

National Parks, Forests, and Public Lands.

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H.R.484 : Chiropractic Health Parity for Military Beneficiaries Act to require the Secretary of Defense to develop and implement a plan to provide chiropractic health care services and benefits for certain new beneficiaries as part of the TRICARE program.

Sponsor: Rep Rogers, Mike D. [AL-3] (introduced 1/13/2009) Cosponsors (46)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 2/6/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.531 : Social Security Number Fraudulent Use Notification Act of 2009 to amend title II of the Social Security Act to require that the Commissioner of Social Security notify individuals of improper use of their Social Security account numbers.

Sponsor: Rep Myrick, Sue Wilkins [NC-9] (introduced 1/14/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/14/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.568 : Veterans Health Care Quality Improvement Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the quality of care provided to veterans in Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities, to encourage highly qualified doctors to serve in hard-to-fill positions in such medical facilities, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Costello, Jerry F. [IL-12] (introduced 1/15/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Oversight and Government Reform

Latest Major Action: 1/15/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.593 : CRSC for DoD Disability Severances Pay. To amend title 10, United States Code, to expand the authorized concurrent receipt of disability severance pay from the Department of Defense and compensation for the same disability under any law administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs to cover all veterans who have a combat-related disability, as defined under section 1413a of such title.

Sponsor: Rep Smith, Adam [WA-9] (introduced 1/15/2009) Cosponsors (44)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 2/6/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12918951&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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H.R.612 : Disabled Veterans Insurance Act of 2009 to amend section 1922A of title 38, United States Code, to increase the amount of supplemental insurance available for totally disabled veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Jones, Walter B., Jr. [NC-3] (introduced 1/21/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/21/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.613 : Military Retiree Survivor Comfort Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to provide for forgiveness of certain overpayments of retired pay paid to deceased retired members of the Armed Forces following their death.

Sponsor: Rep Jones, Walter B., Jr. [NC-3] (introduced 1/21/2009) Cosponsors (63)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 2/6/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12489731&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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H.R.620 : Jobs for Veterans Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow an increased work opportunity credit with respect to recent veterans.

Sponsor: Rep King, Peter T. [NY-3] (introduced 1/21/2009) Cosponsors (14) Related Bill: H.R.4443

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/21/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.627 : Credit Cardholders’ Bill of Rights Act of 2009 to amend the Truth in Lending Act to establish fair and transparent practices relating to the extension of credit under an open end consumer credit plan, and for other purposes. Sponsor: Rep Maloney, Carolyn B. [NY-14] (introduced 1/22/2009) Cosponsors (128) Related Bill S.235 Companion Bill S.414 Committees: House Financial Services House Reports: 111-88 Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 111-24

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H.R.656 : Unemployed Early Retirement Plan Withdrawal without Penalty. To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow certain individuals who have attained age 50 and who are unemployed to receive distributions from qualified retirement plans without incurring a 10 percent additional tax.

Sponsor: Rep Platts, Todd Russell [PA-19] (introduced 1/22/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/22/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.667 : Heroes at Home Act of 2009 to improve the diagnosis and treatment of traumatic brain injury in members and former members of the Armed Forces, to review and expand telehealth and telemental health programs of the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Salazar, John T. [CO-3] (introduced 1/23/2009) Cosponsors (46)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 2/6/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.668 : Critical Access Hospital Flexibility Act of 2009 to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide flexibility in the manner in which beds are counted for purposes of determining whether a hospital may be designated as a critical access hospital under the Medicare Program and to exempt from the critical access hospital inpatient bed limitation the number of beds provided for certain veterans. Companion Bill S.307

Sponsor: Rep Walden, Greg [OR-2] (introduced 1/23/2009) Cosponsors (10)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/23/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.671 : In Memory Medal for Forgotten Veterans Act to direct the Secretary of Defense to issue a medal to certain veterans who died after their service in the Vietnam War as a direct result of that service.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 1/26/2009) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 2/6/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.731 : Jenny’s Law to amend title 38, United States Code, to exclude individuals who have been convicted of committing certain sex offenses from receiving certain burial-related benefits and funeral honors which are otherwise available to certain veterans, members of the Armed Forces, and related individuals, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Shadegg, John B. [AZ-3] (introduced 1/27/2009) Cosponsors (26)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/27/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.746 : Safeguarding America’s Seniors and Veterans Act of 2009 to provide for economic recovery payments to recipients of Social Security, railroad retirement, and veterans disability benefits.

Sponsor: Rep Adler, John H. [NJ-3] (introduced 1/28/2009) Cosponsors (11)

Committees: House Ways and Means; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/28/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Ways and Means, and in addition to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.761 : Parental Burial in National Cemeteries (Corey Shea Act). To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the eligibility of parents of certain deceased veterans for interment in national cemeteries.

Sponsor: Rep Frank, Barney [MA-4] (introduced 1/28/2009) Cosponsors (3) Related Bill H.R.3949

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/28/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Provisions of measure incorporated into H.R.3949 .

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H.R.775 : Military Surviving Spouses Equity Act to repeal the requirement for reduction of survivor annuities under the Survivor Benefit Plan to offset the receipt of veterans dependency and indemnity compensation. Sponsor: Rep Ortiz, Solomon P. [TX-27] (introduced 1/28/2009) Cosponsors (349) Companion Bill S.535 Committees: House Armed Services Latest Major Action: 3/15/2010 Motion to Discharge Committee filed by Mr. Jones. Petition No: 111-10. To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12541746 To support the Discharge Petition send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=14825891&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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H.R.784 : VA Reports to Congress. To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to submit to Congress quarterly reports on vacancies in mental health professional positions in Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities.

Sponsor: Rep Tsongas, Niki [MA-5] (introduced 1/28/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/3/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.785 : VA Outreach Training. To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program to

provide outreach and training to certain college and university mental health centers relating to the mental health of veterans of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, and for other purposes. Companion Bill S.543

Sponsor: Rep Tsongas, Niki [MA-5] (introduced 1/28/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/3/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.806 : TRICARE Mail-Order Pharmacy Pilot Program Act to establish a mail-order pharmacy pilot program for TRICARE beneficiaries.

Sponsor: Rep Bilirakis, Gus M. [FL-9] (introduced 2/3/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 2/24/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.809 : Widow Remarriage Age Decrease for DIC. To amend title 38, United States Code, to reduce from age 57 to age 55 the age after which the remarriage of the surviving spouse of a deceased veteran shall not result in termination of dependency and indemnity compensation otherwise payable to that surviving spouse.

Sponsor: Rep Bilirakis, Gus M. [FL-9] (introduced 2/3/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/3/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/moaa/issues/bills/?bill=12993371

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H.R.811 : Retired Pay Restoration Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to permit certain retired members of the uniformed services who have a service-connected disability to receive both disability compensation from the Department of Veterans Affairs for their disability and either retired pay by reason of their years of military service or Combat-Related Special Compensation. Companion Bill S.546

Sponsor: Rep Bilirakis, Gus M. [FL-9] (introduced 2/3/2009) Cosponsors (6)

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/24/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.816 : Military Retirees Health Care Protection Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to prohibit certain increases in fees for military health care.

Sponsor: Rep Edwards, Chet [TX-17] (introduced 2/3/2009) Cosponsors (199)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 2/24/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12591151&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id] or http://capwiz.com/moaa/issues/bills/?bill=12603596 or http://capwiz.com/naus/issues/alert/?alertid=12607551 or http://capwiz.com/trea/issues/alert/?alertid=12710751

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H.R.819 : POW DIC Eligibility Date. To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the payment of dependency and indemnity compensation to the survivors of former prisoners of war who died on or before September 30, 1999, under the same eligibility conditions as apply to payment of dependency and indemnity compensation to the survivors of former prisoners of war who die after that date.

Sponsor: Rep Holden, Tim [PA-17] (introduced 2/3/2009) Cosponsors (17)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/3/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.870 : Medicare Medically Necessary Dental Care Act of 2009 to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide for coverage under part B for medically necessary dental procedures.

Sponsor: Rep Cohen, Steve [TN-9] (introduced 2/4/2009) Cosponsors (17)

Committees: House Energy and Commerce; House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 2/4/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.879 : Affordable Health Care Expansion Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow individuals a refundable credit against income tax for the purchase of private health insurance.

Sponsor: Rep Granger, Kay [TX-12] (introduced 2/4/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 2/4/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.883 : Social Security 1993 Tax Increase Repeal. To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the 1993 increase in income taxes on Social Security benefits.

Sponsor: Rep King, Peter T. [NY-3] (introduced 2/4/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 2/4/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.917 : Combat-Related Injury Death Dependent Health Benefits. To increase the health benefits of dependents of members of the Armed Forces who die because of a combat-related injury.

Sponsor: Rep Guthrie, Brett [KY-2] (introduced 2/9/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.919 : Veterans’ Medical Personnel Recruitment and Retention Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to enhance the capacity of the Department of Veterans Affairs to recruit and retain nurses and other critical health-care professionals, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Johnson, Eddie Bernice [TX-30] (introduced 2/9/2009) Cosponsors (7)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/9/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.929 : VA Vet Training Program. To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a program of training to provide eligible veterans with skills relevant to the job market, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Welch, Peter [VT] (introduced 2/9/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/15/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee (Amended) by Voice Vote .________________________________________

H.R.931 : Veterans Employment Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow the work opportunity credit with respect to certain unemployed veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Nye, Glenn C., III [VA-2] (introduced 2/10/2009) Cosponsors (None) Related bill: H.R.4443

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 2/10/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.942 : Veterans Self-Employment Act of 2009 to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to conduct a pilot project on the use of educational assistance under programs of the Department of Veterans Affairs to defray training costs associated with the purchase of certain franchise enterprises.

Sponsor: Rep Alexander, Rodney [LA-5] (introduced 2/10/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/3/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee (Amended) by Voice Vote .

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H.R.944 : Prisoner of War Benefits Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide improved benefits for veterans who are former prisoners of war.

Sponsor: Rep Bilirakis, Gus M. [FL-9] (introduced 2/10/2009) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/10/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.950 : Vet Distance Learning Assistance. To amend chapter 33 of title 38, United States Code, to increase educational assistance for certain veterans pursuing a program of education offered through distance learning.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 2/10/2009) Cosponsors (28)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/4/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Ordered to be Reported (Amended) by Voice Vote.

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H.R.952 : Compensation Owed for Mental Health Based on Activities in Theater Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to clarify the meaning of “combat with the enemy” for purposes of service-connection of disabilities.

Sponsor: Rep Hall, John J. [NY-19] (introduced 2/10/2009) Cosponsors (95)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/10/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Ordered to be Reported (Amended) by Voice Vote.

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H.R.953 : Veterans Travel Tax Relief Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide for a deduction for travel expenses to medical centers of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with examinations or treatments relating to service-connected disabilities.

Sponsor: Rep Heller, Dean [NV-2] (introduced 2/10/2009) Cosponsors (68)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 2/10/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.954 : Social Security Benefits Fairness Act of 2009 to amend title II of the Social Security Act to provide that a monthly insurance benefit thereunder shall be paid for the month in which the recipient dies,

subject to a reduction of 50 percent if the recipient dies during the first 15 days of such month, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Holden, Tim [PA-17] (introduced 2/10/2009) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 2/10/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.972 : Retired Reserve Age for Health Benefits. To amend title 10, United States Code, to eliminate the requirement that certain former members of the reserve components of the Armed Forces be at least 60 years of age in order to be eligible to receive health care benefits.

Sponsor: Rep Wilson, Joe [SC-2] (introduced 2/10/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 3/17/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/moaa/issues/bills/?bill=12992881

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H.R.1004 : Veterans Health Care Full Funding Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide an enhanced funding process to ensure an adequate level of funding for veterans health care programs of the Department of Veterans Affairs, to establish standards of access to care for veterans seeking health care from the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Smith, Christopher H. [NJ-4] (introduced 2/11/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/11/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.1016 : Veterans Health Care Budget Reform and Transparency Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide advance appropriations authority for certain medical care accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 2/12/2009) Cosponsors (125) Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs House Reports: 111-171 Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 111-81 To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12704096

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H.R.1017 : Chiropractic Care Available to All Veterans Act to amend the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Programs Enhancement Act of 2001 and title 38, United States Code, to require the provision of chiropractic care and services to veterans at all Department of Veterans Affairs medical centers and to expand access to such care and services.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 2/12/2009) Cosponsors (37) Related bill S.1204

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/25/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.1034 : Honor and Remember Flag. To amend title 36, United States Code, to designate the Honor and Remember Flag created by Honor and Remember, Inc., as an official symbol to recognize and honor members of the Armed Forces who died in the line of duty, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Forbes, J. Randy [VA-4] (introduced 2/12/2009) Cosponsors (20)

Committees: House Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 3/16/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on the Constitution, Civil Rights, and Civil Liberties.

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H.R.1036 : Veterans Physical Therapy Services Improvement Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish the position of Director of Physical Therapy Service within the Veterans Health Administration and to establish a fellowship program for physical therapists in the areas of geriatrics, amputee rehabilitation, polytrauma care, and rehabilitation research.

Sponsor: Rep Herseth Sandlin, Stephanie [SD] (introduced 2/12/2009) Cosponsors (29)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/1/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.1037 : Pilot College Work Study Programs for Veterans Act of 2009 to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to conduct a five-year pilot project to test the feasibility and advisability of expanding the scope of certain qualifying work-study activities under title 38, United States Code.

Sponsor: Rep Herseth Sandlin, Stephanie [SD] (introduced 2/12/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

House Reports: 111-162 Latest Major 10/7/2009 Passed/agreed to in Senate. Status: Passed Senate with an amendment by Unanimous Consent.

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H.R.1038 : Shingles Prevention Act to amend part B of title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide coverage for the shingles vaccine under the Medicare Program.

Sponsor: Rep Hirono, Mazie K. [HI-2] (introduced 2/12/2009) Cosponsors (12)

Committees: House Energy and Commerce; House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 2/12/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.1042 : Enemy POW Hospitalization Policy. To prohibit the provision of medical treatment to enemy combatants detained by the United States at Naval Station, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, in the same facility as a member of the Armed Forces or Department of Veterans Affairs medical facility.

Sponsor: Rep Miller, Jeff [FL-1] (introduced 2/12/2009) Cosponsors (9)

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/13/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.1075 : Restoring Essential Care for Our Veterans for Effective Recovery (RECOVER) Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to expand access to hospital care for veterans in major disaster areas, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Scalise, Steve [LA-1] (introduced 2/13/2009) Cosponsors (19)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/25/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.1088 : Mandatory Veteran Specialist Training Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for a one-year period for the training of new disabled veterans’ outreach program specialists and local

veterans’ employment representatives by National Veterans’ Employment and Training Services Institute.

Sponsor: Rep Herseth Sandlin, Stephanie [SD] (introduced 2/13/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/20/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.1089 : Veterans Employment Rights to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the enforcement through the Office of Special Counsel of the employment and unemployment rights of veterans and members of the Armed Forces employed by Federal executive agencies, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Herseth Sandlin, Stephanie [SD] (introduced 2/13/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/20/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.1098 : Veterans’ Worker Retraining Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to increase the amount of educational assistance payable by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to certain individuals pursuing internships or on-job training.

Sponsor: Rep Perriello, Thomas S.P. [VA-5] (introduced 2/13/2009) Cosponsors (12)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/10/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Ordered to be Reported (Amended) by Voice Vote.

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H.R.1114 : National Cemetery Availability. To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a process for determining whether a geographic area is sufficiently served by the national cemeteries located in that geographic area.

Sponsor: Rep Rehberg, Denny [MT] (introduced 2/23/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/23/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.1163 : Establish Nebraska National Cemetery. To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a national cemetery in the Sarpy County region to serve veterans in eastern Nebraska, western Iowa, and northwest Missouri.

Sponsor: Rep Terry, Lee [NE-2] (introduced 2/24/2009) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 2/24/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.1168 : Veterans Retraining Act of 2009 to amend chapter 42 of title 38, United States Code, to provide certain veterans with employment training assistance.

Sponsor: Rep Boozman, John [AR-3] (introduced 2/25/2009) Cosponsors (5)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 11/3/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.1169 : VA Adapted Housing/Automobile Assistance. To amend title 38, United States Code, to increase the amount of assistance provided by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to disabled veterans for specially

adapted housing and automobiles and adapted equipment.

Sponsor: Rep Boozman, John [AR-3] (introduced 2/25/2009) Cosponsors (8)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/4/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Ordered to be Reported by Voice Vote.

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H.R.1170 : Adapted Housing Technology Grants. To amend chapter 21 of title 38, United States Code, to establish a grant program to encourage the development of new assistive technologies for specially adapted housing.

Sponsor: Rep Boozman, John [AR-3] (introduced 2/25/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/20/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.1171 : Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program Reauthorization Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to reauthorize the Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program for fiscal years 2010 through 2014.

Sponsor: Rep Boozman, John [AR-3] (introduced 2/25/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/31/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.1172 : VA Website Scholarship Info Addition. To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to include on the Internet website of the Department of Veterans Affairs a list of organizations that provide scholarships to veterans and their survivors.

Sponsor: Rep Boozman, John [AR-3] (introduced 2/25/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

House Reports: 111-164 Latest Major Action: 6/24/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.1182 : Military Spouses Residency Relief Act to amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to guarantee the equity of spouses of military personnel with regard to matters of residency, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Carter, John R. [TX-31] (introduced 2/25/2009) Cosponsors (208)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/8/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote .

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H.R.1197 : Medal of Honor Health Care Equity Act of 2009 to assign a higher priority status for hospital care and medical services provided through the Department of Veterans Affairs to certain veterans who are recipients of the medal of honor.

Sponsor: Rep Mitchell, Harry E. [AZ-5] (introduced 2/25/2009) Cosponsors (15)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/9/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote.

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H.R.1203 : Federal and Military Retiree Health Care Equity Act to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow Federal civilian and military retirees to pay health insurance premiums on a pretax basis and to

allow a deduction for TRICARE supplemental premiums. Companion Bill S.491

Sponsor: Rep Van Hollen, Chris [MD-8] (introduced 2/25/2009) Cosponsors (215)

Committees: House Ways and Means; House Oversight and Government Reform; House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/26/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Federal Workforce, Post Office, and the District of Columbia.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12787701&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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H.R.1211: Women Veterans Health Care Improvement Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and improve health care services available to women veterans, especially those serving in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, from the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. Companion Bill S.597

Sponsor: Rep Herseth Sandlin, Stephanie [SD] (introduced 2/26/2009) Cosponsors (51)

House Reports: 111-165 Latest Major Action: 6/24/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12833716&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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H.R.1232 : Far South Texas Veterans Medical Center Act of 2009 to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to construct a full service hospital in Far South Texas.

Sponsor: Rep Ortiz, Solomon P. [TX-27] (introduced 2/26/2009) Cosponsors (6)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/26/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.1263 : Federal Retirement Reform Act of 2009 to amend title 5, United States Code, to provide for the automatic enrollment of new participants in the Thrift Savings Plan, and to clarify the method for computing certain annuities based on part-time service; to allow certain employees of the District of Columbia to have certain periods of service credited for purposes relating to retirement eligibility; and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Lynch, Stephen F. [MA-9] (introduced 3/3/2009) Cosponsors (5)

Committees: House Oversight and Government Reform; House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 3/3/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.1289 : Social Security Fairness for the Terminally Ill Act of 2009 to amend title II of the Social Security Act to eliminate the five-month waiting period in the disability insurance program, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Wilson, Charles A. [OH-6] (introduced 3/3/2009) Cosponsors (14)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 3/3/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.1293 : Disabled Veterans Home Improvement and Structural Alteration Grant Increase Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for an increase in the amount payable by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to veterans for improvements and structural alterations furnished as part of home health services.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 3/4/2009) Cosponsors (16)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/29/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.1305 : Perpetual Purple Heart Stamp Act to provide for the issuance of a forever stamp to honor the sacrifices of the brave men and women of the armed forces who have been awarded the Purple Heart. Companion Bill S.572

Sponsor: Rep King, Peter T. [NY-3] (introduced 3/4/2009) Cosponsors (83)

Committees: House Oversight and Government Reform

Latest Major Action: 3/4/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.

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H.R.1317 : Mortgage Payment Tax Credit. To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide a tax credit to individuals who pay their mortgages on time.

Sponsor: Rep Shuster, Bill [PA-9] (introduced 3/4/2009) Cosponsors (14)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 3/4/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.1335 : VA Catastrophically Disabled Copay. To amend title 38, United States Code, to prohibit the Secretary of Veterans Affairs from collecting certain copayments from veterans who are catastrophically disabled.

Sponsor: Rep Halvorson, Deborah L. [IL-11] (introduced 3/5/2009) Cosponsors (40)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/9/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee (Amended) by Voice Vote.

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H.R.1336 : Veterans Education Improvement Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain improvements in the basic educational assistance program administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Herseth Sandlin, Stephanie [SD] (introduced 3/5/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1377 : VA Emergency Treatment Reimbursement to amend title 38, United States Code, to expand veteran eligibility for reimbursement by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs for emergency treatment furnished in a non-Department facility, and for other purposes. Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 3/6/2009) Cosponsors (2) Companion Bill S.404. Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 111-137

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H.R.1388 : Generations Invigorating Volunteerism and Education (GIVE) Act to reauthorize and reform the national service laws. Passed 321-105 and placed on the Senate calendar. Sponsor: Rep McCarthy, Carolyn [NY-4] (introduced 3/9/2009) Cosponsors (37) Related Bills: H.RES.250, H.RES.296, S.277 Committees: House Education and Labor, House Reports: 111-37 Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 111-13

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H.R.1401 : VET Corps Act of 2009 to create a service corps of veterans called Veterans Engaged for Tomorrow (VET) Corps focused on promoting and improving the service opportunities for veterans and retired members of the military by engaging such veterans and retired members in projects designed to meet identifiable public needs with a specific emphasis on projects to support veterans, including disabled and older veterans and retired members of the military.

Sponsor: Rep Sarbanes, John P. [MD-3] (introduced 3/9/2009) Cosponsors (14)

Committees: House Education and Labor

Latest Major Action: 4/29/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Healthy Families and Communities.

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H.R.1416 : Southern New Jersey Veterans Comprehensive Health Care Act to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to expand the capability of the Department of Veterans Affairs to provide for the medical-care needs of veterans in southern New Jersey.

Sponsor: Rep LoBiondo, Frank A. [NJ-2] (introduced 3/10/2009) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/13/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.1428 : VA Parkinson’s Disease Compensation. To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide wartime disability compensation for certain veterans with Parkinson’s disease.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 3/11/2009) Cosponsors (84)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/13/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12986021&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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H.R.1474 : Servicemembers Access to Justice Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the enforcement of the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act of 1994, and for other purposes. Companion Bill S.263.

Sponsor: Rep Davis, Artur [AL-7] (introduced 3/12/2009) Cosponsors (28)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Armed Services; House Oversight and Government Reform

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1478 : Carmelo Rodriguez Military Medical Accountability Act of 2009 to amend chapter 171 of title 28, United States Code, to allow members of the Armed Forces to sue the United States for damages for certain injuries caused by improper medical care, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Hinchey, Maurice D. [NY-22] (introduced 3/12/2009) Cosponsors (12)

Committees: House Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 4/26/2010 Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 267.

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H.R.1496 : Child Health Care Affordability Act to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow individuals a credit against income tax for medical expenses for dependents.

Sponsor: Rep Paul, Ron [TX-14] (introduced 3/12/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 3/12/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on

Ways and Means.

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H.R.1513 : Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2009 to increase, effective as of December 1, 2009, the rates of disability compensation for veterans with service-connected disabilities and the rates of dependency and indemnity compensation for survivors of certain service-connected disabled veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Kirkpatrick, Ann [AZ-1] (introduced 3/16/2009) Cosponsors (10) Related bill S.407

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/31/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=13048376&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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H.R.1519 : Social Security Benefits Tax Relief Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the 1993 income tax increase on Social Security benefits.

Sponsor: Rep Johnson, Sam [TX-3] (introduced 3/16/2009) Cosponsors (8)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 3/16/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.1522 : United States Cadet Nurse Corps Equity Act to provide that service of the members of the organization known as the United States Cadet Nurse Corps during World War II constituted active military service for purposes of laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Lowey, Nita M. [NY-18] (introduced 3/16/2009) Cosponsors (25)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 5/22/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.1532 : CMOH Statute of Limitations Elimination. To amend title 10, United States Code, to eliminate the statute of limitations on the award of the congressional medal of honor.

Sponsor: Rep Sestak, Joe [PA-7] (introduced 3/16/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1544 : Veterans Mental Health Accessibility Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for unlimited eligibility for health care for mental illnesses for veterans of combat service during certain periods of hostilities and war.

Sponsor: Rep Driehaus, Steve [OH-1] (introduced 3/17/2009) Cosponsors (7)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/17/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.1546 : Caring for Veterans with Traumatic Brain Injury Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish the Committee on Care of Veterans with Traumatic Brain Injury.

Sponsor: Rep McNerney, Jerry [CA-11] (introduced 3/17/2009) Cosponsors (8)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/9/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee

to Full Committee by Voice Vote .

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H.R.1592 : Pay Increase Guarantee. To amend title 37, United States Code, to guarantee a pay increase for members of the uniformed services for fiscal years 2011 through 2014 of one-half of one percentage point higher than the Employment Cost Index.

Sponsor: Rep Bilirakis, Gus M. [FL-9] (introduced 3/18/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/moaa/issues/bills/?bill=13002241

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H.R.1600 : TRICARE Autism Care. To amend title 10, United States Code, to provide for the treatment of autism under TRICARE.

Sponsor: Rep Sestak, Joe [PA-7] (introduced 3/18/2009) Cosponsors (23)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1647 : Veterans’ Employment Transition Support Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow employers a credit against income tax for hiring veterans.

Sponsor: Rep McCotter, Thaddeus G. [MI-11] (introduced 3/19/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 3/19/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.1657 : Notification of Exposure to Harmful Material/Contaminants. To direct the Secretary of Defense to notify members of the Armed Forces and State military departments of exposure to potentially harmful materials and contaminants.

Sponsor: Rep Schrader, Kurt [OR-5] (introduced 3/19/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1658 : Veterans Healthcare Commitment Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to prohibit the recovery by the United States of charges from a third party for hospital care or medical services furnished to a veteran for a service-connected disability.

Sponsor: Rep Tiahrt, Todd [KS-4] (introduced 3/19/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/19/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.1681 : Veterans Transitional Assistance Act of 2009 to improve the coordination between the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs to better provide care to members and the Armed Forces and veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Boswell, Leonard L. [IA-3] (introduced 3/24/2009) Cosponsors (17)

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1694 : Revolutionary War and War of 1812 Battlefield Protection Act to authorize the acquisition and protection of nationally significant battlefields and associated sites of the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812 under the American Battlefield Protection Program.

Sponsor: Rep Holt, Rush D. [NJ-12] (introduced 3/24/2009) Cosponsors (12) Related Bill S.1168

Committees: House Natural Resources; Senate Energy and Natural Resources

Latest Major Action: 3/2/2010 Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 302.

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H.R.1695 : Reserve Retired Pay Age Reduction. To amend title 10, United States Code, to reduce the minimum age for receipt of military retired pay for non-regular service from 60 to 55.

Sponsor: Rep LoBiondo, Frank A. [NJ-2] (introduced 3/24/2009) Cosponsors (49)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1701 : PTSD/TBI Guaranteed Review For Heroes Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Defense to establish a special review board for certain former members of the Armed Forces with post-traumatic stress disorder or a traumatic brain injury, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Jones, Walter B., Jr. [NC-3] (introduced 3/25/2009) Cosponsors (11)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1708 : Ending the Medicare Disability Waiting Period Act of 2009 to amend title II of the Social Security Act to phase out the 24-month waiting period for disabled individuals to become eligible for Medicare benefits, to eliminate the waiting period for individuals with life-threatening conditions, and for other purposes. Companion Bill S.700.

Sponsor: Rep Green, Gene [TX-29] (introduced 3/25/2009) Cosponsors (111)

Committees: House Ways and Means; House Energy and Commerce; House Transportation and Infrastructure

Latest Major Action: 3/26/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials.

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H.R.1712 : Savings for Seniors Act of 2009 to amend title II of the Social Security Act to establish a Social Security Surplus Protection Account in the Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund to hold the Social Security surplus, to provide for suspension of investment of amounts held in the Account until enactment of legislation providing for investment of the Trust Fund in investment vehicles other than obligations of the United States, and to establish a Social Security Investment Commission to make recommendations for alternative forms of investment of the Social Security surplus in the Trust Fund.

Sponsor: Rep Blackburn, Marsha [TN-7] (introduced 3/25/2009) Cosponsors (22)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 3/25/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.1716 : Property Tax Relief Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow the deduction for real property taxes on the principal residences to all individuals whether or not they itemize other deductions.

Sponsor: Rep Hill, Baron P. [IN-9] (introduced 3/25/2009) Cosponsors (12)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 3/25/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.1767 : Fair Housing Tax Credit Extension Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to make the first-time homebuyer credit retroactive to the beginning of 2008 and to permanently extend the credit.

Sponsor: Rep Paul, Ron [TX-14] (introduced 3/26/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 3/26/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.1804 : Federal Retirement Reform Act of 2009 to amend title 5, United States Code, to make certain modifications in the Thrift Savings Plan, the Civil Service Retirement System, and the Federal Employees’ Retirement System, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Towns, Edolphus [NY-10] (introduced 3/31/2009) Cosponsors (4) Related Bill H.R.108

Committees: House Oversight and Government Reform; House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/2/2009 Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 307 , H.R. 1804 is laid on the table.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=13048556&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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H.R.1809 : TRICARE Prime Geographic Expansion. To amend title 10, United States Code, to expand the geographical coverage of TRICARE Prime to include Puerto Rico and Guam.

Sponsor: Rep Pierluisi, Pedro R. [PR] (introduced 3/31/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1818 : Disabled Veterans Commissary and Exchange Store Benefits Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to extend military commissary and exchange store privileges to veterans with a compensable service-connected disability and to their dependents.

Sponsor: Rep Burton, Dan [IN-5] (introduced 3/31/2009) Cosponsors (18)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1849 : World War I Memorial and Centennial Act of 2009 to designate the Liberty Memorial at the National World War I Museum in Kansas City, Missouri, as the National World War I Memorial, to establish the World War I centennial commission to ensure a suitable observance of the centennial of World War I, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Cleaver, Emanuel [MO-5] (introduced 4/1/2009) Cosponsors (101) Related Bill S.760

Committees: House Oversight and Government Reform; House Natural Resources

Latest Major Action: 11/6/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.

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H.R.1851 : DOL Transitional Services. To amend title 10, United States Code, to require that certain members of the Armed Forces receive employment assistance, job training assistance, and other transitional services provided by the Secretary of Labor before separating from active duty service.

Sponsor: Rep Herseth Sandlin, Stephanie [SD] (introduced 4/1/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1872 : Secure Electronic Military Separation Act to require the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, to develop and implement a secure electronic method of forwarding the Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty (DD Form 214) to the appropriate office of the Department of Veterans Affairs for the State or other locality in which a member of the Armed Forces will first reside after the discharge or release of the member from active duty.

Sponsor: Rep Space, Zachary T. [OH-18] (introduced 4/2/2009) Cosponsors (14)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1879 : National Guard Employment Protection Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for employment and reemployment rights for certain individuals ordered to full-time National Guard duty.

Sponsor: Rep Coffman, Mike [CO-6] (introduced 4/2/2009) Cosponsors (20)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/10/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Ordered to be Reported (Amended) by Voice Vote.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via www.ngaus.org/content.asp?bid=1805

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H.R.1902 : Providing Real Outreach for Veterans Act of 2009 to provide veterans with individualized notice about available benefits, to streamline application processes for the benefits, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Brown-Waite, Ginny [FL-5] (introduced 4/2/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1919 : Federal Withholding Tax Repeal Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the withholding of income and social security taxes.

Sponsor: Rep Foxx, Virginia [NC-5] (introduced 4/2/2009) Cosponsors (12)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 4/2/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.1963 : Military Separation Transitional Services. To amend title 10, United States Code, to ensure that members of the Armed Forces who are being separated from active duty receive comprehensive employment assistance, job training assistance, and other transitional services, to require that such members receive a psychological evaluation in addition to the physical examination they receive as part of their separation from active duty, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Rangel, Charles B. [NY-15] (introduced 4/2/2009) Cosponsors (10)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1982 : Veterans Entitlement to Service (VETS) Act of 2009 to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs

to acknowledge the receipt of medical, disability, and pension claims and other communications submitted by veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Kilpatrick, Carolyn C. [MI-13] (introduced 4/21/2009) Cosponsors (9)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/22/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.1994 : Citizen Soldier Equality Act of 2009 to amend title 10, United States Code, to provide equity between active and reserve component members of the Armed Forces in the computation of disability retired pay for members wounded in action.

Sponsor: Rep Davis, Geoff [KY-4] (introduced 4/21/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/21/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Armed Services.

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H.R.2014 : WASP Gold Medal Award. To award a congressional gold medal to the Women Airforce Service Pilots (“WASP”).

Sponsor: Rep Ros-Lehtinen, Ileana [FL-18] (introduced 4/21/2009) Cosponsors (337) Companion Bill S.614

Committees: House Financial Services; House Administration

Latest Major Action: 4/21/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Financial Services, and in addition to the Committee on House Administration, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.2017 : MOAA Federal Charter. To amend title 36, United States Code, to grant a Federal charter to the Military Officers Association of America, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Van Hollen, Chris [MD-8] (introduced 4/21/2009) Cosponsors (140) Companion Bill S.832 Related Bill S.1449

Committees: House Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 5/26/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Immigration, Citizenship, Refugees, Border Security, and International Law.

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H.R.2059 : SBP Disabled Child Trust. To amend title 10, United States Code, to provide for the payment of monthly annuities under the Survivor Benefit Plan to a supplemental or special needs trust established for the sole benefit of a disabled dependent child of a participant in the Survivor Benefit Plan.

Sponsor: Rep Foster, Bill [IL-14] (introduced 4/23/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 5/15/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.2127 : Veterans Travel Equity Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to eliminate the income eligibility and service-connected disability rating requirements for the veterans beneficiary travel program administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Souder, Mark E. [IN-3] (introduced 4/27/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/1/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.2138 : Services, Education, and Rehabilitation for Veterans Act to provide grants to establish veteran’s treatment courts.

Sponsor: Rep Kennedy, Patrick J. [RI-1] (introduced 4/28/2009) Cosponsors (34) Related Bill S.902

Committees: House Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 5/26/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Courts and Competition Policy.

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H.R.2180 : Disabled Vet Housing Loan Fee Waiver. To amend title 38, United States Code, to waive housing loan fees for certain veterans with service-connected disabilities called to active service.

Sponsor: Rep Teague, Harry [NM-2] (introduced 4/29/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

House Reports: 111-163 Latest Major Action: 6/18/2009 Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 81.

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H.R.2243 : Surviving Spouses Benefit Improvement Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for an increase in the amount of monthly dependency and indemnity compensation payable to surviving spouses by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 5/5/2009) Cosponsors (77)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/8/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=13303636&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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H.R.2244 : Single Parent Protection Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow an individual who is entitled to receive child support a refundable credit equal to the amount of unpaid child support and to increase the tax liability of the individual required to pay such support by the amount of the unpaid child support.

Sponsor: Rep Lofgren, Zoe [CA-16] (introduced 5/5/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 5/5/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.2254 : The Agent Orange Equity Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to clarify presumptions relating to the exposure of certain veterans who served in the vicinity of the Republic of Vietnam. Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 5/5/2009) Cosponsors (257) Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs Latest Major Action: 5/8/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs. To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=13301656&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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H.R.2257 : Veterans Outreach Improvement Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the outreach activities of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Johnson, Eddie B [TX-30] (introduced 5/5/2009) Cosponsors (None) – Related Bill S.315

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/5/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on

Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.2263 : Disability Equity Act to amend title II of the Social Security Act to eliminate the waiting periods for people with disabilities for entitlement to disability benefits and Medicare, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Sutton, Betty [OH-13] (introduced 5/5/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 5/5/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.2270 : Benefits for Qualified World War II Veterans Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the establishment of a compensation fund to make payments to qualified World War II veterans on the basis of certain qualifying service.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 5/6/2009) Cosponsors (6)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/3/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote .

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H.R.2302 : Military Retired Pay Fairness Act of 2009 to amend title 10, United States Code, to limit recoupments of separation pay, special separation benefits, and voluntary separation incentive from members of the Armed Forces subsequently receiving retired or retainer pay.

Sponsor: Rep Shea-Porter, Carol [NH-1] (introduced 5/7/2009) Cosponsors (5) Companion bill S.1008

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/8/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=13682556&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id] or http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=13967481&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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H.R.2342 : Wounded Warrior Project Family Caregiver Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a family caregiver program to furnish support services to family members certified as family caregivers who provide personal care services for certain disabled veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Michaud, Michael H. [ME-2] (introduced 5/11/2009) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/15/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.2365 : Consumer Price Index for Elderly Consumers Act of 2009 to require the establishment of a Consumer Price Index for Elderly Consumers to compute cost-of-living increases for Social Security and Medicare benefits under titles II and XVIII of the Social Security Act.

Sponsor: Rep DeFazio, Peter A. [OR-4] (introduced 5/12/2009) Cosponsors (62)

Committees: House Ways and Means; House Energy and Commerce; House Education and Labor

Latest Major Action: 5/12/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Ways and Means, and in addition to the Committees on Energy and Commerce, and Education and Labor, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.2379 : Veterans’ Group Life Insurance Improvement Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide certain veterans an opportunity to increase the amount of Veterans’ Group Life Insurance.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 5/13/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/9/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote.

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H.R.2389 : Veterans’ Group Life Insurance Improvement Act of 2009 to require the Secretary of Defense to establish registries of members and former members of the Armed Forces exposed in the line of duty to occupational and environmental health chemical hazards, to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide health care to veterans exposed to such hazards, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Hill, Baron P. [IN-9] (introduced 5/13/2009) Cosponsors (11)

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/12/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Readiness.

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H.R.2405 : Richard Helm Veterans’ Access to Local Health Care Options and Resources Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide veterans enrolled in the health system of the Department of Veterans Affairs the option of receiving covered health services through facilities other than those of the Department.

Sponsor: Rep Latham, Tom [IA-4] (introduced 5/14/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/15/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.2412 : Filipino Veterans Family Reunification Act to exempt children of certain Filipino World War II veterans from the numerical limitations on immigrant visas.

Sponsor: Rep Hirono, Mazie K. [HI-2] (introduced 5/14/2009) Cosponsors (11)

Committees: House Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 5/14/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.

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H.R.2419 : Military Personnel War Zone Toxic Exposure Prevention Act to require the Secretary of Defense to establish a medical surveillance system to identify members of the Armed Forces exposed to chemical hazards resulting from the disposal of waste in Iraq and Afghanistan, to prohibit the disposal of waste by the Armed Forces in a manner that would produce dangerous levels of toxins, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Bishop, Timothy H. [NY-1] (introduced 5/14/2009) Cosponsors (23)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/8/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Readiness.

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H.R.2429 : Consumer Price Index for Elderly Consumers Act of 2009 to require the establishment of a

Consumer Price Index for Elderly Consumers to compute cost-of-living increases for Social Security benefits under title II of the Social Security Act.

Sponsor: Rep Gonzalez, Charles A. [TX-20] (introduced 5/14/2009) Cosponsors (23)

Committees: House Ways and Means; House Education and Labor

Latest Major Action: 5/14/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Ways and Means, and in addition to the Committee on Education and Labor, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.2456 : Veterans Education Tuition Support Act of 2009 to amend section 484B of Higher Education Act of 1965 to provide for tuition reimbursement and loan forgiveness to students who withdraw from an institution of higher education to serve in the uniformed services, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Davis, Susan A. [CA-53] (introduced 5/18/2009) Cosponsors (34) Related Bills: H.R.2561, S.1603

Latest Major Action: 10/22/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Higher Education, Lifelong Learning, and Competitiveness.

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H.R.2474 : Veterans Educational Equity Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide that in the case of an individual entitled to educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance program who is enrolled at an institution of higher education in a State in which the public institutions charge only fees in lieu of tuition, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall allow the individual to use all or any portion of the amounts payable for the established charges for the program of education to pay any amount of the individual’s tuition or fees for that program of education.

Sponsor: Rep McKeon, Howard P. “Buck” [CA-25] (introduced 5/19/2009) Cosponsors (48)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/19/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.2486 : Vet Organization Funeral Detail Support. To amend title 10, United States Code, to provide for support of funeral ceremonies for veterans provided by details that consist solely of members of veterans organizations and other organizations, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Gohmert, Louie [TX-1] (introduced 5/19/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/8/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.2504 : Homeless Vet VA Appropriation Increase. To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for an increase in the annual amount authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out comprehensive service programs for homeless veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Teague, Harry [NM-2] (introduced 5/19/2009) Cosponsors (6)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/22/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote .

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H.R.2505 : Reaching Rural Veterans through Telehealth Act to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to

carry out a pilot program to utilize tele-health platforms to assist in the treatment of veterans living in rural areas who suffer from post traumatic stress disorder or traumatic brain injury.

Sponsor: Rep Teague, Harry [NM-2] (introduced 5/19/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/19/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.2506 : Veterans Hearing and Assessment Act to direct the Secretary of Defense to ensure the members of the Armed Forces receive mandatory hearing screenings before and after deployments and to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to mandate that tinnitus be listed as a mandatory condition for treatment by the Department of Veterans Affairs Auditory Centers of Excellence and that research on the preventing, treating, and curing of tinnitus be conducted.

Sponsor: Rep Teague, Harry [NM-2] (introduced 5/19/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/8/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.2546 : Right to Display Service Flag. To ensure that the right of an individual to display the Service flag on residential property not be abridged.

Sponsor: Rep Boccieri, John A. [OH-16] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (56) Related bill: S.3477

Committees: House Financial Services

Latest Major Action: 5/20/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.

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H.R.2553 : Atomic Veterans Service Medal Act to authorize the award of a military service medal to members of the Armed Forces who were exposed to ionizing radiation as a result of participation in the testing of nuclear weapons or under other circumstances.

Sponsor: Rep Tiahrt, Todd [KS-4] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (17) Related bill S.1128

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/8/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.2559 : Help Our Homeless Veterans Act to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a national media campaign directed at homeless veterans and veterans at risk for becoming homeless.

Sponsor: Rep Hare, Phil [IL-17] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (13)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/22/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote .

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H.R.2561 : Help Student Soldiers Act to amend section 484B of the Higher Education Act of 1965 to forgive certain loans for servicemembers who withdraw from an institution of higher education as a result of service in the uniformed services, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Kind, Ron [WI-3] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (21) Related Bills: H.R.2456, S.1603

Latest Major Action: 10/22/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Higher Education, Lifelong Learning, and Competitiveness.

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H.R.2573 : Atomic Veterans Relief Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to revise the eligibility criteria for presumption of service-connection of certain diseases and disabilities for veterans exposed to ionizing radiation during military service, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Abercrombie, Neil [HI-1] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (23)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/21/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.2583 : Women Veterans Access to Care Act to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to improve health care for women veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Boswell, Leonard L. [IA-3] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (9)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/21/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.2585 : Protecting the Retirement of Our Troops by Ensuring Compensation is Timely Act to delay any presumption of death in connection with the kidnapping in Iraq or Afghanistan of a retired member of the Armed Forces to ensure the continued payment of the member’s retired pay.

Sponsor: Rep Broun, Paul C. [GA-10] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/8/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.2586 : Honor Guard 13-fold Flag Recitation Option. To prohibit the Secretary of Veterans Affairs from authorizing honor guards to participate in funerals of veterans interred in national cemeteries unless the honor guards may offer veterans’ families the option of having the honor guard perform a 13-fold flag recitation, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Broun, Paul C. [GA-10] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (46)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/21/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.2594 : Dependent State Plot VA Allowance. To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide a plot allowance for spouses and children of certain veterans who are buried in State cemeteries.

Sponsor: Rep Garrett, Scott [NJ-5] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (49)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/21/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.2598 : Bataan/Corregidor/Luzon Gold Medal. To grant a congressional gold medal to American military personnel who fought in defense of Bataan/Corregidor/Luzon between December 7, 1941 and May 6, 1942.

Sponsor: Rep Heinrich, Martin [NM-1] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (62)

Committees: House Financial Services; House Administration

Latest Major Action: 5/21/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Financial Services, and in addition to the Committee on House Administration, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.2621 : Travel Expense Reimbursement Time Requirement. To amend title 10, United States Code, to use a time requirement for determining eligibility for the reimbursement of certain travel expenses.

Sponsor: Rep McCarthy, Kevin [CA-22] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/8/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.2638 : Veterans Stamp to Honor American Veterans Act to provide for the issuance of a veterans health care stamp.

Sponsor: Rep Shuler, Heath [NC-11] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Oversight and Government Reform; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/21/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, and in addition to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.2642 : Veterans Missing in America Act of 2009 to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to assist in the identification of unclaimed and abandoned human remains to determine if any such remains are eligible for burial in a national cemetery, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Tiberi, Patrick J. [OH-12] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (10)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/21/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.2647 : National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2010 to authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2010 for military activities of the Department of Defense, to prescribe military personnel strengths for fiscal year 2010, and for other purposes. Sponsor: Rep Skelton, Ike [MO-4] (by request) (introduced 6/2/2009) Cosponsors (1) Related Bill H.R.2990 Committees: House Armed Services House Reports: 111-166, 111-166 Part 2 Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 111-84

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H.R.2672 : Help Veterans Own Franchises Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow credits for the establishment of franchises with veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Schock, Aaron [IL-18] (introduced 6/3/2009) Cosponsors (35)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 6/3/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.2673 : Surviving Spouse Pension Upgrade. To amend title 38, United States Code, to match the pension amount paid to surviving spouses of veterans who served during a period of war to the pension amount paid to such veterans.

Sponsor: Rep DeFazio, Peter A. [OR-4] (introduced 6/3/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/5/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

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H.R.2683 : To establish the American Veterans Congressional Internship Program.

Sponsor: Rep Holt, Rush D. [NJ-12] (introduced 6/3/2009) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: House Administration

Latest Major Action: 6/3/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on House Administration.

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H.R.2689 : D-Day Memorial. To authorize the Secretary of the Interior to study the suitability and feasibility of designating the National D-Day Memorial in Bedford, Virginia, as a unit of the National Park System.

Sponsor: Rep Perriello, Thomas S.P. [VA-5] (introduced 6/3/2009) Cosponsors (7) Related bill S.1207

Committees: House Natural Resources

Latest Major Action: 10/1/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.2696 : Servicemembers’ Rights Protection Act to amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to provide for the enforcement of rights afforded under that Act.

Sponsor: Rep Miller, Brad [NC-13] (introduced 6/4/2009) Cosponsors (5)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/28/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Provisions of measure incorporated into H.R. 3949 .

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H.R.2698 : Veterans’ and Survivors’ Behavioral Health Awareness Act to improve and enhance the mental health care benefits available to veterans, to enhance counseling and other benefits available to survivors of veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Giffords, Gabrielle [AZ-8] (introduced 6/4/2009) Cosponsors (48)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/25/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.2699 : Armed Forces Behavioral Health Awareness Act to improve the mental health care benefits available to members of the Armed Forces, to enhance counseling available to family members of members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Giffords, Gabrielle [AZ-8] (introduced 6/4/2009) Cosponsors (37)

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/25/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.2713 : Disabled Veterans Life Insurance Enhancement Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain improvements in the service disabled veterans’ insurance program of the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Donnelly, Joe [IN-2] (introduced 6/4/2009) Cosponsors (13)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/24/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.2734 : Health Care for Family Caregivers Act of 2009 to amend section 1781 of title 38, United States Code, to provide medical care to family members of disabled veterans who serve as caregivers to such veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Perriello, Thomas S.P. [VA-5] (introduced 6/4/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/18/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.2735 : Homeless Vet Service Program Improvements. To amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain improvements to the comprehensive service programs for homeless veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Rodriguez, Ciro D. [TX-23] (introduced 6/4/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/22/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee (Amended) by Voice Vote .

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H.R.2738 : Family Caregiver Travel Expense Compensation. To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide travel expenses for family caregivers accompanying veterans to medical treatment facilities.

Sponsor: Rep Teague, Harry [NM-2] (introduced 6/4/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/18/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.2756 : Veterans Home Loan Refinance Opportunity Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow eligible veterans to use qualified veterans mortgage bonds to refinance home loans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Davis, Susan A. [CA-53] (introduced 6/8/2009) Cosponsors (16)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 6/8/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.2771 : Military Overpayment Fairness Act of 2009 to amend titles 10 and 37, United States Code, to provide a more equitable process by which the military departments may recover overpayments of military pay and allowances erroneously paid to a member of the Armed Forces when the overpayment is due to no fault of the member, to expand Department discretion regarding remission or cancellation of indebtedness, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Shea-Porter, Carol [NH-1] (introduced 6/9/2009) Cosponsors (6)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/24/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.2774 : Families of Veterans Financial Security Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to make permanent the extension of the duration of Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance coverage for totally disabled veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Halvorson, Deborah L. [IL-11] (introduced 6/9/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/9/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote.

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H.R.2788 : Distinguished Flying Cross National Memorial Act to designate a Distinguished Flying Cross National Memorial at the March Field Air Museum in Riverside, California.

Sponsor: Rep Calvert, Ken [CA-44] (introduced 6/10/2009) Cosponsors (48)

Committees: House Natural Resources

Latest Major Action: 3/22/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.

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H.R.2830 : Providing Access to Healthcare (PATH) for Veterans Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to give priority to unemployed veterans in furnishing hospital care, medical services, and nursing home care to certain veterans assigned to priority level 8.

Sponsor: Rep Courtney, Joe [CT-2] (introduced 6/11/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/12/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.2836 : National Guard and Reservist Suicide Prevention and Community Response Act to amend the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008 to improve and expand suicide prevention and community healing and response training under the Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program.

Sponsor: Rep Hodes, Paul W. [NH-2] (introduced 6/11/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Latest Major Action: 6/24/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.2879 : Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve health care for veterans who live in rural areas, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Kirkpatrick, Ann [AZ-1] (introduced 6/15/2009) Cosponsors (8)

Latest Major Action: 3/25/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.2898 : Wounded Warrior Caregiver Assistance Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide support services for family caregivers of disabled veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Halvorson, Deborah L. [IL-11] (introduced 6/16/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Latest Major Action: 6/19/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.2926 : VA Special Care for Vietnam-era & Persian Gulf War Vets Exposed to Herbicides. To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide, without expiration, hospital care, medical services, and nursing home care for certain Vietnam-era veterans exposed to herbicide and veterans of the Persian Gulf War.

Sponsor: Rep Nye, Glenn C., III [VA-2] (introduced 6/17/2009) Cosponsors (5)

Latest Major Action: 7/9/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee (Amended) by Voice Vote.

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H.R.2928: Post-9/11 GI Bill Apprenticeship/OJT Program. To amend title 38, United State Code, to provide for an apprenticeship and on-job training program under the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Program.

Sponsor: Rep Perriello, Thomas S.P. [VA-5] (introduced 6/17/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Latest Major Action: 9/24/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.2965 : Enhancing Small Business Research and Innovation Act of 2009 to amend the Small Business Act with respect to the Small Business Innovation Research Program and the Small Business Technology Transfer Program, and for other purposes.: Amended with H.AMDT.291 by Rep. David Reichert, D-WA to give preference to organizations that are located in under represented states and regions, or are women-owned, service-disabled veteran-owned, or minority-owned when awarding grants for Small Business Administration (SBA) outreach efforts authorized under Title III (rural development and outreach).

Sponsor: Rep Altmire, Jason [PA-4] (introduced 6/19/2009) Cosponsors (9)

Committees: House Small Business; House Science and Technology

House Reports: 111-190 Part 1, 111-190 Part 2

Latest Major Action: 7/13/2009 Passed/agreed to in Senate. Status: Passed Senate in lieu of S. 1233 with an amendment by Unanimous Consent.

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H.R.2968 : SGLI/VGLI Accelerated Death Benefit. To amend title 38, United States Code, to eliminate the required reduction in the amount of the accelerated death benefit payable to certain terminally-ill persons insured under Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance or Veterans’ Group Life Insurance.

Sponsor: Rep Kirkpatrick, Ann [AZ-1] (introduced 6/19/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Latest Major Action: 7/9/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote .

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H.R.2970 : Federal Law Enforcement Officer Vet Age Limit. To amend title 5, United States Code, to increase the maximum age limit for an original appointment to a position as a Federal law enforcement officer in the case of any individual who has been discharged or released from active duty in the Armed Forces under honorable conditions, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Bishop, Rob [UT-1] (introduced 6/19/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Latest Major Action: 6/19/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.

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H.R.2974 : Disabled Vet Health Savings Account Eligibility. To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow individuals eligible for veterans health benefits to contribute to health savings accounts.

Sponsor: Rep Campbell, John [CA-48] (introduced 6/19/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Latest Major Action: 6/19/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.2980 : Survivor Benefit Time Limit for 100% Disabled Vets. To amend title 38, United States Code, to reduce the period of time for which a veteran must be totally disabled before the veteran’s survivors are eligible for the benefits provided by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs for survivors of certain veterans rated totally disabled at time of death.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 6/19/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Latest Major Action: 6/26/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

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H.R.2990 : Disabled Military Retiree Relief Act of 2009 to provide special pays and allowances to certain members of the Armed Forces, expand concurrent receipt of military retirement and VA disability benefits to disabled military retirees, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Skelton, Ike [MO-4] (introduced 6/23/2009) Cosponsors (25) Related Bill H.R.2647

Committees: House Armed Services; House Oversight and Government Reform; House Natural Resources; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/25/2009 Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 572 , H.R. 2990 is laid on the table.

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H.R.3067 : Health Security for All Americans Act of 2009 to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to reform Medicare payments to physicians and certain other providers and improve Medicare benefits, to encourage the offering of health coverage by small businesses, to provide tax incentives for the purchase of health insurance by individuals, to increase access to health care for veterans, to address the nursing shortage, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Latham, Tom [IA-4] (introduced 6/26/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Energy and Commerce; House Education and Labor; House Ways and Means; House Veterans’ Affairs; House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 8/3/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.3073 : Pending Vet Homeless Grant Program. To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs establish a grant program to provide assistance to veterans who are at risk of becoming homeless.

Sponsor: Rep Nye, Glenn C., III [VA-2] (introduced 6/26/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/1/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.3087 : Establish VA Claim Decision Deadlines. To amend title 38, United States Code, to establish a deadline for decisions with respect to claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Butterfield, G. K. [NC-1] (introduced 6/26/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/10/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

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H.R.3155 : Caregiver Assistance and Resource Enhancement Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide certain caregivers of veterans with training, support, and medical care, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Michaud, Michael H. [ME-2] (introduced 7/9/2009) Cosponsors (9)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/28/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.3199 : Emergency Medic Transition (EMT) Act of 2009 to amend the Public Health Service Act to provide grants to State emergency medical service departments to provide for the expedited training and licensing of veterans with prior medical training, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Harman, Jane [CA-36] (introduced 7/14/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: House Energy and Commerce

Latest Major Action: 7/28/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Ordered to be Reported (Amended) by Voice Vote.

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H.R.3200 : America’s Affordable Health Choices Act of 2009 to provide affordable, quality health care for all Americans and reduce the growth in health care spending, and for other purposes. Sponsor: Rep Dingell, John D. [MI-15] (introduced 7/14/2009) Cosponsors (9) Committees: House Energy and Commerce; House Ways and Means; House Education and Labor; House Oversight and Government Reform; House Budget Latest Major Action: 10/14/2009 Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 168.

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H.R.3223 : Vet Owned Businesses VA Contracts. To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs contracting goals and preferences for small business concerns owned and controlled by veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 7/15/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 9/24/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.3266 : Veteran Assistance Dog Grant Program. To establish a grant program to encourage the use of assistance dogs by certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Klein, Ron [FL-22] (introduced 7/20/2009) Cosponsors (22) Related Bill S.1485

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/24/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity.

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H.R.3280 : Rural Vet Transportation Grant Program. To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a grant program to assist veterans in highly rural areas by providing transportation to medical centers.

Sponsor: Rep Rodriguez, Ciro D. [TX-23] (introduced 7/21/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/24/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.3281 : Vet Care Rural Area Demonstration Project. To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out demonstration projects related to providing care for veterans in rural areas.

Sponsor: Rep Rodriguez, Ciro D. [TX-23] (introduced 7/21/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/24/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.3282 : Vet Readjustment and Mental Health Care Services. To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide certain veterans with readjustment and mental health care services, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Rodriguez, Ciro D. [TX-23] (introduced 7/21/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/24/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.3283 : VA Travel Reimbursement for Veterans Annual Review. To amend title 38, United States Code, to allow for reimbursement of certain travel at a set rate, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Rodriguez, Ciro D. [TX-23] (introduced 7/21/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/24/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.3324 : Stable Future for Veterans’ Children Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to provide for the payment of monthly annuities under the Survivor Benefit Plan to a supplemental or special needs trust established for the sole benefit of a disabled dependent child of a participant in the Survivor Benefit Plan.

Sponsor: Rep Cantor, Eric [VA-7] (introduced 7/24/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 7/24/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Armed Services.

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H.R.3337 : Post-9/11 Veterans’ Job Training Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the use of entitlement under Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Program for the pursuit of apprenticeships and on-job training.

Sponsor: Rep DeLauro, Rosa L. [CT-3] (introduced 7/24/2009) Cosponsors (16)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/31/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity.

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H.R.3349 : NAIV Charter. To grant a Federal charter to the National American Indian Veterans, Incorporated.

Sponsor: Rep Herseth Sandlin, Stephanie [SD] (introduced 7/27/2009) Cosponsors (8) Related Bill S.1520

Committees: House Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 8/19/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Immigration, Citizenship, Refugees, Border Security, and International Law.

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H.R.3365 : Medicare VA Reimbursement Act of 2009 to provide Medicare payments to Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities for items and services provided to Medicare-eligible veterans for non-service-connected conditions.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 7/28/2009) Cosponsors (31)

Committees: House Ways and Means; House Energy and Commerce; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/31/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.3366 : Illegal Garnishment Prevention Act to prohibit the use of funds to promote the direct deposit of Veterans and Social Security benefits until adequate safeguards are established to prevent the attachment and garnishment of such benefits.

Sponsor: Rep Gordon, Bart [TN-6] (introduced 7/28/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Ways and Means; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/31/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

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H.R.3368 : Honor Act of 2009 to enhance benefits for survivors of certain former members of the Armed Forces with a history of post-traumatic stress disorder or traumatic brain injury, to enhance availability and access to mental health counseling for members of the Armed Forces and veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Markey, Betsy [CO-4] (introduced 7/28/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Armed Services; House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 10/28/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.3403 : Supporting Military Families Act of 2009 to amend the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 and title 5, United States Code, to provide leave for family members of members of regular components of the Armed Forces, and leave to care for covered veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Woolsey, Lynn C. [CA-6] (introduced 7/30/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: House Education and Labor; House Oversight and Government Reform; House Administration

Latest Major Action: 10/22/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Workforce Protections

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H.R.3407 : Severely Injured Veterans Benefit Improvement Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain improvements to laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs relating to benefits for severely injured veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 7/30/2009) Cosponsors (27)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/31/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

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H.R.3441 : Combat Vet VA Enrollment. To provide for automatic enrollment of veterans returning from combat zones into the VA medical system, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Arcuri, Michael A. [NY-24] (introduced 7/31/2009) Cosponsors (23)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/1/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.3467 : Veterans Education Enhancement and Fairness Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for a monthly housing stipend under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs for individuals pursuing programs of education offered through distance learning, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Carney, Christopher P. [PA-10] (introduced 7/31/2009) Cosponsors (13)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 9/11/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity.

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H.R.3484 : VA Work Study Authority. To amend title 38, United States Code, to extend the authority for certain qualifying work-study activities for purposes of the educational assistance programs of the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Herseth Sandlin, Stephanie [SD] (introduced 7/31/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/4/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Ordered to be Reported (Amended) by Voice Vote.

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H.R.3485 : Veterans Pensions Protection Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide that monetary benefits paid to veterans by States and municipalities shall be excluded from consideration as income for purposes of pension benefits paid by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Higgins, Brian [NY-27] (introduced 7/31/2009) Cosponsors (14) Related Bill: S.3118

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote .

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H.R.3491 : Thomas G. Schubert Agent Orange Fairness Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish a presumption of service connection for certain cancers occurring in veterans who served in the Republic of Vietnam and were exposed to certain herbicide agents, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Kagen, Steve [WI-8] (introduced 7/31/2009) Cosponsors (10)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 9/11/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

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H.R.3507 : VA Survivor Education Rate Increase. To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for an increase in the rates of survivors’ and dependents’ educational assistance payable by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Paulsen, Erik [MN-3] (introduced 7/31/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 9/11/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

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H.R.3522 : Veterans Hardship Outreach for Priority Eights (HOPE) Act to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide grants and assistance to States to conduct outreach to veterans regarding hardship and priority under the Department of Veterans Affairs patient enrollment system.

Sponsor: Rep Space, Zachary T. [OH-18] (introduced 7/31/2009) Cosponsors (6)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 9/11/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.3544 : National Cemeteries Expansion Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide guidelines for the establishment of new national cemeteries by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 9/9/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/8/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via

http://capwiz.com/ngaus/mail/compose/?mailid=14779496&azip=92571

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H.R.3554 : National Guard Education Equality Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the inclusion of certain active duty service in the reserve components as qualifying service for purposes of Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Loebsack, David [IA-2] (introduced 9/10/2009) Cosponsors (102)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 9/24/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.3573 : Call to Service Homebuyer Credit Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to prevent a change in residency as a result of extended official duty in the uniformed services, Foreign Service, or intelligence community from triggering the repayment provisions of the first time homebuyer credit, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Blumenauer, Earl [OR-3] (introduced 9/15/2009) Cosponsors (None) Related bills: H.R.2562

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 9/15/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.3575 : Vet Mortgage Life Insurance Increase. To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for an increase in the maximum amount of veterans’ mortgage life insurance available under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Perriello, Thomas S.P. [VA-5] (introduced 9/15/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 9/15/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.3577 : Education Assistance to Realign New Eligibilities for Dependents (EARNED) Act of 2009 to

amend title 38, United State Code, to provide authority for certain members of the Armed Forces who have served 20 years on active duty to transfer entitlement to Post-9/11 Educational Assistance to their dependents.

Sponsor: Rep Rodriguez, Ciro D. [TX-23] (introduced 9/15/2009) Cosponsors (24)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/4/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Ordered to be Reported by Voice Vote.

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H.R.3620 : Hiring Heroes Tax Incentive Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow employers a credit against income tax for employing members of the Ready Reserve and National Guard and veterans recently separated from the Armed Forces.

Sponsor: Rep Alexander, Rodney [LA-5] (introduced 9/22/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 9/22/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.3657 : USPHS & NOAA GI Bill Benefit Transfer. To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for members of the United States Public Health Service and National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration Corps to transfer unused benefits under Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program to family members, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Rodriguez, Ciro D. [TX-23] (introduced 9/25/2009) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/2/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity.

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H.R.3661 : GI Bill Housing Stipend. To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for a monthly housing stipend under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program for individuals pursuing programs of education offered through distance learning, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Rehberg, Denny [MT] (introduced 9/29/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/2/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity.

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H.R.3672 : Social Security COLA Fix for 2010 Act to provide for an increase of $150 in Social Security benefits for one month in 2010 to compensate for the lack of a cost-of-living adjustment for that year, and to amend title II of the Social Security Act to eliminate the requirement that there be a Social Security cost-of-living adjustment for an adjustment in the contribution and benefit base to occur.

Sponsor: Rep McCarthy, Carolyn [NY-4] (introduced 9/29/2009) Cosponsors (16)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 9/29/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.3677: Save Our Seniors’ Social Security Act of 2009 to provide $280 relief payments to recipients of Social Security and railroad retirement benefits, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Granger, Kay [TX-12] (introduced 9/30/2009) Cosponsors (11)

Committees: House Ways and Means; House Transportation and Infrastructure; House Appropriations

Latest Major Action: 10/1/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials.

