[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 147 (2001), Part 4]
[House]
[Pages 4674-4685]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



                   VETERANS OPPORTUNITIES ACT OF 2001

  Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and 
pass the bill (H.R. 801) to amend title 38, United States Code, to 
improve programs of educational assistance, to expand programs of 
transition assistance and outreach to departing servicemembers, 
veterans, and dependents, to increase burial benefits, to provide for 
family coverage under Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance, and for 
other purposes, as amended.
  The Clerk read as follows:

                                H.R. 801

       Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of 
     the United States of America in Congress assembled,

     SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS.

       (a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``Veterans 
     Opportunities Act of 2001''.
       (b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents for this Act 
     is as follows:

Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents.
Sec. 2. References to title 38, United States Code.

               TITLE I--EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE PROVISIONS

Sec. 101. Increase in maximum allowable annual Senior ROTC educational 
              assistance for eligibility for benefits under the 
              Montgomery GI Bill.
Sec. 102. Expansion of work-study opportunities.
Sec. 103. Inclusion of certain private technology entities in the 
              definition of educational institution.
Sec. 104. Expansion of special restorative training benefit to certain 
              disabled spouses or surviving spouses.
Sec. 105. Distance education.
Sec. 106. Technical amendments to the Montgomery GI Bill.

              TITLE II--TRANSITION AND OUTREACH PROVISIONS

Sec. 201. Authority to establish overseas veterans assistance offices 
              to expand transition assistance.
Sec. 202. Timing of preseparation counseling.
Sec. 203. Improvement in education and training outreach services for 
              separating servicemembers and veterans.
Sec. 204. Expansion of outreach efforts to eligible dependents.
Sec. 205. Improvement of veterans outreach programs.

      TITLE III--MEMORIAL AFFAIRS, INSURANCE, AND OTHER PROVISIONS

Sec. 301. Increase in burial benefits.
Sec. 302. Family coverage under Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance.
Sec. 303. Retroactive applicability of increase in maximum SGLI benefit 
              for members dying in performance of duty on or after 
              October 1, 2000.
Sec. 304. Increase in amount of assistance for automobile and adaptive 
              equipment for certain disabled veterans.
Sec. 305. Increase in assistance amount for specially adapted housing.
Sec. 306. Revision of rules with respect to net worth limitation for 
              eligibility for pensions for veterans who are permanently 
              and totally disabled from a non-service-connected 
              disability.
Sec. 307. Technical amendments.

     SEC. 2. REFERENCES TO TITLE 38, UNITED STATES CODE.

       Except as otherwise expressly provided, whenever in this 
     Act an amendment or repeal is expressed in terms of an 
     amendment to, or repeal of, a section or other provision, the 
     reference shall be considered to be made to a section or 
     other provision of title 38, United States Code.

               TITLE I--EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE PROVISIONS

     SEC. 101. INCREASE IN MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE ANNUAL SENIOR ROTC 
                   EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE FOR ELIGIBILITY FOR 
                   BENEFITS UNDER THE MONTGOMERY GI BILL.

       (a) In General.--Sections 3011(c)(3)(B) and 3012(d)(3)(B) 
     are each amended by striking ``$2,000'' and inserting 
     ``$3,400''.
       (b) Effective Date.--The amendments made by subsection (a) 
     shall take effect on the date of

[[Page 4675]]

     the enactment of this Act and shall apply with respect to 
     educational assistance allowances paid under chapter 30 of 
     title 38, United States Code, for months beginning after such 
     date.

     SEC. 102. EXPANSION OF WORK-STUDY OPPORTUNITIES.

       (a) Assisting in Outreach Services.--The second sentence of 
     section 3485(a)(1) is amended in clause (A) by inserting 
     before the comma the following: ``or outreach services to 
     servicemembers and veterans furnished by employees of State 
     approving agencies''.
       (b) Working in Major Academic Discipline.--Such sentence is 
     further amended--
       (1) by striking ``or (E)'' and inserting ``(E)''; and
       (2) by inserting before the period the following: ``, or 
     (F) in the case of an individual who has declared a major 
     academic discipline, activities within the department of that 
     academic discipline approved by the Secretary that complement 
     and reinforce the program of education pursued by that 
     individual''.
       (c) Working in State Veterans Home.--Such sentence is 
     amended in clause (C) by inserting after the comma 
     ``including the provision of such care to veterans in a State 
     home for which payment is made under section 1741 of this 
     title,''.
       (d) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section 
     shall apply with respect to agreements entered into under 
     section 3485 of title 38, United States Code, on or after the 
     date of the enactment of this Act.

     SEC. 103. INCLUSION OF CERTAIN PRIVATE TECHNOLOGY ENTITIES IN 
                   THE DEFINITION OF EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION.

       (a) In General.--Sections 3452(c) and 3501(a)(6) are each 
     amended by adding at the end the following new sentence: 
     ``Such term also includes any private entity (that meets such 
     requirements as the Secretary may establish) that offers, 
     either directly or under an agreement with another entity 
     (that meets such requirements), a course or courses to 
     fulfill requirements for the attainment of a license or 
     certificate generally recognized as necessary to obtain, 
     maintain, or advance in employment in a profession or 
     vocation in a technological occupation (as determined by the 
     Secretary).''.
       (b) Effective Date.--The amendments made by subsection (a) 
     shall apply to enrollments in courses occurring on or after 
     the date of the enactment of this Act.

     SEC. 104. EXPANSION OF SPECIAL RESTORATIVE TRAINING BENEFIT 
                   TO CERTAIN DISABLED SPOUSES OR SURVIVING 
                   SPOUSES.

       (a) In General.--Section 3540 is amended by striking 
     ``section 3501(a)(1)(A) of this title'' and inserting 
     ``subparagraphs (A), (B), and (D) of section 3501(a)(1) of 
     this title''.
       (b) Conforming Amendments.--(1) Section 3541(a) is amended 
     in the matter preceding paragraph (1) by striking ``of the 
     parent or guardian''.
       (2) Section 3542(a) is amended--
       (A) by striking ``the parent or guardian shall be entitled 
     to receive on behalf of such person'' and inserting ``the 
     eligible person shall be entitled to receive''; and
       (B) by striking ``upon election by the parent or guardian 
     of the eligible person'' and inserting ``upon election by the 
     eligible person''.
       (3) Section 3543(a) is amended by striking ``the parent or 
     guardian for the training provided to an eligible person'' 
     and inserting ``for the training provided to the eligible 
     person''.
       (4) Section 3543 is amended by adding at the end the 
     following new subsection:
       ``(c) In a case in which the Secretary determines requires 
     a parent or guardian to make a request under section 3541(a) 
     of this title on behalf of an eligible person, the parent or 
     guardian shall be entitled--
       ``(1) to receive on behalf of the eligible person the 
     special training allowance provided for under section 3542(a) 
     of this title;
       ``(2) to elect an increase in the basic monthly allowance 
     provided for under such section; and
       ``(3) to agree with the Secretary on the fair and 
     reasonable amounts which may be charged under subsection 
     (a).''.

     SEC. 105. DISTANCE EDUCATION.

       (a) In General.--Subsection (a)(4) of section 3680A is 
     amended--
       (1) by inserting ``(A)'' after ``leading''; and
       (2) by inserting before the period the following: ``, or 
     (B) to a certificate that reflects educational attainment 
     offered by an institution of higher learning''.
       (b) Effective Date.--The amendments made by subsection (a) 
     shall apply to enrollments in independent study courses 
     beginning on or after the date of the enactment of this Act.

     SEC. 106. TECHNICAL AMENDMENTS TO THE MONTGOMERY GI BILL.

       (a) Clarification of Eligibility Requirement for MGIB 
     Benefits.--
       (1) In general.--Clause (i) of section 3011(a)(1)(A) is 
     amended to read as follows:
       ``(i) who (I) in the case of an individual whose obligated 
     period of active duty is three years or more, serves at least 
     three years of continuous active duty in the Armed Forces, or 
     (II) in the case of an individual whose obligated period of 
     active duty is less than three years, serves at least two 
     years of continuous active duty in the Armed Forces; or''.
       (2) Effective date.--The amendment made by paragraph (1) 
     shall take effect as if included in the enactment of the 
     Veterans Benefits and Health Care Improvement Act of 2000 
     (Public Law 106-419).
       (b) Entitlement Charge for Off-Duty Training and 
     Education.--
       (1) In general.--Section 3014(b)(2) is amended--
       (A) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``(without regard to'' 
     and all that follows through ``subsection''; and
       (B) by adding at the end the following new subparagraph:
       ``(C) The number of months of entitlement charged under 
     this chapter in the case of an individual who has been paid a 
     basic educational assistance allowance under this subsection 
     shall be equal to the number (including any fraction) 
     determined by dividing the total amount of such educational 
     assistance allowance paid the individual by the full-time 
     monthly institutional rate of educational assistance which 
     such individual would otherwise be paid under subsection 
     (a)(1), (b)(1), (c)(1), or (e)(1) of section 3015 of this 
     title, as the case may be.''.
       (2) Conforming amendments.--(A) Section 3015 is amended--
       (i) in subsections (a)(1) and (b)(1), by inserting 
     ``subsection (g)'' after ``from time to time under'';
       (ii) by striking the first subsection (g), as inserted by 
     section 1602(b)(3)(C) of the Floyd D. Spence National Defense 
     Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2001 (enacted by Public Law 
     106-398; 114 Stat. 1654A-359); and
       (iii) by redesignating subsection (h) as subsection (g).
       (B) Section 3032(b) is amended by inserting before the 
     period at the end the following: ``, or (3) the amount of the 
     charges of the educational institution elected by the 
     individual under section 3014(b)(1) of this title''.
       (3) Effective date.--The amendments made by this subsection 
     shall take effect as if enacted on November 1, 2000.
       (c) Incremental MGIB Increases for Contributing Active Duty 
     Members.--
       (1) In general.--Section 3011(e), as added by section 
     105(a)(1) of the Veterans Benefits and Health Care 
     Improvement Act of 2000 (Public Law 106-419; 114 Stat. 1828), 
     is amended--
       (A) in paragraph (2), by inserting ``, but not more 
     frequently than monthly'' before the period;
       (B) in paragraph (3), by striking ``$4'' and inserting 
     ``$20''; and
       (C) in paragraph (4)--
       (i) by striking ``Secretary. The'' and inserting 
     ``Secretary of the military department concerned. That''; and
       (ii) by striking ``by the Secretary''.
       (2) Conforming amendments.--(A) Section 3012(f), as added 
     by section 105(a)(2) of such Act, is amended--
       (i) in paragraph (2), by inserting ``, but not more 
     frequently than monthly'' before the period;
       (ii) in paragraph (3), by striking ``$4'' and inserting 
     ``$20''; and
       (iii) in paragraph (4)--
       (I) by striking ``Secretary. The'' and inserting 
     ``Secretary of the military department concerned. That''; and
       (II) by striking ``by the Secretary''.
       (B) Section 3015(g), as added by section 105(b)(3) of such 
     Act, is amended--
       (i) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by inserting 
     ``effective as of the first day of the enrollment period 
     following receipt of such contribution by the Secretary 
     concerned,'' after ``by section 3011(e) or 3012(f) of this 
     title,''; and
       (ii) in paragraph (1)--
       (I) by striking ``$1'' and inserting ``$5'';
       (II) by striking ``$4'' and inserting ``$20''; and
       (III) by inserting ``of this title'' after ``section 
     3011(e) or 3012(f)''.
       (3) Effective date.--The amendments made by this subsection 
     shall take effect as if included in the enactment of section 
     105 of the Veterans Benefits and Health Care Improvement Act 
     of 2000 (Public Law 106-419; 114 Stat. 1828).
       (d) Conforming Amendment for Death Benefit.--
       (1) In general.--Paragraph (1) of section 3017(b) is 
     amended to read as follows:
       ``(1) the sum of (A) the total amount reduced from the 
     individual's basic pay under section 3011(b), 3012(c), or 
     3018(c) of this title, and (B) the total amount of any 
     contributions made by the individual under section 3011(e) or 
     3012(f) of this title, less''.
       (2) Effective date.--The amendment made by paragraph (1) 
     shall take effect on May 1, 2001.
       (e) Clarification of Time Period for Election of Beginning 
     of Chapter 35 Eligibility for Dependents.--
       (1) In general.--(A) Section 3512(a)(3)(B), as amended by 
     section 112 of the Veterans Benefits and Health Care 
     Improvement Act of 2000 (Public Law 106-419; 114 Stat. 1831), 
     is amended to read as follows:
       ``(B) the eligible person elects that beginning date by not 
     later than the end of the 60-day period beginning on the date 
     on which the Secretary provides written notice to that person 
     of that person's opportunity to make such election, such 
     notice including a statement of the deadline for the election 
     imposed under this subparagraph; and''.
       (B) Section 3512(a)(3)(C), as so amended by such section, 
     is amended by striking ``between the dates described in'' and 
     inserting ``the date determined pursuant to''.
       (2) Effective date.--The amendments made by paragraph (1) 
     shall take effect as if enacted on November 1, 2000.

