[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 152 (2006), Part 7]
[Senate]
[Pages 9701-9712]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




               VETERANS' BENEFITS IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 2005

  Mr. FRIST. Mr. President, I ask the Chair now lay before the Senate a 
House message to accompany S. 1235.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER laid before the Senate the following message 
from the House of Representatives:

                                S. 1235

       Resolved, That the bill from the Senate (S. 1235) entitled 
     ``An Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to extend the 
     availability of $400,000 in life insurance coverage to 
     servicemembers and veterans, to make a stillborn child an 
     insurable dependent for purposes of the Servicemembers' Group 
     Life Insurance program, to make technical corrections to the 
     Veterans Benefits Improvement Act of 2004, to make permanent 
     a pilot program for direct housing loans for Native American 
     veterans, and to require an annual plan on outreach 
     activities of the Department of Veterans Affairs'', do pass 
     with the following

       Strike out all after the enacting clause and insert:

     SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS.

       (a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``Veterans' 
     Housing Opportunity and Benefits Improvement Act of 2006''.
       (b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents for this Act 
     is as follows:

Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents.

                        TITLE I--HOUSING MATTERS

Sec. 101. Adapted housing assistance for disabled veterans residing 
              temporarily in housing owned by family member.
Sec. 102. Adjustable rate mortgages.
Sec. 103. Permanent authority to make direct housing loans to Native 
              American veterans.
Sec. 104. Extension of eligibility for direct loans for Native American 
              veterans to a veteran who is the spouse of a Native 
              American.
Sec. 105. Technical corrections to Veterans Benefits Improvement Act of 
              2004.

                      TITLE II--EMPLOYMENT MATTERS

Sec. 201. Additional duty for the Assistant Secretary of Labor for 
              Veterans' Employment and Training to raise awareness of 
              skills of veterans and of the benefits of hiring 
              veterans.
Sec. 202. Modifications to the Advisory Committee on Veterans 
              Employment and Training.
Sec. 203. Reauthorization of appropriations for homeless veterans 
              reintegration programs.

              TITLE III--LIFE AND HEALTH INSURANCE MATTERS

Sec. 301. Duration of Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance coverage for 
              totally disabled veterans following separation from 
              service.
Sec. 302. Limitation on premium increases for reinstated health 
              insurance of servicemembers released from active military 
              service.
Sec. 303. Preservation of employer-sponsored health plan coverage for 
              certain reserve-component members who acquire TRICARE 
              eligibility.

                        TITLE IV--OTHER MATTERS

Sec. 401. Inclusion of additional diseases and conditions in diseases 
              and disabilities presumed to be associated with prisoner 
              of war status.
Sec. 402. Consolidation and revision of outreach authorities.
Sec. 403. Extension of annual report requirement on equitable relief 
              cases.

                     TITLE V--TECHNICAL AMENDMENTS

Sec. 501. Technical and clarifying amendments to new traumatic injury 
              protection coverage under Service-
              members' Group Life Insurance.
Sec. 502. Terminology amendments to revise references to certain 
              veterans in provisions relating to eligibility for 
              compensation or dependency and indemnity compensation.
Sec. 503. Technical and clerical amendments.

[[Page 9702]]



                        TITLE I--HOUSING MATTERS

     SEC. 101. ADAPTED HOUSING ASSISTANCE FOR DISABLED VETERANS 
                   RESIDING TEMPORARILY IN HOUSING OWNED BY A 
                   FAMILY MEMBER.

       (a) Assistance Authorized.--Chapter 21 of title 38, United 
     States Code, is amended by inserting after section 2102 the 
     following new section:

     ``Sec. 2102A. Assistance for veterans residing temporarily in 
       housing owned by a family member

       ``(a) Provision of Assistance.--In the case of a disabled 
     veteran who is described in subsection (a)(2) or (b)(2) of 
     section 2101 of this title and who is residing, but does not 
     intend to permanently reside, in a residence owned by a 
     member of such veteran's family, the Secretary may assist the 
     veteran in acquiring such adaptations to such residence as 
     are determined by the Secretary to be reasonably necessary 
     because of the veteran's disability.
       ``(b) Amount of Assistance.--The assistance authorized 
     under subsection (a) may not exceed--
       ``(1) $14,000, in the case of a veteran described in 
     section 2101(a)(2) of this title; or
       ``(2) $2,000, in the case of a veteran described in section 
     2101(b)(2) of this title.
       ``(c) Limitation.--The assistance authorized by subsection 
     (a) shall be limited in the case of any veteran to one 
     residence.
       ``(d) Regulations.--Assistance under this section shall be 
     provided in accordance with such regulations as the Secretary 
     may prescribe.
       ``(e) Termination.--No assistance may be provided under 
     this section after the end of the five-year period that 
     begins on the date of the enactment of the Veterans' Housing 
     Opportunity and Benefits Improvement Act of 2006.''.
       (b) Limitations on Adapted Housing Assistance.--Section 
     2102 of such title is amended--
       (1) in the matter in subsection (a) preceding paragraph 
     (1)--
       (A) by striking ``shall be limited in the case of any 
     veteran to one housing unit, and necessary land therefor, 
     and''; and
       (B) by striking ``veteran but shall not exceed $50,000 in 
     any one case--'' and inserting ``veteran--''; and
       (2) by adding at the end the following new subsection:
       ``(d)(1) The aggregate amount of assistance available to a 
     veteran under sections 2101(a) and 2102A of this title shall 
     be limited to $50,000.
       ``(2) The aggregate amount of assistance available to a 
     veteran under sections 2101(b) and 2102A of this title shall 
     be limited to $10,000.
       ``(3) No veteran may receive more than three grants of 
     assistance under this chapter.''.
       (c) Coordination of Administration of Benefits.--Chapter 21 
     of such title is further amended by adding at the end the 
     following new section:

     ``Sec. 2107. Coordination of administration of benefits

       ``The Secretary shall provide for the coordination of the 
     administration of programs to provide specially adapted 
     housing that are administered by the Under Secretary for 
     Health and such programs that are administered by the Under 
     Secretary for Benefits under this chapter, chapter 17, and 
     chapter 31 of this title.''.
       (d) Clerical Amendments.--The table of sections at the 
     beginning of such chapter is amended--
       (1) by inserting after the item relating to section 2102 
     the following new item:

``2102A. Assistance for veterans residing temporarily in housing owned 
              by a family member.'';

     and
       (2) by adding at the end the following new item:

``2107. Coordination of administration of benefits.''.

       (e) GAO Reports.--
       (1) Interim report.--Not later than three years after the 
     date of the enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General 
     shall submit to Congress an interim report on the 
     implementation by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs of 
     section 2102A of title 38, United States Code, as added by 
     subsection (a).
       (2) Final report.--Not later than five years after the date 
     of the enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General shall 
     submit to Congress a final report on the implementation of 
     such section.
       (f) Temporary Increase in Certain Housing Loan Fees.--For a 
     subsequent loan described in subsection (a) of section 3710 
     of title 38, United States Code, to purchase or construct a 
     dwelling with 0-down or any other subsequent loan described 
     in that subsection, other than a loan with 5-down or 10-down, 
     that is closed during fiscal year 2007, the Secretary of 
     Veterans Affairs shall apply section 3729(b)(2) of such title 
     by substituting ``3.35'' for ``3.30''.

     SEC. 102. ADJUSTABLE RATE MORTGAGES.

       Section 3707A(c)(4) of title 38, United States Code, is 
     amended by striking ``1 percentage point'' and inserting 
     ``such percentage points as the Secretary may prescribe''.

     SEC. 103. PERMANENT AUTHORITY TO MAKE DIRECT HOUSING LOANS TO 
                   NATIVE AMERICAN VETERANS.

       (a) Permanent Authority.--Section 3761 of title 38, United 
     States Code, is amended--
       (1) in subsection (a)--
       (A) by striking ``establish and implement a pilot program 
     under which the Secretary may'' in the first sentence; and
       (B) by striking ``shall establish and implement the pilot 
     program'' in the third sentence and inserting ``shall make 
     such loans'';
       (2) in subsection (b), by striking ``In carrying out the 
     pilot program under this subchapter, the'' and inserting 
     ``The''; and
       (3) by striking subsection (c).
       (b) Reports.--Section 3762(j) of such title is amended to 
     read as follows:
       ``(j) The Secretary shall include as part of the annual 
     benefits report of the Veterans Benefits Administration 
     information concerning the cost and number of loans provided 
     under this subchapter for the fiscal year covered by the 
     report.''.
       (c) Conforming Amendments.--
       (1) Section 3762.--Section 3762 of such title is amended--
       (A) in subsection (a), by inserting ``under this 
     subchapter'' after ``to a Native American veteran'';
       (B) in subsection (b)(1)(E), by striking ``the pilot 
     program established under this subchapter is implemented'' 
     and inserting ``loans under this subchapter are made'';
       (C) in subsection (c)(1)(B), by striking ``carry out the 
     pilot program under this subchapter in a manner that 
     demonstrates the advisability of making direct housing 
     loans'' in the second sentence and inserting ``make direct 
     housing loans under this subchapter'';
       (D) in subsection (i)--
       (i) by striking ``the pilot program provided for under this 
     subchapter and'' in paragraph (1);
       (ii) by striking ``under the pilot program and in assisting 
     such organizations and veterans in participating in the pilot 
     program'' in paragraph (2)(A) and inserting ``under this 
     subchapter and in assisting such organizations and veterans 
     with respect to such housing benefits''; and
       (iii) by striking ``in participating in the pilot program'' 
     in paragraph (2)(E) and inserting ``with respect to such 
     benefits''.
       (2) Conforming repeal.--Section 8(b) of the Veterans Home 
     Loan Program Amendments of 1992 (Public Law 102-547; 38 
     U.S.C. 3761 note) is repealed.
       (d) Establishment of Maximum Amount of Loans.--Section 
     3762(c)(1)(B) of title 38, United States Code, is amended--
       (1) by striking ``(B) The'' and inserting ``(B)(i) Subject 
     to clause (ii), the''; and
       (2) by adding at the end the following new clause:
       ``(ii) The amount of a loan made by the Secretary under 
     this subchapter may not exceed the maximum loan amount 
     authorized for loans guaranteed under section 3703(a)(1)(C) 
     of this title.''.
       (e) Technical Amendment.--Subsection (c)(1)(A) of section 
     3762 of such title is amended by inserting ``veteran'' after 
     ``Native American''.
       (f) Clerical Amendments.--
       (1) Subchapter heading.--The heading for subchapter V of 
     chapter 37 of such title is amended to read as follows:

  ``SUBCHAPTER V--DIRECT HOUSING LOANS FOR NATIVE AMERICAN VETERANS''.

       (2) Section heading.--The heading for section 3761 of such 
     title is amended to read as follows:

     ``Sec. 3761. Direct housing loans to Native American 
       veterans; program authority''.

       (3) Section heading.--The heading for section 3762 of such 
     title is amended to read as follows:

     ``Sec. 3762. Direct housing loans to Native American 
       veterans; program administration''.

       (4) Table of sections.--The table of sections at the 
     beginning of chapter 37 of such title is amended by striking 
     the items relating to subchapter V and sections 3761 and 3762 
     and inserting the following new items:

    ``SUBCHAPTER V--DIRECT HOUSING LOANS FOR NATIVE AMERICAN VETERANS

``3761. Direct housing loans to Native American veterans; program 
              authority.
``3762. Direct housing loans to Native American veterans; program 
              administration.''.