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H.R.3685 : Inclusion of VetSuccess on VA Website. To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to include on the main page of the Internet website of the Department of Veterans Affairs a hyperlink to the VetSuccess Internet website and to publicize such Internet website.

Sponsor: Rep Stearns, Cliff [FL-6] (introduced 9/30/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/15/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by the Yeas and Nays: 4 – 1.

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H.R.3719 : Veterans Economic Opportunity Administration Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs a Veterans Economic Opportunity Administration, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 10/6/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/9/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity.

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H.R.3787 : Treat Certain Reserve Time as Active Duty Time. To amend title 38, United States Code, to deem certain service in the reserve components as active service for purposes of laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Walz, Timothy J. [MN-1] (introduced 10/8/2009) Cosponsors (42) Related bill: S.1780

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/27/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee (Amended) by Voice Vote.

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H.R.3796 : Homeless Vet Assistor’s Per Diem Grants. To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve per diem grant payments for organizations assisting homeless veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 10/13/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/16/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.3813 : Veterans Training Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the approval of certain programs of education for purposes of the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program.

Sponsor: Rep Sestak, Joe [PA-7] (introduced 10/14/2009) Cosponsors (18) Related bills: S.3171

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/25/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.3843 : Transparency for America’s Heroes Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to publish redacted medical quality-assurance records of the Department of Veterans Affairs on the Internet website of the Department.

Sponsor: Rep Sestak, Joe [PA-7] (introduced 10/15/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/16/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.3885 : Veterans Dog Training Therapy Act to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program on dog training therapy.

Sponsor: Rep Brown, Henry E., Jr. [SC-1] (introduced 10/21/2009) Cosponsors (12)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/26/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.3886 : Providing Military Honors for our Nation’s Heroes Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reimburse certain volunteers who provide funeral honors details at the funerals of veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 10/21/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/23/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

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H.R.3906 : Low Income Vet Family Permanent Housing. To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs program to provide financial assistance for supportive services for very low-income veteran families in permanent housing.

Sponsor: Rep Teague, Harry [NM-2] (introduced 10/22/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/23/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.3908 : Families of Disabled Veterans Work Opportunity Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide the work opportunity tax credit with respect to a designated family member of a veteran with a service-connected disability if the veteran is unable to work.

Sponsor: Rep Halvorson, Deborah L. [IL-11] (introduced 10/22/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 10/22/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.3926 : Armed Forces Breast Cancer Research Act to direct the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to jointly conduct a study on the incidence of breast cancer among members of the Armed Forces and veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Boswell, Leonard L. [IA-3] (introduced 10/26/2009) Cosponsors (45)

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/25/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.3943 : Post 9/11 Troops to Teachers Enhancement Act to amend the Elementary and Secondary

Education Act of 1965 to allow members of the Armed Forces who served on active duty on or after September 11, 2001, to be eligible to participate in the Troops-to-Teachers Program, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Courtney, Joe [CT-2] (introduced 10/27/2009) Cosponsors (170) Related Bill S.

Committees: House Education and Labor; House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 12/8/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education.

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H.R.3948 : Test Prep for Heroes Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for entitlement under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program to payment for test preparatory courses, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Putnam, Adam H. [FL-12] (introduced 10/28/2009) Cosponsors (30)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/10/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Ordered to be Reported (Amended) by Voice Vote.

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H.R.3949 : Veterans’ Small Business Assistance and Servicemembers Protection Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, and the Servicemember Civil Relief Act, to make certain improvements in the laws relating to benefits administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 10/28/2009) Cosponsors (22) Related Bill: H.R.761

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 11/4/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.3998 : Compensation for Combat Veterans Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to clarify the service treatable as service engaged in combat with the enemy for utilization of non-official evidence for proof of service-connection in a combat-related disease or injury.

Sponsor: Rep Braley, Bruce L. [IA-1] (introduced 11/3/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 11/6/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

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H.R.4006 : Rural, American Indian Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for Indian veterans health care coordinators, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Kirkpatrick, Ann [AZ-1] (introduced 11/3/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/25/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.4028 : Rural Veterans Services Outreach and Training Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve services for veterans residing in rural areas.

Sponsor: Rep Wu, David [OR-1] (introduced 11/5/2009) Cosponsors (21)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 11/6/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment.

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H.R.4043 : Military Spouse Pin Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to recognize the spouses of members of the Armed Forces who are serving in combat or have served in combat through the presentation of an official lapel button.

Sponsor: Rep Shea-Porter, Carol [NH-1] (introduced 11/6/2009) Cosponsors (9)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 11/18/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.4044 : Vet Plot & Headstone/Marker Allowance. To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to restore plot allowance eligibility for veterans of any war and to restore the headstone or marker allowance for eligible persons.

Sponsor: Rep Berkley, Shelley [NV-1] (introduced 11/6/2009) Cosponsors (37)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 11/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4045 : Veterans Burial Benefits Improvement Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to increase burial benefits for veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Berkley, Shelley [NV-1] (introduced 11/6/2009) Cosponsors (42)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 11/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4048 : Rural Area TBI Pilot Program. To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program on the provision of traumatic brain injury care in rural areas.

Sponsor: Rep Capito, Shelley Moore [WV-2] (introduced 11/6/2009) Cosponsors (7)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 11/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4051 : Cold War Service Medal Act of 2009 to amend title 10, United States Code, to provide for the award of a military service medal to members of the Armed Forces who served honorably during the Cold War, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Israel, Steve [NY-2] (introduced 11/6/2009) Cosponsors (45) Related bill: S.2743

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 11/18/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.4054 : Benefit Rating Acceleration for Veteran Entitlements Act of 2009. To amend titles II and XVI of the Social Security Act to provide for treatment of disability rated and certified as total by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs as disability for purposes of such titles.

Sponsor: Rep Sarbanes, John P. [MD-3] (introduced 11/6/2009) Cosponsors (72) Related Bill: S.2759

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 11/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.4058 : Veterans to Work Pilot Program Act of 2009 to amend title 10, United States Code, to establish the Veterans to Work Program providing for the employment of individuals, especially veterans, who participate in apprenticeship programs on designated military construction projects, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Smith, Adam [WA-9] (introduced 11/6/2009) Cosponsors (5)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 11/18/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Readiness.

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H.R.4063 : WWII Messman/Steward Congressional Gold Medal. To grant the Congressional Gold Medal to the members of the messman and steward branches of United States Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard that served during World War II.

Sponsor: Rep Edwards, Donna F. [MD-4] (introduced 11/7/2009) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: House Financial Services; House Administration

Latest Major Action: 11/7/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Financial Services, and in addition to the Committee on House Administration, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.4064 : Post-9/11 EAP Improvements. To make certain improvements in the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program.

Sponsor: Rep Giffords, Gabrielle [AZ-8] (introduced 11/7/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 11/7/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4073 : Rural Veterans Reimbursement Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to increase the payments to certain veterans for certain travel expenses.

Sponsor: Rep Minnick, Walter [ID-1] (introduced 11/16/2009) Cosponsors (11)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 11/16/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4121 : Veterans Appeals Improvement and Modernization Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the appeals process of the Department of Veterans Affairs, to establish a commission to study judicial review of the determination of veterans’ benefits, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Hall, John J. [NY-19] (introduced 11/19/2009) Cosponsors (7)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 11/19/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4156 : Increasing Housing Opportunities for Veterans Act of 2009 to provide for certain improvements in the laws relating to housing for veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Sires, Albio [NJ-13] (introduced 11/19/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Financial Services

Latest Major Action: 11/19/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Financial Services.

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H.R.4203 : Direct Deposit of Vet Education Payments. To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans certain educational assistance payments through direct deposit.

Sponsor: Rep Hall, John J. [NY-19] (introduced 12/3/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/25/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.4220 : Promoting Jobs for Veterans Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain improvements in the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs relating to small business concerns and employment assistance, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 12/8/2009) Cosponsors (15)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Education and Labor; House Small Business

Latest Major Action: 1/4/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Higher Education, Lifelong Learning, and Competitiveness.

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H.R.4221 : Department of Veterans Affairs Acquisition Improvement Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for improved acquisition practices by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 12/8/2009) Cosponsors (5)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Oversight and Government Reform

Latest Major Action: 12/8/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.4241 : State Veteran Home Payments. To amend chapter 17 of title 38, United States Code, to allow for increased flexibility in payments for State veterans homes.

Sponsor: Rep Michaud, Michael H. [ME-2] (introduced 12/8/2009) Cosponsors (45)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/3/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.4279 : Vet Accelerated Educational Assistance Payments. To amend titles 38 and 10, United States Code, to authorize accelerated payments of educational assistance to certain veterans and members of the reserve components of the Armed Forces.

Sponsor: Rep Quigley, Mike [IL-5] (introduced 12/10/2009) Cosponsors (9)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 1/12/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on

Military Personnel.

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H.R.4319 : Specially Adapted Housing Assistance Enhancement Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for certain improvements in the laws relating to specially adapted housing assistance provided by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs. Sponsor: Rep Moran, Jerry [KS-1] (introduced 12/15/2009) Cosponsors (None) Latest Major Action: 6/10/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee Hearings Held.

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H.R.4320 : Post-9/11 GI Education Fairness Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to expand the types of approved programs of education for purposes of Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Murphy, Scott [NY-20] (introduced 12/15/2009) Cosponsors (20)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 12/15/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4350 : Fallen Heroes Family Act of 2009 to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to provide for nonimmigrant status for an alien who is the parent or legal guardian of a United States citizen child if the child was born abroad and is the child of a deceased member of the Armed Forces of the United States.

Sponsor: Rep Issa, Darrell E. [CA-49] (introduced 12/16/2009) Cosponsors (11)

Committees: House Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 3/1/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Immigration, Citizenship, Refugees, Border Security, and International Law.

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H.R.4359 : WARMER Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to guarantee housing loans for the construction energy efficient dwellings, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Boozman, John [AR-3] (introduced 12/16/2009) Cosponsors (6)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/25/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.4403 : SPACE-A Travel Act of 2009 to amend title 10, United States Code, to authorize space-available travel on military aircraft for unremarried surviving spouses of retired members of the uniformed services and the unremarried surviving spouses of veterans who died from a service-connected or compensable disability, and for the dependents of such spouses.

Sponsor: Rep Walz, Timothy J. [MN-1] (introduced 12/16/2009) Cosponsors (28)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 1/21/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Readiness.

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H.R.4429 : Restoring the Social Security COLA Act to provide for an increase of $250 in benefits under certain Federal cash benefit programs for one month in 2010 to compensate for the lack of a cost-of-living adjustment for that year.

Sponsor: Rep Adler, John H. [NJ-3] (introduced 1/13/2010) Cosponsors (7)

Committees: House Ways and Means; House Appropriations; House Veterans’ Affairs; House Oversight and Government Reform; House Transportation and Infrastructure

Latest Major Action: 1/13/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Ways and Means, and in addition to the Committees on Appropriations, Veterans’ Affairs, Oversight and Government Reform, and Transportation and Infrastructure, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.4443 : Veterans Employment Today Act of 2010 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the work opportunity tax credit for hiring veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Halvorson, Deborah L. [IL-11] (introduced 1/13/2010) Cosponsors (13) Related Bills: H.R.620, H.R.931, S.274

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/13/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.4465 : Vet Financial Status for Hospital Care. To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to take into account each child a veteran has when determining the veteran’s financial status when receiving hospital care or medical services.

Sponsor: Rep Kissell, Larry [NC-8] (introduced 1/19/2010) Cosponsors (10)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/27/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.4505 : KIA Parental State Home Care. To enable State homes to furnish nursing home care to parents any of whose children died while serving in the Armed Forces.

Sponsor: Rep Thornberry, Mac [TX-13] (introduced 1/26/2010) Cosponsors (30)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/12/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4525 : Chapter 61 Concurrent Receipt Entitlement. To amend title 10, United States Code, to expand the eligibility for concurrent receipt of military retired pay and veterans’ disability compensation to include all members of the uniformed services who are retired under chapter 61 of such title for disability, regardless of the members’ disability rating percentage.

Sponsor: Rep Wilson, Joe [SC-2] (introduced 1/26/2010) Cosponsors (12)

Committees: House Armed Services; House Budget; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/18/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=15039641&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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H.R.4551 : Keep Our Promise to America’s Military Retirees Act to restore health care coverage to retired members of the uniformed services, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Van Hollen, Chris [MD-8] (introduced 1/27/2010) Cosponsors (32)

Committees: House Armed Services; House Oversight and Government Reform

Latest Major Action: 2/25/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.4555 : Janey Ensminger Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to furnish hospital care, medical services, and nursing home care to veterans who were stationed at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, while the water was contaminated at Camp Lejeune, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Miller, Brad [NC-13] (introduced 2/2/2010) Cosponsors (66)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/2/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4559 : State Disabled Vet Benefits Review. To establish a commission to review benefits provided by each State to disabled veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Kissell, Larry [NC-8] (introduced 2/2/2010) Cosponsors (11)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/2/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4568 : TBI Treatment Act to direct the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program under which the Secretaries make payments for certain treatments of traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Sponsor: Rep Sessions, Pete [TX-32] (introduced 2/2/2010) Cosponsors (19)

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/25/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.4569 : Expanded Housing for America’s Veterans Act to amend the United States Housing Act of 1937 relating to the amount of rental assistance available under the veterans affairs supported housing program.

Sponsor: Rep Sestak, Joe [PA-7] (introduced 2/2/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Financial Services

Latest Major Action: 2/2/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Financial Services.

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H.R.4592 : Vet Energy Related Jobs Pilot Program. To provide for the establishment of a pilot program to encourage the employment of veterans in energy-related positions.

Sponsor: Rep Teague, Harry [NM-2] (introduced 2/3/2010) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/24/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4593 : Keeping Faith With the Greatest Generation Military Retirees Act of 2010 to amend part B of title XVIII of the Social Security Act to waive Medicare part B premiums for certain military retirees (i.e.

those who entered the service prior to December 7, 1956).

Sponsor: Rep Van Hollen, Chris [MD-8] (introduced 2/3/2010) Cosponsors (19)

Committees: House Energy and Commerce; House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 2/3/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.4632 : Renovate and Enhance Veterans’ Meeting Halls and Posts Act of 2010 to amend the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 to set-aside community development block grant amounts in each fiscal year for grants to local chapters of veterans service organizations for rehabilitation of their facilities.

Sponsor: Rep Bishop, Timothy H. [NY-1] (introduced 2/22/2010) Cosponsors (19)

Committees: House Financial Services

Latest Major Action: 2/22/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Financial Services.

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H.R.4639 : Corporal Dustin Lee Memorial Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to authorize the adoption of a military working dog by the family of a deceased or seriously wounded member of the Armed Forces who was the handler of the dog.

Sponsor: Rep Jones, Walter B., Jr. [NC-3] (introduced 2/22/2010) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 3/5/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Readiness.

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H.R.4656 : VA Child Care Center. To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program establishing a child-care center for children of veterans receiving treatment and other individuals.

Sponsor: Rep Buchanan, Vern [FL-13] (introduced 2/23/2010) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/23/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4664 : OIF/OEF Survivor Mortgage Foreclosure Moratorium. To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to provide for a one-year moratorium on the sale or foreclosure of property owned by surviving spouses of servicemembers killed in Operation Iraqi Freedom or Operation Enduring Freedom.

Sponsor: Rep Kratovil, Frank, Jr. [MD-1] (introduced 2/23/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/10/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee Hearings Held.

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H.R.4667 : Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2010 to increase, effective as of December 1, 2010, the rates of compensation for veterans with service-connected disabilities and the rates of dependency and indemnity compensation for the survivors of certain disabled veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Perriello, Thomas S.P. [VA-5] (introduced 2/23/2010) Cosponsors (8) Related bills: H.R.1513 & S.407 & S.3107

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/23/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read

twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4765 : VA Work Study Allowances. To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize individuals who are pursuing programs of rehabilitation, education, or training under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to receive work-study allowances for certain outreach services provided through congressional offices, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep DeFazio, Peter A. [OR-4] (introduced 3/4/2010) Cosponsors (12) Related bill: S.3082

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/10/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee Hearings Held.

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H.R.4810 : End Veteran Homelessness Act of 2010. To amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain improvements in the services provided for homeless veterans under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 3/10/2010) Cosponsors (14)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/23/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4845 : VA Children Housing Loan Benefits. To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide housing loan benefits for children of members of the Armed Forces and veterans who die from service-connected disabilities.

Sponsor: Rep Crowley, Joseph [NY-7] (introduced 3/15/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/15/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4887 : Tricare Affirmation Act to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to ensure that health coverage provided by the Department of Defense is treated as minimal essential coverage. Sponsor: Rep Skelton, Ike [MO-4] (introduced 3/19/2010) Cosponsors (20) Committees: House Ways and Means; Senate Finance Latest Major Action: 4/26/2010 Signed by President.

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H.R.4912 : CRSC Payments to Chap 61 Vets. To amend title 10, United States Code, to eliminate the required reduction in the amount of combat-related special compensation paid to disabled combat-related uniformed services retirees retired under chapter 61 of such title whose disability is attributable to an injury for which the members were awarded the Purple Heart.

Sponsor: Rep Halvorson, Deborah L. [IL-11] (introduced 3/22/2010) Cosponsors (5)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/8/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.4923 : TRICARE Dependent Coverage Extension Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to extend

TRICARE coverage to certain dependents under the age of 26.

Sponsor: Rep Heinrich, Martin [NM-1] (introduced 3/24/2010) Cosponsors (99) Related bills: S.3201

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/23/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.4947 : Reserve Retirement Deployment Credit Correction Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to eliminate the per-fiscal year calculation of days of certain active duty or active service used to reduce the minimum age at which a member of a reserve component of the uniformed services may retire for non-regular service.

Sponsor: Rep Latham, Tom [IA-4] (introduced 3/25/2010) Cosponsors (48) Related bills: S.3406

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/23/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/moaa/issues/bills/?bill=14876641

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H.R.5014 : VA Minimal Essential Coverage. To clarify the health care provided by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs that constitutes minimum essential coverage. Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 4/14/2010) Cosponsors (1) Committees: House Ways and Means Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 111-173 [GPO: Text, PDF]

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H.R.5045 : Fair Access to Veterans Benefits Act of 2010 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the tolling of the timing of review for appeals of final decisions of the Board of Veterans’ Appeals, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Adler, John H. [NJ-3] (introduced 4/15/2010) Cosponsors (None) Related bills: S.3192, H.R.5064

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/15/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.5120 : Veteran Employment Assistance Act of 2010 to improve employment, training, and placement services furnished to veterans, especially those serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Smith, Adam [WA-9] (introduced 4/22/2010) Cosponsors (20) Related bills: S.3234

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Education and Labor; House Small Business; House Energy and Commerce; House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 5/27/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Higher Education, Lifelong Learning, and Competitiveness.

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H.R.5136 : National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2011 Sponsor: Rep Skelton, Ike [MO-4] (by request) (introduced 4/26/2010) Cosponsors (1) Related bills: H.RES.1404, H.RES.1467, H.R.1467, H.R.5013, S.3454

Latest Major Action: 6/28/2010 Received in the Senate. Read twice. Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar

under General Orders. Calendar No. 447. House Reports: 111-491, 111-491 Part 2

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H.R.5185 : Fair Health Care for Military Families Act to amend titles 10 and 38, United States Code, to increase the maximum age for children eligible for medical care under the TRICARE program and the CHAMPVA program.

Sponsor: Rep DeFazio, Peter A. [OR-4] (introduced 4/29/2010) Cosponsors (2) Related Bill H.R.5206

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/6/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.5225 : Improving Veterans’ Electronic Transition Services Act to direct the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to jointly develop and implement an electronic personnel file system, and to jointly conduct a study on improving the access of veterans to files related to military service and veterans benefits, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Tsongas, Niki [MA-5] (introduced 5/5/2010) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/5/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Armed Services, and in addition to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.5226 : Appalachian Veterans Outreach Improvement Act to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs and the Appalachian Regional Commission to carry out a program of outreach for veterans who reside in Appalachia, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Wilson, Charles A. [OH-6] (introduced 5/5/2010) Cosponsors (23) Related bill: S.3314

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Transportation and Infrastructure

Latest Major Action: 5/6/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings and Emergency Management.

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H.R.5259 : Equal Access to Preseparation Counseling Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to require preseparation counseling for members of the reserve components upon their retirement or separation from service.

Sponsor: Rep Pingree, Chellie [ME-1] (introduced 5/11/2010) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/18/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.5303 : VA Post-9/11 EAP Housing Stipends. To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve housing stipends for veterans receiving educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Program.

Sponsor: Rep Bishop, Timothy H. [NY-1] (introduced 5/13/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/13/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.5360 : Blinded Veterans Adaptive Housing Improvement Act of 2010 to amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the standard of visual acuity required for eligibility for specially adapted housing assistance provided by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Herseth Sandlin, Stephanie [SD] (introduced 5/20/2010) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/15/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee (Amended) by Voice Vote .

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H.R.5371 : William Shemin Jewish World War I Veterans Act to direct the Secretary of the Army and the Secretary of the Navy to conduct a review of military service records of Jewish American veterans of World War I, including those previously awarded a military decoration, to determine whether any of the veterans should be posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Luetkemeyer, Blaine [MO-9] (introduced 5/24/2010) Cosponsors (15)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/28/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.5403 : Alaska Tricare Reimbursement Rates. To direct the Secretary of Defense to temporarily adjust the reimbursement rates for TRICARE claims in Alaska.

Sponsor: Rep Young, Don [AK] (introduced 5/26/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/28/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.5404 : Reserve Space A Travel. To amend title 10, United States Code, to authorize space-available travel on military aircraft for a member or former member of a reserve component who is eligible for retired pay but for age and for dependents of the member who accompany the retiree.

Sponsor: Rep Young, Don [AK] (introduced 5/26/2010) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/28/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.5428 : Disseminate Amputee Veterans Bill of Rights Info. To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to educate certain staff of the Department of Veterans Affairs and to inform veterans about the Injured and Amputee Veterans Bill of Rights, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 5/27/2010) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/28/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.5449 : Retroactive Stop-Loss Special Pay Extension. To amend section 310 of the Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2009 to extend the period of time during which claims for retroactive stop-loss special pay may be submitted.

Sponsor: Rep Sutton, Betty [OH-13] (introduced 5/27/2010) Cosponsors (19)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/28/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.5484 : VetStar Veteran-Friendly Business Act of 2010 to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish an annual award program to recognize businesses for their contributions to veterans’ employment, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Teague, Harry [NM-2] (introduced 6/8/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/15/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote .

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H.R.5516 : Access to Appropriate Immunizations for Veterans Act of 2010 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for certain requirements relating to the immunization of veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Stearns, Cliff [FL-6] (introduced 6/10/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/10/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.5517 : Every Veteran Counts Act to amend title 13, United States Code, to require that the questionnaire used in a decennial census of population shall include an inquiry regarding an individual’s status as a veteran, a spouse of a veteran, or a dependent of a veteran, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Stearns, Cliff [FL-6] (introduced 6/10/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Oversight and Government Reform; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/10/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, and in addition to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.5550 : Loss of Use Definition. To amend title 38, United States Code, to include a definition of “loss of use” for purposes of evaluating disabilities and providing adapted housing and automobiles under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Kirkpatrick, Ann [AZ-1] (introduced 6/17/2010) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/18/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity.

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H.R.5555 : Disabled Veterans’ Surviving Spouses Home Loans Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for eligibility for housing loans guaranteed by the Department of Veterans Affairs for the surviving spouses of certain totally-disabled veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Foxx, Virginia [NC-5] (introduced 6/17/2010) Cosponsors (34)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/18/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity.

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H.R.5641 : Heroes at Home Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into contracts for the transfer of veterans to non-Department adult foster homes for veterans who are unable to live independently.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 6/30/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/2/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.5642 : Pension Increase Codification. To codify increases in the rates of pension for disabled veterans and surviving spouses and children that were effective as of December 1, 2009.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 6/30/2010) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/2/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

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H.R.5648 : Vet Unauthorized Fees Criminal Penalties. To amend title 38, United States Code, to reinstate criminal penalties for persons charging veterans unauthorized fees.

Sponsor: Rep Bilirakis, Gus M. [FL-9] (introduced 6/30/2010) Cosponsors (6)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 7/2/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

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H.R.5719 : Veterans’ Information Act. To amend title 10, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to develop, and the Secretary of Defense to distribute to members of the Armed Forces upon their discharge or release from active duty, information in a compact disk read-only memory format or other appropriate digital format that lists and explains the health, education, and other benefits for which veterans are eligible under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Cardoza, Dennis A. [CA-18] (introduced 7/13/2010) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/23/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.5731 : Veterans Mental Health Professionals Oversight Act of 2010. To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for annual reviews of mental health professionals treating veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Kirkpatrick, Ann [AZ-1] (introduced 7/14/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/14/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.5739 : AMRA Charter. To amend title 36, United States Code, to grant a Federal charter to the American Military Retirees Association, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Rooney, Thomas J. [FL-16] (introduced 7/14/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 7/14/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.

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H.R.5826 : Guard Active Duty Definition. To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand the definition of active duty for purposes of the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs to include certain service in the National Guard.

Sponsor: Rep Altmire, Jason [PA-4] (introduced 7/22/2010) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/22/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.5829 : World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act. To direct the Secretary of Defense to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service in the merchant marines during World War II, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Butterfield, G. K. [NC-1] (introduced 7/22/2010) Cosponsors (19)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 7/22/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on Armed Services, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

——————————————————————————–

H.R.5838 : Homeless Veterans Transitional Housing Act of 2010. To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the multifamily transitional housing loan program of the Department of Veterans Affairs by requiring the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue loans for the construction of, rehabilitation of, or acquisition of land for multifamily transitional housing projects instead of guaranteeing loans for such purposes, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Halvorson, Deborah L. [IL-11] (introduced 7/22/2010) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/22/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

——————————————————————————–

H.R.5841 : VA PTSD Treatment Public-Private Partnerships. To authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish public-private partnerships for the treatment and research of post-traumatic stress disorder.

Sponsor: Rep Israel, Steve [NY-2] (introduced 7/22/2010) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/22/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

——————————————————————————–

H.R.5862 : Veterans FAA Employment Fairness Act of 2010. To amend title 49, United States Code, with respect to the eligibility of veterans for employment with the Federal Aviation Administration, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Marchant, Kenny [TX-24] (introduced 7/26/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Transportation and Infrastructure

Latest Major Action: 7/26/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.

——————————————————————————–

H.R.5879 : Hmong Burial in VA Cemeteries. To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to inter in national cemeteries individuals who supported the United States in Laos during the Vietnam War era.

Sponsor: Rep Costa, Jim [CA-20] (introduced 7/27/2010) Cosponsors (22)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/27/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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[Source: http://thomas.loc.gov/home/LegislativeData.php?n=Browse 29 Jul 2010 ++]

NEW CONSULAR FEES EFFECTIVE JULY 13, 2010
CURRENT FEE
NEW FEE Non-Immigrant Visa Fees*
Nonimmigrant visa application
$ 131.00
$ 140.00
1. H, L, O, P, Q, and R categories
$ 131.00
$ 150.00
2. E Visas
$ 131.00
$ 390.00
3. K Visa
$ 131.00
$ 350.00
4. BCC Adult
$ 131.00
$ 140.00 Immigrant Visa Fees
IV Application Processing Fee
1. Family-based immigrant visa
$ 355.00
$ 330.00
2. Employment-based immigrant visa
$ 355.00
$ 720.00
3. Other immigrant visas (SIVs, DVs, etc.)
$ 355.00
$ 305.00
IV Security Surcharge
$ 45.00
$ 74.00
Diversity Visa Lottery surcharge
$ 375.00
$ 440.00
Domestic review of Affidavit of Support
$ 70.00
$ 88.00
Determining Returning Resident Status
$ 400.00
$ 380.00 Passport Fees
Passport Book – adult
$ 100.00**
$ 135.00**
Passport Book – minor
$ 85.00**
$ 105.00**
Passport Book Renewal – Adult
$ 75.00
$ 110.00
Additional passport visa pages
–
$ 82.00
Passport Card – Adult
$ 45.00**
$ 55.00**
Passport Card – Child
$ 35.00**
$ 40.00**
Consular Report of Birth Abroad
$ 65.00
$ 100.00
Renunciation of U.S. Citizenship
–
$ 450.00
File Search and Verification of U.S. Citizenship
$ 60.00
$ 150.00 Overseas Citizens Services
Disposition/Shipment of Remains of a non-U.S. Citizen
$265.00 +
$200.00 +
expenses
expenses Documentary Services
Notarials, Certifications of True Copies, Authentications, provision of Department of State records
$ 30.00 (first), 20.00 (addt’l)
$ 50.00 Judicial Services
Processing Letters Rogatory & FSIA
$ 735.00
$ 2,275.00
Taking Depositions or Executing Commissions:
1. Scheduling/Arranging Depositions
$ 475.00
$ 1,283.00
2. Attending or Taking Depositions
$ 265.00/hr + expenses
$ 309.00/hr + expenses
3. Swearing in Witnesses
$ 265.00/hr + expenses
$ 231.00/hr + expenses
4. Supervising Telephone Depositions
$ 265.00/hr + expenses
$ 231.00/hr + expenses
5. Providing Seal and Certification
$ 70.00
$ 415.00 Administrative Services
Consular Time Charges (per hour)
$ 265.00
$ 231.00
*New NIV fees were instituted June 4, 2010. **This includes a $25 Execution fee not retained by Department of State.

Of the 5710 House and 3553Senate pieces of legislation introduced in the 111th Congress to date, the following are of interest to the non-active duty veteran community. Bill titles in green (if any) are new additions to this summary, titles in orange have either passed either the House or Senate and been passed to the other for consideration or been incorporated into another bill, and those highlighted in blue have become public law. A good indication on the likelihood a bill of being forwarded to the House or Senate for passage and subsequently being signed into law by the President is the number of cosponsors who have signed onto the bill. An alternate way for it to become law is if it is added as an addendum to another bill such as the annual National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and survives the conference committee assigned to iron out the difference between the House and Senate bills. At http://thomas.loc.gov you can review a copy of each bill’s text, determine its current status, the committee it has been assigned to, who your representative is and his/her phone number, mailing address, or email/website to communicate with a message or letter of your own making, and if your legislator is a sponsor or cosponsor of it. To separately determine what bills, amendments your representative has sponsored, cosponsored, or dropped sponsorship on refer to http://thomas.loc.gov/bss/d111/sponlst.html. To review a numerical list of all bills introduced refer to http://thomas.loc.gov/bss/111search.html. The key to increasing cosponsorship is letting legislators know of their constituent’s views on issues. Those bills that include a website in red are being pushed by various veterans groups for passage and by clicking on that website you can forward a preformatted message to your legislator requesting he/she support the bill.

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S.46 : Medicare Access to Rehabilitation Services Act of 2009 to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to repeal the Medicare outpatient rehabilitation therapy caps.

Sponsor: Sen Ensign, John [NV] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (31) Related Bill: H.R.43

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

To support this bill and/or contact your Senators send a message via

http://capwiz.com/moaa/issues/alert/?alertid=14486941&type=CO

________________________________________

S.66 : Disabled Vet Space A. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to permit former members of the Armed Forces who have a service-connected disability rated as total to travel on military aircraft in the same manner and to the same extent as retired members of the Armed Forces are entitled to travel on such aircraft.

Sponsor: Sen Inouye, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

________________________________________

S.67 : Disabled POW Commissary/Exchange Use. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to authorize certain disabled former prisoners of war to use Department of Defense commissary and exchange stores.

Sponsor: Sen Inouye, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

________________________________________

S.68 : Filipino Service Certification. A bill to require the Secretary of the Army to determine the validity of the claims of certain Filipinos that they performed military service on behalf of the United States during World War II.

Sponsor: Sen Inouye, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

________________________________________

S.94 : Long-Term Care Family Accessibility Act. A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide for a nonrefundable tax credit for long-term care insurance premiums.

Sponsor: Sen Vitter, David [LA] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Finance

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

Major Action: 1/13/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

________________________________________

S.239 : Veterans Health Equity Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to ensure that veterans in each of the 48 contiguous States are able to receive services in at least one full-service hospital of the Veterans Health Administration in the State or receive comparable services provided by contract in the State.

Sponsor: Sen Shaheen, Jeanne [NH] (introduced 1/14/2009) Cosponsors (1) Companion Bill H.R.190

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/14/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

________________________________________

S.246 : Veterans Health Care Quality Improvement Act. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the quality of care provided to veterans in Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities, to encourage highly qualified doctors to serve in hard-to-fill positions in such medical facilities, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Durbin, Richard [IL] (introduced 1/14/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/14/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

________________________________________

S.252 : Veterans Health Care Authorization Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to enhance the capacity of the Department of Veterans Affairs to recruit and retain nurses and other critical health-care professionals, to improve the provision of health care veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 1/15/2009) Cosponsors (11)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’

Affairs. Ordered to be reported without amendment favorably.

To support this bill and/or contact your Senators send a message via http://capwiz.com/dav/issues/alert/?alertid=14008476&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

________________________________________

S.263 : Servicemembers Access to Justice Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the enforcement of the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act of 1994, and for other purposes. Companion Bill H.R.1474.

Sponsor: Sen Casey, Robert P., Jr. [PA] (introduced 1/15/2009) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/29/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

________________________________________

S.274 : Veterans Jobs Opportunity Act of 2009. A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide an incentive to hire unemployed veterans.

Sponsor: Sen Baucus, Max [MT] (introduced 1/16/2009) Cosponsors (1) Related Bill: H.R.4443

Committees: Senate Finance

Latest Major Action: 1/16/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

________________________________________

S.296 : Fair Tax Act of 2009. A bill to promote freedom, fairness, and economic opportunity by repealing the income tax and other taxes, abolishing the Internal Revenue Service, and enacting a national sales tax to be administered primarily by the States.

Sponsor: Sen Chambliss, Saxby [GA] (introduced 1/22/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: Senate Finance

Latest Major Action: 1/22/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

________________________________________

S.307 : Critical Access Hospital Flexibility Act of 2009. A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide flexibility in the manner in which beds are counted for purposes of determining whether a hospital may be designated as a critical access hospital under the Medicare program and to exempt from the critical access hospital inpatient bed limitation the number of beds provided for certain veterans. Companion Bill H.R.668

Sponsor: Sen Wyden, Ron [OR] (introduced 1/22/2009) Cosponsors (15)

Committees: Senate Finance

Latest Major Action: 1/22/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

________________________________________

S.315 : Veterans Outreach Improvement Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the outreach activities of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. Companion Bill H.R.32

Sponsor: Sen Feingold, Russell D. [WI] (introduced 1/26/2009) Cosponsors (2) Related Bill H.R.2257

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/29/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

________________________________________

S.347 : Vet Hand Loss Traumatic Injury Protection. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to allow the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to distinguish between the severity of a qualifying loss of a dominant hand and a qualifying loss of a non-dominant hand for purposes of traumatic injury protection under Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Ensign, John [NV] (introduced 1/29/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/29/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

________________________________________

S.402 : Keeping Our Promise to America’s Military Veterans Act. A bill to improve the lives of our Nation’s veterans and their families and provide them with the opportunity to achieve the American dream.

Sponsor: Sen Snowe, Olympia J. [ME] (introduced 2/10/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/10/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

________________________________________

S.404 : Veterans’ Emergency Care Fairness Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to expand veteran eligibility for reimbursement by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs for emergency treatment furnished in a non-Department facility, and for other purposes. Companion Bill H.R.1377.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 2/10/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/10/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

________________________________________

S.407 : Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2009. A bill to increase, effective as of December 1, 2009, the rates of compensation for veterans with service-connected disabilities and the rates of dependency and indemnity compensation for the survivors of certain disabled veterans, and for other purposes. Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 2/10/2009) Cosponsors (17) Related bill H.R.1513 Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs Senate Reports: 111-24 Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 111-37 [GPO: Text, PDF]

________________________________________

S.423 : Veterans Health Care Budget Reform and Transparency Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize advance appropriations for certain medical care accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs by providing two-fiscal year budget authority, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 2/12/2009) Cosponsors (56)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 8/6/2009 Senate floor actions. Status: Returned to the Calendar. Calendar No. 101.

To support this bill and/or contact your Senators send a message http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12703276

________________________________________

S.491 : Federal and Military Retiree Health Care Equity Act. A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow Federal civilian and military retirees to pay health insurance premiums on a pretax basis and to allow a deduction for TRICARE supplemental premiums.

Sponsor: Sen Webb, Jim [VA] (introduced 2/26/2009) Cosponsors (48) Companion Bill H.R.1203

Committees: Senate Finance

Latest Major Action: 2/26/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

________________________________________

S.498 : Vet Dental Insurance. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize dental insurance for veterans and survivors and dependents of veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Burr, Richard [NC] (introduced 2/26/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/26/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

________________________________________

S.514 : Veterans Rehabilitation and Training Improvements Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to enhance vocational rehabilitation benefits for veterans, and for other purposes. Companion Bill H.R.297.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 3/3/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/29/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

________________________________________

S.535 : SBP DIC Offset Elimination. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to repeal requirement for reduction of survivor annuities under the Survivor Benefit Plan by veterans’ dependency and indemnity compensation, and for other purposes. Companion Bill H.775. Sponsor: Sen Nelson, Bill [FL] (introduced 3/5/2009) Cosponsors (57) Committees: Senate Armed Services Latest Major Action: 3/5/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services. To support this bill and/or contact your Senator send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=14275496&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

________________________________________

S.543 : Veteran and Servicemember Family Caregiver Support Act of 2009. A bill to require a pilot program on training, certification, and support for family caregivers of seriously disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces to provide caregiver services to such veterans and members, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Durbin, Richard [IL] (introduced 3/6/2009) Cosponsors (14) Companion Bill H.R.785.

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/6/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

________________________________________

S.546 : Retired Pay Restoration Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to permit certain retired members of the uniformed services who have a service-connected disability to receive both disability compensation from the Department of Veterans Affairs for their disability and either retired pay by reason of their years of military service of Combat-Related Special Compensation. Companion Bill H.R.811.

Sponsor: Sen Reid, Harry [NV] (introduced 3/9/2009) Cosponsors (45)

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 3/9/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

To support this bill and/or contact your Senators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12904686&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

________________________________________

S.572 : Purple Heart Forever Stamp. A bill to provide for the issuance of a “forever stamp” to honor the sacrifices of the brave men and women of the armed forces who have been awarded the Purple Heart. Companion Bill H.R.1305.

Sponsor: Sen Webb, Jim [VA] (introduced 3/11/2009) Cosponsors (17)

Committees: Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/23/2009 Referred to Senate subcommittee. Status: Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs referred to Subcommittee on Federal Financial Management, Government Information, Federal Services, and International Security.

________________________________________

S.597 : Women Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and improve health care services available to women veterans, especially those serving in operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, from the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. Companion Bill H.R.1211

Sponsor: Sen Murray, Patty [WA] (introduced 3/16/2009) Cosponsors (20)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/16/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

________________________________________

S.606 : Veterans Corps Program. A bill to amend the National and Community Service Act of 1990 to establish a Veterans Corps program.

Sponsor: Sen Warner, Mark R. [VA] (introduced 3/17/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions

Latest Major Action: 3/17/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions.

________________________________________

S.614 : WASP Gold Medal Award. A bill to award a Congressional Gold Medal to the Women Airforce Service Pilots (“WASP”). Sponsor: Sen Hutchison, Kay Bailey [TX] (introduced 3/17/2009) Cosponsors (75) Companion Bill H.R.2014 Committees: Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 111-40 [GPO: Text, PDF]

________________________________________

S.642 : Health Care for Members of the Armed Forces Exposed to Chemical Hazards Act of 2009. A bill to require the Secretary of Defense to establish registries of members and former members of the Armed Forces exposed in the line of duty to occupational and environmental health chemical hazards, to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide health care to veterans exposed to such hazards, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Bayh, Evan [IN] (introduced 3/19/2009) Cosponsors (7)

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 3/19/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

________________________________________

S.644 : National Guard and Reserve Retired Pay Equity Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to include service after September 11, 2001, as service qualifying for the determination of a reduced eligibility age for receipt of non-regular service retired pay.

Sponsor: Sen Chambliss, Saxby [GA] (introduced 3/19/2009) Cosponsors (13) Companion Bill H.R.208 Related Bill S.831

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 3/19/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

To support this bill and/or contact your Senators send a message via http://capwiz.com/ncoausa/issues/alert/?alertid=12995086&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id] or http://capwiz.com/moaa/issues/bills/?bill=12960556

________________________________________

S.658 : Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve health care for veterans who live in rural areas, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Tester, Jon [MT] (introduced 3/19/2009) Cosponsors (10)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/19/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the

Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

________________________________________

S.663 : Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War II Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish the Merchant Mariner Equity Compensation Fund to provide benefits to certain individuals who served in the United States merchant marine (including the Army Transport Service and the Naval Transport Service) during World War II.

Sponsor: Sen Nelson, E. Benjamin [NE] (introduced 3/19/2009) Cosponsors (51)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/29/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

________________________________________

S.669 : Veterans Second Amendment Protection Act. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to clarify the conditions under which certain persons may be treated as adjudicated mentally incompetent for certain purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Burr, Richard [NC] (introduced 3/23/2009) Cosponsors (18)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/16/2009 Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 78.

________________________________________

S.691 : Colorado National Cemetery for Veterans. A bill to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a national cemetery for veterans in southern Colorado region, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Bennet, Michael F. [CO] (introduced 3/25/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/29/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

________________________________________

S.699 : South Texas Veterans’ Hospital. A bill to provide for the construction by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs of a full service hospital in Far South Texas.

Sponsor: Sen Cornyn, John [TX] (introduced 3/25/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/25/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

________________________________________

S.700 : Ending the Medicare Disability Waiting Period Act of 2009. A bill to amend title II of the Social Security Act to phase out the 24-month waiting period for disabled individuals to become eligible for Medicare benefits, to eliminate the waiting period for individuals with life-threatening conditions, and for other purposes. Companion Bill H.R.1708.

Sponsor: Sen Bingaman, Jeff [NM] (introduced 3/25/2009) Cosponsors (21)

Committees: Senate Finance

Latest Major Action: 3/25/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

_______________________________________

S.728 : Veterans’ Insurance and Benefits Enhancement Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to enhance veterans’ insurance benefits, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 3/26/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/7/2009 Senate floor actions. Status: Returned to the Calendar. Calendar No. 155.

________________________________________

S.731 : TRICARE Coverage For “Gray Area” Reservists. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to provide for continuity of TRICARE Standard coverage for certain members of the Retired Reserve. Companion Bill H.R.270

Sponsor: Sen Nelson, E. Benjamin [NE] (introduced 3/26/2009) Cosponsors (23)

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 3/26/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services. ‘

To support this bill and/or contact your Senators send a message via http://www.ngaus.org/content.asp?bid=1805&False&False

________________________________________

S.734 : Rural Veterans Health Care Access and Quality Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the capacity of the Department of Veterans Affairs to recruit and retain physicians in Health Professional Shortage Areas and to improve the provision of health care to veterans in rural areas, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 3/30/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/30/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

________________________________________

S.746 : Nebraska National Cemetery. A bill to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a national cemetery in the Sarpy County region to serve veterans in eastern Nebraska, western Iowa, and northwest Missouri.

Sponsor: Sen Nelson, E. Benjamin [NE] (introduced 3/31/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/29/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

________________________________________

S.760 : National World War I Memorial. A bill to designate the Liberty Memorial at the National World War I Museum in Kansas City, Missouri, as the “National World War I Memorial”.

Sponsor: Sen McCaskill, Claire [MO] (introduced 4/1/2009) Cosponsors (3) Related Bill H.R.1849

Committees: Senate Energy and Natural Resources

Latest Major Action: 12/3/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Energy and Natural Resources Subcommittee on National Parks. Hearings held.

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S.768 : Bataan Gold Medal Initiative. A bill to grant the Congressional Gold Medal to the soldiers from the United States who were prisoners of war at Bataan during World War II.

Sponsor: Sen Udall, Tom [NM] (introduced 4/1/2009) Cosponsors (7)

Committees: Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/1/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.

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S.772 : Honor Act of 2009. A bill to enhance benefits for survivors of certain former members of the Armed Forces with a history of post-traumatic stress disorder or traumatic brain injury, to enhance availability and access to mental health counseling for members of the Armed Forces and veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Bond, Christopher S. [MO] (introduced 4/1/2009) Cosponsors (12)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/1/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.793 : Department of Veterans Affairs Vision Scholars Act of 2009. A bill to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a scholarship program for students seeking a degree or certificate in the areas of visual impairment and orientation and mobility.

Sponsor: Sen Brown, Sherrod [OH] (introduced 4/2/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/2/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.801 : Family Caregiver Program Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to waive charges for humanitarian care provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs to family members accompanying veterans severely injured after September 11, 2001, as they receive medical care from the Department and to provide assistance to family caregivers, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 4/2/2009) Cosponsors (27)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 9/25/2009 Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 167.

To support this bill and/or contact your Senators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=13104956&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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S.820 : Veterans Mobility Enhancement Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to enhance the automobile assistance allowance for veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Sanders, Bernard [VT] (introduced 4/2/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/29/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.821 : VA Copay Collection Prohibition. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to prohibit the Secretary of Veterans Affairs from collecting certain copayments from veterans who are catastrophically disabled, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Sanders, Bernard [VT] (introduced 4/2/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/2/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read the second time and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.831 : National Guard and Reserve Retired Pay Equity Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to include service after September 11, 2001, as service qualifying for the determination of a reduced eligibility age for receipt of non-regular service retired pay.

Sponsor: Sen Kerry, John F. [MA] (introduced 4/20/2009) Cosponsors (32) Related Bill S.644

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/20/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

To support this bill and/or contact your Senators send a message via www.ngaus.org/content.asp?bid=1805

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S.832 : MOAA Federal Charter. A bill to amend title 36, United States Code, to grant a Federal charter to the Military Officers Association of America, and for other purposes. Sponsor: Sen Nelson, Bill [FL] (introduced 4/20/2009) Cosponsors (41) Companion Bill H.R.2017 Related Bill S.1449 Committees: Senate Judiciary Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 111-95 [GPO: Text, PDF]

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S.842 : VA Home Loan Payoff to Mortgagers. A bill to repeal the sunset of certain enhancements of protections of servicemembers relating to mortgages and mortgage foreclosures, to amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to pay mortgage holders unpaid balances on housing loans guaranteed by Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Kerry, John F. [MA] (introduced 4/21/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/21/2009 4/29/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.847 : SBP Education Assistance Limitation Exclusion. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide that utilization of survivors’ and dependents’ educational assistance shall not be subject to the 48-month limitation on the aggregate amount of assistance utilizable under multiple veterans and related educational assistance programs.

Sponsor: Sen Webb, Jim [VA] (introduced 4/21/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/29/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.883 : Medal of Honor Coin. A bill to require the Secretary of the Treasury to mint coins in recognition and celebration of the establishment of the Medal of Honor in 1861, America’s highest award for valor in action against an enemy force which can be bestowed upon an individual serving in the Armed Services of the United States, to honor the American military men and women who have been recipients of the Medal of Honor, and to promote awareness of what the Medal of Honor represents and how ordinary Americans, through courage, sacrifice, selfless service and patriotism, can challenge fate and change the course of history.

Sponsor: Sen Kerry, John F. [MA] (introduced 4/23/2009) Cosponsors (85)

Committees: Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/23/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.

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S.902 : Veteran’s Treatment Courts. A bill to provide grants to establish veteran’s treatment courts.

Sponsor: Sen Kerry, John F. [MA] (introduced 4/27/2009) Cosponsors (4) Related Bill H.R.2127

Committees: Senate Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

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S. 944 – The Wounded Warrior Transition Assistance Act. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to require the Secretaries of the military departments to give wounded members of the reserve components of the Armed Forces the option of remaining on active duty during the transition process in order to continue to receive military pay and allowances, to authorize members to reside at their permanent places of residence during the process, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Feingold, Russell D. [WI] (introduced 4/30/2009) Cosponsors (5)

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/30/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

To support this bill and/or contact your Senators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=13266571&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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S.977 : Prisoner of War Benefits Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide improved benefits for veterans who are former prisoners of war, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Murray, Patty [WA] (introduced 5/5/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.998 : Arthur Woolweaver, Jr., Social Security Act Improvements for the Terminally Ill Act. A bill to amend title II of the Social Security Act to eliminate the five-month waiting period in the disability insurance program, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Brown, Sherrod [OH] (introduced 5/7/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: Senate Finance

Latest Major Action: 5/7/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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S.1008 : Military Retired Pay Fairness Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to limit requirements of separation pay, special separation benefits, and voluntary separation incentive from members of the Armed Forces subsequently receiving retired or retainer pay.

Sponsor: Sen Shaheen, Jeanne [NH] (introduced 5/7/2009) Cosponsors (7) Companion bill H.R.2302

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 5/7/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

To support this bill and/or contact your Senators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=13682656&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id] or http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=13967481&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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S.1015 : Enhanced Disability Compensation for Certain Disabled Veterans. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to enhance disability compensation for certain disabled veterans with difficulties using prostheses and disabled veterans in need of regular aid and attendance for residuals of traumatic brain injury, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Burr, Richard [NC] (introduced 5/11/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/11/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.1016 : Vet Disability Compensation Award upon Separation. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commencement of the period of payment of original awards of compensation for veterans who are retired or separated from the Uniformed services for disability.

Sponsor: Sen Burr, Richard [NC] (introduced 5/11/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/11/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.1042 : Illegal Garnishment Prevention Act. A bill to prohibit the use of funds to promote the direct deposit of Veterans and Social Security benefits until adequate safeguards are established to prevent the attachment

and garnishment of such benefits.

Sponsor: Sen Kohl, Herb [WI] (introduced 5/14/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: Senate Finance

Latest Major Action: 5/14/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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S.1055 : Gold Medal Award for 100th Inf Bn & 442nd RCT. A bill to grant the congressional gold medal, collectively, to the 100th Infantry Battalion and the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, United States Army, in recognition of their dedicated service during World War II.

Sponsor: Sen Boxer, Barbara [CA] (introduced 5/14/2009) Cosponsors (69) Related bill H.R.347

Committees: Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/14/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.

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S.1106 : Selected Reserve Continuum of Care Act. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to require the provision of medical and dental readiness services to certain members of the Selected Reserve and Individual Ready Reserve based on medical need, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Lincoln, Blanche L. [AR] (introduced 5/20/2009) Cosponsors (7)

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 5/20/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

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S.1109 : PRO-VETS Act of 2009. A bill to provide veterans with individualized notice about available benefits, to streamline application processes or the benefits, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Gillibrand, Kirsten E. [NY] (introduced 5/20/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1118 : DIC Compensation Rate Increase to 55%. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for an increase in the amount of monthly dependency and indemnity compensation payable to surviving spouses by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Lincoln, Blanche L. [AR] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1128 : Atomic Veterans Service Medal Act. A bill to authorize the award of a military service medal to members of the Armed Forces who were exposed to ionizing radiation as a result of participation in the testing of nuclear weapons or under other circumstances.

Sponsor: Sen Roberts, Pat [KS] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (3) Related bill H.R.2553

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 5/21/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

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S.1160 : Homes for Heroes Act of 2009. A bill to provide housing assistance for very low-income veterans.

Sponsor: Sen Schumer, Charles E. [NY] (introduced 6/1/2009) Cosponsors (14)

Committees: Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/1/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.

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S.1166 : Voluntary Support for Reservists and National Guard Members Act of 2009. A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow taxpayers to designate part or all of any income tax refund to support reservists and National Guard members.

Sponsor: Sen Reid, Harry [NV] (introduced 6/3/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: Senate Finance

Latest Major Action: 6/3/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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S.1168 : Nationally Significant Battlefields Protection. A bill to authorize the acquisition and protection of nationally significant battlefields and associated sites of the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812 under the American Battlefield Protection Program.

Sponsor: Sen Schumer, Charles E. [NY] (introduced 6/3/2009) Cosponsors (1) Related Bill H.R.1694

Committees: Senate Energy and Natural Resources

Latest Major Action: 7/15/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Energy and Natural Resources Subcommittee on National Parks. Hearings held. With printed Hearing: S.Hrg. 111-92.

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S.1169 : Uniformed Services with Autism (USA) Heroes Act . A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to provide for the treatment of autism under TRICARE.

Sponsor: Sen Gillibrand, Kirsten E. [NY] (introduced 6/3/2009) Cosponsors (7)

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/3/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

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S.1204 : Chiropractic Care Available to All Veterans Act of 2009. A bill to amend the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Programs Enhancement Act of 2001 to require the provision of chiropractic care and services to veterans at all Department of Veterans Affairs medical centers, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Murray, Patty [WA] (introduced 6/8/2009) Cosponsors (9) Related bill H.R.1017

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1237 : Homeless Women Veterans and Homeless Veterans with Children Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to expand the grant program for homeless veterans with special needs to include male homeless veterans with minor dependents and to establish a grant program for reintegration of homeless women veterans and homeless veterans with children, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Murray, Patty [WA] (introduced 6/11/2009) Cosponsors (8)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/29/2010 Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No.

360.

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S.1337 : Filipino Veterans Family Reunification Act of 2009. A bill to exempt children of certain Filipino World War II veterans from the numerical limitations on immigrant visas.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 6/24/2009) Cosponsors (6)

Committees: Senate Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 6/24/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

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S.1347 : Carmelo Rodriguez Military Medical Accountability Act of 2009. A bill to amend chapter 171 of title 28, United States Code, to allow members of the Armed Forces to sue the United States for damages for certain injuries caused by improper medical care, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Schumer, Charles E. [NY] (introduced 6/24/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 6/24/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

To support this bill and/or contact your Senators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=13791596&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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S.1394 : Veterans Entitlement to Service Act of 2009. A bill to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to acknowledge the receipt of medical, disability, and pension claims and other communications submitted by claimants, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Gillibrand, Kirsten E. [NY] (introduced 7/6/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1427 : Department of Veterans Affairs Hospital Quality Report Card Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish a Hospital Quality Report Card Initiative to report on health care quality in Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Centers, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Wyden, Ron [OR] (introduced 7/9/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1429 : Servicemembers Mental Health Care Commission Act. A bill to establish a commission on veterans and members of the Armed Forces with post traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, or other mental health disorders, to enhance the capacity of mental health care providers to assist such veterans and members, to ensure such veterans are not discriminated against, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Wyden, Ron [OR] (introduced 7/9/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1449 : MOAA Federal Charter. A bill to amend title 36, United States Code, to grant a Federal charter to

the Military Officers Association of America, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Nelson, Bill [FL] (introduced 7/14/2009) Cosponsors (None) Related Bill H.R.2017 & S.832

Committees: Senate Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 7/14/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

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S.1450 : Deceased Servicemen Parental Nursing Home Care. A bill to enable State homes to furnish nursing home care to parents any of whose children died while serving in the Armed Forces.

Sponsor: Sen Ensign, John [NV] (introduced 7/14/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/14/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.1452 : COMBAT PTSD Act. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to clarify the meaning of “combat with the enemy” for purposes of service-connection of disabilities.

Sponsor: Sen Schumer, Charles E. [NY] (introduced 7/14/2009) Cosponsors (5)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/14/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.1467 : Lance Corporal Josef Lopez Fairness for Servicemembers Harmed by Vaccines Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide coverage under Traumatic Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance for adverse reactions to vaccinations administered by the Department of Defense, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen McCaskill, Claire [MO] (introduced 7/16/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1495 : Service Dogs for Veterans Act of 2009. A bill to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program to assess the feasibility and advisability of using service dogs for the treatment or rehabilitation of veterans with physical or mental injuries or disabilities, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Franken, Al [MN] (introduced 7/22/2009) Cosponsors (7) Related Bill H.R.3266

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/22/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.1518 : Caring for Camp Lejeune Veterans Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to furnish hospital care, medical services, and nursing home care to veterans who were stationed at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, while the water was contaminated at Camp Lejeune.

Sponsor: Sen Burr, Richard [NC] (introduced 7/27/2009) Cosponsors (15)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1520 : NAIV Charter. A bill to grant a Federal charter to the National American Indian Veterans, Incorporated.

Sponsor: Sen Johnson, Tim [SD] (introduced 7/27/2009) Cosponsors (1) Related Bill H.R.3349

Committees: Senate Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 7/27/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

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S.1543 : Supporting Military Families Act of 2009. A bill to amend the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 and title 5, United States Code, to provide leave for family members of members of regular components of the Armed Forces, and leave to care for covered veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Dodd, Christopher J. [CT] (introduced 7/30/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions

Latest Major Action: 7/30/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions.

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S.1547 : Zero Tolerance for Veterans Homelessness Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, and the United States Housing Act of 1937 to enhance and expand the assistance provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Housing and Urban Development to homeless veterans and veterans at risk of homelessness, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Reed, Jack [RI] (introduced 7/30/2009) Cosponsors (19)

Committees: Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs; Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1556 : Veteran Voting Support Act of 2009. A bill to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to permit facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs to be designated as voter registration agencies, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Feinstein, Dianne [CA] (introduced 8/3/2009) Cosponsors (6)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1558 : Travel Reimbursement for Inactive Duty Training Personnel (TRIP) Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 37, United States Code, to provide travel and transportation allowances for members of the reserve components for long distance and certain other travel to inactive duty training.

Sponsor: Sen Lincoln, Blanche L. [AR] (introduced 8/3/2009) Cosponsors (8)

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 8/3/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

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S.1668 : National Guard Education Equality Act. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the inclusion of certain active duty service in the reserve components as qualifying service for purposes of Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Bennet, Michael F. [CO] (introduced 9/14/2009) Cosponsors (14)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

To support this bill and/or contact your Senators send a message via http://capwiz.com/ngaus/mail/compose/?mailid=14779496&azip=92571

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S.1685 : Emergency Senior Citizens Relief Act of 2009. A bill to provide an emergency benefit of $250 to seniors, veterans, and persons with disabilities in 2010 to compensate for the lack of a cost-of-living adjustment for such year, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Sanders, Bernard [VT] (introduced 9/17/2009) Cosponsors (10) Related Bills: H.R.3597

Committees: Senate Finance

Latest Major Action: 9/17/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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S.1695 : Congressional Gold Medal Award. A bill to authorize the award of a Congressional gold medal to the Montford Point Marines of World War II.

Sponsor: Sen Burris, Roland [IL] (introduced 9/23/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs

Latest Major Action: 9/23/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.

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S.1717 : VA Facility Leases. A bill to authorize major medical facility leases for the Department of Veterans Affairs for fiscal year 2010, and for other purposes. Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 9/25/2009) Cosponsors (1) Related Bill S.1310 Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 111-82

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S.1752 : Parkinson’s Disease VA Compensation. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide wartime disability compensation for certain veterans with Parkinson’s disease.

Sponsor: Sen Sanders, Bernard [VT] (introduced 10/5/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1753 : Disabled Veteran Caregiver Housing Assistance Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to increase assistance for disabled veterans who are temporarily residing in housing owned by a family member, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Sanders, Bernard [VT] (introduced 10/5/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1779 : Health Care for Veterans Exposed to Chemical Hazards Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38,

United States Code, to provide health care to veterans exposed in the line of duty to occupational and environmental health chemical hazards, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Bayh, Evan [IN] (introduced 10/14/2009) Cosponsors (7)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1780 : Honor America’s Guard-Reserve Retirees Act. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to deem certain service in the reserve components as active service for purposes of laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Sen Lincoln, Blanche L. [AR] (introduced 10/14/2009) Cosponsors (9) Related bill: H.R.3787

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/19/2010 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1798 : Automatic Reserve Component Enrollment Act of 2009. A bill to provide for the automatic enrollment of demobilizing members of the National Guard and Reserve in health care and dental care programs of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Sanders, Bernard [VT] (introduced 10/19/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/19/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.1932 : Post 9/11 Troops to Teachers Enhancement Act. A bill to amend the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to allow members of the Armed Forces who served on active duty on or after September 11, 2001, to be eligible to participate in the Troops-to-Teachers Program, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen McCain, John [AZ] (introduced 10/27/2009) Cosponsors (8)

Committees: Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions

Latest Major Action:

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S.1939 : Vet Presumptive Exposure in Vietnam. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to clarify presumptions relating to the exposure of certain veterans who served in the vicinity of the Republic of Vietnam, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Gillibrand, Kirsten E. [NY] (introduced 10/27/2009) Cosponsors (19)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/19/2010 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1963 : Caregivers and Veterans Omnibus Health Services Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide assistance to caregivers of veterans, to improve the provision of health care to veterans, and for other purposes. Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 10/28/2009) Cosponsors (7) Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 111-163 [GPO: Text, PDF]

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S.2096 : Parent VA Burial Eligibility. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the eligibility of parents of certain deceased veterans for interment in national cemeteries.

Sponsor: Sen Kerry, John F. [MA] (introduced 10/29/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/29/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.2743 : Cold War Service Medal Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to provide for the award of a military service medal to members of the Armed Forces who served honorably during the Cold War, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Snowe, Olympia J. [ME] (introduced 11/5/2009) Cosponsors (7) Related bill: H.R.4051

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 11/5/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

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S.2759 : Benefit Rating Acceleration for Veteran Entitlements Act of 2009. A bill to amend title II and XVI of the Social Security Act to provide for treatment of disability rated and certified as total by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs as disability for purposes of such titles.

Sponsor: Sen Brown, Sherrod [OH] (introduced 11/10/2009) Cosponsors (None) Related Bill: H.R.4054

Committees: Senate Finance

Latest Major Action: 11/10/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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S.2760 : VA Homeless Vets Appropriations. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for an increase in the annual amount authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out comprehensive service programs for homeless veterans.

Sponsor: Sen Udall, Tom [NM] (introduced 11/10/2009) Cosponsors (14)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 11/10/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.2769 : Post-9/11 Veterans’ Job Training Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the use of entitlement under Post-9/11 Educational Assistance for the pursuit of apprenticeships and on-job training, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Klobuchar, Amy [MN] (introduced 11/10/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 11/10/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.2770 : Veterans Business Center Act of 2009. A bill to amend the Small Business Act to establish a Veterans Business Center program, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Gillibrand, Kirsten E. [NY] (introduced 11/10/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship

Latest Major Action: 11/10/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the

Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship.

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S.3082 : VA Work Study Allowances. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize individuals who are pursuing programs of rehabilitation, education, or training under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to receive work-study allowances for certain outreach services provided through congressional offices, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Wyden, Ron [OR] (introduced 3/5/2010) Cosponsors (1) Related bill: H.R.4765

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/5/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.3107 : Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2010. A bill to amend title 38 , United States Code, to provide for an increase, effective December 1, 2010, in the rates of compensation for veterans with service-connected disabilities and the rates of dependency and indemnity compensation for the survivors of certain disabled veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 3/11/2010) Cosponsors (12) Related Bill: H.R.4667

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/19/2010 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.3118 : Veterans Pensions Protection Act. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide that monetary benefits paid to veterans by States and municipalities shall be excluded from consideration as income for purposes of pension benefits paid by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Sen Kerry, John F. [MA] (introduced 3/16/2010) Cosponsors (None) Related Bill: H.R.3485

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/16/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.3162 : VA Minimum Essential Coverage. A bill to clarify the health care provided by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs that constitutes minimum essential coverage.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 3/24/2010) Cosponsors (59) Related bills: H.R.5014

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/13/2010 Held at the desk.

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S.3171 : Veterans Training Act. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the approval of certain programs of education for purposes of the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program.

Sponsor: Sen Lincoln, Blanche L. [AR] (introduced 3/25/2010) Cosponsors (10) Related bills: H.R. 3813

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/25/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.3192 : Fair Access to Veterans Benefits Act of 2010. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the tolling of the timing of review for appeals of final decisions of the Board of Veterans’

Appeals, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Specter, Arlen [PA] (introduced 4/12/2010) Cosponsors (1) Related bills: H.R.5045, H.R.5064

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/12/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.3201 : TRICARE Dependent Coverage Extension Act. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to extend TRICARE coverage to certain dependents under the age of 26.

