Montgomery GI Bill Enhancement Act of 2007

HR 112--GI Advance Education in Science and Technology Act--Directs the VA Secretary to pay a monthly stipend to each individual who is entitled to veterans' basic educational assistance and is pursuing full-time a doctoral degree in the sciences of engineering, mathematics, or other technology disciplines. Allows such payment in addition to any other authorized Montgomery GI Bill educational assistance. Makes such payment $1,200 a month (adjusted for inflation for fiscal years after 2005) for up to 60 months. HR 1102--Total Force Educational Assistance Enhancement and Integration Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to recodify as part of that title certain educational assistance programs for members of the reserve components of the Armed Forces, to improve such programs. HR 1211--Resuming Education After Defense Service Act of 2007--Provide entitlement to educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill for members of the Selected Reserve who aggregate more than two years of active duty service in any five year period. HR 1214--Veterans' Survivors Education Enhancement Act--Amend title 38, USC, to expand and enhance educational assistance for survivors and dependents of veterans. HR 1330--Amend title 10, USC, to extend the time limit for the use of educations assistance by members of the Selected Reserve and members of the reserve component supporting contingency operations and certain other operations--Extends the conditional time limit for the use of basic educational assistance by members of the Selected Reserve and members of the reserve components supporting contingency operations and certain other operations to 14 years after the date on which the person first becomes entitled to such assistance (current law) or ten years after the date on which (currently, the date on which) the person is separated from the Selected Reserve or reserve component. HR 1824--Amend title 38, USC, to expand the scope of programs of education for which accelerated payments of educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill may be used--Permits accelerated payments of educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill to an individual enrolled in an approved program of education that leads to employment as an operator of a commercial motor vehicle. Excludes benefits payable under the Montgomery GI Bill from consideration as income for purposes of determining eligibility for education grants or loans under any other provision of Federal law. HR 2385--21st Century GI Bill of Rights Act of 2007--Provide and enhance education, housing, and entrepreneur assistance for veterans who serve in the Armed Forces after September 11, 2001. HR 2910--Veterans Education Tuition Support Act of 2007 or the VETS Act of 2007--Amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to provide for reimbursement to members of the Armed Forces of tuition for programs of education delayed by military service, for deferment of students loans and reduced interest rates for members of the Armed Forces during periods of military service. HR 4889--Guards and Reserves Are Fighting To Act of 2008--Amend title 38, USC, to recodify as part of that title chapter 1607 of title 10, USC [Montgomery GI Bill program]. HR 2247; S 1261--Montgomery GI Bill fir Life Act of 2007--Amend titles 10 and 38, USC, to repeal the 10-year limit on use of Montgomery GI Bill educational assistance benefits. HR 2702; S 22--Post 9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2007--Amends federal veterans' benefits provisions to entitle to educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill certain individuals who serve on active duty in the Armed Forces (including the reserves) on or after September 11, 2001. S 526--Veterans Employment and Training Act of 2007--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to expand the scope of programs of education for which accelerated payments of educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill may be used. S 644--Total Force Educational Assistance Enhancement and Integration Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to recodify as part of that title certain educational assistance programs. S 698--Veterans Survivors Education Enhancement Act of 2007--Revises provisions concerning educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill to terminate the 45-month limitation on: (1) the use of such assistance for eligible veterans' survivors and dependents; and (2) the use of such assistance for special restorative training. Makes survivors and dependents eligible for educationakl assistance until their 30th (currently 26th) birthday. Makes the aggregate amount of educational assistnace $80,000. (Currently, there are monthly limits for full--time, three quarter-time, or half-time educational pursuit.) Includes within authorized educational pursuits in such amounts: (1) a program of apprenticeship or other on-job-training; and (2) a correspondence course. Makes survivors and dependents eligible for tutorial assistance. S 723--Montgomery GI Bill Enhancement Act of 2007--A bill to provide certain enhancements to the Montgomery GI Bill Program for certain individuals who serve as members of the Armed