RONALD CHAMRIN

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

HR 675--Disabled Veterans Adaptive Housing Improvement Act--Increases from: (1) $50,000 to $60,00 the maximum amount authorized to be provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs to certain disabled veterans for the construction of specially adapted housing; and (2) $10,000 to $12,000 the maximum amount authorized for specially adapted features in a home. Requires the VA Secretary to annually increase such amounts to reflect increases in the cost of residential home construction. HR 1315--Amend title 38, USC, to provide specially adaptive housing assistance to certain disabled members of the Armed Forces residing temporarily in housing owned by a family member--Authorizes the VA Secretary to provide specially adaptive housing assistance for disabled members of the Armed Forces residing temporarily in housing owned by a family member if such military member suffers from a disability which is permanent and total in nature and is the result of an injury incurred or disease contracted or aggravated in the line of duty in active military service. HR 1750--Amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to extend from 90 days to one year the period after release of a member of the Armed Forces from active duty during which the member is protected from mortgage foreclosure under that Act--Amends the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act of 1940 to extend from 90 days to one year the period following release from active duty during which a member of the Armed Forces shall be protected from mortgage foreclosure. HR 2378--Services to Prevent Veterans Homelessness Act--Amend title 38, USC, to establish a financial assistance program to facilitate the provision of supportive services for very low-income veteran families in permanent housing. HR 2385--21st Century GI Bill of Rights Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to increase the maximum guaranty amount under the veterans' home loan program with respect to residences of a particular size in an area for which the median price for such size exceeds the normal guaranty maximum. Repeals the home loan guaranty fees charged to veterans. S 1096--Veterans' Housing Benefits Enhancement Act of 2007--Authorizes the VA Secretary, in the case of a member of the Armed Forces determined to have a total disability permanent in nature which was incurred or aggravated in the line of active duty, to furnish home improvements and structural alterations for the member for the disability while the member is hospitalized or receiving outpatient care, medical services, or treatment, if the Secretary determines that the member is likely to be discharged or released from the Armed Forces for such disability. Authorizes the provision of specially adapted housing assistance for: (1) disabled veterans whose disability is due to a severe burn injury; and (2) disabled members residing temporarily in housing owned by a family member. Makes veterans and members with a severe burn disability eligible for automobile and automotive adaptive equipment assistance. S 2625--The Fairness in Housing for Disabled Veterans Act Letter--Exclude the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) disability payments as a source of income when applying for housing assistance through federal programs.

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

HR 1632--Improving Veterans' Reemployment Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to improve the annual report required on veterans' reemployment rights. HR 2259-Ensure that members of the National Guard and Reserves are able to fully participate in the benefits delivery at discharge program administered jointly by the Secretary of Defense and the VA Secretary to provide information and assistance on available benefits and other transition assistance to members of the Armed Forces who are separating from the Armed Forces--Ensure that members of the national Guard and Reserves are able to fully participate in the benefits delivery at discharge program administered jointly by the Secretary of Defense and VA Secretary to provide information and assistance on available benefits and other transition assistance to members of the Armed Forces who are separating from the Armed Forces. S 1215--Amend title 38, USC, to extend and improve certain authorities of the VA Secretary, and for other purposes--Sets $19 million as the maximum amount (currently a progressively increasing amount) per fiscal year for reimbursement to states and local agencies administering veterans' education benefits. Extends through FY 2007 a pilot program of on-job-training for veterans' claims adjudicators. Authorizes the VA Secretary to waive, for public interest purposes on a case-by-case basis, the residency requirement for a Director for Veterans' Employment and Training. Includes veterans of the Global War on Terror within an ongoing veterans' unemployment study. Amends the Veterans Benefits Improvement Act of 2004 to extend through 2009 an increase in benefits for veterans pursuing apprenticeships or on-job-training. FY 2009 Appropriations-Department of Labor's Veterans' Employment and Training Services (VETS) and related programs.

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

HR 585--Amend title 38, USC, to expand the number of individuals qualifying for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance--Amends the Veterans' Housing Opportunity and Benefits Improvement Act of 2006 to remove the requirement that, in order to qualify for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under the Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance program during the period beginning on October 7, 2001, and ending on November 30, 2005, the Secretary of the military department concerned must determine that the loss was a direct result of a traumatic injury incurred in the theater of operations for Operations Enduring Freedom or Iraqi Freedom (thus including traumatic injury incurred while performing other types of military service during such period under such coverage). HR 760--Filipino Veterans Equity Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to deem certain service in the organized military forces of the Government of the Commonwealth of the Philippines and the Philippine Scouts to have been active service for purposes of benefits under programs administered by the VA Secretary. HR 1137--Amend title 38, USC, to increase to $2,000 the amount of the Medal of Honor special pension under that title and to provide for payment of that pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased Medal of Honor recipient--Increases from $1,000 to $2,000 the monthly special pension paid to Medal of Honor recipients. Provides for payment of such pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased recipient as long as the surviving spouse was married to the recipient: (1) for one year or more; or (2) for any period of time if a child was born of the marriage or was born to them before the marriage. HR 1944--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to direct the VA Secretary to screen certain veterans for symptoms of traumatic brain injury. HR 2005--Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2007--Authorizes the VA Secretary to pay travel expenses for veterans receiving treatment at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities at the rate provided to federal employees in connection with the performance of official duties. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish and operate at least one and up to five centers of excellence for rural health research, education, and clinical activities; (2) establish a grant program to provide innovative transportation options to veterans in remote rural areas; (3) carry out demonstration projects to examine alternatives for expanding care for veterans in rural areas; and (4) report annually to Congress on matters related to VA care for veterans residing in rural areas. HR 2579--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the use of funds in the Department of Veterans Affairs readjustment benefits accounts and funds appropriated for such purpose to provide funding for State approving agencies. HR 2623--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to prohibit the collection of copayments for all hospice care furnished by VA. HR 3047--Veterans Claims Processing Innovation Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to establish a work credit system for evaluating regional offices of the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) with respect to veterans' claims processing. Requires the Secretary to: (1) develop and maintain a system for processing veterans' disability compensation claims using artificial intelligence that utilizes medical and military service data to generate disability rating recommendations; and (2) maintain a regional office at which all such claims are processed exclusively electronically. Provides that if a veteran who is a claimant dies before completing the submission of a claim for benefits, the person who would receive any accrued benefits(s) due to such veteran shall be treated as the claimant for purposes of completing submission of the claim. Directs the Secretary to contract with a private entity to evaluate the training and assessment programs for VBA employees. HR 3249--Veterans Burial Benefits Improvement Act of 2007--Increases the authorized allowance for burial and funeral expenses for deceased veterans who: (1) at the time of death were in receipt of veterans' disability compensation or veterans' pension benefits; or (2) were veterans of any war or were discharged of released from active military service for a service-connected disability and for whom there is no next of kin or sufficient resources to cover funeral and burial costs. Increases the burial plot allowance for veterans who, at the time of death, were receiving hospital or nursing home care in or through the VA. Authorizes the annual adjustment of such allowances by the same percentage increase as adjustments to benefit amounts payable under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act. HR 3286--Amend title 38, USC, to reduce the period of time for which a veteran must be totally disabled before the veteran's survivors are eligible for the benefits provided by the VA Secretary for survivors of certain veterans rated totally disabled at time of death--Allows veterans' disability compensation benefits to be paid to the survivor of a veteran whose service-connected disability was continuously rated totally disabling for at least one year immediately preceding death. (Current law allows such survivor right of payment if the disability was rated total for periods of up to ten years under various circumstances). HR 3415--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the placement in a national cemetery of memorial markers for the purpose of commemorating servicemembers or other persons whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery--Requires the VA Secretary to furnish for placement a memorial headstone or marker in a national cemetery to commemorate veterans and their spouses whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery. HR 23; S 961--Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of WWII Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to pay a monthly benefit of $1,000 to certain honorably-discharged veterans of the U.S. Merchant Marine who served between December 7, 1941, and December 3, 1946 (or to their survivors). Includes service in the Army Transport Service and the Naval Transport Service. Exempts from taxation benefits paid under this Act. S 383--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to extend the period of eligibility for health care for combat service in the Persian Gulf War or future hostilities from two years to five years after discharge or release--Extends from 2 years to 5 years following discharge or release the eligibility period for certain veterans who served in combat after the Persian Gulf War to receive hospital care, medical services, or nursing home care provided by the VA Secretary, notwithstanding a lack of evidence to conclude that their condition is attributable to such service. HR 797; S 1163; PL 110-157--Blinded Veterans Paired Organ Act of 2007--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to improve compensation and specially adapted housing for veterans in certain cases of impairment of vision involving both eyes, and to provide for the use of the National Directory of New Hires for income verification purposes. S 1233--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Rehabilitation Act of 2007--A bill to provide and enhance intervention, rehabilitative treatment, and services to veterans with traumatic brain injury. HR 2790--Amend title 38, USC, to establish the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services within the office of the Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Health--Establishes within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA)of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services, who shall report to the VHA's Under Secretary for Health on all matters relating to the education and training, employment, appropriate utilization, and optimal participation of physician assistants within VHA programs and initiatives. HR 3458--Direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program on the provision of traumatic brain injury care in rural areas--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall carry out a pilot program in five rural States selected by the Secretary, in consultation with the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs. In each of the five States selected, the Secretary shall assign a specific Department of Veterans Affairs case manager to each individual diagnosed with traumatic brain injury who is receiving care in a medical facility of the Department of Veterans Affairs in a selected State. HR 3819--Veterans Emergency Care Fairness Act of 2007--Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reimburse certain veterans without a service-connected disability enrolled as active participants of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care plan for the cost of emergency treatment received in a non-VA facility until such time as such veterans are transferred to a VA facility. Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary to reimburse certain veterans with a service-connected disability or a non-service-connected disability associated with or aggravating a service-connected disability for the value of emergency treatment for which such veterans have made payment from sources other than the VA. HR 4053--Mental Health Improvements Act of 2007--Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the provision of specified substance use disorder treatment services at each VA medical Center and community-based outpatient clinic. Requires the Secretary to ensure that treatment for a substance use disorder and a comorbid mental health disorder is provided concurrently by a team of experienced clinicians. Requires the Secretary to: (1) carry out a program of enhanced care and treatment for veterans with substance use disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); and (2) establish at least six national centers of excellence on PTSD and substance use disorders. Requires a report on residential mental health care facilities of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Pays tribute to Justin Bailey. Requires a: (1) pilot program on peer outreach and support services, readjustment counseling services, and other mental health services for veterans of OIF and OEF; (2) program of research into comorbid PTSD and substance use disorder and (3) pilot program on the provision of readjustment and transition assistance to veterans and their families in cooperation with Vet Centers. HR 4107--Woman Veterans Health Care Improvement Act--Requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) conduct a long- term epidemiological study on the health of women veterans who served on active duty in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom; (2) assess barriers encountered by women veterans to the provision by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) of comprehensive health car; (3) assess all health care services and programs provided by the VA for women veterans; (4) provide training for mental health professionals who provide counseling to women veterans suffering from sexual trauma; (5) develop a plan for the identification, development, and dissemination of treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other conditions attributable to combat or sexual trauma that are proven effective for women veterans; (6) conduct a study of the provision of readjustment counseling and related mental health services for women veterans at vet centers; (7) carry out a pilot program for child care for certain women veterans receiving health care from VA facilities; and (8) carry out a pilot program to evaluate feasibility of providing counseling and transition adjustment assistance for women veterans who are newly separated from active duty service. Requires women veterans recently separated from active duty service to be included on the Advisory Committee on Women Veterans. HR 4146--Amend title 38, USC, to clarify the availability of emergency medical care for veterans in non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities--Requires the determination of whether a veteran can be transferred to a Department of Veterans Affairs medical facility after receiving emergency medical treatment in a non-Department facility to be based both on the condition of the veteran and on the availability of a bed in a Department facility that is not geographically inaccessible to the veteran. HR 4204--Veterans Suicide Study Act--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall conduct a study to determine the number of veterans who have committed suicide between January 1, 1997 and the date of the enactment of this Act. Testimony to House Veterans Affairs Subcommittee Economic Opportunity--Testimony on expiring Department of Veterans Affairs Programs--Adjustable Rates Mortgages, Apprenticeship and on-the-job training, Post Vietnam Era Veterans Educational Assistance Program, Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance, Incarcerated Veterans Transition Program, DOL VETS Program, VETS Claim Referral Program to Office of Special Counsel. Testimony to the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--Findings and Recommendations of the Veterans Disability Commission with Respect to the Current Disability Compensation System--American Legion recommends changes to VA Disability ratings. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--On the Use of Artificial Intelligence to Improve VA's Claim Processing System--American Legion cautions VA on use of AI to improve claims processing. Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--VA Budget Request for Fiscal Year 2009--VA Budget Request, Veterans Health Care Administration, Mandatory Funding of VA Medical Care, Third-Party Reimbursements, Medicare Reimbursements, Medical Construction and Infrastructure Support, Major and Minor Construction, Veterans Benefits Administration, National Cemetery Administration, National Shrine Commitment, State Cemetery Construction Grants, GI Bill and Veterans Education Benefits, State Approving Agencies, VA Home Loan Guarantee Program, Homeless Providers Grant and Per Diem Program, Department of Labor VETS service, Homelessness, Training, Veterans Workforce and Investment Program, Employment Rights and Veterans Preference, Veteran/Service-Connected Disabled Veteran Owned Businesses. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--Testimony regarding problems in claims--Examining the backlog and VA's claims processing system. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--VA Construction Authorization--Advocate greater funding for VA Construction purposes. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--Supporting Those who Support our Veterans--Mental Health Treatment for Veterans' Families.

HR 585--Amend title 38, USC, to expand the number of individuals qualifying for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance--Amends the Veterans' Housing Opportunity and Benefits Improvement Act of 2006 to remove the requirement that, in order to qualify for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under the Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance program during the period beginning on October 7, 2001, and ending on November 30, 2005, the Secretary of the military department concerned must determine that the loss was a direct result of a traumatic injury incurred in the theater of operations for Operations Enduring Freedom or Iraqi Freedom (thus including traumatic injury incurred while performing other types of military service during such period under such coverage). HR 760--Filipino Veterans Equity Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to deem certain service in the organized military forces of the Government of the Commonwealth of the Philippines and the Philippine Scouts to have been active service for purposes of benefits under programs administered by the VA Secretary. HR 1137--Amend title 38, USC, to increase to $2,000 the amount of the Medal of Honor special pension under that title and to provide for payment of that pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased Medal of Honor recipient--Increases from $1,000 to $2,000 the monthly special pension paid to Medal of Honor recipients. Provides for payment of such pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased recipient as long as the surviving spouse was married to the recipient: (1) for one year or more; or (2) for any period of time if a child was born of the marriage or was born to them before the marriage. HR 1944--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to direct the VA Secretary to screen certain veterans for symptoms of traumatic brain injury. HR 2005--Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2007--Authorizes the VA Secretary to pay travel expenses for veterans receiving treatment at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities at the rate provided to federal employees in connection with the performance of official duties. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish and operate at least one and up to five centers of excellence for rural health research, education, and clinical activities; (2) establish a grant program to provide innovative transportation options to veterans in remote rural areas; (3) carry out demonstration projects to examine alternatives for expanding care for veterans in rural areas; and (4) report annually to Congress on matters related to VA care for veterans residing in rural areas. HR 2579--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the use of funds in the Department of Veterans Affairs readjustment benefits accounts and funds appropriated for such purpose to provide funding for State approving agencies. HR 2623--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to prohibit the collection of copayments for all hospice care furnished by VA. HR 3047--Veterans Claims Processing Innovation Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to establish a work credit system for evaluating regional offices of the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) with respect to veterans' claims processing. Requires the Secretary to: (1) develop and maintain a system for processing veterans' disability compensation claims using artificial intelligence that utilizes medical and military service data to generate disability rating recommendations; and (2) maintain a regional office at which all such claims are processed exclusively electronically. Provides that if a veteran who is a claimant dies before completing the submission of a claim for benefits, the person who would receive any accrued benefits(s) due to such veteran shall be treated as the claimant for purposes of completing submission of the claim. Directs the Secretary to contract with a private entity to evaluate the training and assessment programs for VBA employees. HR 3249--Veterans Burial Benefits Improvement Act of 2007--Increases the authorized allowance for burial and funeral expenses for deceased veterans who: (1) at the time of death were in receipt of veterans' disability compensation or veterans' pension benefits; or (2) were veterans of any war or were discharged of released from active military service for a service-connected disability and for whom there is no next of kin or sufficient resources to cover funeral and burial costs. Increases the burial plot allowance for veterans who, at the time of death, were receiving hospital or nursing home care in or through the VA. Authorizes the annual adjustment of such allowances by the same percentage increase as adjustments to benefit amounts payable under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act. HR 3286--Amend title 38, USC, to reduce the period of time for which a veteran must be totally disabled before the veteran's survivors are eligible for the benefits provided by the VA Secretary for survivors of certain veterans rated totally disabled at time of death--Allows veterans' disability compensation benefits to be paid to the survivor of a veteran whose service-connected disability was continuously rated totally disabling for at least one year immediately preceding death. (Current law allows such survivor right of payment if the disability was rated total for periods of up to ten years under various circumstances). HR 3415--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the placement in a national cemetery of memorial markers for the purpose of commemorating servicemembers or other persons whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery--Requires the VA Secretary to furnish for placement a memorial headstone or marker in a national cemetery to commemorate veterans and their spouses whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery. HR 23; S 961--Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of WWII Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to pay a monthly benefit of $1,000 to certain honorably-discharged veterans of the U.S. Merchant Marine who served between December 7, 1941, and December 3, 1946 (or to their survivors). Includes service in the Army Transport Service and the Naval Transport Service. Exempts from taxation benefits paid under this Act. S 383--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to extend the period of eligibility for health care for combat service in the Persian Gulf War or future hostilities from two years to five years after discharge or release--Extends from 2 years to 5 years following discharge or release the eligibility period for certain veterans who served in combat after the Persian Gulf War to receive hospital care, medical services, or nursing home care provided by the VA Secretary, notwithstanding a lack of evidence to conclude that their condition is attributable to such service. HR 797; S 1163; PL 110-157--Blinded Veterans Paired Organ Act of 2007--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to improve compensation and specially adapted housing for veterans in certain cases of impairment of vision involving both eyes, and to provide for the use of the National Directory of New Hires for income verification purposes. S 1233--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Rehabilitation Act of 2007--A bill to provide and enhance intervention, rehabilitative treatment, and services to veterans with traumatic brain injury. HR 2790--Amend title 38, USC, to establish the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services within the office of the Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Health--Establishes within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA)of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services, who shall report to the VHA's Under Secretary for Health on all matters relating to the education and training, employment, appropriate utilization, and optimal participation of physician assistants within VHA programs and initiatives. HR 3458--Direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program on the provision of traumatic brain injury care in rural areas--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall carry out a pilot program in five rural States selected by the Secretary, in consultation with the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs. In each of the five States selected, the Secretary shall assign a specific Department of Veterans Affairs case manager to each individual diagnosed with traumatic brain injury who is receiving care in a medical facility of the Department of Veterans Affairs in a selected State. HR 3819--Veterans Emergency Care Fairness Act of 2007--Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reimburse certain veterans without a service-connected disability enrolled as active participants of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care plan for the cost of emergency treatment received in a non-VA facility until such time as such veterans are transferred to a VA facility. Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary to reimburse certain veterans with a service-connected disability or a non-service-connected disability associated with or aggravating a service-connected disability for the value of emergency treatment for which such veterans have made payment from sources other than the VA. HR 4053--Mental Health Improvements Act of 2007--Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the provision of specified substance use disorder treatment services at each VA medical Center and community-based outpatient clinic. Requires the Secretary to ensure that treatment for a substance use disorder and a comorbid mental health disorder is provided concurrently by a team of experienced clinicians. Requires the Secretary to: (1) carry out a program of enhanced care and treatment for veterans with substance use disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); and (2) establish at least six national centers of excellence on PTSD and substance use disorders. Requires a report on residential mental health care facilities of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Pays tribute to Justin Bailey. Requires a: (1) pilot program on peer outreach and support services, readjustment counseling services, and other mental health services for veterans of OIF and OEF; (2) program of research into comorbid PTSD and substance use disorder and (3) pilot program on the provision of readjustment and transition assistance to veterans and their families in cooperation with Vet Centers. HR 4107--Woman Veterans Health Care Improvement Act--Requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) conduct a long- term epidemiological study on the health of women veterans who served on active duty in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom; (2) assess barriers encountered by women veterans to the provision by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) of comprehensive health car; (3) assess all health care services and programs provided by the VA for women veterans; (4) provide training for mental health professionals who provide counseling to women veterans suffering from sexual trauma; (5) develop a plan for the identification, development, and dissemination of treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other conditions attributable to combat or sexual trauma that are proven effective for women veterans; (6) conduct a study of the provision of readjustment counseling and related mental health services for women veterans at vet centers; (7) carry out a pilot program for child care for certain women veterans receiving health care from VA facilities; and (8) carry out a pilot program to evaluate feasibility of providing counseling and transition adjustment assistance for women veterans who are newly separated from active duty service. Requires women veterans recently separated from active duty service to be included on the Advisory Committee on Women Veterans. HR 4146--Amend title 38, USC, to clarify the availability of emergency medical care for veterans in non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities--Requires the determination of whether a veteran can be transferred to a Department of Veterans Affairs medical facility after receiving emergency medical treatment in a non-Department facility to be based both on the condition of the veteran and on the availability of a bed in a Department facility that is not geographically inaccessible to the veteran. HR 4204--Veterans Suicide Study Act--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall conduct a study to determine the number of veterans who have committed suicide between January 1, 1997 and the date of the enactment of this Act. Testimony to House Veterans Affairs Subcommittee Economic Opportunity--Testimony on expiring Department of Veterans Affairs Programs--Adjustable Rates Mortgages, Apprenticeship and on-the-job training, Post Vietnam Era Veterans Educational Assistance Program, Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance, Incarcerated Veterans Transition Program, DOL VETS Program, VETS Claim Referral Program to Office of Special Counsel. Testimony to the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--Findings and Recommendations of the Veterans Disability Commission with Respect to the Current Disability Compensation System--American Legion recommends changes to VA Disability ratings. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--On the Use of Artificial Intelligence to Improve VA's Claim Processing System--American Legion cautions VA on use of AI to improve claims processing. Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--VA Budget Request for Fiscal Year 2009--VA Budget Request, Veterans Health Care Administration, Mandatory Funding of VA Medical Care, Third-Party Reimbursements, Medicare Reimbursements, Medical Construction and Infrastructure Support, Major and Minor Construction, Veterans Benefits Administration, National Cemetery Administration, National Shrine Commitment, State Cemetery Construction Grants, GI Bill and Veterans Education Benefits, State Approving Agencies, VA Home Loan Guarantee Program, Homeless Providers Grant and Per Diem Program, Department of Labor VETS service, Homelessness, Training, Veterans Workforce and Investment Program, Employment Rights and Veterans Preference, Veteran/Service-Connected Disabled Veteran Owned Businesses. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--Testimony regarding problems in claims--Examining the backlog and VA's claims processing system. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--VA Construction Authorization--Advocate greater funding for VA Construction purposes. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--Supporting Those who Support our Veterans--Mental Health Treatment for Veterans' Families.

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

HR 1632--Improving Veterans' Reemployment Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to improve the annual report required on veterans' reemployment rights. HR 2259-Ensure that members of the National Guard and Reserves are able to fully participate in the benefits delivery at discharge program administered jointly by the Secretary of Defense and the VA Secretary to provide information and assistance on available benefits and other transition assistance to members of the Armed Forces who are separating from the Armed Forces--Ensure that members of the national Guard and Reserves are able to fully participate in the benefits delivery at discharge program administered jointly by the Secretary of Defense and VA Secretary to provide information and assistance on available benefits and other transition assistance to members of the Armed Forces who are separating from the Armed Forces. S 1215--Amend title 38, USC, to extend and improve certain authorities of the VA Secretary, and for other purposes--Sets $19 million as the maximum amount (currently a progressively increasing amount) per fiscal year for reimbursement to states and local agencies administering veterans' education benefits. Extends through FY 2007 a pilot program of on-job-training for veterans' claims adjudicators. Authorizes the VA Secretary to waive, for public interest purposes on a case-by-case basis, the residency requirement for a Director for Veterans' Employment and Training. Includes veterans of the Global War on Terror within an ongoing veterans' unemployment study. Amends the Veterans Benefits Improvement Act of 2004 to extend through 2009 an increase in benefits for veterans pursuing apprenticeships or on-job-training. FY 2009 Appropriations-Department of Labor's Veterans' Employment and Training Services (VETS) and related programs.

