LIBERTY BELL CHAPTER 266, VIETNAM
VETERANS OF AMERICA
November 2,
2015, GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS LEGISLATIVE REPORT
Since our last Chapter Board Meeting on October 19, 2015, the
following bills and items of concern from a legislative perspective have come,
or are pending, before the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania General Assembly and
the U.S. Congress for action. Any items pending as of the last meeting, but
that had no action taken on them since the last meeting, are not included in
this report, unless they were inadvertently omitted from the previous report.
PA GENERAL ASSEMBLY SCHEDULE:
For the PA Senate Calendar, see:
http://www.legis.state.pa.us/WU01/LI/SC/SC/0/RC/CAL.HTM
For the PA House of Representatives Calendars, see:
and
PA HOUSE VETERANS AFFAIRS &
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS COMMITTEE HEARINGS:
PA SENATE VETERANS AFFAIRS &
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS COMMITTEE
FEDERAL LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE HEARINGS:
U.S. House Committee on Veterans
Affairs
Nov 2, 2015 - Testimony of Subpoenaed Witnesses on the Department of Veterans
Affairs Alleged Misuse of Relocation Program and Incentives
Nov 3, 2015 - Examining VA’s Information Technology Systems that
Provide Economic Opportunities for Veterans
Nov 4, 2015 - Joint Subcommittee Hearing with HSBC, Subcommittee on
Contracting and Workforce: An Examination of Continued Challenges in VA’s Vets
First Verification Process
Nov 17, 2015 - Legislative Hearing on: H.R. 1319; H.R. 1603; H.R. 1904;
H.R. 2639; H.R. 3234; H.R. 3471; H.R. 3549; Draft legislation, the Promoting
Responsible Opioid Management and Incorporating Medical Expertise Act; and, a
VA legislative proposal, the VA Purchased Health Care Streamlining and
Modernization Act
Nov 18, 2015 - Choice Consolidation: Assessing VA’s Plan to Improve
Care in the Community (Rescheduled from 11/3/15)
U.S. Senate Veterans Affairs
Committee Hearings
None scheduled.
COMMONWEALTH OF PA HOUSE BILLS 2015-2016 Session:
HB 138 - An Act amending Title 35 (Health and Safety) of
the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, providing for soliciting by first
responder organizations. Last Action: Third consideration and final passage, May 13, 2015
(190-1). In the Senate - Third consideration and final passage, Oct. 21, 2015 (46-0). In the
House - Referred to RULES, Oct. 26, 2015. Re-reported on concurrence from
RULES, as committed, Oct. 26, 2015. House concurred in Senate amendments, Oct.
26, 2015 (198-0). Signed in House, Oct. 26, 2015. Signed in Senate, Oct. 26, 2015. Presented to the Governor, Oct. 27, 2015.
HB 175 - An Act amending the act of April 26, 2006 (P.L.91, No.29),
known as the Persian Gulf Conflict Veterans' Benefit Act, further providing for
application for compensation and for Commonwealth indebtedness. Bill would extend the application deadline to
8/31/18. Last Action: Third consideration and final passage, June 2, 2015 (195-0). (Remarks see House Journal
Page ), June 2, 2015. In the Senate
- Third consideration and final passage,
Sept. 18, 2015 (49-0). In the House - Referred to RULES, Sept.
21, 2015. Re-reported on concurrence from RULES, as committed, Oct. 20,
2015. House concurred in Senate amendments, Oct. 20, 2015 (197-0). (Remarks see House Journal Page ), Oct. 20,
2015. Signed in House, Oct. 20,
2015. Signed in Senate, Oct. 20,
2015. Presented to the Governor,
Oct. 21, 2015. Approved by the Governor, Oct. 30, 2015. Act
No. 50. See: http://thedailyreview.com/news/pa-persian-gulf-conflict-veterans-bonus-will-end-aug-31-unless-senate-votes-for-extension-1.1931343
and http://wesa.fm/post/lawmaker-wants-senate-act-now-veterans-benefit-set-expire
.
HB 347 - An Act amending Title 35 (Health and Safety) of
the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in emergency medical services system,
providing for emergency service system billing.
Last Action: Third
consideration and final passage,
June 10, 2015 (188-0). (Remarks see
House Journal Page ), June 10, 2015. In
the Senate - First consideration, Sept. 30, 2015. Re-referred to APPROPRIATIONS, Oct. 19, 2015.
HB 406 - An Act amending the act of June 27, 2006 (1st
Sp.Sess., P.L.1873, No.1), known as the Taxpayer Relief Act, in senior citizens
property tax and rent rebate assistance, further providing for definitions and
for filing of claim. Last Action: PN
2398 Reported as amended from FINANCE, Oct. 20, 2015. First consideration, Oct. 20, 2015. Laid on the table, Oct. 20, 2015. Removed from table, Oct. 27, 2015. Second
consideration, Oct. 28, 2015.
Re-committed to APPROPRIATIONS, Oct. 28, 2015.
HB 421 - An Act amending the act of June 27, 2006 (1st
Sp.Sess., P.L.1873, No.1), known as the Taxpayer Relief Act, in senior citizens
property tax and rent rebate assistance, further providing for
definitions. Last Action: Laid on the table, Oct. 26, 2015. Removed from table, Oct. 26, 2015.
