SECTION 1. EXCLUSION FROM ESTATE TAX FOR HISTORIC PROPERTY SUBJECT TO PRESERVATION EASEMENT. (a) In General.--Part IV of subchapter A of chapter 11 of the Internal Revenue of 1986 (relating to taxable estate) is amended by adding at the end the following new section: ``SEC. 2057. QUALIFIED HISTORIC PROPERTY. ``(a) General Rule.--For purposes of the tax imposed by section 2001, the value of the taxable estate shall be determined by deducting from the value of the gross estate an amount equal to the value of any qualified historic property included in the gross estate. ``(b) Definitions.--For purposes of this section-- ``(1) Qualified historic property.-- ``(A) In general.--The term `qualified historic property' means any historic property if-- ``(i) on or before the date on which the return of the tax imposed by section 2001 is filed, a qualified real property interest described in section 170(h)(2)(C) in such property is held by a qualified organization for the purpose described in section 170(h)(4)(A)(iv), and ``(ii) such property is covered by an agreement meeting the requirements of subsection (c) which is entered into on or before such date. ``(B) Treatment of personal property.--Such term includes personal property included within, or associated with, qualified historic property (as defined in paragraph (1)) if such personal property-- ``(i) is held by the decedent holding such qualified historic property, ``(ii) has been so included within, or associated with, such qualified historic property throughout the 10-year period ending on the date of the decedent's death, and ``(iii) is covered by the agreement referred to in subparagraph (A)(ii) which covers such qualified historic property. ``(2) Historic property.--The term `historic property' means-- ``(A) any building (and its structural components)-- ``(i) which is designated as a National Historic Landmark under section 101 of the National Historic Preservation Act throughout the 10-year period ending on the date of the decedent's death, ``(ii) which was owned by the decedent or a member of the decedent's family (as defined in section 2032A(e)(2)) throughout such 10-year period, and ``(iii) which was originally used for residential purposes, and ``(B) any other real property to the extent reasonably necessary for public view and visitation of the property described in subparagraph (A). ``(3) Qualified organization.--The term `qualified organization' has the meaning given to such term by section 170(h)(3). ``(4) Treatment of qualified historic property held by a corporation.--In the case of a corporation all of the stock in which was held on the date of the decedent's death by the decedent or members of the decedent's family (as defined in section 2032A(e)(2))-- ``(A) stock in such corporation shall be treated for purposes of this section as qualified historic property to the extent that the value of such stock is attributable to qualified historic property held by such corporation, but ``(B) the requirements of subsection (c) shall be met only if each member of the decedent's family holding such stock on such date sign the agreement referred to in subsection (c). ``(c) Requirements for Agreement.-- ``(1) In general.--For purposes of subsection (b)(1)(A)(ii), an agreement meets the requirements of this subsection if-- ``(A) such agreement is a written agreement signed by each person in being who has an interest (whether or not in possession) in the historic property (other than the qualified organization), ``(B) such agreement is entered into with a State historic preservation agency (or similar State agency) and filed with the Secretary with the return of the tax imposed by section 2001, ``(C) such agreement provides that the only activities carried on at the historic property are activities which are substantially related (aside from the need for income or funds or the use made of the profits derived) to-- ``(i) the public view and visitation of such property and the property described in the last sentence of subsection (b)(1) with respect to such property), and ``(ii) the maintenance and preservation of such property and surrounding areas for such public view and visitation, ``(D) such agreement provides that the historic property will be open to the public for a period of at least 20 years beginning on the date on which the return of the tax imposed by section 2001 is filed, and ``(E) such agreement provides that any admission fees (if any) shall bear a reasonable relationship to admission fees for other comparable tourist sites and shall be approved by such State historic preservation agency (or similar State agency). ``(2) Treatment of food, lodging, and meeting facilities provided to general public.--The regular carrying on-- ``(A) a trade or business of providing lodging shall be treated as not substantially related for purposes of paragraph (1)(C), ``(B) a trade or business of providing food shall be treated as not substantially related for purposes of paragraph (1)(C) unless-- ``(i) such food is only provided to individuals who pay the generally applicable admission fees (if any) for admission to the property by individuals to whom no food is provided, and ``(ii) only an insubstantial portion of the structures on the historic property is devoted to the provision of such food, and ``(C) a trade or business of providing facilities for meetings or events shall be treated as not substantially related for purposes of paragraph (1)(C) unless all of the net proceeds from such trade or business are used for maintenance or preservation of the historic property. ``(3) Open to the public.--For the purposes of paragraph (1)(D), the 20-year period referred to in such paragraph shall be suspended during reasonable periods of renovation. ``(d) Tax Treatment of Dispositions and Failure To Comply With Agreement.-- ``(1) Imposition of additional estate tax.--If, during the 20-year period referred to in subsection (c)(1)(D)-- ``(A) any person signing the written agreement referred to in subsection (c) disposes of any interest in the qualified historic property, or ``(B) there is a violation of any provision of such agreement (as determined under regulations prescribed by the Secretary), then there is hereby imposed an additional estate tax. ``(2) Exception for certain transferees who agree to be bound by agreement.--No tax shall be imposed under paragraph (1) by reason of any disposition if the person acquiring the property-- ``(A) is a qualified organization or is a member of the family (as defined in section 2032A(e)(2)) of the person disposing of such property, and ``(B) agrees to be bound by the agreement referred to in subsection (b)(4) and to be liable for any tax under this subsection in the same manner as the person disposing of such property. ``(3) Amount of additional tax.-- ``(A) In general.--The amount of the additional tax imposed by paragraph (1) with respect to any property shall be an amount equal to the applicable percentage of the excess of-- ``(i) what would (but for subsection (a)) have been the tax imposed by section 2001 (reduced by the credits allowable), over ``(ii) the tax imposed by section 2001 (as so reduced). ``(B) Applicable percentage.--For purposes of subparagraph (A), the applicable percentage is the percentage determined in accordance with the following table for the year (of 20-year period referred to in subsection (c)(1)(D)) in which the event described in paragraph (1) occurs: ``If the event The applicable occurs during: percentage is: The 1st 12 years of such 20-year 100 percent period. The 13th or 14th year of such period. 80 percent The 15th or 16th year of such period. 60 percent The 17th or 18th year of such period. 40 percent The 19th or 20th year of such period. 20 percent. ``(4) Due date.--The additional tax imposed by this subsection shall be due and payable on the day which is 6 months after the date of the disposition or violation referred to in paragraph (1). ``(5) Liability for tax.--Any person signing the agreement referred to in subsection (c) (other than the executor) shall be personally liable for the additional tax imposed by this subsection. If more than 1 person is liable under this subsection, all such persons shall be jointly and severally liable. ``(6) Certain other rules to apply.--Rules similar to the rules of sections 1016(c), 2013(f), and 2032A(f) shall apply for purposes of this subsection. ``(e) Other Special Rules.-- ``(1) Coordination with deduction for transfer of easement.--Section 2055(f) shall not apply to any interest referred to therein with respect to property for which a deduction is allowed under subsection (a). ``(2) Denial of deduction of indebtedness on excluded property.--No deduction shall be allowed under section 2053 for indebtedness in respect of property the value of which is deducted under subsection (a). ``(3) Submission of annual inventories of personal property.--The Secretary shall require the submission to the Secretary of such inventories of personal property which is qualified historic property as the Secretary determines are necessary for purposes of this section.'' (b) Technical Amendments.-- (1) Subsection (a) of section 1014 of such Code is amended by striking the period at the end of paragraph (3) and inserting ``, or'' and by adding after paragraph (3) the following new paragraph: ``(4) in the case of property the value of which was deducted under section 2057(a), the adjusted basis of such property in the hands of the decedent immediately before the death of the decedent.'' (2) Subparagraph (A) of section 2056A(b)(10) of such Code is amended by inserting ``2057,'' after ``2056,''. (3) The table of sections for part IV of subchapter A of chapter 11 of such Code is amended by adding at the end the following new item: ``Sec. 2057. Qualified historic property.'' (c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall apply with respect to the estates of decedents dying after the date of the enactment of this Act.

