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SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Samuel Kelner Commission on Youth
Authorization Act''.
SEC. 2. ESTABLISHMENT.
There is established a commission to be known as the ``Samuel
Kelner Commission on Youth'' (in this Act referred to as the
``Commission'').
SEC. 3. DUTIES OF COMMISSION.
The Commission shall seek to reduce apathy among American youth
regarding the Nation's system of government by discussing and making
policy recommendations on issues affecting American youth, including
issues in the following subject areas:
(1) Public education.
(2) Youth employment and wages.
(3) Higher education financing.
(4) Youth drug abuse and violence.
SEC. 4. MEMBERSHIP.
(a) Number and Appointment.--The Commission shall be composed of 8
members, appointed as follows:
(1) 4 members appointed by the President.
(2) 1 member appointed by the Speaker of the House of
Representatives.
(3) 1 member appointed by the minority leader of the House
or Representatives.
(4) 1 member appointed by the majority leader of the
Senate.
(5) 1 member appointed by the minority leader of the
Senate.
(b) Age Limit.--An individual may not be appointed under subsection
(a) if that individual will attain 18 years of age by the date of the
Commission's first meeting or conference that occurs after that
individual's appointment in the term for which the individual is
appointed.
(c) Terms.--
(1) In general.--Each member shall be appointed for a term
of 1 year beginning on August 1 and may be reappointed.
(2) Initial term.--The first 8 members shall be appointed
for the 1-year period that begins on August 1 of the calendar
year that follows the calendar year of the date of the
enactment of this Act.
(d) Vacancies.--Any member appointed to fill a vacancy before the
expiration of the term for which the member's predecessor was appointed
shall be appointed only for the remainder of that term. A vacancy in
the Commission shall be filled in the manner in which the original
appointment was made.
(e) Pay.--Members shall serve without pay.
(f) Travel Expenses.--Each member shall receive travel expenses,
including per diem in lieu of subsistence, in accordance with sections
5702 and 5703 of title 5, United States Code.
(g) Quorum.--A majority of the members shall constitute a quorum,
except that a lesser number may hold hearings.
(h) Chairperson.--The Chairperson of the Commission shall be
elected by the members.
(i) Meetings.--
(1) In general.--In each 1 year period beginning August 1
the Commission--
(A) shall conduct 4 meetings each spanning a period
of not more than 3 days; and
(B) shall conduct 1 conference spanning a period of
not more than 1 week.
(2) Scheduling.--
(A) Initial meeting.--The initial meeting of the
Commission each year under paragraph (1)(A) shall begin
on the first Thursday in August.
(B) Remaining meetings.--The Commission, by
majority vote at the initial meeting each year, shall
determine the dates of the remaining meetings and the
conference under paragraph (1) for that year.
(3) Emergency meeting.--In addition to the meetings
required under paragraph (1), the Commission shall, at the call
of the President, conduct 1 emergency meeting spanning a period
of not more than 3 days.
SEC. 5. DIRECTOR; STAFF; EXPERTS AND CONSULTANTS.
(a) Director.--
(1) Appointment.--The Commission shall have a Director who
shall be appointed by the President.
(2) Pay.--The Director shall be paid at the rate of basic
pay for GS-12 of the General Schedule.
(b) Staff.--The Commission may appoint additional personnel as it
considers appropriate.
(c) Applicability of Certain Civil Service Laws.--The Director and
staff of the Commission shall be appointed subject to the provisions of
title 5, United States Code, governing appointments in the competitive
service.
(d) Experts and Consultants.--The Commission may procure temporary
and intermittent services under section 3109(b) of title 5, United
States Code.
(e) Staff of Federal Agencies.--Upon request of the Commission, the
head of any Federal department or agency may detail, on a reimbursable
basis, any of the personnel of that department or agency to the
Commission to assist it in carrying out its duties under this Act.
SEC. 6. POWERS OF COMMISSION.
(a) Hearings and Sessions.--The Commission may, for the purpose of
carrying out this Act, hold hearings, sit and act at times and places,
take testimony, and receive evidence as the Commission considers
appropriate.
(b) Powers of Members and Agents.--Any member or agent of the
Commission may, if authorized by the Commission, take any action that
the Commission is authorized to take by this section.
(c) Obtaining Official Data.--The Commission may secure directly
from any department or agency of the United States information
necessary to enable it to carry out this Act. The Chairperson may
request such information if such request is authorized by a majority
vote of the Commission. Upon request of the Chairperson, the head of
that department or agency shall furnish that information to the
Commission.
(d) Mails.--The Commission may use the United States mails in the
same manner and under the same conditions as other departments and
agencies of the United States.
(e) Administrative Support Services.--Upon the request of the
Commission, the Administrator of General Services shall provide to the
Commission, on a reimbursable basis, the administrative support
services necessary for the Commission to carry out its responsibilities
under this Act.
(f) Contract Authority.--To the extent and in the amounts provided
in advance in appropriations Acts, the Director may contract with and
compensate government and private agencies or person for supplies and
other services.
SEC. 7. ANNUAL REPORTS.
(a) In General.--The Commission shall submit to the President and
the Congress a report not later than July 1 each year.
(b) Contents.--Each report shall include policy recommendations on
issues affecting youth, including issues in the following subject
areas:
(1) Public education.
(2) Youth employment and wages.
(3) Higher education financing.
(4) Youth drug abuse and violence.
SEC. 8. TERMINATION.
The Commission shall terminate 5 years after the beginning of the
terms of its first members.
SEC. 9. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
There is authorized to be appropriated to the Commission to carry
out this Act $100,000 for each of fiscal years 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005,
and 2006. Such sums may remain available until expended. | Samuel Kelner Commission on Youth Authorization Act - Establishes the Samuel Kelner Commission on Youth to seek to reduce apathy among U.S. youth regarding the Nation's system of government by discussing and making policy recommendations on issues affecting U.S. youth, including issues in the subject areas of: (1) public education; (2) youth employment and wages; (3) higher education financing; and (4) youth drug abuse and violence. | To establish the Samuel Kelner Commission on Youth. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Security and Victory in Iraq Act of
2007''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress makes the following findings:
(1) The national security mission of the United States and
its coalition partners, having removed Saddam Hussein and his
regime from power, is to help establish a sovereign, free,
secure, and united Iraq at peace with its neighbors.
(2) The people of Iraq in 2005 went to the polls in great
numbers and in an historic democratic process elected an
interim government, voted on a new constitution, and elected a
permanent democratic government.
(3) Since its inception, Iraq's democratic government has
been under continuous attack from extremist insurgents,
terrorists, and, more recently, growing sectarian conflict.
(4) The increasing violence is now threatening Iraq's
government, endangering regional stability and creating the
opportunity for safe havens for terrorists.
(5) The National Intelligence Estimate for Iraq, released
February 2, 2007, stated: ``Coalition capabilities, including
force levels, resources, and operations, remain an essential
stabilizing element in Iraq.''. The National Intelligence
Estimate for Iraq stated further that if Coalition forces were
to withdraw rapidly, the intelligence community judges that
neighboring countries--invited by Iraqi factions or
unilaterally--might intervene openly in the conflict.
(6) There is evidence that the sectarian violence is
pulling in neighboring countries, with United States and
coalition commanders in Iraq, intelligence sources, and the
Iraq Study Group all affirming that Syria and Iran are actively
supporting efforts to undermine stability in Iraq, with
reporting attesting that Iran has provided arms, financial
support, and training for militias within Iraq and may be
supplying improvised explosive devices to groups that attack
United States forces.
(7) Israeli Prime Minister Olmert underscored the regional
consequences of a United States withdrawal from Iraq in a
December 11, 2006, interview with the Washington Post and
Newsweek saying: ``If there is a premature pullout before Iraq
has a robust government with a strong authority that can keep
the country from collapsing into an internal civil war, America
will have to think about the possible ramifications on
neighbouring Arab countries with moderate governments. . . .
How will it affect the stability of these countries against the
radical forces that might flourish as a result of a premature
pullout of America?''.
(8) Ayman al-Zawahiri has repeatedly stated the need to
extend the jihad beyond Iraq and wrote in an October 2005
letter to the late al-Qaeda leader al-Zarqawi, that the
Islamist militant extremists ``must not have their mission end
with the expulsion of the Americans from Iraq, and then lay
down their weapons. . . . Instead, their ongoing mission is to
establish an Islamic state, and defend it, and for every
generation to hand over the banner to the one after it . . .''.
(9) This commitment to imposing militant extremist Islam
throughout the world was recently echoed by Iranian leader
Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, who was quoted as saying on January 5,
2007: ``We don't shy away from declaring that Islam is ready to
rule the world. . . . We must prepare ourselves to rule the
world.''.
(10) The failure to secure Iraq would threaten America's
vital national security interests, in a strategically important
region in the world, and our homeland security interests.
(11) Recognizing the investment of troops and resources had
outpaced results in Iraq, the President and a congressionally-
established commission, the Iraq Study Group, conducted
reappraisals of our policies and strategies in Iraq.
(12) The President outlined a new strategy on January 10,
2007, to immediately further United States national security
priorities, to provide greater security for the Iraqi
population, and to accelerate progress on essential political,
social, and economic reforms necessary to the long-term
stability of the central government and the country.
(13) On January 26, 2007, the United States Senate
unanimously confirmed General David H. Petraeus as the new
commander of United States and allied forces in Iraq. During
his confirmation hearings, General Petraeus addressed the
negative consequences a premature withdrawal would have on
United States interests and regional stability, as well as the
positive encouragement a congressionally-passed resolution of
disapproval regarding the new strategy would have on United
States enemies operating in Iraq.
(14) In addition, General Petraeus, as he himself has
stated, cannot accomplish his new mission without the
deployment of the additional troops, which would reinforce
United States and allied forces. It is not in the best national
security interests of the United States to support unanimously
a new commanding general given his mission and then deny him
the resources to be successful in that mission.
(15) Despite policy disagreements, all Members of Congress
support the members of the United States Armed Forces, who have
served honorably in their mission to fight terrorism and to
protect the security of the United States.
(16) The members of the Armed Forces and their families
have made sacrifices, in many cases the ultimate sacrifice, to
protect the security of the United States and the freedom of
its citizens.
(17) Failure to fully provide resources to military forces
deployed in support of operations in Iraq will negatively
impact our troops' morale and result in increasing casualties
and make the mission to secure Iraq impossible.
SEC. 3. CERTIFICATION RELATING TO EFFORTS BY THE GOVERNMENT OF IRAQ.
Not later than 30 days after the date of the enactment of this Act,
and every 30 days thereafter, the President shall transmit to the
appropriate congressional committees a certification that contains a
determination of the President of the extent to which--
(1) the Government of Iraq is fully cooperating with United
States stability efforts in Iraq; and
(2) the Government of Iraq has taken effective steps and
made demonstrable progress toward--
(A) completing the process of purging from its
security services those individuals with ties to
insurgents, sectarian militias, and terrorism;
(B) developing and implementing a rotation schedule
that allows all Iraqi Army battalions to participate in
operations in battlefield conditions, such as those
combat conditions found in Baghdad and al Anbar
Province;
(C) denying terrorists and their state-sponsors,
particularly Iran and Syria, the use of Iraqi territory
as a terrorist sanctuary;
(D) developing and implementing a strategy to
promote tolerance, peace, and co-existence among
Iraqis, which should particularly address how to
decrease sectarian tensions and violence;
(E) providing and ensuring equal access to
resources to all Iraqis and augmenting the capability
of reconstruction programs and economic institutions;
(F) adopting reforms to promote justice, equality,
and the rule of law, and ensuring financial and
transparent accountability of all Iraqi Government
ministries and operations; and
(G) cooperating and coordinating internationally to
help stabilize Iraq.
SEC. 4. REPORT.
Not later than 30 days after the date of the enactment of this Act,
and every 30 days thereafter, the President shall transmit to the
appropriate congressional committees a report that--
(1) details the progress in the implementation of the Iraq
strategy, ``A New Way Forward,'' announced by the President on
January 10, 2007;
(2) details the progress of the Government of Iraq in
meeting the benchmarks described in section 3 of this Act;
(3) identifies the level of combat experience of all Iraqi
Army battalions, provides details on the development and
implementation of a rotation schedule to ensure that all Iraqi
Army battalions experience combat operations in battlefield
conditions, and identifies the extent to which the Iraqi
Ministry of Defense has deployed Iraqi military units that are
needed to secure Baghdad and al Anbar Province;
(4) tracks expenditures of Iraqi funds, which are allocated
for the Iraqi Army, for the purpose of equipping the Iraqi
Army;
(5) measures the effectiveness of the police force in
Baghdad using normally accepted crime statistics;
(6) assesses the contributions by allies of the United
States to provide support to the Government and people of Iraq;
and
(7) identifies the steps the Government of the United
States is taking to hold the Government of Iraq accountable in
meeting the benchmarks described in section 3 of this Act and
in providing funding for the Provincial Reconstruction Teams in
Iraq.
SEC. 5. INTERAGENCY ASSESSMENT.
(a) Interagency Assessment Required.--The President shall require
all relevant departments and agencies of the Government of the United
States to conduct an interagency assessment of the impact that
withdrawal of United States Armed Forces from Iraq would have on the
national security and homeland security interests of the United States,
as well as an assessment on the impact that such a withdrawal would
have for United States allies in the region.
(b) Report.--Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment
of this Act, the President shall transmit to the appropriate
congressional committees a report that contains the results of the
interagency assessment conducted under subsection (a).
SEC. 6. SELECT BIPARTISAN COMMITTEE TO MONITOR UNITED STATES POLICY AND
STRATEGY FOR IRAQ.
(a) Establishment.--There is hereby established in the House of
Representatives the Select Bipartisan Committee to Monitor United
States Policy and Strategy for Iraq (hereinafter referred to as the
``select committee'').
(b) Composition.--
(1) In general.--The select committee shall be composed of
10 members appointed by the Speaker of the House of
Representatives, of whom 5 members shall be appointed upon the
recommendation of the minority leader of the House of
Representatives. The Speaker shall designate one member as
chairman of the select committee.
(2) Ex officio members.--The Speaker and the minority
leader of the House of Representatives shall be ex officio
members of the select committee but shall have no vote in the
select committee and may not be counted for purposes of
determining a quorum. The Speaker and the minority leader each
may designate a leadership staff member to assist in their
capacity as ex officio members, with the same access to select
committee meetings, hearings, briefings, and materials as
employees of the select committee and subject to the same
security clearance and confidentiality requirements as staff of
the select committee.
(c) Duties.--
(1) In general.--The select committee is authorized and
directed to monitor the implementation of this Act and to study
proposals from relevant committees of the House of
Representatives, the executive branch, and private sector
entities and individuals as the select committee considers
appropriate concerning the development of United States policy
and strategy to assist Iraq to achieve a stable, democratic
government and security forces capable of establishing and
maintaining security and stability.
(2) Report.--Not later than 180 legislative days after the
date on which all members of the select committee have been
appointed pursuant to subsection (b)(1), the select committee
shall submit to the House of Representatives a report that
contains a summary of the activities of the select committee
carried out under paragraph (1) and any findings or
recommendations relating to such activities.
(d) Procedure.--Rule XI of the Rules of the House of
Representatives, including the items referred to in the following
paragraphs, shall apply to the select committee:
(1) Clause 2(j)(1) of rule XI (guaranteeing the minority
additional witnesses).
(2) Clause 2(m)(3) of rule XI (providing for the authority
to subpoena witnesses and documents).
In addition, access by the select committee to classified information
and other national security information shall be conducted consistent
with the Rules of the House of Representatives.
(e) Joint Operations.--The chairman of the select committee, in
carrying out the duties described in subsection (c), shall consult with
the chairman of a Senate committee conducting duties similar to the
duties described in subsection (c) regarding meeting jointly to receive
testimony, the scheduling of hearings or issuance of subpoenas, and
joint staff interviews of key witnesses.
(f) Staff; Funding.--
(1) Staff.--
(A) Use of existing house staff.--To the greatest
extent practicable, the select committee shall utilize
the services of staff of employing entities of the
House of Representatives. At the request of the
chairman in consultation with the ranking minority
member, staff of employing entities of the House of
Representatives or a joint committee may be detailed to
the select committee to carry out this section and
shall be deemed to be staff of the select committee.
(B) Other staff.--The chairman, upon consultation
with the ranking minority member, may employ and fix
the compensation of such staff as the chairman
considers necessary to carry out this resolution.
(2) Funding.--There shall be paid out of the applicable
accounts of the House of Representatives $500,000 for the
expenses of the select committee. Such payments shall be made
on vouchers signed by the chairman and approved in the manner
directed by the Committee on House Administration. Amounts made
available under this paragraph shall be expended in accordance
with regulations prescribed by the Committee on House
Administration.
(g) Dissolution and Disposition of Records.--
(1) Dissolution.--The select committee shall cease to exist
30 days after filing the report required under subsection
(c)(2).
(2) Disposition of records.--Upon dissolution of the select
committee, the records of the select committee shall become the
records of any committee of the House of Representatives
designated by the Speaker of the House of Representatives.
SEC. 7. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Appropriate congressional committees.--The term
``appropriate congressional committees'' means--
(A) the Committee on Appropriations, the Committee
on Armed Services, the Committee on Foreign Affairs,
the Committee on Homeland Security, the Permanent
Select Committee on Intelligence, and the Select
Bipartisan Committee to Monitor United States Policy
and Strategy for Iraq (established under section 6 of
this Act) of the House of Representatives; and
(B) the Committee on Appropriations, the Committee
on Armed Services, the Committee on Foreign Relations,
the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental
Affairs, and the Select Committee on Intelligence of
the Senate.
(2) Legislative day.--The term ``legislative day'' means
any calendar day during which the House of Representatives is
in session.
(3) Terrorist sanctuary.--The term ``terrorist sanctuary''
has the meaning given the term in section 140(d)(5) of the
Foreign Relations Authorization Act, Fiscal Years 1988 and 1989
(22 U.S.C. 2656f(d)(5) (as added by section 7102(d)(3) of the
Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004
(Public Law 108-458)). | Security and Victory in Iraq Act of 2007 - Directs the President every 30 days to certify to the appropriate congressional committees the extent to which the government of Iraq: (1) is cooperating with U.S. stability efforts in Iraq; and (2) has made demonstrable progress toward achieving stability and security for its people, denying terrorists a sanctuary in Iraq, and ensuring equal access to resources.
Directs the President every 30 days to report to the appropriate congressional committees respecting: (1) implementation of the Iraq "A New Way Forward" strategy; (2) the government of Iraq's progress in meeting specified benchmarks; (3) Iraqi Army progress and operations; (4) expenditure of funds for the Iraqi Army; (5) effectiveness of the police force in Baghdad; and (6) contributions by U.S. allies to support the government and people of Iraq.
Directs the President to: (1) require all relevant U.S. departments and agencies to conduct an interagency assessment of the impact that U.S. military withdrawal from Iraq would have on U.S. national security and homeland security interests and on U.S. allies in the region; and (2) report to the appropriate congressional committees.
Establishes in the House of Representatives the Select Bipartisan Committee to Monitor United States Policy and Strategy for Iraq. | To require the President to report to Congress on the extent to which the Government of Iraq is fully cooperating with United States stability efforts in Iraq and is making demonstrable progress toward achieving stability and security for the people of Iraq and denying terrorists a sanctuary in Iraq, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Infant Plan of Safe Care Improvement
Act''.
SEC. 2. BEST PRACTICES FOR DEVELOPMENT OF PLANS OF SAFE CARE.
Section 103(b) of the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (42
U.S.C. 5104(b)) is amended--
(1) by redesignating paragraphs (5) through (8) as
paragraphs (6) through (9), respectively; and
(2) by inserting after paragraph (4), the following:
``(5) maintain and disseminate information about the
requirements of section 106(b)(2)(B)(iii) and best practices
relating to the development of plans of safe care as described
in such section for infants born and identified as being
affected by illegal substance abuse or withdrawal symptoms, or
a Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder;''.
SEC. 3. STATE PLANS.
Section 106(b)(2)(B)(iii) of the Child Abuse Prevention and
Treatment Act (42 U.S.C. 5106a(b)(2)(B)(iii)) is amended by inserting
before the semicolon at the end the following: ``to ensure the safety
and well-being of such infant following release from the care of
healthcare providers, including through--''
``(I) addressing the health and
substance use disorder treatment needs
of the infant and affected family or
caregiver; and
``(II) the development and
implementation by the State of
monitoring systems regarding the
implementation of such plans to
determine whether and in what manner
local entities are providing, in
accordance with State requirements,
referrals to and delivery of
appropriate services for the infant and
affected family or caregiver''.
SEC. 4. DATA REPORTS.
(a) In General.--Section 106(d) of the Child Abuse Prevention and
Treatment Act (42 U.S.C. 5106a(d)) is amended by adding at the end of
the following:
``(17)(A) The number of infants identified under subsection
(b)(2)(B)(ii).
``(B) The number of infants for whom a plan of safe care
was developed under subsection (b)(2)(B)(iii).
``(C) The number of infants for whom a referral was made
for appropriate services, including services for the affected
family or caregiver, under subsection (b)(2)(B)(iii).''.
(b) Redesignation.--Effective on May 29, 2017, section 106(d) of
the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (42 U.S.C. 5106a(d)) is
amended by redesignating paragraph (17) (as added by subsection (a)) as
paragraph (18).
SEC. 5. MONITORING AND OVERSIGHT.
(a) Amendment.--Title I of the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment
Act (42 U.S.C. 5101 et seq.) is further amended by adding at the end
the following:
``SEC. 114. MONITORING AND OVERSIGHT.
``The Secretary shall conduct monitoring to ensure that each State
that receives a grant under section 106 is in compliance with the
requirements of section 106(b), which--
``(1) shall--
``(A) be in addition to the review of the State
plan upon its submission under section 106(b)(1)(A);
and
``(B) include monitoring of State policies and
procedures required under clauses (ii) and (iii) of
section 106(b)(2)(B); and
``(2) may include--
``(A) a comparison of activities carried out by the
State to comply with the requirements of section 106(b)
with the State plan most recently approved under
section 432 of the Social Security Act;
``(B) a review of information available on the
Website of the State relating to its compliance with
the requirements of section 106(b);
``(C) site visits, as may be necessary to carry out
such monitoring; and
``(D) a review of information available in the
State's Annual Progress and Services Report most
recently submitted under section 1357.16 of title 45,
Code of Federal Regulations (or successor
regulations).''.
(b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents in section 1(b) of
the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (42 U.S.C. 5101 note) is
amended by inserting after the item relating to section 113, the
following:
``Sec. 114. Monitoring and oversight.''.
SEC. 6. RULE OF CONSTRUCTION.
Nothing in this Act, or the amendments made by this Act, shall be
construed to authorize the Secretary of Health and Human Services or
any other officer of the Federal Government to add new requirements to
section 106(b) of the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (42
U.S.C. 5106a(b)), as amended by this Act.
Passed the House of Representatives May 11, 2016.
Attest:
KAREN L. HAAS,
Clerk. | Infant Plan of Safe Care Improvement Act (Sec. 2) This bill amends the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act to require the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the national clearinghouse for information relating to child abuse, to maintain and disseminate information about the requirements and best practices relating to the development of plans of safe care for infants born affected by illegal substance abuse, withdrawal symptoms, or a Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder. (Sec. 3) A state plan submitted to HHS for a grant to improve its child protective services system must certify that it has a state law or statewide program relating to child abuse and neglect that includes a plan of safe care for such an infant to ensure its safety and well-being following release from the care of healthcare providers. The state plan of safe care shall: (1) address the health and substance use disorder treatment needs of the infant and affected family or caregiver; and (2) specify the development and implementation by the state of monitoring systems regarding the implementation of such plans to determine whether and in what manner local entities are providing, in accordance with state requirements, referrals to and delivery of appropriate services for the infant and affected family or caregiver. (Sec. 4) Annual state data reports shall include the total number of such infants for whom a plan of safe care was developed, and for whom referrals are made for appropriate services, including services for the affected family or caregiver. (Sec. 5) HHS shall monitor the compliance of each grant-receiving state with applicable current law requirements, including required state policies and procedures regarding care of such infants. | Infant Plan of Safe Care Improvement Act |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Fairness for Americans in Internal
Revenue Refunds Act''.
SEC. 2. PREVENTION OF CLAIMS OF EARNED INCOME TAX CREDIT BY INDIVIDUALS
RECEIVING WORK AUTHORIZATIONS PURSUANT TO DEFERRED ACTION
PROGRAMS.
(a) In General.--Section 32(m) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986
is amended--
(1) by striking ``Solely for purposes of'' and inserting
the following:
``(1) In general.--Solely for purposes of'', and
(2) by striking ``a social security number issued to an
individual'' and all that follows and inserting ``a specified
social security number.'', and
(3) by adding at the end the following new paragraphs:
``(2) Specified social security number.--For purposes of
this section--
``(A) In general.--The term `specified social
security number' means a social security number issued
to an individual by the Social Security Administration.
``(B) Exceptions.--Such term shall not include--
``(i) any social security number issued
pursuant to subclause (II) (or that portion of
subclause (III) that relates to subclause (II))
of section 205(c)(2)(B)(i) of the Social
Security Act, and
``(ii) any social security number issued
pursuant to a work authorization obtained
pursuant to--
``(I) the memorandum of the
Secretary of Homeland Security dated
June 15, 2012, and entitled `Exercising
Prosecutorial Discretion with Respect
to Individuals Who Came to the United
States as Children',
``(II) the memorandum of the
Secretary of Homeland Security dated
November 20, 2014, and entitled
`Exercising Prosecutorial Discretion
with Respect to Individuals Who Came to
the United States as Children and with
Respect to Certain Individuals Who Are
the Parents of U.S. Citizens or
Permanent Residents', or
``(III) any other program not
specifically established by law which
provides a class of individuals not
otherwise legally present in the United
States deferred action on removal.
``(C) Special rules with respect to certain
beneficiaries of deferred action.--
``(i) Treatment upon grant of
citizenship.--A social security number
otherwise described in subparagraph (B)(ii)
shall cease to be treated as issued pursuant to
a work authorization described in such
subparagraph if, and only if, the individual to
whom such social security number is issued
becomes a citizen of the United States.
``(ii) No retroactive effect upon grant of
citizenship.--In the case of a social security
number to which clause (i) applies, such social
security number shall be treated as a specified
social security number only to the extent that
such number is included on returns of tax which
relate to taxable years ending after the date
on which such individual becomes a citizen of
the United States.''.
(b) Coordination With Department of Homeland Security and Social
Security Administration.--
(1) Department of homeland security.--The Secretary of
Homeland Security shall--
(A) ensure that the Commissioner of Social Security
receives sufficient information in a timely manner to
determine that a social security account number
described in section 32(m)(2)(B)(ii) of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986 is being issued pursuant to a
program referred to in such section;
(B) ensure that any document issued to an
individual under such a program, including any document
attesting to the individual's authorization for
employment and any document attesting to the deferral
of action on any removal of that individual, has a
notation that the individual was provided such document
pursuant to such a program; and
(C) take all other appropriate actions to
coordinate with the Secretary of the Treasury and the
Commissioner of Social Security in carrying out section
32(m) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 and this
paragraph.
(2) Social security administration.--Section 205(c)(2) of
the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 405(c)(2)) is amended by
adding at the end the following new subparagraph:
``(I) The Commissioner of Social Security shall--
``(i) maintain a record of all social
security account numbers described in section
32(m)(2)(B)(ii) of the Internal Revenue Code of
1986 and the names of the individuals to whom
such numbers were issued;
``(ii) in any case in which a social
security account number so described would be
disclosed by the Commissioner to the Secretary
of the Treasury or to the Commissioner of the
Internal Revenue Service, identify such number
as being so described; and
``(iii) take all other appropriate actions
to coordinate with the Secretary of the
Treasury and the Secretary of Homeland Security
in carrying out section 32(m) of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986 and section 2(b)(1) of the
Fairness for Americans in Internal Revenue
Refunds Act.''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by subsection (a) shall
apply to any return of tax, and any amendment or supplement to any
return of tax, which is filed after the date of the enactment of this
Act. | Fairness for Americans in Internal Revenue Refunds Act This bill amends the Internal Revenue Code to prevent a taxpayer whose social security number was issued for purposes of granting a work authorization under a deferred action on removal program from claiming an earned income tax credit using such social security number. The bill directs: (1) the Department of Homeland Security to place a notation on employment authorization cards that the holder of such card has received it under a deferred action on removal program, and (2) the Social Security Administration to maintain a record of all social security account numbers issued to individuals under a deferred action on removal program. | Fairness for Americans in Internal Revenue Refunds Act |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Enhancing the Strength and Capacity
of America's Primary Evacuation Routes Act'' or the ``ESCAPE Act''.
SEC. 2. EVACUATION ROUTE PROGRAM.
(a) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Evacuation route.--
(A) In general.--The term ``evacuation route''
means a route that--
(i) is owned, operated, or maintained by a
Federal, State, or local government or a
private entity;
(ii) is used--
(I) to transport the public away
from emergency events (as defined in
section 667.3 of title 23, Code of
Federal Regulations (or successor
regulations)); or
(II) to transport emergency
responders and recovery resources; and
(iii) is designated by the State in which
the route is located for the purposes described
in clause (ii).
(B) Inclusion.--The term ``evacuation route''
includes an eligible project under subsection (d).
(2) Program.--The term ``program'' means the competitive
grant program established under subsection (b)(1).
(3) Resilience project.--The term ``resilience project''
means a project--
(A) with the ability to anticipate, prepare for,
and adapt to changing conditions and withstand, respond
to, and recover rapidly from disruptions; and
(B) designed and built to address current and
future vulnerabilities to an evacuation route due to--
(i) future occurrence or recurrence of
emergency events (as defined in section 667.3
of title 23, Code of Federal Regulations (or
successor regulations)) that are likely to
occur in the geographic area in which the
evacuation route is located; or
(ii) projected changes in development
patterns, demographics, or extreme weather
events based on the best available evidence and
analysis.
(4) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of Transportation.
(b) Establishment of Program.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary (in consultation with the
Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency for
the purposes described in paragraph (3)) shall establish a
competitive grant program to provide grants for resilience
projects that strengthen and protect evacuation routes that are
essential for providing and supporting mass evacuations caused
by emergency events (as defined in section 667.3 of title 23,
Code of Federal Regulations (or successor regulations)).
(2) Requirements.--A grant awarded under the program shall
address--
(A) current and future vulnerabilities to an
evacuation route due to future occurrence or recurrence
of emergency events (as defined in section 667.3 of
title 23, Code of Federal Regulations (or successor
regulations)) that are likely to occur in the
geographic area in which the evacuation route is
located; and
(B) projected changes in development patterns,
demographics, or climate change and extreme weather
events based on the best available evidence and
analysis.
(3) Consultation.--In carrying out the program, the
Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency shall
consult with the Secretary to provide technical assistance to
the Secretary and to applicants.
(c) Eligible Resilience Projects.--The Secretary shall provide
grants under this section to resilience projects--
(1) that are eligible projects under subsection (d); and
(2) that--
(A) ensure the ability of the evacuation route to
provide safe passage during a mass evacuation and
reduce the risk of damage to evacuation routes as a
result of future emergency events (as defined in
section 667.3 of title 23, Code of Federal Regulations
(or successor regulations)), including--
(i) restoring or replacing existing mass
evacuation routes that are structurally
deficient or functionally obsolete;
(ii) protecting, elevating, or relocating
assets that are located in a base floodplain;
(iii) protecting assets vulnerable to high
winds;
(iv) installing mitigation measures that
prevent the intrusion of floodwaters into
transportation systems;
(v) strengthening systems that remove
rainwater from transportation facilities or
services; or
(vi) other resilience projects that address
identified vulnerabilities;
(B) if the Secretary determines that existing
evacuation routes are not sufficient to adequately
facilitate mass evacuations, expand the capacity of
evacuation routes to swiftly and safely accommodate
mass evacuations, including installation of--
(i) communications and intelligent
transportation system equipment and
infrastructure;
(ii) counterflow measures; or
(iii) shoulders;
(C) are for the construction of--
(i) new or redundant evacuation routes, if
the Secretary determines that existing
evacuation routes are not sufficient to
adequately facilitate mass evacuations; or
(ii) sheltering facilities; or
(D) involve planning and acquisition, including--
(i) mass evacuation planning and
preparation, such as--
(I) coordination with agencies and
departments within the State, first
responders, and other States;
(II) identification of evacuation
routes;
(III) evacuation route education
and awareness campaigns;
(IV) traffic analysis and
monitoring; or
(V) data sharing;
(ii) acquisition of evacuation route and
traffic incident management equipment and
vehicles;
(iii) evacuation route risk assessment;
(iv) development of enhanced mass
evacuation response capabilities;
(v) evacuation route signage; or
(vi) equipment for pedestrian movement.
(d) Eligible Projects.--The Secretary may make a grant under this
section only for a project that is--
(1) a project eligible for assistance under title 23,
United States Code;
(2) a public transportation facility or service eligible
for assistance under chapter 53 of title 49, United States
Code;
(3) a facility or service for intercity rail passenger
transportation (as defined in section 24102 of title 49, United
States Code);
(4) a port facility, including a facility that--
(A) connects a port to other modes of
transportation;
(B) improves the efficiency of mass evacuations and
disaster relief; or
(C) aids transportation;
(5) a public-use airport (as defined in section 47102 of
title 49, United States Code) that is included in the national
plan of integrated airport systems developed by the Federal
Aviation Administration under section 47103 of title 49, United
States Code; or
(6) a route owned, operated, or maintained by the Corps of
Engineers.
(e) Eligible Entities.--The Secretary may award a grant under this
section to any of the following:
(1) A State.
(2) A metropolitan planning organization that serves an
urbanized area (as defined by the Bureau of the Census) with a
population of more than 200,000 individuals.
(3) A unit of local government.
(4) A political subdivision of a State or local government.
(5) A special purpose district or public authority with a
transportation function, including a port authority.
(6) A Federal land management agency that applies jointly
with a State or group of States.
(7) A Tribal government or a consortium of Tribal
governments.
(8) A multistate or multijurisdictional group of entities
described in paragraphs (1) through (7).
(f) Applications.--To be eligible to receive a grant under this
section, an eligible entity shall submit to the Secretary an
application in such form, at such time, and containing such information
as the Secretary determines to be necessary.
(g) Criteria.--In selecting resilience projects to receive grants
under the program, the Secretary shall consider--
(1) the cost of the project compared to the risk of
recurring damage and the cost of future repairs, taking into
account current and future emergency events (as defined in
section 667.3 of title 23, Code of Federal Regulations (or
successor regulations)) and extreme weather events, to the
maximum extent practicable;
(2) the extent to which the project reduces the financial
risk to the Federal Government; and
(3) such other criteria as the Secretary determines to be
appropriate.
(h) Administration of Projects.--Responsibility for oversight and
administration of a project that receives a grant under this section--
(1) may be transferred within the Department of
Transportation; and
(2) shall be administered in accordance with--
(A) title 23 and title 49, United States Code, as
applicable;
(B) title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (42
U.S.C. 2000d et seq.);
(C) the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969
(42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.); and
(D) the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real
Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970 (42 U.S.C.
4601 et seq.).
(i) Federal Cost Share.--
(1) In general.--The Federal share of the cost of a project
carried out under the program shall not exceed 80 percent of
the total project cost.
(2) Non-federal share.--The eligible entity may use funds
provided from other Federal sources to meet the non-Federal
cost share requirement for a project under the program.
(j) Authorization of Appropriations.--There is authorized to be
appropriated to carry out this section for each fiscal year
$1,000,000,000, to remain available until expended. | Enhancing the Strength and Capacity of America's Primary Evacuation Routes Act or the ESCAPE Act This bill directs the Department of Transportation to establish a competitive grant program to provide grants for resilience projects that strengthen and protect evacuation routes that are essential for providing and supporting mass evacuations caused by emergency events. The bill defines "resilience project" to mean a project: (1) with the ability to anticipate, prepare for, and adapt to changing conditions and withstand, respond to, and recover rapidly from disruptions; and (2) designed and built to address current and future vulnerabilities to an evacuation route. | Enhancing the Strength and Capacity of America's Primary Evacuation Routes Act |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Prematurity Research Expansion and
Education for Mothers who deliver Infants Early Reauthorization Act''
or the ``PREEMIE Reauthorization Act''.
SEC. 2. RESEARCH AND ACTIVITIES AT THE CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND
PREVENTION.
(a) Epidemiological Studies.--Section 3 of the Prematurity Research
Expansion and Education for Mothers who deliver Infants Early Act (42
U.S.C. 247b-4f) is amended by striking subsection (b) and inserting the
following:
``(b) Studies and Activities on Preterm Birth.--
``(1) In general.--The Secretary of Health and Human
Services, acting through the Director of the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention, may, subject to the
availability of appropriations--
``(A) conduct epidemiological studies on the
clinical, biological, social, environmental, genetic,
and behavioral factors relating to prematurity, as
appropriate;
``(B) conduct activities to improve national data
to facilitate tracking the burden of preterm birth; and
``(C) continue efforts to prevent preterm birth,
including late preterm birth, through the
identification of opportunities for prevention and the
assessment of the impact of such efforts.
``(2) Report.--Not later than 2 years after the date of
enactment of the PREEMIE Reauthorization Act, and every 2 years
thereafter, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting
through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention, shall submit to the appropriate committees of
Congress reports concerning the progress and any results of
studies conducted under paragraph (1).''.
(b) Reauthorization.--Section 3(e) of the Prematurity Research
Expansion and Education for Mothers who deliver Infants Early Act (42
U.S.C. 247b-4f(e)) is amended by striking ``2007 through 2011'' and
inserting ``2014 through 2018''.
SEC. 3. ACTIVITIES AT THE HEALTH RESOURCES AND SERVICES ADMINISTRATION.
(a) Telemedicine and High-Risk Pregnancies.--Section 330I(i)(1)(B)
of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 254c-14(i)(1)(B)) is
amended by striking ``or case management services'' and inserting
``case management services, or prenatal care for high-risk
pregnancies''.
(b) Public and Health Care Provider Education.--Section 399Q of the
Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 280g-5) is amended--
(1) in subsection (b)--
(A) in paragraph (1), by striking subparagraphs (A)
through (F) and inserting the following:
``(A) the core risk factors for preterm labor and
delivery;
``(B) medically indicated deliveries before full
term;
``(C) the importance of preconception and prenatal
care, including--
``(i) smoking cessation;
``(ii) weight maintenance and good
nutrition, including folic acid;
``(iii) the screening for and the treatment
of infections; and
``(iv) stress management;
``(D) treatments and outcomes for premature
infants, including late preterm infants;
``(E) the informational needs of families during
the stay of an infant in a neonatal intensive care
unit; and
``(F) utilization of evidence-based strategies to
prevent birth injuries;''; and
(B) by striking paragraph (2) and inserting the
following:
``(2) programs to increase the availability, awareness, and
use of pregnancy and post-term information services that
provide evidence-based, clinical information through
counselors, community outreach efforts, electronic or
telephonic communication, or other appropriate means regarding
causes associated with prematurity, birth defects, or health
risks to a post-term infant;''; and
(2) in subsection (c), by striking ``2007 through 2011''
and inserting ``2014 through 2018''.
SEC. 4. OTHER ACTIVITIES.
(a) Interagency Coordinating Council on Prematurity and Low
Birthweight.--The Prematurity Research Expansion and Education for
Mothers who deliver Infants Early Act is amended by striking section 5
(42 U.S.C. 247b-4g).
(b) Advisory Committee on Infant Mortality.--
(1) Establishment.--The Secretary of Health and Human
Services (referred to in this section as the ``Secretary'') may
establish an advisory committee known as the ``Advisory
Committee on Infant Mortality'' (referred to in this section as
the ``Advisory Committee'').
(2) Duties.--The Advisory Committee shall provide advice
and recommendations to the Secretary concerning the following
activities:
(A) Programs of the Department of Health and Human
Services that are directed at reducing infant mortality
and improving the health status of pregnant women and
infants.
(B) Strategies to coordinate the various Federal
programs and activities with State, local, and private
programs and efforts that address factors that affect
infant mortality.
