JACOB GADD

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 - SUPPORT P.L. 113-82: To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members ofthe Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes. -- To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members of the Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1443: Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494: Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2018: Honor Those Who Served Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to identify the persons who are eligible to request headstones or markers furnished by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072: Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2119: Veterans Access to Speedy Review Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the opportunity for veterans to use video conferencing for hearings before the Board of Veterans Appeals SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 2138: Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847: Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines assistance dog to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 3521: Department of Veterans Affairs Major Medical Facility Lease Authorization Act of 2013 -- To authorize Department of Veterans Affairs major medical facility leases, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3593: VA Construction Assistance Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the construction of major medical facilities, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3876: Burial With Dignity for Heroes Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a grant program to provide burials for homeless veterans SUPPORT H.R. 4031: Department of Veterans Affairs Management Accountability Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the removal of Senior Executive Service employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs for performance, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4038: Veterans Benefits Administration Information Technology Act of 2014 -- Requires the VA Secretary to make such changes and improvements to the information technology system of the Veterans Benefits Administration toensure that: (1) all original and supplemental claims for veterans educational assistance are adjudicated electronically, and (2) rules-based processing is used to make decisions with respect to such claims with little human intervention SUPPORT H.R. 4095: Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2014 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2014, 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 SUPPORT (with revisions) H.R. 4141: To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the VA Secretary to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 4191: Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the treatment of medical evidence provided by non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical professionals in support of claims for disability compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4344: Military Sexual Trauma Claims Administration Reform and Eligibility Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to establish a presumption of service connection for mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma SUPPORT H.R. 4374: To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294: Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679 / S. 629: Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 813 / S. 932: Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs: (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288 / S. 1361: World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499 / S. 1155: Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act -- To provide for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORTS. 529: To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851: Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148: Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296: Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013 -- To amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411: Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013 -- To specify requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579: SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 : Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013 -- To require the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584: A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes -- To amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586: Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589: Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans IntegratedService Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE legislation as written S. 1604: Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1931: A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. -- A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1950: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1982: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees which passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 - SUPPORT P.L. 113-82: To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members ofthe Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes. -- To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members of the Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1443: Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494: Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2018: Honor Those Who Served Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to identify the persons who are eligible to request headstones or markers furnished by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072: Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2119: Veterans Access to Speedy Review Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the opportunity for veterans to use video conferencing for hearings before the Board of Veterans Appeals SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 2138: Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847: Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines assistance dog to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 3521: Department of Veterans Affairs Major Medical Facility Lease Authorization Act of 2013 -- To authorize Department of Veterans Affairs major medical facility leases, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3593: VA Construction Assistance Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the construction of major medical facilities, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3876: Burial With Dignity for Heroes Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a grant program to provide burials for homeless veterans SUPPORT H.R. 4031: Department of Veterans Affairs Management Accountability Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the removal of Senior Executive Service employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs for performance, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4038: Veterans Benefits Administration Information Technology Act of 2014 -- Requires the VA Secretary to make such changes and improvements to the information technology system of the Veterans Benefits Administration toensure that: (1) all original and supplemental claims for veterans educational assistance are adjudicated electronically, and (2) rules-based processing is used to make decisions with respect to such claims with little human intervention SUPPORT H.R. 4095: Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2014 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2014, 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 SUPPORT (with revisions) H.R. 4141: To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the VA Secretary to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 4191: Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the treatment of medical evidence provided by non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical professionals in support of claims for disability compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4344: Military Sexual Trauma Claims Administration Reform and Eligibility Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to establish a presumption of service connection for mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma SUPPORT H.R. 4374: To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294: Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679 / S. 629: Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 813 / S. 932: Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs: (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288 / S. 1361: World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499 / S. 1155: Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act -- To provide for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORTS. 529: To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851: Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148: Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296: Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013 -- To amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411: Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013 -- To specify requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579: SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 : Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013 -- To require the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584: A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes -- To amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586: Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589: Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans IntegratedService Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE legislation as written S. 1604: Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1931: A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. -- A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1950: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1982: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees which passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 - SUPPORT P.L. 113-82: To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members ofthe Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes. -- To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members of the Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1443: Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494: Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2018: Honor Those Who Served Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to identify the persons who are eligible to request headstones or markers furnished by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072: Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2119: Veterans Access to Speedy Review Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the opportunity for veterans to use video conferencing for hearings before the Board of Veterans Appeals SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 2138: Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847: Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines assistance dog to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 3521: Department of Veterans Affairs Major Medical Facility Lease Authorization Act of 2013 -- To authorize Department of Veterans Affairs major medical facility leases, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3593: VA Construction Assistance Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the construction of major medical facilities, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3876: Burial With Dignity for Heroes Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a grant program to provide burials for homeless veterans SUPPORT H.R. 4031: Department of Veterans Affairs Management Accountability Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the removal of Senior Executive Service employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs for performance, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4038: Veterans Benefits Administration Information Technology Act of 2014 -- Requires the VA Secretary to make such changes and improvements to the information technology system of the Veterans Benefits Administration toensure that: (1) all original and supplemental claims for veterans educational assistance are adjudicated electronically, and (2) rules-based processing is used to make decisions with respect to such claims with little human intervention SUPPORT H.R. 4095: Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2014 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2014, 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 SUPPORT (with revisions) H.R. 4141: To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the VA Secretary to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 4191: Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the treatment of medical evidence provided by non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical professionals in support of claims for disability compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4344: Military Sexual Trauma Claims Administration Reform and Eligibility Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to establish a presumption of service connection for mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma SUPPORT H.R. 4374: To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294: Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679 / S. 629: Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 813 / S. 932: Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs: (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288 / S. 1361: World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499 / S. 1155: Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act -- To provide for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORTS. 529: To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851: Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148: Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296: Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013 -- To amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411: Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013 -- To specify requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579: SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 : Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013 -- To require the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584: A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes -- To amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586: Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589: Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans IntegratedService Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE legislation as written S. 1604: Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1931: A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. -- A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1950: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1982: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees which passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT

H.R. 562: VRAP Extension Act of 2013-- To provide for a three-month extension of the Veterans Retraining Assistance Program administered by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2481: Veterans G.I. Bill Enrollment Clarification Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to codify and improve theelection requirements for the receipt of educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance program of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 3384: Veterans Entry to Apprenticeship Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to ensure that veterans may attend pre-apprenticeship programs using certain educational assistance provided by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4147: Student Veterans IT Upgrade Act -- To direct the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Deputy Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Economic Opportunity to submit to the Committees on Veterans' Affairs of the Senate and House of Representatives a report regarding the information technology of the Department that is used in administering the educational benefits administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4151: Veterans Education Survey Act of 2014 -- To direct the VA Secretary to enter into a contract with a non-government entity to conduct a survey of individuals who have used or are using their entitlement to educational assistance under the educational assistance programs administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3399 / S. 1682: Veterans Education Counseling Act [of 2013] -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain clarifications and improvements in the academic and vocational counseling programs administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3600 / S. 2014: GI Education Benefit Fairness Act [of 2014] -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to provide for clarification regarding the children to whom entitlement to educational assistance may be transferred under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program SUPPORT S. 944: Veterans Health and Benefits Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require courses of education provided by public institutions of higher education that are approved for purposes of the All-Volunteer Force Educational Assistance Program and Post-9/11 Educational Assistance to charge veterans tuition and fees at the in-State tuition rate, and for other purposes OPPOSE certain provisions S. 1211: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to prohibit the use of the phrases GI Bill and Post-9/11 GI Bill to give a false impression of approval or endorsement by the Department of Veterans Affairs -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to prohibit the use of the phrases GI Bill and Post-9/11 GI Bill to give a false impression of approval or endorsement by the VA SUPPORT S. 1399: A bill to amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to extend the interest rate limitation on debt entered into during military service to consolidate or refinance student loans incurred before military service -- A bill to amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to extend the interest rate limitation on debt entered into during military service to debt incurred during military service to consolidate or refinance student loans incurred before military service SUPPORT

H.R. 32 -- Military Surviving Spouses Equity Act -- To amend title 10, United States Code, to repeal the requirement for reduction of survivor annuities under the Survivor Benefit Plan for military surviving spouses to offset the receipt of veterans dependency and indemnity compensation SUPPORTH.R. 333 -- Disabled Veterans Tax Termination Act -- To amend title 10, U.S.C., 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. SUPPORT H.R. 2841 -- Guard and Reserve Equal Access to Health Act -- To amend title 10, U.S.C., to ensure that the Secretary of Defense affords each member of a reserve component of the Armed Forces with the opportunity for a physical examination before the member separates from the Armed Forces SUPPORT H.R. 4435 -- Howard P. Buck McKeon National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2015 -- To authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2015 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 SUPPORT H.R. 4486 -- Making appropriations for military construction, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2015, and for other purposes -- Making appropriations for military construction for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2015, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4870 -- Making appropriations for the Department of Defense for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2015, and for other purposes. -- Making appropriations for the Department of Defense for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2015, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 303; S. 234 -- Retired Pay Restoration Act -- To amend title 10, U.S.C., to permit additional retired members of the Armed Forces who have a service-connected disability to receive both disability compensation from the VA 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 SUPPORT H.R. 4672; S. 2456 -- To amend the Fair Credit Reporting Act to provide protections for active duty military consumers, and for other purposes -- To amend the Fair Credit Reporting Act to provide protections for active duty military consumers, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1684 -- Servicemembers Transition Improvement Act of 2013 -- Requires the Secretary of Defense (DOD) to carry out a pilot program to assess the feasibility and advisability of providing information on members of the Armed Forces who are separating from service to state veterans agencies to facilitate the transition of such members to civilian life. Authorizes such agencies to share such information with appropriate county veterans service offices SUPPORT S. 1999 -- SCRA Rights Protection Act of 2014 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to require the consent of parties to contracts for the use of arbitration to resolve controversies arising under the contracts and subject to provisions of such Act and to preserve the rights of servicemembers to bring class actions under such Act, and for other purposes SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Defense, military construction, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 SUPPORT H.R. 32: Military Surviving Spouses Equity Act -- To amend title 10, United States Code, to repeal the requirement forreduction of survivor annuities under the Survivor Benefit Plan for military surviving spouses to offset the receipt of veterans dependency and indemnity compensation. H.R. 333: Disabled Veterans Tax Termination Act -- To amend title 10, U.S.C., 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. SUPPORT H.R. 2841: Guard and Reserve Equal Access to Health Act -- To amend title 10, U.S.C., to ensure that the Secretary of Defense affords each member of a reserve component of the Armed Forces with the opportunity for a physical examination before the member separates from the Armed Forces SUPPORT H.R. 303 / S. 234: Retired Pay Restoration Act -- To amend title 10, U.S.C., to permit additional retired members of the Armed Forces who have a service-connected disability to receive both disability compensation from the VA 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 SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 - SUPPORT P.L. 113-82: To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members ofthe Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes. -- To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members of the Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1443: Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494: Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2018: Honor Those Who Served Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to identify the persons who are eligible to request headstones or markers furnished by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072: Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2119: Veterans Access to Speedy Review Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the opportunity for veterans to use video conferencing for hearings before the Board of Veterans Appeals SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 2138: Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847: Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines assistance dog to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 3521: Department of Veterans Affairs Major Medical Facility Lease Authorization Act of 2013 -- To authorize Department of Veterans Affairs major medical facility leases, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3593: VA Construction Assistance Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the construction of major medical facilities, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3876: Burial With Dignity for Heroes Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a grant program to provide burials for homeless veterans SUPPORT H.R. 4031: Department of Veterans Affairs Management Accountability Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the removal of Senior Executive Service employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs for performance, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4038: Veterans Benefits Administration Information Technology Act of 2014 -- Requires the VA Secretary to make such changes and improvements to the information technology system of the Veterans Benefits Administration toensure that: (1) all original and supplemental claims for veterans educational assistance are adjudicated electronically, and (2) rules-based processing is used to make decisions with respect to such claims with little human intervention SUPPORT H.R. 4095: Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2014 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2014, 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 SUPPORT (with revisions) H.R. 4141: To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the VA Secretary to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 4191: Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the treatment of medical evidence provided by non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical professionals in support of claims for disability compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4344: Military Sexual Trauma Claims Administration Reform and Eligibility Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to establish a presumption of service connection for mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma SUPPORT H.R. 4374: To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294: Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679 / S. 629: Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 813 / S. 932: Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs: (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288 / S. 1361: World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499 / S. 1155: Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act -- To provide for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORTS. 529: To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851: Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148: Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296: Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013 -- To amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411: Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013 -- To specify requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579: SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 : Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013 -- To require the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584: A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes -- To amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586: Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589: Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans IntegratedService Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE legislation as written S. 1604: Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1931: A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. -- A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1950: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1982: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees which passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT

H.R. 32 -- Military Surviving Spouses Equity Act -- To amend title 10, United States Code, to repeal the requirement for reduction of survivor annuities under the Survivor Benefit Plan for military surviving spouses to offset the receipt of veterans dependency and indemnity compensation SUPPORTH.R. 333 -- Disabled Veterans Tax Termination Act -- To amend title 10, U.S.C., 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. SUPPORT H.R. 2841 -- Guard and Reserve Equal Access to Health Act -- To amend title 10, U.S.C., to ensure that the Secretary of Defense affords each member of a reserve component of the Armed Forces with the opportunity for a physical examination before the member separates from the Armed Forces SUPPORT H.R. 4435 -- Howard P. Buck McKeon National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2015 -- To authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2015 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 SUPPORT H.R. 4486 -- Making appropriations for military construction, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2015, and for other purposes -- Making appropriations for military construction for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2015, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4870 -- Making appropriations for the Department of Defense for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2015, and for other purposes. -- Making appropriations for the Department of Defense for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2015, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 303; S. 234 -- Retired Pay Restoration Act -- To amend title 10, U.S.C., to permit additional retired members of the Armed Forces who have a service-connected disability to receive both disability compensation from the VA 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 SUPPORT H.R. 4672; S. 2456 -- To amend the Fair Credit Reporting Act to provide protections for active duty military consumers, and for other purposes -- To amend the Fair Credit Reporting Act to provide protections for active duty military consumers, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1684 -- Servicemembers Transition Improvement Act of 2013 -- Requires the Secretary of Defense (DOD) to carry out a pilot program to assess the feasibility and advisability of providing information on members of the Armed Forces who are separating from service to state veterans agencies to facilitate the transition of such members to civilian life. Authorizes such agencies to share such information with appropriate county veterans service offices SUPPORT S. 1999 -- SCRA Rights Protection Act of 2014 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to require the consent of parties to contracts for the use of arbitration to resolve controversies arising under the contracts and subject to provisions of such Act and to preserve the rights of servicemembers to bring class actions under such Act, and for other purposes SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Defense, military construction, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 SUPPORT H.R. 32: Military Surviving Spouses Equity Act -- To amend title 10, United States Code, to repeal the requirement forreduction of survivor annuities under the Survivor Benefit Plan for military surviving spouses to offset the receipt of veterans dependency and indemnity compensation. H.R. 333: Disabled Veterans Tax Termination Act -- To amend title 10, U.S.C., 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. SUPPORT H.R. 2841: Guard and Reserve Equal Access to Health Act -- To amend title 10, U.S.C., to ensure that the Secretary of Defense affords each member of a reserve component of the Armed Forces with the opportunity for a physical examination before the member separates from the Armed Forces SUPPORT H.R. 303 / S. 234: Retired Pay Restoration Act -- To amend title 10, U.S.C., to permit additional retired members of the Armed Forces who have a service-connected disability to receive both disability compensation from the VA 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 SUPPORT

H.R. 32 -- Military Surviving Spouses Equity Act -- To amend title 10, United States Code, to repeal the requirement for reduction of survivor annuities under the Survivor Benefit Plan for military surviving spouses to offset the receipt of veterans dependency and indemnity compensation SUPPORTH.R. 333 -- Disabled Veterans Tax Termination Act -- To amend title 10, U.S.C., 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. SUPPORT H.R. 2841 -- Guard and Reserve Equal Access to Health Act -- To amend title 10, U.S.C., to ensure that the Secretary of Defense affords each member of a reserve component of the Armed Forces with the opportunity for a physical examination before the member separates from the Armed Forces SUPPORT H.R. 4435 -- Howard P. Buck McKeon National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2015 -- To authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2015 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 SUPPORT H.R. 4486 -- Making appropriations for military construction, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2015, and for other purposes -- Making appropriations for military construction for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2015, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4870 -- Making appropriations for the Department of Defense for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2015, and for other purposes. -- Making appropriations for the Department of Defense for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2015, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 303; S. 234 -- Retired Pay Restoration Act -- To amend title 10, U.S.C., to permit additional retired members of the Armed Forces who have a service-connected disability to receive both disability compensation from the VA 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 SUPPORT H.R. 4672; S. 2456 -- To amend the Fair Credit Reporting Act to provide protections for active duty military consumers, and for other purposes -- To amend the Fair Credit Reporting Act to provide protections for active duty military consumers, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1684 -- Servicemembers Transition Improvement Act of 2013 -- Requires the Secretary of Defense (DOD) to carry out a pilot program to assess the feasibility and advisability of providing information on members of the Armed Forces who are separating from service to state veterans agencies to facilitate the transition of such members to civilian life. Authorizes such agencies to share such information with appropriate county veterans service offices SUPPORT S. 1999 -- SCRA Rights Protection Act of 2014 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to require the consent of parties to contracts for the use of arbitration to resolve controversies arising under the contracts and subject to provisions of such Act and to preserve the rights of servicemembers to bring class actions under such Act, and for other purposes SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Defense, military construction, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 SUPPORT H.R. 32: Military Surviving Spouses Equity Act -- To amend title 10, United States Code, to repeal the requirement forreduction of survivor annuities under the Survivor Benefit Plan for military surviving spouses to offset the receipt of veterans dependency and indemnity compensation. H.R. 333: Disabled Veterans Tax Termination Act -- To amend title 10, U.S.C., 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. SUPPORT H.R. 2841: Guard and Reserve Equal Access to Health Act -- To amend title 10, U.S.C., to ensure that the Secretary of Defense affords each member of a reserve component of the Armed Forces with the opportunity for a physical examination before the member separates from the Armed Forces SUPPORT H.R. 303 / S. 234: Retired Pay Restoration Act -- To amend title 10, U.S.C., to permit additional retired members of the Armed Forces who have a service-connected disability to receive both disability compensation from the VA 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 SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Defense, military construction, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 SUPPORT H.R. 32: Military Surviving Spouses Equity Act -- To amend title 10, United States Code, to repeal the requirement forreduction of survivor annuities under the Survivor Benefit Plan for military surviving spouses to offset the receipt of veterans dependency and indemnity compensation. H.R. 333: Disabled Veterans Tax Termination Act -- To amend title 10, U.S.C., 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. SUPPORT H.R. 2841: Guard and Reserve Equal Access to Health Act -- To amend title 10, U.S.C., to ensure that the Secretary of Defense affords each member of a reserve component of the Armed Forces with the opportunity for a physical examination before the member separates from the Armed Forces SUPPORT H.R. 303 / S. 234: Retired Pay Restoration Act -- To amend title 10, U.S.C., to permit additional retired members of the Armed Forces who have a service-connected disability to receive both disability compensation from the VA 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 SUPPORT

H.R. 562: VRAP Extension Act of 2013-- To provide for a three-month extension of the Veterans Retraining Assistance Program administered by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2481: Veterans G.I. Bill Enrollment Clarification Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to codify and improve theelection requirements for the receipt of educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance program of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 3384: Veterans Entry to Apprenticeship Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to ensure that veterans may attend pre-apprenticeship programs using certain educational assistance provided by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4147: Student Veterans IT Upgrade Act -- To direct the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Deputy Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Economic Opportunity to submit to the Committees on Veterans' Affairs of the Senate and House of Representatives a report regarding the information technology of the Department that is used in administering the educational benefits administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4151: Veterans Education Survey Act of 2014 -- To direct the VA Secretary to enter into a contract with a non-government entity to conduct a survey of individuals who have used or are using their entitlement to educational assistance under the educational assistance programs administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3399 / S. 1682: Veterans Education Counseling Act [of 2013] -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain clarifications and improvements in the academic and vocational counseling programs administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3600 / S. 2014: GI Education Benefit Fairness Act [of 2014] -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to provide for clarification regarding the children to whom entitlement to educational assistance may be transferred under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program SUPPORT S. 944: Veterans Health and Benefits Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require courses of education provided by public institutions of higher education that are approved for purposes of the All-Volunteer Force Educational Assistance Program and Post-9/11 Educational Assistance to charge veterans tuition and fees at the in-State tuition rate, and for other purposes OPPOSE certain provisions S. 1211: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to prohibit the use of the phrases GI Bill and Post-9/11 GI Bill to give a false impression of approval or endorsement by the Department of Veterans Affairs -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to prohibit the use of the phrases GI Bill and Post-9/11 GI Bill to give a false impression of approval or endorsement by the VA SUPPORT S. 1399: A bill to amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to extend the interest rate limitation on debt entered into during military service to consolidate or refinance student loans incurred before military service -- A bill to amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to extend the interest rate limitation on debt entered into during military service to debt incurred during military service to consolidate or refinance student loans incurred before military service SUPPORT

H.R. 562: VRAP Extension Act of 2013-- To provide for a three-month extension of the Veterans Retraining Assistance Program administered by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2481: Veterans G.I. Bill Enrollment Clarification Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to codify and improve theelection requirements for the receipt of educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance program of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 3384: Veterans Entry to Apprenticeship Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to ensure that veterans may attend pre-apprenticeship programs using certain educational assistance provided by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4147: Student Veterans IT Upgrade Act -- To direct the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Deputy Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Economic Opportunity to submit to the Committees on Veterans' Affairs of the Senate and House of Representatives a report regarding the information technology of the Department that is used in administering the educational benefits administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4151: Veterans Education Survey Act of 2014 -- To direct the VA Secretary to enter into a contract with a non-government entity to conduct a survey of individuals who have used or are using their entitlement to educational assistance under the educational assistance programs administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3399 / S. 1682: Veterans Education Counseling Act [of 2013] -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain clarifications and improvements in the academic and vocational counseling programs administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3600 / S. 2014: GI Education Benefit Fairness Act [of 2014] -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to provide for clarification regarding the children to whom entitlement to educational assistance may be transferred under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program SUPPORT S. 944: Veterans Health and Benefits Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require courses of education provided by public institutions of higher education that are approved for purposes of the All-Volunteer Force Educational Assistance Program and Post-9/11 Educational Assistance to charge veterans tuition and fees at the in-State tuition rate, and for other purposes OPPOSE certain provisions S. 1211: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to prohibit the use of the phrases GI Bill and Post-9/11 GI Bill to give a false impression of approval or endorsement by the Department of Veterans Affairs -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to prohibit the use of the phrases GI Bill and Post-9/11 GI Bill to give a false impression of approval or endorsement by the VA SUPPORT S. 1399: A bill to amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to extend the interest rate limitation on debt entered into during military service to consolidate or refinance student loans incurred before military service -- A bill to amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to extend the interest rate limitation on debt entered into during military service to debt incurred during military service to consolidate or refinance student loans incurred before military service SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 - SUPPORT P.L. 113-82: To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members ofthe Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes. -- To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members of the Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1443: Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494: Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2018: Honor Those Who Served Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to identify the persons who are eligible to request headstones or markers furnished by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072: Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2119: Veterans Access to Speedy Review Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the opportunity for veterans to use video conferencing for hearings before the Board of Veterans Appeals SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 2138: Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847: Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines assistance dog to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 3521: Department of Veterans Affairs Major Medical Facility Lease Authorization Act of 2013 -- To authorize Department of Veterans Affairs major medical facility leases, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3593: VA Construction Assistance Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the construction of major medical facilities, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3876: Burial With Dignity for Heroes Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a grant program to provide burials for homeless veterans SUPPORT H.R. 4031: Department of Veterans Affairs Management Accountability Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the removal of Senior Executive Service employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs for performance, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4038: Veterans Benefits Administration Information Technology Act of 2014 -- Requires the VA Secretary to make such changes and improvements to the information technology system of the Veterans Benefits Administration toensure that: (1) all original and supplemental claims for veterans educational assistance are adjudicated electronically, and (2) rules-based processing is used to make decisions with respect to such claims with little human intervention SUPPORT H.R. 4095: Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2014 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2014, 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 SUPPORT (with revisions) H.R. 4141: To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the VA Secretary to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 4191: Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the treatment of medical evidence provided by non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical professionals in support of claims for disability compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4344: Military Sexual Trauma Claims Administration Reform and Eligibility Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to establish a presumption of service connection for mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma SUPPORT H.R. 4374: To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294: Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679 / S. 629: Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 813 / S. 932: Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs: (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288 / S. 1361: World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499 / S. 1155: Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act -- To provide for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORTS. 529: To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851: Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148: Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296: Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013 -- To amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411: Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013 -- To specify requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579: SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 : Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013 -- To require the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584: A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes -- To amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586: Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589: Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans IntegratedService Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE legislation as written S. 1604: Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1931: A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. -- A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1950: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1982: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees which passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 - SUPPORT P.L. 113-82: To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members ofthe Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes. -- To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members of the Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1443: Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494: Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2018: Honor Those Who Served Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to identify the persons who are eligible to request headstones or markers furnished by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072: Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2119: Veterans Access to Speedy Review Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the opportunity for veterans to use video conferencing for hearings before the Board of Veterans Appeals SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 2138: Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847: Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines assistance dog to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 3521: Department of Veterans Affairs Major Medical Facility Lease Authorization Act of 2013 -- To authorize Department of Veterans Affairs major medical facility leases, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3593: VA Construction Assistance Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the construction of major medical facilities, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3876: Burial With Dignity for Heroes Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a grant program to provide burials for homeless veterans SUPPORT H.R. 4031: Department of Veterans Affairs Management Accountability Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the removal of Senior Executive Service employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs for performance, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4038: Veterans Benefits Administration Information Technology Act of 2014 -- Requires the VA Secretary to make such changes and improvements to the information technology system of the Veterans Benefits Administration toensure that: (1) all original and supplemental claims for veterans educational assistance are adjudicated electronically, and (2) rules-based processing is used to make decisions with respect to such claims with little human intervention SUPPORT H.R. 4095: Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2014 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2014, 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 SUPPORT (with revisions) H.R. 4141: To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the VA Secretary to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 4191: Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the treatment of medical evidence provided by non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical professionals in support of claims for disability compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4344: Military Sexual Trauma Claims Administration Reform and Eligibility Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to establish a presumption of service connection for mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma SUPPORT H.R. 4374: To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294: Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679 / S. 629: Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 813 / S. 932: Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs: (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288 / S. 1361: World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499 / S. 1155: Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act -- To provide for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORTS. 529: To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851: Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148: Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296: Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013 -- To amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411: Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013 -- To specify requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579: SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 : Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013 -- To require the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584: A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes -- To amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586: Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589: Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans IntegratedService Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE legislation as written S. 1604: Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1931: A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. -- A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1950: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1982: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees which passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 - SUPPORT P.L. 113-82: To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members ofthe Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes. -- To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members of the Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1443: Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494: Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2018: Honor Those Who Served Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to identify the persons who are eligible to request headstones or markers furnished by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072: Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2119: Veterans Access to Speedy Review Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the opportunity for veterans to use video conferencing for hearings before the Board of Veterans Appeals SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 2138: Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847: Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines assistance dog to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 3521: Department of Veterans Affairs Major Medical Facility Lease Authorization Act of 2013 -- To authorize Department of Veterans Affairs major medical facility leases, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3593: VA Construction Assistance Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the construction of major medical facilities, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3876: Burial With Dignity for Heroes Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a grant program to provide burials for homeless veterans SUPPORT H.R. 4031: Department of Veterans Affairs Management Accountability Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the removal of Senior Executive Service employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs for performance, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4038: Veterans Benefits Administration Information Technology Act of 2014 -- Requires the VA Secretary to make such changes and improvements to the information technology system of the Veterans Benefits Administration toensure that: (1) all original and supplemental claims for veterans educational assistance are adjudicated electronically, and (2) rules-based processing is used to make decisions with respect to such claims with little human intervention SUPPORT H.R. 4095: Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2014 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2014, 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 SUPPORT (with revisions) H.R. 4141: To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the VA Secretary to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 4191: Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the treatment of medical evidence provided by non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical professionals in support of claims for disability compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4344: Military Sexual Trauma Claims Administration Reform and Eligibility Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to establish a presumption of service connection for mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma SUPPORT H.R. 4374: To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294: Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679 / S. 629: Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 813 / S. 932: Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs: (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288 / S. 1361: World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499 / S. 1155: Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act -- To provide for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORTS. 529: To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851: Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148: Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296: Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013 -- To amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411: Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013 -- To specify requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579: SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 : Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013 -- To require the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584: A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes -- To amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586: Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589: Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans IntegratedService Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE legislation as written S. 1604: Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1931: A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. -- A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1950: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1982: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees which passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT

H.R. 562: VRAP Extension Act of 2013-- To provide for a three-month extension of the Veterans Retraining Assistance Program administered by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2481: Veterans G.I. Bill Enrollment Clarification Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to codify and improve theelection requirements for the receipt of educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance program of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 3384: Veterans Entry to Apprenticeship Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to ensure that veterans may attend pre-apprenticeship programs using certain educational assistance provided by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4147: Student Veterans IT Upgrade Act -- To direct the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Deputy Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Economic Opportunity to submit to the Committees on Veterans' Affairs of the Senate and House of Representatives a report regarding the information technology of the Department that is used in administering the educational benefits administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4151: Veterans Education Survey Act of 2014 -- To direct the VA Secretary to enter into a contract with a non-government entity to conduct a survey of individuals who have used or are using their entitlement to educational assistance under the educational assistance programs administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3399 / S. 1682: Veterans Education Counseling Act [of 2013] -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain clarifications and improvements in the academic and vocational counseling programs administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3600 / S. 2014: GI Education Benefit Fairness Act [of 2014] -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to provide for clarification regarding the children to whom entitlement to educational assistance may be transferred under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program SUPPORT S. 944: Veterans Health and Benefits Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require courses of education provided by public institutions of higher education that are approved for purposes of the All-Volunteer Force Educational Assistance Program and Post-9/11 Educational Assistance to charge veterans tuition and fees at the in-State tuition rate, and for other purposes OPPOSE certain provisions S. 1211: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to prohibit the use of the phrases GI Bill and Post-9/11 GI Bill to give a false impression of approval or endorsement by the Department of Veterans Affairs -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to prohibit the use of the phrases GI Bill and Post-9/11 GI Bill to give a false impression of approval or endorsement by the VA SUPPORT S. 1399: A bill to amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to extend the interest rate limitation on debt entered into during military service to consolidate or refinance student loans incurred before military service -- A bill to amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to extend the interest rate limitation on debt entered into during military service to debt incurred during military service to consolidate or refinance student loans incurred before military service SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 - SUPPORT P.L. 113-82: To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members ofthe Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes. -- To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members of the Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1443: Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494: Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2018: Honor Those Who Served Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to identify the persons who are eligible to request headstones or markers furnished by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072: Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2119: Veterans Access to Speedy Review Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the opportunity for veterans to use video conferencing for hearings before the Board of Veterans Appeals SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 2138: Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847: Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines assistance dog to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 3521: Department of Veterans Affairs Major Medical Facility Lease Authorization Act of 2013 -- To authorize Department of Veterans Affairs major medical facility leases, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3593: VA Construction Assistance Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the construction of major medical facilities, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3876: Burial With Dignity for Heroes Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a grant program to provide burials for homeless veterans SUPPORT H.R. 4031: Department of Veterans Affairs Management Accountability Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the removal of Senior Executive Service employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs for performance, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4038: Veterans Benefits Administration Information Technology Act of 2014 -- Requires the VA Secretary to make such changes and improvements to the information technology system of the Veterans Benefits Administration toensure that: (1) all original and supplemental claims for veterans educational assistance are adjudicated electronically, and (2) rules-based processing is used to make decisions with respect to such claims with little human intervention SUPPORT H.R. 4095: Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2014 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2014, 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 SUPPORT (with revisions) H.R. 4141: To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the VA Secretary to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 4191: Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the treatment of medical evidence provided by non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical professionals in support of claims for disability compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4344: Military Sexual Trauma Claims Administration Reform and Eligibility Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to establish a presumption of service connection for mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma SUPPORT H.R. 4374: To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294: Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679 / S. 629: Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 813 / S. 932: Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs: (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288 / S. 1361: World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499 / S. 1155: Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act -- To provide for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORTS. 529: To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851: Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148: Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296: Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013 -- To amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411: Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013 -- To specify requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579: SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 : Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013 -- To require the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584: A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes -- To amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586: Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589: Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans IntegratedService Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE legislation as written S. 1604: Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1931: A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. -- A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1950: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1982: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees which passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 - SUPPORT P.L. 113-82: To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members ofthe Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes. -- To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members of the Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1443: Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494: Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2018: Honor Those Who Served Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to identify the persons who are eligible to request headstones or markers furnished by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072: Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2119: Veterans Access to Speedy Review Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the opportunity for veterans to use video conferencing for hearings before the Board of Veterans Appeals SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 2138: Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847: Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines assistance dog to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 3521: Department of Veterans Affairs Major Medical Facility Lease Authorization Act of 2013 -- To authorize Department of Veterans Affairs major medical facility leases, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3593: VA Construction Assistance Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the construction of major medical facilities, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3876: Burial With Dignity for Heroes Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a grant program to provide burials for homeless veterans SUPPORT H.R. 4031: Department of Veterans Affairs Management Accountability Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the removal of Senior Executive Service employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs for performance, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4038: Veterans Benefits Administration Information Technology Act of 2014 -- Requires the VA Secretary to make such changes and improvements to the information technology system of the Veterans Benefits Administration toensure that: (1) all original and supplemental claims for veterans educational assistance are adjudicated electronically, and (2) rules-based processing is used to make decisions with respect to such claims with little human intervention SUPPORT H.R. 4095: Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2014 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2014, 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 SUPPORT (with revisions) H.R. 4141: To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the VA Secretary to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 4191: Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the treatment of medical evidence provided by non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical professionals in support of claims for disability compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4344: Military Sexual Trauma Claims Administration Reform and Eligibility Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to establish a presumption of service connection for mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma SUPPORT H.R. 4374: To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294: Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679 / S. 629: Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 813 / S. 932: Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs: (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288 / S. 1361: World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499 / S. 1155: Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act -- To provide for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORTS. 529: To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851: Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148: Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296: Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013 -- To amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411: Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013 -- To specify requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579: SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 : Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013 -- To require the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584: A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes -- To amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586: Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589: Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans IntegratedService Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE legislation as written S. 1604: Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1931: A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. -- A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1950: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1982: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees which passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 - SUPPORT P.L. 113-82: To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members ofthe Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes. -- To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members of the Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1443: Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494: Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2018: Honor Those Who Served Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to identify the persons who are eligible to request headstones or markers furnished by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072: Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2119: Veterans Access to Speedy Review Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the opportunity for veterans to use video conferencing for hearings before the Board of Veterans Appeals SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 2138: Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847: Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines assistance dog to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 3521: Department of Veterans Affairs Major Medical Facility Lease Authorization Act of 2013 -- To authorize Department of Veterans Affairs major medical facility leases, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3593: VA Construction Assistance Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the construction of major medical facilities, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3876: Burial With Dignity for Heroes Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a grant program to provide burials for homeless veterans SUPPORT H.R. 4031: Department of Veterans Affairs Management Accountability Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the removal of Senior Executive Service employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs for performance, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4038: Veterans Benefits Administration Information Technology Act of 2014 -- Requires the VA Secretary to make such changes and improvements to the information technology system of the Veterans Benefits Administration toensure that: (1) all original and supplemental claims for veterans educational assistance are adjudicated electronically, and (2) rules-based processing is used to make decisions with respect to such claims with little human intervention SUPPORT H.R. 4095: Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2014 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2014, 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 SUPPORT (with revisions) H.R. 4141: To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the VA Secretary to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 4191: Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the treatment of medical evidence provided by non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical professionals in support of claims for disability compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4344: Military Sexual Trauma Claims Administration Reform and Eligibility Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to establish a presumption of service connection for mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma SUPPORT H.R. 4374: To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294: Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679 / S. 629: Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 813 / S. 932: Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs: (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288 / S. 1361: World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499 / S. 1155: Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act -- To provide for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORTS. 529: To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851: Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148: Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296: Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013 -- To amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411: Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013 -- To specify requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579: SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 : Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013 -- To require the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584: A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes -- To amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586: Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589: Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans IntegratedService Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE legislation as written S. 1604: Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1931: A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. -- A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1950: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1982: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees which passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 - SUPPORT P.L. 113-82: To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members ofthe Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes. -- To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members of the Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1443: Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494: Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2018: Honor Those Who Served Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to identify the persons who are eligible to request headstones or markers furnished by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072: Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2119: Veterans Access to Speedy Review Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the opportunity for veterans to use video conferencing for hearings before the Board of Veterans Appeals SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 2138: Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847: Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines assistance dog to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 3521: Department of Veterans Affairs Major Medical Facility Lease Authorization Act of 2013 -- To authorize Department of Veterans Affairs major medical facility leases, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3593: VA Construction Assistance Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the construction of major medical facilities, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3876: Burial With Dignity for Heroes Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a grant program to provide burials for homeless veterans SUPPORT H.R. 4031: Department of Veterans Affairs Management Accountability Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the removal of Senior Executive Service employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs for performance, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4038: Veterans Benefits Administration Information Technology Act of 2014 -- Requires the VA Secretary to make such changes and improvements to the information technology system of the Veterans Benefits Administration toensure that: (1) all original and supplemental claims for veterans educational assistance are adjudicated electronically, and (2) rules-based processing is used to make decisions with respect to such claims with little human intervention SUPPORT H.R. 4095: Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2014 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2014, 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 SUPPORT (with revisions) H.R. 4141: To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the VA Secretary to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 4191: Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the treatment of medical evidence provided by non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical professionals in support of claims for disability compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4344: Military Sexual Trauma Claims Administration Reform and Eligibility Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to establish a presumption of service connection for mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma SUPPORT H.R. 4374: To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294: Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679 / S. 629: Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 813 / S. 932: Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs: (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288 / S. 1361: World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499 / S. 1155: Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act -- To provide for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORTS. 529: To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851: Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148: Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296: Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013 -- To amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411: Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013 -- To specify requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579: SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 : Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013 -- To require the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584: A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes -- To amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586: Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589: Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans IntegratedService Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE legislation as written S. 1604: Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1931: A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. -- A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1950: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1982: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees which passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 - SUPPORT P.L. 113-82: To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members ofthe Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes. -- To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members of the Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1443: Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494: Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2018: Honor Those Who Served Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to identify the persons who are eligible to request headstones or markers furnished by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072: Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2119: Veterans Access to Speedy Review Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the opportunity for veterans to use video conferencing for hearings before the Board of Veterans Appeals SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 2138: Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847: Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines assistance dog to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 3521: Department of Veterans Affairs Major Medical Facility Lease Authorization Act of 2013 -- To authorize Department of Veterans Affairs major medical facility leases, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3593: VA Construction Assistance Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the construction of major medical facilities, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3876: Burial With Dignity for Heroes Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a grant program to provide burials for homeless veterans SUPPORT H.R. 4031: Department of Veterans Affairs Management Accountability Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the removal of Senior Executive Service employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs for performance, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4038: Veterans Benefits Administration Information Technology Act of 2014 -- Requires the VA Secretary to make such changes and improvements to the information technology system of the Veterans Benefits Administration toensure that: (1) all original and supplemental claims for veterans educational assistance are adjudicated electronically, and (2) rules-based processing is used to make decisions with respect to such claims with little human intervention SUPPORT H.R. 4095: Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2014 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2014, 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 SUPPORT (with revisions) H.R. 4141: To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the VA Secretary to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 4191: Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the treatment of medical evidence provided by non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical professionals in support of claims for disability compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4344: Military Sexual Trauma Claims Administration Reform and Eligibility Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to establish a presumption of service connection for mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma SUPPORT H.R. 4374: To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294: Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679 / S. 629: Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 813 / S. 932: Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs: (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288 / S. 1361: World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499 / S. 1155: Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act -- To provide for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORTS. 529: To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851: Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148: Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296: Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013 -- To amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411: Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013 -- To specify requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579: SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 : Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013 -- To require the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584: A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes -- To amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586: Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589: Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans IntegratedService Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE legislation as written S. 1604: Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1931: A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. -- A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1950: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1982: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees which passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT

H.R. 562: VRAP Extension Act of 2013-- To provide for a three-month extension of the Veterans Retraining Assistance Program administered by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2481: Veterans G.I. Bill Enrollment Clarification Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to codify and improve theelection requirements for the receipt of educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance program of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 3384: Veterans Entry to Apprenticeship Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to ensure that veterans may attend pre-apprenticeship programs using certain educational assistance provided by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4147: Student Veterans IT Upgrade Act -- To direct the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Deputy Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Economic Opportunity to submit to the Committees on Veterans' Affairs of the Senate and House of Representatives a report regarding the information technology of the Department that is used in administering the educational benefits administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4151: Veterans Education Survey Act of 2014 -- To direct the VA Secretary to enter into a contract with a non-government entity to conduct a survey of individuals who have used or are using their entitlement to educational assistance under the educational assistance programs administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3399 / S. 1682: Veterans Education Counseling Act [of 2013] -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain clarifications and improvements in the academic and vocational counseling programs administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3600 / S. 2014: GI Education Benefit Fairness Act [of 2014] -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to provide for clarification regarding the children to whom entitlement to educational assistance may be transferred under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program SUPPORT S. 944: Veterans Health and Benefits Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require courses of education provided by public institutions of higher education that are approved for purposes of the All-Volunteer Force Educational Assistance Program and Post-9/11 Educational Assistance to charge veterans tuition and fees at the in-State tuition rate, and for other purposes OPPOSE certain provisions S. 1211: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to prohibit the use of the phrases GI Bill and Post-9/11 GI Bill to give a false impression of approval or endorsement by the Department of Veterans Affairs -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to prohibit the use of the phrases GI Bill and Post-9/11 GI Bill to give a false impression of approval or endorsement by the VA SUPPORT S. 1399: A bill to amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to extend the interest rate limitation on debt entered into during military service to consolidate or refinance student loans incurred before military service -- A bill to amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to extend the interest rate limitation on debt entered into during military service to debt incurred during military service to consolidate or refinance student loans incurred before military service SUPPORT

H.R. 562: VRAP Extension Act of 2013-- To provide for a three-month extension of the Veterans Retraining Assistance Program administered by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2481: Veterans G.I. Bill Enrollment Clarification Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to codify and improve theelection requirements for the receipt of educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance program of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 3384: Veterans Entry to Apprenticeship Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to ensure that veterans may attend pre-apprenticeship programs using certain educational assistance provided by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4147: Student Veterans IT Upgrade Act -- To direct the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Deputy Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Economic Opportunity to submit to the Committees on Veterans' Affairs of the Senate and House of Representatives a report regarding the information technology of the Department that is used in administering the educational benefits administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4151: Veterans Education Survey Act of 2014 -- To direct the VA Secretary to enter into a contract with a non-government entity to conduct a survey of individuals who have used or are using their entitlement to educational assistance under the educational assistance programs administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3399 / S. 1682: Veterans Education Counseling Act [of 2013] -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain clarifications and improvements in the academic and vocational counseling programs administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3600 / S. 2014: GI Education Benefit Fairness Act [of 2014] -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to provide for clarification regarding the children to whom entitlement to educational assistance may be transferred under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program SUPPORT S. 944: Veterans Health and Benefits Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require courses of education provided by public institutions of higher education that are approved for purposes of the All-Volunteer Force Educational Assistance Program and Post-9/11 Educational Assistance to charge veterans tuition and fees at the in-State tuition rate, and for other purposes OPPOSE certain provisions S. 1211: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to prohibit the use of the phrases GI Bill and Post-9/11 GI Bill to give a false impression of approval or endorsement by the Department of Veterans Affairs -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to prohibit the use of the phrases GI Bill and Post-9/11 GI Bill to give a false impression of approval or endorsement by the VA SUPPORT S. 1399: A bill to amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to extend the interest rate limitation on debt entered into during military service to consolidate or refinance student loans incurred before military service -- A bill to amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to extend the interest rate limitation on debt entered into during military service to debt incurred during military service to consolidate or refinance student loans incurred before military service SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 - SUPPORT P.L. 113-82: To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members ofthe Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes. -- To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members of the Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1443: Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494: Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2018: Honor Those Who Served Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to identify the persons who are eligible to request headstones or markers furnished by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072: Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2119: Veterans Access to Speedy Review Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the opportunity for veterans to use video conferencing for hearings before the Board of Veterans Appeals SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 2138: Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847: Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines assistance dog to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 3521: Department of Veterans Affairs Major Medical Facility Lease Authorization Act of 2013 -- To authorize Department of Veterans Affairs major medical facility leases, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3593: VA Construction Assistance Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the construction of major medical facilities, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3876: Burial With Dignity for Heroes Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a grant program to provide burials for homeless veterans SUPPORT H.R. 4031: Department of Veterans Affairs Management Accountability Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the removal of Senior Executive Service employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs for performance, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4038: Veterans Benefits Administration Information Technology Act of 2014 -- Requires the VA Secretary to make such changes and improvements to the information technology system of the Veterans Benefits Administration toensure that: (1) all original and supplemental claims for veterans educational assistance are adjudicated electronically, and (2) rules-based processing is used to make decisions with respect to such claims with little human intervention SUPPORT H.R. 4095: Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2014 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2014, 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 SUPPORT (with revisions) H.R. 4141: To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the VA Secretary to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 4191: Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the treatment of medical evidence provided by non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical professionals in support of claims for disability compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4344: Military Sexual Trauma Claims Administration Reform and Eligibility Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to establish a presumption of service connection for mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma SUPPORT H.R. 4374: To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294: Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679 / S. 629: Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 813 / S. 932: Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs: (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288 / S. 1361: World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499 / S. 1155: Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act -- To provide for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORTS. 529: To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851: Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148: Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296: Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013 -- To amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411: Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013 -- To specify requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579: SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 : Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013 -- To require the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584: A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes -- To amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586: Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589: Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans IntegratedService Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE legislation as written S. 1604: Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1931: A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. -- A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1950: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1982: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees which passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 - SUPPORT P.L. 113-82: To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members ofthe Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes. -- To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members of the Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1443: Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494: Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2018: Honor Those Who Served Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to identify the persons who are eligible to request headstones or markers furnished by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072: Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2119: Veterans Access to Speedy Review Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the opportunity for veterans to use video conferencing for hearings before the Board of Veterans Appeals SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 2138: Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847: Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines assistance dog to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 3521: Department of Veterans Affairs Major Medical Facility Lease Authorization Act of 2013 -- To authorize Department of Veterans Affairs major medical facility leases, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3593: VA Construction Assistance Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the construction of major medical facilities, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3876: Burial With Dignity for Heroes Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a grant program to provide burials for homeless veterans SUPPORT H.R. 4031: Department of Veterans Affairs Management Accountability Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the removal of Senior Executive Service employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs for performance, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4038: Veterans Benefits Administration Information Technology Act of 2014 -- Requires the VA Secretary to make such changes and improvements to the information technology system of the Veterans Benefits Administration toensure that: (1) all original and supplemental claims for veterans educational assistance are adjudicated electronically, and (2) rules-based processing is used to make decisions with respect to such claims with little human intervention SUPPORT H.R. 4095: Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2014 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2014, 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 SUPPORT (with revisions) H.R. 4141: To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the VA Secretary to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 4191: Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the treatment of medical evidence provided by non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical professionals in support of claims for disability compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4344: Military Sexual Trauma Claims Administration Reform and Eligibility Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to establish a presumption of service connection for mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma SUPPORT H.R. 4374: To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294: Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679 / S. 629: Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 813 / S. 932: Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs: (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288 / S. 1361: World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499 / S. 1155: Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act -- To provide for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORTS. 529: To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851: Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148: Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296: Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013 -- To amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411: Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013 -- To specify requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579: SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 : Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013 -- To require the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584: A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes -- To amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586: Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589: Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans IntegratedService Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE legislation as written S. 1604: Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1931: A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. -- A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1950: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1982: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees which passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 - SUPPORT P.L. 113-82: To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members ofthe Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes. -- To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members of the Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1443: Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494: Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2018: Honor Those Who Served Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to identify the persons who are eligible to request headstones or markers furnished by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072: Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2119: Veterans Access to Speedy Review Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the opportunity for veterans to use video conferencing for hearings before the Board of Veterans Appeals SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 2138: Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847: Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines assistance dog to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 3521: Department of Veterans Affairs Major Medical Facility Lease Authorization Act of 2013 -- To authorize Department of Veterans Affairs major medical facility leases, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3593: VA Construction Assistance Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the construction of major medical facilities, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3876: Burial With Dignity for Heroes Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a grant program to provide burials for homeless veterans SUPPORT H.R. 4031: Department of Veterans Affairs Management Accountability Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the removal of Senior Executive Service employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs for performance, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4038: Veterans Benefits Administration Information Technology Act of 2014 -- Requires the VA Secretary to make such changes and improvements to the information technology system of the Veterans Benefits Administration toensure that: (1) all original and supplemental claims for veterans educational assistance are adjudicated electronically, and (2) rules-based processing is used to make decisions with respect to such claims with little human intervention SUPPORT H.R. 4095: Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2014 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2014, 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 SUPPORT (with revisions) H.R. 4141: To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the VA Secretary to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 4191: Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the treatment of medical evidence provided by non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical professionals in support of claims for disability compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4344: Military Sexual Trauma Claims Administration Reform and Eligibility Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to establish a presumption of service connection for mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma SUPPORT H.R. 4374: To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294: Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679 / S. 629: Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 813 / S. 932: Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs: (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288 / S. 1361: World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499 / S. 1155: Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act -- To provide for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORTS. 529: To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851: Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148: Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296: Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013 -- To amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411: Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013 -- To specify requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579: SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 : Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013 -- To require the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584: A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes -- To amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586: Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589: Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans IntegratedService Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE legislation as written S. 1604: Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1931: A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. -- A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1950: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1982: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees which passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT

H.R. 32 -- Military Surviving Spouses Equity Act -- To amend title 10, United States Code, to repeal the requirement for reduction of survivor annuities under the Survivor Benefit Plan for military surviving spouses to offset the receipt of veterans dependency and indemnity compensation SUPPORTH.R. 333 -- Disabled Veterans Tax Termination Act -- To amend title 10, U.S.C., 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. SUPPORT H.R. 2841 -- Guard and Reserve Equal Access to Health Act -- To amend title 10, U.S.C., to ensure that the Secretary of Defense affords each member of a reserve component of the Armed Forces with the opportunity for a physical examination before the member separates from the Armed Forces SUPPORT H.R. 4435 -- Howard P. Buck McKeon National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2015 -- To authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2015 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 SUPPORT H.R. 4486 -- Making appropriations for military construction, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2015, and for other purposes -- Making appropriations for military construction for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2015, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4870 -- Making appropriations for the Department of Defense for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2015, and for other purposes. -- Making appropriations for the Department of Defense for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2015, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 303; S. 234 -- Retired Pay Restoration Act -- To amend title 10, U.S.C., to permit additional retired members of the Armed Forces who have a service-connected disability to receive both disability compensation from the VA 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 SUPPORT H.R. 4672; S. 2456 -- To amend the Fair Credit Reporting Act to provide protections for active duty military consumers, and for other purposes -- To amend the Fair Credit Reporting Act to provide protections for active duty military consumers, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1684 -- Servicemembers Transition Improvement Act of 2013 -- Requires the Secretary of Defense (DOD) to carry out a pilot program to assess the feasibility and advisability of providing information on members of the Armed Forces who are separating from service to state veterans agencies to facilitate the transition of such members to civilian life. Authorizes such agencies to share such information with appropriate county veterans service offices SUPPORT S. 1999 -- SCRA Rights Protection Act of 2014 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to require the consent of parties to contracts for the use of arbitration to resolve controversies arising under the contracts and subject to provisions of such Act and to preserve the rights of servicemembers to bring class actions under such Act, and for other purposes SUPPORT

H.R. 562: VRAP Extension Act of 2013-- To provide for a three-month extension of the Veterans Retraining Assistance Program administered by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2481: Veterans G.I. Bill Enrollment Clarification Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to codify and improve theelection requirements for the receipt of educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance program of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 3384: Veterans Entry to Apprenticeship Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to ensure that veterans may attend pre-apprenticeship programs using certain educational assistance provided by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4147: Student Veterans IT Upgrade Act -- To direct the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Deputy Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Economic Opportunity to submit to the Committees on Veterans' Affairs of the Senate and House of Representatives a report regarding the information technology of the Department that is used in administering the educational benefits administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4151: Veterans Education Survey Act of 2014 -- To direct the VA Secretary to enter into a contract with a non-government entity to conduct a survey of individuals who have used or are using their entitlement to educational assistance under the educational assistance programs administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3399 / S. 1682: Veterans Education Counseling Act [of 2013] -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain clarifications and improvements in the academic and vocational counseling programs administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3600 / S. 2014: GI Education Benefit Fairness Act [of 2014] -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to provide for clarification regarding the children to whom entitlement to educational assistance may be transferred under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program SUPPORT S. 944: Veterans Health and Benefits Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require courses of education provided by public institutions of higher education that are approved for purposes of the All-Volunteer Force Educational Assistance Program and Post-9/11 Educational Assistance to charge veterans tuition and fees at the in-State tuition rate, and for other purposes OPPOSE certain provisions S. 1211: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to prohibit the use of the phrases GI Bill and Post-9/11 GI Bill to give a false impression of approval or endorsement by the Department of Veterans Affairs -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to prohibit the use of the phrases GI Bill and Post-9/11 GI Bill to give a false impression of approval or endorsement by the VA SUPPORT S. 1399: A bill to amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to extend the interest rate limitation on debt entered into during military service to consolidate or refinance student loans incurred before military service -- A bill to amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to extend the interest rate limitation on debt entered into during military service to debt incurred during military service to consolidate or refinance student loans incurred before military service SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 - SUPPORT P.L. 113-82: To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members ofthe Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes. -- To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members of the Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1443: Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494: Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2018: Honor Those Who Served Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to identify the persons who are eligible to request headstones or markers furnished by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072: Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2119: Veterans Access to Speedy Review Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the opportunity for veterans to use video conferencing for hearings before the Board of Veterans Appeals SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 2138: Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847: Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines assistance dog to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 3521: Department of Veterans Affairs Major Medical Facility Lease Authorization Act of 2013 -- To authorize Department of Veterans Affairs major medical facility leases, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3593: VA Construction Assistance Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the construction of major medical facilities, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3876: Burial With Dignity for Heroes Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a grant program to provide burials for homeless veterans SUPPORT H.R. 4031: Department of Veterans Affairs Management Accountability Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the removal of Senior Executive Service employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs for performance, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4038: Veterans Benefits Administration Information Technology Act of 2014 -- Requires the VA Secretary to make such changes and improvements to the information technology system of the Veterans Benefits Administration toensure that: (1) all original and supplemental claims for veterans educational assistance are adjudicated electronically, and (2) rules-based processing is used to make decisions with respect to such claims with little human intervention SUPPORT H.R. 4095: Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2014 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2014, 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 SUPPORT (with revisions) H.R. 4141: To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the VA Secretary to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 4191: Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the treatment of medical evidence provided by non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical professionals in support of claims for disability compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4344: Military Sexual Trauma Claims Administration Reform and Eligibility Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to establish a presumption of service connection for mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma SUPPORT H.R. 4374: To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294: Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679 / S. 629: Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 813 / S. 932: Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs: (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288 / S. 1361: World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499 / S. 1155: Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act -- To provide for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORTS. 529: To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851: Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148: Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296: Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013 -- To amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411: Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013 -- To specify requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579: SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 : Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013 -- To require the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584: A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes -- To amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586: Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589: Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans IntegratedService Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE legislation as written S. 1604: Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1931: A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. -- A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1950: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1982: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees which passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 - SUPPORT P.L. 113-82: To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members ofthe Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes. -- To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members of the Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1443: Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494: Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2018: Honor Those Who Served Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to identify the persons who are eligible to request headstones or markers furnished by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072: Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2119: Veterans Access to Speedy Review Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the opportunity for veterans to use video conferencing for hearings before the Board of Veterans Appeals SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 2138: Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847: Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines assistance dog to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 3521: Department of Veterans Affairs Major Medical Facility Lease Authorization Act of 2013 -- To authorize Department of Veterans Affairs major medical facility leases, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3593: VA Construction Assistance Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the construction of major medical facilities, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3876: Burial With Dignity for Heroes Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a grant program to provide burials for homeless veterans SUPPORT H.R. 4031: Department of Veterans Affairs Management Accountability Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the removal of Senior Executive Service employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs for performance, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4038: Veterans Benefits Administration Information Technology Act of 2014 -- Requires the VA Secretary to make such changes and improvements to the information technology system of the Veterans Benefits Administration toensure that: (1) all original and supplemental claims for veterans educational assistance are adjudicated electronically, and (2) rules-based processing is used to make decisions with respect to such claims with little human intervention SUPPORT H.R. 4095: Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2014 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2014, 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 SUPPORT (with revisions) H.R. 4141: To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the VA Secretary to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 4191: Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the treatment of medical evidence provided by non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical professionals in support of claims for disability compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4344: Military Sexual Trauma Claims Administration Reform and Eligibility Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to establish a presumption of service connection for mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma SUPPORT H.R. 4374: To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294: Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679 / S. 629: Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 813 / S. 932: Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs: (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288 / S. 1361: World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499 / S. 1155: Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act -- To provide for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORTS. 529: To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851: Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148: Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296: Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013 -- To amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411: Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013 -- To specify requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579: SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 : Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013 -- To require the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584: A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes -- To amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586: Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589: Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans IntegratedService Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE legislation as written S. 1604: Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1931: A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. -- A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1950: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1982: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees which passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 - SUPPORT P.L. 113-82: To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members ofthe Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes. -- To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members of the Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1443: Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494: Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2018: Honor Those Who Served Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to identify the persons who are eligible to request headstones or markers furnished by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072: Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2119: Veterans Access to Speedy Review Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the opportunity for veterans to use video conferencing for hearings before the Board of Veterans Appeals SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 2138: Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847: Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines assistance dog to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 3521: Department of Veterans Affairs Major Medical Facility Lease Authorization Act of 2013 -- To authorize Department of Veterans Affairs major medical facility leases, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3593: VA Construction Assistance Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the construction of major medical facilities, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3876: Burial With Dignity for Heroes Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a grant program to provide burials for homeless veterans SUPPORT H.R. 4031: Department of Veterans Affairs Management Accountability Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the removal of Senior Executive Service employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs for performance, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4038: Veterans Benefits Administration Information Technology Act of 2014 -- Requires the VA Secretary to make such changes and improvements to the information technology system of the Veterans Benefits Administration toensure that: (1) all original and supplemental claims for veterans educational assistance are adjudicated electronically, and (2) rules-based processing is used to make decisions with respect to such claims with little human intervention SUPPORT H.R. 4095: Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2014 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2014, 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 SUPPORT (with revisions) H.R. 4141: To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the VA Secretary to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 4191: Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the treatment of medical evidence provided by non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical professionals in support of claims for disability compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4344: Military Sexual Trauma Claims Administration Reform and Eligibility Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to establish a presumption of service connection for mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma SUPPORT H.R. 4374: To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294: Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679 / S. 629: Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 813 / S. 932: Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs: (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288 / S. 1361: World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499 / S. 1155: Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act -- To provide for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORTS. 529: To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851: Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148: Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296: Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013 -- To amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411: Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013 -- To specify requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579: SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 : Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013 -- To require the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584: A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes -- To amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586: Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589: Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans IntegratedService Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE legislation as written S. 1604: Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1931: A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. -- A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1950: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1982: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees which passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 - SUPPORT P.L. 113-82: To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members ofthe Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes. -- To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members of the Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1443: Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494: Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2018: Honor Those Who Served Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to identify the persons who are eligible to request headstones or markers furnished by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072: Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2119: Veterans Access to Speedy Review Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the opportunity for veterans to use video conferencing for hearings before the Board of Veterans Appeals SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 2138: Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847: Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines assistance dog to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 3521: Department of Veterans Affairs Major Medical Facility Lease Authorization Act of 2013 -- To authorize Department of Veterans Affairs major medical facility leases, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3593: VA Construction Assistance Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the construction of major medical facilities, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3876: Burial With Dignity for Heroes Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a grant program to provide burials for homeless veterans SUPPORT H.R. 4031: Department of Veterans Affairs Management Accountability Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the removal of Senior Executive Service employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs for performance, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4038: Veterans Benefits Administration Information Technology Act of 2014 -- Requires the VA Secretary to make such changes and improvements to the information technology system of the Veterans Benefits Administration toensure that: (1) all original and supplemental claims for veterans educational assistance are adjudicated electronically, and (2) rules-based processing is used to make decisions with respect to such claims with little human intervention SUPPORT H.R. 4095: Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2014 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2014, 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 SUPPORT (with revisions) H.R. 4141: To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the VA Secretary to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 4191: Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the treatment of medical evidence provided by non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical professionals in support of claims for disability compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4344: Military Sexual Trauma Claims Administration Reform and Eligibility Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to establish a presumption of service connection for mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma SUPPORT H.R. 4374: To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294: Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679 / S. 629: Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 813 / S. 932: Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs: (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288 / S. 1361: World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499 / S. 1155: Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act -- To provide for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORTS. 529: To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851: Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148: Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296: Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013 -- To amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411: Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013 -- To specify requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579: SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 : Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013 -- To require the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584: A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes -- To amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586: Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589: Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans IntegratedService Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE legislation as written S. 1604: Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1931: A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. -- A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1950: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1982: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees which passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 - SUPPORT P.L. 113-82: To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members ofthe Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes. -- To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members of the Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1443: Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494: Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2018: Honor Those Who Served Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to identify the persons who are eligible to request headstones or markers furnished by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072: Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2119: Veterans Access to Speedy Review Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the opportunity for veterans to use video conferencing for hearings before the Board of Veterans Appeals SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 2138: Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847: Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines assistance dog to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 3521: Department of Veterans Affairs Major Medical Facility Lease Authorization Act of 2013 -- To authorize Department of Veterans Affairs major medical facility leases, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3593: VA Construction Assistance Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the construction of major medical facilities, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3876: Burial With Dignity for Heroes Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a grant program to provide burials for homeless veterans SUPPORT H.R. 4031: Department of Veterans Affairs Management Accountability Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the removal of Senior Executive Service employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs for performance, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4038: Veterans Benefits Administration Information Technology Act of 2014 -- Requires the VA Secretary to make such changes and improvements to the information technology system of the Veterans Benefits Administration toensure that: (1) all original and supplemental claims for veterans educational assistance are adjudicated electronically, and (2) rules-based processing is used to make decisions with respect to such claims with little human intervention SUPPORT H.R. 4095: Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2014 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2014, 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 SUPPORT (with revisions) H.R. 4141: To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the VA Secretary to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 4191: Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the treatment of medical evidence provided by non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical professionals in support of claims for disability compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4344: Military Sexual Trauma Claims Administration Reform and Eligibility Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to establish a presumption of service connection for mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma SUPPORT H.R. 4374: To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294: Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679 / S. 629: Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 813 / S. 932: Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs: (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288 / S. 1361: World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499 / S. 1155: Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act -- To provide for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORTS. 529: To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851: Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148: Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296: Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013 -- To amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411: Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013 -- To specify requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579: SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 : Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013 -- To require the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584: A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes -- To amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586: Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589: Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans IntegratedService Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE legislation as written S. 1604: Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1931: A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. -- A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1950: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1982: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees which passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT

H.R. 562: VRAP Extension Act of 2013-- To provide for a three-month extension of the Veterans Retraining Assistance Program administered by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2481: Veterans G.I. Bill Enrollment Clarification Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to codify and improve theelection requirements for the receipt of educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance program of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 3384: Veterans Entry to Apprenticeship Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to ensure that veterans may attend pre-apprenticeship programs using certain educational assistance provided by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4147: Student Veterans IT Upgrade Act -- To direct the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Deputy Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Economic Opportunity to submit to the Committees on Veterans' Affairs of the Senate and House of Representatives a report regarding the information technology of the Department that is used in administering the educational benefits administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4151: Veterans Education Survey Act of 2014 -- To direct the VA Secretary to enter into a contract with a non-government entity to conduct a survey of individuals who have used or are using their entitlement to educational assistance under the educational assistance programs administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3399 / S. 1682: Veterans Education Counseling Act [of 2013] -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain clarifications and improvements in the academic and vocational counseling programs administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3600 / S. 2014: GI Education Benefit Fairness Act [of 2014] -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to provide for clarification regarding the children to whom entitlement to educational assistance may be transferred under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program SUPPORT S. 944: Veterans Health and Benefits Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require courses of education provided by public institutions of higher education that are approved for purposes of the All-Volunteer Force Educational Assistance Program and Post-9/11 Educational Assistance to charge veterans tuition and fees at the in-State tuition rate, and for other purposes OPPOSE certain provisions S. 1211: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to prohibit the use of the phrases GI Bill and Post-9/11 GI Bill to give a false impression of approval or endorsement by the Department of Veterans Affairs -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to prohibit the use of the phrases GI Bill and Post-9/11 GI Bill to give a false impression of approval or endorsement by the VA SUPPORT S. 1399: A bill to amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to extend the interest rate limitation on debt entered into during military service to consolidate or refinance student loans incurred before military service -- A bill to amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to extend the interest rate limitation on debt entered into during military service to debt incurred during military service to consolidate or refinance student loans incurred before military service SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 - SUPPORT P.L. 113-82: To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members ofthe Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes. -- To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members of the Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1443: Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494: Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2018: Honor Those Who Served Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to identify the persons who are eligible to request headstones or markers furnished by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072: Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2119: Veterans Access to Speedy Review Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the opportunity for veterans to use video conferencing for hearings before the Board of Veterans Appeals SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 2138: Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847: Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines assistance dog to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 3521: Department of Veterans Affairs Major Medical Facility Lease Authorization Act of 2013 -- To authorize Department of Veterans Affairs major medical facility leases, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3593: VA Construction Assistance Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the construction of major medical facilities, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3876: Burial With Dignity for Heroes Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a grant program to provide burials for homeless veterans SUPPORT H.R. 4031: Department of Veterans Affairs Management Accountability Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the removal of Senior Executive Service employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs for performance, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4038: Veterans Benefits Administration Information Technology Act of 2014 -- Requires the VA Secretary to make such changes and improvements to the information technology system of the Veterans Benefits Administration toensure that: (1) all original and supplemental claims for veterans educational assistance are adjudicated electronically, and (2) rules-based processing is used to make decisions with respect to such claims with little human intervention SUPPORT H.R. 4095: Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2014 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2014, 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 SUPPORT (with revisions) H.R. 4141: To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the VA Secretary to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 4191: Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the treatment of medical evidence provided by non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical professionals in support of claims for disability compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4344: Military Sexual Trauma Claims Administration Reform and Eligibility Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to establish a presumption of service connection for mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma SUPPORT H.R. 4374: To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294: Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679 / S. 629: Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 813 / S. 932: Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs: (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288 / S. 1361: World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499 / S. 1155: Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act -- To provide for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORTS. 529: To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851: Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148: Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296: Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013 -- To amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411: Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013 -- To specify requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579: SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 : Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013 -- To require the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584: A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes -- To amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586: Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589: Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans IntegratedService Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE legislation as written S. 1604: Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1931: A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. -- A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1950: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1982: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees which passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 - SUPPORT P.L. 113-82: To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members ofthe Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes. -- To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members of the Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1443: Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494: Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2018: Honor Those Who Served Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to identify the persons who are eligible to request headstones or markers furnished by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072: Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2119: Veterans Access to Speedy Review Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the opportunity for veterans to use video conferencing for hearings before the Board of Veterans Appeals SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 2138: Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847: Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines assistance dog to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 3521: Department of Veterans Affairs Major Medical Facility Lease Authorization Act of 2013 -- To authorize Department of Veterans Affairs major medical facility leases, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3593: VA Construction Assistance Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the construction of major medical facilities, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3876: Burial With Dignity for Heroes Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a grant program to provide burials for homeless veterans SUPPORT H.R. 4031: Department of Veterans Affairs Management Accountability Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the removal of Senior Executive Service employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs for performance, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4038: Veterans Benefits Administration Information Technology Act of 2014 -- Requires the VA Secretary to make such changes and improvements to the information technology system of the Veterans Benefits Administration toensure that: (1) all original and supplemental claims for veterans educational assistance are adjudicated electronically, and (2) rules-based processing is used to make decisions with respect to such claims with little human intervention SUPPORT H.R. 4095: Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2014 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2014, 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 SUPPORT (with revisions) H.R. 4141: To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the VA Secretary to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 4191: Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the treatment of medical evidence provided by non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical professionals in support of claims for disability compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4344: Military Sexual Trauma Claims Administration Reform and Eligibility Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to establish a presumption of service connection for mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma SUPPORT H.R. 4374: To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294: Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679 / S. 629: Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 813 / S. 932: Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs: (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288 / S. 1361: World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499 / S. 1155: Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act -- To provide for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORTS. 529: To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851: Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148: Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296: Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013 -- To amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411: Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013 -- To specify requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579: SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 : Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013 -- To require the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584: A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes -- To amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586: Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589: Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans IntegratedService Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE legislation as written S. 1604: Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1931: A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. -- A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1950: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1982: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees which passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 - SUPPORT P.L. 113-82: To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members ofthe Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes. -- To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members of the Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1443: Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494: Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2018: Honor Those Who Served Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to identify the persons who are eligible to request headstones or markers furnished by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072: Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2119: Veterans Access to Speedy Review Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the opportunity for veterans to use video conferencing for hearings before the Board of Veterans Appeals SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 2138: Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847: Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines assistance dog to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 3521: Department of Veterans Affairs Major Medical Facility Lease Authorization Act of 2013 -- To authorize Department of Veterans Affairs major medical facility leases, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3593: VA Construction Assistance Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the construction of major medical facilities, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3876: Burial With Dignity for Heroes Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a grant program to provide burials for homeless veterans SUPPORT H.R. 4031: Department of Veterans Affairs Management Accountability Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the removal of Senior Executive Service employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs for performance, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4038: Veterans Benefits Administration Information Technology Act of 2014 -- Requires the VA Secretary to make such changes and improvements to the information technology system of the Veterans Benefits Administration toensure that: (1) all original and supplemental claims for veterans educational assistance are adjudicated electronically, and (2) rules-based processing is used to make decisions with respect to such claims with little human intervention SUPPORT H.R. 4095: Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2014 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2014, 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 SUPPORT (with revisions) H.R. 4141: To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the VA Secretary to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 4191: Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the treatment of medical evidence provided by non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical professionals in support of claims for disability compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4344: Military Sexual Trauma Claims Administration Reform and Eligibility Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to establish a presumption of service connection for mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma SUPPORT H.R. 4374: To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294: Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679 / S. 629: Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 813 / S. 932: Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs: (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288 / S. 1361: World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499 / S. 1155: Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act -- To provide for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORTS. 529: To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851: Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148: Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296: Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013 -- To amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411: Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013 -- To specify requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579: SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 : Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013 -- To require the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584: A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes -- To amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586: Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589: Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans IntegratedService Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE legislation as written S. 1604: Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1931: A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. -- A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1950: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1982: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees which passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT

H.R. 562: VRAP Extension Act of 2013-- To provide for a three-month extension of the Veterans Retraining Assistance Program administered by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2481: Veterans G.I. Bill Enrollment Clarification Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to codify and improve theelection requirements for the receipt of educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance program of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 3384: Veterans Entry to Apprenticeship Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to ensure that veterans may attend pre-apprenticeship programs using certain educational assistance provided by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4147: Student Veterans IT Upgrade Act -- To direct the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Deputy Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Economic Opportunity to submit to the Committees on Veterans' Affairs of the Senate and House of Representatives a report regarding the information technology of the Department that is used in administering the educational benefits administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4151: Veterans Education Survey Act of 2014 -- To direct the VA Secretary to enter into a contract with a non-government entity to conduct a survey of individuals who have used or are using their entitlement to educational assistance under the educational assistance programs administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3399 / S. 1682: Veterans Education Counseling Act [of 2013] -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain clarifications and improvements in the academic and vocational counseling programs administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3600 / S. 2014: GI Education Benefit Fairness Act [of 2014] -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to provide for clarification regarding the children to whom entitlement to educational assistance may be transferred under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program SUPPORT S. 944: Veterans Health and Benefits Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require courses of education provided by public institutions of higher education that are approved for purposes of the All-Volunteer Force Educational Assistance Program and Post-9/11 Educational Assistance to charge veterans tuition and fees at the in-State tuition rate, and for other purposes OPPOSE certain provisions S. 1211: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to prohibit the use of the phrases GI Bill and Post-9/11 GI Bill to give a false impression of approval or endorsement by the Department of Veterans Affairs -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to prohibit the use of the phrases GI Bill and Post-9/11 GI Bill to give a false impression of approval or endorsement by the VA SUPPORT S. 1399: A bill to amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to extend the interest rate limitation on debt entered into during military service to consolidate or refinance student loans incurred before military service -- A bill to amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to extend the interest rate limitation on debt entered into during military service to debt incurred during military service to consolidate or refinance student loans incurred before military service SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 - SUPPORT P.L. 113-82: To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members ofthe Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes. -- To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members of the Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1443: Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494: Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2018: Honor Those Who Served Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to identify the persons who are eligible to request headstones or markers furnished by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072: Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2119: Veterans Access to Speedy Review Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the opportunity for veterans to use video conferencing for hearings before the Board of Veterans Appeals SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 2138: Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847: Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines assistance dog to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 3521: Department of Veterans Affairs Major Medical Facility Lease Authorization Act of 2013 -- To authorize Department of Veterans Affairs major medical facility leases, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3593: VA Construction Assistance Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the construction of major medical facilities, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3876: Burial With Dignity for Heroes Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a grant program to provide burials for homeless veterans SUPPORT H.R. 4031: Department of Veterans Affairs Management Accountability Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the removal of Senior Executive Service employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs for performance, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4038: Veterans Benefits Administration Information Technology Act of 2014 -- Requires the VA Secretary to make such changes and improvements to the information technology system of the Veterans Benefits Administration toensure that: (1) all original and supplemental claims for veterans educational assistance are adjudicated electronically, and (2) rules-based processing is used to make decisions with respect to such claims with little human intervention SUPPORT H.R. 4095: Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2014 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2014, 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 SUPPORT (with revisions) H.R. 4141: To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the VA Secretary to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 4191: Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the treatment of medical evidence provided by non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical professionals in support of claims for disability compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4344: Military Sexual Trauma Claims Administration Reform and Eligibility Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to establish a presumption of service connection for mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma SUPPORT H.R. 4374: To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294: Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679 / S. 629: Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 813 / S. 932: Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs: (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288 / S. 1361: World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499 / S. 1155: Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act -- To provide for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORTS. 529: To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851: Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148: Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296: Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013 -- To amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411: Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013 -- To specify requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579: SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 : Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013 -- To require the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584: A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes -- To amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586: Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589: Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans IntegratedService Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE legislation as written S. 1604: Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1931: A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. -- A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1950: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1982: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees which passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 - SUPPORT P.L. 113-82: To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members ofthe Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes. -- To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members of the Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1443: Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494: Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2018: Honor Those Who Served Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to identify the persons who are eligible to request headstones or markers furnished by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072: Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2119: Veterans Access to Speedy Review Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the opportunity for veterans to use video conferencing for hearings before the Board of Veterans Appeals SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 2138: Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847: Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines assistance dog to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 3521: Department of Veterans Affairs Major Medical Facility Lease Authorization Act of 2013 -- To authorize Department of Veterans Affairs major medical facility leases, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3593: VA Construction Assistance Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the construction of major medical facilities, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3876: Burial With Dignity for Heroes Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a grant program to provide burials for homeless veterans SUPPORT H.R. 4031: Department of Veterans Affairs Management Accountability Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the removal of Senior Executive Service employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs for performance, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4038: Veterans Benefits Administration Information Technology Act of 2014 -- Requires the VA Secretary to make such changes and improvements to the information technology system of the Veterans Benefits Administration toensure that: (1) all original and supplemental claims for veterans educational assistance are adjudicated electronically, and (2) rules-based processing is used to make decisions with respect to such claims with little human intervention SUPPORT H.R. 4095: Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2014 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2014, 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 SUPPORT (with revisions) H.R. 4141: To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the VA Secretary to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 4191: Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the treatment of medical evidence provided by non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical professionals in support of claims for disability compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4344: Military Sexual Trauma Claims Administration Reform and Eligibility Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to establish a presumption of service connection for mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma SUPPORT H.R. 4374: To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294: Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679 / S. 629: Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 813 / S. 932: Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs: (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288 / S. 1361: World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499 / S. 1155: Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act -- To provide for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORTS. 529: To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851: Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148: Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296: Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013 -- To amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411: Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013 -- To specify requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579: SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 : Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013 -- To require the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584: A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes -- To amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586: Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589: Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans IntegratedService Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE legislation as written S. 1604: Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1931: A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. -- A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1950: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1982: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees which passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 - SUPPORT P.L. 113-82: To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members ofthe Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes. -- To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members of the Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1443: Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494: Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2018: Honor Those Who Served Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to identify the persons who are eligible to request headstones or markers furnished by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072: Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2119: Veterans Access to Speedy Review Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the opportunity for veterans to use video conferencing for hearings before the Board of Veterans Appeals SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 2138: Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847: Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines assistance dog to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 3521: Department of Veterans Affairs Major Medical Facility Lease Authorization Act of 2013 -- To authorize Department of Veterans Affairs major medical facility leases, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3593: VA Construction Assistance Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the construction of major medical facilities, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3876: Burial With Dignity for Heroes Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a grant program to provide burials for homeless veterans SUPPORT H.R. 4031: Department of Veterans Affairs Management Accountability Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the removal of Senior Executive Service employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs for performance, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4038: Veterans Benefits Administration Information Technology Act of 2014 -- Requires the VA Secretary to make such changes and improvements to the information technology system of the Veterans Benefits Administration toensure that: (1) all original and supplemental claims for veterans educational assistance are adjudicated electronically, and (2) rules-based processing is used to make decisions with respect to such claims with little human intervention SUPPORT H.R. 4095: Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2014 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2014, 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 SUPPORT (with revisions) H.R. 4141: To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the VA Secretary to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 4191: Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the treatment of medical evidence provided by non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical professionals in support of claims for disability compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4344: Military Sexual Trauma Claims Administration Reform and Eligibility Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to establish a presumption of service connection for mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma SUPPORT H.R. 4374: To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294: Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679 / S. 629: Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 813 / S. 932: Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs: (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288 / S. 1361: World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499 / S. 1155: Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act -- To provide for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORTS. 529: To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851: Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148: Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296: Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013 -- To amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411: Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013 -- To specify requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579: SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 : Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013 -- To require the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584: A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes -- To amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586: Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589: Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans IntegratedService Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE legislation as written S. 1604: Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1931: A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. -- A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1950: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1982: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees which passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 - SUPPORT P.L. 113-82: To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members ofthe Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes. -- To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members of the Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1443: Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494: Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2018: Honor Those Who Served Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to identify the persons who are eligible to request headstones or markers furnished by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072: Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2119: Veterans Access to Speedy Review Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the opportunity for veterans to use video conferencing for hearings before the Board of Veterans Appeals SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 2138: Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847: Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines assistance dog to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 3521: Department of Veterans Affairs Major Medical Facility Lease Authorization Act of 2013 -- To authorize Department of Veterans Affairs major medical facility leases, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3593: VA Construction Assistance Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the construction of major medical facilities, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3876: Burial With Dignity for Heroes Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a grant program to provide burials for homeless veterans SUPPORT H.R. 4031: Department of Veterans Affairs Management Accountability Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the removal of Senior Executive Service employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs for performance, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4038: Veterans Benefits Administration Information Technology Act of 2014 -- Requires the VA Secretary to make such changes and improvements to the information technology system of the Veterans Benefits Administration toensure that: (1) all original and supplemental claims for veterans educational assistance are adjudicated electronically, and (2) rules-based processing is used to make decisions with respect to such claims with little human intervention SUPPORT H.R. 4095: Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2014 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2014, 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 SUPPORT (with revisions) H.R. 4141: To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the VA Secretary to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 4191: Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the treatment of medical evidence provided by non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical professionals in support of claims for disability compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4344: Military Sexual Trauma Claims Administration Reform and Eligibility Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to establish a presumption of service connection for mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma SUPPORT H.R. 4374: To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294: Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679 / S. 629: Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 813 / S. 932: Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs: (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288 / S. 1361: World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499 / S. 1155: Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act -- To provide for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORTS. 529: To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851: Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148: Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296: Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013 -- To amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411: Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013 -- To specify requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579: SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 : Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013 -- To require the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584: A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes -- To amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586: Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589: Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans IntegratedService Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE legislation as written S. 1604: Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1931: A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. -- A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1950: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1982: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees which passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 - SUPPORT P.L. 113-82: To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members ofthe Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes. -- To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members of the Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1443: Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494: Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2018: Honor Those Who Served Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to identify the persons who are eligible to request headstones or markers furnished by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072: Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2119: Veterans Access to Speedy Review Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the opportunity for veterans to use video conferencing for hearings before the Board of Veterans Appeals SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 2138: Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847: Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines assistance dog to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 3521: Department of Veterans Affairs Major Medical Facility Lease Authorization Act of 2013 -- To authorize Department of Veterans Affairs major medical facility leases, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3593: VA Construction Assistance Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the construction of major medical facilities, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3876: Burial With Dignity for Heroes Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a grant program to provide burials for homeless veterans SUPPORT H.R. 4031: Department of Veterans Affairs Management Accountability Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the removal of Senior Executive Service employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs for performance, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4038: Veterans Benefits Administration Information Technology Act of 2014 -- Requires the VA Secretary to make such changes and improvements to the information technology system of the Veterans Benefits Administration toensure that: (1) all original and supplemental claims for veterans educational assistance are adjudicated electronically, and (2) rules-based processing is used to make decisions with respect to such claims with little human intervention SUPPORT H.R. 4095: Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2014 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2014, 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 SUPPORT (with revisions) H.R. 4141: To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the VA Secretary to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 4191: Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the treatment of medical evidence provided by non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical professionals in support of claims for disability compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4344: Military Sexual Trauma Claims Administration Reform and Eligibility Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to establish a presumption of service connection for mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma SUPPORT H.R. 4374: To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294: Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679 / S. 629: Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 813 / S. 932: Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs: (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288 / S. 1361: World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499 / S. 1155: Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act -- To provide for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORTS. 529: To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851: Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148: Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296: Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013 -- To amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411: Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013 -- To specify requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579: SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 : Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013 -- To require the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584: A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes -- To amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586: Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589: Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans IntegratedService Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE legislation as written S. 1604: Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1931: A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. -- A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1950: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1982: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees which passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 - SUPPORT P.L. 113-82: To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members ofthe Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes. -- To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members of the Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1443: Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494: Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2018: Honor Those Who Served Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to identify the persons who are eligible to request headstones or markers furnished by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072: Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2119: Veterans Access to Speedy Review Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the opportunity for veterans to use video conferencing for hearings before the Board of Veterans Appeals SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 2138: Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847: Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines assistance dog to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 3521: Department of Veterans Affairs Major Medical Facility Lease Authorization Act of 2013 -- To authorize Department of Veterans Affairs major medical facility leases, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3593: VA Construction Assistance Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the construction of major medical facilities, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3876: Burial With Dignity for Heroes Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a grant program to provide burials for homeless veterans SUPPORT H.R. 4031: Department of Veterans Affairs Management Accountability Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the removal of Senior Executive Service employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs for performance, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4038: Veterans Benefits Administration Information Technology Act of 2014 -- Requires the VA Secretary to make such changes and improvements to the information technology system of the Veterans Benefits Administration toensure that: (1) all original and supplemental claims for veterans educational assistance are adjudicated electronically, and (2) rules-based processing is used to make decisions with respect to such claims with little human intervention SUPPORT H.R. 4095: Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2014 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2014, 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 SUPPORT (with revisions) H.R. 4141: To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the VA Secretary to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 4191: Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the treatment of medical evidence provided by non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical professionals in support of claims for disability compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4344: Military Sexual Trauma Claims Administration Reform and Eligibility Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to establish a presumption of service connection for mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma SUPPORT H.R. 4374: To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294: Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679 / S. 629: Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 813 / S. 932: Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs: (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288 / S. 1361: World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499 / S. 1155: Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act -- To provide for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORTS. 529: To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851: Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148: Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296: Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013 -- To amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411: Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013 -- To specify requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579: SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 : Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013 -- To require the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584: A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes -- To amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586: Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589: Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans IntegratedService Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE legislation as written S. 1604: Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1931: A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. -- A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1950: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1982: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees which passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 - SUPPORT P.L. 113-82: To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members ofthe Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes. -- To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members of the Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1443: Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494: Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2018: Honor Those Who Served Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to identify the persons who are eligible to request headstones or markers furnished by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072: Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2119: Veterans Access to Speedy Review Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the opportunity for veterans to use video conferencing for hearings before the Board of Veterans Appeals SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 2138: Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847: Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines assistance dog to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 3521: Department of Veterans Affairs Major Medical Facility Lease Authorization Act of 2013 -- To authorize Department of Veterans Affairs major medical facility leases, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3593: VA Construction Assistance Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the construction of major medical facilities, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3876: Burial With Dignity for Heroes Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a grant program to provide burials for homeless veterans SUPPORT H.R. 4031: Department of Veterans Affairs Management Accountability Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the removal of Senior Executive Service employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs for performance, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4038: Veterans Benefits Administration Information Technology Act of 2014 -- Requires the VA Secretary to make such changes and improvements to the information technology system of the Veterans Benefits Administration toensure that: (1) all original and supplemental claims for veterans educational assistance are adjudicated electronically, and (2) rules-based processing is used to make decisions with respect to such claims with little human intervention SUPPORT H.R. 4095: Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2014 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2014, 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 SUPPORT (with revisions) H.R. 4141: To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the VA Secretary to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 4191: Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the treatment of medical evidence provided by non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical professionals in support of claims for disability compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4344: Military Sexual Trauma Claims Administration Reform and Eligibility Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to establish a presumption of service connection for mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma SUPPORT H.R. 4374: To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294: Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679 / S. 629: Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 813 / S. 932: Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs: (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288 / S. 1361: World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499 / S. 1155: Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act -- To provide for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORTS. 529: To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851: Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148: Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296: Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013 -- To amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411: Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013 -- To specify requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579: SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 : Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013 -- To require the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584: A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes -- To amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586: Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589: Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans IntegratedService Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE legislation as written S. 1604: Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1931: A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. -- A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1950: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1982: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees which passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 - SUPPORT P.L. 113-82: To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members ofthe Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes. -- To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members of the Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1443: Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494: Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2018: Honor Those Who Served Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to identify the persons who are eligible to request headstones or markers furnished by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072: Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2119: Veterans Access to Speedy Review Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the opportunity for veterans to use video conferencing for hearings before the Board of Veterans Appeals SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 2138: Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847: Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines assistance dog to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 3521: Department of Veterans Affairs Major Medical Facility Lease Authorization Act of 2013 -- To authorize Department of Veterans Affairs major medical facility leases, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3593: VA Construction Assistance Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the construction of major medical facilities, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3876: Burial With Dignity for Heroes Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a grant program to provide burials for homeless veterans SUPPORT H.R. 4031: Department of Veterans Affairs Management Accountability Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the removal of Senior Executive Service employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs for performance, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4038: Veterans Benefits Administration Information Technology Act of 2014 -- Requires the VA Secretary to make such changes and improvements to the information technology system of the Veterans Benefits Administration toensure that: (1) all original and supplemental claims for veterans educational assistance are adjudicated electronically, and (2) rules-based processing is used to make decisions with respect to such claims with little human intervention SUPPORT H.R. 4095: Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2014 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2014, 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 SUPPORT (with revisions) H.R. 4141: To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the VA Secretary to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 4191: Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the treatment of medical evidence provided by non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical professionals in support of claims for disability compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4344: Military Sexual Trauma Claims Administration Reform and Eligibility Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to establish a presumption of service connection for mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma SUPPORT H.R. 4374: To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294: Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679 / S. 629: Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 813 / S. 932: Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs: (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288 / S. 1361: World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499 / S. 1155: Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act -- To provide for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORTS. 529: To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851: Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148: Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296: Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013 -- To amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411: Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013 -- To specify requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579: SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 : Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013 -- To require the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584: A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes -- To amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586: Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589: Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans IntegratedService Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE legislation as written S. 1604: Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1931: A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. -- A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1950: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1982: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees which passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT

H.R. 562: VRAP Extension Act of 2013-- To provide for a three-month extension of the Veterans Retraining Assistance Program administered by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2481: Veterans G.I. Bill Enrollment Clarification Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to codify and improve theelection requirements for the receipt of educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance program of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 3384: Veterans Entry to Apprenticeship Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to ensure that veterans may attend pre-apprenticeship programs using certain educational assistance provided by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4147: Student Veterans IT Upgrade Act -- To direct the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Deputy Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Economic Opportunity to submit to the Committees on Veterans' Affairs of the Senate and House of Representatives a report regarding the information technology of the Department that is used in administering the educational benefits administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4151: Veterans Education Survey Act of 2014 -- To direct the VA Secretary to enter into a contract with a non-government entity to conduct a survey of individuals who have used or are using their entitlement to educational assistance under the educational assistance programs administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3399 / S. 1682: Veterans Education Counseling Act [of 2013] -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain clarifications and improvements in the academic and vocational counseling programs administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3600 / S. 2014: GI Education Benefit Fairness Act [of 2014] -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to provide for clarification regarding the children to whom entitlement to educational assistance may be transferred under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program SUPPORT S. 944: Veterans Health and Benefits Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require courses of education provided by public institutions of higher education that are approved for purposes of the All-Volunteer Force Educational Assistance Program and Post-9/11 Educational Assistance to charge veterans tuition and fees at the in-State tuition rate, and for other purposes OPPOSE certain provisions S. 1211: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to prohibit the use of the phrases GI Bill and Post-9/11 GI Bill to give a false impression of approval or endorsement by the Department of Veterans Affairs -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to prohibit the use of the phrases GI Bill and Post-9/11 GI Bill to give a false impression of approval or endorsement by the VA SUPPORT S. 1399: A bill to amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to extend the interest rate limitation on debt entered into during military service to consolidate or refinance student loans incurred before military service -- A bill to amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to extend the interest rate limitation on debt entered into during military service to debt incurred during military service to consolidate or refinance student loans incurred before military service SUPPORT