HR 585--Amend title 38, USC, to expand the number of individuals qualifying for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance--Amends the Veterans' Housing Opportunity and Benefits Improvement Act of 2006 to remove the requirement that, in order to qualify for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under the Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance program during the period beginning on October 7, 2001, and ending on November 30, 2005, the Secretary of the military department concerned must determine that the loss was a direct result of a traumatic injury incurred in the theater of operations for Operations Enduring Freedom or Iraqi Freedom (thus including traumatic injury incurred while performing other types of military service during such period under such coverage). HR 760--Filipino Veterans Equity Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to deem certain service in the organized military forces of the Government of the Commonwealth of the Philippines and the Philippine Scouts to have been active service for purposes of benefits under programs administered by the VA Secretary. HR 1137--Amend title 38, USC, to increase to $2,000 the amount of the Medal of Honor special pension under that title and to provide for payment of that pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased Medal of Honor recipient--Increases from $1,000 to $2,000 the monthly special pension paid to Medal of Honor recipients. Provides for payment of such pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased recipient as long as the surviving spouse was married to the recipient: (1) for one year or more; or (2) for any period of time if a child was born of the marriage or was born to them before the marriage. HR 1944--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to direct the VA Secretary to screen certain veterans for symptoms of traumatic brain injury. HR 2005--Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2007--Authorizes the VA Secretary to pay travel expenses for veterans receiving treatment at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities at the rate provided to federal employees in connection with the performance of official duties. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish and operate at least one and up to five centers of excellence for rural health research, education, and clinical activities; (2) establish a grant program to provide innovative transportation options to veterans in remote rural areas; (3) carry out demonstration projects to examine alternatives for expanding care for veterans in rural areas; and (4) report annually to Congress on matters related to VA care for veterans residing in rural areas. HR 2579--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the use of funds in the Department of Veterans Affairs readjustment benefits accounts and funds appropriated for such purpose to provide funding for State approving agencies. HR 2623--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to prohibit the collection of copayments for all hospice care furnished by VA. HR 3047--Veterans Claims Processing Innovation Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to establish a work credit system for evaluating regional offices of the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) with respect to veterans' claims processing. Requires the Secretary to: (1) develop and maintain a system for processing veterans' disability compensation claims using artificial intelligence that utilizes medical and military service data to generate disability rating recommendations; and (2) maintain a regional office at which all such claims are processed exclusively electronically. Provides that if a veteran who is a claimant dies before completing the submission of a claim for benefits, the person who would receive any accrued benefits(s) due to such veteran shall be treated as the claimant for purposes of completing submission of the claim. Directs the Secretary to contract with a private entity to evaluate the training and assessment programs for VBA employees. HR 3249--Veterans Burial Benefits Improvement Act of 2007--Increases the authorized allowance for burial and funeral expenses for deceased veterans who: (1) at the time of death were in receipt of veterans' disability compensation or veterans' pension benefits; or (2) were veterans of any war or were discharged of released from active military service for a service-connected disability and for whom there is no next of kin or sufficient resources to cover funeral and burial costs. Increases the burial plot allowance for veterans who, at the time of death, were receiving hospital or nursing home care in or through the VA. Authorizes the annual adjustment of such allowances by the same percentage increase as adjustments to benefit amounts payable under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act. HR 3286--Amend title 38, USC, to reduce the period of time for which a veteran must be totally disabled before the veteran's survivors are eligible for the benefits provided by the VA Secretary for survivors of certain veterans rated totally disabled at time of death--Allows veterans' disability compensation benefits to be paid to the survivor of a veteran whose service-connected disability was continuously rated totally disabling for at least one year immediately preceding death. (Current law allows such survivor right of payment if the disability was rated total for periods of up to ten years under various circumstances). HR 3415--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the placement in a national cemetery of memorial markers for the purpose of commemorating servicemembers or other persons whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery--Requires the VA Secretary to furnish for placement a memorial headstone or marker in a national cemetery to commemorate veterans and their spouses whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery. HR 23; S 961--Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of WWII Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to pay a monthly benefit of $1,000 to certain honorably-discharged veterans of the U.S. Merchant Marine who served between December 7, 1941, and December 3, 1946 (or to their survivors). Includes service in the Army Transport Service and the Naval Transport Service. Exempts from taxation benefits paid under this Act. S 383--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to extend the period of eligibility for health care for combat service in the Persian Gulf War or future hostilities from two years to five years after discharge or release--Extends from 2 years to 5 years following discharge or release the eligibility period for certain veterans who served in combat after the Persian Gulf War to receive hospital care, medical services, or nursing home care provided by the VA Secretary, notwithstanding a lack of evidence to conclude that their condition is attributable to such service. HR 797; S 1163; PL 110-157--Blinded Veterans Paired Organ Act of 2007--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to improve compensation and specially adapted housing for veterans in certain cases of impairment of vision involving both eyes, and to provide for the use of the National Directory of New Hires for income verification purposes. S 1233--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Rehabilitation Act of 2007--A bill to provide and enhance intervention, rehabilitative treatment, and services to veterans with traumatic brain injury. HR 2790--Amend title 38, USC, to establish the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services within the office of the Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Health--Establishes within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA)of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services, who shall report to the VHA's Under Secretary for Health on all matters relating to the education and training, employment, appropriate utilization, and optimal participation of physician assistants within VHA programs and initiatives. HR 3458--Direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program on the provision of traumatic brain injury care in rural areas--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall carry out a pilot program in five rural States selected by the Secretary, in consultation with the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs. In each of the five States selected, the Secretary shall assign a specific Department of Veterans Affairs case manager to each individual diagnosed with traumatic brain injury who is receiving care in a medical facility of the Department of Veterans Affairs in a selected State. HR 3819--Veterans Emergency Care Fairness Act of 2007--Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reimburse certain veterans without a service-connected disability enrolled as active participants of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care plan for the cost of emergency treatment received in a non-VA facility until such time as such veterans are transferred to a VA facility. Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary to reimburse certain veterans with a service-connected disability or a non-service-connected disability associated with or aggravating a service-connected disability for the value of emergency treatment for which such veterans have made payment from sources other than the VA. HR 4053--Mental Health Improvements Act of 2007--Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the provision of specified substance use disorder treatment services at each VA medical Center and community-based outpatient clinic. Requires the Secretary to ensure that treatment for a substance use disorder and a comorbid mental health disorder is provided concurrently by a team of experienced clinicians. Requires the Secretary to: (1) carry out a program of enhanced care and treatment for veterans with substance use disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); and (2) establish at least six national centers of excellence on PTSD and substance use disorders. Requires a report on residential mental health care facilities of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Pays tribute to Justin Bailey. Requires a: (1) pilot program on peer outreach and support services, readjustment counseling services, and other mental health services for veterans of OIF and OEF; (2) program of research into comorbid PTSD and substance use disorder and (3) pilot program on the provision of readjustment and transition assistance to veterans and their families in cooperation with Vet Centers. HR 4107--Woman Veterans Health Care Improvement Act--Requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) conduct a long- term epidemiological study on the health of women veterans who served on active duty in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom; (2) assess barriers encountered by women veterans to the provision by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) of comprehensive health car; (3) assess all health care services and programs provided by the VA for women veterans; (4) provide training for mental health professionals who provide counseling to women veterans suffering from sexual trauma; (5) develop a plan for the identification, development, and dissemination of treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other conditions attributable to combat or sexual trauma that are proven effective for women veterans; (6) conduct a study of the provision of readjustment counseling and related mental health services for women veterans at vet centers; (7) carry out a pilot program for child care for certain women veterans receiving health care from VA facilities; and (8) carry out a pilot program to evaluate feasibility of providing counseling and transition adjustment assistance for women veterans who are newly separated from active duty service. Requires women veterans recently separated from active duty service to be included on the Advisory Committee on Women Veterans. HR 4146--Amend title 38, USC, to clarify the availability of emergency medical care for veterans in non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities--Requires the determination of whether a veteran can be transferred to a Department of Veterans Affairs medical facility after receiving emergency medical treatment in a non-Department facility to be based both on the condition of the veteran and on the availability of a bed in a Department facility that is not geographically inaccessible to the veteran. HR 4204--Veterans Suicide Study Act--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall conduct a study to determine the number of veterans who have committed suicide between January 1, 1997 and the date of the enactment of this Act. Testimony to House Veterans Affairs Subcommittee Economic Opportunity--Testimony on expiring Department of Veterans Affairs Programs--Adjustable Rates Mortgages, Apprenticeship and on-the-job training, Post Vietnam Era Veterans Educational Assistance Program, Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance, Incarcerated Veterans Transition Program, DOL VETS Program, VETS Claim Referral Program to Office of Special Counsel. Testimony to the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--Findings and Recommendations of the Veterans Disability Commission with Respect to the Current Disability Compensation System--American Legion recommends changes to VA Disability ratings. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--On the Use of Artificial Intelligence to Improve VA's Claim Processing System--American Legion cautions VA on use of AI to improve claims processing. Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--VA Budget Request for Fiscal Year 2009--VA Budget Request, Veterans Health Care Administration, Mandatory Funding of VA Medical Care, Third-Party Reimbursements, Medicare Reimbursements, Medical Construction and Infrastructure Support, Major and Minor Construction, Veterans Benefits Administration, National Cemetery Administration, National Shrine Commitment, State Cemetery Construction Grants, GI Bill and Veterans Education Benefits, State Approving Agencies, VA Home Loan Guarantee Program, Homeless Providers Grant and Per Diem Program, Department of Labor VETS service, Homelessness, Training, Veterans Workforce and Investment Program, Employment Rights and Veterans Preference, Veteran/Service-Connected Disabled Veteran Owned Businesses. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--Testimony regarding problems in claims--Examining the backlog and VA's claims processing system. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--VA Construction Authorization--Advocate greater funding for VA Construction purposes. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--Supporting Those who Support our Veterans--Mental Health Treatment for Veterans' Families.

HR 675--Disabled Veterans Adaptive Housing Improvement Act--Increases from: (1) $50,000 to $60,00 the maximum amount authorized to be provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs to certain disabled veterans for the construction of specially adapted housing; and (2) $10,000 to $12,000 the maximum amount authorized for specially adapted features in a home. Requires the VA Secretary to annually increase such amounts to reflect increases in the cost of residential home construction. HR 1315--Amend title 38, USC, to provide specially adaptive housing assistance to certain disabled members of the Armed Forces residing temporarily in housing owned by a family member--Authorizes the VA Secretary to provide specially adaptive housing assistance for disabled members of the Armed Forces residing temporarily in housing owned by a family member if such military member suffers from a disability which is permanent and total in nature and is the result of an injury incurred or disease contracted or aggravated in the line of duty in active military service. HR 1750--Amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to extend from 90 days to one year the period after release of a member of the Armed Forces from active duty during which the member is protected from mortgage foreclosure under that Act--Amends the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act of 1940 to extend from 90 days to one year the period following release from active duty during which a member of the Armed Forces shall be protected from mortgage foreclosure. HR 2378--Services to Prevent Veterans Homelessness Act--Amend title 38, USC, to establish a financial assistance program to facilitate the provision of supportive services for very low-income veteran families in permanent housing. HR 2385--21st Century GI Bill of Rights Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to increase the maximum guaranty amount under the veterans' home loan program with respect to residences of a particular size in an area for which the median price for such size exceeds the normal guaranty maximum. Repeals the home loan guaranty fees charged to veterans. S 1096--Veterans' Housing Benefits Enhancement Act of 2007--Authorizes the VA Secretary, in the case of a member of the Armed Forces determined to have a total disability permanent in nature which was incurred or aggravated in the line of active duty, to furnish home improvements and structural alterations for the member for the disability while the member is hospitalized or receiving outpatient care, medical services, or treatment, if the Secretary determines that the member is likely to be discharged or released from the Armed Forces for such disability. Authorizes the provision of specially adapted housing assistance for: (1) disabled veterans whose disability is due to a severe burn injury; and (2) disabled members residing temporarily in housing owned by a family member. Makes veterans and members with a severe burn disability eligible for automobile and automotive adaptive equipment assistance. S 2625--The Fairness in Housing for Disabled Veterans Act Letter--Exclude the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) disability payments as a source of income when applying for housing assistance through federal programs.

HR 675--Disabled Veterans Adaptive Housing Improvement Act--Increases from: (1) $50,000 to $60,00 the maximum amount authorized to be provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs to certain disabled veterans for the construction of specially adapted housing; and (2) $10,000 to $12,000 the maximum amount authorized for specially adapted features in a home. Requires the VA Secretary to annually increase such amounts to reflect increases in the cost of residential home construction. HR 1315--Amend title 38, USC, to provide specially adaptive housing assistance to certain disabled members of the Armed Forces residing temporarily in housing owned by a family member--Authorizes the VA Secretary to provide specially adaptive housing assistance for disabled members of the Armed Forces residing temporarily in housing owned by a family member if such military member suffers from a disability which is permanent and total in nature and is the result of an injury incurred or disease contracted or aggravated in the line of duty in active military service. HR 1750--Amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to extend from 90 days to one year the period after release of a member of the Armed Forces from active duty during which the member is protected from mortgage foreclosure under that Act--Amends the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act of 1940 to extend from 90 days to one year the period following release from active duty during which a member of the Armed Forces shall be protected from mortgage foreclosure. HR 2378--Services to Prevent Veterans Homelessness Act--Amend title 38, USC, to establish a financial assistance program to facilitate the provision of supportive services for very low-income veteran families in permanent housing. HR 2385--21st Century GI Bill of Rights Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to increase the maximum guaranty amount under the veterans' home loan program with respect to residences of a particular size in an area for which the median price for such size exceeds the normal guaranty maximum. Repeals the home loan guaranty fees charged to veterans. S 1096--Veterans' Housing Benefits Enhancement Act of 2007--Authorizes the VA Secretary, in the case of a member of the Armed Forces determined to have a total disability permanent in nature which was incurred or aggravated in the line of active duty, to furnish home improvements and structural alterations for the member for the disability while the member is hospitalized or receiving outpatient care, medical services, or treatment, if the Secretary determines that the member is likely to be discharged or released from the Armed Forces for such disability. Authorizes the provision of specially adapted housing assistance for: (1) disabled veterans whose disability is due to a severe burn injury; and (2) disabled members residing temporarily in housing owned by a family member. Makes veterans and members with a severe burn disability eligible for automobile and automotive adaptive equipment assistance. S 2625--The Fairness in Housing for Disabled Veterans Act Letter--Exclude the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) disability payments as a source of income when applying for housing assistance through federal programs.

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

HR 2385--21st Century GI Bill of Rights Act 2007--Amends the Small Business Act relating to the microloan program to authorize small business loans to veterans in amounts up to $100,000 at an interest rate of no more than 2.5%. FY 2009 Appropriations--Small Business and Entrepreneurship regarding National Veterans Business Development Corporation (TVC) Letters--Letters of support for emergency funding for TVC.

HR 585--Amend title 38, USC, to expand the number of individuals qualifying for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance--Amends the Veterans' Housing Opportunity and Benefits Improvement Act of 2006 to remove the requirement that, in order to qualify for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under the Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance program during the period beginning on October 7, 2001, and ending on November 30, 2005, the Secretary of the military department concerned must determine that the loss was a direct result of a traumatic injury incurred in the theater of operations for Operations Enduring Freedom or Iraqi Freedom (thus including traumatic injury incurred while performing other types of military service during such period under such coverage). HR 760--Filipino Veterans Equity Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to deem certain service in the organized military forces of the Government of the Commonwealth of the Philippines and the Philippine Scouts to have been active service for purposes of benefits under programs administered by the VA Secretary. HR 1137--Amend title 38, USC, to increase to $2,000 the amount of the Medal of Honor special pension under that title and to provide for payment of that pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased Medal of Honor recipient--Increases from $1,000 to $2,000 the monthly special pension paid to Medal of Honor recipients. Provides for payment of such pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased recipient as long as the surviving spouse was married to the recipient: (1) for one year or more; or (2) for any period of time if a child was born of the marriage or was born to them before the marriage. HR 1944--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to direct the VA Secretary to screen certain veterans for symptoms of traumatic brain injury. HR 2005--Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2007--Authorizes the VA Secretary to pay travel expenses for veterans receiving treatment at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities at the rate provided to federal employees in connection with the performance of official duties. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish and operate at least one and up to five centers of excellence for rural health research, education, and clinical activities; (2) establish a grant program to provide innovative transportation options to veterans in remote rural areas; (3) carry out demonstration projects to examine alternatives for expanding care for veterans in rural areas; and (4) report annually to Congress on matters related to VA care for veterans residing in rural areas. HR 2579--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the use of funds in the Department of Veterans Affairs readjustment benefits accounts and funds appropriated for such purpose to provide funding for State approving agencies. HR 2623--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to prohibit the collection of copayments for all hospice care furnished by VA. HR 3047--Veterans Claims Processing Innovation Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to establish a work credit system for evaluating regional offices of the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) with respect to veterans' claims processing. Requires the Secretary to: (1) develop and maintain a system for processing veterans' disability compensation claims using artificial intelligence that utilizes medical and military service data to generate disability rating recommendations; and (2) maintain a regional office at which all such claims are processed exclusively electronically. Provides that if a veteran who is a claimant dies before completing the submission of a claim for benefits, the person who would receive any accrued benefits(s) due to such veteran shall be treated as the claimant for purposes of completing submission of the claim. Directs the Secretary to contract with a private entity to evaluate the training and assessment programs for VBA employees. HR 3249--Veterans Burial Benefits Improvement Act of 2007--Increases the authorized allowance for burial and funeral expenses for deceased veterans who: (1) at the time of death were in receipt of veterans' disability compensation or veterans' pension benefits; or (2) were veterans of any war or were discharged of released from active military service for a service-connected disability and for whom there is no next of kin or sufficient resources to cover funeral and burial costs. Increases the burial plot allowance for veterans who, at the time of death, were receiving hospital or nursing home care in or through the VA. Authorizes the annual adjustment of such allowances by the same percentage increase as adjustments to benefit amounts payable under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act. HR 3286--Amend title 38, USC, to reduce the period of time for which a veteran must be totally disabled before the veteran's survivors are eligible for the benefits provided by the VA Secretary for survivors of certain veterans rated totally disabled at time of death--Allows veterans' disability compensation benefits to be paid to the survivor of a veteran whose service-connected disability was continuously rated totally disabling for at least one year immediately preceding death. (Current law allows such survivor right of payment if the disability was rated total for periods of up to ten years under various circumstances). HR 3415--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the placement in a national cemetery of memorial markers for the purpose of commemorating servicemembers or other persons whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery--Requires the VA Secretary to furnish for placement a memorial headstone or marker in a national cemetery to commemorate veterans and their spouses whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery. HR 23; S 961--Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of WWII Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to pay a monthly benefit of $1,000 to certain honorably-discharged veterans of the U.S. Merchant Marine who served between December 7, 1941, and December 3, 1946 (or to their survivors). Includes service in the Army Transport Service and the Naval Transport Service. Exempts from taxation benefits paid under this Act. S 383--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to extend the period of eligibility for health care for combat service in the Persian Gulf War or future hostilities from two years to five years after discharge or release--Extends from 2 years to 5 years following discharge or release the eligibility period for certain veterans who served in combat after the Persian Gulf War to receive hospital care, medical services, or nursing home care provided by the VA Secretary, notwithstanding a lack of evidence to conclude that their condition is attributable to such service. HR 797; S 1163; PL 110-157--Blinded Veterans Paired Organ Act of 2007--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to improve compensation and specially adapted housing for veterans in certain cases of impairment of vision involving both eyes, and to provide for the use of the National Directory of New Hires for income verification purposes. S 1233--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Rehabilitation Act of 2007--A bill to provide and enhance intervention, rehabilitative treatment, and services to veterans with traumatic brain injury. HR 2790--Amend title 38, USC, to establish the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services within the office of the Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Health--Establishes within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA)of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services, who shall report to the VHA's Under Secretary for Health on all matters relating to the education and training, employment, appropriate utilization, and optimal participation of physician assistants within VHA programs and initiatives. HR 3458--Direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program on the provision of traumatic brain injury care in rural areas--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall carry out a pilot program in five rural States selected by the Secretary, in consultation with the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs. In each of the five States selected, the Secretary shall assign a specific Department of Veterans Affairs case manager to each individual diagnosed with traumatic brain injury who is receiving care in a medical facility of the Department of Veterans Affairs in a selected State. HR 3819--Veterans Emergency Care Fairness Act of 2007--Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reimburse certain veterans without a service-connected disability enrolled as active participants of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care plan for the cost of emergency treatment received in a non-VA facility until such time as such veterans are transferred to a VA facility. Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary to reimburse certain veterans with a service-connected disability or a non-service-connected disability associated with or aggravating a service-connected disability for the value of emergency treatment for which such veterans have made payment from sources other than the VA. HR 4053--Mental Health Improvements Act of 2007--Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the provision of specified substance use disorder treatment services at each VA medical Center and community-based outpatient clinic. Requires the Secretary to ensure that treatment for a substance use disorder and a comorbid mental health disorder is provided concurrently by a team of experienced clinicians. Requires the Secretary to: (1) carry out a program of enhanced care and treatment for veterans with substance use disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); and (2) establish at least six national centers of excellence on PTSD and substance use disorders. Requires a report on residential mental health care facilities of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Pays tribute to Justin Bailey. Requires a: (1) pilot program on peer outreach and support services, readjustment counseling services, and other mental health services for veterans of OIF and OEF; (2) program of research into comorbid PTSD and substance use disorder and (3) pilot program on the provision of readjustment and transition assistance to veterans and their families in cooperation with Vet Centers. HR 4107--Woman Veterans Health Care Improvement Act--Requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) conduct a long- term epidemiological study on the health of women veterans who served on active duty in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom; (2) assess barriers encountered by women veterans to the provision by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) of comprehensive health car; (3) assess all health care services and programs provided by the VA for women veterans; (4) provide training for mental health professionals who provide counseling to women veterans suffering from sexual trauma; (5) develop a plan for the identification, development, and dissemination of treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other conditions attributable to combat or sexual trauma that are proven effective for women veterans; (6) conduct a study of the provision of readjustment counseling and related mental health services for women veterans at vet centers; (7) carry out a pilot program for child care for certain women veterans receiving health care from VA facilities; and (8) carry out a pilot program to evaluate feasibility of providing counseling and transition adjustment assistance for women veterans who are newly separated from active duty service. Requires women veterans recently separated from active duty service to be included on the Advisory Committee on Women Veterans. HR 4146--Amend title 38, USC, to clarify the availability of emergency medical care for veterans in non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities--Requires the determination of whether a veteran can be transferred to a Department of Veterans Affairs medical facility after receiving emergency medical treatment in a non-Department facility to be based both on the condition of the veteran and on the availability of a bed in a Department facility that is not geographically inaccessible to the veteran. HR 4204--Veterans Suicide Study Act--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall conduct a study to determine the number of veterans who have committed suicide between January 1, 1997 and the date of the enactment of this Act. Testimony to House Veterans Affairs Subcommittee Economic Opportunity--Testimony on expiring Department of Veterans Affairs Programs--Adjustable Rates Mortgages, Apprenticeship and on-the-job training, Post Vietnam Era Veterans Educational Assistance Program, Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance, Incarcerated Veterans Transition Program, DOL VETS Program, VETS Claim Referral Program to Office of Special Counsel. Testimony to the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--Findings and Recommendations of the Veterans Disability Commission with Respect to the Current Disability Compensation System--American Legion recommends changes to VA Disability ratings. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--On the Use of Artificial Intelligence to Improve VA's Claim Processing System--American Legion cautions VA on use of AI to improve claims processing. Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--VA Budget Request for Fiscal Year 2009--VA Budget Request, Veterans Health Care Administration, Mandatory Funding of VA Medical Care, Third-Party Reimbursements, Medicare Reimbursements, Medical Construction and Infrastructure Support, Major and Minor Construction, Veterans Benefits Administration, National Cemetery Administration, National Shrine Commitment, State Cemetery Construction Grants, GI Bill and Veterans Education Benefits, State Approving Agencies, VA Home Loan Guarantee Program, Homeless Providers Grant and Per Diem Program, Department of Labor VETS service, Homelessness, Training, Veterans Workforce and Investment Program, Employment Rights and Veterans Preference, Veteran/Service-Connected Disabled Veteran Owned Businesses. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--Testimony regarding problems in claims--Examining the backlog and VA's claims processing system. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--VA Construction Authorization--Advocate greater funding for VA Construction purposes. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--Supporting Those who Support our Veterans--Mental Health Treatment for Veterans' Families.

HR 585--Amend title 38, USC, to expand the number of individuals qualifying for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance--Amends the Veterans' Housing Opportunity and Benefits Improvement Act of 2006 to remove the requirement that, in order to qualify for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under the Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance program during the period beginning on October 7, 2001, and ending on November 30, 2005, the Secretary of the military department concerned must determine that the loss was a direct result of a traumatic injury incurred in the theater of operations for Operations Enduring Freedom or Iraqi Freedom (thus including traumatic injury incurred while performing other types of military service during such period under such coverage). HR 760--Filipino Veterans Equity Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to deem certain service in the organized military forces of the Government of the Commonwealth of the Philippines and the Philippine Scouts to have been active service for purposes of benefits under programs administered by the VA Secretary. HR 1137--Amend title 38, USC, to increase to $2,000 the amount of the Medal of Honor special pension under that title and to provide for payment of that pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased Medal of Honor recipient--Increases from $1,000 to $2,000 the monthly special pension paid to Medal of Honor recipients. Provides for payment of such pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased recipient as long as the surviving spouse was married to the recipient: (1) for one year or more; or (2) for any period of time if a child was born of the marriage or was born to them before the marriage. HR 1944--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to direct the VA Secretary to screen certain veterans for symptoms of traumatic brain injury. HR 2005--Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2007--Authorizes the VA Secretary to pay travel expenses for veterans receiving treatment at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities at the rate provided to federal employees in connection with the performance of official duties. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish and operate at least one and up to five centers of excellence for rural health research, education, and clinical activities; (2) establish a grant program to provide innovative transportation options to veterans in remote rural areas; (3) carry out demonstration projects to examine alternatives for expanding care for veterans in rural areas; and (4) report annually to Congress on matters related to VA care for veterans residing in rural areas. HR 2579--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the use of funds in the Department of Veterans Affairs readjustment benefits accounts and funds appropriated for such purpose to provide funding for State approving agencies. HR 2623--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to prohibit the collection of copayments for all hospice care furnished by VA. HR 3047--Veterans Claims Processing Innovation Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to establish a work credit system for evaluating regional offices of the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) with respect to veterans' claims processing. Requires the Secretary to: (1) develop and maintain a system for processing veterans' disability compensation claims using artificial intelligence that utilizes medical and military service data to generate disability rating recommendations; and (2) maintain a regional office at which all such claims are processed exclusively electronically. Provides that if a veteran who is a claimant dies before completing the submission of a claim for benefits, the person who would receive any accrued benefits(s) due to such veteran shall be treated as the claimant for purposes of completing submission of the claim. Directs the Secretary to contract with a private entity to evaluate the training and assessment programs for VBA employees. HR 3249--Veterans Burial Benefits Improvement Act of 2007--Increases the authorized allowance for burial and funeral expenses for deceased veterans who: (1) at the time of death were in receipt of veterans' disability compensation or veterans' pension benefits; or (2) were veterans of any war or were discharged of released from active military service for a service-connected disability and for whom there is no next of kin or sufficient resources to cover funeral and burial costs. Increases the burial plot allowance for veterans who, at the time of death, were receiving hospital or nursing home care in or through the VA. Authorizes the annual adjustment of such allowances by the same percentage increase as adjustments to benefit amounts payable under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act. HR 3286--Amend title 38, USC, to reduce the period of time for which a veteran must be totally disabled before the veteran's survivors are eligible for the benefits provided by the VA Secretary for survivors of certain veterans rated totally disabled at time of death--Allows veterans' disability compensation benefits to be paid to the survivor of a veteran whose service-connected disability was continuously rated totally disabling for at least one year immediately preceding death. (Current law allows such survivor right of payment if the disability was rated total for periods of up to ten years under various circumstances). HR 3415--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the placement in a national cemetery of memorial markers for the purpose of commemorating servicemembers or other persons whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery--Requires the VA Secretary to furnish for placement a memorial headstone or marker in a national cemetery to commemorate veterans and their spouses whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery. HR 23; S 961--Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of WWII Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to pay a monthly benefit of $1,000 to certain honorably-discharged veterans of the U.S. Merchant Marine who served between December 7, 1941, and December 3, 1946 (or to their survivors). Includes service in the Army Transport Service and the Naval Transport Service. Exempts from taxation benefits paid under this Act. S 383--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to extend the period of eligibility for health care for combat service in the Persian Gulf War or future hostilities from two years to five years after discharge or release--Extends from 2 years to 5 years following discharge or release the eligibility period for certain veterans who served in combat after the Persian Gulf War to receive hospital care, medical services, or nursing home care provided by the VA Secretary, notwithstanding a lack of evidence to conclude that their condition is attributable to such service. HR 797; S 1163; PL 110-157--Blinded Veterans Paired Organ Act of 2007--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to improve compensation and specially adapted housing for veterans in certain cases of impairment of vision involving both eyes, and to provide for the use of the National Directory of New Hires for income verification purposes. S 1233--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Rehabilitation Act of 2007--A bill to provide and enhance intervention, rehabilitative treatment, and services to veterans with traumatic brain injury. HR 2790--Amend title 38, USC, to establish the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services within the office of the Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Health--Establishes within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA)of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services, who shall report to the VHA's Under Secretary for Health on all matters relating to the education and training, employment, appropriate utilization, and optimal participation of physician assistants within VHA programs and initiatives. HR 3458--Direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program on the provision of traumatic brain injury care in rural areas--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall carry out a pilot program in five rural States selected by the Secretary, in consultation with the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs. In each of the five States selected, the Secretary shall assign a specific Department of Veterans Affairs case manager to each individual diagnosed with traumatic brain injury who is receiving care in a medical facility of the Department of Veterans Affairs in a selected State. HR 3819--Veterans Emergency Care Fairness Act of 2007--Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reimburse certain veterans without a service-connected disability enrolled as active participants of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care plan for the cost of emergency treatment received in a non-VA facility until such time as such veterans are transferred to a VA facility. Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary to reimburse certain veterans with a service-connected disability or a non-service-connected disability associated with or aggravating a service-connected disability for the value of emergency treatment for which such veterans have made payment from sources other than the VA. HR 4053--Mental Health Improvements Act of 2007--Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the provision of specified substance use disorder treatment services at each VA medical Center and community-based outpatient clinic. Requires the Secretary to ensure that treatment for a substance use disorder and a comorbid mental health disorder is provided concurrently by a team of experienced clinicians. Requires the Secretary to: (1) carry out a program of enhanced care and treatment for veterans with substance use disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); and (2) establish at least six national centers of excellence on PTSD and substance use disorders. Requires a report on residential mental health care facilities of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Pays tribute to Justin Bailey. Requires a: (1) pilot program on peer outreach and support services, readjustment counseling services, and other mental health services for veterans of OIF and OEF; (2) program of research into comorbid PTSD and substance use disorder and (3) pilot program on the provision of readjustment and transition assistance to veterans and their families in cooperation with Vet Centers. HR 4107--Woman Veterans Health Care Improvement Act--Requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) conduct a long- term epidemiological study on the health of women veterans who served on active duty in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom; (2) assess barriers encountered by women veterans to the provision by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) of comprehensive health car; (3) assess all health care services and programs provided by the VA for women veterans; (4) provide training for mental health professionals who provide counseling to women veterans suffering from sexual trauma; (5) develop a plan for the identification, development, and dissemination of treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other conditions attributable to combat or sexual trauma that are proven effective for women veterans; (6) conduct a study of the provision of readjustment counseling and related mental health services for women veterans at vet centers; (7) carry out a pilot program for child care for certain women veterans receiving health care from VA facilities; and (8) carry out a pilot program to evaluate feasibility of providing counseling and transition adjustment assistance for women veterans who are newly separated from active duty service. Requires women veterans recently separated from active duty service to be included on the Advisory Committee on Women Veterans. HR 4146--Amend title 38, USC, to clarify the availability of emergency medical care for veterans in non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities--Requires the determination of whether a veteran can be transferred to a Department of Veterans Affairs medical facility after receiving emergency medical treatment in a non-Department facility to be based both on the condition of the veteran and on the availability of a bed in a Department facility that is not geographically inaccessible to the veteran. HR 4204--Veterans Suicide Study Act--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall conduct a study to determine the number of veterans who have committed suicide between January 1, 1997 and the date of the enactment of this Act. Testimony to House Veterans Affairs Subcommittee Economic Opportunity--Testimony on expiring Department of Veterans Affairs Programs--Adjustable Rates Mortgages, Apprenticeship and on-the-job training, Post Vietnam Era Veterans Educational Assistance Program, Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance, Incarcerated Veterans Transition Program, DOL VETS Program, VETS Claim Referral Program to Office of Special Counsel. Testimony to the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--Findings and Recommendations of the Veterans Disability Commission with Respect to the Current Disability Compensation System--American Legion recommends changes to VA Disability ratings. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--On the Use of Artificial Intelligence to Improve VA's Claim Processing System--American Legion cautions VA on use of AI to improve claims processing. Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--VA Budget Request for Fiscal Year 2009--VA Budget Request, Veterans Health Care Administration, Mandatory Funding of VA Medical Care, Third-Party Reimbursements, Medicare Reimbursements, Medical Construction and Infrastructure Support, Major and Minor Construction, Veterans Benefits Administration, National Cemetery Administration, National Shrine Commitment, State Cemetery Construction Grants, GI Bill and Veterans Education Benefits, State Approving Agencies, VA Home Loan Guarantee Program, Homeless Providers Grant and Per Diem Program, Department of Labor VETS service, Homelessness, Training, Veterans Workforce and Investment Program, Employment Rights and Veterans Preference, Veteran/Service-Connected Disabled Veteran Owned Businesses. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--Testimony regarding problems in claims--Examining the backlog and VA's claims processing system. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--VA Construction Authorization--Advocate greater funding for VA Construction purposes. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--Supporting Those who Support our Veterans--Mental Health Treatment for Veterans' Families.