              TITLE II--TRANSITION AND OUTREACH PROVISIONS

     SEC. 201. AUTHORITY TO ESTABLISH OVERSEAS VETERANS ASSISTANCE 
                   OFFICES TO EXPAND TRANSITION ASSISTANCE.

       Section 7723(a) is amended by inserting after the first 
     sentence the following new sentence:

[[Page 4676]]

     ``The Secretary may maintain such offices on such military 
     installations located elsewhere as the Secretary, after 
     consultation with the Secretary of Defense, determines to be 
     necessary to carry out such purposes.''.

     SEC. 202. TIMING OF PRESEPARATION COUNSELING.

       (a) In General.--(1) The first sentence of section 
     1142(a)(1) of title 10, United States Code, is amended to 
     read as follows: ``Within the time periods specified in 
     paragraph (3), the Secretary concerned shall (except as 
     provided in paragraph (4)) provide for individual 
     preseparation counseling of each member of the armed forces 
     whose discharge or release from active duty is anticipated as 
     of a specific date.''.
       (2) Such section is further amended by adding at the end 
     the following new paragraphs:
       ``(3)(A) In the case of an anticipated retirement, 
     preseparation counseling shall commence as soon as possible 
     during the 24-month period preceding the anticipated 
     retirement date. In the case of a separation other than a 
     retirement, preseparation counseling shall commence as soon 
     as possible during the 12-month period preceding the 
     anticipated date. Except as provided in subparagraph (B), in 
     no event shall preseparation counseling commence later than 
     90 days before the date of discharge or release.
       ``(B) In the event that a retirement or other separation is 
     unanticipated until there are 90 or fewer days before the 
     anticipated retirement or separation date, preseparation 
     counseling shall begin as soon as possible within the 
     remaining period of service.
       ``(4)(A) Subject to subparagraph (B), the Secretary 
     concerned shall not provide preseparation counseling to a 
     member who is being discharged or released before the 
     completion of that member's first 180 days of active duty.
       ``(B) Subparagraph (A) shall not apply in the case of a 
     member who is being retired or separated for disability.''.
       (b) Conforming Amendment.--The second sentence of section 
     1144(a)(1) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by 
     striking ``during the 180-day period'' and all that follows 
     and inserting ``within the time periods provided under 
     paragraph (3) of section 1142(a) of this title, except that 
     the Secretary concerned shall not provide preseparation 
     counseling to a member described in paragraph (4)(A) of such 
     section.''.

     SEC. 203. IMPROVEMENT IN EDUCATION AND TRAINING OUTREACH 
                   SERVICES FOR SEPARATING SERVICEMEMBERS AND 
                   VETERANS.

       (a) Providing Outreach Through State Approving Agencies.--
     Section 3672(d) is amended by inserting ``and State approving 
     agencies'' before ``shall actively promote the development of 
     programs of training on the job''.
       (b) Additional Duty.--Such section is further amended--
       (1) by inserting ``(1)'' after ``(d)''; and
       (2) by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
       ``(2) In conjunction with outreach services furnished by 
     the Secretary for education and training benefits under 
     chapter 77 of this title, each State approving agency shall 
     conduct outreach programs and provide outreach services to 
     eligible persons and veterans about education and training 
     benefits available under applicable Federal and State law.''.

     SEC. 204. EXPANSION OF OUTREACH EFFORTS TO ELIGIBLE 
                   DEPENDENTS.

       (a) Availability of Outreach Services for Children, 
     Spouses, Surviving Spouses, and Dependent Parents.--Paragraph 
     (2) of section 7721(b) is amended to read as follows:
       ``(2) the term `eligible dependent' means a spouse, 
     surviving spouse, child, or dependent parent of a person who 
     served in the active military, naval, or air service.''.
       (b) Improved Outreach Program.--(1) Subchapter II of 
     chapter 77 is amended by adding at the end the following new 
     section:

     ``Sec. 7727. Outreach for eligible dependents

       ``(a) In carrying out this subchapter, the Secretary shall 
     ensure that the needs of eligible dependents are fully 
     addressed.
       ``(b) The Secretary shall ensure that the availability of 
     outreach services and assistance for eligible dependents 
     under this subchapter is made known through a variety of 
     means, including the Internet, announcements in veterans 
     publications, and announcements to the media.''.
       (2) The table of sections at the beginning of such chapter 
     is amended by inserting after the item relating to section 
     7726 the following new item:

``7727. Outreach for eligible dependents.''.

     SEC. 205. IMPROVEMENT OF VETERANS OUTREACH PROGRAMS.

       Section 7722(c) is amended--
       (1) by inserting ``(1)'' after ``(c)''; and
       (2) by adding at the end the following:
       ``(2) Whenever a veteran or dependent first applies for any 
     benefit under laws administered by the Secretary (including a 
     request for burial or related benefits or an application for 
     life insurance proceeds), the Secretary shall provide to the 
     veteran or dependent information concerning benefits and 
     health care services under programs administered by the 
     Secretary.''.

      TITLE III--MEMORIAL AFFAIRS, INSURANCE, AND OTHER PROVISIONS

     SEC. 301. INCREASE IN BURIAL BENEFITS.

       (a) Burial and Funeral Expenses.--(1) Section 2307 is 
     amended by striking ``$1,500'' and inserting ``$2,000 (as 
     increased from time to time under section 5312 of this 
     title)''.
       (2) Section 2302(a) is amended by striking ``$300'' and 
     inserting ``$500 (as increased from time to time under 
     section 5312 of this title)''.
       (3) Section 2303(a)(1)(A) is amended by striking ``$300'' 
     and inserting ``$500 (as increased from time to time under 
     section 5312 of this title)''.
       (b) Plot Allowance.--Section 2303(b) is amended by striking 
     ``$150'' each place it appears and inserting ``$300 (as 
     increased from time to time under section 5312 of this 
     title)''.
       (c) Indexing Payment Amounts.--Section 5312(a) is amended--
       (1) by striking ``and each rate of monthly allowance'' and 
     inserting ``each rate of monthly allowance''; and
       (2) by inserting ``and each rate of allowance paid under 
     sections 2302, 2303, and 2307 of this title,'' after ``under 
     section 1805 of this title,''.
       (d) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section 
     shall apply to deaths occurring on or after the date of the 
     enactment of this Act.

     SEC. 302. FAMILY COVERAGE UNDER SERVICEMEMBERS' GROUP LIFE 
                   INSURANCE.

       (a) Insurable Dependents.--(1) Section 1965 is amended by 
     adding at the end the following new paragraph:
       ``(10) The term `insurable dependent', with respect to a 
     member, means the following:
       ``(A) The member's spouse.
       ``(B) The member's child, as defined in the first sentence 
     of section 101(4)(A) of this title.''.
       (2) Section 101(4)(A) is amended in the matter preceding 
     clause (i) by inserting ``(other than with respect to a child 
     who is an insurable dependent under section 1965(10)(B) of 
     such chapter)'' after ``except for purposes of chapter 19 of 
     this title''.
       (b) Insurance Coverage.--(1) Subsection (a) of section 1967 
     is amended to read as follows:
       ``(a)(1) Subject to an election under paragraph (2), any 
     policy of insurance purchased by the Secretary under section 
     1966 of this title shall automatically insure the following 
     persons against death:
       ``(A) In the case of any member of a uniformed service on 
     active duty (other than active duty for training)--
       ``(i) the member; and
       ``(ii) each insurable dependent of the member.
       ``(B) Any member of a uniformed service on active duty for 
     training or inactive duty training scheduled in advance by 
     competent authority.
       ``(C) In the case of any member of the Ready Reserve of a 
     uniformed service who meets the qualifications set forth in 
     section 1965(5)(B) of this title--
       ``(i) the member; and
       ``(ii) each insurable dependent of the member.
       ``(2)(A) A member may elect in writing not to be insured 
     under this subchapter.
       ``(B) A member may elect in writing not to insure the 
     member's spouse under this subchapter.
       ``(3)(A) Subject to subparagraphs (B) and (C), the amount 
     for which a person is insured under this subchapter is as 
     follows:
       ``(i) In the case of a member, $250,000.
       ``(ii) In the case of a member's spouse, $100,000.
       ``(iii) In the case of a member's child, $10,000.
       ``(B) A member may elect in writing to be insured or to 
     insure the member's spouse in an amount less than the amount 
     provided for under subparagraph (A). The member may not elect 
     to insure the member's child in an amount less than $10,000. 
     The amount of insurance so elected shall, in the case of a 
     member or spouse, be evenly divisible by $10,000.
       ``(C) In no case may the amount of insurance coverage under 
     this subsection of a member's spouse exceed the amount of 
     insurance coverage of the member.
       ``(4)(A) An insurable dependent of a member is not insured 
     under this chapter unless the member is insured under this 
     subchapter.
       ``(B) An insurable dependent who is a child may not be 
     insured at any time by the insurance coverage under this 
     chapter of more than one member. If an insurable dependent 
     who is a child is otherwise eligible to be insured by the 
     coverage of more than one member under this chapter, the 
     child shall be insured by the coverage of the member whose 
     eligibility for insurance under this subchapter occurred 
     first, except that if that member does not have legal custody 
     of the child, the child shall be insured by the coverage of 
     the member who has legal custody of the child.
       ``(5) The insurance shall be effective with respect to a 
     member and the insurable dependents of the member on the 
     latest of the following dates:
       ``(A) The first day of active duty or active duty for 
     training.
       ``(B) The beginning of a period of inactive duty training 
     scheduled in advance by competent authority.
       ``(C) The first day a member of the Ready Reserve meets the 
     qualifications set forth in section 1965(5)(B) of this title.
       ``(D) The date certified by the Secretary to the Secretary 
     concerned as the date Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance 
     under this subchapter for the class or group concerned takes 
     effect.
       ``(E) In the case of an insurable dependent who is a 
     spouse, the date of marriage of the spouse to the member.
       ``(F) In the case of an insurable dependent who is a child, 
     the date of birth of such child or, if the child is not the 
     natural child of the member, the date on which the child 
     acquires status as an insurable dependent of the member.''.
       (2) Subsection (c) of such section is amended by striking 
     the first sentence and inserting the following: ``If a person 
     eligible for insurance under this subchapter is not so 
     insured, or is insured for less than the maximum amount 
     provided for the person under subparagraph (A) of