Summary: Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide that for purposes of determining estate tax the value of the taxable estate shall be determined by deducting from the value of the gross estate an amount equal to the value of any qualified historic property. Defines qualified historic property. Requires, among other things, that the historic property will be open to the public for a period of at least 20 years and will have reasonable admission fees.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Contributions Legally Interdicted from Noncitizens To Our Nonprofits Act of 2016'' or as the ``CLINTON Act of 2016''. SEC. 2. CERTAIN CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS PROHIBITED FOR ACCEPTING CONTRIBUTIONS FROM PERSONS CONNECTED TO FOREIGN GOVERNMENTS. (a) In General.--Section 501 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection: ``(s) Prohibition on Acceptance of Contributions From Persons Connected to Foreign Governments by 501(c)(3) Organizations Established by Certain Federal Officials.-- ``(1) Termination of tax-exempt status.--A Federal official organization shall not be treated as described in subsection (c)(3) with respect to any period after the date on which such organization knowingly or willingly accepts or solicits any contribution from any person connected to a foreign government. If a Federal official organization accepts a contribution from any person and learns that such person is connected to a foreign government after such acceptance, such organization shall not be treated for purposes of this subsection as knowingly or willingly accepting such contribution from such person if such contribution is returned to such person not later than the date which is 30 days after the date on which the organization so learns the status of such person. ``(2) Forfeiture of prohibited contributions.--There is hereby imposed a tax on any Federal official organization which knowingly or willingly accepts any contribution from any person connected to any foreign government in an amount equal to the amount of such contribution. ``(3) Federal official organization.--For purposes of this subsection, the term `Federal official organization' means any organization described in subsection (c)(3) (or which would be so described without regard to paragraph (1)) if one or more Federal officials established, control, or actively participate in the management of, such organization. For purposes of the preceding sentence, service in a merely honorary capacity shall note be treated as control or active participation in management. ``(4) Federal official.--For purposes of this subsection, the term `Federal official' means any individual who-- ``(A) at any time prior the date of the contribution referred to in paragraph (1) or (2), is serving or has served as President or Vice-President, or ``(B) at any time during the 20-year period ending on the date of the contribution referred to in paragraph (1) or (2), holds or has held any of the following positions in the Federal government: ``(i) Any Member of Congress (including any Delegate and Resident Commissioner). ``(ii) Any officer or employee appointed by the President, Vice-President, or any agency head and subject to confirmation by the Senate. ``(iii) Any of the following positions which are held at the pleasure of the President: ``(I) Assistant to the President. ``(II) Chief of staff. ``(III) National security advisor. ``(IV) Deputy chief of staff. ``(iv) Any Federal judge, without regard to the article of the Constitution pursuant to which appointed. ``(5) Persons connected to foreign government.--For purposes of this subsection, the term `person connected to a foreign government' means the following: ``(A) Any department, agency, or instrumentality of a foreign government. ``(B) Any public international organization (as defined in section 104 of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977 (15 U.S.C. 78dd-2)). ``(C) Any officer or employee of any entity described in subparagraph (A) or (B). ``(D) Any individual who was described in subparagraph (C) at any time during the 20-year period ending on the date on which the contribution from such individual is accepted or solicited. ``(E) Any person acting in an official capacity for or on behalf of any entity described in subparagraph (A) or (B). ``(F) Any person belonging to a ruling or royal family by virtue of sanguinity or marriage. ``(G) Any person related within four degrees of consanguinity to a person described in subparagraph (E) or (F).''. (b) Effective Date.--The amendment made by this section shall apply to contributions made after the date of the enactment of this Act in taxable years ending after such date.

Summary: Contributions Legally Interdicted from Noncitizens To Our Nonprofits Act of 2016 or the CLINTON Act of 2016 This bill amends the Internal Revenue Code to prohibit a federal official organization from being treated as a tax-exempt organization under section 501(c)(3) for any period after the date on which the organization knowingly or willingly accepts or solicits any contribution from any person connected to a foreign government. A tax-exempt organization is a "federal official organization" if one or more current or former specified federal officials established, control, or actively participate in the management of the organization. If the organization accepts a contribution from any person and learns that that the person is connected to a foreign government after the acceptance, it will not be treated as knowingly or willingly accepting the contribution if the contribution is returned within 30 days of learning of the status of the person. The bill imposes a tax on any federal official organization that knowingly or willingly accepts any contribution from any person connected to any foreign government in an amount equal to the amount of the contribution.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Reduce Expenditures in Nuclear Infrastructure Now Act'' or the ``REIN-IN Act''. SEC. 2. FINDINGS. Congress finds the following: (1) The Berlin Wall fell in 1989, the Soviet Union no longer exists, and the Cold War is over. The nature of threats to the national security and military interests of the United States has changed. However, the United States continues to maintain an enormous arsenal of nuclear weapons and delivery systems that were devised with the Cold War in mind. (2) The current nuclear arsenal of the United States includes approximately 5,000 total nuclear warheads, of which approximately 2,000 are deployed with three delivery components: long-range strategic bomber aircraft, land-based intercontinental ballistic missiles, and submarine-launched ballistic missiles. The bomber fleet of the United States comprises 93 B-52 and 20 B-2 aircraft. The United States maintains 450 intercontinental ballistic missiles. The United States also maintains 14 Ohio-class submarines, up to 12 of which are deployed at sea. Each of those submarines is armed with up to 96 independently targetable nuclear warheads. (3) This Cold War-based approach to nuclear security comes at significant cost. Over the next 10 years, the United States will spend hundreds of billions of dollars maintaining and upgrading its nuclear force, according to the Congressional Budget Office. A substantial decrease in spending on the nuclear arsenal of the United States is prudent for both the budget and national security. (4) The national security interests of the United States can be well served by reducing the total number of deployed nuclear warheads and their delivery systems, as stated by the Department of Defense's June 2013 nuclear policy guidance entitled, ``Report on Nuclear Employment Strategy of the United States''. This guidance found that force levels under the Treaty on Measures for the Further Reduction and Limitation of Strategic Offensive Arms, signed on April 8, 2010, and entered into force on February 5, 2011, between the United States and the Russian Federation (commonly known as the ``New START Treaty'') ``are more than adequate for what the United States needs to fulfill its national security objectives'' and that the force can be reduced by up to \1/3\ below levels under the New START Treaty to 1,000 to 1,100 warheads. (5) Even without additional reductions in deployed strategic warheads, the United States can save tens of billions of dollars by deploying those warheads more efficiently on delivery systems and by deferring production of new delivery systems until they are needed. (6) Economic security and national security are linked and both will be well served by smart defense spending. Admiral Mike Mullen, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, stated on June 24, 2010, ``Our national debt is our biggest national security threat'' and on August 2, 2011, stated, ``I haven't changed my view that the continually increasing debt is the biggest threat we have to our national security.''. (7) The Government Accountability Office has found that there is significant waste in the construction of the nuclear facilities of the National Nuclear Security Administration of the Department of Energy. SEC. 3. REDUCTION IN NUCLEAR FORCES. (a) Prohibition on New Long-Range Penetrating Bomber Aircraft.-- Notwithstanding any other provision of law, none of the funds authorized to be appropriated or otherwise made available for any of fiscal years 2014 through 2023 for the Department of Defense may be obligated or expended for the research, development, test, and evaluation or procurement of a long-range penetrating bomber aircraft. (b) Prohibition on F-35 Nuclear Mission.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law, none of the funds authorized to be appropriated or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2014 or any fiscal year thereafter for the Department of Defense or the Department of Energy may be used to make the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter aircraft capable of carrying nuclear weapons. (c) Reduction in the B61 Life Extension Program.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law, none of the funds authorized to be appropriated or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2014 or any fiscal year thereafter for the Department of Defense or the Department of Energy may be obligated or expended until the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Energy jointly certify to Congress that the total cost of the B61 life extension program has been reduced to not more than $5,000,000,000. (d) Termination of W78 Life Extension Program.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law, none of the funds authorized to be appropriated or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2014 or any fiscal year thereafter for the Department of Defense or the Department of Energy may be obligated or expended for the W78 life extension program. (e) Reduction of Nuclear-Armed Submarines.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law, beginning in fiscal year 2020, the forces of the Navy shall include not more than eight ballistic-missile submarines available for deployment. (f) Limitation on SSBN-X Submarines.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law-- (1) none of the funds authorized to be appropriated or otherwise made available for any of fiscal years 2014 through 2023 for the Department of Defense may be obligated or expended for the procurement of an SSBN-X submarine; and (2) none of the funds authorized to be appropriated or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2024 or any fiscal year thereafter for the Department of Defense may be obligated or expended for the procurement of more than eight such submarines. (g) Reduction of Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missiles.-- Notwithstanding any other provision of law, none of the funds authorized to be appropriated or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2014 or any fiscal year thereafter for the Department of Defense may be obligated or expended to maintain more than 250 submarine- launched ballistic missiles. (h) Prohibition on New Intercontinental Ballistic Missile.-- Notwithstanding any other provision of law, none of the funds authorized to be appropriated or otherwise made available for any of fiscal years 2014 through 2023 for the Department of Defense may be obligated or expended for the research, development, test, and evaluation or procurement of a new intercontinental ballistic missile. (i) Reduction of Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles on High Alert Status.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law, none of the funds authorized to be appropriated or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2014 or any fiscal year thereafter for the Department of Defense may be obligated or expended to maintain more than 150 intercontinental ballistic missiles on a 24-hour, high alert status. (j) Termination of Mixed Oxide Fuel Fabrication Facility Project.-- Notwithstanding any other provision of law, none of the funds authorized to be appropriated or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2014 or any fiscal year thereafter for the Department of Defense or the Department of Energy may be obligated or expended for the Mixed Oxide Fuel Fabrication Facility project. (k) Termination of Chemistry and Metallurgy Research Building Replacement Project.--Notwithstanding section 4215 of the Atomic Energy Defense Act (50 U.S.C. 2535) or any other provision of law, none of the funds authorized to be appropriated or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2014 or any fiscal year thereafter for the Department of Defense or the Department of Energy may be obligated or expended to replace the Chemistry and Metallurgy Research Building at Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, New Mexico. (l) Termination of Uranium Processing Facility.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law, none of the funds authorized to be appropriated or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2014 or any fiscal year thereafter for the Department of Defense or the Department of Energy may be obligated or expended for the Uranium Processing Facility located at the Y-12 National Security Complex, Oak Ridge, Tennessee. (m) Termination of Medium Extended Air Defense System.-- Notwithstanding any other provision of law, none of the funds authorized to be appropriated or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2014 or any fiscal year thereafter for the Department of Defense may be obligated or expended for the medium extended air defense system. SEC. 4. REPORTS REQUIRED. (a) Initial Report.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Energy shall jointly submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report outlining the plan of each Secretary to carry out section 3. (b) Annual Report.--Not later than March 1, 2015, and annually thereafter, the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Energy shall jointly submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report outlining the plan of each Secretary to carry out section 3, including any updates to previously submitted reports. (c) Annual Nuclear Weapons Accounting.--Not later than September 30, 2015, and annually thereafter, the President shall transmit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report containing a comprehensive accounting by the Director of the Office of Management and Budget of the amounts obligated and expended by the Federal Government for each nuclear weapon and related nuclear program during-- (1) the fiscal year covered by the report; and (2) the life cycle of such weapon or program. (d) Appropriate Committees of Congress Defined.--In this section, the term ``appropriate committees of Congress'' means-- (1) the Committee on Armed Services, the Committee on Foreign Relations, the Committee on Appropriations, and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate; and (2) the Committee on Armed Services, the Committee on Foreign Affairs, the Committee on Appropriations, the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives.

