This newsletter is produced and released on a weekly basis by AFSA HQ. To read the full newsletter, as well as archived entries, visit the AFSA On Call Newsletter section of www.hqafsa.org.

LEGISLATIVE UPDATES AND USAF RELATED NEWS

House NDAA Coming to the Floor!

The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2013 (FY13) has been cleared for floor action by the House Armed Services Committee (HASC). Passed last week by a definitive 56-5 vote, the committee’s mark is expected to reach the House floor this week as H.R. 4310 steams ahead in the process of becoming Law.

Assuming the legislation gets full House approval; many obstacles still remain in the Senate. The upper chamber hasn’t started their version of the bill yet but we know several key Members are more supportive of the Pentagon’s plan for higher TRICARE fees. Others in the Senate are less inclined to tackle some of the social issues addressed in the House bill. That said, the upcoming elections will most likely play a major role in the timing of actions (or lack thereof) by Congress, and there is a very real possibility that the NDAA won’t clear Capitol Hill until the General Election is over.

Back to the HASC proposal, below are a few highlights of their version of the FY 2013 NDAA which:

• Authorizes a 1.7 percent military pay raise and extend many special pays and bonuses
• Strengthen provisions for combating and prosecuting sexual assault
• Increases from 21 to 42 the number of days of leave authorized for the primary caregiver following the adoption of a child and establishes 10 days for the non-primary caregiver for dual military couples.
• Expresses the sense of Congress that military people pre-pay large premiums for their health care in retirement through decades of service and sacrifice
• By silence on the issue, prevents DoD from raising TRICARE Prime premiums above the annual COLA or establishing new fees
• Caps future pharmacy copay increases at the percentage increase in retired pay
• Authorizes 180 days of TRICARE Reserve Select health coverage and TRICARE dental coverage for members involuntarily separated from the Selected Reserve
• Rejects the Pentagon proposal for two additional rounds of Base Reduction and Closure (BRAC) action and bars planning any closures during FY 13
• Extends certain refinancing help for qualifying service members who can’t sell their homes in conjunction with a military-ordered relocation
• Protects child custody agreements for parents on a military deployment
• Extends access to family housing for six months and commissary/exchange benefits for two years for troops who are involuntarily separated
• Provides $30 million in Impact Aid to civilian school districts with large populations of military children
• Transfers the popular Troops-to-Teachers program from Department of Education to DoD

On a related matter, Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta was irritated the HASC refused to adopt TRICARE fee hikes for all retired beneficiaries. During a May 10 DoD news brief Panetta told reporters, “If we’re limited in our ability to put military health care costs on a sustainable track, then Congress would be making all of this more difficult to invest in new technologies that we believe are critical to the force we need for the future.” One could easily interpret his statement to mean the secretary believes retirees should foot the bill for future DoD initiatives rather than enjoy the benefits they earnedthrough a lifetime of service to that same entity. If so, that manner of thinking is just plain wrong.

Medicare/TRICARE Doc Fix Bill Introduced

Last week, Representatives Allyson Schwartz (D-PA) and Joe Heck (R-NV) introduced H.R. 5707, the “Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act” which would repeal the flawed Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) formula used to establish physician reimbursement rates for Medicare and TRICARE patients and reform several aspects of Medicare’s payment and delivery systems. According to their joint press statement, H.R. 5707:

• Permanently repeals the SGR formula and prevents a 30 percent cut to physician reimbursements scheduled for January 1, 2013
• Provides annual positive payment updates for all physicians for four years
• Ensures access to preventive care, care coordination, and primary care services through increased payment updates for those services
• Aggressively tests and evaluates new payment and delivery models
• Identifies a variety of unique payment models to provide options for providers across medical specialties, practice types, and geographic regions
• Stabilizes payment rates for providers who demonstrate a commitment to quality and efficiency within a fee-for-service model
• Ensures long-term stability in the Medicare physician payment system through predictable updates that accurately reflect the cost and value of providing health care services in coordinated care models

Since 2003, lawmakers have been relying on short-term fixes to address the SGR problem which has become commonly known as the “Doc Fix.” Their most recent effort in December 2001 prevented a 27.4 percent cut in Medicare physician payment rates on March 1 and froze current payment rates through December 2012. Unless Congress acts again, an estimated 30 percent cut in payments to doctors that treat Medicare and TRICARE payments will occur on 1 January.

Finding enough the money to resolve the problem once and for all has been difficult for lawmakers. A permanent fix involves mandatory spending and current law requires Congress to find an offset. That hasn’t been easy because it’s a huge amount—experts say it would now cost about $316 billion to stop the reimbursement rate cuts over the next decade. Adding fuel to the fire, offsets for changes posed in H.R. 5707 come from perceived savings of troop withdrawals inIraqandAfghanistan. Historically this idea has been extremely controversial and many lawmakers view the maneuver as nothing more than a “Ponzi Scheme.” In sum, Congress hasn’t been able to agree on where to find the kind of cash they need to permanently fix the problem and that probably won’t change soon. Lawmakers are likely hold off on any serious discussions regarding the matter until the November General Election is over, meaning this will be one of many key issues that will be decided in the Lame Duck session of Congress later this year.

Senator Blocks General Promotions

Senator Mark Begich (D-AK) reaffirmed his earlier threat to place a hold on all Air Force officer nominations, posing a potential roadblock to the confirmation of General Mark A. Welsh III as the next Chief of Staff of the Air Force. Last month, Bottom of Form

Begich placed a hold on Lieutenant General Herbert Carlisle’s promotion to four-star and commander of PACAF. And he says he won’t budge until the Air Force provides an explanation for plans to move an F-16 aggressor squadron from one Alaska Air Force base to another. “I’m committed to getting answers from the Pentagon, which so far have been inadequate at best.” Begich said.

112th Congress, 2nd Session

Senate: DC Work Week; contact lawmakers viaWashingtonoffices

House: DC Work Week; contact lawmakers viaWashingtonoffices

VETERANS NEWS

Narrow Escapes of WWII

Military Channel’s all-new series honors the incredible heroes of World War II who stood up and fought when everything else seemed lost. The series highlights the brilliant generals and brave troops whose selfless acts of courage saved hundreds of thousands of innocent lives. Through their personal stories, this series recreates the suicidal raids, rearguard actions, and back-to-the-wall fighting it took to ensure, against all odds, that these men made it out alive. NARROW ESCAPES OF WWII makes itsU.S.premiere Tuesday, May 15 at 10 PM E/P on the Military Channel.