     SEC. 104. EXTENSION OF ELIGIBILITY FOR DIRECT LOANS FOR 
                   NATIVE AMERICAN VETERANS TO A VETERAN WHO IS 
                   THE SPOUSE OF A NATIVE AMERICAN.

       (a) Extension.--Subchapter V of chapter 37 of title 38, 
     United States Code, is amended--
       (1) by redesignating section 3764 as section 3765; and
       (2) by inserting after section 3763 the following new 
     section:

     ``Sec. 3764. Qualified non-Native American veterans

       ``(a) Treatment of Non-Native American Veterans.--Subject 
     to the succeeding provisions of this section, for purposes of 
     this subchapter--
       ``(1) a qualified non-Native American veteran is deemed to 
     be a Native American veteran; and
       ``(2) for purposes of applicability to a non-Native 
     American veteran, any reference in this subchapter to the 
     jurisdiction of a tribal organization over a Native American 
     veteran is deemed to be a reference to jurisdiction of a 
     tribal organization over the Native American spouse of the 
     qualified non-Native American veteran.
       ``(b) Use of Loan.--In making direct loans under this 
     subchapter to a qualified non-Native American veteran by 
     reason of eligibility under subsection (a), the Secretary 
     shall ensure that the tribal organization permits, and the 
     qualified non-Native American veteran actually holds, 
     possesses, or purchases, using the proceeds of the loan, 
     jointly with the Native American spouse of the qualified non-
     Native American veteran, a meaningful interest in the lot, 
     dwelling, or both, that is located on trust land.

[[Page 9703]]

       ``(c) Restrictions Imposed by Tribal Organizations.--
     Nothing in subsection (b) shall be construed as precluding a 
     tribal organization from imposing reasonable restrictions on 
     the right of the qualified non-Native American veteran to 
     convey, assign, or otherwise dispose of such interest in the 
     lot or dwelling, or both, if such restrictions are designed 
     to ensure the continuation in trust status of the lot or 
     dwelling, or both. Such requirements may include the 
     termination of the interest of the qualified non-Native 
     American veteran in the lot or dwelling, or both, upon the 
     dissolution of the marriage of the qualified non-Native 
     American veteran to the Native American spouse.''.
       (b) Conforming Amendments.--Section 3765 of such title, as 
     redesignated by subsection (a)(1), is amended by adding at 
     the end the following new paragraph:
       ``(5) The term `qualified non-Native American veteran' 
     means a veteran who--
       ``(A) is the spouse of a Native American, but
       ``(B) is not a Native American.''.
       (c) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections at the 
     beginning of chapter 37 of such title is amended by striking 
     the item relating to section 3764 and inserting the following 
     new items:

``3764. Qualified non-Native American veterans.
``3765. Definitions.''.

     SEC. 105. TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS TO VETERANS BENEFITS 
                   IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 2004.

       (a) Corrections.--Section 2101 of title 38, United States 
     Code, as amended by section 401 of the Veterans Benefits 
     Improvement Act of 2004 (Public Law 108-454; 118 Stat. 3614), 
     is amended--
       (1) by redesignating subsection (c) as subsection (d);
       (2) by inserting after subsection (b) a new subsection (c) 
     consisting of the text of subsection (c) of such section 2101 
     as in effect immediately before the enactment of such Act, 
     modified--
       (A) in paragraph (1)--
       (i) in the first sentence, by striking ``paragraph (1), 
     (2), or (3)'' and inserting ``subparagraph (A), (B), (C), or 
     (D) of paragraph (2)''; and
       (ii) in the second sentence, by striking ``the second 
     sentence'' and inserting ``paragraph (3)''; and
       (B) in paragraph (2)--
       (i) in the first sentence, by striking ``paragraph (1)'' 
     and inserting ``paragraph (2)''; and
       (ii) in the second sentence, by striking ``paragraph (2)'' 
     and inserting ``paragraph (3)''; and
       (3) in subsection (a)(3), by striking ``subsection (c)'' in 
     the matter preceding subparagraph (A) and inserting 
     ``subsection (d)''.
       (b) Effective Date.--The amendments made by subsection (a) 
     shall take effect as of December 10, 2004, as if enacted 
     immediately after the enactment of the Veterans Benefits 
     Improvement Act of 2004 on that date.

                      TITLE II--EMPLOYMENT MATTERS

     SEC. 201. ADDITIONAL DUTY FOR THE ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF 
                   LABOR FOR VETERANS' EMPLOYMENT AND TRAINING TO 
                   RAISE AWARENESS OF SKILLS OF VETERANS AND OF 
                   THE BENEFITS OF HIRING VETERANS.

       Subsection (b) of section 4102A of title 38, United States 
     Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new 
     paragraph:
       ``(8) With advice and assistance from the Advisory 
     Committee on Veterans Employment and Training, and Employer 
     Outreach established under section 4110 of this title, 
     furnish information to employers (through meetings in person 
     with hiring executives of corporations and otherwise) with 
     respect to the training and skills of veterans and disabled 
     veterans, and the advantages afforded employers by hiring 
     veterans with such training and skills, and to facilitate 
     employment of veterans and disabled veterans through 
     participation in labor exchanges (Internet-based and 
     otherwise), and other means.''.

     SEC. 202. MODIFICATIONS TO THE ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON VETERANS 
                   EMPLOYMENT AND TRAINING.

       (a) Committee Name.--
       (1) Change of name.--Subsection (a)(1) of section 4110 of 
     title 38, United States Code, is amended by striking 
     ``Advisory Committee on Veterans Employment and Training'' 
     and inserting ``Advisory Committee on Veterans Employment, 
     Training, and Employer Outreach''.
       (2) Section heading.--The heading of such section is 
     amended to read as follows:

     ``Sec. 4110. Advisory Committee on Veterans Employment, 
       Training, and Employer Outreach''.

       (3) Table of sections.--The item relating to section 4110 
     in the table of sections at the beginning of chapter 41 of 
     such title is amended to read as follows:

``4110. Advisory Committee on Veterans Employment, Training, and 
              Employer Outreach.''.
       (4) References.--Any reference to the Advisory Committee 
     established under section 4110 of such title in any law, 
     regulation, map, document, record, or other paper of the 
     United States shall be considered to be a reference to the 
     Advisory Committee on Veterans Employment, Training, and 
     Employer Outreach.
       (b) Expansion of Duties of Advisory Committee.--Subsection 
     (a)(2) of such section is amended--
       (1) in subparagraph (A), by inserting ``and their 
     integration into the workforce'' after ``veterans'';
       (2) by striking ``and'' at the end of subparagraph (B);
       (3) by redesignating subparagraph (C) as subparagraph (E); 
     and
       (4) by inserting after subparagraph (B) the following new 
     subparagraphs:
       ``(C) assist the Assistant Secretary of Labor for Veterans' 
     Employment and Training in carrying out outreach activities 
     to employers with respect to the training and skills of 
     veterans and the advantages afforded employers by hiring 
     veterans;
       ``(D) make recommendations to the Secretary, through the 
     Assistant Secretary of Labor for Veterans' Employment and 
     Training, with respect to outreach activities and the 
     employment and training of veterans; and''.
       (c) Modification of Advisory Committee Membership.--
       (1) Membership.--Subsection (c)(1) of such section is 
     amended to read as follows:
       ``(c)(1) The Secretary of Labor shall appoint at least 12, 
     but no more than 15, individuals to serve as members of the 
     advisory committee as follows:
       ``(A) Six individuals, one each from among representatives 
     nominated by each of the following organizations:
       ``(i) The National Society of Human Resource Managers.
       ``(ii) The Business Roundtable.
       ``(iii) The National Association of State Workforce 
     Agencies.
       ``(iv) The United States Chamber of Commerce.
       ``(v) The National Federation of Independent Business.
       ``(vi) A nationally recognized labor union or organization.
       ``(B) Not more than five individuals from among 
     representatives nominated by veterans service organizations 
     that have a national employment program.
       ``(C) Not more than five individuals who are recognized 
     authorities in the fields of business, employment, training, 
     rehabilitation, or labor and who are not employees of the 
     Department of Labor.''.
       (2) Conforming amendments.--Subsection (d) of such section 
     is amended--
       (A) by striking paragraphs (3), (4), (8), (10), (11), and 
     (12); and
       (B) by redesignating paragraphs (5), (6), (7), and (9) as 
     paragraphs (3), (4), (5), and (6), respectively.
       (d) Reinstatement and Modification of Reporting 
     Requirement.--Subsection (f)(1) of such section is amended--
       (1) by striking the first sentence and inserting the 
     following: ``Not later than December 31 of each year, the 
     advisory committee shall submit to the Secretary and to the 
     Committees on Veterans' Affairs of the Senate and House of 
     Representatives a report on the employment and training needs 
     of veterans, with special emphasis on disabled veterans, for 
     the previous fiscal year.'';
       (2) in subparagraph (A), by inserting ``and their 
     integration into the workforce'' after ``veterans'';
       (3) by striking ``and'' at the end of subparagraph (B);
       (4) by redesignating subparagraphs (B) and (C) as 
     subparagraphs (C) and (F), respectively;
       (5) by inserting after subparagraph (A) the following new 
     subparagraph:
       ``(B) an assessment of the outreach activities carried out 
     by the Secretary of Labor to employers with respect to the 
     training and skills of veterans and the advantages afforded 
     employers by hiring veterans;''; and
       (6) by inserting after subparagraph (C), as so 
     redesignated, the following new subparagraphs:
       ``(D) a description of the activities of the advisory 
     committee during that fiscal year;
       ``(E) a description of activities that the advisory 
     committee proposes to undertake in the succeeding fiscal 
     year; and''.

     SEC. 203. REAUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS FOR HOMELESS 
                   VETERANS REINTEGRATION PROGRAMS.

       Subsection (e)(1) of section 2021 of title 38, United 
     States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following 
     new subparagraph:
       ``(F) $50,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2007 through 
     2009.''.

              TITLE III--LIFE AND HEALTH INSURANCE MATTERS

     SEC. 301. DURATION OF SERVICEMEMBERS' GROUP LIFE INSURANCE 
                   COVERAGE FOR TOTALLY DISABLED VETERANS 
                   FOLLOWING SEPARATION FROM SERVICE.

       (a) Separation or Release From Active Duty.--
       (1) Extension of period of coverage.--Paragraph (1)(A) of 
     section 1968(a) of title 38, United States Code, is amended 
     by striking ``shall cease'' and all that follows and 
     inserting ``shall cease on the earlier of the following dates 
     (but in no event before the end of 120 days after such 
     separation or release):
       ``(i) The date on which the insured ceases to be totally 
     disabled.
       ``(ii) The date that is--

       ``(I) two years after the date of separation or release 
     from such active duty or active duty for training, in the 
     case of such a separation or release during the period 
     beginning on the date that is one year before the date of the 
     enactment of Veterans' Housing Opportunity and Benefits 
     Improvement Act of 2006 and ending on September 30, 2011; and
       ``(II) 18 months after the date of separation or release 
     from such active duty or active duty for training, in the 
     case of such a separation or release on or after October 1, 
     2011.''.