Summary: Reduce Expenditures in Nuclear Infrastructure Now Act or the REIN-IN Act - Prohibits the obligation or expenditure of funds authorized to be appropriated to the Department of Defense (DOD) for FY2014-FY2023: (1) for the research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) or procurement of a long-range penetrating bomber aircraft; (2) to procure an SSBN-X submarine (and prohibits the use of such funds for FY2024 and thereafter to procure more than eight such submarines); or (3) for the RDT&E or procurement of a new intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). Prohibits the obligation or expenditure of funds authorized to be appropriated for FY2014 or thereafter for DOD or the Department of Energy (DOE): (1) to make the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter aircraft capable of carrying nuclear weapons; (2) until the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Energy jointly certify that the total cost of the B61 life extension program has been reduced to not more than $5 billion; (3) for the W78 life extension program; (4) for the mixed oxide fuel fabrication facility project; (5) to replace the chemistry and metallurgy research building at Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, New Mexico; or (6) for the uranium processing facility at the Y-12 National Security Complex, Oak Ridge, Tennessee. Prohibits Navy forces, beginning in FY2020, from including more than eight operational ballistic-missile submarines available for deployment. Prohibits the use of DOD funds for FY2014 or thereafter: (1) to maintain more than 250 submarine-launched ballistic missiles; (2) to maintain more than 150 intercontiental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) on a 24-hour, high alert status; or (3) for the medium extended air defense system. Requires initial and annual reports from the Secretaries of Defense and Energy outlining their respective plans to carry out the requirements of this Act. Directs the President to submit to Congress an annual report containing a comprehensive accounting by the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) of the amounts obligated or expended by the federal government for each nuclear weapon and related nuclear program during the fiscal year covered by the report for the life cycle of such weapon or program.


SECTION 1. DENIAL OF CERTAIN TAX BENEFITS. (a) General Rule.--Section 527 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to political organizations) is amended by adding at the end thereof the following new subsection: ``(i) Special Rules for Certain Campaign Committees.-- ``(1) In general.--In the case of any political organization to which this subsection applies for any taxable year-- ``(A) all excess campaign contributions received by such organization during such taxable year shall be included in gross income and the exemptions provided by subsection (c)(1) for exempt function income shall not apply to such contributions, and ``(B) the provisions of subsection (h) shall not apply to such organization for such taxable year. ``(2) Organizations to which subsection applies.--This subsection shall apply to any political organization for any taxable year if-- ``(A) such organization is a campaign committee of a candidate for election as a Member of the House of Representatives or as a Delegate or Resident Commissioner to the House of Representatives, and ``(B) the contribution limitations of paragraph (3) are not satisfied by such candidate-- ``(i) in the case of the first taxable year beginning in an election cycle, for the portion of such election cycle ending with the close of the taxable year, or ``(ii) in the case of the taxable year in which such election cycle ends, for the entire election cycle. ``(3) Contribution limitations.--The contribution limitations of this paragraph are satisfied by any candidate for any election cycle (or portion thereof) if-- ``(A) the sum of the following amounts does not exceed $600,000: ``(i) the amount of cash and the fair market value of other property held by campaign committees of such candidate as of the beginning of such election cycle, plus ``(ii) the aggregate amount of political contributions accepted by such candidate or by such candidate's campaign committees during such election cycle (or portion thereof), and ``(B) the aggregate amount of political contributions from multicandidate political committees accepted by such candidate or by such candidate's campaign committees during such election cycle (or portion thereof) does not exceed $300,000. ``(4) Excess campaign contributions.-- ``(A) In general.--For purposes of this subsection, the term `excess campaign contributions' means the amount of contributions received by the political organization during the taxable year to the extent such contributions exceed the amount permitted under the contribution limitations of paragraph (3). ``(B) Special rule.--For purposes of this subtitle, contributions received during the portion of any election cycle before the first taxable year beginning in such cycle shall be treated as received in such first taxable year. ``(5) Election cycle.--For purposes of this subsection, the term `election cycle' means the period beginning with the day after the date of a general election for the House of Representatives and ending with the date of the next general election for the House of Representatives. ``(6) Multicandidate political committee.--The term `multicandidate political committee' has the meaning given such term by section 315(a)(4) of the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 (2 U.S.C. 441a(a)(4)).'' (b) Effective Date.--The amendment made by subsection (a) shall apply to taxable years beginning after the date of the enactment of this Act. SEC. 2. DENIAL OF LOWEST UNIT CHARGE FOR CAMPAIGN ADS. Section 315(b) of the Communications Act of 1934 (47 U.S.C. 315(b)) is amended by adding at the end the following new sentence: ``The limitations on charges contained in this subsection shall not apply in the case of a candidate for election as a Member of, or Delegate or Resident Commissioner to, the United States House of Representatives unless such candidate certifies, at the time of entering into a contract for the use of such broadcasting station, that such candidate has not obtained any excess campaign contributions for the current election cycle, as determined under section 527(i)(4) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.''. SEC. 3. REDUCED THIRD-CLASS MAILING RATES. (a) In General.--Section 3626(e) of title 39, United States Code, is amended-- (1) in paragraph (2)(A)-- (A) by striking ``and the National'' and inserting ``the National''; and (B) by striking ``Committee;'' and inserting ``Committee, and, subject to paragraph (3), a campaign committee of a candidate for the House of Representatives;''; (2) in paragraph (2)(B), by striking ``and'' after the semicolon; (3) in paragraph (2)(C), by striking the period and inserting ``; and''; (4) by adding after paragraph (2)(C) the following: ``(D) the term `candidate for the House of Representatives' means a candidate for election as a Member of, or Delegate or Resident Commissioner to, the House of Representatives.''; and (5) by adding after paragraph (2) the following: ``(3) The rates under this subsection shall not be available to a campaign committee of a candidate for the House of Representatives unless such committee certifies, at such time and in such manner as the Postal Service by regulation requires, that such candidate has not obtained any excess campaign contributions for the current election cycle, as determined under section 527(i)(4) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.''. (b) Sense of the Congress.--It is the sense of the Congress that any additional costs incurred by the United Postal Service in connection with providing reduced rates of postage pursuant to the amendments made by subsection (a) should be funded out of any revenues attributable to the amendment made by section 1.