The 13-episode first season includes (advance screeners www.press.discovery.com):

• The Doolittle Raid – Premieres Tuesday, May 15 at 10 PM E/P; To avenge the attack onPearl Harbor,U.S. bombers staged an astonishing long-distance strike onTokyo, all the while knowing they were unlikely to return alive.
• The AmiensRaid – Premieres Tuesday, May 22 at 10 PM E/P; The Mosquito fighter planes behind Operation Jericho, led by Group Capt. Percy Charles Pickard, brought about the bombing ofAmiens prison in German-occupiedFrance so that French Resistance fighters and Allied spies could escape before their execution day.
• Wingate & the Chindits – Premieres Tuesday, May 29 at 10 PM E/P; Surrounded by the Japanese, Orde Wingate led the 77th Indian Infantry Brigade in one of the most imaginative and complex escapes of World War II.

HEALTHCARE

Preventive Care

Are you aware of TRICARE’s preventive care benefit? It covers comprehensive health promotion and disease prevention examinations and other services to keep you healthy. Visit here for more information.

Mental Health Awareness Month

Mental Health Awareness Month continues all through May. Check out the TRICARE Mental Health Resource Center for important contact information and links to programs that could help you or someone you know.

AFSA MEMBER BENEFITS

Insurance: Life and Health

For information and applications on any of these insurance plans please contact Marsh Affinity Group Services toll-free at (800) 882-5541, or online here. Coverage may vary or not be issued in all states.

• Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance Plan
• Cancer Expense Insurance
• Group Dental Insurance
• Long-Term Care Insurance
• Short-Term Recovery Insurance Plan
• TRICARE Supplement Insurance
• Life Line Health Screenings

Discount Prescription Card

AFSA members & dependents have a Prescription Discount Benefit! Cut your prescription costs up to 20 percent on brand-name drugs and save as much as 50 percent on generic medicines with the RxAmerica program. To print your prescription card click here, select “wellness”, then choose “RX AmericaPrescription Plan”.

2012 Professional Airman’s Conference

AFSA hosted PAC registration is now available on the web for theJacksonville,Florida, events, August 11-15. You are encouraged to sign up early and make your Hyatt Regency room reservation at the AFSA special rate while that special is available. Additionally, why not advertise your Division or Chapter in the PAC magazine? Contact AFSA Marketing for details.

Advertising with AFSA

To advertise with AFSA, contact: AFSA Marketing at (301) 899-3500 ext. 242 or 244, e-mail: marketing@hqafsa.org

WORTH REPEATING

“The Navy’s battle force in the last eight years has been cut by one third. And the Air Force reports that it is now called on to mount four times as many operations with a force that has been cut by 40 percent”

— General Norman Schwarzkopf, August 14, 2000

We want to hear your thoughts and opinions. What’s your top 10 list for AFSA?

Go ahead send it. Don’t be bashful. Click HERE to send.

Click HERE to receive this newsletter Click HERE to access AFSA CAPWIZ

This newsletter is produced and released on a weekly basis by AFSA HQ. To read the full newsletter, as well as archived entries, visit the AFSA On Call Newsletter section of www.hqafsa.org.

LEGISLATIVE UPDATES AND USAF RELATED NEWS

House FY 2013 Defense Authorization Measure

House Armed Services Committee (HASC) Chairman Representative “Buck McKeon (R-CA) on Monday released preliminary details on the FY 2013 Defense Appropriations Bill the Committee will finalize tomorrow. As AFSA predicted, the HASC will retain language recently approved by the Personnel Subcommittee that prevents increases in annual TRICARE Prime premiums above those prescribed in current statutes and block the Administration’s call to establish new fees for TRICARE Standard/Extra and TRICARE for Life. Additionally, because current law allows DoD to raise pharmacy co-payment amounts at any time without congressional approval, the Committee will include language that caps future increases in pharmacy co-payments to the percent cost of living increase in retirement pay.

In his press release McKeon said, “I am proud of the bi-partisan way the Committee has worked together to build this bill. It rebuilds a force strained by ten years of war while restoring both fiscal and strategic sanity to the defense budget. It keeps faith with our troops and their families while keeping America ready to face the threats of the future.”

Again, the draft bill is scheduled to be considered on Wednesday and additional changes (amendments) are possible during the Committee’s hearing. We will provide a complete synopsis of their actions and the bill in our next issue of On Call.

Key Funding Bills Advancing in House

Yesterday, the House Appropriations Committee unveiled two key military- and veterans funding measures the Committee will be working on this week.

A draft FY 2013 Defense Appropriations bill provides $519.2 billion in non-war funding, an increase of $1.1 billion over the fiscal year 2012 level and $3.1 billion above the President’s request. In addition, it contains $88.5 billion for Overseas Contingency Operations (OCO) for Defense activities related to the Global War on Terror.

Their draft FY 2013 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations bill which provides $10.6 billion for military construction projects (a decrease of $2.4 billion below last year’s level) and $135.4 billion in both discretionary and mandatory funding for the Department of Veterans Affairs. It also contains $54.5 billion in advance fiscal year 2014 funding for the VA and $174 million for theArlingtonNationalCemetery, an increase of $128 million over last year’s level. Within the total, $84 million is provided for the Millennium Project, and $19 million is included for planning and design of the Navy Annex Expansion.

Like the NDAA, both bills are subject to change during Subcommittee and full Committee mark ups, as well as when the bill comes to the House floor for final action. We will monitor these bills as they make their way through the legislative process and provide updates on developments of interest.

Joint Strike Fighter Drawing Fire

In a number of media outlets, the USAF’s F-35 seems to be at the center of the cross-hairs. There is talk about expediting sales to foreign states likeIsraeland on the other end of the spectrum;Australiais talking about a 2 year delay in its order for 12 of the aircraft. There have also been the inevitable comparisons to the F-22, primarily focusing on capabilities on what should serve as the backbone ofAmerica’s future air fleet. Given the financial implications for both the DoD and defense contractor Lockheed Martin, it will be interesting to see how this key program plays out in a fiscally constrained environment.

General Elections

We are now less than six months from the general election determining who gets to serve as POTUS for the next 4 years. Arguably more important is the number of seats up for grabs in the Senate—33 to be exact—which could swing the way business is done on Capitol Hill regardless of who is chosen as president in November.

Redistricting Winding Down

There are still approximately 15 states that have yet to finalize their congressional districts. Redistricting is the process of drawingUnited Stateselectoral district boundaries, often in response to population changes as identified by census. Each state has its own standards for creating congressional and legislative districts. Once all states have finalized their districts the electoral “battle lines” can be drawn for who appears on the ballot and for whom they represent.