[[Page 4677]]

     subsection (a)(3), by reason of an election made by a member 
     under subparagraph (B) of that subsection, the person may 
     thereafter be insured under this subchapter in the maximum 
     amount or any lesser amount elected as provided in such 
     subparagraph (B) upon written application by the member, 
     proof of good health of each person (other than a child) to 
     be so insured, and compliance with such other terms and 
     conditions as may be prescribed by the Secretary.''.
       (c) Termination of Coverage.--(1) Subsection (a) of section 
     1968 is amended--
       (A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by inserting 
     ``and any insurance thereunder on any insurable dependent of 
     such a member,'' after ``any insurance thereunder on any 
     member of the uniformed services,''; and
       (B) by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
       ``(5) With respect to an insurable dependent of the member, 
     insurance under this subchapter shall cease--
       ``(A) 120 days after the date of an election made in 
     writing by the member to terminate the coverage; or
       ``(B) on the earliest of--
       ``(i) 120 days after the date of the member's death;
       ``(ii) 120 days after the date of termination of the 
     insurance on the member's life under this subchapter; or
       ``(iii) 120 days after the termination of the dependent's 
     status as an insurable dependent of the member.''.
       (2) Such subsection is further amended--
       (A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking ``, 
     and such insurance shall cease--'' and inserting ``and such 
     insurance shall cease as follows:'';
       (B) by striking ``with'' after the paragraph designation in 
     each of paragraphs (1), (2), (3), and (4) and inserting 
     ``With'';
       (C) in paragraph (1)--
       (i) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking 
     ``thirty-one days--'' and inserting ``31 days, insurance 
     under this subchapter shall cease--'';
       (ii) in subparagraph (A)--
       (I) by striking ``one hundred and twenty days'' after 
     ``(A)'' and inserting ``120 days''; and
       (II) by striking ``prior to the expiration of one hundred 
     and twenty days'' and inserting ``before the end of 120 
     days''; and
       (iii) by striking the semicolon at the end of subparagraph 
     (B) and inserting a period;
       (D) in paragraph (2)--
       (i) by striking ``thirty-one days'' and inserting ``31 
     days,'';
       (ii) by striking ``one hundred and twenty days'' both 
     places it appears and inserting ``120 days''; and
       (iii) by striking the semicolon at the end and inserting a 
     period;
       (E) in paragraph (3)--
       (i) by inserting a comma after ``competent authority''
       (ii) by striking ``one hundred and twenty days'' both 
     places it appears and inserting ``120 days''; and
       (iii) by striking ``; and'' at the end and inserting a 
     period; and
       (F) in paragraph (4), by inserting ``insurance under this 
     subchapter shall cease'' before ``120 days after '' the first 
     place it appears.
       (3) Subsection (b)(1)(A) of such section is amended by 
     inserting ``(to insure against death of the member only)'' 
     after ``converted to Veterans' Group Life Insurance''.
       (d) Premiums.--Section 1969 is amended by adding at the end 
     the following new subsections:
       ``(g)(1)(A) During any period in which a spouse of a member 
     is insured under this subchapter and the member is on active 
     duty, there shall be deducted each month from the member's 
     basic or other pay until separation or release from active 
     duty an amount determined by the Secretary as the premium 
     allocable to the pay period for providing that insurance 
     coverage. No premium may be charged for providing insurance 
     coverage for a child.
       ``(B) During any month in which a member is assigned to the 
     Ready Reserve of a uniformed service under conditions which 
     meet the qualifications set forth in section 1965(5)(B) of 
     this title and the spouse of the member is insured under a 
     policy of insurance purchased by the Secretary under section 
     1966 of this title, there shall be contributed from the 
     appropriation made for active duty pay of the uniformed 
     service concerned an amount determined by the Secretary 
     (which shall be the same for all such members) as the share 
     of the cost attributable to insuring the spouse of such 
     member under this policy, less any costs traceable to the 
     extra hazards of such duty in the uniformed services. Any 
     amounts so contributed on behalf of any individual shall be 
     collected by the Secretary concerned from such individual (by 
     deduction from pay or otherwise) and shall be credited to the 
     appropriation from which such contribution was made.
       ``(2)(A) The Secretary shall determine the premium amounts 
     to be charged for life insurance coverage for spouses of 
     members under this subchapter.
       ``(B) The premium amounts shall be determined on the basis 
     of sound actuarial principles and shall include an amount 
     necessary to cover the administrative costs to the insurer or 
     insurers providing such insurance.
       ``(C) Each premium rate for the first policy year shall be 
     continued for subsequent policy years, except that the rate 
     may be adjusted for any such subsequent policy year on the 
     basis of the experience under the policy, as determined by 
     the Secretary in advance of that policy year.
       ``(h) Any overpayment of a premium for insurance coverage 
     for an insurable dependent of a member that is terminated 
     under section 1968(a)(5) of this title shall be refunded to 
     the member.''.
       (e) Payments of Insurance Proceeds.--Section 1970 is 
     amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
       ``(i) Any amount of insurance in force on an insurable 
     dependent of a member under this subchapter on the date of 
     the dependent's death shall be paid, upon the establishment 
     of a valid claim therefor, to the member or, in the event of 
     the member's death before payment to the member can be made, 
     then to the person or persons entitled to receive payment of 
     the proceeds of insurance on the member's life under this 
     subchapter.''.
       (f) Conversion of SGLI to Private Life Insurance.--Section 
     1968(b) is amended by adding at the end the following new 
     paragraph:
       ``(3)(A) In the case of a policy purchased under this 
     subchapter for an insurable dependent who is a spouse, upon 
     election of the spouse, the policy may be converted to an 
     individual policy of insurance under the same conditions as 
     described in section 1977(e) of this title (with respect to 
     conversion of a Veterans' Group Life Insurance policy to such 
     an individual policy) upon written application for conversion 
     made to the participating company selected by the spouse and 
     payment of the required premiums. Conversion of such policy 
     to Veterans' Group Life Insurance is prohibited.
       ``(B) In the case of a policy purchased under this 
     subchapter for an insurable dependent who is a child, such 
     policy may not be converted under this subsection.''.
       (g) Effective Date and Initial Implementation.--(1) The 
     amendments made by this section shall take effect on the 
     first day of the first month that begins more than 120 days 
     after the date of the enactment of this Act.
       (2) Each Secretary concerned, acting in consultation with 
     the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, shall take such action as 
     is necessary to ensure that during the period between the 
     date of the enactment of this Act and the effective date 
     determined under paragraph (1) each eligible member--
       (A) is furnished an explanation of the insurance benefits 
     available for dependents under the amendments made by this 
     section; and
       (B) is afforded an opportunity before such effective date 
     to make elections that are authorized under those amendments 
     to be made with respect to dependents.
       (3) For purposes of paragraph (2):
       (A) The term ``Secretary concerned'' has the meaning given 
     that term in section 101 of title 38, United States Code.
       (B) The term ``eligible member'' means a member of the 
     uniformed services described in subparagraph (A) or (C) of 
     section 1967(a)(1) of title 38, United States Code, as 
     amended by subsection (b)(1).

     SEC. 303. RETROACTIVE APPLICABILITY OF INCREASE IN MAXIMUM 
                   SGLI BENEFIT FOR MEMBERS DYING IN PERFORMANCE 
                   OF DUTY ON OR AFTER OCTOBER 1, 2000.

       (a) Applicability of Increase in Benefit.--Notwithstanding 
     subsection (c) of section 312 of the Veterans Benefits and 
     Health Care Improvement Act of 2000 (Public Law 106-419; 114 
     Stat. 1854), the amendments made by subsection (a) of that 
     section shall take effect on October 1, 2000, with respect to 
     any member of the Armed Forces who died in the performance of 
     duty (as determined by the Secretary concerned) during the 
     period beginning on October 1, 2000, and ending at the close 
     of March 31, 2001, and who on the date of death was insured 
     under the Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance program under 
     subchapter III of chapter 19 of title 38, United States Code, 
     for the maximum coverage available under that program.
       (b) Definition.--For purposes of this section, the term 
     ``Secretary concerned'' has the meaning given that term in 
     section 101(25) of title 38, United States Code.

     SEC. 304. INCREASE IN AMOUNT OF ASSISTANCE FOR AUTOMOBILE AND 
                   ADAPTIVE EQUIPMENT FOR CERTAIN DISABLED 
                   VETERANS.

       Section 3902(a) is amended by striking ``$8,000'' and 
     inserting ``$9,000''.

     SEC. 305. INCREASE IN ASSISTANCE AMOUNT FOR SPECIALLY ADAPTED 
                   HOUSING.

       Section 2102 is amended--
       (1) in the matter preceding paragraph (1) of subsection 
     (a), by striking ``$43,000'' and inserting ``$48,000''; and
       (2) in subsection (b)(2), by striking ``$8,250'' and 
     inserting ``$9,250''.

     SEC. 306. REVISION OF RULES WITH RESPECT TO NET WORTH 
                   LIMITATION FOR ELIGIBILITY FOR PENSIONS FOR 
                   VETERANS WHO ARE PERMANENTLY AND TOTALLY 
                   DISABLED FROM A NON-SERVICE-CONNECTED 
                   DISABILITY.

       (a) In General.--Section 1522(a) is amended by adding at 
     the end the following new sentence: ``In determining the 
     corpus of the estates of the veteran and the veteran's 
     spouse, if any, the value of the real property of the veteran 
     and the veteran's spouse and children shall be excluded if 
     such property is used for farming, ranching, or similar 
     agricultural purposes.''.
       (b) Effective Date.--The amendment made by subsection (a) 
     shall apply to payment of pensions for months beginning on or 
     after the date of the enactment of this Act.

     SEC. 307. TECHNICAL AMENDMENTS.