Sponsor: Sen Udall, Mark [CO] (introduced 4/14/2010) Cosponsors (31) Related bills: H.R.4923

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/14/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

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S.3234 : Veteran Employment Assistance Act of 2010. A bill to improve employment, training, and placement services furnished to veterans, especially those serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Murray, Patty [WA] (introduced 4/20/2010) Cosponsors (13) Related bills: H.R.5120

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/19/2010 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.3286 : VA Vet Claim Assistance Pilot Program. A bill to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program on the award of grants to State and local government agencies and nonprofit organizations to provide assistance to veterans with their submittal of claims to the Veterans Benefits Administration, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Specter, Arlen [PA] (introduced 4/29/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/19/2010 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.3356 : CHAMPVA Children Maximum Age increase. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to increase the maximum age for children eligible for medical care under the CHAMPVA program, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Feingold, Russell D. [WI] (introduced 5/13/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/13/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.3359 : Veterans’ Disability Compensation Automatic COLA Act. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for annual cost-of-living adjustments to be made automatically by law each year in the rates of disability compensation for veterans with service-connected disabilities and the rates of dependency and indemnity compensation for survivors of certain service-connected disabled veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Thune, John [SD] (introduced 5/13/2010) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/13/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

——————————————————————————–

S.3367 : VA Pension Increase for Disabled Couples. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to increase the rate of pension for disabled veterans who are married to one another and both of whom require regular aid and attendance, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 5/13/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/19/2010 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

——————————————————————————–

S.3371 : TRICARE Mental Health Care Access Act. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to improve access to mental health care counselors under the TRICARE program, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen McCaskill, Claire [MO] (introduced 5/13/2010) Cosponsors (6)

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 5/13/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

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S.3378 : Examination of Exposures to Environmental Hazards During Military Service and Health Care for Camp Lejeune and Atsugi Naval Air Facility Veterans and their Families Act of 2010. An original bill to authorize health care for individuals exposed to environmental hazards at Camp Lejeune and the Atsugi Naval Air Facility, to establish an advisory board to examine exposures to environmental hazards during military service, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 5/17/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Senate Reports: 111-189

Latest Major Action: 5/17/2010 Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 377.

——————————————————————————–

S.3394 : Strengthening Entrepreneurship for America’s Veterans Act of 2010. A bill to establish the veterans’ business center program, to improve the programs for veterans of the Small Business Administration, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Landrieu, Mary L. [LA] (introduced 5/20/2010) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship

Latest Major Action: 5/20/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship.

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S.3398 : Veteran Employment Transition Act of 2010. A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend the work opportunity credit to certain recently discharged veterans.

Sponsor: Sen Baucus, Max [MT] (introduced 5/24/2010) Cosponsors (3) Related bills: H.R.5400

Committees: Senate Finance

Latest Major Action: 5/24/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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S.3406 : Reserve Retirement Deployment Credit Correction Act. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to eliminate the per-fiscal year calculation of days of certain active duty or active service used to reduce the minimum age at which a member of a reserve component of the uniformed services may retire for non-regular service.

Sponsor: Sen Hagan, Kay [NC] (introduced 5/24/2010) Cosponsors (None) Related bills: H.R.4947

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 5/24/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

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S.3447 : Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Improvements Act of 2010. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve educational assistance for veterans who served in the Armed Forces after September 11, 2001, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 5/27/2010) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/27/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

——————————————————————————– S.3454 : National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2011. An original bill to authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2011 for military activities of the Department of Defense, for military construction, and for defense activities of the Department of Energy, to prescribe military personnel strengths for such fiscal year, and for other purposes. Sponsor: Sen Levin, Carl [MI] (introduced 6/4/2010) Cosponsors (None) Related bills: H.R.5136, S.3455, S.3456, S.3457

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Senate Reports: 111-201

Latest Major Action: 6/4/2010 Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 414.

——————————————————————————–

S.3477 : Blue Star/Gold Star Flag Act of 2010. A bill to ensure that the right of an individual to display the Service Flag on residential property not be abridged.

Sponsor: Sen Webb, Jim [VA] (introduced 6/10/2010) Cosponsors (11) Related Bill: H.R.2546

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/10/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

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S.3499 : Fiduciary Benefits Oversight Act of 2010. A bill to require fiduciaries of individuals receiving benefits under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to authorize the Secretary to obtain financial records with respect to such individuals for purposes of administering such laws, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 6/16/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/16/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

——————————————————————————–

S.3556 : Hire A Hero Act of 2010. A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow the work

opportunity credit to small businesses which hire individuals who are members of the Ready Reserve or National Guard

Sponsor: Sen Brownback, Sam [KS] (introduced 6/30/2010) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: Senate Finance

Latest Major Action: 6/30/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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[Source: http://thomas.loc.gov/home/LegislativeData.php?n=Browse 12 Jul 09 ++]

The state of Arizona provides several veteran benefits. This section offers a brief description of each of the following benefits.

• Housing Benefits
• Financial Assistance Benefits
• Employment Benefits
• Education Benefits
• Other State Veteran Benefits

Arizona Veteran Housing Programs
Arizona State Veteran Home The Arizona State Veteran Home is located in Phoenix at 4141 N. 3rd Street. It is a 200 bed, skilled care nursing facility operated and maintained by the Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services. The Veteran Home offers different levels of nursing care and encourages residents to function at their highest level. The state – of the – art facility has been designed to be both functional and provide a pleasing environment with a southwest atmosphere. Learn more about the Arizona State Veteran Home
Arizona Financial Assistance Benefits
Tax and License Fee Exemptions 1. To the extent not already excluded from Arizona gross income under set. 112 of the Internal Revenue Code, compensation received for active service as a member of the Armed Forces of the United States for any month during any part of which members served in a combat zone is exempt.
2. Federal (Civil Service or Military Retirement) payments up to $2,500.00 per year are exempt. NOTE: Contact the Arizona Department of Revenue (1-800-845-8192) for any veteran tax issues.
Property Tax: Exemption for property of widows, widowers, and disabled persons. A. The property of widows, widowers, and disabled persons who are residents of this state is exempt from taxation to the extent allowed by Article IX § 2, 2.1, 2.2, and 2.3, Constitution of Arizona, and subject to the conditions and limitations prescribed by this section. NOTE: The exemption is applied to real estate first, then to a mobile home or an automobile. Contact your County Assessor office for eligibility. Learn more about Tax and License Fee Exemptions Vehicle License Tax and Registration Fees No license tax or registration fee shall be collected from any veteran for a personally owned vehicle if such veteran is certified by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to be one hundred percent service-connected disabled and drawing compensation on that basis. A veteran residing in Arizona shall be exempt from a vehicle license tax on a vehicle acquired by the veteran through financial aid from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Learn more about Vehicle License Tax and Registration Fees
Arizona Employment Benefits
Employment Preferences Age Limit: An honorably discharged veteran shall be eligible for employment preference, rights, and privileges under any merit system in the state in the state or any political subdivision thereof, regardless of age, if otherwise qualified.
Civil Service: Veterans who pass an examination for employment by the state, county or city will have 5 points added to their certification score. The veteran must have served for more than six (6) months and be separated under honorable conditions. Veterans entitled to compensation for a service-connected disability will have 10 points added to their certification score. Certain spouses or surviving spouses shall be given a 5 point preference if the veteran died of a service-connected disability.
Fire Department: Members of any fire company inducted into the military establishment of the United States for military training are authorized reinstatement to their previous rating after discharge from military service. Police And Fire Department: The period of military service shall be included in computing the length of service of the employee to determine eligibility for retirement.
Reserve Status/War Emergency: Appointive officers or employees of the state or of a political subdivision will be reinstated to their former position upon completion of military service to which (s) he was inducted or ordered during time of war or was called to service because of their status as an active or inactive member of the Reserves. Learn more about Employment Preferences Professional and Occupational Licenses Every funeral director, embalmer, or apprentice embalmer who serves in the armed forces during a time of war is exempt from paying renewal license fees for the duration of the war and six months thereafter or for a period of six months following discharge from the armed forces. Learn more about Professional and Occupational Licenses
Arizona Education Benefits
Tuition and Fees-Deferred Payment A veteran or eligible dependent who has applied for educational benefits under the G.I. Bill state-supported community colleges, colleges and universities may defer payment of tuition, fees and required books for a period of 120 days with no interest charges. If, at the end of such period, the person has not received from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs the initial benefit monies for tuition and fees, an extension may be granted until such time benefits are received. Learn more about the Tuition and Fees-Deferred Payment
Other Arizona State Veteran Benefits
Burial and Headstones When a veteran or a surviving spouse dies without sufficient means for funeral expenses, the County Board of
Supervisors is responsible to ensure that burial will not be in a portion of ground used exclusively for burial of paupers. A suitable plot will be used, and the county may apply to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs for expenses not to exceed $150.00.
When the county buries an indigent veteran, the county clerk will make an application to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs for a suitable headstone and make arrangements for it to be placed at the head of the grave. Learn more about Burial and Headstones Voting in Elections Absentee registration and voting by active duty military personnel and their eligible dependents residing out of state may be accomplished by prior to 7:00 p.m. on an Election Day. The County recorder may accept a federal postcard application in lieu of an affidavit of registration. Learn more about Voting in Elections Recording of Discharges Any county recorder, free of charge shall record military discharge papers. Location of each County Recorder’s Office may be found in the blue pages of your area telephone directory. Learn more about the Recording of Discharges Public Record Certification Public officials shall issue without charge, certified copies of public records for use in making a claim for pension, compensation, allotment allowance, insurance, or other benefits from the United States. Learn more about Public Record Certification Credit for Military Service for State Retirement Benefits A participant of the state system or plan may receive credited past service or future service for active military service if the participant was honorably discharge from service. The period of military service for which the participant receives credited service is not on account with any other retirement system. Contact the nearest state personnel office for additional information and eligibility. Learn more about Credit for Military Service for State Retirement Benefits Hunting and Fishing Licenses Resident hunting and fishing licenses for members of the armed forces on active duty, stationed in state are available upon application. Complimentary licenses may be granted to veteran’s 70 years or older who have been residents of this state for 25 years. Complimentary licenses will be issued to veterans verified by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to be one hundred percent service-connected disabled and who have been a resident for one year or more. Note: Contact the nearest Department of Game and Fish office. Learn more about Hunting and Fishing Licenses Arizona State Parks The Arizona State Parks department announced from Fort Verde State Historic Park that the agency will be instituting a new program to provide Arizona’s 100% permanently disabled veterans with a “Disabled Veterans Annual Day Use pass”. The pass will provide qualified veterans with day use access to all twenty-seven State Parks. Learn more about the Arizona State Parks Pass Special License Plates Medal of Honor: Any resident of Arizona who is a recipient of the Medal of Honor may apply for a distinctive number plate at no additional cost.
Prisoner of War: Any resident of Arizona who is a former prisoner of war may apply for a distinctive number plate. An initial fee of $15.00 is charged in addition to the registration fee with an annual renewal fee of $5.00.
Purple Heart: Any resident of Arizona who is a recipient of the Purple Heart may apply for a distinctive number plate. An initial fee of $25.00 is charged in addition to the registration fee with an annual renewal fee of $5.00.
Pearl Harbor Survivors: Any resident of Arizona who was a member of the Armed Forces of the United States, received an honorable discharge, and was stationed at Pearl Harbor, the island of Oahu (or offshore not exceeding 3 miles), on December 7, 1941, during the hours of 7:55 A.M. to 9:45 A.M., is eligible for a Pearl Harbor distinctive number plate. An initial fee of $25.00 is charged in addition to the registration fee with an annual renewal fee of $5.00.
National Guard: Any resident of Arizona who is or has been a member of the Arizona Air National Guard or Army National Guard may apply for a distinctive number plate. An initial and renewal fee of $25.00 is charged in addition to the registration fee.
Veteran: Any resident of Arizona who was a member of the Armed Forces of the United States and received an honorable discharge may apply for a distinctive number plate. An initial and renewal fee of $25.00 is charged in addition to the registration fee. Learn more about Special License Plates Transportation Common carriers may give free or reduced rates to residents of homes for soldiers, and, with the consent of the Arizona Corporation Commission, to former soldiers and sailors for the purpose of attending any convention. Learn more about Transportation for Veterans
[Source: www.military.com/benefits/veteran-benefits/arizona-state-veterans-benefits Jul 2010 ++]

THIS BULLETIN CONTAINS THE FOLLOWING ARTICLES

==ISP’s Blocking RAO Bulletin [06] — (Change to PDF format)

== VA Hiring [04] —————— (Obama Signs Memorandum)

== VA Prosthetics [05] ——————————- (New Vet Tax)

== U.S. Savings Bonds [07] ———- (DFAS Allotments to Stop)

== VA HIV Testing —————— (New Routine Medical Care)

== Researching Your Doctor —————————- (California)

== Vet Toxic Exposure ~ Malathion —— (Operation Flyswatter)

== VA Pension [02] ————————— (H.R.4541 & S.3352)

== Consular Fees ——————————- (JUL 2010 Changes)

== Nat Comm on Fiscal Responsibility & Reform —— (Jun Mtg)

==DBIDS [01] —————————– (What you need to know)

== Military Discounts [03] ——————- (Blue Star Museums)

==Fit but Unsuitable Discharge ———————- (Oxymoronic)

== HVAC [12] —————————— (DAMA 1 JUL Hearing)

== Mobilized Reserve 06 JUL 2010 ————– (2,393 Decrease)

== Passport Obtainment ~ U.S. [04] ——————- (Philippines)

==VA Women Vet Programs [12] ———– (Forum Registration)

== Vietnam Veterans Memorial [07] —– (Restoration Complete)

== VA Service Dogs ————— (VA Not Exercising Authority)

== VA Lawsuit ~ Disability Claim Rejections ————— (COA)

== Aid & Attendance [04] ——————- (Deceptive Marketing)

== PTSD [50] —————————– (Proof Rule Modification)

== VA Presumptive VN Vet Diseases [08] —————- (Criteria)

== Vet Jobs [20] ————————- (SHRM Study Disclosures)

==Fisher House Expansion [05] ——————————- (2010)

== Louisiana Vet Cemeteries ————— (New State Cemetery)

== Heat Exhaustion/Stroke ———————————- (Seniors)

== VA Prostate Cancer Program [07] ——————– (Lawsuits)

== Money Transfer ————————————— (Xoom.com)

== Flag Presentation [03] ———————————— (History)

== Arlington National Cemetery [12] ————– (Disinterments)

== VA Office of the General Counsel —————— (Challenges)

== VA Treatment Access ———- (Fudging Performance Grades)

== VAMC St. Louis MO [01] ———- (Investigations Scheduled)

== Virginia Vet Legislation ———————- (Newly Approved)

2

== VA Women Vet Programs [11] ————— (S.1237 Blocked)

== Tricare Uniform Formulary [33] ————- (New Search Tool)

== National Cemetery Administration [02] — (Biannual Meeting)

== Tricare Supplemental Insurance [04] ———- (Pre-tax Benefit)

== HVAC [11] —————————— (DAMA Reviews 5 Bills)

== COLA 2011 [03] —————————- (May 0.1% Increase)

== TSA Guidance for Passengers — (International Flights to U.S.)

== Debt Collector’s Rules ——————— (Tactics not Allowed)

== Medicare Fraud [43] —————————— (1-14 Jul 2010)

== Medicad Fraud [17] ——————————- (1-14 Jul 2010)

== State Veteran’s Benefits ———————————- (Arizona)

== Military History ————– (The Day Japan Bombed Oregon)

== Military History Anniversaries ———– (Jul 16-31 Summary)

== Military Trivia 08 ————————————— (Number 8)

== Tax Burden for New York Retirees ———————— (2009)

== Congressional Alphalist ———————————- (Index D)

== Veteran Legislation Status 12 JUL 2010 —- (Where we stand)

== Have You Heard? ——————————— (Military Lingo)

Attachment – Arizona State Veteran’s Benefits

Attachment – Veteran Legislation

Attachment – U.S. Passport Renewal Requirements Checklist

Attachment – New Consular Fees 13 JUL 2010

Ant

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ISP’s Blocking RAO Bulletin Update 06: I am changing how I transmit the RAO Bulletin because too many subscribers (over 500) cannot receive it using Word attachments. As a test I sent it to these subscribers who had previously informed me they could not receive or open Word attachments using PDF attachments. Only 12 of those could not open the PDF attachments. I have sent this Bulletin to all 80,000+ subscribers in PDF format to find out how many cannot receive/open it in PDF format. If the number is small I plan to continue to use PDF attachments for future Bulletin transmissions. In the interim I will continue to maintain an ―Old format‖ directory to transmit in straight text format to those who cannot open any type of attachment. Those who cannot receive or open either format have the option of going to the website to read/download the Bulletin. Request you NOT send me any messages that state your preference for the PDF format. However, if you are unable to open the PDF attachments I need to know so I can add you to the Old format directory. Hopefully this change will help reduce the number of subscribers who are currently not being allowed access to the Bulletin by their ISP’s. [Source: RAO Bulletin Editor/Publisher 14 Jul 2010 ++]

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VA Hiring Update 04: On 11 MAY 2010, President Barack Obama signed a memorandum calling on executive departments and agencies to transform federal government recruitment and hiring practices. The required reforms will enable VA to hire the employees needed to deliver on President Obama’s pledge to transform the Department for the 21st century. The memorandum calls for the elimination of lengthy application processes, including essay-style questions for initial applicants; a reduction in the time it takes to hire mission-critical and commonly filled positions; and greater involvement by managers in the hiring process. The VA Hiring Reform Taskforce, led by Annie Spiczak, Associate Deputy Assistant Secretary for Human Resources Policy and Planning, is leading implementation of this mandate and includes Human Resources (HR) professionals and line managers

3

representing all of VA. Teams of HR professionals are working to make job announcements shorter and easier to understand; streamline and automate the hiring process; and train hiring managers in workforce and succession planning. For managers, the reform will put the focus on partnering with HR practitioners to develop staffing plans, with the overall aim of reducing hiring timelines and providing access to the highest-quality candidates. [Source: VA Secy Vet Group Liason Officer Kevin Secor article 13 Jul 2010 ++]

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VA Prosthetics Update 05: The Disabled American Veterans (DAV) is pleased that President Barack Obama’s administration has vowed that veterans and servicemembers would continue to receive prosthetic devices from the Department of Veterans Affairs or TRICARE at no cost. The White House announcement last week dispelled unfounded rumors that disabled veterans and servicemembers would face a new tax on prosthetic limbs and other vital medical services under the Affordable Care Act. While the health care law does impose a new tax on big medical device manufactures, the tax will not be passed on to veterans and servicemembers. “The President’s statement should help put to rest unfounded rumors that have been spread among our nation’s disabled veterans and servicemembers,” said DAV National Commander Roberto “Bobby” Barrera. “Our veterans and servicemembers were suddenly struck by these rumors, and many feared that our government was abandoning them to pay for their own disability.” Prices and reimbursements for medical devices will continue to be negotiated between manufacturers and insurance companies, retail establishments and, in the case of the federal government, for veterans and servicemembers. The full cost of prosthetic devices for veterans will continue to be borne by the government. [Source: DAV msg.13 Jul 2010 ++]

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U.S. Savings Bonds Update 07: The Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) will stop all current Savings Bonds allotments processed for military personnel and military retirees effective 31 JUL. Allotments for federal civilian employees will end A29 AUG. This comes following the U.S. Treasury’s decision to convert electronic transactions through www.TreasuryDirect.gov . DFAS customers who wish to continue purchasing savings bonds through payroll deduction will need to establish an online account with TreasuryDirect. Once they have an account with TreasuryDirect, they can a new allotment using the TreasuryDirect account number through their normal pay system. Information on purchasing Treasury securities is available on the DFAS website. [Source: Military.com Military report 12 Jul 2010 ++]

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VA HIV Testing: On 12 JUL the Department of Veterans Affairs launched a major effort to both increase HIV testing in Veterans and to make it part of routine medical care. HIV test results will not affect your VA care or your eligibility for VA benefits. You have the right to refuse HIV testing without losing medical benefits or any right to care. The test is designed to determine whether you have been infected. HIV is the virus that causes AIDS. When you get infected your body produces cells and particles to fight the virus. These particles are called antibodies. The test can detect antibodies to HIV in your body. (The HIV antibodies are different from antibodies for the flu, a cold, or other infections.) If you have HIV antibodies, then you have been infected. The test does not tell you if you have AIDS, how long you have been infected, or how sick you might be. Veterans who will be taking this test should be aware of the following:

What the test involves. It requires a sample of blood or fluid from inside the mouth. For the blood test, blood is drawn either from the arm or from the finger with a needlestick. Results from oral-fluid or blood tests usually take 1

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to 2 weeks. For the oral-fluid test (called OraSure), a probe sits in your mouth between your cheek and gums for 2-5 minutes. However, there are now rapid tests for both oral fluid and blood that give results in less than 30 minutes. Rapid tests require special handling, and not every VA medical center or clinic offers them. What’s more, positive results from rapid tests must be confirmed by another, more sensitive, test–and getting those results can take 1-2 weeks. A negative result from the rapid test does not need to be confirmed. (For more information, see HIV Rapid Oral Test brochure).

Window period. This is the time it takes for your body to produce HIV antibodies after you have been infected by the virus. In most people, this period is between 2 and 12 weeks. In a very small number of people, the process takes up to 6 months. During the window period, you might be infected with HIV yet still test HIV-negative. Here’s how that can happen. Let’s say you have unprotected sex on Saturday night and become infected with HIV. On Monday, you get an HIV test. The test almost certainly will come back negative, because your body has not yet had a chance to make antibodies, which are what the HIV test is looking for. Even if you go for an HIV test 1 or 2 months later, your results might be negative because your body still has not produced antibodies. It may take 3 months after exposure for the test results to be 97% accurate, and 6 months to be absolutely certain. If you think you have been exposed to HIV, and your test results are negative, be sure to get retested in 3 to 6 months–just to be sure.

Should you get tested? Yes, public health experts now recommend that all adults should be routinely tested for HIV infection. In the past, doctors and other health care providers usually only tested for HIV if patients had symptoms that might indicate an immune deficiency or if there was something in the their medical history that suggested they might be at increased risk for the virus. Since mid-August 2009 the VA changed its policies and is now recommending that voluntary HIV testing be provided to all patients who receive medical care in VA. The reason for this change is to make HIV testing more “routine” so that persons who are infected can be diagnosed early on and receive life-saving care. Like many other diseases, it is better to diagnose and treat HIV early rather than late. Today we are fortunate that there are many effective treatments to offer persons who are found to be infected. Veterans with identified risk factors should get tested for HIV at least once a year. Medical clues to increased risk include a past or current history of a sexually transmitted disease like gonorrhea or syphilis, having unprotected sex (having sex without using a condom), especially with more than one partner, and sharing needles and syringes to inject drugs. Even if you do not think you are “at risk” you should talk to your doctor about taking the HIV test. A recent electronic survey conducted at 129 VA medical facilities showed that in 2009, fewer than one out of every ten Veterans in care had eveer received an HIV test and only one in every forty had been tested for HIV in 2009. Getting diagnosed and treated early can keep you healthier longer. It can even save your life. So, if your doctor doesn’t bring up the subject of HIV testing, you should!

Getting it done? You may or may not need an appointment to get tested at your local VA Medical Center, as different sites may have different practices. In VA, all testing for HIV requires the verbal informed consent of the veteran. Your provider will need to provide educational material to give you basic information about HIV testing and to answer any questions that you may have about HIV or the test itself. The health care provider may want to discuss your sexual or drug use history with you. This can help you better assess your risk for HIV and provide you with some recommendations on how to reduce your risk for HIV or for transmitting HIV to others. If you test positive, your spouse is informed of your HIV status only if it is clear that you have not told your spouse, and your provider has determined that you are unlikely to do so. Then your provider may notify your spouse or may use a partner counseling and notification service through a local health department. As part of the testing process in VA, you will receive written educational materials and a health care provider will answer your questions about HIV. The provider also can answer questions and offer advice about reducing your risk for HIV. At your return appointment, a health care provider will provide you with your test result and answer any questions that you may have. If your test result is positive, the provider will help you with a referral for medical evaluation and treatment in VA. The provider can also provide assistance with getting a referral for mental health or substance abuse care in VA if you want. If your result is negative, you will learn about ways to protect yourself against HIV. The results are entered in your

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medical record. There are strict laws in VA to protect the confidentiality of your results. Anonymous testing is used which means you are referred to by an identification number so that you do not have to give your name. Only you can match your number with your test result. If you want more information about where you can be tested anonymously, call 1-800-CDC-INFO.

Testing negative. This can be a huge relief. Remember, though, it can take up to 6 months to test positive for HIV after being exposed. To be completely sure that you do not have HIV, you should get tested again in 3 to 6 months, and continue to protect yourself in the meantime. Testing negative for HIV does not mean that you are immune to the virus, so it is important to continue protecting yourself. Don’t get discouraged or give up if you slip (by having unsafe sex or sharing needles). There are several things you can do to keep protecting your health, now that you know you are negative: If you do not already see a doctor regularly, start now. It is always a good idea to have regular checkups, and your doctor will have a medical history of your health to refer to if you get sick. Ask for support in staying HIV negative. There are support services that can help you stick to your decision to stay safe. Your health care provider and/or the clinic social worker should have a list of such service providers.

[Source: http://www.hiv.va.gov Jul 2010 ++]

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Researching Your Doctor: Want to know if your doctor has been accused of wrongdoing by state regulators? Has he settled a string of malpractice cases? Been convicted of a recent felony? Been ordered by a court to pay up for malpractice? Ask you state’s Medical board. In California all of that – and more – is available at www.sacbee.com/2010/06/18/2833341/database-search-md-discipline.html , the website of the Medical Board of California, a state agency funded by largely by the fees doctors pay when they renew their licenses to practice. While consumer advocates and others who watch the medical board closely say it should move more quickly and reveal more, they say it’s still a good starting point for patients and their families. “It’s very useful” for people choosing a doctor, said Julie D’Angelo Fellmeth, an attorney with the Center for Public Interest Law in San Diego. “You have to be an assertive patient,” she said. “You are putting the health and lives of your family in their hands. It doesn’t hurt to invest five minutes in checking this person out in all of the places that you can.”

In addition to checking the medical board database, people might also want to ask what hospitals a doctor has privileges at, and decide how they feel about those hospitals, said Betsy Imholz, an attorney for Consumers Union in San Francisco. With the federal health care law’s emphasis on both the quality and affordability of medical treatment, “the era of transparency is here,” she said. There are other ways to check out doctors, although many cost more or are less complete. HealthGrades at www.healthgrades.com makes consumer surveys and doctors’ descriptions of their practice available at no charge, but charges a one-time fee to see if a doctor has had malpractice or disciplinary problems. Angie’s List at www.angieslist.com charges a monthly fee to see consumer ratings. Very few of California’s 100,000 doctors ever run afoul of the state medical board. Over the past two fiscal years, the board has revoked or accepted the surrender of fewer than 200 medical licenses. More commonly, the board issues public reprimands, puts a doctor’s license on probation, or revokes the license but then suspends the revocation while the doctor takes classes or works under restrictions.

Public Citizen (www.citizen.org) says California has one of the worst rates in the country for taking serious disciplinary action against doctors, even though it has one of the best websites for consumers. Of the 6,000-plus complaints the medical board has gotten annually in the past two years, it has opened investigations into about one-sixth of them. It rejected the rest after deciding that they lacked merit or the board lacked jurisdiction. It issues formal accusations against around 240 doctors each year. Fellmeth, who has spent 24 years monitoring regulatory boards in California, including the medical board, recalls that “when I first started looking at it, that board was owned by, dominated by and listened only to the California Medical Association.” Today, she said, it defers less to doctors, moves slightly faster, and has dramatically improved how much information it releases to consumers. What

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is harder to determine, she added, is whether it is policing doctors any more effectively than it did years ago. “You have to be pretty bad” in California to face a formal accusation from the medical board, Fellmeth said. Once accused, she added, “if the doctor shows up at the hearing, unless there is a history of prior violations, it’s very rare to see the medical board revoke a license outright.”

Every case is different, but things that can cost a doctor his or her license to practice include sexual misconduct, mental or physical illness, substance abuse and insurance fraud, said board executive Whitney. Things that more commonly result in lesser penalties include record-keeping problems and some ethical issues, she said. The California Medical Association wishes the medical board would not release its formal accusations, and instead make records public only when it takes final action against a doctor, said Dr. Dev GnanaDev, the association’s immediate past president. Other than that, he said, the association and the board agree on most issues. “The medical board is there for public protection. We all know that,” GnanaDev said. [Source: Sacramento Bee Medical news Carrie Peyton Dahlberg article 12 Jul 2010 ++]

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Vet Toxic Exposure ~ Malathion: The Vietnam Veterans Association Agent Orange/Dioxin Committee released its report on Malathion. This is the name of an organophosphate insecticide used in Vietnam to combat mosquitoes. Organophosphates were first developed in the late 1930s by Nazi Germany as chemical warfare agents (nerve gas). VX nerve gas and Sarin gas are well-known examples. Organophosphates operate on humans and insects in a similar fashion by attacking the nervous systems. During the Vietnam War, large numbers of troops came down with malaria. To kill the mosquitoes that carried the disease, the Department of Defense converted aircraft that were spraying Agent Orange to the spraying of Malathion. This was the start of Operation Flyswatter. Many Vietnam veterans recall the non-camouflaged aircraft flying over their positions—shortly after dawn or just before dusk—covering them with a mist. Three silver ―Bug Birds‖ were used in Operation Flyswatter. Many connected those flights with the spraying of Agent Orange. It is now known that, in those cases, veterans were subjected to Malathion and its more potent form, Malaoxon. These were not just one-time missions. Every nine to eleven days, weather permitting, the planes re-sprayed the areas. The spray operation created recurring chemical exposures for Vietnam veterans.

What are the health risks of these spray operations and what are the combined and synergic effects of Malathion with other exposures such as Agent Orange? These questions have not been addressed. We know that a MAR 08 study shows that organophosphates including Malathion significantly increase the risk of Parkinson’s disease. Knowing that organophosphates work on the nervous systems, the diseases of the central and peripheral nervous system become prime areas of concern. This is a fresh chemical exposure area for Vietnam veterans to explore as they seek answers to their many health issues. The VVA Agent Orange/Dioxin and Other Toxic Substances Committee also will be researching this area. You can read their full report on this operation at www.scientificjournals.com/sj/espr/Pdf/aId/10482 If you have additional questions about malathion or the health effects from spraying, contact the New York State Department of Health’s Environmental Health Information Line at 1(800) 458-1158, extension 27530.

The Vietnam Veterans Association Agent Orange/Dioxin Committee is tasked with accumulating and disseminating information regarding Agent Orange and Dioxin and actively pursuing the recognition of presumptive disabilities from exposure to Agent Orange and Dioxin by the Department of Veterans Affairs. The Committee shall provides assistance to State Councils, Chapters, and service programs in the handling of Agent Orange related problems. The Committee shall encourage and foster the sponsorship of legislation to help the victims of Agent Orange and Dioxin, and encourage scientific and medical research in the field of dioxin-related ailments.” [Source: VVA National Committee Chair Alan Oates article Nov/Dec 09 ++]

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VA Pension Update 02: A Navy veteran whose VA pension was canceled because he received an insurance settlement after he and his service dog were hit by a truck is the poster child for legislation to change eligibility rules regarding pensions for low-income veterans. Kerry Scriber of West Palm Beach, Fla., said in an interview that he and his dog were injured and his VA-provided wheelchair damaged when he was struck while crossing the street in March 2008. Scriber, a former petty officer second class who served from 1974 to 1979, said the dog received minor injuries and quickly recovered, but he suffered broken bones in his face and pelvis. The wheelchair he needed to get around because of his muscular dystrophy was destroyed. Scriber said he received two checks from the driver’s insurance company, one covering the cost of the wheelchair and a second for $10,000 that covered pain and suffering and miscellaneous expenses. He turned over the check for the wheelchair to the Veterans Affairs Department, which provided him with another chair. He also reported receiving the $10,000 settlement, as he was required to do as a recipient of a pension provided to low-income veterans. Although his disability is not connected to his military service, he was receiving the pension because he is totally disabled and his income was less than $11,000 a year. Two days after he notified VA of receiving the insurance payment, Scriber was informed his pension was being terminated because the settlement put his annual income over the eligibility threshold. It took more than a year for Scriber to re-qualify for the pension, a process he said could have taken much longer had he not asked his congressman, Rep. Alcee Hastings, D-Fla., for help. ―I know of other people who lost their eligibility and it took four or five years to reapply,‖ Scriber said.

In response Rep. Alcee Hastings (D-FL) introduced the Veterans’ Pensions Protection Act (H.R.4541) to exempt reimbursement of expenses related to accidents, theft, loss or casualty from being counted as income when determining if a veteran qualifies for pensions that are provided to those living below the poverty line who are not eligible for veterans’ disability compensation. The bill would require VA to determine whether insurance payments exceed the cost of medical care and either the fair market value or reasonable replacement value of lost or damaged items, and to come up with a way to decide on a case-by-case basis how much of a settlement or court award for pain and suffering should not count as income. ―There is clearly something wrong with a law that cancels veterans’ pensions for a whole year following the award of an insurance payment, which was only intended to cover exceptional medical expenses,‖ Hastings said1 JUL when his bill was considered by the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee’s disability assistance panel. Similar legislation is pending before the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee.

The Senate bill, S.3352, is sponsored by Sen. Jon Tester (D-MT). Tester’s office issued a statement saying the senator’s interest in the bill came after he was contacted by someone facing the loss of a veterans’ pension if they received a settlement from a malpractice claim resulting from treatment provided by a VA doctor. Tester’s aides declined to provide more details on the veteran, citing privacy concerns. A statement from Tester, issued 12 MAY, as he introduced his bill, said, ―It’s a matter of fairness that veterans shouldn’t be forced to choose between their pensions or compensation for wrongful injuries. These folks have earned their health benefits by putting their lives on the line for our country. It’s the right thing to do to make sure their pensions aren’t threatened through no fault of their own.‖

Passage of the Hastings’ and Tester’s legislation is not a sure thing, because while some veterans service organizations support the change, there is opposition. Rick Weidman of Vietnam Veterans of America says the legislation is a good idea. ―The VA practice of including all funds received from any sources, including one-time restitution of property for theft or fire, as income for those on nonservice-connected pension from VA was never a particularly wise one, and was often seen as just plain perverse and mean-spirited,‖ Weidman said. VA doesn’t mind that the legislation would exempt reimbursement of actual expenses from being counted as income but it doesn’t want payments for pain and suffering to be excluded. Thomas Pamperin, VA’s associate deputy undersecretary for policy and program management, said at the 1 JUL hearing on Hastings’ bill that the whole idea of pensions for low-

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income veterans was to provide help to those in need. Payments for pain and suffering are available for veterans to spend, he said.

Veterans of Foreign Wars are concerned about the details. Eric Hilleman, VFW’s national legislative service director, said VA lacks the expertise to determine the proper value of damaged or lost items, which would be part of the required calculations. Trying to figure out the right amount would ―further delay and complicate a relatively simple benefit,‖ Hilleman said. Veterans’ pensions go to those with limited incomes who are either permanently and totally disabled, or are 65 and older. How much they receive is based on how much money they have and their number of dependents. For example, single veterans with no dependents are eligible if they have less than $11,830 in annual income, with several exclusions for what counts as income. If they receive less than $11,830, VA provides a monthly pension that brings their total pay to that level. The income caps rise for those with dependents and for those who need aid and attendance for daily activities, such as dressing, eating and bathing. Exclusions for certain types of income already exist in current law, including veterans education benefits, Social Security disability benefits, and insurance payments that directly reimburse medical expenses. [Source: ArmyTimes Rick Maze article 9 Jul 2010 ++]

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Consular Fees: In order to cover increasing costs of providing highest-quality service for American Citizen’s Services and Immigrant Visa applications, the U.S. Department of State changed certain fees worldwide beginning 13 JUL 2010. The revised fees will cover actual operating expenses for the 301 overseas consular posts, 23 domestic passport agencies and other centers that provide these consular services to U.S. and foreign citizens. The 27 adjusted fees are based on a Cost of Service Study completed by the Bureau of Consular Affairs in June 2009. The study, which was the most detailed and exhaustive ever conducted by the U.S. Department of State, established the true cost of providing these consular services, which the Department recovers through the collection of fees. Six of the fees decreased but the remainder increased from 10% and 593%. Embassies will immediately begin collecting the new fees for appointments made for July 13 or later. The Department of State published its new Schedule of Fees for Consular Services in the Federal Register on 28 JUN 2010. The changes to the schedule, which include fees for the passport, immigrant visa and other consular services, were implemented on 13 JUL 2010. For a complete listing of the new fees refer to the attachment to this Bulletin or at www.travel.state.gov. [Source: Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC 1 Jul 2010 ++]

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National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility & Reform: More than 90 “public comment” witnesses were invited to appear 30 JUN before the National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform. They came from a variety of interest groups and think tanks, liberal and conservative. Many were economists and policy experts but private citizens also testified. Each got four minutes unless their comments sparked a dialogue with commissioners. Most of the focus was on controlling Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security costs, and whether and how to raise taxes. ―There’s a fundamental difference between social insurance programs open to every American and military benefits earned by decades of service and sacrifice,‖ Steve Strobridge, director of government relations for the Military Officers Association of America, told the commission. Carl Blake, legislative director for Paralyzed Veterans of America, conceded the country ―faces a very harsh reality‖ of rapid federal spending growth that ―appears unsustainable. And yet PVA is here today to emphasize why continued growth in federal spending for (veterans) is imperative.‖ Not every witness was keen on maintaining the status quo for military retirees or veterans.

 Will Marshall, president of the Progressive Policy Institute, in his written statement said ―no program should be exempted from new constraints of fiscal discipline, including defense.‖ He referred to

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Congressional Budget Office options that included higher ―military health care premiums and deductibles‖ that would save $6 billion to $8 billion annually.

 Maya MacGuineas, president of another non-profit, the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, endorsed a revised method of calculating cost-of-living adjustments for federal entitlements. The so-called ―superlative‖ Consumer Price Index would end what some economists contend is an upward bias to the current CPI that allows COLAs to exceed annual inflation.

 The most heated exchange occurred between retired Sen. Alan Simpson (R-WY) the commission’s co-chair, and Grover Norquist, president of Americans for Tax Reform. This organization, Simpson noted, threatens politicians with brief careers if they don’t sign a pledge not to raise taxes. But Simpson pointed out that Norquist’s ―idol,‖ Ronald Reagan, had signed into law cumulative tax increases of $132.7 billion during his eight years as president. Because Reagan, above all, was a realist, said Simpson.

Erskine Bowles, the Commission’s other Co-Chairman and former Chief of Staff to President Clinton, said the commission sought any ideas that might support the president’s goal of ending deficit spending, except for interest payments on the rising national debt, by the year 2015. Meeting that target will require finding $250 billion in deficit savings for just that budget year alone. ―President Obama made it clear that no one should be surprised next year when he brings forward recommendations that have real budget cuts in them,‖ Bowles said. ―I expect we will make those recommendations to him (to) reduce the cost of entitlements and help restore our nation’s long-term fiscal strength.‖ No recommended spending cuts or tax increases would occur before fiscal 2012, Bowles said. But solutions must be found and adopted to the stem the rising tide of red ink that threatens disaster for future generations. ―If we don’t restore some fiscal sanity around here,‖ Bowles said, ―we are going to go broke. I know that’s not a word people like to use but it happens to be true. We face the most predictable economic crisis in history. And if we stay on automatic pilot, the debt we are accumulating will be like a cancer, and it will definitely destroy this country from within.‖

Simpson had served on a previous commission on entitlement reform, in 1993-94, and he co-sponsored a bill to apply a means test to entitlement COLAs, including for military retirees. Only those retirees drawing the lowest 30% in income would have gotten a full COLA each year under Simpson’s bill, which never passed the Congress. Means testing military retiree COLAs, Strobridge argued before the new commission, ―would be a counter-productive performance penalty‖ because it would hurt those who had won promotion or served long careers. Strobridge acknowledged a period of rapid growth in military personnel costs aimed at addressing a pay gap, repairing a misguided cut in retirement for new entrants after July 1986 and restoring lost health care benefits to older military retirees. That time of rapid growth ―is behind us, and we won’t see major new fixes in the years ahead,‖ Strobridge said. ―MOAA isn’t saying that (military) health fees should never be increased,‖ Strobridge said. ―But comparing only military versus civilian cash fees ignores that military people pay far higher premiums than any civilian — but they pay them up front and in kind through decades of service and sacrifice. MOAA believes that should be acknowledged by limiting the percentage fee increase in any year to the percentage growth in pay.‖

President Obama created the bipartisan National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform to address our nation’s fiscal challenges. The Commission is charged with identifying policies to improve the fiscal situation in the medium term and to achieve fiscal sustainability over the long run. Specifically, the Commission shall propose recommendations designed to balance the budget, excluding interest payments on the debt, by 2015. In addition, the Commission shall propose recommendations that meaningfully improve the long-run fiscal outlook, including changes to address the growth of entitlement spending and the gap between the projected revenues and expenditures of the Federal Government. The Commission meets as a whole once a month while Congress is in session. They will vote on a final report containing a set of recommendations to achieve its mission no later than 1 DEC 2010. The final report will require the approval of at least 14 of the Commission’s 18 members. [Source: Jacksonville Daily News Tom Philpott article 9 Jul 2010 ++]

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DBIDS Update 01: The Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) is a physical access control system that is used by the Department of Defense (DOD) to manage personnel, property and installation access. The Coast Guard does not use DBIDS to manage access to Coast Guard facilities; however, you may be required to register in DBIDS if you access one of the DOD installations that do use it. The DBIDS program registers and maintains a database of ALL Department of Defense identification card or common access card holders requiring access to an installation and is currently installed at 27 DOD installations in the continental United States. ALL personnel will include active duty, reservists, civilians, contractors, dependents, retirees, and visitors. During registration, DBIDS will capture and store your digital photograph and biometrics. Once you are registered, a hand-held device that scans the bar code on the Department of Defense identification card or common access card will allow the gate guard to view personal identifying information and whether or not you are authorized to enter the base. If you are required to register in the DBIDS program at an installation, you will be told where to go to register

by the gate guard. Additional information:

 The Civilian Retiree ID card cannot currently be used for registration and access because the card does not have the bar code required. A DBIDS card will be issued for eligible Civilian retirees.

 Some installations using DBIDS have experienced difficulties registering some of the older Teslin cards (blue retiree, red reserve, etc) because of the way the data in the barcode was stored. If you are required to register in DBIDS and have one of these older cards, you may need to have a new Teslin ID card issued. The RAPIDS Site Locator can be used to find the RAPIDS ID card issuing facility closest to your location . http://www.dmdc.osd.mil/rsl/owa/home

 Children under the age of 10 that have not yet been issued a DOD dependent ID card may be issued a DBIDS card if required by the installation.

 Questions regarding DBIDS requirements should be directed to the local installation (Visitor Center, Pass & ID Office, etc).

[Source: The Coast Guard/NOAA Retirees’ Newsletter Issue 3/2010 Jul 2010 ++]

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Military Discounts Update 03: Blue Star Museums is a partnership among Blue Star Families, the National Endowment for the Arts, and more than 750 museums in all 50 states to offer admission at no charge to military personnel and their families from Memorial Day, 31 MAY thru Labor Day 6 SEP 2010. The admission program is available to any bearer of a Geneva Convention common access card (CAC), a DD Form 1173 ID card, or a DD Form 1173-1 ID card, which includes active duty military (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard), National Guard and Reserve members and up to five immediate family members. For a listing of museums, what they have to exhibit, contact info, hours of operation, and locations refer to www.arts.gov/national/bluestarmuseums/index.php. [Source: NAUS Weekly Update 9 Jul 2010 ++]

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Fit but Unsuitable Discharge: One would think that when a physical evaluation board (PEB) examines a servicemember’s medical condition and deems him or her ―fit for duty,‖ the meaning of that term would be self-evident. One also would think that, several years in the wake of media exposure of grievous treatment of wounded warriors and low-balled disability ratings that resulted in separation of severely injured servicemembers with no retirement or medical benefits, that wouldn’t be happening anymore. However, all too often, MOAA learns of cases in which soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines with significant, service-connected medical conditions are

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evaluated by PEBs and found fit for duty — only to be administratively separated or barred from reenlistment as ―unsuitable‖ for continued service based on the same medical condition. According to DoD regulations, there are certain specified medical conditions that warrant separation for unsuitability — enuresis, incapacitating fear of flying, personality or adjustment disorders, substance-abuse disorders, etcetera. But the services have expanded use of this provision far beyond what’s authorized in DoD regulations, separating servicemembers for far more serious medical conditions that are compensable under VA disability ratings, which the services are supposed to be using to assess disability versus fitness for duty.

In many cases, a servicemember’s administrative separation is based on his or her limited deployability as a result of the medical condition. In other cases, the separation documents simply assert the medical condition renders the servicemember ―unsuitable‖ for service — even though the PEB evaluated the same condition (including deployability limitations) and found that servicemember fit for duty. In many instances, a separated servicemember has been awarded a very high disability rating by the VA for the same condition immediately after separation. MOAA strongly believes this process is a gross miscarriage of justice. If a person has a seriously disabling medical condition (warranting a 30% or higher disability rating under VA rules), then the person should be medically retired. If a PEB evaluates a condition (including deployability limits) and finds it doesn’t render the person unfit for duty, then he or she shouldn’t be subject to administrative separation for the same medical condition. This practice was highlighted by MOAA to the House and Senate Armed Services committees who were urged to take action to stop it. Subsequently, the House committee demanded a DoD report on the issue, asserting it is ―fundamentally unfair and inconsistent with the disability evaluation system reforms that have been enacted in recent years.‖ The Senate committee went further, putting a provision in its version of the FY 2011 Defense Authorization Act that would bar the services from administratively separating servicemembers for medical conditions other than those explicitly authorized by DoD regulations. [Source: MOAA Leg Up Steve Strobridge article 9 Jul 2010]

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HVAC Update 12: At a 1 JUL House Veterans’ Affairs Subcommittee hearing, Chairman John Hall (D-NY) and Ranking Member Doug Lamborn (R-CO) endorsed Rep. Tim Walz’ bill (H.R.3787) to accord veteran status to Guard and Reserve retirees who were never called to active federal service during their military careers. Although entitled to military retired pay, TRICARE (at age 60) and a number of veterans’ benefits, career reservists are not veterans under the law unless they have been activated under federal orders. Rep. Walz is the highest-ranking enlisted soldier ever to serve in Congress. He attained the rank of Command Sergeant Major during his National Guard career and was deployed. Members of the Military Coalition TMC) offered testimony at the hearing strongly supporting the bill. A VA government witness testified that an amended version of the bill would not qualify the reserve retiree cohort to any unearned veterans’ benefits. But the witness fretted that the government still objected to the bill because it would change the concept that only federal active duty should count for veteran status. As more and more members of the Guard and Reserve prepare for call-ups and continue to perform homeland defense missions in non-federal status – securing ground zero in Manhattan and at the Pentagon on Sept. 11, 2001, conducting counter-drug and border security missions, responding to Katrina and the BP oil spill, and preparing forces for deployment. TMC maintains that all who served a full Guard or Reserve career should be declared veterans of our nation’s Armed Forces. The Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs (DAMA) panel also took testimony on other legislation that would:

 Protect veteran pension payments from being offset by private insurance settlements related to accidents, theft, other losses and medical expenses from such causes (H.R.4541)

 Increase aid and attendance rates for severely injured veterans, qualify severely burned veterans for adaptive housing and auto grants, expand aid and attendance for veterans with traumatic brain injury, and increase the Medal of Honor service pension (H.R.3407)

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 Permit a waiver of the 120-day timeline to file with the Board of Veterans’ Appeals in exceptional circumstances (H.R.5064)

 Allow veterans with fully developed claims to waive the lengthy VA “development period” and receive an earlier decision (H.R.5549)

[Source: MOAA Leg Up 9 Jul 2010]

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Mobilized Reserve 06 JUL 2010: The Department of Defense announced the current number of reservists on active duty as of 6 JUL 2010. The net collective result is 2,393 fewer reservists mobilized than last reported in the 1 JUL 2010 RAO Bulletin. At any given time, services may activate some units and individuals while deactivating others, making it possible for these figures to either increase or decrease. The total number currently on active duty from the Army National Guard and Army Reserve is 90,999; Navy Reserve, 6,354; Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve, 17,111; Marine Corps Reserve, 5,223; and the Coast Guard Reserve, 790. This brings the total National Guard and Reserve personnel who have been activated to 120,477 including both units and individual augmentees. A cumulative roster of all National Guard and Reserve personnel who are currently activated may be found at http://www.defense.gov/news/d20100706ngr.pdf . [Source: DoD News Release No. 585-10 dtd 7 Jul 2010 ++]

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Passport Obtainment ~ U.S. Update 04: The Citizenship and Passport unit of the Manila Embassy’s Consular Section provides services for first time passport (with proof of U.S. citizenship), renewal, replacement passport, additional pages; and application for Consular Report of Birth Abroad and citizenship. Obtainment options are:

 The U.S. Embassy has partnered with a local courier Air21/FedEx to provide blank forms, to pick up completed forms and documents (and deliver them the Embassy), and to deliver completed passports to most locations in the Philippines for a nominal fee. To receive blank application forms and a list of requirements, you may contact Air21/FedEx Courier Service at Tel: (02) 879-4747 between 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Mondays through Fridays, except American and Philippine holidays. Forms are also available at the Embassy (American Citizen Services Section) or can be downloaded via the U.S. Embassy website: manila.usembassy.gov.

 Alternatively, completed application forms may be submitted via regular mail to: Citizenship and Passport Unit, American Citizen Services, Consular Section, U.S. Embassy, 1201 Roxas Blvd., Manila . Once the application and supporting documents are received at the Embassy, the Embassy will advise the applicant when to come to the Embassy for a personal interview appointment.

 Application for a renewal of U.S. passport may also be filed personally (as walk-in) at the U.S. Embassy in Manila (between 7:30 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. ONLY, Monday through Friday – no walk-ins on every last working day of the month) or American Consular Agency in Cebu (basement of Waterfront Hotel – Lahug City – between 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. Monday through Friday, except holidays).

All passport applications are reviewed and processed only at the U.S. Embassy in Manila. For applicants seen at the American Consular Agency in Cebu, it may still be possible for them to be invited to the U.S. Embassy in Manila , for further interview, if necessary. Please note that walk-in applicants at the U.S. Embassy in Manila may have to wait longer before they can be seen by the consular officer. Priority is given to those with pre-scheduled appointments.

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The payment for passport should be made after the application is received at the Embassy and/or after notification from the passport processor of the case from the U.S. Embassy. U.S. passport fee payments may be made by the applicant, or his/her representative, at the U.S. Embassy in Manila, Window D, American Citizen Services, between 7:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m., Monday through Friday, except on U.S. and Philippine holidays or at the American Consular Agency in Cebu (basement of Waterfront Hotel – Lahug City – between 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. Monday through Friday, except holidays). Cash payments mailed directly to the Citizenship and Passport Unit, American Citizen Services, Consular Section, U.S. Embassy, 1201 Roxas Blvd. 1000 Manila, will be accepted. Unfortunately, the U.S. Embassy cannot assume any responsibility for payments sent to them. Payments may be made in cash (in person at the Embassy or via mail) or via credit card with visa, mastercard and AmEx logos (in person only at the Embassy). U.S. Traveler’s cheque (should be at least 60% of the amount to be paid) is also acceptable. Note that the actual conversion rate of dollar to peso will be determined at the US Embassy in Manila . The attached U.S. Passport Renewal Requirements Checklist is provided for your reference. [Source: Citizenship and Passport Unit, American Citizen Services, U.S. embassy Manila Philippines Jul 2010 ++]

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VA Women Vet Programs Update 12: The Department of Veterans Affairs opened registration on 8 JUL for a women Veterans forum that will address the quality of VA health care, the provision of benefits for women, and ways for VA to continue improving access to the care and benefits for women Veterans. “The VA forum will bring advocates for women Veterans together to learn about VA services and to share valuable information with each other,” said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki. “The forum will also give Veterans’ advocates the tools they need to help build women Veterans networks and communities throughout VA.” Shinseki and VA department heads will attend the forum on 28 JUL at the Women’s Memorial in Arlington, Va.

Because of anticipated demand, available seats will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis, and confirmed registrants will be notified by email once registration is filled. Registration-through the Center for Women Veterans by e-mail at [email protected] — closes when either all seats are filled or no later than 16 JUL.

The Forum will run from 07-1500, with morning presentations and an afternoon information marketplace in which participants are invited to move through the gallery and gather resources and materials provided by VA program offices, Veterans Service Organizations and advocacy organizations. There will also be an afternoon screening of the updated “Lioness” documentary film. VA’s women Veterans health conference held earlier in the month will help inform the Forum with the most up-to-date information available from VA’s health care system. Presentations from the event will be made available online. Feedback about this event and announcements on future events will be available to Forum participants. For more information contact the Center for Women Veterans at (202) 461-6193 or by e-mail at [email protected]. VA has undertaken major initiatives to transform the department to meet the unique health care needs of women Veterans and provide the best quality care at every VA medical center. In addition, the agency is working to shorten the delays for claims processing, improve access to VA health services for minority and rural Veterans, end Veteran homelessness, and ease the transition back to civilian life. There are about 1.8 million women Veterans among the nation’s total of 23 million living Veterans. VA estimates women Veterans will comprise 10.5% of the Veteran population by 2020. [Source: VA News Release 8 Jul 2010 ++]

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Vietnam Veterans Memorial Update 07: The newly refurbished Three Servicemen Statue at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial was unveiled 8 JUL after six weeks of restoration. “This is a very noteworthy event,” said Jan Scruggs, founder and president of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund. “It’s very noteworthy for the history of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, [and] it’s really a notable event for our nation’s Mall and the maintenance and preservation of our nation’s Mall.” The statue was created by sculptor Frederick Hart. Nearly 26

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years after its original unveiling in 1984, weather damage and age had taken a toll on the statue. Parts of the uniforms, weapons, hands and noses of the statue sustained some corrosion and deterioration. The restoration was done in place, and it repaired oxidation damage and added a new patina coating and wax. During restoration, the statue was protected by a wooden enclosure with three seven-foot-tall windows that allowed tourists to view progress. “Almost 26 years later, we’re here to rededicate the statue and pledge our continued care,” said Scruggs, a Vietnam War veteran.

The statue sits on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial site about 200 feet away from and facing the Vietnam War Memorial Wall. It depicts three servicemembers – one Hispanic, one black and one white – and represents the more than 58,000 fallen servicemembers memorialized on the wall, Scruggs said. “There’s a sense of artistic and dynamic tension as the servicemen gaze at the sea of names on the wall,” Scruggs said. “Over the years, people have noted that it seems almost as if the servicemen are looking to see if their own names or the names of their friends are on the wall.” Hart’s widow, Lindy, was recognized at the ceremony for her husband’s work. Hart was the only person “who had the extraordinary talent we were looking for and who would design the statue in such a way as to complement the memorial,” Scruggs said. Hart often is referred to in the artistic community as America’s Michelangelo, Scruggs said, noting his other famous work, the Creation sculptures on the west façade of the Washington National Cathedral. “It is really not an exaggeration to refer to him in that manner,” Scruggs said. “He was really that good, … as good as any of the masters in sculpture throughout the history of the world.”

One of Hart’s models for the Three Servicemen Statue, William Smith, 50, of Virginia, was present and recognized at the ceremony. Smith’s likeness was captured in the Cuban-American servicemember on the right side of the statue, carrying a .60-caliber machine gun over his shoulder. Smith was the only model who didn’t serve in the military. The other two were members of the Marine Corps Honor Guard and, at the time, were stationed at Henderson Hall Marine Barracks in Arlington, Va. Although Smith never served, he said, he’s honored that his likeness helps to represent “some of the greatest Americans to ever serve. Retired Army Brig. Gen. George Price, an advocate for the statue’s creation in the early 1980s, and John Piltzecker, National Mall and Memorial Parks superintendent, also attended the ceremony. “The National Park Service is certainly pleased that the Three Servicemen Statue has been restored to reflect the artist’s intent,” Piltzecker said. “We will continue to work with our partner, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund, to maintain the statue for all to enjoy.”

The restoration project cost about $25,000. The funds were raised by a National Park Service share grant and an in-home fundraiser by Lindy Hart. Individual contributions also were made. New Arts Foundry of Baltimore did the restoration work. The project is part of a maintenance and restoration program by the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund to assist the National Park Service in site upkeep. [Source: AFPS Michael J. Carden article 8 Jul 2010 ++]

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VA Service Dogs: A new report by the Veterans Affairs Department Inspector General says VA should be doing more for veterans whose lives could be improved with help from service dogs. Eight years after receiving approval to help pay for dogs to assist veterans with mobility problems, seizure disorders or other disabilities, a report released 7 JUL says VA has approved only eight requests. VA officials, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said VA supports providing service dogs for veterans with physical and hearing issues, and does so on a case-by-case basis. Relaxed policies that might make service dogs more widely available are under review, but rule changes take time, officials said. ―It is unacceptable not to exercise the authority given to them to improve the quality of veterans’ lives,‖ said Christina Roof of AmVets, a group that has been pushing the issue for years. When service dog benefits are provided, VA does not pay for the dog nor its training, but veterinary bills, vaccinations and treatments for fleas and ticks are covered by VA. In some cases, a veteran can be reimbursed for food if a dog is on a medically ordered diet.

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The eight service dog requests were approved, all in the last two years, only after VA conducted three research projects. Another project is just getting under way to determine if a veteran with post-traumatic stress or some other mental disorder might benefit from having a canine assistant. The report from the VA inspector general says officials do not expect a decision based on that study before JUL 2011. It is not known how many veterans might have been helped if VA had moved faster, but it is clear that the agency’s policy has — at least until recently — been one of denying requests for benefits unless all other options are first considered. Roof said VA seems to assume that few veterans are interested in the benefit, but the IG report shows at least 72 veterans received service dogs on their own, without VA’s help. Service dogs are different from trained guide dogs. Service dogs are taught to help a disabled owner carry out specific tasks, like pulling a wheelchair, picking up objects or alerting him when a seizure is about to happen.

Since late last year, VA has tried to be more accommodating to requests, the report said, and has been spreading the word among health care workers and veterans service organizations that service dog benefits are available — but this does not seem to be very effective. ―We found that knowledge and use of service dogs at VA medical centers was still incomplete and inconsistent,‖ the report says. ―Interviews with VA medical center staff found that these recent efforts had not completely filtered down to all staff.‖ The IG report notes inconsistencies, saying it dfound that a veteran with epilepsy received benefits in January for a seizure alert dog when officials and the Indianapolis VA Medical Center determined this was a ―reasonable treatment option.‖ But another veteran in Washington, D.C., with the same condition was denied an alert dog during the same month because his request was deemed to ―not meet criteria for VA support,‖ the report says. [Source: ArmyTimes rick Maze article 7 Jul 2010 ++]

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VA Lawsuit ~ Disability Claim Rejections: A Louisiana veterans advocate 6 JUL accused the Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims of rejecting many valid disability claims. “Veterans are not being treated fairly,” said Paul Labbe, who heads the Louisiana Veterans Advocacy Group of Lake Charles. He also said he fears that a civil rights lawsuit alleging improper treatment by a doctor at the VA Alexandria Medical Center in Pineville will be thrown out if a federal judge accepts the arguments of Veterans Affairs lawyers. A filing by government lawyers argues that the suit doesn’t meet the criteria for a civil rights case and shouldn’t be allowed to continue to trial. Members of Congress have been looking at the issue of rejected disability claims after Assistant U.S. Solicitor General Anthony Yang admitted during a Supreme Court hearing in FEB 2010 that between 50% and 60% of veterans disability cases are mishandled by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Chief Justice John Roberts was surprised by the admission. “Well, that’s really startling, isn’t it?” Roberts said. “In litigating with veterans, the government more often than not takes a position that is substantially unjustified?” Labbe said the Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims continues what he called the injustice of rejecting the vast majority of appeals by veterans denied disability benefits by the VA. “Veterans aren’t getting any justice at this court,” Labbe said at a news conference outside the court’s Washington, D.C., headquarters.

In 2007, a Harvard University study said it takes the Department of Veterans Affairs an average of six months to process a disability claim, and the appeals process takes a little less than two years. Because many veterans applying for disability benefits are elderly, many die before a final decision is rendered, the study said. The House Veterans Affairs Committee heard testimony last week about legislation that would give veterans more time to file appeals. Rep. John Adler (D-NJ) discussed the case of Korean War veteran David Henderson, a diagnosed schizophrenic, who was denied a hearing because his appeal was filed 15 days past the 120-day deadline set by the court. His disability, Henderson said, made it impossible for him to get the papers together in time to meet the court’s deadline. “The veterans’ claims process is extremely difficult to navigate, especially when doing so without the aid of an attorney or while suffering from a mental disability,” Adler said. Rep. Alcee Hastings (D-FL) said he was distressed to hear about a veteran in his state who was cut off from his veterans’ pension for a year, two days after he

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voluntarily disclosed that insurance was paying some medical costs resulting from an accident in which an automobile struck his wheelchair, knocking him head first against the pavement. Given that it takes many months to qualify for benefits, Hastings said he found it disturbing that someone could be cut off benefits in just two days. “This means that the law effectively punishes veterans when they suffer from such an accident or theft,” Hastings said. [Source: Times-Picayune Bruce Alpert article 6 Jul 2010 ++]

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Aid & Attendance Update 04: A health care company has agreed to pay back nearly $70,000 to local veterans and their families in connection with a civil settlement with the Massachusetts State Attorney General’s office. Complaints about heavy-handed and deceptive marketing tactics by Homewatch Caregivers arose in 2007 initiating an investigation, culminating recently in the restitution agreement. However, a public relations consultant for the local company said the West Springfield entity simply used a marketing plan pitched by their national parent company, which bought into a format by Horizon Care, also a national vendor. The local company feigned being an arm of the U.S. Veterans Administration and offered local veterans a middle man to access ―Aid and Attendance‖ benefits to which they are already qualified. The benefit allows for ailing vets and their spouses to receive home-based care to assist in eating, bathing, dressing and similar needs. In some cases, Homewatch assisted consumers in getting those services but would at times collect too much or represent that veterans needed to go in to their own pockets for Homewatch’s services. The company will not face criminal charges, Attorney General Martha M. Coakley said. ―We believe their marketing was unfair and deceptive but not necessarily criminal,‖ she said, adding that 18 consumers will receive settlements ranging from $500 to $14,000.

Peter and Judy Yaffe, owners of the company, issued a prepared statement in response to a press release by Coakley’s office. ―We regret that some of the information supplied to us by Horizon Care Coordinators, consultants to the parent company Homewatch International, and shared with area veterans by our office staff was inaccurate. P.J. Care of Western Massachusetts (Homewatch Caregivers) has been in business since 2002 providing exceptional home care to hundreds of area residents in the area of senior, post surgical and chronic condition care. We remain committed to high quality home care provided by experienced and trained caregivers in helping people in Western Massachusetts.‖ The statement continued, ―Information about (the Aid and Attendance) program was supplied by our national franchiser, Homewatch International and Horizon Care Coordinators … As a result of this, in 2007, P.J. Care joined with Homewatch International and 14 other national franchisees in successfully suing Horizon Care Coordinators for the misleading and false information they provided and that we, and their national franchisees, unwittingly shared with area veterans.‖ Coakley said her office has focused on Internet insurance card scams and similar fraud since state-mandated health insurance was initiated. Veterans can check their eligibility for the Department of Veterans Affairs Aid & Attendance program at www.vba.va.gov/bln/21/pension/vetpen.htm#3 . [Source: www.Mass.live.com Stephanie Barry article 8 Jul 2010 ++]

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PTSD Update 50: The government is preparing to issue new rules that will make it substantially easier for veterans who have been found to have post-traumatic stress disorder to receive disability benefits, a change that could affect hundreds of thousands of veterans from the wars in Iraq, Afghanistan and Vietnam. The regulations from the Department of Veterans Affairs, which will take effect as early as 5 JUL and cost as much as $5 billion over several years according to Congressional analysts, will essentially eliminate a requirement that veterans document specific events like bomb blasts, firefights or mortar attacks that might have caused PTSD., an illness characterized by emotional numbness, irritability and flashbacks. For decades, veterans have complained that finding such records was extremely time consuming and sometimes impossible. And in the wars in Afghanistan and

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Iraq, veterans groups assert that the current rules discriminate against tens of thousands of service members — many of them women — who did not serve in combat roles but nevertheless suffered traumatic experiences.