(C) Implementation of the Healthy Start program
under section 330H of the Public Health Service Act (42
U.S.C. 254c-8) and Healthy People 2020 infant mortality
objectives.
(D) Strategies to reduce preterm birth rates
through research, programs, and education.
(3) Plan for hhs preterm birth activities.--Not later than
1 year after the date of enactment of this section, the
Advisory Committee (or an advisory committee in existence as of
the date of the enactment of this Act and designated by the
Secretary) shall develop a plan for conducting and supporting
research, education, and programs on preterm birth through the
Department of Health and Human Services and shall periodically
review and revise the plan, as appropriate. The plan shall--
(A) examine research and educational activities
that receive Federal funding in order to enable the
plan to provide informed recommendations to reduce
preterm birth and address racial and ethnic disparities
in preterm birth rates;
(B) identify research gaps and opportunities to
implement evidence-based strategies to reduce preterm
birth rates among the programs and activities of the
Department of Health and Human Services regarding
preterm birth, including opportunities to minimize
duplication; and
(C) reflect input from a broad range of scientists,
patients, and advocacy groups, as appropriate.
(4) Membership.--The Secretary shall ensure that the
membership of the Advisory Committee includes the following:
(A) Representatives provided for in the original
charter of the Advisory Committee.
(B) A representative of the National Center for
Health Statistics.
(c) Patient Safety Studies and Report.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary shall designate an
appropriate agency within the Department of Health and Human
Services to coordinate existing studies on hospital
readmissions of preterm infants.
(2) Report to secretary and congress.--Not later than 1
year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the agency
designated under paragraph (1) shall submit to the Secretary
and to Congress a report containing the findings and
recommendations resulting from the studies coordinated under
such paragraph, including recommendations for hospital
discharge and followup procedures designed to reduce rates of
preventable hospital readmissions for preterm infants. | Prematurity Research Expansion and Education for Mothers who deliver Infants Early Reauthorization Act or PREEMIE Reauthorization Act - Amends the Prematurity Research Expansion and Education for Mothers who deliver Infants Early Act to revise and reauthorize requirements for research on prematurity and preterm births. Requires the Director of the Office for the Advancement of Telehealth to give preference in awarding grants to an eligible entity that proposes to use the grant funds to develop plans for, or to establish, telehealth networks that provide prenatal care for high-risk pregnancies. Revises and reauthorizes through FY2017 the authority of the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to conduct demonstration projects related to preterm births. Repeals establishment of the Interagency Coordinating Council on Prematurity and Low Birthweight. Authorizes the Secretary to establish the Advisory Committee on Infant Mortality. Directs the Advisory Committee (or an existing advisory committee designated by the Secretary) to develop, and periodically review and revise, a plan for conducting and supporting research, education, and programs on preterm birth through HHS. Requires the Secretary to designate an appropriate agency within HHS to coordinate existing studies and report to the Secretary and Congress on hospital readmissions of preterm infants. | PREEMIE Reauthorization Act |
SECTION 1. NATIONAL COMMISSION ON AMERICAN INDIAN TRUST HOLDINGS.
(a) Findings.--Congress finds that--
(1) the United States has entered into treaties with Indian
tribes under which the United States made various commitments
to Indian tribes and Indian people;
(2) the United States functions, by treaty and statute, as
a trustee for Indian tribes and individual Indians;
(3) the United States has a fiduciary obligation to Indian
tribes and Indian people and, in accordance with that
obligation, must use the highest standard of care to protect
the assets of Indian tribes and individual Indians;
(4) the United States has failed Indian tribes and
individual Indians and abridged its treaty and other
obligations relating to the handling of trust fund management
and historical accounting;
(5) mismanagement of Indian trust assets by the United
States is a longstanding problem that spans many
administrations;
(6) the complexity and longevity of that mismanagement
neither mitigates the injustice visited on Indian tribes and
the 300,000 individual Native Americans whose accounts have
been shortchanged nor absolves the United States of its
responsibility to correct the situation in a timely manner;
(7) in 1996 a civil action, Cobell v. Norton, Civ. No. 96-
1285 (RCL), was brought in the United States District Court for
the District of Columbia to attempt to obtain an order
compelling the United States to account for the trust funds
managed by the United States on behalf of individual Indians
and take all necessary action to bring the United States into
compliance with its fiduciary duties;
(8) those funds are generated from Indian trust land
royalties resulting from leases of that land to oil,
agricultural, timber, mining, and other interests;
(9) on April 5, 2004, Mr. Alan L. Balaran, the Special
Master in the Cobell case, tendered his resignation to the
Honorable Royce C. Lamberth;
(10) in his letter of resignation, Mr. Balaran stated
that--
(A) there is evidence that energy companies,
assisted by the Department of the Interior, routinely
pay individual Indians much less than they pay non-
Indians for oil and gas pipeline easements;
(B) the Special Master had uncovered evidence that
the Department fails to diligently monitor oil and gas
leasing activities on Indian land; and
(C) there is evidence that the Department has been
putting the interests of private energy companies ahead
of the interests of individual Indian beneficiaries,
notwithstanding their fiduciary obligation to Indian
tribes and Indian beneficiaries; and
(11) the Great Plains, Rocky Mountain, and other regions of
the United States are rich in other trust assets such as
timber, agriculture, mining, and other resources.
(b) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Balaran letter.--The term ``Balaran letter'' means the
letter dated April 5, 2004, from Special Master Alan L. Balaran
to the Honorable Royce C. Lamberth.
(2) Commission.--The term ``Commission'' means the National
Commission on American Indian Trust Holdings established by
subsection (c).
(3) Department.--The term ``Department'' means the
Department of the Interior.
(c) Establishment of Commission.--There is established the National
Commission on American Indian Trust Holdings.
(d) Membership.--
(1) In general.--The Commission shall be composed of 10
members, of whom--
(A) 2 shall be appointed by the President, 1 of
whom the President shall designate as Chairperson of
the Commission;
(B) 2 shall be appointed by the majority leader of
the Senate;
(C) 2 shall be appointed by the minority leader of
the Senate;
(D) 2 shall be appointed by the Speaker of the
House of Representatives; and
(E) 2 shall be appointed by the minority leader of
the House of Representatives.
(2) Qualifications; initial meeting.--
(A) Nongovernmental appointees.--An individual
appointed to the Commission may not be an officer or
employee of the Federal Government or any State or
local government.
(B) Other qualifications.--It is the sense of
Congress that individuals appointed to the Commission
should be prominent United States citizens, with
national recognition and significant depth of
experience in such professions as land and resource
management.
(3) Deadline for appointment.--All members of the
Commission shall be appointed not later than 60 days after the
date of enactment of this Act.
(4) Quorum.--Six members of the Commission shall constitute
a quorum.
(5) Vacancies.--Any vacancy in the Commission shall not
affect the powers of the Commission, but shall be filled in the
same manner in which the original appointment was made.
(e) Duties.--
(1) In general.--The Commission shall--
(A) fully examine the allegations made in the
Balaran letter;
(B) fully examine whether grazing, leasing, and
other trust asset interests have been managed equitably
and in a manner consistent with Federal trust law
(including regulations);
(C) fully examine such other alleged breaches of
the fiduciary responsibility owed by the United States
to Indian tribes and individual Indians that come to
the Commission's attention as the Commission considers
appropriate;
(D) build on the investigations of other entities,
and avoid unnecessary duplication, by reviewing the
findings, conclusions, and recommendations of earlier
studies of the management by the Department of Indian
trust assets and trust funds; and
(E) not later than 1 year after the date as of
which all members of the Commission have been
appointed, submit to the President and Congress a
report that states the findings of the Commission and
makes recommendations for corrective measures that can
be taken to--
(i) recoup any losses suffered by Indian
tribes or individual Indians as a result of
breaches of fiduciary duty by the Department;
or
(ii) prevent any breaches of fiduciary duty
in the future.
(2) Relationship to previous studies.--When investigating
facts and circumstances relating to the management of Indian
trust assets and trust funds, the Commission shall--
(A) first review the information compiled by, and
the findings, conclusions, and recommendations that
resulted from, previous studies (including
congressional investigations); and
(B) after that review, pursue any appropriate area
of inquiry if the Commission determines that--
(i) earlier studies had not investigated
that area;
(ii) the earlier investigation of that area
had not been complete; or
(iii) new information not reviewed in the
earlier studies had become available with
respect to that area.
(3) Followup review.--At least once every 2 years after the
date on which the Commission submits the report under paragraph
(1), the Commission shall--
(A) reconvene to examine the effectiveness of any
actions taken in response to the report in achieving
the goals described in clauses (i) and (ii) of
paragraph (1)(D); and
(B) submit to the President and Congress a report
that describes the findings of the Commission and makes
any further recommendations as the Commission considers
appropriate.
(f) Powers of Commission.--
(1) In general.--
(A) Hearings and evidence.--The Commission may--
(i) hold such hearings and sit and act at
such times and places, take such testimony,
receive such evidence, and administer such
oaths as the Commission considers advisable to
carry out this section; and
(ii) subject to subparagraph (B)(i),
require, by subpoena or otherwise, the
attendance and testimony of such witnesses and
the production of such books, records,
correspondence, memoranda, papers, and
documents, as the Commission or such designated
subcommittee or designated member may determine
advisable.
(B) Subpoenas.--
(i) Issuance.--
(I) In general.--A subpoena may be
issued under this subsection only--
(aa) by the agreement of
the Chairperson; or
(bb) by the affirmative
vote of 6 members of the
Commission.
(II) Signature.--Subject to
subclause (I), subpoenas issued under
this subsection may be issued under the
signature of the Chairperson or any
member designated by a majority of the
Commission, and may be served by any
person designated by the Chairperson or
by a member designated by a majority of
the Commission.
(ii) Enforcement.--
(I) In general.--In the case of
contumacy or failure to obey a subpoena
issued under subparagraph (A), the
United States district court for the
judicial district in which the
subpoenaed person resides, is served,
or may be found, or where the subpoena
is returnable, may issue an order
requiring such person to appear at any
designated place to testify or to
produce documentary or other evidence.
Any failure to obey the order of the
court may be punished by the court as a
contempt of that court.
(II) Additional enforcement.--In
the case of any failure of any witness
to comply with any subpoena or to
testify when summoned under authority
of this section, the Commission may, by majority vote, certify a
statement of fact constituting such failure to the appropriate United
States attorney, who may bring the matter before the grand jury for its
action, under the same statutory authority and procedures as if the
United States attorney had received a certification under sections 102
through 104 of the Revised Statutes (2 U.S.C. 192 through 194).
(2) Contracting.--The Commission may, to such extent and in
such amounts as are provided in Acts of appropriation, enter
into contracts to enable the Commission to discharge the duties
of the Commission.
(3) Information from federal agencies.--
(A) In general.--The Commission may secure directly
from a Federal agency such information as the
Commission considers necessary to carry out this
section.
(B) Provision of information.--On request of the
Chairperson of the Commission, the head of the agency
shall provide the information to the Commission.
(4) Assistance from the secretary of the interior.--The
Secretary of the Interior shall provide to the Commission on a
reimbursable basis administrative support and other services
for the performance of the functions of the Commission.
(5) Postal services.--The Commission may use the United
States mails in the same manner and under the same conditions
as other agencies of the United States.
(g) Personnel Matters.--
(1) Compensation of members.--A member of the Commission
who is not an officer or employee of the Federal Government
shall be compensated at a rate equal to the daily equivalent of
the annual rate of basic pay prescribed for level IV of the
Executive Schedule under section 5315 of title 5, United States
Code, for each day (including travel time) during which the
member is engaged in the performance of the duties of the
Commission.
(2) Travel expenses.--A member of the Commission shall be
allowed travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of
subsistence, at rates authorized for an employee of an agency
under subchapter I of chapter 57 of title 5, United States
Code, while away from the home or regular place of business of
the member in the performance of the duties of the Commission.
(3) Staff.--
(A) In general.--The Chairperson of the Commission
may, without regard to the civil service laws
(including regulations), appoint and terminate an
executive director and such other additional personnel
as are necessary to enable the Commission to perform
the duties of the Commission.
(B) Confirmation of executive director.--The
employment of an executive director shall be subject to
confirmation by the Commission.
(C) Compensation.--
(i) In general.--Except as provided in
clause (ii), the Chairperson of the Commission
may fix the compensation of the executive
director and other personnel without regard to
the provisions of chapter 51 and subchapter III
of chapter 53 of title 5, United States Code,
relating to classification of positions and
General Schedule pay rates.
(ii) Maximum rate of pay.--The rate of pay
for the executive director and other personnel
shall not exceed the rate payable for level V
of the Executive Schedule under section 5316 of
title 5, United States Code.
(4) Detail of federal government employees.--
(A) In general.--An employee of the Federal
Government may be detailed to the Commission without
reimbursement.
(B) Civil service status.--The detail of the
employee shall be without interruption or loss of civil
service status or privilege.
(5) Procurement of temporary and intermittent services.--
The Chairperson of the Commission may procure temporary and
intermittent services in accordance with section 3109(b) of
title 5, United States Code, at rates for individuals that do
not exceed the daily equivalent of the annual rate of basic pay
prescribed for level V of the Executive Schedule under section
5316 of that title.
(h) No Effect on Cobell Case.--Nothing in this section limits the
findings, remedies, jurisdiction, authority, or discretion of the court
in the civil action Cobell v. Norton, Civ. No. 96-1285 (RCL) (D.D.C.).
(i) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be
appropriated such sums as are necessary to carry out this section.
(j) Termination of Commission.--The Commission shall terminate on
the date that is 10 years after the date on which the Commission
submits the report of the Commission under subsection (e)(1)(D). | Establishes the National Commission on American Indian Trust Holdings to fully examine: (1) the allegations made in the letter dated April 5, 2004, from Special Master Alan L. Balaran to the Honorable Royce C. Lamberth; (2) whether grazing, leasing, and other trust asset interests have been managed equitably and in a manner consistent with Federal trust law (including regulations); and (3) such other alleged breaches of the fiduciary responsibility owed by the United States to Indian tribes and individual Indians that come to the Commission's attention.
Requires the Commission to: (1) build on the investigations of other entities, and avoid unnecessary duplication, by reviewing the findings, conclusions, and recommendations of earlier studies of the management by the Department of Interior of Indian trust assets and trust funds; and (2) report to the President and Congress its findings and recommendations for corrective measures that can be taken to recoup any losses suffered by Indian tribes or individual Indians as a result of breaches of fiduciary duty by the Department or to prevent any breaches of fiduciary duty in the future. | A bill to establish a National Commission on American Indian Trust Holdings. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; REFERENCES.
(a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``Menu Education and
Labeling Act''.
(b) References.--Whenever in this Act an amendment or repeal is
expressed in terms of an amendment to, or repeal of, a section or other
provision, the reference shall be considered to be made to a section or
other provision of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress finds as follows:
(1) Research continues to reveal the strong link between
diet and health, and that diet-related diseases start early in
life.
(2) Increased caloric intake is a key factor contributing
to the alarming increase in obesity in the United States.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,
two-thirds of American adults are overweight or obese, and the
rates of obesity have doubled in children and tripled in teens
since 1980. Obesity increases the risk of diabetes, heart
disease, stroke, and other health problems. Each year obesity
costs families, businesses, and governments $117 billion.
(3) Excess saturated fat intake is a major risk factor for
heart disease, which is the leading cause of death in the
United States. While it is often thought to primarily affect
men and older people, cardiovascular disease is the leading
killer of women and kills 61,000 people between the ages of 45
and 64 each year. Heart disease is also a leading cause of
disability among working adults and its impact on the U.S.
economy is significant, estimated in 2001 to total $298 billion
in health care expenditures and lost productivity.
(4) Increased sodium intake is associated with increased
risk of high blood pressure, or hypertension, a condition that
can lead to cardiovascular disease, especially stroke. The
proportion of Americans with high blood pressure is 45 percent
at age 50, 60 percent at age 60, and over 70 percent at age 70.
(5) Over the past two decades, there has been a significant
increase in the number of meals prepared and/or eaten outside
the home, with an estimated one-third of calories and almost
half (46 percent) of total food dollars being spent on food
purchased from and/or eaten at restaurants and other food-
service establishments.
(6) While nutrition labeling is currently required on most
processed foods, such information is required only for
restaurant foods for which nutrient content or health claims
are made.
(7) Three-quarters of American adults report using food
labels on packaged foods, which are required by the Nutrition
Labeling and Education Act of 1990. Using food labels is
associated with eating more healthful diets, and approximately
half (48 percent) of people report that the nutrition
information on food labels has caused them to change their
minds about buying a food product.
(8) It is difficult for consumers to limit their intake of
calories at restaurants, given the limited availability of
nutrition information, as well as the popular practice by many
restaurants of providing foods in larger-than-standard servings
and ``super-sized'' portions. Studies show that people eat
greater quantities of food when they are served more.
SEC. 3. NUTRITION LABELING OF RESTAURANT FOODS.
(a) Nutrition Labeling for Foods Eaten in Restaurants and Similar
Retail Food Establishments.--Section 403(q)(5)(A)(i) (21 U.S.C.
343(q)(5)(A)(i)) is amended by adding at the end the following:
``except that food, beverages, and meals served in restaurants and
similar retail food establishments that are part of a chain with 20 or
more outlets doing business under the same trade name, regardless of
the type of ownership of the restaurant locations, shall list, adjacent
to each food item listed, on menus, menu boards, and other signs, the
total number of calories, grams of saturated plus trans fat, and
milligrams of sodium per menu item, as offered for sale, in a clear and
conspicuous manner,''.
(b) Nutrition Labeling for Foods Prepared in Restaurants and
Similar Retail Food Establishments but Not for Immediate Consumption.--
Section 403(q)(5)(A)(ii) (21 U.S.C. 343(q)(5)(A)(ii)) is amended by
adding at the end the following: ``except that such food, beverages,
and meals when it is processed and prepared primarily in a retail
establishment that is part of a chain with 20 or more outlets doing
business under the same trade name, regardless of the type of ownership
of the restaurant locations, shall list, adjacent to each food item
listed, on menus, menu boards, and other signs, the total number of
calories, grams of saturated plus trans fat, and milligrams of sodium
per menu item, as offered for sale, in a clear and conspicuous
manner,''.
(c) Vending Machines; Restaurant Menu Boards.--Section 403(q)(5)(A)
(21 U.S.C. 343(q)(5)(A)) is amended by adding after and below subclause
(v) the following:
``For purposes of the exceptions described in subclauses (i) and (ii),
nutrition labeling may be limited to the total number of calories for
foods, beverages and meals offered for sale in vending machines and
posted in restaurants on menu boards.''.
(d) Regulations.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary of Health and Human Services
shall issue proposed regulations to implement the amendments
made by this section within 12 months after the date of the
enactment of this Act. Such regulations shall require the
required information to be conveyed to the public in a manner
that enables the public to understand its relative significance
in the context of a total daily diet. Not later than 24 months
after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary
shall issue final regulations to implement the requirements of
such subsection.
(2) Failure to promulgate final regulations by required
date.--If the Secretary of Health and Human Services does not
promulgate final regulations under paragraph (1) upon the
expiration of 24 months after the date of the enactment of this
Act, the proposed regulations issued in accordance with
paragraph (1) shall be considered as the final regulations upon
the expiration of such 24 months. There shall be promptly
published in the Federal Register notice of the new status of
the proposed regulations.
SEC. 4. VOLUNTARY PROVISION OF NUTRITION INFORMATION; STATE REGULATION
OF NUTRITION INFORMATION FOR RESTAURANT FOOD.
(a) Retail Food Establishments.--Nothing in this Act precludes
restaurants and similar retail food establishments from providing
additional nutrition information, voluntarily, provided that such
information complies with the nutrition labeling requirements contained
in section 403(q)(1) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.
(b) State or Local Requirements.--Nothing in this Act precludes any
State or political subdivision of a State from requiring that
restaurants and similar food establishments provide additional
nutrition information beyond the requirements of this Act. | Menu Education and Labeling Act - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to require restaurants that are part of a chain of at least 20 outlets doing business under the same trade name to provide the total number of calories, grams of saturated fat plus trans fat, and milligrams of sodium adjacent to any item on menus in a clear and conspicuous manner. Requires vending machines and restaurant menu boards to display the total number of calories of each item.
Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to propose implementing regulations within 12 months of the enactment of this Act.
Permits restaurants to provide additional nutritional information. Allows States and local governments to require additional nutritional information. | To amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to ensure that consumers receive information about the nutritional content of restaurant foods. |
SECTION 1. VIETNAM VETERANS ALLOTMENT.
The Alaskan Native Claims Settlement Act (43 U.S.C. 1600, et seq.)
is amended by adding at the end the following:
``open season for certain native alaskan veterans for allotments
``Sec. 41. (a) In General.--(1) During the one-year period
beginning on the date of enactment of this section, an individual
described in subsection (b) is eligible for an allotment of not more
than 160 acres of land under the Act of May 17, 1906 (chapter 2469; 34
Stat. 197), as such Act was in effect before December 18, 1971.
``(2) Allotments selected under this section shall not be from
existing native or non-native campsites.
``(3) The Secretary shall prescribe such rules as may be necessary
to carry out this section.
``(b) Eligible Individuals.--(1) An individual is eligible under
subsection (a) if the individual would have been eligible under the Act
of May 17, 1906 (chapter 2469; 34 Stat. 197), as such Act was in effect
before December 18, 1971, and the individual is a veteran of the
Vietnam era.
``(2) For purposes of this section, in the case of an individual
described in paragraph (1) who is deceased, the heirs of the individual
shall be treated as the individual described in paragraph (1).
``(c) Conveyance Deadline.--The Secretary of the Interior shall
complete land conveyances pursuant to this section not later than one
year after the end of the period referred to in subsection (a).
``(d) Definitions.--For the purposes of this section, the terms
`veteran' and `Vietnam era' have the meaning given such terms by
paragraphs (2) and (29), respectively, of section 101 of title 38,
United States Code.''.
SEC. 2. ELIM NATIVE CORPORATION LAND RESTORATION.
The Alaskan Native Claims Settlement Act (43 U.S.C. 1600, et seq.),
as amended by section 1 of this Act, is further amended by adding at
the end the following:
``elim native corporation land restoration
``Sec. 42. (a) Withdrawal and Availability for Selection.--The
lands described in subsection (b) are withdrawn from disposition under
the public land laws, entry or appropriation under the mining laws of
the United States, and the operation of the mineral leasing laws of the
United States, subject to valid existing rights, for a period of one
year from the date of enactment of this section, for selection by the
Elim Native Corporation under this section.
``(b) Lands Described.--The lands described in this section are
within the boundary of the parcel of land in the vicinity of Elim,
Alaska, at approximately latitude 64 50 N. longitude 162 00 W, more
particularly described as follows:
``Beginning at the point of intersection of line 3-4, U.S.
Survey No. 2548 with the protracted West Boundary of T8S, R18W
KRM, Alaska;
``Thence North, along the west boundary of the
aforementioned township, approximately 4\1/2\ miles to the
protracted position for the corner of sections 1, 6, 7, and 12;
``Thence Northeasterly, parallel with line 4-3 of U.S.
Survey No. 2548, approximately 20\1/2\ miles, to a point;
``Thence East approximately 6 miles to corner No. 3 U.S.
Survey No. 2548;
``Thence Southwesterly along lines 3-4, U.S. Survey 2548
approximately 27\1/2\ miles to the point of beginning.
``(c) Authorization To Select Lands; Reservation of Easement.--The
Elim Native Corporation is authorized to select 50,000 acres of lands
within the boundary of the lands described in subsection (b) to satisfy
its land entitlements under section 19(b). The Secretary is authorized
to receive, adjudicate, and convey the lands to the Elim Native
Corporation subject to--
``(1) valid existing rights; and
``(2) an easement reserved to the United States for the
benefit of the public. An easement in the lands shall be
reserved to the Iditarod National Historic Trail.
``(d) Withdrawal and Selection of Additional Lands.--The Secretary
is authorized to withdraw, and Elim Native Corporation is authorized to
select, not later than 18 months after the date of the enactment of
this section additional lands adjacent to the lands withdrawn by
subsection (a) to fulfill Elim Native Corporation's land entitlements
equal to the total acreage of the Norton Bay Reservation as withdrawn
by Executive Order No. 2508, dated January 3, 1917.
``(e) Finality of Selections.--Selection by the Elm Native
Corporation of lands under subsection (c) or (d) shall constitute full
satisfaction of any claim or entitlement of the Elim Native
Corporation--
``(1) with respect to subsection (c), to its land
entitlements under section 19(b), and
``(2) with respect to subsection (d), to the extinguishment
of the Norton Bay Reservation (as withdrawn by Executive Order
No. 2508, dated January 3, 1917).''. | Amends the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA) to make certain Native Alaskans who are Vietnam veterans eligible, for up to one year after the enactment of this Act, for up to 160 acres apiece of nonmineral Alaskan land.
Withdraws certain Alaska lands from disposition under the public land laws, entry or appropriation under the mining laws, and the operation of U.S. mineral leasing, subject to valid existing rights, for a one-year period, for selection by the Elim Native Corporation. Authorizes: (1) such Corporation to select 50,000 acres of such lands to satisfy its land entitlements under ANCSA; (2) the Secretary of the Interior to receive, adjudicate, and convey such lands to the Corporation, subject to valid existing rights and an easement reserved to the United States for the benefit of the public; and (3) the Secretary to withdraw, and the Corporation to select, certain additional adjacent lands withdrawn to fulfill the Corporation's land entitlements equal to the total acreage of the Norton Bay Reservation as withdrawn by executive order. Constitutes the Corporation's selection of such lands as full satisfaction of all Corporation claims under ANCSA and the extinguishment of the Norton Bay Reservation. | To amend the Alaskan Native Claims Settlement Act to provide for selection of lands by certain veterans of the Vietnam era and by the Elim Native Corporation. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Gasoline Access and Stabilization
Act of 2001''.
SEC. 2. NATIONAL REQUIREMENT FOR REFORMULATED AND OXYGENATED GASOLINE.
(a) Reformulated Gasoline.--(1) Section 211 of the Clean Air Act
(42 U.S.C. 7545) is amended by adding the following new subsection at
the end thereof:
``(p) Phase III Uniform Formula for Reformulated and Oxygenated
Gasoline.--
``(1) National formula.--After notice and opportunity for
hearing, the Administrator shall promulgate regulations for
reformulated gasoline and oxygenated gasoline sold for use in
all States. The regulations shall require such gasoline to
comply with a national formula promulgated by the Administrator
that meets the requirements of both subsections (k) and (m).
The regulations shall prohibit any manufacturer of reformulated
gasoline or oxygenated gasoline from selling, offering for
sale, or introducing into commerce in any State any gasoline
for purposes of compliance with the requirements of subsection
(k) or (m) unless the gasoline complies with such national
formula.
``(2) Oxygenate requirement.--The formula under paragraph
(1) shall include provisions regarding the oxygen content of
such gasoline which shall require that a single type of
oxygenate be used. Such formula shall insure that the oxygen
content shall equal or exceed the following:
``(A) Winter oxygen levels.--2.7 percent by weight
(subject to a testing tolerance established by the
Administrator) in portions of the year in which any
area referred to in subsection (m) is prone to high
ambient concentrations of carbon monoxide.
``(B) Summer oxygenate levels.--2.0 percent by
weight (subject to a testing tolerance established by
the Administrator) in portions of the year in which any
area referred to in subsection (m) is not prone to high
ambient concentrations of carbon monoxide.
``(3) Factors to be considered.--In establishing the
national formula under this subsection, the Administrator shall
take into account the toxicity of various alternatives, the
effects of various fuel additives on water quality, crude oil
supply, and such other factors as the Administrator determines
appropriate.
``(4) Alternative.--The reformulated gasoline approved by
the Administrator for a State referred to in subsection
(c)(4)(B) shall be treated, for any State, as satisfying the
requirements of this subsection.
``(4) State opt-in to national reformulated gas program or
California reformulated gas program.--The Governor of any State
may elect to have any area within the State, or the entire
State, be treated as a covered area for purposes of subsection
(k) by notifying the Administrator of such State's election. An
election provided for in this subsection shall not be subject
to any of the requirements or limitations set forth in
paragraph (6) of subsection (k). Such election shall take
effect at such time as the State determines in its notice to
the Administrator.
``(5) Effective date.--The regulations promulgated under
paragraph (1) of this subsection shall take effect with respect
to all reformulated gasoline and oxygenated gasoline sold,
offered for sale, or introduced into commerce after the date 4
years after the promulgation of such regulations.''.
(2) The Administrator shall commence a rulemaking proceeding under
this section 211(p) of the Clean Air Act (as added by paragraph (1) of
this subsection) promptly after the enactment of this Act.
(b) Other State and Local Variations in Gasoline Prohibited.--(1)
Subparagraph (C) of subsection (c)(4) of such Act is amended by adding
the following at the end thereof: ``This subparagraph shall not apply
to any gasoline (including reformulated gasoline or oxygenated
gasoline) offered for sale, or introduced into commerce after December
31, 2004, and after such date, no State, or political subdivision
thereof, (other than the State of California pursuant to subsection
(c)(4)(B) or another State exercising the right to opt in to
California's reformulated gas standards pursuant to subsection (p)(4))
may prescribe or attempt to enforce any control or prohibition
regarding the characteristics or components (including the chemical
composition or emission characteristics) of gasoline, or any additive
to gasoline, that is not identical to such regulations.''.
(2) Section 211(c)(4)(A) of such Act is amended by inserting after
``for purposes of motor vehicle emission control'' the phrase ``or for
any other purpose''.
(3) Not later than 9 months prior to the effective date of
regulations under subsection (p) of section 211 of the Clean Air Act,
the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency shall notify
each State for which an amendment of the applicable implementation plan
under the Clean Air Act will be necessary by reason of the amendment
made by this subsection and shall require that each such State submit
such revision to the Administrator under section 110 of this Act within
3 months after receiving such notification.
SEC. 2. ELIMINATION OF SULFUR REDUCTION PHASE-IN REQUIREMENT.
(a) Amendment.--Section 211(i) of the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C.
7545(i)) is amended by adding the following at the end thereof:
``(5) Effective September 1, 2006, no person shall manufacture,
sell, supply, or offer for sale or supply, dispense, transport, or
introduce into commerce motor vehicle diesel fuel which contains a
concentration of sulfur in excess of 15 ppm or which fails to meet a
cetane minimum index of 40 and a maximum aromatic content of 35 volume
percent.''.
(b) Regulations.--Not later than 12 months after enactment of this
Act, the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency shall
promulgate regulations to implement and enforce the requirements of
paragraph (5) of section 211(i) of the Clean Air Act, as added by this
Act. | Gasoline Access and Stabilization Act of 2001 - Amends the Clean Air Act to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to promulgate regulations for reformulated and oxygenated gasoline sold for use in all States that: (1) require such gasoline to comply with a national formula; and (2) prohibit the sale in any State of any such gasoline that does not comply with the formula. Allows reformulated gasoline approved by the Administrator for a State for which a waiver is in effect (allowing application of State emissions control standards) to satisfy this Act's requirements.Allows a State Governor to elect to have an area within the State, or the entire State, treated as a covered area for purposes of reformulated gasoline requirements, without regard to existing opt-in requirements.Prohibits States and localities, after December 31, 2004 (other than the State of California pursuant to a waiver or another State opting-in to California's reformulated gasoline standards pursuant to this Act), from prescribing or enforcing a control of any characteristic of a gasoline or additive that is not identical to EPA regulations.Prohibits, after September 1, 2006, the manufacture or introduction into commerce of motor vehicle diesel fuel that contains a concentration of sulfur exceeding 15 parts per million or fails to meet a cetane minimum index of 40 and a maximum aromatic content of 35 volume percent. | To amend section 211 of the Clean Air Act to require a more uniform formula for gasoline and diesel fuel so that gasoline and diesel fuel manufactured for one region of the country may be transported to and sold in other regions of the country, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``2005 BRAC Selection Criteria Act''.
SEC. 2. SPECIFICATION OF 2005 BRAC FINAL SELECTION CRITERIA.
(a) Findings.--Congress finds the following:
(1) Title XXX of the National Defense Authorization Act for
Fiscal Year 2002 (Public Law 107-107; 115 Stat. 1342) amended
the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Act of 1990 (part A of
title XXIX of Public Law 101-510; 10 U.S.C. 2687 note) to
authorize the Secretary of Defense to conduct a round of base
realignments and closures in 2005.
(2) In section 2822 of the National Defense Authorization
Act for Fiscal Year 2004 (Public Law 108-136; 117 Stat. 1726),
approved November 24, 2003, Congress required the Secretary of
Defense to assess the probable threats to national security and
determine the potential, prudent, surge requirements for the
Armed Forces and military installations to meet those threats.
Such section specifically requires the Secretary of Defense to
use the determination of surge requirements in exercising the
authority of the Secretary to conduct the 2005 round of base
realignments and closures.
(3) Section 2913 of the Defense Base Closure and
Realignment Act of 1990, as added by title XXX of the National
Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2002, specified the
process by which the Secretary of Defense was to prepare the
criteria to be used by the Secretary in making recommendations
for the 2005 round of base realignments and closures and listed
certain requirements the Secretary had to comply with as part
of the process, including the advance publication of the
proposed criteria and the solicitation and consideration of
public comments.
(4) In subsection (e) of such section, Congress required
the Secretary of Defense to publish in the Federal Register and
transmit to Congress not later than February 16, 2004, the
final criteria intended to be used by the Secretary in making
recommendations for the 2005 round of base realignments and
closures. Pursuant to such subsection, the Secretary of Defense
published the final selection criteria in the Federal Register
on February 12, 2004 (69 Fed. Reg. 6948).
(5) In addition to specifically reserving its right to
disapprove the final selection criteria, Congress may modify or
otherwise amend the criteria by Act of Congress.
(b) Congressional Specification of Final BRAC Selection Criteria.--
Section 2913 of the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Act of 1990
(part A of title XXIX of Public Law 101-510; 10 U.S.C. 2687 note), as
added by section 3002 of the National Defense Authorization Act for
Fiscal Year 2002 (Public Law 107-107; 115 Stat. 1344), is amended to
read as follows:
``SEC. 2913. FINAL SELECTION CRITERIA FOR 2005 ROUND.
``(a) Final Selection Criteria.--The final criteria to be used by
the Secretary in making recommendations for the closure or realignment
of military installations inside the United States under this part in
2005 are as follows:
``(1) The current and future mission requirements and the
impact on operational readiness of the total force of the
Department of Defense, including the impact on joint
warfighting, training, readiness, and research, development,
test, and evaluation of weapons systems and equipment.
``(2) The availability and condition of land, facilities,
infrastructure, and associated air and water space (including
preservation of training areas suitable for maneuver by ground,
naval, or air forces throughout a diversity of climate and
terrain areas, the preservation of testing ranges able to
accommodate current or future military weapons systems and
equipment, and the preservation of staging areas for the use of
the Armed Forces in homeland defense missions) at both existing
and potential receiving locations.
``(3) The ability to accommodate contingency, mobilization,
and future total force requirements at both existing and
potential receiving locations to support operations, training,
maintenance, and repair.
``(4) Preservation of land, air, and water space,
facilities, and infrastructure necessary to support training
and operations of military forces determined to be surge
requirements by the Secretary of Defense, as required by
section 2822 of the National Defense Authorization Act for
Fiscal Year 2004 (Public Law 108-136; 117 Stat. 1726).
``(5) The extent and timing of potential costs and savings
of base realignment and closure actions on the entire Federal
budget, as well as the Department of Defense, including the
number of years, beginning with the date of completion of the
closure or realignment, for the savings to exceed the costs.
Costs shall include those costs related to potential
environmental restoration, waste management, and environmental
compliance activities.
``(6) The economic impact on existing communities in the
vicinity of military installations.
``(7) The ability of the infrastructure of both existing
and potential receiving communities to support forces,
missions, and personnel, including quality of living standards
for members of the Armed Forces and their dependents.
``(8) The environmental impact on receiving locations.
``(b) Priority Given to Military Value.--In recommending military
installations for closure or realignment, the Secretary shall give
priority consideration to the first four criteria specified in
subsection (a).
``(c) Relation to Other 2005 Round Materials.--The final selection
criteria specified in subsection (a) shall be the only criteria to be
used, along with the force-structure plan and infrastructure inventory
referred to in section 2912, in making recommendations for the closure
or realignment of military installations inside the United States under
this part in 2005.
``(d) Relation to Criteria for Earlier Rounds.--Section 2903(b),
and the selection criteria prepared under such section, shall not apply
with respect to the process of making recommendations for the closure
or realignment of military installations in 2005.''.
(c) Conforming Amendments.--The Defense Base Closure and
Realignment Act of 1990 is amended--
(1) in section 2912(c)(1)(A), by striking ``criteria
prepared under section 2913'' and inserting ``criteria
specified in section 2913''; and
(2) in section 2914(a), by striking ``criteria prepared by
the Secretary under section 2913'' and inserting ``criteria
specified in section 2913''. | 2005 BRAC Selection Criteria Act - Amends the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Act of 1990 to add the following to the final criteria to be used by the Secretary of Defense in making recommendations in 2005 for the closure or realignment of military installations inside the United States: (1) the current and future mission requirements and the impact on operational readiness of the total force of the Department of Defense; (2) the availability and condition of land, facilities, infrastructure, and associated air and water space at both existing and potential receiving locations; (3) the ability to accommodate contingency, mobilization, and future total force requirements at both existing and potential receiving locations to support operations, training, maintenance, and repair; and (4) preservation of land, air, and water space, facilities, and infrastructure necessary to support training and operations of military forces determined by the Secretary to be surge (manpower) requirements. Requires the added criteria to be given priority in recommending installations for closure or realignment. | To amend the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Act of 1990 to specify the criteria to be used by the Secretary of Defense in making recommendations in 2005 for the closure or realignment of military installations inside the United States under such Act. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Morris K. Udall Parkinson's
Research, Education, and Assistance Act of 1994''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS AND PURPOSE.
(a) Findings.--Congress finds the following:
(1) Parkinson's disease and related disorders (hereafter
referred to in this Act as ``Parkinson's'') is a neurological
disorder affecting as many as 1,500,000 Americans.
(2) Approximately 40 percent of persons with Parkinson's
are under the age of 60.
(3) While science has yet to determine what causes the
disease, research has found that cells that produce a
neurochemical called dopamine inexplicably degenerate, causing
uncontrollable tremors, muscle stiffness, and loss of motor
function.
(4) Eventually, Parkinson's renders its victims incapable
of caring for themselves. In addition to causing disability and
suffering for its victims, Parkinson's places tremendous and
prolonged physical, emotional, and financial strain on family
and loved ones.
(5) It is estimated that the disease costs society nearly
$6,000,000,000 annually.
(6) To date, the federally funded research effort has been
grossly underfunded. Only $30,000,000 is allocated specifically
for research on Parkinson's, or only about one dollar for every
$200 in annual societal costs.
(7) In order to take full advantage of the tremendous
potential for finding a cure or effective treatment, the
Federal investment in Parkinson's must be expanded, as well as
the coordination strengthened among the National Institutes of
Health research institutes.
(b) Purpose.--It is the purpose of this Act to provide for the
expansion and coordination of research concerning Parkinson's, and to
improve care and assistance for its victims and their family
caregivers.
SEC. 3. BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH ON PARKINSON'S DISEASE.
Part E of title IV of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 287
et seq.) is amended by adding at the end thereof the following new
subpart:
``Subpart 4--Parkinson's Disease Research
``SEC. 485G. PARKINSON'S DISEASE RESEARCH.
``(a) Expansion of Biomedical Research.--
``(1) Coordination council.--The Director of the National
Institutes of Health shall establish a council to coordinate
Parkinson's research activities. Members of the council shall
include the Director of the National Institutes of Health, the
Director of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders
and Stroke, the Director of the National Institute on Aging,
the Director of the National Institute of Environmental Health
Sciences, patient advocates, and representatives of other
departments and agencies conducting or supporting research on
Parkinson's.
``(2) National consensus conference.--The council
established under paragraph (1) shall convene a National
Consensus Conference on Parkinson's Disease and Related Neuro-
degenerative Disorders to aid in the development of a broad-
based strategy for identifying the cause of and treating such
disorders.