Register to Vote

There are a number of ways to ensure you can cast your ballot. For our Active Duty folks it usually is easiest to hit up the Voting Assistance Officer for your base, especially for those members in forward locations. Another way might be to contact your Legislative Trustee for your local AFSA Chapter; if your Chapter doesn’t have a formal voting program this person should be able to point you in the right direction. Of course you can also search the Internet but we would caution you to read everything you’re clicking on and to be cautious with regard to your personal information. In the end, regardless of method, registering to vote is one of the single most important things you can do as aUSCitizen. Don’t wait until the last minute to do so.

VETERANS NEWS

Vet Centers

Vet Centers offer returning Veterans an alternative to bustling VA hospitals. Located within the community, these centers offer counseling, substance abuse and employment assessment, and resources for family members. In many cases, the counselors are fellow Vets themselves. Learn more at www.vetcenter.va.gov.

Easier Way to Order a Medallion

VA furnishes upon request and at no charge to the applicant, a government headstone or marker for the unmarked grave of any deceased eligible Veteran in any cemetery around the world, regardless of their date of death. Recently, the National Cemetery Administration introduced a new application to request a medallion—making it easier for the public to order. The medallion is affixed to an existing headstone or marker to signify the deceased’s status as a Veteran. Learn more about headstones and markers here.

HEALTHCARE

Looking for a doctor that takes TRICARE?

Your primary care manager (PCM) or regional contractor is your best resource for finding the right doctor. Click here for some more tips to help you out with your search.

Mental Health Awareness Month

Mental Health Awareness Month continues through May. Check out the TRICAREMentalHealthResource Center for important contact information and links to programs that could help you or someone you know.

AFSA MEMBER BENEFITS

Dell Computers

Dell offers exclusive discounts and promotions for AFSA Members on notebooks, mini laptops, work stations and much more. Check by logging on here.

AFSA Insurance – Life & Health

For information and applications on any of these insurance plans please contact Marsh Affinity Group Servicestoll-free at (800) 882-5541, or online HERE. Please note; coverage may vary or not be issued in all States.

• Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance Plan
• Cancer Expense Insurance
• Group Dental Insurance
• Long-Term Care Insurance
• Short-Term Recovery Insurance Plan
• TRICARE Supplement Insurance
• Life Line Health Screenings

AFSA 2012 Professional Airman’s Conference

AFSA hosted PAC registration is now available on the web for theJacksonville,Florida, events, August 11-15. You are encouraged to sign up early and make your Hyatt Regency room reservation at the AFSA special rate while that special is available. Additionally, why not advertise your Division or Chapter in the PAC magazine? Contact AFSA Marketing for details.

Advertising with AFSA

To advertise with AFSA, contact: AFSA Marketing at (301) 899-3500 ext. 242 or 244, e-mail: marketing@hqafsa.org.

WORTH REPEATING

“As a nation, we’re facing tough choices as we put our fiscal house in order. But I want to be absolutely clear — we cannot, and we must not, balance the budget on the backs of our veterans. And as commander in chief, I won’t allow it,”

President Barack Obama; August 30, 2011

We want to hear your thoughts and opinions. What’s your top 10 list for AFSA?

Go ahead send it. Don’t be bashful. Click HERE to send.

Click HERE to receive this newsletter Click HERE to access AFSA CAPWIZ

• Bill Introduced: H.R.4978 To amend title 38, United States Code, to remove the maximum payment amount for certain qualified losses under the Traumatic Injury Protection under the Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance program.
  To amend title 38, United States Code, to remove the maximum payment amount for certain qualified losses under the Traumatic Injury Protection under the Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance program.

• Bill Introduced: H.R.4913 To require designated military command responsibility and accountability for the care, handling, and transportation of the remains of a deceased member of the Army, Navy, Air Force, or Marine Corps who died overseas, from the place of death, through the defense mortuary system, until the remains are accepted by the member’s next of kin, in order to ensure that the deceased member is treated with dignity, honor, and respect.
  To require designated military command responsibility and accountability for the care, handling, and transportation of the remains of a deceased member of the Army, Navy, Air Force, or Marine Corps who died overseas, from the place of death, through the defense mortuary system, until the remains are accepted by the member’s next of kin, in order to ensure that the deceased member is treated with dignity, honor, and respect.

• Bill Introduced: S.Res.445 A resolution expressing support for the designation of May 1, 2012, as "Silver Star Service Banner Day".
  A resolution expressing support for the designation of May 1, 2012, as “Silver Star Service Banner Day”.

• Bill Introduced: S.2404 A bill to authorize the award of the Medal of Honor to First Lieutenant Alonzo H. Cushing for acts of valor during the Civil War.
  A bill to authorize the award of the Medal of Honor to First Lieutenant Alonzo H. Cushing for acts of valor during the Civil War.

• Bill Introduced: S.2466 Military Reservists Access to Mental Health Services Act of 2011
  A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to authorize the provision of behavioral health readiness services to certain members of the Selected Reserve of the Armed Forces based on need, and for other purposes.

• Bill Introduced: H.R.4869 Armed Forces Breast Cancer Research Act of 2012
  To direct the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to jointly conduct a study on the incidence of breast cancer among members of the Armed Forces and veterans.

• Bill Introduced: H.R.4933 To authorize the award of the Medal of Honor to First Lieutenant Alonzo H. Cushing for acts of valor during the Civil War.
  To authorize the award of the Medal of Honor to First Lieutenant Alonzo H. Cushing for acts of valor during the Civil War.

• Bill Introduced: H.R.4740 Fairness for Military Homeowners Act of 2012
  To amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to ensure that relocation of a servicemember to serve on active duty away from the servicemember’s principal residence does not prevent the servicemember from refinancing a mortgage on that principal residence.

• Bill Introduced: H.R.4482 To amend title 38, United States Code, to make permanent home loan guaranty programs for veterans regarding adjustable rate mortgages and hybrid adjustable rate mortgages.
  To amend title 38, United States Code, to make permanent home loan guaranty programs for veterans regarding adjustable rate mortgages and hybrid adjustable rate mortgages.

• Bill Introduced: H.R.4485 Credible Military Option to Counter Iran Act
  To further the preparedness of the United States Armed Forces, in cooperation with regional allies, to prevent the Government of Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon, and for other purposes.

• Bill Introduced: H.R.4481 Veterans Affairs Employee Accountability Act
  To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure that Department of Veterans Affairs employees who violate certain civil laws do not receive bonuses.