Under the new rule, which applies to veterans of all wars, the department will grant compensation to those with PTSD. if they can simply show that they served in a war zone and in a job consistent with the events that they say caused their conditions. They would not have to prove, for instance, that they came under fire, served in a front-line unit or saw a friend killed. The new rule would also allow compensation for service members who had good reason to fear traumatic events, known as stressors, even if they did not actually experience them. There are concerns that the change will open the door to a flood of fraudulent claims. But supporters of the rule say the veterans department will still review all claims and thus be able to weed out the baseless ones. ―This nation has a solemn obligation to the men and women who have honorably served this country and suffer from the emotional and often devastating hidden wounds of war,‖ the secretary of veterans affairs, Eric K. Shinseki, said in a statement to The New York Times. ―This final regulation goes a long way to ensure that veterans receive the benefits and services they need.‖

Though widely applauded by veterans’ groups, the new rule is generating criticism from some quarters because of its cost. Some mental health experts also believe it will lead to economic dependency among younger veterans whose conditions might be treatable. Disability benefits include no-cost physical and mental health care and monthly checks ranging from a few hundred dollars to more than $2,000, depending on the severity of the condition. ―I can’t imagine anyone more worthy of public largess than a veteran,‖ said Dr. Sally Satel, a psychiatrist and fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, a conservative policy group, who has written on PTSD. ―But as a clinician, it is destructive to give someone total and permanent disability when they are in fact capable of working, even if it is not at full capacity. A job is the most therapeutic thing there is.‖ But Rick Weidman, executive director for policy and government affairs at Vietnam Veterans of America, said most veterans applied for disability not for the monthly checks but because they wanted access to free health care. ―I know guys who are rated 100 percent disabled who keep coming back for treatment not because they are worried about losing their compensation, but because they want their life back,‖ Mr. Weidman said.

Mr. Weidman and other veterans’ advocates said they were disappointed by one provision of the new rule: It will require a final determination on a veteran’s case to be made by a psychiatrist or psychologist who works for the veterans department. The advocates assert that the rule will allow the department to sharply limit approvals. They argue that private physicians should be allowed to make those determinations as well. But Tom Pamperin, associate deputy under secretary for policy and programs at the veterans department, said the agency wanted to ensure that standards were consistent for the assessments. ―VA and VA contract clinicians go through a certification process,‖ Mr. Pamperin said. ―They are well familiar with military life and can make an assessment of whether the stressor is consistent with the veterans’ duties and place of service.‖

More than two million service members have deployed to Iraq or Afghanistan since 2001, and by some estimates 20% or more of them will develop PTSD. More than 150,000 cases of PTSD. have been diagnosed by the veterans health system among veterans of the two wars, while thousands more have received diagnoses from private doctors, said Paul Sullivan, executive director of Veterans for Common Sense, an advocacy group. But Mr. Sullivan said records showed that the veterans department had approved PTSD. disability claims for only 78,000 veterans. That suggests, he said, that many veterans with the disorder are having their compensation claims rejected by claims processors. ―Those statistics show a very serious problem in how V.A. handles PTSD claims,‖ Mr. Sullivan said. Representative John Hall (D-NY), and sponsor of legislation similar to the new rule, said his office had handled dozens of cases involving veterans who had trouble receiving disability compensation for PTSD, including a Navy veteran from World War II who twice served on ships that sank in the Pacific. ―It doesn’t matter whether you are an infantryman or a cook or a truck driver,‖ Mr. Hall said. ―Anyone is potentially at risk for post-traumatic stress.‖ [Source: New York Times James Dao article 7 Jul 2010 ++]

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VA Presumptive VN Vet Diseases Update 08: The Secretary of Veterans Affairs said during a brief visit 6 JUL to Salt Lake City said, “The federal government did not address military members’ exposure to Agent Orange during the Vietnam War ―the way that might have been and the way that should have been.‖ Thousands of Vietnam veterans waited for decades before medical conditions they acquired during the war were connected to exposure to the toxic defoliant. And that meant that many went without the medical care and compensation they deserved while suffering from debilitating diseases caused by their service. But as evidence mounts suggesting that many of the nation’s latest generation of veterans have been sickened by service in Iraq and Afghanistan, Secretary Eric Shinseki defended a century-old standard requiring scientific proof before veterans can be compensated for their suffering. Thirty-five years after the end of the Vietnam War, the V.A. is still slowly adding to the list of conditions recognized as related to Agent Orange exposure, including three illnesses — Parkinson’s disease, ischemic heart disease, and B cell leukemias — that have been added to the list under Shinseki’s watch. The former Army general, himself a combat-wounded veteran of the Vietnam War, said ―nothing‖ was done to immediately respond to veterans who grew inexplicably sick after returning home from Vietnam. Shinseki said his department was working tirelessly to help veterans establish proof sooner. ―What we’re trying to change is the opportunity to establish the connection,‖ he said, noting that millions of federal dollars have been poured into research into military members who have been exposed to open-air burn pits — one of the probable culprits in a variety of medical conditions suffered by veterans, including cancer, skin conditions and blood disease. But in the meantime, the secretary said, the standard requiring medical proof of a disease’s cause is ―the law.‖ [Source: Salt Lake Tribune Matthew D. LaPlante article 6 Jul 2010 ++]

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Vet Jobs Update 20: In today’s economic climate, transitioning from the military to the civilian world will mean entering an unyielding job market and period of unemployment for most veterans. In fact, the unemployment rate for former servicemembers from Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts rose from 10% in MAY to 11.5% in JUN 2010, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. But, a tight job market is only part of the veteran unemployment problem. A recent study from the Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM) revealed that veterans face two major hurdles when finding civilian employment: translating their military experience into civilian skills; and hiring managers’ lack of knowledge about policies designed to help veterans get employment. The SHRM study titled, “Employment Military Personnel and Recruiting Veterans-Attitudes and Practices,” randomly polled 429 employers. SHRM’s study is part of an initiative to help address the high unemployment rate among veterans, and aims to connect them to gainful employment. It is committed to working with federal agencies, such as the Department of Labor and civilian HR professionals to create initiatives to get veterans hired. The results of their study found that:

 60% of hiring professionals said that many veterans report having difficulty writing resumes, interviewing, and adapting to workplace culture, in addition to not being able to explain their military skills to employers effectively.

 Even though 50% of employers surveyed report making a specific effort to hire veterans, a high amount hiring managers were unaware of the Department of Labor’s veteran employment initiatives- 68% were unaware of the Local Veterans’ Employment Representative; 70% were unfamiliar with the Disabled Veterans Outreach Program.

 46% of hiring managers thought post traumatic stress issues, as well as other combat-sustained brain injuries, would present a problem for veteran employment. However, only 13% of employers reported actually having issues with veterans who suffered from PTSD in the civilian workplace.

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Laurence G. O’Neil, president and CEO of SHRM, in a company-issued statement said, “The high unemployment rate of military veterans is startling.” According to the study, when asked what tools and resources “would help a lot” with the military-to-civilian workforce transition, 39% of employers responded with programs to train veterans with additional skills for the workplace; 36% said programs to help veterans translate military experience into civilian skills sets; and 32% said programs and initiatives to help find and reach out to qualified veterans to fill open positions. Veterans seeking employment are encouraged to check out www.military.com/Careers/Home/0,13373,,00.html where job listings, resume writing assistance, and career fairs locations are provided. [Source: Military.com | Veteran Careers Kelly Johnson article Jul 2010 ++]

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Fisher House Expansion Update 05: There is at least one Fisher House at every major military medical center to assist families in need and to ensure that they are provided with the comforts of home in a supportive environment. Annually, the Fisher House program serves more than 10,000 families, and have made available nearly three million days of lodging to family members since the program originated in 1990. By law, there is no charge for any family to stay at a Fisher House operated by the Department of Veterans Affairs; and Fisher House Foundation uses donations to reimburse the individual Fisher Houses operated by the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Fisher Houses ease financial burden and stress. They look like houses and the atmosphere is a more comfortable alternative for veterans’ families. This year seven more houses will open, representing the most new ones opened in a single year in the organization’s 20-year history. The current Fisher Houses are located on 18 military installations and near 15 VA medical centers. Fisher House opened a facility near the Illinois VA hospital in MAR. It was the most recently opened of 45 houses across the country that offer lodging at no cost to veterans and their families who have to travel more than 50 miles to get treatment at government-run Veterans Affairs hospitals.

Fisher House plans to open a facility at the VA hospital in Boston this month and in St. Louis in AUG. In the fall it plans to open a house at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware for families traveling to pick up the bodies of servicemembers killed in combat. A Fisher House was built near the VA hospital in Dallas last year. The hospital provides care for veterans from North Texas and parts of Oklahoma and Louisiana. Fundraising efforts are underway to build Fisher Houses in at least 15 other cities. A volunteer group is in the process of raising money for a Fisher House that would be built next to the Alvin C. York VA Medical Center in Murfreesboro TN giving temporary lodging to patients who have to travel for treatment at VA hospitals there or in Nashville. President Obama donation of $250,000 from his Nobel Peace Prize award to will go in its entirety directly to supporting the Fisher Houses being built at Bethesda Naval Hospital and Dover Air Force Base. Of all other donations ninety-six cents of every dollar goes directly towards program costs. For additional info on the Fisher House foundation refer to www.fisherhouse.org. [Source: USA Today Clay Carey article 5 Jul 2010 ++]

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Louisiana Vet Cemeteries: Central Louisiana finally will get its long-awaited Veterans Cemetery sometime this fall, but a Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs spokeswoman says it could be years before northeastern Louisiana veterans and their families have their own burial ground. The News Star reported on 5 JUL that a bid will be awarded July 15 to build the Veterans Cemetery in Leesville near Fort Polk, with construction to be completed later this year. Though a site in Richland Parish was chosen four years ago for a Veterans Cemetery in northeastern Louisiana, the project is no closer to reality because of diminished funding available from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, which pays 100% of the cost. The military service requirement for burial in Louisiana state veterans cemeteries must be in accordance with the eligibility standards set by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, National Cemetery Administration; at a minimum, one must meet one of the following:

 Veteran was discharged from active duty under other than dishonorable conditions,

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 Veteran died while on active duty

 Veteran served at least 20 years in the National Guard or Reserves and qualified for military retirement pay (or would have qualified, except death occurred before age 60)

Spouses and dependent children of veterans who were eligible for burial may also be interred in state veterans cemeteries. Burial benefits may include the following: gravesites for casket or cremation remains, headstones or markers, opening and closing of the graves, and continued perpetual care. Burial of an eligible veteran is at no cost to the veteran. A fee is charged at the time of interment for spouses and dependent children of eligible veterans. At present veterans can obtain burial services at the state’s Northwest LA Veterans Cemetery, 7970 Mike Clark Road, Keithville, LA 71047 Tel: (318) 925-0612/5521F or Email: [email protected]. In addition there are three federal cemeteries located at:

 Alexandria National Cemetery, 209 East Shamrock Ave., Pineville, LA 71360

 Baton Rouge National Cemetery (No new interments), 220 North 19th Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70806

 Port Hudson National Cemetery, 20978 Port Hickey Road, Zachary, LA 70791 Tel: (225) 654-3767

[Source: The News-Star AP article 5 Jul 2010 ++]

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Heat Exhaustion/Stroke: Summer means outdoor fun — from hiking and swimming to music festivals and county fairs to dancing in the street–but summer fun can quickly turn tragic if you or someone you care about ends up with heat exhaustion or heat stroke. As temperatures rise, so does the risk that your body’s natural cooling system will malfunction or shut down if you fail to take proper precautions. Although heat exhaustion and heat stroke (sometimes called sun stroke) can affect anyone, seniors are more prone to heat stress than younger people for a variety of reasons. In general, seniors do not adjust as easily or as well to sudden temperature changes, and they may have chronic medical conditions or take prescription drugs that interfere with their bodies’ ability to regulate heat. As part of your preparation for summer you should know how to recognize the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke plus what to do if you see someone with either of these dangerous conditions. The following will assist you in this:

Who Can be affected. As summer temperatures climb in some parts of the U.S., more people are vulnerable to heat exhaustion and heat stroke. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) report that approximately 400 people die each year from excessive natural heat, and that these deaths are preventable. And while seniors are more likely to be affected by high temperatures and heat-related problems than younger people, heat exhaustion and heat stroke can affect anyone if the conditions are right. This includes animals. Be sure to provide shade and plenty of cool, fresh drinking water for your pets, and never leave a pet, child or elderly person in a locked car on hot days.

Heat Exhaustion. Heat exhaustion is a milder form of heat-related illness that can develop after several days of exposure to high temperatures, along with dehydration caused by inadequate or unbalanced replacement of fluids.

Heat Exhaustion symptoms. People respond to heat exhaustion in different ways, but the CDC reports that common symptoms include: Heavy sweating; Paleness; Muscle cramps; Tiredness; Weakness; Dizziness; Headache; Nausea or vomiting; Fainting; Skin: may be cool and moist; Pulse rate: fast and weak Breathing: fast and shallow

Heat Stroke. The CDC reports that heat stroke is the most serious heat-related illness. Heat stroke occurs when the body is exposed to an excessive amount of heat and becomes unable dissipate the heat through sweating. When heat stroke happens, the body’s temperature rises rapidly, the body loses its ability to sweat, and it is unable to cool down. Body temperature can rise to 106°F or higher within 10 to 15 minutes, and at 106°F brain death begins. If emergency treatment is not provided, heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability in humans and animals.

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Heat Stroke Symptoms. The CDC advises that warning signs can vary among individuals, but common signs of heat stroke may include: An extremely high body temperature (above 103°F); Red, hot, and dry skin (no sweating); Rapid, strong pulse; Throbbing headache; Dizziness; Nausea.

Prevention. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke can be avoided if you protect yourself from heat-related stress by follow these prevention tips from the CDC:

 Drink cool, non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated beverages. The CDC recommends that if your doctor generally limits the amount of fluid you drink or prescribes water pills for you, ask him or her how much you should drink when the weather is hot. It’s best to avoid extremely cold liquids because they can cause stomach cramps.

 Drink water regularly throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Once you recognize the feeling of thirst, dehydration is already taking place.

 Be aware that some medications can make you more vulnerable to heat exhaustion. For example, painkillers can mask some of the symptoms of heat exhaustion, and laxatives can increase the risk of dehydration. If you have any questions about prescription or over-the-counter medications, check with your doctor or pharmacist.

 Rest, often. If you need an excuse to be a couch potato, hot days are just the ticket.

 Take a cool shower, bath, or sponge bath.

 If possible, seek an air-conditioned environment. If you don’t have air conditioning, consider visiting an air-conditioned shopping mall or public library to cool off.

 Wear lightweight clothing.

 If possible, remain indoors during the hottest parts of the day.

 Do not engage in strenuous activities.

Helping Seniors Cope with Hot Weather. If you have elderly friends, relatives or neighbors, you can help them protect themselves from heat-related stress:

 Visit older adults at risk at least twice a day and watch them for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

 Make sure they are keeping themselves hydrated by drinking plenty of cool water.

 Encourage them to avoid beverages with caffeine or alcohol. Alcohol, in particular, increases dehydration.

 Take them to air-conditioned locations if they have transportation problems.

 Make sure older adults have access to an electric fan whenever possible.

What to Do If You See Someone With Heat Exhaustion or Heat Stroke. Keep in mind that if you see any signs of severe heat stress, you may be dealing with a life-threatening emergency. Have someone call for immediate medical assistance while you begin cooling the affected person. The CDC recommends get the person to a shady area and cool the person rapidly, using whatever methods you can, for example:

 Immerse the person in a tub of cool water

 Place the person in a cool shower

 Spray the person with cool water from a garden hose

 Sponge the person with cool water

 If the humidity is low, wrap the person in a cool, wet sheet and fan him or her vigorously

 Monitor body temperature and continue cooling efforts until the body temperature drops to 101°–102°F.

 If emergency medical personnel are delayed, call the hospital emergency room for further instructions.

 Do not give the person alcohol to drink.

 Get medical assistance as soon as possible.

[Source: About.com | Senior Living Sharon O’Brien 1 Jul 2010 ++]

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VA Prostate Cancer Program Update 07: Over the past year, the Philadelphia VA Medical Center has taken most of the public heat for a prostate cancer treatment program that went astray for six years, giving incorrect radiation doses to 97 out of 114 veterans. Now the University of Pennsylvania – which designed, staffed, and supervised the radiation program – is feeling the heat. Five veterans who received substandard therapy have filed federal lawsuits against various university entities, including its hospital and health system. That number may well grow because veterans who have sought compensation from the VA can file a federal lawsuit six month later, or anytime after a claim is denied. So far, the VA has rejected 12 of 38 claims seeking $71 million in damages. Donna Lee Jones, a Philadelphia attorney representing three of the veterans suing in federal court, predicted “there’s going to be a battle” with Penn over whether it should be part of the case. Added her partner, attorney Michael Barrett, “We think there will be plenty of finger-pointing between the VA and Penn trustees. But Penn’s fingerprints are all over everything.”

Penn spokeswoman Susan Phillips said 2 JUL the university could not comment on pending litigation. For the past year, she had said Penn could not comment on the various federal and Congressional inquiries that were underway. Penn, which uses the VA Medical Center as a teaching hospital for its medical students, contracted with the VA to run the prostate cancer treatment program, called brachytherapy. It involves implanting dozens of tiny radioactive seeds into the prostate gland to kill cancer cells over several months. Brachytherapy is effective when done properly, but if too many seeds are misplaced, the cancer may be spared, or healthy surrounding tissues may be damaged – or both. Penn assigned radiation oncologist Gary Kao to head the VA brachytherapy program. Kao, who performed most of the improper seed implants, is also named in the federal lawsuits, along with the Department of Veterans Affairs.The five veterans who are suing Penn are Richard Mitchell, James Armstrong, John Berry, Barry Lackro, all of Philadelphia, and Donald Pepper of Smyrna, Del. Lackro’s cancer has recurred and become incurable, while Berry has signs of recurrence, according to their court filings. All five men claim to suffer from radiation damage to their bladder, rectum or other organs, as well as severe emotional distress.

Their lawsuits contend Penn is liable for their injuries based on two established legal precedents: Hospitals are “vicariously” responsible for the medical negligence of doctors they employ. And hospitals that have inadequate policies, procedures, equipment and oversight can be found guilty of “corporate negligence.” Still, there are gray areas. For example, Lackro’s attorney, Mitchell Paul, said he agreed to drop Penn’s Board of Trustees from the lawsuit after Penn attorneys argued that the trustees are overseers who don’t get involved in managing doctors. Attornies Barrett and Jones, in contrast, said they will not drop the trustees from their three clients’ suits. There is similar disagreement over whether Penn’s School of Medicine should be a defendant. Up to now, Penn’s integral role in the VA brachytherapy program has been recognized, but not penalized.

In May, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, which oversees medical radiation usage levied a $227,500 fine against the Philadelphia VA – the NRC’s second-largest fine ever – citing a “total breakdown” in the program, safety procedures, and management. In a separate report last month, the Department of Veterans Affairs Inspector General’s office said the Philadelphia VA’s contract with Penn was non-existent or inadequate during the six years of the program. It also said the VA ended up overpaying for Penn’s services. Public documents and testimony at hearings have shown that it was Penn who hired, appointed – and in some case, trained – the radiation oncologists, urologists, physicists, technicians, and radiation safety committee chair who worked at the VA. “We think it was primarily the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania running the show, and the VA was just the shell,” Jones said. [Source: Philadelphia Inquirer Marie McCullough article 2 Jul 2010 ++]

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Money Transfer: Need to transfer money overseas quickly from the United States? One option is www.zoom.com . This site enables individuals to send money from any Internet-enabled computer. You can send up to $2999 (maximum of only $2000 to 4 of 30 countries listed) and pay with a banking account. You can also pay with a major credit or debit card but the fees are considerably higher. Regardless of payment method the fees in most cases are considerably less than Western Union. On the Zoom website is a conversion table for the currency the money will be transferred in. Fees vary by the country selected. For example:

 To transfer $2999 to the Philippines using your bank account the fee is $4.99 and using Zoom’s 5 JUL dollar to peso rate of $1 = P45.8008 they would be receiving P137,356.58. Your bank account would be charged $3,003.99. Using a major credit or debit card it would be charged $3,058.99.

 To transfer $2999 to Germany using your bank account the fee is $4.99 and using Zoom’s 5 JUL dollar to Euro rate of $1 =EUR 0.7845 they would be receiving EUR 2,352.66 Your bank account would be charged $3,003.99. Using a major credit or debit card it would be charged $3,148.99.

 To transfer $2999 to Costa Rica using your bank account the fee is $24.99 and they would be receiving $2999. Your bank account would be charged $3,023.89. Using a major credit or debit card it would be charged $3,084.99.

Recipients do not need a bank account or Internet connection to receive funds. For the delivery of funds you can select receiving options of cash pickup, bank deposit, or in some geographic areas home delivery. Location options for cash pickup and home delivery vary with the country selected. A 100 character message to the recipient can be included. You will be sent a series of email notifications informing you of the status of your transaction. The first is sent shortly after you submit a Xoom transaction. The second when your payment has cleared and Xoom transfers your transaction to their partner in the recipient’s country. Upon completion of the transaction, Zoom sends another email telling you that your recipient has received the funds. Cancellation of the money transfer is possible (if it has not been delivered) following the online guidelines. The service is not available residents of Wyoming, West Virginia and Vermont. Xoom Corporation was founded in 2001 in San Francisco and is backed by leading venture firms Sequoia Capital, New Enterprise Associates and Fidelity Ventures. [Source: zoom.com Jul 2010 ++]

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Flag Presentation Update 03: Prior to Flag Day, 14 JUN 1923, neither the federal government nor the states had official guidelines governing the display of the United States’ flag. On 14 JUN 1923, the National Flag Code was constructed by representatives of over 68 organizations, under the auspices of the National Americanism Commission of The American Legion. The code drafted by that conference was printed by the national organization of The American Legion and given nationwide distribution. On 22 JUN 1942, the Code became Public Law 77-623; chapter 435. Little had changed in the code since the Flag Day 1924 Conference. The most notable change was the removal of the Bellamy salute due to its similarities to the Hitler salute. Additional modifications were:

 The Freedom to Display the American Flag Act of 2005 prohibits real estate management organizations from restricting homeowners from displaying the Flag of the United States on their own property.

 The Army Specialist Joseph P. Micks Federal Flag Code Amendment Act of 2007 added a provision to fly the flag at half-staff upon the death of a member of the Armed Forces from any State, territory, or possession who died while serving on active duty. It also gave the mayor of the District of Columbia the authority to direct that the flag be flown at half-staff. Federal facilties in the area covered by the governor or mayor of the District of Columbia will also fly the flag at half-staff as directed.[11]

 The Duncan Hunter National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009 (Sec. 595.) allows the military salute for the flag during the national anthem by members of the Armed Forces not in uniform and by veterans.

[Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_Flag_Code Jul 2010 ++]

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Arlington National Cemetery Update 12: The secretary of the Army said 30 JUN that officials were prepared to dig up graves, open caskets and take DNA samples from the deceased if it is necessary to sort out the record-keeping chaos at Arlington National Cemetery. “If we are so authorized and if it is necessary, we have not ruled out the possibility of actually opening caskets,” said Army Secretary John McHugh, noting that it would be an extreme measure, “. . . and should it thereafter become necessary for DNA . . . that would be something we would contemplate.” McHugh spoke at a hearing of the House Armed Services Committee called to look into recent revelations of mismanagement, mishandling of remains and extensive record foul-ups at the nation’s most hallowed cemetery. A probe by the Army inspector general, unveiled June 10, found a wide array of long-standing problems at the cemetery. Among other problems, the Army found 211 discrepancies between burial maps and grave sites and cases in which funeral urns were inadvertently dug up and dumped in a dirt pile.

McHugh said investigators already are digging into some of the 117 sites without tombstones or burial cards that are marked as occupied on cemetery maps to see whether anyone is buried there. No names were associated with the map sites. Five have been examined so far, an Army spokesman said. In each case “the map was in error,” McHugh said. “There were no remains in those graves, and those graves will be reclaimed and reused for appropriate purposes and a fallen hero sometime in the future.” The Army also found 94 graves that had tombstones and burial cards but were not listed on cemetery maps. Twenty-two of those sites have been probed so far and found to be occupied, a cemetery spokeswoman said. Committee Chairman Ike Skelton (D-Mo.) said he thinks a complete survey of graves at the cemetery should be conducted to check for burial mistakes. Skelton said the Army ‘s recent investigation into mistakes at the cemetery was so “limited” that it probably revealed “only a fraction of the problem. We must be prepared that a 100% survey of the cemetery and all its operations, which I believe must now be undertaken, will yield a larger number of problems that must be addressed.” The Army has focused, so far, on only three of the cemetery’s 70 sections.

McHugh said a complete cemetery survey was possible but would be difficult. “To do that for 330,000 [graves] is going to take a better system of record-keeping,” he said. As soon as the cemetery’s antiquated records system is improved, “we will begin checking and cross-checking those records for all of those graves.” In addition to the record-keeping problems, the inspector general found a dysfunctional management system and a poisonous relationship between cemetery Superintendent John C. Metzler Jr. and Deputy Superintendent Thurman Higginbotham. The two men had been at odds as far back as 1992, the year after Metzler took over at the age of 39, said Lt. Gen. R. Steven Whitcomb, the Army’s inspector general, who also testified at the hearing. “It appears that they struck some kind of accommodation where they kept in separate lanes,” Whitcomb said. “Although what we found and what contributed to the unhealthy work environment was those lanes tended to overlap.” Metzler, who had grown up at the cemetery while his father served as superintendent from 1951 to 1972, was issued a severe reprimand by the Army. He is retiring 2 JUL. Higginbotham has been on paid administrative leave pending a disciplinary review.

“I cannot understand how the Army has allowed the problem to fester for years,” Skelton said. “There is clear evidence that in 1992 the Army was aware of a level of leadership discord at Arlington that would not have been tolerated at any other organization,” he said. “The situation cried out for intervention, but the Army’s response was to further withdraw from Arlington Cemetery operations,” he said. Also at the hearing officials disclosed that the Defense Department’s probe of the 2008 firing of cemetery public affairs officer Gina Gray did not find that firing constituted reprisal because cemetery officials did not know of her whistleblowing when they decided to fire her. But the firing of Gray, whose later revelations helped spark the current cemetery investigation, was an “obvious failure to exercise sound personnel management,” according to a one-page summary of the probe made public after the hearing. The department recommended that the Army take “corrective action” against the responsible cemetery

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officials and find an “appropriate remedy” for Gray. In an e-mail, Gray said cemetery officials “knew very well” of her whistleblowing when they fired her. “It’s hard to imagine how the Defense Department is ignoring those facts now,” she wrote. “But nothing is surprising me about this scandal, since it’s what I’ve been saying for years.” [Source: Washington Post Michael E. Ruane article 1 Jul 2010 ++]

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VA Office of the General Counsel: Will Gunn, the general counsel for the Department of Veterans Affairs told House members on 30 JUN that, despite a backlog of cases, his office’s attorneys are ethical and high performing. The House Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigation held a hearing that morning to discuss challenges faced by the VA’s Office of the General Counsel (OGC), such as extensive backlog of cases, incomplete or false contracting information and allegations of legal malpractice by some of its attorneys. Chairman Harry Mitchell (D-AZ) says these issues are especially troubling given VA OCG’s 9.2% budget increase in fiscal 2010 and its requested 9.6% increase for fiscal 2011. “The bottom line here is that we make certain the resources Congress provides the VA are being allocated properly in order to provide the most benefit for Veterans and the American public,” Mitchell says. Some of the issues are recurring. Mitchell says the subcommittee has reviewed many cases in recent years regarding insufficient or inaccurate counsel and support of contract management. Other VA OGC deficiencies, he adds, include poor relations between contract managers and VA attorneys, extensive case backlogs, and delayed health directives. Gunn acknowledged these concerns but says the recent budget increase has allowed VA OGC to increase its staff and start addressing those issues.

The subcommittee also heard testimony from Matthew Tulley, a partner at Tulley, Rinckney PPLC, a firm that represents VA employees in suits against VA. Tulley says VA OGC attorneys, especially those in the office’s employment law division, continually violate the ethical standards laid out by the Supreme Court and state bar associations. He says “a few bad apples” with inappropriately close ties to VA managers are harming Veterans, VA employees, and attorneys who represent them. According to Tulley, violations include witness badgering, delay tactics known as mooting, threats of punitive action in the workplace, and document falsification. These produce a chilling effect directly on VA employees who want to file suit against the department and indirectly on attorneys who might represent them by making legal proceedings too costly and time consuming, he says.

Tulley recommends creating an independent office of professional responsibility with the ethical standards used by the Department of Justice. He says this would both discourage attorneys from acting improperly as well as create a structure for ethical oversight that currently does not exist. Gunn, who has been general counsel for just over a year, says he has never heard allegations of unethical practices before today’s hearing. He does say, however, that he has instructed his office to create an internal process for reviewing complaints of unprofessional conduct by their attorneys. “I am committed to providing service that is based in excellence and integrity. As an Airforce Officer I live by certain core values. Those values are integrity first, service to others before self, and excellence in all that I do. I am committed to instilling those principles throughout the OCG,” he says. [Source: Federal News Radio Meg Beasley article 30 Jun 2010 ++]

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VA Treatment Access: The VA Inspector General and a number of veterans’ advocates have been claiming since the early days of the Iraq War, when soldiers returning from OEF began flooding VA facilities, that the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) systematically delays and denies sick veterans medical care and masks it with bogus documentation. Now an internal department memo, posted 30 JUN on VA Watchdog website www.vawatchdog.org , lends credence to these charges. The 26 APR memo from William Schoenhard, Deputy Undersecretary for Health Operations and Management, alerts supervisors overseeing scheduling that he has learned of unacceptable practices. VA facilities have adopted what he calls ―gaming strategies‖ in order to improve scores

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on various access measures by diminishing patient access to treatment. An eight-page attachment identifies 24 practices detected so far, but Schoenhard says there may be more. Some of those identified in the memo include:

 Using fine-print rules to cancel patients’ appointments. Here, a patient arrives on time for an appointment only to be told he has no appointment. When the patient shows the employee his/her appointment form, the employee shows the patient the fine print on the form, which says that patients who do not come 10 (sometimes 15) minutes early to check in risk cancellation.

 Employees enter into the computer a later date (often by months) than the doctor has specified for a return visit.

 Recording a patient’s initial request to be treated in a paper log, not the computer system, then calling them in months or a full year later (law requires they be seen within 30 days) and recording that date as their first request to be seen.

 Booking several patients in the same time slot for the same doctor or provider, leaving patients to wait for hours to be seen, sometimes for something as simple as a monthly prescription renewal, which, due to frustration or obligation, they sometimes leave without.

Schoenhard told CNN he had no personal knowledge of any VA facility using the inappropriate scheduling practices, but issued the memo to avoid future problems. Yet, in his memo outlining medical appointment gaming, Schoenhard says: “It has come to my attention that in order to improve scores on assorted access measures, certain facilities have adopted use of inappropriate scheduling practices sometimes referred to as gaming strategies.” The memo is available for viewing at www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfjun10/jun10files/gamingthesysystem.pdf . Paul Sullivan, director of the veterans’ advocacy group, Veterans for Common Sense (VCS), told AlterNet he believes Schoenhard’s memo “forces a key leadership test upon VA Secretary Eric Shinseki” to end the shenanigans and solve the underlying problems.” [Source: AlterNet Nora Eisenberg article 30 Jun 2010 ++]

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VAMC St. Louis MO Update 01: The Veterans Administration said 1 JUL that the chief of dental services at the St. Louis VA Medical Center has been placed on administrative leave after the hospital urged nearly 2,000 veterans to return for blood tests because inadequately sterilized equipment may have exposed them to viral infections during dental procedures. An independent board will also investigate how employees failed to properly sterilize the dental equipment that potentially exposed veterans to infections including hepatitis and HIV, the administration said. “The mistakes made at the St. Louis VA Medical Center are unacceptable, and steps have been and continue to be taken to correct this situation and assure the safety of our veterans,” VA Secretary Eric Shinseki said. The VA sent letters out Monday to 1,812 veterans who had dental procedures at the St. Louis center from Feb. 1, 2009, through March 11 of this year, saying reviews determined that some sterilization steps in preparing dental instruments were not in compliance with standards.

Officials say the infection risk is extremely low, and no illnesses have been uncovered so far out of some 100 veterans who have come in for blood work that will screen for hepatitis B, hepatitis C and HIV. The VA said 184 people had signed up to be tested as of 1 JUL. VA Under Secretary for Health Dr. Robert Petzel said Thursday the problem arose because workers prewashing dental equipment failed to use a detergent before the equipment was sterilized. He said that failure allowed for a “phenomenally remote” chance that sterilization might not have been effective. Petzel said he found there was a need for an independent review by the national Administrative Investigation Board “to determine the reasons for failure to follow correct procedures.” He said expects the investigation to begin next week and take 60 days at most. Rep. Russ Carnahan (D-MO) said the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee also said they will investigate what happened at the center and planned to hold a hearing in St. Louis. The announced investigations follow demands for action by several lawmakers from Missouri and Illinois — the St. Louis region’s five VA facilities serve veterans in both states. No date has been set for the Veterans’ Affairs

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Committee hearing in St. Louis. Two Missouri congressmen, Republican Blaine Luetkemeyer and Democrat William Lacy Clay, also asked the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee to investigate. Both serve on that committee.

Danny L. Turner, chief of dental services at the Cochran VAMC, “says he welcomes investigations into the handling of dental equipment at the hospital and blamed politics for distorting the controversy. ‘I have a lot of information that proves we were doing things correctly,'” Turner “said in an interview after he had been put on administrative leave.” Lawmakers also want to know why it took so long for the VA to inform the veterans about the mistakes. The problem was uncovered in March and letters went out 28 JUN. Marcena Gunter, a spokeswoman for the St. Louis center, said the delay was because officials were evaluating the risk posed to veterans. The VA said patients who have had dental procedures since 11 MAR are not at risk because procedures were corrected. Shinseki said that over the past 18 months, VA has implemented more stringent safety oversight at its medical facilities, and that oversight led to the identification of problems at the St. Louis facility. Barry Searle, director of the Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Division for the American Legion, testified before Congress in May about quality concerns at VA medical facilities.” Searle “said in a phone interview that the VA health care system is strong overall, but that frequent turnover caused problems like the one that happened in St. Louis.”

VA centers around the country have had problems in recent years. In 2007, Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington came under scrutiny over concerns about conditions at the hospital and treatment of veterans. At the time, St. Louis VA officials said they were working to fix similar problems. That same year, a surgeon at the VA hospital in Marion, Ill., resigned after a patient bled to death following gall bladder surgery. All inpatient surgeries were suspended. The VA found at least nine deaths between OCT 06 and MAR 07 resulted from substandard care at the Marion hospital, and another 10 patients died after receiving questionable care that complicated their health. [Source: AP Jim Salter article 1 Jul 2010 ++]

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Virginia Vet Legislation: The following bills have passed both chambers of the Virginia Congress and were approved by the Governor for enactment with an effective date of 1 JUL 2010:

 HB.262 & SB.455: Exempts veterans from paying the Department of Business Assistance’s handling fee when establishing a small business through the one-stop small business permitting program.

 HJ.33 & SJ.13 : Constitutional amendment for property tax exemption for certain veterans. Directs the General Assembly to exempt from taxation real property that is the principal residence of a veteran (or widow or widower of a veteran) if the veteran has been determined by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs or its successor agency pursuant to federal law to have a 100% service-connected, permanent, and total disability.

 HJ.137: Designates the Honor and Remember Flag as the Commonwealth’s emblem of service and sacrifice by the brave men and women of the United States Armed Forces who have given their lives in the line of duty.

[Source: http://leg1.state.va.us Jul 2010 ++]

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VA Women Vet Programs Update 11: On 29 JUN, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) spoke on the Senate floor to request immediate passage of the Homeless Women Veterans and Homeless Veterans With Children Act. The bill was introduced in JUN 09 and passed the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee on 28 JAN 2010 with strong bi-partisan support. Republican Senator Mitch McConnell objected to the legislation on the Senate floor on behalf of Senator Tom Coburn, preventing it from passing. “I am deeply disappointed that Senate

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Republicans continued to put politics above people and blocked my bill that would provide support for homeless women veterans and their families,” said Sen. Murray. “This is a bipartisan, common-sense bill that would support veterans in my home state of Washington and across the country. I am going to continue fighting for it to pass. And I urge Senate Republicans to end their obstruction and allow homeless women veterans across the country to get the support they have earned.” S.1237 would expand assistance for homeless women veterans and homeless veterans with children and would increase funding and extend federal grant programs to address the unique challenges faced by these veterans. Female veterans are between two and four times as likely to be homeless than their civilian counterparts—and they have unique needs and often require specialized services. [Source: Vietnam Veterans of America News release 1 Jul 2010 ++]

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Tricare Uniform Formulary Update 33: Beneficiaries and providers can use the new Tricare formulary search tool to find the most up-to-date information about prescription medications. Located at http://pec.ha.osd.mil/formulary_search.php, the new formulary search tool allows beneficiaries to easily find which medicines are in the uniform formulary. These are available at all full-service military treatment facilities and covered by Tricare. Once a user has identified if a drug is available, they can use the search tool to get information on a drug, such as restriction on use. The tool also shows if the medication is Tier One (with a $3 copay,) Tier Two (with a $9 copay) or non-formulary (requiring a $22 copay.) It also shows when a generic equivalent is required. As an added benefit, the new Tricare formulary search tool has integrated the prior authorization and medical necessity forms and criteria into a search engine while still maintaining a page with a complete list of all criteria and forms. Any restrictions such as quantity or age limits are displayed in one location. “This should make it easier to find all relevant information about a specific drug instead of trying to click on different links to other Web pages and sort through vast amounts of information,” said Jeremy Briggs, a pharmacy operations center official and search tool designer. “The idea is to have all that information available with one search, but still link back to pages for in-depth information.” The search tool’s functionalities will increase and become more refined, based on feedback provided by patients and providers. “The new Tricare formulary search tool is adaptable to meet the ever changing needs of our beneficiaries and we are planning to meet those needs,” Mr. Briggs said. [Source: Tricare News Release 30 Jun 2010 ++]

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National Cemetery Administration Update 02: On 29 JUN the National Cemetery Administration (NCA) held their biannual meeting to discuss their budget, construction schedule and new services. Of note were:

 New Medallion Benefit. Upon request, the VA will provide a medallion to be affixed to an existing privately purchased headstone or marker to signify the deceased’s status as a veteran. The medallion is provided in the place of a government headstone or marker for veterans who died on or after November 1, 1990 AND who have a grave in a private cemetery with a privately purchased headstone or marker. It comes in 3 sizes: 5‖, 3‖, 1-1/2‖. It has Veteran across the top and the branch of service at the bottom. Adhesive, instructions and hardware are also provided.

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1-1/2″ Medallion 3″ & 5″ Medallion

 New national grave locator, available both on their website http://gravelocator.cem.va.gov/j2ee/servlet/NGL_v1 and on smart phones, that allows you to locate any grave in a VA National Cemetery, state veterans cemeteries, various other military and Department of Interior cemeteries, and for veterans buried in private cemeteries when the grave is marked with a government grave marker. This includes Arlington National Cemetery. The smart phone application will allow you to look up the grave of a loved one while you are in the cemetery, a useful feature.

 New policy to determine when a new cemetery in a given region is needed. The previous policy stated that there needed to be one cemetery for every 170,000 veterans in a given geographical area, now the standard is one cemetery for every 80,000 veterans. While 10% of veterans still do not have access to a veteran’s cemetery, defined as being within 75 miles of their home, this is two percent better than in 2005, and NCA aims for 94% of veterans to have access to national or state veteran cemeteries within four years.

For more information or to request a Burial Flag, Government Headstone or Marker, Private Grave Medallion, or a Presidential Memorial Certificate, go to http://www.cem.va.gov/. [Source: TREA Washington Update 2 Jul 2010 ++]

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Tricare Supplemental Insurance Update 04: In the FY2007 National Defense Authorization Act Congress included a provision that was designed to prevent non-military employers from offering improper incentives to TRICARE beneficiaries not to enroll in the employer provided group health plan. However, in passing the law, their prohibition resulted in penalties being imposed on TRICARE beneficiaries unrelated to the stated intention of the legislation. One of the provisions in the law no longer allowed TRICARE beneficiaries to have their TRICARE supplement, co-pays and deductibles paid for on a pre-tax basis through their companies’ authorized cafeteria plans. As a result, these employees no longer had the tax benefit other employees have and they had to pay TRICARE premiums on an after tax basis. Because of this many employees gave up their TRICARE Standard policies and elected to use TRICARE Prime. This, in turn, increased the costs to DoD since TRICARE Prime costs the government about 19% more than does TRICARE Standard. Secretary of Defense has the authority to make an exception to allow payment through tax advantaged plans, and he finally did so in APR 2010. Under a final rule published by DoD, starting 18 JUN non-military employers can now offer a TRICARE Standard supplement plan with their cafeteria-style health insurance options so TRICARE Standard beneficiaries can buy coverage with pre-tax dollars. [Source: TREA Washington Update 2 Jul 2010 ++]

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HVAC Update 11: On 29 JUN a hearing was held by the House Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs on five new bills of importance to veterans. The hearing was the first opportunity for a Congressional committee to review each bill and receive testimony about them from veterans groups and the Department of Veterans Affairs. The bills were:

 HR3407, the Severely Injured Veterans Benefit Improvement Act of 2009: Would increase aid and attendance for severely injured veterans, qualify severely burned veterans adaptive grants, increase pension for housebound veterans, expand aid and attendance to cover veterans with traumatic brain injury (TBI), and increase the service pension for Congressional Medal of Honor recipients.

 HR3787, the Honor America’s Guard and Reserve Retirees Act: Would grant veterans status to members of the Reserve components who serve for at least twenty years, thus becoming military retirees, but who never served on active duty long enough to qualify for veterans status as currently defined by law. There would be no new federal benefits conferred upon these individuals, but they would have the honor of being officially recognized as veterans.

 HR4541, the Veterans Pensions Protection Act of 2010: Would protect pension payments from including insurance settlements of any kind from the calculation amount in determining pensions. Further, the bill would require the VA to make determinations on the fair market value and replacement value of any assets claimed for exclusion under the insurance settlement.

 HR5064, the Fair Access to Veterans Benefits Act of 2010: Would provide some flexibility in the equitable tolling of timeliness for the Board of Veterans’ Appeals, and for other purposes. (Equitable tolling is a doctrine or principle of tort law: a statute of limitations will not bar a claim if despite use of due diligence the plaintiff did not or could not discover the injury until after the expiration of the limitations period.)

 HR5549, the Rating and Processing Individuals’ Disability Claims Act or the Rapid Claims Act: Would provide VA a mechanism for identifying and expediting claims that are “ready-to-rate” by granting the Secretary the authority to wave the mandatory 60-day development period with the written permission of the veteran. If a veteran submits a statement which indicates the veteran’s intent to submit a fully developed claim, the veteran would have one year from the date of submission to provide the Secretary with a fully developed claim and access to the expeditious treatment of their claim. If the Secretary determines the claim is not fully developed, the VA will notify the veteran within 30 days of the evidence and information required to rate the case.

[Source: TREA Washington Update 2 Jul 2010 ++]

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COLA 2011 Update 03: The Bureau of Labor Statistics announced the May 2010 CPI-W of 214.1 which is an increase of 0.1% from the March CPI-W of 213.9. The May CPI-W of 214.1 is now down .6% from the 2008 COLA base of 215.5. The 2008 COLA base will be used to calculate the 2010 COLA since there was no 2009 COLA as a result of negative inflation from the third quarter of 2008 to the third quarter of 2009. [Source: MOAA News Exchange 30 Jun 2010 ++]

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TSA Guidance for Passengers: In order to meet new security procedures the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) encourages all international passengers on flights to the U.S. to use the following guidance which will help make their passage through the airport as efficient and comfortable as possible.

Pack Smart

 Pack an organized carry-on bag using layers. A layer of clothes, then electronic, more clothes, and then any heavier items. This will help transportation security officers see what’s in your bag. Innocent items can actually appear to be potential threats in an X-ray image, simply by the way they’re packed.

 Do not pack oversized electronics (laptops, full-size video game consoles, DVD players and video cameras that use cassettes) in your checked baggage when possible. However, be advised that you will be required to remove these items from your carry-on bag and submit them separately for x-ray screening. Small electronics, such as iPods, can remain in your carry-on. For more information on laptop bag procedures, refer to

 http://www.tsa.gov/press/happenings/simplifying_laptop_bag_procedures.shtm .

 Prepare your 1 quart-sized, clear, plastic, zip-top bag of liquids before arriving at the airport. For more information on liquid rules refer to http://www.tsa.gov/311/

 Pack all your coats and jackets in your checked baggage when possible. All coats and jackets must go through the X-ray machine for inspection.

 Do not wrap gifts. If a security officer needs to inspect a package, they may have to unwrap your gift. Wait until you’ve reached your final destination to wrap gifts.

 Film. Undeveloped film should go in your carry-on bag. You will able to declare film that is faster than 800-speed to a transportation security officer for physical inspection to avoid being X-rayed.

 When in doubt, leave it out. If you’re not sure about whether you can bring an item through the checkpoint, put it in your checked bag or leave it at home. For a list of prohibited items refer to http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm.

Dress the Part

 Transportation security officers have to identify any metal that is detected at the checkpoint. If the metal detector alarms when you pass through, you will be required to undergo additional screening. This includes a hand-wand and pat-down inspection. Items that might set off an alarm on the metal detector include:

1.) Keys, loose change, mobile phones, pagers, and personal data assistants (PDAs).

2.) Heavy jewelry (including pins, necklaces, bracelets, rings, watches, earrings, body piercings, cuff links, lanyards or bolo ties).

3.) Clothing with metal buttons, snaps or studs. Also, belt buckles and Under-wire bras

4.) Metal hair barrettes or other hair decoration.

5.) Body Piercings. Certain metal body piercings may cause you to alarm at the metal detector, which will result in you getting additional screening. If additional screening is required, you may ask to remove your body piercing in private as an alternative to the pat-down search.

 Head Coverings. You are permitted to wear head coverings and religious garments during the screening process. You may be directed to additional screening if your headwear or clothing (religious or other-wise) is loose fitting or large enough to hide prohibited items. For more information refer tp http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/assistant/editorial_1037.shtm.

 Shoes. Travelers are required to remove their shoes before entering the walk-through metal detector at all U.S. airports and put them through the x-ray machine for inspection. This allows officers to see if the shoes have been tampered with in any way.

Acceptable Documents – The items you’ll need to present to a Transportation Security Officer at the checkpoint are:

 Boarding pass.

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 Identification (see www.tsa.gov/assets/pdf/apis_documents.pdf )

Note: Each adult traveler should keep his/her airline boarding pass and government-issued photo ID available until exiting the security checkpoint (children are not required to show identification). If you do not have identification (i.e.it lost, stolen, etc.), you will be required to provide the document checking officer with some information to help verify your identity. This will slow down your screening process and will result in additional screening.

Hassle-Free Security Tips

 Arrive on time. Arrival time recommendations vary by airline and day of travel, so check with your carrier. Remember to give yourself adequate time to check your baggage and move through security.

 Wear slip-on shoes. This will allow you to take them off and put them back on quickly, without having to sit down.

 Remove all animals from their carrying cases and send the case through the X-ray machine. Hold your pet in your arms and proceed through the metal detector.

 Children. Take your infants and children out of baby carriers and strollers and take them through the metal detector with you. Strollers and baby carriers go through the X-ray machine with your bags. If possible, collapse your stroller before you get to the metal detector. For more information about traveling with children refer to http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/children/index.shtm

 Think before you speak. Belligerent behavior, inappropriate jokes and threats will not be tolerated. They will result in delays and possibly missing your flight. Local law enforcement may be called as necessary.

 Helpful Videos. Make your screening experience as smooth as possible. Select a video at www.tsa,gov to help you understand the screening process.

[Source: U.S. Embassy Manila ACS Newsletter Jun 2010 ++]

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Debt Collector’s Rules: Debt collectors are infamous for some of their underhanded tactics used to collect debts from consumers. Many collectors get away with these tricks because consumers are not aware of the laws dictating how collectors can – and how they cannot – deal with consumers when collecting a debt. The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, better known as the FDCPA, is a federal law that governs the actions of parties acting as debt collectors for personal debts. Auto loans, home loans, medical bills, and credit card accounts are all considered personal debts. Whenever one of your creditors uses a third-party to collect a debt, that third-party is obligated to follow the rules of the FDCPA. If your rights under the FDCPA have been violated, you have one year from the date of the violation to file a lawsuit against the debt collector. You could receive up to $1,000 in addition to actual damages and attorney fees. There are several things that a debt collector cannot do under the FDCPA. They cannot:

 Call you before 8am or after 9pm

 Call you at work, provided the debt collector is aware your employer does doesn’t approve of these phone calls

 Harass, oppress, or abuse you

 Lie to you or falsely imply that you have committed a crime

 Use unfair practices in an attempt to collect a debt

 Conceal his or her identity on the phone

 Disregard a written request from you to cease further contact

The law also dictates how the debt collector must act when communicating with a person other than the debt collector.

 The collector is prohibited from giving out information pertaining to your debt to anyone but you or your spouse (or your parent if you’re a minor).

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 Debt collectors are not allowed to communicate via post card or use any kind of symbol or language on an envelope that indicates they are a debt collector. Once the debt collector learns you are represented by an attorney – and has the contact information for the attorney – the debt collector can only communicate with the attorney.

 Debt collectors are prohibited from using any form of harassment or abuse while attempting to collect. They cannot threaten violence against the debtor, their reputation, or their property. In addition, debt collectors cannot use obscene or profane language when communicating with the debtor via phone or through mail. Collection agencies and their collectors cannot publish any kind of listing of consumers that have not paid debt, except to a consumer bureau.

[Source: About.com Credit/Debt Management LaToya Irby article 22 May 2010 ++]

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Medicare Fraud Update 43:

 Tennessee – Benchmark Physical Therapy has entered into a settlement with the federal government and the state of Tennessee to pay over $1.8 million resolving allegations that it improperly billed the Medicare and TennCare/Medicaid programs for physical therapy services. Benchmark violated the federal False Claims Act and the Tennessee Medicaid False Claims Act by submitting claims to the TennCare program for physical therapy that were not reimbursable. Specifically, the government’s claim was that between 2001 and 2006, Benchmark submitted claims representing that it had provided therapeutic exercise for TennCare patients when medical records indicated that the patients had instead received aquatic therapy, a service subject to reimbursement restrictions. It was also alleged that Benchmark submitted claims through the Medicare program for physical therapy services which did not qualify for payment or were not medically necessary.

 Chicago IL – A group of doctors at Rush University Medical Center’s prestigious orthopedic department routinely overbooked their schedules and relied heavily on residents to perform surgeries, violating federal Medicare billing rules, according to a newly unsealed whistle-blower lawsuit filed in U.S. District Court in Chicago. The suit alleges that in one instance, a surgeon never entered the operating room to supervise a procedure. In others, a surgeon monitored residents performing operations via video feed while simultaneously performing his own operations in nearby rooms.The lawsuit, filed by another Rush surgeon, Dr. Robert Goldberg, along with a former hospital executive, portrays Rush’s orthopedic center as a business focused on quantity over quality, risking patient health in pursuit of “monetary rewards and celebrity status.” To do that, doctors sidestepped specific Medicare billing rules that require teaching physicians to be present during critical portions of procedures, the suit said. Six surgeons are named as defendants; the lawsuit mainly focuses on procedures performed in 2004 and 2005.Whistle-blower lawsuits relate to claims in which the government is victimized, and plaintiffs stand to share in a portion of any monetary awards. In this case, some of the plaintiffs’ accusations, related to the use of office space in return for patient referrals, have been settled by the Justice Department, with the medical center agreeing to pay more than $1.5 million but not admit wrongdoing. After that settlement in March, the other accusations relating to surgical practices were unsealed.

 Orange Cnty CA – A heart monitoring Services Company has agreed to pay $3.6 million to resolve allegations it defrauded government health care programs. The settlement was finalized 8 JUL with National Cardio Labs LLC, the company’s manager Adrienne Stanman and her husband and former manager Robert Parsons. A lawsuit accused the company of submitting false health care claims to Medicare, TRICARE and health insurance carriers contracted through the Federal Employee Health Benefits Program between JAN 98 and FEB 04. The defendants paid the United States nearly $2.3 million in late May, forfeited $584,000 in assets and will pay the remaining $720,000 by 21 JUL.

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 Dearborn MI – Ali Makki, M.D pleaded guilty 8 JUL to health care fraud, falsifying an immigration form for a patient, and underreporting income taxes. From JUL 04 through SEP 09, he admitted to knowingly submitting false claims to Medicare about X-rays provided to his Medicare patients. He obtained $113,777 in false claims, he said. Makki, 50, also said he falsified an immigration form for a patient applying for naturalization in an effort to exempt his patient from certain requirements necessary for naturalization and failed to report cash receipts on his 2003 federal income tax return. Under his plea agreement, he faces up to 30 months in federal prison. Under the False Claims Act, Makki also forfeited commercial real property with an appraised value of more than $4.7 million in Canton and Dearborn, and some $76,000 in cash.

[Source: Fraud News Daily reports 1-14 Jul 2010 ++]

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Medicad Fraud Update 17:

 Medi-Cal – California Medi-Cal officials paid $273,000 from JAN 07 thru JUN 08 to health providers who claimed to have rendered care to 35 patients who were already dead at the purported time of the service, raising questions about the agency’s accounting and potential health provider fraud. In a response to auditors, California officials said they would send money back to federal funders to cover their half of the claims paid for dead people, since half of the Medi-Cal program’s funding comes from federal dollars and half from state funds. Medi-Cal leaders said they had systems in place to stop payment for care rendered to dead people and had sent letters demanding health providers to send back $7,300. But the Department of Health Care Services, which operates Medi-Cal, noted there were potential delays in updating their data files that enabled the payments in question. Doctors and other health providers tend to render services to patients, such as a prostate exam or psychotherapy, and bill Medi-Cal later. In the future the state plans to cut off Medi-Cal payment to caregivers who bill more than $50,000 for services to the dead.

 Woburn MA – A Woburn-based clinical testing laboratory has been indicted for allegedly orchestrating an extensive Medicaid Fraud and kickback scheme using ―straw companies‖ and overcharging the state’s Medicaid program. A Middlesex Grand Jury returned 42 indictments yesterday against Callow Laboratories, Inc. (―Calloway‖), two of its principals, and two employees of a sober house. The indictments allege that Calloway, Chief Executive Officer Arthur Levitan, and Chief Operating Officer Patrick Cavanaugh, engaged in a pervasive kickback scheme involving two straw companies which funneled kickbacks to sober houses, as well as paid middlemen and a medical office to illegally obtain urine drug screening business paid by MassHealth, the Commonwealth’s Medicaid program. The Commonwealth alleges that MassHealth paid in excess of $10.6 million for urine drug screen business obtained by Calloway as a result of these illegal kickbacks. Other indictments returned 6 JUN allege submission of false claims to MassHealth, Larceny Over $250, and Corruption of a Witness.

 Las Vegas NV – Nelida Calina, 55, pleaded guilty to a felony offense after submitting false claims regarding care for Medicaid patients through her company, ABC Home Care Services, officials said. Information suggesting that personal care aid services were not being provided to Medicaid recipients prompted the investigation in 2007, officials said. The investigation revealed Calina was submitting false claims to Medicaid about providing home health services to Medicaid recipients. Calina was not at patients’ homes during the times she claimed to be providing services, according to the attorney general. District Court Judge Valerie Adair on 9 JUL suspended a jail sentence for Calina but ordered her to perform 16 hours of community service each month she is unemployed and pay $44,000 in restitution, penalties and costs, in addition to 5 years probation.

[Source: Fraud News Daily reports 1-14 Jul 2010 ++]

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State Veteran’s Benefits: The state of Arizona provides several benefits to veterans. To obtain information on these refer to this Bulletin’s Attachment for an overview of those listed below. Benefits are available to veterans who are residents of the state. For a more detailed explanation of each click on ―Learn more about …‖ wording highlighted in blue on the attachment.

 Housing Benefits

 Financial Assistance Benefits

 Employment Benefits

 Education Benefits

 Other State Veteran Benefits

[Source: www.military.com/benefits/veteran-benefits/arizona-state-veterans-benefits Jul 2010 ++]

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Military History: The only plane ever to drop a bomb on the United States during WWII was a submarine based Glen float plane on September 9, 1942. On that day its carrier, an I-25 class Japanese submarine, was cruising in an easterly direction raising its periscope occasionally as it neared the United States Coastline. Japan had attacked Pearl Harbor less than a year ago and the Captain of the attack submarine knew that Americans were watching their coast line for ships and aircraft that might attack our country. Dawn was approaching; the first rays of the sun were flickering off the periscopes lens. Pilot Chief Warrant Officer Nobuo Fujita and his crewman Petty Officer Shoji Okuda were making last minute checks of their charts making sure they matched those of the submarine’s navigator. Their mission; attack the west coast with incendiary bombs in hopes of starting a devastating forest fire. If this test run were successful, Japan had hopes of using their huge submarine fleet to attack the eastern end of the Panama Canal to slow down shipping from the Atlantic to the Pacific. The Japanese Navy had a large number of I-400 submarines under construction, each capable of carrying three aircraft.

Aboard the submarine the Captain’s voice boomed over the PA system, ―Prepare to surface, aircrew report to your stations, wait for the open hatch signal‖ During training runs several subs were lost when hangar door were opened too soon and sea water rushed into the hangars and sank the boat with all hands lost. You could hear the change of sound as the bow of the I-25 broke from the depths, nosed over for its run on the surface. A loud bell signaled the ―All Clear.‖ The assigned crew for the single engine Yokosuki E14Ys floats equipped observation and light attack aircraft sprang into action. They rolled the plane out its hangar built next to the conning tower. The wings and tail were unfolded, and several 176 pound incendiary bombs were attached to the hard points under the wings. This was a small two passenger float plane with a nine cylinder 340 hp radial engine. It was full daylight when the Captain ordered the aircraft to be placed on the catapult. Warrant Officer Fujita started the engine, let it warm up, checked the magnetos and oil pressure. There was a slight breeze blowing and the seas were calm. A perfect day to attack the United States of America. When the gauges were in the green the pilot signaled and the catapult launched the aircraft. After a short climb to altitude the pilot turned on a heading for the Oregon coast.

The small Japanese float plane had climbed to several thousand feet of altitude for better visibility and to get above the coastal fog. The pilot had calculated land fall in a few minutes and right on schedule he could see the breakers flashing white as they hit the Oregon shores. The pilot of the aircraft checked his course and alerted his observer to be on the lookout for a fire tower which was on the edge of the wooded area where they were supposed to drop their bombs. These airplanes carried very little fuel and all flights were in and out without any loitering. The plane reached the shore line and the pilot made a course correction 20 degrees to the north. The huge trees were easy to spot and certainly easy to hit with the bombs. The fog was very wispy by this time. The pilot activated the release locks so that when he could see a drop site the bombs would release. His instructions were simple, fly at 500 feet, drop the bombs into the trees and circle once to see if they had started any fires and then head back to the submarine.

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The bombs tumbled from the small seaplane and impacted the forests, the pilot circled once and spotted fire around the impact point. He executed an 180 degree turn and headed back to the submarine. There was no air activity, the skies were clear. The small float plane lined up with the surfaced submarine and landed gently on the ocean, then taxied to the sub. A long boom swung out from the stern. His crewman caught the cable and hooked it into the pickup attached to the roll over cage between the cockpits. The plane was swung onto the deck, The plane’s crew folded the wings and tail, pushed it into its hangar and secured the water tight doors. The I-25 submerged and headed back to Japan.

This event, which caused no damage, marked the only time during World War II that an enemy plane had dropped bombs on the United States mainland. What the Japanese didn’t count on was coastal fog, mist and heavy doses of rain made the forests so wet they simply would not catch fire. Fifty years later the Japanese pilot, who survived the war, would return to Oregon to help dedicate a historical plaque at the exact spot where his two bombs had impacted. The elderly pilot then donated his ceremonial sword as a gesture of peace and closure of the bombing of Oregon in 1942.

 Refer to www.historynet.com/japan-bombs-the-west-coast-november-98-aviation-history-feature.htm for a more detailed account if this event.

 For pictures of the plane, Warrant Officer Fujita, and the Oregon memorial plaque refer to www.eugeneleeslover.com/Japanese_bomb_Oregon.html .

 For photos of the I-14 class Japanese submarine capable of carrying two aircraft refer to www.eugeneleeslover.com/AMMUNITION/SUB-RAIDERS-OF-TOMORROW.html.

 For an audio narrative and videos on Japanese Balloon bombs refer to www.eugeneleeslover.com/VIDEOS/Japanese_Balloon_Bomb.html.

[Source: www.eugeneleeslover.com/Japanese_bomb_Oregon.html Gene Slovers U.S. Navy Pages Norm Goyer article Jun 2010 ++]

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Military History Anniversaries:

 Jul 16 1779 – Revolutionary War: American troops capture Stony Point, N.Y.

 Jul 16 1945 – WWII: The United States detonates the first atomic bomb in a test at Alamogordo, N. M.

 Jul 17 1898 – Spanish-American War: U.S. troops take Santiago de Cuba.

 Jul 17 1966 – Vietnam: Ho Chi Minh orders a partial mobilization of to defend against American airstrikes.

 Jul 18 1915 – WWI: 2nd Battle of Isonzo begins & ends with loss of 280,000 men

 Jul 18 1942 – WWII: German Me-262, the first jet-propelled aircraft to fly in combat, makes its first flight.

 Jul 18 1971 – Vietnam: New Zealand and Australia announce they will pull their troops out of Vietnam.

 Jul 19 1942 – WWII: German U-boats are withdrawn from positions off the U.S. Atlantic coast due to American anti-submarine countermeasures.

 Jul 20 1917 – WWI: Draft lottery held; #258 is 1st drawn

 Jul 20 1944 – WWII: Adolf Hitler is wounded in an assassination attempt by German Army officers.

 Jul 20 1950 – Korean War: The U.S. Army’s Task Force Smith is pushed back by superior forces.

 Jul 21 1861 – Civil War: In the first major battle of the War, Confederate forces defeat the Union Army along Bull Run near Manassas Junction, Virginia. The battle becomes known as Manassas by the Confederates, while the Union calls it Bull Run

 Jul 21 1944 – WWII: U.S. Army and Marine forces land on Guam in the Marianas.

 Jul 21 1954 – Vietnam: The French sign an armistice with the Viet Minh that ends the war but divides Vietnam into two countries.

 Jul 22 1775 – Revolutionary War: George Washington took command of the Continental Army.

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 Jul 22 1814 – Five Indian tribes in Ohio make peace with the United States and declare war on Britain.

 Jul 22 1966 – Vietnam: B-52 bombers hit the DMZ between North and South Vietnam for the first time.

 Jul 22 1987 – Gulf War: US began escorting re-flagged Kuwaiti tankers in Persian Gulf

 Jul 23 1944 – WWII: US forces invade Japanese-held Tinian.

 Jul 23 1962 – The Geneva Conference on Laos forbids the United States to invade eastern Laos.