       (2) Technical amendments.--Paragraph (1) of such section is 
     further amended--

[[Page 9704]]

       (A) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking 
     ``shall cease--'' and inserting ``shall cease as follows:''; 
     and
       (B) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``at'' after ``(B)'' 
     and inserting ``At''.
       (b) Separation or Release From Certain Reserve 
     Assignments.--Paragraph (4) of such section is amended by 
     striking ``shall cease'' the second place it appears and all 
     that follows and inserting ``shall cease on the earlier of 
     the following dates (but in no event before the end of 120 
     days after separation or release from such assignment):
       ``(A) The date on which the insured ceases to be totally 
     disabled.
       ``(B) The date that is--
       ``(i) two years after the date of separation or release 
     from such assignment, in the case of such a separation or 
     release during the period beginning on the date that is one 
     year before the date of the enactment of Veterans' Housing 
     Opportunity and Benefits Improvement Act of 2006 and ending 
     on September 30, 2011; and
       ``(ii) 18 months after the date of separation or release 
     from such assignment, in the case of such a separation or 
     release on or after October 1, 2011.''.

     SEC. 302. LIMITATION ON PREMIUM INCREASES FOR REINSTATED 
                   HEALTH INSURANCE OF SERVICEMEMBERS RELEASED 
                   FROM ACTIVE MILITARY SERVICE.

       (a) Premium Protection.--Section 704 of the Servicemembers 
     Civil Relief Act (50 U.S.C. App. 594) is amended by adding at 
     the end the following new subsection:
       ``(e) Limitation on Premium Increases.--
       ``(1) Premium protection.--The amount of the premium for 
     health insurance coverage that was terminated by a 
     servicemember and required to be reinstated under subsection 
     (a) may not be increased, for the balance of the period for 
     which coverage would have been continued had the coverage not 
     been terminated, to an amount greater than the amount 
     chargeable for such coverage before the termination.
       ``(2) Increases of general applicability not precluded.--
     Paragraph (1) does not prevent an increase in premium to the 
     extent of any general increase in the premiums charged by the 
     carrier of the health care insurance for the same health 
     insurance coverage for persons similarly covered by such 
     insurance during the period between the termination and the 
     reinstatement.''.
       (b) Technical Amendment.--Subsection (b)(3) of such section 
     is amended by striking ``if the'' and inserting ``in a case 
     in which the''.

     SEC. 303. PRESERVATION OF EMPLOYER-SPONSORED HEALTH PLAN 
                   COVERAGE FOR CERTAIN RESERVE-COMPONENT MEMBERS 
                   WHO ACQUIRE TRICARE ELIGIBILITY.

       (a) Continuation of Coverage.--Subsection (a)(1) of section 
     4317 of title 38, United States Code, is amended by inserting 
     after ``by reason of service in the uniformed services,'' the 
     following: ``or such person becomes eligible for medical and 
     dental care under chapter 55 of title 10 by reason of 
     subsection (d) of section 1074 of that title,''.
       (b) Reinstatement of Coverage.--Subsection (b) of such 
     section is amended--
       (1) in paragraph (1)--
       (A) by inserting after ``by reason of service in the 
     uniformed services,'' the following: ``or by reason of the 
     person's having become eligible for medical and dental care 
     under chapter 55 of title 10 by reason of subsection (d) of 
     section 1074 of that title,''; and
       (B) by inserting ``or eligibility'' before the period at 
     the end of the first sentence; and
       (2) by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
       ``(3) In the case of a person whose coverage under a health 
     plan is terminated by reason of the person having become 
     eligible for medical and dental care under chapter 55 of 
     title 10 by reason of subsection (d) of section 1074 of that 
     title but who subsequently does not commence a period of 
     active duty under the order to active duty that established 
     such eligibility because the order is canceled before such 
     active duty commences, the provisions of paragraph (1) 
     relating to any exclusion or waiting period in connection 
     with the reinstatement of coverage under a health plan shall 
     apply to such person's continued employment, upon the 
     termination of such eligibility for medical and dental care 
     under chapter 55 of title 10 that is incident to the 
     cancellation of such order, in the same manner as if the 
     person had become reemployed upon such termination of 
     eligibility.''.

                        TITLE IV--OTHER MATTERS

     SEC. 401. INCLUSION OF ADDITIONAL DISEASES AND CONDITIONS IN 
                   DISEASES AND DISABILITIES PRESUMED TO BE 
                   ASSOCIATED WITH PRISONER OF WAR STATUS.

       Section 1112(b)(3) of title 38, United States Code, is 
     amended by adding at the end the following new subparagraphs:
       ``(L) Atherosclerotic heart disease or hypertensive 
     vascular disease (including hypertensive heart disease) and 
     their complications (including myocardial infarction, 
     congestive heart failure and arrhythmia).
       ``(M) Stroke and its complications.''.

     SEC. 402. CONSOLIDATION AND REVISION OF OUTREACH AUTHORITIES.

       (a) In General.--Part IV of title 38, United States Code, 
     is amended by adding at the end the following new chapter:

                   ``CHAPTER 63--OUTREACH ACTIVITIES

`` 6301. Purpose; definitions.
`` 6302. Biennial plan.
`` 6303. Outreach services.
`` 6304. Veterans assistance offices.
`` 6305. Outstationing of counseling and outreach personnel.
`` 6306. Use of other agencies.
`` 6307. Outreach for eligible dependents.
`` 6308. Biennial report to Congress.

     ``Sec. 6301. Purpose; definitions

       ``(a) Purpose.--The Congress declares that--
       ``(1) the outreach services program authorized by this 
     chapter is for the purpose of ensuring that all veterans 
     (especially those who have been recently discharged or 
     released from active military, naval, or air service and 
     those who are eligible for readjustment or other benefits and 
     services under laws administered by the Department) are 
     provided timely and appropriate assistance to aid and 
     encourage them in applying for and obtaining such benefits 
     and services in order that they may achieve a rapid social 
     and economic readjustment to civilian life and obtain a 
     higher standard of living for themselves and their 
     dependents; and
       ``(2) the outreach services program authorized by this 
     chapter is for the purpose of charging the Department with 
     the affirmative duty of seeking out eligible veterans and 
     eligible dependents and providing them with such services.
       ``(b) Definitions.--For the purposes of this chapter--
       ``(1) the term `other governmental programs' includes all 
     programs under State or local laws as well as all programs 
     under Federal law other than those authorized by this title; 
     and
       ``(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.

     ``Sec. 6302. Biennial plan

       ``(a) Biennial Plan Required.--The Secretary shall, during 
     the first nine months of every odd-numbered year, prepare a 
     biennial plan for the outreach activities of the Department 
     for the two-fiscal-year period beginning on October 1 of that 
     year.
       ``(b) Elements.--Each biennial plan under subsection (a) 
     shall include the following:
       ``(1) Plans for efforts to identify eligible veterans and 
     eligible dependents who are not enrolled or registered with 
     the Department for benefits or services under the programs 
     administered by the Secretary.
       ``(2) Plans for informing eligible veterans and eligible 
     dependents of modifications of the benefits and services 
     under the programs administered by the Secretary, including 
     eligibility for medical and nursing care and services.
       ``(c) Coordination in Development.--In developing the 
     biennial plan under subsection (a), the Secretary shall 
     consult with the following:
       ``(1) Directors or other appropriate officials of 
     organizations approved by the Secretary under section 5902 of 
     this title.
       ``(2) Directors or other appropriate officials of State and 
     local education and training programs.
       ``(3) Representatives of nongovernmental organizations that 
     carry out veterans outreach programs.
       ``(4) Representatives of State and local veterans 
     employment organizations.
       ``(5) Other individuals and organizations that the 
     Secretary considers appropriate.

     ``Sec. 6303. Outreach services

       ``(a) Requirement to Provide Services.--In carrying out the 
     purposes of this chapter, the Secretary shall provide the 
     outreach services specified in subsections (b) through (d). 
     In areas where a significant number of eligible veterans and 
     eligible dependents speak a language other than English as 
     their principal language, such services shall, to the maximum 
     feasible extent, be provided in the principal language of 
     such persons.
       ``(b) Individual Notice to New Veterans.--The Secretary 
     shall by letter advise each veteran at the time of the 
     veteran's discharge or release from active military, naval, 
     or air service (or as soon as possible after such discharge 
     or release) of all benefits and services under laws 
     administered by the Department for which the veteran may be 
     eligible. In carrying out this subsection, the Secretary 
     shall ensure, through the use of veteran-student services 
     under section 3485 of this title, that contact, in person or 
     by telephone, is made with those veterans who, on the basis 
     of their military service records, do not have a high school 
     education or equivalent at the time of discharge or release.
       ``(c) Distribution of Information.--(1) The Secretary--
       ``(A) shall distribute full information to eligible 
     veterans and eligible dependents regarding all benefits and 
     services to which they may be entitled under laws 
     administered by the Secretary; and
       ``(B) may, to the extent feasible, distribute information 
     on other governmental programs (including manpower and 
     training programs) which the Secretary determines would be 
     beneficial to veterans.
       ``(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. Such information shall be provided not later than 
     three months after the date of such application.
       ``(d) Provision of Aid and Assistance.--The Secretary shall 
     provide, to the maximum extent possible, aid and assistance 
     (including personal interviews) to members of the Armed 
     Forces, veterans, and eligible dependents with respect to

[[Page 9705]]

     subsections (b) and (c) and in the preparation and 
     presentation of claims under laws administered by the 
     Department.
       ``(e) Assignment of Employees.--In carrying out this 
     section, the Secretary shall assign such employees as the 
     Secretary considers appropriate to conduct outreach programs 
     and provide outreach services for homeless veterans. Such 
     outreach services may include site visits through which 
     homeless veterans can be identified and provided assistance 
     in obtaining benefits and services that may be available to 
     them.

     ``Sec. 6304. Veterans assistance offices

       ``(a) In General.--The Secretary shall establish and 
     maintain veterans assistance offices at such places 
     throughout the United States and its territories and 
     possessions, and in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, as the 
     Secretary determines to be necessary to carry out the 
     purposes of this chapter. The Secretary may maintain such 
     offices on such military installations located elsewhere as 
     the Secretary, after consultation with the Secretary of 
     Defense and taking into account recommendations, if any, of 
     the Secretary of Labor, determines to be necessary to carry 
     out such purposes.
       ``(b) Location of Offices.--In establishing and maintaining 
     such offices, the Secretary shall give due regard to--
       ``(1) the geographical distribution of veterans recently 
     discharged or released from active military, naval, or air 
     service;
       ``(2) the special needs of educationally disadvantaged 
     veterans (including their need for accessibility of outreach 
     services); and
       ``(3) the necessity of providing appropriate outreach 
     services in less populated areas.

     ``Sec. 6305. Outstationing of counseling and outreach 
       personnel

       ``The Secretary may station employees of the Department at 
     locations other than Department offices, including 
     educational institutions, to provide--
       ``(1) counseling and other assistance regarding benefits 
     under this title to veterans and other persons eligible for 
     benefits under this title; and
       ``(2) outreach services under this chapter.