``(3) Research agenda.--Not later than 180 days after the
date of enactment of this section, and annually thereafter, the
Secretary, in consultation with the council established under
paragraph (1), shall develop and submit to the Energy and
Commerce Committee and the Appropriations Committee of the
House of Representatives and the Labor and Human Resources
Committee and the Appropriations Committee of the Senate, a
coordinated research agenda.
``(4) Research centers.--The Secretary shall provide for
the establishment of 10 Parkinson's Research Centers. Such
centers shall--
``(A) conduct research into the cause, prevention,
treatment, and management of Parkinson's;
``(B) disseminate clinical information concerning
Parkinson's and provide patient care services;
``(C) provide training for health care personnel
concerning Parkinson's;
``(D) coordinate research with other such Centers
and related public and private research institutions;
``(E) develop and maintain, where appropriate, a
tissue bank to collect specimens related to the
research and treatment of Parkinson's; and
``(F) enhance community awareness concerning
Parkinson's and promote the involvement of advocate
groups.
``(b) Morris K. Udall Feasibility Study Grants.--The Secretary may
award feasibility study grants under this section to support the
development of preliminary data sufficient to provide the basis for the
submission of applications for independent research support grants or
establishment of a Center under this section.
``(c) Morris K. Udall Leadership and Excellence Awards.--The
Secretary shall establish a grant program to support scientists who
have distinguished themselves in the field of Parkinson's research.
Grants under this subsection shall be utilized to enable established
investigators to devote greater time and resources in laboratories to
conduct research on Parkinson's and to encourage the development of a
new generation of investigators, with the support and guidance of the
most productive and innovative senior researchers.
``(d) Patient and Family Registries.--The Secretary shall establish
a registry for screening and collecting patient and family data that
may be useful in determining incidence and possible risk factors
concerning Parkinson's.
``(e) Morris K. Udall Health Professions Training Grants.--The
Secretary may award grants to schools of medicine, nursing, social
work, and health services administration, and other appropriate
institutions, for the provision of training and continuing education
concerning health and long-term care of individuals with Parkinson's.
In awarding grants under this subsection the Secretary shall ensure
appropriate geographic coverage.
``(f) National Parkinson's Disease Education Program.--The
Secretary shall establish a national education program that is designed
to foster a national focus on Parkinson's and the care of those with
Parkinson's. Activities under such program shall include--
``(1) the bringing together of public and private
organizations to develop better ways to provide care to
individuals with Parkinson's, and assist the families of such
individuals;
``(2) the provision of technical assistance to public and
private organizations that offer support and aid to families
caring for individuals with Parkinson's; and
``(3) the establishment of a clearinghouse that will
disseminate the most up-to-date research, treatment, and
training information to families, health professionals, and the
general public concerning Parkinson's.
``(g) Application.--To be eligible to receive a grant or other
assistance under this section, an individual or entity shall prepare
and submit to the Secretary an application at such time, in such
manner, and containing such information as the Secretary may require.
``(h) Authorization of Appropriations.--
``(1) In general.--For carrying out the activities
described in this section, there are authorized to be
appropriated $75,000,000 for fiscal year 1996, $100,000,000 for
fiscal year 1997, $200,000,000 for fiscal year 1998, and such
sums as may be necessary for each of the fiscal years 1999 and
2000. Of amounts so appropriated, the Secretary shall make
available--
``(A) $10,000,000 for fiscal year 1996, $20,000,000
for fiscal year 1997, $30,000,000 for fiscal year 1998,
and such sums as may be necessary for each of the
fiscal years 1999 and 2000, for establishing centers
under subsection (a)(4); and
``(B) $2,000,000 for fiscal year 1996, $4,000,000
for fiscal year 1997, $6,000,000 for fiscal year 1998,
and such sums as may be necessary for each of the
fiscal years 1999 and 2000 for carrying out feasibility
study grants under subsection (b).
``(2) Leadership and excellence awards.--For carrying out
activities under subsection (c), there are authorized to be
appropriated $10,000,000 for fiscal year 1996, $15,000,000 for
fiscal year 1997, $20,000,000 for fiscal year 1998, and such
sums as may be necessary for each of the fiscal years 1999 and
2000.
``(3) Patient and family registries.--For carrying out
activities under subsection (d), there are authorized to be
appropriated $2,000,000 for each of fiscal years 1996, 1997,
and 1998, and such sums as may be necessary for each of the
fiscal years 1999 and 2000.
``(4) Health professions training programs.--For carrying
out activities under subsection (e), there are authorized to be
appropriated $2,000,000 for fiscal year 1996, $5,000,000 for
fiscal year 1997, $8,000,000 for fiscal year 1998, and such
sums as may be necessary for each of the fiscal years 1999 and
2000.
``(5) National Parkinson's Disease Education Program.--For
carrying out activities under subsection (f), there are
authorized to be appropriated $2,000,000 for fiscal year 1996,
$3,000,000 for fiscal year 1997, $4,000,000 for fiscal year
1998, and such sums as may be necessary for each of the fiscal
years 1999 and 2000.''. | Morris K. Udall Parkinson's Research, Education, and Assistance Act of 1994 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Director of the National Institutes of Health to establish a council to coordinate Parkinson's research activities.
Directs: (1) the council to convene a National Consensus Conference on Parkinson's Disease and Related Neuro-degenerative Disorders to aid in the development of a broad-based strategy for identifying the cause of and treating such disorders; and (2) the Secretary of Health and Human Services to develop and annually submit to specified congressional committees a coordinated research agenda and to provide for the establishment of ten Parkinson's Research Centers.
Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) award feasibility study grants to support the development of preliminary data sufficient to provide the basis for the submission of applications for independent research support grants or establishment of a Center; and (2) award grants to appropriate institutions for the provision of training and continuing education concerning health and long-term care of individuals with Parkinson's.
Directs the Secretary to establish: (1) a grant program to support scientists who have distinguished themselves in the field of Parkinson's research; (2) a registry for screening and collecting patient and family data that may be useful in determining incidence and possible risk factors concerning Parkinson's; and (3) a national education program designed to foster a national focus on Parkinson's and the care of those with Parkinson's.
Sets forth application requirements. Authorizes appropriations. | Morris K. Udall Parkinson's Research, Education, and Assistance Act of 1994 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Small Business Regulatory
Improvement Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress finds the following:
(1) Small businesses are frequently the source of new
products, methods, and innovations.
(2) A vibrant and growing small business sector is critical
to creating jobs in a dynamic economy.
(3) Regulations designed for application to large-scale
entities have been applied uniformly to small businesses and
other small entities.
(4) Uniform Federal regulatory and reporting requirements
in many instances have imposed on small businesses and other
small entities disproportionately burdensome demands, including
legal, accounting, and consulting costs.
(5) Since 1980, Federal agencies have been required to
recognize and take account of the differences in the scale and
resources of regulated entities but have failed to do so.
(6) Alternative regulatory approaches that do not conflict
with the stated objectives of the statutes the regulations seek
to implement may be available and may minimize the significant
economic impact of regulations on small businesses and other
small entities.
(7) Federal agencies have failed to analyze and uncover
less costly alternative regulatory approaches, despite the fact
that the chapter 6 of title 5, United States Code (commonly
known as the Regulatory Flexibility Act), requires them to do
so.
(8) Federal agencies continue to interpret chapter 6 of
title 5, United States Code, in a manner that permits them to
avoid their analytical responsibilities.
(9) Significant changes are needed in the methods by which
Federal agencies develop and analyze regulations, receive input
from affected entities, and develop regulatory alternatives
that will lessen the burden or maximize the benefits of final
rules to small businesses and other small entities.
(10) It is the intention of the Congress to amend chapter 6
of title 5, United States Code, to ensure that all impacts,
including foreseeable indirect effects, of proposed and final
rules are considered by agencies during the rulemaking process
and that the agencies assess a full range of alternatives that
will limit adverse economic consequences or enhance economic
benefits.
(11) Federal agencies should be capable of assessing the
impact of proposed and final rules without delaying the
regulatory process or impinging on the ability of Federal
agencies to fulfill their statutory mandates.
SEC. 3. CLARIFICATION AND EXPANSION OF RULES COVERED BY THE REGULATORY
FLEXIBILITY ACT.
Section 601 of title 5, United States Code, is amended by adding at
the end the following new paragraph:
``(9) Economic impact.--The term `economic impact' means,
with respect to a proposed or final rule--
``(A) any direct economic effect on small entities
of such rule; and
``(B) any indirect economic effect on small
entities which is reasonably foreseeable and results
from such rule (without regard to whether small
entities will be directly regulated by the rule).''.
SEC. 4. REQUIREMENTS PROVIDING FOR MORE DETAILED ANALYSES.
(a) Initial Regulatory Flexibility Analysis.--Subsection (b) of
section 603 of title 5, United States Code, is amended to read as
follows:
``(b) Each initial regulatory flexibility analysis required under
this section shall contain a detailed statement describing--
``(1) the reasons why the action by the agency is being
considered;
``(2) the objectives of, and legal basis for, the proposed
rule;
``(3) the type of small entities to which the proposed rule
will apply;
``(4) the number of small entities to which the proposed
rule will apply or why such estimate is not available;
``(5) the projected reporting, recordkeeping, and other
compliance requirements of the proposed rule, including an
estimate of the classes of small entities which will be subject
to the requirement, the costs, and the type of professional
skills necessary to comply with the rule; and
``(6) all relevant Federal rules which may duplicate,
overlap, or conflict with the proposed rule, or the reasons why
such a description could not be provided.''.
(b) Final Regulatory Flexibility Analysis.--
(1) Paragraph (1) of section 604(a) of title 5, United
States Code, is amended by striking ``succinct''.
(2) Paragraph (3) of such section is amended by striking
``an explanation'' and inserting ``a detailed explanation''.
(3) Paragraph (4) of such section is amended to read as
follows:
``(4) a description of the projected reporting,
recordkeeping, and other compliance requirements of the rule,
including an estimate of the classes of small entities which
will be subject to the requirement, the costs, and the type of
professional skills necessary to comply with the rule; and''.
(c) Certification of No Impact.--Subsection (b) of section 605 of
title 5, United States Code, is amended by inserting ``detailed''
before ``statement'' both places such term appears.
SEC. 5. PERIODIC REVIEW OF RULES.
Section 610 of title 5, United States Code, is amended to read as
follows:
``Sec. 610. Periodic review of rules
``(a) Not later than 180 days after the enactment of the Small
Business Regulatory Improvement Act, each agency shall publish in the
Federal Register and place on its website a plan for the periodic
review of rules issued by the agency which the head of the agency
determines have a significant economic impact on a substantial number
of small entities. Such determination shall be made without regard to
whether the agency performed an analysis under section 604. The purpose
of the review shall be to determine whether such rules should be
continued without change, or should be amended or rescinded, consistent
with the stated objectives of applicable statutes, to minimize
significant economic impacts on a substantial number of small entities.
Such plan may be amended by the agency at any time by publishing the
revision in the Federal Register and subsequently placing the amended
plan on the agency's website.
``(b) The plan shall provide for the review of all such agency
rules existing on the date of the enactment of the Small Business
Regulatory Improvement Act within 10 years of the date of publication
of the plan in the Federal Register and for review of rules adopted
after the date of enactment of the Small Business Regulatory
Improvement Act within 10 years after the publication of the final rule
in the Federal Register. If the head of the agency determines that
completion of the review of existing rules is not feasible by the
established date, the head of the agency shall so certify in a
statement published in the Federal Register and may extend the review
for not longer than 2 years after publication of notice of extension in
the Federal Register. Such certification and notice shall be sent to
the Chief Counsel for Advocacy and the Congress.
``(c) Each agency shall annually submit a report regarding the
results of its review pursuant to such plan to the Congress and, in the
case of agencies other than independent regulatory agencies (as defined
in section 3502(5) of title 44, United States Code) to the
Administrator of the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs of
the Office of Management and Budget. Such report shall include the
identification of any rule with respect to which the head of the agency
made a determination described in paragraph (5) or (6) of subsection
(d) and a detailed explanation of the reasons for such determination.
``(d) In reviewing rules under such plan, the agency shall consider
the following factors:
``(1) The continued need for the rule.
``(2) The nature of complaints received by the agency from
small entities concerning the rule.
``(3) Comments by the Regulatory Enforcement Ombudsman and
the Chief Counsel for Advocacy.
``(4) The complexity of the rule.
``(5) The extent to which the rule overlaps, duplicates, or
conflicts with other Federal rules and, unless the head of the
agency determines it to be infeasible, State and local rules.
``(6) The length of time since the rule has been evaluated
or the degree to which technology, economic conditions, or
other factors have changed in the area affected by the rule.
``(e) The agency shall publish in the Federal Register and on its
website a list of rules to be reviewed pursuant to such plan. Such
publication shall include a brief description of the rule, the reason
why the agency determined that it has a significant economic impact on
a substantial number of small entities (without regard to whether it
had prepared a final regulatory flexibility analysis for the rule), and
request comments from the public, the Chief Counsel for Advocacy, and
the Regulatory Enforcement Ombudsman concerning the enforcement of the
rule.''.
SEC. 6. CHANGES TO THE REGULATORY FLEXIBILITY ACT TO COMPORT WITH
EXECUTIVE ORDER 13272.
(a) Initial Regulatory Flexibility Analysis.--Section 603 of title
5, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(d) An agency shall notify the Chief Counsel for Advocacy of the
Small Business Administration of any draft rules that may have a
significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities
either--
``(1) when the agency submits a draft rule to the Office of
Information and Regulatory Affairs at the Office of Management
and Budget, if submission is required; or
``(2) if no submission to the Office of Information and
Regulatory Affairs is so required, at a reasonable time prior
to publication of the rule by the agency.''.
(b) Final Regulatory Flexibility Analysis.--
(1) Inclusion of response to comments on certification of
proposed rule.--Paragraph (2) of section 604(a) of title 5,
United States Code, is amended by inserting after ``initial
regulatory flexibility analysis'' the following: ``(or
certification of the proposed rule under section 605(b))''.
(2) Inclusion of response to comments filed by chief
counsel for advocacy.--Subsection (a) of section 604 of title
5, United States Code, is amended by redesignating paragraphs
(3) through (5) as (4) through (6), respectively, and by
inserting after paragraph (2) the following:
``(3) the agency's response to any comments filed by the
Chief Counsel for Advocacy of the Small Business Administration
in response to the proposed rule, and a detailed statement of
any changes made to the proposed rule in the final rule as a
result of such comments;''. | Small Business Regulatory Improvement Act - Revises the Regulatory Flexibility Act. Defines the "economic impact" of a rule to include any direct or indirect economic effects on small entities.
Requires initial regulatory flexibility analyses of a proposed rule to contain a detailed statement describing the type of small entities to which the proposed rule will apply.
Revises provisions requiring the publication by each agency of a plan for the periodic review of its rules that have a significant impact on a substantial number of small entities to determine whether they should be continued, changed, or rescinded, including to: (1) limit to two years the amount of time the period for reviewing an agency's regulations may be extended; and (2) require each agency to report annually on review results to Congress and to the Administrator of the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB).
Requires an agency to notify the Chief Counsel for Advocacy of the Small Business Administration of any draft rules that may have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities either: (1) when the agency submits a draft rule to the such Office, if submission is required; or (2) if no submission to the Office is so required, at a reasonable time before publication of the rule by the agency.
Requires that final regulatory flexibility analyses include the agency's response to any comments filed on a rule by the Chief Counsel and a detailed statement of any changes made as a result. | To amend chapter 6 of title 5, United States Code (commonly known as the Regulatory Flexibility Act), to ensure complete analysis of potential impacts on small entities of rules, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``First Responder and Emergency
Preparedness Block Grant Program for Local Governments''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS AND PURPOSES.
(a) Findings.--Congress finds that--
(1) the Federal Government must enhance the ability of
first responders to respond to incidents of terrorism,
including incidents involving weapons of mass destruction;
(2) as a result of the events of September 11, 2001, it is
necessary to clarify and consolidate the authority of the
Office of Domestic Preparedness to support first responders;
and
(3) help States improve security of infrastructure.
(b) Purposes.--The purposes of this Act are--
(1) to establish a program to provide assistance to enhance
the ability of first responders to respond to incidents of
terrorism, including incidents involving weapons of mass
destruction;
(2) to establish a program that allows local governments to
develop State, regional, and local emergency preparedness
plans;
(3) to give States and localities the necessary resources
to secure infrastructure assets; and
(4) to improve response capabilities of State and local
first responders and emergency management personnel.
SEC. 3. WEAPON OF MASS DESTRUCTION DEFINED.
Section 2 of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 101) is
amended by adding at the end the following:
``(17) The term `weapon of mass destruction' has the
meaning given that term in section 1403 of the Defense Against
Weapons of Mass Destruction Act of 1996 (50 U.S.C. 2302; 110
Stat. 2717).''.
SEC. 4. ADDITIONAL DUTIES OF OFFICE OF DOMESTIC PREPAREDNESS.
(a) In General.--Section 430(c) of the Homeland Security Act of
2002 (6 U.S.C. 238(c) is amended--
(1) by redesignating paragraphs (6), (7), and (8) as
paragraphs (7), (8), and (9);
(2) by striking paragraphs (2) through (5) and inserting
after paragraph (1) the following:;
``(2) establish clearly defined standards and guidelines
for Federal, State, tribal, and local government terrorism
preparedness and response;
``(3) establish and coordinate an integrated capability for
Federal, State, tribal, and local governments and emergency
responders to plan for and address potential consequences of
terrorism;
``(4) coordinate provision of Federal terrorism
preparedness assistance to State, tribal, and local
governments;
``(5) establish standards for a national, interoperable
emergency communications and warning system;
``(6) establish standards for training of first responders
(as defined in section 431(a)), and for equipment to be used by
first responders, to respond to incidents of terrorism,
including incidents involving weapons of mass destruction;'';
(3) by striking ``and'' at the end of paragraph (8) (as so
redesignated);
(4) by striking the period at the end of paragraph (9) (as
so redesignated) and inserting ``; and'' and the following:
``(10) carry out such other related duties as are approved
by the Secretary.
(b) Use of Existing Resources.--Section 430(d) of such Act is
amended to read as follows--
``(d) Use of Existing Resources.--In carrying out this section, the
Director shall--
``(1) use, to the maximum extent practicable, existing
resources, including planning documents, equipment lists, and
program inventories; and
``(2) consult with and use--
``(A) existing Federal interagency boards and
committees;
``(B) existing government agencies; and
``(C) nongovernmental organizations.''.
SEC. 5. PREPAREDNESS ASSISTANCE FOR FIRST RESPONDERS.
(a) In General.--Title IV of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6
U.S.C. 231 et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following:
``SEC. 431. PREPAREDNESS ASSISTANCE FOR FIRST RESPONDERS.
``(a) Definitions.--In this section, the following definitions
apply:
``(1) Director.--The term `Director' means the Director of
the Office of Domestic Preparedness established by section 430.
``(2) First responder.--The term `first responder' means--
``(A) fire, emergency medical service, and law
enforcement personnel; and
``(B) such other personnel as are identified by the
Director.
``(3) Local entity.--The term `local entity' has the
meaning given that term by regulation issued by the Director.
``(4) Program.--The term `program' means the program
established under subsection (b).
``(5) State.--The term `State' includes an emergency
preparedness authority establish under section 611(h) of the
Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act
of (42 U.S.C. 5196(h)).
``(b) Program To Provide Assistance.--
``(1) In general.--The Director shall establish a program
to provide assistance to States to enhance the ability of State
and local first responders to respond to incidents of
terrorism, including incidents involving weapons of mass
destruction, and to assist States and localities in securing
vital infrastructure resources.
``(2) Federal share.--The Federal share of the costs
eligible to be paid using assistance provided under the program
shall be as determined by the Director, but not less than 75
percent.
``(3) Forms of assistance.--Assistance provided under
paragraph (1) may consist of--
``(A) grants; and
``(B) such other forms of assistance as the
Director determines to be appropriate.
``(c) Uses of Assistance.--Assistance provided under subsection
(b)--
``(1) may be used--
``(A) to purchase, to the maximum extent
practicable, interoperable equipment that is necessary
to respond to incidents of terrorism, including
incidents involving weapons of mass destruction;
``(B) to train first responders, consistent with
guidelines and standards developed by the Director;
``(C) in consultation with the Director, to
develop, construct, or upgrade terrorism preparedness
training facilities;
``(D) to develop, construct, or upgrade emergency
operations centers;
``(E) to develop preparedness and response plans
consistent with Federal, State, and local strategies,
as determined by the Director;
``(F) to provide systems and equipment to meet
communication needs, such as emergency notification
systems, interoperable equipment, and secure
communication equipment;
``(G) to conduct exercises relating to emergency
preparedness training;
``(H) to develop emergency preparedness plans;
``(I) to enhance infrastructure security, including
security of ports, mass transit systems, water
infrastructure, power plants, tunnels, and bridges;
``(J) to improve security of infrastructure in
accordance with regulations issued by the Secretary;
and
``(K) to carry out such other related activities as
are approved by the Director; and
``(2) may be used to provide compensation to first
responders (including payment for overtime); except that not to
exceed 10 percent of amounts made available to a State under
this section for a fiscal year may be used for this purpose.
``(d) Allocation of Funds.--For each fiscal year, in providing
assistance under subsection (b), the Director shall make available--
``(1) to each of the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the
Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the
Northern Mariana Islands, and the emergency preparedness
authorities established under section 611(h) of the Robert T.
Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42
U.S.C. 5196(h)) $3,000,000; and
``(2) to each State (other than a State referred to in
paragraph (1))--
``(A) a base amount of $10,000,000; and
``(B) a percentage of the total remaining funds
made available for the fiscal year based on the
following:
``(i) 50 percent of the amount appropriated
to carry out this section (after application of
paragraph (1) and subparagraph (A)) for such
fiscal year based on the population for such
State divided by the total population of all
such States; and
``(ii) the remainder based on such criteria
as the Director may establish, including the
proximity of the State to international borders
and number of vital infrastructure facilities
located in the State, including military
installations, public buildings (as defined in
section 13 of the Public Buildings Act of 1959
(40 U.S.C. 612)), nuclear power plants,
chemical plants, national landmarks, and ports.
``(e) Provision of Funds to Local Governments and Local Entities.--
``(1) In general.--For each fiscal year, not less than 75
percent of the assistance provided to each State (other than an
emergency preparedness authority) under this section shall be
provided by the State to local governments (including councils
of governments) within the State.
``(2) Assistance tracking systems.--The Secretary shall
establish a system to track the assistance provided by States
to local governments under this subsection for the purpose of
ensuring that the assistance is being used in accordance with
this section. Under the tracking system, not later than 30 days
after the date on which a State provides assistance to a local
government under this subsection, the State shall submit to the
Secretary a report on the provision and use of such assistance.
``(f) Administrative Expenses.--
``(1) Director.--For each fiscal year, the Director may use
to pay salaries and other administrative expenses incurred in
administering the program not more than the lesser of--
``(A) 5 percent of the funds made available to
carry out this section for the fiscal year; or
``(B)(i) $75,000,000 for fiscal year 2003; and
``(ii) $50,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2004
through 2006.
``(2) Recipients of assistance.--For each fiscal year, not
more than 5 percent of the funds retained by a State after
application of subsection (e) may be used to pay salaries and
other administrative expenses incurred in administering the
program.
``(g) Deadlines for Distribution of Assistance.--
``(1) To states.--Not later than 60 days after the date on
which funds are appropriated to carry out this section for a
fiscal year (other than fiscal year 2004), the Director shall
distribute such funds to the States in accordance with
subsection (d).
``(2) To local governments.--Not later than 45 days after
the date on which funds appropriated to carry out this section
for a fiscal year (other than fiscal year 2004) are made
available to a State under this section, the State shall
distribute such funds to local governments under subsection (e).
``(h) Preapplication Plan.--Before the Director may provide
assistance to a State under this section, the State must submit a plan
that recognizes the security and emergency preparedness needs of
metropolitan and rural areas under the jurisdiction of the State.
``(i) Maintenance of Expenditures.--The Director may provide
assistance to a State under this section only if the State agrees to
maintain, and to ensure that each local government that receives funds
from the State in accordance with subsection (e) maintains, for the
fiscal year for which the assistance is provided, the aggregate
expenditures by the State or the local government, respectively, for
the uses described in subsection (c)(1) at a level that is at or above
the average annual level of those expenditures by the State or local
government, respectively, for the 2 fiscal years preceding the fiscal
year for which the assistance is provided.
``(j) Reports.--
``(1) Annual report to the director.--As a condition of
receipt of assistance under this section for a fiscal year, a
State shall submit to the Director, not later than the 60 days
following the last day of the fiscal year, a report on the use
of the assistance in the fiscal year and the status of unspent
funds.
``(2) Exercise and report to congress.--As a condition of
receipt of assistance under this section, not later than 3
years after the date of enactment of this section, a State
shall--
``(A) conduct an exercise, or participate in a
regional exercise, approved by the Director, to measure
the progress of the State in enhancing the ability of
State and local first responders to respond to
incidents of terrorism, including incidents involving
weapons of mass destruction; and
``(B) submit a report on the results of the
exercise to the appropriate committees of the Senate
and the House of Representatives.
``(k) Coordination.--
``(1) With federal agencies.--The Director shall
coordinate, as necessary, the provision of assistance under
this section with activities carried out by--
``(A) the Administrator of the United States Fire
Administration in connection with the implementation by
the Administrator of the assistance to firefighters
grant program established under section 33 of the
Federal Fire Prevention and Control Act of 1974 (15
U.S.C. 2229);
``(B) other appropriate Federal agencies, including
the Office of Justice of the Department of Justice
providing assistance under the Community Oriented
Policing Services Office (COPS) program, the Edward
Byrne Memorial State and Local Law Enforcement
Assistance (Byrne Formula Grant) program, and the Local
Law Enforcement Block Grant (LLEBG) program; and
``(C) other entities within the Department of
Homeland Security, including the Office of Emergency
Preparedness and Response and the Office of State and
Local Government Coordination.
``(2) With indian tribes.--In providing and using
assistance under this section, the Director and the States
shall coordinate, as appropriate, with--
``(A) Indian tribes (as defined in section 4 of the
Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act
(25 U.S.C. 450b)) and other tribal organizations; and
``(B) Native villages (as defined in section 3 of
the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (43 U.S.C.
1602)) and other Alaska Native organizations.
``(l) Limitation.--The amount of funds made available to carry out
this section for a fiscal year should not affect the amount of funds
made available to carry out the Community Oriented Policing Services
Office (COPS) program, the Edward Byrne Memorial State and Local Law
Enforcement Assistance (Byrne Formula Grant) program, and Local Law
Enforcement Block Grant (LLEBG) program, and the assistance to
firefighters program administered by the United States Fire
Administration for such fiscal year.
``(m) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be
appropriated to carry out this section $3,500,000,000 for each of
fiscal years 2004, 2005, and 2006. | First Responder and Emergency Preparedness Block Grant Program for Local Governments - Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to establish additional duties of the Office of Domestic Preparedness with respect to Federal, State, tribal, and local government terrorism preparedness and response, including establishing standards for the training of first responders (fire, emergency medical service, and law enforcement personnel) and for equipment used by first responders in responding to incidents of terrorism.Requires the Office Director to: (1) establish a program to provide assistance to enhance the ability of State and local first responders to respond to incidents of terrorism, including incidents involving weapons of mass destruction; and (2) assist States and localities in securing vital infrastructure resources. Provides for the allocation of such assistance funds among the States, the District of Columbia, and U.S. territories. Requires a State to provide at least 75 percent of its assistance to local governments. Provides deadlines for assistance distribution to States and local governments. | To amend the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to establish a program to provide assistance to enhance the ability of first responders to respond to incidents of terrorism, including incidents involving weapons of mass destruction, and to improve security of infrastructure, and for other purposes including emergency preparedness. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Cultural Heritage Assistance
Partnership Act of 2001''.
SEC. 2. ESTABLISHMENT OF PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM.
(a) Establishment.--The Secretary of the Interior shall establish
in the National Park Service a Cultural Heritage Assistance Partnership
Program.
(b) Purposes.--The purposes of the Partnership Program are the
following:
(1) Fostering and supporting cooperative partnerships among
Federal agencies, State and local governments, Indian tribes,
nongovernmental organizations, and individuals, to preserve and
enhance the cultural heritage of the United States.
(2) Coordinating Federal programs and providing
information, technical assistance, and grants to States, Indian
tribes, local governments, and nonprofit organizations, to
facilitate cultural heritage activities.
(3) Encouraging cultural heritage activities, including by
planning, developing, and promoting heritage areas, cultural
heritage tourism, and related cultural heritage economic and
community development.
(4) Providing Federal agencies with opportunities to
participate in cultural heritage activities and to benefit from
the knowledge and experience of non-Federal entities and
individuals.
(c) Consultation.--The Secretary shall implement the Partnership
Program in consultation with the Citizens Advisory Committee and the
Federal Coordinating Council, including such consultation in designing
information, technical assistance, and award programs under section 3
and grant programs under section 6.
SEC. 3. DUTIES OF SECRETARY UNDER PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM.
(a) Coordination.--To carry out the purposes of the Partnership
Program, the Secretary shall coordinate with and seek the participation
of organizations and agencies involved in heritage areas and related
cultural heritage tourism and economic and community development,
including the following:
(1) Private sector nonprofit organizations.
(2) Educational and training institutions.
(3) Professional societies and trade associations.
(4) State and local government agencies and affiliated
organizations.
(5) Indian tribes and tribal organizations.
(6) International agencies and organizations.
(7) Other offices and programs in the National Park Service
and units of the National Park System.
(8) Federal agencies and organizations, including Federal
agencies not represented on the Federal Coordinating Council,
including the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, the
Small Business Administration, the American Folklife Center in
the Library of Congress, and the Smithsonian Institution.
(b) Information.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary shall gather information on
cultural heritage resources and activities, including heritage
areas, cultural heritage tourism, and related economic and
community development.
(2) Availability.--The Secretary shall make available to
the public such information--
(A) on an Internet site; and
(B) by nonelectronic means.
(3) Inclusion of information on internet site.--The
Secretary shall develop means for persons, subject to
reasonable terms and conditions imposed by the Secretary, to
include on the Internet site information about cultural
heritage programs and activities.
(c) Technical Assistance.--To carry out the purposes of the
Partnership Program, the Secretary may provide or arrange for technical
assistance to the types of agencies and organizations described in
subsection (a), including by doing the following:
(1) Developing models of cultural heritage partnership
agreements.
(2) Holding or sponsoring workshops, conferences, training,
and public meetings.
(3) Providing guidance to non-Federal agencies and
organizations on ways to access other Federal programs.
(4) Coordinating meetings among Federal agencies and non-
Federal entities.
(d) Awards.--The Secretary shall establish a program for designing
and making awards to persons, including individuals, Indian tribes,
Federal agencies, and State or local governments, to recognize
exemplary projects or programs that carry out the purposes of the
Partnership Program.
SEC. 4. CITIZENS ADVISORY COMMITTEE.
(a) Establishment.--Not later than 6 months after the date of the
enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall establish a Cultural
Heritage Citizens Advisory Committee.
(b) Duty.--The Citizens Advisory Committee shall advise the
Secretary and the Federal Coordinating Council on matters related to
carrying out the Partnership Program.
(c) Membership.--The Citizens Advisory Committee shall consist of
11 private citizens appointed by the Secretary who represent a range of
technical expertise and broad-based interests in cultural heritage
resources, heritage areas, cultural heritage tourism, and related
economic and community development.
(d) Terms.--
(1) Duration.--The members of the Citizens Advisory
Committee shall each serve for a term of 5 years.
(2) Reappointment.--If the Secretary decides to extend the
existence of the Citizens Advisory Committee under subsection
(i), the members of the Committee may be reappointed for
another term of 5 years.
(e) Pay; Expenses.--Members of the Citizens Advisory Committee
shall serve without pay, but may receive travel expenses, including per
diem in lieu of subsistence, in accordance with applicable provisions
under subchapter I of chapter 57 of title 5, United States Code.
(f) Chairperson.--The Chairperson of the Citizens Advisory
Committee shall be elected by the members of the committee.
(g) Meetings.--The Citizens Advisory Committee shall conduct at
least 4 meetings each fiscal year, at least 1 of which shall be in
conjunction with a meeting of the Federal Coordinating Council.
(h) Administrative Support.--The Secretary shall provide
administrative support for the Citizens Advisory Committee.
(i) Termination.--
(1) In general.--Subject to paragraph (2), the Citizens
Advisory Committee shall terminate 5 years after the date of
its establishment.
(2) Renewal.--If the Secretary states in the report
submitted under section 7 that the Citizens Advisory Committee
will be extended under this paragraph, the Secretary may extend
the existence of the Citizens Advisory Committee for a second
5-year period.
SEC. 5. FEDERAL COORDINATING COUNCIL.
(a) Federal Coordinating Council.--There is established a Federal
Cultural Heritage Coordinating Council, which shall be composed of the
following members (or their designees):
(1) The Secretary of the Interior, who shall serve as
Chairman.
(2) The Secretary of Defense.
(3) The Secretary of Agriculture.
(4) The Secretary of Commerce.
(5) The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development.
(6) The Secretary of Transportation.
(7) The Secretary of Education.
(8) The Administrator of the Environmental Protection
Agency.
(9) The Chairman of the National Endowment for the Arts.
(10) The Chairman of the National Endowment for the
Humanities.
(11) The Director of the Institute of Museum and Library
Services.
(b) Duties.--The Federal Coordinating Council shall--
(1) identify Federal programs and projects that may be of
assistance to the Secretary in implementing the Partnership
Program;
(2) establish and implement methods for the members of the
Federal Coordinating Council to collaborate with each other and
with other governmental agencies and nongovernmental
organizations on cultural heritage programs and projects, to
the extent permitted by law and consistent with their missions
and resources;
(3) consider methods for reducing bureaucratic inefficiency
in delivering services under existing Federal cultural heritage
programs to States, Indian tribes, and local governments; and
(4) seek to ensure that the activities conducted under this
Act are responsive to the diverse needs of different kinds of
communities, ranging from urban centers to remote rural areas,
and are balanced in their outreach and funding.
(c) Meetings.--
(1) In general.--The Federal Coordinating Council shall
conduct at least 4 meetings each fiscal year.
(2) Citizens advisory committee.--At least one of the 4
meetings shall be conducted in conjunction with a meeting of
the Citizens Advisory Committee.
(3) Public attendance.--The meetings of the Federal
Coordinating Council shall be open to the public.
(d) Administrative Support.--The Secretary shall provide
administrative support for the Federal Coordinating Council.
(e) Support for Partnership Program.--Each member of the Federal
Coordinating Council may provide the Secretary with such funds,
personnel, facilities, and services under that member's jurisdiction
and control as may be needed to implement the Partnership Program, to
the extent that such funds, personnel, facilities, and services are
otherwise available for that purpose.
(f) Interagency Projects.--In carrying out this Act, the Secretary
may receive advance payments from other agencies or accounts to be used
for interagency projects. Any project to be financed with those
payments may be initiated only with approval of the Secretary.
SEC. 6. GRANTS.
(a) In General.--The Secretary may make grants on a competitive
basis to States, Indian tribes, local governments, and nonprofit
organizations for projects to carry out the purposes of the Partnership
Program.
(b) Projects.--The activities of such projects may include the
following:
(1) Developing plans, programs, training, and informational
materials relating to the development, management, or
interpretation of cultural heritage resources and heritage
areas or potential heritage areas.
(2) Creating innovative projects that address natural
resource conservation, environmental education, outdoor
recreation, economic revitalization, archaeology and
ethnography, historic, scenic, or cultural preservation, or the
arts, humanities, or folklore.
(3) Carrying out cultural heritage activities in
conjunction with libraries, museums, and schools.
(4) Improving the organization and management capacity of
cultural heritage organizations and agencies.
(5) Creating or implementing innovative ways to combine
historic property restoration and conservation with economic
and community development.
(6) Providing electronic access, including equipment and
training, especially in rural or underserved urban communities,
to promote cultural heritage activities or heritage areas.
(7) Developing alliances among heritage areas within a
State and among States.
(8) Sharing information with other nations on cultural
heritage programs in the United States.
(9) Developing programs for collecting information on
cultural heritage activities and resources in other nations
that might serve as models for similar activities in the United
States.
(c) Contribution Requirement.--The Secretary may not make a grant
under this section to any applicant for a project unless at least 1
other entity will contribute facilities, supplies, or services for the
project.
(d) Priority.--In awarding grants under this section, the Secretary
shall give priority to projects that will be carried out by an
applicant that--
(1) has more than 2 entities contributing facilities,
supplies, or services to the project; or
(2) represents a broad base of interests and can increase
community involvement in the project.
(e) Limits on Grants.--
(1) Cost sharing.--
(A) In general.--Subject to subparagraph (B), the
Federal share of the cost of activities carried out
with a grant under this section may not exceed 50
percent of the total cost of the activities.
(B) Use of funds from other federal sources.--A
grantee under this section may apply funds from other
Federal sources as the matching funds required under
subparagraph (A), if use of such funds is otherwise
authorized by law.
(2) Maximum amount.--The Secretary may not make any grant
or combination of grants under this section in any fiscal year
to a particular grantee in an amount totaling more than
$50,000.
(f) Application.--
(1) In general.--To seek a grant under this section, an
applicant shall submit an application to the Secretary at such
time, in such manner, and accompanied by such information as
the Secretary may reasonably require.
(2) Simplification.--In developing application forms and
deadlines, the Secretary should consider ways to simplify the
application process to the maximum extent possible.
SEC. 7. REPORT.
(a) Submission.--Not later than 4 years after the date of the
enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the Congress a
report that--
(1) describes the accomplishments of the Partnership
Program;
(2) identifies any problems encountered in implementing
this Act; and
(3) recommends any changes needed in the Partnership
Program, including amendments to this Act.
(b) Review.--In developing the report, the Secretary shall provide
an opportunity for review of and comment on the report by the public
and representatives of State and local governments, Indian tribes, and
private sector organizations.
(c) Consultation.--In preparing a report under this section, the
Secretary shall consult with the Citizens Advisory Committee and the
Federal Coordinating Council.
SEC. 8. VOLUNTEERS.
To carry out this Act, the Secretary may accept and use voluntary
and other uncompensated services.
SEC. 9. DEFINITIONS.
For purposes of this Act:
(1) Citizens advisory committee.--The term ``Citizens
Advisory Committee'' means the Cultural Heritage Citizens
Advisory Committee established under section 4.
(2) Cultural heritage.--The term ``cultural heritage''
means resources relating to natural, historic, cultural,
ethnographic, scenic, or recreational values that traditionally
define the distinct character of an area or region and its
peoples.
(3) State.--The term ``State'' includes the several States,
the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the
Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa,
Guam, the Virgin Islands, and any other territory or possession
of the United States.
(4) Federal coordinating council.--The term ``Federal
Coordinating Council'' means the Federal Cultural Heritage
Coordinating Council established by section 5.
(5) Indian tribe.--The term ``Indian tribe'' means any
Indian tribe, band, nation, pueblo, or other organized group or
community, that is recognized as eligible for the special
programs and services provided by the United States to Indians
because of their status as Indians.
(6) Heritage area.--The term ``heritage area'' means a
discrete geographic area or region (including trails,
corridors, rivers, and watersheds) designated by an Indian
tribe or by Federal, State, or local executive or legislative
action in recognition of the area or region's distinctive sense
of place embodied in its historic buildings, communities,
traditions, or cultural or natural features.
(7) Partnership program.--The term ``Partnership Program''
means the Cultural Heritage Assistance Partnership Program
established under section 2.
(8) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of the Interior, acting through the Director of the National
Park Service.
SEC. 10. FUNDING.
(a) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be
appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this Act $10,000,000 for
each of fiscal years 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, and 2006, as follows:
(1) $9,000,000 for grants under section 6.
(2) $500,000 for information and technical assistance.
(3) $500,000 for program administration.
