Implementation and authority

(a) Issuance of identification to veterans (1) Identification program Beginning not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall jointly implement a program to issue the photographic identification described in section 926C of title 18, United States Code, to any individual, at the request of the individual, who meets the criteria of a qualified special operator. (2) Verification The Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall ensure that the application process for the program implemented under paragraph (1) uses the records of each Department to verify honorable discharge and status as a qualified special operator. (b) Acceptance of proof documents (1) Alternate proof Prior to the expiration of the 180-day period described in subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense and Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall recognize valid service documentation as sufficient proof under section 926C of title 18, United States Code. (2) Guidance Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Attorney General shall provide guidance to law enforcement agencies nationwide to ensure acceptance of the requisite official documentation as proof of authority to carry under Federal law until such time as the photographic identification of the Department of Defense of the Department of Veterans Affairs, as applicable, is made available. (c) Regulations The Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs are authorized to promulgate regulations and guidance to carry out this Act, and the amendments made by this Act, including the form and process for issuing photographic identification cards, any application procedures, consistent with section 926C of title 18, United States Code, and communication with Federal, State, and local law enforcement agencies regarding implementation.