Forces after the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. S 1293--Veterans' Education and Vocational Benefits Improvement Act of 2007--Authorizes the accelerated payment of veterans' educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill for individuals who, during the period beginning October 1, 2008, and ending September 30, 2012, first enroll in an approved program of education not exceeding two years and not leading to an associate, bachelors, masters, or equivalent degree (in effect, for vocational school). Provides the same benefit for: (1) participants under the survivors' and dependents' educational assistance program; (2) members of the Selected Reserve; and (3) reserve personnel supporting contingency and other combat-related operations. Authorizes, for the latter personnel, the payment of 80% of the total educational assistance allowance for those serving the aggregate of three years or more in support of such contingency or related operations. Authorizes such personnel to make pay contributions for an increased amount of educational assistance. S 1409--21st Century GI Bill of Rights Act of 2007--A bill to provide and enhance education, housing, and entrepreneur assistance for veterans who serve in the Armed Forces after September 11, 2001. S 1719--A bill to amend title 38, USC--Legislation to provide additional educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill to veterans pursuing a degree in science, technology, engineering, or math. PL 108-454--Expiring Department of Veterans Affairs Program--The expiration of the Veterans Affairs program on earned education benefits. HR 5474--Student Veterans Financial Aid Fairness Act Letter--Supports passage of major enhancements to veterans' education benefits in tandem with other federal education loan program. S 2575--Montgomery GI Bill Educational Act Letter--Allow the transferability of MGIB education benefits to eligible dependents of fully qualified veteran, spouse or children.

Client expense: $60,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: Defense, Dept of (DOD), HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Homeland Security, Dept of (DHS), Labor, Dept of (DOL), SENATE, Small Business Administration (SBA), State, Dept of (DOS), Veterans Affairs, Dept of (VA)

H.Con.Res.99- Congressional budgets for 2007-2012; H.J.Res.20- Appropriations Resolution FY07; H.R.100-Veterans' Equity in Education Act of 2007; H.R.1102-Total Force Educational Assistance Enhancement and Integration Act of 2007; H.R.1268- Dignity for Wounded Warriors Act of 2007; H.R.1354-Lane Evans Veterans Health and Benefits Improvement Act of 2007; H.R.1418- Reauthorization of the Traumatic Brain Injury Act; H.R.1436- Retired Pay Restoration Act; H.R. 1490- To provide for a presumption of service-connectedness for certain claims for benefits under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs; H.R.1538- Wounded Warrior Assistance Act of 2007; H.R.2005- Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2007; H.R.2189- To require pre- and post-deployment mental health screenings for members of the Armed Forces; H.R.2199- Traumatic Brain Injury Health Enhancement and Long-Term Support Act of 2007; H.R.2219- Veterans Suicide Prevention Hotline Act of 2007; H.R.2239- Early Access to Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Benefits Act; H.R.2265- Responsibility to Iraqi Refugees Act of 2007; H.R.2330- Veterans' Employment Transition Support Act (VETS); H.R.2366- SBA Veterans' Programs Act of 2007; H.R.2385-To provide and enhance education, housing, and entrepreneur assistance for veterans who serve in the Armed Forces after September 11, 2001; H.R.2514- Assured Funding for Veterans Health Care Act; H.R.2689- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a program for the provision of readjustment and mental health services to veterans who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom; H.R.2702- Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2007; H.R.2818- To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the establishment of Epilepsy Centers of Excellence in the Veterans Health Administration of the Department of Veterans Affairs; H.R.2874- Veterans' Health Care Improvement Act of 2007; H.R.2910- Veterans Education Tuition Support Act of 2007; H.R.2943- Benefit Rating Acceleration for Veteran Entitlements Act of 2007; H.R.3195-ADA Restoration Act of 2007; H.R.3256- Psychological Kevlar Act; H.R.327- Joshua Omvig Veterans Suicide Prevention Act; H.R.3298- 21st Century Servicemembers Protection Act; H.R.3329- Homes for Heroes Act of 2007; H.R.3391- Military Family and Medical Leave Act; H.R.3429- Hire a Hero Act; H.R.3480- Let Our Veterans Rest in Peace Act; H.R.3793- Veterans Guaranteed Bonus Act of 2007; H.R.4148- National Guard and Reserve Active Duty Higher Education Act; H.R.4219- Immediate Benefits for Wounded Warriors Act; H.R.4883- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to provide for a limitation on the sale, foreclosure, or seizure of property owned by a servicemember during the one-year period following the servicemember's period of military service; H.R.4884- Helping Our Veterans to Keep Their Homes Act of 2008; H.R.530- Military Educational Parity Act of 