(b) Availability.--Amounts appropriated under this Act shall remain
available until expended. | Cultural Heritage Assistance Partnership Act of 2001 - Directs the Secretary of the Interior to establish a Cultural Heritage Assistance Partnership Program in the National Park Service.Requires the Secretary to: (1) gather specified information on cultural heritage resources and activities and make it available on an Internet site and by nonelectric means; and (2) establish a program for designing and making awards to persons, including Indian tribes, Federal agencies, and State or local governments, to recognize exemplary projects or programs that carry out the purposes of the Partnership Program.Establishes the: (1) Cultural Heritage Citizens Advisory Committee; and (2) the Federal Cultural Heritage Coordinating Council.Authorizes the Secretary to make competitive grants for up to 50 percent of the total cost of a project to States, Indian tribes, local governments, and nonprofit organizations for projects to carry out the Program's purposes. | To establish the Cultural Heritage Assistance Partnership Program in the Department of the Interior, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Profiting from Access to Computer
Technology (PACT) Act'' or the ``Child PACT Act''.
SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Classroom-usable.--The term ``classroom-usable'', with
respect to potential educationally useful Federal equipment,
means such equipment that does not require an upgrade of
hardware or software in order to be used by an educational
recipient or military family recipient without being first
transferred under section 4(d) to a nonprofit refurbisher for
such an upgrade.
(2) Community-based educational organization.--The term
``community-based educational organization'' means a nonprofit
entity that--
(A) is engaged in collaborative projects with
schools or the primary focus of which is education; and
(B) qualifies as a nonprofit educational
institution or organization for purposes of section
549(c)(3) of title 40, United States Code.
(3) Educational recipient.--The term ``educational
recipient'' means a school or a community-based educational
organization.
(4) Federal agency.--The term ``Federal agency'' means an
Executive agency as defined under section 105 of title 5,
United States Code.
(5) Military family recipient.--The term ``military family
recipient'' means a member of the immediate family of a member
of the Armed Forces who is deployed.
(6) Nonprofit refurbisher.--The term ``nonprofit
refurbisher'' means an organization that--
(A) is described under section 501(c) of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 and exempt from taxation
under section 501(a) of such Code; and
(B) upgrades potential educationally useful Federal
equipment that is not yet classroom-usable at no cost
or low cost to the ultimate educational recipient or
military family recipient.
(7) Potential educationally useful federal equipment.--The
term ``potential educationally useful Federal equipment''--
(A) means computers and related peripheral tools
(such as computer printers, modems, routers, and
servers), including telecommunications and research
equipment, that are appropriate for use by an
educational recipient or a military family recipient;
and
(B) includes computer software, if the transfer of
a license is permitted.
(8) School.--The term ``school'' includes a pre-
kindergarten program (as that term is used in the Elementary
and Secondary Education Act of 1965), an elementary school, a
secondary school, and a local educational agency (as those
terms are defined in section 9101 of that Act).
SEC. 3. PROTECTION OF POTENTIAL EDUCATIONALLY USEFUL FEDERAL EQUIPMENT.
Each Federal agency shall, to the extent practicable, protect and
safeguard potential educationally useful Federal equipment that has
been determined to be surplus, so that such equipment may be
transferred under this Act.
SEC. 4. EFFICIENT TRANSFER OF POTENTIAL EDUCATIONALLY USEFUL FEDERAL
EQUIPMENT.
(a) Transfer of Equipment to GSA.--Each Federal agency, to the
extent permitted by law and where appropriate, shall--
(1) identify potential educationally useful Federal
equipment that the Federal agency no longer needs or such
equipment that has been declared surplus in accordance with
section 549 of title 40, United States Code;
(2) erase all hard drives and other information storage
devices, before transfer under paragraph (3), in accordance
with standards in effect under the National Institute of
Standards and Technology; Guidelines for Media Sanitization;
and
(3)(A) transfer the equipment to the Administrator of
General Services for transfer to educational recipients or
military family recipients; or
(B) transfer the equipment directly to--
(i) an educational recipient or a military family
recipient, through an arrangement made by the
Administrator of General Services under subsection (b);
or
(ii) a nonprofit refurbisher under subsection (d).
(b) Advance Reporting of Equipment to GSA.--Each Federal agency
shall report to the Administrator of General Services the anticipated
availability of potential educationally useful Federal equipment as far
as possible in advance of the date the equipment is to become surplus,
so that the Administrator may attempt to arrange for the direct
transfer from the donating agency to educational recipients or military
family recipients.
(c) Preference.--In carrying out transfers to educational
recipients and military family recipients under this Act, the
Administrator of General Services shall, to the extent practicable,
give particular preference to educational recipients and military
family recipients located in an enterprise community, empowerment zone,
or renewal community designated under section 1391, 1400, or 1400E of
the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.
(d) Refurbishment of Potential Educationally Useful Equipment.--
Potential educationally useful Federal equipment that is not classroom-
usable shall be transferred initially to a nonprofit refurbisher for
upgrade before transfer to an educational recipient or military family
recipient. The refurbisher shall be responsible for proper disposal of
any equipment that cannot be successfully refurbished.
(e) Lowest Cost.--All transfers to educational recipients and
military family recipients shall be made at the lowest cost to the
recipient permitted by law.
(f) Notice of Availability of Equipment.--The Administrator of
General Services shall provide notice of the anticipated availability
of potential educationally useful Federal equipment (including
nonclassroom-usable equipment) to educational recipients and military
family recipients by all practical means, including the Internet,
newspapers, nonprofit refurbishers and community announcements.
(g) Facilitation by Regional Federal Executive Boards.--The
regional Federal Executive Boards (as that term is used in part 960 of
title 5, Code of Federal Regulations) shall help facilitate the
transfer of potential educationally useful Federal equipment from the
agencies they represent to recipients eligible under this Act.
SEC. 5. RULEMAKING.
The Administrator of General Services shall prescribe rules and
procedures to carry out this Act.
SEC. 6. EFFECT ON OTHER LAWS.
This Act supersedes Executive Order No. 12999 of April 17, 1996.
SEC. 7. RULE OF CONSTRUCTION.
This Act may not be construed to create any right or benefit,
substantive or procedural, enforceable at law by a party against the
United States or its agencies, officers, or employees. | Profiting from Access to Computer Technology (PACT) Act or the Child PACT Act - Directs each Federal agency to: (1) safeguard and identify potential educationally useful Federal equipment that it no longer needs or that has been declared surplus; and (2) transfer such equipment, either directly or through the General Services Administration (GSA), to educational recipients, military recipients, or nonprofit refurbishers. | A bill to establish a program to transfer surplus computers of Federal agencies to schools, nonprofit community-based educational organizations, and families of members of the Armed Forces who are deployed, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Emergency Financial Manager Reform
Act of 2016''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress finds the following:
(1) Local government units are charged with providing
critical law enforcement, educational training, public safety,
and health services for the communities they serve.
(2) The mismanagement of Federal grant money, including
conflicts of interest and abuse of discretion, undermines the
ability of local government units to provide these essential
services.
(3) The U.S. Government Accountability Office found that
Federal grant management operations for local government units
were adversely impacted in cases where unaccountable emergency
financial managers were appointed.
(4) The Federal Government has a strong interest in
preventing the mismanagement of Federal funds intended to
support local law enforcement efforts to protect health and
safety by ensuring that local government units are accountable
for such funds.
(5) The appointment of an emergency financial manager may
adversely impact voting rights when such appointment
disproportionately affects minority communities whose local
elected officials are displaced by such financial manager.
(6) The appointment of an emergency financial manager can
adversely impact public health and safety priorities, including
the safety of public drinking water systems, in instances where
they are unaccountable to local elected leaders.
(7) Under article I, section 10, clause 1 of the U.S.
Constitution, a State is prohibited from impairing a
contractual obligation. In addition, some State constitutions
explicitly prohibit impairment of a collective bargaining
agreement and accrued financial benefits under a pension plan
or a retirement system. Such impairment is unconstitutional and
a violation of law unless consented to by all parties.
SEC. 3. SAFEGUARDS REGARDING STATE APPOINTMENT OF AN EMERGENCY
FINANCIAL MANAGER.
(a) Reduction of Byrne-JAG Funds.--The Attorney General may
withhold 5 percent of the funds that would otherwise be allocated to a
State under the program under subpart 1 of part E of title I of the
Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 3750 et
seq.) for the fiscal year following any fiscal year in which an
emergency financial manager is appointed by that State or continues in
a previous appointment and--
(1) the chief legal officer or other appropriate State
official does not, by the date of the appointment and every 18
months thereafter while the appointment remains in effect,
submit to the Attorney General a certification that--
(A) such appointment does not have the purpose nor
will it have the effect of denying, abridging, or
diluting the right to vote on account of race or color;
and
(B) the community for which the emergency financial
manager is appointed has been given an opportunity, by
public notice issued simultaneously with the submission
to the Attorney General, to submit comments in full for
a period of at least 30 days with regard to
subparagraph (A);
(2) the Attorney General interposes an objection under
paragraph (1)(A) by not later than 60 days after submission of
comments under paragraph (1)(B) and the emergency financial
manager thereafter continues in the appointment;
(3) such emergency financial manager is authorized to make
decisions affecting public health or safety of the residents or
employees of a local government unit, including the
disbursement of any emergency funds provided by any Federal or
State entity for the purpose of addressing lead or other
contamination of drinking water in a public water system,
without receiving prior approval from the governor of the State
and appropriate local elected officials;
(4) such emergency financial manager does not have adequate
oversight in effect to ensure against conflicts of interest,
mismanagement, and abuse of discretion by such emergency
financial manager;
(5) such emergency financial manager is authorized to
reject, modify, or terminate one or more terms and conditions
of an existing collective bargaining agreement without mutual
consent as to such rejection, modification, or termination by
all parties to the agreement;
(6) such emergency financial manager is authorized to
reject, modify, or terminate one or more terms of an existing
contract without mutual consent by all parties to the contract
or without submitting such rejection, modification, or
termination for approval by a bankruptcy court under title 11,
United States Code; or
(7) such emergency financial manager is appointed and
members of the community under the jurisdiction of such
appointment were not provided prior thereto--
(A) an opportunity, by public notice issued
simultaneously with the submission to the Attorney
General required pursuant to paragraph (1) for a period
of at least 30 days, to make public comment as to any
conflicts of interest the proposed appointee may have,
whether the proposed appointee has the requisite
experience and financial acumen, and whether the
proposed appointee is empowered to propose sources of
financial assistance, such as loans, grants, and
revenue sharing; and
(B) with the name of a State official to whom may
be conveyed complaints about the appointee, including
complaints about any conflicts of interest,
mismanagement, or dereliction of duty.
(b) Reallocation.--Amounts not allocated under the program referred
to in subsection (a) to a State shall, to the extent practicable, be
reallocated under that program to the local government unit for which
the emergency financial manager is appointed.
SEC. 4. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) The term ``emergency financial manager'' means any
person appointed by a State, including a financial control
board or commission, emergency manager, receiver, coordinator,
or overseer that oversees or manages a local government unit.
(2) The term ``local government unit'' includes cities,
towns, municipalities, school board districts, law enforcement
departments or any other body, department, or office which
exercises authority over matters of local concern at the
direction of local elected officials or governing bodies or the
appointees of local elected officials or governing bodies.
(3) The term ``adequate oversight'' means, in the case of
an emergency financial manager--
(A) a monthly, publically available report,
reviewed and approved by the governor and appropriate
local elected officials, accounting for all financial
activities of the emergency financial manager
(including possible conflicts of interest,
mismanagement, and abuses of discretion) related to the
duties of the emergency financial manager; and
(B) an independent State-approved publically
available audit of the emergency financial manager's
duty-related activities on an annual basis or, if the
term of an emergency financial manager is less than one
year, at least one such audit.
(4) The term ``State'' means any one of the several States. | Emergency Financial Manager Reform Act of 2016 This bill requires a state with a state-appointed emergency financial manager to certify that the appointment: (1) does not have the purpose or effect of limiting the right to vote on account of race or color, and (2) followed a notice and comment period. If a state with a state-appointed emergency financial manager fails to submit such certification, then the Department of Justice may reduce by 5% that state's allocation of funds under the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant program. | Emergency Financial Manager Reform Act of 2016 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Emergency Lumber Act of 1995''.
SEC. 2. TEMPORARY IMPOSITION OF DUTIES PENDING FINAL DETERMINATION.
(a) In General.--In addition to any other duty that may apply,
there is imposed a duty of 25 percent ad valorem on wood and lumber
products described in subsection (b).
(b) Wood and Lumber Products Described.--Wood and lumber products
described in this subsection are wood or lumber products described in
subheading 4407.10.00, 4409.10.10, 4409.10.20, or 4409.10.90 of the
Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States that are imported
directly or indirectly from Canada.
(c) Applicability.--The rate of duty imposed under subsection (a)
shall apply to goods described in subsection (b) that are entered, or
withdrawn from warehouse for consumption, during the period beginning
on the date that is 15 days after the date of the enactment of this Act
and ending on whichever of the following dates occurs first with
respect to an investigation initiated under section 3:
(1) The date the investigation is suspended pursuant to
section 3(b)(2).
(2) The date on which a final negative determination is
made by the Commission pursuant to section 705 of the Tariff
Act of 1930.
(3) The date on which an order is issued pursuant to
section 706 of such Act.
(d) Refunds; Collections.--If the amount of the duty imposed under
this section is different from the amount of the cash deposit, bond, or
other security required for the countervailing duty imposed under a
countervailing duty order issued under section 706 of the Tariff Act of
1930 (19 U.S.C. 1671e) as a result of the investigation initiated under
section 3, such difference shall be refunded, released, or collected,
as the case may be, in accordance with section 707 of the Tariff Act of
1930 (19 U.S.C. 1671f).
SEC. 3. INITIATION OF INVESTIGATION.
(a) In General.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law, not
later than 30 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the
administering authority shall initiate an investigation pursuant to
section 702(a) of the Tariff Act of 1930 (19 U.S.C. 1671a(a)) with
respect to the importation and sales for importation into the United
States of wood and lumber products described in section 2(b).
(b) Application of Title VII of the Tariff Act of 1930.--
(1) In general.--Except as otherwise provided in this Act,
the provisions of title VII of the Tariff Act of 1930 (19
U.S.C. 1671 et seq.) shall apply to the countervailing duty
investigation initiated under subsection (a).
(2) Termination or suspension of investigation.--
(A) Termination.--Subsections (a) and (k) of
section 704 of the Tariff Act of 1930 (19 U.S.C. 1671c
(a) and (k)) shall not apply to the investigation
initiated pursuant to subsection (a).
(B) Suspension.--The investigation initiated
pursuant to subsection (a) may be suspended pursuant to
subsection (b) or (c) of section 704 of such Act, if
the requirements of such section 704 and subparagraph
(C) are satisfied.
(C) Suspension of investigation procedure.--The
requirements of this subparagraph are satisfied if, not
less than 30 days before suspending the investigation,
the administering authority--
(i) notifies the Committee on Finance of
the Senate, the Committee on Ways and Means of
the House of Representatives, the Commission,
and other parties to the investigation, of the
administering authority's intention to suspend
the investigation;
(ii) consults with such committees
regarding such suspension;
(iii) provides to such committees a copy of
the proposed agreement pursuant to which the
investigation is to be suspended, together with
an explanation of--
(I) how the agreement will be
carried out and enforced;
(II) how the agreement meets the
requirements of subsections (b), (c),
(d), and (e) of section 704 of the
Tariff Act of 1930; and
(III) any action required of
Canada; and
(iv) permits all interested parties to
submit comments and information for the record
before the date on which notice of suspension
of the investigation is published.
SEC. 4. RENEGOTIATION OF CHAPTER 19 OF NAFTA AND THE UNITED STATES-
CANADA FREE-TRADE AGREEMENT.
(a) In General.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law--
(1) the President is authorized and directed to negotiate
with the governments of free trade area countries for the
purpose of entering into an agreement to modify the terms of
chapter 19 of the NAFTA and chapter 19 of the United States-
Canada Free-Trade Agreement to provide that--
(A) the exclusive review by binational panels shall
not apply to antidumping and countervailing duty
determinations involving the merchandise of a free
trade area country; and
(B) such determinations shall be subject to
judicial review in the same manner as determinations
made with respect to countries that are not free trade
area countries;
(2) the negotiations described in paragraph (1) shall not
in any way affect the rights of the United States or a free
trade area country to apply its domestic antidumping and
countervailing duty laws to the imports of another country; and
(3) not later than 150 days after the date of the enactment
of this Act, if an agreement described in paragraph (1) has
been entered into, the President shall submit to the Congress--
(A) a draft implementing bill (as defined in
section 151 of the Trade Act of 1974 (19 U.S.C. 2191))
which contains provisions--
(i) approving the agreement; and
(ii) modifying the provisions of United
States law that are necessary to implement the
agreement; and
(B) a statement of any administrative action
proposed to implement the agreement.
(b) Implementation of Modifications.--
(1) In general.--Any agreement entered into under
subsection (a)(1) shall enter into force with respect to the
United States if (and only if) the implementing bill described
in subsection (a)(3)(A) is enacted into law.
(2) Extension of fast track procedures to implementing
bill.--
(A) Section 151(b)(1) of the Trade Act of 1974 (19
U.S.C. 2191(b)(1)) is amended by inserting ``section 4
of the Emergency Lumber Act of 1995,'' after ``the
Omnibus Trade and Competitiveness Act of 1988,''.
(B) Section 151(c)(1) of such Act (19 U.S.C.
2191(c)(1)) is amended by striking ``or section 282 of
the Uruguay Round Agreements Act,'' and inserting ``,
section 282 of the Uruguay Round Agreements Act, or
section 4 of the Emergency Lumber Act of 1995,''.
(c) Modification of Review Process.--
(1) In general.--If a draft implementing bill is not
submitted in accordance with subsection (a) within 150 days
after the date of the enactment of this Act--
(A) the provisions of article 1904 of the NAFTA and
article 1904 of the United States-Canada Free-Trade
Agreement relating to review of determinations shall
cease to apply to determinations involving the
merchandise of a free trade area country;
(B) the provisions of section 516A of the Tariff
Act of 1930 (19 U.S.C 1516A) shall apply to the review
of such determinations without regard to subsection (g)
of such section; and
(C) any such determination with respect to which a
binational panel review or an extraordinary challenge
committee review is pending on the day after such 150th
day shall be transferred to the United States Court of
International Trade (in accordance with rules issued
the Court) for review under section 516A(a) of such
Act.
(2) Notice of modifications.--If a draft implementing bill
is not submitted in accordance with subsection (a) within 150
days after the date of the enactment of this Act--
(A) the President shall immediately notify the
government of each free trade area country of the
modifications described in paragraph (1) and shall
publish notice of such modifications in the Federal
Register; and
(B) the United States Secretary shall immediately
notify the relevant FTA Secretaries that article 1904
of the NAFTA and article 1904 of the United States-
Canada Free-Trade Agreement no longer apply to
determinations described in paragraph (1).
(3) Definitions.--For purposes of this section:
(A) Determination; antidumping and countervailing
duty determination.--The terms ``determination'' and
``antidumping and countervailing duty determination''
mean a determination as defined in section 516A(g)(1)
of the Tariff Act of 1930 (19 U.S.C. 1516A(g)(1)).
(B) Free trade area country; relevant fta
secretary; and united states secretary.--The terms
``free trade area country'', ``relevant FTA
Secretary'', and ``United States Secretary'' have the
meanings given such terms by section 516A(f) of the
Tariff Act of 1930 (19 U.S.C. 1516A(f)).
SEC. 5. APPLICATION TO CANADA AND MEXICO.
Pursuant to article 1902 of the NAFTA, section 408 of the North
American Free Trade Agreement Implementation Act (19 U.S.C. 3301), and
article 1902 of the United States-Canada Free-Trade Agreement, the
provisions of this Act shall apply with respect to goods from Canada or
Mexico.
SEC. 6. DEFINITIONS.
For purposes of this Act:
(1) Administering authority.--The term ``administering
authority'' has the meaning given such term by section 771(1)
of the Tariff Act of 1930 (19 U.S.C. 1677(1)).
(2) Commission.--The term ``Commission'' means the United
States International Trade Commission.
(3) NAFTA.--The term ``NAFTA'' means the North American
Free Trade Agreement entered into between the United States,
Mexico, and Canada on December 17, 1992. | Emergency Lumber Act of 1995 - Impose
s a 25
percent ad valorem duty on imported Canadian wood and lumber products.
Requires the administering authority to initiate a countervailing duty investigation with respect to such products.
Declares that the President is authorized to negotiate with free trade area countries for the purpose of entering into an agreement to modify certain terms of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and the United States-Canada Free-Trade Agreement to provide: (1) that the exclusive review by binational panels shall not apply to antidumping and countervailing duty determinations involving their merchandise; and (2) that such determinations shall be subject to judicial review in the same manner as determinations made with respect to non-free trade area countries.
Declares further that: (1) such negotiations shall not affect the rights of the United States or a free trade area country to apply its domestic antidumping and countervailing duty laws to the imports of another country; and (2) if an agreement has been entered into pursuant to such negotiations, the President shall submit implementing legislation to the Congress.
Extends "fast track" procedures to such legislation.
Applies the requirements of this Act to goods from Canada or Mexico. | Emergency Lumber Act of 1995 |
SECTION 1. FINDINGS.
Congress finds the following:
(1) Contrary to the Weinberger Doctrine, which states that
the United States should use military force only if it is in
the vital national interest of the United States and only with
clearly defined political and military goals, the United States
went to war against Iraq in March 2003 without clearly defined
political and military goals.
(2) Contrary to the Powell Doctrine, which states that if
the United States is to use military force it should be
``overwhelming'' military force, the United States went to war
against Iraq without the troop levels or strategy needed to
secure a post-invasion Iraq.
(3) Ignoring the advice of United States military leaders
and experts, the President sent United States troops into war
against Iraq without sufficient levels needed for post-conflict
success and without sufficient armor and related equipment, and
has used the United States military in such a way that today it
is straining under the weight of the war.
(4) The justifications cited by the President for using
military force against Iraq--that Iraq possessed weapons of
mass destruction and Iraq had links to al Qaeda--have not, to
date, been proven correct.
(5) On May 1, 2003, the President announced the end of
major combat operations in Iraq, thus starting an entirely new
phase--the occupation of Iraq.
(6) The justifications cited by the President for using
military force against Iraq have shifted dramatically since
Congress passed the Authorization for Use of Military Force
Against Iraq Resolution of 2002 (Public Law 107-243), from
combating the threat that Saddam Hussein allegedly posed to the
United States, to establishing an Iraqi democracy, and to a
larger vision of Middle Eastern democracy.
(7) Public Law 107-243 authorized the President to use
force to ``defend the national security of the United States
against the continuing threat posed by Iraq''.
(8) Currently, United States troops are not facing a
military force or direct threat to the United States in Iraq,
rather they are facing both a Sunni insurgency against the
United States occupation of Iraq and a violent, long-standing
struggle between Sunni and Shia Islam on the streets of
Baghdad--neither of which pose a ``continuing threat'' to the
United States.
(9) Public Law 107-243 clearly reflected the President's
policies of preemption and unilateralism that have left the
United States with an open-ended and ill-defined occupation of
a country in the middle of a civil war.
(10) The President's policies of preemption and
unilateralism that led the United States into Iraq now leave
the United States with no clear exit strategy from Iraq.
(11) The escalation of the use of military force in Iraq
continues the retreat from long-held United States policies of
diplomacy, deterrence, and containment.
SEC. 2. REPEAL OF PUBLIC LAW 107-243.
The Authorization for Use of Military Force Against Iraq Resolution
of 2002 (Public Law 107-243) is hereby repealed.
SEC. 3. SENSE OF CONGRESS.
It is the sense of Congress that--
(1) Congress should vote on a new authorization for use of
force resolution that--
(A) reflects the current situation in Iraq;
(B) abandons the Bush Doctrine of preemption and
unilateralism; and
(C) realigns United States policy with its long-
held engagement priorities of diplomacy, deterrence,
and containment;
(2) the United States should establish a quick-reaction
United States military force with an over-the-horizon presence
in the region to respond as needed to imminent security threats
in the Middle East;
(3) the United States should enhance and intensify
diplomatic relations that will provide the proper external
environment and support for the difficult internal steps that
the Government of Iraq should take to promote national
reconciliation;
(4) the United States should increase efforts to engage all
neighboring countries and the League of Arab States in
promoting stability in Iraq;
(5) the United States should maintain its commitment to
continue to provide humanitarian and reconstruction assistance
in Iraq;
(6) the United States should redirect diplomatic, economic,
and military support to Afghanistan, where the Taliban
continues to destabilize the region; and
(7) the United States should aggressively pursue Osama Bin
Laden, Ayman al-Zawahiri, al Qaeda and other terrorist
organizations that continue to pose an imminent threat to the
United States. | Repeals P.L. 107-243 (Authorization for Use of Military Force Against Iraq Resolution of 2002).
Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) Congress should vote on a new authorization for use of force resolution that reflects the current Iraq situation, abandons the Bush Doctrine of preemption and unilateralism, and realigns U.S. policy with its long-held priorities of diplomacy, deterrence, and containment; (2) the United States should establish a quick-reaction U.S. military force with an over-the-horizon presence in the region; (3) the United States should intensify diplomatic relations to support the difficult internal steps that the government of Iraq should take to promote national reconciliation; (4) the United States should increase efforts to engage all neighboring countries and the League of Arab States in promoting Iraq's stability; (5) the United States should continue to provide humanitarian and reconstruction assistance in Iraq; (6) the United States should redirect diplomatic, economic, and military support to Afghanistan; and (7) the United States should aggressively pursue Osama Bin Laden, Ayman al-Zawahiri, al Qaeda and other terrorist organizations that continue to pose an imminent threat to the United States. | To repeal the Authorization for Use of Military Force Against Iraq Resolution of 2002 (Public Law 107-243), and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Voluntary Verification Program Act
of 2015''.
SEC. 2. VOLUNTARY VERIFICATION PROGRAMS FOR AIR CONDITIONING, FURNACE,
BOILER, HEAT PUMP, AND WATER HEATER PRODUCTS.
Section 326(b) of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (42 U.S.C.
6296(b)) is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(6) Voluntary verification programs for air conditioning,
furnace, boiler, heat pump, and water heater products.--
``(A) Reliance on voluntary verification
programs.--For the purpose of verifying compliance with
energy conservation standards and Energy Star
specifications established under sections 324A, 325,
and 342 for covered products described in paragraphs
(3), (4), (5), (9), and (11) of section 322(a) and
covered equipment described in subparagraphs (B), (C),
(D), (F), (I), (J), and (K) of section 340(1), the
Secretary and Administrator of the Environmental
Protection Agency (in this paragraph referred to as the
`Administrator') shall--
``(i) rely on voluntary verification
programs that are recognized by the Secretary
or the Administrator according to criteria that
have consensus support established through a
negotiated rulemaking; and
``(ii) not later than 180 days after the
date of enactment of the Voluntary Verification
Program Act of 2015, initiate a negotiated
rulemaking described in clause (i) to establish
criteria for achieving recognition by the
Secretary or the Administrator as an approved
voluntary verification program, which at a
minimum shall ensure that voluntary
verification programs--
``(I) are nationally recognized;
``(II) maintain a publicly
available list of all verified products
and equipment;
``(III) require the changing of the
performance rating or removal of the
product or equipment from the program
if testing determines that the
performance rating does not meet the
levels the manufacturer has verified to
the Secretary or the Administrator;
``(IV) require the qualification of
new participants in the program through
testing and production of test reports;
``(V) allow for challenge testing
of products and equipment within the
scope of the program;
``(VI) require program participants
to verify the performance rating of all
covered products and equipment within
the scope of the voluntary verification
program;
``(VII) provide to the Secretary or
the Administrator--
``(aa) prompt notification
when program testing results
in--
``(AA) the rerating
of the performance
rating of a product or
equipment; or
``(BB) the
delisting of a product
or equipment; and
``(bb) test reports, on the
request of the Secretary or the
Administrator, for Energy Star
compliant products, which shall
be treated as confidential
business information as
provided for under section
552(b)(4) of title 5, United
States Code (commonly known as
the `Freedom of Information
Act'); and
``(VIII) meet any additional
requirements or standards that the
Secretary or the Administrator shall
establish consistent with this clause.
``(B) Administration.--
``(i) In general.--Neither the Secretary
nor the Administrator shall require--
``(I) manufacturers to participate
in a voluntary verification program
described in subparagraph (A); or
``(II) participating manufacturers
to provide information that can be
obtained through a voluntary
verification program described in
subparagraph (A).
``(ii) List of covered products.--The
Secretary or the Administrator may maintain a
publicly available list of covered products and
equipment verified under subparagraph (A) that
distinguishes between--
``(I) covered products and
equipment verified by a program
described in subparagraph (A); and
``(II) products not verified by a
program described in subparagraph (A).
``(iii) Periodic verification testing.--The
Secretary and the Administrator shall not
subject a manufacturer that participates in a
voluntary verification program described in
subparagraph (A), and that is in compliance
with subparagraph (A)(ii) (I) through (VIII),
to additional periodic verification testing to
verify the accuracy of the performance rating
of the product or equipment, if the voluntary
verification program subjects covered products
to periodic verification testing and provides
test results to the Secretary or the
Administrator on request.
``(iv) Effect on other authority.--Nothing
in this paragraph limits the authority of the
Secretary or the Administrator to enforce
compliance with any law.''. | Voluntary Verification Program Act of 2015 This bill amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to require the Department of Energy (DOE) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to rely on voluntary programs for certifying manufacturer compliance with energy conservation performance standards and Energy Star specifications for consumer products and industrial equipment. Consumer products are the following: central air conditioners and central air conditioning heat pumps, water heaters, furnaces, direct heating equipment, and pool heaters. Industrial equipment is the following: commercial package air conditioning and heating equipment, automatic commercial ice makers, packaged terminal air-conditioners and packaged terminal heat pumps, warm air furnaces and packaged boilers, and storage water heaters, instantaneous water heaters, and unfired hot water storage tanks. The consumer products exclude those that are designed solely for use in recreational vehicles and other mobile equipment. DOE and the EPA must initiate a negotiated rulemaking to establish criteria, meeting certain minimum requirements, for achieving recognition by DOE or the EPA as an approved voluntary verification program. Neither DOE nor the EPA may require manufacturers that participate in a voluntary verification program to provide information that can be obtained through the program. If a voluntary program subjects products to periodic verification testing and provides test results to DOE or the EPA on request, DOE and the EPA may not subject participating manufacturers that are in compliance with the program to additional testing to verify the accuracy of the performance rating of the product or equipment. | Voluntary Verification Program Act of 2015 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Rabbi Arthur Schneier Congressional
Gold Medal Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress finds as follows:
(1) Rabbi Arthur Schneier, Spiritual Leader of Park East
Synagogue and Founder and President, Appeal of Conscience
Foundation, has played a pioneering role in promoting religious
freedom and human rights throughout the world, for close to
half a century.
(2) The President of the United States awarded him the
Presidential Citizens Medal for ``his service as an
international envoy for four administrations'' and as a
Holocaust survivor, ``devoting a lifetime to overcoming forces
of hatred and intolerance''.
(3) He received the United States Department of State
Special Recognition Award from Secretary Colin Powell for ``. .
. his ecumenical work in favor of mutual understanding,
tolerance and peace . . .''.
(4) In China in 2004, he headed an interfaith Appeal of
Conscience Foundation delegation which met with government
officials on behalf of religious freedom and strengthened
exchanges between religious communities in China and the United
States.
(5) He has regularly led delegations of religious leaders
to China since the early 1980s.
(6) In the Former Soviet Union, Rabbi Schneier was, in
2004, the keynote speaker at the Interreligious Conference on
Peace hosted by Patriarch Aleksey II.
(7) In Armenia in 2002, he held meetings with the
Catholicos of all Armenians and government leaders to help ease
tensions between Armenia and Turkey.
(8) He convened the Religious Summit on the Former
Yugoslavia in Switzerland and the Conflict Resolution
Conference in Vienna, mobilizing Catholic, Muslim, and Orthodox
Christian religious leaders to halt the bloodshed in former
Yugoslavia (1992, 1995).
(9) In the Balkans, Caucasus, and Central Asia, he
initiated the Peace and Tolerance Conference in Istanbul,
Turkey, in cooperation with the Turkish Government and the
Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I (1994).
(10) In Bosnia-Herzegovina, he met with top government and
religious leaders in Sarajevo to promote healing and
conciliation between the Serbian Orthodox, Muslim, Catholic,
and Jewish communities (1997).
(11) Rabbi Schneier initiated the interfaith appeal to the
United Nations for the worldwide protection of holy sites,
which was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in May
2001 as the resolution for the ``Protection of Religious
Sites''.
(12) In 1980, he initiated the Annual Seminar on Religious
Life to educate Foreign Service officers in the religious
traditions of the countries of their assignment.
(13) The Foreign Service Institute honored him in 2001 for
``20 years of excellent cooperation in furthering the objective
of religious freedom''.
(14) He was awarded the Department of State Special
Recognition Award from Secretary of State Hillary Clinton ``for
his 30 years of partnership in helping Foreign Affairs
professionals to better understand the right to religious
freedom in the countries in which they serve''.
(15) He has been very active in humanitarian missions, such
as mobilizing the American religious community in support for
the victims of the Armenian and Turkish earthquakes and
Romanian floods.
(16) A United States Alternate Representative to the United
Nations General Assembly and Chairman of the United States
Commission for the Preservation of America's Heritage Abroad,
he was one of 3 American religious leaders appointed by the
President of the United States to start the first dialogue on
religious freedom with President Jiang Zemin and other top
Chinese leaders (1998).
(17) He was a United States delegate to the Stockholm
International Forum for the Prevention of Genocide (2004).
(18) Born in Vienna, Austria, in 1930, Rabbi Schneier lived
under Nazi occupation in Budapest during World War II and
arrived in the United States in 1947.
(19) He holds the Ordination and Doctor of Divinity Degree
from Yeshiva University.
(20) In 2004, Yeshiva University honored him by
establishing the Rabbi Arthur Schneier Center for International
Affairs.
(21) He hosted Pope Benedict XVI at Park East Synagogue,
the first visit of a Pope to a synagogue in the United States
(2008), and the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew (2009).
(22) He was invited by King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia as a
keynote to the Interfaith Conference (Madrid) (2008).
(23) He was appointed by the UN Secretary General to the
High Level Group ``Alliance of Civilizations'' (2005) and he
was appointed Ambassador of the UN Alliance of Civilizations
(2009).
(24) He was honored with the Knight Commander of the Order
of Civil Merit by the Kingdom of Spain, Officer of the Order of
the Legion d'honneur of France, Officer's Cross of the Order of
Merit of Germany, Grand Decoration of Honor in Gold with Star
for Service to the Republic of Austria, Order of the Republic
of Hungary, Officer's Cross of the Order of Merit of the
Republic of Poland, the Order of the Star of Italian
Solidarity, Grand Decoration of Honor in Gold for Special
Services to the Province of Vienna.
(25) He received the Order of St. Daniel of Moscow, for
``his leadership in inter-religious cooperation and the
strengthening of ties between American religious communities
and the Russian Orthodox Church'' (2004).
(26) He was selected Friend of the Armenians for his
``solidarity with Armenians in the cause of human rights''.
(27) He received the Order of St. Andrew the Apostle
Athenagoras Human Rights Award for ``his contributions to the
improvement of tolerance and peace among all religions
throughout the world'' (2008).
(28) He received the Guru Nanac Interfaith Prize, Hofstra
University for ``fostering religious tolerance and
cooperation'' (2010).
(29) He was the recipient of eleven honorary doctorates
from United States and foreign universities.
SEC. 3. CONGRESSIONAL GOLD MEDAL.
(a) Presentation Authorized.--The Speaker of the House of
Representatives and the President pro tempore of the Senate shall make
appropriate arrangements for the presentation, on behalf of the
Congress, of a gold medal of appropriate design to Rabbi Arthur
Schneier in recognition of his pioneering role in promoting religious
freedom and human rights throughout the world, for close to half a
century.
(b) Design and Striking.--For purposes of the presentation referred
to in subsection (a), the Secretary of the Treasury (hereafter in this
Act referred to as the ``Secretary'') shall strike a gold medal with
suitable emblems, devices, and inscriptions, to be determined by the
Secretary.
SEC. 4. DUPLICATE MEDALS.
The Secretary may strike and sell duplicates in bronze of the gold
medal struck pursuant to section 3 under such regulations as the
Secretary may prescribe, at a price sufficient to cover the cost
thereof, including labor, materials, dies, use of machinery, and
overhead expenses, and the cost of the gold medal.
SEC. 5. STATUS OF MEDALS.
(a) National Medals.--The medals struck pursuant to this Act are
national medals for purposes of chapter 51 of title 31, United States
Code.
(b) Numismatic Items.--For purposes of section 5134 of title 31,
United States Code, all medals struck under this Act shall be
considered to be numismatic items. | Rabbi Arthur Schneier Congressional Gold Medal Act Directs the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President pro tempore of the Senate to arrange for the presentation, on behalf of Congress, of a gold medal to Rabbi Arthur Schneier in recognition of his pioneering role in promoting religious freedom and human rights throughout the world for close to half a century. | Rabbi Arthur Schneier Congressional Gold Medal Act |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Congressional Oversight and Audit of
Agency Rulemaking Actions Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress finds that--
(1) Federal regulations have had a positive impact in
protecting the environment and health and safety of all
Americans; however uncontrolled increases in the costs that
regulations place on the economy, including costs associated
with duplicative, overlapping, and inconsistent regulations,
cannot be sustained;
(2) the legislative branch has an oversight responsibility
to see that laws it passes are properly implemented by the
executive branch;
(3) in order for the legislative branch to fulfill its
legislative and oversight responsibilities, it must have
accurate and reliable information on which to base its
decisions; and
(4) effective implementation of chapter 8 of title 5 of the
United States Code (relating to Congressional review of agency
rulemaking) is essential to controlling the regulatory burden
that the Government places on the economy.
SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.
For purposes of Act:
(1) Agency.--The term ``agency'' has the meaning given such
term under section 551(1) of title 5, the United States Code;
(2) Comptroller general.--The term ``Comptroller General''
means the Comptroller General of the United States.
(3) Economically significant.--The term ``economically
significant rule'' means any proposed, final, or interim rule--
(A) that may have an annual effect on the economy
of $100,000,000 or more or adversely affect in a
material way the economy, a sector of the economy,
productivity, competition, jobs, the environment,
public health or safety, or State, local, tribal
governments, small businesses, or communities; or
(B) for which an agency has prepared an initial or
final regulatory flexibility analysis pursuant to
section 603 or 604 of title 5 of the United States
Code.
(4) Audit and assessment.--The term ``audit and
assessment'' means a review of the agency's underlying
assessments and assumptions used in developing a rule.
SEC. 4. PERFORMANCE OF CONGRESSIONAL REVIEW FUNCTIONS BY THE GENERAL
ACCOUNTING OFFICE PILOT PROGRAM.
(a) In General.--A pilot project shall be established by the
Comptroller General of the United States under which the Comptroller
General may review a published economically significant proposed or
interim rule at the request of a committee of either House of Congress
with jurisdiction over the subject matter of the rule.
(b) Independent Audit and Assessment.--The independent audit and
assessment of an economically significant rule by the Comptroller
General shall consist of the following:
(1) Analysis regarding potential benefits.--An analysis of
the agency's and the public's assessment of the potential
benefits of the rule, including any beneficial effects that
cannot be quantified in monetary terms and the identification
of the persons or entities likely to receive the benefits. Such
analysis may include, upon the request of the Committee, the
Comptroller General's development of a separate benefit
assessment based on the data available to the agency, including
data generated after publication of the rule in the Federal
Register.
(2) Analysis regarding potential costs.--An analysis of the
agency's and public's assessment of the potential costs of the
rule, including any adverse effects that cannot be quantified in
monetary terms and the identification of the persons or entities likely
to bear the costs. Such analysis may include, upon the request of the
Committee, the Comptroller General's development of a separate cost
assessment based on the data available to the agency, including data
generated after publication of the rule in the Federal Register.
(3) Analysis of alternatives.--An analysis of the agency's
and the public's alternative approaches that could achieve the
objectives of the agency in a more cost effective manner. For
each such alternative assessed, the Comptroller General shall
state whether current law forecloses the agency from selecting
a particular alternative. Such an analysis may include, upon
the request of the Committee, the development of separate
alternatives by the Comptroller that were not cited by the
agency or submitted by the public to the agency.