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

HR 585--Amend title 38, USC, to expand the number of individuals qualifying for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance--Amends the Veterans' Housing Opportunity and Benefits Improvement Act of 2006 to remove the requirement that, in order to qualify for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under the Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance program during the period beginning on October 7, 2001, and ending on November 30, 2005, the Secretary of the military department concerned must determine that the loss was a direct result of a traumatic injury incurred in the theater of operations for Operations Enduring Freedom or Iraqi Freedom (thus including traumatic injury incurred while performing other types of military service during such period under such coverage). HR 760--Filipino Veterans Equity Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to deem certain service in the organized military forces of the Government of the Commonwealth of the Philippines and the Philippine Scouts to have been active service for purposes of benefits under programs administered by the VA Secretary. HR 1137--Amend title 38, USC, to increase to $2,000 the amount of the Medal of Honor special pension under that title and to provide for payment of that pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased Medal of Honor recipient--Increases from $1,000 to $2,000 the monthly special pension paid to Medal of Honor recipients. Provides for payment of such pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased recipient as long as the surviving spouse was married to the recipient: (1) for one year or more; or (2) for any period of time if a child was born of the marriage or was born to them before the marriage. HR 1944--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to direct the VA Secretary to screen certain veterans for symptoms of traumatic brain injury. HR 2005--Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2007--Authorizes the VA Secretary to pay travel expenses for veterans receiving treatment at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities at the rate provided to federal employees in connection with the performance of official duties. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish and operate at least one and up to five centers of excellence for rural health research, education, and clinical activities; (2) establish a grant program to provide innovative transportation options to veterans in remote rural areas; (3) carry out demonstration projects to examine alternatives for expanding care for veterans in rural areas; and (4) report annually to Congress on matters related to VA care for veterans residing in rural areas. HR 2579--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the use of funds in the Department of Veterans Affairs readjustment benefits accounts and funds appropriated for such purpose to provide funding for State approving agencies. HR 2623--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to prohibit the collection of copayments for all hospice care furnished by VA. HR 3047--Veterans Claims Processing Innovation Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to establish a work credit system for evaluating regional offices of the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) with respect to veterans' claims processing. Requires the Secretary to: (1) develop and maintain a system for processing veterans' disability compensation claims using artificial intelligence that utilizes medical and military service data to generate disability rating recommendations; and (2) maintain a regional office at which all such claims are processed exclusively electronically. Provides that if a veteran who is a claimant dies before completing the submission of a claim for benefits, the person who would receive any accrued benefits(s) due to such veteran shall be treated as the claimant for purposes of completing submission of the claim. Directs the Secretary to contract with a private entity to evaluate the training and assessment programs for VBA employees. HR 3249--Veterans Burial Benefits Improvement Act of 2007--Increases the authorized allowance for burial and funeral expenses for deceased veterans who: (1) at the time of death were in receipt of veterans' disability compensation or veterans' pension benefits; or (2) were veterans of any war or were discharged of released from active military service for a service-connected disability and for whom there is no next of kin or sufficient resources to cover funeral and burial costs. Increases the burial plot allowance for veterans who, at the time of death, were receiving hospital or nursing home care in or through the VA. Authorizes the annual adjustment of such allowances by the same percentage increase as adjustments to benefit amounts payable under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act. HR 3286--Amend title 38, USC, to reduce the period of time for which a veteran must be totally disabled before the veteran's survivors are eligible for the benefits provided by the VA Secretary for survivors of certain veterans rated totally disabled at time of death--Allows veterans' disability compensation benefits to be paid to the survivor of a veteran whose service-connected disability was continuously rated totally disabling for at least one year immediately preceding death. (Current law allows such survivor right of payment if the disability was rated total for periods of up to ten years under various circumstances). HR 3415--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the placement in a national cemetery of memorial markers for the purpose of commemorating servicemembers or other persons whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery--Requires the VA Secretary to furnish for placement a memorial headstone or marker in a national cemetery to commemorate veterans and their spouses whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery. HR 23; S 961--Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of WWII Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to pay a monthly benefit of $1,000 to certain honorably-discharged veterans of the U.S. Merchant Marine who served between December 7, 1941, and December 3, 1946 (or to their survivors). Includes service in the Army Transport Service and the Naval Transport Service. Exempts from taxation benefits paid under this Act. S 383--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to extend the period of eligibility for health care for combat service in the Persian Gulf War or future hostilities from two years to five years after discharge or release--Extends from 2 years to 5 years following discharge or release the eligibility period for certain veterans who served in combat after the Persian Gulf War to receive hospital care, medical services, or nursing home care provided by the VA Secretary, notwithstanding a lack of evidence to conclude that their condition is attributable to such service. HR 797; S 1163; PL 110-157--Blinded Veterans Paired Organ Act of 2007--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to improve compensation and specially adapted housing for veterans in certain cases of impairment of vision involving both eyes, and to provide for the use of the National Directory of New Hires for income verification purposes. S 1233--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Rehabilitation Act of 2007--A bill to provide and enhance intervention, rehabilitative treatment, and services to veterans with traumatic brain injury. HR 2790--Amend title 38, USC, to establish the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services within the office of the Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Health--Establishes within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA)of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services, who shall report to the VHA's Under Secretary for Health on all matters relating to the education and training, employment, appropriate utilization, and optimal participation of physician assistants within VHA programs and initiatives. HR 3458--Direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program on the provision of traumatic brain injury care in rural areas--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall carry out a pilot program in five rural States selected by the Secretary, in consultation with the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs. In each of the five States selected, the Secretary shall assign a specific Department of Veterans Affairs case manager to each individual diagnosed with traumatic brain injury who is receiving care in a medical facility of the Department of Veterans Affairs in a selected State. HR 3819--Veterans Emergency Care Fairness Act of 2007--Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reimburse certain veterans without a service-connected disability enrolled as active participants of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care plan for the cost of emergency treatment received in a non-VA facility until such time as such veterans are transferred to a VA facility. Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary to reimburse certain veterans with a service-connected disability or a non-service-connected disability associated with or aggravating a service-connected disability for the value of emergency treatment for which such veterans have made payment from sources other than the VA. HR 4053--Mental Health Improvements Act of 2007--Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the provision of specified substance use disorder treatment services at each VA medical Center and community-based outpatient clinic. Requires the Secretary to ensure that treatment for a substance use disorder and a comorbid mental health disorder is provided concurrently by a team of experienced clinicians. Requires the Secretary to: (1) carry out a program of enhanced care and treatment for veterans with substance use disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); and (2) establish at least six national centers of excellence on PTSD and substance use disorders. Requires a report on residential mental health care facilities of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Pays tribute to Justin Bailey. Requires a: (1) pilot program on peer outreach and support services, readjustment counseling services, and other mental health services for veterans of OIF and OEF; (2) program of research into comorbid PTSD and substance use disorder and (3) pilot program on the provision of readjustment and transition assistance to veterans and their families in cooperation with Vet Centers. HR 4107--Woman Veterans Health Care Improvement Act--Requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) conduct a long- term epidemiological study on the health of women veterans who served on active duty in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom; (2) assess barriers encountered by women veterans to the provision by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) of comprehensive health car; (3) assess all health care services and programs provided by the VA for women veterans; (4) provide training for mental health professionals who provide counseling to women veterans suffering from sexual trauma; (5) develop a plan for the identification, development, and dissemination of treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other conditions attributable to combat or sexual trauma that are proven effective for women veterans; (6) conduct a study of the provision of readjustment counseling and related mental health services for women veterans at vet centers; (7) carry out a pilot program for child care for certain women veterans receiving health care from VA facilities; and (8) carry out a pilot program to evaluate feasibility of providing counseling and transition adjustment assistance for women veterans who are newly separated from active duty service. Requires women veterans recently separated from active duty service to be included on the Advisory Committee on Women Veterans. HR 4146--Amend title 38, USC, to clarify the availability of emergency medical care for veterans in non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities--Requires the determination of whether a veteran can be transferred to a Department of Veterans Affairs medical facility after receiving emergency medical treatment in a non-Department facility to be based both on the condition of the veteran and on the availability of a bed in a Department facility that is not geographically inaccessible to the veteran. HR 4204--Veterans Suicide Study Act--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall conduct a study to determine the number of veterans who have committed suicide between January 1, 1997 and the date of the enactment of this Act. Testimony to House Veterans Affairs Subcommittee Economic Opportunity--Testimony on expiring Department of Veterans Affairs Programs--Adjustable Rates Mortgages, Apprenticeship and on-the-job training, Post Vietnam Era Veterans Educational Assistance Program, Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance, Incarcerated Veterans Transition Program, DOL VETS Program, VETS Claim Referral Program to Office of Special Counsel. Testimony to the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--Findings and Recommendations of the Veterans Disability Commission with Respect to the Current Disability Compensation System--American Legion recommends changes to VA Disability ratings. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--On the Use of Artificial Intelligence to Improve VA's Claim Processing System--American Legion cautions VA on use of AI to improve claims processing. Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--VA Budget Request for Fiscal Year 2009--VA Budget Request, Veterans Health Care Administration, Mandatory Funding of VA Medical Care, Third-Party Reimbursements, Medicare Reimbursements, Medical Construction and Infrastructure Support, Major and Minor Construction, Veterans Benefits Administration, National Cemetery Administration, National Shrine Commitment, State Cemetery Construction Grants, GI Bill and Veterans Education Benefits, State Approving Agencies, VA Home Loan Guarantee Program, Homeless Providers Grant and Per Diem Program, Department of Labor VETS service, Homelessness, Training, Veterans Workforce and Investment Program, Employment Rights and Veterans Preference, Veteran/Service-Connected Disabled Veteran Owned Businesses. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--Testimony regarding problems in claims--Examining the backlog and VA's claims processing system. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--VA Construction Authorization--Advocate greater funding for VA Construction purposes. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--Supporting Those who Support our Veterans--Mental Health Treatment for Veterans' Families.

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

HR 585--Amend title 38, USC, to expand the number of individuals qualifying for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance--Amends the Veterans' Housing Opportunity and Benefits Improvement Act of 2006 to remove the requirement that, in order to qualify for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under the Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance program during the period beginning on October 7, 2001, and ending on November 30, 2005, the Secretary of the military department concerned must determine that the loss was a direct result of a traumatic injury incurred in the theater of operations for Operations Enduring Freedom or Iraqi Freedom (thus including traumatic injury incurred while performing other types of military service during such period under such coverage). HR 760--Filipino Veterans Equity Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to deem certain service in the organized military forces of the Government of the Commonwealth of the Philippines and the Philippine Scouts to have been active service for purposes of benefits under programs administered by the VA Secretary. HR 1137--Amend title 38, USC, to increase to $2,000 the amount of the Medal of Honor special pension under that title and to provide for payment of that pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased Medal of Honor recipient--Increases from $1,000 to $2,000 the monthly special pension paid to Medal of Honor recipients. Provides for payment of such pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased recipient as long as the surviving spouse was married to the recipient: (1) for one year or more; or (2) for any period of time if a child was born of the marriage or was born to them before the marriage. HR 1944--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to direct the VA Secretary to screen certain veterans for symptoms of traumatic brain injury. HR 2005--Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2007--Authorizes the VA Secretary to pay travel expenses for veterans receiving treatment at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities at the rate provided to federal employees in connection with the performance of official duties. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish and operate at least one and up to five centers of excellence for rural health research, education, and clinical activities; (2) establish a grant program to provide innovative transportation options to veterans in remote rural areas; (3) carry out demonstration projects to examine alternatives for expanding care for veterans in rural areas; and (4) report annually to Congress on matters related to VA care for veterans residing in rural areas. HR 2579--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the use of funds in the Department of Veterans Affairs readjustment benefits accounts and funds appropriated for such purpose to provide funding for State approving agencies. HR 2623--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to prohibit the collection of copayments for all hospice care furnished by VA. HR 3047--Veterans Claims Processing Innovation Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to establish a work credit system for evaluating regional offices of the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) with respect to veterans' claims processing. Requires the Secretary to: (1) develop and maintain a system for processing veterans' disability compensation claims using artificial intelligence that utilizes medical and military service data to generate disability rating recommendations; and (2) maintain a regional office at which all such claims are processed exclusively electronically. Provides that if a veteran who is a claimant dies before completing the submission of a claim for benefits, the person who would receive any accrued benefits(s) due to such veteran shall be treated as the claimant for purposes of completing submission of the claim. Directs the Secretary to contract with a private entity to evaluate the training and assessment programs for VBA employees. HR 3249--Veterans Burial Benefits Improvement Act of 2007--Increases the authorized allowance for burial and funeral expenses for deceased veterans who: (1) at the time of death were in receipt of veterans' disability compensation or veterans' pension benefits; or (2) were veterans of any war or were discharged of released from active military service for a service-connected disability and for whom there is no next of kin or sufficient resources to cover funeral and burial costs. Increases the burial plot allowance for veterans who, at the time of death, were receiving hospital or nursing home care in or through the VA. Authorizes the annual adjustment of such allowances by the same percentage increase as adjustments to benefit amounts payable under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act. HR 3286--Amend title 38, USC, to reduce the period of time for which a veteran must be totally disabled before the veteran's survivors are eligible for the benefits provided by the VA Secretary for survivors of certain veterans rated totally disabled at time of death--Allows veterans' disability compensation benefits to be paid to the survivor of a veteran whose service-connected disability was continuously rated totally disabling for at least one year immediately preceding death. (Current law allows such survivor right of payment if the disability was rated total for periods of up to ten years under various circumstances). HR 3415--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the placement in a national cemetery of memorial markers for the purpose of commemorating servicemembers or other persons whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery--Requires the VA Secretary to furnish for placement a memorial headstone or marker in a national cemetery to commemorate veterans and their spouses whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery. HR 23; S 961--Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of WWII Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to pay a monthly benefit of $1,000 to certain honorably-discharged veterans of the U.S. Merchant Marine who served between December 7, 1941, and December 3, 1946 (or to their survivors). Includes service in the Army Transport Service and the Naval Transport Service. Exempts from taxation benefits paid under this Act. S 383--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to extend the period of eligibility for health care for combat service in the Persian Gulf War or future hostilities from two years to five years after discharge or release--Extends from 2 years to 5 years following discharge or release the eligibility period for certain veterans who served in combat after the Persian Gulf War to receive hospital care, medical services, or nursing home care provided by the VA Secretary, notwithstanding a lack of evidence to conclude that their condition is attributable to such service. HR 797; S 1163; PL 110-157--Blinded Veterans Paired Organ Act of 2007--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to improve compensation and specially adapted housing for veterans in certain cases of impairment of vision involving both eyes, and to provide for the use of the National Directory of New Hires for income verification purposes. S 1233--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Rehabilitation Act of 2007--A bill to provide and enhance intervention, rehabilitative treatment, and services to veterans with traumatic brain injury. HR 2790--Amend title 38, USC, to establish the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services within the office of the Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Health--Establishes within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA)of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services, who shall report to the VHA's Under Secretary for Health on all matters relating to the education and training, employment, appropriate utilization, and optimal participation of physician assistants within VHA programs and initiatives. HR 3458--Direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program on the provision of traumatic brain injury care in rural areas--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall carry out a pilot program in five rural States selected by the Secretary, in consultation with the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs. In each of the five States selected, the Secretary shall assign a specific Department of Veterans Affairs case manager to each individual diagnosed with traumatic brain injury who is receiving care in a medical facility of the Department of Veterans Affairs in a selected State. HR 3819--Veterans Emergency Care Fairness Act of 2007--Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reimburse certain veterans without a service-connected disability enrolled as active participants of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care plan for the cost of emergency treatment received in a non-VA facility until such time as such veterans are transferred to a VA facility. Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary to reimburse certain veterans with a service-connected disability or a non-service-connected disability associated with or aggravating a service-connected disability for the value of emergency treatment for which such veterans have made payment from sources other than the VA. HR 4053--Mental Health Improvements Act of 2007--Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the provision of specified substance use disorder treatment services at each VA medical Center and community-based outpatient clinic. Requires the Secretary to ensure that treatment for a substance use disorder and a comorbid mental health disorder is provided concurrently by a team of experienced clinicians. Requires the Secretary to: (1) carry out a program of enhanced care and treatment for veterans with substance use disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); and (2) establish at least six national centers of excellence on PTSD and substance use disorders. Requires a report on residential mental health care facilities of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Pays tribute to Justin Bailey. Requires a: (1) pilot program on peer outreach and support services, readjustment counseling services, and other mental health services for veterans of OIF and OEF; (2) program of research into comorbid PTSD and substance use disorder and (3) pilot program on the provision of readjustment and transition assistance to veterans and their families in cooperation with Vet Centers. HR 4107--Woman Veterans Health Care Improvement Act--Requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) conduct a long- term epidemiological study on the health of women veterans who served on active duty in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom; (2) assess barriers encountered by women veterans to the provision by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) of comprehensive health car; (3) assess all health care services and programs provided by the VA for women veterans; (4) provide training for mental health professionals who provide counseling to women veterans suffering from sexual trauma; (5) develop a plan for the identification, development, and dissemination of treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other conditions attributable to combat or sexual trauma that are proven effective for women veterans; (6) conduct a study of the provision of readjustment counseling and related mental health services for women veterans at vet centers; (7) carry out a pilot program for child care for certain women veterans receiving health care from VA facilities; and (8) carry out a pilot program to evaluate feasibility of providing counseling and transition adjustment assistance for women veterans who are newly separated from active duty service. Requires women veterans recently separated from active duty service to be included on the Advisory Committee on Women Veterans. HR 4146--Amend title 38, USC, to clarify the availability of emergency medical care for veterans in non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities--Requires the determination of whether a veteran can be transferred to a Department of Veterans Affairs medical facility after receiving emergency medical treatment in a non-Department facility to be based both on the condition of the veteran and on the availability of a bed in a Department facility that is not geographically inaccessible to the veteran. HR 4204--Veterans Suicide Study Act--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall conduct a study to determine the number of veterans who have committed suicide between January 1, 1997 and the date of the enactment of this Act. Testimony to House Veterans Affairs Subcommittee Economic Opportunity--Testimony on expiring Department of Veterans Affairs Programs--Adjustable Rates Mortgages, Apprenticeship and on-the-job training, Post Vietnam Era Veterans Educational Assistance Program, Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance, Incarcerated Veterans Transition Program, DOL VETS Program, VETS Claim Referral Program to Office of Special Counsel. Testimony to the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--Findings and Recommendations of the Veterans Disability Commission with Respect to the Current Disability Compensation System--American Legion recommends changes to VA Disability ratings. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--On the Use of Artificial Intelligence to Improve VA's Claim Processing System--American Legion cautions VA on use of AI to improve claims processing. Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--VA Budget Request for Fiscal Year 2009--VA Budget Request, Veterans Health Care Administration, Mandatory Funding of VA Medical Care, Third-Party Reimbursements, Medicare Reimbursements, Medical Construction and Infrastructure Support, Major and Minor Construction, Veterans Benefits Administration, National Cemetery Administration, National Shrine Commitment, State Cemetery Construction Grants, GI Bill and Veterans Education Benefits, State Approving Agencies, VA Home Loan Guarantee Program, Homeless Providers Grant and Per Diem Program, Department of Labor VETS service, Homelessness, Training, Veterans Workforce and Investment Program, Employment Rights and Veterans Preference, Veteran/Service-Connected Disabled Veteran Owned Businesses. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--Testimony regarding problems in claims--Examining the backlog and VA's claims processing system. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--VA Construction Authorization--Advocate greater funding for VA Construction purposes. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--Supporting Those who Support our Veterans--Mental Health Treatment for Veterans' Families.

HR 585--Amend title 38, USC, to expand the number of individuals qualifying for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance--Amends the Veterans' Housing Opportunity and Benefits Improvement Act of 2006 to remove the requirement that, in order to qualify for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under the Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance program during the period beginning on October 7, 2001, and ending on November 30, 2005, the Secretary of the military department concerned must determine that the loss was a direct result of a traumatic injury incurred in the theater of operations for Operations Enduring Freedom or Iraqi Freedom (thus including traumatic injury incurred while performing other types of military service during such period under such coverage). HR 760--Filipino Veterans Equity Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to deem certain service in the organized military forces of the Government of the Commonwealth of the Philippines and the Philippine Scouts to have been active service for purposes of benefits under programs administered by the VA Secretary. HR 1137--Amend title 38, USC, to increase to $2,000 the amount of the Medal of Honor special pension under that title and to provide for payment of that pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased Medal of Honor recipient--Increases from $1,000 to $2,000 the monthly special pension paid to Medal of Honor recipients. Provides for payment of such pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased recipient as long as the surviving spouse was married to the recipient: (1) for one year or more; or (2) for any period of time if a child was born of the marriage or was born to them before the marriage. HR 1944--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to direct the VA Secretary to screen certain veterans for symptoms of traumatic brain injury. HR 2005--Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2007--Authorizes the VA Secretary to pay travel expenses for veterans receiving treatment at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities at the rate provided to federal employees in connection with the performance of official duties. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish and operate at least one and up to five centers of excellence for rural health research, education, and clinical activities; (2) establish a grant program to provide innovative transportation options to veterans in remote rural areas; (3) carry out demonstration projects to examine alternatives for expanding care for veterans in rural areas; and (4) report annually to Congress on matters related to VA care for veterans residing in rural areas. HR 2579--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the use of funds in the Department of Veterans Affairs readjustment benefits accounts and funds appropriated for such purpose to provide funding for State approving agencies. HR 2623--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to prohibit the collection of copayments for all hospice care furnished by VA. HR 3047--Veterans Claims Processing Innovation Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to establish a work credit system for evaluating regional offices of the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) with respect to veterans' claims processing. Requires the Secretary to: (1) develop and maintain a system for processing veterans' disability compensation claims using artificial intelligence that utilizes medical and military service data to generate disability rating recommendations; and (2) maintain a regional office at which all such claims are processed exclusively electronically. Provides that if a veteran who is a claimant dies before completing the submission of a claim for benefits, the person who would receive any accrued benefits(s) due to such veteran shall be treated as the claimant for purposes of completing submission of the claim. Directs the Secretary to contract with a private entity to evaluate the training and assessment programs for VBA employees. HR 3249--Veterans Burial Benefits Improvement Act of 2007--Increases the authorized allowance for burial and funeral expenses for deceased veterans who: (1) at the time of death were in receipt of veterans' disability compensation or veterans' pension benefits; or (2) were veterans of any war or were discharged of released from active military service for a service-connected disability and for whom there is no next of kin or sufficient resources to cover funeral and burial costs. Increases the burial plot allowance for veterans who, at the time of death, were receiving hospital or nursing home care in or through the VA. Authorizes the annual adjustment of such allowances by the same percentage increase as adjustments to benefit amounts payable under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act. HR 3286--Amend title 38, USC, to reduce the period of time for which a veteran must be totally disabled before the veteran's survivors are eligible for the benefits provided by the VA Secretary for survivors of certain veterans rated totally disabled at time of death--Allows veterans' disability compensation benefits to be paid to the survivor of a veteran whose service-connected disability was continuously rated totally disabling for at least one year immediately preceding death. (Current law allows such survivor right of payment if the disability was rated total for periods of up to ten years under various circumstances). HR 3415--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the placement in a national cemetery of memorial markers for the purpose of commemorating servicemembers or other persons whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery--Requires the VA Secretary to furnish for placement a memorial headstone or marker in a national cemetery to commemorate veterans and their spouses whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery. HR 23; S 961--Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of WWII Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to pay a monthly benefit of $1,000 to certain honorably-discharged veterans of the U.S. Merchant Marine who served between December 7, 1941, and December 3, 1946 (or to their survivors). Includes service in the Army Transport Service and the Naval Transport Service. Exempts from taxation benefits paid under this Act. S 383--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to extend the period of eligibility for health care for combat service in the Persian Gulf War or future hostilities from two years to five years after discharge or release--Extends from 2 years to 5 years following discharge or release the eligibility period for certain veterans who served in combat after the Persian Gulf War to receive hospital care, medical services, or nursing home care provided by the VA Secretary, notwithstanding a lack of evidence to conclude that their condition is attributable to such service. HR 797; S 1163; PL 110-157--Blinded Veterans Paired Organ Act of 2007--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to improve compensation and specially adapted housing for veterans in certain cases of impairment of vision involving both eyes, and to provide for the use of the National Directory of New Hires for income verification purposes. S 1233--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Rehabilitation Act of 2007--A bill to provide and enhance intervention, rehabilitative treatment, and services to veterans with traumatic brain injury. HR 2790--Amend title 38, USC, to establish the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services within the office of the Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Health--Establishes within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA)of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services, who shall report to the VHA's Under Secretary for Health on all matters relating to the education and training, employment, appropriate utilization, and optimal participation of physician assistants within VHA programs and initiatives. HR 3458--Direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program on the provision of traumatic brain injury care in rural areas--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall carry out a pilot program in five rural States selected by the Secretary, in consultation with the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs. In each of the five States selected, the Secretary shall assign a specific Department of Veterans Affairs case manager to each individual diagnosed with traumatic brain injury who is receiving care in a medical facility of the Department of Veterans Affairs in a selected State. HR 3819--Veterans Emergency Care Fairness Act of 2007--Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reimburse certain veterans without a service-connected disability enrolled as active participants of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care plan for the cost of emergency treatment received in a non-VA facility until such time as such veterans are transferred to a VA facility. Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary to reimburse certain veterans with a service-connected disability or a non-service-connected disability associated with or aggravating a service-connected disability for the value of emergency treatment for which such veterans have made payment from sources other than the VA. HR 4053--Mental Health Improvements Act of 2007--Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the provision of specified substance use disorder treatment services at each VA medical Center and community-based outpatient clinic. Requires the Secretary to ensure that treatment for a substance use disorder and a comorbid mental health disorder is provided concurrently by a team of experienced clinicians. Requires the Secretary to: (1) carry out a program of enhanced care and treatment for veterans with substance use disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); and (2) establish at least six national centers of excellence on PTSD and substance use disorders. Requires a report on residential mental health care facilities of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Pays tribute to Justin Bailey. Requires a: (1) pilot program on peer outreach and support services, readjustment counseling services, and other mental health services for veterans of OIF and OEF; (2) program of research into comorbid PTSD and substance use disorder and (3) pilot program on the provision of readjustment and transition assistance to veterans and their families in cooperation with Vet Centers. HR 4107--Woman Veterans Health Care Improvement Act--Requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) conduct a long- term epidemiological study on the health of women veterans who served on active duty in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom; (2) assess barriers encountered by women veterans to the provision by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) of comprehensive health car; (3) assess all health care services and programs provided by the VA for women veterans; (4) provide training for mental health professionals who provide counseling to women veterans suffering from sexual trauma; (5) develop a plan for the identification, development, and dissemination of treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other conditions attributable to combat or sexual trauma that are proven effective for women veterans; (6) conduct a study of the provision of readjustment counseling and related mental health services for women veterans at vet centers; (7) carry out a pilot program for child care for certain women veterans receiving health care from VA facilities; and (8) carry out a pilot program to evaluate feasibility of providing counseling and transition adjustment assistance for women veterans who are newly separated from active duty service. Requires women veterans recently separated from active duty service to be included on the Advisory Committee on Women Veterans. HR 4146--Amend title 38, USC, to clarify the availability of emergency medical care for veterans in non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities--Requires the determination of whether a veteran can be transferred to a Department of Veterans Affairs medical facility after receiving emergency medical treatment in a non-Department facility to be based both on the condition of the veteran and on the availability of a bed in a Department facility that is not geographically inaccessible to the veteran. HR 4204--Veterans Suicide Study Act--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall conduct a study to determine the number of veterans who have committed suicide between January 1, 1997 and the date of the enactment of this Act. Testimony to House Veterans Affairs Subcommittee Economic Opportunity--Testimony on expiring Department of Veterans Affairs Programs--Adjustable Rates Mortgages, Apprenticeship and on-the-job training, Post Vietnam Era Veterans Educational Assistance Program, Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance, Incarcerated Veterans Transition Program, DOL VETS Program, VETS Claim Referral Program to Office of Special Counsel. Testimony to the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--Findings and Recommendations of the Veterans Disability Commission with Respect to the Current Disability Compensation System--American Legion recommends changes to VA Disability ratings. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--On the Use of Artificial Intelligence to Improve VA's Claim Processing System--American Legion cautions VA on use of AI to improve claims processing. Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--VA Budget Request for Fiscal Year 2009--VA Budget Request, Veterans Health Care Administration, Mandatory Funding of VA Medical Care, Third-Party Reimbursements, Medicare Reimbursements, Medical Construction and Infrastructure Support, Major and Minor Construction, Veterans Benefits Administration, National Cemetery Administration, National Shrine Commitment, State Cemetery Construction Grants, GI Bill and Veterans Education Benefits, State Approving Agencies, VA Home Loan Guarantee Program, Homeless Providers Grant and Per Diem Program, Department of Labor VETS service, Homelessness, Training, Veterans Workforce and Investment Program, Employment Rights and Veterans Preference, Veteran/Service-Connected Disabled Veteran Owned Businesses. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--Testimony regarding problems in claims--Examining the backlog and VA's claims processing system. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--VA Construction Authorization--Advocate greater funding for VA Construction purposes. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--Supporting Those who Support our Veterans--Mental Health Treatment for Veterans' Families.