       (a) Title 38, United States Code.--Title 38, United States 
     Code, is amended as follows:

[[Page 4678]]

       (1) Effective as of November 1, 2000, section 107 is 
     amended--
       (A) in the second sentence of subsection (a), by inserting 
     ``or (d)'' after ``subsection (c)'';
       (B) by redesignating the second subsection (c) (added by 
     section 332(a)(2) of the Veterans Benefits and Health Care 
     Improvement Act of 2000 (Public Law 106-419)) as subsection 
     (d); and
       (C) in subsection (d), as so redesignated, by striking 
     ``In'' in paragraph (1) and inserting ``With respect to 
     benefits under chapter 23 of this title, in''.
       (2) Section 3512 is amended--
       (A) in subsection (a)(5), by striking ``clause (4) of this 
     subsection'' and inserting ``paragraph (4)''; and
       (B) in subsection (b)(2), by striking ``willfull'' and 
     inserting ``willful''.
       (3) Section 4303(13) is amended by striking the second 
     period at the end.
       (b) Public Law 106-419.--Effective as of November 1, 2000, 
     and as if included therein as originally enacted, the 
     Veterans Benefits and Health Care Improvement Act of 2000 
     (Public Law 106-419) is amended as follows:
       (1) Section 111(f)(3) (114 Stat. 1831) is amended by 
     striking ``3654'' and inserting ``3564''.
       (2) Section 323(a)(1) (114 Stat. 1855) is amended by 
     inserting a comma in the second quoted matter therein after 
     ``duty''.
       (3) Section 401(e)(1) (114 Stat. 1860) is amended by 
     striking ``this'' both places it appears in quoted matter and 
     inserting ``This''.
       (4) Section 402(b) (114 Stat. 1861) is amended by striking 
     the close quotation marks and period at the end of the table 
     in paragraph (2) of the matter inserted by the amendment made 
     that section.
       (c) Public Law 102-590.--Section 3(a)(1) of the Homeless 
     Veterans Comprehensive Service Programs Act of 1992 (38 
     U.S.C. 7721 note) is amended by striking ``, during,''.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from New 
Jersey (Mr. Smith) and the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Evans) each 
will control 20 minutes.
  The Chair recognizes the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Smith).
  Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I 
may consume.
  Mr. Speaker, the 107th Congress is only a few months old, but it is 
already apparent that this is going to be one that works to keep 
America's promises to veterans and their families. Later today we will 
begin consideration of H. Con. Res. 83, the congressional budget 
resolution, which contains record levels of funding for veterans' 
programs. As a matter of fact, it contains a 12 percent boost for VA 
spending, both mandatory and discretionary, to bring it to $52.3 
billion, a $5.6 billion increase over fiscal year 2001.
  In the past month, Mr. Speaker, the House Committee on Veterans' 
Affairs has met 10 times to hear the views of the Department of 
Veterans Affairs as well as veterans' organizations. We have heard from 
organizations such as the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Gold Star 
Wives, the National Association of State Directors of Veterans Affairs, 
the Retired Enlisted Association, Fleet Reserve Association, Air Force 
Sergeants Association, the Jewish War Veterans, Blinded Veterans 
Association, Noncommissioned Officers Association, Military Order of 
the Purple Heart, Paralyzed Veterans of America, Disabled American 
Veterans, Amvets, American Ex-Prisoners of War, Vietnam Veterans of 
America, and the Retired Officers Association, 16 organizations in all.
  Mr. Speaker, we learned a great deal about what is taking place in 
the lives of veterans and their families. We also learned about 
government programs that are effective and making a difference in their 
lives, and about some that need to be revised and updated and reformed.
  Mr. Speaker, I encourage Members and their constituents to visit the 
Committee on Veterans' Affairs, Website to review the testimony 
presented at these hearings to learn more about these hearings and the 
testimony that we have received. For the Record, that is http://
veterans.gov/. It is a font of information and a great resource on 
veterans legislation and hearings.
  Mr. Speaker, we also heard during the course of those hearings from 
our distinguished VA Secretary Anthony Principi on two of those 
occasions. We heard about his determination to make the VA a more 
responsive and a more effective organization. Members of the Committee 
on Veterans' Affairs also told the Secretary that it is not enough that 
a grateful Nation remember its veterans and their sacrifice. The Nation 
that provides in excess of $47 billion, and as I said, that is likely 
to jump to $52.3 billion for veterans' programs, expects the VA to be 
held accountable.
  We need accountability to make sure that that which we pass is 
faithfully implemented. We hope that in the future Secretary Principi 
will share this message with all of his employees. We really want the 
best bang for the buck. We want our veterans to be well served.
  Today the House is considering two measures reported by the Committee 
on Veterans' Affairs last week. I would like to briefly summarize the 
purposes of the Veterans Opportunities Act of 2001. The gentleman from 
Arizona (Mr. Hayworth), the very distinguished chairman of our 
Subcommittee on Benefits, will provide a more detailed explanation of 
the bill momentarily.
  Mr. Speaker, the Veterans Opportunities Act of 2001 is designed to 
enhance nonhealth programs serving veterans and their families. Many of 
the ideas contained in this bill were favorably mentioned in the 
testimony we received from the veterans' service organizations during 
the 107th Congress. One of this bill's provisions updates the law 
governing the type of training veterans can pursue under the Montgomery 
GI bill. We see more and more education and training opportunities 
offered outside of the traditional classroom setting. Veterans pursuing 
a good job should be able to use their GI benefits to offset the cost 
of these courses, and this bill will make those types of training more 
affordable to veterans eligible for the Montgomery GI bill.
  The life insurance program available to all active duty 
servicemembers and many reservists does not provide coverage to members 
of the servicemember's family. Since so many persons on active duty 
today desire coverage for family members at an affordable premium, this 
bill would authorize that coverage.

                              {time}  1415

  The bill also includes a provision to make the increase in life 
insurance coverage, which is scheduled to go into effect next Sunday, 
April 1, retroactive to cover the deaths of many of the service members 
who have tragically lost their lives since October 1 of last year.
  I want to salute the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Reyes), the ranking 
Democrat of the Subcommittee on Benefits, and the gentlewoman from 
Virginia (Mrs. Jo Ann Davis), a new member, for suggesting this 
provision in the bill.
  H.R. 801 also authorizes increases in payments to families of 
deceased veterans for burial expenses and in amounts provided to assist 
seriously disabled veterans purchase cars and to fix up their homes 
with specially adapted devices. It also requires the VA to improve its 
outreach efforts so that more veterans and their families are informed 
about the benefits for which they qualify.
  Another provision is designed to ensure that service members are 
fully briefed on benefits that they may qualify for before they leave 
the service.
  Before yielding to the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Evans), I want to 
express my very deep appreciation for his hard work and that of our 
staff and his staff and many, many Members on the bills that we are 
discussing today.
  Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
  Mr. EVANS. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
  Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 801. I commend and 
thank the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Smith), the distinguished 
chairman of the committee, for his leadership on this measure. The 
Veterans Opportunities Act of 2001 provides many improvements to 
veterans benefits and I am pleased to be an original cosponsor of this 
bill.
  I also want to recognize several other Members who have contributed 
to this legislation, the chairman of the Subcommittee on Benefits, the 
gentleman from Arizona (Mr. Hayworth); the ranking member of the 
Subcommittee on Benefits, the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Doyle); 
and the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Pascrell), two outstanding and 
effective advocates for our veterans. This is a better bill because of 
their efforts.

[[Page 4679]]

  Mr. Speaker, last September I introduced H.R. 5271, the Veterans' 
Family Farm Protection Act. That bill made it possible for more wartime 
veterans and their survivors to qualify for VA pension benefits without 
being forced to sell their family homes and ranches. I thank the 
chairman for including these provisions as section 306 of H.R. 801. 
This legislation will also benefit low-income veterans who seek to 
obtain health care from the VA.
  I especially applaud the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Reyes) for his 
leadership in first proposing an October 1, 2000, retroactive effective 
date for the $250,000 maximum benefit in the Servicemembers Group Life 
Insurance. The Reyes proposal would permit increased benefits to be 
paid under certain conditions to beneficiaries of those servicemembers 
who lost their lives in the performance of duty.
  The gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Doyle) and the gentleman from 
New Jersey (Mr. Pascrell) have been strong advocates for improved VA 
outreach to veterans, their dependents and survivors. Each has authored 
important legislation to improve VA outreach. I am pleased that this 
legislation includes many of those outreach provisions.
  H.R. 801 includes many other provisions important to veterans. Among 
them are improvements in veterans' health care benefits, improving 
veterans' access to transition assistance, increases in grants for 
adaptive housing, and increases in burial and funeral expenses, and the 
burial plot allowance.
  I urge my colleagues to approve this measure and include a summary of 
H.R. 801 for the Record.

        Veterans Opportunities Act of 2001, H.R. 801, as Amended

       Title: To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve 
     programs of educational assistance, to expand programs of 
     transition assistance and outreach to departing 
     servicemembers, veterans, and dependents, to increase burial 
     benefits, to provide for family coverage under 
     Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance, and for other purposes.
       Mr. Smith (for himself, Mr. Evans, Mr. Hayworth, and Mr. 
     Reyes) introduced H.R. 801 on February 28, 2001; which was 
     referred to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
       Additional Cosponsors: Mr. Abercrombie, Mr. Baldacci, Ms. 
     Berkley, Mr. Berry, Mr. Bilirakis, Ms. Brown of Florida, Mr. 
     Brown of South Carolina, Mr. Buyer, Ms. Carson, Mr. Crenshaw, 
     Mrs. Davis of Virginia, Mr. Doyle, Mr. Edwards, Mr. Ehrlich, 
     Mr. Filner, Mr. Gonzalez, Mr. Goode, Mr. Gutierrez, Mr. 
     Hansen, Mr. Honda, Mrs. Kelly, Ms. Lee, Mrs. McCarthy of New 
     York, Mr. Owens, Mr. Pascrell, Mr. Peterson, Mr. Putnam, Mr. 
     Roukema, Mr. Shows, Mr. Simmons, Mr. Simpson, Mr. Snyder, Ms. 
     Solis, Mr. Spence, Mr. Stump, Mr. Udall of New Mexico, and 
     Ms. Waters.
       H.R. 801, as amended, would:


               title i--educational assistance provisions

       1. Increase from $2,000 to $3,400 the maximum allowable 
     annual SROTC award for benefits under the Montgomery GI Bill.
       2. Expand VA's work-study program for veterans to include 
     working in their major academic discipline, working in state 
     veterans homes, and helping State Approving Agencies with 
     outreach efforts.
       3. Provide for inclusion of certain private technology 
     entities in the definition of educational institution.
       4. Allow the disabled spouse or surviving spouse of a 
     severely disabled service connected veteran to receive 
     special restorative training.
       5. Permit veterans to use VA educational assistance 
     benefits for a certificate program offered by an accredited 
     institution of higher learning by way of independent study.


              title ii--transition and outreach provisions

       1. Provide VA the authority to maintain transition 
     assistance offices overseas.
       2. Extend the time that preparation counseling is available 
     to servicemembers leaving the service to as early as 12 
     months before discharge, and 24 months prior to discharge for 
     military retirees.
       3. Improve education and training outreach services by 
     requiring each State Approving Agency to conduct outreach 
     programs and provide services to eligible veterans and 
     dependents about state and federal education and training 
     benefits.
       4. For purposes of VA's outreach program, defines an 
     eligible dependent as the spouse, surviving spouse, child or 
     dependent parent of a servicemember/veteran. Require VA to 
     ensure that eligible dependents are made aware of VA's 
     services through media and veterans publications.
       5. Require VA to provide to the veteran or eligible 
     dependent information concerning VA benefits and services 
     whenever that person first applies for any benefit.


      TITLE III--MEMORIAL AFFAIRS, INSURANCE, AND OTHER PROVISIONS

       1. Increase the burial and funeral expense for a service 
     connected veteran from $1,500 to $2,000, increase the burial 
     and funeral expense for a nonservice connected veteran from 
     $300 to $500, and increase the burial plot allowance from 
     $150 to $300.
       2. Expand the Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance (SGLI) 
     program to include spouses and children. Spousal coverage 
     will not exceed $100,000; child coverage would be $10,000. 
     Upon termination of SGLI, the spouse's policy could be 
     converted to a private life insurance policy.
       3. Make the effective date of an increase from $200,000 to 
     $250,000 in the maximum SGLI benefit provided for in Public 
     Law 106-419 retroactive to October 1, 2000, for a 
     servicemember who died in the performance of duty and had the 
     maximum amount of insurance in force.
       4. Increase the automobile and adaptive equipment grant for 
     severely disabled veterans from $8,000 to $9,000.
       5. Increase the grant for specially adapted housing for 
     severely disabled veterans from $43,000 to $48,000, and 
     increase the amount for less severely disabled veterans from 
     $8,250 to $9,250.
       6. Revise the rule with respect to the net worth limitation 
     for VA's means-tested pension program by excluding the value 
     of property used for farming, ranching or similar 
     agricultural purposes.
       Effective Date: Date of enactment except the following 
     sections:
       Sec. 106(a): Shall take effect as if included in the 
     enactment of the Veterans Benefits and Health Care 
     Improvement Act of 2000 enacted on November 1, 2000 (Public 
     Law 106-419).
       Sec. 106(b): Shall take effect as if enacted on November 1, 
     2000.
       Sec. 106(c): Shall take effect as if enacted on November 1, 
     2000.
       Sec. 106(d): May 1, 2001.
       Sec. 106(e): Shall take effect as if enacted on November 1, 
     2000.
       Sec. 302: The first day of the first month that begins more 
     than 120 days after date of enactment.
       Cost: The Congressional Budget Office estimates that H.R. 
     801, as amended, would increase direct spending by $46 
     million in 2002, $290 million over the 2002-2006 period, and 
     about $700 million over the 2002-2011 period. Direct spending 
     would also increase in fiscal year 2001 should the bill be 
     enacted before the end of this fiscal year. If addition, 
     implementing the bill would increase spending subject to 
     appropriation by less than $500,000 a year.
       Legislative History:
       Mar. 21, 2001: H.R. 801 ordered reported favorably, as 
     amended, by the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
       Mar. 26, 2001: H.R. 801 reported, as amended, by the 
     Committee on Veterans' Affairs. H. Rept. 107-27.

  Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
  Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may 
consume to the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. Hayworth), the chairman of 
our Subcommittee on Benefits.
  Mr. HAYWORTH. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. 
Smith), the chairman of the full committee, for yielding me this time.
  Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise today in support of H.R. 801, the 
Veterans Opportunities Act of 2001.
  H.R. 801 makes a number of improvements and expansions to VA's 
benefits and services, some of which I would like to take this 
opportunity to briefly highlight.
  With respect to educational assistance, this bill increases from 
$2,000 to $3,400 the maximum allowable annual Senior ROTC award for 
benefits under the Montgomery GI bill; expands VA's work-study program 
for veteran students; provides the inclusion of certain private 
technology entities, such as Microsoft and Novell, in the definition of 
educational institution; and permits veterans to use VA educational 
assistance benefits for a certificate program offered by an institution 
of higher learning by way of independent study.
  H.R. 801 also enhances and clarifies VA's outreach services to 
separating servicemembers, as well as the spouse, surviving spouse, 
children and dependent parent of a veteran, and requires VA to provide 
full benefits and health care eligibility information to a veteran and 
dependent whenever that person first applies for any benefit.
  Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. 
Pascrell) and the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Doyle) for working 
with the subcommittee on those aforementioned outreach provisions.
  We also make a number of program increases, including raising the 
burial

[[Page 4680]]

and funeral expenses for service and nonservice connected veterans and 
increasing the plot allowance.
  The automobile and adaptive grant for severely disabled veterans is 
increased from $8,000 to $9,000, and the specially adapted housing 
grant is increased from $43,000 to $48,000.
  We also propose to expand the Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance 
program to include coverage for the spouse and children of a 
servicemember enrolled in the insurance program.
  Finally, Mr. Speaker, as we all know, within the last few months, we 
have lost far too many servicemembers to plane crashes, training 
accidents and, of course, an act of terrorism at sea. Just yesterday, 
it appears we lost two pilots in a U.S. Army plane crash in Germany. 
Two F-15s are missing after taking off yesterday from Lakenheath Air 
Base in the Scottish Highlands.
  Mr. Speaker, sadly, I was informed this morning that one of the 
missing pilots could very well be from my home State of Arizona.
  Last year, Congress approved legislation to increase the maximum 
amount of Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance from $200,000 to a 
quarter of a million dollars, $250,000. Even though the bill was signed 
into law on November 1 of 2000, this particular provision would not 
have gone into effect until April 1 of this year. So the bill we are 
discussing today would change the effective date to October 1, 2000, 
for those servicemembers who died during the performance of their 
military duties and had previously elected the maximum insurance 
amount.
  Mr. Speaker, I would like to take time to thank my friend, the 
gentleman from Texas (Mr. Reyes), the ranking member of the 
Subcommittee on Benefits, a Vietnam combat veteran, for helping us 
bring this provision to the table. Credit should also be given by this 
House to a newcomer to this institution, the gentlewoman from Virginia 
(Mrs. Jo Ann Davis), for working with the full committee on this issue. 
Both of these Members deserve acknowledgment for their steadfast 
support to this issue and the bipartisan way in which we have worked.
  Mr. Speaker, I would just note for the record we hear so much on the 
cable gab fests and on the Sunday shows about the need for 
bipartisanship. Mr. Speaker, at this time, in this place, we reaffirm 
the notion that those who sign on in our all-volunteer force do not 
check a box for partisan preference. They go not as Republicans or as 
Democrats but as Americans to serve our country, and today we reaffirm 
that.
  Let me thank the ranking member of the subcommittee, the gentleman 
from Texas (Mr. Reyes), for working with me on crafting this 
legislation in a bipartisan fashion, legislation which will benefit 
many active duty servicemembers, veterans, and dependents.
  I also want to thank the gentleman from California (Mr. Thomas) and 
the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Evans), the ranking member of our full 
committee, for their leadership.
  Mr. Speaker, once again, for the reasons outlined in the 
aforementioned comments, I would urge my colleagues to support the 
Veterans Opportunity Act of 2001.
  Mr. EVANS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 4 minutes to the gentleman from Texas 
(Mr. Reyes).
  Mr. REYES. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. 
Evans), for yielding me this time.
  Mr. Speaker, as an original cosponsor and strong supporter of H.R. 
801, the Veterans Opportunities Act of 2001, I am pleased that we are 
considering this bill today. H.R. 801 contains a number of important 
provisions advanced by Members from both sides of the aisle, as the 
gentleman from Arizona (Mr. Hayworth) stated a few minutes ago.
  I want to acknowledge, first and foremost, the cooperation of the 
gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Smith) and the ranking member, the 
gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Evans), as well as the subcommittee 
chairman, the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. Hayworth), in bringing this 
bill to the floor in its present form.
  The bill will improve educational benefits, transitional assistance 
for separating servicemembers, and outreach to veterans and their 
families.
  I thank the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Doyle) and the gentleman 
from New Jersey (Mr. Pascrell), my colleagues, for their tireless 
advocacy for improved outreach to veterans and their families.
  The bill also provides benefits for the increased cost of funerals, 
automobile and housing adaptations for severely disabled veterans, and 
it will stop eroding these benefits as the costs they are intended to 
cover increase year by year. The burial-related benefits increases 
proposed by this bill were last changed, Mr. Speaker, in 1973.
  Because when benefit levels are not indexed to reflect the increased 
cost of the items that they are intended to pay for, veterans receive 
less value as each year goes by. The longer the time, the greatest the 
loss. By indexing these benefits to changes in the cost of living, 
their purchasing power will be retained.
  I particularly want to discuss the insurance provisions of this bill. 
I am very pleased that the bill incorporates my request to make the 
beginning of fiscal year 2001 the effective date for the increase in 
the maximum amount of Servicemembers Group Life Insurance from $200,000 
to $250,000 for those who lose their lives during the performance of 
military duties.
  As a Vietnam veteran, I know the dangers of combat. Recent events 
have shown that even military training exercises and more routine duty 
can result in the loss of life to our servicemembers. As I stated 
during the subcommittee hearing, I was particularly concerned that 
those who lost their lives in the terrorist attack on the USS Cole as 
well as those such as Specialist Rafael Olvera Rodriguez, an El Paso 
native who died in the Blackhawk helicopter crash over Hawaii, ensure 
that they all qualify for increased maximum benefits.
  Since the Cole attack, others performing official duties have died in 
North Carolina, Georgia, and Kuwait. Two National Coast Guardsmen died 
after an accident while on patrol just this past weekend, and just 
yesterday two pilots died when their Army plane crashed in Germany and 
two Air Force planes disappeared over Scotland with apparent loss of 
life.
  The effective date of October 1, 2000 is intended to provide the 
maximum benefit of $250,000 for SGLI insured members, such as those who 
have lost their lives in performance of duty and who were insured for 
the maximum benefit at the time of their deaths. I know that the 
families of these military-insured members will appreciate this 
benefit.
  I also support the provision allowing family members to be covered 
under the SGLI program. This is a needed improvement.
  Finally, Mr. Speaker, I support the provision of excluding family 
farms and ranches from net worth determination for pension purposes.
  Mr. Speaker, I was born on a family farm and I know the value of 
family farms. There are a number of small family farms today in my 
district. We should not ask veterans to give up their family farms in 
order to receive veterans' benefits that they have earned.
  I today want to urge all Members to support this bill. It is a 
generous bill that pays back the debt that this country owes its men 
and women in uniform.
  Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may 
consume to the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Bilirakis), the very 
distinguished vice chairman of the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
  Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I thank my chairman, the gentleman from 
New Jersey (Mr. Smith), for yielding me this time.
  Mr. Speaker, I too support H.R. 801. This legislation makes important 
improvements to veterans' benefits such as increasing the burial and 
funeral allowance from $1,500 to $2,000 for service-connected veterans 
and from $300 to $500 for nonservice-connected veterans. The bill also 
raises the burial plot allowance from $150 to $300.
  In addition, Mr. Speaker, the legislation increases the automobile 
and

[[Page 4681]]

adaptive equipment grants for severely disabled veterans from $8,000 to 
$9,000. Under the bill, specially adapted housing grants are increased 
from $43,000 to $48,000, and the amount for additional adaptations to 
the home that may be needed later in life is raised from $8,250 to 
$9,250.