H.R. 32 -- Military Surviving Spouses Equity Act -- To amend title 10, United States Code, to repeal the requirement for reduction of survivor annuities under the Survivor Benefit Plan for military surviving spouses to offset the receipt of veterans dependency and indemnity compensation SUPPORTH.R. 333 -- Disabled Veterans Tax Termination Act -- To amend title 10, U.S.C., 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. SUPPORT H.R. 2841 -- Guard and Reserve Equal Access to Health Act -- To amend title 10, U.S.C., to ensure that the Secretary of Defense affords each member of a reserve component of the Armed Forces with the opportunity for a physical examination before the member separates from the Armed Forces SUPPORT H.R. 4435 -- Howard P. Buck McKeon National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2015 -- To authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2015 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 SUPPORT H.R. 4486 -- Making appropriations for military construction, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2015, and for other purposes -- Making appropriations for military construction for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2015, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4870 -- Making appropriations for the Department of Defense for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2015, and for other purposes. -- Making appropriations for the Department of Defense for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2015, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 303; S. 234 -- Retired Pay Restoration Act -- To amend title 10, U.S.C., to permit additional retired members of the Armed Forces who have a service-connected disability to receive both disability compensation from the VA 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 SUPPORT H.R. 4672; S. 2456 -- To amend the Fair Credit Reporting Act to provide protections for active duty military consumers, and for other purposes -- To amend the Fair Credit Reporting Act to provide protections for active duty military consumers, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1684 -- Servicemembers Transition Improvement Act of 2013 -- Requires the Secretary of Defense (DOD) to carry out a pilot program to assess the feasibility and advisability of providing information on members of the Armed Forces who are separating from service to state veterans agencies to facilitate the transition of such members to civilian life. Authorizes such agencies to share such information with appropriate county veterans service offices SUPPORT S. 1999 -- SCRA Rights Protection Act of 2014 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to require the consent of parties to contracts for the use of arbitration to resolve controversies arising under the contracts and subject to provisions of such Act and to preserve the rights of servicemembers to bring class actions under such Act, and for other purposes SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 - SUPPORT P.L. 113-82: To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members ofthe Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes. -- To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members of the Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1443: Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494: Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2018: Honor Those Who Served Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to identify the persons who are eligible to request headstones or markers furnished by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072: Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2119: Veterans Access to Speedy Review Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the opportunity for veterans to use video conferencing for hearings before the Board of Veterans Appeals SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 2138: Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847: Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines assistance dog to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 3521: Department of Veterans Affairs Major Medical Facility Lease Authorization Act of 2013 -- To authorize Department of Veterans Affairs major medical facility leases, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3593: VA Construction Assistance Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the construction of major medical facilities, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3876: Burial With Dignity for Heroes Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a grant program to provide burials for homeless veterans SUPPORT H.R. 4031: Department of Veterans Affairs Management Accountability Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the removal of Senior Executive Service employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs for performance, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4038: Veterans Benefits Administration Information Technology Act of 2014 -- Requires the VA Secretary to make such changes and improvements to the information technology system of the Veterans Benefits Administration toensure that: (1) all original and supplemental claims for veterans educational assistance are adjudicated electronically, and (2) rules-based processing is used to make decisions with respect to such claims with little human intervention SUPPORT H.R. 4095: Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2014 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2014, 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 SUPPORT (with revisions) H.R. 4141: To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the VA Secretary to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 4191: Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the treatment of medical evidence provided by non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical professionals in support of claims for disability compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4344: Military Sexual Trauma Claims Administration Reform and Eligibility Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to establish a presumption of service connection for mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma SUPPORT H.R. 4374: To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294: Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679 / S. 629: Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 813 / S. 932: Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs: (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288 / S. 1361: World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499 / S. 1155: Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act -- To provide for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORTS. 529: To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851: Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148: Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296: Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013 -- To amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411: Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013 -- To specify requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579: SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 : Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013 -- To require the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584: A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes -- To amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586: Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589: Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans IntegratedService Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE legislation as written S. 1604: Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1931: A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. -- A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1950: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1982: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees which passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 - SUPPORT P.L. 113-82: To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members ofthe Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes. -- To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members of the Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1443: Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494: Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2018: Honor Those Who Served Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to identify the persons who are eligible to request headstones or markers furnished by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072: Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2119: Veterans Access to Speedy Review Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the opportunity for veterans to use video conferencing for hearings before the Board of Veterans Appeals SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 2138: Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847: Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines assistance dog to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 3521: Department of Veterans Affairs Major Medical Facility Lease Authorization Act of 2013 -- To authorize Department of Veterans Affairs major medical facility leases, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3593: VA Construction Assistance Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the construction of major medical facilities, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3876: Burial With Dignity for Heroes Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a grant program to provide burials for homeless veterans SUPPORT H.R. 4031: Department of Veterans Affairs Management Accountability Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the removal of Senior Executive Service employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs for performance, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4038: Veterans Benefits Administration Information Technology Act of 2014 -- Requires the VA Secretary to make such changes and improvements to the information technology system of the Veterans Benefits Administration toensure that: (1) all original and supplemental claims for veterans educational assistance are adjudicated electronically, and (2) rules-based processing is used to make decisions with respect to such claims with little human intervention SUPPORT H.R. 4095: Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2014 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2014, 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 SUPPORT (with revisions) H.R. 4141: To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the VA Secretary to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 4191: Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the treatment of medical evidence provided by non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical professionals in support of claims for disability compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4344: Military Sexual Trauma Claims Administration Reform and Eligibility Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to establish a presumption of service connection for mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma SUPPORT H.R. 4374: To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294: Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679 / S. 629: Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 813 / S. 932: Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs: (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288 / S. 1361: World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499 / S. 1155: Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act -- To provide for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORTS. 529: To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851: Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148: Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296: Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013 -- To amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411: Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013 -- To specify requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579: SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 : Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013 -- To require the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584: A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes -- To amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586: Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589: Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans IntegratedService Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE legislation as written S. 1604: Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1931: A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. -- A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1950: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1982: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees which passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT

H.R. 32 -- Military Surviving Spouses Equity Act -- To amend title 10, United States Code, to repeal the requirement for reduction of survivor annuities under the Survivor Benefit Plan for military surviving spouses to offset the receipt of veterans dependency and indemnity compensation SUPPORTH.R. 333 -- Disabled Veterans Tax Termination Act -- To amend title 10, U.S.C., 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. SUPPORT H.R. 2841 -- Guard and Reserve Equal Access to Health Act -- To amend title 10, U.S.C., to ensure that the Secretary of Defense affords each member of a reserve component of the Armed Forces with the opportunity for a physical examination before the member separates from the Armed Forces SUPPORT H.R. 4435 -- Howard P. Buck McKeon National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2015 -- To authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2015 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 SUPPORT H.R. 4486 -- Making appropriations for military construction, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2015, and for other purposes -- Making appropriations for military construction for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2015, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4870 -- Making appropriations for the Department of Defense for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2015, and for other purposes. -- Making appropriations for the Department of Defense for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2015, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 303; S. 234 -- Retired Pay Restoration Act -- To amend title 10, U.S.C., to permit additional retired members of the Armed Forces who have a service-connected disability to receive both disability compensation from the VA 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 SUPPORT H.R. 4672; S. 2456 -- To amend the Fair Credit Reporting Act to provide protections for active duty military consumers, and for other purposes -- To amend the Fair Credit Reporting Act to provide protections for active duty military consumers, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1684 -- Servicemembers Transition Improvement Act of 2013 -- Requires the Secretary of Defense (DOD) to carry out a pilot program to assess the feasibility and advisability of providing information on members of the Armed Forces who are separating from service to state veterans agencies to facilitate the transition of such members to civilian life. Authorizes such agencies to share such information with appropriate county veterans service offices SUPPORT S. 1999 -- SCRA Rights Protection Act of 2014 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to require the consent of parties to contracts for the use of arbitration to resolve controversies arising under the contracts and subject to provisions of such Act and to preserve the rights of servicemembers to bring class actions under such Act, and for other purposes SUPPORT

H.R. 562: VRAP Extension Act of 2013-- To provide for a three-month extension of the Veterans Retraining Assistance Program administered by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2481: Veterans G.I. Bill Enrollment Clarification Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to codify and improve theelection requirements for the receipt of educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance program of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 3384: Veterans Entry to Apprenticeship Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to ensure that veterans may attend pre-apprenticeship programs using certain educational assistance provided by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4147: Student Veterans IT Upgrade Act -- To direct the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Deputy Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Economic Opportunity to submit to the Committees on Veterans' Affairs of the Senate and House of Representatives a report regarding the information technology of the Department that is used in administering the educational benefits administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4151: Veterans Education Survey Act of 2014 -- To direct the VA Secretary to enter into a contract with a non-government entity to conduct a survey of individuals who have used or are using their entitlement to educational assistance under the educational assistance programs administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3399 / S. 1682: Veterans Education Counseling Act [of 2013] -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain clarifications and improvements in the academic and vocational counseling programs administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3600 / S. 2014: GI Education Benefit Fairness Act [of 2014] -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to provide for clarification regarding the children to whom entitlement to educational assistance may be transferred under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program SUPPORT S. 944: Veterans Health and Benefits Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require courses of education provided by public institutions of higher education that are approved for purposes of the All-Volunteer Force Educational Assistance Program and Post-9/11 Educational Assistance to charge veterans tuition and fees at the in-State tuition rate, and for other purposes OPPOSE certain provisions S. 1211: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to prohibit the use of the phrases GI Bill and Post-9/11 GI Bill to give a false impression of approval or endorsement by the Department of Veterans Affairs -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to prohibit the use of the phrases GI Bill and Post-9/11 GI Bill to give a false impression of approval or endorsement by the VA SUPPORT S. 1399: A bill to amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to extend the interest rate limitation on debt entered into during military service to consolidate or refinance student loans incurred before military service -- A bill to amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to extend the interest rate limitation on debt entered into during military service to debt incurred during military service to consolidate or refinance student loans incurred before military service SUPPORT

H.R. 32 -- Military Surviving Spouses Equity Act -- To amend title 10, United States Code, to repeal the requirement for reduction of survivor annuities under the Survivor Benefit Plan for military surviving spouses to offset the receipt of veterans dependency and indemnity compensation SUPPORTH.R. 333 -- Disabled Veterans Tax Termination Act -- To amend title 10, U.S.C., 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. SUPPORT H.R. 2841 -- Guard and Reserve Equal Access to Health Act -- To amend title 10, U.S.C., to ensure that the Secretary of Defense affords each member of a reserve component of the Armed Forces with the opportunity for a physical examination before the member separates from the Armed Forces SUPPORT H.R. 4435 -- Howard P. Buck McKeon National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2015 -- To authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2015 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 SUPPORT H.R. 4486 -- Making appropriations for military construction, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2015, and for other purposes -- Making appropriations for military construction for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2015, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4870 -- Making appropriations for the Department of Defense for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2015, and for other purposes. -- Making appropriations for the Department of Defense for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2015, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 303; S. 234 -- Retired Pay Restoration Act -- To amend title 10, U.S.C., to permit additional retired members of the Armed Forces who have a service-connected disability to receive both disability compensation from the VA 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 SUPPORT H.R. 4672; S. 2456 -- To amend the Fair Credit Reporting Act to provide protections for active duty military consumers, and for other purposes -- To amend the Fair Credit Reporting Act to provide protections for active duty military consumers, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1684 -- Servicemembers Transition Improvement Act of 2013 -- Requires the Secretary of Defense (DOD) to carry out a pilot program to assess the feasibility and advisability of providing information on members of the Armed Forces who are separating from service to state veterans agencies to facilitate the transition of such members to civilian life. Authorizes such agencies to share such information with appropriate county veterans service offices SUPPORT S. 1999 -- SCRA Rights Protection Act of 2014 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to require the consent of parties to contracts for the use of arbitration to resolve controversies arising under the contracts and subject to provisions of such Act and to preserve the rights of servicemembers to bring class actions under such Act, and for other purposes SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Defense, military construction, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 SUPPORT H.R. 32: Military Surviving Spouses Equity Act -- To amend title 10, United States Code, to repeal the requirement forreduction of survivor annuities under the Survivor Benefit Plan for military surviving spouses to offset the receipt of veterans dependency and indemnity compensation. H.R. 333: Disabled Veterans Tax Termination Act -- To amend title 10, U.S.C., 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. SUPPORT H.R. 2841: Guard and Reserve Equal Access to Health Act -- To amend title 10, U.S.C., to ensure that the Secretary of Defense affords each member of a reserve component of the Armed Forces with the opportunity for a physical examination before the member separates from the Armed Forces SUPPORT H.R. 303 / S. 234: Retired Pay Restoration Act -- To amend title 10, U.S.C., to permit additional retired members of the Armed Forces who have a service-connected disability to receive both disability compensation from the VA 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 SUPPORT

H.R. 32 -- Military Surviving Spouses Equity Act -- To amend title 10, United States Code, to repeal the requirement for reduction of survivor annuities under the Survivor Benefit Plan for military surviving spouses to offset the receipt of veterans dependency and indemnity compensation SUPPORTH.R. 333 -- Disabled Veterans Tax Termination Act -- To amend title 10, U.S.C., 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. SUPPORT H.R. 2841 -- Guard and Reserve Equal Access to Health Act -- To amend title 10, U.S.C., to ensure that the Secretary of Defense affords each member of a reserve component of the Armed Forces with the opportunity for a physical examination before the member separates from the Armed Forces SUPPORT H.R. 4435 -- Howard P. Buck McKeon National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2015 -- To authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2015 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 SUPPORT H.R. 4486 -- Making appropriations for military construction, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2015, and for other purposes -- Making appropriations for military construction for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2015, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4870 -- Making appropriations for the Department of Defense for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2015, and for other purposes. -- Making appropriations for the Department of Defense for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2015, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 303; S. 234 -- Retired Pay Restoration Act -- To amend title 10, U.S.C., to permit additional retired members of the Armed Forces who have a service-connected disability to receive both disability compensation from the VA 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 SUPPORT H.R. 4672; S. 2456 -- To amend the Fair Credit Reporting Act to provide protections for active duty military consumers, and for other purposes -- To amend the Fair Credit Reporting Act to provide protections for active duty military consumers, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1684 -- Servicemembers Transition Improvement Act of 2013 -- Requires the Secretary of Defense (DOD) to carry out a pilot program to assess the feasibility and advisability of providing information on members of the Armed Forces who are separating from service to state veterans agencies to facilitate the transition of such members to civilian life. Authorizes such agencies to share such information with appropriate county veterans service offices SUPPORT S. 1999 -- SCRA Rights Protection Act of 2014 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to require the consent of parties to contracts for the use of arbitration to resolve controversies arising under the contracts and subject to provisions of such Act and to preserve the rights of servicemembers to bring class actions under such Act, and for other purposes SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 - SUPPORT P.L. 113-82: To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members ofthe Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes. -- To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members of the Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1443: Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494: Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2018: Honor Those Who Served Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to identify the persons who are eligible to request headstones or markers furnished by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072: Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2119: Veterans Access to Speedy Review Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the opportunity for veterans to use video conferencing for hearings before the Board of Veterans Appeals SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 2138: Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847: Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines assistance dog to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 3521: Department of Veterans Affairs Major Medical Facility Lease Authorization Act of 2013 -- To authorize Department of Veterans Affairs major medical facility leases, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3593: VA Construction Assistance Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the construction of major medical facilities, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3876: Burial With Dignity for Heroes Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a grant program to provide burials for homeless veterans SUPPORT H.R. 4031: Department of Veterans Affairs Management Accountability Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the removal of Senior Executive Service employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs for performance, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4038: Veterans Benefits Administration Information Technology Act of 2014 -- Requires the VA Secretary to make such changes and improvements to the information technology system of the Veterans Benefits Administration toensure that: (1) all original and supplemental claims for veterans educational assistance are adjudicated electronically, and (2) rules-based processing is used to make decisions with respect to such claims with little human intervention SUPPORT H.R. 4095: Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2014 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2014, 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 SUPPORT (with revisions) H.R. 4141: To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the VA Secretary to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 4191: Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the treatment of medical evidence provided by non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical professionals in support of claims for disability compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4344: Military Sexual Trauma Claims Administration Reform and Eligibility Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to establish a presumption of service connection for mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma SUPPORT H.R. 4374: To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294: Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679 / S. 629: Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 813 / S. 932: Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs: (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288 / S. 1361: World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499 / S. 1155: Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act -- To provide for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORTS. 529: To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851: Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148: Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296: Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013 -- To amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411: Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013 -- To specify requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579: SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 : Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013 -- To require the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584: A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes -- To amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586: Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589: Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans IntegratedService Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE legislation as written S. 1604: Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1931: A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. -- A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1950: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1982: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees which passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 - SUPPORT P.L. 113-82: To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members ofthe Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes. -- To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members of the Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1443: Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494: Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2018: Honor Those Who Served Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to identify the persons who are eligible to request headstones or markers furnished by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072: Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2119: Veterans Access to Speedy Review Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the opportunity for veterans to use video conferencing for hearings before the Board of Veterans Appeals SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 2138: Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847: Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines assistance dog to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 3521: Department of Veterans Affairs Major Medical Facility Lease Authorization Act of 2013 -- To authorize Department of Veterans Affairs major medical facility leases, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3593: VA Construction Assistance Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the construction of major medical facilities, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3876: Burial With Dignity for Heroes Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a grant program to provide burials for homeless veterans SUPPORT H.R. 4031: Department of Veterans Affairs Management Accountability Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the removal of Senior Executive Service employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs for performance, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4038: Veterans Benefits Administration Information Technology Act of 2014 -- Requires the VA Secretary to make such changes and improvements to the information technology system of the Veterans Benefits Administration toensure that: (1) all original and supplemental claims for veterans educational assistance are adjudicated electronically, and (2) rules-based processing is used to make decisions with respect to such claims with little human intervention SUPPORT H.R. 4095: Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2014 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2014, 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 SUPPORT (with revisions) H.R. 4141: To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the VA Secretary to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 4191: Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the treatment of medical evidence provided by non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical professionals in support of claims for disability compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4344: Military Sexual Trauma Claims Administration Reform and Eligibility Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to establish a presumption of service connection for mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma SUPPORT H.R. 4374: To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294: Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679 / S. 629: Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 813 / S. 932: Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs: (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288 / S. 1361: World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499 / S. 1155: Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act -- To provide for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORTS. 529: To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851: Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148: Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296: Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013 -- To amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411: Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013 -- To specify requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579: SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 : Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013 -- To require the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584: A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes -- To amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586: Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589: Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans IntegratedService Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE legislation as written S. 1604: Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1931: A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. -- A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1950: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1982: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees which passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 - SUPPORT P.L. 113-82: To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members ofthe Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes. -- To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members of the Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1443: Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494: Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2018: Honor Those Who Served Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to identify the persons who are eligible to request headstones or markers furnished by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072: Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2119: Veterans Access to Speedy Review Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the opportunity for veterans to use video conferencing for hearings before the Board of Veterans Appeals SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 2138: Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847: Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines assistance dog to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 3521: Department of Veterans Affairs Major Medical Facility Lease Authorization Act of 2013 -- To authorize Department of Veterans Affairs major medical facility leases, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3593: VA Construction Assistance Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the construction of major medical facilities, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3876: Burial With Dignity for Heroes Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a grant program to provide burials for homeless veterans SUPPORT H.R. 4031: Department of Veterans Affairs Management Accountability Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the removal of Senior Executive Service employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs for performance, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4038: Veterans Benefits Administration Information Technology Act of 2014 -- Requires the VA Secretary to make such changes and improvements to the information technology system of the Veterans Benefits Administration toensure that: (1) all original and supplemental claims for veterans educational assistance are adjudicated electronically, and (2) rules-based processing is used to make decisions with respect to such claims with little human intervention SUPPORT H.R. 4095: Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2014 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2014, 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 SUPPORT (with revisions) H.R. 4141: To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the VA Secretary to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 4191: Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the treatment of medical evidence provided by non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical professionals in support of claims for disability compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4344: Military Sexual Trauma Claims Administration Reform and Eligibility Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to establish a presumption of service connection for mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma SUPPORT H.R. 4374: To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294: Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679 / S. 629: Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 813 / S. 932: Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs: (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288 / S. 1361: World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499 / S. 1155: Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act -- To provide for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORTS. 529: To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851: Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148: Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296: Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013 -- To amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411: Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013 -- To specify requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579: SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 : Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013 -- To require the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584: A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes -- To amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586: Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589: Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans IntegratedService Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE legislation as written S. 1604: Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1931: A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. -- A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1950: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1982: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees which passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT

P.L. 113-76: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through September 30, 2014 - SUPPORT P.L. 113-82: To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members ofthe Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes. -- To ensure that the reduced annual cost-of-living adjustment to the retired pay of members and former members of the Armed Forces under the age of 62 required by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 will not apply to members or former members who first became members prior to January 1, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1443: Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494: Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2018: Honor Those Who Served Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to identify the persons who are eligible to request headstones or markers furnished by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072: Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2119: Veterans Access to Speedy Review Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the opportunity for veterans to use video conferencing for hearings before the Board of Veterans Appeals SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 2138: Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847: Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines assistance dog to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 3521: Department of Veterans Affairs Major Medical Facility Lease Authorization Act of 2013 -- To authorize Department of Veterans Affairs major medical facility leases, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3593: VA Construction Assistance Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the construction of major medical facilities, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3876: Burial With Dignity for Heroes Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a grant program to provide burials for homeless veterans SUPPORT H.R. 4031: Department of Veterans Affairs Management Accountability Act of 2014 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the removal of Senior Executive Service employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs for performance, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4038: Veterans Benefits Administration Information Technology Act of 2014 -- Requires the VA Secretary to make such changes and improvements to the information technology system of the Veterans Benefits Administration toensure that: (1) all original and supplemental claims for veterans educational assistance are adjudicated electronically, and (2) rules-based processing is used to make decisions with respect to such claims with little human intervention SUPPORT H.R. 4095: Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2014 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2014, 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 SUPPORT (with revisions) H.R. 4141: To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the VA Secretary to enter into enhanced-use leases for excess property of the National Cemetery Administration that is unsuitable for burial purposes SUPPORT (with reservations) H.R. 4191: Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the treatment of medical evidence provided by non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical professionals in support of claims for disability compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4344: Military Sexual Trauma Claims Administration Reform and Eligibility Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to establish a presumption of service connection for mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma SUPPORT H.R. 4374: To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to adopt and implement a standard identification protocol for use in the tracking and procurement of biological implants by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294: Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679 / S. 629: Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 813 / S. 932: Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs: (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288 / S. 1361: World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499 / S. 1155: Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act -- To provide for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORTS. 529: To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851: Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148: Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296: Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013 -- To amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411: Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013 -- To specify requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579: SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 : Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013 -- To require the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584: A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes -- To amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586: Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589: Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans IntegratedService Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE legislation as written S. 1604: Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1931: A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. -- A bill to provide for the extension of certain unemployment benefits, and for other purposes. [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1950: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT S. 1982: Comprehensive Veterans Health and Benefits and Military Retirement Pay Restoration Act of 2014 -- To improve the provision of medical services and benefits to veterans, and for other purposes [This measure included a provision to repeal the COLA reduction for military retirees which passed as part of Public Law 113-66] SUPPORT

H.R. 562: VRAP Extension Act of 2013-- To provide for a three-month extension of the Veterans Retraining Assistance Program administered by the VA Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2481: Veterans G.I. Bill Enrollment Clarification Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to codify and improve theelection requirements for the receipt of educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance program of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 3384: Veterans Entry to Apprenticeship Act -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to ensure that veterans may attend pre-apprenticeship programs using certain educational assistance provided by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4147: Student Veterans IT Upgrade Act -- To direct the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Deputy Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Economic Opportunity to submit to the Committees on Veterans' Affairs of the Senate and House of Representatives a report regarding the information technology of the Department that is used in administering the educational benefits administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 4151: Veterans Education Survey Act of 2014 -- To direct the VA Secretary to enter into a contract with a non-government entity to conduct a survey of individuals who have used or are using their entitlement to educational assistance under the educational assistance programs administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3399 / S. 1682: Veterans Education Counseling Act [of 2013] -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain clarifications and improvements in the academic and vocational counseling programs administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 3600 / S. 2014: GI Education Benefit Fairness Act [of 2014] -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to provide for clarification regarding the children to whom entitlement to educational assistance may be transferred under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program SUPPORT S. 944: Veterans Health and Benefits Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require courses of education provided by public institutions of higher education that are approved for purposes of the All-Volunteer Force Educational Assistance Program and Post-9/11 Educational Assistance to charge veterans tuition and fees at the in-State tuition rate, and for other purposes OPPOSE certain provisions S. 1211: A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to prohibit the use of the phrases GI Bill and Post-9/11 GI Bill to give a false impression of approval or endorsement by the Department of Veterans Affairs -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to prohibit the use of the phrases GI Bill and Post-9/11 GI Bill to give a false impression of approval or endorsement by the VA SUPPORT S. 1399: A bill to amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to extend the interest rate limitation on debt entered into during military service to consolidate or refinance student loans incurred before military service -- A bill to amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to extend the interest rate limitation on debt entered into during military service to debt incurred during military service to consolidate or refinance student loans incurred before military service SUPPORT

P.L. 113-46 -- Continuing Appropriations Act, 2014Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through January 15, 2014 SUPPORT P.L. 113-52 -- Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 Would provide for an increase, effectiveDecember 1, 2013, 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 SUPPORT P.L. 113-59 -- VA Expiring Authorities Extension Act of 2013To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend certain expiring provisions of law, and for other purposes, including: Extension of authority to transport certain individuals to and from VA facilities; Extension of authority for operation of the VA regional office in Manila, the Republic of the Philippines. Extension of requirement to provide nursing home care to certain veterans with service-connected disabilities. Extension of treatment and rehabilitation services for seriously mentally ill and homeless veterans. Extension of authority to provide housing assistance for homeless veterans. Extension of authority for the Advisory Committee on Homeless Veterans. Extension of authority for the Veterans Advisory Commission on Education. Extension of requirements relating to vendee loans. Extension of authority for the performance of medical disabilities examinations by contract physicians Would amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to pay a monthly assistance allowance to disabled veterans training or competing for the Paralympic Team and the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide assistance to United States Paralympics, Inc. SUPPORT H.R. 1443 -- Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494 -- Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability ActDirects the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072 -- Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013Amends title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2138 -- Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability ActWould direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847 -- Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013Directs the Secretaries of Defense (DOD) and Veterans Affairs (VA) to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines "assistance dog" to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense - SUPPORT H.R. 671; S. 294 -- Ruth Moore Act of 2013Would amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes - SUPPORT H.R. 679; S. 629 -- Honoring America's Guard-Reserves Act of 2013Amends title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes - SUPPORTH.R. 813; S. 932 -- Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288; S. 1361 -- World War II Merchant Mariner Service ActDirect the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499; S. 1155 -- Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement ActProvides for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORT S. 529 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposesAmends title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851 -- Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013Amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148 -- Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing ActAmend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295 -- A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposesWould amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296 -- Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013Will amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411 -- Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013Specifies requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579 -- SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013Will amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 -- Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013Requires the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584 -- A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposesWould amend title 28, United States Code, to providereplacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585 -- A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of MortalityAmends title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586 -- Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013Will amend title 38, United States Code, to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589 -- Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans Integrated Service Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE bill as written S. 1604 -- Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013Would amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT

P.L. 113-37 Department of Veterans Affairs Expiring Authorities Act of 2013 -- Authorizes specified appropriations for the period October 1-December 31, 2013, to pay a monthly assistance allowance to a veteran with a disability invited by the United States Olympic Committee (USOC) to compete for a slot on, or selected for, the Paralympics Team; extends authority for various VA programs SUPPORTH.R. 241 Veterans Timely Access to Health Care Act -- Directs the VA Secretary to ensure that the standard for access to care for a veteran seeking hospital care and medical services from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is 30 days from the date the veteran contacts the VA. Directs the Secretary to periodically review the performance of VA medical facilities in meeting such standard. Requires quarterly reports from the Secretary to the congressional veterans committees on the VAs experience with respect to appointment waiting times SUPPORT H.R. 569 Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2013, 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 OPPOSE H.R. 570 American Heroes COLA Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., 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 OPPOSE H.R. 813 Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 894 To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the supervision of fiduciaries of veterans under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the supervision of fiduciaries of veterans under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 1443 Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DoD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494 Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1623 VA Claims Efficiency Through Information Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to make publicly available certain information about pending and completed claims for compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1702 Veterans Transportation Service Act -- Makes permanent (under current law, expires on January 10, 2014) the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in connection with vocational rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, or care SUPPORT H.R. 1809 To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide notice of average times for processing claims and percentage of claims approved, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide notice of average times for processing claims and percentage of claims approved, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072 Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to the Inspector General of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORTH.R. 2086 Pay As You Rate Act -- To direct the Secretary to make interim payments of disability compensation benefits for certain claims for such compensation prior to the adjudication of such claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2138 Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2216 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2423 Disabled Veterans Access to Medical Exams Improvement Act -- To improve the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into contracts with private physicians to conduct medical disability examinations SUPPORT H.R. 2847 Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense (DoD) and Veterans Affairs (VA) to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines "assistance dog" to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 671; S. 294 Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679; S. 629 Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1288; S. 1361 World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1402; S. 695 Veterans Paralympic Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to pay a monthly assistance allowance to disabled veterans training or competing for the Paralympic Team and the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide assistance to United States Paralympics, Inc. SUPPORT S. 455 To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, and care, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, and care, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 529 To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 543 VISN Reorganization Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reorganize the Veterans Integrated Service Networks of the Veterans Health Administration, and for other purposes OPPOSES. 674 Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To require prompt responses from the heads of covered Federal agencies when the Secretary of Veterans Affairs requests information necessary to adjudicate claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 735 Survivor Benefits Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve benefits and assistance provided to surviving spouses of veterans under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 778 A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue cards to veterans that identify them as veterans, and for other purposes -- A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue cards to veterans that identify them as veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 819 Veterans Mental Health Treatment First Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require a program of mental health care and rehabilitation for veterans for service-related post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety disorder, or a related substance use disorder, and for other purposes OPPOSE S. 832 Improving the Lives of Children with Spina Bifida Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out pilot programs on furnishing case management services and assisted living to children of Vietnam veterans and certain Korea service veterans born with spina bifida and children of women Vietnam veterans born with certain birth defects, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 845 To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professionals Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professionals Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851 Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 852 Veterans Health Promotion Act of 2013 -- To improve health care furnished by the Department of Veterans Affairs by increasing access to complementary and alternative medicine and other approaches to wellness and preventive care, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 877 Veterans Affairs Research Transparency Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to allow public access to research of the Department, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 893 Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 -- To provide for an increase, effective December 1, 2013, 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 SUPPORT S. 927 Veterans Outreach Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a demonstration project to assess the feasibility and advisability of using State and local government agencies and nonprofit organizations to increase awareness of benefits and services for veterans and to improve coordination of outreach activities relating to such benefits and services, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 928 Claims Processing Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the processing of claims for compensation under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. --- The American Legion SUPPORTS portions of this measure, especially Sections 103 and 301; The American Legion OPPOSES reducing the appellate rights of veterans, especially as concerned in sections 201 and 202; and there are still other portions of this legislation that The American Legion holds no official position on at this time.S. 932 Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to provide for advance appropriations for certain discretionary accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT S. 939 A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to treat certain misfiled documents as motions for reconsideration of decisions by the Board of Veterans' Appeals, and for other purposes -- A bill to amend title 38, U.S.C., to treat certain misfiled documents as motions for reconsideration of decisions by the Board of Veterans' Appeals, and for other purposes SUPPORT

H.R. 241 -- Veterans Timely Access to Health Care Act ~ Directs the VA Secretary to ensure that the standard for access to care for a veteran seeking hospital care and medical services from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is 30 days from the date the veteran contacts the VA. Also directs the Secretary to periodically review the performance of VA medical facilities in meeting such standard. Requires quarterly reports from the Secretary to the congressional veterans committees on the VAs experience withwith respect to appointment waiting times SUPPORT H.R. 569 -- Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 ~ To increase, effective as of December 1, 2013, 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 OPPOSE H.R. 570 -- American Heroes COLA Act ~ 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 OPPOSE H.R. 894 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the supervision of fiduciaries of veterans under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs ~ Amend title 38, USC, to improve the supervision of fiduciaries of veterans under the laws administered by VA Secretary SUPPORT H.R. 1288 -- World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act ~ Direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1402 -- Veterans Paralympic Act of 2013 ~ Amend title 38, United States Code, to extend the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to pay a monthly assistance allowance to disabled veterans training or competing for the Paralympic Team and the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide assistance to United States Paralympics, Inc. SUPPORT H.R. 1494 -- Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act ~ Direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1623 -- VA Claims Efficiency Through Information Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to make publicly available certain information about pending and completed claims for compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1809 -- Amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide notice of average times for processing claims and percentage of claims approved, and for other purposes ~ To amend title 38, USC, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide notice of average times for claims processing and approval percentage of same, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072 -- Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the accountability of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to the Inspector General of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 2086 -- Pay As You Rate Act ~ To direct the Secretary to make interim payments of disability compensation benefits for certain claims for such compensation prior to the adjudication of such claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2138 -- Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act ~ To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2216 -- Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2014 ~ Making appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORTH.R. 2423 -- Disabled Veterans Access to Medical Exams Improvement Act ~ To improve the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into contracts with private physicians to conduct medical disability examinations SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294 -- Ruth Moore Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 455 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, and care, and for other purposes. ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, and care, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 529 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 543 -- VISN Reorganization Act of 2013 ~ To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reorganize the Veterans Integrated Service Networks of the Veterans Health Administration, and for other purposes OPPOSE S. 629 -- Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 674 -- Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 ~ To require prompt responses from the heads of covered Federal agencies when the Secretary of Veterans Affairs requests information necessary to adjudicate claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 735 -- Survivor Benefits Improvement Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve benefits and assistance provided to surviving spouses of veterans under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 778 -- A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue cards to veterans that identify them as veterans, and for other purposes ~ A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue cards to veterans that identify them as veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 819 -- Veterans Mental Health Treatment First Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to require a program of mental health care and rehabilitation for veterans for service-related post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety disorder, or a related substance use disorder, and for other purposes OPPOSE S. 832 -- Improving the Lives of Children with Spina Bifida Act of 2013 ~ To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out pilot programs on furnishing case management services and assisted living to children of Vietnam veterans and certain Korea service veterans born with spina bifida and children of women Vietnam veterans born with certain birth defects, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 845 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professionals Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professionals Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes SUPPORTS. 851 -- Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 852 -- Veterans Health Promotion Act of 2013 ~ To improve health care furnished by the Department of Veterans Affairs by increasing access to complementary and alternative medicine and other approaches to wellness and preventive care, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 877 -- Veterans Affairs Research Transparency Act of 2013 ~ To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to allow public access to research of the Department, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 893 -- Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 ~ To provide for an increase, effective December 1, 2013, 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 SUPPORT S. 927 -- Veterans Outreach Act of 2013 ~ To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a demonstration project to assess the feasibility and advisability of using State and local government agencies and nonprofit organizations to increase awareness of benefits and services for veterans and to improve coordination of outreach activities relating to such benefits and services, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 928 -- Claims Processing Improvement Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the processing of claims for compensation under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT: Section 103 improve communications and relevant information sharing between VA and all federal agencies; Section 106 quarterly report from VA concerning backlog reduction/elimination as a means to show progress toward removing the lack of transparency; Section 301 maintaining operations to serve veterans in the Philippines; Section 303 extends marriage delimiting date for surviving spouses of Persian Gulf War veterans to qualify for death pension to a date 10 years after this war is officially declared ended. OPPOSE: Section 201 reducing the filing deadline for an appeal from 365 days to 180 days; Section 202 - reducing the appellate rights of veterans. S. 932 -- Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for advance appropriations for certain discretionary accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT S. 939 -- A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to treat certain misfiled documents as motions for reconsideration of decisions by the Board of Veterans' Appeals, and for other purposes ~ A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to treat certain misfiled documents as motions for reconsideration of decisions by the Board of Veterans' Appeals, and for other purposes SUPPORT

P.L. 113-37 Department of Veterans Affairs Expiring Authorities Act of 2013 -- Authorizes specified appropriations for the period October 1-December 31, 2013, to pay a monthly assistance allowance to a veteran with a disability invited by the United States Olympic Committee (USOC) to compete for a slot on, or selected for, the Paralympics Team; extends authority for various VA programs SUPPORTH.R. 241 Veterans Timely Access to Health Care Act -- Directs the VA Secretary to ensure that the standard for access to care for a veteran seeking hospital care and medical services from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is 30 days from the date the veteran contacts the VA. Directs the Secretary to periodically review the performance of VA medical facilities in meeting such standard. Requires quarterly reports from the Secretary to the congressional veterans committees on the VAs experience with respect to appointment waiting times SUPPORT H.R. 569 Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2013, 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 OPPOSE H.R. 570 American Heroes COLA Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., 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 OPPOSE H.R. 813 Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 894 To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the supervision of fiduciaries of veterans under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the supervision of fiduciaries of veterans under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 1443 Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DoD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494 Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1623 VA Claims Efficiency Through Information Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to make publicly available certain information about pending and completed claims for compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1702 Veterans Transportation Service Act -- Makes permanent (under current law, expires on January 10, 2014) the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in connection with vocational rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, or care SUPPORT H.R. 1809 To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide notice of average times for processing claims and percentage of claims approved, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide notice of average times for processing claims and percentage of claims approved, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072 Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to the Inspector General of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORTH.R. 2086 Pay As You Rate Act -- To direct the Secretary to make interim payments of disability compensation benefits for certain claims for such compensation prior to the adjudication of such claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2138 Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2216 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2423 Disabled Veterans Access to Medical Exams Improvement Act -- To improve the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into contracts with private physicians to conduct medical disability examinations SUPPORT H.R. 2847 Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense (DoD) and Veterans Affairs (VA) to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines "assistance dog" to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 671; S. 294 Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679; S. 629 Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1288; S. 1361 World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1402; S. 695 Veterans Paralympic Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to pay a monthly assistance allowance to disabled veterans training or competing for the Paralympic Team and the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide assistance to United States Paralympics, Inc. SUPPORT S. 455 To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, and care, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, and care, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 529 To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 543 VISN Reorganization Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reorganize the Veterans Integrated Service Networks of the Veterans Health Administration, and for other purposes OPPOSES. 674 Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To require prompt responses from the heads of covered Federal agencies when the Secretary of Veterans Affairs requests information necessary to adjudicate claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 735 Survivor Benefits Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve benefits and assistance provided to surviving spouses of veterans under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 778 A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue cards to veterans that identify them as veterans, and for other purposes -- A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue cards to veterans that identify them as veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 819 Veterans Mental Health Treatment First Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require a program of mental health care and rehabilitation for veterans for service-related post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety disorder, or a related substance use disorder, and for other purposes OPPOSE S. 832 Improving the Lives of Children with Spina Bifida Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out pilot programs on furnishing case management services and assisted living to children of Vietnam veterans and certain Korea service veterans born with spina bifida and children of women Vietnam veterans born with certain birth defects, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 845 To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professionals Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professionals Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851 Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 852 Veterans Health Promotion Act of 2013 -- To improve health care furnished by the Department of Veterans Affairs by increasing access to complementary and alternative medicine and other approaches to wellness and preventive care, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 877 Veterans Affairs Research Transparency Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to allow public access to research of the Department, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 893 Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 -- To provide for an increase, effective December 1, 2013, 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 SUPPORT S. 927 Veterans Outreach Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a demonstration project to assess the feasibility and advisability of using State and local government agencies and nonprofit organizations to increase awareness of benefits and services for veterans and to improve coordination of outreach activities relating to such benefits and services, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 928 Claims Processing Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the processing of claims for compensation under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. --- The American Legion SUPPORTS portions of this measure, especially Sections 103 and 301; The American Legion OPPOSES reducing the appellate rights of veterans, especially as concerned in sections 201 and 202; and there are still other portions of this legislation that The American Legion holds no official position on at this time.S. 932 Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to provide for advance appropriations for certain discretionary accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT S. 939 A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to treat certain misfiled documents as motions for reconsideration of decisions by the Board of Veterans' Appeals, and for other purposes -- A bill to amend title 38, U.S.C., to treat certain misfiled documents as motions for reconsideration of decisions by the Board of Veterans' Appeals, and for other purposes SUPPORT

H.R. 241 -- Veterans Timely Access to Health Care Act ~ Directs the VA Secretary to ensure that the standard for access to care for a veteran seeking hospital care and medical services from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is 30 days from the date the veteran contacts the VA. Also directs the Secretary to periodically review the performance of VA medical facilities in meeting such standard. Requires quarterly reports from the Secretary to the congressional veterans committees on the VAs experience withwith respect to appointment waiting times SUPPORT H.R. 569 -- Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 ~ To increase, effective as of December 1, 2013, 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 OPPOSE H.R. 570 -- American Heroes COLA Act ~ 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 OPPOSE H.R. 894 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the supervision of fiduciaries of veterans under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs ~ Amend title 38, USC, to improve the supervision of fiduciaries of veterans under the laws administered by VA Secretary SUPPORT H.R. 1288 -- World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act ~ Direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1402 -- Veterans Paralympic Act of 2013 ~ Amend title 38, United States Code, to extend the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to pay a monthly assistance allowance to disabled veterans training or competing for the Paralympic Team and the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide assistance to United States Paralympics, Inc. SUPPORT H.R. 1494 -- Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act ~ Direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1623 -- VA Claims Efficiency Through Information Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to make publicly available certain information about pending and completed claims for compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1809 -- Amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide notice of average times for processing claims and percentage of claims approved, and for other purposes ~ To amend title 38, USC, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide notice of average times for claims processing and approval percentage of same, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072 -- Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the accountability of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to the Inspector General of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 2086 -- Pay As You Rate Act ~ To direct the Secretary to make interim payments of disability compensation benefits for certain claims for such compensation prior to the adjudication of such claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2138 -- Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act ~ To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2216 -- Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2014 ~ Making appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORTH.R. 2423 -- Disabled Veterans Access to Medical Exams Improvement Act ~ To improve the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into contracts with private physicians to conduct medical disability examinations SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294 -- Ruth Moore Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 455 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, and care, and for other purposes. ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, and care, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 529 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 543 -- VISN Reorganization Act of 2013 ~ To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reorganize the Veterans Integrated Service Networks of the Veterans Health Administration, and for other purposes OPPOSE S. 629 -- Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 674 -- Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 ~ To require prompt responses from the heads of covered Federal agencies when the Secretary of Veterans Affairs requests information necessary to adjudicate claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 735 -- Survivor Benefits Improvement Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve benefits and assistance provided to surviving spouses of veterans under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 778 -- A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue cards to veterans that identify them as veterans, and for other purposes ~ A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue cards to veterans that identify them as veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 819 -- Veterans Mental Health Treatment First Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to require a program of mental health care and rehabilitation for veterans for service-related post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety disorder, or a related substance use disorder, and for other purposes OPPOSE S. 832 -- Improving the Lives of Children with Spina Bifida Act of 2013 ~ To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out pilot programs on furnishing case management services and assisted living to children of Vietnam veterans and certain Korea service veterans born with spina bifida and children of women Vietnam veterans born with certain birth defects, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 845 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professionals Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professionals Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes SUPPORTS. 851 -- Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 852 -- Veterans Health Promotion Act of 2013 ~ To improve health care furnished by the Department of Veterans Affairs by increasing access to complementary and alternative medicine and other approaches to wellness and preventive care, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 877 -- Veterans Affairs Research Transparency Act of 2013 ~ To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to allow public access to research of the Department, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 893 -- Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 ~ To provide for an increase, effective December 1, 2013, 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 SUPPORT S. 927 -- Veterans Outreach Act of 2013 ~ To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a demonstration project to assess the feasibility and advisability of using State and local government agencies and nonprofit organizations to increase awareness of benefits and services for veterans and to improve coordination of outreach activities relating to such benefits and services, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 928 -- Claims Processing Improvement Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the processing of claims for compensation under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT: Section 103 improve communications and relevant information sharing between VA and all federal agencies; Section 106 quarterly report from VA concerning backlog reduction/elimination as a means to show progress toward removing the lack of transparency; Section 301 maintaining operations to serve veterans in the Philippines; Section 303 extends marriage delimiting date for surviving spouses of Persian Gulf War veterans to qualify for death pension to a date 10 years after this war is officially declared ended. OPPOSE: Section 201 reducing the filing deadline for an appeal from 365 days to 180 days; Section 202 - reducing the appellate rights of veterans. S. 932 -- Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for advance appropriations for certain discretionary accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT S. 939 -- A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to treat certain misfiled documents as motions for reconsideration of decisions by the Board of Veterans' Appeals, and for other purposes ~ A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to treat certain misfiled documents as motions for reconsideration of decisions by the Board of Veterans' Appeals, and for other purposes SUPPORT

P.L. 113-37 Department of Veterans Affairs Expiring Authorities Act of 2013 -- Authorizes specified appropriations for the period October 1-December 31, 2013, to pay a monthly assistance allowance to a veteran with a disability invited by the United States Olympic Committee (USOC) to compete for a slot on, or selected for, the Paralympics Team; extends authority for various VA programs SUPPORTH.R. 241 Veterans Timely Access to Health Care Act -- Directs the VA Secretary to ensure that the standard for access to care for a veteran seeking hospital care and medical services from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is 30 days from the date the veteran contacts the VA. Directs the Secretary to periodically review the performance of VA medical facilities in meeting such standard. Requires quarterly reports from the Secretary to the congressional veterans committees on the VAs experience with respect to appointment waiting times SUPPORT H.R. 569 Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2013, 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 OPPOSE H.R. 570 American Heroes COLA Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., 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 OPPOSE H.R. 813 Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 894 To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the supervision of fiduciaries of veterans under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the supervision of fiduciaries of veterans under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 1443 Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DoD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494 Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1623 VA Claims Efficiency Through Information Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to make publicly available certain information about pending and completed claims for compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1702 Veterans Transportation Service Act -- Makes permanent (under current law, expires on January 10, 2014) the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in connection with vocational rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, or care SUPPORT H.R. 1809 To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide notice of average times for processing claims and percentage of claims approved, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide notice of average times for processing claims and percentage of claims approved, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072 Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to the Inspector General of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORTH.R. 2086 Pay As You Rate Act -- To direct the Secretary to make interim payments of disability compensation benefits for certain claims for such compensation prior to the adjudication of such claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2138 Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2216 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2423 Disabled Veterans Access to Medical Exams Improvement Act -- To improve the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into contracts with private physicians to conduct medical disability examinations SUPPORT H.R. 2847 Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense (DoD) and Veterans Affairs (VA) to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines "assistance dog" to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 671; S. 294 Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679; S. 629 Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1288; S. 1361 World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1402; S. 695 Veterans Paralympic Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to pay a monthly assistance allowance to disabled veterans training or competing for the Paralympic Team and the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide assistance to United States Paralympics, Inc. SUPPORT S. 455 To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, and care, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, and care, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 529 To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 543 VISN Reorganization Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reorganize the Veterans Integrated Service Networks of the Veterans Health Administration, and for other purposes OPPOSES. 674 Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To require prompt responses from the heads of covered Federal agencies when the Secretary of Veterans Affairs requests information necessary to adjudicate claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 735 Survivor Benefits Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve benefits and assistance provided to surviving spouses of veterans under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 778 A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue cards to veterans that identify them as veterans, and for other purposes -- A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue cards to veterans that identify them as veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 819 Veterans Mental Health Treatment First Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require a program of mental health care and rehabilitation for veterans for service-related post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety disorder, or a related substance use disorder, and for other purposes OPPOSE S. 832 Improving the Lives of Children with Spina Bifida Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out pilot programs on furnishing case management services and assisted living to children of Vietnam veterans and certain Korea service veterans born with spina bifida and children of women Vietnam veterans born with certain birth defects, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 845 To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professionals Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professionals Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851 Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 852 Veterans Health Promotion Act of 2013 -- To improve health care furnished by the Department of Veterans Affairs by increasing access to complementary and alternative medicine and other approaches to wellness and preventive care, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 877 Veterans Affairs Research Transparency Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to allow public access to research of the Department, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 893 Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 -- To provide for an increase, effective December 1, 2013, 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 SUPPORT S. 927 Veterans Outreach Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a demonstration project to assess the feasibility and advisability of using State and local government agencies and nonprofit organizations to increase awareness of benefits and services for veterans and to improve coordination of outreach activities relating to such benefits and services, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 928 Claims Processing Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the processing of claims for compensation under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. --- The American Legion SUPPORTS portions of this measure, especially Sections 103 and 301; The American Legion OPPOSES reducing the appellate rights of veterans, especially as concerned in sections 201 and 202; and there are still other portions of this legislation that The American Legion holds no official position on at this time.S. 932 Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to provide for advance appropriations for certain discretionary accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT S. 939 A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to treat certain misfiled documents as motions for reconsideration of decisions by the Board of Veterans' Appeals, and for other purposes -- A bill to amend title 38, U.S.C., to treat certain misfiled documents as motions for reconsideration of decisions by the Board of Veterans' Appeals, and for other purposes SUPPORT

P.L. 113-46 -- Continuing Appropriations Act, 2014Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through January 15, 2014 SUPPORT P.L. 113-52 -- Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 Would provide for an increase, effectiveDecember 1, 2013, 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 SUPPORT P.L. 113-59 -- VA Expiring Authorities Extension Act of 2013To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend certain expiring provisions of law, and for other purposes, including: Extension of authority to transport certain individuals to and from VA facilities; Extension of authority for operation of the VA regional office in Manila, the Republic of the Philippines. Extension of requirement to provide nursing home care to certain veterans with service-connected disabilities. Extension of treatment and rehabilitation services for seriously mentally ill and homeless veterans. Extension of authority to provide housing assistance for homeless veterans. Extension of authority for the Advisory Committee on Homeless Veterans. Extension of authority for the Veterans Advisory Commission on Education. Extension of requirements relating to vendee loans. Extension of authority for the performance of medical disabilities examinations by contract physicians Would amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to pay a monthly assistance allowance to disabled veterans training or competing for the Paralympic Team and the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide assistance to United States Paralympics, Inc. SUPPORT H.R. 1443 -- Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494 -- Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability ActDirects the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072 -- Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013Amends title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2138 -- Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability ActWould direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847 -- Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013Directs the Secretaries of Defense (DOD) and Veterans Affairs (VA) to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines "assistance dog" to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense - SUPPORT H.R. 671; S. 294 -- Ruth Moore Act of 2013Would amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes - SUPPORT H.R. 679; S. 629 -- Honoring America's Guard-Reserves Act of 2013Amends title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes - SUPPORTH.R. 813; S. 932 -- Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288; S. 1361 -- World War II Merchant Mariner Service ActDirect the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499; S. 1155 -- Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement ActProvides for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORT S. 529 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposesAmends title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851 -- Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013Amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148 -- Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing ActAmend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295 -- A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposesWould amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296 -- Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013Will amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411 -- Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013Specifies requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579 -- SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013Will amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 -- Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013Requires the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584 -- A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposesWould amend title 28, United States Code, to providereplacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585 -- A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of MortalityAmends title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586 -- Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013Will amend title 38, United States Code, to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589 -- Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans Integrated Service Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE bill as written S. 1604 -- Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013Would amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT

H.R. 331 To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to permit the centralized reporting of veteran enrollment by certain groups, districts, and consortiums of educational institutions -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to permit the centralized reporting of veteran enrollment by certain groups, districts, and consortiums of educational institutions OPPOSEH.R. 562 VRAP Extension Act of 2013 -- To provide for a three-month extension of the Veterans Retraining Assistance Program administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1453 Work-Study for Student Veterans Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend the authority to provide work-study allowance for certain activities by individuals receiving educational assistance by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 2011 Veterans Advisory Committee on Education Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to provide for a two-year extension of the Veterans Advisory Committee on Education SUPPORT H.R. 2210 Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to expand the eligibility of children of certain deceased veterans to educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 2481 Veterans G.I. Bill Enrollment Clarification Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to codify and improve the election requirements for the receipt of educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance program of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 357; S. 257 GI Bill Tuition Fairness Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA), for purposes of the educational assistance programs administered by the Secretary, to disapprove courses of education provided by public institutions of higher education that do not charge tuition and fees for veterans at the same rate that is charged for in-state residents, regardless of the veterans state of residence SUPPORT H.R. 2151; S. 894 A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to extend expiring authority for work-study allowances for individuals who are pursuing programs of rehabilitation, education, or training under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, to expand such authority to certain outreach services provided through congressional offices, and for other purposes -- A bill to amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend expiring authority for work-study allowances for individuals who are pursuing programs of rehabilitation, education, or training under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, to expand such authority to certain outreach services provided through congressional offices, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 262 Veterans Education Equity Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to provide equity for tuition and fees for individuals entitled to educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs who are pursuing programs of education at institutions of higher learning, and for other purposes OPPOSE S. 514 A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide additional educational assistance under Post-9/11 Educational Assistance to veterans pursuing a degree in science, technology, engineering, math, or an area that leads to employment in a high-demand occupation, and for other purposes -- A bill to amend title 38, U.S.C., to provide additional educational assistance under Post-9/11 Educational Assistance to veterans pursuing a degree in science, technology, engineering, math, or an area that leads to employment in a high-demand occupation, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 515A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to extend the Yellow Ribbon G.I. Education Enhancement Program to cover recipients of Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry scholarship, and for other purposes -- A bill to amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend the Yellow Ribbon G.I. Education Enhancement Program to cover recipients of Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry scholarship, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 522 Wounded Warrior Workforce Enhancement Act -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to award grants to establish, or expand upon, masters degree or doctoral degree programs in orthotics and prosthetics, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 863 Veterans Back to School Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to repeal time limitations on the eligibility for use of educational assistance under All-Volunteer Force Educational Assistance Program, to improve veterans education outreach, and for other purposes SUPPORTS. 922 Veterans Equipped for Success Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Labor to carry out a pilot program on providing wage subsidies to employers who employ certain veterans and members of the Armed Forces and require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program on providing career transition services to young veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 944 Veterans Educational Transition Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require courses of education provided by public institutions of higher education that are approved for purposes of the All-Volunteer Force Educational Assistance Program and Post-9/11 Educational Assistance to charge veterans tuition and fees at the in-State tuition rate, and for other purposes OPPOSE

H.R. 331 -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to permit the centralized reporting of veteran enrollment by certain groups, districts, and consortiums of educational institutions ~ To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to permit the centralized reporting of veteran enrollment by certain groups, districts, and consortiums of educational institutions OPPOSEH.R. 562 -- VRAP Extension Act of 2013 ~ To provide for a three-month extension of the Veterans Retraining Assistance Program administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1453 -- Work-Study for Student Veterans Act ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to extend the authority to provide work-study allowance for certain activities by individuals receiving educational assistance by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 2011 -- Veterans Advisory Committee on Education Improvement Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for a two-year extension of the Veterans Advisory Committee on Education SUPPORT H.R. 2210 -- Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship Improvement Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand the eligibility of children of certain deceased veterans to educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 2481 -- Veterans G.I. Bill Enrollment Clarification Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to codify and improve the election requirements for the receipt of educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance program of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 357 / S. 257 -- GI Bill Tuition Fairness Act of 2013 ~ Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA), for purposes of the educational assistance programs administered by the Secretary, to disapprove courses of education provided by public institutions of higher education that do not charge tuition and fees for veterans at the same rate that is charged for in-state residents, regardless of the veterans state of residence SUPPORT S. 262 -- Veterans Education Equity Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide equity for tuition and fees for individuals entitled to educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs who are pursuing programs of education at institutions of higher learning, and for other purposes OPPOSE S. 514 -- A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide additional educational assistance under Post-9/11 Educational Assistance to veterans pursuing a degree in science, technology, engineering, math, or an area that leads to employment in a high-demand occupation, and for other purposes ~ A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide additional educational assistance under Post-9/11 Educational Assistance to veterans pursuing a degree in science, technology, engineering, math, or an area that leads to employment in a high-demand occupation, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 515 -- A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to extend the Yellow Ribbon G.I. Education Enhancement Program to cover recipients of Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry scholarship, and for other purposes ~ A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to extend the Yellow Ribbon G.I. Education Enhancement Program to cover recipients of Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry scholarship, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 522 -- Wounded Warrior Workforce Enhancement Act ~ To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to award grants to establish, or expand upon, masters degree or doctoral degree programs in orthotics and prosthetics, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 863 -- Veterans Back to School Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to repeal time limitations on the eligibility for use of educational assistance under All-Volunteer Force Educational Assistance Program, to improve veterans education outreach, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 894 -- A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to extend expiring authority for work-study allowances for individuals who are pursuing programs of rehabilitation, education, or training under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, to expand such authority to certain outreach services provided through congressional offices, and for other purposes ~A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to extend expiring authority for work-study allowances for individuals who are pursuing programs of rehabilitation, education, or training under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, to expand such authority to certain outreach services provided through congressional offices, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 922 -- Veterans Equipped for Success Act of 2013 ~ To require the Secretary of Labor to carry out a pilot program on providing wage subsidies to employers who employ certain veterans and members of the Armed Forces and require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program on providing career transition services to young veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 944 -- Veterans Educational Transition Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to require courses of education provided by public institutions of higher education that are approved for purposes of the All-Volunteer Force Educational Assistance Program and Post-9/11 Educational Assistance to charge veterans tuition and fees at the in-State tuition rate, and for other purposes OPPOSE