HR 585--Amend title 38, USC, to expand the number of individuals qualifying for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance--Amends the Veterans' Housing Opportunity and Benefits Improvement Act of 2006 to remove the requirement that, in order to qualify for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under the Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance program during the period beginning on October 7, 2001, and ending on November 30, 2005, the Secretary of the military department concerned must determine that the loss was a direct result of a traumatic injury incurred in the theater of operations for Operations Enduring Freedom or Iraqi Freedom (thus including traumatic injury incurred while performing other types of military service during such period under such coverage). HR 760--Filipino Veterans Equity Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to deem certain service in the organized military forces of the Government of the Commonwealth of the Philippines and the Philippine Scouts to have been active service for purposes of benefits under programs administered by the VA Secretary. HR 1137--Amend title 38, USC, to increase to $2,000 the amount of the Medal of Honor special pension under that title and to provide for payment of that pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased Medal of Honor recipient--Increases from $1,000 to $2,000 the monthly special pension paid to Medal of Honor recipients. Provides for payment of such pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased recipient as long as the surviving spouse was married to the recipient: (1) for one year or more; or (2) for any period of time if a child was born of the marriage or was born to them before the marriage. HR 1944--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to direct the VA Secretary to screen certain veterans for symptoms of traumatic brain injury. HR 2005--Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2007--Authorizes the VA Secretary to pay travel expenses for veterans receiving treatment at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities at the rate provided to federal employees in connection with the performance of official duties. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish and operate at least one and up to five centers of excellence for rural health research, education, and clinical activities; (2) establish a grant program to provide innovative transportation options to veterans in remote rural areas; (3) carry out demonstration projects to examine alternatives for expanding care for veterans in rural areas; and (4) report annually to Congress on matters related to VA care for veterans residing in rural areas. HR 2579--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the use of funds in the Department of Veterans Affairs readjustment benefits accounts and funds appropriated for such purpose to provide funding for State approving agencies. HR 2623--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to prohibit the collection of copayments for all hospice care furnished by VA. HR 3047--Veterans Claims Processing Innovation Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to establish a work credit system for evaluating regional offices of the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) with respect to veterans' claims processing. Requires the Secretary to: (1) develop and maintain a system for processing veterans' disability compensation claims using artificial intelligence that utilizes medical and military service data to generate disability rating recommendations; and (2) maintain a regional office at which all such claims are processed exclusively electronically. Provides that if a veteran who is a claimant dies before completing the submission of a claim for benefits, the person who would receive any accrued benefits(s) due to such veteran shall be treated as the claimant for purposes of completing submission of the claim. Directs the Secretary to contract with a private entity to evaluate the training and assessment programs for VBA employees. HR 3249--Veterans Burial Benefits Improvement Act of 2007--Increases the authorized allowance for burial and funeral expenses for deceased veterans who: (1) at the time of death were in receipt of veterans' disability compensation or veterans' pension benefits; or (2) were veterans of any war or were discharged of released from active military service for a service-connected disability and for whom there is no next of kin or sufficient resources to cover funeral and burial costs. Increases the burial plot allowance for veterans who, at the time of death, were receiving hospital or nursing home care in or through the VA. Authorizes the annual adjustment of such allowances by the same percentage increase as adjustments to benefit amounts payable under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act. HR 3286--Amend title 38, USC, to reduce the period of time for which a veteran must be totally disabled before the veteran's survivors are eligible for the benefits provided by the VA Secretary for survivors of certain veterans rated totally disabled at time of death--Allows veterans' disability compensation benefits to be paid to the survivor of a veteran whose service-connected disability was continuously rated totally disabling for at least one year immediately preceding death. (Current law allows such survivor right of payment if the disability was rated total for periods of up to ten years under various circumstances). HR 3415--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the placement in a national cemetery of memorial markers for the purpose of commemorating servicemembers or other persons whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery--Requires the VA Secretary to furnish for placement a memorial headstone or marker in a national cemetery to commemorate veterans and their spouses whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery. HR 23; S 961--Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of WWII Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to pay a monthly benefit of $1,000 to certain honorably-discharged veterans of the U.S. Merchant Marine who served between December 7, 1941, and December 3, 1946 (or to their survivors). Includes service in the Army Transport Service and the Naval Transport Service. Exempts from taxation benefits paid under this Act. S 383--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to extend the period of eligibility for health care for combat service in the Persian Gulf War or future hostilities from two years to five years after discharge or release--Extends from 2 years to 5 years following discharge or release the eligibility period for certain veterans who served in combat after the Persian Gulf War to receive hospital care, medical services, or nursing home care provided by the VA Secretary, notwithstanding a lack of evidence to conclude that their condition is attributable to such service. HR 797; S 1163; PL 110-157--Blinded Veterans Paired Organ Act of 2007--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to improve compensation and specially adapted housing for veterans in certain cases of impairment of vision involving both eyes, and to provide for the use of the National Directory of New Hires for income verification purposes. S 1233--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Rehabilitation Act of 2007--A bill to provide and enhance intervention, rehabilitative treatment, and services to veterans with traumatic brain injury. HR 2790--Amend title 38, USC, to establish the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services within the office of the Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Health--Establishes within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA)of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services, who shall report to the VHA's Under Secretary for Health on all matters relating to the education and training, employment, appropriate utilization, and optimal participation of physician assistants within VHA programs and initiatives. HR 3458--Direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program on the provision of traumatic brain injury care in rural areas--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall carry out a pilot program in five rural States selected by the Secretary, in consultation with the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs. In each of the five States selected, the Secretary shall assign a specific Department of Veterans Affairs case manager to each individual diagnosed with traumatic brain injury who is receiving care in a medical facility of the Department of Veterans Affairs in a selected State. HR 3819--Veterans Emergency Care Fairness Act of 2007--Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reimburse certain veterans without a service-connected disability enrolled as active participants of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care plan for the cost of emergency treatment received in a non-VA facility until such time as such veterans are transferred to a VA facility. Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary to reimburse certain veterans with a service-connected disability or a non-service-connected disability associated with or aggravating a service-connected disability for the value of emergency treatment for which such veterans have made payment from sources other than the VA. HR 4053--Mental Health Improvements Act of 2007--Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the provision of specified substance use disorder treatment services at each VA medical Center and community-based outpatient clinic. Requires the Secretary to ensure that treatment for a substance use disorder and a comorbid mental health disorder is provided concurrently by a team of experienced clinicians. Requires the Secretary to: (1) carry out a program of enhanced care and treatment for veterans with substance use disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); and (2) establish at least six national centers of excellence on PTSD and substance use disorders. Requires a report on residential mental health care facilities of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Pays tribute to Justin Bailey. Requires a: (1) pilot program on peer outreach and support services, readjustment counseling services, and other mental health services for veterans of OIF and OEF; (2) program of research into comorbid PTSD and substance use disorder and (3) pilot program on the provision of readjustment and transition assistance to veterans and their families in cooperation with Vet Centers. HR 4107--Woman Veterans Health Care Improvement Act--Requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) conduct a long- term epidemiological study on the health of women veterans who served on active duty in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom; (2) assess barriers encountered by women veterans to the provision by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) of comprehensive health car; (3) assess all health care services and programs provided by the VA for women veterans; (4) provide training for mental health professionals who provide counseling to women veterans suffering from sexual trauma; (5) develop a plan for the identification, development, and dissemination of treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other conditions attributable to combat or sexual trauma that are proven effective for women veterans; (6) conduct a study of the provision of readjustment counseling and related mental health services for women veterans at vet centers; (7) carry out a pilot program for child care for certain women veterans receiving health care from VA facilities; and (8) carry out a pilot program to evaluate feasibility of providing counseling and transition adjustment assistance for women veterans who are newly separated from active duty service. Requires women veterans recently separated from active duty service to be included on the Advisory Committee on Women Veterans. HR 4146--Amend title 38, USC, to clarify the availability of emergency medical care for veterans in non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities--Requires the determination of whether a veteran can be transferred to a Department of Veterans Affairs medical facility after receiving emergency medical treatment in a non-Department facility to be based both on the condition of the veteran and on the availability of a bed in a Department facility that is not geographically inaccessible to the veteran. HR 4204--Veterans Suicide Study Act--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall conduct a study to determine the number of veterans who have committed suicide between January 1, 1997 and the date of the enactment of this Act. Testimony to House Veterans Affairs Subcommittee Economic Opportunity--Testimony on expiring Department of Veterans Affairs Programs--Adjustable Rates Mortgages, Apprenticeship and on-the-job training, Post Vietnam Era Veterans Educational Assistance Program, Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance, Incarcerated Veterans Transition Program, DOL VETS Program, VETS Claim Referral Program to Office of Special Counsel. Testimony to the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--Findings and Recommendations of the Veterans Disability Commission with Respect to the Current Disability Compensation System--American Legion recommends changes to VA Disability ratings. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--On the Use of Artificial Intelligence to Improve VA's Claim Processing System--American Legion cautions VA on use of AI to improve claims processing. Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--VA Budget Request for Fiscal Year 2009--VA Budget Request, Veterans Health Care Administration, Mandatory Funding of VA Medical Care, Third-Party Reimbursements, Medicare Reimbursements, Medical Construction and Infrastructure Support, Major and Minor Construction, Veterans Benefits Administration, National Cemetery Administration, National Shrine Commitment, State Cemetery Construction Grants, GI Bill and Veterans Education Benefits, State Approving Agencies, VA Home Loan Guarantee Program, Homeless Providers Grant and Per Diem Program, Department of Labor VETS service, Homelessness, Training, Veterans Workforce and Investment Program, Employment Rights and Veterans Preference, Veteran/Service-Connected Disabled Veteran Owned Businesses. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--Testimony regarding problems in claims--Examining the backlog and VA's claims processing system. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--VA Construction Authorization--Advocate greater funding for VA Construction purposes. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--Supporting Those who Support our Veterans--Mental Health Treatment for Veterans' Families.

HR 585--Amend title 38, USC, to expand the number of individuals qualifying for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance--Amends the Veterans' Housing Opportunity and Benefits Improvement Act of 2006 to remove the requirement that, in order to qualify for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under the Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance program during the period beginning on October 7, 2001, and ending on November 30, 2005, the Secretary of the military department concerned must determine that the loss was a direct result of a traumatic injury incurred in the theater of operations for Operations Enduring Freedom or Iraqi Freedom (thus including traumatic injury incurred while performing other types of military service during such period under such coverage). HR 760--Filipino Veterans Equity Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to deem certain service in the organized military forces of the Government of the Commonwealth of the Philippines and the Philippine Scouts to have been active service for purposes of benefits under programs administered by the VA Secretary. HR 1137--Amend title 38, USC, to increase to $2,000 the amount of the Medal of Honor special pension under that title and to provide for payment of that pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased Medal of Honor recipient--Increases from $1,000 to $2,000 the monthly special pension paid to Medal of Honor recipients. Provides for payment of such pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased recipient as long as the surviving spouse was married to the recipient: (1) for one year or more; or (2) for any period of time if a child was born of the marriage or was born to them before the marriage. HR 1944--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to direct the VA Secretary to screen certain veterans for symptoms of traumatic brain injury. HR 2005--Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2007--Authorizes the VA Secretary to pay travel expenses for veterans receiving treatment at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities at the rate provided to federal employees in connection with the performance of official duties. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish and operate at least one and up to five centers of excellence for rural health research, education, and clinical activities; (2) establish a grant program to provide innovative transportation options to veterans in remote rural areas; (3) carry out demonstration projects to examine alternatives for expanding care for veterans in rural areas; and (4) report annually to Congress on matters related to VA care for veterans residing in rural areas. HR 2579--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the use of funds in the Department of Veterans Affairs readjustment benefits accounts and funds appropriated for such purpose to provide funding for State approving agencies. HR 2623--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to prohibit the collection of copayments for all hospice care furnished by VA. HR 3047--Veterans Claims Processing Innovation Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to establish a work credit system for evaluating regional offices of the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) with respect to veterans' claims processing. Requires the Secretary to: (1) develop and maintain a system for processing veterans' disability compensation claims using artificial intelligence that utilizes medical and military service data to generate disability rating recommendations; and (2) maintain a regional office at which all such claims are processed exclusively electronically. Provides that if a veteran who is a claimant dies before completing the submission of a claim for benefits, the person who would receive any accrued benefits(s) due to such veteran shall be treated as the claimant for purposes of completing submission of the claim. Directs the Secretary to contract with a private entity to evaluate the training and assessment programs for VBA employees. HR 3249--Veterans Burial Benefits Improvement Act of 2007--Increases the authorized allowance for burial and funeral expenses for deceased veterans who: (1) at the time of death were in receipt of veterans' disability compensation or veterans' pension benefits; or (2) were veterans of any war or were discharged of released from active military service for a service-connected disability and for whom there is no next of kin or sufficient resources to cover funeral and burial costs. Increases the burial plot allowance for veterans who, at the time of death, were receiving hospital or nursing home care in or through the VA. Authorizes the annual adjustment of such allowances by the same percentage increase as adjustments to benefit amounts payable under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act. HR 3286--Amend title 38, USC, to reduce the period of time for which a veteran must be totally disabled before the veteran's survivors are eligible for the benefits provided by the VA Secretary for survivors of certain veterans rated totally disabled at time of death--Allows veterans' disability compensation benefits to be paid to the survivor of a veteran whose service-connected disability was continuously rated totally disabling for at least one year immediately preceding death. (Current law allows such survivor right of payment if the disability was rated total for periods of up to ten years under various circumstances). HR 3415--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the placement in a national cemetery of memorial markers for the purpose of commemorating servicemembers or other persons whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery--Requires the VA Secretary to furnish for placement a memorial headstone or marker in a national cemetery to commemorate veterans and their spouses whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery. HR 23; S 961--Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of WWII Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to pay a monthly benefit of $1,000 to certain honorably-discharged veterans of the U.S. Merchant Marine who served between December 7, 1941, and December 3, 1946 (or to their survivors). Includes service in the Army Transport Service and the Naval Transport Service. Exempts from taxation benefits paid under this Act. S 383--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to extend the period of eligibility for health care for combat service in the Persian Gulf War or future hostilities from two years to five years after discharge or release--Extends from 2 years to 5 years following discharge or release the eligibility period for certain veterans who served in combat after the Persian Gulf War to receive hospital care, medical services, or nursing home care provided by the VA Secretary, notwithstanding a lack of evidence to conclude that their condition is attributable to such service. HR 797; S 1163; PL 110-157--Blinded Veterans Paired Organ Act of 2007--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to improve compensation and specially adapted housing for veterans in certain cases of impairment of vision involving both eyes, and to provide for the use of the National Directory of New Hires for income verification purposes. S 1233--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Rehabilitation Act of 2007--A bill to provide and enhance intervention, rehabilitative treatment, and services to veterans with traumatic brain injury. HR 2790--Amend title 38, USC, to establish the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services within the office of the Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Health--Establishes within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA)of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services, who shall report to the VHA's Under Secretary for Health on all matters relating to the education and training, employment, appropriate utilization, and optimal participation of physician assistants within VHA programs and initiatives. HR 3458--Direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program on the provision of traumatic brain injury care in rural areas--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall carry out a pilot program in five rural States selected by the Secretary, in consultation with the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs. In each of the five States selected, the Secretary shall assign a specific Department of Veterans Affairs case manager to each individual diagnosed with traumatic brain injury who is receiving care in a medical facility of the Department of Veterans Affairs in a selected State. HR 3819--Veterans Emergency Care Fairness Act of 2007--Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reimburse certain veterans without a service-connected disability enrolled as active participants of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care plan for the cost of emergency treatment received in a non-VA facility until such time as such veterans are transferred to a VA facility. Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary to reimburse certain veterans with a service-connected disability or a non-service-connected disability associated with or aggravating a service-connected disability for the value of emergency treatment for which such veterans have made payment from sources other than the VA. HR 4053--Mental Health Improvements Act of 2007--Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the provision of specified substance use disorder treatment services at each VA medical Center and community-based outpatient clinic. Requires the Secretary to ensure that treatment for a substance use disorder and a comorbid mental health disorder is provided concurrently by a team of experienced clinicians. Requires the Secretary to: (1) carry out a program of enhanced care and treatment for veterans with substance use disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); and (2) establish at least six national centers of excellence on PTSD and substance use disorders. Requires a report on residential mental health care facilities of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Pays tribute to Justin Bailey. Requires a: (1) pilot program on peer outreach and support services, readjustment counseling services, and other mental health services for veterans of OIF and OEF; (2) program of research into comorbid PTSD and substance use disorder and (3) pilot program on the provision of readjustment and transition assistance to veterans and their families in cooperation with Vet Centers. HR 4107--Woman Veterans Health Care Improvement Act--Requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) conduct a long- term epidemiological study on the health of women veterans who served on active duty in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom; (2) assess barriers encountered by women veterans to the provision by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) of comprehensive health car; (3) assess all health care services and programs provided by the VA for women veterans; (4) provide training for mental health professionals who provide counseling to women veterans suffering from sexual trauma; (5) develop a plan for the identification, development, and dissemination of treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other conditions attributable to combat or sexual trauma that are proven effective for women veterans; (6) conduct a study of the provision of readjustment counseling and related mental health services for women veterans at vet centers; (7) carry out a pilot program for child care for certain women veterans receiving health care from VA facilities; and (8) carry out a pilot program to evaluate feasibility of providing counseling and transition adjustment assistance for women veterans who are newly separated from active duty service. Requires women veterans recently separated from active duty service to be included on the Advisory Committee on Women Veterans. HR 4146--Amend title 38, USC, to clarify the availability of emergency medical care for veterans in non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities--Requires the determination of whether a veteran can be transferred to a Department of Veterans Affairs medical facility after receiving emergency medical treatment in a non-Department facility to be based both on the condition of the veteran and on the availability of a bed in a Department facility that is not geographically inaccessible to the veteran. HR 4204--Veterans Suicide Study Act--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall conduct a study to determine the number of veterans who have committed suicide between January 1, 1997 and the date of the enactment of this Act. Testimony to House Veterans Affairs Subcommittee Economic Opportunity--Testimony on expiring Department of Veterans Affairs Programs--Adjustable Rates Mortgages, Apprenticeship and on-the-job training, Post Vietnam Era Veterans Educational Assistance Program, Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance, Incarcerated Veterans Transition Program, DOL VETS Program, VETS Claim Referral Program to Office of Special Counsel. Testimony to the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--Findings and Recommendations of the Veterans Disability Commission with Respect to the Current Disability Compensation System--American Legion recommends changes to VA Disability ratings. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--On the Use of Artificial Intelligence to Improve VA's Claim Processing System--American Legion cautions VA on use of AI to improve claims processing. Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--VA Budget Request for Fiscal Year 2009--VA Budget Request, Veterans Health Care Administration, Mandatory Funding of VA Medical Care, Third-Party Reimbursements, Medicare Reimbursements, Medical Construction and Infrastructure Support, Major and Minor Construction, Veterans Benefits Administration, National Cemetery Administration, National Shrine Commitment, State Cemetery Construction Grants, GI Bill and Veterans Education Benefits, State Approving Agencies, VA Home Loan Guarantee Program, Homeless Providers Grant and Per Diem Program, Department of Labor VETS service, Homelessness, Training, Veterans Workforce and Investment Program, Employment Rights and Veterans Preference, Veteran/Service-Connected Disabled Veteran Owned Businesses. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--Testimony regarding problems in claims--Examining the backlog and VA's claims processing system. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--VA Construction Authorization--Advocate greater funding for VA Construction purposes. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--Supporting Those who Support our Veterans--Mental Health Treatment for Veterans' Families.

HR 585--Amend title 38, USC, to expand the number of individuals qualifying for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance--Amends the Veterans' Housing Opportunity and Benefits Improvement Act of 2006 to remove the requirement that, in order to qualify for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under the Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance program during the period beginning on October 7, 2001, and ending on November 30, 2005, the Secretary of the military department concerned must determine that the loss was a direct result of a traumatic injury incurred in the theater of operations for Operations Enduring Freedom or Iraqi Freedom (thus including traumatic injury incurred while performing other types of military service during such period under such coverage). HR 760--Filipino Veterans Equity Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to deem certain service in the organized military forces of the Government of the Commonwealth of the Philippines and the Philippine Scouts to have been active service for purposes of benefits under programs administered by the VA Secretary. HR 1137--Amend title 38, USC, to increase to $2,000 the amount of the Medal of Honor special pension under that title and to provide for payment of that pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased Medal of Honor recipient--Increases from $1,000 to $2,000 the monthly special pension paid to Medal of Honor recipients. Provides for payment of such pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased recipient as long as the surviving spouse was married to the recipient: (1) for one year or more; or (2) for any period of time if a child was born of the marriage or was born to them before the marriage. HR 1944--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to direct the VA Secretary to screen certain veterans for symptoms of traumatic brain injury. HR 2005--Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2007--Authorizes the VA Secretary to pay travel expenses for veterans receiving treatment at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities at the rate provided to federal employees in connection with the performance of official duties. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish and operate at least one and up to five centers of excellence for rural health research, education, and clinical activities; (2) establish a grant program to provide innovative transportation options to veterans in remote rural areas; (3) carry out demonstration projects to examine alternatives for expanding care for veterans in rural areas; and (4) report annually to Congress on matters related to VA care for veterans residing in rural areas. HR 2579--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the use of funds in the Department of Veterans Affairs readjustment benefits accounts and funds appropriated for such purpose to provide funding for State approving agencies. HR 2623--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to prohibit the collection of copayments for all hospice care furnished by VA. HR 3047--Veterans Claims Processing Innovation Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to establish a work credit system for evaluating regional offices of the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) with respect to veterans' claims processing. Requires the Secretary to: (1) develop and maintain a system for processing veterans' disability compensation claims using artificial intelligence that utilizes medical and military service data to generate disability rating recommendations; and (2) maintain a regional office at which all such claims are processed exclusively electronically. Provides that if a veteran who is a claimant dies before completing the submission of a claim for benefits, the person who would receive any accrued benefits(s) due to such veteran shall be treated as the claimant for purposes of completing submission of the claim. Directs the Secretary to contract with a private entity to evaluate the training and assessment programs for VBA employees. HR 3249--Veterans Burial Benefits Improvement Act of 2007--Increases the authorized allowance for burial and funeral expenses for deceased veterans who: (1) at the time of death were in receipt of veterans' disability compensation or veterans' pension benefits; or (2) were veterans of any war or were discharged of released from active military service for a service-connected disability and for whom there is no next of kin or sufficient resources to cover funeral and burial costs. Increases the burial plot allowance for veterans who, at the time of death, were receiving hospital or nursing home care in or through the VA. Authorizes the annual adjustment of such allowances by the same percentage increase as adjustments to benefit amounts payable under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act. HR 3286--Amend title 38, USC, to reduce the period of time for which a veteran must be totally disabled before the veteran's survivors are eligible for the benefits provided by the VA Secretary for survivors of certain veterans rated totally disabled at time of death--Allows veterans' disability compensation benefits to be paid to the survivor of a veteran whose service-connected disability was continuously rated totally disabling for at least one year immediately preceding death. (Current law allows such survivor right of payment if the disability was rated total for periods of up to ten years under various circumstances). HR 3415--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the placement in a national cemetery of memorial markers for the purpose of commemorating servicemembers or other persons whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery--Requires the VA Secretary to furnish for placement a memorial headstone or marker in a national cemetery to commemorate veterans and their spouses whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery. HR 23; S 961--Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of WWII Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to pay a monthly benefit of $1,000 to certain honorably-discharged veterans of the U.S. Merchant Marine who served between December 7, 1941, and December 3, 1946 (or to their survivors). Includes service in the Army Transport Service and the Naval Transport Service. Exempts from taxation benefits paid under this Act. S 383--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to extend the period of eligibility for health care for combat service in the Persian Gulf War or future hostilities from two years to five years after discharge or release--Extends from 2 years to 5 years following discharge or release the eligibility period for certain veterans who served in combat after the Persian Gulf War to receive hospital care, medical services, or nursing home care provided by the VA Secretary, notwithstanding a lack of evidence to conclude that their condition is attributable to such service. HR 797; S 1163; PL 110-157--Blinded Veterans Paired Organ Act of 2007--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to improve compensation and specially adapted housing for veterans in certain cases of impairment of vision involving both eyes, and to provide for the use of the National Directory of New Hires for income verification purposes. S 1233--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Rehabilitation Act of 2007--A bill to provide and enhance intervention, rehabilitative treatment, and services to veterans with traumatic brain injury. HR 2790--Amend title 38, USC, to establish the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services within the office of the Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Health--Establishes within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA)of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services, who shall report to the VHA's Under Secretary for Health on all matters relating to the education and training, employment, appropriate utilization, and optimal participation of physician assistants within VHA programs and initiatives. HR 3458--Direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program on the provision of traumatic brain injury care in rural areas--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall carry out a pilot program in five rural States selected by the Secretary, in consultation with the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs. In each of the five States selected, the Secretary shall assign a specific Department of Veterans Affairs case manager to each individual diagnosed with traumatic brain injury who is receiving care in a medical facility of the Department of Veterans Affairs in a selected State. HR 3819--Veterans Emergency Care Fairness Act of 2007--Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reimburse certain veterans without a service-connected disability enrolled as active participants of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care plan for the cost of emergency treatment received in a non-VA facility until such time as such veterans are transferred to a VA facility. Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary to reimburse certain veterans with a service-connected disability or a non-service-connected disability associated with or aggravating a service-connected disability for the value of emergency treatment for which such veterans have made payment from sources other than the VA. HR 4053--Mental Health Improvements Act of 2007--Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the provision of specified substance use disorder treatment services at each VA medical Center and community-based outpatient clinic. Requires the Secretary to ensure that treatment for a substance use disorder and a comorbid mental health disorder is provided concurrently by a team of experienced clinicians. Requires the Secretary to: (1) carry out a program of enhanced care and treatment for veterans with substance use disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); and (2) establish at least six national centers of excellence on PTSD and substance use disorders. Requires a report on residential mental health care facilities of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Pays tribute to Justin Bailey. Requires a: (1) pilot program on peer outreach and support services, readjustment counseling services, and other mental health services for veterans of OIF and OEF; (2) program of research into comorbid PTSD and substance use disorder and (3) pilot program on the provision of readjustment and transition assistance to veterans and their families in cooperation with Vet Centers. HR 4107--Woman Veterans Health Care Improvement Act--Requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) conduct a long- term epidemiological study on the health of women veterans who served on active duty in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom; (2) assess barriers encountered by women veterans to the provision by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) of comprehensive health car; (3) assess all health care services and programs provided by the VA for women veterans; (4) provide training for mental health professionals who provide counseling to women veterans suffering from sexual trauma; (5) develop a plan for the identification, development, and dissemination of treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other conditions attributable to combat or sexual trauma that are proven effective for women veterans; (6) conduct a study of the provision of readjustment counseling and related mental health services for women veterans at vet centers; (7) carry out a pilot program for child care for certain women veterans receiving health care from VA facilities; and (8) carry out a pilot program to evaluate feasibility of providing counseling and transition adjustment assistance for women veterans who are newly separated from active duty service. Requires women veterans recently separated from active duty service to be included on the Advisory Committee on Women Veterans. HR 4146--Amend title 38, USC, to clarify the availability of emergency medical care for veterans in non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities--Requires the determination of whether a veteran can be transferred to a Department of Veterans Affairs medical facility after receiving emergency medical treatment in a non-Department facility to be based both on the condition of the veteran and on the availability of a bed in a Department facility that is not geographically inaccessible to the veteran. HR 4204--Veterans Suicide Study Act--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall conduct a study to determine the number of veterans who have committed suicide between January 1, 1997 and the date of the enactment of this Act. Testimony to House Veterans Affairs Subcommittee Economic Opportunity--Testimony on expiring Department of Veterans Affairs Programs--Adjustable Rates Mortgages, Apprenticeship and on-the-job training, Post Vietnam Era Veterans Educational Assistance Program, Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance, Incarcerated Veterans Transition Program, DOL VETS Program, VETS Claim Referral Program to Office of Special Counsel. Testimony to the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--Findings and Recommendations of the Veterans Disability Commission with Respect to the Current Disability Compensation System--American Legion recommends changes to VA Disability ratings. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--On the Use of Artificial Intelligence to Improve VA's Claim Processing System--American Legion cautions VA on use of AI to improve claims processing. Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--VA Budget Request for Fiscal Year 2009--VA Budget Request, Veterans Health Care Administration, Mandatory Funding of VA Medical Care, Third-Party Reimbursements, Medicare Reimbursements, Medical Construction and Infrastructure Support, Major and Minor Construction, Veterans Benefits Administration, National Cemetery Administration, National Shrine Commitment, State Cemetery Construction Grants, GI Bill and Veterans Education Benefits, State Approving Agencies, VA Home Loan Guarantee Program, Homeless Providers Grant and Per Diem Program, Department of Labor VETS service, Homelessness, Training, Veterans Workforce and Investment Program, Employment Rights and Veterans Preference, Veteran/Service-Connected Disabled Veteran Owned Businesses. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--Testimony regarding problems in claims--Examining the backlog and VA's claims processing system. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--VA Construction Authorization--Advocate greater funding for VA Construction purposes. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--Supporting Those who Support our Veterans--Mental Health Treatment for Veterans' Families.