2007; H.R.538- South Texas Veterans Access to Care Act of 2007; H.R.612- Returning Servicemember VA Healthcare Insurance Act of 2007; H.R.67- Veterans Outreach Improvement Act of 2007; H.R.690- 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; H.R.704- 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; H.R.4156- FY2008 Iraq Supplemental Appropriations; H.R.3222- Defense Appropriations; H.R.2642- Military/Veterans Appropriations S.1005- Military Reservist and Veteran Small Business Reauthorization Act of 2007; S.1084- A bill to provide housing assistance for very low-income veterans; S.1096- Veterans' Housing Benefits Enhancement Act of 2007; S.1146- Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2007; S.117- A bill to amend titles 10 and 38, United States Code, to improve benefits and services for members of the Armed Forces, veterans of the Global War on Terrorism, and other veterans, to require reports on the effects of the Global War on Terrorism; S.1205- A bill to require a pilot program on assisting veterans service organizations and other veterans groups in developing and promoting peer support programs that facilitate community reintegration of veterans returning from active duty; S.1233- Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Rehabilitation Act of 2007; S.1271- Homecoming Enhancement Research and Oversight (HERO) Act; S.1283- A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to improve the management of medical care, personnel actions, and quality of life issues for members of the Armed Forces who are receiving medical care in an outpatient status; S.1409- 21st Century GI Bill of Rights Act of 2007; S.1606- Dignified Treatment of Wounded Warriors Act; S.1651- Refugee Crisis in Iraq Act; S.1718- Veterans Education Tuition Support Act; S.1825- Commission on Wartime Contracting Establishment Act; S.1898- Military Family and Medical Leave Act; S.1999- Military Eye Trauma Centers of Excellence; S.22- Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2007; S.2585- Armed Forces Suicide Prevention Act of 2008; S.38- Veterans' Mental Health Outreach and Access Act of 2007; S.383- A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to extend the period of eligibility for health care for combat service in the Persian Gulf War or future hostilities from two years to five years after discharge or release; S.439- Retired Pay Restoration Act of 2007; S.455- Active Duty Military Tax Relief Act of 2007; S.479- A bill to reduce the incidence of suicide among veterans; S.589- A bill to provide for the transfer of certain Federal property to the United States Paralympics, Incorporated, a subsidiary of the United States Olympic Committee; S.604- Military Health Care Protection Act; S.644- Total Force Educational Assistance Enhancement and Integration Act of 2007; S.713- Dignity for Wounded Warriors Act of 2007; S.723- Montgomery GI Bill Enhancement Act of 2007; S.793- Reauthorization of the Traumatic Brain Injury Act; S.CON.RES.21- Congressional budgets for 2007-2012; S.1645- Military/Veterans Appropriations

HR 112--G.I. Advance Education in Science and Technology Act--Directs the VA Secretary to pay a monthly stipend to each individual who is entitled to veterans' basic educational assistance and is pursuing full-time a doctoral degree in the sciences of engineering, mathematics, or other technology disciplines. Allows such payment in addition to any other authorized Montgomery GI Bill educational assistance. Makes such payment $1,200 a month (adjusted for inflation for fiscal years after 2005) for up to 60 months. HR 1102--Total Force Educational Assistance Enhancement and Integration Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to recodify as part of that title certain educational assistance programs for members of the reserve components of the Armed Forces, to improve such programs. HR 1211--Resuming Education After Defense Service Act of 2007--Makes eligible for basic educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill a member of the Selected Reserve who (among other qualifications), during the period beginning on September 11, 2001, and ending on December 31, 2008, serves on active duty in the Armed Forces for one or more periods aggregating not less than two years. Entitles such individuals to one month of educational assistance for each month served on active duty. Makes the amount of such assistance equivalent to that provided for active-duty personnel who have served a minimum of two years of active duty. Requires the basic pay of qualifying members to be reduced by $100 for each of first 12 months of such active duty service. Requires the Secretaries of the military departments concerned to inform eligible Selected Reserve personnel of such entitlement. HR 1300--Amend title 10, USC, to extend the time limit for the use of education assistance by members of the Selected Reserve and members of the reserve component supporting contingency operations and certain other operations.