HB 602 - An Act amending Title 51 (Military Affairs) of
the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in Pennsylvania National Guard, further
providing for the pay of officers and enlisted personnel in active State
service. Last Action: Second consideration, Oct. 19, 2015. Re-committed to APPROPRIATIONS, Oct. 19,
2015. Re-reported as committed from APPROPRIATIONS, Oct. 20, 2015. Third
consideration and final passage,
Oct. 20, 2015 (197-0). (Remarks see House Journal Page ), Oct. 20, 2015. In the Senate - Referred to VETERANS
AFFAIRS AND EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS, Oct. 22, 2015.
HB 753 - An Act establishing the Pennsylvania Long-term
Care Council; providing for its powers and duties; and repealing related
provisions of the Public Welfare Code. Last
Action: Third consideration and final
passage, April 15, 2015 (193-0). In
the Senate - Re-reported as committed from APPROPRIATIONS, Oct. 26,
2015. Second consideration, Oct. 28,
2015.
HB 792 - An Act amending the act of December 3, 1959
(P.L.1688, No.621), known as the Housing Finance Agency Law, further providing
for the Housing Affordability and Rehabilitation Enhancement Fund. Last
Action:
Third consideration and final passage, June 2, 2015 (195-0). In the
Senate - Third consideration and final
passage, Oct. 20, 2015 (47-1).
(Remarks see Senate Journal Page ), Oct. 20, 2015. Signed
in House, Oct. 21, 2015. Signed in Senate, Oct. 26, 2015. Presented
to the Governor, Oct. 26, 2015.
HB 928 - An Act amending the act of February 9, 1999
(P.L.1, No.1), known as the Capital Facilities Debt Enabling Act, in capital
facilities, further providing for appropriation for and limitation on
redevelopment assistance capital projects. Last
Action: Removed from table, Oct. 19, 2015. PN 2409 Second consideration,
with amendments, Oct. 20, 2015. Re-committed to APPROPRIATIONS, Oct. 20, 2015.
(Remarks see House Journal Page ), Oct. 20, 2015. Re-reported as committed from
APPROPRIATIONS, Oct. 21, 2015. Third consideration and final passage, Oct. 21, 2015 (121-76). (Remarks see House Journal
Page ), Oct. 21, 2015. In the Senate
- Referred to APPROPRIATIONS, Oct. 23, 2015.
HB 930 - An Act amending the act of February 9, 1999
(P.L.1, No.1), known as the Capital Facilities Debt Enabling Act, in capital
facilities, further providing for appropriation for and limitation on
redevelopment assistance capital projects. Last
Action: Removed from table, Oct. 19, 2015. Second consideration, Oct. 20,
2015. Re-committed to APPROPRIATIONS, Oct. 20, 2015. (Remarks see House Journal
Page ), Oct. 20, 2015. Re-reported as committed from APPROPRIATIONS, Oct. 21,
2015. Third consideration and final
passage, Oct. 21, 2015 (121-75). (Remarks see House Journal Page ), Oct.
21, 2015. In the Senate - Referred
to APPROPRIATIONS, Oct. 23, 2015.
HB 1170 - An Act designating a portion of Blair Mill Road
in Montgomery County as the PVT William H. Walls, U.S.M.C. Memorial
Highway. Last Action: Re-reported as committed from APPROPRIATIONS, Oct. 19,
2015. Third consideration and final
passage, Oct. 19, 2015 (195-0). In the Senate - Referred to
TRANSPORTATION, Oct. 22, 2015.
HB 1233 - An Act providing for summaries or copies of
patient test results to be sent directly to a patient or the patient's designee
when there is a finding of a significant abnormality; and providing for duties
of the Department of Health. Last Action: PN 2373 Reported as
amended from HEALTH, Oct. 19, 2015. First consideration, Oct. 19, 2015. Laid on the table, Oct. 19, 2015. Removed from table, Oct. 26, 2015. PN 2473
Second consideration, with amendments, Oct. 28, 2015. Re-committed to
APPROPRIATIONS, Oct. 28, 2015. (Remarks see House Journal Page ), Oct. 28,
2015.
HB 1275 - An Act amending the act of May 1, 1933
(P.L.216, No.76), known as The Dental Law, further providing for definitions,
for public health dental hygiene practitioner and for restricted faculty
license. Last Action: Third consideration
and final passage, June 29, 2015
(193-0). In the Senate - Third consideration and final passage, Oct. 21, 2015 (46-0). In the
House - Referred to RULES, Oct. 26, 2015. Re-reported on concurrence from
RULES, as committed, Oct. 26, 2015. House
concurred in Senate amendments, Oct. 26, 2015 (198-0). Signed
in House, Oct. 26, 2015. Signed in
Senate, Oct. 26, 2015. Presented to
the Governor, Oct. 27, 2015.
HB 1317 - An Act designating a bridge on that portion of
U.S. Route 15 over State Route 114, Mechanicsburg Borough, Cumberland County as
the Corporal Jonathan Dean Faircloth Memorial Bridge. Last
Action: Re-reported as committed from APPROPRIATIONS, Oct. 19, 2015. Third consideration and final passage, Oct. 19, 2015 (195-0). (Remarks see House Journal Page ), Oct. 19,
2015. In the Senate - Referred to
TRANSPORTATION, Oct. 22, 2015.
HB 1351 - An Act providing for the use of epinephrine
auto-injectors by certain entities and organizations; and conferring powers and
imposing duties on the Department of Health.
Last Action: Reported as
committed from HEALTH, Oct. 26, 2015. First
consideration, Oct. 26, 2015. Laid on
the table, Oct. 26, 2015.