 Jul 24 1990 – Gulf War: U.S. warships in Persian Gulf placed on alert after Iraq masses nearly 30,000 troops near its border with Kuwait

 Jul 25 1944 – WWII: Allied forces begin the breakthrough of German lines in Normandy.

 Jul 25 1990 – Gulf War: U.S. Ambassador tells Iraq, US won’t take sides in Iraq-Kuwait dispute.

 Jul 27 1861 – Civil War: Confederate troops occupy Fort Fillmore, New Mexico

 Jul 27 1944 – WWII: U.S. troops complete the liberation of Guam.

 Jul 27 1953 – Korea: Representatives of the United Nations, Korea and China sign an armistice at Panmunjon ending the war.

 Jul 27 1964 – Vietnam: President Lyndon Johnson sends an additional 5,000 advisers to South Vietnam.

 Jul 28 1914 – WWI: War begins when Austria-Hungary declared war on Serbia followed by Germany declaring war on France (3 AUG). On 4 AUG Germany invaded Belgium, Britain declared war on Germany, and President Woodrow Wilson declared policy of U.S. neutrality.

 Jul 28 1945 – A B-25 bomber crashes into the Empire State Building in New York City, killing 13 people.

 Jul 28 1965 – Vietnam: LBJ sends 50,000 more soldiers to Vietnam (total of 125,000)

 Jul 29 1915 – U.S. Marines land at Port-au-Prince to protect American interests in Haiti.

 Jul 29 1967 – Fire aboard carrier USS Forrestal in Gulf of Tonkin kills 134. $100 million damage

 Jul 30 1942 – FDR signs bill creating women’s Navy auxiliary agency (WAVES)

 Jul 30 1944 – US 30th division reaches suburbs of St-Lo Normandy

 Jul 30 1945 – WWII: After delivering parts of the first atomic bomb the U.S. cruiser Indianapolis is torpedoed/sinks, 880 die.

 Jul 31 1813 – Revolutionary War: British invade Plattsburgh NY

 Jul 31 1991 – Senate votes to allow women to fly combat aircraft

[Source: Various Jul 2010 ++]

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Military Trivia 08:

 What auto maker built the first armored tanks used by U.S. troops in battle? A: Renault. The French-made tanks first saw service in the Battle of St. Mibiel on September 12, 1918. No American-made tanks were used in World War I.

 What baseball Hall of Famer was court-martialed for refusing to take a seat in the back of a U.S. Army bus? A: Jackie Robinson, in 1944, while a second lieutenant. He was acquitted.

 Which controversial hero graduated at the bottom of his West Point class in 1861? A: Gen. George Armstrong Custer.

 What twentieth-century American general had a grandfather who was a confederate brigadier general in the Civil War, and a great -great-great-grandfather who was a general in the Revolutionary War? A: George S. Patton.

 What was the name of Adolph Hitler’s favorite dog–the Alsatian he used to make sure his cyanide capsules were lethal? A: Blondi. Hitler used the cyanide to commit suicide after seeing that it worked on Blondi.

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 What childhood name was shared by Gen. George A. Custer and Chief Crazy Horse, the Oglala Sioux leader he faced at the Battle of the Little Bighorn? A: Curly.

 How long did it take Napoleon to send a message from Rome to Paris–almost 700 miles–using a semaphore system to signal from mountaintop to mountaintop? A: Four hours.

 The walls of what structure–made entirely of natural material–stand up better to modern artillery than a concrete barricade, according to tests conducted by the Swedish army? A: The igloo. Not only do its walls absorb an artillery blast, but they are almost invisible from the air and can’t be spotted by the infrared sensors that guide today’s missiles.

 What film was based on the Civil War exploits of the 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment? A: Glory. The 54th was one of two black regiments formed by Massachusetts in 1862. Massachusetts was the first state to have blacks in its organized militia.

 Where did Napoleon Bonaparte bid farewell to his imperial guard in 1814? A: In the courtyard at Fontainebleau Palace which is now known as the Adieux Courtyard. In French, adieux means “farewell.”

 In World War II Navy slang, what was an airdale? A: A naval aviation recruit.

 What was the daily ration of hard liquor for soldiers in the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War? A: Four ounces–when available.

 During World War II, what wearing apparel were American women encouraged to turn in for use in making parachutes? A: Their nylon stockings–which were melted down and turned into parachute fabric.

 What army did the Greeks defeat at the battle of Marathon in 490 B.C.? A: The Persian army. The marathon race commemorates the run a Greek courier made from the battlefield to Athens to deliver news of the victory before collapsing and dying of exhaustion.

 How many members of Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer’s family were killed at the Battle of Little Big Horn? A: Five, counting Custer. Those who died with him were his half-brothers, Tom and Boston; nephew, Harry Armstrong Reed; and a brother-in-law; James Calhoun.

 A pin-up photo of what actress adorned the first test bomb dropped on Bikini atoll in the Marshall Islands in July 1946? A: Rita Hayworth.

[Source: www.triviafool.com/page93.htm Jul 2010 ++]

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Tax Burden for New York Retirees: Many people planning to retire use the presence or absence of a state income tax as a litmus test for a retirement destination. This is a serious miscalculation since higher sales and property taxes can more than offset the lack of a state income tax. The lack of a state income tax doesn’t necessarily ensure a low total tax burden. Following are the taxes you can expect to pay if you retire in New York:

State Sales Tax: 4.0% (food, prescription and non-prescription drugs exempt); Other taxing entities may add up to 5.00% in additional sales tax. Gasoline Tax: 44.6 cents/gallon Diesel Fuel Tax: 43.8 cents/gallon Cigarette Tax $2.75 per pack of 20; New York City adds an additional $1.50.

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Personal Income Taxes

Tax Rate Range: Low – 4.0%; High – 8.97%. The state has enacted two new temporary income tax rates in its 2010 budget levied on the highest-income filers. For households with taxable income above $500,000, regardless of filing status, the tax rate rises to 8.97% from 6.85%; for those with taxable income below $500,000 but above $200,000 for single individuals, $250,000 for heads of households, and $300,000 for married couples filing joint returns, the rate increases to 7.85% from 6.85%.

Income Brackets: 5: Lowest – $8,000; Highest – $500,000 (For joint returns, the taxes are twice the tax imposed on half the income.) Personal Exemptions: Single – $0; Married – $0; Dependents – $1,000 Standard Deduction: Single – $7,500; Married filing jointly – $15,000 Medical/Dental Deduction: Federal amount Federal Income Tax Deduction: None

Retirement Income:

Retirement Income Taxes: Social Security, military, civil service, New York state/local government pensions are exempt. Also, up to $20,000 of qualified private pensions for those 59½ and older. Out-of-state government pensions can be deducted as part of the $20,000 exemption. For more information on senior citizen and retiree benefits refer to www.tax.state.ny.us/pdf/publications/income/pub36.pdf . Retired Military Pay: Exempt from taxes. Military Disability Retired Pay: Disability Portion — Length of Service Pay: Member on September 24, 1975 — No tax; Not Member on September 24, 1975 — Taxed, unless combat incurred. Retired Pay — Based solely on disability. member on September 24, 1975 — No tax. Not Member on September 24, 1975 — Taxed, unless all pay based on disability, and disability resulted from armed conflict, extra-hazardous service, simulated war, or an instrumentality of war. For information on taxes for military personnel in New York State refer to www.tax.state.ny.us/pit/military_page.htm. VA Disability Dependency and Indemnity Compensation: VA benefits are not taxable because they generally are for disabilities and are not subject to federal or state taxes. Military SBP/SSBP/RCSBP/RSFPP: Generally subject to state taxes for those states with income tax. Check with state department of revenue office.

Property Taxes Property taxation is limited to real property. New York State law gives local governments and public school districts the option of granting a reduction on the amount of property taxes paid by qualifying senior citizens. This is accomplished by reducing the assessed value of residential property owned by seniors by 50%. To qualify, seniors must be 65 years of age or older and meet certain income limitations and other requirements. For the 59% exemption, the law allows each county, city, town, village or school district to set the maximum income limit at any figure between $3,000 and $24,000. Localities have the further option of granting an exemption of less than 50% to senior citizens whose incomes exceed the local income limit by less than $1,000 in three income ranges or $900 in six other income ranges. For example, in a community that has taken this “sliding-scale” option and has adopted the $21,500 income maximum, an eligible resident whose income is more than $21,500 but less than $22,500, is entitled to a 45% exemption. If a person’s income is more than $29,000 but less than $32,400, the exemption is 5%. There is no general, statewide homestead property tax exemption. However, a taxpayer’s primary residence may be partially exempted from school taxes under the state’s School Tax Relief Program (STAR) program. Seniors can take advantage of this program that provides a partial exemption from school property taxes. All New Yorkers who own and live in their one-, two-, or three-family home, condominium, cooperative apartment, manufactured home, or farm dwelling are eligible for a STAR exemption on their primary residence.

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There are three parts to the STAR program:

The Basic STAR exemption is available for owner-occupied, primary residences regardless of the owners’ ages or incomes. Basic STAR works by exempting the first $30,000 of the full value of a home from school taxes.

The Middle Class STAR Rebate program has been repealed for 2009. No rebates will be issued.

The Enhanced STAR exemption is available for the primary residences of senior citizens (age 65 and older) with yearly household incomes not exceeding the statewide standard. For qualifying senior citizens, the Enhanced STAR program works by exempting the first $60,100 of the full value of their home from school property taxes. For property owned by a husband and wife, or by siblings, only one of them must be at least 65 years of age as of December 31 of the year in which the exemption will begin to qualify for the Enhanced exemption. Their combined annual income, however, must not exceed the STAR income standard. Call 877-678-2769 for details.

For general information on senior citizen and retiree benefits in New York refer to www.tax.state.ny.us/pdf/publications/income/pub36.pdf.

Inheritance and Estate Taxes – There is no inheritance tax. Regarding the estate tax, if the date of death is on or after January 1, 2004, the estate must file a New York State estate tax return if any one of the following conditions are met: (1) The decedent was domiciled in New York State at the time of death and the total of the federal gross estate, federal taxable gifts and specific exemption exceeds $1 million; (2) The decedent was not domiciled in New York State at the time of death and the estate includes real or tangible personal property with a situs in New York State, and the total of the federal gross estate, federal taxable gifts and specific exemption exceeds $1million; or (3) The decedent was neither a resident nor a citizen of the United States, the estate includes real or tangible personal property with a situs in New York State, and the estate is required to file a federal estate tax return. For further information, visit the New York Department of Taxation and Finance site www.tax.state.ny.us . [Source: www.retirementliving.com Jul 2010 ++]

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Congressional Alphalist: To better understand what is happening to veteran legislation as it proceeds through Congress it is useful to know the language used by our representatives as they conduct business. Following are some of the words or expressions you will see while reading about or listening to House and Senate sessions:

 DEAR COLLEAGUE LETTER. Refers to a mass-produced letter sent by one member to all fellow members. They usually describe a new bill and ask for cosponsors or ask for a member’s vote on an issue.

 DELEGATE. A member of the House from Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands, or Washington, D.C. The Constitution prohibits delegates from voting on the House floor, but permits them to vote in Committee.

 DEMONSTRATION PROJECT. A project funded by the federal government in order to test new technology or policies. It is intended to demonstrate the feasibility of technology which might not find private funding.

 THE DESK. Refers to the rostrum where the presiding officer and the various clerks of the chamber sit.

 DILATORY ACTION. A parliamentary motion used not for its intended purpose, but to delay proceedings by using up floor time. Motions often used for dilatory purposes include those to adjourn, to reconsider, to table, and to call for unnecessary votes. The minority party most often uses dilatory strategies as leverage for negotiations with the majority party.

 DISAPPEARING QUORUM. This is when senators leave the floor and refuse to answer a quorum call. Disappearing quorums are planned to force the Senate to adjourn. In the absence of a quorum, the Senate

41

may not conduct legislative business. Instead, the Senate must either adjourn or leaders may continue to make motions to obtain a quorum.

 DISCHARGE PETITION. Starts a process to force a bill out of committee. A successful petition requires the signatures of 218 members, which is a majority of the House.

 DISCRETIONARY SPENDING. Refers to spending set by annual appropriation levels made by decision of Congress. This spending is optional, and in contrast to entitlement programs for which funding is mandatory.

 DISTRICT. The geographical area in a state represented by a House member, with about 600,000 citizens. Members have one or more district offices depending on the size of the area they represent.

 DISTRICT WORK PERIOD. The time set for House members to work in their district away from Washington. During these periods, the House is not in session. Some members use part of the time to travel.

 DIVISION VOTE – HOUSE. Requires members to stand and be counted. The chair first counts the ayes, then the nays. The numbers are announced, but names are not recorded. It is used mostly when the results of a voice vote is in doubt.

 DIVISION VOTE – SENATE. Requires Senators to either stand or raise their hands to be counted. The chair first counts the ayes, then the nays. The numbers are not announced nor are the names recorded. A division vote is used when the results of a voice vote are in doubt.

[Source: C-SPAN Congressional Glossary Jul 2010 ++]

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Veteran Legislation Status 12 JUL 2010: Senator Robert Byrd (D-WV), the Senate’s longest serving member, died early morning of 28 JUN, at the age of 92. Senate rules state that no business may be conducted whenever a member is lying in state on the Senate floor. Therefore, the Senate adjourned late on 28 JUN and reconvened at 2 p.m. on 12 JUL 2010. The House adjourned the evening of 1 JUL and reconvened on 13 July 2010. Thus, little legislation was acted on until they were in adjournment. For or a listing of Congressional bills of interest to the veteran community that have been introduced in the 111th Congress refer to the Bulletin’s Veteran Legislation attachment. Support of these bills through cosponsorship by other legislators is critical if they are ever going to move through the legislative process for a floor vote to become law. A good indication on that likelihood is the number of cosponsors who have signed onto the bill. Any number of members may cosponsor a bill in the House or Senate. At http://thomas.loc.gov you can review a copy of each bill’s content, determine its current status, the committee it has been assigned to, and if your legislator is a sponsor or cosponsor of it. To determine what bills, amendments your representative has sponsored, cosponsored, or dropped sponsorship on refer to http://thomas.loc.gov/bss/d111/sponlst.html.

Grassroots lobbying is perhaps the most effective way to let your Representative and Senators know your opinion. Whether you are calling into a local or Washington, D.C. office; sending a letter or e-mail; signing a petition; or making a personal visit, Members of Congress are the most receptive and open to suggestions from their constituents. The key to increasing cosponsorship on veteran related bills and subsequent passage into law is letting legislators know of veteran’s feelings on issues. You can reach their Washington office via the Capital Operator direct at (866) 272-6622, (800) 828-0498, or (866) 340-9281 to express your views. Otherwise, you can locate on http://thomas.loc.gov your legislator’s phone number, mailing address, or email/website to communicate with a message or letter of your own making. Refer to http://www.thecapitol.net/FAQ/cong_schedule.html for dates that you can access your legislators on their home turf. [Source: RAO Bulletin Attachment 28 Jun 2010 ++]

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42

Have You Heard? Military Lingo

In today’s joint environment, it’s important to speak the ―language‖ of the other armed services. Here’s a list of common expressions for each service:

NAVY/USMC ~ ARMY ~ AIR FORCE

Head ~ Latrine ~ Powder Room

Rack ~ Bunk ~ Single with ruffle and duvet

Mess Deck ~ Chow Hall ~ Dining Facility/Cafe’

“Cookie” ~ Mess Cook ~ Contract Chef

Coffee/Mud ~ Cup of Joe ~ Vanilla Latte’

Bug Juice ~ Kool-Aid ~ Shirley Temple

Utilities ~ BDU’s ~ Casual Wear

Seaman/Private ~ Private ~ Bobby or Jimmy

Chief/Gunny ~ Sergeant ~ Bob or Jim

Captain/Skipper ~ Colonel ~ Robert or James

Captain’s Mast ~ Article 15 ~ Time Out

Berthing/Barracks ~ Barracks ~ Apartment

Skivvies / U-Trau ~ Underwear ~ Tee Shirt & Panties

Thrown in the Brig ~ Put in confinement ~ Grounded

Zoom ~ Bag ~ Flight Suit ~ Business Casual

Cover ~ Beret ~ Optional

NEX or MCXPX ~ PX ~ Shopping Mall

TAD ~ TDY ~ Working vacation

Cruise / Afloat ~ Deploy ~ Huh?

Ground Grabbers ~ Athletic Shoes ~ Flip-Flops

Boondockers ~ Jump Boots ~ Berkenstocks

Low Quarters ~ Low Quarters ~ Patent Leather Pumps

SEAL ~ Special Forces ~ High Altitude Recon

Hoo-Rah ! ~ Hoo-Ah ! ~ Uh-Oh !

MRE ~ MRE ~ Happy Meal

Grinder ~ Drill Field ~ What?

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“It does not take a majority to prevail … but rather an irate, tireless minority, keen on setting brushfires of freedom in the minds of men.”

— Samuel Adams (1722 – 1803)

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Lt. James ―EMO‖ Tichacek, USN (Ret)

Associate Director, Retiree Assistance Office, U.S. Embassy Warden & IRS VITA Baguio City RP

PSC 517 Box RCB, FPO AP 96517

Tel: (951) 238-1246 in U.S. or Cell: 0915-361-3503 in the Philippines.

Email: [email protected] Web: http://post_119_gulfport_ms.tripod.com/rao1.html

AL/AMVETS/DAV/FRA/NAUS/NCOA/MOAA/USDR/VFW/VVA/CG33/DD890/AD37 member

BULLETIN SUBSCRIPTION NOTES:

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== To subscribe first add the above RAO email addee to your address book and/or white list and then provide your full name plus either the post/branch/chapter number of the fraternal military/government organization you are currently affiliated with (if any) ―AND/OR‖ the city and state/country you reside in so your addee can be properly positioned in the directory for future recovery. Subscription is open to all veterans, dependents, and military/veteran support organizations. This Bulletin was sent 80,084 subscribers.

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Of the 5710 House and 3553Senate pieces of legislation introduced in the 111th Congress to date, the following are of interest to the non-active duty veteran community. Bill titles in green (if any) are new additions to this summary, titles in orange have either passed either the House or Senate and been passed to the other for consideration or been incorporated into another bill, and those highlighted in blue have become public law. A good indication on the likelihood a bill of being forwarded to the House or Senate for passage and subsequently being signed into law by the President is the number of cosponsors who have signed onto the bill. An alternate way for it to become law is if it is added as an addendum to another bill such as the annual National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and survives the conference committee assigned to iron out the difference between the House and Senate bills. At http://thomas.loc.gov you can review a copy of each bill’s text, determine its current status, the committee it has been assigned to, who your representative is and his/her phone number, mailing address, or email/website to communicate with a message or letter of your own making, and if your legislator is a sponsor or cosponsor of it. To separately determine what bills, amendments your representative has sponsored, cosponsored, or dropped sponsorship on refer to http://thomas.loc.gov/bss/d111/sponlst.html. To review a numerical list of all bills introduced refer to http://thomas.loc.gov/bss/111search.html. The key to increasing cosponsorship is letting legislators know of their constituent’s views on issues. Those bills that include a website in red are being pushed by various veterans groups for passage and by clicking on that website you can forward a preformatted message to your legislator requesting he/she support the bill.

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H.R.23 : Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War II Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish the Merchant Mariner Equity Compensation Fund to provide benefits to certain individuals who served in the United States merchant marine (including the Army Transport Service and the Naval Transport Service) during World War II.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (168)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/13/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/naus/issues/alert/?alertid=12497121

________________________________________

H.R.32 : Veterans Outreach Improvement Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the outreach activities of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. Companion Bill S.315

Sponsor: Rep McIntyre, Mike [NC-7] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (41)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/28/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Provisions of measure

incorporated into H.R. 3949 .

________________________________________

H.R.33 : Disability Benefit Fairness Act of 2009 to amend title II of the Social Security Act to eliminate the 5-month waiting period for entitlement to disability benefits and to eliminate reconsideration as an intervening step between initial benefit entitlement decisions and subsequent hearings on the record on such decisions.

Sponsor: Rep McIntyre, Mike [NC-7] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

________________________________________

H.R.43 : Medicare Access to Rehabilitation Services Act of 2009 to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to repeal the Medicare outpatient rehabilitation therapy caps.

Sponsor: Rep Becerra, Xavier [CA-31] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (186) Related bill S.46

Committees: House Energy and Commerce; House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/moaa/issues/alert/?alertid=14486941&type=CO

________________________________________

H.R.82 : Veterans Outreach Improvement Act of 2009 to expand retroactive eligibility of the Army Combat Action Badge to include members of the Army who participated in combat during which they personally engaged, or were personally engaged by, the enemy at any time on or after December 7, 1941.

Sponsor: Rep Brown-Waite, Ginny [FL-5] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (19)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 1/30/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

________________________________________

H.R.84 : Veterans Timely Access to Health Care Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish standards of access to care for veterans seeking health care from the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Brown-Waite, Ginny [FL-5] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

________________________________________

H.R.108 : Disabled Veterans Commissary and Exchange Store Benefits Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to extend military commissary and exchange store privileges to veterans with a compensable service-connected disability and to their dependents.

Sponsor: Rep Fortenberry, Jeff [NE-1] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (9)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 1/30/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

________________________________________

H.R.114 : Veterans Entrepreneurial Transition Business Benefit Act to allow veterans to elect to use, with the approval of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, certain financial educational assistance to establish and operate certain business, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Fortenberry, Jeff [NE-1] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

________________________________________

H.R.147 : Designate a Portion of Tax Payment for Homeless Vets. To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow taxpayers to designate a portion of their income tax payment to provide assistance to homeless veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Israel, Steve [NY-2] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (90)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 3/4/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12922516&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

________________________________________

H.R.161 : Social Security Beneficiary Tax Reduction Act to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the 1993 increase in taxes on Social Security benefits.

Sponsor: Rep Paul, Ron [TX-14] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (7)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

________________________________________

H.R.162 : Senior Citizens’ Tax Elimination Act to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the inclusion in gross income of Social Security benefits.

Sponsor: Rep Paul, Ron [TX-14] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

________________________________________

H.R.174 : Colorado Vet Cemetery. To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a national cemetery for veterans in the southern Colorado region.

Sponsor: Rep Salazar, John T. [CO-3] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (7)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 11/3/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

________________________________________

H.R.177 : Depleted Uranium Screening and Testing Act to provide for identification of members of the Armed Forces exposed during military service to depleted uranium, to provide for health testing of such members, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Serrano, Jose E. [NY-16] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 1/30/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

________________________________________

H.R.190 : Veterans Health Equity Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to ensure that veterans in each of the 48 contiguous States are able to receive services in at least one full-service hospital of the Veterans Health Administration in the State or receive comparable services provided by contract in the State. Companion Bill S.239.

Sponsor: Rep Shea-Porter, Carol [NH-1] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

________________________________________

H.R.198 : Health Care Tax Deduction Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow a deduction for amounts paid for health insurance and prescription drug costs of individuals.

Sponsor: Rep Stearns, Cliff [FL-6] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

________________________________________

H.R.208 : National Guardsmen and Reservists Parity for Patriots Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to ensure that members of the reserve components of the Armed Forces who have served on active duty or performed active service since September 11, 2001, in support of a contingency operation or in other emergency situations receive credit for such service in determining eligibility for early receipt of non-regular service retired pay, and for other purposes. Companion Bill S.644.

Sponsor: Rep Wilson, Joe [SC-2] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (147)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 1/30/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/vfw/dbq/officials and /or http://capwiz.com/ngaus/mail/compose/?mailid=13672261&azip=92571&bzip=7311

________________________________________

H.R.210 : Vet Cemetery South Carolina Land Acquisition Study. To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to conduct a study on the acquisition of a parcel of land adjacent to Beaufort National Cemetery, Beaufort, South Carolina.

Sponsor: Rep Wilson, Joe [SC-2] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

________________________________________

H.R.217 : Vet Cemetery South Carolina Land Acquisition Purchase. To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to acquire a parcel of land adjacent to Beaufort National Cemetery, Beaufort, South Carolina.

Sponsor: Rep Wilson, Joe [SC-2] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

________________________________________

H.R.228 : Visual Impairment VA Scholarship Program to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a scholarship program for students seeking a degree or certificate in the areas of visual impairment and orientation and mobility.

Sponsor: Rep Jackson-Lee, Sheila [TX-18] (introduced 1/7/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/28/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Provisions of measure incorporated into H.R. 3949 .

________________________________________

H.R.236 : Social Security Protection Act to amend the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 to protect Social Security beneficiaries against any reduction in benefits.

Sponsor: Rep Brown-Waite, Ginny [FL-5] (introduced 1/7/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Rules; House Budget

Latest Major Action: 1/7/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Rules, and in addition to the Committee on the Budget, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

________________________________________

H.R.237 : Military Retiree Health Care Relief Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow a refundable credit to military retirees for premiums paid for coverage under Medicare Part B.

Sponsor: Rep Emerson, Jo Ann [MO-8] (introduced 1/7/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/7/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12921516&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

________________________________________

H.R.247 : Protect Our Veterans Memorials Act of 2009 to amend section 1369 of title 18, United States Code, to extend Federal jurisdiction over destruction of veterans’ memorials on State or local government property.

Sponsor: Rep Green, Gene [TX-29] (introduced 1/7/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 2/9/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security.

_______________________________________

H.R.270 : TRICARE Continuity of Coverage for National Guard and Reserve Families Act of 2009 to amend title 10, United States Code, to provide for continuity of TRICARE Standard coverage for certain members of the Retired Reserve. Companion Bill S.731.

Sponsor: Rep Latta, Robert E. [OH-5] (introduced 1/7/2009) Cosponsors (72)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 1/30/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12923561&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id] or http://www.ngaus.org/content.asp?bid=1805&False&False

________________________________________

H.R.293 : Homeless Women Veteran and Homeless Veterans with Children Reintegration Grant Program Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Labor to carry out a grant program to provide reintegration services through programs and facilities that emphasize services for homeless women veterans and homeless veterans with children.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 1/8/2009) Cosponsors (15)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/8/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

________________________________________

H.R.294 : Veteran Owned Small Business Promotion Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the reauthorization of the Department of Veterans Affairs small business loan program, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 1/8/2009) Cosponsors (19)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 9/24/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

________________________________________

H.R.295 : More Jobs for Veterans Act of 2009 to authorize appropriations for the veterans’ workforce investment programs.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 1/8/2009) Cosponsors (11)

Committees: House Education and Labor

Latest Major Action: 1/8/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Higher Education, Lifelong Learning, and Competitiveness.

________________________________________

H.R.296 : Armed Forces Disability Retirement Enhancement Act of 2009 to amend title 10, United States Code, to revise the process by which a member of the Armed Forces is retired for disability and becomes eligible for retirement pay, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 1/8/2009) Cosponsors (7)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 1/30/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

________________________________________

H.R.297 : Veteran Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Subsistence Allowance Improvement Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for an increase in the amount of subsistence allowance payable by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to veterans participating in vocational rehabilitation programs, and for other purposes. Companion Bill S.514

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 1/8/2009) Cosponsors (10)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/4/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

________________________________________

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

Sponsor: Rep Bilirakis, Gus M. [FL-9] (introduced 1/8/2009) Cosponsors (133)

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/30/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.309 : American Heroes’ Homeownership Assistance Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow certain current and former service members to receive a refundable credit for the purchase of a principal residence.

Sponsor: Rep Bilirakis, Gus M. [FL-9] (introduced 1/8/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/8/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.333 : Disabled Veterans Tax Termination Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to permit retired members of the Armed Forces who have a service-connected disability rated less than 50 percent to receive concurrent payment of both retired pay and veterans’ disability compensation, to eliminate the phase-in period for concurrent receipt, to extend eligibility for concurrent receipt to chapter 61 disability retirees with less than 20 years of service, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Marshall, Jim [GA-8] (introduced 1/8/2009) Cosponsors (156)

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/6/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12406456&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id] and http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12888756

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H.R.341 : Suspend Limitations Period for Tax Refund on VA Retroactive Payments. To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to suspend the running of periods of limitation for credit or refund of overpayment of Federal income tax by veterans while their service-connected compensation determinations are pending with the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Platts, Todd Russell [PA-19] (introduced 1/8/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/8/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.347 : Congressional Gold Medal Award. To grant the congressional gold medal, collectively, to the 100th Infantry Battalion and the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, United States Army, in recognition of their dedicated service during World War II.

Sponsor: Rep Schiff, Adam B. [CA-29] (introduced 1/8/2009) Cosponsors (297) – Related bill S.1055

Committees: House Financial Services; House Administration

Latest Major Action: 5/18/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.

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H.R.379 : State and Local Sales Tax Deduction Expansion Act to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to ensure that all taxpayers have the ability to deduct State and local general sales taxes. Companion Bill S.35.

Sponsor: Rep Blackburn, Marsha [TN-7] (introduced 1/9/2009) Cosponsors (26)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/9/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.394 : Medal of Honor Pension. To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to increase the amount of the Medal of Honor special pension provided under that title by up to $1,000.

Sponsor: Rep Brown, Henry E., Jr. [SC-1] (introduced 1/9/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/9/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

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H.R.403 : Homes for Heroes Act of 2009 to provide housing assistance for very low-income veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Green, Al [TX-9] (introduced 1/9/2009) Cosponsors (41)

Committees: House Financial Services; House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 6/17/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.

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H.R.423 : Samuel B. Moody Bataan Death March Compensation Act to provide compensation for certain World War II veterans who survived the Bataan Death March and were held as prisoners of war by the Japanese.

Sponsor: Rep Mica, John L. [FL-7] (introduced 1/9/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 2/6/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.433 : Ready Employers Willing to Assist Reservists’ Deployment (REWARD) Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow employers a credit against income tax equal to 50 percent of the compensation paid to employees while they are performing active duty service as members of the Ready Reserve or the National Guard and of the compensation paid to temporary replacement employees.

Sponsor: Rep Poe, Ted [TX-2] (introduced 1/9/2009) Cosponsors (40)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/9/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.442 : Veterans’ Heritage Firearms Act of 2009 to provide an amnesty period during which veterans and their family members can register certain firearms in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Rehberg, Denny [MT] (introduced 1/9/2009) Cosponsors (191)

Committees: House Judiciary; House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 2/9/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security.

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H.R.449 : Health Care for America’s Heroes Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to expand the availability of health care provided by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs by adjusting the income level for certain priority veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Sestak, Joe [PA-7] (introduced 1/9/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/9/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.456 : Disabled Veteran Small Business Eligibility Expansion Act of 2009 to amend the Small Business Act to make service-disabled veterans eligible under the 8(a) business development program.

Sponsor: Rep Wittman, Robert J. [VA-1] (introduced 1/9/2009) Cosponsors (5)

Committees: House Small Business

Latest Major Action: 1/9/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Small Business.

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H.R.466 : Wounded Veteran Job Security Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to prohibit discrimination and acts of reprisal against persons who receive treatment for illnesses, injuries, and disabilities incurred in or aggravated by service in the uniformed services.

Sponsor: Rep Doggett, Lloyd [TX-25] (introduced 1/13/2009) Cosponsors (8)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/9/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.482 : Frank Buckles World War I Memorial Act to authorize the rededication of the District of Columbia War Memorial as a National and District of Columbia World War I Memorial to honor the sacrifices made by American veterans of World War I.

Sponsor: Rep Poe, Ted [TX-2] (introduced 1/13/2009) Cosponsors (51)

Committees: House Natural Resources

Latest Major Action: 2/4/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests, and Public Lands.

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H.R.484 : Chiropractic Health Parity for Military Beneficiaries Act to require the Secretary of Defense to develop and implement a plan to provide chiropractic health care services and benefits for certain new beneficiaries as part of the TRICARE program.

Sponsor: Rep Rogers, Mike D. [AL-3] (introduced 1/13/2009) Cosponsors (45)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 2/6/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.531 : Social Security Number Fraudulent Use Notification Act of 2009 to amend title II of the Social Security Act to require that the Commissioner of Social Security notify individuals of improper use of their Social Security account numbers.

Sponsor: Rep Myrick, Sue Wilkins [NC-9] (introduced 1/14/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/14/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.568 : Veterans Health Care Quality Improvement Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the quality of care provided to veterans in Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities, to encourage highly qualified doctors to serve in hard-to-fill positions in such medical facilities, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Costello, Jerry F. [IL-12] (introduced 1/15/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Oversight and Government Reform

Latest Major Action: 1/15/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.593 : CRSC for DoD Disability Severances Pay. To amend title 10, United States Code, to expand the authorized concurrent receipt of disability severance pay from the Department of Defense and compensation for the same disability under any law administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs to cover all veterans who have a combat-related disability, as defined under section 1413a of such title.

Sponsor: Rep Smith, Adam [WA-9] (introduced 1/15/2009) Cosponsors (44)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 2/6/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12918951&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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H.R.612 : Disabled Veterans Insurance Act of 2009 to amend section 1922A of title 38, United States Code, to increase the amount of supplemental insurance available for totally disabled veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Jones, Walter B., Jr. [NC-3] (introduced 1/21/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/21/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.613 : Military Retiree Survivor Comfort Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to provide for forgiveness of certain overpayments of retired pay paid to deceased retired members of the Armed Forces following their death.

Sponsor: Rep Jones, Walter B., Jr. [NC-3] (introduced 1/21/2009) Cosponsors (62)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 2/6/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12489731&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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H.R.620 : Jobs for Veterans Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow an increased work opportunity credit with respect to recent veterans.

Sponsor: Rep King, Peter T. [NY-3] (introduced 1/21/2009) Cosponsors (14) Related Bill: H.R.4443

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/21/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.627 : Credit Cardholders’ Bill of Rights Act of 2009 to amend the Truth in Lending Act to establish fair and transparent practices relating to the extension of credit under an open end consumer credit plan, and for other purposes. Sponsor: Rep Maloney, Carolyn B. [NY-14] (introduced 1/22/2009) Cosponsors (128) Related Bill S.235 Companion Bill S.414 Committees: House Financial Services House Reports: 111-88 Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 111-24

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H.R.656 : Unemployed Early Retirement Plan Withdrawal without Penalty. To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow certain individuals who have attained age 50 and who are unemployed to receive distributions from qualified retirement plans without incurring a 10 percent additional tax.

Sponsor: Rep Platts, Todd Russell [PA-19] (introduced 1/22/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/22/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.667 : Heroes at Home Act of 2009 to improve the diagnosis and treatment of traumatic brain injury in members and former members of the Armed Forces, to review and expand telehealth and telemental health programs of the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Salazar, John T. [CO-3] (introduced 1/23/2009) Cosponsors (46)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 2/6/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.668 : Critical Access Hospital Flexibility Act of 2009 to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide flexibility in the manner in which beds are counted for purposes of determining whether a hospital may be designated as a critical access hospital under the Medicare Program and to exempt from the critical access hospital inpatient bed limitation the number of beds provided for certain veterans. Companion Bill S.307

Sponsor: Rep Walden, Greg [OR-2] (introduced 1/23/2009) Cosponsors (10)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/23/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.671 : In Memory Medal for Forgotten Veterans Act to direct the Secretary of Defense to issue a medal

to certain veterans who died after their service in the Vietnam War as a direct result of that service.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 1/26/2009) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 2/6/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.731 : Jenny’s Law to amend title 38, United States Code, to exclude individuals who have been convicted of committing certain sex offenses from receiving certain burial-related benefits and funeral honors which are otherwise available to certain veterans, members of the Armed Forces, and related individuals, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Shadegg, John B. [AZ-3] (introduced 1/27/2009) Cosponsors (26)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/27/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.746 : Safeguarding America’s Seniors and Veterans Act of 2009 to provide for economic recovery payments to recipients of Social Security, railroad retirement, and veterans disability benefits.

Sponsor: Rep Adler, John H. [NJ-3] (introduced 1/28/2009) Cosponsors (11)

Committees: House Ways and Means; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/28/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Ways and Means, and in addition to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.761 : Parental Burial in National Cemeteries (Corey Shea Act). To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the eligibility of parents of certain deceased veterans for interment in national cemeteries.

Sponsor: Rep Frank, Barney [MA-4] (introduced 1/28/2009) Cosponsors (3) Related Bill H.R.3949

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/28/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Provisions of measure incorporated into H.R.3949 .

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H.R.775 : Military Surviving Spouses Equity Act to repeal the requirement for reduction of survivor annuities under the Survivor Benefit Plan to offset the receipt of veterans dependency and indemnity compensation. Sponsor: Rep Ortiz, Solomon P. [TX-27] (introduced 1/28/2009) Cosponsors (345) Companion Bill S.535 Committees: House Armed Services Latest Major Action: 3/15/2010 Motion to Discharge Committee filed by Mr. Jones. Petition No: 111-10. To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12541746 To support the Discharge Petition send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=14825891&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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H.R.784 : VA Reports to Congress. To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to submit to Congress quarterly reports on vacancies in mental health professional positions in Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities.

Sponsor: Rep Tsongas, Niki [MA-5] (introduced 1/28/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/3/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.785 : VA Outreach Training. To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program to provide outreach and training to certain college and university mental health centers relating to the mental health of veterans of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, and for other purposes. Companion Bill S.543

Sponsor: Rep Tsongas, Niki [MA-5] (introduced 1/28/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/3/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.806 : TRICARE Mail-Order Pharmacy Pilot Program Act to establish a mail-order pharmacy pilot program for TRICARE beneficiaries.

Sponsor: Rep Bilirakis, Gus M. [FL-9] (introduced 2/3/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 2/24/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.809 : Widow Remarriage Age Decrease for DIC. To amend title 38, United States Code, to reduce from age 57 to age 55 the age after which the remarriage of the surviving spouse of a deceased veteran shall not result in termination of dependency and indemnity compensation otherwise payable to that surviving spouse.

Sponsor: Rep Bilirakis, Gus M. [FL-9] (introduced 2/3/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/3/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/moaa/issues/bills/?bill=12993371

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H.R.811 : Retired Pay Restoration Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to permit certain retired members of the uniformed services who have a service-connected disability to receive both disability compensation from the Department of Veterans Affairs for their disability and either retired pay by reason of their years of military service or Combat-Related Special Compensation. Companion Bill S.546

Sponsor: Rep Bilirakis, Gus M. [FL-9] (introduced 2/3/2009) Cosponsors (6)

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/24/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.816 : Military Retirees Health Care Protection Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to prohibit certain increases in fees for military health care.

Sponsor: Rep Edwards, Chet [TX-17] (introduced 2/3/2009) Cosponsors (199)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 2/24/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12591151&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id] or http://capwiz.com/moaa/issues/bills/?bill=12603596 or http://capwiz.com/naus/issues/alert/?alertid=12607551 or http://capwiz.com/trea/issues/alert/?alertid=12710751

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H.R.819 : POW DIC Eligibility Date. To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the payment of dependency and indemnity compensation to the survivors of former prisoners of war who died on or before September 30, 1999, under the same eligibility conditions as apply to payment of dependency and indemnity compensation to the survivors of former prisoners of war who die after that date.

Sponsor: Rep Holden, Tim [PA-17] (introduced 2/3/2009) Cosponsors (17)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/3/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.870 : Medicare Medically Necessary Dental Care Act of 2009 to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide for coverage under part B for medically necessary dental procedures.

Sponsor: Rep Cohen, Steve [TN-9] (introduced 2/4/2009) Cosponsors (17)

Committees: House Energy and Commerce; House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 2/4/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.879 : Affordable Health Care Expansion Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow individuals a refundable credit against income tax for the purchase of private health insurance.

Sponsor: Rep Granger, Kay [TX-12] (introduced 2/4/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 2/4/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.883 : Social Security 1993 Tax Increase Repeal. To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the 1993 increase in income taxes on Social Security benefits.

Sponsor: Rep King, Peter T. [NY-3] (introduced 2/4/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 2/4/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.917 : Combat-Related Injury Death Dependent Health Benefits. To increase the health benefits of dependents of members of the Armed Forces who die because of a combat-related injury.

Sponsor: Rep Guthrie, Brett [KY-2] (introduced 2/9/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.919 : Veterans’ Medical Personnel Recruitment and Retention Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to enhance the capacity of the Department of Veterans Affairs to recruit and retain nurses and other critical health-care professionals, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Johnson, Eddie Bernice [TX-30] (introduced 2/9/2009) Cosponsors (7)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/9/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.929 : VA Vet Training Program. To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a program of training to provide eligible veterans with skills relevant to the job market, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Welch, Peter [VT] (introduced 2/9/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/4/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.931 : Veterans Employment Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow the work opportunity credit with respect to certain unemployed veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Nye, Glenn C., III [VA-2] (introduced 2/10/2009) Cosponsors (None) Related bill: H.R.4443

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 2/10/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.942 : Veterans Self-Employment Act of 2009 to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to conduct a pilot project on the use of educational assistance under programs of the Department of Veterans Affairs to defray training costs associated with the purchase of certain franchise enterprises.

Sponsor: Rep Alexander, Rodney [LA-5] (introduced 2/10/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/3/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee (Amended) by Voice Vote .

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H.R.944 : Prisoner of War Benefits Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide improved benefits for veterans who are former prisoners of war.

Sponsor: Rep Bilirakis, Gus M. [FL-9] (introduced 2/10/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/10/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.950 : Vet Distance Learning Assistance. To amend chapter 33 of title 38, United States Code, to increase educational assistance for certain veterans pursuing a program of education offered through distance learning.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 2/10/2009) Cosponsors (28)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/4/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Ordered to be Reported (Amended) by Voice Vote.

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H.R.952 : Compensation Owed for Mental Health Based on Activities in Theater Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to clarify the meaning of “combat with the enemy” for purposes of service-connection of disabilities.

Sponsor: Rep Hall, John J. [NY-19] (introduced 2/10/2009) Cosponsors (95)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/10/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Ordered to be Reported (Amended) by Voice Vote.

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H.R.953 : Veterans Travel Tax Relief Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide for a deduction for travel expenses to medical centers of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with examinations or treatments relating to service-connected disabilities.

Sponsor: Rep Heller, Dean [NV-2] (introduced 2/10/2009) Cosponsors (68)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 2/10/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.954 : Social Security Benefits Fairness Act of 2009 to amend title II of the Social Security Act to

provide that a monthly insurance benefit thereunder shall be paid for the month in which the recipient dies, subject to a reduction of 50 percent if the recipient dies during the first 15 days of such month, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Holden, Tim [PA-17] (introduced 2/10/2009) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 2/10/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.972 : Retired Reserve Age for Health Benefits. To amend title 10, United States Code, to eliminate the requirement that certain former members of the reserve components of the Armed Forces be at least 60 years of age in order to be eligible to receive health care benefits.

Sponsor: Rep Wilson, Joe [SC-2] (introduced 2/10/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 3/17/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/moaa/issues/bills/?bill=12992881

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H.R.1004 : Veterans Health Care Full Funding Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide an enhanced funding process to ensure an adequate level of funding for veterans health care programs of the Department of Veterans Affairs, to establish standards of access to care for veterans seeking health care from the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Smith, Christopher H. [NJ-4] (introduced 2/11/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/11/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.1016 : Veterans Health Care Budget Reform and Transparency Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide advance appropriations authority for certain medical care accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 2/12/2009) Cosponsors (125) Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs House Reports: 111-171 Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 111-81 To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12704096

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H.R.1017 : Chiropractic Care Available to All Veterans Act to amend the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Programs Enhancement Act of 2001 and title 38, United States Code, to require the provision of chiropractic care and services to veterans at all Department of Veterans Affairs medical centers and to expand access to such care and services.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 2/12/2009) Cosponsors (37) Related bill S.1204

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/25/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.1034 : Honor and Remember Flag. To amend title 36, United States Code, to designate the Honor and Remember Flag created by Honor and Remember, Inc., as an official symbol to recognize and honor members of the Armed Forces who died in the line of duty, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Forbes, J. Randy [VA-4] (introduced 2/12/2009) Cosponsors (19)

Committees: House Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 3/16/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on the Constitution, Civil Rights, and Civil Liberties.

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H.R.1036 : Veterans Physical Therapy Services Improvement Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish the position of Director of Physical Therapy Service within the Veterans Health Administration and to establish a fellowship program for physical therapists in the areas of geriatrics, amputee rehabilitation, polytrauma care, and rehabilitation research.

Sponsor: Rep Herseth Sandlin, Stephanie [SD] (introduced 2/12/2009) Cosponsors (27)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/1/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.1037 : Pilot College Work Study Programs for Veterans Act of 2009 to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to conduct a five-year pilot project to test the feasibility and advisability of expanding the scope of certain qualifying work-study activities under title 38, United States Code.

Sponsor: Rep Herseth Sandlin, Stephanie [SD] (introduced 2/12/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

House Reports: 111-162 Latest Major 10/7/2009 Passed/agreed to in Senate. Status: Passed Senate with an amendment by Unanimous Consent.

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H.R.1038 : Shingles Prevention Act to amend part B of title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide coverage for the shingles vaccine under the Medicare Program.

Sponsor: Rep Hirono, Mazie K. [HI-2] (introduced 2/12/2009) Cosponsors (12)

Committees: House Energy and Commerce; House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 2/12/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.1042 : Enemy POW Hospitalization Policy. To prohibit the provision of medical treatment to enemy combatants detained by the United States at Naval Station, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, in the same facility as a member of the Armed Forces or Department of Veterans Affairs medical facility.

Sponsor: Rep Miller, Jeff [FL-1] (introduced 2/12/2009) Cosponsors (9)

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/13/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.1075 : Restoring Essential Care for Our Veterans for Effective Recovery (RECOVER) Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to expand access to hospital care for veterans in major disaster areas, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Scalise, Steve [LA-1] (introduced 2/13/2009) Cosponsors (19)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/25/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.1088 : Mandatory Veteran Specialist Training Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to

provide for a one-year period for the training of new disabled veterans’ outreach program specialists and local veterans’ employment representatives by National Veterans’ Employment and Training Services Institute.

Sponsor: Rep Herseth Sandlin, Stephanie [SD] (introduced 2/13/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/20/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.1089 : Veterans Employment Rights to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the enforcement through the Office of Special Counsel of the employment and unemployment rights of veterans and members of the Armed Forces employed by Federal executive agencies, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Herseth Sandlin, Stephanie [SD] (introduced 2/13/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/20/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.1098 : Veterans’ Worker Retraining Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to increase the amount of educational assistance payable by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to certain individuals pursuing internships or on-job training.

Sponsor: Rep Perriello, Thomas S.P. [VA-5] (introduced 2/13/2009) Cosponsors (12)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/10/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Ordered to be Reported (Amended) by Voice Vote.

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H.R.1114 : National Cemetery Availability. To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a process for determining whether a geographic area is sufficiently served by the national cemeteries located in that geographic area.

Sponsor: Rep Rehberg, Denny [MT] (introduced 2/23/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/23/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.1163 : Establish Nebraska National Cemetery. To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a national cemetery in the Sarpy County region to serve veterans in eastern Nebraska, western Iowa, and northwest Missouri.

Sponsor: Rep Terry, Lee [NE-2] (introduced 2/24/2009) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 2/24/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.1168 : Veterans Retraining Act of 2009 to amend chapter 42 of title 38, United States Code, to provide certain veterans with employment training assistance.

Sponsor: Rep Boozman, John [AR-3] (introduced 2/25/2009) Cosponsors (5)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 11/3/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.1169 : VA Adapted Housing/Automobile Assistance. To amend title 38, United States Code, to increase

the amount of assistance provided by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to disabled veterans for specially adapted housing and automobiles and adapted equipment.

Sponsor: Rep Boozman, John [AR-3] (introduced 2/25/2009) Cosponsors (8)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/4/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Ordered to be Reported by Voice Vote.

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H.R.1170 : Adapted Housing Technology Grants. To amend chapter 21 of title 38, United States Code, to establish a grant program to encourage the development of new assistive technologies for specially adapted housing.

Sponsor: Rep Boozman, John [AR-3] (introduced 2/25/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/20/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.1171 : Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program Reauthorization Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to reauthorize the Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program for fiscal years 2010 through 2014.

Sponsor: Rep Boozman, John [AR-3] (introduced 2/25/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/31/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.1172 : VA Website Scholarship Info Addition. To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to include on the Internet website of the Department of Veterans Affairs a list of organizations that provide scholarships to veterans and their survivors.

Sponsor: Rep Boozman, John [AR-3] (introduced 2/25/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

House Reports: 111-164 Latest Major Action: 6/24/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.1182 : Military Spouses Residency Relief Act to amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to guarantee the equity of spouses of military personnel with regard to matters of residency, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Carter, John R. [TX-31] (introduced 2/25/2009) Cosponsors (208)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/8/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote .

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H.R.1197 : Medal of Honor Health Care Equity Act of 2009 to assign a higher priority status for hospital care and medical services provided through the Department of Veterans Affairs to certain veterans who are recipients of the medal of honor.

Sponsor: Rep Mitchell, Harry E. [AZ-5] (introduced 2/25/2009) Cosponsors (15)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/9/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote.

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H.R.1203 : Federal and Military Retiree Health Care Equity Act to amend the Internal Revenue Code of

1986 to allow Federal civilian and military retirees to pay health insurance premiums on a pretax basis and to allow a deduction for TRICARE supplemental premiums. Companion Bill S.491

Sponsor: Rep Van Hollen, Chris [MD-8] (introduced 2/25/2009) Cosponsors (214)

Committees: House Ways and Means; House Oversight and Government Reform; House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/26/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Federal Workforce, Post Office, and the District of Columbia.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12787701&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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H.R.1211: Women Veterans Health Care Improvement Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and improve health care services available to women veterans, especially those serving in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, from the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. Companion Bill S.597

Sponsor: Rep Herseth Sandlin, Stephanie [SD] (introduced 2/26/2009) Cosponsors (51)

House Reports: 111-165 Latest Major Action: 6/24/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12833716&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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H.R.1232 : Far South Texas Veterans Medical Center Act of 2009 to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to construct a full service hospital in Far South Texas.

Sponsor: Rep Ortiz, Solomon P. [TX-27] (introduced 2/26/2009) Cosponsors (6)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/26/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.1263 : Federal Retirement Reform Act of 2009 to amend title 5, United States Code, to provide for the automatic enrollment of new participants in the Thrift Savings Plan, and to clarify the method for computing certain annuities based on part-time service; to allow certain employees of the District of Columbia to have certain periods of service credited for purposes relating to retirement eligibility; and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Lynch, Stephen F. [MA-9] (introduced 3/3/2009) Cosponsors (5)

Committees: House Oversight and Government Reform; House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 3/3/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.1289 : Social Security Fairness for the Terminally Ill Act of 2009 to amend title II of the Social Security Act to eliminate the five-month waiting period in the disability insurance program, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Wilson, Charles A. [OH-6] (introduced 3/3/2009) Cosponsors (14)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 3/3/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.1293 : Disabled Veterans Home Improvement and Structural Alteration Grant Increase Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for an increase in the amount payable by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to veterans for improvements and structural alterations furnished as part of home health services.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 3/4/2009) Cosponsors (16)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/29/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.1305 : Perpetual Purple Heart Stamp Act to provide for the issuance of a forever stamp to honor the sacrifices of the brave men and women of the armed forces who have been awarded the Purple Heart. Companion Bill S.572

Sponsor: Rep King, Peter T. [NY-3] (introduced 3/4/2009) Cosponsors (82)

Committees: House Oversight and Government Reform

Latest Major Action: 3/4/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.

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H.R.1317 : Mortgage Payment Tax Credit. To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide a tax credit to individuals who pay their mortgages on time.

Sponsor: Rep Shuster, Bill [PA-9] (introduced 3/4/2009) Cosponsors (14)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 3/4/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.1335 : VA Catastrophically Disabled Copay. To amend title 38, United States Code, to prohibit the Secretary of Veterans Affairs from collecting certain copayments from veterans who are catastrophically disabled.

Sponsor: Rep Halvorson, Deborah L. [IL-11] (introduced 3/5/2009) Cosponsors (40)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/9/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee (Amended) by Voice Vote.

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H.R.1336 : Veterans Education Improvement Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain improvements in the basic educational assistance program administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Herseth Sandlin, Stephanie [SD] (introduced 3/5/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1377 : VA Emergency Treatment Reimbursement to amend title 38, United States Code, to expand veteran eligibility for reimbursement by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs for emergency treatment furnished in a non-Department facility, and for other purposes. Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 3/6/2009) Cosponsors (2) Companion Bill S.404. Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 111-137

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H.R.1388 : Generations Invigorating Volunteerism and Education (GIVE) Act to reauthorize and reform the national service laws. Passed 321-105 and placed on the Senate calendar. Sponsor: Rep McCarthy, Carolyn [NY-4] (introduced 3/9/2009) Cosponsors (37) Related Bills: H.RES.250, H.RES.296, S.277 Committees: House Education and Labor, House Reports: 111-37

Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 111-13

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H.R.1401 : VET Corps Act of 2009 to create a service corps of veterans called Veterans Engaged for Tomorrow (VET) Corps focused on promoting and improving the service opportunities for veterans and retired members of the military by engaging such veterans and retired members in projects designed to meet identifiable public needs with a specific emphasis on projects to support veterans, including disabled and older veterans and retired members of the military.

Sponsor: Rep Sarbanes, John P. [MD-3] (introduced 3/9/2009) Cosponsors (14)

Committees: House Education and Labor

Latest Major Action: 4/29/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Healthy Families and Communities.

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H.R.1416 : Southern New Jersey Veterans Comprehensive Health Care Act to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to expand the capability of the Department of Veterans Affairs to provide for the medical-care needs of veterans in southern New Jersey.

Sponsor: Rep LoBiondo, Frank A. [NJ-2] (introduced 3/10/2009) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/13/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.1428 : VA Parkinson’s Disease Compensation. To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide wartime disability compensation for certain veterans with Parkinson’s disease.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 3/11/2009) Cosponsors (84)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/13/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12986021&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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H.R.1474 : Servicemembers Access to Justice Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the enforcement of the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act of 1994, and for other purposes. Companion Bill S.263.

Sponsor: Rep Davis, Artur [AL-7] (introduced 3/12/2009) Cosponsors (28)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Armed Services; House Oversight and Government Reform

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1478 : Carmelo Rodriguez Military Medical Accountability Act of 2009 to amend chapter 171 of title 28, United States Code, to allow members of the Armed Forces to sue the United States for damages for certain injuries caused by improper medical care, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Hinchey, Maurice D. [NY-22] (introduced 3/12/2009) Cosponsors (12)

Committees: House Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 4/26/2010 Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 267.

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H.R.1496 : Child Health Care Affordability Act to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow individuals a credit against income tax for medical expenses for dependents.

Sponsor: Rep Paul, Ron [TX-14] (introduced 3/12/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 3/12/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.1513 : Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2009 to increase, effective as of December 1, 2009, the rates of disability compensation for veterans with service-connected disabilities and the rates of dependency and indemnity compensation for survivors of certain service-connected disabled veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Kirkpatrick, Ann [AZ-1] (introduced 3/16/2009) Cosponsors (10) Related bill S.407

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/31/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=13048376&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

________________________________________

H.R.1519 : Social Security Benefits Tax Relief Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the 1993 income tax increase on Social Security benefits.

Sponsor: Rep Johnson, Sam [TX-3] (introduced 3/16/2009) Cosponsors (8)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 3/16/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.1522 : United States Cadet Nurse Corps Equity Act to provide that service of the members of the organization known as the United States Cadet Nurse Corps during World War II constituted active military service for purposes of laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Lowey, Nita M. [NY-18] (introduced 3/16/2009) Cosponsors (25)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 5/22/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.1532 : CMOH Statute of Limitations Elimination. To amend title 10, United States Code, to eliminate the statute of limitations on the award of the congressional medal of honor.

Sponsor: Rep Sestak, Joe [PA-7] (introduced 3/16/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1544 : Veterans Mental Health Accessibility Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for unlimited eligibility for health care for mental illnesses for veterans of combat service during certain periods of hostilities and war.

Sponsor: Rep Driehaus, Steve [OH-1] (introduced 3/17/2009) Cosponsors (7)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/17/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.1546 : Caring for Veterans with Traumatic Brain Injury Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish the Committee on Care of Veterans with Traumatic Brain Injury.

Sponsor: Rep McNerney, Jerry [CA-11] (introduced 3/17/2009) Cosponsors (8)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/9/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote .

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H.R.1592 : Pay Increase Guarantee. To amend title 37, United States Code, to guarantee a pay increase for members of the uniformed services for fiscal years 2011 through 2014 of one-half of one percentage point higher than the Employment Cost Index.

Sponsor: Rep Bilirakis, Gus M. [FL-9] (introduced 3/18/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/moaa/issues/bills/?bill=13002241

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H.R.1600 : TRICARE Autism Care. To amend title 10, United States Code, to provide for the treatment of autism under TRICARE.

Sponsor: Rep Sestak, Joe [PA-7] (introduced 3/18/2009) Cosponsors (23)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1647 : Veterans’ Employment Transition Support Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow employers a credit against income tax for hiring veterans.

Sponsor: Rep McCotter, Thaddeus G. [MI-11] (introduced 3/19/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 3/19/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.1657 : Notification of Exposure to Harmful Material/Contaminants. To direct the Secretary of Defense to notify members of the Armed Forces and State military departments of exposure to potentially harmful materials and contaminants.

Sponsor: Rep Schrader, Kurt [OR-5] (introduced 3/19/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1658 : Veterans Healthcare Commitment Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to prohibit the recovery by the United States of charges from a third party for hospital care or medical services furnished to a veteran for a service-connected disability.

Sponsor: Rep Tiahrt, Todd [KS-4] (introduced 3/19/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/19/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.1681 : Veterans Transitional Assistance Act of 2009 to improve the coordination between the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs to better provide care to members and the Armed Forces and veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Boswell, Leonard L. [IA-3] (introduced 3/24/2009) Cosponsors (17)

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on

Military Personnel.

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H.R.1694 : Revolutionary War and War of 1812 Battlefield Protection Act to authorize the acquisition and protection of nationally significant battlefields and associated sites of the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812 under the American Battlefield Protection Program.

Sponsor: Rep Holt, Rush D. [NJ-12] (introduced 3/24/2009) Cosponsors (12) Related Bill S.1168

Committees: House Natural Resources; Senate Energy and Natural Resources

Latest Major Action: 3/2/2010 Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 302.

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H.R.1695 : Reserve Retired Pay Age Reduction. To amend title 10, United States Code, to reduce the minimum age for receipt of military retired pay for non-regular service from 60 to 55.

Sponsor: Rep LoBiondo, Frank A. [NJ-2] (introduced 3/24/2009) Cosponsors (49)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1701 : PTSD/TBI Guaranteed Review For Heroes Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Defense to establish a special review board for certain former members of the Armed Forces with post-traumatic stress disorder or a traumatic brain injury, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Jones, Walter B., Jr. [NC-3] (introduced 3/25/2009) Cosponsors (11)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1708 : Ending the Medicare Disability Waiting Period Act of 2009 to amend title II of the Social Security Act to phase out the 24-month waiting period for disabled individuals to become eligible for Medicare benefits, to eliminate the waiting period for individuals with life-threatening conditions, and for other purposes. Companion Bill S.700.

Sponsor: Rep Green, Gene [TX-29] (introduced 3/25/2009) Cosponsors (111)

Committees: House Ways and Means; House Energy and Commerce; House Transportation and Infrastructure

Latest Major Action: 3/26/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials.

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H.R.1712 : Savings for Seniors Act of 2009 to amend title II of the Social Security Act to establish a Social Security Surplus Protection Account in the Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund to hold the Social Security surplus, to provide for suspension of investment of amounts held in the Account until enactment of legislation providing for investment of the Trust Fund in investment vehicles other than obligations of the United States, and to establish a Social Security Investment Commission to make recommendations for alternative forms of investment of the Social Security surplus in the Trust Fund.

Sponsor: Rep Blackburn, Marsha [TN-7] (introduced 3/25/2009) Cosponsors (21)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 3/25/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.1716 : Property Tax Relief Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow the deduction for real property taxes on the principal residences to all individuals whether or not they itemize other deductions.

Sponsor: Rep Hill, Baron P. [IN-9] (introduced 3/25/2009) Cosponsors (12)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 3/25/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.1767 : Fair Housing Tax Credit Extension Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to make the first-time homebuyer credit retroactive to the beginning of 2008 and to permanently extend the credit.

Sponsor: Rep Paul, Ron [TX-14] (introduced 3/26/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 3/26/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.1804 : Federal Retirement Reform Act of 2009 to amend title 5, United States Code, to make certain modifications in the Thrift Savings Plan, the Civil Service Retirement System, and the Federal Employees’ Retirement System, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Towns, Edolphus [NY-10] (introduced 3/31/2009) Cosponsors (4) Related Bill H.R.108

Committees: House Oversight and Government Reform; House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/2/2009 Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 307 , H.R. 1804 is laid on the table.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=13048556&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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H.R.1809 : TRICARE Prime Geographic Expansion. To amend title 10, United States Code, to expand the geographical coverage of TRICARE Prime to include Puerto Rico and Guam.

Sponsor: Rep Pierluisi, Pedro R. [PR] (introduced 3/31/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1818 : Disabled Veterans Commissary and Exchange Store Benefits Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to extend military commissary and exchange store privileges to veterans with a compensable service-connected disability and to their dependents.

Sponsor: Rep Burton, Dan [IN-5] (introduced 3/31/2009) Cosponsors (18)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1849 : World War I Memorial and Centennial Act of 2009 to designate the Liberty Memorial at the National World War I Museum in Kansas City, Missouri, as the National World War I Memorial, to establish the World War I centennial commission to ensure a suitable observance of the centennial of World War I, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Cleaver, Emanuel [MO-5] (introduced 4/1/2009) Cosponsors (101) Related Bill S.760

Committees: House Oversight and Government Reform; House Natural Resources

Latest Major Action: 11/6/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.

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H.R.1851 : DOL Transitional Services. To amend title 10, United States Code, to require that certain members of the Armed Forces receive employment assistance, job training assistance, and other transitional

services provided by the Secretary of Labor before separating from active duty service.

Sponsor: Rep Herseth Sandlin, Stephanie [SD] (introduced 4/1/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1872 : Secure Electronic Military Separation Act to require the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, to develop and implement a secure electronic method of forwarding the Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty (DD Form 214) to the appropriate office of the Department of Veterans Affairs for the State or other locality in which a member of the Armed Forces will first reside after the discharge or release of the member from active duty.

Sponsor: Rep Space, Zachary T. [OH-18] (introduced 4/2/2009) Cosponsors (14)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1879 : National Guard Employment Protection Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for employment and reemployment rights for certain individuals ordered to full-time National Guard duty.

Sponsor: Rep Coffman, Mike [CO-6] (introduced 4/2/2009) Cosponsors (20)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/10/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Ordered to be Reported (Amended) by Voice Vote.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via www.ngaus.org/content.asp?bid=1805

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H.R.1902 : Providing Real Outreach for Veterans Act of 2009 to provide veterans with individualized notice about available benefits, to streamline application processes for the benefits, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Brown-Waite, Ginny [FL-5] (introduced 4/2/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1919 : Federal Withholding Tax Repeal Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the withholding of income and social security taxes.

Sponsor: Rep Foxx, Virginia [NC-5] (introduced 4/2/2009) Cosponsors (12)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 4/2/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.1963 : Military Separation Transitional Services. To amend title 10, United States Code, to ensure that members of the Armed Forces who are being separated from active duty receive comprehensive employment assistance, job training assistance, and other transitional services, to require that such members receive a psychological evaluation in addition to the physical examination they receive as part of their separation from active duty, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Rangel, Charles B. [NY-15] (introduced 4/2/2009) Cosponsors (10)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1982 : Veterans Entitlement to Service (VETS) Act of 2009 to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to acknowledge the receipt of medical, disability, and pension claims and other communications submitted by veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Kilpatrick, Carolyn C. [MI-13] (introduced 4/21/2009) Cosponsors (9)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/22/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.1994 : Citizen Soldier Equality Act of 2009 to amend title 10, United States Code, to provide equity between active and reserve component members of the Armed Forces in the computation of disability retired pay for members wounded in action.

Sponsor: Rep Davis, Geoff [KY-4] (introduced 4/21/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/21/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Armed Services.

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H.R.2014 : WASP Gold Medal Award. To award a congressional gold medal to the Women Airforce Service Pilots (“WASP”).