HR 585--Amend title 38, USC, to expand the number of individuals qualifying for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance--Amends the Veterans' Housing Opportunity and Benefits Improvement Act of 2006 to remove the requirement that, in order to qualify for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under the Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance program during the period beginning on October 7, 2001, and ending on November 30, 2005, the Secretary of the military department concerned must determine that the loss was a direct result of a traumatic injury incurred in the theater of operations for Operations Enduring Freedom or Iraqi Freedom (thus including traumatic injury incurred while performing other types of military service during such period under such coverage). HR 760--Filipino Veterans Equity Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to deem certain service in the organized military forces of the Government of the Commonwealth of the Philippines and the Philippine Scouts to have been active service for purposes of benefits under programs administered by the VA Secretary. HR 1137--Amend title 38, USC, to increase to $2,000 the amount of the Medal of Honor special pension under that title and to provide for payment of that pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased Medal of Honor recipient--Increases from $1,000 to $2,000 the monthly special pension paid to Medal of Honor recipients. Provides for payment of such pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased recipient as long as the surviving spouse was married to the recipient: (1) for one year or more; or (2) for any period of time if a child was born of the marriage or was born to them before the marriage. HR 1944--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to direct the VA Secretary to screen certain veterans for symptoms of traumatic brain injury. HR 2005--Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2007--Authorizes the VA Secretary to pay travel expenses for veterans receiving treatment at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities at the rate provided to federal employees in connection with the performance of official duties. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish and operate at least one and up to five centers of excellence for rural health research, education, and clinical activities; (2) establish a grant program to provide innovative transportation options to veterans in remote rural areas; (3) carry out demonstration projects to examine alternatives for expanding care for veterans in rural areas; and (4) report annually to Congress on matters related to VA care for veterans residing in rural areas. HR 2579--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the use of funds in the Department of Veterans Affairs readjustment benefits accounts and funds appropriated for such purpose to provide funding for State approving agencies. HR 2623--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to prohibit the collection of copayments for all hospice care furnished by VA. HR 3047--Veterans Claims Processing Innovation Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to establish a work credit system for evaluating regional offices of the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) with respect to veterans' claims processing. Requires the Secretary to: (1) develop and maintain a system for processing veterans' disability compensation claims using artificial intelligence that utilizes medical and military service data to generate disability rating recommendations; and (2) maintain a regional office at which all such claims are processed exclusively electronically. Provides that if a veteran who is a claimant dies before completing the submission of a claim for benefits, the person who would receive any accrued benefits(s) due to such veteran shall be treated as the claimant for purposes of completing submission of the claim. Directs the Secretary to contract with a private entity to evaluate the training and assessment programs for VBA employees. HR 3249--Veterans Burial Benefits Improvement Act of 2007--Increases the authorized allowance for burial and funeral expenses for deceased veterans who: (1) at the time of death were in receipt of veterans' disability compensation or veterans' pension benefits; or (2) were veterans of any war or were discharged of released from active military service for a service-connected disability and for whom there is no next of kin or sufficient resources to cover funeral and burial costs. Increases the burial plot allowance for veterans who, at the time of death, were receiving hospital or nursing home care in or through the VA. Authorizes the annual adjustment of such allowances by the same percentage increase as adjustments to benefit amounts payable under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act. HR 3286--Amend title 38, USC, to reduce the period of time for which a veteran must be totally disabled before the veteran's survivors are eligible for the benefits provided by the VA Secretary for survivors of certain veterans rated totally disabled at time of death--Allows veterans' disability compensation benefits to be paid to the survivor of a veteran whose service-connected disability was continuously rated totally disabling for at least one year immediately preceding death. (Current law allows such survivor right of payment if the disability was rated total for periods of up to ten years under various circumstances). HR 3415--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the placement in a national cemetery of memorial markers for the purpose of commemorating servicemembers or other persons whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery--Requires the VA Secretary to furnish for placement a memorial headstone or marker in a national cemetery to commemorate veterans and their spouses whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery. HR 23; S 961--Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of WWII Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to pay a monthly benefit of $1,000 to certain honorably-discharged veterans of the U.S. Merchant Marine who served between December 7, 1941, and December 3, 1946 (or to their survivors). Includes service in the Army Transport Service and the Naval Transport Service. Exempts from taxation benefits paid under this Act. S 383--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to extend the period of eligibility for health care for combat service in the Persian Gulf War or future hostilities from two years to five years after discharge or release--Extends from 2 years to 5 years following discharge or release the eligibility period for certain veterans who served in combat after the Persian Gulf War to receive hospital care, medical services, or nursing home care provided by the VA Secretary, notwithstanding a lack of evidence to conclude that their condition is attributable to such service. HR 797; S 1163; PL 110-157--Blinded Veterans Paired Organ Act of 2007--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to improve compensation and specially adapted housing for veterans in certain cases of impairment of vision involving both eyes, and to provide for the use of the National Directory of New Hires for income verification purposes. S 1233--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Rehabilitation Act of 2007--A bill to provide and enhance intervention, rehabilitative treatment, and services to veterans with traumatic brain injury. HR 2790--Amend title 38, USC, to establish the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services within the office of the Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Health--Establishes within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA)of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services, who shall report to the VHA's Under Secretary for Health on all matters relating to the education and training, employment, appropriate utilization, and optimal participation of physician assistants within VHA programs and initiatives. HR 3458--Direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program on the provision of traumatic brain injury care in rural areas--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall carry out a pilot program in five rural States selected by the Secretary, in consultation with the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs. In each of the five States selected, the Secretary shall assign a specific Department of Veterans Affairs case manager to each individual diagnosed with traumatic brain injury who is receiving care in a medical facility of the Department of Veterans Affairs in a selected State. HR 3819--Veterans Emergency Care Fairness Act of 2007--Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reimburse certain veterans without a service-connected disability enrolled as active participants of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care plan for the cost of emergency treatment received in a non-VA facility until such time as such veterans are transferred to a VA facility. Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary to reimburse certain veterans with a service-connected disability or a non-service-connected disability associated with or aggravating a service-connected disability for the value of emergency treatment for which such veterans have made payment from sources other than the VA. HR 4053--Mental Health Improvements Act of 2007--Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the provision of specified substance use disorder treatment services at each VA medical Center and community-based outpatient clinic. Requires the Secretary to ensure that treatment for a substance use disorder and a comorbid mental health disorder is provided concurrently by a team of experienced clinicians. Requires the Secretary to: (1) carry out a program of enhanced care and treatment for veterans with substance use disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); and (2) establish at least six national centers of excellence on PTSD and substance use disorders. Requires a report on residential mental health care facilities of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Pays tribute to Justin Bailey. Requires a: (1) pilot program on peer outreach and support services, readjustment counseling services, and other mental health services for veterans of OIF and OEF; (2) program of research into comorbid PTSD and substance use disorder and (3) pilot program on the provision of readjustment and transition assistance to veterans and their families in cooperation with Vet Centers. HR 4107--Woman Veterans Health Care Improvement Act--Requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) conduct a long- term epidemiological study on the health of women veterans who served on active duty in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom; (2) assess barriers encountered by women veterans to the provision by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) of comprehensive health car; (3) assess all health care services and programs provided by the VA for women veterans; (4) provide training for mental health professionals who provide counseling to women veterans suffering from sexual trauma; (5) develop a plan for the identification, development, and dissemination of treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other conditions attributable to combat or sexual trauma that are proven effective for women veterans; (6) conduct a study of the provision of readjustment counseling and related mental health services for women veterans at vet centers; (7) carry out a pilot program for child care for certain women veterans receiving health care from VA facilities; and (8) carry out a pilot program to evaluate feasibility of providing counseling and transition adjustment assistance for women veterans who are newly separated from active duty service. Requires women veterans recently separated from active duty service to be included on the Advisory Committee on Women Veterans. HR 4146--Amend title 38, USC, to clarify the availability of emergency medical care for veterans in non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities--Requires the determination of whether a veteran can be transferred to a Department of Veterans Affairs medical facility after receiving emergency medical treatment in a non-Department facility to be based both on the condition of the veteran and on the availability of a bed in a Department facility that is not geographically inaccessible to the veteran. HR 4204--Veterans Suicide Study Act--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall conduct a study to determine the number of veterans who have committed suicide between January 1, 1997 and the date of the enactment of this Act. Testimony to House Veterans Affairs Subcommittee Economic Opportunity--Testimony on expiring Department of Veterans Affairs Programs--Adjustable Rates Mortgages, Apprenticeship and on-the-job training, Post Vietnam Era Veterans Educational Assistance Program, Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance, Incarcerated Veterans Transition Program, DOL VETS Program, VETS Claim Referral Program to Office of Special Counsel. Testimony to the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--Findings and Recommendations of the Veterans Disability Commission with Respect to the Current Disability Compensation System--American Legion recommends changes to VA Disability ratings. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--On the Use of Artificial Intelligence to Improve VA's Claim Processing System--American Legion cautions VA on use of AI to improve claims processing. Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--VA Budget Request for Fiscal Year 2009--VA Budget Request, Veterans Health Care Administration, Mandatory Funding of VA Medical Care, Third-Party Reimbursements, Medicare Reimbursements, Medical Construction and Infrastructure Support, Major and Minor Construction, Veterans Benefits Administration, National Cemetery Administration, National Shrine Commitment, State Cemetery Construction Grants, GI Bill and Veterans Education Benefits, State Approving Agencies, VA Home Loan Guarantee Program, Homeless Providers Grant and Per Diem Program, Department of Labor VETS service, Homelessness, Training, Veterans Workforce and Investment Program, Employment Rights and Veterans Preference, Veteran/Service-Connected Disabled Veteran Owned Businesses. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--Testimony regarding problems in claims--Examining the backlog and VA's claims processing system. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--VA Construction Authorization--Advocate greater funding for VA Construction purposes. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--Supporting Those who Support our Veterans--Mental Health Treatment for Veterans' Families.

HR 585--Amend title 38, USC, to expand the number of individuals qualifying for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance--Amends the Veterans' Housing Opportunity and Benefits Improvement Act of 2006 to remove the requirement that, in order to qualify for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under the Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance program during the period beginning on October 7, 2001, and ending on November 30, 2005, the Secretary of the military department concerned must determine that the loss was a direct result of a traumatic injury incurred in the theater of operations for Operations Enduring Freedom or Iraqi Freedom (thus including traumatic injury incurred while performing other types of military service during such period under such coverage). HR 760--Filipino Veterans Equity Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to deem certain service in the organized military forces of the Government of the Commonwealth of the Philippines and the Philippine Scouts to have been active service for purposes of benefits under programs administered by the VA Secretary. HR 1137--Amend title 38, USC, to increase to $2,000 the amount of the Medal of Honor special pension under that title and to provide for payment of that pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased Medal of Honor recipient--Increases from $1,000 to $2,000 the monthly special pension paid to Medal of Honor recipients. Provides for payment of such pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased recipient as long as the surviving spouse was married to the recipient: (1) for one year or more; or (2) for any period of time if a child was born of the marriage or was born to them before the marriage. HR 1944--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to direct the VA Secretary to screen certain veterans for symptoms of traumatic brain injury. HR 2005--Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2007--Authorizes the VA Secretary to pay travel expenses for veterans receiving treatment at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities at the rate provided to federal employees in connection with the performance of official duties. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish and operate at least one and up to five centers of excellence for rural health research, education, and clinical activities; (2) establish a grant program to provide innovative transportation options to veterans in remote rural areas; (3) carry out demonstration projects to examine alternatives for expanding care for veterans in rural areas; and (4) report annually to Congress on matters related to VA care for veterans residing in rural areas. HR 2579--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the use of funds in the Department of Veterans Affairs readjustment benefits accounts and funds appropriated for such purpose to provide funding for State approving agencies. HR 2623--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to prohibit the collection of copayments for all hospice care furnished by VA. HR 3047--Veterans Claims Processing Innovation Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to establish a work credit system for evaluating regional offices of the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) with respect to veterans' claims processing. Requires the Secretary to: (1) develop and maintain a system for processing veterans' disability compensation claims using artificial intelligence that utilizes medical and military service data to generate disability rating recommendations; and (2) maintain a regional office at which all such claims are processed exclusively electronically. Provides that if a veteran who is a claimant dies before completing the submission of a claim for benefits, the person who would receive any accrued benefits(s) due to such veteran shall be treated as the claimant for purposes of completing submission of the claim. Directs the Secretary to contract with a private entity to evaluate the training and assessment programs for VBA employees. HR 3249--Veterans Burial Benefits Improvement Act of 2007--Increases the authorized allowance for burial and funeral expenses for deceased veterans who: (1) at the time of death were in receipt of veterans' disability compensation or veterans' pension benefits; or (2) were veterans of any war or were discharged of released from active military service for a service-connected disability and for whom there is no next of kin or sufficient resources to cover funeral and burial costs. Increases the burial plot allowance for veterans who, at the time of death, were receiving hospital or nursing home care in or through the VA. Authorizes the annual adjustment of such allowances by the same percentage increase as adjustments to benefit amounts payable under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act. HR 3286--Amend title 38, USC, to reduce the period of time for which a veteran must be totally disabled before the veteran's survivors are eligible for the benefits provided by the VA Secretary for survivors of certain veterans rated totally disabled at time of death--Allows veterans' disability compensation benefits to be paid to the survivor of a veteran whose service-connected disability was continuously rated totally disabling for at least one year immediately preceding death. (Current law allows such survivor right of payment if the disability was rated total for periods of up to ten years under various circumstances). HR 3415--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the placement in a national cemetery of memorial markers for the purpose of commemorating servicemembers or other persons whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery--Requires the VA Secretary to furnish for placement a memorial headstone or marker in a national cemetery to commemorate veterans and their spouses whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery. HR 23; S 961--Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of WWII Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to pay a monthly benefit of $1,000 to certain honorably-discharged veterans of the U.S. Merchant Marine who served between December 7, 1941, and December 3, 1946 (or to their survivors). Includes service in the Army Transport Service and the Naval Transport Service. Exempts from taxation benefits paid under this Act. S 383--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to extend the period of eligibility for health care for combat service in the Persian Gulf War or future hostilities from two years to five years after discharge or release--Extends from 2 years to 5 years following discharge or release the eligibility period for certain veterans who served in combat after the Persian Gulf War to receive hospital care, medical services, or nursing home care provided by the VA Secretary, notwithstanding a lack of evidence to conclude that their condition is attributable to such service. HR 797; S 1163; PL 110-157--Blinded Veterans Paired Organ Act of 2007--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to improve compensation and specially adapted housing for veterans in certain cases of impairment of vision involving both eyes, and to provide for the use of the National Directory of New Hires for income verification purposes. S 1233--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Rehabilitation Act of 2007--A bill to provide and enhance intervention, rehabilitative treatment, and services to veterans with traumatic brain injury. HR 2790--Amend title 38, USC, to establish the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services within the office of the Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Health--Establishes within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA)of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services, who shall report to the VHA's Under Secretary for Health on all matters relating to the education and training, employment, appropriate utilization, and optimal participation of physician assistants within VHA programs and initiatives. HR 3458--Direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program on the provision of traumatic brain injury care in rural areas--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall carry out a pilot program in five rural States selected by the Secretary, in consultation with the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs. In each of the five States selected, the Secretary shall assign a specific Department of Veterans Affairs case manager to each individual diagnosed with traumatic brain injury who is receiving care in a medical facility of the Department of Veterans Affairs in a selected State. HR 3819--Veterans Emergency Care Fairness Act of 2007--Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reimburse certain veterans without a service-connected disability enrolled as active participants of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care plan for the cost of emergency treatment received in a non-VA facility until such time as such veterans are transferred to a VA facility. Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary to reimburse certain veterans with a service-connected disability or a non-service-connected disability associated with or aggravating a service-connected disability for the value of emergency treatment for which such veterans have made payment from sources other than the VA. HR 4053--Mental Health Improvements Act of 2007--Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the provision of specified substance use disorder treatment services at each VA medical Center and community-based outpatient clinic. Requires the Secretary to ensure that treatment for a substance use disorder and a comorbid mental health disorder is provided concurrently by a team of experienced clinicians. Requires the Secretary to: (1) carry out a program of enhanced care and treatment for veterans with substance use disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); and (2) establish at least six national centers of excellence on PTSD and substance use disorders. Requires a report on residential mental health care facilities of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Pays tribute to Justin Bailey. Requires a: (1) pilot program on peer outreach and support services, readjustment counseling services, and other mental health services for veterans of OIF and OEF; (2) program of research into comorbid PTSD and substance use disorder and (3) pilot program on the provision of readjustment and transition assistance to veterans and their families in cooperation with Vet Centers. HR 4107--Woman Veterans Health Care Improvement Act--Requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) conduct a long- term epidemiological study on the health of women veterans who served on active duty in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom; (2) assess barriers encountered by women veterans to the provision by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) of comprehensive health car; (3) assess all health care services and programs provided by the VA for women veterans; (4) provide training for mental health professionals who provide counseling to women veterans suffering from sexual trauma; (5) develop a plan for the identification, development, and dissemination of treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other conditions attributable to combat or sexual trauma that are proven effective for women veterans; (6) conduct a study of the provision of readjustment counseling and related mental health services for women veterans at vet centers; (7) carry out a pilot program for child care for certain women veterans receiving health care from VA facilities; and (8) carry out a pilot program to evaluate feasibility of providing counseling and transition adjustment assistance for women veterans who are newly separated from active duty service. Requires women veterans recently separated from active duty service to be included on the Advisory Committee on Women Veterans. HR 4146--Amend title 38, USC, to clarify the availability of emergency medical care for veterans in non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities--Requires the determination of whether a veteran can be transferred to a Department of Veterans Affairs medical facility after receiving emergency medical treatment in a non-Department facility to be based both on the condition of the veteran and on the availability of a bed in a Department facility that is not geographically inaccessible to the veteran. HR 4204--Veterans Suicide Study Act--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall conduct a study to determine the number of veterans who have committed suicide between January 1, 1997 and the date of the enactment of this Act. Testimony to House Veterans Affairs Subcommittee Economic Opportunity--Testimony on expiring Department of Veterans Affairs Programs--Adjustable Rates Mortgages, Apprenticeship and on-the-job training, Post Vietnam Era Veterans Educational Assistance Program, Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance, Incarcerated Veterans Transition Program, DOL VETS Program, VETS Claim Referral Program to Office of Special Counsel. Testimony to the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--Findings and Recommendations of the Veterans Disability Commission with Respect to the Current Disability Compensation System--American Legion recommends changes to VA Disability ratings. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--On the Use of Artificial Intelligence to Improve VA's Claim Processing System--American Legion cautions VA on use of AI to improve claims processing. Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--VA Budget Request for Fiscal Year 2009--VA Budget Request, Veterans Health Care Administration, Mandatory Funding of VA Medical Care, Third-Party Reimbursements, Medicare Reimbursements, Medical Construction and Infrastructure Support, Major and Minor Construction, Veterans Benefits Administration, National Cemetery Administration, National Shrine Commitment, State Cemetery Construction Grants, GI Bill and Veterans Education Benefits, State Approving Agencies, VA Home Loan Guarantee Program, Homeless Providers Grant and Per Diem Program, Department of Labor VETS service, Homelessness, Training, Veterans Workforce and Investment Program, Employment Rights and Veterans Preference, Veteran/Service-Connected Disabled Veteran Owned Businesses. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--Testimony regarding problems in claims--Examining the backlog and VA's claims processing system. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--VA Construction Authorization--Advocate greater funding for VA Construction purposes. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--Supporting Those who Support our Veterans--Mental Health Treatment for Veterans' Families.

HR 585--Amend title 38, USC, to expand the number of individuals qualifying for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance--Amends the Veterans' Housing Opportunity and Benefits Improvement Act of 2006 to remove the requirement that, in order to qualify for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under the Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance program during the period beginning on October 7, 2001, and ending on November 30, 2005, the Secretary of the military department concerned must determine that the loss was a direct result of a traumatic injury incurred in the theater of operations for Operations Enduring Freedom or Iraqi Freedom (thus including traumatic injury incurred while performing other types of military service during such period under such coverage). HR 760--Filipino Veterans Equity Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to deem certain service in the organized military forces of the Government of the Commonwealth of the Philippines and the Philippine Scouts to have been active service for purposes of benefits under programs administered by the VA Secretary. HR 1137--Amend title 38, USC, to increase to $2,000 the amount of the Medal of Honor special pension under that title and to provide for payment of that pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased Medal of Honor recipient--Increases from $1,000 to $2,000 the monthly special pension paid to Medal of Honor recipients. Provides for payment of such pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased recipient as long as the surviving spouse was married to the recipient: (1) for one year or more; or (2) for any period of time if a child was born of the marriage or was born to them before the marriage. HR 1944--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to direct the VA Secretary to screen certain veterans for symptoms of traumatic brain injury. HR 2005--Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2007--Authorizes the VA Secretary to pay travel expenses for veterans receiving treatment at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities at the rate provided to federal employees in connection with the performance of official duties. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish and operate at least one and up to five centers of excellence for rural health research, education, and clinical activities; (2) establish a grant program to provide innovative transportation options to veterans in remote rural areas; (3) carry out demonstration projects to examine alternatives for expanding care for veterans in rural areas; and (4) report annually to Congress on matters related to VA care for veterans residing in rural areas. HR 2579--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the use of funds in the Department of Veterans Affairs readjustment benefits accounts and funds appropriated for such purpose to provide funding for State approving agencies. HR 2623--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to prohibit the collection of copayments for all hospice care furnished by VA. HR 3047--Veterans Claims Processing Innovation Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to establish a work credit system for evaluating regional offices of the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) with respect to veterans' claims processing. Requires the Secretary to: (1) develop and maintain a system for processing veterans' disability compensation claims using artificial intelligence that utilizes medical and military service data to generate disability rating recommendations; and (2) maintain a regional office at which all such claims are processed exclusively electronically. Provides that if a veteran who is a claimant dies before completing the submission of a claim for benefits, the person who would receive any accrued benefits(s) due to such veteran shall be treated as the claimant for purposes of completing submission of the claim. Directs the Secretary to contract with a private entity to evaluate the training and assessment programs for VBA employees. HR 3249--Veterans Burial Benefits Improvement Act of 2007--Increases the authorized allowance for burial and funeral expenses for deceased veterans who: (1) at the time of death were in receipt of veterans' disability compensation or veterans' pension benefits; or (2) were veterans of any war or were discharged of released from active military service for a service-connected disability and for whom there is no next of kin or sufficient resources to cover funeral and burial costs. Increases the burial plot allowance for veterans who, at the time of death, were receiving hospital or nursing home care in or through the VA. Authorizes the annual adjustment of such allowances by the same percentage increase as adjustments to benefit amounts payable under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act. HR 3286--Amend title 38, USC, to reduce the period of time for which a veteran must be totally disabled before the veteran's survivors are eligible for the benefits provided by the VA Secretary for survivors of certain veterans rated totally disabled at time of death--Allows veterans' disability compensation benefits to be paid to the survivor of a veteran whose service-connected disability was continuously rated totally disabling for at least one year immediately preceding death. (Current law allows such survivor right of payment if the disability was rated total for periods of up to ten years under various circumstances). HR 3415--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the placement in a national cemetery of memorial markers for the purpose of commemorating servicemembers or other persons whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery--Requires the VA Secretary to furnish for placement a memorial headstone or marker in a national cemetery to commemorate veterans and their spouses whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery. HR 23; S 961--Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of WWII Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to pay a monthly benefit of $1,000 to certain honorably-discharged veterans of the U.S. Merchant Marine who served between December 7, 1941, and December 3, 1946 (or to their survivors). Includes service in the Army Transport Service and the Naval Transport Service. Exempts from taxation benefits paid under this Act. S 383--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to extend the period of eligibility for health care for combat service in the Persian Gulf War or future hostilities from two years to five years after discharge or release--Extends from 2 years to 5 years following discharge or release the eligibility period for certain veterans who served in combat after the Persian Gulf War to receive hospital care, medical services, or nursing home care provided by the VA Secretary, notwithstanding a lack of evidence to conclude that their condition is attributable to such service. HR 797; S 1163; PL 110-157--Blinded Veterans Paired Organ Act of 2007--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to improve compensation and specially adapted housing for veterans in certain cases of impairment of vision involving both eyes, and to provide for the use of the National Directory of New Hires for income verification purposes. S 1233--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Rehabilitation Act of 2007--A bill to provide and enhance intervention, rehabilitative treatment, and services to veterans with traumatic brain injury. HR 2790--Amend title 38, USC, to establish the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services within the office of the Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Health--Establishes within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA)of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services, who shall report to the VHA's Under Secretary for Health on all matters relating to the education and training, employment, appropriate utilization, and optimal participation of physician assistants within VHA programs and initiatives. HR 3458--Direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program on the provision of traumatic brain injury care in rural areas--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall carry out a pilot program in five rural States selected by the Secretary, in consultation with the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs. In each of the five States selected, the Secretary shall assign a specific Department of Veterans Affairs case manager to each individual diagnosed with traumatic brain injury who is receiving care in a medical facility of the Department of Veterans Affairs in a selected State. HR 3819--Veterans Emergency Care Fairness Act of 2007--Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reimburse certain veterans without a service-connected disability enrolled as active participants of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care plan for the cost of emergency treatment received in a non-VA facility until such time as such veterans are transferred to a VA facility. Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary to reimburse certain veterans with a service-connected disability or a non-service-connected disability associated with or aggravating a service-connected disability for the value of emergency treatment for which such veterans have made payment from sources other than the VA. HR 4053--Mental Health Improvements Act of 2007--Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the provision of specified substance use disorder treatment services at each VA medical Center and community-based outpatient clinic. Requires the Secretary to ensure that treatment for a substance use disorder and a comorbid mental health disorder is provided concurrently by a team of experienced clinicians. Requires the Secretary to: (1) carry out a program of enhanced care and treatment for veterans with substance use disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); and (2) establish at least six national centers of excellence on PTSD and substance use disorders. Requires a report on residential mental health care facilities of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Pays tribute to Justin Bailey. Requires a: (1) pilot program on peer outreach and support services, readjustment counseling services, and other mental health services for veterans of OIF and OEF; (2) program of research into comorbid PTSD and substance use disorder and (3) pilot program on the provision of readjustment and transition assistance to veterans and their families in cooperation with Vet Centers. HR 4107--Woman Veterans Health Care Improvement Act--Requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) conduct a long- term epidemiological study on the health of women veterans who served on active duty in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom; (2) assess barriers encountered by women veterans to the provision by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) of comprehensive health car; (3) assess all health care services and programs provided by the VA for women veterans; (4) provide training for mental health professionals who provide counseling to women veterans suffering from sexual trauma; (5) develop a plan for the identification, development, and dissemination of treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other conditions attributable to combat or sexual trauma that are proven effective for women veterans; (6) conduct a study of the provision of readjustment counseling and related mental health services for women veterans at vet centers; (7) carry out a pilot program for child care for certain women veterans receiving health care from VA facilities; and (8) carry out a pilot program to evaluate feasibility of providing counseling and transition adjustment assistance for women veterans who are newly separated from active duty service. Requires women veterans recently separated from active duty service to be included on the Advisory Committee on Women Veterans. HR 4146--Amend title 38, USC, to clarify the availability of emergency medical care for veterans in non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities--Requires the determination of whether a veteran can be transferred to a Department of Veterans Affairs medical facility after receiving emergency medical treatment in a non-Department facility to be based both on the condition of the veteran and on the availability of a bed in a Department facility that is not geographically inaccessible to the veteran. HR 4204--Veterans Suicide Study Act--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall conduct a study to determine the number of veterans who have committed suicide between January 1, 1997 and the date of the enactment of this Act. Testimony to House Veterans Affairs Subcommittee Economic Opportunity--Testimony on expiring Department of Veterans Affairs Programs--Adjustable Rates Mortgages, Apprenticeship and on-the-job training, Post Vietnam Era Veterans Educational Assistance Program, Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance, Incarcerated Veterans Transition Program, DOL VETS Program, VETS Claim Referral Program to Office of Special Counsel. Testimony to the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--Findings and Recommendations of the Veterans Disability Commission with Respect to the Current Disability Compensation System--American Legion recommends changes to VA Disability ratings. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--On the Use of Artificial Intelligence to Improve VA's Claim Processing System--American Legion cautions VA on use of AI to improve claims processing. Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--VA Budget Request for Fiscal Year 2009--VA Budget Request, Veterans Health Care Administration, Mandatory Funding of VA Medical Care, Third-Party Reimbursements, Medicare Reimbursements, Medical Construction and Infrastructure Support, Major and Minor Construction, Veterans Benefits Administration, National Cemetery Administration, National Shrine Commitment, State Cemetery Construction Grants, GI Bill and Veterans Education Benefits, State Approving Agencies, VA Home Loan Guarantee Program, Homeless Providers Grant and Per Diem Program, Department of Labor VETS service, Homelessness, Training, Veterans Workforce and Investment Program, Employment Rights and Veterans Preference, Veteran/Service-Connected Disabled Veteran Owned Businesses. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--Testimony regarding problems in claims--Examining the backlog and VA's claims processing system. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--VA Construction Authorization--Advocate greater funding for VA Construction purposes. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--Supporting Those who Support our Veterans--Mental Health Treatment for Veterans' Families.