--Extends the conditional time limit for the use of basic educational assistance by members of the Selected Reserve and members of the reserve components supporting contingency operations and certain other operations to 14 years after the date on which the person first becomes entitled to such assistance (current law) or ten years after the date on which (currently, the date on which) the person is separated from the Selected Reserve or reserve component. HR 1824--Amend title 38, USC, to expand the scope of programs of education for which accelerated payments of educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill may be used.--Permits accelerated payments of educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill to an individual enrolled in an approved program of education that leads to employment as an operator of a commercial motor vehicle. Excludes benefits payable under the Montgomery GI Bill from consideration as income for purposes of determining eligibility for education grants or loans under any other provision of Federal law. HR 2385--21st Century GI Bill of Rights Act of 2007--Entitles to basic educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill certain members of the Armed Forces or reserves who, after September 11, 2001: (1) are deployed overseas; or (2) serve for an aggregate of at least two years or, before such period, are discharged due to a service-connected disability, hardship, or certain medical conditions. Entitles such individuals to 36 months of educational assistance. Authorizes: (1) specialized training and certification programs for veterans with service-connected disabilities; and (2) payments for tutorial assistance and licensure and certification tests. Requires (with exceptions) the use of such assistance within ten years after the individual's last discharge or release from active duty. Requires individuals eligible under both the above program and the regular Montgomery GI Bill educational assistance programs to elect one program for participation. HR 2247; S 1261--Montgomery GI Bill for Life Act of 2007--Provides that, if an individual eligible for educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill is enrolled in an educational institution and the period of such individual's entitlement (ten years after discharge or release from active duty) would expire during a quarter or semester of enrollment, that period shall be extended to the end of that quarter of semester. Allows such an extension until the earlier of the end of the course or 12 weeks, in the case of an educational institution not regularly operated on a quarter or semester basis. Repeals the: (1) 14 year (after first becoming entitled) limit on the use of educational assistance by members of the Selected Reserve; and (2) ten year limit on the use educational assistance by members of the Ready Reserve who are separated due to disability after supporting contingency and certain other operations. HR 2702; S 22--Post 9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2007--Amends federal veterans' benefits provisions to entitle to educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill certain individuals who serve on active duty in the Armed Forces (including the reserves) on or after September 11, 2001. Requires such individuals to complete the requirements of a secondary school diploma (or its equivalent) before applying for such assistance. Establishes the duration of such assistance (in most cases 36 months) and assistance amounts. Requires programs of education pursued with such assistance to be approved by the VA Secretary. Allows for the pursuit of an approved program of education while on active duty. Allows, under such assistance, for the pursuit of: (1) programs on less than a half-time basis; (2) apprenticeship or other on-job training; (3) correspondence courses; (4) flight training; (5) tutorial assistance; and (6) licensure and certification tests. Requires such educational assistance to be used within 15 years of the individual's discharge or release from active duty (with exceptions). Allows individuals currently under the Montgomery GI Bill educational assistance program to elect to participate in the post-9/11 educational assistance program with respect to any unused entitlement. S 526--Veterans Employment and Training Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to expand the scope of programs of education for which accelerated payments of educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill may be used. S 644--Total Force Educational Assistance Enhancement and Integration Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to recodify as part of that title certain educational assistance programs. S 698--Veterans Survivors Education Enhancement Act of 2007--Revises provisions concerning educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill to terminate the 45-month limitation on: (1) the use of such assistance for eligible veterans' survivors and dependents; and (2) the use of such assistance for special restorative training. Makes survivors and dependents eligible for educational assistance until their 30th (currently 26th) birthday. Makes the aggregate amount of educational assistance $80,000. (Currently, there are monthly limits for full-time, three quarter-time, or half-time educational pursuits in such amounts: (1) a program of apprenticeship or other on-job training; and (2) a correspondence course. Makes survivors and dependents eligible for tutorial assistance. S 723--Montgomery GI Bill Enhancement