(4) Analysis and assessment of impact statement or
report.--An analysis and assessment of any impact statement or
report prepared by the agency, including those reports and
assessments mandated by executive orders or statutes, as part
of the rulemaking, including any assessment of impacts on State
and local governments.
(5) List of analyses, groups, entities, and sources
consulted.--A list of all analyses, groups, entities, and
sources consulted in developing the analyses and assessments
set forth in paragraphs (1), (2), (3), and (4).
(c) Procedures for Priorities of Requests.--The Comptroller General
shall have discretion to develop procedures for determining the
priority and number of requests for review under subsection (a) for
which a report will be submitted under subsection (e).
(d) Agency Cooperation and Comments.--Upon request of the
Comptroller General, each agency shall provide any available or
existing records, information, or data upon which the agency relied in
developing an economically significant rule. The agency may provide
records, information, and data not requested by the Comptroller General
but which the agency determines are relevant to its development of an
economically significant rule.
(e) Submission of Report.--
(1) Interim audit.--The Comptroller General shall submit an
interim audit to the Committee requesting the report 30 days
after the close of the comment period unless the final
regulation must issue less than 120 days from the date of
publication of the proposed or interim rule in which case the
report shall issue within 10 days after the close of the
comment period. The interim audit shall contain the assessments
set forth in paragraphs (1) through (4) of subsection (b) for
the proposed rule. The agency shall not be required to consider
any alternatives in this report in the development of a final
rule to the extent that the agency determines that it cannot
consider the alternative under established law.
(2) Final audit.--The Comptroller General shall prepare and
transmit an independent audit containing the assessments and
analyses set forth in paragraphs (1) through (4) of subsection
(b) on the final rule within 30 days after publication in the
Federal Register. In addition to the required analyses and
assessments, the Comptroller General shall provide a summary of
the differences, to the extent such differences exist, between
the proposed and final rule. The Comptroller General may
incorporate any material in the final report that the
Comptroller General utilized in preparing the interim report
pursuant to paragraph (1).
SEC. 5. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
There are authorized to be appropriated to the Comptroller General
to carry out this Act $5,200,000 for the fiscal year 2001.
SEC. 6. EFFECTIVE DATE AND DURATION OF PILOT PROJECT.
(a) Effective Date.--This Act shall take effect 90 days after the
date of enactment of this Act.
(b) Duration of Pilot Project.--The pilot project established under
section 4(a) shall continue for a period of 5 years if, in each fiscal
year or portion thereof included in that period, a specific annual
appropriation of not less than $5,200,000 or the pro-rated equivalent
thereof shall have been made for the pilot project.
(c) Report.--Before the conclusion of the 5-year period referred to
in subsection (b), the Comptroller General shall submit to Congress a
report reviewing the effectiveness of the pilot project and what, if
any, changes should be made to the procedures set forth in section 4
and recommending whether or not Congress should permanently authorize
the pilot project. | Requires that an independent audit and assessment of such a rule by the Comptroller General shall consist of: (1) an analysis of the agency's and the public's assessment of the potential benefits and costs of the rule and of alternative approaches that could achieve the agency's objectives in a more cost effective manner; (2) an analysis and assessment of any impact statement or report prepared by the agency as part of the rulemaking, including any assessment of impacts on State and local governments; and (3) a list of all analyses, groups, entities, and sources consulted in developing the analyses and assessments described above.
Grants the Comptroller General discretion to develop procedures for determining the priority and number of requests for review.
Requires each agency, upon request of the Comptroller General, to provide any available or existing records, information, or data upon which the agency relied in developing such a rule. Requires the Comptroller General to transmit an independent audit containing the prescribed assessments and analyses on a final rule, together with a summary of the differences between the proposed and final rule, within 30 days after publication in the Federal Register.
Authorizes appropriations.
Provides for the pilot project established under this Act to continue for a five-year period if specified appropriations are provided. Requires the Comptroller General to report to Congress on such project's effectiveness and on whether it should be authorized permanently. | Congressional Oversight and Audit of Agency Rulemaking Actions Act |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Antiprogestin Testing Act of 1993''.
SEC. 2. INFORMATION.
(a) Collection.--
(1) In general.--The Commissioner of Food and Drugs
(referred to in this section as the ``Commissioner'') shall, to
the extent possible, collect information with respect to the
drug RU-486, also known as Mifeprestone, including samples and
specimens, that is required to be submitted by an applicant for
approval of a new drug, as described in section 505(b) of the
Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 355(b)).
(2) Uses of drug.--The Commissioner shall collect such
information regarding--
(A) use of the drug as an abortifacient or
contraceptive; and
(B) use of the drug for the treatment of cancer,
brain tumors, Cushings syndrome, or other serious or
life-threatening diseases.
(b) Consideration.--The Commissioner shall consider the information
collected under subsection (a) with respect to the drug to be an
application, submitted by the manufacturer of the drug, for approval of
the drug for each of the uses described in subsection (a)(2).
(c) Approval Decision.--
(1) In general.--The Commissioner shall review the
information collected under subsection (a) as if the
information comprised such an application. The Commissioner
shall issue an order approving, or refusing to approve, the
application with respect to each of the uses in accordance with
subsections (c) and (d) of section 505 of such Act.
(2) Refusal to approve due to insufficient tests,
information, or evidence.--
(A) Notification of director of national institutes
of health.--The Commissioner shall notify the Director
of the National Institutes of Health (referred to in
this section as the ``Director'') if the Commissioner
issues an order refusing to approve the application
because of--
(i) the lack of inclusion of adequate tests
in the investigation of the drug, as described
in section 505(d)(1) of such Act;
(ii) insufficient information, as described
in section 505(d)(4) of such Act; or
(iii) a lack of substantial evidence, as
described in section 505(d)(5) of such Act.
(B) Information.--On so notifying the Director, the
Commissioner shall submit to the Director all
information relevant to the decision of the
Commissioner to issue such order. Such information
shall include a description of the tests that were not
included in the investigation, or a description of the
information or evidence that was not submitted with the
application.
(3) Report.--The Commissioner shall prepare, and submit to
the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of
Representatives and the Committee on Labor and Human Resources
of the Senate, a report concerning any order issued under
paragraph (1).
(d) Research.--
(1) In general.--If the Commissioner issues an order
refusing to approve the application, the Director shall
expeditiously conduct or support research (including clinical
trials) on RU-486, in order to conduct the tests, or develop
the information or evidence, described in subsection (c)(2)(B).
(2) Institutional review boards and peer review.--Research
conducted or supported under paragraph (1) shall be subject to
sections 491 and 492 of the Public Health Service Act (42
U.S.C. 289 and 289a).
(3) Results.--The Director shall submit the results of the
research to the Commissioner. The Commissioner shall consider
the results, along with the information collected under
subsection (a) with respect to the drug, to be information
submitted by the manufacturer of the drug as described in
subsection (b), and shall review, and issue an order approving
or refusing to approve, the application for the drug, in
accordance with subsection (c).
(e) Report.--The Secretary of Health and Human Services shall
prepare, and submit to the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the
House of Representatives and the Committee on Labor and Human Resources
of the Senate, a report on the status of research conducted or
supported under subsection (d) within 6 months of the date on which the
Commissioner provides notification under subsection (c)(2)(A), and
every 6 months thereafter until the research is completed.
SEC. 3. FEES AND COSTS.
If the Commissioner issues an order approving an application with
respect to the drug RU-486 for a use described in section 2(a)(2), any
person who introduces the drug into interstate commerce or delivers the
drug for introduction into interstate commerce for such use shall
reimburse--
(1) the Food and Drug Administration for--
(A) the amount indicated in the fee schedule set
forth in section 736 of the Federal Food, Drug, and
Cosmetic Act; and
(B) the amount of the costs incurred by the
Commissioner in complying with section 2(a); and
(2) the National Institutes of Health for the amount of any
costs incurred by the Director in complying with section 2(d). | Antiprogestin Testing Act of 1993 - Directs the Commissioner of Food and Drugs to collect: (1) information concerning the drug RU-486, including samples and specimens, required to be submitted by an applicant for approval of a new drug; and (2) such information regarding use of the drug as an abortifacient or contraceptive and for the treatment of cancer, brain tumors, Cushings syndrome, or other serious or life-threatening diseases.
Requires the Commissioner to: (1) consider such information to be an application submitted by the manufacturer of the drug for its approval for each of such uses; and (2) review such information and issue an order approving or refusing to approve the application with respect to each such use.
Directs the Commissioner to: (1) notify the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) if the Commissioner issues an order refusing to approve the application because of the lack of adequate tests in the investigation of the drug, sufficient information, or substantial evidence; (2) submit to the Director all information relevant to the decision to issue such order; and (3) report to specified congressional committees concerning any such order.
Requires the Director, if the Commissioner issues an order refusing to approve the application, to expeditiously conduct or support research (including clinical trials) on RU-486 in order to conduct tests that were not included in the investigation or to develop information or evidence that was not submitted with the application. Makes any such research subject to provisions of the Public Health Service Act concerning institutional review boards and peer review. Requires the Director to submit the results of the research to the Commissioner who shall consider the results (along with the information collected) to be information submitted by the drug manufacturer, review the drug application, and issue an order approving or refusing to approve it. Sets forth reporting requirements.
Specifies that if the Commissioner issues an order approving an application with respect to such drug for any of such uses, any person who introduces the drug into interstate commerce or delivers the drug for such introduction shall reimburse the Food and Drug Administration and NIH for specified costs. | Antiprogestin Testing Act of 1993 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``All Children are Equal Act'' or the
``ACE Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Section 1125AA of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of
1965 (20 U.S.C. 6336) is amended--
(1) by amending the heading to read as follows:
``SEC. 1125AA. INCREASE GRANTS PER FORMULA STUDENT AS THE PERCENTAGE OF
ECONOMICALLY DISADVANTAGED CHILDREN IN A LOCAL
EDUCATIONAL AGENCY INCREASES.'';
and
(2) by amending subsection (a) to read as follows:
``(a) Findings.--Congress makes the following findings:
``(1) The current Basic Grant Formula for the distribution
of funds under this part does not adequately target funds for
schools with the highest concentrations of economically
disadvantaged students.
``(2) The poverty of a child's family is much more likely
to be associated with educational disadvantage if the family
lives in an area with high proportions of poor families.
``(3) The current formulas for distributing Targeted and
Education Finance Incentive Grants is intended to allocate more
funds per formula student to local educational agencies with
higher concentrations of such students.
``(4) These formula use two weighting systems, one based on
the percentage of the aged 5-17 population in a local education
agency that is eligible to receive funds under this title
(percentage weighting), and another based on the absolute
number of such students (number weighting). Whichever of these
weighting systems results in the highest total weighted formula
student count for a local educational agency is the weighting
system used for that agency in the final allocation of Targeted
and Education Finance Incentive Grant funds.
``(5) Since the amount available to be distributed through
these formulas is fixed by congressional appropriation, any
gain in allocation share by one local educational agency causes
a loss to other local educational agencies.
``(6) The number weighting alternative is often favorable
to very large local educational agencies, even if the agency's
formula student percentage is low. But because smaller local
educational agencies simply do not have enough students to gain
from number weighting, they are rarely better off under the
number weighting alternative.
``(7) The Congressional Research Service has compared the
funding allocations of each local educational agency for school
year 2008-2009 under the current dual weighting system with the
funding allocation it would have that year if all local
educational agencies had their student count weighted only by
percentage weighting.
``(8) This data shows that the use of number weighting in
these formulas has shifted funding from smaller to larger local
educational agencies notwithstanding the level of poverty in
either. This is contrary to the intent of Congress, which is to
direct more funding per formula student to local educational
agencies with high concentrations of poverty, as measured by
the number of formula students as a percentage of the aged 5-17
population of the local educational agency.
``(9) As a result of this unintended consequence of the
number weighting system, 338 of the 340 local educational
agencies that have over 38.25 percent formula students gain
nothing from number weighting under the Targeted Grant program,
281 of them actually lose funding because of number weighting,
and 83 of those 340 highest poverty local educational agencies
would actually be better off if Targeted Grant funds were
allocated using the Basic Grant formula with no weighting
system at all.
``(10) Congress has a responsibility to correct this
unintended inequity by reducing the power of the number
weighting system relative to the percentage weighting system so
that local educational agencies with high percentages of
poverty but low numbers of students are not disadvantaged under
the formulas used for grants under this part.''.
SEC. 3. TARGETED GRANTS TO LOCAL EDUCATIONAL AGENCIES.
Section 1125(c)(2) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of
1965 (20 U.S.C. 6335(c)(2)) is amended--
(1) in subparagraph (C), by striking ``The amount'' and
inserting ``Except as otherwise provided in subparagraph (D),
the amount'';
(2) by redesignating subparagraph (D) as subparagraph (E);
and
(3) by inserting after subparagraph (C) the following:
``(D) Fiscal years 2012 through 2015.--
Notwithstanding subparagraph (C) or any other provision
of this paragraph--
``(i) for fiscal year 2012, subparagraph
(C) shall be applied--
``(I) in clause (ii), by
substituting `1.35' for `1.5';
``(II) in clause (iii), by
substituting `1.8' for `2.0';
``(III) in clause (iv), by
substituting `2.25' for `2.5'; and
``(IV) in clause (v), by
substituting `2.7' for `3.0';
``(ii) for fiscal year 2013, subparagraph
(C) shall be applied--
``(I) in clause (ii), by
substituting `1.2' for `1.5';
``(II) in clause (iii), by
substituting `1.6' for `2.0';
``(III) in clause (iv), by
substituting `2.0' for `2.5'; and
``(IV) in clause (v), by
substituting `2.4' for `3.0';
``(iii) for fiscal year 2014, subparagraph
(C) shall be applied--
``(I) in clause (ii), by
substituting `1.05' for `1.5';
``(II) in clause (iii), by
substituting `1.4' for `2.0';
``(III) in clause (iv), by
substituting `1.75' for `2.5'; and
``(IV) in clause (v), by
substituting `2.1' for `3.0' ; and
``(iv) for fiscal year 2015, subparagraph
(C) shall be applied--
``(I) in clause (i), by
substituting `2,262' for `691';
``(II) by striking clause (ii);
``(III) in clause (iii), by
substituting `1.2' for `2.0';
``(IV) in clause (iv), by
substituting `1.5' for `2.5'; and
``(V) in clause (v), by
substituting `1.8' for `3.0'.''.
SEC. 4. EDUCATION FINANCE INCENTIVE GRANT PROGRAM.
(a) States With an Equity Factor Less Than 0.10.--Section
1125A(d)(1)(B) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965
(20 U.S.C. 6337(d)(1)(B)) is amended--
(1) in clause (iii), by striking ``The amount'' and
inserting ``Except as otherwise provided in clause (iv), the
amount''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(iv) Fiscal years 2012 through 2015.--
Notwithstanding clause (iii) or any other
provision of this subparagraph--
``(I) for fiscal year 2012, clause
(iii) shall be applied--
``(aa) in subclause (II),
by substituting `1.35' for
`1.5';
``(bb) in subclause (III),
by substituting `1.8' for
`2.0';
``(cc) in subclause (IV),
by substituting `2.25' for
`2.5'; and
``(dd) in subclause (V), by
substituting `2.7' for `3.0';
``(II) for fiscal year 2013, clause
(iii) shall be applied--
``(aa) in subclause (II),
by substituting `1.2' for
`1.5';
``(bb) in subclause (III),
by substituting `1.6' for
`2.0';
``(cc) in subclause (IV),
by substituting `2.0' for
`2.5'; and
``(dd) in subclause (V), by
substituting `2.4' for `3.0';
``(III) for fiscal year 2014,
clause (iii) shall be applied--
``(aa) in subclause (II),
by substituting `1.05' for
`1.5';
``(bb) in subclause (III),
by substituting `1.4' for
`2.0';
``(cc) in subclause (IV),
by substituting `2.75' for
`2.5'; and
``(dd) in subclause (V), by
substituting `2.1' for `3.0';
and
``(IV) for fiscal year 2015, clause
(iii) shall be applied--
``(aa) in subclause (II),
by substituting `1.0' for
`1.5';
``(bb) in subclause (III),
by substituting `1.2' for
`2.0';
``(cc) in subclause (IV),
by substituting `1.5' for
`2.5'; and
``(dd) in subclause (V), by
substituting `1.8' for
`3.0'.''.
(b) States With an Equity Factor Greater Than or Equal to 0.10 and
Less Than 0.20.--Section 1125A(d)(2)(B) of the Elementary and Secondary
Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 6337(d)(2)(B)) is amended--
(1) in clause (iii), by striking ``The amount'' and
inserting ``Except as otherwise provided in clause (iv), the
amount''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(iv) Fiscal years 2012 through 2015.--
Notwithstanding clause (iii) or any other
provision of this subparagraph--
``(I) for fiscal year 2012, clause
(iii) shall be applied--
``(aa) in subclause (II),
by substituting `1.35' for
`1.5';
``(bb) in subclause (III),
by substituting `2.025' for
`2.25';
``(cc) in subclause (IV),
by substituting `3.038' for
`3.375'; and
``(dd) in subclause (V), by
substituting `4.05' for `4.5';
``(II) for fiscal year 2013, clause
(iii) shall be applied--
``(aa) in subclause (II),
by substituting `1.2' for
`1.5';
``(bb) in subclause (III),
by substituting `1.8' for
`2.25';
``(cc) in subclause (IV),
by substituting `2.7' for
`3.375'; and
``(dd) in subclause (V), by
substituting `3.6' for `4.5';
``(III) for fiscal year 2014,
clause (iii) shall be applied--
``(aa) in subclause (II),
by substituting `1.05' for
`1.5';
``(bb) in subclause (III),
by substituting `1.575' for
`2.25';
``(cc) in subclause (IV),
by substituting `2.363' for
`3.375'; and
``(dd) in subclause (V), by
substituting `3.15' for `4.5';
and
``(IV) for fiscal year 2015, clause
(iii) shall be applied--
``(aa) in subclause (II),
by substituting `1.0' for
`1.5';
``(bb) in subclause (III),
by substituting `1.58' for
`2.25';
``(cc) in subclause (IV),
by substituting `2.36' for
`3.375'; and
``(dd) in subclause (V), by
substituting `3.15' for
`4.5'.''.
(c) States With an Equity Factor Greater Than or Equal to 0.20.--
Section 1125A(d)(3)(B) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of
1965 (20 U.S.C. 6337(d)(3)(B)) is amended--
(1) in clause (iii), by striking ``The amount'' and
inserting ``Except as otherwise provided in clause (iv), the
amount''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(iv) Fiscal years 2012 through 2015.--
Notwithstanding clause (iii) or any other
provision of this subparagraph--
``(I) for fiscal year 2012, clause
(iii) shall be applied--
``(aa) in subclause (II),
by substituting `1.80' for
`2.0';
``(bb) in subclause (III),
by substituting `2.70' for
`3.0';
``(cc) in subclause (IV),
by substituting `4.05' for
`4.5'; and
``(dd) in subclause (V), by
substituting `5.4' for `6.0';
``(II) for fiscal year 2013, clause
(iii) shall be applied--
``(aa) in subclause (II),
by substituting `1.6' for
`2.0';
``(bb) in subclause (III),
by substituting `2.4' for
`3.0';
``(cc) in subclause (IV),
by substituting `3.6' for
`4.5'; and
``(dd) in subclause (V), by
substituting `4.8' for `6.0';
``(III) for fiscal year 2014,
clause (iii) shall be applied--
``(aa) in subclause (II),
by substituting `1.4' for
`2.0';
``(bb) in subclause (III),
by substituting `2.1' for
`3.0';
``(cc) in subclause (IV),
by substituting `3.15' for
`4.5'; and
``(dd) in subclause (V), by
substituting `4.2' for `6.0';
and
``(IV) for fiscal year 2015, clause
(iii) shall be applied--
``(aa) in subclause (II),
by substituting `1.4' for
`2.0';
``(bb) in subclause (III),
by substituting `2.1' for
`3.0';
``(cc) in subclause (IV),
by substituting `3.15' for
`4.5'; and
``(dd) in subclause (V), by
substituting `4.2' for
`6.0'.''. | All Children are Equal Act or the ACE Act - Amends part A of title I (Improving the Academic Achievement of the Disadvantaged) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to alter the formula for determining the share of targeted grant funds and education finance incentive grant funds a local educational agency (LEA) receives.
Alters the formula so that LEAs that have a high percentage of impoverished students, but a comparatively low number of such students, receive a higher allocation of such funding. | To amend, for certain fiscal years, the weighted child count used to determine targeted grant amounts and education finance incentive grant amounts for local educational agencies under title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965. |
SECTION 1. AGREEMENTS TO CORRECT POLLUTION.
(a) In General.--The Secretary of State, acting through the United
States Commissioner, International Boundary and Water Commission,
United States and Mexico (hereafter in this Act referred to as the
``Commissioner''), is authorized to conclude agreements with the
appropriate representative of the Ministry of Foreign Relations of
Mexico for the purpose of correcting the international problem of
pollution of the areas along the United States-Mexico border caused by
discharge of raw and inadequately treated sewage and other pollution
related problems along the border.
(b) Content of Agreements.--Agreements concluded under subsection
(a) should consist of recommendations to the Governments of the United
States and Mexico of measures to protect the health and welfare of
persons along the United States-Mexico border from the effects of
pollution, including--
(1) facilities that should be constructed, operated, and
maintained in each country;
(2) estimates of the cost of the planning, construction,
operation, and maintenance of the facilities referred to in
paragraph (1);
(3) formulas for the initial division between the United
States and Mexico of the cost of the planning, construction,
operation, and maintenance of the facilities referred to in
paragraph (1);
(4) a method for review and adjustment of the formulas
referred to in paragraph (3) at intervals of five years that
recognizes that such initial formulas should not be used as a
precedent in their subsequent review and adjustment; and
(5) dates for the beginning and completion of construction
of the facilities referred to in paragraph (1).
SEC. 2. AUTHORITY OF SECRETARY OF STATE TO PLAN, CONSTRUCT, OPERATE,
AND MAINTAIN FACILITIES.
The Secretary of State, acting through the Commissioner, is
authorized to act jointly with the appropriate representative of the
Government of Mexico and to supervise--
(1) the planning of, and
(2) the construction, operation, and maintenance of,
the facilities recommended in agreements concluded pursuant to section
2 and approved by the Government of the United States and Mexico.
SEC. 3. CONSULTATION WITH THE ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL
PROTECTION AGENCY AND OTHER AUTHORITIES.
The Secretary of State shall consult with the Administrator of the
Environmental Protection Agency and other concerned Federal, State, and
local government officials in implementing this Act.
SEC. 4. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
There is authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be
necessary for the United States to fund its share of the cost of the
plans, construction, operation, and maintenance of the facilities
recommended in agreements concluded pursuant to section 1 and approved
by the Governments of the United States and Mexico.
SEC. 5. ANNUAL REPORT.
(a) In General.--The Secretary of State, acting through the
Commissioner, shall prepare an annual report regarding the activities
of the International Boundary and Water Commission, including the
implementation of this Act, for each fiscal year as provided in
subsection (b). Such report shall be submitted to the President, the
Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the Majority Leader of the
Senate not later than ninety days after the end of each fiscal year.
(b) Contents.--The report required under subsection (a) shall
include--
(1) a summary of the activities of the Commission during
the fiscal year;
(2) a review of the international problem of pollution of
the areas along the United States-Mexico border caused by
discharge of raw and inadequately treated sewage and other
wastes from populated areas along the border;
(3) a summary of the progress made by the Commissioner
during the fiscal year in concluding any agreement authorized
under section 1(a);
(4) a summary of the recommendations included in any such
agreement under consideration or concluded during the fiscal
year, as provided in section 1(b);
(5) a summary of the progress made toward fulfilling the
recommendations included in any such concluded agreement;
(6) a summary of the actions taken by the Commissioner to
plan, construct, operate, and maintain facilities as authorized
under section 2;
(7) a summary of the consultations made with the
Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency and other
concerned Federal, State, and local government officials as
required under section 3;
(8) any recommendations that the Commissioner determines
will be beneficial in correcting the international problem of
pollution of the areas along the United States-Mexico border
caused by discharge of raw and inadequately treated sewage and
other wastes from populated areas along the border; and
(9) such other information as the Commissioner determines
is necessary or appropriate. | Authorizes the Secretary of State, acting through the U.S. Commissioner of the International Boundary and Water Commission, to conclude agreements with the Ministry of Foreign Relations of Mexico to correct the problem of pollution along the U.S.-Mexican border caused by discharge of raw and inadequately treated sewage and other pollution related problems along the border.
Declares that such agreements should consist of recommendations to the U.S. and Mexican Governments of measures to protect the health and welfare of persons along the border from the effects of pollution.
Authorizes the Secretary, acting through the Commissioner, to act jointly with the appropriate representative of the Mexican Government to supervise the planning, construction, and operation of facilities recommended in agreements.
Authorizes appropriations. | To authorize the Secretary of State, acting through the Commissioner of the International Boundary and Water Commission, to conclude agreements with the appropriate representative of the Government of Mexico to correct pollution along the U.S.-Mexico border. |
SECTION 1. STORAGE OF RAIL CARS.
(a) Amendment.--Chapter 109 of title 49, United States Code, is
amended by adding at the end the following:
``Sec. 10911. Storage of rail cars
``(a) Storage Plan Requirement.--
``(1) In general.--A rail carrier providing transportation
subject to the jurisdiction of the Board under this part shall
submit a storage plan to the Board in accordance with
subsection (b) if the rail carrier--
``(A) has stored any rail cars, including rail cars
that the rail carrier owns or leases, on tracks
described in paragraph (2) for a period of 3 years or
more; and
``(B) continues to store such cars on such tracks
on the date of the enactment of this section.
``(2) Covered tracks.--Tracks referred to in paragraph
(1)(A)--
``(A) pass through an area zoned for commercial or
residential use;
``(B) were designed or previously used for through
transportation of trains; and
``(C) do not include rail yard or storage yard
tracks.
``(b) Plan.--
``(1) Contents.--A storage plan submitted to the Board
under subsection (a)(1) shall contain--
``(A) an explanation of the rail carrier's reasons
for storing rail cars on the tracks specified in the
plan, including an explanation of why a suitable
alternative storage site does not exist;
``(B) a description of the tracks on which the rail
cars are stored or will be stored, including the
proximity of such tracks to a home or school;
``(C) evidence that the rail carrier has worked
with the relevant local community to develop measures
described in subparagraph (D);
``(D) a description of measures to be undertaken--
``(i) to ensure that the rail car storage
will not jeopardize the public safety for the
duration of the period to which the plan
applies; and
``(ii) to mitigate any impacts of the long-
term storage of rail cars on the community
through which the tracks pass; and
``(E) an estimated time line for the final
disposition of the rail cars to be stored on the
specified tracks.
``(2) Approval.--
``(A) In general.--Not later than 6 months after
receiving a storage plan under this section, the Board,
after public notice and an opportunity for public
comment, shall--
``(i) approve the plan; or
``(ii) disapprove the plan if the Board
determines that the storage of rail cars
covered by the plan jeopardizes public safety,
including the safety of children.
``(B) Basis.--Any determination under subparagraph
(A) shall be based on information provided in the
storage plan, by the local community, or through public
comment.
``(c) Authority.--
``(1) General rule.--Except as provided in paragraph (2), a
rail carrier providing transportation subject to the
jurisdiction of the Board under this part may store rail cars
as described in subsection (a) only in accordance with a
storage plan approved by the Board under subsection (b)(2).
``(2) Interim authority.--
``(A) In general.--Except as provided in
subparagraph (B), the Board shall authorize the
temporary storage of rail cars as described in
subsection (a) before a storage plan has been approved
under subsection (b)(2) if the Board determines that a
plan for such storage has been submitted, or is being
prepared for submittal in a timely manner, for approval
under subsection (b).
``(B) Exception.--The Board may not authorize
temporary storage under this paragraph if the Board
determines, on its own initiative or pursuant to
information provided by the local community, that such
storage poses a significant safety hazard, including to
the safety of children.
``(d) Enforcement.--
``(1) Petitions.--The Board shall establish procedures to
enable a local governmental entity to petition the Board to
enforce the provisions of this section.
``(2) Penalties.--Each rail car stored in violation of this
section shall constitute a separate violation for purposes of
section 11901(a).''.
(b) Table of Sections.--The table of sections for chapter 109 of
title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the
following:
``10911. Storage of rail cars.''. | Requires a rail carrier to have a storage plan, meeting specified requirements and approved by the Surface Transportation Board, for any of its rail cars that it stores for three or more years, and continues to store, on tracks (except rail yard or storage yard tracks) that pass through a commercial- or residential-zoned area that were designed or previously used for through transportation of trains. | A bill to prohibit the long-term storage of rail cars on certain railroad tracks unless the Surface Transportation Board has approved the rail carrier's rail car storage plan. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Stop Tuberculosis (TB) Now Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress finds the following:
(1)(A) Tuberculosis is one of the greatest infectious
causes of death of adults worldwide, killing 2,000,000 people
per year--one person every 15 seconds.
(B) Globally, tuberculosis is the leading cause of death of
young women and the leading cause of death of people with HIV/
AIDS.
(2) An estimated 8,000,000 individuals develop active
tuberculosis each year.
(3) Tuberculosis is spreading as a result of inadequate
treatment and it is a disease that knows no national borders.
(4) With over 40 percent of tuberculosis cases in the
United States attributable to foreign-born individuals and with
the increase in international travel, commerce, and migration,
elimination of tuberculosis in the United States depends on
efforts to control the disease in developing countries.
(5) The threat that tuberculosis poses for Americans
derives from the global spread of tuberculosis and the
emergence and spread of strains of multi-drug resistant
tuberculosis (MDR-TB).
(6) Up to 50,000,000 individuals may be infected with
multi-drug resistant tuberculosis.
(7) In the United States, tuberculosis treatment, normally
about $2,000 per patient, skyrockets to as much as $250,000 per
patient to treat multi-drug resistant tuberculosis, and
treatment may not even be successful.
(8) Multi-drug resistant tuberculosis kills more than one-
half of those individuals infected in the United States and
other industrialized nations and without access to treatment it
is a virtual death sentence in the developing world.
(9) There is a highly effective and inexpensive treatment
for tuberculosis. Recommended by the World Health Organization
as the best curative method for tuberculosis, this strategy,
known as directly observed treatment, short course (DOTS),
includes low-cost effective diagnosis, treatment, monitoring,
and recordkeeping, as well as a reliable drug supply. A
centerpiece of DOTS is observing patients to ensure that they
take their medication and complete treatment.
SEC. 3. ASSISTANCE FOR TUBERCULOSIS PREVENTION, TREATMENT, AND CONTROL.
(a) Additional Prevention, Treatment, and Control.--Section
104(c)(7)(A) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C.
2151b(c)(7)(A)) is amended--
(1) in clause (i), by adding at the end before the
semicolon the following: ``, by expanding the use of the
strategy known as directly observed treatment, short course
(DOTS) and strategies to address multi-drug resistant
tuberculosis (MDR-TB) where appropriate at the local level,
particularly in countries with the highest rate of
tuberculosis''; and
(2) in clause (ii)--
(A) by inserting after ``the cure of at least 95
percent of the cases detected'' the following: ``by
focusing efforts on the use of the directly observed
treatment, short course (DOTS) strategy or other
internationally accepted primary tuberculosis control
strategies''; and
(B) by striking ``and the cure'' and inserting
``the cure''.
(b) Funding Requirement.--Section 104(c)(7) of the Foreign
Assistance Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C. 2151b(c)(7)) is amended--
(1) by redesignating subparagraph (B) as subparagraph (C);
and
(2) by inserting after subparagraph (A) the following:
``(B) In carrying out this paragraph, not less than 75 percent of
the amount appropriated pursuant to the authorization of appropriations
under subparagraph (D) shall be used for the diagnosis and treatment of
tuberculosis for at-risk and affected populations utilizing directly
observed treatment, short course (DOTS) strategy or other
internationally accepted primary tuberculosis control strategies
developed in consultation with the World Health Organization (WHO),
including funding for the Global Tuberculosis Drug Facility of WHO's
Stop TB Partnership.''.
(c) Annual Report.--Section 104(c)(7) of the Foreign Assistance Act
of 1961 (22 U.S.C. 2151b(c)(7)) is amended--
(1) by redesignating subparagraph (C) (as redesignated by
this Act) as subparagraph (D); and
(2) by inserting after subparagraph (B) the following:
``(C) In conjunction with the transmission of the annual request
for enactment of authorizations and appropriations for foreign
assistance programs for each fiscal year, the President shall transmit
to Congress a report that contains a summary of all programs, projects,
and activities carried out under this paragraph for the preceding
fiscal year, including a description of the extent to which such
programs, projects, and activities have made progress to achieve the
goals described in subparagraph (A)(ii).''.
(d) Authorization of Appropriations.--Subparagraph (D) of section
104(c)(7) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C.
2151b(c)(7)), as redesignated by this Act, is amended by striking
``$60,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 2001 and 2002'' and
inserting ``$60,000,000 for fiscal year 2001 and $200,000,000 for
fiscal year 2002''. | Stop Tuberculosis (TB) Now Act - Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to declare that a major objective of the U.S. foreign assistance program is to control tuberculosis (TB). States that consequently Congress expects the agency primarily responsible for the administration of TB control health programs to: (1) coordinate with the World Health Organization and other designated health organizations toward the development and implementation of a comprehensive TB control program, by expanding the use of the strategy of directly observed treatment, short course (DOTS) and strategies to address multi-drug resistant TB (MDR-TB) where appropriate at the local level, particularly in countries with the highest TB rate; and (2) set as a goal the cure of at least 95 percent of TB cases detected by focusing efforts on the use of DOTS strategy or other internationally accepted primary TB control strategies in those countries in which the agency has established development programs by December 31, 2010. | A bill to amend the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to provide increased foreign assistance for tuberculosis prevention, treatment, and control. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Clean Coal-Derived Fuels for Energy
Security Act of 2008''.
SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Clean coal-derived fuel.--
(A) In general.--The term ``clean coal-derived
fuel'' means aviation fuel, motor vehicle fuel, home
heating oil, or boiler fuel that is--
(i) substantially derived from the coal
resources of the United States; and
(ii) refined or otherwise processed at a
facility located in the United States that
captures up to 100 percent of the carbon
dioxide emissions that would otherwise be
released at the facility.
(B) Inclusions.--The term ``clean coal-derived
fuel'' may include any other resource that is
extracted, grown, produced, or recovered in the United
States.
(2) Covered fuel.--The term ``covered fuel'' means--
(A) aviation fuel;
(B) motor vehicle fuel;
(C) home heating oil; and
(D) boiler fuel.
(3) Small refinery.--The term ``small refinery'' means a
refinery for which the average aggregate daily crude oil
throughput for a calendar year (as determined by dividing the
aggregate throughput for the calendar year by the number of
days in the calendar year) does not exceed 75,000 barrels.
SEC. 3. CLEAN COAL-DERIVED FUEL PROGRAM.
(a) Program.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 1 year after the date of
enactment of this Act, the President shall promulgate
regulations to ensure that covered fuel sold or introduced into
commerce in the United States (except in noncontiguous States
or territories), on an annual average basis, contains the
applicable volume of clean coal-derived fuel determined in
accordance with paragraph (4).
(2) Provisions of regulations.--Regardless of the date of
promulgation, the regulations promulgated under paragraph (1)--
(A) shall contain compliance provisions applicable
to refineries, blenders, distributors, and importers,
as appropriate, to ensure that--
(i) the requirements of this subsection are
met; and
(ii) clean coal-derived fuels produced from
facilities for the purpose of compliance with
this Act result in life cycle greenhouse gas
emissions that are not greater than gasoline;
and
(B) shall not--
(i) restrict geographic areas in the
contiguous United States in which clean coal-
derived fuel may be used; or
(ii) impose any per-gallon obligation for
the use of clean coal-derived fuel.
(3) Relationship to other regulations.--Regulations
promulgated under this paragraph shall, to the maximum extent
practicable, incorporate the program structure, compliance and
reporting requirements established under the final regulations
promulgated to implement the renewable fuel program established
by the amendment made by section 1501(a)(2) of the Energy
Policy Act of 2005 (Public Law 109-58; 119 Stat. 1067).
(4) Applicable volume.--
(A) Calendar years 2015 through 2022.--For the
purpose of this subsection, the applicable volume for
any of calendar years 2015 through 2022 shall be
determined in accordance with the following table:
Applicable volume of
clean coal-derived fuel
Calendar year: (in billions of gallons):
2015................................................... 0.75
2016................................................... 1.5
2017................................................... 2.25
2018................................................... 3.00
2019................................................... 3.75
2020................................................... 4.5
2021................................................... 5.25
2022................................................... 6.0.
(B) Calendar year 2023 and thereafter.--Subject to
subparagraph (C), for the purposes of this subsection,
the applicable volume for calendar year 2023 and each
calendar year thereafter shall be determined by the
President, in coordination with the Secretary and the
Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency,
based on a review of the implementation of the program
during calendar years 2015 through 2022, including a
review of--
(i) the impact of clean coal-derived fuels
on the energy security of the United States;
(ii) the expected annual rate of future
production of clean coal-derived fuels; and
(iii) the impact of the use of clean coal-
derived fuels on other factors, including job
creation, rural economic development, and the
environment.
(C) Minimum applicable volume.--For the purpose of
this subsection, the applicable volume for calendar
year 2023 and each calendar year thereafter shall be
equal to the product obtained by multiplying--
(i) the number of gallons of covered fuel
that the President estimates will be sold or
introduced into commerce in the calendar year;
and
(ii) the ratio that--
(I) 6,000,000,000 gallons of clean
coal-derived fuel; bears to
(II) the number of gallons of
covered fuel sold or introduced into
commerce in calendar year 2022.
(b) Applicable Percentages.--
(1) Provision of estimate of volumes of certain fuel
sales.--Not later than October 31 of each of calendar years
2015 through 2021, the Administrator of the Energy Information
Administration shall provide to the President an estimate, with
respect to the following calendar year, of the volumes of
covered fuel projected to be sold or introduced into commerce
in the United States.
(2) Determination of applicable percentages.--
(A) In general.--Not later than November 30 of each
of calendar years 2015 through 2022, based on the
estimate provided under paragraph (1), the President
shall determine and publish in the Federal Register,
with respect to the following calendar year, the clean
coal-derived fuel obligation that ensures that the
requirements of subsection (a) are met.
(B) Required elements.--The clean coal-derived fuel
obligation determined for a calendar year under
subparagraph (A) shall--
(i) be applicable to refineries, blenders,
and importers, as appropriate;
(ii) be expressed in terms of a volume
percentage of covered fuel sold or introduced
into commerce in the United States; and
(iii) subject to paragraph (3)(A), consist
of a single applicable percentage that applies
to all categories of persons specified in
clause (i).
(3) Adjustments.--In determining the applicable percentage
for a calendar year, the President shall make adjustments--
(A) to prevent the imposition of redundant
obligations on any person specified in paragraph
(2)(B)(i); and
(B) to account for the use of clean coal-derived
fuel during the previous calendar year by small
refineries that are exempt under subsection (f).
(c) Volume Conversion Factors for Clean Coal-Derived Fuels Based on
Energy Content.--
(1) In general.--For the purpose of subsection (a), the
President shall assign values to specific types of clean coal-
derived fuel for the purpose of satisfying the fuel volume
requirements of subsection (a)(4) in accordance with this
subsection.
(2) Energy content relative to diesel fuel.--For clean
coal-derived fuels, 1 gallon of the clean coal-derived fuel
shall be considered to be the equivalent of 1 gallon of diesel
fuel multiplied by the ratio that--
(A) the number of British thermal units of energy
produced by the combustion of 1 gallon of the clean
coal-derived fuel (as measured under conditions
determined by the Secretary); bears to
(B) the number of British thermal units of energy
produced by the combustion of 1 gallon of diesel fuel
(as measured under conditions determined by the
Secretary to be comparable to conditions described in
subparagraph (A)).
(d) Credit Program.--
(1) In general.--The President, in consultation with the
Secretary and the clean coal-derived fuel requirement of this
section.