Summary: Amends the Internal Revenue Code with respect to political organizations to establish a campaign contribution limitation scheme applicable to the campaign committee of a candidate for election to the House of Representatives. Provides that excess campaign contributions received by such an organization shall be included in its gross income. Amends the Communications Act of 1934 and Federal postal service law to condition the lowest unit charge for campaign ads upon a candidate's certification of compliance with such contribution limitation. Expresses the sense of the Congress that additional costs incurred by the United Postal Service in providing reduced rates of postage pursuant to this Act should be funded out of revenues attributable to this Act.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Clinical Laboratory Compliance Improvement Act of 2004''. SEC. 2. PROTECTION OF EMPLOYEES OF PROVIDERS AND SUPPLIERS OF CLINICAL DIAGNOSTIC LABORATORY TESTS WHO REPORT VIOLATIONS. (a) In General.--Section 1846 of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395w-2) is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection: ``(c)(1)(A) Each provider or clinical laboratory approved for participation under this title to provide clinical diagnostic laboratory tests shall post in a conspicuous place a notice to employees that indicates the manner in which to report instances of noncompliance with conditions of participation under this title of the provider or laboratory (as the case may be), including deficiencies with respect to testing, quality, and inadequately trained personnel. ``(B)(i) A notice under subparagraph (A) shall include-- ``(I) the name and contact information of the appropriate entity, accreditation organization, or State or Federal agency to report instances of noncompliance; and ``(II) a description of the rights and protections under this section of individuals who report instances of noncompliance. ``(ii) The Secretary shall specify the form of the notice. ``(2)(A) A provider or clinical laboratory approved for participation under this title to provide clinical diagnostic laboratory tests shall not discriminate or retaliate in any manner against any employee of the provider or laboratory (as the case may be) because that employee, or any other person, has presented a grievance or complaint, or has initiated or cooperated in any investigation or proceeding of any kind, relating to the clinical diagnostic laboratory tests performed by the provider or laboratory (as the case may be) or other requirements and prohibitions of this title. ``(B) An employee of a provider or clinical laboratory approved for participation under this title to provide clinical diagnostic laboratory tests who has been discriminated or retaliated against in employment in violation of this subsection may initiate judicial action in a United States District Court and shall be entitled to reinstatement, reimbursement for lost wages and work benefits caused by the unlawful acts of the employing provider or laboratory (as the case may be). Prevailing employees are entitled to reasonable attorney's fees and costs associated with pursuing the judicial action. ``(C) No action may be brought under subparagraph (B) more than 2 years after the discrimination or retaliation with respect to which the action is brought. ``(D) For purposes of this paragraph-- ``(i) an adverse employment action shall be treated as `retaliation or discrimination'; and ``(ii) an adverse employment action includes-- ``(I) the failure to promote an individual or provide any other employment-related benefit for which the individual would otherwise be eligible; ``(II) an adverse evaluation or decision made in relation to accreditation, certification, credentialing, or licensing of the individual; and ``(III) a personnel action that is adverse to the individual concerned.''. (b) Clerical Amendment.--The heading of such section is amended by adding at the end the following: ``; whistleblower protections''. (c) Effective Date.--The amendment made by subsection (a) shall take effect January 1, 2005. SEC. 3. REQUIREMENT FOR UNANNOUNCED SURVEYS. (a) In General.--Section 1846 of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395w-2), as amended by section 2(a), is further amended by adding at the end the following new subsections: ``(d)(1) Upon receipt of a report of an instance of noncompliance with conditions of participation by a provider or clinical laboratory approved for participation under this title to provide clinical diagnostic laboratory tests, the investigative organization shall-- ``(A) provide notice to the Secretary and other investigative organizations involved of receipt of the report within 3 business days of such receipt using a standard format and manner of transmission developed by the Secretary for such purpose; ``(B) promptly determine whether to investigate the report; and ``(C) if appropriate, promptly investigate the report. ``(2) In measuring performance of an investigative organization under a contract entered into with the Secretary, the Secretary shall provide for appropriate adjustments to payments under the contract for failure to carry out the responsibilities of this subsection. ``(3) In this subsection, the term `investigative organization' means an accreditation organization, a State agency, or other entity responsible for surveys of such providers or clinical laboratories. ``(e)(1) Each provider or clinical laboratory approved for participation under this title to provide clinical diagnostic laboratory tests shall be subject to a standard survey, to be conducted without any prior notice to the provider or laboratory (as the case may be). Each survey shall include verification of compliance with requirements under subsection (c). ``(2) Any individual who notifies (or causes to be notified) a provider or laboratory of the time or date on which such a survey is scheduled to be conducted is subject to a civil money penalty not to exceed $2,000. ``(3) The Secretary shall review each State's procedures for the scheduling and conduct of standard surveys to assure that the State has taken all reasonable steps to avoid giving notice of such a survey through the scheduling procedures and the conduct of the surveys themselves. ``(f) The Secretary shall submit to Congress an annual report on the actions taken under this section. Each such report shall include information on reports made under subsection (c), actions taken under subsection (d), the promptness with which such actions were taken, the findings of any investigation of such reports, and any actions taken based upon such findings.''. (b) Clerical Amendment.--The heading of such section, as amended by section 2(b), is further amended by adding at the end the following: ``; unannounced surveys''. (c) Effective Date.--The amendment made by subsection (a) shall take effect January 1, 2005.

Summary: Clinical Laboratory Compliance Improvement Act of 2004 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to require each provider or clinical laboratory approved for participation under Medicare to provide clinical diagnostic laboratory tests to post in a conspicuous place a notice to employees that indicates the manner in which to report instances of noncompliance with conditions of participation. Prohibits such a provider or clinical laboratory from discriminating against or retaliating in any manner against any employee because that employee, or any other person, has presented a grievance or complaint, or has initiated or cooperated in any investigation or proceeding of any kind, relating to the clinical diagnostic laboratory tests performed or other requirements and prohibitions of Medicare. Provides for judicial action for any employee so aggrieved. Requires the investigative organization, upon receipt of a report of an instance of noncompliance, to: (1) provide notice to the Secretary and other investigative organizations involved of receipt of the report within three business days, using a standard format and manner of transmission developed by the Secretary for such purpose; (2) promptly determine whether to investigate the report; and (3) if appropriate, promptly investigate it. Requires that the Secretary, in measuring the performance of an investigative organization under contract, to provide for appropriate adjustments to payments for failure to carry out the responsibilities of this Act. Subjects each provider or clinical laboratory to a standard survey, including verification of compliance with requirements, conducted without prior notice. Makes liable for civil monetary penalties any individual who notifies (or causes to be notified) a provider or laboratory of the time or date on which such a survey is scheduled to be conducted.


SECTION 1. TREATMENT OF BONDS ISSUED TO FINANCE ELECTRIC OUTPUT FACILITIES. (a) In General.--Section 141 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to private activity bond; qualified bond) is amended by redesignating subsection (e) as subsection (f) and inserting after subsection (d) the following new subsection: ``(e) Bonds for Electric Output Facilities.-- ``(1) Bonds issued before enactment of comprehensive electricity competition act.-- ``(A) In general.--The determination of whether any pre-effective date electric output facility bond is a private activity bond (or an industrial development bond under the Internal Revenue Code of 1954), shall be made without regard to any permissible competitive actions taken by the issuer. ``(B) Pre-effective date electric output facility bond.--For purposes of subparagraph (A), the term `pre- effective date electric output facility bond' means any bond issued as part of an issue if-- ``(i) such bond was issued before the date of the enactment of the Comprehensive Electricity Competition Act, ``(ii) any portion of the proceeds of such issue was used with respect to an electric output facility, and ``(iii) such bond was not, as of such date of enactment, a private activity bond (or an industrial development bond under the Internal Revenue Code of 1954). ``(C) Permissible competitive actions.--For purposes of subparagraph (A), the term `permissible competitive actions' means any action taken by the issuer on or after the date of the enactment of the Comprehensive Electricity Competition Act regarding-- ``(i) transmission property owned by the issuer if the issuer is subject to an order of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission requiring nondiscriminatory, open access to transmission facilities in a manner consistent with rules promulgated by the Commission under sections 205 and 206 of the Federal Power Act (as in effect on the date of the enactment of the Comprehensive Electricity Competition Act), or ``(ii) generation property or distribution property owned by the issuer if the issuer-- ``(I) implements retail competition under section 609 of the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 (as amended by, and as in effect on the date of the enactment of, the Comprehensive Electricity Competition Act), or ``(II) enters into a contract for the sale of electricity or use of its distribution property which will not become effective prior to the date that the issuer implements retail competition under section 609 of the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 (as amended by, and as in effect on the date of the enactment of, the Comprehensive Electricity Competition Act). ``(D) Comprehensive electricity competition act.-- For purposes of this paragraph, references to the Comprehensive Electricity Competition Act shall be treated as references to any law which is substantially identical to S. 2287 of the 105th Congress, as introduced. ``(2) Bonds issued on or after enactment of comprehensive electricity competition act.-- ``(A) In general.--For purposes of this title, the term `private activity bond' includes any bond issued as part of an issue any of the proceeds of which are to be used (directly or indirectly) for electric output facilities other than small distribution property. ``(B) Small distribution property.--For purposes of subparagraph (A), the term `small distribution property' means any output facility, including functionally related and subordinate property, that operates at 69 kilovolts or less.''. (b) Effective Date.-- (1) In general.--Except as otherwise provided in this subsection, the amendment made by this section shall apply to obligations issued on or after the date of the enactment of the Comprehensive Electricity Competition Act (within the meaning of section 141(e)(1)(D) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as added by this section). (2) Treatment of pre-effective date bonds.--Section 141(e)(1) of such Code, as added by this section, shall take effect on the date of the enactment of this Act. (3) Refunding bonds.-- (A) In general.--For purposes of this subsection and the amendment made by this section, section 141(e)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as added by this section, shall not apply to any qualified refunding bond. (B) Qualified refunding bond.--For purposes of subparagraph (A), the term ``qualified refunding bond'' means any bond (or a bond which is part of a series of refundings) issued to refund a pre-effective date electric output facility bond if-- (i) the weighted average maturity of the issue of which the refunding bond is a part does not exceed 120 percent of the average reasonably expected economic life of the facilities being financed with the net proceeds of such issue (determined under section 147(b) of such Code), (ii) the amount of the refunding bond does not exceed the outstanding amount of the refunded bond, and (iii) the net proceeds of the refunding bond are used to redeem the refunded bond not later than 90 days after the date of issuance of the refunding bond. SEC. 2. NUCLEAR DECOMMISSIONING COSTS. (a) In General.--Subsection (b) of section 468A of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended to read as follows: ``(b) Limitation on Amount Paid Into Fund.--The amount which a taxpayer may pay into the Fund for any taxable year shall not exceed the ruling amount applicable to such taxable year.'' (b) Effective Date.--The amendment made by this section shall apply to taxable years beginning after the date of the enactment of this Act.