• Bill Introduced: H.R.4407 Base Redevelopment and Indemnification Correction Act
  To amend the indemnification responsibilities applicable to the Secretary of Defense when Department of Defense property at military installations closed pursuant to a base closure law is conveyed to expand such indemnification responsibilities to include all military installations closed since October 24, 1988.

• Bill Introduced: H.R.4401 Revitalizing America’s Commercial Entrepreneurs for Space
  To direct the Secretary of Defense to work with non-Federal entities and accept non-Federal funding under strict implementation guidelines to promote efficiencies of the space transportation infrastructure of the Department of Defense in commercial space activities.

• Bill Introduced: H.Res.625 Honoring the members of the United States Armed Forces who served in Vietnam.
  Honoring the members of the United States Armed Forces who served in Vietnam.

• Bill Introduced: S.2320 Remembering America’s Forgotten Veterans Cemetery Act of 2012
  A bill to direct the American Battle Monuments Commission to provide for the ongoing maintenance of Clark Veterans Cemetery in the Republic of the Philippines, and for other purposes.

• Bill Introduced: H.Res.624 Expressing support for the designation of the first Saturday in May as National Explosive Ordnance Disposal Day and for the designation of "Initial Success or Total Failure" as the official motto of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal organizations in the United States Armed Forces.
  Expressing support for the designation of the first Saturday in May as National Explosive Ordnance Disposal Day and for the designation of “Initial Success or Total Failure” as the official motto of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal organizations in the United States Armed Forces.

• Bill Introduced: H.R.4408 To amend the Sikes Act to promote the use of cooperative agreements under such Act for land management related to Department of Defense installations and to amend title 10, United States Code, to facilitate interagency cooperation in conservation programs.
  To amend the Sikes Act to promote the use of cooperative agreements under such Act for land management related to Department of Defense installations and to amend title 10, United States Code, to facilitate interagency cooperation in conservation programs.

This newsletter is produced and released on a weekly basis by AFSA HQ. To read the full newsletter, as well as archived entries, visit the AFSA On Call Newsletter section of www.hqafsa.org.

LEGISLATIVE UPDATES AND NEWS

Breaking News – HASC Subcommittee Says “No” to TRICARE Fee Increases

The House Armed Services Committee released legislative language that will be considered by the Subcommittee on Military Personnel at their markup later today (Thursday). This year’s proposal:

• Authorizes a military pay increase of 1.7 percent and extends many bonuses and special pays
• Provides significant new regulations and procedures for combating and prosecuting sexual assault within the military
• Extends access to family housing for six months and Commissary and Exchange benefits for two years for troops who are involuntarily separated.
• Extends some TRICARE benefits to members of the Selected Reserves who are involuntarily separated.

Most significant, the Subcommittee mark does not, repeat, does not, contain provisions that will provide for higher TRICARE fees and premiums. Instead, the Subcommittee inserted language expressing a sense of Congress that “Career members of the uniformed services and their families endure unique and extraordinary demands and make extraordinary sacrifices over the course of a 20- to 30-year career in protecting freedom for all Americans; and those decades of sacrifice constitute a significant pre-paid premium for health care during a career member’s retirement that is over and above what the member pays with money.” This belief tracks in line with the position AFSA and its Coalition partners have maintained for many years.

We are pleased with the Subcommittee’s decision but remain cognizant of the fact their efforts could easily be overturned by the full Committee when it meets to address the bill in early May. It happened last year and comments made by some of our sources on Wednesday suggest a repeat situation is likely. The bottom line, the Subcommittee got this one right and now they need our support. Please contact your representative and urge them to support the Subcommittee plan. Don’t delay, do it today!

AFSA Meets with HASC Chair, House Majority Whip

The AFSA CEO and Director of M&G were among a small group of Association representatives invited to the Capitol on Wednesday for a meeting with the House Majority Whip, Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) and Armed Committee Chairman Buck McKeon (R-CA). The conversation centered on the leadership’s concern with sequestration and its probable impact on national defense after January 1, 2013. In the coming weeks, House leaders will pursue a number of initiatives designed to minimize the impact across-the-board cuts will have on the military. We will cover some of them in a future edition of On Call.

Senate Legislation Addressing Former Clark AB Cemetery Introduced

Last week, Senators Kelly Ayotte (R-NH) and Mark Begich (D-AK) introduced legislation aimed at restoring theClarkVeteransCemeteryin thePhilippines. S. 2320, the “Remembering America’s Forgotten Veterans Cemetery Act” would require the American Battle Monuments Commission (ABMC) to restore, operate, and maintain Clark Veterans Cemetery to honor the courageous Americans buried there. It is a companion measure to H.R. 4168 which was introduced by Representative Frank Guinta (R-NH) last month.

“The U.S. government has a moral responsibility to care for veterans cemeteries that honor those who have bravely served our country,” said Senator Ayotte. “The American veterans buried in Clark Veterans Cemetery deserve a dignified and well-maintained final resting place, and it’s time for the U.S. government to fulfill its responsibility to care for this sacred ground.”

“America‘s veterans deserve dignity and honor no matter where they are buried,” Senator Begich said. “It is our duty to recognize their service by making sure this cemetery is maintained appropriately, and this final resting place of thousands of service members should not be left in disrepair.”

The ABMC is an independent agency of theU.S.government charged with managing overseas cemeteries and monuments. BecauseClarkVeteransCemeteryis a permanent American cemetery in a foreign country, AFSA believes the ABMC is the appropriate federal agency to oversee the cemetery’s management and maintenance.

Editor’s Note – Update on House Bill, H.R. 4168: AFSA understands a “watered down” version of Guinta’s bill is now advancing within the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs (HVAC). The revised provision, which has been attached to annual VA COLA legislation, now requires the ABMC to “study” the matter and then report their findings to Congress.

VETERANS NEWS

New VA Initiatives to Improve Benefits Delivery to Veterans and Families

Last week, VA announced the national deployment of claims transformation initiatives to 12 regional offices in the remaining months of fiscal year 2012 to improve benefits delivery to Veterans, families and their survivors.

“This is an important milestone in our transformation to achieve the goal we established in 2009 of processing all disability claims within 125 days at a 98 percent accuracy level in 2015,” said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki.

The 12 regional offices to begin the deployment of the transformation initiatives include: Huntington, WV; Hartford, CT; Portland, OR; Houston, TX; Cleveland, OH; Des Moines, IW; Boise, ID; Phoenix, AZ; New Orleans, LA; San Juan, PR; Atlanta, GA; and Newark, NJ This deployment follows four pilot programs at Indianapolis, IN, Wichita, KS, Milwaukee, WI., and Fort William Henry Harrison, MT, in 2012.