Act of 2007--A bill to provide certain enhancements to the Montgomery GI Bill Program for certain individuals who serve as members of the Armed Forces after the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. S 1293--Veterans' Education and Vocational Benefits Improvement Act of 2007--Authorizes the accelerated payment of veterans' educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill for individuals who, during the period beginning October 1, 2008, and ending September 30, 2012, first enroll in an approved program of education not exceeding two years and not leading to an associate, bachelors, masters, or equivalent degree (in effect, for vocational school). Provides the same benefit for: (1) participants under the survivors' and dependents' educational assistance program; (2) members of the Selected Reserve; and (3) reserve personnel supporting contingency and other combat-related operations. Authorizes, for the latter personnel, the payment of 80% of the total educational assistance allowance for those serving an aggregate of three years or more in support of such contingency or related operations. Authorizes such personnel to make pay contributions for an increased amount of educational assistance. S 1409--21st Century GI Bill of Rights Act of 2007--A bill to provide and enhance education, housing, and entrepreneur assistance for veterans who serve in the Armed Force after September 11, 2001. S 1719--Amend title 38, USC, to provide additional educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill to veterans pursuing a degree in science, technology, engineering, or math. Hearing on House Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity on MGIB--Readjustment Act of 1944 (GI Bill of Rights)--To better serve veterans and ultimately assist them in financial stability.

Pension & retirement issues HR 1961, HR 1960, S 875, S 256, S 723, S 545, S 547

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: $20,000

Government targets: HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE

HR 112--G.I. Advanced Education in Science and Technology Act--Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to pay a monthly stipend to each individual who is entitled to veterans' basic educational assistance and is pursuing full-time a doctoral degree in the sciences of engineering, mathematics, other technology disciplines. Allows such payment in addition to any other authorized Montgomery GI Bill educational assistance. Make such payment $1,200 a month (adjusted for inflation for fiscal years after 2005) for up to 60 months. HR 1102--Total Force Educational Assistance Enhancement and Integration Act of 2007--To amend title 38, USC, to recodify as part of that title certain educational assistance programs for members of the reserve components of the Armed Forces, to improve such programs. HR 1824--To amend title 38, USC, to expand the scope of programs of education for which accelerated payments of educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill may be used--Permits accelerated payments of educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill to an individual enrolled in an approved program of education that leads to employment as an operator of a commercial motor vehicle. Excludes benefits payable under the Montgomery GI Bill from consideration as income for purposes of determining eligibility for education grants or loans under any other provision of Federal law. S 526--Veterans Employment and Training Act of 2007--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to expand the scope of programs of education for which accelerated payments of educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill may be used. S 644--Total Force Educational Assistance Enhancement and Integration Act of 2007--To amend title 38, USC, to recodify as part of that title certain educational assistance programs. S 723--Montgomery GI Bill Enhancement Act of 2007--A bill to provide certain enhancement to the Montgomery GI Bill Program for certain individuals who serve as members of the Armed Forces after the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. S 1261--Montgomery GI Bill for Life Act of 2007--Provides that, if an individual eligible for educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill is enrolled in an educational institution and the period of such individual's entitlement (ten years after discharge of release from active duty) would expire during a quarter or semester of enrollment, that period shall be extended to the end of that quarter or semester. Allows such an extension until the earlier of the end of the course or 12 weeks, in the case of an educational institution not regularly operated on a quarter or semester basis., Repeals the: (1) 14 -year (after first becoming entitled) limit on the use of educational assistance by members of the Selected Reserve; and (2) ten year limit on the use educational assistance by members of the Ready Reserve who are separated due to disability after supporting contingency and certain other operations. The Montgomery GI Bill for life aims to repeal all time limits to use the MGIB. S 1409--21st Century GI Bill of Rights Act of 2007--A bill to provide and enhance education, housing, and entrepreneur