     ``Sec. 6306. Use of other agencies

       ``(a) In carrying out this chapter, the Secretary shall 
     arrange with the Secretary of Labor for the State employment 
     service to match the particular qualifications of an eligible 
     veteran or eligible dependent with an appropriate job or job 
     training opportunity, including, where possible, arrangements 
     for outstationing the State employment personnel who provide 
     such assistance at appropriate facilities of the Department.
       ``(b) In carrying out this chapter, the Secretary shall, in 
     consultation with the Secretary of Labor, actively seek to 
     promote the development and establishment of employment 
     opportunities, training opportunities, and other 
     opportunities for veterans, with particular emphasis on the 
     needs of veterans with service-connected disabilities and 
     other eligible veterans, taking into account applicable rates 
     of unemployment and the employment emphases set forth in 
     chapter 42 of this title.
       ``(c) In carrying out this chapter, the Secretary shall 
     cooperate with and use the services of any Federal department 
     or agency or any State or local governmental agency or 
     recognized national or other organization.
       ``(d) In carrying out this chapter, the Secretary shall, 
     where appropriate, make referrals to any Federal department 
     or agency or State or local governmental unit or recognized 
     national or other organization.
       ``(e) In carrying out this chapter, the Secretary may 
     furnish available space and office facilities for the use of 
     authorized representatives of such governmental unit or other 
     organization providing services.
       ``(f) In carrying out this chapter, the Secretary shall 
     conduct and provide for studies, in consultation with 
     appropriate Federal departments and agencies, to determine 
     the most effective program design to carry out the purposes 
     of this chapter.

     ``Sec. 6307. Outreach for eligible dependents

       ``(a) Needs of Dependents.--In carrying out this chapter, 
     the Secretary shall ensure that the needs of eligible 
     dependents are fully addressed.
       ``(b) Information as to Availability of Outreach Services 
     for Dependents.--The Secretary shall ensure that the 
     availability of outreach services and assistance for eligible 
     dependents under this chapter is made known through a variety 
     of means, including the Internet, announcements in veterans 
     publications, and announcements to the media.

     ``Sec. 6308. Biennial report to Congress

       ``(a) Report Required.--The Secretary shall, not later than 
     December 1 of every even-numbered year (beginning in 2008), 
     submit to Congress a report on the outreach activities 
     carried out by the Department.
       ``(b) Content.--Each report under this section shall 
     include the following:
       ``(1) A description of the implementation during the 
     preceding fiscal year of the current biennial plan under 
     section 6302 of this title.
       ``(2) Recommendations for the improvement or more effective 
     administration of the outreach activities of the 
     Department.''.
       (b) Incorporation of Recommendations to Improve Outreach 
     and Awareness.--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall, to 
     the extent appropriate, incorporate the recommendations for 
     the improvement of veterans outreach and awareness activities 
     included in the report submitted to Congress by the Secretary 
     pursuant to section 805 of the Veterans Benefits Improvement 
     Act of 2004 (Public Law 108-454).
       (c) Repeal of Recodified Provisions.--Subchapter II of 
     chapter 77 of title 38, United States Code, is repealed.
       (d) Conforming and Clerical Amendments.--
       (1) Subchapter III of chapter 77 of such title is 
     redesignated as subchapter II.
       (2) The table of sections at the beginning of such chapter 
     is amended by striking the items relating to the heading for 
     subchapter II, sections 7721 through 7727, and the heading 
     for subchapter III and inserting the following:

                  ``subchapter ii--quality assurance''.

       (3) The tables of chapters at the beginning of such title, 
     and at the beginning of part IV of such title, are amended by 
     inserting after the item relating to chapter 61 the following 
     new item:

``63. Outreach Activities.......................................6301''.

       (e) Cross-Reference Amendments.--
       (1) Section 3485(a)(4)(A) of title 38, United States Code, 
     is amended by striking ``subchapter II of chapter 77'' and 
     inserting ``chapter 63''.
       (2) Section 4113(a)(2) of such title is amended by striking 
     ``section 7723(a)'' and inserting ``section 6304(a)''.
       (3) Section 4214(g) of such title is amended by striking 
     ``section 7722'' and ``section 7724'' and inserting ``section 
     6303'' and ``section 6305'', respectively.
       (4) Section 168(b)(2)(B) of the Workforce Investment Act of 
     1998 (29 U.S.C. 2913(b)(2)(B)) is amended by striking 
     ``subchapter II of chapter 77'' and inserting ``chapter 63''.

     SEC. 403. EXTENSION OF ANNUAL REPORT REQUIREMENT ON EQUITABLE 
                   RELIEF CASES.

       Section 503(c) of title 38, United States Code, is amended 
     by striking ``December 31, 2004'' and inserting ``December 
     31, 2009''.

                     TITLE V--TECHNICAL AMENDMENTS

     SEC. 501. TECHNICAL AND CLARIFYING AMENDMENTS TO NEW 
                   TRAUMATIC INJURY PROTECTION COVERAGE UNDER 
                   SERVICEMEMBERS' GROUP LIFE INSURANCE.

       (a) Section 1980A.--Section 1980A of title 38, United 
     States Code, is amended as follows:
       (1) Subsection (a) is amended to read as follows:
       ``(a)(1) A member of the uniformed services who is insured 
     under Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance shall 
     automatically be insured for traumatic injury in accordance 
     with this section. Insurance benefits under this section 
     shall be payable if the member, while so insured, sustains a 
     traumatic injury on or after December 1, 2005, that results 
     in a qualifying loss specified pursuant to subsection (b)(1).
       ``(2) If a member suffers more than one such qualifying 
     loss as a result of traumatic injury from the same traumatic 
     event, payment shall be made under this section in accordance 
     with the schedule prescribed pursuant to subsection (d) for 
     the single loss providing the highest payment.''.
       (2) Subsection (b) is amended--
       (A) in paragraph (1)--
       (i) by striking ``issued a'' and all that follows through 
     ``limited to--'' and inserting ``insured against traumatic 
     injury under this section is insured against such losses due 
     to traumatic injury (in this section referred to as 
     `qualifying losses') as are prescribed by the Secretary by 
     regulation. Qualifying losses so prescribed shall include the 
     following:'';
       (ii) by capitalizing the first letter of the first word of 
     each of subparagraphs (A) through (H);
       (iii) by striking the semicolon at the end of each of 
     subparagraphs (A) through (F) and inserting a period; and
       (iv) by striking ``; and'' at the end of subparagraph (G) 
     and inserting a period;
       (B) in paragraph (2)--
       (i) by striking ``subsection--'' and inserting 
     ``subsection:'';
       (ii) by striking ``the'' at the beginning of subparagraphs 
     (A), (B), and (C) and inserting ``The'';
       (iii) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``4 limbs;'' and 
     inserting ``four limbs.'';
       (iv) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``; and'' at the end 
     and inserting a period;
       (v) in subparagraph (C), by striking ``1 side'' and 
     inserting ``one side''; and
       (vi) by adding at the end the following new subparagraph:
       ``(D) The term `inability to carry out the activities of 
     daily living' means the inability to independently perform 
     two or more of the following six functions:
       ``(i) Bathing.
       ``(ii) Continence.
       ``(iii) Dressing.
       ``(iv) Eating.
       ``(v) Toileting.
       ``(vi) Transferring.'';
       (C) in paragraph (3)--
       (i) by striking ``, in collaboration with the Secretary of 
     Defense,'';
       (ii) by striking ``shall prescribe'' and inserting ``may 
     prescribe''; and
       (iii) by striking ``the conditions under which coverage 
     against loss will not be provided'' and inserting 
     ``conditions under which coverage otherwise provided under 
     this section is excluded''; and
       (D) by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
       ``(4) A member shall not be considered for the purposes of 
     this section to be a member insured under Servicemembers' 
     Group Life Insurance if the member is insured under 
     Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance only as an insurable 
     dependent of another member pursuant to subparagraph (A)(ii) 
     or (C)(ii) of section 1967(a)(1) of this title.''.

[[Page 9706]]

       (3) Subsection (c) is amended to read as follows:
       ``(c)(1) A payment may be made to a member under this 
     section only for a qualifying loss that results directly from 
     a traumatic injury sustained while the member is covered 
     against loss under this section and from no other cause.
       ``(2)(A) A payment may be made to a member under this 
     section for a qualifying loss resulting from a traumatic 
     injury only for a loss that is incurred during the applicable 
     period of time specified pursuant to subparagraph (B).
       ``(B) For each qualifying loss, the Secretary shall 
     prescribe, by regulation, a period of time to be the period 
     of time within which a loss of that type must be incurred, 
     determined from the date on which the member sustains the 
     traumatic injury resulting in that loss, in order for that 
     loss to be covered under this section.''.
       (4) Subsection (d) is amended by striking ``losses 
     described in subsection (b)(1) shall be--'' and all that 
     follows and inserting ``qualifying losses shall be made in 
     accordance with a schedule prescribed by the Secretary, by 
     regulation, specifying the amount of payment to be made for 
     each type of qualifying loss, to be based on the severity of 
     the qualifying loss. The minimum payment that may be 
     prescribed for a qualifying loss is $25,000, and the maximum 
     payment that may be prescribed for a qualifying loss is 
     $100,000.''.
       (5) Subsection (e) is amended--
       (A) by striking ``of Veterans Affairs'' each place it 
     appears;
       (B) in paragraph (1), by striking ``as the premium 
     allocable'' and all that follows through ``protection under 
     this section'';
       (C) in paragraph (2), by striking ``Secretary of the 
     concerned service'' and inserting ``Secretary concerned''; 
     and
       (D) by striking paragraphs (6), (7), and (8) and inserting 
     the following:
       ``(6) The cost attributable to insuring members under this 
     section for any month or other period specified by the 
     Secretary, less the premiums paid by the members, shall be 
     paid by the Secretary concerned to the Secretary. The 
     Secretary shall allocate the amount payable among the 
     uniformed services using such methods and data as the 
     Secretary determines to be reasonable and practicable. 
     Payments under this paragraph shall be made on a monthly 
     basis or at such other intervals as may be specified by the 
     Secretary and shall be made within 10 days of the date on 
     which the Secretary provides notice to the Secretary 
     concerned of the amount required.
       ``(7) For each period for which a payment by a Secretary 
     concerned is required under paragraph (6), the Secretary 
     concerned shall contribute such amount from appropriations 
     available for active duty pay of the uniformed service 
     concerned.
       ``(8) The sums withheld from the basic or other pay of 
     members, or collected from them by the Secretary concerned, 
     under this subsection, and the sums contributed from 
     appropriations under this subsection, together with the 
     income derived from any dividends or premium rate adjustments 
     received from insurers shall be deposited to the credit of 
     the revolving fund established in the Treasury of the United 
     States under section 1869(d)(1) of this title.''.
       (6) Subsection (f) is amended to read as follows:
       ``(f) When a claim for benefits is submitted under this 
     section, the Secretary of Defense or, in the case of a member 
     not under the jurisdiction of the Secretary of Defense, the 
     Secretary concerned, shall certify to the Secretary whether 
     the member with respect to whom the claim is submitted--
       ``(1) was at the time of the injury giving rise to the 
     claim insured under Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance for 
     the purposes of this section; and
       ``(2) has sustained a qualifying loss.''.
       (7) Subsection (g) of such section is amended--
       (A) by inserting ``(1)'' after ``(g)'';
       (B) by striking ``will not be made'' and inserting ``may 
     not be made under the insurance coverage under this 
     section'';
       (C) by striking ``the period'' and all that follows through 
     ``the date'' and inserting ``a period prescribed by the 
     Secretary, by regulation, for such purpose that begins on the 
     date'';
       (D) by designating the second sentence as paragraph (2);
       (E) by striking ``If the member'' and inserting ``If a 
     member eligible for a payment under this section'' ;
       (F) by striking ``will be'' and inserting ``shall be''; and
       (G) by striking ``according to'' and all that follows and 
     inserting ``to the beneficiary or beneficiaries to whom the 
     payment would be made if the payment were life insurance 
     under section 1967(a) of this title.''.
       (8) Subsection (h) of such section is amended--
       (A) in the first sentence, by striking ``member's 
     separation from the uniformed service'' and inserting 
     ``termination of the member's duty status in the uniformed 
     services that established eligibility for Servicemembers' 
     Group Life Insurance'';
       (B) by striking the second sentence; and
       (C) by adding at the end the following new sentence: ``The 
     termination of coverage under this section is effective in 
     accordance with the preceding sentence, notwithstanding any 
     continuation after the date specified in that sentence of 
     Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance coverage pursuant to 
     1968(a) of this title for a period specified in that 
     section.''.
       (9) Such section is further amended by adding at the end 
     the following new subsection:
       ``(j) Regulations under this section shall be prescribed in 
     consultation with the Secretary of Defense.''.
       (b) Applicability to Qualifying Losses Incurred in 
     Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom Before 
     Effective Date of New Program.--
       (1) Eligibility.--A member of the uniformed services who 
     during the period beginning on October 7, 2001, and ending at 
     the close of November 30, 2005, sustains a traumatic injury 
     resulting in a qualifying loss is eligible for coverage for 
     that loss under section 1980A of title 38, United States 
     Code, if, as determined by the Secretary concerned, that loss 
     was a direct result of a traumatic injury incurred in the 
     theater of operations for Operation Enduring Freedom or 
     Operation Iraqi Freedom.
       (2) Certification of persons entitled to payment.--The 
     Secretary concerned shall certify to the life insurance 
     company issuing the policy of life insurance for 
     Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance under chapter 19 of 
     title 38, United States Code, the name and address of each 
     person who the Secretary concerned determines to be entitled 
     by reason of paragraph (1) to a payment under section 1980A 
     of title 38, United States Code, plus such additional 
     information as the Secretary of Veterans Affairs may require.
       (3) Funding.--At the time a certification is made under 
     paragraph (2), the Secretary concerned, from funds then 
     available to that Secretary for the pay of members of the 
     uniformed services under the jurisdiction of that Secretary, 
     shall pay to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs the amount of 
     funds the Secretary of Veterans Affairs determines to be 
     necessary to pay all costs related to payments to be made 
     under that certification. Amounts received by the Secretary 
     of Veterans Affairs under this paragraph shall be deposited 
     to the credit of the revolving fund in the Treasury of the 
     United States established under section 1969(d) of title 38, 
     United States Code.
       (4) Qualifying loss.--For purposes of this subsection, the 
     term ``qualifying loss'' means--
       (A) a loss specified in the second sentence of subsection 
     (b)(1) of section 1980A of title 38, United States Code, as 
     amended by subsection (a); and
       (B) any other loss specified by the Secretary of Veterans 
     Affairs pursuant to the first sentence of that subsection.
       (5) Secretary concerned.--For purposes of this subsection, 
     the term ``Secretary concerned'' has the meaning given that 
     term in paragraph (25) of section 101 of title 38, United 
     States Code.
       (c) Conforming Amendments.--
       (1) Section 1965 of title 38, United States Code, is 
     amended by striking paragraph (11).
       (2) Section 1032(c) of Public Law 109-13 (119 Stat. 257; 38 
     U.S.C. 1980A note) is repealed.