HB 1540 - An Act amending the act of May 13, 2015
(P.L.14, No.3), entitled, "An act designating the interchange of State
Route 43 at the Mon-Fayette Expressway Interchange with State Route 88, known
as Exit 28, in Washington County as the Marine Cpl. Thomas R. Matty Memorial
Interchange; designating a bridge on that portion of State Route 1013, known as
Knupp Road, over the Hypocrite Creek, Fairfield Township, Westmoreland County,
as the PFC LeRoy D. "Whitey" Schaller Bridge; designating a portion
of State Route 711 in New Florence Borough through St. Clair Township,
Westmoreland County, as the Veterans Highway; designating a bridge on that
portion of State Route 88 over Muddy Creek, Cumberland Township, Greene County,
as the Army Corporal Richard W. Kowalewski, Jr., Memorial Bridge; designating
the bridge carrying U.S. Route 322 over the east branch of the Brandywine Creek
in West Bradford and East Caln Townships, Chester County, as the Robbie and
Ryan Miller Memorial Bridge; designating the bridge located on State Route 34
that connects the banks of the Juniata River in Newport, Perry County, as the
Paul Reider bridge; and designating a portion of State Route 2029 and 2049,
also known as Bath Road, in Bristol Township, Bucks County, as the Sergeant
George Stuckey Memorial Road," further providing for the Army Corporal
Richard W. Kowalewski, Jr., Memorial Bridge. Last Action: Second consideration, Oct. 7, 2015. Re-committed to APPROPRIATIONS, Oct. 7, 2015.
Re-reported as committed from APPROPRIATIONS, Oct. 19, 2015. Third
consideration and final passage,
Oct. 19, 2015 (195-0). In the Senate
- Referred to TRANSPORTATION, Oct. 22, 2015.
HB 1579 - An Act designating a bridge on that portion of
State Route 62 over the Allegheny River, Tionesta Borough, Forest County, as
the Lt. Col. Michael McLaughlin/AMVETS Post 113 Memorial Bridge. Last Action: Reported as committed from
TRANSPORTATION, Oct. 26, 2015. First consideration,
Oct. 26, 2015. Laid on the table, Oct.
26, 2015. Removed from table, Oct. 27, 2015. Second consideration, Oct. 28,
2015. Re-committed to APPROPRIATIONS,
Oct. 28, 2015.
HB 1644 - An Act amending the act of February 9, 1999
(P.L.1, No.1), known as the Capital Facilities Debt Enabling Act, in capital
facilities, further providing for bonds, issue of bonds and notes, maturity and
interest. Last Action: PN 2392 Referred to FINANCE, Oct. 19, 2015.
HB 1653 - An Act amending Title 62 (Procurement) of the
Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, providing for recognized entities. Legislation providing for the certification
of Pennsylvania-based minority-owned, woman-owned and veteran-owned businesses
by the Department of General Services. Last Action: PN 2430 Referred to VETERANS
AFFAIRS AND EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS, Oct. 21, 2015.
HB 1656 - An Act amending Title 35 (Health and Safety) of
the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, as follows: In 911 emergency
communication services, further providing for telecommunications management. In
general provisions, further providing for definitions and for purposes of part.
In Commonwealth services: further providing for general authority of Governor,
for temporary housing, for debris and wreckage removal, for community disaster
loans, for individual and family assistance and for grants for hazard
mitigation; providing for use and appropriation of unused Commonwealth funds;
further providing for laws suspended during emergency assignments; providing
for deployment protections and for penalty for false application; further
providing for organization, for powers and duties, for utilization of existing
services and facilities, for radiological emergency response preparedness,
planning and recovery program and for definitions; and establishing the
Statewide Public Safety Communications and Interoperability Advisory Committee.
In local organizations and services: further providing for general authority of
political subdivisions, for local coordinator of emergency management, for
powers and duties of political subdivisions, for coordination, assistance and
mutual aid, for appropriations by political subdivisions, for law applicable to
local organizations, for agreements among political subdivisions, for payments
involving single political subdivisions and for payments involving multiple
subdivisions; and providing for regional all-hazards preparedness and emergency
management. In miscellaneous provisions: further providing for duties
concerning disaster prevention, for acceptance of services, gifts, grants and
loans, for interstate agreements, for immunity from civil liability, for
special powers of local agencies, for compensation for accidental injury and
for penalties; and providing for replacement of volunteer service, for
authority of Federal law enforcement officers, for confidentiality and for
adverse interests. Making an editorial change. Making a repeal. Last
Action: PN 2433 Referred to VETERANS AFFAIRS AND EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS,
Oct. 21, 2015.
HB 1660 - An Act designating a bridge on that portion of
State Route 403 over the Two Lick Creek, Clymer Borough, Indiana County, as the
Sergeant James Robert Pantall Memorial Bridge.
Last Action: PN 2438 Referred
to TRANSPORTATION, Oct. 23, 2015.
HB 1675 - An Act providing for portability of
professional and occupational licenses for military spouses. Last
Action: PN 2481 Referred to PROFESSIONAL LICENSURE, Oct. 29, 2015.
HB 1718 - An Act amending Title 62 (Procurement) of the
Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in Iran-free procurement, further providing
for expiration. Last Action: PN 2471
Referred to STATE GOVERNMENT, Oct. 28, 2015.
