This week in Congress: Important defense budget votes

Several big defense votes await lawmakers as they return to Capitol Hill this week.

First, as early as Monday night, senators could wrap up work on the annual defense authorization bill. Parliamentary fights stalled most amendment work on the measure last week, but chamber leaders are hopeful they can advance the bill and start conference committee work in coming days.

Votes on the bill are scheduled after 7 p.m. Monday, making for a late night for lawmakers.

Later in the week, both the House and Senate are expected to take up their respective defense appropriations bills, with an eye toward finalizing the military budget sometime later this year.

Meanwhile, lawmakers in both chambers are looking at how to advance a series of veterans measures, including Sen. Johnny Isakson's "Veterans First Act." Officials hope that some comprehensive measure can be passed before the congressional break starts in mid-July.

Coast Guard

The committee will hear from Coast Guard officials on mission needs and resources for coming years.

Visa issues

The subcommittee on border security will hear from federal officials on national security risks posed by foreign individuals who overstay their U.S. visas.

Russia

Outside experts will testify on U.S. policy toward Russia and recent actions by Russian President Vladimir Putin.

VA records

The subcommittee on disability assistance will discuss the Department of Veterans Affairs management and reliance on paper records.

Women's education

The subcommittee on global women's issues will hear from Catherine Russell, State Department ambassador for women's issues, on international barriers to education for women and girls.

Defense Department audits

Defense Department Comptroller Mike McCord and service financial officers will testify before the committee on military audit readiness.

Egypt

The subcommittee on the Middle East will discuss challenges and opportunities for U.S. policy in Egypt.

Veterans jobs

The subcommittee on economic opportunity will discuss programs and strategies for veterans seeking jobs.

Transnational criminal threats

The head of the State Department's Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs will testify on global criminal threats and U.S. strategy to combat them.

Leo Shane III covers Congress, Veterans Affairs and the White House for Military Times. He can be reached at lshane@militarytimes.com.

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