                              {time}  1430

  The bill expands, as has already been indicated, the Servicemembers' 
Group Life Insurance Program to cover spouses up to a maximum of 
$100,000 and children to $10,000; and the bill also makes another 
important change to the sick-leave program. It increases the amount of 
servicemembers group life insurance paid to the survivors of members of 
the Armed Forces who died in the performance of duty between October 1, 
2000, and March 31 of this year. Specifically, it directs the Secretary 
of Veterans Affairs to increase sick-leave payments to the maximum 
amount of $250,000 for those who previously contracted for the maximum 
benefit.
  This increase was originally signed into law in November of 2000 as 
part of Public Law 106-419, but the implementation was delayed, 
unfortunately, until April 1, 2001; and unfortunately, a number of 
military personnel have been killed. As also has been raised by the 
gentleman from Texas (Mr. Reyes) and others, a number of other military 
personnel have been killed in the line of duty since October 2000, 
including one of my constituents, Erik Larson, who was killed in a 
National Guard airplane crash earlier this month. While this bill will 
not ease the pain of losing a loved one, it will lessen the financial 
hardship.
  And as a cosponsor of H.R. 801, Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to 
support the Veterans Opportunities Act of 2001.
  Mr. EVANS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Texas 
(Mr. Rodriguez).
  Mr. RODRIGUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to have the opportunity to 
speak on the important bipartisan piece of legislation that we have 
before us. I want to take this opportunity to thank the chairman of the 
full committee and the chairman of the subcommittee for their 
leadership, as well as the minority leader, as well as the gentleman 
from Illinois (Mr. Evans) for his efforts, and the gentleman from Texas 
(Mr. Reyes) also.
  At a time when drastic tax cuts seem to overshadow our Nation's 
priorities, it is refreshing that the House should take up the 
legislation that addresses our commitment to improving services to 
those that have made the ultimate sacrifice, our veterans.
  The Veterans Opportunities Act makes improvement to key veterans' 
programs. In particular, the measure makes enhancements to the veterans 
educational and the burial benefits that are long overdue. For those 
seeking assistance in pursuing higher education, the bill increases 
benefits under the Montgomery GI Bill. It expands the work-study 
opportunities for veteran students and extends benefits to cover 
independent study for qualified institutions. Without doubt, the 
educational benefits are instrumental in assisting the military in 
recruitment efforts. Those men and women who have chosen to serve our 
country in uniform deserve better access to higher education; and we 
all recognize the importance of how the cost of education has continued 
to grow and continued to move forward, so it is important for us to 
keep pace with that.
  We have come a step forward; we still have a long way to go. But I am 
very pleased that we are beginning to address and increase the amounts 
of the Montgomery GI Bill.
  Finally, the families who face financial challenges for burying our 
veterans will receive some relief under H.R. 801. Burial funeral 
allowances will be increased from $1,500 to $2,000 for service-
connected veterans and $300 to $500 for nonservice-connected veterans.
  As Congress prepares to take up the budget resolution, we should 
remind ourselves that our peace is a blessing. However, peace does not 
diminish our obligation to American veterans. It is time to take care 
of those and move forward. This bill begins to do that, and I want to 
thank the leadership on both sides for their efforts on this piece of 
legislation.
  Once again, I want to congratulate the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. 
Evans) and the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Smith), the chairman of 
the committee, and the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Reyes) for their 
efforts.
  Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, I yield 4 minutes to the 
distinguished gentlewoman from Virginia (Mrs. Jo Ann Davis).
  Mrs. JO ANN DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support 
of H.R. 801, the Veterans' Opportunity Act of 2001. As a cosponsor of 
this legislation, I am proud to be able to say that the committee 
referred a bill that has practical and immediate effects for many 
veterans and their loved ones. This legislation comprehensively 
addresses many issues associated with veterans and their dependents. 
However, Mr. Speaker, I will not delve into the details of this 
legislation. Suffice it to say our veterans have earned their benefits, 
often purchasing them with their own blood.
  What I would like to speak about today is one section of the 
legislation that I believe will have an immediate and practical effect 
for the surviving families of many of our recently deceased veterans. 
As my colleagues may know, I recently introduced a bill, H.R. 115, the 
SGLI Adjustment Act. The substantive language of this bill was 
incorporated by the committee directly into H.R. 801. This legislation 
will directly and immediately help many of the families and 
beneficiaries of those killed since October 1, 2000.
  Mr. Speaker, as I am sure my colleagues are aware, our military has 
recently suffered numerous tragedies. The bombing of the U.S.S. Cole, 
the crash of an Osprey, a Blackhawk, a National Guard airplane, and the 
accidental bombing of our own troops in Kuwait. All of these accidents 
were unforeseen, and all of these accidents resulted in the tragic loss 
of life.
  Mr. Speaker, thankfully, our Nation has seen fit to provide our 
servicemen with a program of insurance to allow the families and 
beneficiaries to have some protection in the event of untimely death. 
This insurance, Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance, otherwise known 
as SGLI, can be purchased at a low rate for a maximum benefit of up to 
$200,000. Recently, on November 1 of last year, the President signed a 
bill increasing this maximum benefit to $250,000. Unfortunately, for 
those recently affected families, this increase in coverage does not 
take effect until April 1 of this year. By incorporating the 
substantive language of my bill, we will retroactively grant this 
increase to those families who had opted for the maximum benefit and 
subsequently lost a loved one in the performance of their duty.
  Mr. Speaker, I would like to note that this provision is revenue-
neutral and is funded from the SGLI Reserve Fund. It follows similar 
legislative precedent dating from the Gander, Newfoundland, crash and 
the death indemnity granted after the Gulf War.
  Additionally, this provision has the direct support and endorsement 
of several veterans' and servicemen's organizations.
  Mr. Speaker, just a few weeks ago, tragedy struck locally in my own 
district in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Several constituents of mine 
perished in the Air National Guard crash. I attended their memorial 
service. However, that was the hardest thing I had to face. The 
families of these servicemen face much harder days ahead.
  Mr. Speaker, by passing the Veterans Opportunity Act of 2001, we will 
show the families and beneficiaries of these servicemen that we do, 
indeed, care. We take care of our own. Never let it be said that we do 
not.
  I ask that the other Members of the House support H.R. 801. In the 
long term, this is the only way in which we will be able to assist the 
families of those recently perished.
  Mr. Speaker, I would be remiss if I did not thank the committee and 
its staff for their hard work and dedication in seeing this bill 
brought to the floor. In particular, I would like to thank the 
gentleman from New Jersey

[[Page 4682]]

(Mr. Smith), the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. Hayworth), and the 
gentleman from Florida (Mr. Crenshaw) for ensuring that my legislation 
was attached to this bill in the form of a friendly amendment.
  Mr. Speaker, now is the time. Now is the time for the other Members 
of the people's House to stand and support the families of our 
servicemen. Vote in support of passage of H.R. 801.
  Mr. Speaker, I include the following material for the Record:

                                U.S. House of Representatives,

                                                   March 20, 2001.
     Hon. Christopher H. Smith,
     Chairman, House Committee on Veterans' Affairs, Cannon House 
         Office Building, Washington, DC.
       Dear Chairman Smith: It is my understanding that you 
     recently received a letter from several of our colleagues 
     asking for your support for amending H.R. 801, the Veterans' 
     Opportunities Act, to include the language of H.R. 1015. As a 
     cosponsor of both H.R. 801 and H.R. 1015, and as a member of 
     your Committee, I am writing to add my support for this 
     proposal.
       As you know, Congress last year approved a $50,000 
     increase, to $250,000, in the maximum death benefits for 
     families of military personnel through the Servicemembers' 
     Group Life Insurance (SGLI). Though the legislation was 
     signed into law on November 1, 2000, the effective date of 
     this increase is not until April 1, 2001. Regrettably, for 
     many of our servicemembers and their families--most notably, 
     the 21 National Guard members killed in a plane crash earlier 
     this month and the 17 sailors killed in the terrorist bombing 
     of the USS Cole--this is too late.
       H.R. 1015 would make a modest change in law that would 
     bring comfort and security to the families of these brave 
     servicemembers by making the annuity increase retroactive to 
     October 1, 2001. The Administration has announced its support 
     for this legislation, and I know that you have voiced your 
     support for it as well.
       I am hopeful that you will make it a part of your mark for 
     tomorrow's mark-up session of H.R. 801. In the alternative, 
     if offered as amendment, I am hopeful that you will support 
     its adoption.
       I look forward to working with you on this and other 
     measures to improve the lives of our veterans and 
     servicemembers.
           Sincerely,
                                                   Ander Crenshaw,
     Member of Congress.
                                  ____



                                 Congress of the United States

                                   Washington, DC, March 20, 2001.
     Congressman Christopher H. Smith, Chairman,
     House Committee on Veterans' Affairs, U.S. House of 
         Representatives, Cannon House Office Building, 
         Washington, DC.
       Dear Chairman Smith: This letter is to request that the 
     Committee on Veterans' Affairs consider attaching H.R. 1015 
     as an amendment to H.R. 801, The Veterans' Opportunities Act 
     of 2001.
       As we know you are aware, America has recently suffered 
     numerous military tragedies that have resulted in the 
     unfortunate deaths of many of our servicemen and women. In 
     particular, we have recently faced the crash of an Osprey, a 
     Blackhawk, a Air National Guard airplane, and an accidental 
     bombing of our own servicemen.
       On November 1 of last year, the President signed 
     legislation (c.f. P.L. 106-419) to increase the maximum SGLI 
     benefit from $200,000 to $250,000. However, the effective 
     date of this increase was delayed until April 1, 2001. H.R. 
     1015 would retroactively authorize the increased benefit for 
     those who died after November 1, 2000 and were to receive the 
     maximum SGLI benefit.
       We would ask that the Committee incorporate the Davis 
     language of H.R. 1015, while changing the effective date of 
     retroactive coverage to October 1, 2001. This would pair the 
     date of retroactivity with the beginning of the Fiscal Year 
     and would assist the families and beneficiaries of the USS 
     Cole tragedy.
       Again, thank you for your consideration of our request.
           Sincerely,
     Jo Ann Davis,
     Eric Cantor,
     Ed Schrock,
     Adam Putnam.
                                  ____



                                        Air Force Association,

                                    Arlington, VA, March 14, 2001.
     Hon. Jo Ann Davis,
     Longworth House Office Building, Washington, DC.
       Dear Ms. Davis: The Air Force Association applauds your 
     efforts to include those service members killed in the line 
     of duty and covered at the maximum limit of the 
     Servicemembers Group Life Insurance (SGLI) Program since 
     November 1, 2000 under the proposed increased limits for 
     SGLI.
       Your initiative will ensure that service-families mourning 
     these tragic losses will receive the same benefits as those 
     affected after the passage of the legislation.
       We look forward to working with you to enact this 
     legislation into law.
           Sincerely,
                                                    John A. Shaud,
     General, USAF (Ret).
                                  ____

                                     National Guard Association of


                                            the United States,

                                   Washington, DC, March 14, 2001.
     Hon. Jo Ann Davis,
     U.S. House of Representatives,
     Washington, DC.
       Dear Representative Davis: On behalf of the members of the 
     National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS), I 
     wish to extend our support for H.R. 1015, legislation that 
     will provide for an increase in the amount of Servicemember's 
     Group Life Insurance (SGLI) paid to survivors of members who 
     died in the line of duty.
       With the increased level of operations for all members of 
     the Armed Services, there have been an unfortunate increasing 
     number of training accidents. This was all too evident when 
     21 members of the National Guard tragically lost their lives 
     on March 3rd, in a military airplane crash. These good men 
     died while serving their country, their state and their 
     community. The severity of this accident is a grim reminder 
     of the risks we ask of the members of the National Guard, 
     along with all men and women who serve in uniform.
       On November 1, 2001, the President signed into law S. 1402 
     that increased the maximum benefit for the SGLI from $200,000 
     to $250,000. However, implementation of the increase was 
     delayed until April 1, 2001. The legislation you introduced 
     will provide those service members who previously contracted 
     for the maximum benefit of SGLI and died in the line of duty 
     to receive the increased maximum amount of $250,000.
       The National Guard Association of the United States fully 
     supports your efforts and therefore I am proud to offer the 
     endorsement of the NGAUS for H.R. 1015.
           Respectfully,

                                         Richard C. Alexander,

                                      Major General, OHARNG (Ret),
     Executive Director.
                                  ____

         Non Commissioned Officers Association of the United 
           States of America,
                                   Alexandria, VA, March 16, 2001.
     Hon. Jo Ann Davis,
     U.S. House of Representatives, Longworth House Office 
         Building, Washington, DC.
       Dear Representative Davis: Thank you for introducing 
     legislation to provide an increase in the amount of 
     Servicemember's Group Life Insurance (SGLI) paid to survivors 
     of members of the Armed Forces who died in the performance of 
     duty between November 1, 2000, and April 1, 2001.
       Recognizing those men and women whom made the ultimate 
     sacrifice, and ensuring that their family members are cared 
     for is of utmost importance to the NCOA.
       The NCOA strongly supports your proposed piece of 
     legislation. Accordingly, it will be our privilege to provide 
     testimony on behalf of H.R. 1015, or whatever assistance you 
     may require.
           Sincerely,
                                               Alex J. Harrington,
     Director of Legislative Affairs.
                                  ____



                             The Retired Officers Association,

                                   Alexandria, VA, March 16, 2001.
     Hon. Jo Ann Davis,
     U.S. House of Representatives,
     Washington, DC.
       Dear Representative Davis: On behalf of the 390,000 members 
     of The Retired Officers Association (TROA), I wish to extend 
     our support for H.R. 1015, a bill to provide for an increase 
     in the amount of Servicemember's Group Life Insurance (SGLI) 
     paid to survivors of members of the Armed Forces who died in 
     the performance of duty between November 1, 2000, and April 
     1, 2001.
       Your legislation provides an important and timely 
     correction in the implementation of the recent increase in 
     SGLI coverage from $200,000 to $250,000. The legislation is 
     also consistent with action taken to increase SGLI after 
     operational accidents such as the Gander, Newfoundland 
     disaster. H.R. 1015 will ensure that those not covered at the 
     higher SGLI level during the period between passage and 
     implementation of the increase authorized under P.L. 106-419 
     will now be covered.
       With the increased level of operations for all members of 
     the Armed Services, tragic accidents are occurring more 
     frequently. From the U.S.S. Cole to the most recent crash of 
     an Air National Guard plane, our servicemen and women risk 
     their lives on a daily basis. The severity of these accidents 
     serve as a reminder that liberty is not procured without the 
     constant vigilance of those who freely give up theirs to 
     protect us.
       TROA greatly appreciates your leadership on this issue and 
     we offer our full endorsement of H.R. 1015, a bill that will 
     help surviving family members to meet critical family needs 
     following the tragic loss of their servicemembers in recent 
     terrorist attacks or training accidents.
           Sincerely,
                                                Michael A. Nelson.