Summary: Amends the Internal Revenue Code concerning: (1) the treatment of bonds issued to finance electric output facilities; and (2) the special rules for nuclear decommissioning costs.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``United States-Afghanistan Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) Act of 2011''. SEC. 2. FINDINGS. Congress finds the following: (1) Al Qaeda, a terrorist organization using Afghanistan as a base of operations, attacked the United States on September 11, 2001, killing nearly 3,000 people in New York, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. (2) Congress passed and the President signed the Authorization for Use of Military Force (Public Law 107-40; 50 U.S.C. 1541 note) on September 18, 2001. (3) The United States initiated Operation Enduring Freedom to combat Al Qaeda and prevent the Taliban regime in Afghanistan from providing Al Qaeda with safe harbor. (4) The Taliban was removed from power and the United States concluded security agreements with the newly formed Afghan government. (5) Al Qaeda no longer has a major or relevant presence in Afghanistan. (6) The United States and Afghanistan has exchanged notes, signed agreements, and issued ``joint declarations'' on various topics, but have not entered into a bilateral agreement on the status of forces. (7) A status of forces agreement with Afghanistan would not expressly authorize the United States to carry out military operations in Afghanistan but would recognize that such operations are ongoing. (8) The United States is currently party to more than 100 agreements on the status of forces. (9) A status of forces agreement may be a multilateral or bilateral agreement addressing the status of United States Armed Forces while present in a foreign country. (10) Status of forces agreements may include--but are not limited to--how the domestic laws of the foreign jurisdiction shall be applied to United States personnel and contractors while in that country. (11) In a similar agreement, parties have pledged to work cooperatively in a number of fields, including on diplomatic, security, economic, cultural, and law enforcement matters. (12) In a similar agreement, a deadline has been established for the withdrawal of United States troops by a date certain. (13) United States personnel subject to a status of forces agreement may include members of the United States Armed Forces, Department of Defense civilian employees, and contractors working for the Department of Defense. SEC. 3. STATUS OF FORCES AGREEMENT WITH AFGHANISTAN. (a) In General.--Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the President shall seek to negotiate and enter into a bilateral status of forces agreement with the Government of Afghanistan in accordance with the requirements of this section. (b) Mandatory Elements.--The status of forces agreement specified in subsection (a) shall, to the maximum extent practicable-- (1) prohibit the permanent basing or military presence of United States Armed Forces in Afghanistan; (2) provide a date, no later than 1 year after the date on which the agreement is entered into with the Government of Afghanistan, for the complete, safe, and orderly redeployment from Afghanistan of all members of the United States Armed Forces, Department of Defense civilian employees, and contractors working for the Department of Defense; and (3) establish that the temporary presence of United States Armed Forces in Afghanistan is at the request and invitation of the sovereign Government of Afghanistan. (c) Discretionary Elements.--The status of forces agreement specified in subsection (a) may provide for the authorization of specific exercises, activities, or missions of the United States Armed Forces in Afghanistan. (d) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that the President should submit the status of forces agreement specified in subsection (a) to the Senate for its advice and consent to ratification as a treaty or alternatively the President should request statutory authorization for the status of forces agreement by Congress. (e) Submission to Congress.-- (1) In general.--The President shall submit to the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence of the House of Representatives and the Select Committee on Intelligence of the Senate a copy of the status of forces agreement specified in subsection (a). The status of forces agreement shall be submitted in unclassified form but may contain a classified annex if necessary. (2) Availability.--Any Senator or Member of the House of Representatives may review the copy of the status of forces agreement submitted under paragraph (1), including any portions of the agreement contained in the classified annex. (3) Definition.--In paragraph (2), the term ``Member of the House of Representatives'' includes a Delegate or Resident Commissioner to Congress.

Summary: United States-Afghanistan Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) Act of 2011 - Directs the President to seek to enter into a bilateral status of forces agreement with the government of Afghanistan which shall: (1) prohibit the permanent basing or military presence of U.S. Armed Forces in Afghanistan; (2) provide, no later than one year after the date on which such agreement is entered into, for the complete redeployment from Afghanistan of the U.S. Armed Forces and Department of Defense (DOD) civilian employees and contractors; and (3) establish that the temporary presence of U.S. Armed Forces in Afghanistan is at the request of the government of Afghanistan. Authorizes such agreement to provide for specific activities or missions of the U.S. Armed Forces in Afghanistan. Expresses the sense of Congress that the President should submit such agreement to the Senate for its advice and consent to ratification as a treaty or alternatively the President should request statutory authorization for such agreement by Congress.


SECTION 1. PROVISION OF MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES BY DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS FOR VETERANS AND FAMILY MEMBERS WITH LIMITED ENGLISH PROFICIENCY. (a) In General.-- (1) Requirement.--Chapter 17 of title 38, United States Code, is amended by inserting after section 1712B the following new section: ``Sec. 1713. Mental health services; languages other than English ``(a) Availability of Counseling in Languages Other Than English.-- In providing counseling and other mental health services authorized by law to a veteran who has limited proficiency in English, the Secretary shall ensure that such counseling and services are available to that veteran in both English and a language other than English in which the veteran is proficient, if requested by the veteran. ``(b) Identification of Limited English Proficient Veterans.--For purposes of this section, the Secretary shall develop procedures for identifying veterans who have limited proficiency in English and of informing those veterans of the provisions of subsection (a).''. (2) Clerical amendment.--The table of sections at the beginning of such chapter is amended by inserting after the item relating to section 1712B the following new item: ``1713. Mental health services; languages other than English''. (b) Family Members.--Section 1782 of such title is amended by adding at the end the following new subsections: ``(e) Additional Counseling.--In addition to services authorized by subsections (a) and (b), the Secretary shall, in connection with the service of a veteran in the active military, naval, or air service, provide to an individual described in subsection (c) such counseling and mental health services as are requested by the individual, except to the extent that the Secretary determines that such counseling and mental health services are not needed. ``(f) Bilingual Counseling.--(1) In providing counseling and mental health services under this section and bereavement counseling under section 1783 of this title, the Secretary shall ensure, in the case of an individual who has limited proficiency in English, that such counseling and services are available to that individual in both English and a language other than English in which the individual is proficient, if requested by the individual. ``(2) For purposes of this subsection, the Secretary shall develop procedures for identifying individuals who have limited proficiency in English and of informing those individuals of the provisions of paragraph (1).''. (c) Effective Date.--Section 1713 of title 38, United States Code, as added by subsection (a)(1), and subsections (e) and (f) of section 1782 of such title, as added by subsection (b), shall take effect at the end of the 120-day period beginning on the date of the enactment of this Act. SEC. 2. CODIFICATION FOR DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS OF REQUIREMENTS OF EXECUTIVE ORDER 13166. (a) System for Access to Services.--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall implement a system by which persons with limited English proficiency can meaningfully access the services provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs consistent with, and without unduly burdening, the fundamental mission of that Department. The Secretary shall work to ensure that recipients of financial assistance under programs of the Department provide meaningful access to applicants and beneficiaries with limited English proficiency. (b) Plan.--The Secretary shall implement a plan to improve access to programs and activities of the Department of Veterans Affairs by eligible persons with limited English proficiency. The plan shall be consistent with the standards set forth in the guidance issued by the Attorney General and shall include the steps the Secretary will take to ensure that eligible persons with limited English proficiency can meaningfully access the programs and activities of the Department. SEC. 3. IMPLEMENTATION. In developing and implementing the plan under section 2(b), the Secretary shall, at a minimum, carry out the following: (1) The Secretary shall conduct a thorough assessment of the language needs of the population served by the Department of Veterans Affairs, including identifying the non-English languages that are likely to be encountered. (2) The Secretary shall develop and implement a comprehensive language assistance program, which shall include-- (A) hiring bilingual staff and interpreters for patient and client contact positions; and (B) translating written materials (such as consent forms, notice of free language assistance, and outreach materials) into languages other than English. (3) The Secretary shall train staff of the Department on the access policy of the Department with respect to persons with limited English proficiency and on carrying out that policy. (4) The Secretary shall establish vigilant monitoring and oversight to ensure that persons with limited English proficiency have meaningful access to health care and services. (5) The Secretary shall establish a task force to evaluate implementation and to prioritize needed actions to implement the access plan for persons with limited English proficiency. (6) The Secretary shall develop a specific plan to ensure seamless transition of veterans and their families from benefits and services provided by the Department of Defense to benefits and services provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs, including bilingual readjustment and bereavement counseling. (7) The Secretary shall establish a process to translate vital documents and other materials, including materials on the World Wide Web, brochures distributed as part of outreach efforts to servicemembers transitioning into civilian life, and the post-deployment health reassessment program. (8) The Secretary shall conduct outreach to veterans and their families in communities which may have higher proportions of populations with limited English proficiency to ensure they are aware of eligibility for benefits and services from the Department of Veterans Affairs. SEC. 4. REPORT ON IMPLEMENTATION BY VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION OF DIRECTIVE ON IMPROVING ACCESS TO SERVICES FOR PERSONS WITH LIMITED ENGLISH PROFICIENCY. (a) Report Required.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall submit to the Committees on Veterans' Affairs of the Senate and House of Representatives a report on the implementation by the Veterans Health Administration of the Department of Veterans Affairs of the directive of the Veterans Health Administration designated ``VHA Directive 2002- 006'' that was issued by the Under Secretary for Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs on January 31, 2002, and that issued policy to implement prohibitions on discrimination on the basis of national origin for persons with limited English proficiency in Federally-conducted programs and activities and in Federal financial assisted programs. (b) Capacity to Provide Services to LEP Servicemembers.--The Secretary shall include in the report an analysis of the capacity of the Department of Veterans Affairs to provide services to members of the Armed Forces with limited English proficiency.