P.L. 113-37 Department of Veterans Affairs Expiring Authorities Act of 2013 -- Authorizes specified appropriations for the period October 1-December 31, 2013, to pay a monthly assistance allowance to a veteran with a disability invited by the United States Olympic Committee (USOC) to compete for a slot on, or selected for, the Paralympics Team; extends authority for various VA programs SUPPORTH.R. 241 Veterans Timely Access to Health Care Act -- Directs the VA Secretary to ensure that the standard for access to care for a veteran seeking hospital care and medical services from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is 30 days from the date the veteran contacts the VA. Directs the Secretary to periodically review the performance of VA medical facilities in meeting such standard. Requires quarterly reports from the Secretary to the congressional veterans committees on the VAs experience with respect to appointment waiting times SUPPORT H.R. 569 Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2013, 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 OPPOSE H.R. 570 American Heroes COLA Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., 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 OPPOSE H.R. 813 Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 894 To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the supervision of fiduciaries of veterans under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the supervision of fiduciaries of veterans under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 1443 Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DoD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494 Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1623 VA Claims Efficiency Through Information Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to make publicly available certain information about pending and completed claims for compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1702 Veterans Transportation Service Act -- Makes permanent (under current law, expires on January 10, 2014) the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in connection with vocational rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, or care SUPPORT H.R. 1809 To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide notice of average times for processing claims and percentage of claims approved, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide notice of average times for processing claims and percentage of claims approved, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072 Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to the Inspector General of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORTH.R. 2086 Pay As You Rate Act -- To direct the Secretary to make interim payments of disability compensation benefits for certain claims for such compensation prior to the adjudication of such claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2138 Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2216 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2423 Disabled Veterans Access to Medical Exams Improvement Act -- To improve the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into contracts with private physicians to conduct medical disability examinations SUPPORT H.R. 2847 Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense (DoD) and Veterans Affairs (VA) to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines "assistance dog" to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 671; S. 294 Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679; S. 629 Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1288; S. 1361 World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1402; S. 695 Veterans Paralympic Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to pay a monthly assistance allowance to disabled veterans training or competing for the Paralympic Team and the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide assistance to United States Paralympics, Inc. SUPPORT S. 455 To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, and care, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, and care, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 529 To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 543 VISN Reorganization Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reorganize the Veterans Integrated Service Networks of the Veterans Health Administration, and for other purposes OPPOSES. 674 Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To require prompt responses from the heads of covered Federal agencies when the Secretary of Veterans Affairs requests information necessary to adjudicate claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 735 Survivor Benefits Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve benefits and assistance provided to surviving spouses of veterans under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 778 A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue cards to veterans that identify them as veterans, and for other purposes -- A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue cards to veterans that identify them as veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 819 Veterans Mental Health Treatment First Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require a program of mental health care and rehabilitation for veterans for service-related post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety disorder, or a related substance use disorder, and for other purposes OPPOSE S. 832 Improving the Lives of Children with Spina Bifida Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out pilot programs on furnishing case management services and assisted living to children of Vietnam veterans and certain Korea service veterans born with spina bifida and children of women Vietnam veterans born with certain birth defects, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 845 To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professionals Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professionals Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851 Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 852 Veterans Health Promotion Act of 2013 -- To improve health care furnished by the Department of Veterans Affairs by increasing access to complementary and alternative medicine and other approaches to wellness and preventive care, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 877 Veterans Affairs Research Transparency Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to allow public access to research of the Department, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 893 Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 -- To provide for an increase, effective December 1, 2013, 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 SUPPORT S. 927 Veterans Outreach Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a demonstration project to assess the feasibility and advisability of using State and local government agencies and nonprofit organizations to increase awareness of benefits and services for veterans and to improve coordination of outreach activities relating to such benefits and services, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 928 Claims Processing Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the processing of claims for compensation under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. --- The American Legion SUPPORTS portions of this measure, especially Sections 103 and 301; The American Legion OPPOSES reducing the appellate rights of veterans, especially as concerned in sections 201 and 202; and there are still other portions of this legislation that The American Legion holds no official position on at this time.S. 932 Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to provide for advance appropriations for certain discretionary accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT S. 939 A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to treat certain misfiled documents as motions for reconsideration of decisions by the Board of Veterans' Appeals, and for other purposes -- A bill to amend title 38, U.S.C., to treat certain misfiled documents as motions for reconsideration of decisions by the Board of Veterans' Appeals, and for other purposes SUPPORT

H.R. 241 -- Veterans Timely Access to Health Care Act ~ Directs the VA Secretary to ensure that the standard for access to care for a veteran seeking hospital care and medical services from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is 30 days from the date the veteran contacts the VA. Also directs the Secretary to periodically review the performance of VA medical facilities in meeting such standard. Requires quarterly reports from the Secretary to the congressional veterans committees on the VAs experience withwith respect to appointment waiting times SUPPORT H.R. 569 -- Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 ~ To increase, effective as of December 1, 2013, 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 OPPOSE H.R. 570 -- American Heroes COLA Act ~ 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 OPPOSE H.R. 894 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the supervision of fiduciaries of veterans under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs ~ Amend title 38, USC, to improve the supervision of fiduciaries of veterans under the laws administered by VA Secretary SUPPORT H.R. 1288 -- World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act ~ Direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1402 -- Veterans Paralympic Act of 2013 ~ Amend title 38, United States Code, to extend the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to pay a monthly assistance allowance to disabled veterans training or competing for the Paralympic Team and the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide assistance to United States Paralympics, Inc. SUPPORT H.R. 1494 -- Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act ~ Direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1623 -- VA Claims Efficiency Through Information Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to make publicly available certain information about pending and completed claims for compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1809 -- Amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide notice of average times for processing claims and percentage of claims approved, and for other purposes ~ To amend title 38, USC, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide notice of average times for claims processing and approval percentage of same, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072 -- Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the accountability of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to the Inspector General of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 2086 -- Pay As You Rate Act ~ To direct the Secretary to make interim payments of disability compensation benefits for certain claims for such compensation prior to the adjudication of such claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2138 -- Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act ~ To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2216 -- Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2014 ~ Making appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORTH.R. 2423 -- Disabled Veterans Access to Medical Exams Improvement Act ~ To improve the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into contracts with private physicians to conduct medical disability examinations SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294 -- Ruth Moore Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 455 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, and care, and for other purposes. ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, and care, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 529 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 543 -- VISN Reorganization Act of 2013 ~ To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reorganize the Veterans Integrated Service Networks of the Veterans Health Administration, and for other purposes OPPOSE S. 629 -- Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 674 -- Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 ~ To require prompt responses from the heads of covered Federal agencies when the Secretary of Veterans Affairs requests information necessary to adjudicate claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 735 -- Survivor Benefits Improvement Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve benefits and assistance provided to surviving spouses of veterans under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 778 -- A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue cards to veterans that identify them as veterans, and for other purposes ~ A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue cards to veterans that identify them as veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 819 -- Veterans Mental Health Treatment First Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to require a program of mental health care and rehabilitation for veterans for service-related post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety disorder, or a related substance use disorder, and for other purposes OPPOSE S. 832 -- Improving the Lives of Children with Spina Bifida Act of 2013 ~ To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out pilot programs on furnishing case management services and assisted living to children of Vietnam veterans and certain Korea service veterans born with spina bifida and children of women Vietnam veterans born with certain birth defects, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 845 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professionals Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professionals Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes SUPPORTS. 851 -- Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 852 -- Veterans Health Promotion Act of 2013 ~ To improve health care furnished by the Department of Veterans Affairs by increasing access to complementary and alternative medicine and other approaches to wellness and preventive care, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 877 -- Veterans Affairs Research Transparency Act of 2013 ~ To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to allow public access to research of the Department, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 893 -- Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 ~ To provide for an increase, effective December 1, 2013, 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 SUPPORT S. 927 -- Veterans Outreach Act of 2013 ~ To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a demonstration project to assess the feasibility and advisability of using State and local government agencies and nonprofit organizations to increase awareness of benefits and services for veterans and to improve coordination of outreach activities relating to such benefits and services, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 928 -- Claims Processing Improvement Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the processing of claims for compensation under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT: Section 103 improve communications and relevant information sharing between VA and all federal agencies; Section 106 quarterly report from VA concerning backlog reduction/elimination as a means to show progress toward removing the lack of transparency; Section 301 maintaining operations to serve veterans in the Philippines; Section 303 extends marriage delimiting date for surviving spouses of Persian Gulf War veterans to qualify for death pension to a date 10 years after this war is officially declared ended. OPPOSE: Section 201 reducing the filing deadline for an appeal from 365 days to 180 days; Section 202 - reducing the appellate rights of veterans. S. 932 -- Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for advance appropriations for certain discretionary accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT S. 939 -- A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to treat certain misfiled documents as motions for reconsideration of decisions by the Board of Veterans' Appeals, and for other purposes ~ A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to treat certain misfiled documents as motions for reconsideration of decisions by the Board of Veterans' Appeals, and for other purposes SUPPORT

P.L. 113-46 -- Continuing Appropriations Act, 2014Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through January 15, 2014 SUPPORT P.L. 113-52 -- Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 Would provide for an increase, effectiveDecember 1, 2013, 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 SUPPORT P.L. 113-59 -- VA Expiring Authorities Extension Act of 2013To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend certain expiring provisions of law, and for other purposes, including: Extension of authority to transport certain individuals to and from VA facilities; Extension of authority for operation of the VA regional office in Manila, the Republic of the Philippines. Extension of requirement to provide nursing home care to certain veterans with service-connected disabilities. Extension of treatment and rehabilitation services for seriously mentally ill and homeless veterans. Extension of authority to provide housing assistance for homeless veterans. Extension of authority for the Advisory Committee on Homeless Veterans. Extension of authority for the Veterans Advisory Commission on Education. Extension of requirements relating to vendee loans. Extension of authority for the performance of medical disabilities examinations by contract physicians Would amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to pay a monthly assistance allowance to disabled veterans training or competing for the Paralympic Team and the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide assistance to United States Paralympics, Inc. SUPPORT H.R. 1443 -- Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494 -- Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability ActDirects the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072 -- Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013Amends title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2138 -- Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability ActWould direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847 -- Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013Directs the Secretaries of Defense (DOD) and Veterans Affairs (VA) to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines "assistance dog" to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense - SUPPORT H.R. 671; S. 294 -- Ruth Moore Act of 2013Would amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes - SUPPORT H.R. 679; S. 629 -- Honoring America's Guard-Reserves Act of 2013Amends title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes - SUPPORTH.R. 813; S. 932 -- Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288; S. 1361 -- World War II Merchant Mariner Service ActDirect the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499; S. 1155 -- Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement ActProvides for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORT S. 529 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposesAmends title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851 -- Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013Amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148 -- Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing ActAmend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295 -- A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposesWould amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296 -- Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013Will amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411 -- Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013Specifies requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579 -- SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013Will amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 -- Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013Requires the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584 -- A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposesWould amend title 28, United States Code, to providereplacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585 -- A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of MortalityAmends title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586 -- Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013Will amend title 38, United States Code, to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589 -- Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans Integrated Service Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE bill as written S. 1604 -- Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013Would amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT

H.R. 1497; S. 705 War Memorial Protection Act of 2013 Amend title 36, U.S.C., to ensure that memorials commemorating the service of the United States Armed Forces may contain religious symbols, and for other purposes SUPPORT

H.R. 1497; S. 705 War Memorial Protection Act of 2013 -- To amend title 36, U.S.C., to ensure that memorials commemorating the service of the United States Armed Forces may contain religious symbols, and for other purposes SUPPORT

H.R. 241 -- Veterans Timely Access to Health Care Act ~ Directs the VA Secretary to ensure that the standard for access to care for a veteran seeking hospital care and medical services from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is 30 days from the date the veteran contacts the VA. Also directs the Secretary to periodically review the performance of VA medical facilities in meeting such standard. Requires quarterly reports from the Secretary to the congressional veterans committees on the VAs experience withwith respect to appointment waiting times SUPPORT H.R. 569 -- Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 ~ To increase, effective as of December 1, 2013, 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 OPPOSE H.R. 570 -- American Heroes COLA Act ~ 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 OPPOSE H.R. 894 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the supervision of fiduciaries of veterans under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs ~ Amend title 38, USC, to improve the supervision of fiduciaries of veterans under the laws administered by VA Secretary SUPPORT H.R. 1288 -- World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act ~ Direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1402 -- Veterans Paralympic Act of 2013 ~ Amend title 38, United States Code, to extend the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to pay a monthly assistance allowance to disabled veterans training or competing for the Paralympic Team and the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide assistance to United States Paralympics, Inc. SUPPORT H.R. 1494 -- Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act ~ Direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1623 -- VA Claims Efficiency Through Information Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to make publicly available certain information about pending and completed claims for compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1809 -- Amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide notice of average times for processing claims and percentage of claims approved, and for other purposes ~ To amend title 38, USC, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide notice of average times for claims processing and approval percentage of same, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072 -- Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the accountability of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to the Inspector General of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 2086 -- Pay As You Rate Act ~ To direct the Secretary to make interim payments of disability compensation benefits for certain claims for such compensation prior to the adjudication of such claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2138 -- Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act ~ To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2216 -- Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2014 ~ Making appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORTH.R. 2423 -- Disabled Veterans Access to Medical Exams Improvement Act ~ To improve the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into contracts with private physicians to conduct medical disability examinations SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294 -- Ruth Moore Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 455 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, and care, and for other purposes. ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, and care, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 529 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 543 -- VISN Reorganization Act of 2013 ~ To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reorganize the Veterans Integrated Service Networks of the Veterans Health Administration, and for other purposes OPPOSE S. 629 -- Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 674 -- Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 ~ To require prompt responses from the heads of covered Federal agencies when the Secretary of Veterans Affairs requests information necessary to adjudicate claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 735 -- Survivor Benefits Improvement Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve benefits and assistance provided to surviving spouses of veterans under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 778 -- A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue cards to veterans that identify them as veterans, and for other purposes ~ A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue cards to veterans that identify them as veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 819 -- Veterans Mental Health Treatment First Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to require a program of mental health care and rehabilitation for veterans for service-related post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety disorder, or a related substance use disorder, and for other purposes OPPOSE S. 832 -- Improving the Lives of Children with Spina Bifida Act of 2013 ~ To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out pilot programs on furnishing case management services and assisted living to children of Vietnam veterans and certain Korea service veterans born with spina bifida and children of women Vietnam veterans born with certain birth defects, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 845 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professionals Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professionals Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes SUPPORTS. 851 -- Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 852 -- Veterans Health Promotion Act of 2013 ~ To improve health care furnished by the Department of Veterans Affairs by increasing access to complementary and alternative medicine and other approaches to wellness and preventive care, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 877 -- Veterans Affairs Research Transparency Act of 2013 ~ To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to allow public access to research of the Department, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 893 -- Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 ~ To provide for an increase, effective December 1, 2013, 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 SUPPORT S. 927 -- Veterans Outreach Act of 2013 ~ To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a demonstration project to assess the feasibility and advisability of using State and local government agencies and nonprofit organizations to increase awareness of benefits and services for veterans and to improve coordination of outreach activities relating to such benefits and services, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 928 -- Claims Processing Improvement Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the processing of claims for compensation under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT: Section 103 improve communications and relevant information sharing between VA and all federal agencies; Section 106 quarterly report from VA concerning backlog reduction/elimination as a means to show progress toward removing the lack of transparency; Section 301 maintaining operations to serve veterans in the Philippines; Section 303 extends marriage delimiting date for surviving spouses of Persian Gulf War veterans to qualify for death pension to a date 10 years after this war is officially declared ended. OPPOSE: Section 201 reducing the filing deadline for an appeal from 365 days to 180 days; Section 202 - reducing the appellate rights of veterans. S. 932 -- Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for advance appropriations for certain discretionary accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT S. 939 -- A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to treat certain misfiled documents as motions for reconsideration of decisions by the Board of Veterans' Appeals, and for other purposes ~ A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to treat certain misfiled documents as motions for reconsideration of decisions by the Board of Veterans' Appeals, and for other purposes SUPPORT

P.L. 113-37 Department of Veterans Affairs Expiring Authorities Act of 2013 -- Authorizes specified appropriations for the period October 1-December 31, 2013, to pay a monthly assistance allowance to a veteran with a disability invited by the United States Olympic Committee (USOC) to compete for a slot on, or selected for, the Paralympics Team; extends authority for various VA programs SUPPORTH.R. 241 Veterans Timely Access to Health Care Act -- Directs the VA Secretary to ensure that the standard for access to care for a veteran seeking hospital care and medical services from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is 30 days from the date the veteran contacts the VA. Directs the Secretary to periodically review the performance of VA medical facilities in meeting such standard. Requires quarterly reports from the Secretary to the congressional veterans committees on the VAs experience with respect to appointment waiting times SUPPORT H.R. 569 Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2013, 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 OPPOSE H.R. 570 American Heroes COLA Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., 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 OPPOSE H.R. 813 Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 894 To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the supervision of fiduciaries of veterans under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the supervision of fiduciaries of veterans under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 1443 Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DoD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494 Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1623 VA Claims Efficiency Through Information Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to make publicly available certain information about pending and completed claims for compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1702 Veterans Transportation Service Act -- Makes permanent (under current law, expires on January 10, 2014) the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in connection with vocational rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, or care SUPPORT H.R. 1809 To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide notice of average times for processing claims and percentage of claims approved, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide notice of average times for processing claims and percentage of claims approved, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072 Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to the Inspector General of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORTH.R. 2086 Pay As You Rate Act -- To direct the Secretary to make interim payments of disability compensation benefits for certain claims for such compensation prior to the adjudication of such claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2138 Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2216 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2423 Disabled Veterans Access to Medical Exams Improvement Act -- To improve the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into contracts with private physicians to conduct medical disability examinations SUPPORT H.R. 2847 Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense (DoD) and Veterans Affairs (VA) to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines "assistance dog" to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 671; S. 294 Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679; S. 629 Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1288; S. 1361 World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1402; S. 695 Veterans Paralympic Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to pay a monthly assistance allowance to disabled veterans training or competing for the Paralympic Team and the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide assistance to United States Paralympics, Inc. SUPPORT S. 455 To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, and care, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, and care, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 529 To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 543 VISN Reorganization Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reorganize the Veterans Integrated Service Networks of the Veterans Health Administration, and for other purposes OPPOSES. 674 Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To require prompt responses from the heads of covered Federal agencies when the Secretary of Veterans Affairs requests information necessary to adjudicate claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 735 Survivor Benefits Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve benefits and assistance provided to surviving spouses of veterans under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 778 A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue cards to veterans that identify them as veterans, and for other purposes -- A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue cards to veterans that identify them as veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 819 Veterans Mental Health Treatment First Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require a program of mental health care and rehabilitation for veterans for service-related post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety disorder, or a related substance use disorder, and for other purposes OPPOSE S. 832 Improving the Lives of Children with Spina Bifida Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out pilot programs on furnishing case management services and assisted living to children of Vietnam veterans and certain Korea service veterans born with spina bifida and children of women Vietnam veterans born with certain birth defects, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 845 To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professionals Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professionals Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851 Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 852 Veterans Health Promotion Act of 2013 -- To improve health care furnished by the Department of Veterans Affairs by increasing access to complementary and alternative medicine and other approaches to wellness and preventive care, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 877 Veterans Affairs Research Transparency Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to allow public access to research of the Department, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 893 Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 -- To provide for an increase, effective December 1, 2013, 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 SUPPORT S. 927 Veterans Outreach Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a demonstration project to assess the feasibility and advisability of using State and local government agencies and nonprofit organizations to increase awareness of benefits and services for veterans and to improve coordination of outreach activities relating to such benefits and services, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 928 Claims Processing Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the processing of claims for compensation under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. --- The American Legion SUPPORTS portions of this measure, especially Sections 103 and 301; The American Legion OPPOSES reducing the appellate rights of veterans, especially as concerned in sections 201 and 202; and there are still other portions of this legislation that The American Legion holds no official position on at this time.S. 932 Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to provide for advance appropriations for certain discretionary accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT S. 939 A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to treat certain misfiled documents as motions for reconsideration of decisions by the Board of Veterans' Appeals, and for other purposes -- A bill to amend title 38, U.S.C., to treat certain misfiled documents as motions for reconsideration of decisions by the Board of Veterans' Appeals, and for other purposes SUPPORT

P.L. 113-37 Department of Veterans Affairs Expiring Authorities Act of 2013 -- Authorizes specified appropriations for the period October 1-December 31, 2013, to pay a monthly assistance allowance to a veteran with a disability invited by the United States Olympic Committee (USOC) to compete for a slot on, or selected for, the Paralympics Team; extends authority for various VA programs SUPPORTH.R. 241 Veterans Timely Access to Health Care Act -- Directs the VA Secretary to ensure that the standard for access to care for a veteran seeking hospital care and medical services from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is 30 days from the date the veteran contacts the VA. Directs the Secretary to periodically review the performance of VA medical facilities in meeting such standard. Requires quarterly reports from the Secretary to the congressional veterans committees on the VAs experience with respect to appointment waiting times SUPPORT H.R. 569 Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2013, 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 OPPOSE H.R. 570 American Heroes COLA Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., 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 OPPOSE H.R. 813 Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 894 To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the supervision of fiduciaries of veterans under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the supervision of fiduciaries of veterans under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 1443 Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DoD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494 Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1623 VA Claims Efficiency Through Information Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to make publicly available certain information about pending and completed claims for compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1702 Veterans Transportation Service Act -- Makes permanent (under current law, expires on January 10, 2014) the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in connection with vocational rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, or care SUPPORT H.R. 1809 To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide notice of average times for processing claims and percentage of claims approved, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide notice of average times for processing claims and percentage of claims approved, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072 Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to the Inspector General of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORTH.R. 2086 Pay As You Rate Act -- To direct the Secretary to make interim payments of disability compensation benefits for certain claims for such compensation prior to the adjudication of such claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2138 Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2216 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2423 Disabled Veterans Access to Medical Exams Improvement Act -- To improve the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into contracts with private physicians to conduct medical disability examinations SUPPORT H.R. 2847 Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense (DoD) and Veterans Affairs (VA) to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines "assistance dog" to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 671; S. 294 Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679; S. 629 Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1288; S. 1361 World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1402; S. 695 Veterans Paralympic Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to pay a monthly assistance allowance to disabled veterans training or competing for the Paralympic Team and the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide assistance to United States Paralympics, Inc. SUPPORT S. 455 To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, and care, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, and care, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 529 To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 543 VISN Reorganization Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reorganize the Veterans Integrated Service Networks of the Veterans Health Administration, and for other purposes OPPOSES. 674 Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To require prompt responses from the heads of covered Federal agencies when the Secretary of Veterans Affairs requests information necessary to adjudicate claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 735 Survivor Benefits Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve benefits and assistance provided to surviving spouses of veterans under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 778 A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue cards to veterans that identify them as veterans, and for other purposes -- A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue cards to veterans that identify them as veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 819 Veterans Mental Health Treatment First Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require a program of mental health care and rehabilitation for veterans for service-related post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety disorder, or a related substance use disorder, and for other purposes OPPOSE S. 832 Improving the Lives of Children with Spina Bifida Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out pilot programs on furnishing case management services and assisted living to children of Vietnam veterans and certain Korea service veterans born with spina bifida and children of women Vietnam veterans born with certain birth defects, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 845 To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professionals Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professionals Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851 Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 852 Veterans Health Promotion Act of 2013 -- To improve health care furnished by the Department of Veterans Affairs by increasing access to complementary and alternative medicine and other approaches to wellness and preventive care, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 877 Veterans Affairs Research Transparency Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to allow public access to research of the Department, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 893 Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 -- To provide for an increase, effective December 1, 2013, 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 SUPPORT S. 927 Veterans Outreach Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a demonstration project to assess the feasibility and advisability of using State and local government agencies and nonprofit organizations to increase awareness of benefits and services for veterans and to improve coordination of outreach activities relating to such benefits and services, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 928 Claims Processing Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the processing of claims for compensation under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. --- The American Legion SUPPORTS portions of this measure, especially Sections 103 and 301; The American Legion OPPOSES reducing the appellate rights of veterans, especially as concerned in sections 201 and 202; and there are still other portions of this legislation that The American Legion holds no official position on at this time.S. 932 Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to provide for advance appropriations for certain discretionary accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT S. 939 A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to treat certain misfiled documents as motions for reconsideration of decisions by the Board of Veterans' Appeals, and for other purposes -- A bill to amend title 38, U.S.C., to treat certain misfiled documents as motions for reconsideration of decisions by the Board of Veterans' Appeals, and for other purposes SUPPORT

H.R. 241 -- Veterans Timely Access to Health Care Act ~ Directs the VA Secretary to ensure that the standard for access to care for a veteran seeking hospital care and medical services from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is 30 days from the date the veteran contacts the VA. Also directs the Secretary to periodically review the performance of VA medical facilities in meeting such standard. Requires quarterly reports from the Secretary to the congressional veterans committees on the VAs experience withwith respect to appointment waiting times SUPPORT H.R. 569 -- Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 ~ To increase, effective as of December 1, 2013, 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 OPPOSE H.R. 570 -- American Heroes COLA Act ~ 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 OPPOSE H.R. 894 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the supervision of fiduciaries of veterans under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs ~ Amend title 38, USC, to improve the supervision of fiduciaries of veterans under the laws administered by VA Secretary SUPPORT H.R. 1288 -- World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act ~ Direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1402 -- Veterans Paralympic Act of 2013 ~ Amend title 38, United States Code, to extend the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to pay a monthly assistance allowance to disabled veterans training or competing for the Paralympic Team and the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide assistance to United States Paralympics, Inc. SUPPORT H.R. 1494 -- Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act ~ Direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1623 -- VA Claims Efficiency Through Information Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to make publicly available certain information about pending and completed claims for compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1809 -- Amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide notice of average times for processing claims and percentage of claims approved, and for other purposes ~ To amend title 38, USC, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide notice of average times for claims processing and approval percentage of same, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072 -- Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the accountability of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to the Inspector General of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 2086 -- Pay As You Rate Act ~ To direct the Secretary to make interim payments of disability compensation benefits for certain claims for such compensation prior to the adjudication of such claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2138 -- Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act ~ To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2216 -- Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2014 ~ Making appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORTH.R. 2423 -- Disabled Veterans Access to Medical Exams Improvement Act ~ To improve the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into contracts with private physicians to conduct medical disability examinations SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294 -- Ruth Moore Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 455 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, and care, and for other purposes. ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, and care, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 529 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 543 -- VISN Reorganization Act of 2013 ~ To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reorganize the Veterans Integrated Service Networks of the Veterans Health Administration, and for other purposes OPPOSE S. 629 -- Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 674 -- Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 ~ To require prompt responses from the heads of covered Federal agencies when the Secretary of Veterans Affairs requests information necessary to adjudicate claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 735 -- Survivor Benefits Improvement Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve benefits and assistance provided to surviving spouses of veterans under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 778 -- A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue cards to veterans that identify them as veterans, and for other purposes ~ A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue cards to veterans that identify them as veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 819 -- Veterans Mental Health Treatment First Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to require a program of mental health care and rehabilitation for veterans for service-related post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety disorder, or a related substance use disorder, and for other purposes OPPOSE S. 832 -- Improving the Lives of Children with Spina Bifida Act of 2013 ~ To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out pilot programs on furnishing case management services and assisted living to children of Vietnam veterans and certain Korea service veterans born with spina bifida and children of women Vietnam veterans born with certain birth defects, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 845 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professionals Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professionals Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes SUPPORTS. 851 -- Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 852 -- Veterans Health Promotion Act of 2013 ~ To improve health care furnished by the Department of Veterans Affairs by increasing access to complementary and alternative medicine and other approaches to wellness and preventive care, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 877 -- Veterans Affairs Research Transparency Act of 2013 ~ To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to allow public access to research of the Department, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 893 -- Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 ~ To provide for an increase, effective December 1, 2013, 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 SUPPORT S. 927 -- Veterans Outreach Act of 2013 ~ To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a demonstration project to assess the feasibility and advisability of using State and local government agencies and nonprofit organizations to increase awareness of benefits and services for veterans and to improve coordination of outreach activities relating to such benefits and services, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 928 -- Claims Processing Improvement Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the processing of claims for compensation under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT: Section 103 improve communications and relevant information sharing between VA and all federal agencies; Section 106 quarterly report from VA concerning backlog reduction/elimination as a means to show progress toward removing the lack of transparency; Section 301 maintaining operations to serve veterans in the Philippines; Section 303 extends marriage delimiting date for surviving spouses of Persian Gulf War veterans to qualify for death pension to a date 10 years after this war is officially declared ended. OPPOSE: Section 201 reducing the filing deadline for an appeal from 365 days to 180 days; Section 202 - reducing the appellate rights of veterans. S. 932 -- Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for advance appropriations for certain discretionary accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT S. 939 -- A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to treat certain misfiled documents as motions for reconsideration of decisions by the Board of Veterans' Appeals, and for other purposes ~ A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to treat certain misfiled documents as motions for reconsideration of decisions by the Board of Veterans' Appeals, and for other purposes SUPPORT

P.L. 113-37 Department of Veterans Affairs Expiring Authorities Act of 2013 -- Authorizes specified appropriations for the period October 1-December 31, 2013, to pay a monthly assistance allowance to a veteran with a disability invited by the United States Olympic Committee (USOC) to compete for a slot on, or selected for, the Paralympics Team; extends authority for various VA programs SUPPORTH.R. 241 Veterans Timely Access to Health Care Act -- Directs the VA Secretary to ensure that the standard for access to care for a veteran seeking hospital care and medical services from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is 30 days from the date the veteran contacts the VA. Directs the Secretary to periodically review the performance of VA medical facilities in meeting such standard. Requires quarterly reports from the Secretary to the congressional veterans committees on the VAs experience with respect to appointment waiting times SUPPORT H.R. 569 Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2013, 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 OPPOSE H.R. 570 American Heroes COLA Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., 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 OPPOSE H.R. 813 Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 894 To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the supervision of fiduciaries of veterans under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the supervision of fiduciaries of veterans under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 1443 Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DoD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494 Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1623 VA Claims Efficiency Through Information Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to make publicly available certain information about pending and completed claims for compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1702 Veterans Transportation Service Act -- Makes permanent (under current law, expires on January 10, 2014) the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in connection with vocational rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, or care SUPPORT H.R. 1809 To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide notice of average times for processing claims and percentage of claims approved, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide notice of average times for processing claims and percentage of claims approved, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072 Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to the Inspector General of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORTH.R. 2086 Pay As You Rate Act -- To direct the Secretary to make interim payments of disability compensation benefits for certain claims for such compensation prior to the adjudication of such claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2138 Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2216 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2423 Disabled Veterans Access to Medical Exams Improvement Act -- To improve the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into contracts with private physicians to conduct medical disability examinations SUPPORT H.R. 2847 Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense (DoD) and Veterans Affairs (VA) to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines "assistance dog" to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 671; S. 294 Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679; S. 629 Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1288; S. 1361 World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1402; S. 695 Veterans Paralympic Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to pay a monthly assistance allowance to disabled veterans training or competing for the Paralympic Team and the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide assistance to United States Paralympics, Inc. SUPPORT S. 455 To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, and care, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, and care, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 529 To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 543 VISN Reorganization Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reorganize the Veterans Integrated Service Networks of the Veterans Health Administration, and for other purposes OPPOSES. 674 Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To require prompt responses from the heads of covered Federal agencies when the Secretary of Veterans Affairs requests information necessary to adjudicate claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 735 Survivor Benefits Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve benefits and assistance provided to surviving spouses of veterans under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 778 A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue cards to veterans that identify them as veterans, and for other purposes -- A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue cards to veterans that identify them as veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 819 Veterans Mental Health Treatment First Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require a program of mental health care and rehabilitation for veterans for service-related post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety disorder, or a related substance use disorder, and for other purposes OPPOSE S. 832 Improving the Lives of Children with Spina Bifida Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out pilot programs on furnishing case management services and assisted living to children of Vietnam veterans and certain Korea service veterans born with spina bifida and children of women Vietnam veterans born with certain birth defects, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 845 To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professionals Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professionals Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851 Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 852 Veterans Health Promotion Act of 2013 -- To improve health care furnished by the Department of Veterans Affairs by increasing access to complementary and alternative medicine and other approaches to wellness and preventive care, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 877 Veterans Affairs Research Transparency Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to allow public access to research of the Department, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 893 Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 -- To provide for an increase, effective December 1, 2013, 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 SUPPORT S. 927 Veterans Outreach Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a demonstration project to assess the feasibility and advisability of using State and local government agencies and nonprofit organizations to increase awareness of benefits and services for veterans and to improve coordination of outreach activities relating to such benefits and services, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 928 Claims Processing Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the processing of claims for compensation under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. --- The American Legion SUPPORTS portions of this measure, especially Sections 103 and 301; The American Legion OPPOSES reducing the appellate rights of veterans, especially as concerned in sections 201 and 202; and there are still other portions of this legislation that The American Legion holds no official position on at this time.S. 932 Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to provide for advance appropriations for certain discretionary accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT S. 939 A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to treat certain misfiled documents as motions for reconsideration of decisions by the Board of Veterans' Appeals, and for other purposes -- A bill to amend title 38, U.S.C., to treat certain misfiled documents as motions for reconsideration of decisions by the Board of Veterans' Appeals, and for other purposes SUPPORT