[[Page 4683]]

     
                                  ____
                             Gold Star Wives of America, Inc.,

                                      Vincent, AL, March 16, 2001.
     Hon. Jo Ann Davis,
     U.S. House of Representatives,
     Washington, DC.
       Dear Congresswoman Davis: On behalf of the 13,000 members 
     of Gold Star Wives of America, Inc., I wish to extend our 
     support for H.R. 1015, a bill to provide for an increase in 
     the amount of Servicemember's Group Life Insurance (SGLI) 
     paid to survivors of members of the Armed Forces who died in 
     the performance of duty between November 1, 2000, and April 
     1, 2001. However, we would like to see this amended to read 
     October 1, 2000 and April 1, 2001 to include the surviving 
     family members of servicemembers lost on the U.S.S. Cole.
       Your legislation provides an important and timely 
     correction in the implementation of the recent increase in 
     SGLI coverage from $200,000 to $250,000. The legislation is 
     also consistent with action taken to increase SGLI after 
     operational accidents such as the Gander, Newfoundland 
     disaster. H.R. 1015 will ensure that those not covered at the 
     higher SGLI level during the period between passage and 
     implementation of the increase authorized under P.L. 106-419 
     will now be covered.
       With the increased level of operations for all members of 
     the Armed Services, tragic accidents are occurring more 
     frequently. From the U.S.S. Cole to the most recent crash of 
     an Air National Guard plane, our servicemen and women risk 
     their lives on a daily basis. The severity of these accidents 
     serve as a reminder that liberty is not procured without the 
     constant vigilance of those who freely give up theirs to 
     protect us.
       Gold Star Wives of America Inc. greatly appreciates your 
     leadership on this issue and we offer our full endorsement of 
     H.R. 1015, a bill that will help surviving family members to 
     meet critical family needs following the tragic loss of their 
     servicemembers in recent terrorist attacks or training 
     accidents.
           Sincerely,
                                             Rachel A. Clinkscale,
     Board Chairwoman.
                                  ____

         Reserve Officers Association of the United States,
                                   Washington, DC, March 16, 2001.
     Hon. Jo Ann Davis,
     U.S. House of Representatives,
     Washington, DC.
       Dear Representative Davis: On behalf of the 75,000 members 
     of the Reserve Officers Association of the United States, 
     chartered by Congress in 1922 to support the development and 
     implementation of a military policy that will provide 
     adequate national defense for the United States, I want to 
     congratulate you for introducing HR 1015, legislation that 
     would provide for an increase in the amount of Servicemembers 
     Group Life Insurance (SIGLI) paid to the survivors of service 
     members who die in the line of duty. I want you to know that 
     the Reserve Officers Association fully supports your efforts 
     in this regard.
       Since the end of the Cold War we have witnessed a three-
     fold increase in the level of deployments of our Armed 
     Forces. Our men and women in uniform are increasingly called 
     upon to support contingency operations around the world, 
     operations that expose them to danger on a continual basis, 
     as the headlines daily remind us. Over the past several 
     years, members of the Reserve components have annually 
     provided more than 12,500,000 workdays of contributory 
     support to our Active component forces. Truly the level of 
     our military operations is remarkable. So, too, are our men 
     and women of the uniformed services. Your bill will help 
     recognize the value of these contributions and of the men and 
     women who make them.
       Again, let me thank you for sponsoring HR 1015. ROA 
     appreciates your efforts and is pleased to offer our full 
     support.
           Sincerely,
                                                Jayson L. Spiegel,
     Executive Director.
                                  ____

         Enlisted Association of The National Guard of The United 
           States,
                                   Alexandria, VA, March 19, 2001.
     Hon. Jo Ann Davis,
     Longworth House Office Building, Washington, DC.
       Dear Representative Davis: On behalf of the enlisted men 
     and women of the Army and Air National Guard, the Enlisted 
     Association of the National Guard of the United States 
     (EANGUS) wishes to thank you for introducing H.R. 1015, a 
     bill to increase the amount of Servicemember's Group Life 
     Insurance paid to survivors of servicemembers who died in the 
     performance of duty recently.
       Although an increase was signed into law last November, the 
     increase doesn't go into effect until April 1. Your bill 
     would cover those who died in the recent tragedies and ensure 
     that their survivors will receive the new maximum benefit.
       EANGUS fully supports this bill. Thank you for your efforts 
     on behalf of our uniformed men and women who serve their 
     country and sometimes pay the ultimate price in that service.
       Working for America's Best!
                                       MSG Michael P. Cline (Ret),
     Executive Director.
                                  ____

                                                   March 16, 2001.
     Hon. Jo Ann Davis,
     U.S. House of Representatives,
     Washington, DC.
       Dear Representative Davis: On behalf of the members of the 
     National Order of Battlefield Commissions, I wish to extend 
     our support for H.R. 1015, a bill to provide for an increase 
     in the amount of Servicemember's Group Life Insurance (SGLI) 
     paid to survivors of members of the Armed Forces who died in 
     the performance of duty between October 1, 2000, and April 1, 
     2001.
       Your legislation provides an important and timely 
     correction in the implementation of the recent increase in 
     SGLI coverage from $200,000 to $250,000. The legislation is 
     also consistent with action taken to increase SGLI after 
     operational accidents such as the Gander, Newfoundland 
     disaster. H.R. 1015 will ensure that those not covered at the 
     higher SGLI level during the period between passage and 
     implementation of the increase authorized under P.L. 106-416 
     will now be covered.
       With the increased level of operations for all members of 
     the Armed Services, tragic accidents are occurring more 
     frequently. From the U.S.S. Cole to the most recent crash of 
     an Air National Guard plane, our servicemen and women risk 
     their lives on a daily basis. The severity of these incidents 
     serve as a reminder that liberty is not procured without the 
     constant vigilance of our servicemembers.
       The members of the National Order of Battlefield 
     Commissions greatly appreciate your leadership on this issue. 
     We offer our full endorsement of H.R. 1015, a bill that will 
     help surviving family members meet critical needs following 
     the tragic losses of their loved ones to recent terrorist 
     attacks or training accidents.
           Sincerely,
                                                  Robert C. Evans,
                                        Washington Representative.

  Mr. EVANS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 5\1/2\ minutes to the gentleman from 
New Jersey (Mr. Pascrell).
  Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, let me begin by thanking the gentleman 
from New Jersey (Mr. Smith), for including part of the Veterans Right 
to Know Act in the legislation we are considering today. The leadership 
and dedication of the chairman of the committee to our veterans over 
the last 20 years has improved the lives of veterans across the United 
States.
  Let me also extend my gratitude to the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. 
Evans), our ranking member, for his support of my legislation. These 
two gentlemen set the proper tone for bipartisanship, which should be 
recognized, along with the subcommittee folks, the gentleman from 
Arizona (Mr. Hayworth) and the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Reyes), and 
also thank them for inviting us to testify before the subcommittee.
  This legislation I am so proud to be a part of, the first piece of 
veterans legislation to reach the House floor, Mr. Speaker. I would 
like to speak in support of that portion which both the chairman and 
ranking member spoke of before, part of the Veterans Right to Know. 
This legislation makes great strides in improving benefits and outreach 
to our veterans and their dependents. I would also like to acknowledge 
important provisions in the legislation that were based on the 
gentleman from Pennsylvania's (Mr. Doyle) veterans' outreach 
legislation. We worked together to ensure that every veteran has the 
benefits they deserve, and we will continue this work in the future.
  To be quite frank, the lack of information available to veterans and 
their families about their benefits and services that they are eligible 
for has reached crisis proportions. In a recent national survey 
conducted by the Department of Veterans Affairs, it was indicated that 
less than half of the veterans contacted were aware of what benefits 
they were eligible for. We cannot accept that on the floor of the 
House, in the House of the people.
  A survey that I did in my own district, the 8th Congressional 
District of New Jersey, showed that over half of those answering had no 
understanding of their benefits, no one had ever reached out to them, 
no confidence in the VA to deliver the information in the first place. 
These veterans signed a contract when they went into the service to 
defend us; and as a veteran I say this, and I know the gentleman from 
New Jersey (Mr. Smith) and the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Evans) feel 
the same way. Well, what happened to this contract when they left the 
service? What happened to the people and

[[Page 4684]]

their families who now many times after death are going to the VA and 
saying gee, we did not know this, we did not know this.
  This is a sacred covenant America has with its veterans, one that we 
must keep. Too often our Nation's heroes are not adequately informed as 
to what benefits they are entitled to receive or how to obtain those 
benefits. Everyone in this Congress would agree that this is simply 
unacceptable. Veterans across America and I are grateful to the 
gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Smith) for his Veterans' Opportunities 
Act. It includes a portion of legislation, title II, section 205, which 
will inform veterans about benefits and health care services. We are 
not doing veterans any favor, Mr. Speaker. This is our obligation.
  The gentleman from New Jersey's measure also includes the portion of 
legislation that would require the VA to assist widows and survivors of 
veterans by informing them at the time of a burial request or 
application for life insurance proceeds about the full array of 
dependent benefits.
  Today is a victory for veterans everywhere, but it is just the 
beginning. The plan that I have asked for, and hopefully will finally 
be enacted, would specify how the VA will identify veterans who are not 
enrolled or registered with the VA for benefits or services and require 
that the VA consult with the veterans services. How can we talk to the 
veterans about what they are eligible for if we do not start at the 
grass-roots of the organization that the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. 
Smith) spoke of before? All of those organizations, the Veterans of 
Foreign Wars, American Legion, the Disabled American Veterans, the 
Jewish War Veterans, et cetera, Vietnam Veterans, Disabled Veterans, if 
we do not turn to them, how can we really fulfill this covenant that we 
are talking about here?
  Abraham Lincoln spoke of his responsibility in his second inaugural 
address saying, ``We must care for him who shall have borne the battle 
and for his widow and for his orphan.''
  Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Smith) and 
the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Evans) for doing America proud.
  Mr. EVANS. Mr. Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I 
yield back the balance of my time.
  Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, I again want to thank the 
gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Pascrell) for his very kind remarks and 
for his donation to the bill, particularly as it relates to informing 
our servicemen prior to discharge.
  Mr. Speaker, I yield the remaining 2 minutes to the gentleman from 
Illinois (Mr. Kirk), my good friend and colleague.