COMMONWEALTH OF PA
HOUSE RESOLUTIONS 2015-2016 Session:
HR 24 - A Resolution recognizing October 29, 2015, as
"Psoriasis Day" in Pennsylvania on behalf of the many individuals who
suffer from psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Latest
Action(s): PN 0023 INTRODUCED AS NONCONTROVERSIAL RESOLUTION UNDER RULE 35,
Jan. 21, 2015. Adopted, Oct. 26, 2015 (198-0).
HR 346 - A Resolution recognizing 2015 as the "Year of
the Veteran in Pennsylvania" to highlight and celebrate the
accomplishments of veterans as well as to continue to raise public awareness of
issues related to veterans and the ongoing initiatives to serve those who have
served their country. Latest Major Action: PN 1605 INTRODUCED
AS NONCONTROVERSIAL RESOLUTION UNDER RULE 35, May 18, 2015. Adopted, Oct. 26, 2015 (198-0). (Remarks see House Journal Page ), Oct. 26,
2015.
HR 428 - A Resolution
designating the month of October 2015 as "Bullying Prevention Awareness
Month" in Pennsylvania to help Pennsylvanians work to recognize bullying,
stop bullying and gain the tools needed to appropriately deal with situations
involving bullies. Latest Major Action: PN 2065 INTRODUCED AS NONCONTROVERSIAL
RESOLUTION UNDER RULE 35, July 22, 2015. Adopted,
Oct. 27, 2015 (199-0). (Remarks see
House Journal Page ), Oct. 27, 2015.
HR 453 - A Resolution designating the month of October 2015
as "National Disability Employment Awareness Month" in
Pennsylvania. Latest Major Action: PN 2138 INTRODUCED AS NONCONTROVERSIAL
RESOLUTION UNDER RULE 35, Aug. 26, 2015. Adopted,
Oct. 19, 2015 (195-0). (Remarks see House Journal Page ), Oct. 19, 2015.
HR 473 - A Resolution
designating November 2, 2015, as "Veterans, Record Your Discharge
Day" in Pennsylvania. Latest Major Action: PN 2183 INTRODUCED
AS NONCONTROVERSIAL RESOLUTION UNDER RULE 35, Sept. 18, 2015. Adopted,
Oct. 27, 2015 (199-0). (Remarks see
House Journal Page ), Oct. 27, 2015.
HR 524 - A Resolution designating the week of October 18
through 24, 2015, as "Freedom from Workplace Bullies Week" in
Pennsylvania to help Commonwealth residents recognize workplace bullying, stop
bullying and gain the tools needed to appropriately deal with workplace
violence and bullying. Latest Major Action: PN 2292 INTRODUCED
AS NONCONTROVERSIAL RESOLUTION UNDER RULE 35, Oct. 5, 2015. Adopted, Oct. 19, 2015 (195-0).
HR 531 - A Resolution designating October 21, 2015, as
"Biomedical Research Day" in Pennsylvania. Latest
Major Action: PN 2315 INTRODUCED AS NONCONTROVERSIAL RESOLUTION UNDER RULE
35, Oct. 6, 2015. Adopted, Oct. 19,
2015 (195-0).
HR 533 - A Resolution designating the week of October 19
through 23, 2015, as "No Place for Hate Week" in Pennsylvania and
commending the Anti-Defamation League for its outstanding efforts to promote
peace, brotherhood and goodwill. Latest
Major Action: PN 2322 INTRODUCED AS NONCONTROVERSIAL RESOLUTION UNDER RULE
35, Oct. 8, 2015. Adopted, Oct. 19,
2015 (195-0).
HR 536 - A Resolution honoring and recognizing
Pennsylvania's American Indian peoples and communities and recognizing the
first Saturday in October of every year as "Indigenous Peoples Day"
in Pennsylvania. Latest Major Action: PN 2338 INTRODUCED AS NONCONTROVERSIAL
RESOLUTION UNDER RULE 35, Oct. 14, 2015. Referred to RULES, Oct. 21, 2015.
HR 545 - A Resolution designating the month of November 2015
as "Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month" in Pennsylvania. Latest Major Action: PN 2377 INTRODUCED
AS NONCONTROVERSIAL RESOLUTION UNDER RULE 35, Oct. 19, 2015. Adopted,
Oct. 28, 2015 (197-0). (Remarks see
House Journal Page ), Oct. 28, 2015.
HR 552 - A Resolution honoring and recognizing
Pennsylvania's Native American peoples and communities and recognizing the
first Saturday in October of every year, which this year is October 2, 2015, as
"Indigenous Peoples Day" in Pennsylvania. Latest
Major Action: PN 2400 INTRODUCED AS NONCONTROVERSIAL RESOLUTION UNDER RULE
35, Oct. 20, 2015. Adopted, Oct. 21,
2015 (198-0).
HR 553 - A Resolution recognizing the month of October 2015
as "National Medicine Abuse Awareness Month" in Pennsylvania. Latest
Major Action: PN 2413 INTRODUCED AS NONCONTROVERSIAL RESOLUTION UNDER RULE
35, Oct. 21, 2015. Adopted, Oct. 26,
2015 (198-0).
HR 554 - A Resolution designating the week of October 25
through 31, 2015, as "Respiratory Care Week" in Pennsylvania and
commending respiratory therapists for their outstanding contributions to health
care. Latest Major Action: PN 2411 INTRODUCED AS NONCONTROVERSIAL
RESOLUTION UNDER RULE 35, Oct. 21, 2015. Adopted,
Oct. 21, 2015 (197-0).