HR 585--Amend title 38, USC, to expand the number of individuals qualifying for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance--Amends the Veterans' Housing Opportunity and Benefits Improvement Act of 2006 to remove the requirement that, in order to qualify for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under the Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance program during the period beginning on October 7, 2001, and ending on November 30, 2005, the Secretary of the military department concerned must determine that the loss was a direct result of a traumatic injury incurred in the theater of operations for Operations Enduring Freedom or Iraqi Freedom (thus including traumatic injury incurred while performing other types of military service during such period under such coverage). HR 760--Filipino Veterans Equity Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to deem certain service in the organized military forces of the Government of the Commonwealth of the Philippines and the Philippine Scouts to have been active service for purposes of benefits under programs administered by the VA Secretary. HR 1137--Amend title 38, USC, to increase to $2,000 the amount of the Medal of Honor special pension under that title and to provide for payment of that pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased Medal of Honor recipient--Increases from $1,000 to $2,000 the monthly special pension paid to Medal of Honor recipients. Provides for payment of such pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased recipient as long as the surviving spouse was married to the recipient: (1) for one year or more; or (2) for any period of time if a child was born of the marriage or was born to them before the marriage. HR 1944--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to direct the VA Secretary to screen certain veterans for symptoms of traumatic brain injury. HR 2005--Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2007--Authorizes the VA Secretary to pay travel expenses for veterans receiving treatment at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities at the rate provided to federal employees in connection with the performance of official duties. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish and operate at least one and up to five centers of excellence for rural health research, education, and clinical activities; (2) establish a grant program to provide innovative transportation options to veterans in remote rural areas; (3) carry out demonstration projects to examine alternatives for expanding care for veterans in rural areas; and (4) report annually to Congress on matters related to VA care for veterans residing in rural areas. HR 2579--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the use of funds in the Department of Veterans Affairs readjustment benefits accounts and funds appropriated for such purpose to provide funding for State approving agencies. HR 2623--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to prohibit the collection of copayments for all hospice care furnished by VA. HR 3047--Veterans Claims Processing Innovation Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to establish a work credit system for evaluating regional offices of the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) with respect to veterans' claims processing. Requires the Secretary to: (1) develop and maintain a system for processing veterans' disability compensation claims using artificial intelligence that utilizes medical and military service data to generate disability rating recommendations; and (2) maintain a regional office at which all such claims are processed exclusively electronically. Provides that if a veteran who is a claimant dies before completing the submission of a claim for benefits, the person who would receive any accrued benefits(s) due to such veteran shall be treated as the claimant for purposes of completing submission of the claim. Directs the Secretary to contract with a private entity to evaluate the training and assessment programs for VBA employees. HR 3249--Veterans Burial Benefits Improvement Act of 2007--Increases the authorized allowance for burial and funeral expenses for deceased veterans who: (1) at the time of death were in receipt of veterans' disability compensation or veterans' pension benefits; or (2) were veterans of any war or were discharged of released from active military service for a service-connected disability and for whom there is no next of kin or sufficient resources to cover funeral and burial costs. Increases the burial plot allowance for veterans who, at the time of death, were receiving hospital or nursing home care in or through the VA. Authorizes the annual adjustment of such allowances by the same percentage increase as adjustments to benefit amounts payable under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act. HR 3286--Amend title 38, USC, to reduce the period of time for which a veteran must be totally disabled before the veteran's survivors are eligible for the benefits provided by the VA Secretary for survivors of certain veterans rated totally disabled at time of death--Allows veterans' disability compensation benefits to be paid to the survivor of a veteran whose service-connected disability was continuously rated totally disabling for at least one year immediately preceding death. (Current law allows such survivor right of payment if the disability was rated total for periods of up to ten years under various circumstances). HR 3415--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the placement in a national cemetery of memorial markers for the purpose of commemorating servicemembers or other persons whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery--Requires the VA Secretary to furnish for placement a memorial headstone or marker in a national cemetery to commemorate veterans and their spouses whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery. HR 23; S 961--Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of WWII Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to pay a monthly benefit of $1,000 to certain honorably-discharged veterans of the U.S. Merchant Marine who served between December 7, 1941, and December 3, 1946 (or to their survivors). Includes service in the Army Transport Service and the Naval Transport Service. Exempts from taxation benefits paid under this Act. S 383--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to extend the period of eligibility for health care for combat service in the Persian Gulf War or future hostilities from two years to five years after discharge or release--Extends from 2 years to 5 years following discharge or release the eligibility period for certain veterans who served in combat after the Persian Gulf War to receive hospital care, medical services, or nursing home care provided by the VA Secretary, notwithstanding a lack of evidence to conclude that their condition is attributable to such service. HR 797; S 1163; PL 110-157--Blinded Veterans Paired Organ Act of 2007--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to improve compensation and specially adapted housing for veterans in certain cases of impairment of vision involving both eyes, and to provide for the use of the National Directory of New Hires for income verification purposes. S 1233--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Rehabilitation Act of 2007--A bill to provide and enhance intervention, rehabilitative treatment, and services to veterans with traumatic brain injury. HR 2790--Amend title 38, USC, to establish the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services within the office of the Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Health--Establishes within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA)of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services, who shall report to the VHA's Under Secretary for Health on all matters relating to the education and training, employment, appropriate utilization, and optimal participation of physician assistants within VHA programs and initiatives. HR 3458--Direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program on the provision of traumatic brain injury care in rural areas--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall carry out a pilot program in five rural States selected by the Secretary, in consultation with the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs. In each of the five States selected, the Secretary shall assign a specific Department of Veterans Affairs case manager to each individual diagnosed with traumatic brain injury who is receiving care in a medical facility of the Department of Veterans Affairs in a selected State. HR 3819--Veterans Emergency Care Fairness Act of 2007--Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reimburse certain veterans without a service-connected disability enrolled as active participants of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care plan for the cost of emergency treatment received in a non-VA facility until such time as such veterans are transferred to a VA facility. Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary to reimburse certain veterans with a service-connected disability or a non-service-connected disability associated with or aggravating a service-connected disability for the value of emergency treatment for which such veterans have made payment from sources other than the VA. HR 4053--Mental Health Improvements Act of 2007--Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the provision of specified substance use disorder treatment services at each VA medical Center and community-based outpatient clinic. Requires the Secretary to ensure that treatment for a substance use disorder and a comorbid mental health disorder is provided concurrently by a team of experienced clinicians. Requires the Secretary to: (1) carry out a program of enhanced care and treatment for veterans with substance use disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); and (2) establish at least six national centers of excellence on PTSD and substance use disorders. Requires a report on residential mental health care facilities of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Pays tribute to Justin Bailey. Requires a: (1) pilot program on peer outreach and support services, readjustment counseling services, and other mental health services for veterans of OIF and OEF; (2) program of research into comorbid PTSD and substance use disorder and (3) pilot program on the provision of readjustment and transition assistance to veterans and their families in cooperation with Vet Centers. HR 4107--Woman Veterans Health Care Improvement Act--Requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) conduct a long- term epidemiological study on the health of women veterans who served on active duty in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom; (2) assess barriers encountered by women veterans to the provision by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) of comprehensive health car; (3) assess all health care services and programs provided by the VA for women veterans; (4) provide training for mental health professionals who provide counseling to women veterans suffering from sexual trauma; (5) develop a plan for the identification, development, and dissemination of treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other conditions attributable to combat or sexual trauma that are proven effective for women veterans; (6) conduct a study of the provision of readjustment counseling and related mental health services for women veterans at vet centers; (7) carry out a pilot program for child care for certain women veterans receiving health care from VA facilities; and (8) carry out a pilot program to evaluate feasibility of providing counseling and transition adjustment assistance for women veterans who are newly separated from active duty service. Requires women veterans recently separated from active duty service to be included on the Advisory Committee on Women Veterans. HR 4146--Amend title 38, USC, to clarify the availability of emergency medical care for veterans in non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities--Requires the determination of whether a veteran can be transferred to a Department of Veterans Affairs medical facility after receiving emergency medical treatment in a non-Department facility to be based both on the condition of the veteran and on the availability of a bed in a Department facility that is not geographically inaccessible to the veteran. HR 4204--Veterans Suicide Study Act--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall conduct a study to determine the number of veterans who have committed suicide between January 1, 1997 and the date of the enactment of this Act. Testimony to House Veterans Affairs Subcommittee Economic Opportunity--Testimony on expiring Department of Veterans Affairs Programs--Adjustable Rates Mortgages, Apprenticeship and on-the-job training, Post Vietnam Era Veterans Educational Assistance Program, Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance, Incarcerated Veterans Transition Program, DOL VETS Program, VETS Claim Referral Program to Office of Special Counsel. Testimony to the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--Findings and Recommendations of the Veterans Disability Commission with Respect to the Current Disability Compensation System--American Legion recommends changes to VA Disability ratings. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--On the Use of Artificial Intelligence to Improve VA's Claim Processing System--American Legion cautions VA on use of AI to improve claims processing. Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--VA Budget Request for Fiscal Year 2009--VA Budget Request, Veterans Health Care Administration, Mandatory Funding of VA Medical Care, Third-Party Reimbursements, Medicare Reimbursements, Medical Construction and Infrastructure Support, Major and Minor Construction, Veterans Benefits Administration, National Cemetery Administration, National Shrine Commitment, State Cemetery Construction Grants, GI Bill and Veterans Education Benefits, State Approving Agencies, VA Home Loan Guarantee Program, Homeless Providers Grant and Per Diem Program, Department of Labor VETS service, Homelessness, Training, Veterans Workforce and Investment Program, Employment Rights and Veterans Preference, Veteran/Service-Connected Disabled Veteran Owned Businesses. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--Testimony regarding problems in claims--Examining the backlog and VA's claims processing system. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--VA Construction Authorization--Advocate greater funding for VA Construction purposes. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--Supporting Those who Support our Veterans--Mental Health Treatment for Veterans' Families.

HR 585--Amend title 38, USC, to expand the number of individuals qualifying for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance--Amends the Veterans' Housing Opportunity and Benefits Improvement Act of 2006 to remove the requirement that, in order to qualify for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under the Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance program during the period beginning on October 7, 2001, and ending on November 30, 2005, the Secretary of the military department concerned must determine that the loss was a direct result of a traumatic injury incurred in the theater of operations for Operations Enduring Freedom or Iraqi Freedom (thus including traumatic injury incurred while performing other types of military service during such period under such coverage). HR 760--Filipino Veterans Equity Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to deem certain service in the organized military forces of the Government of the Commonwealth of the Philippines and the Philippine Scouts to have been active service for purposes of benefits under programs administered by the VA Secretary. HR 1137--Amend title 38, USC, to increase to $2,000 the amount of the Medal of Honor special pension under that title and to provide for payment of that pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased Medal of Honor recipient--Increases from $1,000 to $2,000 the monthly special pension paid to Medal of Honor recipients. Provides for payment of such pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased recipient as long as the surviving spouse was married to the recipient: (1) for one year or more; or (2) for any period of time if a child was born of the marriage or was born to them before the marriage. HR 1944--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to direct the VA Secretary to screen certain veterans for symptoms of traumatic brain injury. HR 2005--Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2007--Authorizes the VA Secretary to pay travel expenses for veterans receiving treatment at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities at the rate provided to federal employees in connection with the performance of official duties. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish and operate at least one and up to five centers of excellence for rural health research, education, and clinical activities; (2) establish a grant program to provide innovative transportation options to veterans in remote rural areas; (3) carry out demonstration projects to examine alternatives for expanding care for veterans in rural areas; and (4) report annually to Congress on matters related to VA care for veterans residing in rural areas. HR 2579--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the use of funds in the Department of Veterans Affairs readjustment benefits accounts and funds appropriated for such purpose to provide funding for State approving agencies. HR 2623--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to prohibit the collection of copayments for all hospice care furnished by VA. HR 3047--Veterans Claims Processing Innovation Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to establish a work credit system for evaluating regional offices of the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) with respect to veterans' claims processing. Requires the Secretary to: (1) develop and maintain a system for processing veterans' disability compensation claims using artificial intelligence that utilizes medical and military service data to generate disability rating recommendations; and (2) maintain a regional office at which all such claims are processed exclusively electronically. Provides that if a veteran who is a claimant dies before completing the submission of a claim for benefits, the person who would receive any accrued benefits(s) due to such veteran shall be treated as the claimant for purposes of completing submission of the claim. Directs the Secretary to contract with a private entity to evaluate the training and assessment programs for VBA employees. HR 3249--Veterans Burial Benefits Improvement Act of 2007--Increases the authorized allowance for burial and funeral expenses for deceased veterans who: (1) at the time of death were in receipt of veterans' disability compensation or veterans' pension benefits; or (2) were veterans of any war or were discharged of released from active military service for a service-connected disability and for whom there is no next of kin or sufficient resources to cover funeral and burial costs. Increases the burial plot allowance for veterans who, at the time of death, were receiving hospital or nursing home care in or through the VA. Authorizes the annual adjustment of such allowances by the same percentage increase as adjustments to benefit amounts payable under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act. HR 3286--Amend title 38, USC, to reduce the period of time for which a veteran must be totally disabled before the veteran's survivors are eligible for the benefits provided by the VA Secretary for survivors of certain veterans rated totally disabled at time of death--Allows veterans' disability compensation benefits to be paid to the survivor of a veteran whose service-connected disability was continuously rated totally disabling for at least one year immediately preceding death. (Current law allows such survivor right of payment if the disability was rated total for periods of up to ten years under various circumstances). HR 3415--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the placement in a national cemetery of memorial markers for the purpose of commemorating servicemembers or other persons whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery--Requires the VA Secretary to furnish for placement a memorial headstone or marker in a national cemetery to commemorate veterans and their spouses whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery. HR 23; S 961--Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of WWII Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to pay a monthly benefit of $1,000 to certain honorably-discharged veterans of the U.S. Merchant Marine who served between December 7, 1941, and December 3, 1946 (or to their survivors). Includes service in the Army Transport Service and the Naval Transport Service. Exempts from taxation benefits paid under this Act. S 383--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to extend the period of eligibility for health care for combat service in the Persian Gulf War or future hostilities from two years to five years after discharge or release--Extends from 2 years to 5 years following discharge or release the eligibility period for certain veterans who served in combat after the Persian Gulf War to receive hospital care, medical services, or nursing home care provided by the VA Secretary, notwithstanding a lack of evidence to conclude that their condition is attributable to such service. HR 797; S 1163; PL 110-157--Blinded Veterans Paired Organ Act of 2007--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to improve compensation and specially adapted housing for veterans in certain cases of impairment of vision involving both eyes, and to provide for the use of the National Directory of New Hires for income verification purposes. S 1233--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Rehabilitation Act of 2007--A bill to provide and enhance intervention, rehabilitative treatment, and services to veterans with traumatic brain injury. HR 2790--Amend title 38, USC, to establish the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services within the office of the Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Health--Establishes within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA)of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services, who shall report to the VHA's Under Secretary for Health on all matters relating to the education and training, employment, appropriate utilization, and optimal participation of physician assistants within VHA programs and initiatives. HR 3458--Direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program on the provision of traumatic brain injury care in rural areas--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall carry out a pilot program in five rural States selected by the Secretary, in consultation with the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs. In each of the five States selected, the Secretary shall assign a specific Department of Veterans Affairs case manager to each individual diagnosed with traumatic brain injury who is receiving care in a medical facility of the Department of Veterans Affairs in a selected State. HR 3819--Veterans Emergency Care Fairness Act of 2007--Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reimburse certain veterans without a service-connected disability enrolled as active participants of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care plan for the cost of emergency treatment received in a non-VA facility until such time as such veterans are transferred to a VA facility. Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary to reimburse certain veterans with a service-connected disability or a non-service-connected disability associated with or aggravating a service-connected disability for the value of emergency treatment for which such veterans have made payment from sources other than the VA. HR 4053--Mental Health Improvements Act of 2007--Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the provision of specified substance use disorder treatment services at each VA medical Center and community-based outpatient clinic. Requires the Secretary to ensure that treatment for a substance use disorder and a comorbid mental health disorder is provided concurrently by a team of experienced clinicians. Requires the Secretary to: (1) carry out a program of enhanced care and treatment for veterans with substance use disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); and (2) establish at least six national centers of excellence on PTSD and substance use disorders. Requires a report on residential mental health care facilities of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Pays tribute to Justin Bailey. Requires a: (1) pilot program on peer outreach and support services, readjustment counseling services, and other mental health services for veterans of OIF and OEF; (2) program of research into comorbid PTSD and substance use disorder and (3) pilot program on the provision of readjustment and transition assistance to veterans and their families in cooperation with Vet Centers. HR 4107--Woman Veterans Health Care Improvement Act--Requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) conduct a long- term epidemiological study on the health of women veterans who served on active duty in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom; (2) assess barriers encountered by women veterans to the provision by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) of comprehensive health car; (3) assess all health care services and programs provided by the VA for women veterans; (4) provide training for mental health professionals who provide counseling to women veterans suffering from sexual trauma; (5) develop a plan for the identification, development, and dissemination of treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other conditions attributable to combat or sexual trauma that are proven effective for women veterans; (6) conduct a study of the provision of readjustment counseling and related mental health services for women veterans at vet centers; (7) carry out a pilot program for child care for certain women veterans receiving health care from VA facilities; and (8) carry out a pilot program to evaluate feasibility of providing counseling and transition adjustment assistance for women veterans who are newly separated from active duty service. Requires women veterans recently separated from active duty service to be included on the Advisory Committee on Women Veterans. HR 4146--Amend title 38, USC, to clarify the availability of emergency medical care for veterans in non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities--Requires the determination of whether a veteran can be transferred to a Department of Veterans Affairs medical facility after receiving emergency medical treatment in a non-Department facility to be based both on the condition of the veteran and on the availability of a bed in a Department facility that is not geographically inaccessible to the veteran. HR 4204--Veterans Suicide Study Act--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall conduct a study to determine the number of veterans who have committed suicide between January 1, 1997 and the date of the enactment of this Act. Testimony to House Veterans Affairs Subcommittee Economic Opportunity--Testimony on expiring Department of Veterans Affairs Programs--Adjustable Rates Mortgages, Apprenticeship and on-the-job training, Post Vietnam Era Veterans Educational Assistance Program, Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance, Incarcerated Veterans Transition Program, DOL VETS Program, VETS Claim Referral Program to Office of Special Counsel. Testimony to the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--Findings and Recommendations of the Veterans Disability Commission with Respect to the Current Disability Compensation System--American Legion recommends changes to VA Disability ratings. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--On the Use of Artificial Intelligence to Improve VA's Claim Processing System--American Legion cautions VA on use of AI to improve claims processing. Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--VA Budget Request for Fiscal Year 2009--VA Budget Request, Veterans Health Care Administration, Mandatory Funding of VA Medical Care, Third-Party Reimbursements, Medicare Reimbursements, Medical Construction and Infrastructure Support, Major and Minor Construction, Veterans Benefits Administration, National Cemetery Administration, National Shrine Commitment, State Cemetery Construction Grants, GI Bill and Veterans Education Benefits, State Approving Agencies, VA Home Loan Guarantee Program, Homeless Providers Grant and Per Diem Program, Department of Labor VETS service, Homelessness, Training, Veterans Workforce and Investment Program, Employment Rights and Veterans Preference, Veteran/Service-Connected Disabled Veteran Owned Businesses. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--Testimony regarding problems in claims--Examining the backlog and VA's claims processing system. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--VA Construction Authorization--Advocate greater funding for VA Construction purposes. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--Supporting Those who Support our Veterans--Mental Health Treatment for Veterans' Families.

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

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

HR 675--Disabled Veterans Adaptive Housing Improvement Act--Increases from: (1) $50,000 to $60,00 the maximum amount authorized to be provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs to certain disabled veterans for the construction of specially adapted housing; and (2) $10,000 to $12,000 the maximum amount authorized for specially adapted features in a home. Requires the VA Secretary to annually increase such amounts to reflect increases in the cost of residential home construction. HR 1315--Amend title 38, USC, to provide specially adaptive housing assistance to certain disabled members of the Armed Forces residing temporarily in housing owned by a family member--Authorizes the VA Secretary to provide specially adaptive housing assistance for disabled members of the Armed Forces residing temporarily in housing owned by a family member if such military member suffers from a disability which is permanent and total in nature and is the result of an injury incurred or disease contracted or aggravated in the line of duty in active military service. HR 1750--Amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to extend from 90 days to one year the period after release of a member of the Armed Forces from active duty during which the member is protected from mortgage foreclosure under that Act--Amends the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act of 1940 to extend from 90 days to one year the period following release from active duty during which a member of the Armed Forces shall be protected from mortgage foreclosure. HR 2378--Services to Prevent Veterans Homelessness Act--Amend title 38, USC, to establish a financial assistance program to facilitate the provision of supportive services for very low-income veteran families in permanent housing. HR 2385--21st Century GI Bill of Rights Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to increase the maximum guaranty amount under the veterans' home loan program with respect to residences of a particular size in an area for which the median price for such size exceeds the normal guaranty maximum. Repeals the home loan guaranty fees charged to veterans. S 1096--Veterans' Housing Benefits Enhancement Act of 2007--Authorizes the VA Secretary, in the case of a member of the Armed Forces determined to have a total disability permanent in nature which was incurred or aggravated in the line of active duty, to furnish home improvements and structural alterations for the member for the disability while the member is hospitalized or receiving outpatient care, medical services, or treatment, if the Secretary determines that the member is likely to be discharged or released from the Armed Forces for such disability. Authorizes the provision of specially adapted housing assistance for: (1) disabled veterans whose disability is due to a severe burn injury; and (2) disabled members residing temporarily in housing owned by a family member. Makes veterans and members with a severe burn disability eligible for automobile and automotive adaptive equipment assistance. S 2625--The Fairness in Housing for Disabled Veterans Act Letter--Exclude the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) disability payments as a source of income when applying for housing assistance through federal programs.

HR 585--Amend title 38, USC, to expand the number of individuals qualifying for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance--Amends the Veterans' Housing Opportunity and Benefits Improvement Act of 2006 to remove the requirement that, in order to qualify for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under the Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance program during the period beginning on October 7, 2001, and ending on November 30, 2005, the Secretary of the military department concerned must determine that the loss was a direct result of a traumatic injury incurred in the theater of operations for Operations Enduring Freedom or Iraqi Freedom (thus including traumatic injury incurred while performing other types of military service during such period under such coverage). HR 760--Filipino Veterans Equity Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to deem certain service in the organized military forces of the Government of the Commonwealth of the Philippines and the Philippine Scouts to have been active service for purposes of benefits under programs administered by the VA Secretary. HR 1137--Amend title 38, USC, to increase to $2,000 the amount of the Medal of Honor special pension under that title and to provide for payment of that pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased Medal of Honor recipient--Increases from $1,000 to $2,000 the monthly special pension paid to Medal of Honor recipients. Provides for payment of such pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased recipient as long as the surviving spouse was married to the recipient: (1) for one year or more; or (2) for any period of time if a child was born of the marriage or was born to them before the marriage. HR 1944--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to direct the VA Secretary to screen certain veterans for symptoms of traumatic brain injury. HR 2005--Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2007--Authorizes the VA Secretary to pay travel expenses for veterans receiving treatment at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities at the rate provided to federal employees in connection with the performance of official duties. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish and operate at least one and up to five centers of excellence for rural health research, education, and clinical activities; (2) establish a grant program to provide innovative transportation options to veterans in remote rural areas; (3) carry out demonstration projects to examine alternatives for expanding care for veterans in rural areas; and (4) report annually to Congress on matters related to VA care for veterans residing in rural areas. HR 2579--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the use of funds in the Department of Veterans Affairs readjustment benefits accounts and funds appropriated for such purpose to provide funding for State approving agencies. HR 2623--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to prohibit the collection of copayments for all hospice care furnished by VA. HR 3047--Veterans Claims Processing Innovation Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to establish a work credit system for evaluating regional offices of the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) with respect to veterans' claims processing. Requires the Secretary to: (1) develop and maintain a system for processing veterans' disability compensation claims using artificial intelligence that utilizes medical and military service data to generate disability rating recommendations; and (2) maintain a regional office at which all such claims are processed exclusively electronically. Provides that if a veteran who is a claimant dies before completing the submission of a claim for benefits, the person who would receive any accrued benefits(s) due to such veteran shall be treated as the claimant for purposes of completing submission of the claim. Directs the Secretary to contract with a private entity to evaluate the training and assessment programs for VBA employees. HR 3249--Veterans Burial Benefits Improvement Act of 2007--Increases the authorized allowance for burial and funeral expenses for deceased veterans who: (1) at the time of death were in receipt of veterans' disability compensation or veterans' pension benefits; or (2) were veterans of any war or were discharged of released from active military service for a service-connected disability and for whom there is no next of kin or sufficient resources to cover funeral and burial costs. Increases the burial plot allowance for veterans who, at the time of death, were receiving hospital or nursing home care in or through the VA. Authorizes the annual adjustment of such allowances by the same percentage increase as adjustments to benefit amounts payable under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act. HR 3286--Amend title 38, USC, to reduce the period of time for which a veteran must be totally disabled before the veteran's survivors are eligible for the benefits provided by the VA Secretary for survivors of certain veterans rated totally disabled at time of death--Allows veterans' disability compensation benefits to be paid to the survivor of a veteran whose service-connected disability was continuously rated totally disabling for at least one year immediately preceding death. (Current law allows such survivor right of payment if the disability was rated total for periods of up to ten years under various circumstances). HR 3415--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the placement in a national cemetery of memorial markers for the purpose of commemorating servicemembers or other persons whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery--Requires the VA Secretary to furnish for placement a memorial headstone or marker in a national cemetery to commemorate veterans and their spouses whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery. HR 23; S 961--Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of WWII Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to pay a monthly benefit of $1,000 to certain honorably-discharged veterans of the U.S. Merchant Marine who served between December 7, 1941, and December 3, 1946 (or to their survivors). Includes service in the Army Transport Service and the Naval Transport Service. Exempts from taxation benefits paid under this Act. S 383--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to extend the period of eligibility for health care for combat service in the Persian Gulf War or future hostilities from two years to five years after discharge or release--Extends from 2 years to 5 years following discharge or release the eligibility period for certain veterans who served in combat after the Persian Gulf War to receive hospital care, medical services, or nursing home care provided by the VA Secretary, notwithstanding a lack of evidence to conclude that their condition is attributable to such service. HR 797; S 1163; PL 110-157--Blinded Veterans Paired Organ Act of 2007--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to improve compensation and specially adapted housing for veterans in certain cases of impairment of vision involving both eyes, and to provide for the use of the National Directory of New Hires for income verification purposes. S 1233--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Rehabilitation Act of 2007--A bill to provide and enhance intervention, rehabilitative treatment, and services to veterans with traumatic brain injury. HR 2790--Amend title 38, USC, to establish the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services within the office of the Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Health--Establishes within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA)of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services, who shall report to the VHA's Under Secretary for Health on all matters relating to the education and training, employment, appropriate utilization, and optimal participation of physician assistants within VHA programs and initiatives. HR 3458--Direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program on the provision of traumatic brain injury care in rural areas--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall carry out a pilot program in five rural States selected by the Secretary, in consultation with the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs. In each of the five States selected, the Secretary shall assign a specific Department of Veterans Affairs case manager to each individual diagnosed with traumatic brain injury who is receiving care in a medical facility of the Department of Veterans Affairs in a selected State. HR 3819--Veterans Emergency Care Fairness Act of 2007--Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reimburse certain veterans without a service-connected disability enrolled as active participants of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care plan for the cost of emergency treatment received in a non-VA facility until such time as such veterans are transferred to a VA facility. Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary to reimburse certain veterans with a service-connected disability or a non-service-connected disability associated with or aggravating a service-connected disability for the value of emergency treatment for which such veterans have made payment from sources other than the VA. HR 4053--Mental Health Improvements Act of 2007--Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the provision of specified substance use disorder treatment services at each VA medical Center and community-based outpatient clinic. Requires the Secretary to ensure that treatment for a substance use disorder and a comorbid mental health disorder is provided concurrently by a team of experienced clinicians. Requires the Secretary to: (1) carry out a program of enhanced care and treatment for veterans with substance use disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); and (2) establish at least six national centers of excellence on PTSD and substance use disorders. Requires a report on residential mental health care facilities of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Pays tribute to Justin Bailey. Requires a: (1) pilot program on peer outreach and support services, readjustment counseling services, and other mental health services for veterans of OIF and OEF; (2) program of research into comorbid PTSD and substance use disorder and (3) pilot program on the provision of readjustment and transition assistance to veterans and their families in cooperation with Vet Centers. HR 4107--Woman Veterans Health Care Improvement Act--Requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) conduct a long- term epidemiological study on the health of women veterans who served on active duty in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom; (2) assess barriers encountered by women veterans to the provision by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) of comprehensive health car; (3) assess all health care services and programs provided by the VA for women veterans; (4) provide training for mental health professionals who provide counseling to women veterans suffering from sexual trauma; (5) develop a plan for the identification, development, and dissemination of treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other conditions attributable to combat or sexual trauma that are proven effective for women veterans; (6) conduct a study of the provision of readjustment counseling and related mental health services for women veterans at vet centers; (7) carry out a pilot program for child care for certain women veterans receiving health care from VA facilities; and (8) carry out a pilot program to evaluate feasibility of providing counseling and transition adjustment assistance for women veterans who are newly separated from active duty service. Requires women veterans recently separated from active duty service to be included on the Advisory Committee on Women Veterans. HR 4146--Amend title 38, USC, to clarify the availability of emergency medical care for veterans in non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities--Requires the determination of whether a veteran can be transferred to a Department of Veterans Affairs medical facility after receiving emergency medical treatment in a non-Department facility to be based both on the condition of the veteran and on the availability of a bed in a Department facility that is not geographically inaccessible to the veteran. HR 4204--Veterans Suicide Study Act--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall conduct a study to determine the number of veterans who have committed suicide between January 1, 1997 and the date of the enactment of this Act. Testimony to House Veterans Affairs Subcommittee Economic Opportunity--Testimony on expiring Department of Veterans Affairs Programs--Adjustable Rates Mortgages, Apprenticeship and on-the-job training, Post Vietnam Era Veterans Educational Assistance Program, Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance, Incarcerated Veterans Transition Program, DOL VETS Program, VETS Claim Referral Program to Office of Special Counsel. Testimony to the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--Findings and Recommendations of the Veterans Disability Commission with Respect to the Current Disability Compensation System--American Legion recommends changes to VA Disability ratings. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--On the Use of Artificial Intelligence to Improve VA's Claim Processing System--American Legion cautions VA on use of AI to improve claims processing. Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--VA Budget Request for Fiscal Year 2009--VA Budget Request, Veterans Health Care Administration, Mandatory Funding of VA Medical Care, Third-Party Reimbursements, Medicare Reimbursements, Medical Construction and Infrastructure Support, Major and Minor Construction, Veterans Benefits Administration, National Cemetery Administration, National Shrine Commitment, State Cemetery Construction Grants, GI Bill and Veterans Education Benefits, State Approving Agencies, VA Home Loan Guarantee Program, Homeless Providers Grant and Per Diem Program, Department of Labor VETS service, Homelessness, Training, Veterans Workforce and Investment Program, Employment Rights and Veterans Preference, Veteran/Service-Connected Disabled Veteran Owned Businesses. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--Testimony regarding problems in claims--Examining the backlog and VA's claims processing system. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--VA Construction Authorization--Advocate greater funding for VA Construction purposes. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--Supporting Those who Support our Veterans--Mental Health Treatment for Veterans' Families.