(2) Market transparency.--In carrying out the credit
program under this subsection, the President shall facilitate
price transparency in markets for the sale and trade of
credits, with due regard for the public interest, the integrity
of those markets, fair competition, and the protection of
consumers.
(e) Waivers.--
(1) In general.--The President, in consultation with the
Secretary and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection
Agency, may waive the requirements of subsection (a) in whole
or in part on petition by 1 or more States by reducing the
national quantity of clean coal-derived fuel required under
subsection (a), based on a determination by the President
(after public notice and opportunity for comment), that--
(A) implementation of the requirement would
severely harm the economy or environment of a State, a
region, or the United States; or
(B) extreme and unusual circumstances exist that
prevent distribution of an adequate supply of
domestically produced clean coal-derived fuel to
consumers in the United States.
(2) Petitions for waivers.--The President, in consultation
with the Secretary and the Administrator of the Environmental
Protection Agency, shall approve or disapprove a State petition
for a waiver of the requirements of subsection (a) within 90
days after the date on which the petition is received by the
President.
(3) Termination of waivers.--A waiver granted under
paragraph (1) shall terminate after 1 year, but may be renewed
by the President after consultation with the Secretary and the
Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency.
(f) Small Refineries.--
(1) Temporary exemption.--
(A) In general.--The requirements of subsection (a)
shall not apply to small refineries until calendar year
2018.
(B) Extension of exemption.--
(i) Study by secretary.--Not later than
December 31, 2013, the Secretary shall submit
to the President and Congress a report
describing the results of a study to determine
whether compliance with the requirements of
subsection (a) would impose a disproportionate
economic hardship on small refineries.
(ii) Extension of exemption.--In the case
of a small refinery that the Secretary
determines under clause (i) would be subject to
a disproportionate economic hardship if
required to comply with subsection (a), the
President shall extend the exemption under
subparagraph (A) for the small refinery for a
period of not less than 2 additional years.
(2) Petitions based on disproportionate economic
hardship.--
(A) Extension of exemption.--A small refinery may
at any time petition the President for an extension of
the exemption under paragraph (1) for the reason of
disproportionate economic hardship.
(B) Evaluation of petitions.--In evaluating a
petition under subparagraph (A), the President, in
consultation with the Secretary, shall consider the
findings of the study under paragraph (1)(B) and other
economic factors.
(C) Deadline for action on petitions.--The
President shall act on any petition submitted by a
small refinery for a hardship exemption not later than
90 days after the date of receipt of the petition.
(3) Opt-in for small refineries.--A small refinery shall be
subject to the requirements of subsection (a) if the small
refinery notifies the President that the small refinery waives
the exemption under paragraph (1).
(g) Penalties and Enforcement.--
(1) Civil penalties.--
(A) In general.--Any person that violates a
regulation promulgated under subsection (a), or that
fails to furnish any information required under such a
regulation, shall be liable to the United States for a
civil penalty of not more than the total of--
(i) $25,000 for each day of the violation;
and
(ii) the amount of economic benefit or
savings received by the person resulting from
the violation, as determined by the President.
(B) Collection.--Civil penalties under subparagraph
(A) shall be assessed by, and collected in a civil
action brought by, the Secretary or such other officer
of the United States as is designated by the President.
(2) Injunctive authority.--
(A) In general.--The district courts of the United
States shall have jurisdiction to--
(i) restrain a violation of a regulation
promulgated under subsection (a);
(ii) award other appropriate relief; and
(iii) compel the furnishing of information
required under the regulation.
(B) Actions.--An action to restrain such violations
and compel such actions shall be brought by and in the
name of the United States.
(C) Subpoenas.--In the action, a subpoena for a
witness who is required to attend a district court in
any district may apply in any other district.
(h) Effective Date.--Except as otherwise specifically provided in
this section, this section takes effect on January 1, 2016. | Clean Coal-Derived Fuels for Energy Security Act of 2008 - Directs the President to promulgate regulations to ensure that aviation fuel, motor vehicle fuel, home heating oil, and boiler fuel sold or introduced into commerce in the United States, on an annual average basis, contains the applicable volume of clean coal-derived fuel, determined in accordance with this Act.
Exempts small refineries from compliance with such regulations until 2018.
Directs the Secretary of Energy to study and report to the President and Congress on whether compliance with the requirements of this Act would impose a disproportionate economic hardship on small refineries. Requires the President to extend such exemption if it would.
Allows a small refinery to: (1) petition the President for an exemption at any time for the reason of disproportionate economic hardship; and (2) opt-in and be subject to such regulations if it notifies the President that it waives the exemption. | To require the inclusion of coal-derived fuel at certain volumes in aviation fuel, motor vehicle fuel, home heating oil, and boiler fuel. |
SECTION 1. SPECIAL DEPRECIATION ALLOWANCE FOR CERTAIN PROPERTY ACQUIRED
AFTER AUGUST 28, 2005, AND BEFORE DECEMBER 31, 2008.
(a) In General.--Section 168 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986
(relating to accelerated cost recovery system) is amended by adding at
the end the following new subsection:
``(l) Special Allowance for Certain Property Acquired After August
28, 2005, and Before December 31, 2008.--
``(1) Additional allowance.--In the case of any qualified
property--
``(A) the depreciation deduction provided by
section 167(a) for the taxable year in which such
property is placed in service shall include an
allowance equal to 30 percent of the adjusted basis of
the qualified property, and
``(B) the adjusted basis of the qualified property
shall be reduced by the amount of such deduction before
computing the amount otherwise allowable as a
depreciation deduction under this chapter for such
taxable year and any subsequent taxable year.
``(2) Qualified property.--For purposes of this
subsection--
``(A) In general.--The term `qualified property'
means property--
``(i)(I) to which this section applies
which has a recovery period of 20 years or
less,
``(II) which is water utility property, or
``(III) which is computer software (as
defined in section 167(f)(1)(B)) for which a
deduction is allowable under section 167(a)
without regard to this subsection,
``(ii) the original use of which commences
with the taxpayer after August 28, 2005,
``(iii) which is--
``(I) acquired by the taxpayer
after August 28, 2005, and before
December 31, 2008, but only if no
written binding contract for the
acquisition was in effect before August
29, 2005, or
``(II) acquired by the taxpayer
pursuant to a written binding contract
which was entered into after August 28,
2005, and before December 31, 2008, and
``(iv) which is placed in service by the
taxpayer before January 1, 2009, or, in the
case of property described in subparagraph (B),
before January 1, 2010.
``(B) Certain property having longer depreciation
periods treated as qualified property.--
``(i) In general.--The term `qualified
property' includes property--
``(I) which meets the requirements
of clauses (i), (ii), and (iii) of
subparagraph (A),
``(II) which has a recovery period
of at least 10 years or is
transportation property,
``(III) which is subject to section
263A, and
``(IV) meets the requirements of
clause (ii) or (iii) of subsection
(f)(1)(B) (determined as if such
clauses also apply to property which
has a long useful life (within the
meaning of section 263A(f))).
``(ii) Only pre-december 31, 2008, basis
eligible for additional allowance.--In the case
of property which is qualified property solely
by reason of clause (i), paragraph (1) shall
apply only to the extent of the adjusted basis
thereof attributable to manufacture,
construction, or production before December 31,
2008.
``(iii) Transportation property.--For
purposes of this subparagraph, the term
`transportation property' means tangible
personal property used in the trade or business
of transporting persons or property.
``(C) Exceptions.--
``(i) Alternative depreciation property.--
The term `qualified property' shall not include
any property to which the alternative
depreciation system under subsection (g)
applies, determined--
``(I) without regard to paragraph
(7) of subsection (g) (relating to
election to have system apply), and
``(II) after application of section
280F(b) (relating to listed property
with limited business use).
``(ii) Election out.--If a taxpayer makes
an election under this clause with respect to
any class of property for any taxable year,
this subsection shall not apply to all property
in such class placed in service during such
taxable year.
``(iii) Qualified leasehold improvement
property.--The term `qualified property' shall
not include any qualified leasehold improvement
property (as defined in section 168(e)(6)).
``(D) Special rules.--
``(i) Self-constructed property.--In the
case of a taxpayer manufacturing, constructing,
or producing property for the taxpayer's own
use, the requirements of clause (iii) of
subparagraph (A) shall be treated as met if the
taxpayer begins manufacturing, constructing, or
producing the property after August 28, 2005,
and before December 31, 2008.
``(ii) Sale-leasebacks.--For purposes of
subparagraph (A)(ii), if property--
``(I) is originally placed in
service after August 28, 2005, by a
person, and
``(II) sold and leased back by such
person within 3 months after the date
such property was originally placed in
service,
such property shall be treated as originally
placed in service not earlier than the date on
which such property is used under the leaseback
referred to in subclause (II).
``(E) Coordination with section 280f.--For purposes
of section 280F--
``(i) Automobiles.--In the case of a
passenger automobile (as defined in section
280F(d)(5)) which is qualified property, the
Secretary shall increase the limitation under
section 280F(a)(1)(A)(i) by $4,600.
``(ii) Listed property.--The deduction
allowable under paragraph (1) shall be taken
into account in computing any recapture amount
under section 280F(b)(2).
``(F) Deduction allowed in computing minimum tax.--
For purposes of determining alternative minimum taxable
income under section 55, the deduction under subsection
(a) for qualified property shall be determined under
this section without regard to any adjustment under
section 56.''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to property placed in service after August 28, 2005, in taxable
years ending after such date. | Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow an additional depreciation deduction for certain business property, including water utility property and computer software, acquired after August 28, 2005, and before December 31, 2008. | A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide a special depreciation allowance for certain property acquired during the 3-year period beginning August 29, 2005. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Family Farm Energy Relief Act of
2006''.
SEC. 2. REPEAL OF TAX SUBSIDIES ENACTED BY THE ENERGY POLICY ACT OF
2005 FOR OIL AND GAS.
(a) Repeal.--The following provisions, and amendments made by such
provisions, of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 are hereby repealed:
(1) Section 1323 (relating to temporary expensing for
equipment used in refining of liquid fuels).
(2) Section 1324 (relating to pass through to owners of
deduction for capital costs incurred by small refiner
cooperatives in complying with Environmental Protection Agency
sulfur regulations).
(3) Section 1325 (relating to natural gas distribution
lines treated as 15-year property).
(4) Section 1326 (relating to natural gas gathering lines
treated as 7-year property).
(5) Section 1328 (relating to determination of small
refiner exception to oil depletion deduction).
(6) Section 1329 (relating to amortization of geological
and geophysical expenditures).
(b) Administration of Internal Revenue Code of 1986.--The Internal
Revenue Code of 1986 shall be applied and administered as if the
provisions, and amendments, specified in subsection (a) had never been
enacted.
SEC. 3. FARM DIESEL PURCHASES CREDIT.
(a) In General.--Subpart A of part IV of subchapter A of chapter 1
of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to nonrefundable
personal credits) is amended by inserting after section 25D the
following new section:
``SEC. 25E. FARM DIESEL EXPENSES CREDIT.
``(a) Allowance of Credit.--In the case of a qualified farmer,
there shall be allowed as a credit against the tax imposed by this
chapter for the taxable year an amount equal to 10 percent of the farm
diesel expenses paid or incurred by the qualified farmer during the
taxable year.
``(b) Qualified Farmer.--For purposes of this section, with respect
to a taxable year, the term `qualified farmer' means an individual--
``(1) who is actively engaged in farming,
``(2) whose contributions to a farming operation during the
taxable year are at least commensurate with the individual's
claimed share of the profits or losses of the farming
operation, and
``(3) whose gross income from farming for the taxable year
is at least 75 percent of the individual's total gross income
from all sources for the taxable year.
``(c) Farm Diesel Expenses.--For purposes of this section, the term
`farm diesel expenses' means amounts paid or incurred for the purchase
of diesel fuel that is described in section 4082(a) and is intended to
be used for farming purposes.
``(d) Termination.--This section shall not apply with respect to
farm diesel expenses paid or incurred in taxable years beginning after
December 31, 2009.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The table of items for subpart A of part
IV of subchapter A of chapter 1 of such Code is amended by inserting
after the item relating to section 25D the following new item:
``Sec. 25E. Farm diesel expenses credit.''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to farm diesel expenses paid or incurred in taxable years
beginning after the date of the enactment of this Act.
SEC. 4. INCREASE IN SMALL AGRI-BIODIESEL PRODUCER CREDIT FOR QUALIFIED
FARMERS.
(a) In General.--Paragraph (5) of section 40A(b) of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to small agri-biodiesel producer credit)
is amended by adding at the end the following new subparagraph:
``(D) Increase for qualified farmers.--In the case
of an eligible small agri-biodiesel producer who is a
qualified farmer, subparagraph (A) shall be applied by
substituting `20 cents' for `10 cents'.''.
(b) Qualified Farmer.--Subsection (e) of section 40A of such Code
(relating to definitions and special rules for small agri-biodiesel
producer credit) is amended by adding at the end the following new
paragraph:
``(7) Qualified farmer.--With respect to a taxable year,
the term `qualified farmer' means an individual--
``(A) who is actively engaged in farming,
``(B) whose contributions to a farming operation
during the taxable year are at least commensurate with
the individual's claimed share of the profits or losses
of the farming operation, and
``(C) whose gross income from farming for the
taxable year is at least 75 percent of the individual's
total gross income from all sources for the taxable
year.''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments by this section shall apply to
qualified agri-biodiesel production after December 31, 2006, in taxable
years beginning after such date.
SEC. 5. ALLOWANCE OF SMALL BIODIESEL PRODUCER CREDIT FOR QUALIFIED
FARMERS.
(a) In General.--Section 40A of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986
(relating to biodiesel and renewable diesel used as fuel) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a), by striking the period at the end of
paragraph (3) and inserting ``, plus'' and by adding at the end
the following new paragraph:
``(4) in the case of an eligible small biodiesel producer,
the small biodiesel producer credit.'',
(2) in subsection (b), by adding at the end the following
new paragraph:
``(6) Small biodiesel producer credit.--
``(A) In general.--The small biodiesel producer
credit of any eligible small biodiesel producer for any
taxable year is 10 cents for each gallon of qualified
biodiesel production of such producer.
``(B) Qualified biodiesel production.--For purposes
of this paragraph, the term ``qualified biodiesel
production'' means any biodiesel which is produced by
an eligible small biodiesel producer, and which during
the taxable year--
``(i) is sold by such producer to another
person--
``(I) for use by such other person
in the production of a qualified
biodiesel mixture in such other
person's trade or business (other than
casual off-farm production),
``(II) for use by such other person
as a fuel in a trade or business, or
``(III) who sells such biodiesel at
retail to another person and places
such biodiesel in the fuel tank of such
other person, or
``(ii) is used or sold by such producer for
any purpose described in clause (i).
``(C) Limitation.--The qualified biodiesel
production of any producer for any taxable year shall
not exceed 15,000,000 gallons.'', and
(3) by redesignating subsections (f) and (g) as subsections
(g) and (h), respectively, and by inserting after subsection
(e) the following new subsection:
``(f) Definitions and Special Rules for Small Biodiesel Producer
Credit.--For purposes of this section--
``(1) Eligible small biodiesel producer.--
``(A) In general.--The term ``eligible small
biodiesel producer'' means a qualified farmer who, at
all times during the taxable year, has a productive
capacity for biodiesel not in excess of 60,000,000
gallons.
``(B) Qualified farmer.--With respect to a taxable
year, the term `qualified farmer' means an individual--
``(i) who is actively engaged in farming,
``(ii) whose contributions to a farming
operation during the taxable year are at least
commensurate with the individual's claimed
share of the profits or losses of the farming
operation, and
``(iii) whose gross income from farming for
the taxable year is at least 75 percent of the
individual's total gross income from all
sources for the taxable year.
``(2) Special rules.--Rules similar to the rules of
paragraphs (2), (3), (4), (5), and (6) of subsection (e) shall
apply to the small biodiesel producer credit.''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply qualified biodiesel production beginning after December 31, 2006,
in taxable years beginning after such date. | Family Farm Energy Relief Act of 2006 - Repeals provisions of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 relating to: (1) the expensing of equipment used in refining of liquid fuels and accelerated depreciation of natural gas distribution and gathering lines; (2) the pass through of tax deductions for environmental compliance costs; (3) the small refiner exception to limitations on the oil depletion tax deduction; and (4) the two-year amortization of geological and geophysical expenditures.
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow certain farmers actively engaged in farming: (1) a tax credit for 10% of farm diesel fuel expenses through 2009; (2) an increased agri-biodiesel producer tax credit; and (3) a small biodiesel producer tax credit. | To repeal certain tax subsidies enacted by the Energy Policy Act of 2005 for oil and gas, to allow a credit against income tax for farm diesel expenses, and to allow a credit to farmers who produce biodiesel and agri-biodiesel. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Farm Risk Abatement and Mitigation
Election Act of 2012'' or the ``FRAME Act of 2012''.
SEC. 2. FARM RISK MANAGEMENT ACCOUNTS.
(a) In General.--Part VII of subchapter B of chapter 1 of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to additional itemized
deductions for individuals) is amended by redesignating section 224 as
section 225 and by inserting after section 223 the following new
section:
``SEC. 224. FRAME ACCOUNTS.
``(a) Deduction Allowed.--In the case of a qualified farmer, there
shall be allowed as a deduction for the taxable year an amount equal to
the aggregate amount paid in cash during such taxable year by or on
behalf of such individual to a FRAME account of such individual.
``(b) Limitation.--The amount allowable as a deduction under
subsection (a) shall not exceed the least of the following:
``(1) The taxable income of the taxpayer for the taxable
year which is attributable to farming and ranching.
``(2) $50,000.
``(3) $500,000 reduced by the aggregate contributions of
the taxpayer to all FRAME accounts of the taxpayer for all
taxable years.
``(c) Qualified Farmer.--For purposes of this section, the term
`qualified farmer' means, with respect to any taxable year, any
individual who, during such year--
``(1) was actively engaged in the trade or business of
farming or ranching, and
``(2) has in effect an agreement with the Secretary of
Agriculture with respect to each FRAME account of which the
individual is an account beneficiary.
``(d) FRAME Account.--For purposes of this section--
``(1) In general.--The term `FRAME account' means a trust
created or organized in the United States as a FRAME account
exclusively for the purpose of making qualified distributions,
but only if the written governing instrument creating the trust
meets the following requirements:
``(A) No contribution will be accepted unless it is
in cash.
``(B) The trustee is a bank (as defined in section
408(n)) or another person who demonstrates to the
satisfaction of the Secretary that the manner in which
such person will administer the trust will be
consistent with the requirements of this section.
``(C) The assets of the trust will not be
commingled with other property except in a common trust
fund or common investment fund.
``(D) The interest of an individual in the balance
in his account is nonforfeitable.
``(2) Qualified distribution.--The term `qualified
distribution' means any of the following amounts paid from a
FRAME account to the account beneficiary:
``(A) Any distributions in a taxable year during
which the gross income attributable to farm to which
the FRAME account relates is less than 95 percent of
the average gross income attributable to such farm for
the 5 preceding taxable years, but only so much as does
not exceed such difference.
``(B) Any distributions to the extent such
distribution does not exceed amounts necessary to
protect the solvency of the farm to which the FRAME
account relates, as determined by the Secretary.
``(C) Any distributions to the extent such
distributions do not exceed amounts paid or incurred to
procure revenue or crop insurance with respect to the
farm to which the FRAME account relates.
``(3) Account beneficiary.--The term `account beneficiary'
means the individual on whose behalf the FRAME account was
established.
``(4) Accounts per farm limitation.--The Secretary of
Agriculture shall have in effect not more than 4 agreements for
FRAME accounts with respect to any farm. The Secretary of
Agriculture shall by regulation prescribe rules preventing the
avoidance of the preceding limitation through use of multiple
entities, related parties, division of farms, or de minimis
ownership.
``(5) Other rules.--Rules similar to the following rules
shall apply for purposes of this section:
``(A) Section 219(d)(2) (relating to no deduction
for rollovers).
``(B) Section 219(f)(3) (relating to time when
contributions deemed made).
``(C) Section 408(g) (relating to community
property laws).
``(D) Section 408(h) (relating to custodial
accounts).
``(e) Tax Treatment of Accounts.--
``(1) In general.--A FRAME account is exempt from taxation
under this subtitle unless such account has ceased to be a
FRAME account. Notwithstanding the preceding sentence, any such
account is subject to the taxes imposed by section 511
(relating to imposition of tax on unrelated business income of
charitable, etc. organizations).
``(2) Termination of accounts.--If the account beneficiary
ceases to engage in the trade or business of farming or
ranching--
``(A) all FRAME accounts of such individual shall
cease to be such accounts, and
``(B) the balance of all such accounts shall be
treated as--
``(i) distributed to such individual, and
``(ii) not paid in a qualified
distribution.
``(f) Tax Treatment of Distributions.--
``(1) In general.--Any amount paid or distributed out of a
FRAME account (other than a rollover contribution described in
paragraph (4)) shall be included in gross income.
``(2) Additional tax on non-qualified distributions.--
``(A) In general.--The tax imposed by this chapter
on the account beneficiary for any taxable year in
which there is a payment or distribution from a FRAME
account of such beneficiary which is not a qualified
distribution shall be increased by 20 percent of the
amount of such payment or distribution which is not a
qualified distribution.
``(B) Exception for disability or death.--
Subparagraph (A) shall not apply if the payment or
distribution is made after the account beneficiary
becomes disabled within the meaning of section 72(m)(7)
or dies.
``(3) Excess contributions returned before due date of
return.--
``(A) In general.--If any excess contribution is
contributed for a taxable year to a FRAME account of an
individual, paragraph (2) shall not apply to
distributions from the FRAME accounts of such
individual (to the extent such distributions do not
exceed the aggregate excess contributions to all such
accounts of such individual for such year) if--
``(i) such distribution is received by the
individual on or before the last day prescribed
by law (including extensions of time) for
filing such individual's return for such
taxable year, and
``(ii) such distribution is accompanied by
the amount of net income attributable to such
excess contribution.
Any net income described in clause (ii) shall be
included in the gross income of the individual for the
taxable year in which it is received.
``(B) Excess contribution.--For purposes of
subparagraph (A), the term `excess contribution' means
any contribution (other than a rollover contribution)
which is not deductible under this section.
``(4) Rollover contribution.--An amount is described in
this paragraph as a rollover contribution if it meets the
requirements of subparagraphs (A) and (B).
``(A) In general.--For purposes of this section,
any amount paid or distributed from a FRAME account to
the account beneficiary shall be treated as a qualified
distribution to the extent the amount received is paid
into a FRAME account for the benefit of such
beneficiary not later than the 60th day after the day
on which the beneficiary receives the payment or
distribution.
``(B) Limitation.--This paragraph shall not apply
to any amount described in subparagraph (A) received by
an individual from a FRAME account if, at any time
during the 1-year period ending on the day of such
receipt, such individual received any other amount
described in subparagraph (A) from a FRAME account
which was not included in the individual's gross income
because of the application of this paragraph.
``(5) Transfer of account incident to divorce.--The
transfer of an individual's interest in a FRAME account to an
individual's spouse or former spouse under a divorce or
separation instrument described in subparagraph (A) of section
71(b)(2) shall not be considered a taxable transfer made by
such individual notwithstanding any other provision of this
subtitle, and such interest shall, after such transfer, be
treated as a FRAME account with respect to which such spouse is
the account beneficiary.
``(6) Treatment after death of account beneficiary.--
``(A) Treatment in case of individual designated
beneficiary.--If any individual acquires such
beneficiary's interest in a FRAME account by reason of
being the designated beneficiary of such account at the
death of the account beneficiary, such FRAME account
shall be treated as if such individual were the account
beneficiary.
``(B) Other cases.--
``(i) In general.--If, by reason of the
death of the account beneficiary, any person
acquires the account beneficiary's interest in
a FRAME account in a case to which subparagraph
(A) does not apply--
``(I) such account shall cease to
be a FRAME account as of the date of
death, and
``(II) an amount equal to the fair
market value of the assets in such
account on such date shall be included
if such person is not the estate of
such beneficiary, in such person's
gross income for the taxable year which
includes such date, or if such person
is the estate of such beneficiary, in
such beneficiary's gross income for the
last taxable year of such beneficiary.
``(ii) Deduction for estate taxes.--An
appropriate deduction shall be allowed under
section 691(c) to any person (other than the
decedent or the decedent's spouse) with respect
to amounts included in gross income under
clause (i) by such person.
``(g) Reports.--The Secretary may require the trustee of a FRAME
account to make such reports regarding such account to the Secretary
and to the account beneficiary with respect to contributions,
distributions, and such other matters as the Secretary determines
appropriate. The reports required by this subsection shall be filed at
such time and in such manner and furnished to such individuals at such
time and in such manner as may be required by the Secretary.''.
(b) Deduction Allowed Whether or Not Individual Itemizes Other
Deductions.--Subsection (a) of section 62 of such Code is amended by
inserting after paragraph (20) the following new paragraph:
``(21) FRAME accounts.--The deduction allowed by section
224.''.
(c) Tax on Excess Contributions.--Section 4973 of such Code
(relating to tax on excess contributions to certain tax-favored
accounts and annuities) is amended--
(1) by striking ``or'' at the end of subsection (a)(4), by
inserting ``or'' at the end of subsection (a)(5), and by
inserting after subsection (a)(5) the following new paragraph:
``(6) a FRAME account (within the meaning of section
224(d)),'', and
(2) by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(h) Excess Contributions to FRAME Accounts.--For purposes of this
section, in the case of FRAME accounts (within the meaning of section
224(d)), the term `excess contribution' means the sum of--
``(1) the aggregate amount contributed for the taxable year
to the accounts (other than rollover contributions described in
section 224(f)(4)) which is not allowable as a deduction under
section 224 for such year, and
``(2) the amount determined under this subsection for the
preceding taxable year, reduced by the sum of--
``(A) the distributions out of the accounts with
respect to which additional tax was imposed under
section 224(f)(2), and
``(B) the excess (if any) of--
``(i) the maximum amount allowable as a
deduction under section 224(b) for the taxable
year, over
``(ii) the amount contributed to the
accounts for the taxable year.
For purposes of this subsection, any contribution which is
distributed out of the FRAME account in a distribution to which
section 224(f)(3) applies shall be treated as an amount not
contributed.''.
(d) Tax on Prohibited Transactions.--
(1) Section 4975(c) of such Code (relating to tax on
prohibited transactions) is amended by adding at the end the
following new paragraph:
``(7) Special rule for frame accounts.--An individual for
whose benefit a FRAME account (within the meaning of section
224(d)) is established shall be exempt from the tax imposed by
this section with respect to any transaction concerning such
account (which would otherwise be taxable under this section)
if, with respect to such transaction, the account ceases to be
a FRAME account by reason of the application of section
224(e)(2) to such account.''.
(2) Section 4975(e)(1) of such Code is amended by
redesignating subparagraphs (F) and (G) as subparagraphs (G)
and (H), respectively, and by inserting after subparagraph (E)
the following new subparagraph:
``(F) a FRAME account described in section
224(d),''.
(e) Failure To Provide Reports on FRAME Accounts.--Section
6693(a)(2) of such Code (relating to reports) is amended by
redesignating subparagraphs (D) and (E) as subparagraphs (E) and (F),
respectively, and by inserting after subparagraph (C) the following new
subparagraph:
``(D) section 224(g) (relating to FRAME
accounts),''.
(f) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections for part VII of
subchapter B of chapter 1 of such Code is amended by striking the last
item and inserting the following:
``Sec. 224. FRAME accounts.
``Sec. 225. Cross reference.''.
(g) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to taxable years beginning after the date of the enactment of
this Act.
SEC. 3. FRAME CONTRIBUTION CREDIT.
(a) In General.--Subpart D of part IV of subchapter A of chapter 1
of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by adding at the end
the following new section:
``SEC. 45S. FRAME CONTRIBUTION CREDIT.
``(a) General Rule.--For purposes of section 38, in the case of a
qualified farmer (as defined in section 224(c)), the FRAME contribution
credit determined under this section for any taxable year is an amount
equal to the applicable percentage of the taxpayer's contributions to
any FRAME account of the taxpayer.
``(b) Applicable Percentage.--For purposes of subsection (a), the
applicable percentage is--
``(1) in the case of the taxable year during which the
first FRAME account of the taxpayer is established, and the 2nd
and 3rd taxable years thereafter, 10 percent,
``(2) in the case of the 4th through 5th taxable years
thereafter, 5 percent, and
``(3) in the case of the 7th through 9th taxable years
thereafter, 3.5 percent.
``(c) Limitation.--Only contributions for which a deduction is
allowed under section 224 shall be taken into account under this
section.''.
(b) Credit Made Part of General Business Credit.--Subsection (b) of
section 38 of such Code is amended by striking ``plus'' at the end of
paragraph (35), by striking the period at the end of paragraph (36) and
inserting ``, plus'', and by adding at the end the following new
paragraph:
``(37) the FRAME contribution credit determined under
section 45S(a).''.
(c) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections for subpart D of
part IV of subchapter A of chapter 1 of such Code is amended by adding
at the end the following new item:
``Sec. 45S. FRAME contribution credit.''.
(d) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to taxable years beginning after the date of the enactment of
this Act. | Farm Risk Abatement and Mitigation Election Act of 2012 or the FRAME Act of 2012 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) establish tax-exempt farm risk management accounts (FRAME Accounts) and allow taxpayers actively engaged in the business of farming or ranching to use distributions from such accounts to protect the solvency of the farm to which the FRAME Account relates and to procure revenue or crop insurance; (2) allow a deduction from gross income for cash contributions to such accounts; (3) specify minimum levels of contributions to, and maximum levels of distributions from, such accounts; (4) set forth tax rules relating to account distributions, excess contributions, and prohibited transactions; and (5) allow a variable business-related tax credit for contributions made to a FRAME Account in the first nine years after such Account is established. | To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to authorize agricultural producers to establish and contribute to tax-exempt farm risk management accounts. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Drug Free Families Act of 2008''.
SEC. 2. DRUG TESTING PROGRAM FOR APPLICANTS FOR AND RECIPIENTS OF
ASSISTANCE UNDER STATE TANF PROGRAMS.
(a) State Plan Requirement of Drug Testing Program.--Section 402(a)
of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 602(a)) is amended by adding at
the end the following new paragraph:
``(8) Certification that the state will operate an illegal
drug use testing program.--
``(A) In general.--A certification by the chief
executive officer of the State that the State will
operate a program to test all applicants for assistance
under the State program funded under this part, and all
individuals described in subparagraph (B) of section
408(a)(12), for the use of illegal drugs (as defined in
subparagraph (G)(i) of such section), and to deny
assistance under such State program to individuals who
test positive for illegal drug use or who are convicted
of drug-related crimes, as required by such section.
``(B) Authority for continued testing.--The program
described in subparagraph (A) may include a plan to
continue testing individuals receiving assistance under
the State program funded under this part for illegal
drug use at random or set intervals after the initial
testing of such individuals, at the discretion of the
State agency administering such State program.''.
(b) Requirement That Applicants and Individuals Receiving
Assistance Be Tested for Illegal Drug Use.--Section 408(a) of the
Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 608(a)) is amended by adding at the end
the following new paragraph:
``(12) Requirement for drug testing; denial of assistance
for individuals found to have used illegal drugs and
individuals convicted of drug-related offenses.--
``(A) In general.--A State to which a grant is made
under section 403 shall not use any part of the grant
to provide assistance to any individual who has not
been tested for illegal drug use under the program
required under section 402(a)(8).
``(B) Transition rule.--In the case of an
individual who is receiving assistance under the State
program funded under this part on the effective date of
the Drug Free Families Act of 2008, or whose
application for assistance is approved before such date
if such assistance has not begun as of such date, a
State may not provide assistance to such individual
unless such individual is tested for illegal drug use
under the program described in subparagraph (A) after
the 3rd month that begins after such date.
``(C) Denial of assistance for individuals who test
positive for illegal drug use and individuals convicted
of drug-related crimes.--In the case of--
``(i) an individual who tests positive for
illegal drug use under the program described in
subparagraph (A); or
``(ii) an individual who is convicted of a
drug-related crime after the effective date of
the Drug Free Families Act of 2008;
the State shall not provide assistance to the
individual under the State program funded under this
part unless such individual enters and successfully
completes (as determined by the State) a drug
rehabilitation or treatment program and does not test
positive for illegal drug use in the 6-month period
beginning on the date the individual enters such
rehabilitation or treatment program. During such 6-
month period the State may continue to provide
assistance to an individual who has not been convicted
of a felony drug-related crime, unless the individual
tests positive for illegal drug use during such period.
The State may test the individual for illegal drug use
at random or set intervals, at the discretion of the
State, after such period.
``(D) Waiting period after denial of benefits.--In
the case of an individual who is denied assistance
under subparagraph (C) because of failure to satisfy
the requirements of such subparagraph, a State may not
provide assistance to such individual under the State
program funded under this part at any time during the
2-year period beginning on the date the individual is
so denied.
``(E) Permanent denial of assistance after third
drug-related denial.--In the case of an individual who
is denied assistance under subparagraph (C) 3 times, as
a result of 3 separate positive tests for illegal drug
use, 3 separate convictions for drug-related crimes
(not including convictions that are imposed
concurrently in time), or any combination of 3 such
separate tests or convictions, a State may not provide
assistance to such individual under the State program
funded under this part at any time after the 3rd such
test or conviction.
``(F) Limitation on waiver authority.--The
Secretary may not waive the provisions of this
paragraph under section 1115.
``(G) Definitions.--For purposes of this
paragraph--
``(i) Illegal drug.--The term `illegal
drug' means a controlled substance as defined
in section 102 of the Controlled Substances Act
(21 U.S.C. 802)).
``(ii) Drug rehabilitation or treatment
program.--The term `drug rehabilitation or
treatment program' means a program determined
by the State to provide treatment that can lead
to the rehabilitation of drug users, but only
if such program complies with all applicable
Federal, State, and local laws and regulations.
``(iii) Drug-related crime.--The term
`drug-related crime' means any crime involving
the possession, use, or sale of an illegal
drug.''.
(c) Effective Date.--
(1) In general.--Except as provided in paragraph (2), the
amendments made by this section shall take effect on the 1st
day of the 1st calendar quarter that begins on or after the
date that is 1 year after the date of the enactment of this
Act.
(2) Delay permitted if state legislation required.--In the
case of a State plan under section 402(a) of the Social
Security Act which the Secretary of Health and Human Services
determines requires State legislation (other than legislation
appropriating funds) in order for the plan to meet the
additional requirements imposed by the amendments made by this
Act, the State plan shall not be regarded as failing to comply
with the requirements of such section 402(a) solely on the
basis of the failure of the plan to meet such additional
requirements before the 1st day of the 1st calendar quarter
beginning after the close of the 1st regular session of the
State legislature that begins after the date of enactment of
this Act. For purposes of the previous sentence, in the case of
a State that has a 2-year legislative session, each year of
such session shall be deemed to be a separate regular session
of the State legislature. | Drug Free Families Act of 2008 - Amends part A (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)) of title IV of the Social Security Act to require state TANF programs to implement a program to test TANF applicants and recipients for illegal drug use.
Requires state TANF programs to deny assistance to individuals who test positive for illegal drugs and individuals convicted of drug-related crimes. | A bill to amend title IV of the Social Security Act to require States to implement a drug testing program for applicants for and recipients of assistance under the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Separate Enrollment and Line Item
Veto Act of 2006''.
SEC. 2. STRUCTURE OF LEGISLATION.
(a) Appropriations Legislation.--
(1) In general.--The Committee on Appropriations of either
the House or the Senate shall not report an appropriation
measure that fails to contain such level of detail on the
allocation of an item of appropriation proposed by that House
as is set forth in the committee report accompanying such bill.
(2) Point of order.--If an appropriation measure is
reported to the House or Senate that fails to contain the level
of detail on the allocation of an item of appropriation as
required in paragraph (1), it shall not be in order in that
House to consider such measure. If a point of order under this
paragraph is sustained, the measure shall be recommitted to the
Committee on Appropriations of that House.
(b) Authorization Legislation.--
(1) In general.--A committee of either the House or the
Senate shall not report an authorization measure that contains
new direct spending or new targeted tax benefits unless such
measure presents each new direct spending or new targeted tax
benefit as a separate item and the accompanying committee
report for that measure shall contain such level of detail as
is necessary to clearly identify the allocation of new direct
spending or new targeted tax benefits.
(2) Point of order.--If an authorization measure is
reported to the House or Senate that fails to comply with
paragraph (1), it shall not be in order in that House to
consider such measure. If a point of order under this paragraph
is sustained, the measure shall be recommitted to the committee
of jurisdiction of that House.
(c) Conference Reports.--
(1) Appropriations.--A committee of conference to which is
committed an appropriations measure shall not file a conference
report in either House that fails to contain the level of
detail on the allocation of an item of appropriation as is set
forth in the statement of managers accompanying that report.
(2) Authorizations.--A committee of conference to which is
committed an authorization measure shall not file a conference
report in either House unless such measure presents each direct
spending or targeted tax benefit as a separate item and the
statement of managers accompanying that report clearly
identifies each such item.
(3) Point of order.--If a conference report is presented to
the House or Senate that fails to comply with either paragraph
(1) or (2), it shall not be in order in that House to consider
such conference report. If a point of order under this
paragraph is sustained in the House to first consider the
conference report, the measure shall be deemed recommitted to
the committee of conference.
SEC. 3. WAIVERS AND APPEALS.
Any provision of section 2 may be waived or suspended in the House
or Senate only by an affirmative vote of three-fifths of the Members of
that House duly chosen and sworn. An affirmative vote of three-fifths
of the Members duly chosen and sworn shall be required to sustain an
appeal of the ruling of the Chair on a point of order raised under that
section.
SEC. 4. SEPARATE ENROLLMENT.
(a) In General.--
(1) Enrollment.--Notwithstanding any other provision of
law, when any appropriation or authorization measure first
passes both Houses of Congress in the same form, the Secretary
of the Senate (in the case of a measure originating in the
Senate) or the Clerk of the House of Representatives (in the
case of a measure originating in the House of Representatives)
shall disaggregate the items as referenced in section 6(4) and
assign each item a new bill number. After disaggregation each
item shall be treated as a separate bill to be considered as
provided in subsection (b). The remainder of the bill not so
disaggregated shall constitute a separate bill and shall be
considered with the other disaggregated bills pursuant to
subsection (b).
(2) Form.--A bill that is required to be disaggregated into
separate bills pursuant to paragraph (1)--
(A) shall be disaggregated without substantive
revision; and
(B) shall bear the designation of the measure of
which it was an item prior to such disaggregation,
together with such other designation as may be
necessary to distinguish such measure from other
measures disaggregated pursuant to paragraph (1) with
respect to the same measure.
(b) Procedure.--The new bills resulting from the disaggregation
described in subsection (a)(1) shall be immediately placed on the
appropriate calendar in the House of origination, and upon passage,
placed on the appropriate calendar in the other House. They shall be
the next order of business in each House and they shall be considered
and voted on en bloc and shall not be subject to amendment. A motion to
proceed to the bills shall be nondebatable. Debate in the House of
Representatives or the Senate on the bill shall be limited to not more
than 1 hour, which shall be divided equally between the majority leader
and the minority leader. A motion further to limit debate is not
debatable. A motion to recommit the bills is not in order, and it is
not in order to move to reconsider the vote by which the bills are
agreed to or disagreed to.
SEC. 5. VETO OF BILL.
(a) Deficit Reduction.--Amounts of budget authority, new direct
spending, and revenues represented by a new targeted tax benefit
contained in a bill enacted under this Act that is vetoed (with such
veto not overridden by Congress) shall be dedicated only to deficit
reduction and shall not be used as an offset for other spending
increases.
(b) Adjustments to Committee Allocations.--Not later than 5 days
after the date a veto described in subsection (a) is no longer subject
to override, the chairs of the Committees on the Budget of the Senate
and the House of Representatives shall revise levels under section
311(a) of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 and adjust the committee
allocations under section 302(a) of the Congressional Budget Act of
1974 to reflect the rescission, and the appropriate committees shall
report revised allocations pursuant to section 302(b) of the
Congressional Budget Act of 1974, as appropriate.