     SEC. 502. TERMINOLOGY AMENDMENTS TO REVISE REFERENCES TO 
                   CERTAIN VETERANS IN PROVISIONS RELATING TO 
                   ELIGIBILITY FOR COMPENSATION OR DEPENDENCY AND 
                   INDEMNITY COMPENSATION.

       Title 38, United States Code, is amended as follows:
       (1) Section 1114(l) is amended by striking ``so helpless'' 
     and inserting ``with such significant disabilities''.
       (2) Section 1114(m) is amended by striking ``so helpless'' 
     and inserting ``so significantly disabled''.
       (3) Sections 1115(1)(E)(ii), 1122(b)(2), 1311(c)(2), 
     1315(g)(2), and 1502(b)(2) are amended by striking ``helpless 
     or blind, or so nearly helpless or blind as to'' and 
     inserting ``blind, or so nearly blind or significantly 
     disabled as to''.

     SEC. 503. TECHNICAL AND CLERICAL AMENDMENTS.

       Title 38, United States Code, is amended as follows:
       (1) Typographical error.--Section 1117(h)(1) is amended by 
     striking ``nothwithstanding'' and inserting 
     ``notwithstanding''.
       (2) Insertion of missing word.--Section 1513(a) is amended 
     by inserting ``section'' after ``prescribed by''.
       (3) Deletion of extra words.--Section 3012(a)(1)(C)(ii) is 
     amended by striking ``on or''.
       (4) Cross reference correction.--Section 3017(b)(1)(D) is 
     amended by striking ``3011(c)'' and inserting ``3011(e)''.
       (5) Stylistic amendments.--Section 3018A is amended--
       (A) by striking ``of this section'' in subsections (b) and 
     (c);
       (B) by striking ``of this subsection'' in subsections 
     (a)(4), (a)(5), (d)(1) (both places it appears), and (d)(3); 
     and
       (C) by striking ``of this chapter'' in subsection (d)(3) 
     and inserting ``of this title''.
       (6) Cross reference correction.--Section 3117(b)(1) is 
     amended--
       (A) by striking ``section 8'' and inserting ``section 
     4(b)(1)''; and
       (B) by striking ``633(b)'' and inserting ``633(b)(1)''.
       (7) Insertion of missing word.--Section 3511(a)(1) is 
     amended by inserting ``sections'' after ``under both''.
       (8) Subsection headings.--
       (A) Sections 3461, 3462, 3481, 3565, 3680, and 3690 are 
     each amended by revising each subsection heading for a 
     subsection therein (appearing as a centered heading 
     immediately before the text of the subsection) so that such 
     heading appears immediately after the subsection designation 
     and is set forth in capitals-and-small-capitals typeface, 
     followed by a period and a one-em dash.
       (B) Section 3461(c) is amended by inserting after the 
     subsection designation the following: ``Duration of 
     Entitlement.--''.

[[Page 9707]]

       (C) Section 3462 is amended--
       (i) in subsection (d), by inserting after the subsection 
     designation the following: ``Prisoners of War.--''; and
       (ii) in subsection (e), by inserting after the subsection 
     designation the following: ``Termination of Assistance.--''.
       (9) Cross reference correction.--Section 3732(c)(10)(D) is 
     amended by striking ``clause (B) of paragraphs (5), (6), (7), 
     and (8) of this subsection'' and inserting ``paragraphs 
     (5)(B), (6), (7)(B), and (8)(B)''.
       (10) Date of enactment reference.--Section 3733(a)(7) is 
     amended by striking ``the date of the enactment of the 
     Veterans Benefits Act of 2003'' and inserting ``December 16, 
     2003''.
       (11) Repeal of obsolete provisions.--Section 4102A is 
     amended--
       (A) in subsection (c)(7)--
       (i) by striking ``With respect to program years beginning 
     during or after fiscal year 2004, one percent of'' and 
     inserting ``Of''; and
       (ii) by striking ``for the program year'' and inserting 
     ``for any program year, one percent''; and
       (B) in subsection (f)(1), by striking ``By not later than 
     May 7, 2003, the'' and inserting ``The''.
       (12) Repeal of obsolete provisions.--Section 4105(b) is 
     amended--
       (A) by striking ``shall provide,'' and all that follows 
     through ``Affairs with'' and inserting ``shall, on the 15th 
     day of each month, provide the Secretary and the Secretary of 
     Veterans Affairs with updated information regarding''; and
       (B) by striking ``and shall'' and all that follows through 
     ``regarding the list''.
       (13) Citation correction.--Section 4110B is amended--
       (A) by striking ``this Act'' and inserting ``the Workforce 
     Investment Act of 1998''; and
       (B) by inserting ``(29 U.S.C. 2822(b))'' before the period 
     at the end.
       (14) Cross-reference correction.--Section 4331(b)(2)(C) is 
     amended by striking ``section 2303(a)(2)(C)(ii)'' and 
     inserting ``section 2302(a)(2)(C)(ii)''.
       (15) Capitalization correction.--Section 7253(d)(5) is 
     amended by striking ``court'' and inserting ``Court''.

         Amend the title so as to read ``An Act to amend title 38, 
     United States Code, to improve and extend housing, insurance, 
     outreach, and benefits programs provided under the laws 
     administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, to improve 
     and extend employment programs for veterans under laws 
     administered by the Secretary of Labor, and for other 
     purposes.''.

  Mr. CRAIG. Mr. President, I have sought recognition to comment on S. 
1235, the Veterans' Housing Opportunity and Benefits Act of 2006. This 
legislation is the product of a compromise agreement reached between 
the Senate and House Committees on Veterans' Affairs. The legislation 
cleared the House on Monday by a unanimous vote of 372 to 0. Its 
passage today in the Senate will continue the tradition of cooperation 
between the two Houses of Congress and among all political parties when 
it comes to legislation to improve the benefits and services available 
for our nation's veterans.
  Before I thank my colleagues on both sides of the aisle who worked 
diligently on the provisions of this bill, I would like to take a few 
moments to comment on provisions that I was particularly interested in 
seeing enacted in that they will impact the lives of servicemembers 
returning from the global war on terrorism who have severe 
disabilities.
  It is quite natural, and in many cases necessary for therapeutic or 
rehabilitative reasons, for a young service-
member who is severely wounded to spend some time convalescing at the 
home of his or her family before moving on to live a fully independent 
life. The nature of some severely wounded servicemembers' wounds 
require adaptations to the homes in which they live--such as larger 
doorways, ramps, hand rails, and other modifications. VA has a grant 
program to assist servicemembers and veterans with expenses associated 
with these modifications, but the program needs greater flexibility to 
address the reality of how young wounded warriors convalesce. Section 
101 of the legislation provides that flexibility. It authorizes VA to 
equip a family member's home using a partial grant--with some portion, 
or all, of the remainder of the grant available for later use--of 
between $2,000 and $14,000. I was proud to join Senator John Sununu on 
an amendment that cleared the Senate earlier this year that contained 
this provision. I am even prouder that we were able to include it in 
the final bill.
  Section 301 of S. 1235 is another provision that makes a reasonable 
accommodation in a benefit program to meet the realities faced by 
convalescing, severely disabled servicemembers. Servicemembers 
adjudicated as totally disabled at the time of their separation from 
service have up to one year after separation to apply to receive 
premium-free Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance coverage during the 
1-year, post separation period, and to convert their coverage to 
Veterans' Group Life Insurance, or an individual plan or policy. Taking 
advantage of the conversion option is especially critical for totally 
disabled veterans who, because of their disabilities, may not be 
insurable at competitive commercial rates after military service. 
Through a targeted outreach effort to this population, VA learned that 
many totally disabled veterans do not convert their coverage to VGLI 
because they may have neglected post-separation financial planning due 
to the effects of their disabilities, or because they were simply 
unaware of the extension option. To give these convalescing 
servicemembers as much time as possible to make informed decisions 
about their future financial security, section 301 would extend from 1 
to 2 years the available conversion period.
  There are many other enhancements contained in this legislation. They 
cover housing, insurance, employment and other miscellaneous benefit 
programs. And, not a small point in this time of fiscal austerity, the 
legislation is budget neutral.
  I would like to take a moment to thank those who are responsible for 
bringing this compromise agreement to the brink of enactment. First, 
the committee's ranking member, Senator Daniel Akaka, provided his 
customary--and indispensable--cooperation and leadership. He and his 
staff worked very closely with me and my staff to shepherd the original 
legislation through the Senate, and then to work together with my House 
colleagues on this compromise. Veterans in Hawaii should be proud to 
have Senator Akaka at the helm. And I am proud to have him as the 
committee's ranking member.
  I salute Chairman Steve Buyer and Ranking Member Lane Evans of the 
House Veterans' Committee; Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and 
Memorial Affairs Chairman Jeff Miller and Ranking Member Shelley 
Berkley; and Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity Chairman John Boozman 
and Ranking Member Stephanie Herseth for their work and for their 
spirit of accommodation. They and their staffs are to be commended for 
a job well done.
  Yesterday, the Congress sent bipartisan legislation, the Respect for 
America's Fallen Heroes Act, to the President for his signature. Today, 
I am also asking my colleagues in the Senate to send the Veterans' 
Housing Opportunity and Benefits Act of 2006, to the President. I am 
thankful that our celebration of Memorial Day on Monday coincides with 
the Congress sending so strong a message of support to those who have 
worn the uniform.
  Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the text of the attached 
joint explanatory statement be printed in the Record.
  There being no objection, the material was ordered to be printed in 
the Record, as follows:

 Explanatory Statement on Amendment to Senate Bill, S. 1235, as Amended

       S. 1235, as amended, the Veterans' Housing Opportunity and 
     Benefits Improvement Act of 2006, reflects a Compromise 
     Agreement reached by the Senate and House Committees on 
     Veterans' Affairs (the Committees) on the following bills 
     reported during the 109th Congress: S. 1235, as amended 
     (Senate Bill), H.R. 1220, as amended, H.R. 2046, as amended, 
     and H.R. 3665, as amended (House Bills). S. 1235, as amended, 
     passed the Senate on September 28, 2005; H.R. 2046, as 
     amended, passed the House on May 23, 2005; H.R. 3665, as 
     amended, passed the House on November 10, 2005.
       The Committees have prepared the following explanation of 
     S. 1235, as further amended to reflect a compromise agreement 
     between the Committees (Compromise Agreement). Differences 
     between the provisions contained in the Compromise Agreement 
     and the related provisions of the Senate Bill and the House 
     Bills are noted in this document, except for clerical 
     corrections, conforming changes made necessary by the 
     Compromise Agreement, and minor drafting, technical, and 
     clarifying changes.

[[Page 9708]]




                        TITLE I--HOUSING MATTERS

     Adapted housing assistance for disabled veterans residing in 
         housing owned by family member

     Current law
       Chapter 21 of title 38, United States Code, authorizes the 
     Secretary to provide grants to adapt or acquire suitable 
     housing for certain severely disabled veterans. The grant 
     amounts are limited to $50,000 for severely disabled veterans 
     with impairments of locomotion or loss of function of both 
     arms described in section 2101(a) of title 38, United States 
     Code, and $10,000 to severely disabled veterans with loss of 
     vision or loss of function of both hands as described in 
     section 2101(b) of title 38, United States Code. Currently a 
     veteran may receive a grant for specially adapted housing 
     only once. However, a veteran who has qualified for the 
     smaller grant may nonetheless receive a higher grant if 
     disabilities under that provision later develop.
     Senate bill
       The Senate Bill contains no comparable provision.
     House bills
       Section 101(a) through (e) of H.R. 3665, as amended, would 
     amend chapter 21 of title 38, United States Code, by 
     inserting a new section 2102A. Subparagraph (a) would 
     authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to conduct a 
     program providing a partial adapted housing grant to severely 
     injured veterans residing temporarily in housing owned by a 
     family member. Subparagraph (b) would authorize the Secretary 
     to provide up to a $10,000 grant for such veterans with 
     disabilities involving impairments of locomotion and up to a 
     $2,000 grant for such veterans with visual impairments or 
     loss of function of both hands. Subparagraph (c) would limit 
     the assistance to one family residence. Subparagraph (d) 
     would require the Secretary to issue relevant regulations. 
     Finally, subparagraph (e) would limit the program to 5 years 
     after enactment.
       Section 101(b) of H.R. 3665, as amended, would amend 
     section 2102 of title 38, United States Code, to allow a 
     veteran to receive no more than three grants of assistance 
     under chapter 21 of title 38, United States Code. The total 
     value of all grants would not exceed $50,000 for the most 
     severely disabled veterans and $10,000 for less severely 
     disabled veterans. However, a veteran who receives a grant 
     under section 2102(b) of title 38, United States Code, would 
     still be allowed to receive grants under section 2102(a) of 
     title 38, United States Code, if he or she becomes eligible.
       Section 101(c) would amend chapter 21 of title 38, United 
     States Code, by adding at the end a new section 2107 to 
     provide that the Secretary shall coordinate the 
     administration of programs to provide specially adapted 
     housing that are administered by both the Under Secretary for 
     Health and the Under Secretary for Benefits under chapters 
     17, 21, and 31 of title 38, United States Code.
     Compromise agreement
       Section 101 of the Compromise Agreement generally follows 
     the House language except in the case of veterans residing 
     temporarily in housing owned by a family member, veterans 
     with disabilities involving impairments of locomotion may 
     receive up to $14,000. Section 101 would also increase the 
     funding fee for a subsequent use of the VA home loan guaranty 
     with no money down by 5 basis points for the period October 
     1, 2006 through September 30, 2007.
     Adjustable rate mortgages

     Current law
       Section 3707A(c)(4) of title 38, United States Code, limits 
     the maximum increase or decrease of any single annual 
     interest rate adjustment after the initial contract interest 
     rate adjustment to 1 percentage point.
     Senate bill
       Section 201 of the Senate Bill would give VA the 
     flexibility to prescribe an appropriate annual rate 
     adjustment cap for VA hybrid Adjustable Rate Mortgage loans 
     with an initial rate of interest fixed for 5 or more years.
     House bills
       The House Bills contain no comparable provision.
     Compromise agreement
       Section 102 of the Compromise Agreement follows the Senate 
     language.
     Permanent authority to make direct housing loans to native 
         american veterans

     Current law
       Section 3761 of title 38, United States Code, establishes a 
     pilot program to make direct housing loans to Native American 
     veterans for homes on tribal lands. The authorization expires 
     on December 31, 2008. Section 3762 of title 38, United States 
     Code, describes the administration of the program and limits 
     the maximum loan amount to $80,000, unless the Secretary 
     allows a larger amount due to higher housing costs in a 
     particular geographic area.
     Senate bill
       Section 203 of the Senate Bill contains a similar 
     provision.
     House bills
       Section 102 of H.R. 3665, as amended, would make permanent 
     the Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program. It would 
     also limit the Secretary's discretion in approving a loan 
     larger than $80,000 to the loan limitation amount provided by 
     the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation Act for a single-
     family residence.
     Compromise agreement
       Section 103 of the Compromise Agreement follows the House 
     language.
     Extension of Eligibility for direct loans for Native American 
         Veterans to a veteran who is the spouse of a Native 
         American

     Current law
       Section 3761 of title 38, United States Code, limits loans 
     under the Native American Home Loan Program to veterans who 
     are Native Americans. Under current law, a veteran residing 
     on tribal lands with a Native American spouse is not eligible 
     to receive a home loan under this program.
     Senate bill
       The Senate Bill contains no comparable provision.
     House bills
       Section 103 of H.R. 3665, as amended, would extend 
     eligibility for the Native American Veteran Housing Loan 
     Program to non-Native American veterans who are spouses of 
     Native Americans eligible to be housed on tribal land. The 
     non-Native American veteran must be able to acquire a 
     meaningful interest in the property under tribal law.
     Compromise agreement
       Section 104 of the Compromise Agreement follows the House 
     language.
     Technical Corrections to Veterans' Benefit Improvement Act of 
         2004

     Current law
       Section 2101 of title 38, United States Code, provides for 
     grants to adapt or acquire suitable housing for certain 
     severely disabled veterans. Section 401 of Public Law 108-183 
     amended section 2101 to authorize the Secretary of Veterans 
     Affairs to provide adapted housing assistance to certain 
     disabled servicemembers who have not yet been processed for 
     discharge from military service, but who will qualify for the 
     benefit upon discharge due to the severity of their 
     disabilities. However, this provision was inadvertently 
     omitted from section 2101 of title 38, United States Code 
     when changes to that section were made by P.L. 108-454.
     Senate bill
       Section 202 of S. 1235 would amend section 2101 of title 
     38, United States Code, to reinstate the authority of the 
     Secretary to provide adapted housing assistance to certain 
     members of the armed services and make other conforming 
     amendments. The amendments made by this provision would take 
     effect on December 10, 2004, immediately after the enactment 
     of Public Law 108-454.
     House bills
       Section 4 of H.R. 2046, as amended, contains a similar 
     provision.
     Compromise agreement
       Section 105 of the Compromise Agreement contains this 
     provision.


                      TITLE II--EMPLOYMENT MATTERS

     Additional duty for the Assistant Secretary of Labor for 
         Veterans' Employment and Training to raise awareness of 
         skills of veterans and of the benefits of hiring veterans

     Current law
       Subsection (b) of section 4102A of title 38, United States 
     Code, describes the duties to be carried out by the Assistant 
     Secretary of Labor for Veterans' Employment and Training.
     Senate bill
       The Senate Bill contains no comparable provision.
     House bills
       Section 202(a) of H.R. 3665, as amended, would add a new 
     duty for the Assistant Secretary of Labor for Veterans' 
     Employment and Training (ASVET) under section 4102A of title 
     38, United States Code, to furnish information to employers 
     (through meetings with hiring executives of corporations and 
     otherwise) concerning the training and skills of veterans and 
     disabled veterans, and the advantages of hiring veterans. The 
     ASVET would also be required to facilitate employment of 
     veterans and disabled veterans through participation in labor 
     exchanges (Internet-based and otherwise), and by other means.
       Section 202(b) of H.R. 3665, as amended, would require the 
     Secretary of Labor, acting through the ASVET, to develop a 
     transition plan for the ASVET to assume certain duties and 
     functions of the President's National Hire Veterans Committee 
     and transmit the plan to the House and Senate Veterans' 
     Affairs Committees not later than July 1, 2006.
     Compromise agreement
       Section 201 of the Compromise Agreement generally follows 
     the House language, but does not include the requirement that 
     the Secretary of Labor develop and transmit a transition 
     plan.