“This national deployment, consisting of people, process and technology initiatives, follows comprehensive planning and testing to ensure we have the right recipe for success,” added Under Secretary for Benefits Allison A. Hickey.

During the national deployment, VA will further track and gauge the integrated effects of the transformation plan to reduce the backlog of disability claims and provide Veterans, their families, and survivors with more timely and accurate claims decisions. VA expects to deploy the transformation plan to the remaining 40 regional offices throughout calendar 2013.

VA provides compensation and pension benefits to more than four million Veterans, family members and survivors. Veterans filing claims may file online through eBenefits, a joint project between the Department of Defense and VA. They can check the status of their claim with a Premium eBenefits account, and use a growing number of online services or contact VA for more information at 1(800) 827-1000.

VA to Increase Mental Health Staff by 1,900

Last Thursday, VA Secretary Eric K. Shinseki announced that the department would add approximately 1,600 mental health clinicians – to include nurses, psychiatrists, psychologists, and social workers as well as nearly 300 support staff to its existing workforce of 20,590 mental health staff as part of an ongoing review of mental health operations.

“As the tide of war recedes, we have the opportunity, and the responsibility, to anticipate the needs of returning Veterans,” said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki. “History shows that the costs of war will continue to grow for a decade or more after the operational missions in Iraq and Afghanistan have ended. As more Veterans return home, we must ensure that all Veterans have access to quality mental health care.”

To locate the nearest VA facility or VetCenterfor enrollment and to get scheduled for care, Veterans can visit VA’s website. Immediate help is available at Veterans Crisis Line or by calling the Crisis Line at 1 (800) 273-8255 (press 1) or texting 838255.

Find a Career at VA

If you’re interested in serving through a job in VA’s health care system, they are hiring. Click here to learn more.

VA Disability Benefits Questionnaires

Disability Benefits Questionnaires (DBQs) are downloadable forms that Veterans can use in the evaluation process for VA disability benefits. These forms can help speed up processing of Veterans’ disability compensation and pension claims. Veterans can have their providers fill out any of the more than 70 DBQs that are appropriate for their conditions and submit them to VA.

Military Spouse Alternative Education Funding Resources

Is your spouse attending college? Military OneSource provides a lengthy list here of education and training funding resources, including federal programs, branch programs and alternative sources of financial aid.

HEALTHCARE

TRICARE Dental Program Contractor Change

TRICARE Dental Program (TDP) beneficiaries are reminded that that MetLife will begin providing TDP coverage on May 1, 2012. Click here for more information.

This Saturday is National Take-Back Day

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is holding another National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day this Saturday (April 28) from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. This is a good opportunity to dispose of your unwanted or expired medications.

Drop-off sites include many military installations so you should easily find one near you. For more information, including a Collection Site Locator and a Partnership Toolbox, visit DEA’s Website.

AFSA MEMBER BENEFITS

Insurance: Property & Casualty

Protect what’s important to you with affordable insurance from USAA. USAA offers top-rated coverage at low rates. Combine that with award-winning service — in fact, USAA was ranked one of Business Week’s top two “Customer Service Champs” the last four years in a row. To make it easy for you, you can do it all online — quote, buy, print ID cards, and much more. Call USAA at (800) 531-8722 or go online here.

Columba Southern University (CSU) Learning Partnership

The AFSA/CSU partnership provides AFSA members a 10 percent discount on all of CSU’s tuition rates, along with the waived $25 application fee. This discount is available for all AFSA members, employees, and their immediate family members (spouse and children). Go to CSU’s website here and select “Air Force Sergeants Association” as the Partner Benefit provider.

AFSA 2012 Professional Airman’s Conference

AFSA hosted PAC registration is now available on the web for theJacksonville,Florida, events, August 11-15. You are encouraged to sign up early and make your Hyatt Regency room reservation at the AFSA special rate while that special is available. Additionally, why not advertise your Division or Chapter in the PAC magazine? Contact AFSA Marketing for details.

Advertising with AFSA

To advertise with AFSA, contact: AFSA Marketing at (301) 899-3500 ext. 242 or 244, e-mail: marketing@hqafsa.org

WORTH REPEATING

“We will not waiver, we will not tire, we will not falter, and we will not fail.”

–President George W. Bush, October 7, 2001

We want to hear your thoughts and opinions. What’s your top 10 list for AFSA?

Go ahead send it. Don’t be bashful. Click HERE to send.

Click HERE to receive this newsletter Click HERE to access AFSA CAPWIZ

• Bill Introduced: H.R.4371 Fairness for World War II and Korean War Spouses Act
  To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve pensions for surviving spouses of World War II and Korean War veterans.

• Bill Introduced: S.Res.420 A resolution designating April 5, 2012, as "Gold Star Wives Day".
  A resolution designating April 5, 2012, as “Gold Star Wives Day”.

• Bill Introduced: S.Res.418 A resolution commending the 80 brave men who became known as the "Doolittle Tokyo Raiders" for outstanding heroism, valor, skill, and service to the United States during the bombing of Tokyo and 5 other targets on the island of Honshu on April 18, 1942, during the Second World War.
  A resolution commending the 80 brave men who became known as the “Doolittle Tokyo Raiders” for outstanding heroism, valor, skill, and service to the United States during the bombing of Tokyo and 5 other targets on the island of Honshu on April 18, 1942, during the Second World War.

• Bill Introduced: H.Res.618 Expressing support for designation of 2012-2013 as the "Year of the Korean War Veteran" and recognizing the 60th anniversary of Korean War.
  Expressing support for designation of 2012-2013 as the “Year of the Korean War Veteran” and recognizing the 60th anniversary of Korean War.

This newsletter is produced and released on a weekly basis by AFSA HQ. To read the full newsletter, as well as archived entries, visit the AFSA On Call Newsletter section of www.hqafsa.org.

LEGISLATIVE UPDATES AND NEWS

Congress in Session

Lawmakers resumed legislative activity on Monday and next week the House Armed Services Subcommittees will begin marking up their respective sections of the FY 2013 National Defense Authorization Act. Presently, it is unclear how the Personnel Readiness Subcommittee which provides oversight of military personnel programs like pay and health care will respond to the Administration plan to raise TRICARE fees.

Last year the House Personnel Readiness Subcommittee rejected a different plan for higher fees only to see their efforts reversed during the full Committee markup. The HASC Chairman removed the Subcommittee recommendations from the draft bill , replacing it with language of his own which allowed TRICARE Prime fees to rise by 13 percent in FY 2012, and in future years by the same rate of the annual cost of living adjustment (COLA). Eventually the House provision went on to become law when Congress approved its final bill late last year. Even if the Subcommittee blocks the Administration plan, it must still past muster before the full Committee then the House as a whole. Of course, we can’t rule out the Senate which will no doubt come up with a few ideas of its own. There we hope the upper chamber follows the advice of Senator Jim Webb’s who recently told DoD, “You cannot renegotiate the moral obligation to provide health care to retired service members” .