HR 557 - A Resolution designating November 6, 2015, as
"Pennsylvania Veterans Day of Caring." Latest
Major Action: PN 2435 INTRODUCED AS NONCONTROVERSIAL RESOLUTION UNDER RULE
35, Oct. 23, 2015. Adopted, Oct. 28, 2015 (197-0).
(Remarks see House Journal Page ), Oct. 28, 2015.
HR 560 - A Resolution designating the month of November 2015
as "Military Family Appreciation Month" in Pennsylvania. Latest
Major Action: PN 2440 INTRODUCED AS NONCONTROVERSIAL RESOLUTION UNDER RULE
35, Oct. 23, 2015. Adopted, Oct. 28, 2015 (197-0).
HR 561 - A Resolution recognizing November 10, 2015, as
"Marine Corps Day" in Pennsylvania in honor of the United States
Marine Corps' 240th anniversary. Latest
Major Action: PN 2445 INTRODUCED AS NONCONTROVERSIAL RESOLUTION UNDER RULE
35, Oct. 26, 2015.
HR 562 - A Resolution recognizing the week of November 14
through 22, 2015, as "Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week" in
Pennsylvania. Latest Major Action: PN 2446 INTRODUCED AS NONCONTROVERSIAL
RESOLUTION UNDER RULE 35, Oct. 26, 2015.
HR 565 - A Resolution commemorating December 7, 2015, as
"Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day." Latest
Major Action: PN 2449 INTRODUCED AS NONCONTROVERSIAL RESOLUTION UNDER RULE
35, Oct. 26, 2015.
HR 566 - A Resolution honoring the 224th birthday of the
United States Constitutional Bill of Rights on December 15, 2015. Latest Major Action: PN 2450 INTRODUCED
AS NONCONTROVERSIAL RESOLUTION UNDER RULE 35, Oct. 26, 2015.
HR 570 - A Resolution urging the Congress of the United
States to provide all veterans access to the United States Department of
Veterans Affairs Caregiver Support Program.
Latest Major Action: PN 2475
Referred to VETERANS AFFAIRS AND EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS, Oct. 29, 2015.
COMMONWEALTH OF PA SENATE BILLS 2015-2016 Session:
SB 411 - An Act amending the act of February 14, 2008
(P.L.6, No.3), known as the Right-to-Know Law, in preliminary provisions,
further providing for definitions; in requirements and prohibitions, providing
for Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association; in access, providing for
inmate access; in procedure, further providing for access, for requests, for
written requests, for production of certain records and for exceptions for
public records; in agency response, further providing for general rule and for
extension of time; in appeal of agency determination, further providing for
filing of appeal and for appeals officers; and, in judicial review, further
providing for Commonwealth agencies, legislative agencies and judicial
agencies, for fee limitations and for Office of Open Records. Last
Action: PN 1325 Amended on second consideration, Oct. 19, 2015. (Remarks
see Senate Journal Page ....), Oct. 19, 2015. PN 1335 Second consideration,
with amendments, Oct. 20, 2015. (Remarks see Senate Journal Page ....), Oct.
20, 2015. Third consideration and final
passage, Oct. 21, 2015 (46-0). (Remarks see Senate Journal Page ....), Oct.
21, 2015. In the House - Referred to
STATE GOVERNMENT, Oct. 23, 2015.
SB 484 - A Joint Resolution proposing an amendment to the
Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, further providing for the
Legislative Reapportionment Commission for the purpose of reapportioning and
redistricting the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Last Action: PN 1359 Referred to STATE GOVERNMENT, Oct. 26, 2015.
SB 609 - An Act establishing a task force on prostate cancer
and related chronic prostate conditions; and providing for powers and duties of
the task force, the Department of Health, the Insurance Department, the
Department of Aging and the Department of Human Services, and for prevention
and education strategies. Related bills:
HB 804 and SB 605. Last Action: Third
consideration and final passage,
June 25, 2015 (49-0). In the House - PN 1324 Reported as
amended from HEALTH, Oct. 19, 2015. First consideration, Oct. 19, 2015. Laid on the table, Oct. 19, 2015. Removed from table, Oct. 26, 2015.
SB 772 - An Act amending the act of March 23, 1972 (P.L.136,
No.52), known as the Professional Psychologists Practice Act, further providing
for definitions and for temporary license; allowing applicants to take test
sooner; defining board's powers; making editorial changes; and making a
repeal. Last Action: Third consideration and final passage, Oct. 13, 2015 (49-0). In the House - Referred to
PROFESSIONAL LICENSURE, Oct. 19, 2015.
SB 868 - An Act designating the section of Pennsylvania
Route 849 in Newport, Perry County, as the United States Navy Petty Officer 1st
Class A. Louis De Lancey Memorial Highway.
Last Action: Laid on the
table (Pursuant to Senate Rule 9) Oct. 19, 2015. Removed from table, Oct. 20, 2015.
SB 890 - An Act designating the bridge carrying State Route
6011 (Harrison Avenue) over Roaring Brook in the City of Scranton, Lackawanna
County, as the Colonel Frank Duffy Memorial Bridge. Last
Action: Third consideration and final
passage, July 13, 2015 (47-0). In the House - Re-reported as committed
from APPROPRIATIONS, Oct. 19, 2015. Third consideration and final passage, Oct. 19, 2015 (195-0). Signed in Senate, Oct. 20, 2015. Signed in House, Oct. 20, 2015. Presented to the Governor, Oct. 21,
2015. Approved by the Governor, Oct.
30, 2015. Act No. 56.