H.R. 331 To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to permit the centralized reporting of veteran enrollment by certain groups, districts, and consortiums of educational institutions -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to permit the centralized reporting of veteran enrollment by certain groups, districts, and consortiums of educational institutions OPPOSEH.R. 562 VRAP Extension Act of 2013 -- To provide for a three-month extension of the Veterans Retraining Assistance Program administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1453 Work-Study for Student Veterans Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend the authority to provide work-study allowance for certain activities by individuals receiving educational assistance by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 2011 Veterans Advisory Committee on Education Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to provide for a two-year extension of the Veterans Advisory Committee on Education SUPPORT H.R. 2210 Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to expand the eligibility of children of certain deceased veterans to educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 2481 Veterans G.I. Bill Enrollment Clarification Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to codify and improve the election requirements for the receipt of educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance program of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 357; S. 257 GI Bill Tuition Fairness Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA), for purposes of the educational assistance programs administered by the Secretary, to disapprove courses of education provided by public institutions of higher education that do not charge tuition and fees for veterans at the same rate that is charged for in-state residents, regardless of the veterans state of residence SUPPORT H.R. 2151; S. 894 A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to extend expiring authority for work-study allowances for individuals who are pursuing programs of rehabilitation, education, or training under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, to expand such authority to certain outreach services provided through congressional offices, and for other purposes -- A bill to amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend expiring authority for work-study allowances for individuals who are pursuing programs of rehabilitation, education, or training under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, to expand such authority to certain outreach services provided through congressional offices, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 262 Veterans Education Equity Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to provide equity for tuition and fees for individuals entitled to educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs who are pursuing programs of education at institutions of higher learning, and for other purposes OPPOSE S. 514 A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide additional educational assistance under Post-9/11 Educational Assistance to veterans pursuing a degree in science, technology, engineering, math, or an area that leads to employment in a high-demand occupation, and for other purposes -- A bill to amend title 38, U.S.C., to provide additional educational assistance under Post-9/11 Educational Assistance to veterans pursuing a degree in science, technology, engineering, math, or an area that leads to employment in a high-demand occupation, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 515A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to extend the Yellow Ribbon G.I. Education Enhancement Program to cover recipients of Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry scholarship, and for other purposes -- A bill to amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend the Yellow Ribbon G.I. Education Enhancement Program to cover recipients of Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry scholarship, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 522 Wounded Warrior Workforce Enhancement Act -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to award grants to establish, or expand upon, masters degree or doctoral degree programs in orthotics and prosthetics, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 863 Veterans Back to School Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to repeal time limitations on the eligibility for use of educational assistance under All-Volunteer Force Educational Assistance Program, to improve veterans education outreach, and for other purposes SUPPORTS. 922 Veterans Equipped for Success Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Labor to carry out a pilot program on providing wage subsidies to employers who employ certain veterans and members of the Armed Forces and require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program on providing career transition services to young veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 944 Veterans Educational Transition Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require courses of education provided by public institutions of higher education that are approved for purposes of the All-Volunteer Force Educational Assistance Program and Post-9/11 Educational Assistance to charge veterans tuition and fees at the in-State tuition rate, and for other purposes OPPOSE

H.R. 331 -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to permit the centralized reporting of veteran enrollment by certain groups, districts, and consortiums of educational institutions ~ To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to permit the centralized reporting of veteran enrollment by certain groups, districts, and consortiums of educational institutions OPPOSEH.R. 562 -- VRAP Extension Act of 2013 ~ To provide for a three-month extension of the Veterans Retraining Assistance Program administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1453 -- Work-Study for Student Veterans Act ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to extend the authority to provide work-study allowance for certain activities by individuals receiving educational assistance by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 2011 -- Veterans Advisory Committee on Education Improvement Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for a two-year extension of the Veterans Advisory Committee on Education SUPPORT H.R. 2210 -- Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship Improvement Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand the eligibility of children of certain deceased veterans to educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 2481 -- Veterans G.I. Bill Enrollment Clarification Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to codify and improve the election requirements for the receipt of educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance program of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 357 / S. 257 -- GI Bill Tuition Fairness Act of 2013 ~ Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA), for purposes of the educational assistance programs administered by the Secretary, to disapprove courses of education provided by public institutions of higher education that do not charge tuition and fees for veterans at the same rate that is charged for in-state residents, regardless of the veterans state of residence SUPPORT S. 262 -- Veterans Education Equity Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide equity for tuition and fees for individuals entitled to educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs who are pursuing programs of education at institutions of higher learning, and for other purposes OPPOSE S. 514 -- A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide additional educational assistance under Post-9/11 Educational Assistance to veterans pursuing a degree in science, technology, engineering, math, or an area that leads to employment in a high-demand occupation, and for other purposes ~ A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide additional educational assistance under Post-9/11 Educational Assistance to veterans pursuing a degree in science, technology, engineering, math, or an area that leads to employment in a high-demand occupation, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 515 -- A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to extend the Yellow Ribbon G.I. Education Enhancement Program to cover recipients of Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry scholarship, and for other purposes ~ A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to extend the Yellow Ribbon G.I. Education Enhancement Program to cover recipients of Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry scholarship, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 522 -- Wounded Warrior Workforce Enhancement Act ~ To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to award grants to establish, or expand upon, masters degree or doctoral degree programs in orthotics and prosthetics, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 863 -- Veterans Back to School Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to repeal time limitations on the eligibility for use of educational assistance under All-Volunteer Force Educational Assistance Program, to improve veterans education outreach, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 894 -- A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to extend expiring authority for work-study allowances for individuals who are pursuing programs of rehabilitation, education, or training under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, to expand such authority to certain outreach services provided through congressional offices, and for other purposes ~A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to extend expiring authority for work-study allowances for individuals who are pursuing programs of rehabilitation, education, or training under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, to expand such authority to certain outreach services provided through congressional offices, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 922 -- Veterans Equipped for Success Act of 2013 ~ To require the Secretary of Labor to carry out a pilot program on providing wage subsidies to employers who employ certain veterans and members of the Armed Forces and require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program on providing career transition services to young veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 944 -- Veterans Educational Transition Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to require courses of education provided by public institutions of higher education that are approved for purposes of the All-Volunteer Force Educational Assistance Program and Post-9/11 Educational Assistance to charge veterans tuition and fees at the in-State tuition rate, and for other purposes OPPOSE

P.L. 113-37 Department of Veterans Affairs Expiring Authorities Act of 2013 -- Authorizes specified appropriations for the period October 1-December 31, 2013, to pay a monthly assistance allowance to a veteran with a disability invited by the United States Olympic Committee (USOC) to compete for a slot on, or selected for, the Paralympics Team; extends authority for various VA programs SUPPORTH.R. 241 Veterans Timely Access to Health Care Act -- Directs the VA Secretary to ensure that the standard for access to care for a veteran seeking hospital care and medical services from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is 30 days from the date the veteran contacts the VA. Directs the Secretary to periodically review the performance of VA medical facilities in meeting such standard. Requires quarterly reports from the Secretary to the congressional veterans committees on the VAs experience with respect to appointment waiting times SUPPORT H.R. 569 Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2013, 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 OPPOSE H.R. 570 American Heroes COLA Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., 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 OPPOSE H.R. 813 Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 894 To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the supervision of fiduciaries of veterans under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the supervision of fiduciaries of veterans under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 1443 Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DoD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494 Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1623 VA Claims Efficiency Through Information Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to make publicly available certain information about pending and completed claims for compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1702 Veterans Transportation Service Act -- Makes permanent (under current law, expires on January 10, 2014) the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in connection with vocational rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, or care SUPPORT H.R. 1809 To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide notice of average times for processing claims and percentage of claims approved, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide notice of average times for processing claims and percentage of claims approved, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072 Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to the Inspector General of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORTH.R. 2086 Pay As You Rate Act -- To direct the Secretary to make interim payments of disability compensation benefits for certain claims for such compensation prior to the adjudication of such claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2138 Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2216 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2423 Disabled Veterans Access to Medical Exams Improvement Act -- To improve the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into contracts with private physicians to conduct medical disability examinations SUPPORT H.R. 2847 Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense (DoD) and Veterans Affairs (VA) to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines "assistance dog" to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 671; S. 294 Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679; S. 629 Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1288; S. 1361 World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1402; S. 695 Veterans Paralympic Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to pay a monthly assistance allowance to disabled veterans training or competing for the Paralympic Team and the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide assistance to United States Paralympics, Inc. SUPPORT S. 455 To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, and care, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, and care, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 529 To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 543 VISN Reorganization Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reorganize the Veterans Integrated Service Networks of the Veterans Health Administration, and for other purposes OPPOSES. 674 Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To require prompt responses from the heads of covered Federal agencies when the Secretary of Veterans Affairs requests information necessary to adjudicate claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 735 Survivor Benefits Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve benefits and assistance provided to surviving spouses of veterans under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 778 A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue cards to veterans that identify them as veterans, and for other purposes -- A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue cards to veterans that identify them as veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 819 Veterans Mental Health Treatment First Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require a program of mental health care and rehabilitation for veterans for service-related post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety disorder, or a related substance use disorder, and for other purposes OPPOSE S. 832 Improving the Lives of Children with Spina Bifida Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out pilot programs on furnishing case management services and assisted living to children of Vietnam veterans and certain Korea service veterans born with spina bifida and children of women Vietnam veterans born with certain birth defects, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 845 To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professionals Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professionals Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851 Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 852 Veterans Health Promotion Act of 2013 -- To improve health care furnished by the Department of Veterans Affairs by increasing access to complementary and alternative medicine and other approaches to wellness and preventive care, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 877 Veterans Affairs Research Transparency Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to allow public access to research of the Department, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 893 Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 -- To provide for an increase, effective December 1, 2013, 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 SUPPORT S. 927 Veterans Outreach Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a demonstration project to assess the feasibility and advisability of using State and local government agencies and nonprofit organizations to increase awareness of benefits and services for veterans and to improve coordination of outreach activities relating to such benefits and services, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 928 Claims Processing Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the processing of claims for compensation under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. --- The American Legion SUPPORTS portions of this measure, especially Sections 103 and 301; The American Legion OPPOSES reducing the appellate rights of veterans, especially as concerned in sections 201 and 202; and there are still other portions of this legislation that The American Legion holds no official position on at this time.S. 932 Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to provide for advance appropriations for certain discretionary accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT S. 939 A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to treat certain misfiled documents as motions for reconsideration of decisions by the Board of Veterans' Appeals, and for other purposes -- A bill to amend title 38, U.S.C., to treat certain misfiled documents as motions for reconsideration of decisions by the Board of Veterans' Appeals, and for other purposes SUPPORT

P.L. 113-46 -- Continuing Appropriations Act, 2014Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through January 15, 2014 SUPPORT P.L. 113-52 -- Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 Would provide for an increase, effectiveDecember 1, 2013, 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 SUPPORT P.L. 113-59 -- VA Expiring Authorities Extension Act of 2013To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend certain expiring provisions of law, and for other purposes, including: Extension of authority to transport certain individuals to and from VA facilities; Extension of authority for operation of the VA regional office in Manila, the Republic of the Philippines. Extension of requirement to provide nursing home care to certain veterans with service-connected disabilities. Extension of treatment and rehabilitation services for seriously mentally ill and homeless veterans. Extension of authority to provide housing assistance for homeless veterans. Extension of authority for the Advisory Committee on Homeless Veterans. Extension of authority for the Veterans Advisory Commission on Education. Extension of requirements relating to vendee loans. Extension of authority for the performance of medical disabilities examinations by contract physicians Would amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to pay a monthly assistance allowance to disabled veterans training or competing for the Paralympic Team and the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide assistance to United States Paralympics, Inc. SUPPORT H.R. 1443 -- Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494 -- Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability ActDirects the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072 -- Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013Amends title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2138 -- Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability ActWould direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847 -- Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013Directs the Secretaries of Defense (DOD) and Veterans Affairs (VA) to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines "assistance dog" to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense - SUPPORT H.R. 671; S. 294 -- Ruth Moore Act of 2013Would amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes - SUPPORT H.R. 679; S. 629 -- Honoring America's Guard-Reserves Act of 2013Amends title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes - SUPPORTH.R. 813; S. 932 -- Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288; S. 1361 -- World War II Merchant Mariner Service ActDirect the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499; S. 1155 -- Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement ActProvides for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORT S. 529 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposesAmends title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851 -- Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013Amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148 -- Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing ActAmend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295 -- A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposesWould amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296 -- Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013Will amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411 -- Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013Specifies requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579 -- SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013Will amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 -- Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013Requires the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584 -- A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposesWould amend title 28, United States Code, to providereplacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585 -- A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of MortalityAmends title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586 -- Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013Will amend title 38, United States Code, to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589 -- Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans Integrated Service Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE bill as written S. 1604 -- Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013Would amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT

H.R. 241 -- Veterans Timely Access to Health Care Act ~ Directs the VA Secretary to ensure that the standard for access to care for a veteran seeking hospital care and medical services from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is 30 days from the date the veteran contacts the VA. Also directs the Secretary to periodically review the performance of VA medical facilities in meeting such standard. Requires quarterly reports from the Secretary to the congressional veterans committees on the VAs experience withwith respect to appointment waiting times SUPPORT H.R. 569 -- Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 ~ To increase, effective as of December 1, 2013, 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 OPPOSE H.R. 570 -- American Heroes COLA Act ~ 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 OPPOSE H.R. 894 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the supervision of fiduciaries of veterans under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs ~ Amend title 38, USC, to improve the supervision of fiduciaries of veterans under the laws administered by VA Secretary SUPPORT H.R. 1288 -- World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act ~ Direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1402 -- Veterans Paralympic Act of 2013 ~ Amend title 38, United States Code, to extend the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to pay a monthly assistance allowance to disabled veterans training or competing for the Paralympic Team and the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide assistance to United States Paralympics, Inc. SUPPORT H.R. 1494 -- Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act ~ Direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1623 -- VA Claims Efficiency Through Information Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to make publicly available certain information about pending and completed claims for compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1809 -- Amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide notice of average times for processing claims and percentage of claims approved, and for other purposes ~ To amend title 38, USC, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide notice of average times for claims processing and approval percentage of same, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072 -- Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the accountability of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to the Inspector General of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 2086 -- Pay As You Rate Act ~ To direct the Secretary to make interim payments of disability compensation benefits for certain claims for such compensation prior to the adjudication of such claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2138 -- Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act ~ To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2216 -- Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2014 ~ Making appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORTH.R. 2423 -- Disabled Veterans Access to Medical Exams Improvement Act ~ To improve the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into contracts with private physicians to conduct medical disability examinations SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294 -- Ruth Moore Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 455 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, and care, and for other purposes. ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, and care, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 529 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 543 -- VISN Reorganization Act of 2013 ~ To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reorganize the Veterans Integrated Service Networks of the Veterans Health Administration, and for other purposes OPPOSE S. 629 -- Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 674 -- Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 ~ To require prompt responses from the heads of covered Federal agencies when the Secretary of Veterans Affairs requests information necessary to adjudicate claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 735 -- Survivor Benefits Improvement Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve benefits and assistance provided to surviving spouses of veterans under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 778 -- A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue cards to veterans that identify them as veterans, and for other purposes ~ A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue cards to veterans that identify them as veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 819 -- Veterans Mental Health Treatment First Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to require a program of mental health care and rehabilitation for veterans for service-related post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety disorder, or a related substance use disorder, and for other purposes OPPOSE S. 832 -- Improving the Lives of Children with Spina Bifida Act of 2013 ~ To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out pilot programs on furnishing case management services and assisted living to children of Vietnam veterans and certain Korea service veterans born with spina bifida and children of women Vietnam veterans born with certain birth defects, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 845 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professionals Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professionals Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes SUPPORTS. 851 -- Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 852 -- Veterans Health Promotion Act of 2013 ~ To improve health care furnished by the Department of Veterans Affairs by increasing access to complementary and alternative medicine and other approaches to wellness and preventive care, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 877 -- Veterans Affairs Research Transparency Act of 2013 ~ To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to allow public access to research of the Department, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 893 -- Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 ~ To provide for an increase, effective December 1, 2013, 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 SUPPORT S. 927 -- Veterans Outreach Act of 2013 ~ To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a demonstration project to assess the feasibility and advisability of using State and local government agencies and nonprofit organizations to increase awareness of benefits and services for veterans and to improve coordination of outreach activities relating to such benefits and services, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 928 -- Claims Processing Improvement Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the processing of claims for compensation under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT: Section 103 improve communications and relevant information sharing between VA and all federal agencies; Section 106 quarterly report from VA concerning backlog reduction/elimination as a means to show progress toward removing the lack of transparency; Section 301 maintaining operations to serve veterans in the Philippines; Section 303 extends marriage delimiting date for surviving spouses of Persian Gulf War veterans to qualify for death pension to a date 10 years after this war is officially declared ended. OPPOSE: Section 201 reducing the filing deadline for an appeal from 365 days to 180 days; Section 202 - reducing the appellate rights of veterans. S. 932 -- Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for advance appropriations for certain discretionary accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT S. 939 -- A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to treat certain misfiled documents as motions for reconsideration of decisions by the Board of Veterans' Appeals, and for other purposes ~ A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to treat certain misfiled documents as motions for reconsideration of decisions by the Board of Veterans' Appeals, and for other purposes SUPPORT

H.R. 241 -- Veterans Timely Access to Health Care Act ~ Directs the VA Secretary to ensure that the standard for access to care for a veteran seeking hospital care and medical services from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is 30 days from the date the veteran contacts the VA. Also directs the Secretary to periodically review the performance of VA medical facilities in meeting such standard. Requires quarterly reports from the Secretary to the congressional veterans committees on the VAs experience withwith respect to appointment waiting times SUPPORT H.R. 569 -- Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 ~ To increase, effective as of December 1, 2013, 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 OPPOSE H.R. 570 -- American Heroes COLA Act ~ 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 OPPOSE H.R. 894 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the supervision of fiduciaries of veterans under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs ~ Amend title 38, USC, to improve the supervision of fiduciaries of veterans under the laws administered by VA Secretary SUPPORT H.R. 1288 -- World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act ~ Direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1402 -- Veterans Paralympic Act of 2013 ~ Amend title 38, United States Code, to extend the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to pay a monthly assistance allowance to disabled veterans training or competing for the Paralympic Team and the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide assistance to United States Paralympics, Inc. SUPPORT H.R. 1494 -- Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act ~ Direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1623 -- VA Claims Efficiency Through Information Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to make publicly available certain information about pending and completed claims for compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1809 -- Amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide notice of average times for processing claims and percentage of claims approved, and for other purposes ~ To amend title 38, USC, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide notice of average times for claims processing and approval percentage of same, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072 -- Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the accountability of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to the Inspector General of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 2086 -- Pay As You Rate Act ~ To direct the Secretary to make interim payments of disability compensation benefits for certain claims for such compensation prior to the adjudication of such claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2138 -- Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act ~ To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2216 -- Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2014 ~ Making appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORTH.R. 2423 -- Disabled Veterans Access to Medical Exams Improvement Act ~ To improve the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into contracts with private physicians to conduct medical disability examinations SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294 -- Ruth Moore Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 455 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, and care, and for other purposes. ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, and care, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 529 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 543 -- VISN Reorganization Act of 2013 ~ To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reorganize the Veterans Integrated Service Networks of the Veterans Health Administration, and for other purposes OPPOSE S. 629 -- Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 674 -- Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 ~ To require prompt responses from the heads of covered Federal agencies when the Secretary of Veterans Affairs requests information necessary to adjudicate claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 735 -- Survivor Benefits Improvement Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve benefits and assistance provided to surviving spouses of veterans under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 778 -- A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue cards to veterans that identify them as veterans, and for other purposes ~ A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue cards to veterans that identify them as veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 819 -- Veterans Mental Health Treatment First Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to require a program of mental health care and rehabilitation for veterans for service-related post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety disorder, or a related substance use disorder, and for other purposes OPPOSE S. 832 -- Improving the Lives of Children with Spina Bifida Act of 2013 ~ To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out pilot programs on furnishing case management services and assisted living to children of Vietnam veterans and certain Korea service veterans born with spina bifida and children of women Vietnam veterans born with certain birth defects, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 845 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professionals Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professionals Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes SUPPORTS. 851 -- Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 852 -- Veterans Health Promotion Act of 2013 ~ To improve health care furnished by the Department of Veterans Affairs by increasing access to complementary and alternative medicine and other approaches to wellness and preventive care, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 877 -- Veterans Affairs Research Transparency Act of 2013 ~ To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to allow public access to research of the Department, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 893 -- Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 ~ To provide for an increase, effective December 1, 2013, 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 SUPPORT S. 927 -- Veterans Outreach Act of 2013 ~ To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a demonstration project to assess the feasibility and advisability of using State and local government agencies and nonprofit organizations to increase awareness of benefits and services for veterans and to improve coordination of outreach activities relating to such benefits and services, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 928 -- Claims Processing Improvement Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the processing of claims for compensation under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT: Section 103 improve communications and relevant information sharing between VA and all federal agencies; Section 106 quarterly report from VA concerning backlog reduction/elimination as a means to show progress toward removing the lack of transparency; Section 301 maintaining operations to serve veterans in the Philippines; Section 303 extends marriage delimiting date for surviving spouses of Persian Gulf War veterans to qualify for death pension to a date 10 years after this war is officially declared ended. OPPOSE: Section 201 reducing the filing deadline for an appeal from 365 days to 180 days; Section 202 - reducing the appellate rights of veterans. S. 932 -- Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for advance appropriations for certain discretionary accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT S. 939 -- A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to treat certain misfiled documents as motions for reconsideration of decisions by the Board of Veterans' Appeals, and for other purposes ~ A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to treat certain misfiled documents as motions for reconsideration of decisions by the Board of Veterans' Appeals, and for other purposes SUPPORT

P.L. 113-46 -- Continuing Appropriations Act, 2014Making continuing appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year 2014, through January 15, 2014 SUPPORT P.L. 113-52 -- Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 Would provide for an increase, effectiveDecember 1, 2013, 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 SUPPORT P.L. 113-59 -- VA Expiring Authorities Extension Act of 2013To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend certain expiring provisions of law, and for other purposes, including: Extension of authority to transport certain individuals to and from VA facilities; Extension of authority for operation of the VA regional office in Manila, the Republic of the Philippines. Extension of requirement to provide nursing home care to certain veterans with service-connected disabilities. Extension of treatment and rehabilitation services for seriously mentally ill and homeless veterans. Extension of authority to provide housing assistance for homeless veterans. Extension of authority for the Advisory Committee on Homeless Veterans. Extension of authority for the Veterans Advisory Commission on Education. Extension of requirements relating to vendee loans. Extension of authority for the performance of medical disabilities examinations by contract physicians Would amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to pay a monthly assistance allowance to disabled veterans training or competing for the Paralympic Team and the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide assistance to United States Paralympics, Inc. SUPPORT H.R. 1443 -- Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DOD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494 -- Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability ActDirects the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072 -- Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013Amends title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the VA Secretary to the Inspector General of the VA SUPPORT H.R. 2138 -- Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability ActWould direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2847 -- Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013Directs the Secretaries of Defense (DOD) and Veterans Affairs (VA) to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines "assistance dog" to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense - SUPPORT H.R. 671; S. 294 -- Ruth Moore Act of 2013Would amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes - SUPPORT H.R. 679; S. 629 -- Honoring America's Guard-Reserves Act of 2013Amends title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes - SUPPORTH.R. 813; S. 932 -- Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 1288; S. 1361 -- World War II Merchant Mariner Service ActDirect the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II SUPPORT H.R. 3499; S. 1155 -- Rural Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement ActProvides for advance appropriations for certain information technology accounts of the VA, to include mental health professionals in training programs of the Department SUPPORT S. 529 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposesAmends title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851 -- Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013Amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 1148 -- Veterans Benefits Claims Faster Filing ActAmend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the VA Secretary to provide notice of average times for processing claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1295 -- A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organiza-tions, and for other purposesWould amend title 38, U.S.C., to require the VA Secretary to provide veterans with notice, when veterans electronically file claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, that relevant services may be available from veterans service organizations, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1296 -- Servicemembers Electronic Health Records Act of 2013Will amend the Wounded Warrior Act to establish a specific timeline for the DoD and VA Secretaries to achieve interoperable electronic health records, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1411 -- Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2013Specifies requirements for the next update of the current strategic plan for the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs for improving access to, and the quality of, health care services for veterans in rural areas SUPPORT S. 1579 -- SCRA Enhancement and Improvement Act of 2013Will amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to improve the protections provided to members of the uniformed services and their families, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1583 -- Mental Health Support for Veterans Families and Caregivers Act of 2013Requires the VA Secretary to conduct an education program and peer support program for the education and training of family members and caregivers of veterans with mental health disorders SUPPORT S. 1584 -- A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposesWould amend title 28, United States Code, to providereplacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1585 -- A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of MortalityAmends title 38, U.S.C., to update the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program to base premium rates on the Commissioners 2001 Standard Ordinary Mortality Table instead of the Commissioners 1941 Standard Ordinary Table of Mortality SUPPORT S. 1586 -- Enhanced Dental Care for Veterans Act of 2013Will amend title 38, United States Code, to improve dental health care for veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 1589 -- Improving Quality of Care Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Act of 2013To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs has an up-to-date policy on reporting of cases of infectious diseases, to require an independent assessment of the Veterans Integrated Service Networks and medical centers of the Department, and for other purposes OPPOSE bill as written S. 1604 -- Veterans Health Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2013Would amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and enhance eligibility for health care and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT

H.R. 241 -- Veterans Timely Access to Health Care Act ~ Directs the VA Secretary to ensure that the standard for access to care for a veteran seeking hospital care and medical services from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is 30 days from the date the veteran contacts the VA. Also directs the Secretary to periodically review the performance of VA medical facilities in meeting such standard. Requires quarterly reports from the Secretary to the congressional veterans committees on the VAs experience withwith respect to appointment waiting times SUPPORT H.R. 569 -- Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 ~ To increase, effective as of December 1, 2013, 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 OPPOSE H.R. 570 -- American Heroes COLA Act ~ 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 OPPOSE H.R. 894 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the supervision of fiduciaries of veterans under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs ~ Amend title 38, USC, to improve the supervision of fiduciaries of veterans under the laws administered by VA Secretary SUPPORT H.R. 1288 -- World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act ~ Direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1402 -- Veterans Paralympic Act of 2013 ~ Amend title 38, United States Code, to extend the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to pay a monthly assistance allowance to disabled veterans training or competing for the Paralympic Team and the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide assistance to United States Paralympics, Inc. SUPPORT H.R. 1494 -- Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act ~ Direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1623 -- VA Claims Efficiency Through Information Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to make publicly available certain information about pending and completed claims for compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1809 -- Amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide notice of average times for processing claims and percentage of claims approved, and for other purposes ~ To amend title 38, USC, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide notice of average times for claims processing and approval percentage of same, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072 -- Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the accountability of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to the Inspector General of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 2086 -- Pay As You Rate Act ~ To direct the Secretary to make interim payments of disability compensation benefits for certain claims for such compensation prior to the adjudication of such claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2138 -- Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act ~ To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2216 -- Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2014 ~ Making appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORTH.R. 2423 -- Disabled Veterans Access to Medical Exams Improvement Act ~ To improve the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into contracts with private physicians to conduct medical disability examinations SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294 -- Ruth Moore Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 455 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, and care, and for other purposes. ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, and care, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 529 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 543 -- VISN Reorganization Act of 2013 ~ To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reorganize the Veterans Integrated Service Networks of the Veterans Health Administration, and for other purposes OPPOSE S. 629 -- Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 674 -- Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 ~ To require prompt responses from the heads of covered Federal agencies when the Secretary of Veterans Affairs requests information necessary to adjudicate claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 735 -- Survivor Benefits Improvement Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve benefits and assistance provided to surviving spouses of veterans under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 778 -- A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue cards to veterans that identify them as veterans, and for other purposes ~ A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue cards to veterans that identify them as veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 819 -- Veterans Mental Health Treatment First Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to require a program of mental health care and rehabilitation for veterans for service-related post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety disorder, or a related substance use disorder, and for other purposes OPPOSE S. 832 -- Improving the Lives of Children with Spina Bifida Act of 2013 ~ To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out pilot programs on furnishing case management services and assisted living to children of Vietnam veterans and certain Korea service veterans born with spina bifida and children of women Vietnam veterans born with certain birth defects, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 845 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professionals Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professionals Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes SUPPORTS. 851 -- Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 852 -- Veterans Health Promotion Act of 2013 ~ To improve health care furnished by the Department of Veterans Affairs by increasing access to complementary and alternative medicine and other approaches to wellness and preventive care, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 877 -- Veterans Affairs Research Transparency Act of 2013 ~ To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to allow public access to research of the Department, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 893 -- Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 ~ To provide for an increase, effective December 1, 2013, 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 SUPPORT S. 927 -- Veterans Outreach Act of 2013 ~ To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a demonstration project to assess the feasibility and advisability of using State and local government agencies and nonprofit organizations to increase awareness of benefits and services for veterans and to improve coordination of outreach activities relating to such benefits and services, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 928 -- Claims Processing Improvement Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the processing of claims for compensation under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT: Section 103 improve communications and relevant information sharing between VA and all federal agencies; Section 106 quarterly report from VA concerning backlog reduction/elimination as a means to show progress toward removing the lack of transparency; Section 301 maintaining operations to serve veterans in the Philippines; Section 303 extends marriage delimiting date for surviving spouses of Persian Gulf War veterans to qualify for death pension to a date 10 years after this war is officially declared ended. OPPOSE: Section 201 reducing the filing deadline for an appeal from 365 days to 180 days; Section 202 - reducing the appellate rights of veterans. S. 932 -- Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for advance appropriations for certain discretionary accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT S. 939 -- A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to treat certain misfiled documents as motions for reconsideration of decisions by the Board of Veterans' Appeals, and for other purposes ~ A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to treat certain misfiled documents as motions for reconsideration of decisions by the Board of Veterans' Appeals, and for other purposes SUPPORT