HASC Receives Input from Congressional Members

On April 17, the House Armed Services Committee (HASC) received defense-related testimony from 18 representatives not currently serving on the Committee. Topics included cyber security defense, mortuary affairs oversight, explosive ordnance disposal, military religious freedom, Wounded Warrior healthcare, suicide, and hazing in the military.

Representative Steve Stivers spoke of his recent proposal to create a program called “TRICARE for Kids” to better shape the policies and practices of TRICARE by accounting for the specific health care needs of children. Stivers’ bill accomplishes this goal through a new working group convened by the Secretary of Defense and comprised of a full spectrum of experts representing children’s health care and military families.

None of the witnesses mentioned how the Administrations proposed TRICARE fee hikes would adversely affect their constituents. Four lawmakers, Representatives Chip Cravaack, Randy Neugebauer (R-TX), Tom Latham (R-IA), and Tim Murphy (R-PA) expressed their concerns with Air Force plans to cut 9,900 troops and eliminate hundreds of planes, particularly how this move would adversely affect military units in or near their districts. All three stand to lose aircraft or force structure within their districts. You can view each of the lawmakers written statements or watch a video of the entire hearing on the HASC Website.

Protecting Financial Aid for Students and Taxpayers Act

On Wednesday, Senators Kay Hagan (D-NC) and Tom Harkin (D-IA) announced new legislation to ensure that taxpayer dollars used to provide federal assistance for college students is not being wasted on advertising, marketing and recruitment rather than being used to educate and support students.

The “Protecting Financial Aid for Students and Taxpayers Act” maximizes federal student aid by prohibiting the use of Pell Grants, federal student loans, the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill, and other federal education funds for such practices. It is similar to a current law that bans the use of federal higher education dollars for lobbying, and would apply to all institutions (public, private, for profit, non-profit, etc).

“Year of the Korean War Veteran”

On Tuesday, Representative Charles Rangel (D-NY) was joined by colleagues Representatives. John Conyers, Jr. (D-MI), Sam Johnson (R-TX), and Howard Coble (R-NC), as he introduced H.Res. 618, a resolution that urges Congress to designate 2012-2013 as the “Year of the Korean War Veteran,” and recognizing the 60th anniversary of the Korean War. Rangel and the three original co-sponsors to the bill are the last four remaining Korean War Veterans in the U.S. Congress.

“Many Korean War Veterans came home from Korea without much of the fanfare that the heroes of World War II received and slowly, the American public is forgetting the sacrifice that our Korean War heroes displayed. Our nation has a responsibility to make sure that doesn’t happen,” said Rangel.

To ensure that the Korean War is never again called the Forgotten War, The Department of Defense 60th Anniversary of the Korean War Commemoration (KW60) Committee, a task force authorized by the 2011 Defense Authorization Bill, requested Rangel to spearhead this resolution. The KW60 Committee will implement a national campaign to honorAmerica’s Korean War Veterans. The campaign will remember those still counted among the Missing in Action, educate the American people concerning the ongoing relevance of the Forgotten War, and include commemorative ceremonies in theUnited StatesandKoreain recognition of June 25, 1950 and July 27, 1953. It will also launch a media and outreach campaign for Veterans Day 2012. This resolution will enhance those efforts and give the campaign a platform for a nationwide commemoration.

“The Korean War Veterans halted the tide of communism on the Korean Peninsula and it is largely because of their sacrifices that the Republic of Korea was able to develop into a modern and prosperous democracy,” Rangel stated. “My comrades and I are proud to see that in the 60 years since the outbreak of the War, South Korea has emerged from a war-torn country into one of the major players in the world in addition to being the seventh-largest trading partner of the United States.” Added Rangel: “I hope our nation will be able to pay proper tribute the heroes that fought in the Korean War before history forgets them completely. This celebration may be the last one, in which a lot of my comrades, most of whom are over 80 years old, will be able to participate. Not too many of us will be around for the 70th anniversary.”

Vietnam War hero to get Posthumous Medal of Honor

The White House on Monday announced that President Obama will award Army Specialist Leslie H. Sabo, Jr., the Medal of Honor for conspicuous gallantry. Specialist Sabo will receive the Medal of Honor posthumously for his heroic actions in combat on May 10, 1970, while serving as a rifleman in Company D, 3d Battalion, 506th Infantry, 101st Airborne Division in Se San, Cambodia. Sabo’s widow, Rose Mary Sabo-Brown and his brother, George Sabo, will join the President at the White House on May 16 to commemorate his example of selfless service and sacrifice.

64th Anniversary of the Air Force Reserve

The Air Force Reserve turned 64 this week. On April 14, 1948, President Harry Truman, inspired by Reserve programs activated during World War I, officially forged the Air Force Reserve as a field operating agency of the Air Force. The Air Force Reserve Command became the ninth major command of the Air Force on February 17, 1997. On a related matter, AFSA congratulates Maj. Gen. James Jackson who was recently nominated for promotion and to become the next chief of Air Force Reserve and commander of Air Force Reserve Command.

VETERANS NEWS

VA’s Volunteer Service Celebrates Volunteer Week

It’s National Volunteer Week, and VA is recognizing the invaluable contribution of volunteers across the country. See Learn more

Don’t Call Her “Mister”

The Veteran population is comprised of more women more than ever before. Learn how VA has worked to improve the quality of care for women veterans by clicking here.

DFAS Warning to Retirees

According to DFAS, an email spoofing scam is targeting individuals receiving disability compensation from VA suggesting they may be able to obtain additional funds from the IRS. The emails look like they are from, but are not issued by a DFAS employee. Do not send your personal information, copies of your tax returns or 1099s to the individual listed in the email! For more info, visit the DFAS website

HEALTHCARE

National Take-Back Day

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has scheduled another National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day, to be held on Saturday, April 28, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This is a great opportunity for those who missed the previous events, or who have subsequently accumulated unwanted, unused prescription drugs, to dispose of those medications easily and safely.

Americans who participated in the DEA’s third take-back event last fall turned in more than 188 tons of unwanted or expired medications. Drop-off sites include many military installations so you should easily find one near you. For more information, including a Collection Site Locator and a Partnership Toolbox, visit DEA’s Website.