SEC. 6. DEFINITIONS.
In this title:
(1) Appropriation measure.--The term ``appropriation
measure'' means any general or special appropriation bill or
any bill or joint resolution making supplemental, deficiency,
or continuing appropriations.
(2) Authorization measure.--The term ``authorization
measure'' means any measure other than an appropriations
measure that contains a provision providing direct spending or
targeted tax benefits.
(3) Direct spending.--The term ``direct spending'' shall
have the same meaning given to such term in section 250(c)(8)
of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of
1985.
(4) Item.--The term ``item'' means--
(A) with respect to an appropriations measure--
(i) any numbered section,
(ii) any unnumbered paragraph, or
(iii) any allocation or suballocation of an
appropriation, made in compliance with section
2(a), contained in a numbered section or an
unnumbered paragraph but shall not include a
provision which does not appropriate funds,
direct the President to expend funds for any
specific project, or create an express or
implied obligation to expend funds and--
(I) rescinds or cancels existing
budget authority;
(II) only limits, conditions, or
otherwise restricts the President's
authority to spend otherwise
appropriated funds; or
(III) conditions on an item of
appropriation not involving a positive
allocation of funds by explicitly
prohibiting the use of any funds; and
(B) with respect to an authorization measure--
(i) any numbered section, or
(ii) any unnumbered paragraph, that
contains new direct spending or a new targeted
tax benefit presented and identified in
conformance with section 2(b).
(5) Targeted tax benefit.--The term ``targeted tax
benefit'' means any provision--
(A) estimated by the Joint Committee on Taxation as
losing revenue for any one of the three following
periods--
(i) the first fiscal year covered by the
most recently adopted concurrent resolution on
the budget;
(ii) the period of the 5 fiscal years
covered by the most recently adopted concurrent
resolution on the budget; or
(iii) the period of the 5 fiscal years
following the first 5 years covered by the most
recently adopted concurrent resolution on the
budget; and
(B) having the practical effect of providing more
favorable tax treatment to a particular taxpayer or
limited group of taxpayers when compared with other
similarly situated taxpayers.
SEC. 7. JUDICIAL REVIEW.
(a) Expedited Review.--
(1) Member of congress.--Any Member of Congress may bring
an action, in the United States District Court for the District
of Columbia, for declaratory judgment and injunctive relief on
the ground that a provision of this Act violates the
Constitution.
(2) Intervention by houses.--A copy of any complaint in an
action brought under paragraph (1) shall be promptly delivered
to the Secretary of the Senate and the Clerk of the House of
Representatives, and each House of Congress shall have the
right to intervene in such action.
(3) Panel.--Any action brought under paragraph (1) shall be
heard and determined by a three-judge court in accordance with
section 2284 of title 28, United States Code.
(4) Authority of houses.--Nothing in this section or in any
other law shall infringe upon the right of the House of
Representatives or the Senate to intervene in an action brought
under paragraph (1) without the necessity of adopting a
resolution to authorize such intervention.
(b) Appeal to Supreme Court.--Notwithstanding any other provisions
of law, any order of the United States District Court for the District
of Columbia which is issued pursuant to an action brought under
paragraph (1) of subsection (a) shall be reviewable by appeal directly
to the Supreme Court of the United States. Any such appeal shall be
taken by a notice of appeal filed within 10 days after such order is
entered; and the jurisdictional statement shall be filed within 30 days
after such order is entered. No stay of an order issued pursuant to an
action brought under paragraph (1) of subsection (a) shall be issued by
a single Justice of the Supreme Court.
(c) Expedited Consideration.--It shall be the duty of the District
Court for the District of Columbia and the Supreme Court of the United
States to advance on the docket and to expedite to the greatest
possible extent the disposition of any matter brought under subsection
(a).
(d) Severability.--If any provision of this Act, or the application
of such provision to any person or circumstance is held
unconstitutional, the remainder of this Act and the application of the
provisions of such Act to any person or circumstance shall not be
affected thereby. | Separate Enrollment and Line Item Veto Act of 2006 - Prohibits the congressional appropriations committees from reporting any appropriations measure that fails to contain the same level of detail on the allocation of a proposed item of appropriations set forth in the accompanying committee report.
Prohibits any congressional committee from reporting an authorization measure that contains new direct spending or a new targeted tax benefit unless it presents each as a separate item, and the accompanying committee report contains a level of detail clearly indentifying its allocation.
Prohibits a conference committee from filing a conference report that fails to contain the level of detail and the separate itemization of each direct spending or targeted tax benefit required by this Act.
Makes it out of order in the House to consider any measure reported or presented in violation of this Act.
Provides for separate enrollment of each item of every appropriation and authorization measure containing new direct spending or new targeted tax benefits passed by Congress in the same form.
Requires amounts of budget authority, new direct spending, and revenues represented by a new targeted tax benefit contained in an Act that is vetoed (and not overridden by Congress) to be dedicated only to deficit reduction, and not to be used as an offset for other spending increases.
Requires adjustments to congressional committee allocations resulting from such a veto.
Provides for expedited judicial review of this Act. | A bill to grant the power to the President to reduce budget authority. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Iran Nuclear Agreement Accountablity
Act''.
SEC. 2. CONGRESSIONAL REVIEW OF NUCLEAR AGREEMENTS WITH IRAN.
(a) Congressional Review of Nuclear Agreements With Respect to
Iran.--
(1) In general.--Beginning on the date of the enactment of
this Act, the President, within three days of the conclusion of
any agreement between the United States, any other party, and
the Islamic Republic of Iran related to Iran's nuclear program,
shall submit such agreement to Congress.
(2) Procedures for review.--
(A) In general.--During the 15-day period beginning
on the date on which the President submits an agreement
under paragraph (1), the Committees on Foreign
Relations of the Senate and the Committee on Foreign
Affairs of the House of Representatives shall review
any such agreement and may hold hearings or briefings,
as appropriate.
(B) Expedited procedures for a joint resolution of
approval or disapproval.--
(i) In general.--During the 15-day period
beginning on the day after the period for
review provided for in subparagraph (A), a
joint resolution of approval or a joint
resolution of disapproval may be introduced in
the House of Representatives by the Speaker,
the minority leader, or their respective
designee, or in the Senate by the majority
leader, the minority leader, or their
respective designee, and may not be amended.
(ii) Referral.--A joint resolution of
approval or a joint resolution of disapproval
introduced under clause (i) in the Senate shall
be referred to the Committee on Foreign
Relations and a joint resolution of approval or
a joint resolution of disapproval introduced
under clause (i) in the House of
Representatives shall be referred to the
Committee on Foreign Affairs.
(iii) Committee discharge and floor
consideration.--The provisions of subsections
(c) through (f) of section 152 of the Trade Act
of 1974 (19 U.S.C. 2192) (relating to committee
discharge and floor consideration of certain
resolutions in the House of Representatives and
the Senate) apply to a joint resolution of
approval or a joint resolution of disapproval
under this subsection to the same extent that
such subsections apply to joint resolutions
under such section 152, except that--
(I) subsection (c)(1) shall be
applied and administered by
substituting ``10 days'' for ``30
days''; and
(II) subsection (f)(1)(A)(i) shall
be applied and administered by
substituting ``Committee on Foreign
Relations'' for ``Committee on
Finance''.
(iv) Rules of the house of representatives
and the senate.--This subsection is enacted by
Congress--
(I) as an exercise of the
rulemaking power of the Senate and the
House of Representatives, respectively,
and as such is deemed a part of the
rules of each House, respectively, but
applicable only with respect to the
procedure to be followed in that House
in the case of a joint resolution, and
it supersedes other rules only to the
extent that it is inconsistent with
such rules; and
(II) with full recognition of the
constitutional right of either House to
change the rules (so far as relating to
the procedure of that House) at any
time, in the same manner and to the
same extent as in the case of any other
rule of that House.
(v) Definitions.--In this subsection--
(I) the term ``joint resolution of
approval'' means only a joint
resolution of the 2 Houses of Congress,
the sole matter after the resolving
clause of which is as follows: ``That
Congress approves of the agreement
between the United States and the
Islamic Republic of Iran submitted by
the President to Congress under section
2(a) of the Iran Nuclear Agreement
Accountablity Act on ____.'', with the
blank space being filled with the
appropriate date; and
(II) the term ``joint resolution of
disapproval'' means only a joint
resolution of the 2 Houses of Congress,
the sole matter after the resolving
clause of which is as follows: ``That
Congress disapproves of the agreement
between the United States and the
Islamic Republic of Iran submitted by
the President to Congress under section
2(a) of the Iran Nuclear Agreement
Accountablity Act on ____.'', with the
blank space being filled with the
appropriate date.
(b) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section or any action
taken pursuant to this section shall be construed as approval of any
sanctions relief in connection with any agreement with respect to
Iran's nuclear program. | Iran Nuclear Agreement Accountability Act - Directs the President, within three days of the conclusion of any agreement between the United States, any other party, and the Islamic Republic of Iran related to Iran's nuclear program, to submit such agreement to Congress. Sets forth expedited procedures for a joint congressional resolution of approval or disapproval of any such agreement. States that nothing in this Act shall be construed as approval of sanctions relief in connection with any agreement regarding Iran's nuclear program. | Iran Nuclear Agreement Accountablity Act |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Systemic Risk Mitigation Act''.
SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Average daily closing price.--
(A) In general.--The term ``average daily closing
price'' means the average daily closing price of a
credit default swap on long-term subordinated debt of a
bank holding company during a 30-day period.
(B) Regulations.--The Board, through regulations,
shall develop a method to determine the daily closing
price of a credit default swap on long-term
subordinated debt of a bank holding company and shall
calculate the average daily closing price accordingly.
(2) Bank holding company.--The term ``bank holding
company'' has the same meaning given such term in section 2 of
the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956 (12 U.S.C. 1841), but
shall only include such companies with total consolidated
assets greater than or equal to $50,000,000,000.
(3) Board.--The term ``Board'' means the Board of Governors
of the Federal Reserve System.
(4) Credit default swap.--The term ``credit default swap''
has the same meaning given the term ``swap agreement'' in
section 206A of the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (15 U.S.C. 78c nt).
(5) Long-term subordinated debt.--The term ``long-term
subordinated debt'' means unsecured bonds or other debt
instruments issued by a bank holding company that--
(A) is subordinated to the claims of depositors or
general creditors; and
(B) has a maturity date not less than 5 years.
(6) Stress test.--
(A) In general.--The term ``stress test'' means an
evaluation designed by the Board to determine whether a
bank holding company--
(i) has the capital, on a total
consolidated basis, necessary to absorb losses
as a result of adverse economic conditions; and
(ii) is sufficiently capitalized to meet
systemically important obligations.
(B) Regulations.--The term ``systemically important
obligation'' shall be defined in regulations prescribed
by the Board.
(7) Tier 1 capital.--The term ``tier 1 capital'' has the
same meaning given in part 225 of title 12, Code of Federal
Regulations, as in effect on the date of enactment of this Act,
or any successor thereto.
SEC. 3. MARKET-BASED TRIGGER TO DETERMINE ADEQUACY OF CAPITAL.
(a) Market-Based Trigger.--
(1) Greater than 50 basis points.--
(A) In general.--In the case that the average daily
closing price exceeds 50 basis points--
(i) the Board shall notify the bank holding
company that it needs to raise additional tier
1 capital in order to reduce such closing price
below 50 basis points;
(ii) not later than 14 days (or less if the
Board makes a determination that conditions
warrant a shorter period of time) after such
notification under clause (i), such company
shall submit to the Board an action plan
detailing how the company intends on
remediating its capital deficiency;
(iii) such company has 30 days to implement
the plan submitted under clause (ii) after such
plan is approved by the Board; and
(iv) if after the end of the 30-day period
described in clause (iii) the average daily
closing price exceeds 50 basis points, the
Board and such company shall repeat clause (i)
through (iii) until such closing price is less
than or equal to 50 basis points.
(B) Appeal.--
(i) In general.--A bank holding company may
appeal the findings of the Board under
subparagraph (A) and request that the Board
conduct a stress test.
(ii) Tolling.--An appeal made pursuant to
clause (i) shall toll any deadline specified
under subparagraph (A) until the conclusion of
the appeals process.
(iii) Capital deficiency.--If the Board
determines, after conducting a stress test
pursuant to clause (i), that the bank holding
company has a capital deficiency, the Board and
the bank holding company shall repeat clause
(i) through (iii) of subparagraph (A) in
accordance with clause (iv) of such
subparagraph.
(2) Greater than 75 basis points.--In the case that the
average daily closing price exceeds 75 basis points--
(A) the Board shall notify the bank holding company
in accordance with clause (i) of paragraph (1)(A);
(B) such company shall submit and implement an
action plan in accordance with clause (ii) and (iii) of
paragraph (1)(A);
(C) the Board may suspend or limit dividends paid
by the bank holding company until such company's
average daily closing price is less than or equal to 50
basis points;
(D) the Board shall notify the company that it will
be placed into receivership in accordance with
paragraph (3) if the average daily closing price
exceeds 100 basis points;
(E) the Board shall conduct a stress test; and
(F) if the Board determines, after conducting a
stress test pursuant to subparagraph (E), that such
company has a capital deficiency, not later than 14
days (or less if the Board makes a determination that
conditions warrant a shorter period of time) after such
stress test is completed, such company shall submit and
implement an action plan in accordance with clause (ii)
and (iii) of paragraph (1)(A).
(3) Greater than 100 basis points.--In the case that the
average daily closing price exceeds 100 basis points, the Board
shall place the company into receivership in accordance with
the orderly liquidation authority provided under title II of
the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act
(12 U.S.C. 5381 et seq.).
(b) Failure To Submit Action Plan.--A failure by a bank holding
company to submit an action plan pursuant to subsection (a) within the
time period required under such subsection shall result in the Board
placing such company into receivership as described in subsection
(a)(3).
(c) Limitation on Claims for Holders of Long-Term Subordinated
Debt.--Any entity that is a holder of long-term subordinated debt of a
bank holding company that has been placed into receivership pursuant to
this section shall receive the lesser of--
(1) 80 percent of the face value of such debt; or
(2) the residual value of such company after all other
claims of other creditors have been satisfied.
(d) Subordinated Debt Requirement.--
(1) In general.--The Board shall require each bank holding
company to issue and maintain long-term subordinated debt in an
amount greater than or equal to 15 percent of the total
consolidated assets of such company.
(2) Deadline.--A bank holding company shall meet the
requirement set forth in paragraph (1) no later than the
effective date of this section.
(3) Failure to meet requirement.--If a bank holding company
fails to meet the requirement set forth in paragraph (1), such
company shall submit a plan to the Board describing the steps
the company will take to meet such requirement.
(e) Effective Date.--This section shall take effect 2 years after
the date of the enactment of this Act.
SEC. 4. REPEAL.
(a) Prohibitions on Proprietary Trading.--Section 13 of the Bank
Holding Company Act of 1956 (12 U.S.C. 1851) is repealed.
(b) Enhanced Prudential Standards.--Section 165 of the Dodd-Frank
Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (12 U.S.C. 5365) is
repealed. | Systemic Risk Mitigation Act - Establishes a framework for a market-based trigger to monitor and regulate the adequacy of bank capital of those bank holding companies whose total consolidated assets are $50 billion or more. Directs the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System to notify a bank holding company whose average daily closing price exceeds either 50 basis points, or 75 basis points, that it must raise additional tier 1 capital in order to reduce such thresholds. Requires the Board to place into receivership a bank holding company whose average daily closing price exceeds 100 basis points, in accordance with the orderly liquidation authority provided under title II of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act. Subjects to receivership a bank holding company that, after notification by the Board, fails to submit an action plan required under this Act. Sets forth a limitation upon claims of holders of the long-term subordinated debt of a bank holding company that has been placed into receivership. Directs the Board to require each bank holding company to issue and maintain long-term subordinated debt of at least 15% of its total consolidated assets. Amends the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956 to repeal prohibitions against proprietary trading and certain relationships with hedge funds and private equity funds. Amends the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act to repeal requirements for enhanced supervision and prudential standards for Board-supervised nonbank financial companies and certain bank holding companies. | Systemic Risk Mitigation Act |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``State and Local Education
Flexibility Act of 2005''.
SEC. 2. AMENDMENTS TO ESEA.
(a) Limited English Proficient Students.--Section 1111(b) of the
Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 6311(b)) is
amended--
(1) in paragraph (2)(C)--
(A) in clause (vi), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(B) in clause (vii), by striking the period at the
end and inserting ``; and'' ; and
(C) by adding at the end the following:
``(viii) at the State's discretion on a
case-by-case basis, may not include the
performance of any limited English proficient
student if--
``(I) the student has not been
enrolled for 3 full school years in an
elementary school or secondary school
in the State; and
``(II) the parents of the student,
and the school administrator or team of
educators designated by the student's
school for making limited English
proficiency placement and assessment
decisions, agree that such an exclusion
is educationally appropriate for the
student.'';
(2) in clause (ii) of paragraph (2)(I), by inserting ``is
subject to paragraph (3)(C)(xvi),'' after ``except that the 95
percent requirement described in this clause'';
(3) in paragraph (3)(C)--
(A) in clause (xiv), by striking ``and'' at the
end;
(B) in clause (xv), by striking the period at the
end and inserting ``; and'' ; and
(C) by adding at the end the following:
``(xvi) notwithstanding clause (ix)(III),
at the State's discretion on a case-by-case
basis, not include any limited English
proficient student if--
``(I) the student is enrolled in
his or her first full school year in an
elementary school or secondary school
in the State; and
``(II) the parents of the student,
and the school administrator or team of
educators designated by the student's
school for making limited English
proficiency placement and assessment
decisions, agree that such an exclusion
is educationally appropriate for the
student.''; and
(4) in paragraph (7), by adding at the end the following:
``Notwithstanding the preceding sentence, a State plan may
provide for the exclusion from such annual assessment of
English proficiency of any limited English proficient student
if (A) the student is enrolled in his or her first full school
year in an elementary or secondary school in the State; and (B)
the parents of the student, and the school administrator or
team of educators designated by the student's school for making
limited English proficiency placement and assessment decisions,
agree that such an exclusion is educationally appropriate for
the student.''
(b) Consideration of Graduation Rates in AYP.--Clause (vi) of
section 1111(b)(2)(C) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of
1965 (20 U.S.C. 6311(b)(2)(C)) is amended by inserting ``, except that,
at the discretion of the State, such graduation rates may include (I)
any student who has exceptional circumstances and graduates from
secondary school with a regular diploma in not more than 5 years, (II)
any qualified child with a disability (as that term is defined in
paragraph (3)(C)(11)) who graduates from secondary school with a
regular diploma before attaining an age established by State law, and
(III) any qualified child with a disability (as that term is defined in
paragraph (3)(C)(11)) who satisfies such alternative challenging
academic content and achievement standards as the State may establish
for the child to complete secondary school in a reasonable period of
time'' after ``in the standard number of years''.
(c) Children With Disabilities.--Subsection (b) of section 1111 of
the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 6311) is
amended--
(1) in subparagraph (B) of paragraph (1), by striking ``The
academic standards'' and inserting ``Subject to paragraph (11),
the academic standards'';
(2) in clause (i) of paragraph (2)(C), by striking
``applies the same high standards'' and inserting ``subject to
paragraph (11), applies the same high standards'';
(3) in clause (i) of paragraph (3)(C), by striking ``be the
same academic assessments'' and inserting ``subject to
paragraph (11), be the same academic assessments''; and
(4) by adding at the end the following:
``(11) Children with disabilities.--
``(A) Relation to iep.--Subject to the requirements
of subparagraphs (B) and (C), with respect to a
qualified child with a disability, a State plan may
provide for modification of the challenging academic
content standards and challenging student academic
achievement standards required by paragraph (1)(A), the
high standards of academic achievement described in
paragraph (2)(C)(i), and the yearly student academic
assessments described in paragraph (3), to align such
standards and assessments with the child's
individualized education program.
``(B) Parental consent.--A State plan may not
provide for modification pursuant to subparagraph (A)
of any standard or assessment unless the parents of the
child involved agree that such modification is
educationally appropriate for the child.
``(C) Progressively higher level of instruction.--
In the case of a qualified child with a disability who
has a significant cognitive impairment, but not a
severe cognitive impairment, any modification pursuant
to subparagraph (A) of any standard or assessment
applicable to the child shall continue to require a
progressively higher level of instruction each year.
``(D) Rule of construction.--This paragraph shall
not be construed to give rise to any new right under
the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, to
expand the definition of a child with a disability
under that Act, or to otherwise affect any provision of
that Act.
``(E) Definitions.--In this paragraph:
``(i) The term `individualized education
program' has the meaning given to that term in
section 602 of the Individuals with
Disabilities Education Act.
``(ii) The term `qualified child with a
disability' means a child who receives services
under the Individuals with Disabilities
Education Act and has been certified by a
licensed health care professional or a
multidisciplinary team (established in
accordance with State guidelines and including
a licensed health care professional) as a child
with severe or significant cognitive impairment
that prevents learning consistent with the
child's age group.''.
(d) Local Development of Assessments.--Paragraph (3) of section
1111(b) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20
U.S.C. 6311(b)(3)) is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(E) Local development of assessments.--
``(i) In general.--Notwithstanding
subparagraphs (A) and (C)(i), a State
educational agency may authorize a local
educational agency, or school, in the State to
develop and implement the student academic
assessments required by this paragraph with
respect to the students served by the local
educational agency or school, respectively.
``(ii) Same assessment.--Subject to
paragraph (11), any assessment developed and
implemented by a local educational agency or
school pursuant to this subparagraph shall be
the same academic assessment used to measure
the achievement of all children served by the
local educational agency or school,
respectively.
``(iii) State responsibility.-- If a State
educational agency chooses to authorize a local
educational agency, or school, in the State to
develop and implement assessments pursuant to
this subparagraph, the State educational agency
shall be responsible for demonstrating in the
State plan that each such assessment complies
with the requirements of this paragraph.''.
(e) Multiple Assessments.--
(1) In general.--Paragraph (3) of section 1111(b) of the
Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C.
6311(b)(3)) (as amended by subsection (d)) is amended by adding
at the end the following:
``(F) Rule of construction.--Notwithstanding
subparagraph (A), this paragraph shall not be construed
to prohibit the development and implementation of the
student academic assessments required by this section
through the use of multiple assessments of high
technical quality integrated into a school's curriculum
and distributed throughout the course of the school
year.''.
(2) Participation requirement.--Clause (ii) of section
1111(b)(2)(I) (20 U.S.C. 6311(b)(2)(I)) (as amended by
subsection (a)(2)) is amended by inserting ``, and shall be a
75 percent annual average requirement in a case in which the
school implements academic assessments for purposes of
paragraph (3) through the use of multiple assessments
integrated into a school's curriculum and distributed
throughout the course of the school year'' before the close
parenthesis at the end.
(f) Highly Qualified Special Education and Rural Teachers.--Clause
(I) of section 9101(23)(B)(ii) of the Elementary and Secondary
Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 7801(23)(B)(ii)) is amended by
inserting ``(except that, at the discretion of the State, a special
education teacher or a teacher in a rural school may satisfy the
requirements of this subclause by passing such a rigorous State
academic subject test in any 1 subject in which the teacher teaches if,
with respect to each other academic subject in which the teacher
teaches, the teacher works in close consultation, either in-person or
through high-quality distance education or consultation, with another
teacher who is highly qualified in such other academic subject)''
before the semicolon.
SEC. 3. STUDY ON THE ADEQUACY OF ESEA FUNDING.
(a) Study.--The Comptroller General of the United States (in this
section referred to as the ``Comptroller General'') shall conduct a
study to determine for each of school years 2001-2002, 2002-2003, and
2003-2004, the following:
(1) The amount of costs incurred by local educational
agencies and schools as a result of efforts to comply with the
provisions of part A of title I of the Elementary and Secondary
Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 6301 et seq.).
(2) The amount of funds received by local educational
agencies and schools under such part A.
(b) Regular Educational Expenses.--In making a determination of
costs under subsection (a)(1), the Comptroller General shall exclude
educational costs that would be incurred by local educational agencies
and schools irrespective of efforts to comply with the provisions of
part A of title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965
(20 U.S.C. 6301 et seq.).
(c) Samples.--The Comptroller General shall make sample
determinations under paragraphs (1) and (2) of subsection (a) for--
(1) at least 1 local educational agency and 1 school in a
rural area in each State; and
(2) at least 1 local educational agency and 1 school in an
urban area in each State.
(d) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment
of this Act, the Comptroller General shall submit a report to the
Congress on the results of the study conducted under this section.
(e) Subsequent Study and Reports.--The Comptroller General shall
conduct additional study under this section and submit a revised report
to the Congress--
(1) not later than 2 years after the date of the enactment
of this Act, containing determinations on the amounts described
in paragraphs (1) and (2) of subsection (a) for school year
2005-2006; and
(2) not later than 3 years after the date of the enactment
of this Act, containing determinations on the amounts described
in paragraphs (1) and (2) of subsection (a) for school year
2006-2007.
SEC. 4. STUDY ON FEASIBILITY OF MEASURING INDIVIDUAL STUDENT ACADEMIC
ACHIEVEMENT.
(a) Study.--The Secretary of Education (in this section referred to
as the ``Secretary'') shall enter into an arrangement with a reputable,
nonpartisan educational research entity to conduct a study--
(1) to assess the feasibility of measuring student academic
achievement on an individual basis over a period of time for
purposes of determining whether a school is making adequate
yearly progress; and
(2) to identify States and local educational agencies that
already have in effect longitudinal data systems that could be
used for such measurements.
(b) Considerations.--In conducting the study under this section,
the Secretary shall consider the following:
(1) Privacy issues, including--
(A) who would have access to information on
individual student academic achievement; and
(B) how such information would be maintained in a
confidential manner.
(2) Ensuring against labeling of students.
(3) Costs.
(c) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment
of this Act, the Secretary shall submit a report to the Congress on the
results of the study conducted under this section. | State and Local Education Flexibility Act of 2005 - Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, as amended by the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001, to revise accountability requirements of title I part A assistance for basic programs operated by local educational agencies (LEAs) to improve the academic achievement of the disadvantaged (ESEA I-A).
Provides for State and local flexibility, under specified conditions, to: (1) exclude from adequate yearly progress and academic assessments the performance of certain limited English proficient students; (2) modify academic content and achievement standards in the individual education plans of students with disabilities; (3) develop assessments locally and use multiple assessments; and (4) have alternative qualification requirements for special education teachers and rural teachers.
Directs the Comptroller General to study the amounts LEAs and schools receive from ESEA I-A, and the costs to them in complying with it. Directs the Secretary of Education to arrange with an educational research entity to assess feasibility of measuring individual academic achievement. | To amend the accountability provisions of part A of title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Small Business Goaling Act of
2012''.
SEC. 2. GOALS FOR PROCUREMENT CONTRACTS AWARDED TO SMALL BUSINESS
CONCERNS.
(a) Heading.--Section 15(g) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C.
644(g)) is amended by striking the subsection enumerator and inserting
the following:
``(g) Goals for Procurement Contracts Awarded to Small Business
Concerns.--''.
(b) Governmentwide Goals.--Paragraph (1) of section 15(g) of the
Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 644(g)) is amended to read as follows:
``(1) Governmentwide goals.--The President shall annually
establish Governmentwide goals for procurement contracts
awarded to small business concerns, small business concerns
owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans, qualified
HUBZone small business concerns, small business concerns owned
and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged
individuals, and small business concerns owned and controlled
by women in accordance with the following:
``(A) The Governmentwide goal for participation by
small business concerns shall be established at not
less than 25 percent of the total value of all prime
contract awards for each fiscal year and 40 percent of
the total value of all subcontract awards for each
fiscal year.
``(B) The Governmentwide goal for participation by
small business concerns owned and controlled by
service-disabled veterans shall be established at not
less than 3 percent of the total value of all prime
contract and at not less than 3 percent of the total
value of all subcontract awards for each fiscal year.
``(C) The Governmentwide goal for participation by
qualified HUBZone small business concerns shall be
established at not less than 3 percent of the total
value of all prime contract and at not less than 3
percent of the total value of all subcontract awards
for each fiscal year.
``(D) The Governmentwide goal for participation by
small business concerns owned and controlled by
socially and economically disadvantaged individuals
shall be established at not less than 5 percent of the
total value of all prime contract and at not less than
5 percent of the total value of all subcontract awards
for each fiscal year.
``(E) The Governmentwide goal for participation by
small business concerns owned and controlled by women
shall be established at not less than 5 percent of the
total value of all prime contract and at not less than
5 percent of the total value of all subcontract awards
for each fiscal year.
``(F) The Administrator shall ensure that the
cumulative annual prime contract goals for all agencies
meet or exceed the annual Government-wide prime
contract goal established by the President pursuant to
this paragraph.''.
(c) Agency Goals.--Paragraph (2) of section 15(g) of the Small
Business Act (15 U.S.C. 644(g)) is amended to read as follows:
``(2) Agency goals.--
``(A) Establishment.--The head of each Federal
agency shall annually establish, for the agency that
individual heads, goals for procurement contracts
awarded to small business concerns, small business
concerns owned and controlled by service-disabled
veterans, qualified HUBZone small business concerns,
small business concerns owned and controlled by
socially and economically disadvantaged individuals,
and small business concerns owned and controlled by
women.
``(B) Relationship to governmentwide goals.--
``(i) Scope.--The goals established by the
head of a Federal agency under subparagraph (A)
shall be in the same format as the goals
established by the President under paragraph
(1) and shall address both prime contract and
subcontract awards.
``(ii) Requirement to meet or exceed
governmentwide goals.--The participation
percentage applicable to each goal for a fiscal
year established under subparagraph (A) for
small business concerns owned and controlled by
service-disabled veterans, qualified HUBZone
small business concerns, small business
concerns owned and controlled by socially and
economically disadvantaged individuals, and
small business concerns owned and controlled by
women may not be less than the participation
percentage applicable to the Governmentwide
goal for such fiscal year established under
paragraph (1) for such category.
``(C) Consultation required.--
``(i) In general.--In establishing goals
under subparagraph (A), the head of each
Federal agency shall consult with the
Administrator.
``(ii) Disagreements.--If the Administrator
and the head of a Federal agency fail to agree
on a goal established under subparagraph (A),
the disagreement shall be submitted to the
Administrator for Federal Procurement Policy
for final determination.
``(D) Plan for achieving goals.--After establishing
goals under subparagraph (A) for a fiscal year, the
head of each Federal agency shall develop a plan for
achieving such goals, which shall apportion
responsibilities among the employees of such agency
having procurement powers.
``(E) Expanded participation.--In establishing
goals under subparagraph (A), the head of each Federal
agency shall make a consistent effort to annually
expand participation by small business concerns from
each industry category in procurement contracts of such
agency, including participation by small business
concerns owned and controlled by service-disabled
veterans, qualified HUBZone small business concerns,
small business concerns owned and controlled by
socially and economically disadvantaged individuals,
and small business concerns owned and controlled by
women.
``(F) Consideration.--The head of each Federal
agency, in attempting to attain expanded participation
under subparagraph (E), shall consider--
``(i) contracts awarded as the result of
unrestricted competition; and
``(ii) contracts awarded after competition
restricted to eligible small business concerns
under this section and under the program
established under section 8(a).
``(G) Communication regarding goals.--
``(i) Importance of achieving goals.--Each
procurement employee or program manager
described in clause (ii) shall communicate to
the subordinates of the procurement employee or
program manager the importance of achieving
goals established under subparagraph (A).
``(ii) Procurement employees or program
managers described.--A procurement employee or
program manager described in this clause is a
senior procurement executive, senior program
manager, or Director of Small and Disadvantaged
Business Utilization of a Federal agency having
contracting authority.''.
(d) Enforcement; Determinations of the Total Value of Contract
Awards.--Section 15(g) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 644(g)), as
amended by this Act, is further amended by adding at the end the
following:
``(3) Enforcement.--If the Administrator does not issue the
report required in paragraph (2) on or before the date that is
120 days after the end of the prior fiscal year, the
Administrator may not carry out or establish any pilot program
until the date on which the Administrator issues the report.
``(4) Determinations of the total value of contract
awards.--For purposes of the goals established under paragraphs
(1) and (2), the total value of contract awards for a fiscal
year may not be determined in a manner that excludes the value
of a contract based on--
``(A) where the contract is awarded;
``(B) where the contract is performed;
``(C) whether the contract is mandated by Federal
law to be performed by an entity other than a small
business concern;
``(D) whether funding for the contract is made
available in an appropriations Act, if the contract is
subject to the Competition in Contracting Act; or
``(E) whether the contract is subject to the
Federal Acquisition Regulation.''.
SEC. 3. REPORTING ON GOALS FOR PROCUREMENT CONTRACTS AWARDED TO SMALL
BUSINESS CONCERNS.
Subsection (h) of section 15 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C.
644) is amended to read as follows:
``(h) Reporting on Goals for Procurement Contracts Awarded to Small
Business Concerns.--
``(1) Agency reports.--At the conclusion of each fiscal
year, the head of each Federal agency shall submit to the
Administrator a report describing--
``(A) the extent of the participation by small
business concerns, small business concerns owned and
controlled by veterans (including service-disabled
veterans), qualified HUBZone small business concerns,
small business concerns owned and controlled by
socially and economically disadvantaged individuals,
and small business concerns owned and controlled by
women in the procurement contracts of such agency
during such fiscal year;
``(B) whether the agency achieved the goals
established for the agency under subsection (g)(2)(A)
with respect to such fiscal year; and
``(C) any justifications for a failure to achieve
such goals.
``(2) Reports by administrator.--Not later than 60 days
after receiving a report from each Federal agency under
paragraph (1) with respect to a fiscal year, the Administrator
shall submit to the President and Congress a report that
includes--
``(A) a copy of each report submitted to the
Administrator under paragraph (1);
``(B) a determination of whether each goal
established by the President under subsection (g)(1)
for such fiscal year was achieved;
``(C) a determination of whether each goal
established by the head of a Federal agency under
subsection (g)(2)(A) for such fiscal year was achieved;
``(D) the reasons for any failure to achieve a goal
established under paragraph (1) or (2)(A) of subsection
(g) for such fiscal year and a description of actions
planned by the applicable agency to address such
failure, except that the Administrator must concur with
each remediation plan;
``(E) for the Federal Government and each Federal
agency, an analysis of the number and dollar amount of
prime contracts awarded during such fiscal year to--
``(i) small business concerns--
``(I) in the aggregate;
``(II) through sole source
contracts;
``(III) through competitions
restricted to small business concerns;
and
``(IV) through unrestricted
competition;
``(ii) small business concerns owned and
controlled by service-disabled veterans--
``(I) in the aggregate;
``(II) through sole source
contracts;
``(III) through competitions
restricted to small business concerns;
``(IV) through competitions
restricted to small business concerns
owned and controlled by service-
disabled veterans; and
``(V) through unrestricted
competition;
``(iii) qualified HUBZone small business
concerns--
``(I) in the aggregate;
``(II) through sole source
contracts;
``(III) through competitions
restricted to small business concerns;
``(IV) through competitions
restricted to qualified HUBZone small
business concerns;
``(V) through unrestricted
competition where a price evaluation
preference was used; and
``(VI) through unrestricted
competition where a price evaluation
preference was not used;
``(iv) small business concerns owned and
controlled by socially and economically
disadvantaged individuals--
``(I) in the aggregate;
``(II) through sole source
contracts;
``(III) through competitions
restricted to small business concerns;
``(IV) through competitions
restricted to small business concerns
owned and controlled by socially and
economically disadvantaged individuals;
and
``(V) through unrestricted
competition;
``(v) small business concerns owned by an
Alaska Native Corporation--
``(I) in the aggregate;
``(II) through sole source
contracts;
``(III) through competitions
restricted to small business concerns;
``(IV) through competitions
restricted to small business concerns
owned and controlled by socially and
economically disadvantaged individuals;
and
``(V) through unrestricted
competition; and
``(vi) small business concerns owned and
controlled by women--
``(I) in the aggregate;
``(II) through competitions
restricted to small business concerns;
``(III) through competitions
restricted using the authority under
section 8(m)(2);
``(IV) through competitions
restricted using the authority under
section 8(m)(2) and in which the waiver
authority under section 8(m)(3) was
used; and
``(V) through unrestricted
competition; and
``(F) for the Federal Government and each Federal
agency, the number, dollar amount, and distribution
with respect to the North American Industry
Classification System of subcontracts awarded during
such fiscal year to small business concerns, small
business concerns owned and controlled by service-
disabled veterans, qualified HUBZone small business
concerns, small business concerns owned and controlled
by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals,
and small business concerns owned and controlled by
women.''.
SEC. 4. SENIOR EXECUTIVES.
(a) Training.--Section 3396(a) of title 5, United States Code, is
amended by adding at the end the following: ``A program established
under this subsection shall include training with respect to Federal
procurement requirements, including contracting requirements under the
Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 631 et seq.).''.
(b) Performance Appraisals.--Section 4313 of title 5, United States
Code, is amended--
(1) in paragraph (4), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(2) in paragraph (5), by striking the period at the end and
inserting ``; and''; and
(3) by adding at the end the following:
``(6) meeting the goals established by the head of the
agency under section 15(g)(2)(A) of the Small Business Act (15
U.S.C. 644(g)(2)(A)).''. | Small Business Goaling Act of 2012 - Amends the Small Business Act to raise from 23% to 25% the governmentwide prime contract award goal for participation by small business concerns and to make the governmentwide subcontract participation award goal 40% for such businesses. Revises percentage goals for awards to small businesses owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans, qualified HUBZone (historically underutilized business zone) small businesses, small businesses owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, and small businesses owned by women (small business categories).
Requires the small business procurement goals established by the head of each federal agency participating in federal procurement contracts to: (1) be in the same format as the goals established by the President, (2) address both prime contract and subcontract awards, and (3) meet or exceed the government-wide goals for each small business category. Requires each agency head to: (1) consult with the Administrator of the Small Business Administration (SBA) in establishing agency goals, and (2) develop a plan for achieving agency goals.
Revises requirements concerning information required to be included in annual reports from: (1) agency heads to the Administrator concerning the extent of small business participation in that agency's procurement contracts; and (2) the Administrator to the President and Congress on whether individual agency goals were achieved, as well as reasons for any failure to achieve such goals. Requires, in the latter reports, information concerning the number and dollar amounts of prime contracts awarded to small businesses owned by an Alaska Native Corporation.
Requires training programs established for the development of federal senior executives to include training with respect to federal procurement requirements, including those under the Small Business Act. Requires senior executive performance appraisals to take into account the individual's success in meeting agency small business federal procurement contracting goals. | A bill to amend the Small Business Act with respect to goals for procurement contracts awarded to small business concerns, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Maximum Economic Growth for America
Through Innovative Finance Act or MEGA Innovate''.
SEC. 2. CREDIT TO HOLDERS OF QUALIFIED HIGHWAY BONDS.
(a) In General.--Part IV of subchapter A of chapter 1 of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to credits against tax) is
amended by adding at the end the following new subpart:
``Subpart H--Nonrefundable Credit for Holders of Qualified Highway
Bonds
``Sec. 54. Credit to holders of qualified
highway bonds.
``SEC. 54. CREDIT TO HOLDERS OF QUALIFIED HIGHWAY BONDS.
``(a) Allowance of Credit.--In the case of a taxpayer who holds a
qualified highway bond on a credit allowance date of such bond which
occurs during the taxable year, there shall be allowed as a credit
against the tax imposed by this chapter for such taxable year an amount
equal to the sum of the credits determined under subsection (b) with
respect to credit allowance dates during such year on which the
taxpayer holds such bond.
``(b) Amount of Credit.--
``(1) In general.--The amount of the credit determined
under this subsection with respect to any credit allowance date
for a qualified highway bond is 25 percent of the annual credit
determined with respect to such bond.
``(2) Annual credit.--The annual credit determined with
respect to any qualified highway bond is the product of--
``(A) the applicable credit rate, multiplied by
``(B) the outstanding face amount of the bond.
``(3) Applicable credit rate.--For purposes of paragraph
(2), the applicable credit rate with respect to an issue is the
rate equal to an average market yield (as of the day before the
date of sale of the issue) on outstanding long-term corporate
debt obligations (determined in such manner as the Secretary
prescribes).