SB 1000 - An Act to provide from
the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive and Judicial Departments,
the State Government Support Agencies and the General Assembly of the
Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July
1, 2015, to June 30, 2016, for certain institutions and organizations, and for
the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal
year ending June 30, 2015; to provide appropriations from the State Lottery
Fund, the Tobacco Settlement Fund, the Aviation Restricted Account, the
Hazardous Material Response Fund, The State Stores Fund, the Milk Marketing
Fund, the Home Investment Trust Fund, the Emergency Medical Services Operating
Fund, the Tuition Account Guaranteed Savings Program Fund, the Banking Fund,
the Firearm Records Check Fund, the Ben Franklin Technology Development
Authority Fund, the Oil and Gas Lease Fund, the Home Improvement Account, the
Cigarette Fire Safety and Firefighter Protection Act Enforcement Fund, the
Insurance Regulation and Oversight Fund, the Pennsylvania Racehorse Development
Restricted Receipt Account, the Justice Reinvestment Fund and the Multimodal
Transportation Fund to the Executive Department; to provide appropriations from
the Judicial Computer System Augmentation Account to the Judicial Department
for the fiscal year July 1, 2015, to June 30, 2016; to provide appropriations
from the Motor License Fund for the fiscal year July 1, 2015, to June 30, 2016,
for the proper operation of several departments of the Commonwealth and the
Pennsylvania State Police authorized to spend Motor License Fund money; and to
provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive Department of
the Commonwealth and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of
the fiscal year ending June 30, 2015. Last
Action: Third consideration and final
passage, Sept. 18, 2015 (30-19).
(Remarks see Senate Journal Page ....), Sept. 18, 2015. In the House - Third consideration and final passage, Sept. 24, 2015
(117-83). (Remarks see House Journal
Page ....), Sept. 24, 2015. Signed in
House, Sept. 24, 2015. Presented to
the Governor, Sept. 28, 2015. Vetoed by the Governor, Sept. 29, 2015. Veto
No. 7. In the Senate - Bill, together with Governor's Veto Message, laid
on the table, Sept. 29, 2015. Bill, together with Governor's Veto Message,
removed from table, Oct. 27, 2015.
SB 1039 - A Joint Resolution proposing
an amendment to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, further
providing for exemptions and special provisions. Would expand the Property Tax Exemption
Program for Disabled Veterans.
Currently, an honorably discharged disabled veteran must be 100 percent
disabled and have a financial need to receive a 100 percent exemption from
property taxes. This Constitutional
Amendment would exempt additional honorably discharged disabled veterans from
paying a portion of their property taxes.
The amount of the tax exemption would depend on the extent of the
veteran’s disability, as determined by the U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs. If a veteran is determined to
be 100 percent disabled, he or she would be exempt from paying property taxes;
a veteran considered 75 percent disabled, would be exempt from paying 75
percent of his or her property taxes. A
fifty percent disability would be the threshold. Additionally, all veterans - whether 50
percent or 100 percent disabled - would still have to qualify based on their
financial need. Last Action: PN 1332 Referred to VETERANS AFFAIRS AND EMERGENCY
PREPAREDNESS, Oct. 20, 2015.
SB 1040 - An Act designating the
bridge on State Route 225 that crosses the Armstrong Creek in Halifax Township,
Dauphin County, as the Staff Sergeant Brian K. Mowery Memorial Bridge. Last
Action: PN 1333 Referred to TRANSPORTATION, Oct. 20, 2015.
SB 1045 - An Act amending Title
51 (Military Affairs) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in general
provisions, providing for character of discharge. Last
Action: PN 1356 Referred to VETERANS AFFAIRS AND EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS,
Oct. 23, 2015. PN 1370 Reported as amended from VETERANS AFFAIRS AND EMERGENCY
PREPAREDNESS, Oct. 27, 2015. First
consideration, Oct. 27, 2015.
SB 1046 - An Act amending Title
51 (Military Affairs) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in
Pennsylvania National Guard, further providing for retired Pennsylvania
National Guard personnel. Last Action: PN 1357 Referred to
VETERANS AFFAIRS AND EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS, Oct. 23, 2015. Reported as
committed from VETERANS AFFAIRS AND EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS, Oct. 27, 2015. First consideration, Oct. 27, 2015.
SB 1047 - An Act amending the act
of April 9, 1929 (P.L.177, No.175), known as The Administrative Code of 1929,
in services for the blind and visually impaired, further providing for
definitions and for business enterprises, equipment, leases, repayment. Last Action: PN 1361 Referred to
VETERANS AFFAIRS AND EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS, Oct. 26, 2015
COMMONWEALTH OF PA
SENATE RESOLUTIONS 2015-2016 Session:
SR 218 - A Resolution designating the week of October 19
through 23, 2015, as "No Place for Hate Week" in Pennsylvania. Last
Action: PN 1328 Introduced and adopted,
Oct. 19, 2015. (Remarks see Senate
Journal Page ....), Oct. 19, 2015.
SR 220 - A Resolution recognizing the month of November 2015
as "Native American Heritage Month" in Pennsylvania. Last Action: PN 1336 Introduced and adopted, Oct. 20, 2015. (Remarks see Senate Journal Page ....), Oct.
20, 2015.
SR 221 - A Resolution recognizing the month of October 2015
as "National Disability Employment Awareness Month" in
Pennsylvania. Last Action: PN 1337 Introduced and adopted, Oct. 20, 2015.