assistance for veterans who serve in the Armed Forces after September 11, 2001. S 1719--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to provide additional educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill to veterans pursuing a degree in science, technology, engineering, or math--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to provide additional educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill to veterans pursuing a degree in science, technology, engineering, or math. HR 1102; S 644--Total Force GI Bill--Creation of a Total Force GI Bill. Allow veterans eligible for the Montgomery GI Bill to use the benefits for longer periods of time, enhance the benefits for reserve and national guard members. To amend title 38, USC, to expand the scope of programs of education for which accelerated payments of educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill may be used. Encourage sponsorship of Total Force GI Bill. State Approving Agencies Funding--FY 08 Funding for State Approving Agencies--Maintains the current level of funding for State Approving Agencies to approve courses for eligibility for MGIB payments. S 1215--Numerous Bills--To amend title 38, USC, to extend and improve certain authorities of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Accelerated Payments, modification to create an unemployment study on Global War on Terrorism era veterans. S 22--Post 9/11 Veterans Education Assistance Act of 2007--Creation of education benefit for service members who serve at least 2 aggregate years on Active Duty. Veterans' Education and Vocational Benefits--Draft Legislation "Veterans' Education and Vocational Benefits Enhancement Act of 2007--Expansion of eligible MGIB programs for accelerated payments program and expansion of vocational benefits to dependents. HR 1750; HR 1824; HR 1598; HR 1315; HR 513; HR 2259; HR 1632; HR 112; HR 2579--Credit, Education and Transition--Protective credit measures, accelerated education payments, transition assistance program, reemployment reports, stipends for education courses leading to doctoral degrees, and State Approving Agency funding.

S. 1409-- the 21st Century GI Bill of Rights Act of 2007 extends eligibility to Active Duty troops and National Guard and Reserve members who serve an aggregate of two years on active duty; would pay tuition, books, fees, room and board over the course of four years of full-time education; lifts the $1,200 buy-in fee; and further exempts veterans from paying loan fees etc. S. 1719-- amends title 38, United States Code, to provide additional educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill to veterans pursuing a degree in science, technology, engineering, or math. S. 961--Belated Thank You to the Merchant Marines of World War II Act of 2007 seeks to expand the current dates of service for WW II Merchant Marines who are recognized as veterans, and to pay a $1,000 monthly benefit to these WW II Merchant Marines or to their surviving spouses S. 994--Disabled Veterans Fairness Act eliminates a $3 per round trip deductible charged by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs in connection with the veterans beneficiary travel program and further directs the Secretary, in determining the amount of such allowance or reimbursement, to use the mileage reimbursement rates for the use of privately owned vehicles by government employees traveling on official business S.1026--designates the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center at 1 Freedom Way in Augusta, Georgia, as the "Charlie Norwood Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center." S.1043--directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to report to Congress on the master plan of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) relating to the use of VA lands of the West Los Angeles Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, California, as originally required under the Veterans Programs Enhancement Act of 1998 S. 1096--the Veterans’ Housing Benefits Enhancement Act of 2007 would provide VA housing and automobile grants to service members and veterans with burn injuries and those with traumatic brain injuries (TBI). S. 1147--the Honor Our Commitment to Veterans Act directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to administer the health care enrollment system of the Department of Veterans Affairs so as to enroll any eligible veteran who applies S. 1163-- the Blinded Veterans Paired Organ Act of 2007 would improve compensation and specially adapted housing for veterans who have impairment of vision involving both eyes and allow the use of the National Directory of New Hires for income verification purposes S. 1205--requires a pilot program on assisting veterans' service organizations and other veterans' groups in developing and promoting peer support programs that facilitate community reintegration of veterans returning from active duty. S. 1215--extends and improves certain authorities of VA funding for State Approving Agencies (SAAs) increased to $19 million instead of the previous cap of $13 million. S. 1233--the Veterans Traumatic Brian Injury Rehabilitation Act of 2007 provides enhanced intervention, rehabilitative treatment and services to veterans