[[Page 9709]]


     Modifications to the Advisory Committee on Veterans 
         Employment and Training
     Current law
       Section 4110 of title 38, United States Code, establishes 
     the Advisory Committee on Veterans Employment and Training, 
     its membership, and its duties. The Advisory Committee 
     advises the ASVET on the employment and training needs of 
     veterans and how the Department of Labor is meeting those 
     needs. No outreach efforts are required of the Advisory 
     Committee in current law.
     Senate bill
       The Senate Bill contains no comparable provision.
     House bills
       Section 203(a) of H.R. 3665, as amended, would amend 
     section 4110 of title 38, United States Code, by renaming the 
     ``Advisory Committee on Veterans Employment and Training'' to 
     ``Advisory Committee on Veterans Employment, Training, and 
     Employer Outreach''.
       Section 203(b) would modify the duties of the Advisory 
     Committee to include assisting and advising the Assistant 
     Secretary of Labor for Veterans' Employment and Training 
     (ASVET) in carrying out outreach to employers.
       Section 203(c) would modify the membership of the Advisory 
     Committee to include representatives from the National 
     Society of Human Resource Managers, The Business Roundtable, 
     the National Association of State Workforce Agencies, the 
     United States Chamber of Commerce, the National Federation of 
     Independent Business, a nationally recognized labor union or 
     organization, veterans service organizations that have a 
     national employment program, and recognized authorities in 
     the fields of business, employment, training, rehabilitation, 
     or labor. Section 203(c) would also retain six nonvoting ex 
     officio members of the Advisory Committee: Secretary of 
     Veterans Affairs, Secretary of Defense, Director of the 
     Office of Personnel Management, Assistant Secretary of Labor 
     for Veterans' Employment and Training, Assistant Secretary of 
     Labor for Employment and Training, and the Administrator of 
     the Small Business Administration.
       Section 203(d) of H.R. 3665, as amended, would require the 
     Advisory Committee to submit a report to the Secretary of 
     Labor on the employment and training needs of veterans for 
     the previous fiscal year. The report would include a 
     description of the activities of the Advisory Committee 
     during that fiscal year as well as suggested outreach 
     activities to be carried out by the Secretary of Labor to 
     employers with respect to the training and skills of veterans 
     and the advantages afforded employers by hiring veterans.
     Compromise agreement
       Section 202 of the Compromise Agreement follows the House 
     language.
     Reauthorization of Appropriations for Homeless Veterans 
         Reintegration Programs

     Current law
       Section 2021 of title 38, United States Code, authorizes 
     appropriations for the Homeless Veterans Reintegration 
     Programs (HVRP) through fiscal year 2006.
     Senate bill
       The Senate Bill contains no comparable provision.
     House bills
       Section 301 of H.R. 3665, as amended, would reauthorize 
     HVRP for fiscal years 2007 through 2009, and retain the 
     maximum authorization of $50 million per year.
     Compromise agreement
       Section 203 of the Compromise Agreement follows the House 
     language.


              TITLE III--LIFE AND HEALTH INSURANCE MATTERS

     Duration of Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance coverage for 
         totally disabled veterans following separation from 
         service

     Current law
       Section 1968 of title 38, United States Code, provides 
     coverage at no charge under the Servicemembers' Group Life 
     Insurance program for 1 year after the date of separation or 
     release from active duty if a veteran is rated totally 
     disabled at the time of separation. Veterans may also convert 
     their insurance coverage from Servicemembers' Group Life 
     Insurance to Veterans' Group Life Insurance, or to an 
     individual policy of insurance, during the 1-year, post-
     separation period.
     Senate bill
       Section 101 of the Senate Bill would extend from 1 to 2 
     years, after separation from active duty service, the period 
     within which totally disabled members may receive premium-
     free SGLI coverage. In addition, such members would be 
     eligible to convert their coverage to Veterans' Group Life 
     Insurance or an individual policy of insurance.
     House bills
       The House Bills contain no comparable provision.
     Compromise agreement
       Section 301 of the Compromise Agreement would extend the 
     post-separation coverage period from 1 to 2 years until 
     September 30, 2011, for all members who are totally disabled 
     when separated or released from active duty 1 year before 
     date of enactment of this Act. For members who are totally 
     disabled when they separate or are released on or after 
     October 1, 2011, the post-separation coverage period would be 
     reduced to 18 months.
     Limitation on premium increases for reinstated health 
         insurance of service-
         members released from active military service

     Current law
       Section 704 of the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) 
     provides that a servicemember who is ordered to active duty 
     is entitled, upon release from active duty, to reinstatement 
     of any health insurance coverage in effect on the day before 
     such service commenced. Section 704 of the SCRA currently 
     contains no express provision regarding premium increases.
     Senate bill
       The Senate Bill contains no comparable provision.
     House bills
       Section 2 of H.R. 2046, as amended, would amend section 704 
     of SCRA by adding at the end a new subsection that would 
     limit health insurance premium increases. The amount charged 
     for the coverage once reinstated would not exceed the amount 
     charged for coverage before the termination except for any 
     general increase for persons similarly covered by the 
     insurance during the period between termination and the 
     reinstatement.
     Compromise agreement
       Section 302 of the Compromise Agreement follows the House 
     language.
     Preservation of employer-sponsored health plan coverage for 
         certain reserve-component members who acquire tricare 
         eligibility

     Current law
       Section 4317 of title 38, United States Code, requires an 
     employer to provide employees returning from active duty with 
     the same employer-sponsored health benefits they had when 
     they reported for active duty. However, section 4317 does not 
     preserve employer-sponsored health plan reinstatement rights 
     for certain Reserve-component members who acquire health 
     insurance coverage under TRICARE prior to entering active 
     duty under section 1074(d) of title 10, United States Code. 
     This option became available by an amendment to the TRICARE 
     authority enacted on November 24, 2003.
     Senate bill
       The Senate Bill contains no comparable provision.
     House bills
       Section 3 of H.R. 2046, as amended, would amend section 
     4317 of title 38, United States Code, to preserve employer-
     sponsored health plan reinstatement rights under the 
     Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act for 
     Reserve-component members who acquire TRICARE coverage prior 
     to entering active duty. This includes those Reserve 
     Component members whose active duty orders are canceled prior 
     to reporting to active duty.
     Compromise agreement
       Section 303 of the Compromise Agreement follows the House 
     language.


                        TITLE IV--OTHER MATTERS

     Inclusion of additional diseases and conditions in diseases 
         and disabilities presumed to be associated with prisoner 
         of war status

     Current law
       Section 1112(b) of title 38, United States Code, contains 
     two lists of diseases that are presumed to be related to an 
     individual's experience as a prisoner of war. The first 
     presumptive list requires no minimum internment period and 
     includes diseases associated with mental trauma or acute 
     physical trauma, which could plausibly be caused by a single 
     day of captivity. The second list has a 30-day minimum 
     internment requirement.
     Senate bill
       Section 303 of the Senate Bill would codify a June 28, 
     2005, VA regulation which added atherosclerotic heart disease 
     or hypertensive vascular disease (including hypertensive 
     heart disease) and their complications (including myocardial 
     infarction, congestive heart failure and arrhythmia), and 
     stroke and its complications as presumptive conditions for 
     service-connection when related to the prisoner of war 
     experience. These diseases would be included under the list 
     requiring a minimum 30-day internment period.
     House bills
       The House Bills contain no comparable provision.
     Compromise agreement
       Section 401 of the Compromise Agreement follows the Senate 
     language.
     Consolidation and revision of outreach activities

     Current law
       Section 7722 of title 38, United States Code, requires the 
     Secretary of Veterans Affairs to distribute full information 
     to eligible servicemembers, veterans, and dependents

[[Page 9710]]

     regarding all benefits and services to which they may be 
     entitled under laws administered by the Department.
     Senate bill
       Section 301 of the Senate Bill would require VA to prepare 
     annually (and submit to Congress) a plan governing an 
     upcoming year's outreach activities. Such a plan would 
     incorporate the recommendations of the report mandated by 
     Public Law 108-454, and would be prepared after consultations 
     with veterans service organizations, State and local 
     officials, and other interested groups and advocates.
     House bills
       The House Bills contain no comparable provision.
     Compromise agreement
       Section 402 of the Compromise Agreement follows the Senate 
     language with modifications. VA outreach activities would be 
     revised and consolidated in a new chapter 63 of title 38, 
     United States Code. Additionally, VA would be required to 
     prepare biennially an outreach plan governing an upcoming 2 
     years of outreach activities, beginning on October 1, 2007. 
     Furthermore, VA would be required to report biennially on the 
     execution of the outreach plan, beginning on October 1, 2008.
     Extension of reporting requirements on equitable relief cases

     Current law
       Section 503 of title 38, United States Code, authorizes the 
     Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide monetary relief to 
     persons whom the Secretary determines were deprived of VA 
     benefits by reason of administrative error by a federal 
     government employee. The Secretary may also provide relief 
     which the Secretary determines is equitable to a VA 
     beneficiary who has suffered loss as a consequence of an 
     erroneous decision made by a federal government employee. No 
     later than April 1 of each year, the Secretary was required 
     to submit to Congress a report containing a statement as to 
     the disposition of each case recommended to the Secretary for 
     equitable relief during the preceding calendar year; the 
     requirement for this report expired on December 31, 2004.
     Senate bill
       Section 302 of the Senate Bill would extend the equitable 
     relief reporting requirement through December 31, 2009.
     House bills
       The House Bills contain no comparable provision.
     Compromise agreement
       Section 403 of the Compromise Agreement follows the Senate 
     language.


                     TITLE V--TECHNICAL AMENDMENTS

     Technical and clarifying amendments to new traumatic injury 
         protection coverage under servicemembers' group life 
         insurance

     Current law
       Section 1032 of Public Law 109-13 (119 STAT. 257) 
     established, effective December 1, 2005, a new traumatic 
     injury protection program within title 38, United States 
     Code. Section 1980A provides servicemembers enrolled in the 
     Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance (SGLI) program automatic 
     coverage against qualified traumatic injuries. In the event a 
     servicemember sustains a qualified traumatic injury, SGLI 
     will pay the injured servicemember between $25,000 to 
     $100,000, depending on the nature of the injury and in 
     accordance with a payment schedule prescribed by the 
     Secretary of Veterans Affairs.
     Senate bill
       The Senate Bill contains no comparable provision.
     House bills
       Section 401 of H.R. 3665, as amended, would make various 
     technical and clerical amendments to section 1980A of title 
     38, United States Code. These technical amendments more 
     clearly specify the responsibilities of the different 
     uniformed services who participate in the Servicemembers' 
     Group Life Insurance program: military services under the 
     jurisdiction of the Secretary of Defense, the United States 
     Coast Guard under the Secretary of Homeland Security, the 
     Public Health Service under the jurisdiction of the Secretary 
     of Health and Human Services, and the National Oceanic and 
     Atmospheric Administration under the jurisdiction of the 
     Secretary of Commerce.
       The technical amendments in section 401 are intended to 
     clarify and to conform section 1980A of title 38, United 
     States Code, to current provisions and are not intended to 
     make any substantive change in current law.
     Compromise agreement
       Section 501 of the Compromise Agreement follows the House 
     language.
     Terminology amendments to revise references to certain 
         veterans in provisions relating to eligibility for 
         compensation or dependency and indemnity compensation

     Current law
       Sections 1114(l), 1114(m), 1115(b)(2), 1122(b)(2), 
     1311(c)(2), 1315(g)(2), and 1502(b)(2) of title 38, United 
     States Code, contain language that refers to ``helpless 
     veterans'' when relating to eligibility for compensation or 
     dependency and indemnity compensation.
     Senate bill
       The Senate Bill contains no comparable provision.
     House bills
       Section 104 of H.R. 3665, as amended, would amend sections 
     1114(l), 1114(m), 1115(1)(E)(ii), 1122(b)(2), 1311(c)(2), 
     1315(g)(2), and 1502(b)(2) of title 38, United States Code, 
     eliminating use of the obsolete term ``helpless'' when 
     describing significantly disabled veterans. No substantive 
     change is intended by these amendments.
     Compromise agreement
       Section 502 of the Compromise Agreement follows the House 
     language.