Sponsor: Rep Ros-Lehtinen, Ileana [FL-18] (introduced 4/21/2009) Cosponsors (337) Companion Bill S.614

Committees: House Financial Services; House Administration

Latest Major Action: 4/21/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Financial Services, and in addition to the Committee on House Administration, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.2017 : MOAA Federal Charter. To amend title 36, United States Code, to grant a Federal charter to the Military Officers Association of America, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Van Hollen, Chris [MD-8] (introduced 4/21/2009) Cosponsors (140) Companion Bill S.832 Related Bill S.1449

Committees: House Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 5/26/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Immigration, Citizenship, Refugees, Border Security, and International Law.

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H.R.2059 : SBP Disabled Child Trust. To amend title 10, United States Code, to provide for the payment of monthly annuities under the Survivor Benefit Plan to a supplemental or special needs trust established for the sole benefit of a disabled dependent child of a participant in the Survivor Benefit Plan.

Sponsor: Rep Foster, Bill [IL-14] (introduced 4/23/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 5/15/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.2127 : Veterans Travel Equity Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to eliminate the income eligibility and service-connected disability rating requirements for the veterans beneficiary travel program administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Souder, Mark E. [IN-3] (introduced 4/27/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/1/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.2138 : Services, Education, and Rehabilitation for Veterans Act to provide grants to establish veteran’s treatment courts.

Sponsor: Rep Kennedy, Patrick J. [RI-1] (introduced 4/28/2009) Cosponsors (34) Related Bill S.902

Committees: House Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 5/26/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Courts and Competition Policy.

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H.R.2180 : Disabled Vet Housing Loan Fee Waiver. To amend title 38, United States Code, to waive housing loan fees for certain veterans with service-connected disabilities called to active service.

Sponsor: Rep Teague, Harry [NM-2] (introduced 4/29/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

House Reports: 111-163 Latest Major Action: 6/18/2009 Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 81.

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H.R.2243 : Surviving Spouses Benefit Improvement Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for an increase in the amount of monthly dependency and indemnity compensation payable to surviving spouses by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 5/5/2009) Cosponsors (77)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/8/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=13303636&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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H.R.2244 : Single Parent Protection Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow an individual who is entitled to receive child support a refundable credit equal to the amount of unpaid child support and to increase the tax liability of the individual required to pay such support by the amount of the unpaid child support.

Sponsor: Rep Lofgren, Zoe [CA-16] (introduced 5/5/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 5/5/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.2254 : The Agent Orange Equity Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to clarify presumptions relating to the exposure of certain veterans who served in the vicinity of the Republic of Vietnam. Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 5/5/2009) Cosponsors (257) Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs Latest Major Action: 5/8/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs. To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=13301656&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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H.R.2257 : Veterans Outreach Improvement Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the outreach activities of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Johnson, Eddie B [TX-30] (introduced 5/5/2009) Cosponsors (None) – Related Bill S.315

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/5/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.2263 : Disability Equity Act to amend title II of the Social Security Act to eliminate the waiting periods for people with disabilities for entitlement to disability benefits and Medicare, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Sutton, Betty [OH-13] (introduced 5/5/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 5/5/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.2270 : Benefits for Qualified World War II Veterans Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the establishment of a compensation fund to make payments to qualified World War II veterans on the basis of certain qualifying service.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 5/6/2009) Cosponsors (6)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/3/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote .

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H.R.2302 : Military Retired Pay Fairness Act of 2009 to amend title 10, United States Code, to limit recoupments of separation pay, special separation benefits, and voluntary separation incentive from members of the Armed Forces subsequently receiving retired or retainer pay.

Sponsor: Rep Shea-Porter, Carol [NH-1] (introduced 5/7/2009) Cosponsors (5) Companion bill S.1008

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/8/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=13682556&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id] or http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=13967481&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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H.R.2342 : Wounded Warrior Project Family Caregiver Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a family caregiver program to furnish support services to family members certified as family caregivers who provide personal care services for certain disabled veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Michaud, Michael H. [ME-2] (introduced 5/11/2009) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/15/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.2365 : Consumer Price Index for Elderly Consumers Act of 2009 to require the establishment of a Consumer Price Index for Elderly Consumers to compute cost-of-living increases for Social Security and Medicare benefits under titles II and XVIII of the Social Security Act.

Sponsor: Rep DeFazio, Peter A. [OR-4] (introduced 5/12/2009) Cosponsors (60)

Committees: House Ways and Means; House Energy and Commerce; House Education and Labor

Latest Major Action: 5/12/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Ways and Means, and in addition to the Committees on Energy and Commerce, and Education and Labor, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall

within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.2379 : Veterans’ Group Life Insurance Improvement Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide certain veterans an opportunity to increase the amount of Veterans’ Group Life Insurance.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 5/13/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/9/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote.

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H.R.2389 : Veterans’ Group Life Insurance Improvement Act of 2009 to require the Secretary of Defense to establish registries of members and former members of the Armed Forces exposed in the line of duty to occupational and environmental health chemical hazards, to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide health care to veterans exposed to such hazards, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Hill, Baron P. [IN-9] (introduced 5/13/2009) Cosponsors (11)

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/12/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Readiness.

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H.R.2405 : Richard Helm Veterans’ Access to Local Health Care Options and Resources Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide veterans enrolled in the health system of the Department of Veterans Affairs the option of receiving covered health services through facilities other than those of the Department.

Sponsor: Rep Latham, Tom [IA-4] (introduced 5/14/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/15/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.2412 : Filipino Veterans Family Reunification Act to exempt children of certain Filipino World War II veterans from the numerical limitations on immigrant visas.

Sponsor: Rep Hirono, Mazie K. [HI-2] (introduced 5/14/2009) Cosponsors (11)

Committees: House Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 5/14/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.

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H.R.2419 : Military Personnel War Zone Toxic Exposure Prevention Act to require the Secretary of Defense to establish a medical surveillance system to identify members of the Armed Forces exposed to chemical hazards resulting from the disposal of waste in Iraq and Afghanistan, to prohibit the disposal of waste by the Armed Forces in a manner that would produce dangerous levels of toxins, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Bishop, Timothy H. [NY-1] (introduced 5/14/2009) Cosponsors (23)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/8/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Readiness.

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H.R.2429 : Consumer Price Index for Elderly Consumers Act of 2009 to require the establishment of a Consumer Price Index for Elderly Consumers to compute cost-of-living increases for Social Security benefits under title II of the Social Security Act.

Sponsor: Rep Gonzalez, Charles A. [TX-20] (introduced 5/14/2009) Cosponsors (21)

Committees: House Ways and Means; House Education and Labor

Latest Major Action: 5/14/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Ways and Means, and in addition to the Committee on Education and Labor, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.2456 : Veterans Education Tuition Support Act of 2009 to amend section 484B of Higher Education Act of 1965 to provide for tuition reimbursement and loan forgiveness to students who withdraw from an institution of higher education to serve in the uniformed services, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Davis, Susan A. [CA-53] (introduced 5/18/2009) Cosponsors (34) Related Bills: H.R.2561, S.1603

Latest Major Action: 10/22/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Higher Education, Lifelong Learning, and Competitiveness.

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H.R.2474 : Veterans Educational Equity Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide that in the case of an individual entitled to educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance program who is enrolled at an institution of higher education in a State in which the public institutions charge only fees in lieu of tuition, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall allow the individual to use all or any portion of the amounts payable for the established charges for the program of education to pay any amount of the individual’s tuition or fees for that program of education.

Sponsor: Rep McKeon, Howard P. “Buck” [CA-25] (introduced 5/19/2009) Cosponsors (48)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/19/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.2486 : Vet Organization Funeral Detail Support. To amend title 10, United States Code, to provide for support of funeral ceremonies for veterans provided by details that consist solely of members of veterans organizations and other organizations, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Gohmert, Louie [TX-1] (introduced 5/19/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/8/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.2504 : Homeless Vet VA Appropriation Increase. To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for an increase in the annual amount authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out comprehensive service programs for homeless veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Teague, Harry [NM-2] (introduced 5/19/2009) Cosponsors (6)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/22/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote .

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H.R.2505 : Reaching Rural Veterans through Telehealth Act to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program to utilize tele-health platforms to assist in the treatment of veterans living in rural areas who suffer from post traumatic stress disorder or traumatic brain injury.

Sponsor: Rep Teague, Harry [NM-2] (introduced 5/19/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/19/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.2506 : Veterans Hearing and Assessment Act to direct the Secretary of Defense to ensure the members of the Armed Forces receive mandatory hearing screenings before and after deployments and to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to mandate that tinnitus be listed as a mandatory condition for treatment by the Department of Veterans Affairs Auditory Centers of Excellence and that research on the preventing, treating, and curing of tinnitus be conducted.

Sponsor: Rep Teague, Harry [NM-2] (introduced 5/19/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/8/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.2546 : Right to Display Service Flag. To ensure that the right of an individual to display the Service flag on residential property not be abridged.

Sponsor: Rep Boccieri, John A. [OH-16] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (56) Related bill: S.3477

Committees: House Financial Services

Latest Major Action: 5/20/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.

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H.R.2553 : Atomic Veterans Service Medal Act to authorize the award of a military service medal to members of the Armed Forces who were exposed to ionizing radiation as a result of participation in the testing of nuclear weapons or under other circumstances.

Sponsor: Rep Tiahrt, Todd [KS-4] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (16) Related bill S.1128

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/8/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.2559 : Help Our Homeless Veterans Act to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a national media campaign directed at homeless veterans and veterans at risk for becoming homeless.

Sponsor: Rep Hare, Phil [IL-17] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (13)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/22/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote .

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H.R.2561 : Help Student Soldiers Act to amend section 484B of the Higher Education Act of 1965 to forgive certain loans for servicemembers who withdraw from an institution of higher education as a result of service in the uniformed services, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Kind, Ron [WI-3] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (21) Related Bills: H.R.2456, S.1603

Latest Major Action: 10/22/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Higher Education, Lifelong Learning, and Competitiveness.

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H.R.2573 : Atomic Veterans Relief Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to revise the eligibility criteria for presumption of service-connection of certain diseases and disabilities for veterans exposed to ionizing radiation during military service, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Abercrombie, Neil [HI-1] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (23)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/21/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.2583 : Women Veterans Access to Care Act to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to improve health care for women veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Boswell, Leonard L. [IA-3] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (9)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/21/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.2585 : Protecting the Retirement of Our Troops by Ensuring Compensation is Timely Act to delay any presumption of death in connection with the kidnapping in Iraq or Afghanistan of a retired member of the Armed Forces to ensure the continued payment of the member’s retired pay.

Sponsor: Rep Broun, Paul C. [GA-10] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/8/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.2586 : Honor Guard 13-fold Flag Recitation Option. To prohibit the Secretary of Veterans Affairs from authorizing honor guards to participate in funerals of veterans interred in national cemeteries unless the honor guards may offer veterans’ families the option of having the honor guard perform a 13-fold flag recitation, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Broun, Paul C. [GA-10] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (46)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/21/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.2594 : Dependent State Plot VA Allowance. To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide a plot allowance for spouses and children of certain veterans who are buried in State cemeteries.

Sponsor: Rep Garrett, Scott [NJ-5] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (48)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/21/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.2598 : Bataan/Corregidor/Luzon Gold Medal. To grant a congressional gold medal to American military personnel who fought in defense of Bataan/Corregidor/Luzon between December 7, 1941 and May 6, 1942.

Sponsor: Rep Heinrich, Martin [NM-1] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (50)

Committees: House Financial Services; House Administration

Latest Major Action: 5/21/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Financial Services, and in addition to the Committee on House Administration, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.2621 : Travel Expense Reimbursement Time Requirement. To amend title 10, United States Code, to use a time requirement for determining eligibility for the reimbursement of certain travel expenses.

Sponsor: Rep McCarthy, Kevin [CA-22] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/8/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.2638 : Veterans Stamp to Honor American Veterans Act to provide for the issuance of a veterans health care stamp.

Sponsor: Rep Shuler, Heath [NC-11] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Oversight and Government Reform; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/21/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, and in addition to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.2642 : Veterans Missing in America Act of 2009 to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to assist in the identification of unclaimed and abandoned human remains to determine if any such remains are eligible for burial in a national cemetery, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Tiberi, Patrick J. [OH-12] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (10)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/21/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.2647 : National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2010 to authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2010 for military activities of the Department of Defense, to prescribe military personnel strengths for fiscal year 2010, and for other purposes. Sponsor: Rep Skelton, Ike [MO-4] (by request) (introduced 6/2/2009) Cosponsors (1) Related Bill H.R.2990 Committees: House Armed Services House Reports: 111-166, 111-166 Part 2 Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 111-84

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H.R.2672 : Help Veterans Own Franchises Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow credits for the establishment of franchises with veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Schock, Aaron [IL-18] (introduced 6/3/2009) Cosponsors (35)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 6/3/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.2673 : Surviving Spouse Pension Upgrade. To amend title 38, United States Code, to match the pension amount paid to surviving spouses of veterans who served during a period of war to the pension amount paid to such veterans.

Sponsor: Rep DeFazio, Peter A. [OR-4] (introduced 6/3/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/5/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

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H.R.2683 : To establish the American Veterans Congressional Internship Program.

Sponsor: Rep Holt, Rush D. [NJ-12] (introduced 6/3/2009) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: House Administration

Latest Major Action: 6/3/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on House Administration.

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H.R.2689 : D-Day Memorial. To authorize the Secretary of the Interior to study the suitability and feasibility of designating the National D-Day Memorial in Bedford, Virginia, as a unit of the National Park System.

Sponsor: Rep Perriello, Thomas S.P. [VA-5] (introduced 6/3/2009) Cosponsors (7) Related bill S.1207

Committees: House Natural Resources

Latest Major Action: 10/1/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.2696 : Servicemembers’ Rights Protection Act to amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to provide for the enforcement of rights afforded under that Act.

Sponsor: Rep Miller, Brad [NC-13] (introduced 6/4/2009) Cosponsors (5)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/28/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Provisions of measure incorporated into H.R. 3949 .

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H.R.2698 : Veterans’ and Survivors’ Behavioral Health Awareness Act to improve and enhance the mental health care benefits available to veterans, to enhance counseling and other benefits available to survivors of veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Giffords, Gabrielle [AZ-8] (introduced 6/4/2009) Cosponsors (48)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/25/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.2699 : Armed Forces Behavioral Health Awareness Act to improve the mental health care benefits available to members of the Armed Forces, to enhance counseling available to family members of members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Giffords, Gabrielle [AZ-8] (introduced 6/4/2009) Cosponsors (37)

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/25/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.2713 : Disabled Veterans Life Insurance Enhancement Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain improvements in the service disabled veterans’ insurance program of the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Donnelly, Joe [IN-2] (introduced 6/4/2009) Cosponsors (13)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/24/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.2734 : Health Care for Family Caregivers Act of 2009 to amend section 1781 of title 38, United States Code, to provide medical care to family members of disabled veterans who serve as caregivers to such veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Perriello, Thomas S.P. [VA-5] (introduced 6/4/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/18/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.2735 : Homeless Vet Service Program Improvements. To amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain improvements to the comprehensive service programs for homeless veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Rodriguez, Ciro D. [TX-23] (introduced 6/4/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/22/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee (Amended) by Voice Vote .

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H.R.2738 : Family Caregiver Travel Expense Compensation. To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide travel expenses for family caregivers accompanying veterans to medical treatment facilities.

Sponsor: Rep Teague, Harry [NM-2] (introduced 6/4/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/18/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.2756 : Veterans Home Loan Refinance Opportunity Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow eligible veterans to use qualified veterans mortgage bonds to refinance home loans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Davis, Susan A. [CA-53] (introduced 6/8/2009) Cosponsors (16)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 6/8/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.2771 : Military Overpayment Fairness Act of 2009 to amend titles 10 and 37, United States Code, to provide a more equitable process by which the military departments may recover overpayments of military pay and allowances erroneously paid to a member of the Armed Forces when the overpayment is due to no fault of the member, to expand Department discretion regarding remission or cancellation of indebtedness, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Shea-Porter, Carol [NH-1] (introduced 6/9/2009) Cosponsors (6)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/24/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.2774 : Families of Veterans Financial Security Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to make permanent the extension of the duration of Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance coverage for totally disabled veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Halvorson, Deborah L. [IL-11] (introduced 6/9/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/9/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote.

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H.R.2788 : Distinguished Flying Cross National Memorial Act to designate a Distinguished Flying Cross National Memorial at the March Field Air Museum in Riverside, California.

Sponsor: Rep Calvert, Ken [CA-44] (introduced 6/10/2009) Cosponsors (48)

Committees: House Natural Resources

Latest Major Action: 3/22/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.

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H.R.2830 : Providing Access to Healthcare (PATH) for Veterans Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to give priority to unemployed veterans in furnishing hospital care, medical services, and nursing home care to certain veterans assigned to priority level 8.

Sponsor: Rep Courtney, Joe [CT-2] (introduced 6/11/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/12/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.2836 : National Guard and Reservist Suicide Prevention and Community Response Act to amend the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008 to improve and expand suicide prevention and community healing and response training under the Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program.

Sponsor: Rep Hodes, Paul W. [NH-2] (introduced 6/11/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Latest Major Action: 6/24/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.2879 : Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve health care for veterans who live in rural areas, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Kirkpatrick, Ann [AZ-1] (introduced 6/15/2009) Cosponsors (8)

Latest Major Action: 6/19/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.2898 : Wounded Warrior Caregiver Assistance Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide support services for family caregivers of disabled veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Halvorson, Deborah L. [IL-11] (introduced 6/16/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Latest Major Action: 6/19/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on

Health.

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H.R.2926 : VA Special Care for Vietnam-era & Persian Gulf War Vets Exposed to Herbicides. To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide, without expiration, hospital care, medical services, and nursing home care for certain Vietnam-era veterans exposed to herbicide and veterans of the Persian Gulf War.

Sponsor: Rep Nye, Glenn C., III [VA-2] (introduced 6/17/2009) Cosponsors (5)

Latest Major Action: 7/9/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee (Amended) by Voice Vote.

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H.R.2928: Post-9/11 GI Bill Apprenticeship/OJT Program. To amend title 38, United State Code, to provide for an apprenticeship and on-job training program under the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Program.

Sponsor: Rep Perriello, Thomas S.P. [VA-5] (introduced 6/17/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Latest Major Action: 9/24/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.2965 : Enhancing Small Business Research and Innovation Act of 2009 to amend the Small Business Act with respect to the Small Business Innovation Research Program and the Small Business Technology Transfer Program, and for other purposes.: Amended with H.AMDT.291 by Rep. David Reichert, D-WA to give preference to organizations that are located in under represented states and regions, or are women-owned, service-disabled veteran-owned, or minority-owned when awarding grants for Small Business Administration (SBA) outreach efforts authorized under Title III (rural development and outreach).

Sponsor: Rep Altmire, Jason [PA-4] (introduced 6/19/2009) Cosponsors (9)

Committees: House Small Business; House Science and Technology

House Reports: 111-190 Part 1, 111-190 Part 2

Latest Major Action: 7/13/2009 Passed/agreed to in Senate. Status: Passed Senate in lieu of S. 1233 with an amendment by Unanimous Consent.

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H.R.2968 : SGLI/VGLI Accelerated Death Benefit. To amend title 38, United States Code, to eliminate the required reduction in the amount of the accelerated death benefit payable to certain terminally-ill persons insured under Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance or Veterans’ Group Life Insurance.

Sponsor: Rep Kirkpatrick, Ann [AZ-1] (introduced 6/19/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Latest Major Action: 7/9/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote .

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H.R.2970 : Federal Law Enforcement Officer Vet Age Limit. To amend title 5, United States Code, to increase the maximum age limit for an original appointment to a position as a Federal law enforcement officer in the case of any individual who has been discharged or released from active duty in the Armed Forces under honorable conditions, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Bishop, Rob [UT-1] (introduced 6/19/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Latest Major Action: 6/19/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.

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H.R.2974 : Disabled Vet Health Savings Account Eligibility. To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986

to allow individuals eligible for veterans health benefits to contribute to health savings accounts.

Sponsor: Rep Campbell, John [CA-48] (introduced 6/19/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Latest Major Action: 6/19/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.2980 : Survivor Benefit Time Limit for 100% Disabled Vets. To amend title 38, United States Code, to reduce the period of time for which a veteran must be totally disabled before the veteran’s survivors are eligible for the benefits provided by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs for survivors of certain veterans rated totally disabled at time of death.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 6/19/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Latest Major Action: 6/26/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

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H.R.2990 : Disabled Military Retiree Relief Act of 2009 to provide special pays and allowances to certain members of the Armed Forces, expand concurrent receipt of military retirement and VA disability benefits to disabled military retirees, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Skelton, Ike [MO-4] (introduced 6/23/2009) Cosponsors (25) Related Bill H.R.2647

Committees: House Armed Services; House Oversight and Government Reform; House Natural Resources; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/25/2009 Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 572 , H.R. 2990 is laid on the table.

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H.R.3067 : Health Security for All Americans Act of 2009 to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to reform Medicare payments to physicians and certain other providers and improve Medicare benefits, to encourage the offering of health coverage by small businesses, to provide tax incentives for the purchase of health insurance by individuals, to increase access to health care for veterans, to address the nursing shortage, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Latham, Tom [IA-4] (introduced 6/26/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Energy and Commerce; House Education and Labor; House Ways and Means; House Veterans’ Affairs; House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 8/3/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.3073 : Pending Vet Homeless Grant Program. To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs establish a grant program to provide assistance to veterans who are at risk of becoming homeless.

Sponsor: Rep Nye, Glenn C., III [VA-2] (introduced 6/26/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/1/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.3087 : Establish VA Claim Decision Deadlines. To amend title 38, United States Code, to establish a deadline for decisions with respect to claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Butterfield, G. K. [NC-1] (introduced 6/26/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/10/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

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H.R.3155 : Caregiver Assistance and Resource Enhancement Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide certain caregivers of veterans with training, support, and medical care, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Michaud, Michael H. [ME-2] (introduced 7/9/2009) Cosponsors (9)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/28/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.3199 : Emergency Medic Transition (EMT) Act of 2009 to amend the Public Health Service Act to provide grants to State emergency medical service departments to provide for the expedited training and licensing of veterans with prior medical training, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Harman, Jane [CA-36] (introduced 7/14/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: House Energy and Commerce

Latest Major Action: 7/14/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.

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H.R.3200 : America’s Affordable Health Choices Act of 2009 to provide affordable, quality health care for all Americans and reduce the growth in health care spending, and for other purposes. Sponsor: Rep Dingell, John D. [MI-15] (introduced 7/14/2009) Cosponsors (9) Committees: House Energy and Commerce; House Ways and Means; House Education and Labor; House Oversight and Government Reform; House Budget Latest Major Action: 10/14/2009 Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 168.

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H.R.3223 : Vet Owned Businesses VA Contracts. To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs contracting goals and preferences for small business concerns owned and controlled by veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 7/15/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 9/24/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.3266 : Veteran Assistance Dog Grant Program. To establish a grant program to encourage the use of assistance dogs by certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Klein, Ron [FL-22] (introduced 7/20/2009) Cosponsors (22) Related Bill S.1485

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/24/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity.

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H.R.3280 : Rural Vet Transportation Grant Program. To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a grant program to assist veterans in highly rural areas by providing transportation to medical centers.

Sponsor: Rep Rodriguez, Ciro D. [TX-23] (introduced 7/21/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/24/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.3281 : Vet Care Rural Area Demonstration Project. To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out demonstration projects related to providing care for veterans in rural areas.

Sponsor: Rep Rodriguez, Ciro D. [TX-23] (introduced 7/21/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/24/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.3282 : Vet Readjustment and Mental Health Care Services. To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide certain veterans with readjustment and mental health care services, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Rodriguez, Ciro D. [TX-23] (introduced 7/21/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/24/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.3283 : VA Travel Reimbursement for Veterans Annual Review. To amend title 38, United States Code, to allow for reimbursement of certain travel at a set rate, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Rodriguez, Ciro D. [TX-23] (introduced 7/21/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/24/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.3324 : Stable Future for Veterans’ Children Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to provide for the payment of monthly annuities under the Survivor Benefit Plan to a supplemental or special needs trust established for the sole benefit of a disabled dependent child of a participant in the Survivor Benefit Plan.

Sponsor: Rep Cantor, Eric [VA-7] (introduced 7/24/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 7/24/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Armed Services.

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H.R.3337 : Post-9/11 Veterans’ Job Training Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the use of entitlement under Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Program for the pursuit of apprenticeships and on-job training.

Sponsor: Rep DeLauro, Rosa L. [CT-3] (introduced 7/24/2009) Cosponsors (16)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/31/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity.

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H.R.3349 : NAIV Charter. To grant a Federal charter to the National American Indian Veterans, Incorporated.

Sponsor: Rep Herseth Sandlin, Stephanie [SD] (introduced 7/27/2009) Cosponsors (8) Related Bill S.1520

Committees: House Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 8/19/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on

Immigration, Citizenship, Refugees, Border Security, and International Law.

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H.R.3365 : Medicare VA Reimbursement Act of 2009 to provide Medicare payments to Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities for items and services provided to Medicare-eligible veterans for non-service-connected conditions.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 7/28/2009) Cosponsors (31)

Committees: House Ways and Means; House Energy and Commerce; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/31/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.3366 : Illegal Garnishment Prevention Act to prohibit the use of funds to promote the direct deposit of Veterans and Social Security benefits until adequate safeguards are established to prevent the attachment and garnishment of such benefits.

Sponsor: Rep Gordon, Bart [TN-6] (introduced 7/28/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Ways and Means; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/31/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

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H.R.3368 : Honor Act of 2009 to enhance benefits for survivors of certain former members of the Armed Forces with a history of post-traumatic stress disorder or traumatic brain injury, to enhance availability and access to mental health counseling for members of the Armed Forces and veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Markey, Betsy [CO-4] (introduced 7/28/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Armed Services; House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 10/28/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.3403 : Supporting Military Families Act of 2009 to amend the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 and title 5, United States Code, to provide leave for family members of members of regular components of the Armed Forces, and leave to care for covered veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Woolsey, Lynn C. [CA-6] (introduced 7/30/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: House Education and Labor; House Oversight and Government Reform; House Administration

Latest Major Action: 10/22/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Workforce Protections

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H.R.3407 : Severely Injured Veterans Benefit Improvement Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain improvements to laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs relating to benefits for severely injured veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 7/30/2009) Cosponsors (27)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/31/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

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H.R.3441 : Combat Vet VA Enrollment. To provide for automatic enrollment of veterans returning from

combat zones into the VA medical system, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Arcuri, Michael A. [NY-24] (introduced 7/31/2009) Cosponsors (20)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/1/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.3467 : Veterans Education Enhancement and Fairness Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for a monthly housing stipend under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs for individuals pursuing programs of education offered through distance learning, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Carney, Christopher P. [PA-10] (introduced 7/31/2009) Cosponsors (13)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 9/11/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity.

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H.R.3484 : VA Work Study Authority. To amend title 38, United States Code, to extend the authority for certain qualifying work-study activities for purposes of the educational assistance programs of the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Herseth Sandlin, Stephanie [SD] (introduced 7/31/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/4/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Ordered to be Reported (Amended) by Voice Vote.

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H.R.3485 : Veterans Pensions Protection Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide that monetary benefits paid to veterans by States and municipalities shall be excluded from consideration as income for purposes of pension benefits paid by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Higgins, Brian [NY-27] (introduced 7/31/2009) Cosponsors (14) Related Bill: S.3118

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote .

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H.R.3491 : Thomas G. Schubert Agent Orange Fairness Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish a presumption of service connection for certain cancers occurring in veterans who served in the Republic of Vietnam and were exposed to certain herbicide agents, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Kagen, Steve [WI-8] (introduced 7/31/2009) Cosponsors (10)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 9/11/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

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H.R.3507 : VA Survivor Education Rate Increase. To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for an increase in the rates of survivors’ and dependents’ educational assistance payable by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Paulsen, Erik [MN-3] (introduced 7/31/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 9/11/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

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H.R.3522 : Veterans Hardship Outreach for Priority Eights (HOPE) Act to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide grants and assistance to States to conduct outreach to veterans regarding hardship and priority under the Department of Veterans Affairs patient enrollment system.

Sponsor: Rep Space, Zachary T. [OH-18] (introduced 7/31/2009) Cosponsors (6)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 9/11/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.3544 : National Cemeteries Expansion Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide guidelines for the establishment of new national cemeteries by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 9/9/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/8/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via

http://capwiz.com/ngaus/mail/compose/?mailid=14779496&azip=92571

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H.R.3554 : National Guard Education Equality Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the inclusion of certain active duty service in the reserve components as qualifying service for purposes of Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Loebsack, David [IA-2] (introduced 9/10/2009) Cosponsors (101)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 9/24/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.3573 : Call to Service Homebuyer Credit Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to prevent a change in residency as a result of extended official duty in the uniformed services, Foreign Service, or intelligence community from triggering the repayment provisions of the first time homebuyer credit, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Blumenauer, Earl [OR-3] (introduced 9/15/2009) Cosponsors (None) Related bills: H.R.2562

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 9/15/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.3575 : Vet Mortgage Life Insurance Increase. To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for an increase in the maximum amount of veterans’ mortgage life insurance available under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Perriello, Thomas S.P. [VA-5] (introduced 9/15/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 9/15/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.3577 : Education Assistance to Realign New Eligibilities for Dependents (EARNED) Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United State Code, to provide authority for certain members of the Armed Forces who have served 20 years on active duty to transfer entitlement to Post-9/11 Educational Assistance to their dependents.

Sponsor: Rep Rodriguez, Ciro D. [TX-23] (introduced 9/15/2009) Cosponsors (24)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/4/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Ordered to be Reported by Voice Vote.

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H.R.3620 : Hiring Heroes Tax Incentive Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow employers a credit against income tax for employing members of the Ready Reserve and National Guard and veterans recently separated from the Armed Forces.

Sponsor: Rep Alexander, Rodney [LA-5] (introduced 9/22/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 9/22/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.3657 : USPHS & NOAA GI Bill Benefit Transfer. To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for members of the United States Public Health Service and National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration Corps to transfer unused benefits under Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program to family members, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Rodriguez, Ciro D. [TX-23] (introduced 9/25/2009) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/2/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity.

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H.R.3661 : GI Bill Housing Stipend. To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for a monthly housing stipend under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program for individuals pursuing programs of education offered through distance learning, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Rehberg, Denny [MT] (introduced 9/29/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/2/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity.

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H.R.3672 : Social Security COLA Fix for 2010 Act to provide for an increase of $150 in Social Security benefits for one month in 2010 to compensate for the lack of a cost-of-living adjustment for that year, and to amend title II of the Social Security Act to eliminate the requirement that there be a Social Security cost-of-living adjustment for an adjustment in the contribution and benefit base to occur.

Sponsor: Rep McCarthy, Carolyn [NY-4] (introduced 9/29/2009) Cosponsors (16)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 9/29/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.3677: Save Our Seniors’ Social Security Act of 2009 to provide $280 relief payments to recipients of Social Security and railroad retirement benefits, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Granger, Kay [TX-12] (introduced 9/30/2009) Cosponsors (11)

Committees: House Ways and Means; House Transportation and Infrastructure; House Appropriations

Latest Major Action: 10/1/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on

Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials.

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H.R.3685 : Inclusion of VetSuccess on VA Website. To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to include on the main page of the Internet website of the Department of Veterans Affairs a hyperlink to the VetSuccess Internet website and to publicize such Internet website.

Sponsor: Rep Stearns, Cliff [FL-6] (introduced 9/30/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/10/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee Hearings Held.

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H.R.3719 : Veterans Economic Opportunity Administration Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs a Veterans Economic Opportunity Administration, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 10/6/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/9/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity.

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H.R.3787 : Treat Certain Reserve Time as Active Duty Time. To amend title 38, United States Code, to deem certain service in the reserve components as active service for purposes of laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Walz, Timothy J. [MN-1] (introduced 10/8/2009) Cosponsors (39) Related bill: S.1780

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/9/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

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H.R.3796 : Homeless Vet Assistor’s Per Diem Grants. To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve per diem grant payments for organizations assisting homeless veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 10/13/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/16/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.3813 : Veterans Training Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the approval of certain programs of education for purposes of the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program.

Sponsor: Rep Sestak, Joe [PA-7] (introduced 10/14/2009) Cosponsors (17) Related bills: S.3171

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/25/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.3843 : Transparency for America’s Heroes Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to publish redacted medical quality-assurance records of the Department of Veterans Affairs on the Internet website of the Department.

Sponsor: Rep Sestak, Joe [PA-7] (introduced 10/15/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/16/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.3885 : Veterans Dog Training Therapy Act to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program on dog training therapy.

Sponsor: Rep Brown, Henry E., Jr. [SC-1] (introduced 10/21/2009) Cosponsors (12)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/26/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.3886 : Providing Military Honors for our Nation’s Heroes Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reimburse certain volunteers who provide funeral honors details at the funerals of veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 10/21/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/23/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

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H.R.3906 : Low Income Vet Family Permanent Housing. To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs program to provide financial assistance for supportive services for very low-income veteran families in permanent housing.

Sponsor: Rep Teague, Harry [NM-2] (introduced 10/22/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/23/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.3908 : Families of Disabled Veterans Work Opportunity Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide the work opportunity tax credit with respect to a designated family member of a veteran with a service-connected disability if the veteran is unable to work.

Sponsor: Rep Halvorson, Deborah L. [IL-11] (introduced 10/22/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 10/22/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.3926 : Armed Forces Breast Cancer Research Act to direct the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to jointly conduct a study on the incidence of breast cancer among members of the Armed Forces and veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Boswell, Leonard L. [IA-3] (introduced 10/26/2009) Cosponsors (45)

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/25/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.3943 : Post 9/11 Troops to Teachers Enhancement Act to amend the Elementary and Secondary

Education Act of 1965 to allow members of the Armed Forces who served on active duty on or after September 11, 2001, to be eligible to participate in the Troops-to-Teachers Program, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Courtney, Joe [CT-2] (introduced 10/27/2009) Cosponsors (170) Related Bill S.

Committees: House Education and Labor; House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 12/8/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education.

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H.R.3948 : Test Prep for Heroes Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for entitlement under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program to payment for test preparatory courses, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Putnam, Adam H. [FL-12] (introduced 10/28/2009) Cosponsors (30)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/10/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Ordered to be Reported (Amended) by Voice Vote.

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H.R.3949 : Veterans’ Small Business Assistance and Servicemembers Protection Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, and the Servicemember Civil Relief Act, to make certain improvements in the laws relating to benefits administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 10/28/2009) Cosponsors (22) Related Bill: H.R.761

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 11/4/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.3998 : Compensation for Combat Veterans Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to clarify the service treatable as service engaged in combat with the enemy for utilization of non-official evidence for proof of service-connection in a combat-related disease or injury.

Sponsor: Rep Braley, Bruce L. [IA-1] (introduced 11/3/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 11/6/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

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H.R.4006 : Rural, American Indian Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for Indian veterans health care coordinators, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Kirkpatrick, Ann [AZ-1] (introduced 11/3/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/25/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.4028 : Rural Veterans Services Outreach and Training Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve services for veterans residing in rural areas.

Sponsor: Rep Wu, David [OR-1] (introduced 11/5/2009) Cosponsors (21)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 11/6/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment.

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H.R.4043 : Military Spouse Pin Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to recognize the spouses of members of the Armed Forces who are serving in combat or have served in combat through the presentation of an official lapel button.

Sponsor: Rep Shea-Porter, Carol [NH-1] (introduced 11/6/2009) Cosponsors (9)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 11/18/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.4044 : Vet Plot & Headstone/Marker Allowance. To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to restore plot allowance eligibility for veterans of any war and to restore the headstone or marker allowance for eligible persons.

Sponsor: Rep Berkley, Shelley [NV-1] (introduced 11/6/2009) Cosponsors (37)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 11/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4045 : Veterans Burial Benefits Improvement Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to increase burial benefits for veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Berkley, Shelley [NV-1] (introduced 11/6/2009) Cosponsors (42)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 11/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4048 : Rural Area TBI Pilot Program. To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program on the provision of traumatic brain injury care in rural areas.

Sponsor: Rep Capito, Shelley Moore [WV-2] (introduced 11/6/2009) Cosponsors (7)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 11/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4051 : Cold War Service Medal Act of 2009 to amend title 10, United States Code, to provide for the award of a military service medal to members of the Armed Forces who served honorably during the Cold War, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Israel, Steve [NY-2] (introduced 11/6/2009) Cosponsors (44) Related bill: S.2743

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 11/18/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.4054 : Benefit Rating Acceleration for Veteran Entitlements Act of 2009. To amend titles II and XVI of the Social Security Act to provide for treatment of disability rated and certified as total by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs as disability for purposes of such titles.

Sponsor: Rep Sarbanes, John P. [MD-3] (introduced 11/6/2009) Cosponsors (72) Related Bill: S.2759

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 11/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.4058 : Veterans to Work Pilot Program Act of 2009 to amend title 10, United States Code, to establish the Veterans to Work Program providing for the employment of individuals, especially veterans, who participate in apprenticeship programs on designated military construction projects, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Smith, Adam [WA-9] (introduced 11/6/2009) Cosponsors (5)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 11/18/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Readiness.

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H.R.4063 : WWII Messman/Steward Congressional Gold Medal. To grant the Congressional Gold Medal to the members of the messman and steward branches of United States Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard that served during World War II.

Sponsor: Rep Edwards, Donna F. [MD-4] (introduced 11/7/2009) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: House Financial Services; House Administration

Latest Major Action: 11/7/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Financial Services, and in addition to the Committee on House Administration, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.4064 : Post-9/11 EAP Improvements. To make certain improvements in the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program.

Sponsor: Rep Giffords, Gabrielle [AZ-8] (introduced 11/7/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 11/7/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4073 : Rural Veterans Reimbursement Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to increase the payments to certain veterans for certain travel expenses.

Sponsor: Rep Minnick, Walter [ID-1] (introduced 11/16/2009) Cosponsors (11)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 11/16/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4121 : Veterans Appeals Improvement and Modernization Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the appeals process of the Department of Veterans Affairs, to establish a commission to study judicial review of the determination of veterans’ benefits, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Hall, John J. [NY-19] (introduced 11/19/2009) Cosponsors (7)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 11/19/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4156 : Increasing Housing Opportunities for Veterans Act of 2009 to provide for certain improvements in the laws relating to housing for veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Sires, Albio [NJ-13] (introduced 11/19/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Financial Services

Latest Major Action: 11/19/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Financial Services.

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H.R.4203 : Direct Deposit of Vet Education Payments. To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans certain educational assistance payments through direct deposit.

Sponsor: Rep Hall, John J. [NY-19] (introduced 12/3/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/25/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.4220 : Promoting Jobs for Veterans Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain improvements in the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs relating to small business concerns and employment assistance, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 12/8/2009) Cosponsors (15)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Education and Labor; House Small Business

Latest Major Action: 1/4/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Higher Education, Lifelong Learning, and Competitiveness.

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H.R.4221 : Department of Veterans Affairs Acquisition Improvement Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for improved acquisition practices by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 12/8/2009) Cosponsors (5)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Oversight and Government Reform

Latest Major Action: 12/8/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.4241 : State Veteran Home Payments. To amend chapter 17 of title 38, United States Code, to allow for increased flexibility in payments for State veterans homes.

Sponsor: Rep Michaud, Michael H. [ME-2] (introduced 12/8/2009) Cosponsors (45)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/3/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.4279 : Vet Accelerated Educational Assistance Payments. To amend titles 38 and 10, United States Code, to authorize accelerated payments of educational assistance to certain veterans and members of the reserve components of the Armed Forces.

Sponsor: Rep Quigley, Mike [IL-5] (introduced 12/10/2009) Cosponsors (9)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 1/12/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on

Military Personnel.

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H.R.4319 : Specially Adapted Housing Assistance Enhancement Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for certain improvements in the laws relating to specially adapted housing assistance provided by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs. Sponsor: Rep Moran, Jerry [KS-1] (introduced 12/15/2009) Cosponsors (None) Latest Major Action: 6/10/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee Hearings Held.

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H.R.4320 : Post-9/11 GI Education Fairness Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to expand the types of approved programs of education for purposes of Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Murphy, Scott [NY-20] (introduced 12/15/2009) Cosponsors (20)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 12/15/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4350 : Fallen Heroes Family Act of 2009 to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to provide for nonimmigrant status for an alien who is the parent or legal guardian of a United States citizen child if the child was born abroad and is the child of a deceased member of the Armed Forces of the United States.

Sponsor: Rep Issa, Darrell E. [CA-49] (introduced 12/16/2009) Cosponsors (10)

Committees: House Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 3/1/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Immigration, Citizenship, Refugees, Border Security, and International Law.

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H.R.4359 : WARMER Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to guarantee housing loans for the construction energy efficient dwellings, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Boozman, John [AR-3] (introduced 12/16/2009) Cosponsors (5)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/25/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.4403 : SPACE-A Travel Act of 2009 to amend title 10, United States Code, to authorize space-available travel on military aircraft for unremarried surviving spouses of retired members of the uniformed services and the unremarried surviving spouses of veterans who died from a service-connected or compensable disability, and for the dependents of such spouses.

Sponsor: Rep Walz, Timothy J. [MN-1] (introduced 12/16/2009) Cosponsors (25)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 1/21/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Readiness.

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H.R.4429 : Restoring the Social Security COLA Act to provide for an increase of $250 in benefits under certain Federal cash benefit programs for one month in 2010 to compensate for the lack of a cost-of-living adjustment for that year.

Sponsor: Rep Adler, John H. [NJ-3] (introduced 1/13/2010) Cosponsors (7)

Committees: House Ways and Means; House Appropriations; House Veterans’ Affairs; House Oversight and Government Reform; House Transportation and Infrastructure

Latest Major Action: 1/13/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Ways and Means, and in addition to the Committees on Appropriations, Veterans’ Affairs, Oversight and Government Reform, and Transportation and Infrastructure, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.4443 : Veterans Employment Today Act of 2010 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the work opportunity tax credit for hiring veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Halvorson, Deborah L. [IL-11] (introduced 1/13/2010) Cosponsors (13) Related Bills: H.R.620, H.R.931, S.274

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/13/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.4465 : Vet Financial Status for Hospital Care. To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to take into account each child a veteran has when determining the veteran’s financial status when receiving hospital care or medical services.

Sponsor: Rep Kissell, Larry [NC-8] (introduced 1/19/2010) Cosponsors (10)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/27/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.4525 : Chapter 61 Concurrent Receipt Entitlement. To amend title 10, United States Code, to expand the eligibility for concurrent receipt of military retired pay and veterans’ disability compensation to include all members of the uniformed services who are retired under chapter 61 of such title for disability, regardless of the members’ disability rating percentage.

Sponsor: Rep Wilson, Joe [SC-2] (introduced 1/26/2010) Cosponsors (9)

Committees: House Armed Services; House Budget; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/18/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=15039641&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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H.R.4551 : Keep Our Promise to America’s Military Retirees Act to restore health care coverage to retired members of the uniformed services, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Van Hollen, Chris [MD-8] (introduced 1/27/2010) Cosponsors (32)

Committees: House Armed Services; House Oversight and Government Reform

Latest Major Action: 2/25/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.4555 : Janey Ensminger Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to furnish hospital care, medical services, and nursing home care to veterans who were stationed at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, while the water was contaminated at Camp Lejeune, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Miller, Brad [NC-13] (introduced 2/2/2010) Cosponsors (35)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/2/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4559 : State Disabled Vet Benefits Review. To establish a commission to review benefits provided by each State to disabled veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Kissell, Larry [NC-8] (introduced 2/2/2010) Cosponsors (11)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/2/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4568 : TBI Treatment Act to direct the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program under which the Secretaries make payments for certain treatments of traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Sponsor: Rep Sessions, Pete [TX-32] (introduced 2/2/2010) Cosponsors (19)

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/25/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.4569 : Expanded Housing for America’s Veterans Act to amend the United States Housing Act of 1937 relating to the amount of rental assistance available under the veterans affairs supported housing program.

Sponsor: Rep Sestak, Joe [PA-7] (introduced 2/2/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Financial Services

Latest Major Action: 2/2/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Financial Services.

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H.R.4592 : Vet Energy Related Jobs Pilot Program. To provide for the establishment of a pilot program to encourage the employment of veterans in energy-related positions.

Sponsor: Rep Teague, Harry [NM-2] (introduced 2/3/2010) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/24/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4593 : Keeping Faith With the Greatest Generation Military Retirees Act of 2010 to amend part B of title XVIII of the Social Security Act to waive Medicare part B premiums for certain military retirees (i.e. those who entered the service prior to December 7, 1956).

Sponsor: Rep Van Hollen, Chris [MD-8] (introduced 2/3/2010) Cosponsors (18)

Committees: House Energy and Commerce; House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 2/3/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.4632 : Renovate and Enhance Veterans’ Meeting Halls and Posts Act of 2010 to amend the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 to set-aside community development block grant amounts in each fiscal year for grants to local chapters of veterans service organizations for rehabilitation of their facilities.

Sponsor: Rep Bishop, Timothy H. [NY-1] (introduced 2/22/2010) Cosponsors (19)

Committees: House Financial Services

Latest Major Action: 2/22/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Financial Services.

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H.R.4639 : Corporal Dustin Lee Memorial Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to authorize the adoption of a military working dog by the family of a deceased or seriously wounded member of the Armed Forces who was the handler of the dog.

Sponsor: Rep Jones, Walter B., Jr. [NC-3] (introduced 2/22/2010) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 3/5/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Readiness.

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H.R.4656 : VA Child Care Center. To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program establishing a child-care center for children of veterans receiving treatment and other individuals.

Sponsor: Rep Buchanan, Vern [FL-13] (introduced 2/23/2010) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/23/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4664 : OIF/OEF Survivor Mortgage Foreclosure Moratorium. To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to provide for a one-year moratorium on the sale or foreclosure of property owned by surviving spouses of servicemembers killed in Operation Iraqi Freedom or Operation Enduring Freedom.

Sponsor: Rep Kratovil, Frank, Jr. [MD-1] (introduced 2/23/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/10/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee Hearings Held.

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H.R.4667 : Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2010 to increase, effective as of December 1, 2010, the rates of compensation for veterans with service-connected disabilities and the rates of dependency and indemnity compensation for the survivors of certain disabled veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Perriello, Thomas S.P. [VA-5] (introduced 2/23/2010) Cosponsors (8) Related bills: H.R.1513 & S.407 & S.3107

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/23/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4765 : VA Work Study Allowances. To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize individuals who are pursuing programs of rehabilitation, education, or training under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to receive work-study allowances for certain outreach services provided through congressional offices, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep DeFazio, Peter A. [OR-4] (introduced 3/4/2010) Cosponsors (12) Related bill: S.3082

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/10/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee Hearings Held.

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H.R.4810 : End Veteran Homelessness Act of 2010. To amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain improvements in the services provided for homeless veterans under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 3/10/2010) Cosponsors (14)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/23/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4845 : VA Children Housing Loan Benefits. To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide housing loan benefits for children of members of the Armed Forces and veterans who die from service-connected disabilities.

Sponsor: Rep Crowley, Joseph [NY-7] (introduced 3/15/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/15/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4887 : Tricare Affirmation Act to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to ensure that health coverage provided by the Department of Defense is treated as minimal essential coverage. Sponsor: Rep Skelton, Ike [MO-4] (introduced 3/19/2010) Cosponsors (20) Committees: House Ways and Means; Senate Finance Latest Major Action: 4/26/2010 Signed by President.

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H.R.4912 : CRSC Payments to Chap 61 Vets. To amend title 10, United States Code, to eliminate the required reduction in the amount of combat-related special compensation paid to disabled combat-related uniformed services retirees retired under chapter 61 of such title whose disability is attributable to an injury for which the members were awarded the Purple Heart.

Sponsor: Rep Halvorson, Deborah L. [IL-11] (introduced 3/22/2010) Cosponsors (5)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/8/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.4923 : TRICARE Dependent Coverage Extension Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to extend TRICARE coverage to certain dependents under the age of 26.

Sponsor: Rep Heinrich, Martin [NM-1] (introduced 3/24/2010) Cosponsors (93) Related bills: S.3201

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/23/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.4947 : Reserve Retirement Deployment Credit Correction Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to

eliminate the per-fiscal year calculation of days of certain active duty or active service used to reduce the minimum age at which a member of a reserve component of the uniformed services may retire for non-regular service.

Sponsor: Rep Latham, Tom [IA-4] (introduced 3/25/2010) Cosponsors (37) Related bills: S.3406

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/23/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/moaa/issues/bills/?bill=14876641

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H.R.5014 : VA Minimal Essential Coverage. To clarify the health care provided by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs that constitutes minimum essential coverage. Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 4/14/2010) Cosponsors (1) Committees: House Ways and Means Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 111-173 [GPO: Text, PDF]

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H.R.5045 : Fair Access to Veterans Benefits Act of 2010 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the tolling of the timing of review for appeals of final decisions of the Board of Veterans’ Appeals, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Adler, John H. [NJ-3] (introduced 4/15/2010) Cosponsors (None) Related bills: S.3192, H.R.5064

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/15/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.5120 : Veteran Employment Assistance Act of 2010 to improve employment, training, and placement services furnished to veterans, especially those serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Smith, Adam [WA-9] (introduced 4/22/2010) Cosponsors (19) Related bills: S.3234

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Education and Labor; House Small Business; House Energy and Commerce; House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 5/27/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Higher Education, Lifelong Learning, and Competitiveness.

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H.R.5136 : National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2011 Sponsor: Rep Skelton, Ike [MO-4] (by request) (introduced 4/26/2010) Cosponsors (1) Related bills: H.RES.1404, H.RES.1467, H.R.1467, H.R.5013, S.3454

Latest Major Action: 6/28/2010 Received in the Senate. Read twice. Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 447. House Reports: 111-491, 111-491 Part 2

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H.R.5185 : Fair Health Care for Military Families Act to amend titles 10 and 38, United States Code, to increase the maximum age for children eligible for medical care under the TRICARE program and the CHAMPVA program.

Sponsor: Rep DeFazio, Peter A. [OR-4] (introduced 4/29/2010) Cosponsors (2) Related Bill H.R.5206

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/6/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.5225 : Improving Veterans’ Electronic Transition Services Act to direct the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to jointly develop and implement an electronic personnel file system, and to jointly conduct a study on improving the access of veterans to files related to military service and veterans benefits, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Tsongas, Niki [MA-5] (introduced 5/5/2010) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/5/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Armed Services, and in addition to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.5226 : Appalachian Veterans Outreach Improvement Act to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs and the Appalachian Regional Commission to carry out a program of outreach for veterans who reside in Appalachia, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Wilson, Charles A. [OH-6] (introduced 5/5/2010) Cosponsors (22) Related bill: S.3314

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Transportation and Infrastructure

Latest Major Action: 5/6/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings and Emergency Management.

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H.R.5259 : Equal Access to Preseparation Counseling Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to require preseparation counseling for members of the reserve components upon their retirement or separation from service.

Sponsor: Rep Pingree, Chellie [ME-1] (introduced 5/11/2010) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 5/11/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Armed Services.

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H.R.5303 : VA Post-9/11 EAP Housing Stipends. To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve housing stipends for veterans receiving educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Program.

Sponsor: Rep Bishop, Timothy H. [NY-1] (introduced 5/13/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/13/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.5360 : Blinded Veterans Adaptive Housing Improvement Act of 2010 to amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the standard of visual acuity required for eligibility for specially adapted housing assistance provided by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Herseth Sandlin, Stephanie [SD] (introduced 5/20/2010) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/10/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee Hearings Held.

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H.R.5371 : William Shemin Jewish World War I Veterans Act to direct the Secretary of the Army and the Secretary of the Navy to conduct a review of military service records of Jewish American veterans of World War I, including those previously awarded a military decoration, to determine whether any of the veterans should be posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Luetkemeyer, Blaine [MO-9] (introduced 5/24/2010) Cosponsors (15)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 5/24/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Armed Services.

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H.R.5403 : Alaska Tricare Reimbursement Rates. To direct the Secretary of Defense to temporarily adjust the reimbursement rates for TRICARE claims in Alaska.

Sponsor: Rep Young, Don [AK] (introduced 5/26/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 5/26/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Armed Services.

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H.R.5404 : Reserve Space A Travel. To amend title 10, United States Code, to authorize space-available travel on military aircraft for a member or former member of a reserve component who is eligible for retired pay but for age and for dependents of the member who accompany the retiree.

Sponsor: Rep Young, Don [AK] (introduced 5/26/2010) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 5/26/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Armed Services.

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H.R.5428 : Disseminate Amputee Veterans Bill of Rights Info. To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to educate certain staff of the Department of Veterans Affairs and to inform veterans about the Injured and Amputee Veterans Bill of Rights, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 5/27/2010) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/27/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.5449 : Retroactive Stop-Loss Special Pay Extension. To amend section 310 of the Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2009 to extend the period of time during which claims for retroactive stop-loss special pay may be submitted.

Sponsor: Rep Sutton, Betty [OH-13] (introduced 5/27/2010) Cosponsors (18)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 5/27/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Armed Services.

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H.R.5484 : VetStar Veteran-Friendly Business Act of 2010 to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish an annual award program to recognize businesses for their contributions to veterans’ employment, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Teague, Harry [NM-2] (introduced 6/8/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/8/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.5516 : Access to Appropriate Immunizations for Veterans Act of 2010 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for certain requirements relating to the immunization of veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Stearns, Cliff [FL-6] (introduced 6/10/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/10/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.5517 : Every Veteran Counts Act to amend title 13, United States Code, to require that the questionnaire used in a decennial census of population shall include an inquiry regarding an individual’s status as a veteran, a spouse of a veteran, or a dependent of a veteran, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Stearns, Cliff [FL-6] (introduced 6/10/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Oversight and Government Reform; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/10/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, and in addition to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.5550 : Loss of Use Definition. To amend title 38, United States Code, to include a definition of “loss of use” for purposes of evaluating disabilities and providing adapted housing and automobiles under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Kirkpatrick, Ann [AZ-1] (introduced 6/17/2010) Cosponsors (none)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/17/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.5555 : Disabled Veterans’ Surviving Spouses Home Loans Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for eligibility for housing loans guaranteed by the Department of Veterans Affairs for the surviving spouses of certain totally-disabled veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Foxx, Virginia [NC-5] (introduced 6/17/2010) Cosponsors (30)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/17/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.5641 : Heroes at Home Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into contracts for the transfer of veterans to non-Department adult foster homes for veterans who are unable to live independently.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 6/30/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/30/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.5642 : Pension Increase Codification. To codify increases in the rates of pension for disabled veterans and surviving spouses and children that were effective as of December 1, 2009.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 6/30/2010) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/30/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.5648 : Vet Unauthorized Fees Criminal Penalties. To amend title 38, United States Code, to reinstate criminal penalties for persons charging veterans unauthorized fees.

Sponsor: Rep Bilirakis, Gus M. [FL-9] (introduced 6/30/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 6/30/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on the Judiciary, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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[Source: http://thomas.loc.gov/home/LegislativeData.php?n=Browse 12 Jul 09 ++]

Of the 5608 House and 2539 Senate pieces of legislation introduced in the 111th Congress to date, the following are of interest to the non-active duty veteran community. Bill titles in green (if any) are new additions to this summary, titles in orange have either passed either the House or Senate and been passed to the other for consideration or been incorporated into another bill, and those highlighted in blue have become public law. A good indication on the likelihood a bill of being forwarded to the House or Senate for passage and subsequently being signed into law by the President is the number of cosponsors who have signed onto the bill. An alternate way for it to become law is if it is added as an addendum to another bill such as the annual National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and survives the conference committee assigned to iron out the difference between the House and Senate bills. At http://thomas.loc.gov you can review a copy of each bill’s text, determine its current status, the committee it has been assigned to, who your representative is and his/her phone number, mailing address, or email/website to communicate with a message or letter of your own making, and if your legislator is a sponsor or cosponsor of it. To separately determine what bills, amendments your representative has sponsored, cosponsored, or dropped sponsorship on refer to http://thomas.loc.gov/bss/d111/sponlst.html. To review a numerical list of all bills introduced refer to http://thomas.loc.gov/bss/111search.html. The key to increasing cosponsorship is letting legislators know of their constituent’s views on issues. Those bills that include a website in red are being pushed by various veterans groups for passage and by clicking on that website you can forward a preformatted message to your legislator requesting he/she support the bill.

House

H.R.23 : Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War II Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish the Merchant Mariner Equity Compensation Fund to provide benefits to certain individuals who served in the United States merchant marine (including the Army Transport Service and the Naval Transport Service) during World War II.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (168)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/13/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/naus/issues/alert/?alertid=12497121

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H.R.32 : Veterans Outreach Improvement Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the outreach activities of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. Companion Bill S.315

Sponsor: Rep McIntyre, Mike [NC-7] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (41)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/28/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Provisions of measure incorporated into H.R. 3949 .

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H.R.33 : Disability Benefit Fairness Act of 2009 to amend title II of the Social Security Act to eliminate the 5-month waiting period for entitlement to disability benefits and to eliminate reconsideration as an intervening step between initial benefit entitlement decisions and subsequent hearings on the record on such decisions.

Sponsor: Rep McIntyre, Mike [NC-7] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.43 : Medicare Access to Rehabilitation Services Act of 2009 to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to repeal the Medicare outpatient rehabilitation therapy caps.

Sponsor: Rep Becerra, Xavier [CA-31] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (186) Related bill S.46

Committees: House Energy and Commerce; House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/moaa/issues/alert/?alertid=14486941&type=CO

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H.R.82 : Veterans Outreach Improvement Act of 2009 to expand retroactive eligibility of the Army Combat Action Badge to include members of the Army who participated in combat during which they personally engaged, or were personally engaged by, the enemy at any time on or after December 7, 1941.

Sponsor: Rep Brown-Waite, Ginny [FL-5] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (19)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 1/30/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.84 : Veterans Timely Access to Health Care Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish standards of access to care for veterans seeking health care from the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Brown-Waite, Ginny [FL-5] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.108 : Disabled Veterans Commissary and Exchange Store Benefits Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to extend military commissary and exchange store privileges to veterans with a compensable service-connected disability and to their dependents.

Sponsor: Rep Fortenberry, Jeff [NE-1] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (9)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 1/30/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.114 : Veterans Entrepreneurial Transition Business Benefit Act to allow veterans to elect to use, with the approval of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, certain financial educational assistance to establish and operate certain business, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Fortenberry, Jeff [NE-1] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.147 : Designate a Portion of Tax Payment for Homeless Vets. To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow taxpayers to designate a portion of their income tax payment to provide assistance to homeless veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Israel, Steve [NY-2] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (90)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 3/4/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12922516&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

________________________________________

H.R.161 : Social Security Beneficiary Tax Reduction Act to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the 1993 increase in taxes on Social Security benefits.

Sponsor: Rep Paul, Ron [TX-14] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (7)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.162 : Senior Citizens’ Tax Elimination Act to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the inclusion in gross income of Social Security benefits.

Sponsor: Rep Paul, Ron [TX-14] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.174 : Colorado Vet Cemetery. To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a national cemetery for veterans in the southern Colorado region.

Sponsor: Rep Salazar, John T. [CO-3] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (7)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 11/3/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

________________________________________

H.R.177 : Depleted Uranium Screening and Testing Act to provide for identification of members of the Armed Forces exposed during military service to depleted uranium, to provide for health testing of such members, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Serrano, Jose E. [NY-16] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 1/30/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.190 : Veterans Health Equity Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to ensure that veterans in each of the 48 contiguous States are able to receive services in at least one full-service hospital of the Veterans Health Administration in the State or receive comparable services provided by contract in the State. Companion Bill S.239.

Sponsor: Rep Shea-Porter, Carol [NH-1] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.198 : Health Care Tax Deduction Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow a deduction for amounts paid for health insurance and prescription drug costs of individuals.

Sponsor: Rep Stearns, Cliff [FL-6] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.208 : National Guardsmen and Reservists Parity for Patriots Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to ensure that members of the reserve components of the Armed Forces who have served on active duty or performed active service since September 11, 2001, in support of a contingency operation or in other emergency situations receive credit for such service in determining eligibility for early receipt of non-regular service retired pay, and for other purposes. Companion Bill S.644.

Sponsor: Rep Wilson, Joe [SC-2] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (147)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 1/30/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/vfw/dbq/officials and /or http://capwiz.com/ngaus/mail/compose/?mailid=13672261&azip=92571&bzip=7311

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H.R.210 : Vet Cemetery South Carolina Land Acquisition Study. To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to conduct a study on the acquisition of a parcel of land adjacent to Beaufort National Cemetery, Beaufort, South Carolina.

Sponsor: Rep Wilson, Joe [SC-2] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.217 : Vet Cemetery South Carolina Land Acquisition Purchase. To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to acquire a parcel of land adjacent to Beaufort National Cemetery, Beaufort, South Carolina.

Sponsor: Rep Wilson, Joe [SC-2] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.228 : Visual Impairment VA Scholarship Program to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a scholarship program for students seeking a degree or certificate in the areas of visual impairment and orientation and mobility.

Sponsor: Rep Jackson-Lee, Sheila [TX-18] (introduced 1/7/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/28/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Provisions of measure incorporated into H.R. 3949 .

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H.R.236 : Social Security Protection Act to amend the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 to protect Social Security beneficiaries against any reduction in benefits.

Sponsor: Rep Brown-Waite, Ginny [FL-5] (introduced 1/7/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Rules; House Budget

Latest Major Action: 1/7/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Rules, and in addition to the Committee on the Budget, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.237 : Military Retiree Health Care Relief Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow a refundable credit to military retirees for premiums paid for coverage under Medicare Part B.

Sponsor: Rep Emerson, Jo Ann [MO-8] (introduced 1/7/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/7/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12921516&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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H.R.247 : Protect Our Veterans Memorials Act of 2009 to amend section 1369 of title 18, United States Code, to extend Federal jurisdiction over destruction of veterans’ memorials on State or local government property.

Sponsor: Rep Green, Gene [TX-29] (introduced 1/7/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 2/9/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security.

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H.R.270 : TRICARE Continuity of Coverage for National Guard and Reserve Families Act of 2009 to amend title 10, United States Code, to provide for continuity of TRICARE Standard coverage for certain members of the Retired Reserve. Companion Bill S.731.

Sponsor: Rep Latta, Robert E. [OH-5] (introduced 1/7/2009) Cosponsors (72)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 1/30/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12923561&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id] or http://www.ngaus.org/content.asp?bid=1805&False&False

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H.R.293 : Homeless Women Veteran and Homeless Veterans with Children Reintegration Grant Program Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Labor to carry out a grant program to provide reintegration services through programs and facilities that emphasize services for homeless women veterans and homeless veterans with children.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 1/8/2009) Cosponsors (15)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/8/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.294 : Veteran Owned Small Business Promotion Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the reauthorization of the Department of Veterans Affairs small business loan program, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 1/8/2009) Cosponsors (19)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 9/24/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.295 : More Jobs for Veterans Act of 2009 to authorize appropriations for the veterans’ workforce investment programs.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 1/8/2009) Cosponsors (11)

Committees: House Education and Labor

Latest Major Action: 1/8/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Higher Education, Lifelong Learning, and Competitiveness.

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H.R.296 : Armed Forces Disability Retirement Enhancement Act of 2009 to amend title 10, United States Code, to revise the process by which a member of the Armed Forces is retired for disability and becomes eligible for retirement pay, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 1/8/2009) Cosponsors (7)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 1/30/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.297 : Veteran Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Subsistence Allowance Improvement Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for an increase in the amount of subsistence allowance payable by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to veterans participating in vocational rehabilitation programs, and for other purposes. Companion Bill S.514

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 1/8/2009) Cosponsors (10)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/4/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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

Sponsor: Rep Bilirakis, Gus M. [FL-9] (introduced 1/8/2009) Cosponsors (133)

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/30/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.309 : American Heroes’ Homeownership Assistance Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow certain current and former service members to receive a refundable credit for the purchase of a principal residence.