with traumatic brain injury S. 1261--the Montgomery GI Bill for Life Act of 2007 seeks to eliminate the post-service 10-year time limit for the active duty MGIB and the in-service 14-year time limit for guard and reservists S. 1265--expands eligibility for veterans’ mortgage life insurance (VMLI) to include members of the Armed Forces receiving specially adapted housing assistance from VA S. 1266--the Veterans Dignified Burial Assistance Act of 2007 allows a veteran who is not buried in a national cemetery, a plot allowance of up to $300. S. 1290--impacts the funding and reporting of State Approving Agencies (SAA) would require improved coordination between the VA and SAA, the Department of Education, Department of Labor, and other entities to reduce overlapping functions S. 1293--the Veterans’ Education Improvement Act of 2007 would expand accelerated payments for the existing GI Bill programs to allow funding for any short-term, high-cost school and would also allow Guard and Reserve members and veterans’ surviving dependents to use accelerated payments as part of their education benefit S. 117--Lane Evans Veterans Health and Benefits Improvement Act of 2007aims to improve VA and DOD transitioning efforts by increasing outreach services available to our guard and reserve members and requires comprehensive reporting by the Departments of Veterans’ Affairs, Labor and Defense with respect to Global War on Terror (GWOT) veterans. S. 168--would direct the VA to establish a national cemetery in the Pikes Peak region of Colorado S. 225--expands the number of individuals qualifying for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under Service Members Group Life Insurance S. 383--would extend the period of eligibility for health care for combat service during the Persian Gulf War from two years to five years. S. 423--the Veterans' Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2007 would provide a cost-of-living adjustment to compensation, clothing allowance, and dependency and indemnity compensation (DIC) rates for veterans and their families. S. 472--would authorize $523 million to construct a replacement VA Medical Center in Denver, Colorado S. 479--The Joshua Omvig Suicide Prevention Act aims to create a comprehensive program of suicide prevention among veterans. S. 526--the Veterans Employment and Training Act of 2007 seeks to increase the types of education programs eligible for accelerated payments under the GI Bill. S. 610--would make changes to the retirement annuity for certain health-care professionals within VA. S. 692-- would require VA to develop and implement a system to measure data about its health care facilities. S. 643--the Disabled Veterans Insurance Act of 2007 would increase the amount of insurance a disabled veteran can purchase under Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance from $20,000 to $40,000 S. 644--Total Force Educational Assistance Enhancement and Integration Act of 2007 addresses the inequity between active duty GI Bill and reserve GI Bill education benefits S. 698--the Veterans’ Survivors Education Enhancement Act of 2007 would increase the maximum amount of GI Bill benefits available for eligible veterans' survivors and dependents from the current $788 a month, paid over 45 months equaling $35,460, to approximately $1,778 a month totaling $80,000. S. 723--the Montgomery GI Bill Enhancement Act of 2007 rewards members of the Armed Forces and Selected Reserve for their active duty service from November 16, 2001 until Executive Order 13235 is terminated. S. 815--Veterans Health Care Empowerment Act would allow any veteran to elect to receive contracted care whenever he/she chooses. S. 847--would extend the period of time during which a veteran’s multiple sclerosis is to be considered to have been incurred in, or aggravated by, military service during a period of war S. 848--the Prisoner of War Benefits Act of 2007 repeals the 30-day requirement for former prisoners of war to file for presumptive disabilities related to their captivity. S. 874--The Services to Prevent Veterans Homelessness Act of 2007 S. 882--would create a pilot program to improve the seamless transition for separating service members H.R. 1444--directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to make interim benefits payments under certain remanded claims H.R. 1470--Chiropractic Care Available to All Veterans Act would require VA medical centers to begin hiring chiropractors at each facility H.R. 1471-- would allow veterans to receive direct access to chiropractic services H.R. 1488--VA Hospital Quality Report Card Act would require VA to develop and implement a system to measure data about its health care facilities H.R. 1490-- would provide for a presumption of service-connectedness for certain claims for benefits under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affair H.R. 1527--like H.R. 315, allows for the contracting of care for certain veterans in rural areas. H.R. 1853-- the Jose Medina Veterans Affairs Police Training Act would require VA police officers to undergo training on how to deal with patients and visitors who are suffering from mental illnesses H.R. 1900--extends the eligibility for veterans’ pension benefits to veterans who receive an