Summary: Amends federal veterans' benefits provisions to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, in providing counseling and other mental health services to a veteran who has limited proficiency in English, to ensure that such services are available in both English and a language in which that veteran is proficient, if requested by the veteran. Requires such availability also for the family members of such a veteran. Requires the Secretary to implement a system by which persons with limited English proficiency can access services provided by the Department of Veterans consistent with, and without unduly burdening, the Department's fundamental mission. Requires a report from the Secretary to the congressional veterans' committees on the implementation by the Department's Veterans Health Administration of a specified directive to implement prohibitions on discrimination on the basis of national origin for persons with limited English proficiency in federally-conducted programs and activities and in federal financial-assisted programs.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Ensuring Defense Support to Catastrophic Incident Response Act of 2008''. SEC. 2. FINDINGS. Congress makes the following findings: (1) The United States faces real threats of man-made and natural disasters which could result in catastrophic consequences to the Nation, its resources, and its people. Because of the scale of the potential consequences of these threats, they may constitute threats to national security and will require the full range of Federal resources to save lives, minimize human suffering, protect property, and mitigate damage. (2) Because of its manpower, communications, logistics, and other capabilities, the Department of Defense is uniquely suited to provide critical support to other departments and agencies of the Federal Government, State and local governments, and governments of the Commonwealths and possessions of the United States in response to a catastrophic incident in the United States. (3) Planning and preparation for and execution of civil support operations in responding to catastrophic incidents in support of the Department of Homeland Security and State and local governments is a national security issue. (4) A successful response to catastrophic incidents in the United States requires coordinated strategic plans and detailed operational plans with specific tasking and sourcing. The Department of Defense must develop such plans and should maintain the required units and assets at the appropriate level of readiness in order to deliver the capabilities which will be required in a response led by the Department of Homeland Security. (5) The National Guard and Reserves are forward-deployed in communities throughout the United States, are integrated with State and local governments, and have considerable homeland- related capabilities. The Department of Defense and the United States Northern Command must therefore consider the plans and capabilities of the National Guard and Reserves, and State and local governments, in plans for civil support operations. SEC. 3. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE SUPPORT OF DOMESTIC CIVILIAN AUTHORITIES IN RESPONSE TO CATASTROPHIC INCIDENTS IN THE UNITED STATES. (a) Support Authorized.--Part I of subtitle A of title 10, United States Code, is amended by inserting after chapter 18 the following new chapter: ``CHAPTER 19--SUPPORT OF DOMESTIC CIVILIAN AUTHORITIES IN RESPONSE TO CATASTROPHIC INCIDENTS IN THE UNITED STATES ``Sec. ``390. Department of Defense support of domestic civilian authorities in response to catastrophic incidents in the United States. ``Sec. 390. Department of Defense support of domestic civilian authorities in response to catastrophic incidents in the United States ``(a) In General.--Subject to the authority, direction, and control of the President, the Department of Defense shall undertake civil support operations in response to catastrophic incidents in the United States. ``(b) Plans for Support.--(1) For purposes of carrying out the requirement in subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense shall, in conjunction with the Secretary of Homeland Security, develop comprehensive plans for civil support operations. ``(2) The plans required under this subsection shall include strategies for the use of the armed forces, including units and personnel of the regular components of the armed forces, units and personnel of the National Guard (including personnel on active duty under this title, in status under title 32, and in State status, consistent with section 1814(c) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008 (10 U.S.C. 113 note)), units and personnel of the other reserve components of the armed forces, the civilian personnel of the Department of Defense, and, if the Secretary considers it appropriate for purposes of the plans, contractors of the Department of Defense. ``(3) The plans required under this subsection shall be developed in coordination with other departments and agencies of the Federal Government with homeland security responsibilities as part of an established national planning process and shall include the development of operations plans required by section 653(b) of the Post-Katrina Emergency Management Reform Act of 2006 (6 U.S.C. 753(b)). ``(4) The plans required under this subsection shall be developed to execute strategic requirements established by the Secretary of Homeland Security though an established national planning process. ``(c) Implementation and Execution of Plans.--In implementing the plans developed under subsection (b), the Secretary of Defense shall-- ``(1) ensure that-- ``(A) the Department of Defense is organized and equipped with the capabilities and resources required to execute the plans; and ``(B) the capabilities and resources referred to in subparagraph (A) are available, accessible, and maintained at the appropriate readiness status to enable deployment in accordance with the plans; and ``(2) ensure that any capabilities and resources identified under paragraph (1)(A), when appropriate, train and participate in exercises, including-- ``(A) exercises administered under the national exercise program carried out under section 648(b) of the Post-Katrina Emergency Management Reform Act of 2006 (6 U.S.C. 748(b)); and ``(B) other exercises determined appropriate by the Secretary of Defense to ensure such capabilities and resources are maintained at the appropriate state of readiness. ``(d) Budget.--The budget of the Department of Defense for any fiscal year (as submitted to Congress pursuant to section 1105 of title 31) shall include a request for funds sufficient to carry out the requirements of this section in such fiscal year. The request for a fiscal year under this subsection shall set forth separately the following: ``(1) Each component, program, or activity of the Department of Defense that will carry out the requirements of this section in such fiscal year. ``(2) The amount requested for each such component, program, or activity to carry out such requirements in such fiscal year. ``(e) Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be construed as prohibiting or limiting the authority of the Department of Defense to provide support operations in response to a disaster or incident that is not a catastrophic incident as otherwise provided by law. ``(f) Reports.--(1) Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this section, and every two years thereafter, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report on the implementation of the requirements of this section, including a discussion of the development and implementation of the plans required by subsection (b). ``(2) Each report under this subsection shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may include a classified annex. ``(g) Definitions.--In this section: ``(1) The term `catastrophic incident' has the meaning given that term in section 501(3) of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 311(3)). ``(2) The term `civil support operation' means a mission performed by the Department of Defense in support of other departments or agencies of the Federal Government, State or local governments, or governments of the Commonwealths or possessions of the United States in their efforts to prevent, protect against, prepare for, respond to, and recover from natural disasters, acts of terrorism, and other man-made disasters.''. (b) Clerical Amendments.--The tables of chapters at the beginning of title, United States Code, and at the beginning of part I of subtitle A of such title, are each amended by inserting after the item relating to chapter 18 the following new item: ``19. Support of Domestic Civilian Authorities in Response 390.''. to Catastrophic Incidents in the United States. SEC. 4. QUADRENNIAL DEFENSE REVIEW MATTERS. Section 118 of title 10, United States Code, is amended-- (1) by transferring subsection (g), as added by section 942(d) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008 (Public Law 110-181; 122 Stat. 288), to the end of such section 118 and redesignating such subsection, as so transferred, as subsection (i); and (2) by inserting after subsection (g), as added by section 951(a) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008 (122 Stat. 290), the following new subsection: ``(h) Consideration of Department of Defense Roles and Responsibilities in Responding to Catastrophic Incidents.--(1) The first national security strategy and national defense strategy prepared after the date of the enactment of this subsection shall include guidance for military planners-- ``(A) to determine the appropriate roles and responsibilities of the Department of Defense, in coordination with and in support of the Department of Homeland Security and other departments and agencies of the Federal Government with homeland security responsibilities and with State, local, and tribal governments, in responding to catastrophic incidents; ``(B) to update defense plans based on such determinations, including working with the Department of Homeland Security and other departments and agencies of the Federal Government with homeland security responsibilities in responding to such incidents; and ``(C) to develop the capabilities needed to execute such plans. ``(2) The first quadrennial defense review prepared after the date of the enactment of this subsection shall examine the capabilities of the armed forces to support civil authorities in responding to catastrophic incidents. ``(3) In this subsection: ``(A) The term `catastrophic incident' has the meaning given that term in section 501(3) of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 311(3)). ``(B) The term `national security strategy' means the annual national security strategy report of the President under section 108 of the National Security Act of 1947 (50 U.S.C. 404a).''. SEC. 5. RULE OF CONSTRUCTION. Nothing in this Act or the amendments made by this Act may be construed-- (1) to modify the restrictions on the role of the Department of Defense in law enforcement operations within the United States; (2) to affect the authority of the Governor of a State to respond to a natural disaster, act of terrorism, or other man- made disaster within the United States; or (3) to affect the authority of the Governor of a State to exercise command and control over the National Guard of that State while in State status or in title 32, United States Code, status. SEC. 6. DEFINITIONS. In this Act: (1) The term ``catastrophic incident'' has the meaning given that term in section 501(3) of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 311(3)). (2) The term ``civil support operation'' means a mission performed by the Department of Defense in support of other departments or agencies of the Federal Government, State or local governments, or governments of the Commonwealths or possessions of the United States in their efforts to prevent, protect against, prepare for, respond to, and recover from natural disasters, acts of terrorism, and other man-made disasters. SEC. 7. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS. There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as are necessary to carry out this Act and the amendments made by this Act.