Sponsor: Rep Bilirakis, Gus M. [FL-9] (introduced 1/8/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/8/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.333 : Disabled Veterans Tax Termination Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to permit retired members of the Armed Forces who have a service-connected disability rated less than 50 percent to receive concurrent payment of both retired pay and veterans’ disability compensation, to eliminate the phase-in period for concurrent receipt, to extend eligibility for concurrent receipt to chapter 61 disability retirees with less than 20 years of service, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Marshall, Jim [GA-8] (introduced 1/8/2009) Cosponsors (156)

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/6/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12406456&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id] and http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12888756

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H.R.341 : Suspend Limitations Period for Tax Refund on VA Retroactive Payments. To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to suspend the running of periods of limitation for credit or refund of overpayment of Federal income tax by veterans while their service-connected compensation determinations are pending with the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Platts, Todd Russell [PA-19] (introduced 1/8/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/8/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.347 : Congressional Gold Medal Award. To grant the congressional gold medal, collectively, to the 100th Infantry Battalion and the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, United States Army, in recognition of their dedicated service during World War II.

Sponsor: Rep Schiff, Adam B. [CA-29] (introduced 1/8/2009) Cosponsors (297) – Related bill S.1055

Committees: House Financial Services; House Administration

Latest Major Action: 5/18/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.

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H.R.379 : State and Local Sales Tax Deduction Expansion Act to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to ensure that all taxpayers have the ability to deduct State and local general sales taxes. Companion Bill S.35.

Sponsor: Rep Blackburn, Marsha [TN-7] (introduced 1/9/2009) Cosponsors (26)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/9/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.394 : Medal of Honor Pension. To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to increase the amount of the Medal of Honor special pension provided under that title by up to $1,000.

Sponsor: Rep Brown, Henry E., Jr. [SC-1] (introduced 1/9/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/9/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

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H.R.403 : Homes for Heroes Act of 2009 to provide housing assistance for very low-income veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Green, Al [TX-9] (introduced 1/9/2009) Cosponsors (41)

Committees: House Financial Services; House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 6/17/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.

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H.R.423 : Samuel B. Moody Bataan Death March Compensation Act to provide compensation for certain World War II veterans who survived the Bataan Death March and were held as prisoners of war by the Japanese.

Sponsor: Rep Mica, John L. [FL-7] (introduced 1/9/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 2/6/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.433 : Ready Employers Willing to Assist Reservists’ Deployment (REWARD) Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow employers a credit against income tax equal to 50 percent of the compensation paid to employees while they are performing active duty service as members of the Ready Reserve or the National Guard and of the compensation paid to temporary replacement employees.

Sponsor: Rep Poe, Ted [TX-2] (introduced 1/9/2009) Cosponsors (40)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/9/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.442 : Veterans’ Heritage Firearms Act of 2009 to provide an amnesty period during which veterans and their family members can register certain firearms in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Rehberg, Denny [MT] (introduced 1/9/2009) Cosponsors (191)

Committees: House Judiciary; House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 2/9/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security.

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H.R.449 : Health Care for America’s Heroes Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to expand the availability of health care provided by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs by adjusting the income level for certain priority veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Sestak, Joe [PA-7] (introduced 1/9/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/9/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.456 : Disabled Veteran Small Business Eligibility Expansion Act of 2009 to amend the Small Business Act to make service-disabled veterans eligible under the 8(a) business development program.

Sponsor: Rep Wittman, Robert J. [VA-1] (introduced 1/9/2009) Cosponsors (5)

Committees: House Small Business

Latest Major Action: 1/9/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Small Business.

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H.R.466 : Wounded Veteran Job Security Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to prohibit discrimination and acts of reprisal against persons who receive treatment for illnesses, injuries, and disabilities incurred in or aggravated by service in the uniformed services.

Sponsor: Rep Doggett, Lloyd [TX-25] (introduced 1/13/2009) Cosponsors (8)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/9/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.482 : Frank Buckles World War I Memorial Act to authorize the rededication of the District of Columbia War Memorial as a National and District of Columbia World War I Memorial to honor the sacrifices made by American veterans of World War I.

Sponsor: Rep Poe, Ted [TX-2] (introduced 1/13/2009) Cosponsors (51)

Committees: House Natural Resources

Latest Major Action: 2/4/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests, and Public Lands.

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H.R.484 : Chiropractic Health Parity for Military Beneficiaries Act to require the Secretary of Defense to develop and implement a plan to provide chiropractic health care services and benefits for certain new beneficiaries as part of the TRICARE program.

Sponsor: Rep Rogers, Mike D. [AL-3] (introduced 1/13/2009) Cosponsors (45)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 2/6/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.531 : Social Security Number Fraudulent Use Notification Act of 2009 to amend title II of the Social Security Act to require that the Commissioner of Social Security notify individuals of improper use of their Social Security account numbers.

Sponsor: Rep Myrick, Sue Wilkins [NC-9] (introduced 1/14/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/14/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.568 : Veterans Health Care Quality Improvement Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the quality of care provided to veterans in Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities, to encourage highly qualified doctors to serve in hard-to-fill positions in such medical facilities, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Costello, Jerry F. [IL-12] (introduced 1/15/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Oversight and Government Reform

Latest Major Action: 1/15/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.593 : CRSC for DoD Disability Severances Pay. To amend title 10, United States Code, to expand the authorized concurrent receipt of disability severance pay from the Department of Defense and compensation for the same disability under any law administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs to cover all veterans who have a combat-related disability, as defined under section 1413a of such title.

Sponsor: Rep Smith, Adam [WA-9] (introduced 1/15/2009) Cosponsors (44)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 2/6/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12918951&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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H.R.612 : Disabled Veterans Insurance Act of 2009 to amend section 1922A of title 38, United States Code, to increase the amount of supplemental insurance available for totally disabled veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Jones, Walter B., Jr. [NC-3] (introduced 1/21/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/21/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.613 : Military Retiree Survivor Comfort Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to provide for forgiveness of certain overpayments of retired pay paid to deceased retired members of the Armed Forces following their death.

Sponsor: Rep Jones, Walter B., Jr. [NC-3] (introduced 1/21/2009) Cosponsors (62)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 2/6/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12489731&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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H.R.620 : Jobs for Veterans Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow an increased work opportunity credit with respect to recent veterans.

Sponsor: Rep King, Peter T. [NY-3] (introduced 1/21/2009) Cosponsors (14) Related Bill: H.R.4443

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/21/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.627 : Credit Cardholders’ Bill of Rights Act of 2009 to amend the Truth in Lending Act to establish fair and transparent practices relating to the extension of credit under an open end consumer credit plan, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Maloney, Carolyn B. [NY-14] (introduced 1/22/2009) Cosponsors (128) Related Bill S.235 Companion Bill S.414

Committees: House Financial Services

House Reports: 111-88

Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 111-24

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H.R.656 : Unemployed Early Retirement Plan Withdrawal without Penalty. To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow certain individuals who have attained age 50 and who are unemployed to receive distributions from qualified retirement plans without incurring a 10 percent additional tax.

Sponsor: Rep Platts, Todd Russell [PA-19] (introduced 1/22/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/22/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.667 : Heroes at Home Act of 2009 to improve the diagnosis and treatment of traumatic brain injury in members and former members of the Armed Forces, to review and expand telehealth and telemental health programs of the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Salazar, John T. [CO-3] (introduced 1/23/2009) Cosponsors (46)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 2/6/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.668 : Critical Access Hospital Flexibility Act of 2009 to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide flexibility in the manner in which beds are counted for purposes of determining whether a hospital may be designated as a critical access hospital under the Medicare Program and to exempt from the critical access hospital inpatient bed limitation the number of beds provided for certain veterans. Companion Bill S.307

Sponsor: Rep Walden, Greg [OR-2] (introduced 1/23/2009) Cosponsors (10)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/23/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.671 : In Memory Medal for Forgotten Veterans Act to direct the Secretary of Defense to issue a medal to certain veterans who died after their service in the Vietnam War as a direct result of that service.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 1/26/2009) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 2/6/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.731 : Jenny’s Law to amend title 38, United States Code, to exclude individuals who have been convicted of committing certain sex offenses from receiving certain burial-related benefits and funeral honors which are otherwise available to certain veterans, members of the Armed Forces, and related individuals, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Shadegg, John B. [AZ-3] (introduced 1/27/2009) Cosponsors (26)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/27/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.746 : Safeguarding America’s Seniors and Veterans Act of 2009 to provide for economic recovery payments to recipients of Social Security, railroad retirement, and veterans disability benefits.

Sponsor: Rep Adler, John H. [NJ-3] (introduced 1/28/2009) Cosponsors (11)

Committees: House Ways and Means; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/28/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Ways and Means, and in addition to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.761 : Parental Burial in National Cemeteries (Corey Shea Act). To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the eligibility of parents of certain deceased veterans for interment in national cemeteries.

Sponsor: Rep Frank, Barney [MA-4] (introduced 1/28/2009) Cosponsors (3) Related Bill H.R.3949

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/28/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Provisions of measure incorporated into H.R.3949 .

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H.R.775 : Military Surviving Spouses Equity Act to repeal the requirement for reduction of survivor annuities under the Survivor Benefit Plan to offset the receipt of veterans dependency and indemnity compensation.

Sponsor: Rep Ortiz, Solomon P. [TX-27] (introduced 1/28/2009) Cosponsors (345) Companion Bill S.535

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 3/15/2010 Motion to Discharge Committee filed by Mr. Jones. Petition No: 111-10.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12541746

To support the Discharge Petition send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=14825891&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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H.R.784 : VA Reports to Congress. To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to submit to Congress quarterly reports on vacancies in mental health professional positions in Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities.

Sponsor: Rep Tsongas, Niki [MA-5] (introduced 1/28/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/3/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.785 : VA Outreach Training. To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program to provide outreach and training to certain college and university mental health centers relating to the mental health of veterans of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, and for other purposes. Companion Bill S.543

Sponsor: Rep Tsongas, Niki [MA-5] (introduced 1/28/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/3/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.806 : TRICARE Mail-Order Pharmacy Pilot Program Act to establish a mail-order pharmacy pilot program for TRICARE beneficiaries.

Sponsor: Rep Bilirakis, Gus M. [FL-9] (introduced 2/3/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 2/24/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.809 : Widow Remarriage Age Decrease for DIC. To amend title 38, United States Code, to reduce from age 57 to age 55 the age after which the remarriage of the surviving spouse of a deceased veteran shall not result in termination of dependency and indemnity compensation otherwise payable to that surviving spouse.

Sponsor: Rep Bilirakis, Gus M. [FL-9] (introduced 2/3/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/3/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/moaa/issues/bills/?bill=12993371

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H.R.811 : Retired Pay Restoration Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to permit certain retired members of the uniformed services who have a service-connected disability to receive both disability compensation from the Department of Veterans Affairs for their disability and either retired pay by reason of their years of military service or Combat-Related Special Compensation. Companion Bill S.546

Sponsor: Rep Bilirakis, Gus M. [FL-9] (introduced 2/3/2009) Cosponsors (6)

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/24/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.816 : Military Retirees Health Care Protection Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to prohibit certain increases in fees for military health care.

Sponsor: Rep Edwards, Chet [TX-17] (introduced 2/3/2009) Cosponsors (199)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 2/24/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12591151&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id] or http://capwiz.com/moaa/issues/bills/?bill=12603596 or http://capwiz.com/naus/issues/alert/?alertid=12607551 or http://capwiz.com/trea/issues/alert/?alertid=12710751

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H.R.819 : POW DIC Eligibility Date. To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the payment of dependency and indemnity compensation to the survivors of former prisoners of war who died on or before September 30, 1999, under the same eligibility conditions as apply to payment of dependency and indemnity compensation to the survivors of former prisoners of war who die after that date.

Sponsor: Rep Holden, Tim [PA-17] (introduced 2/3/2009) Cosponsors (17)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/3/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.870 : Medicare Medically Necessary Dental Care Act of 2009 to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide for coverage under part B for medically necessary dental procedures.

Sponsor: Rep Cohen, Steve [TN-9] (introduced 2/4/2009) Cosponsors (17)

Committees: House Energy and Commerce; House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 2/4/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.879 : Affordable Health Care Expansion Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow individuals a refundable credit against income tax for the purchase of private health insurance.

Sponsor: Rep Granger, Kay [TX-12] (introduced 2/4/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 2/4/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.883 : Social Security 1993 Tax Increase Repeal. To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the 1993 increase in income taxes on Social Security benefits.

Sponsor: Rep King, Peter T. [NY-3] (introduced 2/4/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 2/4/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.917 : Combat-Related Injury Death Dependent Health Benefits. To increase the health benefits of dependents of members of the Armed Forces who die because of a combat-related injury.

Sponsor: Rep Guthrie, Brett [KY-2] (introduced 2/9/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.919 : Veterans’ Medical Personnel Recruitment and Retention Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to enhance the capacity of the Department of Veterans Affairs to recruit and retain nurses and other critical health-care professionals, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Johnson, Eddie Bernice [TX-30] (introduced 2/9/2009) Cosponsors (7)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/9/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.929 : VA Vet Training Program. To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a program of training to provide eligible veterans with skills relevant to the job market, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Welch, Peter [VT] (introduced 2/9/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/4/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.931 : Veterans Employment Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow the work opportunity credit with respect to certain unemployed veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Nye, Glenn C., III [VA-2] (introduced 2/10/2009) Cosponsors (None) Related bill: H.R.4443

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 2/10/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.942 : Veterans Self-Employment Act of 2009 to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to conduct a pilot project on the use of educational assistance under programs of the Department of Veterans Affairs to defray training costs associated with the purchase of certain franchise enterprises.

Sponsor: Rep Alexander, Rodney [LA-5] (introduced 2/10/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/3/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee (Amended) by Voice Vote .

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H.R.944 : Prisoner of War Benefits Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide improved benefits for veterans who are former prisoners of war.

Sponsor: Rep Bilirakis, Gus M. [FL-9] (introduced 2/10/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/10/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.950 : Vet Distance Learning Assistance. To amend chapter 33 of title 38, United States Code, to increase educational assistance for certain veterans pursuing a program of education offered through distance learning.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 2/10/2009) Cosponsors (28)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/4/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Ordered to be Reported (Amended) by Voice Vote.

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H.R.952 : Compensation Owed for Mental Health Based on Activities in Theater Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to clarify the meaning of “combat with the enemy” for purposes of service-connection of disabilities.

Sponsor: Rep Hall, John J. [NY-19] (introduced 2/10/2009) Cosponsors (95)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/10/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Ordered to be Reported (Amended) by Voice Vote.

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H.R.953 : Veterans Travel Tax Relief Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide for a deduction for travel expenses to medical centers of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with examinations or treatments relating to service-connected disabilities.

Sponsor: Rep Heller, Dean [NV-2] (introduced 2/10/2009) Cosponsors (68)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 2/10/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.954 : Social Security Benefits Fairness Act of 2009 to amend title II of the Social Security Act to provide that a monthly insurance benefit thereunder shall be paid for the month in which the recipient dies, subject to a reduction of 50 percent if the recipient dies during the first 15 days of such month, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Holden, Tim [PA-17] (introduced 2/10/2009) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 2/10/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.972 : Retired Reserve Age for Health Benefits. To amend title 10, United States Code, to eliminate the requirement that certain former members of the reserve components of the Armed Forces be at least 60 years of age in order to be eligible to receive health care benefits.

Sponsor: Rep Wilson, Joe [SC-2] (introduced 2/10/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 3/17/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/moaa/issues/bills/?bill=12992881

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H.R.1004 : Veterans Health Care Full Funding Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide an enhanced funding process to ensure an adequate level of funding for veterans health care programs of the Department of Veterans Affairs, to establish standards of access to care for veterans seeking health care from the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Smith, Christopher H. [NJ-4] (introduced 2/11/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/11/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.1016 : Veterans Health Care Budget Reform and Transparency Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide advance appropriations authority for certain medical care accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 2/12/2009) Cosponsors (125)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

House Reports: 111-171

Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 111-81

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12704096

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H.R.1017 : Chiropractic Care Available to All Veterans Act to amend the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Programs Enhancement Act of 2001 and title 38, United States Code, to require the provision of chiropractic care and services to veterans at all Department of Veterans Affairs medical centers and to expand access to such care and services.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 2/12/2009) Cosponsors (37) Related bill S.1204

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/25/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.1034 : Honor and Remember Flag. To amend title 36, United States Code, to designate the Honor and Remember Flag created by Honor and Remember, Inc., as an official symbol to recognize and honor members of the Armed Forces who died in the line of duty, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Forbes, J. Randy [VA-4] (introduced 2/12/2009) Cosponsors (19)

Committees: House Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 3/16/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on the Constitution, Civil Rights, and Civil Liberties.

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H.R.1036 : Veterans Physical Therapy Services Improvement Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish the position of Director of Physical Therapy Service within the Veterans Health Administration and to establish a fellowship program for physical therapists in the areas of geriatrics, amputee rehabilitation, polytrauma care, and rehabilitation research.

Sponsor: Rep Herseth Sandlin, Stephanie [SD] (introduced 2/12/2009) Cosponsors (27)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/1/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.1037 : Pilot College Work Study Programs for Veterans Act of 2009 to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to conduct a five-year pilot project to test the feasibility and advisability of expanding the scope of certain qualifying work-study activities under title 38, United States Code.

Sponsor: Rep Herseth Sandlin, Stephanie [SD] (introduced 2/12/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

House Reports: 111-162

Latest Major 10/7/2009 Passed/agreed to in Senate. Status: Passed Senate with an amendment by Unanimous Consent.

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H.R.1038 : Shingles Prevention Act to amend part B of title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide coverage for the shingles vaccine under the Medicare Program.

Sponsor: Rep Hirono, Mazie K. [HI-2] (introduced 2/12/2009) Cosponsors (12)

Committees: House Energy and Commerce; House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 2/12/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.1042 : Enemy POW Hospitalization Policy. To prohibit the provision of medical treatment to enemy combatants detained by the United States at Naval Station, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, in the same facility as a member of the Armed Forces or Department of Veterans Affairs medical facility.

Sponsor: Rep Miller, Jeff [FL-1] (introduced 2/12/2009) Cosponsors (9)

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/13/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.1075 : Restoring Essential Care for Our Veterans for Effective Recovery (RECOVER) Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to expand access to hospital care for veterans in major disaster areas, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Scalise, Steve [LA-1] (introduced 2/13/2009) Cosponsors (19)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/25/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.1088 : Mandatory Veteran Specialist Training Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for a one-year period for the training of new disabled veterans’ outreach program specialists and local veterans’ employment representatives by National Veterans’ Employment and Training Services Institute.

Sponsor: Rep Herseth Sandlin, Stephanie [SD] (introduced 2/13/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/20/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.1089 : Veterans Employment Rights to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the enforcement through the Office of Special Counsel of the employment and unemployment rights of veterans and members of the Armed Forces employed by Federal executive agencies, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Herseth Sandlin, Stephanie [SD] (introduced 2/13/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/20/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.1098 : Veterans’ Worker Retraining Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to increase the amount of educational assistance payable by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to certain individuals pursuing internships or on-job training.

Sponsor: Rep Perriello, Thomas S.P. [VA-5] (introduced 2/13/2009) Cosponsors (12)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/10/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Ordered to be Reported (Amended) by Voice Vote.

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H.R.1114 : National Cemetery Availability. To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a process for determining whether a geographic area is sufficiently served by the national cemeteries located in that geographic area.

Sponsor: Rep Rehberg, Denny [MT] (introduced 2/23/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/23/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.1163 : Establish Nebraska National Cemetery. To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a national cemetery in the Sarpy County region to serve veterans in eastern Nebraska, western Iowa, and northwest Missouri.

Sponsor: Rep Terry, Lee [NE-2] (introduced 2/24/2009) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 2/24/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.1168 : Veterans Retraining Act of 2009 to amend chapter 42 of title 38, United States Code, to provide certain veterans with employment training assistance.

Sponsor: Rep Boozman, John [AR-3] (introduced 2/25/2009) Cosponsors (5)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 11/3/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.1169 : VA Adapted Housing/Automobile Assistance. To amend title 38, United States Code, to increase the amount of assistance provided by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to disabled veterans for specially adapted housing and automobiles and adapted equipment.

Sponsor: Rep Boozman, John [AR-3] (introduced 2/25/2009) Cosponsors (8)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/4/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Ordered to be Reported by Voice Vote.

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H.R.1170 : Adapted Housing Technology Grants. To amend chapter 21 of title 38, United States Code, to establish a grant program to encourage the development of new assistive technologies for specially adapted housing.

Sponsor: Rep Boozman, John [AR-3] (introduced 2/25/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/20/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.1171 : Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program Reauthorization Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to reauthorize the Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program for fiscal years 2010 through 2014.

Sponsor: Rep Boozman, John [AR-3] (introduced 2/25/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/31/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.1172 : VA Website Scholarship Info Addition. To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to include on the Internet website of the Department of Veterans Affairs a list of organizations that provide scholarships to veterans and their survivors.

Sponsor: Rep Boozman, John [AR-3] (introduced 2/25/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

House Reports: 111-164

Latest Major Action: 6/24/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.1182 : Military Spouses Residency Relief Act to amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to guarantee the equity of spouses of military personnel with regard to matters of residency, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Carter, John R. [TX-31] (introduced 2/25/2009) Cosponsors (208)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/8/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote .

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H.R.1197 : Medal of Honor Health Care Equity Act of 2009 to assign a higher priority status for hospital care and medical services provided through the Department of Veterans Affairs to certain veterans who are recipients of the medal of honor.

Sponsor: Rep Mitchell, Harry E. [AZ-5] (introduced 2/25/2009) Cosponsors (15)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/9/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote.

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H.R.1203 : Federal and Military Retiree Health Care Equity Act to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow Federal civilian and military retirees to pay health insurance premiums on a pretax basis and to allow a deduction for TRICARE supplemental premiums. Companion Bill S.491

Sponsor: Rep Van Hollen, Chris [MD-8] (introduced 2/25/2009) Cosponsors (214)

Committees: House Ways and Means; House Oversight and Government Reform; House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/26/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Federal Workforce, Post Office, and the District of Columbia.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12787701&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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H.R.1211: Women Veterans Health Care Improvement Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and improve health care services available to women veterans, especially those serving in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, from the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. Companion Bill S.597

Sponsor: Rep Herseth Sandlin, Stephanie [SD] (introduced 2/26/2009) Cosponsors (51)

House Reports: 111-165

Latest Major Action: 6/24/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12833716&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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H.R.1232 : Far South Texas Veterans Medical Center Act of 2009 to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to construct a full service hospital in Far South Texas.

Sponsor: Rep Ortiz, Solomon P. [TX-27] (introduced 2/26/2009) Cosponsors (6)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/26/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.1263 : Federal Retirement Reform Act of 2009 to amend title 5, United States Code, to provide for the automatic enrollment of new participants in the Thrift Savings Plan, and to clarify the method for computing certain annuities based on part-time service; to allow certain employees of the District of Columbia to have certain periods of service credited for purposes relating to retirement eligibility; and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Lynch, Stephen F. [MA-9] (introduced 3/3/2009) Cosponsors (5)

Committees: House Oversight and Government Reform; House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 3/3/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.1289 : Social Security Fairness for the Terminally Ill Act of 2009 to amend title II of the Social Security Act to eliminate the five-month waiting period in the disability insurance program, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Wilson, Charles A. [OH-6] (introduced 3/3/2009) Cosponsors (14)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 3/3/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.1293 : Disabled Veterans Home Improvement and Structural Alteration Grant Increase Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for an increase in the amount payable by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to veterans for improvements and structural alterations furnished as part of home health services.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 3/4/2009) Cosponsors (16)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/29/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.1305 : Perpetual Purple Heart Stamp Act to provide for the issuance of a forever stamp to honor the sacrifices of the brave men and women of the armed forces who have been awarded the Purple Heart. Companion Bill S.572

Sponsor: Rep King, Peter T. [NY-3] (introduced 3/4/2009) Cosponsors (82)

Committees: House Oversight and Government Reform

Latest Major Action: 3/4/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.

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H.R.1317 : Mortgage Payment Tax Credit. To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide a tax credit to individuals who pay their mortgages on time.

Sponsor: Rep Shuster, Bill [PA-9] (introduced 3/4/2009) Cosponsors (14)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 3/4/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.1335 : VA Catastrophically Disabled Copay. To amend title 38, United States Code, to prohibit the Secretary of Veterans Affairs from collecting certain copayments from veterans who are catastrophically disabled.

Sponsor: Rep Halvorson, Deborah L. [IL-11] (introduced 3/5/2009) Cosponsors (40)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/9/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee (Amended) by Voice Vote.

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H.R.1336 : Veterans Education Improvement Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain improvements in the basic educational assistance program administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Herseth Sandlin, Stephanie [SD] (introduced 3/5/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1377 : VA Emergency Treatment Reimbursement to amend title 38, United States Code, to expand veteran eligibility for reimbursement by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs for emergency treatment furnished in a non-Department facility, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 3/6/2009) Cosponsors (2) Companion Bill S.404.

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 111-137

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H.R.1388 : Generations Invigorating Volunteerism and Education (GIVE) Act to reauthorize and reform the national service laws. Passed 321-105 and placed on the Senate calendar.

Sponsor: Rep McCarthy, Carolyn [NY-4] (introduced 3/9/2009) Cosponsors (37) Related Bills: H.RES.250, H.RES.296, S.277

Committees: House Education and Labor,

House Reports: 111-37

Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 111-13

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H.R.1401 : VET Corps Act of 2009 to create a service corps of veterans called Veterans Engaged for Tomorrow (VET) Corps focused on promoting and improving the service opportunities for veterans and retired members of the military by engaging such veterans and retired members in projects designed to meet identifiable public needs with a specific emphasis on projects to support veterans, including disabled and older veterans and retired members of the military.

Sponsor: Rep Sarbanes, John P. [MD-3] (introduced 3/9/2009) Cosponsors (14)

Committees: House Education and Labor

Latest Major Action: 4/29/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Healthy Families and Communities.

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H.R.1416 : Southern New Jersey Veterans Comprehensive Health Care Act to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to expand the capability of the Department of Veterans Affairs to provide for the medical-care needs of veterans in southern New Jersey.

Sponsor: Rep LoBiondo, Frank A. [NJ-2] (introduced 3/10/2009) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/13/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.1428 : VA Parkinson’s Disease Compensation. To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide wartime disability compensation for certain veterans with Parkinson’s disease.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 3/11/2009) Cosponsors (84)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/13/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12986021&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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H.R.1474 : Servicemembers Access to Justice Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the enforcement of the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act of 1994, and for other purposes. Companion Bill S.263.

Sponsor: Rep Davis, Artur [AL-7] (introduced 3/12/2009) Cosponsors (28)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Armed Services; House Oversight and Government Reform

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1478 : Carmelo Rodriguez Military Medical Accountability Act of 2009 to amend chapter 171 of title 28, United States Code, to allow members of the Armed Forces to sue the United States for damages for certain injuries caused by improper medical care, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Hinchey, Maurice D. [NY-22] (introduced 3/12/2009) Cosponsors (12)

Committees: House Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 4/26/2010 Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 267.

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H.R.1496 : Child Health Care Affordability Act to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow individuals a credit against income tax for medical expenses for dependents.

Sponsor: Rep Paul, Ron [TX-14] (introduced 3/12/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 3/12/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.1513 : Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2009 to increase, effective as of December 1, 2009, the rates of disability compensation for veterans with service-connected disabilities and the rates of dependency and indemnity compensation for survivors of certain service-connected disabled veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Kirkpatrick, Ann [AZ-1] (introduced 3/16/2009) Cosponsors (10) Related bill S.407

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/31/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=13048376&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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H.R.1519 : Social Security Benefits Tax Relief Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the 1993 income tax increase on Social Security benefits.

Sponsor: Rep Johnson, Sam [TX-3] (introduced 3/16/2009) Cosponsors (8)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 3/16/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.1522 : United States Cadet Nurse Corps Equity Act to provide that service of the members of the organization known as the United States Cadet Nurse Corps during World War II constituted active military service for purposes of laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Lowey, Nita M. [NY-18] (introduced 3/16/2009) Cosponsors (25)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 5/22/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.1532 : CMOH Statute of Limitations Elimination. To amend title 10, United States Code, to eliminate the statute of limitations on the award of the congressional medal of honor.

Sponsor: Rep Sestak, Joe [PA-7] (introduced 3/16/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1544 : Veterans Mental Health Accessibility Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for unlimited eligibility for health care for mental illnesses for veterans of combat service during certain periods of hostilities and war.

Sponsor: Rep Driehaus, Steve [OH-1] (introduced 3/17/2009) Cosponsors (7)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/17/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.1546 : Caring for Veterans with Traumatic Brain Injury Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish the Committee on Care of Veterans with Traumatic Brain Injury.

Sponsor: Rep McNerney, Jerry [CA-11] (introduced 3/17/2009) Cosponsors (8)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/9/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote .

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H.R.1592 : Pay Increase Guarantee. To amend title 37, United States Code, to guarantee a pay increase for members of the uniformed services for fiscal years 2011 through 2014 of one-half of one percentage point higher than the Employment Cost Index.

Sponsor: Rep Bilirakis, Gus M. [FL-9] (introduced 3/18/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/moaa/issues/bills/?bill=13002241

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H.R.1600 : TRICARE Autism Care. To amend title 10, United States Code, to provide for the treatment of autism under TRICARE.

Sponsor: Rep Sestak, Joe [PA-7] (introduced 3/18/2009) Cosponsors (23)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1647 : Veterans’ Employment Transition Support Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow employers a credit against income tax for hiring veterans.

Sponsor: Rep McCotter, Thaddeus G. [MI-11] (introduced 3/19/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 3/19/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.1657 : Notification of Exposure to Harmful Material/Contaminants. To direct the Secretary of Defense to notify members of the Armed Forces and State military departments of exposure to potentially harmful materials and contaminants.

Sponsor: Rep Schrader, Kurt [OR-5] (introduced 3/19/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1658 : Veterans Healthcare Commitment Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to prohibit the recovery by the United States of charges from a third party for hospital care or medical services furnished to a veteran for a service-connected disability.

Sponsor: Rep Tiahrt, Todd [KS-4] (introduced 3/19/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/19/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.1681 : Veterans Transitional Assistance Act of 2009 to improve the coordination between the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs to better provide care to members and the Armed Forces and veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Boswell, Leonard L. [IA-3] (introduced 3/24/2009) Cosponsors (17)

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1694 : Revolutionary War and War of 1812 Battlefield Protection Act to authorize the acquisition and protection of nationally significant battlefields and associated sites of the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812 under the American Battlefield Protection Program.

Sponsor: Rep Holt, Rush D. [NJ-12] (introduced 3/24/2009) Cosponsors (12) Related Bill S.1168

Committees: House Natural Resources; Senate Energy and Natural Resources

Latest Major Action: 3/2/2010 Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 302.

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H.R.1695 : Reserve Retired Pay Age Reduction. To amend title 10, United States Code, to reduce the minimum age for receipt of military retired pay for non-regular service from 60 to 55.

Sponsor: Rep LoBiondo, Frank A. [NJ-2] (introduced 3/24/2009) Cosponsors (49)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1701 : PTSD/TBI Guaranteed Review For Heroes Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Defense to establish a special review board for certain former members of the Armed Forces with post-traumatic stress disorder or a traumatic brain injury, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Jones, Walter B., Jr. [NC-3] (introduced 3/25/2009) Cosponsors (11)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1708 : Ending the Medicare Disability Waiting Period Act of 2009 to amend title II of the Social Security Act to phase out the 24-month waiting period for disabled individuals to become eligible for Medicare benefits, to eliminate the waiting period for individuals with life-threatening conditions, and for other purposes. Companion Bill S.700.

Sponsor: Rep Green, Gene [TX-29] (introduced 3/25/2009) Cosponsors (111)

Committees: House Ways and Means; House Energy and Commerce; House Transportation and Infrastructure

Latest Major Action: 3/26/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials.

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H.R.1712 : Savings for Seniors Act of 2009 to amend title II of the Social Security Act to establish a Social Security Surplus Protection Account in the Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund to hold the Social Security surplus, to provide for suspension of investment of amounts held in the Account until enactment of legislation providing for investment of the Trust Fund in investment vehicles other than obligations of the United States, and to establish a Social Security Investment Commission to make recommendations for alternative forms of investment of the Social Security surplus in the Trust Fund.

Sponsor: Rep Blackburn, Marsha [TN-7] (introduced 3/25/2009) Cosponsors (21)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 3/25/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.1716 : Property Tax Relief Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow the deduction for real property taxes on the principal residences to all individuals whether or not they itemize other deductions.

Sponsor: Rep Hill, Baron P. [IN-9] (introduced 3/25/2009) Cosponsors (12)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 3/25/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.1767 : Fair Housing Tax Credit Extension Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to make the first-time homebuyer credit retroactive to the beginning of 2008 and to permanently extend the credit.

Sponsor: Rep Paul, Ron [TX-14] (introduced 3/26/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 3/26/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.1804 : Federal Retirement Reform Act of 2009 to amend title 5, United States Code, to make certain modifications in the Thrift Savings Plan, the Civil Service Retirement System, and the Federal Employees’ Retirement System, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Towns, Edolphus [NY-10] (introduced 3/31/2009) Cosponsors (4) Related Bill H.R.108

Committees: House Oversight and Government Reform; House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/2/2009 Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 307 , H.R. 1804 is laid on the table.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=13048556&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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H.R.1809 : TRICARE Prime Geographic Expansion. To amend title 10, United States Code, to expand the geographical coverage of TRICARE Prime to include Puerto Rico and Guam.

Sponsor: Rep Pierluisi, Pedro R. [PR] (introduced 3/31/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1818 : Disabled Veterans Commissary and Exchange Store Benefits Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to extend military commissary and exchange store privileges to veterans with a compensable service-connected disability and to their dependents.

Sponsor: Rep Burton, Dan [IN-5] (introduced 3/31/2009) Cosponsors (18)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1849 : World War I Memorial and Centennial Act of 2009 to designate the Liberty Memorial at the National World War I Museum in Kansas City, Missouri, as the National World War I Memorial, to establish the World War I centennial commission to ensure a suitable observance of the centennial of World War I, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Cleaver, Emanuel [MO-5] (introduced 4/1/2009) Cosponsors (101) Related Bill S.760

Committees: House Oversight and Government Reform; House Natural Resources

Latest Major Action: 11/6/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.

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H.R.1851 : DOL Transitional Services. To amend title 10, United States Code, to require that certain members of the Armed Forces receive employment assistance, job training assistance, and other transitional services provided by the Secretary of Labor before separating from active duty service.

Sponsor: Rep Herseth Sandlin, Stephanie [SD] (introduced 4/1/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1872 : Secure Electronic Military Separation Act to require the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, to develop and implement a secure electronic method of forwarding the Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty (DD Form 214) to the appropriate office of the Department of Veterans Affairs for the State or other locality in which a member of the Armed Forces will first reside after the discharge or release of the member from active duty.

Sponsor: Rep Space, Zachary T. [OH-18] (introduced 4/2/2009) Cosponsors (14)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1879 : National Guard Employment Protection Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for employment and reemployment rights for certain individuals ordered to full-time National Guard duty.

Sponsor: Rep Coffman, Mike [CO-6] (introduced 4/2/2009) Cosponsors (20)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/10/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Ordered to be Reported (Amended) by Voice Vote.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via www.ngaus.org/content.asp?bid=1805

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H.R.1902 : Providing Real Outreach for Veterans Act of 2009 to provide veterans with individualized notice about available benefits, to streamline application processes for the benefits, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Brown-Waite, Ginny [FL-5] (introduced 4/2/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1919 : Federal Withholding Tax Repeal Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the withholding of income and social security taxes.

Sponsor: Rep Foxx, Virginia [NC-5] (introduced 4/2/2009) Cosponsors (12)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 4/2/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.1963 : Military Separation Transitional Services. To amend title 10, United States Code, to ensure that members of the Armed Forces who are being separated from active duty receive comprehensive employment assistance, job training assistance, and other transitional services, to require that such members receive a psychological evaluation in addition to the physical examination they receive as part of their separation from active duty, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Rangel, Charles B. [NY-15] (introduced 4/2/2009) Cosponsors (10)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.1982 : Veterans Entitlement to Service (VETS) Act of 2009 to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to acknowledge the receipt of medical, disability, and pension claims and other communications submitted by veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Kilpatrick, Carolyn C. [MI-13] (introduced 4/21/2009) Cosponsors (9)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/22/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.1994 : Citizen Soldier Equality Act of 2009 to amend title 10, United States Code, to provide equity between active and reserve component members of the Armed Forces in the computation of disability retired pay for members wounded in action.

Sponsor: Rep Davis, Geoff [KY-4] (introduced 4/21/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/21/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Armed Services.

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H.R.2014 : WASP Gold Medal Award. To award a congressional gold medal to the Women Airforce Service Pilots (“WASP”).

Sponsor: Rep Ros-Lehtinen, Ileana [FL-18] (introduced 4/21/2009) Cosponsors (337) Companion Bill S.614

Committees: House Financial Services; House Administration

Latest Major Action: 4/21/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Financial Services, and in addition to the Committee on House Administration, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.2017 : MOAA Federal Charter. To amend title 36, United States Code, to grant a Federal charter to the Military Officers Association of America, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Van Hollen, Chris [MD-8] (introduced 4/21/2009) Cosponsors (140) Companion Bill S.832 Related Bill S.1449

Committees: House Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 5/26/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Immigration, Citizenship, Refugees, Border Security, and International Law.

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H.R.2059 : SBP Disabled Child Trust. To amend title 10, United States Code, to provide for the payment of monthly annuities under the Survivor Benefit Plan to a supplemental or special needs trust established for the sole benefit of a disabled dependent child of a participant in the Survivor Benefit Plan.

Sponsor: Rep Foster, Bill [IL-14] (introduced 4/23/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 5/15/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.2127 : Veterans Travel Equity Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to eliminate the income eligibility and service-connected disability rating requirements for the veterans beneficiary travel program administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Souder, Mark E. [IN-3] (introduced 4/27/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/1/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.2138 : Services, Education, and Rehabilitation for Veterans Act to provide grants to establish veteran’s treatment courts.

Sponsor: Rep Kennedy, Patrick J. [RI-1] (introduced 4/28/2009) Cosponsors (34) Related Bill S.902

Committees: House Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 5/26/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Courts and Competition Policy.

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H.R.2180 : Disabled Vet Housing Loan Fee Waiver. To amend title 38, United States Code, to waive housing loan fees for certain veterans with service-connected disabilities called to active service.

Sponsor: Rep Teague, Harry [NM-2] (introduced 4/29/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

House Reports: 111-163

Latest Major Action: 6/18/2009 Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 81.

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H.R.2243 : Surviving Spouses Benefit Improvement Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for an increase in the amount of monthly dependency and indemnity compensation payable to surviving spouses by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 5/5/2009) Cosponsors (77)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/8/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=13303636&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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H.R.2244 : Single Parent Protection Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow an individual who is entitled to receive child support a refundable credit equal to the amount of unpaid child support and to increase the tax liability of the individual required to pay such support by the amount of the unpaid child support.

Sponsor: Rep Lofgren, Zoe [CA-16] (introduced 5/5/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 5/5/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.2254 : The Agent Orange Equity Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to clarify presumptions relating to the exposure of certain veterans who served in the vicinity of the Republic of Vietnam.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 5/5/2009) Cosponsors (257)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/8/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=13301656&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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H.R.2257 : Veterans Outreach Improvement Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the outreach activities of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Johnson, Eddie B [TX-30] (introduced 5/5/2009) Cosponsors (None) – Related Bill S.315

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/5/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.2263 : Disability Equity Act to amend title II of the Social Security Act to eliminate the waiting periods for people with disabilities for entitlement to disability benefits and Medicare, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Sutton, Betty [OH-13] (introduced 5/5/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 5/5/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.2270 : Benefits for Qualified World War II Veterans Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the establishment of a compensation fund to make payments to qualified World War II veterans on the basis of certain qualifying service.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 5/6/2009) Cosponsors (6)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/3/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote .

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H.R.2302 : Military Retired Pay Fairness Act of 2009 to amend title 10, United States Code, to limit recoupments of separation pay, special separation benefits, and voluntary separation incentive from members of the Armed Forces subsequently receiving retired or retainer pay.

Sponsor: Rep Shea-Porter, Carol [NH-1] (introduced 5/7/2009) Cosponsors (5) Companion bill S.1008

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/8/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=13682556&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id] or http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=13967481&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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H.R.2342 : Wounded Warrior Project Family Caregiver Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a family caregiver program to furnish support services to family members certified as family caregivers who provide personal care services for certain disabled veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Michaud, Michael H. [ME-2] (introduced 5/11/2009) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/15/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.2365 : Consumer Price Index for Elderly Consumers Act of 2009 to require the establishment of a Consumer Price Index for Elderly Consumers to compute cost-of-living increases for Social Security and Medicare benefits under titles II and XVIII of the Social Security Act.

Sponsor: Rep DeFazio, Peter A. [OR-4] (introduced 5/12/2009) Cosponsors (60)

Committees: House Ways and Means; House Energy and Commerce; House Education and Labor

Latest Major Action: 5/12/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Ways and Means, and in addition to the Committees on Energy and Commerce, and Education and Labor, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.2379 : Veterans’ Group Life Insurance Improvement Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide certain veterans an opportunity to increase the amount of Veterans’ Group Life Insurance.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 5/13/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/9/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote.

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H.R.2389 : Veterans’ Group Life Insurance Improvement Act of 2009 to require the Secretary of Defense to establish registries of members and former members of the Armed Forces exposed in the line of duty to occupational and environmental health chemical hazards, to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide health care to veterans exposed to such hazards, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Hill, Baron P. [IN-9] (introduced 5/13/2009) Cosponsors (11)

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/12/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Readiness.

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H.R.2405 : Richard Helm Veterans’ Access to Local Health Care Options and Resources Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide veterans enrolled in the health system of the Department of Veterans Affairs the option of receiving covered health services through facilities other than those of the Department.

Sponsor: Rep Latham, Tom [IA-4] (introduced 5/14/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/15/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.2412 : Filipino Veterans Family Reunification Act to exempt children of certain Filipino World War II veterans from the numerical limitations on immigrant visas.

Sponsor: Rep Hirono, Mazie K. [HI-2] (introduced 5/14/2009) Cosponsors (11)

Committees: House Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 5/14/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.

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H.R.2419 : Military Personnel War Zone Toxic Exposure Prevention Act to require the Secretary of Defense to establish a medical surveillance system to identify members of the Armed Forces exposed to chemical hazards resulting from the disposal of waste in Iraq and Afghanistan, to prohibit the disposal of waste by the Armed Forces in a manner that would produce dangerous levels of toxins, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Bishop, Timothy H. [NY-1] (introduced 5/14/2009) Cosponsors (23)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/8/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Readiness.

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H.R.2429 : Consumer Price Index for Elderly Consumers Act of 2009 to require the establishment of a Consumer Price Index for Elderly Consumers to compute cost-of-living increases for Social Security benefits under title II of the Social Security Act.

Sponsor: Rep Gonzalez, Charles A. [TX-20] (introduced 5/14/2009) Cosponsors (21)

Committees: House Ways and Means; House Education and Labor

Latest Major Action: 5/14/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Ways and Means, and in addition to the Committee on Education and Labor, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.2456 : Veterans Education Tuition Support Act of 2009 to amend section 484B of Higher Education Act of 1965 to provide for tuition reimbursement and loan forgiveness to students who withdraw from an institution of higher education to serve in the uniformed services, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Davis, Susan A. [CA-53] (introduced 5/18/2009) Cosponsors (34) Related Bills: H.R.2561, S.1603

Latest Major Action: 10/22/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Higher Education, Lifelong Learning, and Competitiveness.

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H.R.2474 : Veterans Educational Equity Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide that in the case of an individual entitled to educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance program who is enrolled at an institution of higher education in a State in which the public institutions charge only fees in lieu of tuition, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall allow the individual to use all or any portion of the amounts payable for the established charges for the program of education to pay any amount of the individual’s tuition or fees for that program of education.

Sponsor: Rep McKeon, Howard P. “Buck” [CA-25] (introduced 5/19/2009) Cosponsors (48)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/19/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.2486 : Vet Organization Funeral Detail Support. To amend title 10, United States Code, to provide for support of funeral ceremonies for veterans provided by details that consist solely of members of veterans organizations and other organizations, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Gohmert, Louie [TX-1] (introduced 5/19/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/8/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.2504 : Homeless Vet VA Appropriation Increase. To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for an increase in the annual amount authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out comprehensive service programs for homeless veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Teague, Harry [NM-2] (introduced 5/19/2009) Cosponsors (6)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/22/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote .

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H.R.2505 : Reaching Rural Veterans through Telehealth Act to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program to utilize tele-health platforms to assist in the treatment of veterans living in rural areas who suffer from post traumatic stress disorder or traumatic brain injury.

Sponsor: Rep Teague, Harry [NM-2] (introduced 5/19/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/19/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.2506 : Veterans Hearing and Assessment Act to direct the Secretary of Defense to ensure the members of the Armed Forces receive mandatory hearing screenings before and after deployments and to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to mandate that tinnitus be listed as a mandatory condition for treatment by the Department of Veterans Affairs Auditory Centers of Excellence and that research on the preventing, treating, and curing of tinnitus be conducted.

Sponsor: Rep Teague, Harry [NM-2] (introduced 5/19/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/8/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.2546 : Right to Display Service Flag. To ensure that the right of an individual to display the Service flag on residential property not be abridged.

Sponsor: Rep Boccieri, John A. [OH-16] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (56) Related bill: S.3477

Committees: House Financial Services

Latest Major Action: 5/20/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.

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H.R.2553 : Atomic Veterans Service Medal Act to authorize the award of a military service medal to members of the Armed Forces who were exposed to ionizing radiation as a result of participation in the testing of nuclear weapons or under other circumstances.

Sponsor: Rep Tiahrt, Todd [KS-4] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (16) Related bill S.1128

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/8/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.2559 : Help Our Homeless Veterans Act to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a national media campaign directed at homeless veterans and veterans at risk for becoming homeless.

Sponsor: Rep Hare, Phil [IL-17] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (13)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/22/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote .

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H.R.2561 : Help Student Soldiers Act to amend section 484B of the Higher Education Act of 1965 to forgive certain loans for servicemembers who withdraw from an institution of higher education as a result of service in the uniformed services, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Kind, Ron [WI-3] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (21) Related Bills: H.R.2456, S.1603

Latest Major Action: 10/22/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Higher Education, Lifelong Learning, and Competitiveness.

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H.R.2573 : Atomic Veterans Relief Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to revise the eligibility criteria for presumption of service-connection of certain diseases and disabilities for veterans exposed to ionizing radiation during military service, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Abercrombie, Neil [HI-1] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (23)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/21/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.2583 : Women Veterans Access to Care Act to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to improve health care for women veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Boswell, Leonard L. [IA-3] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (9)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/21/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.2585 : Protecting the Retirement of Our Troops by Ensuring Compensation is Timely Act to delay any presumption of death in connection with the kidnapping in Iraq or Afghanistan of a retired member of the Armed Forces to ensure the continued payment of the member’s retired pay.

Sponsor: Rep Broun, Paul C. [GA-10] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/8/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.2586 : Honor Guard 13-fold Flag Recitation Option. To prohibit the Secretary of Veterans Affairs from authorizing honor guards to participate in funerals of veterans interred in national cemeteries unless the honor guards may offer veterans’ families the option of having the honor guard perform a 13-fold flag recitation, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Broun, Paul C. [GA-10] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (46)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/21/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.2594 : Dependent State Plot VA Allowance. To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide a plot allowance for spouses and children of certain veterans who are buried in State cemeteries.

Sponsor: Rep Garrett, Scott [NJ-5] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (48)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/21/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.2598 : Bataan/Corregidor/Luzon Gold Medal. To grant a congressional gold medal to American military personnel who fought in defense of Bataan/Corregidor/Luzon between December 7, 1941 and May 6, 1942.

Sponsor: Rep Heinrich, Martin [NM-1] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (50)

Committees: House Financial Services; House Administration

Latest Major Action: 5/21/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Financial Services, and in addition to the Committee on House Administration, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.2621 : Travel Expense Reimbursement Time Requirement. To amend title 10, United States Code, to use a time requirement for determining eligibility for the reimbursement of certain travel expenses.

Sponsor: Rep McCarthy, Kevin [CA-22] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/8/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.2638 : Veterans Stamp to Honor American Veterans Act to provide for the issuance of a veterans health care stamp.

Sponsor: Rep Shuler, Heath [NC-11] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Oversight and Government Reform; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/21/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, and in addition to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.2642 : Veterans Missing in America Act of 2009 to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to assist in the identification of unclaimed and abandoned human remains to determine if any such remains are eligible for burial in a national cemetery, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Tiberi, Patrick J. [OH-12] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (10)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/21/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.2647 : National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2010 to authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2010 for military activities of the Department of Defense, to prescribe military personnel strengths for fiscal year 2010, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Skelton, Ike [MO-4] (by request) (introduced 6/2/2009) Cosponsors (1) Related Bill H.R.2990

Committees: House Armed Services

House Reports: 111-166, 111-166 Part 2

Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 111-84

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H.R.2672 : Help Veterans Own Franchises Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow credits for the establishment of franchises with veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Schock, Aaron [IL-18] (introduced 6/3/2009) Cosponsors (35)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 6/3/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.2673 : Surviving Spouse Pension Upgrade. To amend title 38, United States Code, to match the pension amount paid to surviving spouses of veterans who served during a period of war to the pension amount paid to such veterans.

Sponsor: Rep DeFazio, Peter A. [OR-4] (introduced 6/3/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/5/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

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H.R.2683 : To establish the American Veterans Congressional Internship Program.

Sponsor: Rep Holt, Rush D. [NJ-12] (introduced 6/3/2009) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: House Administration

Latest Major Action: 6/3/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on House Administration.

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H.R.2689 : D-Day Memorial. To authorize the Secretary of the Interior to study the suitability and feasibility of designating the National D-Day Memorial in Bedford, Virginia, as a unit of the National Park System.

Sponsor: Rep Perriello, Thomas S.P. [VA-5] (introduced 6/3/2009) Cosponsors (7) Related bill S.1207

Committees: House Natural Resources

Latest Major Action: 10/1/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.2696 : Servicemembers’ Rights Protection Act to amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to provide for the enforcement of rights afforded under that Act.

Sponsor: Rep Miller, Brad [NC-13] (introduced 6/4/2009) Cosponsors (5)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/28/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Provisions of measure incorporated into H.R. 3949 .

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H.R.2698 : Veterans’ and Survivors’ Behavioral Health Awareness Act to improve and enhance the mental health care benefits available to veterans, to enhance counseling and other benefits available to survivors of veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Giffords, Gabrielle [AZ-8] (introduced 6/4/2009) Cosponsors (48)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/25/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.2699 : Armed Forces Behavioral Health Awareness Act to improve the mental health care benefits available to members of the Armed Forces, to enhance counseling available to family members of members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Giffords, Gabrielle [AZ-8] (introduced 6/4/2009) Cosponsors (37)

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/25/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.2713 : Disabled Veterans Life Insurance Enhancement Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain improvements in the service disabled veterans’ insurance program of the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Donnelly, Joe [IN-2] (introduced 6/4/2009) Cosponsors (13)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/24/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.2734 : Health Care for Family Caregivers Act of 2009 to amend section 1781 of title 38, United States Code, to provide medical care to family members of disabled veterans who serve as caregivers to such veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Perriello, Thomas S.P. [VA-5] (introduced 6/4/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/18/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.2735 : Homeless Vet Service Program Improvements. To amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain improvements to the comprehensive service programs for homeless veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Rodriguez, Ciro D. [TX-23] (introduced 6/4/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/22/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee (Amended) by Voice Vote .

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H.R.2738 : Family Caregiver Travel Expense Compensation. To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide travel expenses for family caregivers accompanying veterans to medical treatment facilities.

Sponsor: Rep Teague, Harry [NM-2] (introduced 6/4/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/18/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.2756 : Veterans Home Loan Refinance Opportunity Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow eligible veterans to use qualified veterans mortgage bonds to refinance home loans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Davis, Susan A. [CA-53] (introduced 6/8/2009) Cosponsors (16)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 6/8/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.2771 : Military Overpayment Fairness Act of 2009 to amend titles 10 and 37, United States Code, to provide a more equitable process by which the military departments may recover overpayments of military pay and allowances erroneously paid to a member of the Armed Forces when the overpayment is due to no fault of the member, to expand Department discretion regarding remission or cancellation of indebtedness, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Shea-Porter, Carol [NH-1] (introduced 6/9/2009) Cosponsors (6)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/24/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.2774 : Families of Veterans Financial Security Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to make permanent the extension of the duration of Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance coverage for totally disabled veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Halvorson, Deborah L. [IL-11] (introduced 6/9/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/9/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote.

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H.R.2788 : Distinguished Flying Cross National Memorial Act to designate a Distinguished Flying Cross National Memorial at the March Field Air Museum in Riverside, California.

Sponsor: Rep Calvert, Ken [CA-44] (introduced 6/10/2009) Cosponsors (48)

Committees: House Natural Resources

Latest Major Action: 3/22/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.

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H.R.2830 : Providing Access to Healthcare (PATH) for Veterans Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to give priority to unemployed veterans in furnishing hospital care, medical services, and nursing home care to certain veterans assigned to priority level 8.

Sponsor: Rep Courtney, Joe [CT-2] (introduced 6/11/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/12/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.2836 : National Guard and Reservist Suicide Prevention and Community Response Act to amend the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008 to improve and expand suicide prevention and community healing and response training under the Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program.

Sponsor: Rep Hodes, Paul W. [NH-2] (introduced 6/11/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Latest Major Action: 6/24/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.2879 : Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve health care for veterans who live in rural areas, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Kirkpatrick, Ann [AZ-1] (introduced 6/15/2009) Cosponsors (8)

Latest Major Action: 6/19/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.2898 : Wounded Warrior Caregiver Assistance Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide support services for family caregivers of disabled veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Halvorson, Deborah L. [IL-11] (introduced 6/16/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Latest Major Action: 6/19/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.2926 : VA Special Care for Vietnam-era & Persian Gulf War Vets Exposed to Herbicides. To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide, without expiration, hospital care, medical services, and nursing home care for certain Vietnam-era veterans exposed to herbicide and veterans of the Persian Gulf War.

Sponsor: Rep Nye, Glenn C., III [VA-2] (introduced 6/17/2009) Cosponsors (5)

Latest Major Action: 7/9/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee (Amended) by Voice Vote.

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H.R.2928: Post-9/11 GI Bill Apprenticeship/OJT Program. To amend title 38, United State Code, to provide for an apprenticeship and on-job training program under the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Program.

Sponsor: Rep Perriello, Thomas S.P. [VA-5] (introduced 6/17/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Latest Major Action: 9/24/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.2965 : Enhancing Small Business Research and Innovation Act of 2009 to amend the Small Business Act with respect to the Small Business Innovation Research Program and the Small Business Technology Transfer Program, and for other purposes.: Amended with H.AMDT.291 by Rep. David Reichert, D-WA to give preference to organizations that are located in under represented states and regions, or are women-owned, service-disabled veteran-owned, or minority-owned when awarding grants for Small Business Administration (SBA) outreach efforts authorized under Title III (rural development and outreach).

Sponsor: Rep Altmire, Jason [PA-4] (introduced 6/19/2009) Cosponsors (9)

Committees: House Small Business; House Science and Technology

House Reports: 111-190 Part 1, 111-190 Part 2

Latest Major Action: 7/13/2009 Passed/agreed to in Senate. Status: Passed Senate in lieu of S. 1233 with an amendment by Unanimous Consent.

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H.R.2968 : SGLI/VGLI Accelerated Death Benefit. To amend title 38, United States Code, to eliminate the required reduction in the amount of the accelerated death benefit payable to certain terminally-ill persons insured under Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance or Veterans’ Group Life Insurance.

Sponsor: Rep Kirkpatrick, Ann [AZ-1] (introduced 6/19/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Latest Major Action: 7/9/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote .

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H.R.2970 : Federal Law Enforcement Officer Vet Age Limit. To amend title 5, United States Code, to increase the maximum age limit for an original appointment to a position as a Federal law enforcement officer in the case of any individual who has been discharged or released from active duty in the Armed Forces under honorable conditions, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Bishop, Rob [UT-1] (introduced 6/19/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Latest Major Action: 6/19/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.

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H.R.2974 : Disabled Vet Health Savings Account Eligibility. To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow individuals eligible for veterans health benefits to contribute to health savings accounts.

Sponsor: Rep Campbell, John [CA-48] (introduced 6/19/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Latest Major Action: 6/19/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.2980 : Survivor Benefit Time Limit for 100% Disabled Vets. To amend title 38, United States Code, to reduce the period of time for which a veteran must be totally disabled before the veteran’s survivors are eligible for the benefits provided by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs for survivors of certain veterans rated totally disabled at time of death.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 6/19/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Latest Major Action: 6/26/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

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H.R.2990 : Disabled Military Retiree Relief Act of 2009 to provide special pays and allowances to certain members of the Armed Forces, expand concurrent receipt of military retirement and VA disability benefits to disabled military retirees, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Skelton, Ike [MO-4] (introduced 6/23/2009) Cosponsors (25) Related Bill H.R.2647

Committees: House Armed Services; House Oversight and Government Reform; House Natural Resources; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/25/2009 Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 572 , H.R. 2990 is laid on the table.

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H.R.3067 : Health Security for All Americans Act of 2009 to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to reform Medicare payments to physicians and certain other providers and improve Medicare benefits, to encourage the offering of health coverage by small businesses, to provide tax incentives for the purchase of health insurance by individuals, to increase access to health care for veterans, to address the nursing shortage, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Latham, Tom [IA-4] (introduced 6/26/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Energy and Commerce; House Education and Labor; House Ways and Means; House Veterans’ Affairs; House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 8/3/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.3073 : Pending Vet Homeless Grant Program. To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs establish a grant program to provide assistance to veterans who are at risk of becoming homeless.

Sponsor: Rep Nye, Glenn C., III [VA-2] (introduced 6/26/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/1/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.3087 : Establish VA Claim Decision Deadlines. To amend title 38, United States Code, to establish a deadline for decisions with respect to claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Butterfield, G. K. [NC-1] (introduced 6/26/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/10/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

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H.R.3155 : Caregiver Assistance and Resource Enhancement Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide certain caregivers of veterans with training, support, and medical care, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Michaud, Michael H. [ME-2] (introduced 7/9/2009) Cosponsors (9)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/28/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.3199 : Emergency Medic Transition (EMT) Act of 2009 to amend the Public Health Service Act to provide grants to State emergency medical service departments to provide for the expedited training and licensing of veterans with prior medical training, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Harman, Jane [CA-36] (introduced 7/14/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: House Energy and Commerce

Latest Major Action: 7/14/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.

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H.R.3200 : America’s Affordable Health Choices Act of 2009 to provide affordable, quality health care for all Americans and reduce the growth in health care spending, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Dingell, John D. [MI-15] (introduced 7/14/2009) Cosponsors (9)

Committees: House Energy and Commerce; House Ways and Means; House Education and Labor; House Oversight and Government Reform; House Budget

Latest Major Action: 10/14/2009 Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 168.

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H.R.3223 : Vet Owned Businesses VA Contracts. To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs contracting goals and preferences for small business concerns owned and controlled by veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 7/15/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 9/24/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.3266 : Veteran Assistance Dog Grant Program. To establish a grant program to encourage the use of assistance dogs by certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Klein, Ron [FL-22] (introduced 7/20/2009) Cosponsors (22) Related Bill S.1485

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/24/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity.

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H.R.3280 : Rural Vet Transportation Grant Program. To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a grant program to assist veterans in highly rural areas by providing transportation to medical centers.

Sponsor: Rep Rodriguez, Ciro D. [TX-23] (introduced 7/21/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/24/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.3281 : Vet Care Rural Area Demonstration Project. To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out demonstration projects related to providing care for veterans in rural areas.

Sponsor: Rep Rodriguez, Ciro D. [TX-23] (introduced 7/21/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/24/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.3282 : Vet Readjustment and Mental Health Care Services. To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide certain veterans with readjustment and mental health care services, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Rodriguez, Ciro D. [TX-23] (introduced 7/21/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/24/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.3283 : VA Travel Reimbursement for Veterans Annual Review. To amend title 38, United States Code, to allow for reimbursement of certain travel at a set rate, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Rodriguez, Ciro D. [TX-23] (introduced 7/21/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/24/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.3324 : Stable Future for Veterans’ Children Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to provide for the payment of monthly annuities under the Survivor Benefit Plan to a supplemental or special needs trust established for the sole benefit of a disabled dependent child of a participant in the Survivor Benefit Plan.

Sponsor: Rep Cantor, Eric [VA-7] (introduced 7/24/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 7/24/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Armed Services.

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H.R.3337 : Post-9/11 Veterans’ Job Training Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the use of entitlement under Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Program for the pursuit of apprenticeships and on-job training.

Sponsor: Rep DeLauro, Rosa L. [CT-3] (introduced 7/24/2009) Cosponsors (16)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/31/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity.

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H.R.3349 : NAIV Charter. To grant a Federal charter to the National American Indian Veterans, Incorporated.

Sponsor: Rep Herseth Sandlin, Stephanie [SD] (introduced 7/27/2009) Cosponsors (8) Related Bill S.1520

Committees: House Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 8/19/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Immigration, Citizenship, Refugees, Border Security, and International Law.

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H.R.3365 : Medicare VA Reimbursement Act of 2009 to provide Medicare payments to Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities for items and services provided to Medicare-eligible veterans for non-service-connected conditions.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 7/28/2009) Cosponsors (31)

Committees: House Ways and Means; House Energy and Commerce; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/31/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.3366 : Illegal Garnishment Prevention Act to prohibit the use of funds to promote the direct deposit of Veterans and Social Security benefits until adequate safeguards are established to prevent the attachment and garnishment of such benefits.

Sponsor: Rep Gordon, Bart [TN-6] (introduced 7/28/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Ways and Means; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/31/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

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H.R.3368 : Honor Act of 2009 to enhance benefits for survivors of certain former members of the Armed Forces with a history of post-traumatic stress disorder or traumatic brain injury, to enhance availability and access to mental health counseling for members of the Armed Forces and veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Markey, Betsy [CO-4] (introduced 7/28/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Armed Services; House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 10/28/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.3403 : Supporting Military Families Act of 2009 to amend the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 and title 5, United States Code, to provide leave for family members of members of regular components of the Armed Forces, and leave to care for covered veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Woolsey, Lynn C. [CA-6] (introduced 7/30/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: House Education and Labor; House Oversight and Government Reform; House Administration

Latest Major Action: 10/22/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Workforce Protections

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H.R.3407 : Severely Injured Veterans Benefit Improvement Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain improvements to laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs relating to benefits for severely injured veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 7/30/2009) Cosponsors (27)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/31/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

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H.R.3441 : Combat Vet VA Enrollment. To provide for automatic enrollment of veterans returning from combat zones into the VA medical system, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Arcuri, Michael A. [NY-24] (introduced 7/31/2009) Cosponsors (20)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/1/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.3467 : Veterans Education Enhancement and Fairness Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for a monthly housing stipend under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs for individuals pursuing programs of education offered through distance learning, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Carney, Christopher P. [PA-10] (introduced 7/31/2009) Cosponsors (13)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 9/11/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity.

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H.R.3484 : VA Work Study Authority. To amend title 38, United States Code, to extend the authority for certain qualifying work-study activities for purposes of the educational assistance programs of the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Herseth Sandlin, Stephanie [SD] (introduced 7/31/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/4/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Ordered to be Reported (Amended) by Voice Vote.

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H.R.3485 : Veterans Pensions Protection Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide that monetary benefits paid to veterans by States and municipalities shall be excluded from consideration as income for purposes of pension benefits paid by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Higgins, Brian [NY-27] (introduced 7/31/2009) Cosponsors (14) Related Bill: S.3118

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote .

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H.R.3491 : Thomas G. Schubert Agent Orange Fairness Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish a presumption of service connection for certain cancers occurring in veterans who served in the Republic of Vietnam and were exposed to certain herbicide agents, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Kagen, Steve [WI-8] (introduced 7/31/2009) Cosponsors (10)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 9/11/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

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H.R.3507 : VA Survivor Education Rate Increase. To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for an increase in the rates of survivors’ and dependents’ educational assistance payable by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Paulsen, Erik [MN-3] (introduced 7/31/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 9/11/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

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H.R.3522 : Veterans Hardship Outreach for Priority Eights (HOPE) Act to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide grants and assistance to States to conduct outreach to veterans regarding hardship and priority under the Department of Veterans Affairs patient enrollment system.

Sponsor: Rep Space, Zachary T. [OH-18] (introduced 7/31/2009) Cosponsors (6)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 9/11/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.3544 : National Cemeteries Expansion Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide guidelines for the establishment of new national cemeteries by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 9/9/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/8/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via

http://capwiz.com/ngaus/mail/compose/?mailid=14779496&azip=92571

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H.R.3554 : National Guard Education Equality Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the inclusion of certain active duty service in the reserve components as qualifying service for purposes of Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Loebsack, David [IA-2] (introduced 9/10/2009) Cosponsors (101)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 9/24/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.3573 : Call to Service Homebuyer Credit Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to prevent a change in residency as a result of extended official duty in the uniformed services, Foreign Service, or intelligence community from triggering the repayment provisions of the first time homebuyer credit, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Blumenauer, Earl [OR-3] (introduced 9/15/2009) Cosponsors (None) Related bills: H.R.2562

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 9/15/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.3575 : Vet Mortgage Life Insurance Increase. To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for an increase in the maximum amount of veterans’ mortgage life insurance available under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Perriello, Thomas S.P. [VA-5] (introduced 9/15/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 9/15/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.3577 : Education Assistance to Realign New Eligibilities for Dependents (EARNED) Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United State Code, to provide authority for certain members of the Armed Forces who have served 20 years on active duty to transfer entitlement to Post-9/11 Educational Assistance to their dependents.

Sponsor: Rep Rodriguez, Ciro D. [TX-23] (introduced 9/15/2009) Cosponsors (24)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/4/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Ordered to be Reported by Voice Vote.

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H.R.3620 : Hiring Heroes Tax Incentive Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow employers a credit against income tax for employing members of the Ready Reserve and National Guard and veterans recently separated from the Armed Forces.

Sponsor: Rep Alexander, Rodney [LA-5] (introduced 9/22/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 9/22/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.3657 : USPHS & NOAA GI Bill Benefit Transfer. To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for members of the United States Public Health Service and National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration Corps to transfer unused benefits under Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program to family members, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Rodriguez, Ciro D. [TX-23] (introduced 9/25/2009) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/2/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity.

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H.R.3661 : GI Bill Housing Stipend. To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for a monthly housing stipend under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program for individuals pursuing programs of education offered through distance learning, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Rehberg, Denny [MT] (introduced 9/29/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/2/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity.

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H.R.3672 : Social Security COLA Fix for 2010 Act to provide for an increase of $150 in Social Security benefits for one month in 2010 to compensate for the lack of a cost-of-living adjustment for that year, and to amend title II of the Social Security Act to eliminate the requirement that there be a Social Security cost-of-living adjustment for an adjustment in the contribution and benefit base to occur.

Sponsor: Rep McCarthy, Carolyn [NY-4] (introduced 9/29/2009) Cosponsors (16)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 9/29/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.3677: Save Our Seniors’ Social Security Act of 2009 to provide $280 relief payments to recipients of Social Security and railroad retirement benefits, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Granger, Kay [TX-12] (introduced 9/30/2009) Cosponsors (11)

Committees: House Ways and Means; House Transportation and Infrastructure; House Appropriations

Latest Major Action: 10/1/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials.

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H.R.3685 : Inclusion of VetSuccess on VA Website. To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to include on the main page of the Internet website of the Department of Veterans Affairs a hyperlink to the VetSuccess Internet website and to publicize such Internet website.

Sponsor: Rep Stearns, Cliff [FL-6] (introduced 9/30/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/10/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee Hearings Held.

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H.R.3719 : Veterans Economic Opportunity Administration Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs a Veterans Economic Opportunity Administration, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 10/6/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/9/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity.

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H.R.3787 : Treat Certain Reserve Time as Active Duty Time. To amend title 38, United States Code, to deem certain service in the reserve components as active service for purposes of laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Walz, Timothy J. [MN-1] (introduced 10/8/2009) Cosponsors (39) Related bill: S.1780

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/9/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

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H.R.3796 : Homeless Vet Assistor’s Per Diem Grants. To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve per diem grant payments for organizations assisting homeless veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 10/13/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/16/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.3813 : Veterans Training Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the approval of certain programs of education for purposes of the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program.

Sponsor: Rep Sestak, Joe [PA-7] (introduced 10/14/2009) Cosponsors (17) Related bills: S.3171

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/25/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.3843 : Transparency for America’s Heroes Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to publish redacted medical quality-assurance records of the Department of Veterans Affairs on the Internet website of the Department.

Sponsor: Rep Sestak, Joe [PA-7] (introduced 10/15/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/16/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.3885 : Veterans Dog Training Therapy Act to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program on dog training therapy.

Sponsor: Rep Brown, Henry E., Jr. [SC-1] (introduced 10/21/2009) Cosponsors (12)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/26/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.3886 : Providing Military Honors for our Nation’s Heroes Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reimburse certain volunteers who provide funeral honors details at the funerals of veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 10/21/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/23/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

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H.R.3906 : Low Income Vet Family Permanent Housing. To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs program to provide financial assistance for supportive services for very low-income veteran families in permanent housing.

Sponsor: Rep Teague, Harry [NM-2] (introduced 10/22/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/23/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

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H.R.3908 : Families of Disabled Veterans Work Opportunity Act of 2009 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide the work opportunity tax credit with respect to a designated family member of a veteran with a service-connected disability if the veteran is unable to work.

Sponsor: Rep Halvorson, Deborah L. [IL-11] (introduced 10/22/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 10/22/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.3926 : Armed Forces Breast Cancer Research Act to direct the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to jointly conduct a study on the incidence of breast cancer among members of the Armed Forces and veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Boswell, Leonard L. [IA-3] (introduced 10/26/2009) Cosponsors (45)

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/25/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.3943 : Post 9/11 Troops to Teachers Enhancement Act to amend the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to allow members of the Armed Forces who served on active duty on or after September 11, 2001, to be eligible to participate in the Troops-to-Teachers Program, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Courtney, Joe [CT-2] (introduced 10/27/2009) Cosponsors (170) Related Bill S.

Committees: House Education and Labor; House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 12/8/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education.

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H.R.3948 : Test Prep for Heroes Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for entitlement under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program to payment for test preparatory courses, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Putnam, Adam H. [FL-12] (introduced 10/28/2009) Cosponsors (30)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/10/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Ordered to be Reported (Amended) by Voice Vote.

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H.R.3949 : Veterans’ Small Business Assistance and Servicemembers Protection Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, and the Servicemember Civil Relief Act, to make certain improvements in the laws relating to benefits administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 10/28/2009) Cosponsors (22) Related Bill: H.R.761

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 11/4/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.3998 : Compensation for Combat Veterans Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to clarify the service treatable as service engaged in combat with the enemy for utilization of non-official evidence for proof of service-connection in a combat-related disease or injury.

Sponsor: Rep Braley, Bruce L. [IA-1] (introduced 11/3/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 11/6/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

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H.R.4006 : Rural, American Indian Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for Indian veterans health care coordinators, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Kirkpatrick, Ann [AZ-1] (introduced 11/3/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/25/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.4028 : Rural Veterans Services Outreach and Training Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve services for veterans residing in rural areas.

Sponsor: Rep Wu, David [OR-1] (introduced 11/5/2009) Cosponsors (21)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 11/6/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment.

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H.R.4043 : Military Spouse Pin Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to recognize the spouses of members of the Armed Forces who are serving in combat or have served in combat through the presentation of an official lapel button.

Sponsor: Rep Shea-Porter, Carol [NH-1] (introduced 11/6/2009) Cosponsors (9)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 11/18/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.4044 : Vet Plot & Headstone/Marker Allowance. To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to restore plot allowance eligibility for veterans of any war and to restore the headstone or marker allowance for eligible persons.

Sponsor: Rep Berkley, Shelley [NV-1] (introduced 11/6/2009) Cosponsors (37)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 11/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4045 : Veterans Burial Benefits Improvement Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to increase burial benefits for veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Berkley, Shelley [NV-1] (introduced 11/6/2009) Cosponsors (42)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 11/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4048 : Rural Area TBI Pilot Program. To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program on the provision of traumatic brain injury care in rural areas.

Sponsor: Rep Capito, Shelley Moore [WV-2] (introduced 11/6/2009) Cosponsors (7)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 11/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4051 : Cold War Service Medal Act of 2009 to amend title 10, United States Code, to provide for the award of a military service medal to members of the Armed Forces who served honorably during the Cold War, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Israel, Steve [NY-2] (introduced 11/6/2009) Cosponsors (44) Related bill: S.2743

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 11/18/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.4054 : Benefit Rating Acceleration for Veteran Entitlements Act of 2009. To amend titles II and XVI of the Social Security Act to provide for treatment of disability rated and certified as total by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs as disability for purposes of such titles.

Sponsor: Rep Sarbanes, John P. [MD-3] (introduced 11/6/2009) Cosponsors (72) Related Bill: S.2759

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 11/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.4058 : Veterans to Work Pilot Program Act of 2009 to amend title 10, United States Code, to establish the Veterans to Work Program providing for the employment of individuals, especially veterans, who participate in apprenticeship programs on designated military construction projects, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Smith, Adam [WA-9] (introduced 11/6/2009) Cosponsors (5)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 11/18/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Readiness.

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H.R.4063 : WWII Messman/Steward Congressional Gold Medal. To grant the Congressional Gold Medal to the members of the messman and steward branches of United States Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard that served during World War II.

Sponsor: Rep Edwards, Donna F. [MD-4] (introduced 11/7/2009) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: House Financial Services; House Administration

Latest Major Action: 11/7/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Financial Services, and in addition to the Committee on House Administration, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.4064 : Post-9/11 EAP Improvements. To make certain improvements in the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program.

Sponsor: Rep Giffords, Gabrielle [AZ-8] (introduced 11/7/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 11/7/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4073 : Rural Veterans Reimbursement Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to increase the payments to certain veterans for certain travel expenses.

Sponsor: Rep Minnick, Walter [ID-1] (introduced 11/16/2009) Cosponsors (11)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 11/16/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4121 : Veterans Appeals Improvement and Modernization Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the appeals process of the Department of Veterans Affairs, to establish a commission to study judicial review of the determination of veterans’ benefits, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Hall, John J. [NY-19] (introduced 11/19/2009) Cosponsors (7)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 11/19/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4156 : Increasing Housing Opportunities for Veterans Act of 2009 to provide for certain improvements in the laws relating to housing for veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Sires, Albio [NJ-13] (introduced 11/19/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: House Financial Services

Latest Major Action: 11/19/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Financial Services.

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H.R.4203 : Direct Deposit of Vet Education Payments. To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans certain educational assistance payments through direct deposit.

Sponsor: Rep Hall, John J. [NY-19] (introduced 12/3/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/25/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.4220 : Promoting Jobs for Veterans Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain improvements in the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs relating to small business concerns and employment assistance, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 12/8/2009) Cosponsors (15)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Education and Labor; House Small Business

Latest Major Action: 1/4/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Higher Education, Lifelong Learning, and Competitiveness.

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H.R.4221 : Department of Veterans Affairs Acquisition Improvement Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for improved acquisition practices by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Buyer, Steve [IN-4] (introduced 12/8/2009) Cosponsors (5)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Oversight and Government Reform

Latest Major Action: 12/8/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.4241 : State Veteran Home Payments. To amend chapter 17 of title 38, United States Code, to allow for increased flexibility in payments for State veterans homes.

Sponsor: Rep Michaud, Michael H. [ME-2] (introduced 12/8/2009) Cosponsors (45)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/3/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.4279 : Vet Accelerated Educational Assistance Payments. To amend titles 38 and 10, United States Code, to authorize accelerated payments of educational assistance to certain veterans and members of the reserve components of the Armed Forces.

Sponsor: Rep Quigley, Mike [IL-5] (introduced 12/10/2009) Cosponsors (9)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 1/12/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.4319 : Specially Adapted Housing Assistance Enhancement Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for certain improvements in the laws relating to specially adapted housing assistance provided by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Moran, Jerry [KS-1] (introduced 12/15/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Latest Major Action: 6/10/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee Hearings Held.

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H.R.4320 : Post-9/11 GI Education Fairness Act of 2009 to amend title 38, United States Code, to expand the types of approved programs of education for purposes of Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Murphy, Scott [NY-20] (introduced 12/15/2009) Cosponsors (20)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 12/15/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4350 : Fallen Heroes Family Act of 2009 to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to provide for nonimmigrant status for an alien who is the parent or legal guardian of a United States citizen child if the child was born abroad and is the child of a deceased member of the Armed Forces of the United States.

Sponsor: Rep Issa, Darrell E. [CA-49] (introduced 12/16/2009) Cosponsors (10)

Committees: House Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 3/1/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Immigration, Citizenship, Refugees, Border Security, and International Law.

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H.R.4359 : WARMER Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to guarantee housing loans for the construction energy efficient dwellings, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Boozman, John [AR-3] (introduced 12/16/2009) Cosponsors (5)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/25/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.4403 : SPACE-A Travel Act of 2009 to amend title 10, United States Code, to authorize space-available travel on military aircraft for unremarried surviving spouses of retired members of the uniformed services and the unremarried surviving spouses of veterans who died from a service-connected or compensable disability, and for the dependents of such spouses.

Sponsor: Rep Walz, Timothy J. [MN-1] (introduced 12/16/2009) Cosponsors (25)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 1/21/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Readiness.

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H.R.4429 : Restoring the Social Security COLA Act to provide for an increase of $250 in benefits under certain Federal cash benefit programs for one month in 2010 to compensate for the lack of a cost-of-living adjustment for that year.

Sponsor: Rep Adler, John H. [NJ-3] (introduced 1/13/2010) Cosponsors (7)

Committees: House Ways and Means; House Appropriations; House Veterans’ Affairs; House Oversight and Government Reform; House Transportation and Infrastructure

Latest Major Action: 1/13/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Ways and Means, and in addition to the Committees on Appropriations, Veterans’ Affairs, Oversight and Government Reform, and Transportation and Infrastructure, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.4443 : Veterans Employment Today Act of 2010 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the work opportunity tax credit for hiring veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Halvorson, Deborah L. [IL-11] (introduced 1/13/2010) Cosponsors (13) Related Bills: H.R.620, H.R.931, S.274

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 1/13/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

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H.R.4465 : Vet Financial Status for Hospital Care. To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to take into account each child a veteran has when determining the veteran’s financial status when receiving hospital care or medical services.

Sponsor: Rep Kissell, Larry [NC-8] (introduced 1/19/2010) Cosponsors (10)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/27/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

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H.R.4525 : Chapter 61 Concurrent Receipt Entitlement. To amend title 10, United States Code, to expand the eligibility for concurrent receipt of military retired pay and veterans’ disability compensation to include all members of the uniformed services who are retired under chapter 61 of such title for disability, regardless of the members’ disability rating percentage.

Sponsor: Rep Wilson, Joe [SC-2] (introduced 1/26/2010) Cosponsors (9)

Committees: House Armed Services; House Budget; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/18/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=15039641&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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H.R.4551 : Keep Our Promise to America’s Military Retirees Act to restore health care coverage to retired members of the uniformed services, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Van Hollen, Chris [MD-8] (introduced 1/27/2010) Cosponsors (32)

Committees: House Armed Services; House Oversight and Government Reform

Latest Major Action: 2/25/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.4555 : Janey Ensminger Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to furnish hospital care, medical services, and nursing home care to veterans who were stationed at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, while the water was contaminated at Camp Lejeune, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Miller, Brad [NC-13] (introduced 2/2/2010) Cosponsors (35)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/2/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4559 : State Disabled Vet Benefits Review. To establish a commission to review benefits provided by each State to disabled veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Kissell, Larry [NC-8] (introduced 2/2/2010) Cosponsors (11)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/2/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4568 : TBI Treatment Act to direct the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program under which the Secretaries make payments for certain treatments of traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Sponsor: Rep Sessions, Pete [TX-32] (introduced 2/2/2010) Cosponsors (19)

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/25/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.4569 : Expanded Housing for America’s Veterans Act to amend the United States Housing Act of 1937 relating to the amount of rental assistance available under the veterans affairs supported housing program.

Sponsor: Rep Sestak, Joe [PA-7] (introduced 2/2/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Financial Services

Latest Major Action: 2/2/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Financial Services.

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H.R.4592 : Vet Energy Related Jobs Pilot Program. To provide for the establishment of a pilot program to encourage the employment of veterans in energy-related positions.

Sponsor: Rep Teague, Harry [NM-2] (introduced 2/3/2010) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/24/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4593 : Keeping Faith With the Greatest Generation Military Retirees Act of 2010 to amend part B of title XVIII of the Social Security Act to waive Medicare part B premiums for certain military retirees (i.e. those who entered the service prior to December 7, 1956).

Sponsor: Rep Van Hollen, Chris [MD-8] (introduced 2/3/2010) Cosponsors (18)

Committees: House Energy and Commerce; House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: 2/3/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.4632 : Renovate and Enhance Veterans’ Meeting Halls and Posts Act of 2010 to amend the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 to set-aside community development block grant amounts in each fiscal year for grants to local chapters of veterans service organizations for rehabilitation of their facilities.

Sponsor: Rep Bishop, Timothy H. [NY-1] (introduced 2/22/2010) Cosponsors (19)

Committees: House Financial Services

Latest Major Action: 2/22/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Financial Services.

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H.R.4639 : Corporal Dustin Lee Memorial Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to authorize the adoption of a military working dog by the family of a deceased or seriously wounded member of the Armed Forces who was the handler of the dog.

Sponsor: Rep Jones, Walter B., Jr. [NC-3] (introduced 2/22/2010) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 3/5/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Readiness.

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H.R.4656 : VA Child Care Center. To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program establishing a child-care center for children of veterans receiving treatment and other individuals.

Sponsor: Rep Buchanan, Vern [FL-13] (introduced 2/23/2010) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/23/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4664 : OIF/OEF Survivor Mortgage Foreclosure Moratorium. To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to provide for a one-year moratorium on the sale or foreclosure of property owned by surviving spouses of servicemembers killed in Operation Iraqi Freedom or Operation Enduring Freedom.

Sponsor: Rep Kratovil, Frank, Jr. [MD-1] (introduced 2/23/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/10/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee Hearings Held.

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H.R.4667 : Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2010 to increase, effective as of December 1, 2010, the rates of compensation for veterans with service-connected disabilities and the rates of dependency and indemnity compensation for the survivors of certain disabled veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Perriello, Thomas S.P. [VA-5] (introduced 2/23/2010) Cosponsors (8) Related bills: H.R.1513 & S.407 & S.3107

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/23/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4765 : VA Work Study Allowances. To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize individuals who are pursuing programs of rehabilitation, education, or training under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to receive work-study allowances for certain outreach services provided through congressional offices, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep DeFazio, Peter A. [OR-4] (introduced 3/4/2010) Cosponsors (12) Related bill: S.3082

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/10/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee Hearings Held.

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H.R.4810 : End Veteran Homelessness Act of 2010. To amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain improvements in the services provided for homeless veterans under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 3/10/2010) Cosponsors (14)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/23/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4845 : VA Children Housing Loan Benefits. To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide housing loan benefits for children of members of the Armed Forces and veterans who die from service-connected disabilities.

Sponsor: Rep Crowley, Joseph [NY-7] (introduced 3/15/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/15/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.4887 : Tricare Affirmation Act to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to ensure that health coverage provided by the Department of Defense is treated as minimal essential coverage.

Sponsor: Rep Skelton, Ike [MO-4] (introduced 3/19/2010) Cosponsors (20)

Committees: House Ways and Means; Senate Finance

Latest Major Action: 4/26/2010 Signed by President.

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H.R.4912 : CRSC Payments to Chap 61 Vets. To amend title 10, United States Code, to eliminate the required reduction in the amount of combat-related special compensation paid to disabled combat-related uniformed services retirees retired under chapter 61 of such title whose disability is attributable to an injury for which the members were awarded the Purple Heart.

Sponsor: Rep Halvorson, Deborah L. [IL-11] (introduced 3/22/2010) Cosponsors (5)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/8/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.4923 : TRICARE Dependent Coverage Extension Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to extend TRICARE coverage to certain dependents under the age of 26.

Sponsor: Rep Heinrich, Martin [NM-1] (introduced 3/24/2010) Cosponsors (93) Related bills: S.3201

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/23/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.4947 : Reserve Retirement Deployment Credit Correction Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to eliminate the per-fiscal year calculation of days of certain active duty or active service used to reduce the minimum age at which a member of a reserve component of the uniformed services may retire for non-regular service.

Sponsor: Rep Latham, Tom [IA-4] (introduced 3/25/2010) Cosponsors (37) Related bills: S.3406

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/23/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

To support this bill and/or contact your legislators send a message via http://capwiz.com/moaa/issues/bills/?bill=14876641

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H.R.5014 : VA Minimal Essential Coverage. To clarify the health care provided by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs that constitutes minimum essential coverage.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 4/14/2010) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Ways and Means

Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 111-173 [GPO: Text, PDF]

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H.R.5045 : Fair Access to Veterans Benefits Act of 2010 to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the tolling of the timing of review for appeals of final decisions of the Board of Veterans’ Appeals, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Adler, John H. [NJ-3] (introduced 4/15/2010) Cosponsors (None) Related bills: S.3192, H.R.5064

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/15/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.5120 : Veteran Employment Assistance Act of 2010 to improve employment, training, and placement services furnished to veterans, especially those serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Smith, Adam [WA-9] (introduced 4/22/2010) Cosponsors (19) Related bills: S.3234

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Education and Labor; House Small Business; House Energy and Commerce; House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 5/27/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Higher Education, Lifelong Learning, and Competitiveness.

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H.R.5136

S.3454

H.R.5185 : Fair Health Care for Military Families Act to amend titles 10 and 38, United States Code, to increase the maximum age for children eligible for medical care under the TRICARE program and the CHAMPVA program.

Sponsor: Rep DeFazio, Peter A. [OR-4] (introduced 4/29/2010) Cosponsors (2) Related Bill H.R.5206

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/6/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

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H.R.5225 : Improving Veterans’ Electronic Transition Services Act to direct the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to jointly develop and implement an electronic personnel file system, and to jointly conduct a study on improving the access of veterans to files related to military service and veterans benefits, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Tsongas, Niki [MA-5] (introduced 5/5/2010) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/5/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Armed Services, and in addition to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.5226 : Appalachian Veterans Outreach Improvement Act to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs and the Appalachian Regional Commission to carry out a program of outreach for veterans who reside in Appalachia, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Wilson, Charles A. [OH-6] (introduced 5/5/2010) Cosponsors (22) Related bill: S.3314

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Transportation and Infrastructure

Latest Major Action: 5/6/2010 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings and Emergency Management.

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H.R.5259 : Equal Access to Preseparation Counseling Act to amend title 10, United States Code, to require preseparation counseling for members of the reserve components upon their retirement or separation from service.

Sponsor: Rep Pingree, Chellie [ME-1] (introduced 5/11/2010) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 5/11/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Armed Services.

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H.R.5303 : VA Post-9/11 EAP Housing Stipends. To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve housing stipends for veterans receiving educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Program.

Sponsor: Rep Bishop, Timothy H. [NY-1] (introduced 5/13/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/13/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.5360 : Blinded Veterans Adaptive Housing Improvement Act of 2010. To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the standard of visual acuity required for eligibility for specially adapted housing assistance provided by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Herseth Sandlin, Stephanie [SD] (introduced 5/20/2010) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/10/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee Hearings Held.

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H.R.5371 : William Shemin Jewish World War I Veterans Act. To direct the Secretary of the Army and the Secretary of the Navy to conduct a review of military service records of Jewish American veterans of World War I, including those previously awarded a military decoration, to determine whether any of the veterans should be posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Luetkemeyer, Blaine [MO-9] (introduced 5/24/2010) Cosponsors (15)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 5/24/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Armed Services.

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H.R.5403 : Alaska Tricare Reimbursement Rates. To direct the Secretary of Defense to temporarily adjust the reimbursement rates for TRICARE claims in Alaska.

Sponsor: Rep Young, Don [AK] (introduced 5/26/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 5/26/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Armed Services.

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H.R.5404 : Reserve Space A Travel. To amend title 10, United States Code, to authorize space-available travel on military aircraft for a member or former member of a reserve component who is eligible for retired pay but for age and for dependents of the member who accompany the retiree.

Sponsor: Rep Young, Don [AK] (introduced 5/26/2010) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 5/26/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Armed Services.

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H.R.5428 : Disseminate Amputee Veterans Bill of Rights Info. To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to educate certain staff of the Department of Veterans Affairs and to inform veterans about the Injured and Amputee Veterans Bill of Rights, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 5/27/2010) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/27/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.5449 : Retroactive Stop-Loss Special Pay Extension. To amend section 310 of the Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2009 to extend the period of time during which claims for retroactive stop-loss special pay may be submitted.

Sponsor: Rep Sutton, Betty [OH-13] (introduced 5/27/2010) Cosponsors (18)

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 5/27/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Armed Services.

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H.R.5484 : VetStar Veteran-Friendly Business Act of 2010. To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish an annual award program to recognize businesses for their contributions to veterans’ employment, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Teague, Harry [NM-2] (introduced 6/8/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/8/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.5516 : Access to Appropriate Immunizations for Veterans Act of 2010. To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for certain requirements relating to the immunization of veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Stearns, Cliff [FL-6] (introduced 6/10/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/10/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.5517 : Every Veteran Counts Act. To amend title 13, United States Code, to require that the questionnaire used in a decennial census of population shall include an inquiry regarding an individual’s status as a veteran, a spouse of a veteran, or a dependent of a veteran, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Stearns, Cliff [FL-6] (introduced 6/10/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Oversight and Government Reform; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/10/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, and in addition to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

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H.R.5550 : Loss of Use Definition. To amend title 38, United States Code, to include a definition of “loss of use” for purposes of evaluating disabilities and providing adapted housing and automobiles under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Rep Kirkpatrick, Ann [AZ-1] (introduced 6/17/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/17/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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H.R.5555 : Disabled Veterans’ Surviving Spouses Home Loans Act. To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for eligibility for housing loans guaranteed by the Department of Veterans Affairs for the surviving spouses of certain totally-disabled veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Foxx, Virginia [NC-5] (introduced 6/17/2010) Cosponsors (26)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/17/2010 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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Senate

S.46 : Medicare Access to Rehabilitation Services Act of 2009 to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to repeal the Medicare outpatient rehabilitation therapy caps.

Sponsor: Sen Ensign, John [NV] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (31) Related Bill: H.R.43

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

To support this bill and/or contact your Senators send a message via

http://capwiz.com/moaa/issues/alert/?alertid=14486941&type=CO

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S.66 : Disabled Vet Space A. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to permit former members of the Armed Forces who have a service-connected disability rated as total to travel on military aircraft in the same manner and to the same extent as retired members of the Armed Forces are entitled to travel on such aircraft.

Sponsor: Sen Inouye, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

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S.67 : Disabled POW Commissary/Exchange Use. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to authorize certain disabled former prisoners of war to use Department of Defense commissary and exchange stores.

Sponsor: Sen Inouye, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

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S.68 : Filipino Service Certification. A bill to require the Secretary of the Army to determine the validity of the claims of certain Filipinos that they performed military service on behalf of the United States during World War II.

Sponsor: Sen Inouye, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.94 : Long-Term Care Family Accessibility Act. A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide for a nonrefundable tax credit for long-term care insurance premiums.

Sponsor: Sen Vitter, David [LA] (introduced 1/6/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Finance

Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

Major Action: 1/13/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.239 : Veterans Health Equity Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to ensure that veterans in each of the 48 contiguous States are able to receive services in at least one full-service hospital of the Veterans Health Administration in the State or receive comparable services provided by contract in the State.

Sponsor: Sen Shaheen, Jeanne [NH] (introduced 1/14/2009) Cosponsors (1) Companion Bill H.R.190

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/14/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.246 : Veterans Health Care Quality Improvement Act. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the quality of care provided to veterans in Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities, to encourage highly qualified doctors to serve in hard-to-fill positions in such medical facilities, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Durbin, Richard [IL] (introduced 1/14/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/14/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.252 : Veterans Health Care Authorization Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to enhance the capacity of the Department of Veterans Affairs to recruit and retain nurses and other critical health-care professionals, to improve the provision of health care veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 1/15/2009) Cosponsors (11)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Ordered to be reported without amendment favorably.

To support this bill and/or contact your Senators send a message via http://capwiz.com/dav/issues/alert/?alertid=14008476&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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S.263 : Servicemembers Access to Justice Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the enforcement of the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act of 1994, and for other purposes. Companion Bill H.R.1474.

Sponsor: Sen Casey, Robert P., Jr. [PA] (introduced 1/15/2009) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/29/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.274 : Veterans Jobs Opportunity Act of 2009. A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide an incentive to hire unemployed veterans.

Sponsor: Sen Baucus, Max [MT] (introduced 1/16/2009) Cosponsors (1) Related Bill: H.R.4443

Committees: Senate Finance

Latest Major Action: 1/16/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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S.296 : Fair Tax Act of 2009. A bill to promote freedom, fairness, and economic opportunity by repealing the income tax and other taxes, abolishing the Internal Revenue Service, and enacting a national sales tax to be administered primarily by the States.

Sponsor: Sen Chambliss, Saxby [GA] (introduced 1/22/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: Senate Finance

Latest Major Action: 1/22/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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S.307 : Critical Access Hospital Flexibility Act of 2009. A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide flexibility in the manner in which beds are counted for purposes of determining whether a hospital may be designated as a critical access hospital under the Medicare program and to exempt from the critical access hospital inpatient bed limitation the number of beds provided for certain veterans. Companion Bill H.R.668

Sponsor: Sen Wyden, Ron [OR] (introduced 1/22/2009) Cosponsors (15)

Committees: Senate Finance

Latest Major Action: 1/22/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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S.315 : Veterans Outreach Improvement Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the outreach activities of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. Companion Bill H.R.32

Sponsor: Sen Feingold, Russell D. [WI] (introduced 1/26/2009) Cosponsors (2) Related Bill H.R.2257

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/29/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.347 : Vet Hand Loss Traumatic Injury Protection. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to allow the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to distinguish between the severity of a qualifying loss of a dominant hand and a qualifying loss of a non-dominant hand for purposes of traumatic injury protection under Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Ensign, John [NV] (introduced 1/29/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/29/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.402 : Keeping Our Promise to America’s Military Veterans Act. A bill to improve the lives of our Nation’s veterans and their families and provide them with the opportunity to achieve the American dream.

Sponsor: Sen Snowe, Olympia J. [ME] (introduced 2/10/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/10/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.404 : Veterans’ Emergency Care Fairness Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to expand veteran eligibility for reimbursement by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs for emergency treatment furnished in a non-Department facility, and for other purposes. Companion Bill H.R.1377.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 2/10/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/10/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.407 : Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2009. A bill to increase, effective as of December 1, 2009, the rates of compensation for veterans with service-connected disabilities and the rates of dependency and indemnity compensation for the survivors of certain disabled veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 2/10/2009) Cosponsors (17) Related bill H.R.1513

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Senate Reports: 111-24

Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 111-37 [GPO: Text, PDF]

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S.423 : Veterans Health Care Budget Reform and Transparency Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize advance appropriations for certain medical care accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs by providing two-fiscal year budget authority, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 2/12/2009) Cosponsors (56)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 8/6/2009 Senate floor actions. Status: Returned to the Calendar. Calendar No. 101.

To support this bill and/or contact your Senators send a message http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12703276

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S.491 : Federal and Military Retiree Health Care Equity Act. A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow Federal civilian and military retirees to pay health insurance premiums on a pretax basis and to allow a deduction for TRICARE supplemental premiums.

Sponsor: Sen Webb, Jim [VA] (introduced 2/26/2009) Cosponsors (48) Companion Bill H.R.1203

Committees: Senate Finance

Latest Major Action: 2/26/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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S.498 : Vet Dental Insurance. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize dental insurance for veterans and survivors and dependents of veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Burr, Richard [NC] (introduced 2/26/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/26/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.514 : Veterans Rehabilitation and Training Improvements Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to enhance vocational rehabilitation benefits for veterans, and for other purposes. Companion Bill H.R.297.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 3/3/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/29/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.535 : SBP DIC Offset Elimination. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to repeal requirement for reduction of survivor annuities under the Survivor Benefit Plan by veterans’ dependency and indemnity compensation, and for other purposes. Companion Bill H.775.

Sponsor: Sen Nelson, Bill [FL] (introduced 3/5/2009) Cosponsors (57)

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 3/5/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

To support this bill and/or contact your Senator send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=14275496&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

________________________________________

S.543 : Veteran and Servicemember Family Caregiver Support Act of 2009. A bill to require a pilot program on training, certification, and support for family caregivers of seriously disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces to provide caregiver services to such veterans and members, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Durbin, Richard [IL] (introduced 3/6/2009) Cosponsors (14) Companion Bill H.R.785.

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/6/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.546 : Retired Pay Restoration Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to permit certain retired members of the uniformed services who have a service-connected disability to receive both disability compensation from the Department of Veterans Affairs for their disability and either retired pay by reason of their years of military service of Combat-Related Special Compensation. Companion Bill H.R.811.

Sponsor: Sen Reid, Harry [NV] (introduced 3/9/2009) Cosponsors (45)

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 3/9/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

To support this bill and/or contact your Senators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=12904686&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

________________________________________

S.572 : Purple Heart Forever Stamp. A bill to provide for the issuance of a “forever stamp” to honor the sacrifices of the brave men and women of the armed forces who have been awarded the Purple Heart. Companion Bill H.R.1305.

Sponsor: Sen Webb, Jim [VA] (introduced 3/11/2009) Cosponsors (17)

Committees: Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/23/2009 Referred to Senate subcommittee. Status: Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs referred to Subcommittee on Federal Financial Management, Government Information, Federal Services, and International Security.

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S.597 : Women Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and improve health care services available to women veterans, especially those serving in operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, from the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. Companion Bill H.R.1211

Sponsor: Sen Murray, Patty [WA] (introduced 3/16/2009) Cosponsors (20)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/16/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

________________________________________

S.606 : Veterans Corps Program. A bill to amend the National and Community Service Act of 1990 to establish a Veterans Corps program.

Sponsor: Sen Warner, Mark R. [VA] (introduced 3/17/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions

Latest Major Action: 3/17/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions.

________________________________________

S.614 : WASP Gold Medal Award. A bill to award a Congressional Gold Medal to the Women Airforce Service Pilots (“WASP”).

Sponsor: Sen Hutchison, Kay Bailey [TX] (introduced 3/17/2009) Cosponsors (75) Companion Bill H.R.2014

Committees: Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs

Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 111-40 [GPO: Text, PDF]

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S.642 : Health Care for Members of the Armed Forces Exposed to Chemical Hazards Act of 2009. A bill to require the Secretary of Defense to establish registries of members and former members of the Armed Forces exposed in the line of duty to occupational and environmental health chemical hazards, to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide health care to veterans exposed to such hazards, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Bayh, Evan [IN] (introduced 3/19/2009) Cosponsors (7)

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 3/19/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

________________________________________

S.644 : National Guard and Reserve Retired Pay Equity Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to include service after September 11, 2001, as service qualifying for the determination of a reduced eligibility age for receipt of non-regular service retired pay.

Sponsor: Sen Chambliss, Saxby [GA] (introduced 3/19/2009) Cosponsors (13) Companion Bill H.R.208 Related Bill S.831

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 3/19/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

To support this bill and/or contact your Senators send a message via http://capwiz.com/ncoausa/issues/alert/?alertid=12995086&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id] or http://capwiz.com/moaa/issues/bills/?bill=12960556

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S.658 : Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve health care for veterans who live in rural areas, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Tester, Jon [MT] (introduced 3/19/2009) Cosponsors (10)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/19/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.663 : Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War II Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish the Merchant Mariner Equity Compensation Fund to provide benefits to certain individuals who served in the United States merchant marine (including the Army Transport Service and the Naval Transport Service) during World War II.

Sponsor: Sen Nelson, E. Benjamin [NE] (introduced 3/19/2009) Cosponsors (51)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/29/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.669 : Veterans Second Amendment Protection Act. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to clarify the conditions under which certain persons may be treated as adjudicated mentally incompetent for certain purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Burr, Richard [NC] (introduced 3/23/2009) Cosponsors (18)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/16/2009 Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 78.

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S.691 : Colorado National Cemetery for Veterans. A bill to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a national cemetery for veterans in southern Colorado region, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Bennet, Michael F. [CO] (introduced 3/25/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/29/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.699 : South Texas Veterans’ Hospital. A bill to provide for the construction by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs of a full service hospital in Far South Texas.

Sponsor: Sen Cornyn, John [TX] (introduced 3/25/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/25/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.700 : Ending the Medicare Disability Waiting Period Act of 2009. A bill to amend title II of the Social Security Act to phase out the 24-month waiting period for disabled individuals to become eligible for Medicare benefits, to eliminate the waiting period for individuals with life-threatening conditions, and for other purposes. Companion Bill H.R.1708.

Sponsor: Sen Bingaman, Jeff [NM] (introduced 3/25/2009) Cosponsors (21)

Committees: Senate Finance

Latest Major Action: 3/25/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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S.728 : Veterans’ Insurance and Benefits Enhancement Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to enhance veterans’ insurance benefits, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 3/26/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/7/2009 Senate floor actions. Status: Returned to the Calendar. Calendar No. 155.

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S.731 : TRICARE Coverage For “Gray Area” Reservists. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to provide for continuity of TRICARE Standard coverage for certain members of the Retired Reserve. Companion Bill H.R.270

Sponsor: Sen Nelson, E. Benjamin [NE] (introduced 3/26/2009) Cosponsors (23)

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 3/26/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services. ‘

To support this bill and/or contact your Senators send a message via http://www.ngaus.org/content.asp?bid=1805&False&False

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S.734 : Rural Veterans Health Care Access and Quality Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the capacity of the Department of Veterans Affairs to recruit and retain physicians in Health Professional Shortage Areas and to improve the provision of health care to veterans in rural areas, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 3/30/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/30/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.746 : Nebraska National Cemetery. A bill to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a national cemetery in the Sarpy County region to serve veterans in eastern Nebraska, western Iowa, and northwest Missouri.

Sponsor: Sen Nelson, E. Benjamin [NE] (introduced 3/31/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/29/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.760 : National World War I Memorial. A bill to designate the Liberty Memorial at the National World War I Museum in Kansas City, Missouri, as the “National World War I Memorial”.

Sponsor: Sen McCaskill, Claire [MO] (introduced 4/1/2009) Cosponsors (3) Related Bill H.R.1849

Committees: Senate Energy and Natural Resources

Latest Major Action: 12/3/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Energy and Natural Resources Subcommittee on National Parks. Hearings held.

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S.768 : Bataan Gold Medal Initiative. A bill to grant the Congressional Gold Medal to the soldiers from the United States who were prisoners of war at Bataan during World War II.

Sponsor: Sen Udall, Tom [NM] (introduced 4/1/2009) Cosponsors (7)

Committees: Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/1/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.

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S.772 : Honor Act of 2009. A bill to enhance benefits for survivors of certain former members of the Armed Forces with a history of post-traumatic stress disorder or traumatic brain injury, to enhance availability and access to mental health counseling for members of the Armed Forces and veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Bond, Christopher S. [MO] (introduced 4/1/2009) Cosponsors (12)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/1/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.793 : Department of Veterans Affairs Vision Scholars Act of 2009. A bill to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a scholarship program for students seeking a degree or certificate in the areas of visual impairment and orientation and mobility.

Sponsor: Sen Brown, Sherrod [OH] (introduced 4/2/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/2/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.801 : Family Caregiver Program Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to waive charges for humanitarian care provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs to family members accompanying veterans severely injured after September 11, 2001, as they receive medical care from the Department and to provide assistance to family caregivers, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 4/2/2009) Cosponsors (27)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 9/25/2009 Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 167.

To support this bill and/or contact your Senators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=13104956&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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S.820 : Veterans Mobility Enhancement Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to enhance the automobile assistance allowance for veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Sanders, Bernard [VT] (introduced 4/2/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/29/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.821 : VA Copay Collection Prohibition. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to prohibit the Secretary of Veterans Affairs from collecting certain copayments from veterans who are catastrophically disabled, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Sanders, Bernard [VT] (introduced 4/2/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/2/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read the second time and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.831 : National Guard and Reserve Retired Pay Equity Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to include service after September 11, 2001, as service qualifying for the determination of a reduced eligibility age for receipt of non-regular service retired pay.

Sponsor: Sen Kerry, John F. [MA] (introduced 4/20/2009) Cosponsors (32) Related Bill S.644

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/20/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

To support this bill and/or contact your Senators send a message via www.ngaus.org/content.asp?bid=1805

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S.832 : MOAA Federal Charter. A bill to amend title 36, United States Code, to grant a Federal charter to the Military Officers Association of America, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Nelson, Bill [FL] (introduced 4/20/2009) Cosponsors (41) Companion Bill H.R.2017 Related Bill S.1449

Committees: Senate Judiciary

Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 111-95 [GPO: Text, PDF]

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S.842 : VA Home Loan Payoff to Mortgagers. A bill to repeal the sunset of certain enhancements of protections of servicemembers relating to mortgages and mortgage foreclosures, to amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to pay mortgage holders unpaid balances on housing loans guaranteed by Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Kerry, John F. [MA] (introduced 4/21/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/21/2009 4/29/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.847 : SBP Education Assistance Limitation Exclusion. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide that utilization of survivors’ and dependents’ educational assistance shall not be subject to the 48-month limitation on the aggregate amount of assistance utilizable under multiple veterans and related educational assistance programs.

Sponsor: Sen Webb, Jim [VA] (introduced 4/21/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/29/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.883 : Medal of Honor Coin. A bill to require the Secretary of the Treasury to mint coins in recognition and celebration of the establishment of the Medal of Honor in 1861, America’s highest award for valor in action against an enemy force which can be bestowed upon an individual serving in the Armed Services of the United States, to honor the American military men and women who have been recipients of the Medal of Honor, and to promote awareness of what the Medal of Honor represents and how ordinary Americans, through courage, sacrifice, selfless service and patriotism, can challenge fate and change the course of history.

Sponsor: Sen Kerry, John F. [MA] (introduced 4/23/2009) Cosponsors (85)

Committees: Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/23/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.

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S.902 : Veteran’s Treatment Courts. A bill to provide grants to establish veteran’s treatment courts.

Sponsor: Sen Kerry, John F. [MA] (introduced 4/27/2009) Cosponsors (4) Related Bill H.R.2127

Committees: Senate Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 4/27/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

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S. 944 – The Wounded Warrior Transition Assistance Act. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to require the Secretaries of the military departments to give wounded members of the reserve components of the Armed Forces the option of remaining on active duty during the transition process in order to continue to receive military pay and allowances, to authorize members to reside at their permanent places of residence during the process, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Feingold, Russell D. [WI] (introduced 4/30/2009) Cosponsors (5)

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/30/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

To support this bill and/or contact your Senators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=13266571&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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S.977 : Prisoner of War Benefits Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide improved benefits for veterans who are former prisoners of war, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Murray, Patty [WA] (introduced 5/5/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.998 : Arthur Woolweaver, Jr., Social Security Act Improvements for the Terminally Ill Act. A bill to amend title II of the Social Security Act to eliminate the five-month waiting period in the disability insurance program, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Brown, Sherrod [OH] (introduced 5/7/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: Senate Finance

Latest Major Action: 5/7/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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S.1008 : Military Retired Pay Fairness Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to limit requirements of separation pay, special separation benefits, and voluntary separation incentive from members of the Armed Forces subsequently receiving retired or retainer pay.

Sponsor: Sen Shaheen, Jeanne [NH] (introduced 5/7/2009) Cosponsors (7) Companion bill H.R.2302

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 5/7/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

To support this bill and/or contact your Senators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=13682656&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id] or http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=13967481&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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S.1015 : Enhanced Disability Compensation for Certain Disabled Veterans. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to enhance disability compensation for certain disabled veterans with difficulties using prostheses and disabled veterans in need of regular aid and attendance for residuals of traumatic brain injury, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Burr, Richard [NC] (introduced 5/11/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/11/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.1016 : Vet Disability Compensation Award upon Separation. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commencement of the period of payment of original awards of compensation for veterans who are retired or separated from the Uniformed services for disability.

Sponsor: Sen Burr, Richard [NC] (introduced 5/11/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/11/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.1042 : Illegal Garnishment Prevention Act. A bill to prohibit the use of funds to promote the direct deposit of Veterans and Social Security benefits until adequate safeguards are established to prevent the attachment and garnishment of such benefits.

Sponsor: Sen Kohl, Herb [WI] (introduced 5/14/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: Senate Finance

Latest Major Action: 5/14/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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S.1055 : Gold Medal Award for 100th Inf Bn & 442nd RCT. A bill to grant the congressional gold medal, collectively, to the 100th Infantry Battalion and the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, United States Army, in recognition of their dedicated service during World War II.

Sponsor: Sen Boxer, Barbara [CA] (introduced 5/14/2009) Cosponsors (69) Related bill H.R.347

Committees: Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/14/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.

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S.1106 : Selected Reserve Continuum of Care Act. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to require the provision of medical and dental readiness services to certain members of the Selected Reserve and Individual Ready Reserve based on medical need, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Lincoln, Blanche L. [AR] (introduced 5/20/2009) Cosponsors (7)

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 5/20/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

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S.1109 : PRO-VETS Act of 2009. A bill to provide veterans with individualized notice about available benefits, to streamline application processes or the benefits, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Gillibrand, Kirsten E. [NY] (introduced 5/20/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1118 : DIC Compensation Rate Increase to 55%. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for an increase in the amount of monthly dependency and indemnity compensation payable to surviving spouses by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Lincoln, Blanche L. [AR] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1128 : Atomic Veterans Service Medal Act. A bill to authorize the award of a military service medal to members of the Armed Forces who were exposed to ionizing radiation as a result of participation in the testing of nuclear weapons or under other circumstances.

Sponsor: Sen Roberts, Pat [KS] (introduced 5/21/2009) Cosponsors (3) Related bill H.R.2553

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 5/21/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

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S.1160 : Homes for Heroes Act of 2009. A bill to provide housing assistance for very low-income veterans.

Sponsor: Sen Schumer, Charles E. [NY] (introduced 6/1/2009) Cosponsors (14)

Committees: Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/1/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.

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S.1166 : Voluntary Support for Reservists and National Guard Members Act of 2009. A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow taxpayers to designate part or all of any income tax refund to support reservists and National Guard members.

Sponsor: Sen Reid, Harry [NV] (introduced 6/3/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: Senate Finance

Latest Major Action: 6/3/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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S.1168 : Nationally Significant Battlefields Protection. A bill to authorize the acquisition and protection of nationally significant battlefields and associated sites of the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812 under the American Battlefield Protection Program.

Sponsor: Sen Schumer, Charles E. [NY] (introduced 6/3/2009) Cosponsors (1) Related Bill H.R.1694

Committees: Senate Energy and Natural Resources

Latest Major Action: 7/15/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Energy and Natural Resources Subcommittee on National Parks. Hearings held. With printed Hearing: S.Hrg. 111-92.

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S.1169 : Uniformed Services with Autism (USA) Heroes Act . A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to provide for the treatment of autism under TRICARE.

Sponsor: Sen Gillibrand, Kirsten E. [NY] (introduced 6/3/2009) Cosponsors (7)

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/3/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

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S.1204 : Chiropractic Care Available to All Veterans Act of 2009. A bill to amend the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Programs Enhancement Act of 2001 to require the provision of chiropractic care and services to veterans at all Department of Veterans Affairs medical centers, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Murray, Patty [WA] (introduced 6/8/2009) Cosponsors (9) Related bill H.R.1017

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1237 : Homeless Women Veterans and Homeless Veterans with Children Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to expand the grant program for homeless veterans with special needs to include male homeless veterans with minor dependents and to establish a grant program for reintegration of homeless women veterans and homeless veterans with children, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Murray, Patty [WA] (introduced 6/11/2009) Cosponsors (8)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/29/2010 Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 360.

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S.1337 : Filipino Veterans Family Reunification Act of 2009. A bill to exempt children of certain Filipino World War II veterans from the numerical limitations on immigrant visas.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 6/24/2009) Cosponsors (6)

Committees: Senate Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 6/24/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

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S.1347 : Carmelo Rodriguez Military Medical Accountability Act of 2009. A bill to amend chapter 171 of title 28, United States Code, to allow members of the Armed Forces to sue the United States for damages for certain injuries caused by improper medical care, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Schumer, Charles E. [NY] (introduced 6/24/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 6/24/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

To support this bill and/or contact your Senators send a message via http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?alertid=13791596&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]

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S.1394 : Veterans Entitlement to Service Act of 2009. A bill to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to acknowledge the receipt of medical, disability, and pension claims and other communications submitted by claimants, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Gillibrand, Kirsten E. [NY] (introduced 7/6/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1427 : Department of Veterans Affairs Hospital Quality Report Card Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish a Hospital Quality Report Card Initiative to report on health care quality in Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Centers, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Wyden, Ron [OR] (introduced 7/9/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1429 : Servicemembers Mental Health Care Commission Act. A bill to establish a commission on veterans and members of the Armed Forces with post traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, or other mental health disorders, to enhance the capacity of mental health care providers to assist such veterans and members, to ensure such veterans are not discriminated against, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Wyden, Ron [OR] (introduced 7/9/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1449 : MOAA Federal Charter. A bill to amend title 36, United States Code, to grant a Federal charter to the Military Officers Association of America, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Nelson, Bill [FL] (introduced 7/14/2009) Cosponsors (None) Related Bill H.R.2017 & S.832

Committees: Senate Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 7/14/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

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S.1450 : Deceased Servicemen Parental Nursing Home Care. A bill to enable State homes to furnish nursing home care to parents any of whose children died while serving in the Armed Forces.

Sponsor: Sen Ensign, John [NV] (introduced 7/14/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/14/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.1452 : COMBAT PTSD Act. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to clarify the meaning of “combat with the enemy” for purposes of service-connection of disabilities.

Sponsor: Sen Schumer, Charles E. [NY] (introduced 7/14/2009) Cosponsors (5)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/14/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.1467 : Lance Corporal Josef Lopez Fairness for Servicemembers Harmed by Vaccines Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide coverage under Traumatic Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance for adverse reactions to vaccinations administered by the Department of Defense, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen McCaskill, Claire [MO] (introduced 7/16/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1495 : Service Dogs for Veterans Act of 2009. A bill to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program to assess the feasibility and advisability of using service dogs for the treatment or rehabilitation of veterans with physical or mental injuries or disabilities, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Franken, Al [MN] (introduced 7/22/2009) Cosponsors (7) Related Bill H.R.3266

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 7/22/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.1518 : Caring for Camp Lejeune Veterans Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to furnish hospital care, medical services, and nursing home care to veterans who were stationed at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, while the water was contaminated at Camp Lejeune.

Sponsor: Sen Burr, Richard [NC] (introduced 7/27/2009) Cosponsors (15)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1520 : NAIV Charter. A bill to grant a Federal charter to the National American Indian Veterans, Incorporated.

Sponsor: Sen Johnson, Tim [SD] (introduced 7/27/2009) Cosponsors (1) Related Bill H.R.3349

Committees: Senate Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 7/27/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

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S.1543 : Supporting Military Families Act of 2009. A bill to amend the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 and title 5, United States Code, to provide leave for family members of members of regular components of the Armed Forces, and leave to care for covered veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Dodd, Christopher J. [CT] (introduced 7/30/2009) Cosponsors (4)

Committees: Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions

Latest Major Action: 7/30/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions.

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S.1547 : Zero Tolerance for Veterans Homelessness Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, and the United States Housing Act of 1937 to enhance and expand the assistance provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Housing and Urban Development to homeless veterans and veterans at risk of homelessness, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Reed, Jack [RI] (introduced 7/30/2009) Cosponsors (19)

Committees: Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs; Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1556 : Veteran Voting Support Act of 2009. A bill to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to permit facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs to be designated as voter registration agencies, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Feinstein, Dianne [CA] (introduced 8/3/2009) Cosponsors (6)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1558 : Travel Reimbursement for Inactive Duty Training Personnel (TRIP) Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 37, United States Code, to provide travel and transportation allowances for members of the reserve components for long distance and certain other travel to inactive duty training.

Sponsor: Sen Lincoln, Blanche L. [AR] (introduced 8/3/2009) Cosponsors (8)

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 8/3/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

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S.1668 : National Guard Education Equality Act. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the inclusion of certain active duty service in the reserve components as qualifying service for purposes of Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Bennet, Michael F. [CO] (introduced 9/14/2009) Cosponsors (14)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

To support this bill and/or contact your Senators send a message via http://capwiz.com/ngaus/mail/compose/?mailid=14779496&azip=92571

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S.1685 : Emergency Senior Citizens Relief Act of 2009. A bill to provide an emergency benefit of $250 to seniors, veterans, and persons with disabilities in 2010 to compensate for the lack of a cost-of-living adjustment for such year, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Sanders, Bernard [VT] (introduced 9/17/2009) Cosponsors (10) Related Bills: H.R.3597

Committees: Senate Finance

Latest Major Action: 9/17/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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S.1695 : Congressional Gold Medal Award. A bill to authorize the award of a Congressional gold medal to the Montford Point Marines of World War II.

Sponsor: Sen Burris, Roland [IL] (introduced 9/23/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs

Latest Major Action: 9/23/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.

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S.1717 : VA Facility Leases. A bill to authorize major medical facility leases for the Department of Veterans Affairs for fiscal year 2010, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 9/25/2009) Cosponsors (1) Related Bill S.1310

Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 111-82

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S.1752 : Parkinson’s Disease VA Compensation. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide wartime disability compensation for certain veterans with Parkinson’s disease.

Sponsor: Sen Sanders, Bernard [VT] (introduced 10/5/2009) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1753 : Disabled Veteran Caregiver Housing Assistance Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to increase assistance for disabled veterans who are temporarily residing in housing owned by a family member, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Sanders, Bernard [VT] (introduced 10/5/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1779 : Health Care for Veterans Exposed to Chemical Hazards Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide health care to veterans exposed in the line of duty to occupational and environmental health chemical hazards, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Bayh, Evan [IN] (introduced 10/14/2009) Cosponsors (7)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/21/2009 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1780 : Honor America’s Guard-Reserve Retirees Act. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to deem certain service in the reserve components as active service for purposes of laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Sen Lincoln, Blanche L. [AR] (introduced 10/14/2009) Cosponsors (9) Related bill: H.R.3787

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/19/2010 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1798 : Automatic Reserve Component Enrollment Act of 2009. A bill to provide for the automatic enrollment of demobilizing members of the National Guard and Reserve in health care and dental care programs of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Sanders, Bernard [VT] (introduced 10/19/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/19/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.1932 : Post 9/11 Troops to Teachers Enhancement Act. A bill to amend the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to allow members of the Armed Forces who served on active duty on or after September 11, 2001, to be eligible to participate in the Troops-to-Teachers Program, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen McCain, John [AZ] (introduced 10/27/2009) Cosponsors (8)

Committees: Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions

Latest Major Action:

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S.1939 : Vet Presumptive Exposure in Vietnam. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to clarify presumptions relating to the exposure of certain veterans who served in the vicinity of the Republic of Vietnam, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Gillibrand, Kirsten E. [NY] (introduced 10/27/2009) Cosponsors (19)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/19/2010 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.1963 : Caregivers and Veterans Omnibus Health Services Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide assistance to caregivers of veterans, to improve the provision of health care to veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 10/28/2009) Cosponsors (7)

Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 111-163 [GPO: Text, PDF]

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S.2096 : Parent VA Burial Eligibility. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the eligibility of parents of certain deceased veterans for interment in national cemeteries.

Sponsor: Sen Kerry, John F. [MA] (introduced 10/29/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 10/29/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.2743 : Cold War Service Medal Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to provide for the award of a military service medal to members of the Armed Forces who served honorably during the Cold War, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Snowe, Olympia J. [ME] (introduced 11/5/2009) Cosponsors (7) Related bill: H.R.4051

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 11/5/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

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S.2759 : Benefit Rating Acceleration for Veteran Entitlements Act of 2009. A bill to amend title II and XVI of the Social Security Act to provide for treatment of disability rated and certified as total by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs as disability for purposes of such titles.

Sponsor: Sen Brown, Sherrod [OH] (introduced 11/10/2009) Cosponsors (None) Related Bill: H.R.4054

Committees: Senate Finance

Latest Major Action: 11/10/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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S.2760 : VA Homeless Vets Appropriations. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for an increase in the annual amount authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out comprehensive service programs for homeless veterans.

Sponsor: Sen Udall, Tom [NM] (introduced 11/10/2009) Cosponsors (14)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 11/10/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.2769 : Post-9/11 Veterans’ Job Training Act of 2009. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the use of entitlement under Post-9/11 Educational Assistance for the pursuit of apprenticeships and on-job training, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Klobuchar, Amy [MN] (introduced 11/10/2009) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 11/10/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.2770 : Veterans Business Center Act of 2009. A bill to amend the Small Business Act to establish a Veterans Business Center program, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Gillibrand, Kirsten E. [NY] (introduced 11/10/2009) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship

Latest Major Action: 11/10/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship.

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S.3082 : VA Work Study Allowances. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize individuals who are pursuing programs of rehabilitation, education, or training under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to receive work-study allowances for certain outreach services provided through congressional offices, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Wyden, Ron [OR] (introduced 3/5/2010) Cosponsors (1) Related bill: H.R.4765

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/5/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.3107 : Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2010. A bill to amend title 38 , United States Code, to provide for an increase, effective December 1, 2010, in the rates of compensation for veterans with service-connected disabilities and the rates of dependency and indemnity compensation for the survivors of certain disabled veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 3/11/2010) Cosponsors (11) Related Bill: H.R.4667

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/19/2010 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.3118 : Veterans Pensions Protection Act. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide that monetary benefits paid to veterans by States and municipalities shall be excluded from consideration as income for purposes of pension benefits paid by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Sponsor: Sen Kerry, John F. [MA] (introduced 3/16/2010) Cosponsors (None) Related Bill: H.R.3485

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/16/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.3162 : VA Minimum Essential Coverage. A bill to clarify the health care provided by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs that constitutes minimum essential coverage.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 3/24/2010) Cosponsors (59) Related bills: H.R.5014

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/13/2010 Held at the desk.

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S.3171 : Veterans Training Act. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the approval of certain programs of education for purposes of the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program.

Sponsor: Sen Lincoln, Blanche L. [AR] (introduced 3/25/2010) Cosponsors (10) Related bills: H.R. 3813

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/25/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.3192 : Fair Access to Veterans Benefits Act of 2010. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the tolling of the timing of review for appeals of final decisions of the Board of Veterans’ Appeals, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Specter, Arlen [PA] (introduced 4/12/2010) Cosponsors (1) Related bills: H.R.5045, H.R.5064

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/12/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.3201 : TRICARE Dependent Coverage Extension Act. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to extend TRICARE coverage to certain dependents under the age of 26.

Sponsor: Sen Udall, Mark [CO] (introduced 4/14/2010) Cosponsors (31) Related bills: H.R.4923

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/14/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

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S.3234 : Veteran Employment Assistance Act of 2010. A bill to improve employment, training, and placement services furnished to veterans, especially those serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Murray, Patty [WA] (introduced 4/20/2010) Cosponsors (13) Related bills: H.R.5120

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/19/2010 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.3286 : VA Vet Claim Assistance Pilot Program. A bill to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program on the award of grants to State and local government agencies and nonprofit organizations to provide assistance to veterans with their submittal of claims to the Veterans Benefits Administration, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Specter, Arlen [PA] (introduced 4/29/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/19/2010 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.3356 : CHAMPVA Children Maximum Age increase. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to increase the maximum age for children eligible for medical care under the CHAMPVA program, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Feingold, Russell D. [WI] (introduced 5/13/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/13/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.3359 : Veterans’ Disability Compensation Automatic COLA Act. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for annual cost-of-living adjustments to be made automatically by law each year in the rates of disability compensation for veterans with service-connected disabilities and the rates of dependency and indemnity compensation for survivors of certain service-connected disabled veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Thune, John [SD] (introduced 5/13/2010) Cosponsors (3)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/13/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.3367 : VA Pension Increase for Disabled Couples. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to increase the rate of pension for disabled veterans who are married to one another and both of whom require regular aid and attendance, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 5/13/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/19/2010 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

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S.3371 : TRICARE Mental Health Care Access Act. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to improve access to mental health care counselors under the TRICARE program, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen McCaskill, Claire [MO] (introduced 5/13/2010) Cosponsors (6)

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 5/13/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

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S.3378 : Examination of Exposures to Environmental Hazards During Military Service and Health Care for Camp Lejeune and Atsugi Naval Air Facility Veterans and their Families Act of 2010. An original bill to authorize health care for individuals exposed to environmental hazards at Camp Lejeune and the Atsugi Naval Air Facility, to establish an advisory board to examine exposures to environmental hazards during military service, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 5/17/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Senate Reports: 111-189

Latest Major Action: 5/17/2010 Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 377.

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S.3394 : Strengthening Entrepreneurship for America’s Veterans Act of 2010. A bill to establish the veterans’ business center program, to improve the programs for veterans of the Small Business Administration, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Landrieu, Mary L. [LA] (introduced 5/20/2010) Cosponsors (1)

Committees: Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship

Latest Major Action: 5/20/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship.

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S.3398 : Veteran Employment Transition Act of 2010. A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend the work opportunity credit to certain recently discharged veterans.

Sponsor: Sen Baucus, Max [MT] (introduced 5/24/2010) Cosponsors (3) Related bills: H.R.5400

Committees: Senate Finance

Latest Major Action: 5/24/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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S.3406 : Reserve Retirement Deployment Credit Correction Act. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to eliminate the per-fiscal year calculation of days of certain active duty or active service used to reduce the minimum age at which a member of a reserve component of the uniformed services may retire for non-regular service.

Sponsor: Sen Hagan, Kay [NC] (introduced 5/24/2010) Cosponsors (None) Related bills: H.R.4947

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 5/24/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

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S.3447 : Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Improvements Act of 2010. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve educational assistance for veterans who served in the Armed Forces after September 11, 2001, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 5/27/2010) Cosponsors (2)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/27/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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S.3454 : National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2011. An original bill to authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2011 for military activities of the Department of Defense, for military construction, and for defense activities of the Department of Energy, to prescribe military personnel strengths for such fiscal year, and for other purposes. Sponsor: Sen Levin, Carl [MI] (introduced 6/4/2010) Cosponsors (None) Related bills: H.R.5136, S.3455, S.3456, S.3457

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Senate Reports: 111-201

Latest Major Action: 6/4/2010 Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 414.

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S.3477 : Blue Star/Gold Star Flag Act of 2010. A bill to ensure that the right of an individual to display the Service Flag on residential property not be abridged.

Sponsor: Sen Webb, Jim [VA] (introduced 6/10/2010) Cosponsors (10) Related Bill: H.R.2546

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 6/10/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

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S.3499 : Fiduciary Benefits Oversight Act of 2010. A bill to require fiduciaries of individuals receiving benefits under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to authorize the Secretary to obtain financial records with respect to such individuals for purposes of administering such laws, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 6/16/2010) Cosponsors (None)

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/16/2010 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

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[Source: http://thomas.loc.gov/home/LegislativeData.php?n=Browse 27 Jun 09 ++]