expeditionary medal for a period of military service other than a period of war. H.R. 1901--extends eligibility for pension benefits under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to veterans who served during certain periods in specified locations H.R. 1925--would establish a new Veterans Integrated Service Network (VISN) in the Gulf Coast Region. H.R. 1944--would require VA to implement a screening program for traumatic brain injuries H.R. 2005--Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act aims to solve one of the greatest problems facing a large number of veterans who live in remote locations: access to care, improve services, including transportation for disabled vets, and research and partnerships with small communities H.R. 2172--Amputee Veteran Assistance Act requires that all Department of Veterans Affairs orthotic-prosthetic laboratories, clinics, and prosthesis are certified by either the American Board for Certification in Orthotics and Prosthetics or the Board of Orthotics and Prosthetic Certification H.R. 2173--would allow VA Secretary to enter into contracts for service with community mental health care centers H.R. 2219--Veterans Suicide Prevention Hotline Act would establish a grant program to an organization to staff and run a suicide prevention hotline targeted and staffed by veterans and armed forces personnel. H.R. 2346--would direct the VA Secretary to establish a process for determining whether a geographic area is sufficiently served by the national cemeteries located in that geographic area. H.R. 2623--would exempt patients seeking hospice care from paying co-payments H.R. 2696--Veterans' Dignified Burial Assistance Act of 2007' increases the plot allowance to $400 for those not buried in a national cemetery H.R. 2697--would expand eligibility for veterans’ mortgage life insurance (VMLI) to include members of the Armed Forces receiving specially adapted housing assistance from VA Post-9/11 Veterans Education Assistance Act of 2007 This legislation enhances military strength while providing a service member’s educational benefit to aid in transition assistance and equips a generation of veterans to face the challenges of tomorrow. Disabled Veterans Insurance Improvement Act of 2007 would increase the Veterans’ Mortgage Life Insurance from $90,000 to $200,000 and create a new insurance program for veterans with service-connected disabilities. Veterans’ Justice Assurance Act of 2007 would provide some relief to a burdened veterans’ court system. Comprehensive Veterans Benefits Improvement Act of 2007 would update and correct inequities across the range of benefits and services offered veterans; would expand eligibility for government markers or headstones for marked graves of veterans at private cemeteries whose death occurred on or after September 11, 2001 Service Members’ Cellular Phone Contract Fairness Act of 2007 would amend the Service- members Civil Relief Act by providing relief for servicemembers with respect to contracts and cell phone fees for cellular phone service Veterans Outreach Improvement Act of 2007 aims to improve outreach activities within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) by coordinating the efforts among the offices of the Secretary, Public Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, Veterans Benefits Administration and the National Cemetery Administration. Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans Mental Health and Advocacy Act of 2007 Nomination of Brigadier General Michael J. Kussman, M.D (United States Army Ret.) to be the Under Secretary for Health for the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). H.R. 67--Veterans Outreach Improvement Act of 2007. This bill aims to improve outreach activities within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) by coordinating the efforts among the offices of the Secretary, Public Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, Veterans Benefits Administration and the National Cemetery Administration. H.R. 92--Veterans Timely Access to Health Care Act would require veterans to be seen within 30 days and establish access standards within VA for veterans seeking care. H.R. 315--HEALTHY Vets Act aims to improve health care access for rural veterans by increasing contracting opportunities for veterans in geographically remote areas. H.R. 339--similar to H.R. 92, this bill establishes a six-month access standard for any care a veteran is to receive, and if that standard is not met, VA must provide fee-basis care. H.R. 463--would end the 4-year freeze on the enrollment of new Category 8 veterans H.R. 542--would make mental health services available for veterans with limited English proficiency. H.R. 674--would repeal the scheduled sunset date of December 31, 2009, for the Advisory Committee on Minority Veterans. H.R.1273--Restoration of Plot Allowance Eligibility for Veterans H.R. 1426--would allow any veteran to elect to receive contracted care whenever he/she chooses. H.R. 1435--The Department of Veterans Affairs Claims Reduction Act of 2007 would direct the Secretary to conduct a pilot program intended to reduce the backlog of claims for benefits pending with VA VA Construction Budget Issues Facing Women and Minority Veterans