Summary: Ensuring Defense Support to Catastrophic Incident Response Act of 2008 - Directs the Department of Defense (DOD) to undertake civil support operations in response to catastrophic incidents in the United States. Requires: (1) the Secretary of Defense to develop comprehensive plans for such operations, including strategies for the use of the Armed Forces (including the National Guard and Reserve) and civilian personnel and contractors of DOD; (2) the annual DOD budget to include a separate funding request for carrying out such operations; and (3) the first national security strategy and national defense strategy prepared after the enactment of this Act to include, among other things, DOD roles and responsibilities in responding to catastrophic incidents.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Energy Security Act of 2011''. SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS. In this Act: (1) Administrator.--The term ``Administrator'' means the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency. (2) Council.--The term ``Council'' means the National Energy Security Council established by section 4. (3) National energy security program.--The term ``national energy security program'' means the national energy security program established by section 3. (4) National oil independence goal.--The term ``national oil independence goal'' means the national oil independence goal established under section 3(c). (5) National oil independence plan.--The term ``national oil independence plan'' means the national oil independence plan established under section 3(d). SEC. 3. NATIONAL ENERGY SECURITY PROGRAM. (a) Establishment.--There is established in the Executive Office of the President the national energy security program. (b) Mission.--The mission of the national energy security program shall be to coordinate the activities and policies of the Federal Government to ensure, to the maximum extent practicable, that the United States meets-- (1) goals for reducing oil dependence, oil imports, and oil consumption; and (2) other energy policy goals, including goals for-- (A) enhancing the competitiveness of the United States in clean energy technology; (B) strengthening clean energy technology manufacturing in the United States; (C) reducing greenhouse gas emissions; and (D) reducing hazardous pollutants. (c) National Oil Independence Goal.-- (1) In general.--Subject to paragraph (2), it is the goal of the United States to reduce oil consumption by the quantity that is equal to or greater than the quantity of oil imported by the United States from outside of North America by calendar year 2030 (as compared to the rate of oil consumption projected for calendar year 2030 as of the date of enactment of this Act). (2) Adjustments.--The President, in consultation with the Council-- (A) may adjust the numeric goal for calendar year 2030 established under paragraph (1); (B) shall ensure that any new goal established under subparagraph (A) represents the maximum practicable oil savings achievable, taking into account other benefits of reducing oil consumption (including economic, security, and environmental benefits) and costs or other economic effects; and (C) if any new goal established under subparagraph (A) is lower than the goal established under paragraph (1), shall establish an additional goal for reducing oil consumption in the United Sates by a quantity that is equal to or greater than the quantity of oil imported by the United States from outside of North America on the fastest timeline practicable, taking into account other benefits of reducing oil consumption (including economic, security, and environmental benefits) and costs or other economic effects. (d) National Oil Independence Plan.-- (1) In general.--The President, in coordination with the Council and the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, shall-- (A) develop a national oil independence plan that describes programs and activities that will be implemented to meet or exceed the national oil independence goal and other goals established pursuant to subsection (c); (B) submit the national oil independence plan to Congress not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act; and (C) submit an updated national oil independence plan to Congress every 2 years thereafter. (2) Review of federal policies, programs, and authorities.--Not later than 120 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the President, in coordination with the Council and the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, shall review existing programs and authorities of the Federal Government and other applicable policies (including tax policies) to determine-- (A)(i) which programs, authorities, or policies could be used to accelerate reductions in oil dependence; and (ii) any means by which the programs, authorities, or policies-- (I) could be used to maximize reductions in oil dependence; or (II) would require modification in order to be used to maximize reductions in oil dependence; and (B)(i) which programs, authorities, or policies have the effect of increasing oil consumption and oil dependence or otherwise create barriers to reducing oil consumption and oil dependence; and (ii) the manner by which the programs, authorities, or policies-- (I) have the effect of encouraging oil consumption or oil dependence or otherwise create barriers to reducing oil consumption and oil dependence; and (II) could be modified or eliminated to help meet the goal of reducing oil consumption and oil dependence. (3) Contents.--At a minimum, the national oil independence plan shall-- (A) describe the results and conclusions of the review conducted under paragraph (2); (B) as appropriate, include-- (i) the use of programs, authorities, or policies described in paragraph (2)(A); and (ii) if existing authority allows, proposals to modify or eliminate programs, authorities, or policies described in paragraph (2)(B); (C) include recommendations to Congress for legislation that would further-- (i) promote reductions in oil consumption and oil dependence; (ii) reduce barriers to reducing oil consumption and oil dependence; and (iii) help meet the energy policy goals of the United States; (D) include a timetable for achieving the national oil independence goal, including interim targets on not less than a biennial basis; (E) a plan for coordinating actions across the Federal Government to ensure, to the maximum extent practicable, that the national oil independence goal is met; and (F) a timeline for issuing rules, Executive orders, or other policy instruments that will implement the recommendations contained the national oil independence plan. (e) Annual Requests to Congress.--When submitting annual budget requests to Congress, the President shall include-- (1)(A) requests for sufficient funding for such programs the President considers appropriate to implement the national oil independence plan; and (B) if the amount of funding is not sufficient to meet the national oil independence goal, a description of the amount of funding that would be necessary to meet the goal; (2)(A) requests for such additional authorities or changes to existing laws or authorities as the President considers appropriate in order to implement the national oil independence plan; and (B) if the amount of funding is not sufficient to meet the national oil independence goal, a description of such additional authority or changes to existing laws or authorities as would be necessary to meet the goal; and (3) a report on the oil consumption and imports of the United States relative to the national oil independence goal and the interim targets and timelines established in the national oil independence plan. SEC. 4. NATIONAL ENERGY SECURITY COUNCIL. (a) Establishment.--There is established in the Executive Office of the President a National Energy Security Council. (b) Mission.--The mission of the Council shall be to assist and advise the President in-- (1) establishing the national oil independence goal in numeric terms of barrels per day of oil consumption, based on the most recent consumption estimates by the Energy Information Administration; (2) meeting the national oil independence goal; (3) developing the national oil independence plan and the requests described in section 3(e); (4) coordinating the policies, programs, and activities of the national energy security program in order to implement the national oil independence plan and meet the national oil independence goal; and (5) ensuring that policy decisions and programs are consistent with the energy policy goals of the United States. (c) Membership.--The membership of the Council shall consist of-- (1) the Secretary of Energy; (2) the Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs; (3) the Secretary of Transportation; (4) the Administrator; (5) the Secretary of the Treasury; (6) the Director of the National Economic Council; (7) the Secretary of Agriculture; (8) the Chair of the Council on Environmental Quality; (9) the Secretary of State; and (10) the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy. (d) Chair.--The President shall act as Chair of the Council. (e) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section such sums as are necessary.

Summary: Energy Security Act of 2011 - Establishes in the Executive Office of the President the national energy security program to coordinate federal government activities and policies to ensure that the United States meets goals for reducing oil dependence, oil imports, and oil consumption as well as other energy policy goals. Declares it is the goal of the United States to reduce oil consumption by 2030 by an amount equal to or greater than the quantity of oil imported from outside of North America. Directs the President, in coordination with the National Energy Security Council (established by this Act) and the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), to develop a national oil independence plan, which shall be updated biennially. Directs the President to review existing federal programs and authorities (including tax policies) to determine: (1) which of them could be used to accelerate reductions in oil dependence, and (2) the means to maximize such reductions. Establishes in the Executive Office of the President the National Energy Security Council.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Return of Talent Act''. SEC. 2. RETURN OF TALENT PROGRAM. (a) In General.--Title III of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1401 et seq.) is amended by inserting after section 317 the following: ``temporary absence of persons participating in the return of talent program ``Sec. 317A. (a) In General.--The Secretary of Homeland Security shall establish the Return of Talent Program to permit eligible aliens to temporarily return to the alien's country of citizenship in order to make a material contribution to that country if the country is engaged in post-conflict reconstruction activities, for a period not exceeding 24 months, unless an exception is granted under subsection (d). ``(b) Eligible Alien.--An alien is eligible to participate in the Return of Talent Program established under subsection (a) if the alien meets the special immigrant description under section 101(a)(27)(N). ``(c) Family Members.--The spouse, parents, siblings, and any children of an alien who participates in the Return of Talent Program established under subsection (a) may return to such alien's country of citizenship with the alien and reenter the United States with the alien. ``(d) Extension of Time.--The Secretary of Homeland Security may extend the 24-month period referred to in subsection (a) upon a showing that circumstances warrant that an extension is necessary for post- conflict reconstruction efforts. ``(e) Residency Requirements.--An immigrant described in section 101(a)(27)(N) who participates in the Return of Talent Program established under subsection (a), and the spouse, parents, siblings, and any children who accompany such immigrant to that immigrant's country of citizenship, shall be considered, during such period of participation in the program-- ``(1) for purposes of section 316(a), physically present and residing in the United States for purposes of naturalization within the meaning of that section; and ``(2) for purposes of section 316(b), to meet the continuous residency requirements in that section. ``(f) Oversight and Enforcement.--The Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Secretary of State, shall oversee and enforce the requirements of this section.''. (b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents for the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1101 et seq.) is amended by inserting after the item relating to section 317 the following: ``317A. Temporary absence of persons participating in the Return of Talent Program.''. SEC. 3. ELIGIBLE IMMIGRANTS. Section 101(a)(27) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(27)) is amended-- (1) in subparagraph (L), by inserting a semicolon after ``Improvement Act of 1998''; (2) in subparagraph (M), by striking the period and inserting ``; or''; and (3) by adding at the end the following: ``(N) an immigrant who-- ``(i) has been lawfully admitted to the United States for permanent residence; ``(ii) demonstrates an ability and willingness to make a material contribution to the post-conflict reconstruction in the alien's country of citizenship; and ``(iii) as determined by the Secretary of State in consultation with the Secretary of Homeland Security-- ``(I) is a citizen of a country in which Armed Forces of the United States are engaged, or have engaged in the 10 years preceding such determination, in combat or peacekeeping operations; or ``(II) is a citizen of a country where authorization for United Nations peacekeeping operations was initiated by the United Nations Security Council during the 10 years preceding such determination.''. SEC. 4. REPORT TO CONGRESS. Not later than 24 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall submit a report to Congress that describes-- (1) the countries of citizenship of the participants in the Return of Talent Program established under section 2; (2) the post-conflict reconstruction efforts that benefited, or were made possible, through participation in the program; and (3) any other information that the Secretary of Homeland Security determines to be appropriate. SEC. 5. REGULATIONS. Not later than 6 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall promulgate regulations to carry out this Act. SEC. 6. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS. There is authorized to be appropriated to the Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services for each of the fiscal years 2004 and 2005, such sums as may be necessary to carry out this Act.