AFSA MEMBER BENEFITS

AFSA Insurance: Life & Health

For information and applications on any of these insurance plans please contact Marsh Affinity Group Services toll-free at (800) 882-5541, or online HERE. Coverage may vary or not be issued in all states.

• Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance Plan
• Cancer Expense Insurance
• Group Dental Insurance
• Long-Term Care Insurance
• Short-Term Recovery Insurance Plan
• Tricare Supplement Insurance
• Life Line Health Screenings

Vacation and Travel: AFSA Cruises & Tours

If you’re thinking about a cruise or other vacation tour, check out our AFSA Vacations HERE. Administered by Brennco Travel, a leader in the travel industry.

WORTH REPEATING

“We will not waiver, we will not tire, we will not falter, and we will not fail.”

–President George W. Bush, October 7, 2001

We want to hear your thoughts and opinions. What’s your top 10 list for AFSA?

Go ahead send it. Don’t be bashful. Click HERE to send.

Click HERE to receive this newsletter Click HERE to access AFSA CAPWIZ

This newsletter is produced and released on a weekly basis by AFSA HQ. To read the full newsletter, as well as archived entries, visit the AFSA On Call Newsletter section of www.hqafsa.org.

LEGISLATIVE UPDATES AND NEWS

Congress in Recess

Congress remained in recess this week. The House and Senate will resume normal legislative activity on Monday, April 16.

Early Retirement Possible for Some Enlisted Airmen

The Air Force on Friday announced that a small number of active duty Staff Sergeants, Technical Sergeants and Master Sergeants in 19 over manned career fields may soon be eligible for early retirement in FY 2012 under the Temporary Early Retirement Authority (TERA).
“The application window for TERA, commonly referred to as the 15-year retirement, will be open April 10-30 in order to shape the force to meet current and future mission requirements,” said Colonel Kenneth Sersun, Chief of Military Force Policy Division. “The current voluntary and involuntary force management programs have enabled the Air Force to continue to size and shape congressionally mandated end strength levels,” said Sersun. “However, we must have the right balance of skills to meet future mission needs, so we will continually assess requirements and force management options.”

The Air Force plans to approve approximately 250 TERA applications this fiscal year and individuals selected must retire by September 1. Initially, approval for early retirement will be based on overmanned specialties, time in service of 15 to 19 years, and grade. If it becomes necessary, additional selection criteria may be considered including active duty service commitment, time in grade, and commander recommendation. Those approved will have their retired pay reduced by 1/12th of 1 percent for each full month by which the number of months of active service are less than 240 as of the date of the member’s retirement.

According to an Air Force press release, the eligible over manned career fields include:

• 2A0X1P – Avionics Test Station and Components
• 2A3X3 – Tactical Aircraft Maintenance (technical and master sergeants only)
• 2A6X3 – Aircrew Egress Systems (technical and master sergeants only)
• 2S0X1 – Materiel Management
• 2T1X1 – Vehicle Operations (staff sergeants only)
• 2T370 – Vehicle Maintenance (technical and master sergeants only)
• 2T3X7 – Vehicle Management and Analysis (master sergeants only)
• 3D0X1 – Knowledge Operations Management (technical and master sergeants only)
• 3D1X3 – Radio Frequency Transmission Systems (technical and master sergeants only)
• 3D1X5 – Ground Radar Systems (master sergeants only)
• 3D1X6 – Airfield Systems (technical sergeants only)
• 3E0X2 – Electrical Power Production (technical sergeants only)
• 3E1X1 – Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration
• 3S0X1 – Personnel
• 4A0X1 – Health Services Management (staff and master sergeants only)
• 4J0X2 – Physical Medicine (master sergeants only)
• 4N071 – Aerospace Medical Service (technical and master sergeants only)
• 4T0X1 – Medical Laboratory (technical and master sergeants only)
• 6F0X1 – Financial Management and Comptroller (staff and master sergeants only)

Earlier this year, Air Force officials said TERA might be used sparingly as the service works to reach desired end strengths. As a reminder, this early retirement opportunity is for active members in certain over manned career fields only. At present, the Guard and Reserve are not planning to conduct similar force management action in FY 2012. For more information about TERA and other personnel issues, visit the Air Force Personnel Services website.

Transfer of Education Benefits (TEB) Waiver Process for Retirees

DoD recently determined that some service members who retired between August 1st and November 1, 2009, may not have been aware of their eligibility to Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits to a spouse or dependent, or that the transfer had to be approved while currently serving in the Armed Forces.

Per VA, if you are in this situation, you may be exempted from the rule by applying for a Correction of Military Record. The Record Correction Boards review personnel files to fix errors or omissions, and can make determinations on a case-by-case basis to decide whether or not to allow you to transfer entitlement under the Post-9/11 GI Bill. If you believe you are the victim of an injustice, you may apply for relief by filing a DD Form 149, “Application for Correction of Military Record under the Provisions of Title 10, U.S.C, § 1552.” The form, complete with instructions and mailing addresses for each military branch, is available here. As a reminder, the retiree must explain how he or she was treated in block 6 on the form.

VA says approximately 16,000 people retired from the military during the first few months following the August 1, 2009, launch date of the Post-9/11 GI Bill. Although over 50,000 service members were approved for transfer during that timeframe, service boards have decided in some cases to allow some transfers post-retirement as a result of retiree applications for correction.

First Military Flying School

101 years ago this week, the first permanent military flying school was established by the US Army at College Park, Maryland, and the facility is considered by many historians to be the “cradle of aviation.” Established in 1909, the airfield remains operational to this day and it is the world’s oldest, continually operating airport.

VETERANS NEWS

Getting the Right GI Bill Information

Many websites offer information on Veterans education benefits and the GI Bill, but only VA offers detailed and accurate information on the benefits you’ve earned. Learn more at VA’s GI Bill Website.

Presidential Memorial Certificates

The Presidential Memorial Certificate (PMC) is an engraved paper certificate, signed by the current President, to honor the memory of honorably discharged deceased Veterans. VA administers the PMC program by preparing the certificates which express the country’s grateful recognition of the Veteran’s service in the United States Armed Forces. Eligible recipients, or someone acting on their behalf, can apply for a Memorial Certificate in person at any VA regional office, by U.S.mail or toll-free fax. For specific details, click here.

DFAS Facebook Town Hall Meeting

DFAS plans to host its first Facebook town hall meeting on May 8 from 3 to 5 pm Eastern time. During this online event, retired pay experts will answer retirement-related questions in real time. Current military retirees and military members preparing for retirement are encouraged to participate. Visit their Facebook Page for more information.

