White House officials are now arranging for President Bush to sign the Hubbard Act into law. It's likely to be a poignant and memorable moment for the Hubbard family of Clovis, for whom the veterans legislation is named.

The bill honors brothers Jason, Jared and Nathan Hubbard. Jared and Nathan died in Iraq, where Jason -- currently a Fresno County deputy sheriff -- also served. The bill ensures sole survivor veterans retain pay and benefits even if they leave the service early.

The bill's chief House author, Rep. Devin Nunes, R-Visalia, said Tuesday morning that he has been working with the White House to arrange for Hubbard family members to attend the bill signing. That's one reason the bill hasn't been completed, although Congress cleared it for White House action on Aug. 1; it is one of several unfinished bills for which special signing ceremonies are in the works.

"I thought it would be nice for the family, which lost a lot," Nunes said, adding that final details haven't yet been worked out.