Summary: Return of Talent Act - Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to establish the Return of Talent Program to permit an eligible permanent resident alien and family members to temporarily return (two years with extension) to the alien's country of citizenship in order to make a material contribution to that country if the country is engaged in post-conflict reconstruction activities. States that such time abroad shall be considered as U.S. physical and continuous residency for naturalization purposes.


SECTION 1. EXPANSION AND ENHANCEMENT OF EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE FOR SURVIVORS AND DEPENDENTS OF VETERANS. (a) Termination of Durational Limitation on Use of Educational Assistance.-- (1) Termination of limitation and restatement of continuing requirements.--Subsection (a) of section 3511 of title 38, United States Code, is amended to read as follows: ``(a)(1) Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter or chapter 36 of this title, any payment of educational assistance described in paragraph (2) shall not be charged against the entitlement of any individual under this chapter. ``(2) The payment of educational assistance referred to in paragraph (1) is the payment of such assistance to an individual for pursuit of a course or courses under this chapter if the Secretary finds that the individual-- ``(A) had to discontinue such course pursuit as a result of being ordered to serve on active duty under section 688, 12301(a), 12301(d), 12301(g), 12302, or 12304 of title 10; and ``(B) failed to receive credit or training time toward completion of the individual's approved educational, professional, or vocational objective as a result of having to discontinue, as described in subparagraph (A), the course pursuit.''. (2) Conforming amendments.--(A) The heading of section 3511 of such title is amended to read as follows: ``Sec. 3511. Treatment of certain interruptions in pursuit of programs of education''. (B) Section 3532(g) of such title is amended-- (i) by striking paragraph (2); and (ii) by redesignating paragraph (3) as paragraph (2). (C) Section 3541 of such title is amended to read as follows: ``Sec. 3541. Special restorative training ``(a) The Secretary may, at the request of an eligible person-- ``(1) determine whether such person is in need of special restorative training; and ``(2) if such need is found to exist, prescribe a course which is suitable to accomplish the purposes of this chapter. ``(b) A course of special restorative training under subsection (a) may, at the discretion of the Secretary, contain elements that would contribute toward an ultimate objective of a program of education.''. (D) Section 3695(a)(4) of such title is amended by striking ``35,''. (b) Extension of Delimiting Age of Eligibility for Dependents.-- Section 3512(a) of title 38, United States Code, is amended by striking ``twenty-sixth birthday'' each place it appears and inserting ``thirtieth birthday''. (c) Amount of Educational Assistance.-- (1) In general.--Section 3532 of title 38, United States Code, is amended to read as follows: ``Sec. 3532. Amount of educational assistance ``(a) The aggregate amount of educational assistance to which an eligible person is entitled under this chapter is $80,000, as increased from time to time under section 3564 of this title. ``(b) Within the aggregate amount provided for in subsection (a), educational assistance under this chapter may be paid for any purpose, and in any amount, as follows: ``(1) A program of education consisting of institutional courses. ``(2) A full-time program of education that consists of institutional courses and alternate phases of training in a business or industrial establishment with the training in the business or industrial establishment being strictly supplemental to the institutional portion. ``(3) A farm cooperative program consisting of institutional agricultural courses prescheduled to fall within forty-four weeks of any period of twelve consecutive months that is pursued by an eligible person who is concurrently engaged in agricultural employment which is relevant to such institutional agricultural courses as determined under standards prescribed by the Secretary. ``(4) A course or courses or other program of special educational assistance as provided in section 3491(a) of this title. ``(5) A program of apprenticeship or other on-job training pursued in a State as provided in section 3687(a) of this title. ``(6) In the case of an eligible spouse or surviving spouse, a program of education exclusively by correspondence as provided in section 3686 of this title. ``(7) A special training allowance for special restorative training as provided in section 3542 of this title. ``(c) If a program of education is pursued by an eligible person at an institution located in the Republic of the Philippines, any educational assistance for such person under this chapter shall be paid at the rate of $0.50 for each dollar. ``(d)(1) Subject to paragraph (2), the amount of educational assistance payable under this chapter for a licensing or certification test described in section 3501(a)(5) of this title is the lesser of $2,000 or the fee charged for the test. ``(2) In no event shall payment of educational assistance under this subsection for such a test exceed the amount of the individual's available entitlement under this chapter.''. (2) Conforming amendments.--(A) Section 3533 of such title is amended to read as follows: ``Sec. 3533. Tutorial assistance ``An eligible person shall, without any charge to any entitlement of such person to educational assistance under section 3532(a) of this title be entitled to the benefits provided an eligible veteran under section 3492 of this title.''. (B) Section 3534 of such title is repealed. (C) Section 3542 of such title is amended-- (i) in subsection (a), by striking ``computed at the basic rate'' and all that follows through the end of the subsection and inserting a period; and (ii) in subsection (b), by striking ``an educational assistance allowance'' and inserting ``educational assistance''. (D) Section 3543(c) of such title is amended-- (i) in paragraph (1), by adding ``and'' at the end; (ii) by striking paragraph (2); and (iii) by redesignating paragraph (3) as paragraph (2). (E) Section 3564 of such title is amended by striking ``rates payable under sections 3532, 3534(b), and 3542(a)'' and inserting ``aggregate amount of educational assistance payable under section 3532''. (F) Paragraph (1) of section 3565(b) of such title is amended to read as follows: ``(1) educational assistance payable under section 3532 of this title, including the special training allowance referred to in subsection (b)(7) of such section, shall be paid at the rate of $0.50 for each dollar; and''. (G) Section 3687 of such title is amended-- (i) in subsection (a)-- (I) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking ``or an eligible person (as defined in section 3501(a) of this title)''; and (II) in the flush matter following paragraph (2), by striking ``chapters 34 and 35'' and inserting ``chapter 34''; (ii) in subsection (c), by striking ``chapters 34 and 35'' and inserting ``chapter 34''; and (iii) in subsection (e), by striking paragraph (3) and inserting the following new paragraph (3): ``(3) In this subsection, the term `individual' means an eligible veteran who is entitled to monthly educational assistance allowances payable under section 3015(e) of this title.''. (d) Other Conforming Amendments.--(1) Section 3524 of title 38, United States Code, is amended by striking ``allowance'' each place it appears. (2)(A) Section 3531 of such title is amended-- (i) in subsection (a), by striking ``an educational assistance allowance'' and inserting ``educational assistance''; and (ii) in subsection (b), by striking ``allowance''. (B) The heading of such section is amended by striking ``allowance''. (3) Section 3537(a) of such title is amended by striking ``additional''. (e) Clerical Amendments.--The table of sections at the beginning of chapter 35 of title 38, United States Code, is amended-- (1) by striking the item relating to section 3511 and inserting the following new item: ``3511. Treatment of certain interruptions in pursuit of programs of education.''; (2) by striking the items relating to section 3531, 3532, and 3533 and inserting the following new items: ``3531. Educational assistance. ``3532. Amount of educational assistance. ``3533. Tutorial assistance.''; (3) by striking the item relating to section 3534; and (4) by striking the item relating to section 3541 and inserting the following new item: ``3541. Special restorative training.''. (f) Effective Dates.--(1) The amendments made by this section shall take effect on the date of the enactment of this Act. (2) Notwithstanding the effective date under paragraph (1) of the amendment to section 3564 of title 38, United States Code, made by subsection (c)(2)(E), the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall make the first increase in the aggregate amount of educational assistance under section 3532 of such title as required by such section 3564 (as so amended) for fiscal year 2006.

Summary: Revises basic educational assistance for veterans' survivors and dependents to: (1) eliminate the present 45 month cap on benefit payments and set an aggregate limit of $80,000; (2) extend from a dependent's 26th to 30th birthday the delimiting age for the use of such assistance; (3) increase the amount of such assistance for survivors and dependents pursuing certain types of education; and (4) authorize the provision of tutorial assistance to such individuals without charge to their educational assistance entitlement.