Markey to Lead VA Insurance Program

Mr. Vincent E. Markey ofPhiladelphiahas been named director of the Department of Veterans Affairs’InsuranceCenter, the eighth-largest life insurance program in the world covering more than 4 million Veterans, active-duty, Guard and Reserve members, plus 3.1 million spouses and children. The VA Insurance Center directly administers six life insurance programs and supervises the Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance and the Veterans’ Group Life Insurance programs. These programs provide $1.3 trillion in insurance coverage.

In 2011, VA’s life insurance programs returned $249 million in dividends to 753,000 Veterans holding some of these VA life insurance policies, and paid $2.3 billion in death claims to the beneficiaries of 141,000 Veterans and service members. The program has grown to meet the challenges of the current conflict through a new Traumatic Injury Protection program under Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance that provides coverage to 2.4 million active-duty personnel. Those who suffer certain severe traumatic injuries may receive benefit amounts ranging from $25,000 to $100,000, depending on the loss.

Markey is a long-timeInsuranceCenteremployee who began his federal service in 1981 at the Philadelphia Regional Office and transferred to thenational InsuranceCenter, which is co-located there, in 1985. He has held various positions in VA’s insurance program, most recently as chief of the Insurance Service Program Management Division. He succeeds Tom Lastowka, who retired after serving as director of both theInsuranceCenterand the co-located regional office since 1990.

HEALTHCARE

TRICARE’s Clinical Preventive Services

TRICARE beneficiaries are eligible to receive comprehensive health promotion and disease prevention examinations. This means you can get health services like cancer screenings, cholesterol tests and immunizations at little or no cost. Get a full list of what’s covered under TRICARE’s Clinical Preventive Services benefit by clicking here.

New Baby on the Way?

TRICARE beneficiaries expecting a new addition to the family soon may be interested in a new TRICARE program called Text4baby. Those registered for Text4baby receive up to three free SMS text messages a week until their child is one year old with pregnancy tips timed to their due date or baby’s birth date. Get started by visiting Text4baby.

AFSA MEMBER BENEFITS

Insurance: Property & Casualty

Protect what’s important to you with affordable insurance from USAA. USAA offers top-rated coverage at low rates. Combine that with award-winning service — in fact, USAA was ranked one of Business Week’s top two “Customer Service Champs” the last four years in a row. To make it easy for you, you can do it all online — quote, buy, print ID cards, and much more. Call USAA at (800) 531-8722 or go online here.

AFSA Wireless Center

Save on phones and accessories at the AFSAWirelessCenter. Shop and compare from a vast selection of carriers and products. You’ll get the same great rate from the carrier you choose, plus a better phone at a better price. Click here or call (866) 416-3060.

THINKING AFSA

Order of the Sword

AFSA congratulates the enlisted men and women of AETC for their selection of retired Major General Alfred K. Flowers to receive the Order of the Sword. General Flowers was inducted into the Order during an April 6 ceremony at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph,Texas. Before his retirement in November 2011, Flowers served as the deputy assistant for Budget at the Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Management and Comptroller inWashingtonD.C. He is the longest serving military member in DoD history with more than 46 years on active duty at the time of his retirement. General Flowers served as an enlisted Airman for more than 13 years and was a master sergeant select before commissioning.

WORTH REPEATING

“If we all did the things we are capable of we would astound ourselves”

—Thomas Edison

We want to hear your thoughts and opinions. What’s your top 10 list for AFSA?

Go ahead send it. Don’t be bashful. Click HERE to send.

Click HERE to receive this newsletter Click HERE to access AFSA CAPWIZ

• Bill Introduced: S.2259 Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2012
  A bill to provide for an increase, effective December 1, 2012, in the rates of compensation for veterans with service-connected disabilities and the rates of dependency and indemnity compensation for the survivors of certain disabled veterans, and for other purposes.

• Bill Introduced: S.2255 A bill to amend chapter 1 of title 36, United States Code, to add Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day as a patriotic and National observance.
  A bill to amend chapter 1 of title 36, United States Code, to add Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day as a patriotic and National observance.

• Bill Introduced: S.2244 Veterans Missing in America Act of 2012
  A bill to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to assist in the identification of unclaimed and abandoned human remains to determine if any such remains are eligible for burial in a national cemetery, and for other purposes.

• Bill Introduced: S.2246 TAP Modernization Act of 2012
  A bill to direct the Secretary of Labor to provide off-base transition training, and for other purposes.

• Bill Introduced: S.2241 GI Bill Consumer Awareness Act of 2012
  A bill to ensure that veterans have the information and protections they require to make informed decisions regarding use of Post-9/11 Educational Assistance, and for other purposes.

• Bill Introduced: H.R.4245 Veterans Co-Pay Fairness Act
  To amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reimburse eligible veterans who are entitled to Medicare benefits for Medicare deductibles and other expenses that are owed by the veterans for emergency medical treatment provided in non-Department of Veterans Affairs facilities.

• Bill Introduced: H.R.4248 To authorize the burial at Arlington National Cemetery of members of the Army who served honorably in the Tomb Guard Platoon of the 3d United States Infantry Regiment, which provides the sentinels at the Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington National Cemetery.
  To authorize the burial at Arlington National Cemetery of members of the Army who served honorably in the Tomb Guard Platoon of the 3d United States Infantry Regiment, which provides the sentinels at the Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington National Cemetery.

• Bill Introduced: H.Con.Res.110 Expressing the sense of Congress that the President should not interpret or construe the Defense Production Act of 1950 to authorize the President or any Federal department or agency to confiscate personal or private property, to force conscription into the Armed Forces on the American people, to force civilians to engage in labor against their will or without compensation, or to force private businesses to relinquish goods or services without compensation.
  Expressing the sense of Congress that the President should not interpret or construe the Defense Production Act of 1950 to authorize the President or any Federal department or agency to confiscate personal or private property, to force conscription into the Armed Forces on the American people, to force civilians to engage in labor against their will or without compensation, or to force private businesses to relinquish goods or services without compensation.

• Bill Introduced: H.Con.Res.111 Expressing the sense of Congress that a site in Arlington National Cemetery should be provided for a memorial marker to honor the memory of the 14 members of the Army’s 24th Infantry Division who have received the Medal of Honor.
  Expressing the sense of Congress that a site in Arlington National Cemetery should be provided for a memorial marker to honor the memory of the 14 members of the Army’s 24th Infantry Division who have received the Medal of Honor.

• Bill Introduced: S.2206 GI Educational Freedom Act of 2012
  A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide educational counseling to individuals eligible for educational assistance under laws administered by the Secretary before such individuals receive such assistance, and for other purposes.