HR 585--Amend title 38, USC, to expand the number of individuals qualifying for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance--Amends the Veterans' Housing Opportunity and Benefits Improvement Act of 2006 to remove the requirement that, in order to qualify for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under the Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance program during the period beginning on October 7, 2001, and ending on November 30, 2005, the Secretary of the military department concerned must determine that the loss was a direct result of a traumatic injury incurred in the theater of operations for Operations Enduring Freedom or Iraqi Freedom (thus including traumatic injury incurred while performing other types of military service during such period under such coverage). HR 760--Filipino Veterans Equity Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to deem certain service in the organized military forces of the Government of the Commonwealth of the Philippines and the Philippine Scouts to have been active service for purposes of benefits under programs administered by the VA Secretary. HR 1137--Amend title 38, USC, to increase to $2,000 the amount of the Medal of Honor special pension under that title and to provide for payment of that pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased Medal of Honor recipient--Increases from $1,000 to $2,000 the monthly special pension paid to Medal of Honor recipients. Provides for payment of such pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased recipient as long as the surviving spouse was married to the recipient: (1) for one year or more; or (2) for any period of time if a child was born of the marriage or was born to them before the marriage. HR 1944--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to direct the VA Secretary to screen certain veterans for symptoms of traumatic brain injury. HR 2005--Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2007--Authorizes the VA Secretary to pay travel expenses for veterans receiving treatment at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities at the rate provided to federal employees in connection with the performance of official duties. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish and operate at least one and up to five centers of excellence for rural health research, education, and clinical activities; (2) establish a grant program to provide innovative transportation options to veterans in remote rural areas; (3) carry out demonstration projects to examine alternatives for expanding care for veterans in rural areas; and (4) report annually to Congress on matters related to VA care for veterans residing in rural areas. HR 2579--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the use of funds in the Department of Veterans Affairs readjustment benefits accounts and funds appropriated for such purpose to provide funding for State approving agencies. HR 2623--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to prohibit the collection of copayments for all hospice care furnished by VA. HR 3047--Veterans Claims Processing Innovation Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to establish a work credit system for evaluating regional offices of the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) with respect to veterans' claims processing. Requires the Secretary to: (1) develop and maintain a system for processing veterans' disability compensation claims using artificial intelligence that utilizes medical and military service data to generate disability rating recommendations; and (2) maintain a regional office at which all such claims are processed exclusively electronically. Provides that if a veteran who is a claimant dies before completing the submission of a claim for benefits, the person who would receive any accrued benefits(s) due to such veteran shall be treated as the claimant for purposes of completing submission of the claim. Directs the Secretary to contract with a private entity to evaluate the training and assessment programs for VBA employees. HR 3249--Veterans Burial Benefits Improvement Act of 2007--Increases the authorized allowance for burial and funeral expenses for deceased veterans who: (1) at the time of death were in receipt of veterans' disability compensation or veterans' pension benefits; or (2) were veterans of any war or were discharged of released from active military service for a service-connected disability and for whom there is no next of kin or sufficient resources to cover funeral and burial costs. Increases the burial plot allowance for veterans who, at the time of death, were receiving hospital or nursing home care in or through the VA. Authorizes the annual adjustment of such allowances by the same percentage increase as adjustments to benefit amounts payable under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act. HR 3286--Amend title 38, USC, to reduce the period of time for which a veteran must be totally disabled before the veteran's survivors are eligible for the benefits provided by the VA Secretary for survivors of certain veterans rated totally disabled at time of death--Allows veterans' disability compensation benefits to be paid to the survivor of a veteran whose service-connected disability was continuously rated totally disabling for at least one year immediately preceding death. (Current law allows such survivor right of payment if the disability was rated total for periods of up to ten years under various circumstances). HR 3415--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the placement in a national cemetery of memorial markers for the purpose of commemorating servicemembers or other persons whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery--Requires the VA Secretary to furnish for placement a memorial headstone or marker in a national cemetery to commemorate veterans and their spouses whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery. HR 23; S 961--Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of WWII Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to pay a monthly benefit of $1,000 to certain honorably-discharged veterans of the U.S. Merchant Marine who served between December 7, 1941, and December 3, 1946 (or to their survivors). Includes service in the Army Transport Service and the Naval Transport Service. Exempts from taxation benefits paid under this Act. S 383--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to extend the period of eligibility for health care for combat service in the Persian Gulf War or future hostilities from two years to five years after discharge or release--Extends from 2 years to 5 years following discharge or release the eligibility period for certain veterans who served in combat after the Persian Gulf War to receive hospital care, medical services, or nursing home care provided by the VA Secretary, notwithstanding a lack of evidence to conclude that their condition is attributable to such service. HR 797; S 1163; PL 110-157--Blinded Veterans Paired Organ Act of 2007--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to improve compensation and specially adapted housing for veterans in certain cases of impairment of vision involving both eyes, and to provide for the use of the National Directory of New Hires for income verification purposes. S 1233--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Rehabilitation Act of 2007--A bill to provide and enhance intervention, rehabilitative treatment, and services to veterans with traumatic brain injury. HR 2790--Amend title 38, USC, to establish the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services within the office of the Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Health--Establishes within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA)of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services, who shall report to the VHA's Under Secretary for Health on all matters relating to the education and training, employment, appropriate utilization, and optimal participation of physician assistants within VHA programs and initiatives. HR 3458--Direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program on the provision of traumatic brain injury care in rural areas--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall carry out a pilot program in five rural States selected by the Secretary, in consultation with the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs. In each of the five States selected, the Secretary shall assign a specific Department of Veterans Affairs case manager to each individual diagnosed with traumatic brain injury who is receiving care in a medical facility of the Department of Veterans Affairs in a selected State. HR 3819--Veterans Emergency Care Fairness Act of 2007--Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reimburse certain veterans without a service-connected disability enrolled as active participants of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care plan for the cost of emergency treatment received in a non-VA facility until such time as such veterans are transferred to a VA facility. Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary to reimburse certain veterans with a service-connected disability or a non-service-connected disability associated with or aggravating a service-connected disability for the value of emergency treatment for which such veterans have made payment from sources other than the VA. HR 4053--Mental Health Improvements Act of 2007--Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the provision of specified substance use disorder treatment services at each VA medical Center and community-based outpatient clinic. Requires the Secretary to ensure that treatment for a substance use disorder and a comorbid mental health disorder is provided concurrently by a team of experienced clinicians. Requires the Secretary to: (1) carry out a program of enhanced care and treatment for veterans with substance use disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); and (2) establish at least six national centers of excellence on PTSD and substance use disorders. Requires a report on residential mental health care facilities of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Pays tribute to Justin Bailey. Requires a: (1) pilot program on peer outreach and support services, readjustment counseling services, and other mental health services for veterans of OIF and OEF; (2) program of research into comorbid PTSD and substance use disorder and (3) pilot program on the provision of readjustment and transition assistance to veterans and their families in cooperation with Vet Centers. HR 4107--Woman Veterans Health Care Improvement Act--Requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) conduct a long- term epidemiological study on the health of women veterans who served on active duty in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom; (2) assess barriers encountered by women veterans to the provision by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) of comprehensive health car; (3) assess all health care services and programs provided by the VA for women veterans; (4) provide training for mental health professionals who provide counseling to women veterans suffering from sexual trauma; (5) develop a plan for the identification, development, and dissemination of treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other conditions attributable to combat or sexual trauma that are proven effective for women veterans; (6) conduct a study of the provision of readjustment counseling and related mental health services for women veterans at vet centers; (7) carry out a pilot program for child care for certain women veterans receiving health care from VA facilities; and (8) carry out a pilot program to evaluate feasibility of providing counseling and transition adjustment assistance for women veterans who are newly separated from active duty service. Requires women veterans recently separated from active duty service to be included on the Advisory Committee on Women Veterans. HR 4146--Amend title 38, USC, to clarify the availability of emergency medical care for veterans in non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities--Requires the determination of whether a veteran can be transferred to a Department of Veterans Affairs medical facility after receiving emergency medical treatment in a non-Department facility to be based both on the condition of the veteran and on the availability of a bed in a Department facility that is not geographically inaccessible to the veteran. HR 4204--Veterans Suicide Study Act--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall conduct a study to determine the number of veterans who have committed suicide between January 1, 1997 and the date of the enactment of this Act. Testimony to House Veterans Affairs Subcommittee Economic Opportunity--Testimony on expiring Department of Veterans Affairs Programs--Adjustable Rates Mortgages, Apprenticeship and on-the-job training, Post Vietnam Era Veterans Educational Assistance Program, Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance, Incarcerated Veterans Transition Program, DOL VETS Program, VETS Claim Referral Program to Office of Special Counsel. Testimony to the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--Findings and Recommendations of the Veterans Disability Commission with Respect to the Current Disability Compensation System--American Legion recommends changes to VA Disability ratings. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--On the Use of Artificial Intelligence to Improve VA's Claim Processing System--American Legion cautions VA on use of AI to improve claims processing. Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--VA Budget Request for Fiscal Year 2009--VA Budget Request, Veterans Health Care Administration, Mandatory Funding of VA Medical Care, Third-Party Reimbursements, Medicare Reimbursements, Medical Construction and Infrastructure Support, Major and Minor Construction, Veterans Benefits Administration, National Cemetery Administration, National Shrine Commitment, State Cemetery Construction Grants, GI Bill and Veterans Education Benefits, State Approving Agencies, VA Home Loan Guarantee Program, Homeless Providers Grant and Per Diem Program, Department of Labor VETS service, Homelessness, Training, Veterans Workforce and Investment Program, Employment Rights and Veterans Preference, Veteran/Service-Connected Disabled Veteran Owned Businesses. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--Testimony regarding problems in claims--Examining the backlog and VA's claims processing system. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--VA Construction Authorization--Advocate greater funding for VA Construction purposes. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--Supporting Those who Support our Veterans--Mental Health Treatment for Veterans' Families.

HR 675--Disabled Veterans Adaptive Housing Improvement Act--Increases from: (1) $50,000 to $60,00 the maximum amount authorized to be provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs to certain disabled veterans for the construction of specially adapted housing; and (2) $10,000 to $12,000 the maximum amount authorized for specially adapted features in a home. Requires the VA Secretary to annually increase such amounts to reflect increases in the cost of residential home construction. HR 1315--Amend title 38, USC, to provide specially adaptive housing assistance to certain disabled members of the Armed Forces residing temporarily in housing owned by a family member--Authorizes the VA Secretary to provide specially adaptive housing assistance for disabled members of the Armed Forces residing temporarily in housing owned by a family member if such military member suffers from a disability which is permanent and total in nature and is the result of an injury incurred or disease contracted or aggravated in the line of duty in active military service. HR 1750--Amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to extend from 90 days to one year the period after release of a member of the Armed Forces from active duty during which the member is protected from mortgage foreclosure under that Act--Amends the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act of 1940 to extend from 90 days to one year the period following release from active duty during which a member of the Armed Forces shall be protected from mortgage foreclosure. HR 2378--Services to Prevent Veterans Homelessness Act--Amend title 38, USC, to establish a financial assistance program to facilitate the provision of supportive services for very low-income veteran families in permanent housing. HR 2385--21st Century GI Bill of Rights Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to increase the maximum guaranty amount under the veterans' home loan program with respect to residences of a particular size in an area for which the median price for such size exceeds the normal guaranty maximum. Repeals the home loan guaranty fees charged to veterans. S 1096--Veterans' Housing Benefits Enhancement Act of 2007--Authorizes the VA Secretary, in the case of a member of the Armed Forces determined to have a total disability permanent in nature which was incurred or aggravated in the line of active duty, to furnish home improvements and structural alterations for the member for the disability while the member is hospitalized or receiving outpatient care, medical services, or treatment, if the Secretary determines that the member is likely to be discharged or released from the Armed Forces for such disability. Authorizes the provision of specially adapted housing assistance for: (1) disabled veterans whose disability is due to a severe burn injury; and (2) disabled members residing temporarily in housing owned by a family member. Makes veterans and members with a severe burn disability eligible for automobile and automotive adaptive equipment assistance. S 2625--The Fairness in Housing for Disabled Veterans Act Letter--Exclude the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) disability payments as a source of income when applying for housing assistance through federal programs.

HR 585--Amend title 38, USC, to expand the number of individuals qualifying for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance--Amends the Veterans' Housing Opportunity and Benefits Improvement Act of 2006 to remove the requirement that, in order to qualify for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under the Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance program during the period beginning on October 7, 2001, and ending on November 30, 2005, the Secretary of the military department concerned must determine that the loss was a direct result of a traumatic injury incurred in the theater of operations for Operations Enduring Freedom or Iraqi Freedom (thus including traumatic injury incurred while performing other types of military service during such period under such coverage). HR 760--Filipino Veterans Equity Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to deem certain service in the organized military forces of the Government of the Commonwealth of the Philippines and the Philippine Scouts to have been active service for purposes of benefits under programs administered by the VA Secretary. HR 1137--Amend title 38, USC, to increase to $2,000 the amount of the Medal of Honor special pension under that title and to provide for payment of that pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased Medal of Honor recipient--Increases from $1,000 to $2,000 the monthly special pension paid to Medal of Honor recipients. Provides for payment of such pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased recipient as long as the surviving spouse was married to the recipient: (1) for one year or more; or (2) for any period of time if a child was born of the marriage or was born to them before the marriage. HR 1944--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to direct the VA Secretary to screen certain veterans for symptoms of traumatic brain injury. HR 2005--Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2007--Authorizes the VA Secretary to pay travel expenses for veterans receiving treatment at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities at the rate provided to federal employees in connection with the performance of official duties. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish and operate at least one and up to five centers of excellence for rural health research, education, and clinical activities; (2) establish a grant program to provide innovative transportation options to veterans in remote rural areas; (3) carry out demonstration projects to examine alternatives for expanding care for veterans in rural areas; and (4) report annually to Congress on matters related to VA care for veterans residing in rural areas. HR 2579--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the use of funds in the Department of Veterans Affairs readjustment benefits accounts and funds appropriated for such purpose to provide funding for State approving agencies. HR 2623--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to prohibit the collection of copayments for all hospice care furnished by VA. HR 3047--Veterans Claims Processing Innovation Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to establish a work credit system for evaluating regional offices of the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) with respect to veterans' claims processing. Requires the Secretary to: (1) develop and maintain a system for processing veterans' disability compensation claims using artificial intelligence that utilizes medical and military service data to generate disability rating recommendations; and (2) maintain a regional office at which all such claims are processed exclusively electronically. Provides that if a veteran who is a claimant dies before completing the submission of a claim for benefits, the person who would receive any accrued benefits(s) due to such veteran shall be treated as the claimant for purposes of completing submission of the claim. Directs the Secretary to contract with a private entity to evaluate the training and assessment programs for VBA employees. HR 3249--Veterans Burial Benefits Improvement Act of 2007--Increases the authorized allowance for burial and funeral expenses for deceased veterans who: (1) at the time of death were in receipt of veterans' disability compensation or veterans' pension benefits; or (2) were veterans of any war or were discharged of released from active military service for a service-connected disability and for whom there is no next of kin or sufficient resources to cover funeral and burial costs. Increases the burial plot allowance for veterans who, at the time of death, were receiving hospital or nursing home care in or through the VA. Authorizes the annual adjustment of such allowances by the same percentage increase as adjustments to benefit amounts payable under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act. HR 3286--Amend title 38, USC, to reduce the period of time for which a veteran must be totally disabled before the veteran's survivors are eligible for the benefits provided by the VA Secretary for survivors of certain veterans rated totally disabled at time of death--Allows veterans' disability compensation benefits to be paid to the survivor of a veteran whose service-connected disability was continuously rated totally disabling for at least one year immediately preceding death. (Current law allows such survivor right of payment if the disability was rated total for periods of up to ten years under various circumstances). HR 3415--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the placement in a national cemetery of memorial markers for the purpose of commemorating servicemembers or other persons whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery--Requires the VA Secretary to furnish for placement a memorial headstone or marker in a national cemetery to commemorate veterans and their spouses whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery. HR 23; S 961--Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of WWII Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to pay a monthly benefit of $1,000 to certain honorably-discharged veterans of the U.S. Merchant Marine who served between December 7, 1941, and December 3, 1946 (or to their survivors). Includes service in the Army Transport Service and the Naval Transport Service. Exempts from taxation benefits paid under this Act. S 383--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to extend the period of eligibility for health care for combat service in the Persian Gulf War or future hostilities from two years to five years after discharge or release--Extends from 2 years to 5 years following discharge or release the eligibility period for certain veterans who served in combat after the Persian Gulf War to receive hospital care, medical services, or nursing home care provided by the VA Secretary, notwithstanding a lack of evidence to conclude that their condition is attributable to such service. HR 797; S 1163; PL 110-157--Blinded Veterans Paired Organ Act of 2007--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to improve compensation and specially adapted housing for veterans in certain cases of impairment of vision involving both eyes, and to provide for the use of the National Directory of New Hires for income verification purposes. S 1233--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Rehabilitation Act of 2007--A bill to provide and enhance intervention, rehabilitative treatment, and services to veterans with traumatic brain injury. HR 2790--Amend title 38, USC, to establish the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services within the office of the Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Health--Establishes within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA)of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services, who shall report to the VHA's Under Secretary for Health on all matters relating to the education and training, employment, appropriate utilization, and optimal participation of physician assistants within VHA programs and initiatives. HR 3458--Direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program on the provision of traumatic brain injury care in rural areas--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall carry out a pilot program in five rural States selected by the Secretary, in consultation with the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs. In each of the five States selected, the Secretary shall assign a specific Department of Veterans Affairs case manager to each individual diagnosed with traumatic brain injury who is receiving care in a medical facility of the Department of Veterans Affairs in a selected State. HR 3819--Veterans Emergency Care Fairness Act of 2007--Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reimburse certain veterans without a service-connected disability enrolled as active participants of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care plan for the cost of emergency treatment received in a non-VA facility until such time as such veterans are transferred to a VA facility. Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary to reimburse certain veterans with a service-connected disability or a non-service-connected disability associated with or aggravating a service-connected disability for the value of emergency treatment for which such veterans have made payment from sources other than the VA. HR 4053--Mental Health Improvements Act of 2007--Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the provision of specified substance use disorder treatment services at each VA medical Center and community-based outpatient clinic. Requires the Secretary to ensure that treatment for a substance use disorder and a comorbid mental health disorder is provided concurrently by a team of experienced clinicians. Requires the Secretary to: (1) carry out a program of enhanced care and treatment for veterans with substance use disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); and (2) establish at least six national centers of excellence on PTSD and substance use disorders. Requires a report on residential mental health care facilities of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Pays tribute to Justin Bailey. Requires a: (1) pilot program on peer outreach and support services, readjustment counseling services, and other mental health services for veterans of OIF and OEF; (2) program of research into comorbid PTSD and substance use disorder and (3) pilot program on the provision of readjustment and transition assistance to veterans and their families in cooperation with Vet Centers. HR 4107--Woman Veterans Health Care Improvement Act--Requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) conduct a long- term epidemiological study on the health of women veterans who served on active duty in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom; (2) assess barriers encountered by women veterans to the provision by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) of comprehensive health car; (3) assess all health care services and programs provided by the VA for women veterans; (4) provide training for mental health professionals who provide counseling to women veterans suffering from sexual trauma; (5) develop a plan for the identification, development, and dissemination of treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other conditions attributable to combat or sexual trauma that are proven effective for women veterans; (6) conduct a study of the provision of readjustment counseling and related mental health services for women veterans at vet centers; (7) carry out a pilot program for child care for certain women veterans receiving health care from VA facilities; and (8) carry out a pilot program to evaluate feasibility of providing counseling and transition adjustment assistance for women veterans who are newly separated from active duty service. Requires women veterans recently separated from active duty service to be included on the Advisory Committee on Women Veterans. HR 4146--Amend title 38, USC, to clarify the availability of emergency medical care for veterans in non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities--Requires the determination of whether a veteran can be transferred to a Department of Veterans Affairs medical facility after receiving emergency medical treatment in a non-Department facility to be based both on the condition of the veteran and on the availability of a bed in a Department facility that is not geographically inaccessible to the veteran. HR 4204--Veterans Suicide Study Act--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall conduct a study to determine the number of veterans who have committed suicide between January 1, 1997 and the date of the enactment of this Act. Testimony to House Veterans Affairs Subcommittee Economic Opportunity--Testimony on expiring Department of Veterans Affairs Programs--Adjustable Rates Mortgages, Apprenticeship and on-the-job training, Post Vietnam Era Veterans Educational Assistance Program, Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance, Incarcerated Veterans Transition Program, DOL VETS Program, VETS Claim Referral Program to Office of Special Counsel. Testimony to the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--Findings and Recommendations of the Veterans Disability Commission with Respect to the Current Disability Compensation System--American Legion recommends changes to VA Disability ratings. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--On the Use of Artificial Intelligence to Improve VA's Claim Processing System--American Legion cautions VA on use of AI to improve claims processing. Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--VA Budget Request for Fiscal Year 2009--VA Budget Request, Veterans Health Care Administration, Mandatory Funding of VA Medical Care, Third-Party Reimbursements, Medicare Reimbursements, Medical Construction and Infrastructure Support, Major and Minor Construction, Veterans Benefits Administration, National Cemetery Administration, National Shrine Commitment, State Cemetery Construction Grants, GI Bill and Veterans Education Benefits, State Approving Agencies, VA Home Loan Guarantee Program, Homeless Providers Grant and Per Diem Program, Department of Labor VETS service, Homelessness, Training, Veterans Workforce and Investment Program, Employment Rights and Veterans Preference, Veteran/Service-Connected Disabled Veteran Owned Businesses. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--Testimony regarding problems in claims--Examining the backlog and VA's claims processing system. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--VA Construction Authorization--Advocate greater funding for VA Construction purposes. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--Supporting Those who Support our Veterans--Mental Health Treatment for Veterans' Families.

HR 1632--Improving Veterans' Reemployment Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to improve the annual report required on veterans' reemployment rights. HR 2259-Ensure that members of the National Guard and Reserves are able to fully participate in the benefits delivery at discharge program administered jointly by the Secretary of Defense and the VA Secretary to provide information and assistance on available benefits and other transition assistance to members of the Armed Forces who are separating from the Armed Forces--Ensure that members of the national Guard and Reserves are able to fully participate in the benefits delivery at discharge program administered jointly by the Secretary of Defense and VA Secretary to provide information and assistance on available benefits and other transition assistance to members of the Armed Forces who are separating from the Armed Forces. S 1215--Amend title 38, USC, to extend and improve certain authorities of the VA Secretary, and for other purposes--Sets $19 million as the maximum amount (currently a progressively increasing amount) per fiscal year for reimbursement to states and local agencies administering veterans' education benefits. Extends through FY 2007 a pilot program of on-job-training for veterans' claims adjudicators. Authorizes the VA Secretary to waive, for public interest purposes on a case-by-case basis, the residency requirement for a Director for Veterans' Employment and Training. Includes veterans of the Global War on Terror within an ongoing veterans' unemployment study. Amends the Veterans Benefits Improvement Act of 2004 to extend through 2009 an increase in benefits for veterans pursuing apprenticeships or on-job-training. FY 2009 Appropriations-Department of Labor's Veterans' Employment and Training Services (VETS) and related programs.