                              {time}  1445

  Mr. KIRK. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding time to me.
  Mr. Speaker, I would say, first of all, talk about hitting the ground 
running, as the new chairman of the Committee on Veterans' Affairs, the 
gentleman is bringing this legislation so quickly to the House floor. 
When I described this legislation at my recent veterans' town hall 
meeting in north Chicago, Illinois, it got a standing ovation and is 
strongly supported. For us, hitting the ground running on veterans' 
issues is, I think, a crucial in paying our debt to the greatest 
generation for what they gave to our country.
  Mr. Speaker, if there was a veterans caucus here in the Congress, 
including the veterans of Bosnia, Kosovo, and Operation Northern Watch 
in Iraq, I would be it. As a veteran of the most recent conflicts, we 
pay homage to those who served before us in much more difficult and 
arduous conflicts.
  I have to really give my thanks to those men and women who introduced 
me and educated me on the importance of veterans' care: Larry Jenkins 
of the AFGE, shop steward in north Chicago; Johnny Allen, our Lake 
County Veterans Assistance Commission member; Al Pate, our very able 
director of the north Chicago VA Medical Center.
  I want to say how strongly I feel about the need for bipartisan 
cooperation, and really hail the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Evans) 
for his leadership on this issue. For us in the north Chicago VA 
medical system, we really need this health care. We really need to 
expand benefits in the way that H.R. 801 outlines, in order to pay a 
debt that is owed for all of the freedoms that we enjoy.
  We know, and the current data shows, that the children of military 
families overwhelmingly are those who sign up to provide the new duty, 
so the children of the men and women who protect us now will be those 
who protect us in the future. Making sure that we honor the debt and 
promise that we gave to them under President Lincoln's mandate is a 
crucial thing for me in my service here.
  I want to salute the gentleman from New Jersey (Chairman Smith), and 
urge all Members to support this legislation.
  Mr. LANGEVIN. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in strong support of the 
Veterans' Opportunities Act. I commend our veterans who have made such 
significant sacrifices to preserve this Nation and protect the freedoms 
we cherish.
  Many people do not realize just how many veterans are among us: 
19,520 war veterans, 1,854 Persian Gulf veterans, 8,177 Vietnam Era 
veterans, 4,257 Korean Era veterans, and 6,002 World War II veterans. 
In supporting the Veterans' Opportunities Act today, I pay homage to 
the more than 25,000 veterans in this nation.
  I am particularly proud to vote for this legislation because it takes 
critical steps toward strengthening the Veterans Affairs Department. It 
expands payout amounts for several VA death and retirement benefits and 
extends coverage under the Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance program 
to dependent spouses and children. It also increases the maximum 
allowable annual ROTC award for benefits under the Montgomery GI Bill 
and expands the VA's work-study program for veterans who are students. 
Moreover, the Veterans' Opportunities Act increases funding for the 
automobile and adaptive equipment grant for severely disabled veterans 
and allows the disabled spouse or surviving spouse of a severely 
disabled service-connected veteran to receive special restorative 
training--both of these provisions are vital to many of my 
constituents. Finally, this legislation makes these much-needed changes 
retroactive to October 1, 2000, for service members killed in the line 
of duty. This language ensures that the service members killed in the 
terrorist attack on the USS Cole last October are covered.
  I applaud the tireless efforts of the Chairman and Ranking Member on 
behalf of America's veterans over the years. They have succeeded in 
producing valuable legislation that will help those who need and 
deserve these services the most. I urge my colleagues to join me in 
voting for our veterans by voting for the Veterans' Opportunities Act.
  Mr. DOYLE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 801, The 
Veterans Opportunities Act of 2001. I want to acknowledge Chairman 
Smith, Ranking Member Evans, Representative Hayworth, and 
Representative Reyes for their steadfast commitment to fulfilling the 
promises we have made to our veterans and their families, and extend my 
sincere thanks for including portions of H.R. 336 as part of H.R. 801.
  Throughout my six years on the Veterans Affairs Committee, I have 
been a strong supporter for protecting the viability, and ensuring the 
longevity of, the Department of Veterans Affairs. My primary concern 
has always been to improve veterans access to quality health care 
services and to insure they are delivered in a timely manner. But my 
focus on the need to provide appropriate support for the veterans 
health care programs has never clouded my awareness about the important 
roles that adequate support for VA construction projects and medical 
research play in addressing this concern in a serious, thoughtful, and 
effective manner. This is to say that we should always be mindful of 
how the Department works as a whole and be cautious about 
characterizing an issue as having just one facet or affecting just one 
type of individual. In my view, only if we remain sensitive to, and 
forthcoming about, how we can best implement changes to current 
practices to better serve the veterans community can we truly fulfill 
the mission of the Department of Veterans Affairs.
  That is why I took great note of the first hand experiences relayed 
to me by members of the Veterans' Widows International Network (VWIN) 
when they visited my office a few years ago. At that time, members of 
the Network detailed personal difficulties they had endured and 
strongly advocated for the establishment of dedicated informational 
outreach services for surviving spouses and dependents of deceased 
veterans within the Department of Veterans Affairs. For those of you

[[Page 4685]]

who are unfamiliar with this organization, VWIN was established in 1995 
and has dedicated itself to reaching out to veterans' widows to inform 
them of benefits for which they might qualify, to provide them with a 
point of contact for processing their claims, and to keep them abreast 
of changes. The Network has done an admirable job in this respect, but 
if you are like me you are probably wondering why the Department isn't 
providing these services. There are a whole host of challenges that the 
Department could argue that preclude them from improving adequate 
access to, and the timely processing of, such information, including 
the assertion that they are already doing a good enough job in this 
respect. But that just isn't good enough and that is why Congress 
should make it a priority to pass H.R. 801, as well as both H.R. 336 
and H.R. 511 in their entirety.
  The heart of both H.R. 336, The Surviving Spouses and Dependents 
Outreach Enhancement and Veterans Casework Improvement Act, and H.R. 
511, The Veterans Right to Know Act, is a belief grounded in the idea 
that one of our most basic responsibilities is to provide veterans and 
their family members with information about benefits to which they 
might be entitled. Indeed, the success of any initiative embarked upon 
sound levels of awareness and prudent oversight measures.
  I want to sincerely thank Representative Pascrell for being 
responsive to my concerns regarding the informational needs of 
surviving spouses and dependents when drafting the Veterans Right to 
Know Act. Their specific informational needs were initially addressed 
by language which would require the Department to provide information 
to dependents concerning benefits and health care services whenever a 
dependent first applies for any benefit under laws administered by the 
Secretary. This trigger mechanism is definitely a step in the right 
direction and I am pleased that it has been included in Section 205 of 
H.R. 801.
  But what about the informational needs of all the surviving spouses 
and dependents of deceased veterans who would not retroactively be 
affected by this effort? My bill, H.R. 336, addresses this dilemma in a 
very straight forward and reasonable way. Specifically, it would (1) 
establish as a national goal to fully inform surviving spouses and 
dependents regarding their eligibility for benefits and health care 
services under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, 
(2) institute a legislative mandate that surviving spouses and 
dependents be included in the subset of populations targeted by the 
Department for outreach efforts, (3) require a full range of outreach 
efforts for surviving spouses and require dedicated staff at regional 
offices to assist with their needs, and (4) require periodic evaluation 
of the Department's efforts to address the needs of eligible 
dependents. Given the concerns that spurred me to author H.R. 336, I am 
most appreciative that aspects of my legislation involving the expanded 
and clarified term of eligible dependent and the specific means by 
which the Department can meet their informational needs are identified 
in Section 204 of H.R. 801.
  I would, however, have preferred to also see included the cooperative 
effort text of H.R. 336 which speaks to the importance of encouraging 
all elements within the Department to work with private and public 
sector entities--most notably veterans service organizations and 
veterans widows organizations--to inform surviving spouses and 
dependents of deceased veterans regarding their eligibility. I would 
also have liked to see language speaking to the need to have staff at 
the local level available to assist these individuals with filing a 
claim, reconstructing incomplete records, and bridging language 
barriers included. These represent follow-up efforts designed to ensure 
that individuals fully understand and properly utilize the information 
they receive.
  In closing, I believe there are shortcomings in current outreach 
efforts conducted by the Department, and thus I support the related 
improving language contained in H.R. 801. I am pleased that members of 
the Committee have paid attention to the need to bolster the 
Department's outreach efforts and hope that H.R. 801 will be 
expeditiously signed into law.
  Mr. BUYER. Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank you and Ranking Member 
Evans for agreeing to ``Fast-Track'' H.R. 801, the Veterans 
Opportunities Act.
  I am especially pleased because I represent a district that is rural, 
with a large agricultural base.
  As such, I fully support the Veterans Opportunities Act, because it 
finally addresses the issue of ``means testing'' veterans' agricultural 
possessions.
  In my district, many farmers are land rich, but lack liquid assets to 
readily pay for health care services at the Department of Veterans 
Affairs.
  H.R. 801 will greatly assist in remedying this problem, and allow 
them the opportunity to access the VA Health Care system without being 
penalized.
  In addition, I am pleased that this bill finally addresses the issue 
of allowing veterans to use their GI Bill education benefits for 
certain private technology entities.
  This expansion of benefits will allow veterans to receive benefits 
for various certification type courses that have previously not been 
recognized.
  As a result, veterans can now pursue non-traditional educational 
programs that usually require intense study and certification.
  This will ultimately level the playing field for veterans by allowing 
them to compete in the high-tech environment.
  Lastly, this bill will increase the burial benefits for both service-
connected and non-service-connected veterans.
  This is truly important!
  World War II veterans are dying at a rate of a thousand a day.
  Many of these World War II veterans are living on fixed incomes, and 
the high costs of burying these veterans places a financial burden on 
their surviving spouses and families.
  Mr. Speaker, this bill and its provisions are long overdue.
  Again, I thank the Chairman and the Ranking Member for giving this 
bill such quick consideration early in the 107th Congress.
  Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of 
H.R. 801, The Veterans Opportunity Act. The bill provides for essential 
benefits related to retirement privileges that our veterans desperately 
need. I am pleased that the legislation has swiftly come before the 
House for consideration.
  H.R. 801 expands and increases payout amounts for several Veterans 
Affairs Department (VA) death and retirement benefits and extends 
coverage under the Service Members' Group Life Insurance program to 
dependent spouses and children.
  The bill reflects a strong consensus in America that our veterans 
simply need to be taken care of. The legislation increases from $2,000 
to $3,400 the maximum allowable annual ROTC award for benefits under 
the Montgomery GI bill; expands the VA's work-study program for 
veterans who are students; includes certain private technology entities 
as education institutions; allows a disabled spouse or surviving spouse 
of a severely disabled service-connected veteran to receive special 
restorative training; permits a veteran to use VA educational 
assistance benefits for a certificate program offered by an institution 
of higher learning by way of independent study; and provides for other 
needed necessities.
  The measure contains other much-needed reforms. For instance, the 
bill expands the Service Members' Group Life Insurance (SGLI) program 
to include spouses and children. Upon termination of the SGLI, the 
policy could be converted to a private life insurance policy. Finally, 
the bill makes such changes retroactive to October 1, 2000, for service 
members killed in the line of duty.
  Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this important measure 
for our veterans.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Bass). The question is on the motion 
offered by the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Smith) that the House 
suspend the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 801, as amended.
  The question was taken.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the opinion of the Chair, two-thirds of 
those present have voted in the affirmative.
  Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and 
nays.
  The yeas and nays were ordered.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to clause 8 of rule XX and the 
Chair's prior announcement, further proceedings on this motion will be 
postponed.

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