(Remarks see Senate Journal Page ....), Oct. 20, 2015.
SR 222 - A Resolution designating the week of November 8
through 14, 2015, as "Nurse Practitioner Week" in Pennsylvania. Last
Action: PN 1338 Introduced and adopted,
Oct. 20, 2015. (Remarks see Senate
Journal Page ....), Oct. 20, 2015.
SR 223 - A Resolution recognizing the month of October 2015
as "The Great Hunger Remembrance Month" in Pennsylvania. Last Action: PN 1339 Introduced and adopted, Oct. 20, 2015. (Remarks see Senate Journal Page ....), Oct.
20, 2015.
SR 224 - A Resolution recognizing October 20, 2015, as
"Pennsylvania Career Development Day" in Pennsylvania. Last
Action: PN 1340 Introduced and adopted,
Oct. 20, 2015. (Remarks see Senate
Journal Page ....), Oct. 20, 2015.
SR 230 - A Resolution designating October 2015 as
"National Physical Therapy Month" in Pennsylvania. Last
Action: PN 1375 Introduced and adopted,
Oct. 27, 2015. (Remarks see Senate
Journal Page ....), Oct. 27, 2015.
SR 233 - A Resolution designating the week of October 25
through 31, 2015, as "Respiratory Care Week" in Pennsylvania and
commending respiratory therapists for their outstanding contributions to health
care. Last Action: PN 1378 Introduced and adopted, Oct. 27, 2015. (Remarks
see Senate Journal Page ....), Oct. 27, 2015.
FEDERAL HOUSE
RESOLUTIONS/AMENDMENTS 114th Congress:
H.CON.RES.86 : Welcoming Mr.
Muhammad Nawaz Sharif, Prime Minister of Islamic Republic of Pakistan, on his
official visit to the United States in October 2015. Latest
Major Action: 10/16/2015 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to
the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.
H.RES.482 : Expressing the sense
of the House that Congress should recognize the benefits of charitable giving
and express support for the designation of #GivingTuesday. Latest
Major Action: 10/20/2015 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to
the House Committee on Ways and Means.
H.RES.485 : Expressing solidarity
with the people of Israel in the wake of recent terrorist attacks and
condemning the Palestinian Authority for inciting an atmosphere of
violence. Latest Major Action: 10/21/2015 Referred to House committee.
Status: Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.
H.RES.493 : Recognizing Connecticut's
Submarine Century, the 100th anniversary of the establishment of Naval
Submarine Base New London, and Connecticut's historic role in supporting the
undersea capabilities of the United States.
Latest Major Action:
10/26/2015 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee
on Armed Services.
H.RES.497 : Congratulating Army
Reserve Major Lisa Jaster on her graduation from the Army Ranger School. Latest
Major Action: 10/27/2015 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to
the House Committee on Armed Services.
H.AMDT.717 to H.R.702 Amendment
to ensure the Administration is able to ban the export of crude oil to state
sponsors of terrorism. Latest Major Action: 10/9/2015 House
amendment agreed to. Status: On agreeing to the Messer amendment (A005) Agreed
to by recorded vote: 414 - 1 (Roll no. 546).
H.AMDT.718 to H.R.702 Amendment
to prohibit the export of crude oil, refined petroleum products, and
petrochemical products to the Islamic Republic of Iran. Latest
Major Action: 10/9/2015 House amendment agreed to. Status: On agreeing to
the Messer amendment (A006) Agreed to by recorded vote: 419 - 0 (Roll no. 547).
FEDERAL HOUSE OF
REPRESENTATIVES LEGISLATION 114th Congress:
H.R.3722 : Mental Health and Safe Communities Act of
2015. Latest Major Action: 10/21/2015 Referred to House subcommittee.
Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.
H.R.3768 : Senior Executive Service Taking Responsibility
for Unilateral Station Transfers Act. Latest Major Action: 10/20/2015
Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Oversight and
Government Reform, and in addition to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs, for a
period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for
consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the
committee concerned.
H.R.3776 : End Government Shutdowns Act. Latest
Major Action: 10/21/2015 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to
the House Committee on Appropriations.
H.R.3789 : Honor Our Fallen Heroes Act of 2015. Latest
Major Action: 10/21/2015 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to
the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
H.R.3796 : Nursing Home Accountability Act of 2015. Latest
Major Action: 10/21/2015 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to
the House Committee on Financial Services.
H.R.3803 : Legally Binding Budget Act of 2015. Latest
Major Action: 10/22/2015 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to
the Committee on Rules, and in addition to the Committee on the Budget, for a
period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for
consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the
committee concerned.
H.R.3807 : To provide a process for ensuring the United
States does not default on its obligations.
Latest Major Action:
10/22/2015 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on
Ways and Means, and in addition to the Committee on Rules, for a period to be
subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such
provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
H.R.3815 : To deter terrorism, provide justice for victims,
and for other purposes. Latest Major Action: 10/23/2015
Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on the
Judiciary.
H.R.3829 : UNRWA Anti-Incitement and Anti-Terrorism Act. Latest
Major Action: 10/26/2015 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to
the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.
H.R.3833 : To require a regional strategy to address the
threat posed by Boko Haram. Latest Major Action: 10/26/2015
Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Foreign
Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on Intelligence (Permanent Select),
for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for
consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the
committee concerned.
H.R.3838 : Fairness in Incarcerated Representation Act. Latest
Major Action: 10/27/2015 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to
the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.
