More Features of Authorization Bill

The fiscal 2006 authorization bill (previous item) also includes: housing allowance increases averaging 5.9 percent; a 2,000 pound increase in the household goods weight allowance for enlisted pay grades E-7 and above; a total of $238,000 for deaths not previously qualified for enhanced benefits; continued basic allowance for housing or government quarters for one year for families of deceased service members; overseas cost-of-living allowances for dependents who remain outside the continental United States when a service member deploys from that location; expanded special pays for designated medical and dental officers, and officers with nuclear qualifications; language proficiency bonuses of up to $12,000 per year for active and reserve members; and travel and lodging payments for families of hospitalized service members wounded in combat zones or other designated areas.