                   LEGISLATIVE PROVISIONS NOT ADOPTED

     Post traumatic stress disorder claims

     Current law
       Section 501 of title 38, United States Code, provides the 
     Secretary of Veterans Affairs with the authority to prescribe 
     all rules and regulations necessary or appropriate to carry 
     out the laws administered by VA, including the methods of 
     making medical examinations and the manner and form of 
     adjudications and awards.
     Senate bill
       Section 304 would require VA to develop and implement 
     policy and training initiatives to standardize the assessment 
     of PTSD disability compensation claims.
     House bills
       The House Bills contain no comparable provision.
     Increase in rates of disability compensation paid to certain 
         surviving spouses with children

     Current law
       Under current law, a surviving spouse with one or more 
     children under the age of 18 is entitled to receive a 
     transitional benefit of an additional $250 per month for the 
     first two years of eligibility for dependency and indemnity 
     compensation (DIC).
     Senate bill
       The Senate Bill contains no comparable provision.
     House bills
       Section 206 of H.R. 1220, as amended, would provide a cost-
     of-living adjustment for the $250 transitional DIC for 2006.
     Treatment of stillborn children as insurable dependents under 
         servicemembers' group life insurance program

     Current law
       Section 1967 of title 38, United States Code, provides 
     coverage under the Service-members' Group Life Insurance 
     program to the spouse and children of insured, full-time, 
     active duty servicemembers, as well as covered members of the 
     Ready Reserve. Coverage for the spouse may not exceed 
     $100,000, and the servicemember may elect in writing not to 
     insure a spouse. Coverage for each child, in the amount of 
     $10,000, is automatic. Coverage for the dependent begins 
     immediately following a live birth.
     Senate bill
       Section 102 of the Senate Bill would cover a member's 
     stillborn child as an insurable dependent under the 
     Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance program.
     House bills
       The House Bills contain no comparable provision.
     Demonstration project to improve business practices of 
         Veterans Health Administration
     Current law
       There is no applicable current law.
     Senate bill
       The Senate Bill contains no comparable provision.
     House bills
       Section 5 of H.R. 1220, as amended, would establish a 
     demonstration project to improve the Department of Veterans 
     Affairs' (VA) collections from third-party payers.
     Parkinson's disease research, education, and clinical centers

     Current law
       There is no applicable current law.
     Senate bill
       The Senate Bill contains no comparable provision.
     House bills
       Section 6 of H.R. 1220, as amended, would permanently 
     authorize six Parkinson's disease Research Education and 
     Clinical Centers (PADRECCs), subject to appropriations, and 
     give priority to the existing PADRECCs for medical care and 
     research dollars, insofar as such funds are awarded to 
     projects for research in Parkinson's disease and other 
     movement disorders.
     Extension of operation of the president's national hire 
         veterans committee

     Current law
       Section 6 of the Jobs for Veterans Act, Public Law 107-288, 
     established the President's National Hire Veterans Committee 
     (PNHVC) within the Department of Labor. The PNHVC furnishes 
     information to employers with respect to the training and 
     skills of veterans and disabled veterans and the advantages 
     of hiring veterans. The Secretary of Labor provides staff and 
     administrative support to the PNHVC to assist it in

[[Page 9711]]

     carrying out its duties under this section. The PNHVC also 
     has the authority to contract with government and private 
     agencies to furnish information to employers. Under current 
     law, the PNHVC terminated on December 31, 2005. The PNHVC was 
     authorized $3 million appropriated from the Unemployment 
     Trust Fund through fiscal year 2005.
     Senate bill
       The Senate Bill contains no comparable provision.
     House bills
       Section 201 of H.R. 3665, as amended, would amend section 6 
     of the Jobs for Veterans Act by extending, for up to 1 year, 
     the President's National Hire Veterans Committee until not 
     later than December 31, 2006. Section 201 would also extend 
     the authorization for appropriations through fiscal year 2006 
     and require an additional PNHVC report to the House and 
     Senate Veterans' Affairs Committees in 2006.

  Mr. SUNUNU. Mr. President, today I rise in strong support of S. 1235, 
the Veterans' Housing Opportunity and Benefits Improvement Act of 2006. 
This legislation passed the House unanimously on Monday, and I urge my 
Senate colleagues to do the same.
  S. 1235 contains many important provisions, but I would like to focus 
my remarks on section 101 of the bill, which deals with adaptive 
housing grants. Section 101 upgrades eligibility criteria for housing 
assistance grants to better reflect the needs of today's veteran 
community and will help all disabled veterans move home from medical 
facilities sooner. The language in section 101 is almost identical to 
my bipartisan legislation, S. 1947, The Specially Adapted Housing 
Improvements Grants Act and a bi-partisan amendment I introduced to S. 
1932, the Deficit Reduction Act, which passed the Senate unanimously by 
voice vote.
  First, I want to acknowledge my House colleague, Representative John 
Boozman of Arkansas, who serves as Chairman of the Veterans' Affairs 
Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity and has demonstrated real 
leadership on this issue. I am grateful to him for his considerable 
efforts to advance this measure in the House and I am happy to do so 
here in this Chamber. I also appreciate the hard work of the Chairman 
of the Veterans' Affairs Committee here in the Senate, Senator Craig, 
and the bipartisan group of Senators who cosponsored both my bill and 
amendment. The broad support of S. 1235 and its provisions represent a 
bipartisan belief on Capitol Hill that Congress must constantly 
evaluate veterans programs to make certain that our Nation provides 
responsive support to veterans.
  While representing New Hampshire in the House and Senate, I have 
worked to ensure that those who served in our armed services receive 
their hard-earned benefits quickly and in full. Too often, out-of-date 
and burdensome regulations deny qualified veterans from receiving the 
benefits to which they are entitled. Whenever possible, it is 
imperative that we remove red tape that does not take into account the 
realities faced by today's veterans.
  That is why I introduced legislation to reform rules that determine 
requirements for a Department of Veterans Affairs, VA, grant program 
that helps many disabled veterans make their homes suitable for 
occupancy. Currently, a disabled veteran must at least partly own his 
or her residence to receive VA housing assistance grants to perform 
necessary residence modifications, such as installing wheelchair ramps 
or railings. However, many younger veterans returning from Iraq and 
Afghanistan have not yet had the opportunity to become homeowners. 
Being ineligible for VA funding assistance to modify their homes, these 
veterans and their families often are compelled to either shoulder the 
costs of retrofitting their residences or face extended stays in VA 
medical facilities.
  Section 101 of S. 1235 will establish a 5-year pilot program to allow 
severely disabled veterans who live temporarily with family to receive 
up to $10,000 in adaptive housing assistance; less severely disabled 
veterans could receive a maximum of $2,000. This grant money will help 
ensure that all disabled veterans--regardless of whether they own 
property--are able to leave hospitals and return home as quickly as 
possible.
  Also, mindful that these individuals will likely purchase their own 
residence, the bill will allow disabled veterans to receive two 
additional specially adaptive housing grants to be used for homes that 
they own in the future. Severely disabled veterans could receive a 
total of $50,000 to modify residences; less severely disabled veterans 
would be eligible for a total of $10,000. Only one of the three total 
grants could be used for a temporary residence, such as a family-owned 
home.
  America's veterans have made enormous sacrifices to protect our 
Nation and the ideals for which it stands. Our country owes a special 
obligation to those men and women who have become disabled as a result 
of their service. Under no circumstances should these American heroes 
be divided into groups of ``haves'' and ``have nots.''
  This Nation must do no less than to ensure that all disabled veterans 
are returned to the normalcy of home life as quickly and comfortably as 
possible. The common sense changes put forth in section 101 of S. 1235 
do just that, and I urge my colleagues in the Senate to send this bill 
to President Bush to sign in to law in time, fittingly, for Memorial 
Day.
  Mr. AKAKA. Mr. President, as ranking member of the Committee on 
Veterans' Affairs, I urge my colleagues to support our current 
servicemembers, veterans, and their families by supporting the pending 
measure, the final agreement on the Veterans' Housing Opportunity and 
Benefits Improvement Act of 2006. This is a vital and timely piece of 
legislation that has already passed the House of Representatives. With 
Senate passage today and the President's signature it will quickly 
become public law.
  Mr. President, this measure, which I shall refer to as the 
``Compromise Agreement,'' will improve and expand a wide variety of 
veterans benefits and programs, including, among others, housing 
benefits for Native American veterans and severely disabled 
servicemembers; insurance benefits for certain disabled veterans; 
compensation benefits for former prisoners of war; and programs that 
provide assistance to homeless veterans.
  This legislation is appropriate at a time when our servicemembers are 
in harm's way. We must always remember the sacrifices that our 
servicemembers, both past and present, have made on behalf of this 
great Nation and we must do our part to respond to their service by 
improving and expanding veterans benefits.
  In 1992, I authored the legislation that established a pilot program 
to make direct housing loans to Native American veterans for homes on 
tribal lands. As of the end of April, VA had made 504 loans to this 
group of veterans. Under this program, VA offers loan guarantees that 
protect lenders against loss up to the amount of the guaranty if the 
borrower fails to repay the loan. Prior to the enactment of this law, 
Native American veterans residing on tribal lands were unable to 
qualify for VA home loan benefits. With the Native American Veteran 
Housing Loan Program indigenous peoples residing on trust lands are now 
able to use this very important VA benefit. I am pleased that the 
Compromise Agreement contains a provision derived from legislation I 
offered, S. 917, that would make this pilot program, which was set to 
expire on December 31, 2008, permanent.
  The Compromise Agreement also extends, from 1 to 2 years, the amount 
of time a disabled servicemember has to convert his or her 
Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance coverage into Veterans' Group Life 
Insurance coverage. This change is being made so that veterans may 
concentrate on recovering from their injuries or conditions, and not on 
meeting deadlines for life insurance conversion.
  Under current law, former prisoners of war have to been held for a 
minimum of 30 days before they can benefit from a presumption that 
certain diseases are linked to their service. The Compromise Agreement 
also would add heart disease and stroke to presumptive conditions for 
service-connection for former prisoners of war.
  Homelessness among veterans is a critical problem. It is particularly 
troubling to me that an estimated 56

[[Page 9712]]

percent of today's homeless veterans are minorities. The homeless rate 
in my home state of Hawaii has nearly doubled since early 2000, with 
the majority of Hawaii's new homeless being Native Hawaiians. The city 
of Honolulu has a tremendous problem with affordable housing, 
increasing the possibility of becoming homeless for those who already 
struggle to make ends meet. The Compromise Agreement would reauthorize 
through fiscal year 2009 the Homeless Veterans Reintegration Programs, 
which are the only Federal programs dedicated wholly to providing 
employment services to homeless veterans.
  Also included in the Compromise Agreement is my provision that would 
make a technical change to the specially adapted housing grant program. 
Last session, the law that allows severely disabled members of the 
Armed Forces to receive specially adapted housing grants from VA, while 
still on active duty, was inadvertently repealed. My provision would 
correct this and restore the grant to its original intent.
  In conclusion, I thank Senator Craig and the benefits staff on the 
majority for their work on this comprehensive bill, especially Jon 
Towers, Amanda Meredith, and Lupe Wissel and, on the Democratic staff 
Dahlia Melendrez, Pat Driscoll, and Noe Kalipi for their hard work on 
this legislation.
  Mr. President, I urge my colleagues to support this legislation on 
behalf of America's veterans and their families.
  Mr. FRIST. I ask unanimous consent the Senate concur in the House 
amendments, the motion to reconsider be laid upon the table, and any 
statements related to the bill be printed in the Record.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered.

                          ____________________