H.R.3839 : Black Hills National Cemetery Boundary Expansion
Act. Latest Major Action: 10/27/2015 Referred to House committee.
Status: Referred to the Committee on Natural Resources, and in addition to the
Committee on Veterans' Affairs, for a period to be subsequently determined by
the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within
the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
H.R.3849 : Acupuncture for Heroes and Seniors Act of 2015. Latest
Major Action: 10/28/2015 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to
the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committees on
Armed Services, Veterans' Affairs, and Ways and Means, for a period to be
subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such
provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
H.R.3850 : To provide for additional protections and
disclosures to consumers when financial products or services are related to the
consumers' military or Federal pensions, and for other purposes. Latest
Major Action: 10/28/2015 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to
the Committee on Financial Services, and in addition to the Committees on
Veterans' Affairs, Armed Services, and Oversight and Government Reform, for a
period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for
consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the
committee concerned.
H.R.3858 : September 11th VCF Reauthorization and U.S.
Victims of State Sponsored Terrorism Compensation Act. Latest
Major Action: 10/29/2015 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to
the House Committee on the Judiciary.
H.R.3860 : Ensuring Access to Affordable and Quality Home
Care for Seniors and People with Disabilities Act. Latest
Major Action: 10/29/2015 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to
the House Committee on Education and the Workforce.
FEDERAL SENATE
RESOLUTIONS/AMENDMENTS 114th Congress:
S.RES.294 : A resolution designating October 26, 2015, as
Day of the Deployed. Latest Major Action: 10/22/2015
Passed/agreed to in Senate. Status: Submitted in the Senate, considered, and
agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent.
S.RES.295 : A resolution designating the week of November 2
through November 6, 2015 as "National Veterans Small Business
Week". Latest Major Action: 10/22/2015 Passed/agreed to in Senate. Status:
Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a
preamble by Unanimous Consent.
S.RES.296 : A resolution congratulating Army Reserve Major
Lisa Jaster on her graduation from the Army Ranger School. Latest
Major Action: 10/26/2015 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Referred to
the Committee on Armed Services.
S.RES.298 : A resolution recognizing Connecticut's Submarine
Century, the 100th anniversary of the establishment of Naval Submarine Base New
London, and Connecticut's historic role in supporting the undersea capabilities
of the United States. Latest Major Action: 10/26/2015
Referred to Senate committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Armed
Services.
S.AMDT.2700 to S.2082 To prohibit the transfer of amounts from the
Veterans Choice Fund to fund the increase of the authorization to carry out the
medical facility construction project of the Department of Veterans Affairs in
Denver, Colorado. Latest Major Action:
9/25/2015 Senate amendment agreed to. Status: Amendment SA 2700 agreed to in
Senate by Unanimous Consent.
S.AMDT.2760 to S.1731 To authorize per diem payments under
comprehensive service programs for homeless veterans to furnish care to
dependents of homeless veterans. Latest Major Action: 10/29/2015 Senate
amendment agreed to. Status: Amendment SA 2760 agreed to in Senate by Unanimous
Consent.
FEDERAL SENATE
BILLS 114th Congress:
S.2173 : Improving Access to Mental Health Act of 2015. Latest
Major Action: 10/8/2015 Referred to Senate committee.
S.2180 : Protecting Older Workers Against Discrimination Act. Latest
Major Action: 10/8/2015 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice
and referred to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions.
S.2181 : Default Prevention Act.
Latest Major Action: 10/20/2015
Read the second time. Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General
Orders. Calendar No. 273.
S.2182 : Cut, Cap, and Balance Act of 2015. Latest
Major Action: 10/20/2015 Read the second time. Placed on Senate Legislative
Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 274.
S.2184 : Foreign Aid Transparency and Accountability Act of 2015. Latest
Major Action: 10/20/2015 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice
and referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations.
S.2195 : A bill to prohibit the indefinite detention of persons by the
United States and for other purposes. Latest Major Action: 10/22/2015
Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee
on the Judiciary.
S.2197 : Securing Care for Seniors Act of 2015. Latest
Major Action: 10/22/2015 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice
and referred to the Committee on Finance.
S.2207 : A bill to require the Secretary of State to offer rewards of
not less than $10,000,000 for information that leads to the arrest or
conviction of suspects in connection with the bombing of Pan Am Flight 103. Latest
Major Action: 10/27/2015 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice
and referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations.
S.2210 : Veteran Partners' Efforts to Enhance Reintegration Act. Latest
Major Action: 10/27/2015 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice
and referred to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
S.2221 : Ensuring Access to Affordable and Quality Home Care for
Seniors and People with Disabilities Act.
Latest Major Action:
10/29/2015 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the
Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions.
S.2223 : A bill to transfer administrative jurisdiction over certain
Bureau of Land Management land from the Secretary of the Interior to the
Secretary of Veterans Affairs for inclusion in the Black Hills National
Cemetery, and for other purposes. Latest Major Action: 10/29/2015
Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee
on Energy and Natural Resources.
Grassroots
lobbying is an effective way to let your Representative and Senators know your
opinion, which is key to increasing co-sponsorship on veteran related bills and
subsequent passage into law.
NOTE: For an electronic version of this document, please
send an email message to the below signed at: lholman@prodigy.net .
For more news of interest to veterans and patriots, see my
blog at http://newsfromldh.blogspot.com
.
Respectfully submitted,
Larry D. Holman
Larry D. Holman, Government Affairs Chairman
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