P.L. 113-37 Department of Veterans Affairs Expiring Authorities Act of 2013 -- Authorizes specified appropriations for the period October 1-December 31, 2013, to pay a monthly assistance allowance to a veteran with a disability invited by the United States Olympic Committee (USOC) to compete for a slot on, or selected for, the Paralympics Team; extends authority for various VA programs SUPPORTH.R. 241 Veterans Timely Access to Health Care Act -- Directs the VA Secretary to ensure that the standard for access to care for a veteran seeking hospital care and medical services from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is 30 days from the date the veteran contacts the VA. Directs the Secretary to periodically review the performance of VA medical facilities in meeting such standard. Requires quarterly reports from the Secretary to the congressional veterans committees on the VAs experience with respect to appointment waiting times SUPPORT H.R. 569 Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2013, 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 OPPOSE H.R. 570 American Heroes COLA Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., 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 OPPOSE H.R. 813 Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 894 To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the supervision of fiduciaries of veterans under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the supervision of fiduciaries of veterans under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 1443 Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DoD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494 Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1623 VA Claims Efficiency Through Information Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to make publicly available certain information about pending and completed claims for compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1702 Veterans Transportation Service Act -- Makes permanent (under current law, expires on January 10, 2014) the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in connection with vocational rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, or care SUPPORT H.R. 1809 To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide notice of average times for processing claims and percentage of claims approved, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide notice of average times for processing claims and percentage of claims approved, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072 Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to the Inspector General of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORTH.R. 2086 Pay As You Rate Act -- To direct the Secretary to make interim payments of disability compensation benefits for certain claims for such compensation prior to the adjudication of such claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2138 Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2216 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2423 Disabled Veterans Access to Medical Exams Improvement Act -- To improve the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into contracts with private physicians to conduct medical disability examinations SUPPORT H.R. 2847 Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense (DoD) and Veterans Affairs (VA) to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines "assistance dog" to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 671; S. 294 Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679; S. 629 Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1288; S. 1361 World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1402; S. 695 Veterans Paralympic Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to pay a monthly assistance allowance to disabled veterans training or competing for the Paralympic Team and the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide assistance to United States Paralympics, Inc. SUPPORT S. 455 To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, and care, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, and care, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 529 To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 543 VISN Reorganization Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reorganize the Veterans Integrated Service Networks of the Veterans Health Administration, and for other purposes OPPOSES. 674 Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To require prompt responses from the heads of covered Federal agencies when the Secretary of Veterans Affairs requests information necessary to adjudicate claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 735 Survivor Benefits Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve benefits and assistance provided to surviving spouses of veterans under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 778 A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue cards to veterans that identify them as veterans, and for other purposes -- A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue cards to veterans that identify them as veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 819 Veterans Mental Health Treatment First Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require a program of mental health care and rehabilitation for veterans for service-related post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety disorder, or a related substance use disorder, and for other purposes OPPOSE S. 832 Improving the Lives of Children with Spina Bifida Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out pilot programs on furnishing case management services and assisted living to children of Vietnam veterans and certain Korea service veterans born with spina bifida and children of women Vietnam veterans born with certain birth defects, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 845 To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professionals Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professionals Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851 Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 852 Veterans Health Promotion Act of 2013 -- To improve health care furnished by the Department of Veterans Affairs by increasing access to complementary and alternative medicine and other approaches to wellness and preventive care, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 877 Veterans Affairs Research Transparency Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to allow public access to research of the Department, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 893 Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 -- To provide for an increase, effective December 1, 2013, 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 SUPPORT S. 927 Veterans Outreach Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a demonstration project to assess the feasibility and advisability of using State and local government agencies and nonprofit organizations to increase awareness of benefits and services for veterans and to improve coordination of outreach activities relating to such benefits and services, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 928 Claims Processing Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the processing of claims for compensation under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. --- The American Legion SUPPORTS portions of this measure, especially Sections 103 and 301; The American Legion OPPOSES reducing the appellate rights of veterans, especially as concerned in sections 201 and 202; and there are still other portions of this legislation that The American Legion holds no official position on at this time.S. 932 Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to provide for advance appropriations for certain discretionary accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT S. 939 A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to treat certain misfiled documents as motions for reconsideration of decisions by the Board of Veterans' Appeals, and for other purposes -- A bill to amend title 38, U.S.C., to treat certain misfiled documents as motions for reconsideration of decisions by the Board of Veterans' Appeals, and for other purposes SUPPORT

H.R. 331 To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to permit the centralized reporting of veteran enrollment by certain groups, districts, and consortiums of educational institutions -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to permit the centralized reporting of veteran enrollment by certain groups, districts, and consortiums of educational institutions OPPOSEH.R. 562 VRAP Extension Act of 2013 -- To provide for a three-month extension of the Veterans Retraining Assistance Program administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1453 Work-Study for Student Veterans Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend the authority to provide work-study allowance for certain activities by individuals receiving educational assistance by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 2011 Veterans Advisory Committee on Education Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to provide for a two-year extension of the Veterans Advisory Committee on Education SUPPORT H.R. 2210 Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to expand the eligibility of children of certain deceased veterans to educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 2481 Veterans G.I. Bill Enrollment Clarification Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to codify and improve the election requirements for the receipt of educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance program of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 357; S. 257 GI Bill Tuition Fairness Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA), for purposes of the educational assistance programs administered by the Secretary, to disapprove courses of education provided by public institutions of higher education that do not charge tuition and fees for veterans at the same rate that is charged for in-state residents, regardless of the veterans state of residence SUPPORT H.R. 2151; S. 894 A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to extend expiring authority for work-study allowances for individuals who are pursuing programs of rehabilitation, education, or training under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, to expand such authority to certain outreach services provided through congressional offices, and for other purposes -- A bill to amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend expiring authority for work-study allowances for individuals who are pursuing programs of rehabilitation, education, or training under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, to expand such authority to certain outreach services provided through congressional offices, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 262 Veterans Education Equity Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to provide equity for tuition and fees for individuals entitled to educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs who are pursuing programs of education at institutions of higher learning, and for other purposes OPPOSE S. 514 A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide additional educational assistance under Post-9/11 Educational Assistance to veterans pursuing a degree in science, technology, engineering, math, or an area that leads to employment in a high-demand occupation, and for other purposes -- A bill to amend title 38, U.S.C., to provide additional educational assistance under Post-9/11 Educational Assistance to veterans pursuing a degree in science, technology, engineering, math, or an area that leads to employment in a high-demand occupation, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 515A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to extend the Yellow Ribbon G.I. Education Enhancement Program to cover recipients of Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry scholarship, and for other purposes -- A bill to amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend the Yellow Ribbon G.I. Education Enhancement Program to cover recipients of Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry scholarship, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 522 Wounded Warrior Workforce Enhancement Act -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to award grants to establish, or expand upon, masters degree or doctoral degree programs in orthotics and prosthetics, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 863 Veterans Back to School Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to repeal time limitations on the eligibility for use of educational assistance under All-Volunteer Force Educational Assistance Program, to improve veterans education outreach, and for other purposes SUPPORTS. 922 Veterans Equipped for Success Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Labor to carry out a pilot program on providing wage subsidies to employers who employ certain veterans and members of the Armed Forces and require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program on providing career transition services to young veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 944 Veterans Educational Transition Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require courses of education provided by public institutions of higher education that are approved for purposes of the All-Volunteer Force Educational Assistance Program and Post-9/11 Educational Assistance to charge veterans tuition and fees at the in-State tuition rate, and for other purposes OPPOSE

H.R. 331 To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to permit the centralized reporting of veteran enrollment by certain groups, districts, and consortiums of educational institutions -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to permit the centralized reporting of veteran enrollment by certain groups, districts, and consortiums of educational institutions OPPOSEH.R. 562 VRAP Extension Act of 2013 -- To provide for a three-month extension of the Veterans Retraining Assistance Program administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1453 Work-Study for Student Veterans Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend the authority to provide work-study allowance for certain activities by individuals receiving educational assistance by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 2011 Veterans Advisory Committee on Education Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to provide for a two-year extension of the Veterans Advisory Committee on Education SUPPORT H.R. 2210 Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to expand the eligibility of children of certain deceased veterans to educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 2481 Veterans G.I. Bill Enrollment Clarification Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to codify and improve the election requirements for the receipt of educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance program of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 357; S. 257 GI Bill Tuition Fairness Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA), for purposes of the educational assistance programs administered by the Secretary, to disapprove courses of education provided by public institutions of higher education that do not charge tuition and fees for veterans at the same rate that is charged for in-state residents, regardless of the veterans state of residence SUPPORT H.R. 2151; S. 894 A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to extend expiring authority for work-study allowances for individuals who are pursuing programs of rehabilitation, education, or training under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, to expand such authority to certain outreach services provided through congressional offices, and for other purposes -- A bill to amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend expiring authority for work-study allowances for individuals who are pursuing programs of rehabilitation, education, or training under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, to expand such authority to certain outreach services provided through congressional offices, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 262 Veterans Education Equity Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to provide equity for tuition and fees for individuals entitled to educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs who are pursuing programs of education at institutions of higher learning, and for other purposes OPPOSE S. 514 A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide additional educational assistance under Post-9/11 Educational Assistance to veterans pursuing a degree in science, technology, engineering, math, or an area that leads to employment in a high-demand occupation, and for other purposes -- A bill to amend title 38, U.S.C., to provide additional educational assistance under Post-9/11 Educational Assistance to veterans pursuing a degree in science, technology, engineering, math, or an area that leads to employment in a high-demand occupation, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 515A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to extend the Yellow Ribbon G.I. Education Enhancement Program to cover recipients of Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry scholarship, and for other purposes -- A bill to amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend the Yellow Ribbon G.I. Education Enhancement Program to cover recipients of Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry scholarship, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 522 Wounded Warrior Workforce Enhancement Act -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to award grants to establish, or expand upon, masters degree or doctoral degree programs in orthotics and prosthetics, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 863 Veterans Back to School Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to repeal time limitations on the eligibility for use of educational assistance under All-Volunteer Force Educational Assistance Program, to improve veterans education outreach, and for other purposes SUPPORTS. 922 Veterans Equipped for Success Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Labor to carry out a pilot program on providing wage subsidies to employers who employ certain veterans and members of the Armed Forces and require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program on providing career transition services to young veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 944 Veterans Educational Transition Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require courses of education provided by public institutions of higher education that are approved for purposes of the All-Volunteer Force Educational Assistance Program and Post-9/11 Educational Assistance to charge veterans tuition and fees at the in-State tuition rate, and for other purposes OPPOSE

H.R. 331 -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to permit the centralized reporting of veteran enrollment by certain groups, districts, and consortiums of educational institutions ~ To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to permit the centralized reporting of veteran enrollment by certain groups, districts, and consortiums of educational institutions OPPOSEH.R. 562 -- VRAP Extension Act of 2013 ~ To provide for a three-month extension of the Veterans Retraining Assistance Program administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1453 -- Work-Study for Student Veterans Act ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to extend the authority to provide work-study allowance for certain activities by individuals receiving educational assistance by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 2011 -- Veterans Advisory Committee on Education Improvement Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for a two-year extension of the Veterans Advisory Committee on Education SUPPORT H.R. 2210 -- Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship Improvement Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand the eligibility of children of certain deceased veterans to educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 2481 -- Veterans G.I. Bill Enrollment Clarification Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to codify and improve the election requirements for the receipt of educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance program of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 357 / S. 257 -- GI Bill Tuition Fairness Act of 2013 ~ Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA), for purposes of the educational assistance programs administered by the Secretary, to disapprove courses of education provided by public institutions of higher education that do not charge tuition and fees for veterans at the same rate that is charged for in-state residents, regardless of the veterans state of residence SUPPORT S. 262 -- Veterans Education Equity Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide equity for tuition and fees for individuals entitled to educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs who are pursuing programs of education at institutions of higher learning, and for other purposes OPPOSE S. 514 -- A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide additional educational assistance under Post-9/11 Educational Assistance to veterans pursuing a degree in science, technology, engineering, math, or an area that leads to employment in a high-demand occupation, and for other purposes ~ A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide additional educational assistance under Post-9/11 Educational Assistance to veterans pursuing a degree in science, technology, engineering, math, or an area that leads to employment in a high-demand occupation, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 515 -- A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to extend the Yellow Ribbon G.I. Education Enhancement Program to cover recipients of Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry scholarship, and for other purposes ~ A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to extend the Yellow Ribbon G.I. Education Enhancement Program to cover recipients of Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry scholarship, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 522 -- Wounded Warrior Workforce Enhancement Act ~ To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to award grants to establish, or expand upon, masters degree or doctoral degree programs in orthotics and prosthetics, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 863 -- Veterans Back to School Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to repeal time limitations on the eligibility for use of educational assistance under All-Volunteer Force Educational Assistance Program, to improve veterans education outreach, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 894 -- A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to extend expiring authority for work-study allowances for individuals who are pursuing programs of rehabilitation, education, or training under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, to expand such authority to certain outreach services provided through congressional offices, and for other purposes ~A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to extend expiring authority for work-study allowances for individuals who are pursuing programs of rehabilitation, education, or training under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, to expand such authority to certain outreach services provided through congressional offices, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 922 -- Veterans Equipped for Success Act of 2013 ~ To require the Secretary of Labor to carry out a pilot program on providing wage subsidies to employers who employ certain veterans and members of the Armed Forces and require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program on providing career transition services to young veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 944 -- Veterans Educational Transition Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to require courses of education provided by public institutions of higher education that are approved for purposes of the All-Volunteer Force Educational Assistance Program and Post-9/11 Educational Assistance to charge veterans tuition and fees at the in-State tuition rate, and for other purposes OPPOSE

H.R. 241 -- Veterans Timely Access to Health Care Act ~ Directs the VA Secretary to ensure that the standard for access to care for a veteran seeking hospital care and medical services from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is 30 days from the date the veteran contacts the VA. Also directs the Secretary to periodically review the performance of VA medical facilities in meeting such standard. Requires quarterly reports from the Secretary to the congressional veterans committees on the VAs experience withwith respect to appointment waiting times SUPPORT H.R. 569 -- Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 ~ To increase, effective as of December 1, 2013, 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 OPPOSE H.R. 570 -- American Heroes COLA Act ~ 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 OPPOSE H.R. 894 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the supervision of fiduciaries of veterans under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs ~ Amend title 38, USC, to improve the supervision of fiduciaries of veterans under the laws administered by VA Secretary SUPPORT H.R. 1288 -- World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act ~ Direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1402 -- Veterans Paralympic Act of 2013 ~ Amend title 38, United States Code, to extend the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to pay a monthly assistance allowance to disabled veterans training or competing for the Paralympic Team and the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide assistance to United States Paralympics, Inc. SUPPORT H.R. 1494 -- Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act ~ Direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1623 -- VA Claims Efficiency Through Information Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to make publicly available certain information about pending and completed claims for compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1809 -- Amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide notice of average times for processing claims and percentage of claims approved, and for other purposes ~ To amend title 38, USC, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide notice of average times for claims processing and approval percentage of same, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072 -- Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the accountability of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to the Inspector General of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 2086 -- Pay As You Rate Act ~ To direct the Secretary to make interim payments of disability compensation benefits for certain claims for such compensation prior to the adjudication of such claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2138 -- Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act ~ To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2216 -- Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2014 ~ Making appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORTH.R. 2423 -- Disabled Veterans Access to Medical Exams Improvement Act ~ To improve the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into contracts with private physicians to conduct medical disability examinations SUPPORT H.R. 671 / S. 294 -- Ruth Moore Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 455 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, and care, and for other purposes. ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, and care, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 529 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 543 -- VISN Reorganization Act of 2013 ~ To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reorganize the Veterans Integrated Service Networks of the Veterans Health Administration, and for other purposes OPPOSE S. 629 -- Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 674 -- Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 ~ To require prompt responses from the heads of covered Federal agencies when the Secretary of Veterans Affairs requests information necessary to adjudicate claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 735 -- Survivor Benefits Improvement Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve benefits and assistance provided to surviving spouses of veterans under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 778 -- A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue cards to veterans that identify them as veterans, and for other purposes ~ A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue cards to veterans that identify them as veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 819 -- Veterans Mental Health Treatment First Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to require a program of mental health care and rehabilitation for veterans for service-related post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety disorder, or a related substance use disorder, and for other purposes OPPOSE S. 832 -- Improving the Lives of Children with Spina Bifida Act of 2013 ~ To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out pilot programs on furnishing case management services and assisted living to children of Vietnam veterans and certain Korea service veterans born with spina bifida and children of women Vietnam veterans born with certain birth defects, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 845 -- To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professionals Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professionals Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes SUPPORTS. 851 -- Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 852 -- Veterans Health Promotion Act of 2013 ~ To improve health care furnished by the Department of Veterans Affairs by increasing access to complementary and alternative medicine and other approaches to wellness and preventive care, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 877 -- Veterans Affairs Research Transparency Act of 2013 ~ To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to allow public access to research of the Department, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 893 -- Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 ~ To provide for an increase, effective December 1, 2013, 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 SUPPORT S. 927 -- Veterans Outreach Act of 2013 ~ To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a demonstration project to assess the feasibility and advisability of using State and local government agencies and nonprofit organizations to increase awareness of benefits and services for veterans and to improve coordination of outreach activities relating to such benefits and services, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 928 -- Claims Processing Improvement Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the processing of claims for compensation under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT: Section 103 improve communications and relevant information sharing between VA and all federal agencies; Section 106 quarterly report from VA concerning backlog reduction/elimination as a means to show progress toward removing the lack of transparency; Section 301 maintaining operations to serve veterans in the Philippines; Section 303 extends marriage delimiting date for surviving spouses of Persian Gulf War veterans to qualify for death pension to a date 10 years after this war is officially declared ended. OPPOSE: Section 201 reducing the filing deadline for an appeal from 365 days to 180 days; Section 202 - reducing the appellate rights of veterans. S. 932 -- Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 ~ To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for advance appropriations for certain discretionary accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT S. 939 -- A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to treat certain misfiled documents as motions for reconsideration of decisions by the Board of Veterans' Appeals, and for other purposes ~ A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to treat certain misfiled documents as motions for reconsideration of decisions by the Board of Veterans' Appeals, and for other purposes SUPPORT

P.L. 113-37 Department of Veterans Affairs Expiring Authorities Act of 2013 -- Authorizes specified appropriations for the period October 1-December 31, 2013, to pay a monthly assistance allowance to a veteran with a disability invited by the United States Olympic Committee (USOC) to compete for a slot on, or selected for, the Paralympics Team; extends authority for various VA programs SUPPORTH.R. 241 Veterans Timely Access to Health Care Act -- Directs the VA Secretary to ensure that the standard for access to care for a veteran seeking hospital care and medical services from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is 30 days from the date the veteran contacts the VA. Directs the Secretary to periodically review the performance of VA medical facilities in meeting such standard. Requires quarterly reports from the Secretary to the congressional veterans committees on the VAs experience with respect to appointment waiting times SUPPORT H.R. 569 Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 -- To increase, effective as of December 1, 2013, 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 OPPOSE H.R. 570 American Heroes COLA Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., 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 OPPOSE H.R. 813 Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following discretionary (under current law, medical care) accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): (1) Veterans Health Administration Medical Services, Medical Support and Compliance, Medical Facilities, and Medical Research and Support; (2) National Cemetery Administration; and (3) Veterans Benefits Administration, Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. Authorizes the provision of advance appropriations for the following VA discretionary administration accounts: (1) general operating expenses, (2) information technology systems, (3) the Office of the Inspector General, (4) construction for major and minor projects, and (5) grants for the construction of state extended care facilities and veterans cemeteries SUPPORT H.R. 894 To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the supervision of fiduciaries of veterans under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the supervision of fiduciaries of veterans under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 1443 Tinnitus Research and Treatment Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) recognize tinnitus as a mandatory condition for research and treatment by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Auditory Centers of Excellence, (2) ensure that research is conducted at VA facilities on the prevention and treatment of tinnitus, and (3) ensure VA cooperation with the Hearing Center of Excellence established by the Department of Defense (DoD) to further research on tinnitus SUPPORT H.R. 1494 Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1623 VA Claims Efficiency Through Information Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to make publicly available certain information about pending and completed claims for compensation under the laws administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1702 Veterans Transportation Service Act -- Makes permanent (under current law, expires on January 10, 2014) the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in connection with vocational rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, or care SUPPORT H.R. 1809 To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide notice of average times for processing claims and percentage of claims approved, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide notice of average times for processing claims and percentage of claims approved, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2072 Demanding Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the accountability of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to the Inspector General of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORTH.R. 2086 Pay As You Rate Act -- To direct the Secretary to make interim payments of disability compensation benefits for certain claims for such compensation prior to the adjudication of such claims, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2138 Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to resolve the backlog of disability claims of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2216 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2014 -- Making appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2014, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 2423 Disabled Veterans Access to Medical Exams Improvement Act -- To improve the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into contracts with private physicians to conduct medical disability examinations SUPPORT H.R. 2847 Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretaries of Defense (DoD) and Veterans Affairs (VA) to jointly establish the K-9 Companion Corps program for the awarding of grants to assist nonprofit organizations in establishing, planning, designing, and/or operating programs to provide assistance dogs to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who have certain disabilities. Defines "assistance dog" to mean a dog specifically trained to perform physical tasks to mitigate the effects of such a disability, except that such term does not include a dog specifically trained for comfort or personal defense SUPPORT H.R. 671; S. 294 Ruth Moore Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to submit to Congress an annual report on claims for disabilities incurred or aggravated by military sexual trauma, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 679; S. 629 Honoring Americas Guard-Reserves Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1288; S. 1361 World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act -- To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to accept additional documentation when considering the application for veterans status of an individual who performed service as a coastwise merchant seaman during World War II, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1402; S. 695 Veterans Paralympic Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to pay a monthly assistance allowance to disabled veterans training or competing for the Paralympic Team and the authorization of appropriations for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide assistance to United States Paralympics, Inc. SUPPORT S. 455 To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, and care, and for other purposes. -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transport individuals to and from facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, and care, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 529 To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the commence-ment date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to modify the commencement date of the period of service at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for eligibility for hospital care and medical services in connection with exposure to contaminated water, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 543 VISN Reorganization Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reorganize the Veterans Integrated Service Networks of the Veterans Health Administration, and for other purposes OPPOSES. 674 Accountability for Veterans Act of 2013 -- To require prompt responses from the heads of covered Federal agencies when the Secretary of Veterans Affairs requests information necessary to adjudicate claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 735 Survivor Benefits Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve benefits and assistance provided to surviving spouses of veterans under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 778 A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue cards to veterans that identify them as veterans, and for other purposes -- A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue cards to veterans that identify them as veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 819 Veterans Mental Health Treatment First Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require a program of mental health care and rehabilitation for veterans for service-related post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety disorder, or a related substance use disorder, and for other purposes OPPOSE S. 832 Improving the Lives of Children with Spina Bifida Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out pilot programs on furnishing case management services and assisted living to children of Vietnam veterans and certain Korea service veterans born with spina bifida and children of women Vietnam veterans born with certain birth defects, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 845 To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professionals Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Professionals Educational Assistance Program, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 851 Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend to all veterans with a serious service-connected injury eligibility to participate in the family caregiver services program SUPPORT S. 852 Veterans Health Promotion Act of 2013 -- To improve health care furnished by the Department of Veterans Affairs by increasing access to complementary and alternative medicine and other approaches to wellness and preventive care, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 877 Veterans Affairs Research Transparency Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to allow public access to research of the Department, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 893 Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 -- To provide for an increase, effective December 1, 2013, 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 SUPPORT S. 927 Veterans Outreach Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a demonstration project to assess the feasibility and advisability of using State and local government agencies and nonprofit organizations to increase awareness of benefits and services for veterans and to improve coordination of outreach activities relating to such benefits and services, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 928 Claims Processing Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to improve the processing of claims for compensation under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. --- The American Legion SUPPORTS portions of this measure, especially Sections 103 and 301; The American Legion OPPOSES reducing the appellate rights of veterans, especially as concerned in sections 201 and 202; and there are still other portions of this legislation that The American Legion holds no official position on at this time.S. 932 Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to provide for advance appropriations for certain discretionary accounts of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT S. 939 A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to treat certain misfiled documents as motions for reconsideration of decisions by the Board of Veterans' Appeals, and for other purposes -- A bill to amend title 38, U.S.C., to treat certain misfiled documents as motions for reconsideration of decisions by the Board of Veterans' Appeals, and for other purposes SUPPORT

H.R. 331 To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to permit the centralized reporting of veteran enrollment by certain groups, districts, and consortiums of educational institutions -- To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to permit the centralized reporting of veteran enrollment by certain groups, districts, and consortiums of educational institutions OPPOSEH.R. 562 VRAP Extension Act of 2013 -- To provide for a three-month extension of the Veterans Retraining Assistance Program administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes SUPPORT H.R. 1453 Work-Study for Student Veterans Act -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend the authority to provide work-study allowance for certain activities by individuals receiving educational assistance by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 2011 Veterans Advisory Committee on Education Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to provide for a two-year extension of the Veterans Advisory Committee on Education SUPPORT H.R. 2210 Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship Improvement Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to expand the eligibility of children of certain deceased veterans to educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 2481 Veterans G.I. Bill Enrollment Clarification Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to codify and improve the election requirements for the receipt of educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance program of the Department of Veterans Affairs SUPPORT H.R. 357; S. 257 GI Bill Tuition Fairness Act of 2013 -- Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA), for purposes of the educational assistance programs administered by the Secretary, to disapprove courses of education provided by public institutions of higher education that do not charge tuition and fees for veterans at the same rate that is charged for in-state residents, regardless of the veterans state of residence SUPPORT H.R. 2151; S. 894 A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to extend expiring authority for work-study allowances for individuals who are pursuing programs of rehabilitation, education, or training under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, to expand such authority to certain outreach services provided through congressional offices, and for other purposes -- A bill to amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend expiring authority for work-study allowances for individuals who are pursuing programs of rehabilitation, education, or training under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, to expand such authority to certain outreach services provided through congressional offices, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 262 Veterans Education Equity Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to provide equity for tuition and fees for individuals entitled to educational assistance under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs who are pursuing programs of education at institutions of higher learning, and for other purposes OPPOSE S. 514 A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide additional educational assistance under Post-9/11 Educational Assistance to veterans pursuing a degree in science, technology, engineering, math, or an area that leads to employment in a high-demand occupation, and for other purposes -- A bill to amend title 38, U.S.C., to provide additional educational assistance under Post-9/11 Educational Assistance to veterans pursuing a degree in science, technology, engineering, math, or an area that leads to employment in a high-demand occupation, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 515A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to extend the Yellow Ribbon G.I. Education Enhancement Program to cover recipients of Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry scholarship, and for other purposes -- A bill to amend title 38, U.S.C., to extend the Yellow Ribbon G.I. Education Enhancement Program to cover recipients of Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry scholarship, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 522 Wounded Warrior Workforce Enhancement Act -- To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to award grants to establish, or expand upon, masters degree or doctoral degree programs in orthotics and prosthetics, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 863 Veterans Back to School Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to repeal time limitations on the eligibility for use of educational assistance under All-Volunteer Force Educational Assistance Program, to improve veterans education outreach, and for other purposes SUPPORTS. 922 Veterans Equipped for Success Act of 2013 -- To require the Secretary of Labor to carry out a pilot program on providing wage subsidies to employers who employ certain veterans and members of the Armed Forces and require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program on providing career transition services to young veterans, and for other purposes SUPPORT S. 944 Veterans Educational Transition Act of 2013 -- To amend title 38, U.S.C., to require courses of education provided by public institutions of higher education that are approved for purposes of the All-Volunteer Force Educational Assistance Program and Post-9/11 Educational Assistance to charge veterans tuition and fees at the in-State tuition rate, and for other purposes OPPOSE