HR 585--Amend title 38, USC, to expand the number of individuals qualifying for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance--Amends the Veterans' Housing Opportunity and Benefits Improvement Act of 2006 to remove the requirement that, in order to qualify for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under the Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance program during the period beginning on October 7, 2001, and ending on November 30, 2005, the Secretary of the military department concerned must determine that the loss was a direct result of a traumatic injury incurred in the theater of operations for Operations Enduring Freedom or Iraqi Freedom (thus including traumatic injury incurred while performing other types of military service during such period under such coverage). HR 760--Filipino Veterans Equity Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to deem certain service in the organized military forces of the Government of the Commonwealth of the Philippines and the Philippine Scouts to have been active service for purposes of benefits under programs administered by the VA Secretary. HR 1137--Amend title 38, USC, to increase to $2,000 the amount of the Medal of Honor special pension under that title and to provide for payment of that pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased Medal of Honor recipient--Increases from $1,000 to $2,000 the monthly special pension paid to Medal of Honor recipients. Provides for payment of such pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased recipient as long as the surviving spouse was married to the recipient: (1) for one year or more; or (2) for any period of time if a child was born of the marriage or was born to them before the marriage. HR 1944--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to direct the VA Secretary to screen certain veterans for symptoms of traumatic brain injury. HR 2005--Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2007--Authorizes the VA Secretary to pay travel expenses for veterans receiving treatment at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities at the rate provided to federal employees in connection with the performance of official duties. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish and operate at least one and up to five centers of excellence for rural health research, education, and clinical activities; (2) establish a grant program to provide innovative transportation options to veterans in remote rural areas; (3) carry out demonstration projects to examine alternatives for expanding care for veterans in rural areas; and (4) report annually to Congress on matters related to VA care for veterans residing in rural areas. HR 2579--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the use of funds in the Department of Veterans Affairs readjustment benefits accounts and funds appropriated for such purpose to provide funding for State approving agencies. HR 2623--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to prohibit the collection of copayments for all hospice care furnished by VA. HR 3047--Veterans Claims Processing Innovation Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to establish a work credit system for evaluating regional offices of the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) with respect to veterans' claims processing. Requires the Secretary to: (1) develop and maintain a system for processing veterans' disability compensation claims using artificial intelligence that utilizes medical and military service data to generate disability rating recommendations; and (2) maintain a regional office at which all such claims are processed exclusively electronically. Provides that if a veteran who is a claimant dies before completing the submission of a claim for benefits, the person who would receive any accrued benefits(s) due to such veteran shall be treated as the claimant for purposes of completing submission of the claim. Directs the Secretary to contract with a private entity to evaluate the training and assessment programs for VBA employees. HR 3249--Veterans Burial Benefits Improvement Act of 2007--Increases the authorized allowance for burial and funeral expenses for deceased veterans who: (1) at the time of death were in receipt of veterans' disability compensation or veterans' pension benefits; or (2) were veterans of any war or were discharged of released from active military service for a service-connected disability and for whom there is no next of kin or sufficient resources to cover funeral and burial costs. Increases the burial plot allowance for veterans who, at the time of death, were receiving hospital or nursing home care in or through the VA. Authorizes the annual adjustment of such allowances by the same percentage increase as adjustments to benefit amounts payable under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act. HR 3286--Amend title 38, USC, to reduce the period of time for which a veteran must be totally disabled before the veteran's survivors are eligible for the benefits provided by the VA Secretary for survivors of certain veterans rated totally disabled at time of death--Allows veterans' disability compensation benefits to be paid to the survivor of a veteran whose service-connected disability was continuously rated totally disabling for at least one year immediately preceding death. (Current law allows such survivor right of payment if the disability was rated total for periods of up to ten years under various circumstances). HR 3415--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the placement in a national cemetery of memorial markers for the purpose of commemorating servicemembers or other persons whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery--Requires the VA Secretary to furnish for placement a memorial headstone or marker in a national cemetery to commemorate veterans and their spouses whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery. HR 23; S 961--Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of WWII Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to pay a monthly benefit of $1,000 to certain honorably-discharged veterans of the U.S. Merchant Marine who served between December 7, 1941, and December 3, 1946 (or to their survivors). Includes service in the Army Transport Service and the Naval Transport Service. Exempts from taxation benefits paid under this Act. S 383--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to extend the period of eligibility for health care for combat service in the Persian Gulf War or future hostilities from two years to five years after discharge or release--Extends from 2 years to 5 years following discharge or release the eligibility period for certain veterans who served in combat after the Persian Gulf War to receive hospital care, medical services, or nursing home care provided by the VA Secretary, notwithstanding a lack of evidence to conclude that their condition is attributable to such service. HR 797; S 1163; PL 110-157--Blinded Veterans Paired Organ Act of 2007--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to improve compensation and specially adapted housing for veterans in certain cases of impairment of vision involving both eyes, and to provide for the use of the National Directory of New Hires for income verification purposes. S 1233--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Rehabilitation Act of 2007--A bill to provide and enhance intervention, rehabilitative treatment, and services to veterans with traumatic brain injury. HR 2790--Amend title 38, USC, to establish the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services within the office of the Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Health--Establishes within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA)of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services, who shall report to the VHA's Under Secretary for Health on all matters relating to the education and training, employment, appropriate utilization, and optimal participation of physician assistants within VHA programs and initiatives. HR 3458--Direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program on the provision of traumatic brain injury care in rural areas--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall carry out a pilot program in five rural States selected by the Secretary, in consultation with the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs. In each of the five States selected, the Secretary shall assign a specific Department of Veterans Affairs case manager to each individual diagnosed with traumatic brain injury who is receiving care in a medical facility of the Department of Veterans Affairs in a selected State. HR 3819--Veterans Emergency Care Fairness Act of 2007--Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reimburse certain veterans without a service-connected disability enrolled as active participants of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care plan for the cost of emergency treatment received in a non-VA facility until such time as such veterans are transferred to a VA facility. Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary to reimburse certain veterans with a service-connected disability or a non-service-connected disability associated with or aggravating a service-connected disability for the value of emergency treatment for which such veterans have made payment from sources other than the VA. HR 4053--Mental Health Improvements Act of 2007--Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the provision of specified substance use disorder treatment services at each VA medical Center and community-based outpatient clinic. Requires the Secretary to ensure that treatment for a substance use disorder and a comorbid mental health disorder is provided concurrently by a team of experienced clinicians. Requires the Secretary to: (1) carry out a program of enhanced care and treatment for veterans with substance use disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); and (2) establish at least six national centers of excellence on PTSD and substance use disorders. Requires a report on residential mental health care facilities of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Pays tribute to Justin Bailey. Requires a: (1) pilot program on peer outreach and support services, readjustment counseling services, and other mental health services for veterans of OIF and OEF; (2) program of research into comorbid PTSD and substance use disorder and (3) pilot program on the provision of readjustment and transition assistance to veterans and their families in cooperation with Vet Centers. HR 4107--Woman Veterans Health Care Improvement Act--Requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) conduct a long- term epidemiological study on the health of women veterans who served on active duty in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom; (2) assess barriers encountered by women veterans to the provision by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) of comprehensive health car; (3) assess all health care services and programs provided by the VA for women veterans; (4) provide training for mental health professionals who provide counseling to women veterans suffering from sexual trauma; (5) develop a plan for the identification, development, and dissemination of treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other conditions attributable to combat or sexual trauma that are proven effective for women veterans; (6) conduct a study of the provision of readjustment counseling and related mental health services for women veterans at vet centers; (7) carry out a pilot program for child care for certain women veterans receiving health care from VA facilities; and (8) carry out a pilot program to evaluate feasibility of providing counseling and transition adjustment assistance for women veterans who are newly separated from active duty service. Requires women veterans recently separated from active duty service to be included on the Advisory Committee on Women Veterans. HR 4146--Amend title 38, USC, to clarify the availability of emergency medical care for veterans in non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities--Requires the determination of whether a veteran can be transferred to a Department of Veterans Affairs medical facility after receiving emergency medical treatment in a non-Department facility to be based both on the condition of the veteran and on the availability of a bed in a Department facility that is not geographically inaccessible to the veteran. HR 4204--Veterans Suicide Study Act--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall conduct a study to determine the number of veterans who have committed suicide between January 1, 1997 and the date of the enactment of this Act. Testimony to House Veterans Affairs Subcommittee Economic Opportunity--Testimony on expiring Department of Veterans Affairs Programs--Adjustable Rates Mortgages, Apprenticeship and on-the-job training, Post Vietnam Era Veterans Educational Assistance Program, Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance, Incarcerated Veterans Transition Program, DOL VETS Program, VETS Claim Referral Program to Office of Special Counsel. Testimony to the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--Findings and Recommendations of the Veterans Disability Commission with Respect to the Current Disability Compensation System--American Legion recommends changes to VA Disability ratings. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--On the Use of Artificial Intelligence to Improve VA's Claim Processing System--American Legion cautions VA on use of AI to improve claims processing. Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--VA Budget Request for Fiscal Year 2009--VA Budget Request, Veterans Health Care Administration, Mandatory Funding of VA Medical Care, Third-Party Reimbursements, Medicare Reimbursements, Medical Construction and Infrastructure Support, Major and Minor Construction, Veterans Benefits Administration, National Cemetery Administration, National Shrine Commitment, State Cemetery Construction Grants, GI Bill and Veterans Education Benefits, State Approving Agencies, VA Home Loan Guarantee Program, Homeless Providers Grant and Per Diem Program, Department of Labor VETS service, Homelessness, Training, Veterans Workforce and Investment Program, Employment Rights and Veterans Preference, Veteran/Service-Connected Disabled Veteran Owned Businesses. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--Testimony regarding problems in claims--Examining the backlog and VA's claims processing system. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--VA Construction Authorization--Advocate greater funding for VA Construction purposes. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--Supporting Those who Support our Veterans--Mental Health Treatment for Veterans' Families.

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

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

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

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

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

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

HR 675--Disabled Veterans Adaptive Housing Improvement Act--Increases from: (1) $50,000 to $60,00 the maximum amount authorized to be provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs to certain disabled veterans for the construction of specially adapted housing; and (2) $10,000 to $12,000 the maximum amount authorized for specially adapted features in a home. Requires the VA Secretary to annually increase such amounts to reflect increases in the cost of residential home construction. HR 1315--Amend title 38, USC, to provide specially adaptive housing assistance to certain disabled members of the Armed Forces residing temporarily in housing owned by a family member--Authorizes the VA Secretary to provide specially adaptive housing assistance for disabled members of the Armed Forces residing temporarily in housing owned by a family member if such military member suffers from a disability which is permanent and total in nature and is the result of an injury incurred or disease contracted or aggravated in the line of duty in active military service. HR 1750--Amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to extend from 90 days to one year the period after release of a member of the Armed Forces from active duty during which the member is protected from mortgage foreclosure under that Act--Amends the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act of 1940 to extend from 90 days to one year the period following release from active duty during which a member of the Armed Forces shall be protected from mortgage foreclosure. HR 2378--Services to Prevent Veterans Homelessness Act--Amend title 38, USC, to establish a financial assistance program to facilitate the provision of supportive services for very low-income veteran families in permanent housing. HR 2385--21st Century GI Bill of Rights Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to increase the maximum guaranty amount under the veterans' home loan program with respect to residences of a particular size in an area for which the median price for such size exceeds the normal guaranty maximum. Repeals the home loan guaranty fees charged to veterans. S 1096--Veterans' Housing Benefits Enhancement Act of 2007--Authorizes the VA Secretary, in the case of a member of the Armed Forces determined to have a total disability permanent in nature which was incurred or aggravated in the line of active duty, to furnish home improvements and structural alterations for the member for the disability while the member is hospitalized or receiving outpatient care, medical services, or treatment, if the Secretary determines that the member is likely to be discharged or released from the Armed Forces for such disability. Authorizes the provision of specially adapted housing assistance for: (1) disabled veterans whose disability is due to a severe burn injury; and (2) disabled members residing temporarily in housing owned by a family member. Makes veterans and members with a severe burn disability eligible for automobile and automotive adaptive equipment assistance. S 2625--The Fairness in Housing for Disabled Veterans Act Letter--Exclude the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) disability payments as a source of income when applying for housing assistance through federal programs.

HR 585--Amend title 38, USC, to expand the number of individuals qualifying for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance--Amends the Veterans' Housing Opportunity and Benefits Improvement Act of 2006 to remove the requirement that, in order to qualify for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under the Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance program during the period beginning on October 7, 2001, and ending on November 30, 2005, the Secretary of the military department concerned must determine that the loss was a direct result of a traumatic injury incurred in the theater of operations for Operations Enduring Freedom or Iraqi Freedom (thus including traumatic injury incurred while performing other types of military service during such period under such coverage). HR 760--Filipino Veterans Equity Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to deem certain service in the organized military forces of the Government of the Commonwealth of the Philippines and the Philippine Scouts to have been active service for purposes of benefits under programs administered by the VA Secretary. HR 1137--Amend title 38, USC, to increase to $2,000 the amount of the Medal of Honor special pension under that title and to provide for payment of that pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased Medal of Honor recipient--Increases from $1,000 to $2,000 the monthly special pension paid to Medal of Honor recipients. Provides for payment of such pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased recipient as long as the surviving spouse was married to the recipient: (1) for one year or more; or (2) for any period of time if a child was born of the marriage or was born to them before the marriage. HR 1944--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to direct the VA Secretary to screen certain veterans for symptoms of traumatic brain injury. HR 2005--Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2007--Authorizes the VA Secretary to pay travel expenses for veterans receiving treatment at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities at the rate provided to federal employees in connection with the performance of official duties. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish and operate at least one and up to five centers of excellence for rural health research, education, and clinical activities; (2) establish a grant program to provide innovative transportation options to veterans in remote rural areas; (3) carry out demonstration projects to examine alternatives for expanding care for veterans in rural areas; and (4) report annually to Congress on matters related to VA care for veterans residing in rural areas. HR 2579--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the use of funds in the Department of Veterans Affairs readjustment benefits accounts and funds appropriated for such purpose to provide funding for State approving agencies. HR 2623--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to prohibit the collection of copayments for all hospice care furnished by VA. HR 3047--Veterans Claims Processing Innovation Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to establish a work credit system for evaluating regional offices of the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) with respect to veterans' claims processing. Requires the Secretary to: (1) develop and maintain a system for processing veterans' disability compensation claims using artificial intelligence that utilizes medical and military service data to generate disability rating recommendations; and (2) maintain a regional office at which all such claims are processed exclusively electronically. Provides that if a veteran who is a claimant dies before completing the submission of a claim for benefits, the person who would receive any accrued benefits(s) due to such veteran shall be treated as the claimant for purposes of completing submission of the claim. Directs the Secretary to contract with a private entity to evaluate the training and assessment programs for VBA employees. HR 3249--Veterans Burial Benefits Improvement Act of 2007--Increases the authorized allowance for burial and funeral expenses for deceased veterans who: (1) at the time of death were in receipt of veterans' disability compensation or veterans' pension benefits; or (2) were veterans of any war or were discharged of released from active military service for a service-connected disability and for whom there is no next of kin or sufficient resources to cover funeral and burial costs. Increases the burial plot allowance for veterans who, at the time of death, were receiving hospital or nursing home care in or through the VA. Authorizes the annual adjustment of such allowances by the same percentage increase as adjustments to benefit amounts payable under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act. HR 3286--Amend title 38, USC, to reduce the period of time for which a veteran must be totally disabled before the veteran's survivors are eligible for the benefits provided by the VA Secretary for survivors of certain veterans rated totally disabled at time of death--Allows veterans' disability compensation benefits to be paid to the survivor of a veteran whose service-connected disability was continuously rated totally disabling for at least one year immediately preceding death. (Current law allows such survivor right of payment if the disability was rated total for periods of up to ten years under various circumstances). HR 3415--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the placement in a national cemetery of memorial markers for the purpose of commemorating servicemembers or other persons whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery--Requires the VA Secretary to furnish for placement a memorial headstone or marker in a national cemetery to commemorate veterans and their spouses whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery. HR 23; S 961--Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of WWII Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to pay a monthly benefit of $1,000 to certain honorably-discharged veterans of the U.S. Merchant Marine who served between December 7, 1941, and December 3, 1946 (or to their survivors). Includes service in the Army Transport Service and the Naval Transport Service. Exempts from taxation benefits paid under this Act. S 383--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to extend the period of eligibility for health care for combat service in the Persian Gulf War or future hostilities from two years to five years after discharge or release--Extends from 2 years to 5 years following discharge or release the eligibility period for certain veterans who served in combat after the Persian Gulf War to receive hospital care, medical services, or nursing home care provided by the VA Secretary, notwithstanding a lack of evidence to conclude that their condition is attributable to such service. HR 797; S 1163; PL 110-157--Blinded Veterans Paired Organ Act of 2007--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to improve compensation and specially adapted housing for veterans in certain cases of impairment of vision involving both eyes, and to provide for the use of the National Directory of New Hires for income verification purposes. S 1233--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Rehabilitation Act of 2007--A bill to provide and enhance intervention, rehabilitative treatment, and services to veterans with traumatic brain injury. HR 2790--Amend title 38, USC, to establish the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services within the office of the Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Health--Establishes within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA)of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services, who shall report to the VHA's Under Secretary for Health on all matters relating to the education and training, employment, appropriate utilization, and optimal participation of physician assistants within VHA programs and initiatives. HR 3458--Direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program on the provision of traumatic brain injury care in rural areas--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall carry out a pilot program in five rural States selected by the Secretary, in consultation with the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs. In each of the five States selected, the Secretary shall assign a specific Department of Veterans Affairs case manager to each individual diagnosed with traumatic brain injury who is receiving care in a medical facility of the Department of Veterans Affairs in a selected State. HR 3819--Veterans Emergency Care Fairness Act of 2007--Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reimburse certain veterans without a service-connected disability enrolled as active participants of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care plan for the cost of emergency treatment received in a non-VA facility until such time as such veterans are transferred to a VA facility. Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary to reimburse certain veterans with a service-connected disability or a non-service-connected disability associated with or aggravating a service-connected disability for the value of emergency treatment for which such veterans have made payment from sources other than the VA. HR 4053--Mental Health Improvements Act of 2007--Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the provision of specified substance use disorder treatment services at each VA medical Center and community-based outpatient clinic. Requires the Secretary to ensure that treatment for a substance use disorder and a comorbid mental health disorder is provided concurrently by a team of experienced clinicians. Requires the Secretary to: (1) carry out a program of enhanced care and treatment for veterans with substance use disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); and (2) establish at least six national centers of excellence on PTSD and substance use disorders. Requires a report on residential mental health care facilities of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Pays tribute to Justin Bailey. Requires a: (1) pilot program on peer outreach and support services, readjustment counseling services, and other mental health services for veterans of OIF and OEF; (2) program of research into comorbid PTSD and substance use disorder and (3) pilot program on the provision of readjustment and transition assistance to veterans and their families in cooperation with Vet Centers. HR 4107--Woman Veterans Health Care Improvement Act--Requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) conduct a long- term epidemiological study on the health of women veterans who served on active duty in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom; (2) assess barriers encountered by women veterans to the provision by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) of comprehensive health car; (3) assess all health care services and programs provided by the VA for women veterans; (4) provide training for mental health professionals who provide counseling to women veterans suffering from sexual trauma; (5) develop a plan for the identification, development, and dissemination of treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other conditions attributable to combat or sexual trauma that are proven effective for women veterans; (6) conduct a study of the provision of readjustment counseling and related mental health services for women veterans at vet centers; (7) carry out a pilot program for child care for certain women veterans receiving health care from VA facilities; and (8) carry out a pilot program to evaluate feasibility of providing counseling and transition adjustment assistance for women veterans who are newly separated from active duty service. Requires women veterans recently separated from active duty service to be included on the Advisory Committee on Women Veterans. HR 4146--Amend title 38, USC, to clarify the availability of emergency medical care for veterans in non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities--Requires the determination of whether a veteran can be transferred to a Department of Veterans Affairs medical facility after receiving emergency medical treatment in a non-Department facility to be based both on the condition of the veteran and on the availability of a bed in a Department facility that is not geographically inaccessible to the veteran. HR 4204--Veterans Suicide Study Act--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall conduct a study to determine the number of veterans who have committed suicide between January 1, 1997 and the date of the enactment of this Act. Testimony to House Veterans Affairs Subcommittee Economic Opportunity--Testimony on expiring Department of Veterans Affairs Programs--Adjustable Rates Mortgages, Apprenticeship and on-the-job training, Post Vietnam Era Veterans Educational Assistance Program, Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance, Incarcerated Veterans Transition Program, DOL VETS Program, VETS Claim Referral Program to Office of Special Counsel. Testimony to the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--Findings and Recommendations of the Veterans Disability Commission with Respect to the Current Disability Compensation System--American Legion recommends changes to VA Disability ratings. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--On the Use of Artificial Intelligence to Improve VA's Claim Processing System--American Legion cautions VA on use of AI to improve claims processing. Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--VA Budget Request for Fiscal Year 2009--VA Budget Request, Veterans Health Care Administration, Mandatory Funding of VA Medical Care, Third-Party Reimbursements, Medicare Reimbursements, Medical Construction and Infrastructure Support, Major and Minor Construction, Veterans Benefits Administration, National Cemetery Administration, National Shrine Commitment, State Cemetery Construction Grants, GI Bill and Veterans Education Benefits, State Approving Agencies, VA Home Loan Guarantee Program, Homeless Providers Grant and Per Diem Program, Department of Labor VETS service, Homelessness, Training, Veterans Workforce and Investment Program, Employment Rights and Veterans Preference, Veteran/Service-Connected Disabled Veteran Owned Businesses. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--Testimony regarding problems in claims--Examining the backlog and VA's claims processing system. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--VA Construction Authorization--Advocate greater funding for VA Construction purposes. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--Supporting Those who Support our Veterans--Mental Health Treatment for Veterans' Families.

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

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

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

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

HR 585--Amend title 38, USC, to expand the number of individuals qualifying for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance--Amends the Veterans' Housing Opportunity and Benefits Improvement Act of 2006 to remove the requirement that, in order to qualify for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under the Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance program during the period beginning on October 7, 2001, and ending on November 30, 2005, the Secretary of the military department concerned must determine that the loss was a direct result of a traumatic injury incurred in the theater of operations for Operations Enduring Freedom or Iraqi Freedom (thus including traumatic injury incurred while performing other types of military service during such period under such coverage). HR 760--Filipino Veterans Equity Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to deem certain service in the organized military forces of the Government of the Commonwealth of the Philippines and the Philippine Scouts to have been active service for purposes of benefits under programs administered by the VA Secretary. HR 1137--Amend title 38, USC, to increase to $2,000 the amount of the Medal of Honor special pension under that title and to provide for payment of that pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased Medal of Honor recipient--Increases from $1,000 to $2,000 the monthly special pension paid to Medal of Honor recipients. Provides for payment of such pension to the surviving spouse of a deceased recipient as long as the surviving spouse was married to the recipient: (1) for one year or more; or (2) for any period of time if a child was born of the marriage or was born to them before the marriage. HR 1944--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment Act of 2007--Amend title 38, USC, to direct the VA Secretary to screen certain veterans for symptoms of traumatic brain injury. HR 2005--Rural Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2007--Authorizes the VA Secretary to pay travel expenses for veterans receiving treatment at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities at the rate provided to federal employees in connection with the performance of official duties. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish and operate at least one and up to five centers of excellence for rural health research, education, and clinical activities; (2) establish a grant program to provide innovative transportation options to veterans in remote rural areas; (3) carry out demonstration projects to examine alternatives for expanding care for veterans in rural areas; and (4) report annually to Congress on matters related to VA care for veterans residing in rural areas. HR 2579--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the use of funds in the Department of Veterans Affairs readjustment benefits accounts and funds appropriated for such purpose to provide funding for State approving agencies. HR 2623--Amend title 38, USC--Amend title 38, USC, to prohibit the collection of copayments for all hospice care furnished by VA. HR 3047--Veterans Claims Processing Innovation Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to establish a work credit system for evaluating regional offices of the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) with respect to veterans' claims processing. Requires the Secretary to: (1) develop and maintain a system for processing veterans' disability compensation claims using artificial intelligence that utilizes medical and military service data to generate disability rating recommendations; and (2) maintain a regional office at which all such claims are processed exclusively electronically. Provides that if a veteran who is a claimant dies before completing the submission of a claim for benefits, the person who would receive any accrued benefits(s) due to such veteran shall be treated as the claimant for purposes of completing submission of the claim. Directs the Secretary to contract with a private entity to evaluate the training and assessment programs for VBA employees. HR 3249--Veterans Burial Benefits Improvement Act of 2007--Increases the authorized allowance for burial and funeral expenses for deceased veterans who: (1) at the time of death were in receipt of veterans' disability compensation or veterans' pension benefits; or (2) were veterans of any war or were discharged of released from active military service for a service-connected disability and for whom there is no next of kin or sufficient resources to cover funeral and burial costs. Increases the burial plot allowance for veterans who, at the time of death, were receiving hospital or nursing home care in or through the VA. Authorizes the annual adjustment of such allowances by the same percentage increase as adjustments to benefit amounts payable under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act. HR 3286--Amend title 38, USC, to reduce the period of time for which a veteran must be totally disabled before the veteran's survivors are eligible for the benefits provided by the VA Secretary for survivors of certain veterans rated totally disabled at time of death--Allows veterans' disability compensation benefits to be paid to the survivor of a veteran whose service-connected disability was continuously rated totally disabling for at least one year immediately preceding death. (Current law allows such survivor right of payment if the disability was rated total for periods of up to ten years under various circumstances). HR 3415--Amend title 38, USC, to authorize the placement in a national cemetery of memorial markers for the purpose of commemorating servicemembers or other persons whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery--Requires the VA Secretary to furnish for placement a memorial headstone or marker in a national cemetery to commemorate veterans and their spouses whose remains are interred in an American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery. HR 23; S 961--Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of WWII Act of 2007--Directs the VA Secretary to pay a monthly benefit of $1,000 to certain honorably-discharged veterans of the U.S. Merchant Marine who served between December 7, 1941, and December 3, 1946 (or to their survivors). Includes service in the Army Transport Service and the Naval Transport Service. Exempts from taxation benefits paid under this Act. S 383--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to extend the period of eligibility for health care for combat service in the Persian Gulf War or future hostilities from two years to five years after discharge or release--Extends from 2 years to 5 years following discharge or release the eligibility period for certain veterans who served in combat after the Persian Gulf War to receive hospital care, medical services, or nursing home care provided by the VA Secretary, notwithstanding a lack of evidence to conclude that their condition is attributable to such service. HR 797; S 1163; PL 110-157--Blinded Veterans Paired Organ Act of 2007--A bill to amend title 38, USC, to improve compensation and specially adapted housing for veterans in certain cases of impairment of vision involving both eyes, and to provide for the use of the National Directory of New Hires for income verification purposes. S 1233--Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Rehabilitation Act of 2007--A bill to provide and enhance intervention, rehabilitative treatment, and services to veterans with traumatic brain injury. HR 2790--Amend title 38, USC, to establish the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services within the office of the Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Health--Establishes within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA)of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) the position of Director of Physician Assistant Services, who shall report to the VHA's Under Secretary for Health on all matters relating to the education and training, employment, appropriate utilization, and optimal participation of physician assistants within VHA programs and initiatives. HR 3458--Direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program on the provision of traumatic brain injury care in rural areas--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall carry out a pilot program in five rural States selected by the Secretary, in consultation with the Office of Rural Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs. In each of the five States selected, the Secretary shall assign a specific Department of Veterans Affairs case manager to each individual diagnosed with traumatic brain injury who is receiving care in a medical facility of the Department of Veterans Affairs in a selected State. HR 3819--Veterans Emergency Care Fairness Act of 2007--Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reimburse certain veterans without a service-connected disability enrolled as active participants of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care plan for the cost of emergency treatment received in a non-VA facility until such time as such veterans are transferred to a VA facility. Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary to reimburse certain veterans with a service-connected disability or a non-service-connected disability associated with or aggravating a service-connected disability for the value of emergency treatment for which such veterans have made payment from sources other than the VA. HR 4053--Mental Health Improvements Act of 2007--Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the provision of specified substance use disorder treatment services at each VA medical Center and community-based outpatient clinic. Requires the Secretary to ensure that treatment for a substance use disorder and a comorbid mental health disorder is provided concurrently by a team of experienced clinicians. Requires the Secretary to: (1) carry out a program of enhanced care and treatment for veterans with substance use disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); and (2) establish at least six national centers of excellence on PTSD and substance use disorders. Requires a report on residential mental health care facilities of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Pays tribute to Justin Bailey. Requires a: (1) pilot program on peer outreach and support services, readjustment counseling services, and other mental health services for veterans of OIF and OEF; (2) program of research into comorbid PTSD and substance use disorder and (3) pilot program on the provision of readjustment and transition assistance to veterans and their families in cooperation with Vet Centers. HR 4107--Woman Veterans Health Care Improvement Act--Requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to: (1) conduct a long- term epidemiological study on the health of women veterans who served on active duty in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom; (2) assess barriers encountered by women veterans to the provision by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) of comprehensive health car; (3) assess all health care services and programs provided by the VA for women veterans; (4) provide training for mental health professionals who provide counseling to women veterans suffering from sexual trauma; (5) develop a plan for the identification, development, and dissemination of treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other conditions attributable to combat or sexual trauma that are proven effective for women veterans; (6) conduct a study of the provision of readjustment counseling and related mental health services for women veterans at vet centers; (7) carry out a pilot program for child care for certain women veterans receiving health care from VA facilities; and (8) carry out a pilot program to evaluate feasibility of providing counseling and transition adjustment assistance for women veterans who are newly separated from active duty service. Requires women veterans recently separated from active duty service to be included on the Advisory Committee on Women Veterans. HR 4146--Amend title 38, USC, to clarify the availability of emergency medical care for veterans in non-Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities--Requires the determination of whether a veteran can be transferred to a Department of Veterans Affairs medical facility after receiving emergency medical treatment in a non-Department facility to be based both on the condition of the veteran and on the availability of a bed in a Department facility that is not geographically inaccessible to the veteran. HR 4204--Veterans Suicide Study Act--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall conduct a study to determine the number of veterans who have committed suicide between January 1, 1997 and the date of the enactment of this Act. Testimony to House Veterans Affairs Subcommittee Economic Opportunity--Testimony on expiring Department of Veterans Affairs Programs--Adjustable Rates Mortgages, Apprenticeship and on-the-job training, Post Vietnam Era Veterans Educational Assistance Program, Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance, Incarcerated Veterans Transition Program, DOL VETS Program, VETS Claim Referral Program to Office of Special Counsel. Testimony to the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--Findings and Recommendations of the Veterans Disability Commission with Respect to the Current Disability Compensation System--American Legion recommends changes to VA Disability ratings. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--On the Use of Artificial Intelligence to Improve VA's Claim Processing System--American Legion cautions VA on use of AI to improve claims processing. Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs--VA Budget Request for Fiscal Year 2009--VA Budget Request, Veterans Health Care Administration, Mandatory Funding of VA Medical Care, Third-Party Reimbursements, Medicare Reimbursements, Medical Construction and Infrastructure Support, Major and Minor Construction, Veterans Benefits Administration, National Cemetery Administration, National Shrine Commitment, State Cemetery Construction Grants, GI Bill and Veterans Education Benefits, State Approving Agencies, VA Home Loan Guarantee Program, Homeless Providers Grant and Per Diem Program, Department of Labor VETS service, Homelessness, Training, Veterans Workforce and Investment Program, Employment Rights and Veterans Preference, Veteran/Service-Connected Disabled Veteran Owned Businesses. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs--Testimony regarding problems in claims--Examining the backlog and VA's claims processing system. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--VA Construction Authorization--Advocate greater funding for VA Construction purposes. Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health--Supporting Those who Support our Veterans--Mental Health Treatment for Veterans' Families.