``(4) Credit allowance date.--For purposes of this section,
the term `credit allowance date' means--
``(A) March 15,
``(B) June 15,
``(C) September 15, and
``(D) December 15.
Such term includes the last day on which the bond is
outstanding.
``(5) Special rule for issuance and redemption.--In the
case of a bond which is issued during the 3-month period ending
on a credit allowance date, the amount of the credit determined
under this subsection with respect to such credit allowance
date shall be a ratable portion of the credit otherwise
determined based on the portion of the 3-month period during
which the bond is outstanding. A similar rule shall apply when
the bond is redeemed.
``(c) Limitation Based on Amount of Tax.--
``(1) In general.--The credit allowed under subsection (a)
for any taxable year shall not exceed the excess of--
``(A) the sum of the regular tax liability (as
defined in section 26(b)) plus the tax imposed by
section 55, over
``(B) the sum of the credits allowable under this
part (other than this subpart and subpart C).
``(2) Carryover of unused credit.--If the credit allowable
under subsection (a) exceeds the limitation imposed by
paragraph (1) for such taxable year, such excess shall be
carried to the succeeding taxable year and added to the credit
allowable under subsection (a) for such taxable year.
``(d) Credit Included in Gross Income.--Gross income includes the
amount of the credit allowed to the taxpayer under this section
(determined without regard to subsection (c)) and the amount so
included shall be treated as interest income.
``(e) Qualified Highway Bond.--For purposes of this part, the term
`qualified highway bond' means any bond issued as part of an issue if--
``(1) 95 percent or more of the proceeds from the sale of
such issue are transferred to the Highway Trust Fund for
expenditure under the requirements of such Trust Fund,
``(2) the bond is issued by the Secretary, is in registered
form, and meets the bond limitation requirements under
subsection (f),
``(3) the issuer designates such bond for purposes of this
section,
``(4) the term of each bond which is part of such issue
does not exceed 20 years, and
``(5) the payment of principal with respect to such bond is
the obligation of the United States Government.
``(f) Limitation on Amount of Bonds Designated.--The Secretary
shall issue qualified highway bonds equal to the qualified highway bond
limitation for each calendar year. Such limitation is $3,000,000,000
for 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, and 2008, and $1,000,000,000 for 2009.
``(g) Other Definitions and Special Rules.--For purposes of this
section--
``(1) Bond.--The term `bond' includes any obligation.
``(2) Partnership; s corporation; and other pass-thru
entities.--In the case of a partnership, trust, S corporation,
or other pass-thru entity, rules similar to the rules of
section 41(g) shall apply with respect to the credit allowable
under subsection (a).
``(3) Bonds held by regulated investment companies.--If any
qualified highway bond is held by a regulated investment
company, the credit determined under subsection (a) shall be
allowed to shareholders of such company under procedures
prescribed by the Secretary.''.
(b) Amendments to Other Code Sections.--
(1) Reporting.--Subsection (d) of section 6049 of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to returns regarding
payments of interest) is amended by adding at the end the
following new paragraph:
``(8) Reporting of credit on qualified highway bonds.--
``(A) In general.--For purposes of subsection (a),
the term `interest' includes amounts includible in
gross income under section 54(d) and such amounts shall
be treated as paid on the credit allowance date (as
defined in section 54(b)(4)).
``(B) Reporting to corporations, etc.--Except as
otherwise provided in regulations, in the case of any
interest described in subparagraph (A), subsection
(b)(4) shall be applied without regard to subparagraphs
(A), (H), (I), (J), (K), and (L)(i) of such subsection.
``(C) Regulatory authority.--The Secretary may
prescribe such regulations as are necessary or
appropriate to carry out the purposes of this
paragraph, including regulations which require more
frequent or more detailed reporting.''.
(2) Treatment for estimated tax purposes.--
(A) Individual.--Section 6654 of such Code
(relating to failure by individual to pay estimated
income tax) is amended by redesignating subsection (m)
as subsection (n) and by inserting after subsection (l)
the following new subsection:
``(m) Special Rule for Holders of Qualified Highway Bonds.--For
purposes of this section, the credit allowed by section 54 to a
taxpayer by reason of holding a qualified highway bond on a credit
allowance date shall be treated as if it were a payment of estimated
tax made by the taxpayer on such date.''.
(B) Corporate.--Section 6655 of such Code (relating
to failure by corporation to pay estimated income tax)
is amended by adding at the end of subsection (g) the
following new paragraph:
``(5) Special rule for holders of qualified highway
bonds.--For purposes of this section, the credit allowed by
section 54 to a taxpayer by reason of holding a qualified
highway bond on a credit allowance date shall be treated as if
it were a payment of estimated tax made by the taxpayer on such
date.''.
(3) Transfer of bond proceeds to highway trust fund.--
(A) In general.--Section 9503(b) of such Code
(relating to transfer to Highway Trust Fund of amounts
equivalent to certain taxes) is amended by adding at
the end the following new paragraph:
``(6) Qualified highway bond proceeds.--There are hereby
appropriated to the Highway Trust Fund amounts equivalent to
the proceeds from the issuance of qualified highway bonds under
section 54. Such proceeds shall, for all purposes, be treated
as taxes received in the Treasury.''.
(B) Conforming amendment.--The heading for
subsection (b) of section 9503 of such Code is amended
to read as follows:
``(b) Transfers to Highway Trust Fund.--''.
(c) Clerical Amendment.--The table of subparts for part IV of
subchapter A of chapter 1 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is
amended by adding at the end the following new item:
``Subpart H. Nonrefundable Credit for
Holders of Qualified Highway
Bonds.''.
(d) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to obligations issued after December 31, 2003. | Maximum Economic Growth for America Through Innovative Finance Act or MEGA - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a limited credit to a taxpayer holding a qualified highway bond. Limits the amount of such bonds which may be issued. | A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide a nonrefundable credit for holders of qualified highway bonds. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``National Park Service Legacy Act of
2017''.
SEC. 2. NATIONAL PARK SERVICE LEGACY RESTORATION FUND.
(a) In General.--Chapter 1049 of title 54, United States Code, is
amended by adding at the end the following:
``Sec. 104908. National Park Service Legacy Restoration Fund
``(a) In General.--There is established in the Treasury of the
United States a fund, to be known as the `National Park Service Legacy
Restoration Fund' (referred to in this section as the `Fund').
``(b) Deposits.--At the beginning of each applicable fiscal year,
there shall be deposited in the Fund from mineral revenues due and
payable to the United States that are not otherwise credited, covered,
or deposited under Federal law--
``(1) $50,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2018, 2019, and
2020;
``(2) $150,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2021, 2022, and
2023;
``(3) $250,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2024, 2025, and
2026; and
``(4) $500,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2027 through
2047.
``(c) Availability of Funds.--
``(1) In general.--Except as provided in paragraph (2),
amounts deposited in the Fund shall be available to the Service
for expenditure without further appropriation.
``(2) Unobligated amounts.--Any amounts not obligated by
the date that is 2 years after the date on which the amounts
are first available shall be credited to miscellaneous receipts
of the Treasury.
``(d) Use of Funds.--Amounts in the Fund shall be used for the
high-priority deferred maintenance needs of the Service, as determined
by the Director, as follows:
``(1) Eighty percent of amounts in the Fund shall be
allocated for projects that are not eligible for the funding
described in subparagraph (A) or (B) of paragraph (2) for the
repair and rehabilitation of assets, including--
``(A) historic structures, facilities, and other
historic assets;
``(B) nonhistoric assets that relate directly to
visitor--
``(i) access, including making facilities
accessible to visitors with disabilities;
``(ii) health and safety; and
``(iii) recreation; and
``(C) visitor facilities, water and utility
systems, and employee housing.
``(2) Twenty percent of amounts in the Fund shall be
allocated to road, bridge, tunnel, or other transportation-
related projects that may be eligible for funding made
available to the Service through--
``(A) the transportation program under section 203
of title 23; or
``(B) any similar Federal land highway program
administered by the Secretary of Transportation.
``(e) Prohibited Use of Funds.--No amounts in the Fund shall be
used--
``(1) for land acquisition; or
``(2) to supplant discretionary funding made available for
the annually recurring facility operations and maintenance
needs of the Service.
``(f) Submission of Annual Proposal.--As part of the annual budget
submission of the Service to the Committee on Appropriations of the
House of Representatives and the Committee on Appropriations of the
Senate (referred to in this section as the `Committees'), the Service
shall submit a prioritized list of deferred maintenance projects
proposed to be funded by amounts in the Fund during the fiscal year for
which the budget submission is made.
``(g) Congressional Review.--After review of the list submitted
under subsection (f), the Committees may provide for the allocation of
amounts derived from the Fund.
``(h) Project Approval.--
``(1) In general.--Except as provided in paragraph (2), if,
before the beginning of a fiscal year, the Committees do not
alter the allocation of funds proposed by the Service for that
fiscal year, the list submitted under subsection (f) for that
fiscal year shall be considered approved.
``(2) Continuing resolution.--If, before the beginning of a
fiscal year, there is enacted a continuing resolution or
resolutions for a period of--
``(A) less than or equal to 120 days, the Service
shall not commit funds to any proposed high-priority
deferred maintenance project until the date of
enactment of a law making appropriations for the
Service that is not a continuing resolution; or
``(B) more than 120 days, the list submitted under
subsection (f) for that fiscal year shall be considered
approved, unless otherwise provided in the continuing
resolution or resolutions.
``(i) Public Donations.--To encourage public-private partnerships
that will reduce the overall deferred maintenance costs to the Service,
the Secretary and the Director may accept public cash or in-kind
donations by including on each list submitted to Congress under
subsection (f) after the date of enactment of this section each
project, regardless of the priority ranking of the project, that
costs--
``(1) less than $2,000,000, with at least a 33-percent non-
Federal cost-share component; or
``(2) equal to or more than $2,000,000, with at least a 25-
percent non-Federal cost-share component.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections for chapter 1049 of
title 54, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the
following:
``104908. National Park Service Legacy Restoration Fund.''. | National Park Service Legacy Act of 2017 This bill: (1) establishes the National Park Service Legacy Restoration Fund, and (2) requires specified amounts of federal mineral revenues that are not otherwise credited, covered, or deposited pursuant to federal law to be deposited into such fund each fiscal year through FY2047. Amounts in the fund shall be used for meeting high-priority deferred maintenance needs of the National Park Service (NPS) as follows: 20% shall be allocated to transportation-related projects that may be eligible for funding made available to the NPS through the federal lands transportation program or any similar federal land highway program administered by the Department of Transportation; and 80% shall be allocated for the repair and rehabilitation of assets for certain projects that are not eligible for funding under such programs, including historic assets, nonhistoric assets related to visitor access, health and safety, and recreation, and visitor facilities, water and utility systems, and employee housing. No fund amounts may be used by the NPS to acquire land or to supplant discretionary funding made available for annually recurring facility operations and maintenance needs. As part of its annual budget submission, the NPS shall submit a prioritized list of deferred maintenance projects proposed to be funded by such fund during the fiscal year. | National Park Service Legacy Act of 2017 |
SECTION 1. ALTERNATIVE PENALTY PROCEDURE FOR CHILD SUPPORT DATA
PROCESSING REQUIREMENTS.
(a) In General.--Section 455(a) of the Social Security Act (42
U.S.C. 655(a)) is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(4)(A) If--
``(i) the Secretary determines that a State plan under
section 454 would (in the absence of this paragraph) be
disapproved for the failure of the State to comply with section
454(24)(A), and that the State has made and is continuing to
make a good faith effort to so comply; and
``(ii) the State has submitted to the Secretary a
corrective compliance plan that describes how, by when, and at
what cost the State will achieve such compliance, which has
been approved by the Secretary,
then the Secretary shall not disapprove the State plan under section
454, and the Secretary shall reduce the amount otherwise payable to the
State under paragraph (1)(A) of this subsection for the fiscal year by
the penalty amount.
``(B) In this paragraph:
``(i) The term `penalty amount' means, with respect to a
failure of a State to comply with section 454(24)--
``(I) 4 percent of the penalty base, in the case of
the 1st fiscal year in which such a failure by the
State occurs;
``(II) 8 percent of the penalty base, in the case
of the 2nd such fiscal year;
``(III) 16 percent of the penalty base, in the case
of the 3rd such fiscal year; or
``(IV) 20 percent of the penalty base, in the case
of the 4th or any subsequent such fiscal year.
``(ii) The term `penalty base' means, with respect to a
failure of a State to comply with section 454(24) during a
fiscal year, the amount otherwise payable to the State under
paragraph (1)(A) of this subsection for the preceding fiscal
year, minus the applicable share of such amount which would
otherwise be payable to any county to which the Secretary
granted a waiver under the Family Support Act of 1988 (Public
Law 100-485; 102 Stat. 2343) for 90 percent enhanced Federal
funding to develop an automated data processing and information
retrieval system provided that such system was implemented
prior to October 1, 1997.
``(C)(i) The Secretary shall waive a penalty under this paragraph
for any failure of a State to comply with section 454(24)(A) during
fiscal year 1998 if--
``(I) by December 31, 1997, the State has submitted to the
Secretary a request that the Secretary certify the State as
having met the requirements of such section;
``(II) the Secretary has provided the certification as a
result of a review conducted pursuant to the request; and
``(III) the State has not failed such a review.
``(ii) If a State with respect to which a reduction is made under
this paragraph for a fiscal year achieves compliance with section
454(24)(A) by the beginning of the succeeding fiscal year, the
Secretary shall increase the amount otherwise payable to the State
under paragraph (1)(A) of this subsection for the succeeding fiscal
year by an amount equal to 75 percent of the reduction for the fiscal
year.
``(D) The preceding provisions of this paragraph (except for
subparagraph (C)(i)) shall apply, separately and independently, to a
failure to comply with section 454(24)(B) in the same manner in which
the preceding provisions apply to a failure to comply with section
454(24)(A).''.
(b) Inapplicability of Penalty Under TANF Program.--Section
409(a)(8)(A)(i)(III) of such Act (42 U.S.C. 609(a)(8)(A)(i)(III)) is
amended by inserting ``(other than section 454(24))'' before the
semicolon.
SEC. 2. AUTHORITY TO WAIVE SINGLE STATEWIDE AUTOMATED DATA PROCESSING
AND INFORMATION RETRIEVAL SYSTEM REQUIREMENT.
(a) In General.--Section 452(d)(3) of the Social Security Act (42
U.S.C. 652(d)(3)) is amended to read as follows:
``(3) The Secretary may waive any requirement of paragraph (1) or
any condition specified under section 454(16), and shall waive the
single statewide system requirement under sections 454(16) and 454A,
with respect to a State if--
``(A) the State demonstrates to the satisfaction of the
Secretary that the State has or can develop an alternative
system or systems that enable the State--
``(i) for purposes of section 409(a)(8), to achieve
the paternity establishment percentages (as defined in
section 452(g)(2)) and other performance measures that
may be established by the Secretary;
``(ii) to submit data under section 454(15)(B) that
is complete and reliable;
``(iii) to substantially comply with the
requirements of this part; and
``(iv) in the case of a request to waive the single
statewide system requirement, to--
``(I) meet all functional requirements of
sections 454(16) and 454A;
``(II) ensure that the calculation of
distribution of collected support is according
to the requirements of section 457;
``(III) ensure that there is only 1 point
of contact in the State for all interstate case
processing and coordinated intrastate case
management;
``(IV) ensure that standardized data
elements, forms, and definitions are used
throughout the State; and
``(V) complete the alternative system in no
more time than it would take to complete a
single statewide system that meets such
requirement;
``(B)(i) the waiver meets the criteria of paragraphs (1),
(2), and (3) of section 1115(c); or
``(ii) the State provides assurances to the Secretary that
steps will be taken to otherwise improve the State's child
support enforcement program; and
``(C) in the case of a request to waive the single
statewide system requirement, the State has submitted to the
Secretary separate estimates of the total cost of a single
statewide system that meets such requirement, and of any such
alternative system or systems, which shall include estimates of
the cost of developing and completing the system and of
operating the system for 5 years, and the Secretary has agreed
with the estimates.''.
(b) Payments to States.--Section 455(a)(1) of such Act (42 U.S.C.
655(a)(1)) is amended--
(1) by striking ``and'' at the end of subparagraph (B);
(2) by striking the semicolon at the end of subparagraph
(C) and inserting ``, and''; and
(3) by inserting after subparagraph (C) the following:
``(D) equal to 66 percent of the sums expended by the State
during the quarter for an alternative statewide system for
which a waiver has been granted under section 452(d)(3), but
only to the extent that the total of the sums so expended by
the State on or after the date of the enactment of this
subparagraph does not exceed the least total cost estimate
submitted by the State pursuant to section 452(d)(3)(C) in the
request for the waiver.''. | Amends part D (Child Support and Establishment of Paternity) of title IV of the Social Security Act to prescribe alternative penalty reductions in its Federal payments for a State that would otherwise have its child support data processing system plan disapproved for noncompliance, if it has an approved corrective compliance plan and makes a good faith effort to comply with the requirements for such a system. Instructs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to waive the noncompliance penalty during FY 1998 for any State which meets certain criteria.
Authorizes the Secretary to waive the single statewide automated data processing and information retrieval system requirement if a State demonstrates that it has or can develop an alternative system or systems that meet specified requirements. | A bill to provide for an alternative penalty procedure for States that fail to meet Federal child support data processing requirements. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Family Farm Relief Act of 2013''.
SEC. 2. SECRETARY OF AGRICULTURE TO ADMINISTER H-2A PROGRAM.
(a) In General.--Section 218 of the Immigration and Nationality Act
(8 U.S.C. 1188) is amended by striking the term ``Secretary of Labor''
each place it appears and inserting ``Secretary of Agriculture''.
(b) Effective Date.--The amendment made by subsection (a) shall
take effect on the date that is 1 year after the date of enactment of
this Act.
SEC. 3. ELECTRONIC FILING SYSTEM FOR H-2A PETITIONS.
Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the
Secretary of Agriculture shall establish a process for receiving
petitions for nonimmigrant visas under section 101(a)(15)(H)(ii)(a) of
the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(15)(H)(ii)(a)).
In establishing such process, the Secretary shall ensure--
(1) that petitioners may file such petitions over the
Internet on an Internet Web page of the Secretary;
(2) that any software developed to process such petitions
on such Internet Web page shall indicate to the petitioner any
technical deficiency in the application prior to submission;
and
(3) that each petitioner shall be able to file such
petition in a paper format.
SEC. 4. REPEAL OF 50-PERCENT DOMESTIC WORKFORCE REQUIREMENT.
Subparagraph (B) of section 218(c)(3) of the Immigration and
Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1188(c)(3)) is repealed, and any rule made by
the Secretary of Labor or the Secretary of Homeland Security to carry
out such subparagraph may not continue in effect.
SEC. 5. PREVAILING PRACTICES SURVEY.
In the case of an employer petitioning under section 218 of the
Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1188), the submission of a
prevailing practice survey regarding employment practices shall not be
required.
SEC. 6. ALTERATION OF REGION OF REFERENCE.
Section 218(b)(3) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C.
1188(b)(3)) is amended by striking ``within a multi-state region of
traditional or expected labor supply'' and inserting ``within an area
of 150 square miles in the United States centered around the place of
employment''.
SEC. 7. PROHIBITION AND REPEAL OF CERTAIN RULES.
(a) Rules Regarding Recruitment and Referral Requirement.--The
Secretary of Agriculture may not make any rule for purposes of carrying
out section 218(b)(3) of the Immigration and Nationality Act that--
(1) requires that an employer advertise an offer of
employment--
(A) on a particular date; or
(B) in a particular publication;
(2) requires that an employer contact workers who the
employer employed in the prior year or growing season; or
(3) requires that an employer submit a recruitment report.
(b) Prohibition on Requirement of Certification by Employers.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary of Agriculture or the
Secretary of Homeland Security may not make any rule pertaining
to a petition under section 101(a)(15)(H)(ii)(a) of the
Immigration and Nationality Act, that requires an employer to
provide a certification of--
(A) recruitment advertisements; or
(B) recruitment reports.
(2) Rule of construction.--Nothing in this section shall be
construed as limiting the authority of the Secretary to require
an attestation regarding such matters from any such employer.
(c) Repeal of Existing Rules.--Any rule that is described in
subsection (a) that is currently in effect may not continue in effect
beginning on the date that is 60 days after the date of enactment of
this Act.
SEC. 8. INCLUSION OF CERTAIN YEAR-ROUND LIVESTOCK WORKERS.
(a) In General.--Section 101(a)(15)(H)(ii)(a) of the Immigration
and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(15)(H)(ii)(a)) is amended by
inserting ``, labor as a year-round livestock worker (including as a
dairy worker)'' before ``, and the pressing of apples for cider''.
(b) Length of Stay for Year-Round Livestock Workers.--Section 218
of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1188), as amended by
this Act, is further amended by adding at the end the following:
``(j) Special Rule for Year-Round Livestock Workers.--
Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, an H-2A worker who
is admitted for purposes of performing labor as a year-round livestock
worker (including as a dairy worker) may be admitted for a period of
not more than 12 months. At the end of that period, the Secretary of
Homeland Security may not approve a petition to import that alien as an
H-2A worker for a period of 3 months. Such a petition may be filed
pertaining to that alien any number of times. Such petition may not be
filed by any person who, at the time of filing, is an alien who is
unlawfully present in the United States.''.
SEC. 9. REPLACEMENT OF WORKERS AND EXPEDITED ADMINISTRATIVE APPEALS.
Section 218 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1188),
as amended by this Act, is further amended by adding at the end the
following:
``(k) Replacement of Workers.--On receiving notice that an H-2A
worker recruited or hired by an employer has prematurely abandoned
employment or has failed to appear for employment, the Secretary of
State shall promptly issue a visa under section 101(a)(15)(H)(ii)(a) to
an eligible alien designated by the employer to replace that worker and
the Secretary of Homeland Security shall expeditiously admit such alien
into the United States.''.
SEC. 10. AGRICULTURAL ASSOCIATIONS AND POOLING OF WORKERS.
Section 218(d) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C.
1188(d)) is amended to read as follows:
``(d) Role of Agricultural Associations.--
``(1) Filing by agricultural association permitted.--An
application to hire an H-2A worker may be filed by an
association of agricultural employers which use agricultural
labor.
``(2) Treatment of associations acting as employers.--If an
association is a joint or sole employer of H-2A workers, such
H-2A workers may be transferred among its members to perform
agricultural labor of the same nature for which the application
was approved.
``(3) Treatment of violations.--
``(A) Individual members.--If an individual member
of a joint employer association violates any condition
for approval with respect to the member's application,
the Secretary of Agriculture shall deny such
application only with respect to that member of the
association unless the Secretary determines that the
association or other member participated in, had
knowledge of, or had reason to know of the violation.
``(B) Association of agricultural employers.--
``(i) Joint employer.--If an association
representing agricultural employers as a joint
employer violates any condition for approval
with respect to the association's application,
the Secretary of Agriculture shall deny such
application only with respect to the
association and may not apply the denial to any
individual member of the association, unless
the Secretary determines that the member
participated in, had knowledge of, or had
reason to know of the violation.
``(ii) Sole employer.--If an association of
agricultural employers approved as a sole
employer violates any condition for approval
with respect to the association's application,
no individual member of the association may be
the beneficiary of the services of H-2A workers
admitted under this section in the occupation
in which such H-2A workers were employed by the
association which was denied approval during
the period such denial is in force.''.
SEC. 11. AGENCY REPORT REQUIRED WHEN DELAYS OCCUR.
Section 218(c) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C (c))
is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(5) Agency report required when delays occur.--A report
shall be submitted to the Committee on Agriculture of the
Senate and the Committee on Agriculture of the House of
Representatives for any month in which the average reponse time
under paragraph (2) to a filing is greater than 7 days. The
report shall be submitted not later than the last day of the
month that immediately follows the month in which such average
response time limit was exceeded.''.
SEC. 12. GAO REPORT.
Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the
Comptroller General shall submit to Congress a report on a study--
(1) evaluating the effects of introducing biometric
identification cards to H-2A workers;
(2) whether the usage of such identification cards would
promote efforts to efficiently enforce the immigration laws and
streamline the visa application and admission process for H-2A
workers; and
(3) examining any delay in the processing of applications
and petitions under the H-2A program and in the administration
of the program. | Family Farm Relief Act of 2013 - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture (USDA) to establish a process for receiving H-2A nonimmigrant visas (temporary agricultural workers) which shall ensure that that petitioners may file such petitions over the Internet or in paper form. (Transfers administration of the H-2A program from the Department of Labor to USDA.) Includes year-round livestock workers, including dairy workers, in the H-2A category with a maximum 12-month period of admissions which may be renewed three months after the end of each such period. Revises H-2A certification provisions. | Family Farm Relief Act of 2013 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Sentencing Fairness and Equity
Restoration Act of 2006''.
SEC. 2. REAFFIRMATION OF INTENT OF CONGRESS IN THE SENTENCING REFORM
ACT OF 1984.
(a) Statutory Maximum.--Section 3553(b) of title 18, United States
Code, is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1)--
(A) by striking the first sentence and inserting
``Except as provided in paragraph (2), the court shall
impose a sentence of a kind, and no less than the
minimum of the range, referred to in subsection (a)(4)
unless the court finds that there exists a mitigating
circumstance of a kind, or to a degree, not adequately
taken into consideration by the Sentencing Commission
in formulating the guidelines that should result in a
sentence different from that described.'';
(B) in the second sentence, by inserting
``mitigating'' before ``circumstance''; and
(C) by inserting after the second sentence the
following: ``The court may impose a sentence above the
minimum of the range, up to the maximum sentence
provided in the statute establishing the offense.''
(2) in paragraph (2)(A)--
(A) by striking ``the court shall impose a sentence
of the kind, and within the range'' and insert ``the
court shall impose a sentence of a kind, and no less
than the minimum of the range'';
(B) by striking clause (i) and redesignating
clauses (ii) through (iii) as clauses (i) through (ii)
respectively;
(C) by striking ``In determining whether a
circumstance'' and inserting ``In determining whether a
mitigating circumstance''; and
(D) by inserting after the sentence amended by
clause (C) of this paragraph the following ``The court
may impose a sentence above the minimum of the range,
up to the maximum sentence provided in the statute
establishing the offense.''.
(b) Conforming Changes.--Section 3553(c) of title 18, United States
Code, is amended to read as follows:
``(c) Statement of Reasons for Imposing a Sentence.--The court, at
the time of sentencing, shall state in open court the reasons for its
imposition of the particular sentence. If the court relies on
statements received in camera, in accordance with the Federal Rules of
Criminal Procedure, the court shall state that such statements were so
received and that it relied on the content of those statements. If the
court does not order restitution, or orders only partial restitution,
the court shall include in its statement the reasons therefor. The
court shall provide a transcription or other appropriate public record
of the statement of reasons, together with the order of judgment and
commitment, to the Sentencing Commission and if the sentence includes a
term of imprisonment, to the Bureau of Prisons.''.
(c) Standards for Review of Sentence.--Section 3742(e) of title 18,
United States Code, is amended by striking the last sentence and
inserting ``The court of appeals shall review de novo any sentence
imposed below the minimum of the range in the applicable sentencing
guidelines. In any other case, the court of appeals shall determine
whether the sentence was unreasonable.''
SEC. 3. UNIFORM NATIONAL STANDARDS FOR DOWNWARD DEPARTURES FOR
SUBSTANTIAL ASSISTANCE.
(a) Substantial Assistance Policy.--Not later than 180 days after
the date of the enactment of this Act, the Attorney General shall
create and implement a new policy governing the filing of motions for a
departure sentence reductions under Section 3553(e) of title 18, United
States Code, Section 5K1.1 of the United States Sentencing Commission
Guidelines Manual, and Rule 35(b) of the Federal Rules of Criminal
Procedure. The policy shall include uniform guidance for--
(1) the definition of substantial assistance in the
investigation of another person;
(2) the process by which determinations regarding
substantial assistance is made; and
(3) the criteria that govern the determination of the
extent of the reduction sought by the Government.
(b) Report to Congress.--Not later than 180 days after the date of
the enactment of this Act, the Attorney General shall report to
Congress the policy created pursuant to subsection (a).
SEC. 4. ASSURING JUDICIAL ADMINISTRATIVE RESPONSIBILITIES ARE PERFORMED
BY THE JUDICIAL BRANCH.
Section 994(w)(1) of title 28, United States Code, is amended--
(1) by inserting ``(other than a case involving a sentence
imposed for a petty offense, as defined in section 19 of title
18, for which there is no applicable sentencing guideline)''
after ``every criminal case''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following: ``The duties and
responsibilities set forth herein, or any portion thereof,
shall not be delegated to the executive branch''. | Sentencing Fairness and Equity Restoration Act of 2006 - Amends the federal criminal code to require: (1) federal courts to impose sentences for crimes at no less than the minimum of the range prescribed by U.S. Sentencing Commission Guidelines up to the statutory maximum; and (2) appellate de novo review of any sentence imposed below the minimum of the range in applicable sentencing guidelines
Directs the Attorney General to create and implement a new policy for the filing of motions for reducing a criminal sentence for substantial assistance in investigating or prosecuting another individual.
Amends the federal judicial code to: (1) exempt sentencing courts from the requirement of filing a written report with the U.S. Sentencing Commission for certain petty crimes for which there are no applicable sentencing guidelines; and (2) prohibit the delegation of certain judicial duties relating to sentencing to the executive branch. | To amend title 18, United States Code, to reaffirm the intent of Congress in the Sentencing Reform Act of 1984, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Innovation Employment Act''.
SEC. 2. NUMERICAL LIMITATIONS.
Section 214(g)(1)(A)(vii) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8
U.S.C. 1184(g)(1)(A)(vii)) is amended to read as follows:
``(vii) 130,000 in fiscal year 2008 and each
succeeding fiscal year, except that in fiscal years
2010 through 2015, if such limitation is reached in the
previous fiscal year, such limitation shall equal the
greater of 180,000 and the limitation applicable for
the previous fiscal year increased by 20 percent; or''.
SEC. 3. EXEMPTION FROM NUMERICAL LIMITATION FOR CERTAIN NONIMMIGRANTS.
Section 214(g)(5) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C.
1184(g)(5)) is amended--
(1) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``or'';
(2) in subparagraph (C), by striking the period at the end
and inserting a semicolon; and
(3) by adding at the end the following:
``(D) has earned a master's or higher degree from a United
States institution of higher education (as defined in section
101(a) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1001(a))
in a field of science, technology, engineering, or mathematics
and with respect to whom the petitioning employer requires such
education as a condition for the employment; or
``(E) has earned a master's or higher degree (or its
equivalent) from an institution of higher education outside of
the United States in a field of science, technology,
engineering, or mathematics and with respect to whom the
petitioning employer requires such education as a condition for
the employment, until the number of aliens who are exempted
from such numerical limitations under this subparagraph during
a fiscal year exceeds 20,000.''.
SEC. 4. H-1B EMPLOYER REQUIREMENTS.
Section 212(n)(1) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C.
1182(n)(1)) is amended by inserting after subparagraph (G) the
following:
``(H) The employer has not advertised the available jobs
specified in the application in an advertisement that states or
indicates that--
``(i) the job or jobs are only available to persons
who are or who may become H-1B nonimmigrants; or
``(ii) persons who are or who may become H-1B
nonimmigrants shall receive priority or a preference in
the hiring process.
``(I) If the employer employs not less than 50 employees in
the United States, not more than 50 percent of such employees
are H-1B nonimmigrants.''.
SEC. 5. H-1B GOVERNMENT AUTHORITY AND REQUIREMENTS.
(a) Safeguards Against Fraud and Misrepresentation in Application
Review Process.--Section 212(n)(1) of the Immigration and Nationality
Act (8 U.S.C. 1182(n)(1)) is amended, in the matter following
subparagraph (I) (as inserted by section 3 of this Act)--
(1) by inserting ``and through the Department of Labor's
website, without charge.'' after ``D.C.'';
(2) by inserting ``, clear indicators of fraud,
misrepresentation of material fact,'' after ``completeness'';
(3) by striking or ``obviously inaccurate'' and inserting
``presents clear indicators of fraud or misrepresentation of
material fact, or is obviously inaccurate'';
(4) by striking ``within 7 days of'' and inserting ``not
later than 14 days after''; and
(5) by adding at the end the following: ``If the
Secretary's review of an application identifies clear
indicators of fraud or misrepresentation of material fact, the
Secretary may conduct an investigation and hearing under
paragraph (2).''.
(b) Investigations by Department of Labor.--Section 212(n)(2) of
such Act is amended--
(1) in subparagraph (A)--
(A) by striking ``12 months'' and inserting ``24
months''; and
(B) by striking ``The Secretary shall conduct'' and
all that follows and inserting ``Upon the receipt of
such a complaint, the Secretary may initiate an
investigation to determine if such a failure or
misrepresentation has occurred.'';
(2) in subparagraph (C)(i)--
(A) by striking ``a condition of paragraph (1)(B),
(1)(E), or (1)(F)'' and inserting ``a condition under
subparagraph (B), (C)(i), (E), (F), (H), (I), or (J) of
paragraph (1)''; and
(B) by striking ``(1)(C)'' and inserting
``(1)(C)(ii)'';
(3) in subparagraph (G)--
(A) in clause (i), by striking ``if the Secretary''
and all that follows and inserting ``with regard to the
employer's compliance with the requirements of this
subsection.'';
(B) in clause (ii), by striking ``and whose
identity'' and all that follows through ``failure or
failures.'' and inserting ``the Secretary of Labor may
conduct an investigation into the employer's compliance
with the requirements of this subsection.'';
(C) in clause (iii), by striking the last sentence;
(D) by striking clauses (iv) and (v);
(E) by redesignating clauses (vi), (vii), and
(viii) as clauses (iv), (v), and (vi), respectively;
(F) in clause (iv), as redesignated, by striking
``meet a condition described in clause (ii), unless the
Secretary of Labor receives the information not later
than 12 months'' and inserting ``comply with the
requirements under this subsection, unless the
Secretary of Labor receives the information not later
than 24 months'';
(G) by amending clause (v), as redesignated, to
read as follows:
``(v) The Secretary of Labor shall provide
notice to an employer of the intent to conduct
an investigation. The notice shall be provided
in such a manner, and shall contain sufficient
detail, to permit the employer to respond to
the allegations before an investigation is
commenced. The Secretary is not required to
comply with this clause if the Secretary
determines that such compliance would interfere
with an effort by the Secretary to investigate
or secure compliance by the employer with the
requirements of this subsection. A
determination by the Secretary under this
clause shall not be subject to judicial
review.'';
(H) in clause (vi), as redesignated, by striking
``An investigation'' and all that follows through ``the
determination.'' and inserting ``If the Secretary of
Labor, after an investigation under clause (i) or (ii),
determines that a reasonable basis exists to make a
finding that the employer has failed to comply with the
requirements under this subsection, the Secretary shall
provide interested parties with notice of such
determination and an opportunity for a hearing in
accordance with section 556 of title 5, United States
Code, not later than 120 days after the date of such
determination.''; and
(I) by adding at the end the following:
``(vii) If the Secretary of Labor, after a
hearing, finds a reasonable basis to believe
that the employer has violated the requirements
under this subsection, the Secretary may impose
a penalty under subparagraph (C).''; and
(4) by striking subparagraph (H).
(c) Information Sharing Between Department of Labor and Department
of Homeland Security.--Section 212(n)(2) of such Act, as amended by
this section, is further amended by inserting after subparagraph (G)
the following:
``(H) The Director of United States Citizenship and
Immigration Services shall provide the Secretary of
Labor with any information contained in the materials
submitted by H-1B employers as part of the adjudication
process that indicates that the employer is not
complying with H-1B visa program requirements. The
Secretary may initiate and conduct an investigation and
hearing under this paragraph after receiving
information of noncompliance under this
subparagraph.''.
(d) Audits.--Section 212(n)(2)(A) of such Act, as amended by this
section, is further amended by adding at the end the following: ``The
Secretary may conduct surveys of the degree to which employers comply
with the requirements under this subsection and may conduct annual
compliance audits of employers that employ H-1B nonimmigrants. The
Secretary shall conduct annual compliance audits of not less than 1
percent of the employers that employ H-1B nonimmigrants during the
applicable calendar year.''
(e) Penalties.--Section 212(n)(2)(C) of such Act, as amended by
this section, is further amended--
(1) in clause (i)(I), by striking ``$1,000'' and inserting
``$2,000'';
(2) in clause (ii)(I), by striking ``$5,000'' and inserting
``$10,000''; and
(3) in clause (vi)(III), by striking ``$1,000'' and
inserting ``$2,000''.
(f) Information Provided to H-1B Nonimmigrants Upon Visa
Issuance.--Section 212(n) of such Act, as amended by this section, is
further amended by inserting after paragraph (2) the following:
``(3)(A) Upon issuing an H-1B visa to an applicant outside
the United States, the issuing office shall provide the
applicant with--
``(i) a brochure outlining the employer's
obligations and the employee's rights under Federal
law, including labor and wage protections; and
``(ii) the contact information for Federal agencies
that can offer more information or assistance in
clarifying employer obligations and workers' rights.
``(B) Upon the issuance of an H-1B visa to an alien inside
the United States, the officer of the Department of Homeland
Security shall provide the applicant with--
``(i) a brochure outlining the employer's
obligations and the employee's rights under Federal
law, including labor and wage protections; and
``(ii) the contact information for Federal agencies
that can offer more information or assistance in
clarifying employer's obligations and workers'
rights.''.
SEC. 6. WHISTLEBLOWER PROTECTIONS.
Section 212(n)(2)(C)(iv) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8
U.S.C. 1182(n)(2)(C)(iv)) is amended--
(1) by inserting ``take, fail to take, or threaten to take
or fail to take, a personnel action, or'' before ``to
intimidate''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following: ``An employer that
violates this clause shall be liable to the employees harmed by
such violation for lost compensation, including back pay.''. | Innovation Employment Act - Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to increase the annual H-1B nonimmigrant visa (specialty occupation) cap from 65,000 to 130,000 starting in FY2008.
Provides that for FY2010-FY2015 if the cap has been reached in the prior year the current cap would increase to the greater of 180,000 and the limitation applicable for the previous year increased by 20% percent.
Exempts from H-1B caps an alien who has earned a master's or higher degree from a U.S. institution of higher education in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics and with respect to whom the petitioning employer requires such education as a condition for employment.
Establishes a 20,000 annual cap for aliens who earned a master's or higher degree from an institution of higher education outside of the United States in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics and with respect to whom the petitioning employer requires such education as a condition for employment.
Revises H-1B provisions to: (1) require an employer to provide specified job information in the employment advertisement; (2) authorize the Secretary of Labor to initiate an H-1B employer investigation; (3) increase employer penalties; and (4) provide whistleblower protections. | To modify certain requirements with respect to H-1B nonimmigrants. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Honoring Every Requirement of
Exemplary Service Act of 2005'' or the ``HEROES Act of 2005''.
SEC. 2. DEATH GRATUITY ENHANCEMENTS.
(a) Deaths From Combat-Related Causes or Causes Incurred in
Designated Operations or Areas.--
(1) Amount.--Section 1478 of title 10, United States Code,
is amended--
(A) in subsection (a), by inserting ``, except as
provided in subsection (c)'' after ``$12,000'';
(B) by redesignating subsection (c) as subsection
(d); and
(C) by inserting after subsection (b) the following
new subsection (c):
``(c) The death gratuity payable under sections 1475 through 1477
of this title is $100,000 (as adjusted under subsection (d)) in the
case of a death resulting from wounds, injuries, or illnesses that
are--
``(1) incurred as described in section 1413a(e)(2) of title
10; or
``(2) incurred in an operation or area designated as a
combat operation or a combat zone, respectively, by the
Secretary of Defense under section 1967(e)(1)(A) of title
38.''.
(2) Increases consistent with increases in rates of basic
pay.--Subsection (d) of such section, as redesignated by
paragraph (1)(B), is amended by striking ``amount of the death
gratuity in effect under subsection (a)'' and inserting
``amounts of the death gratuities in effect under subsections
(a) and (c)''.
(3) Conforming amendment.--Subsection (a) of such section,
as amended by paragraph (1) of this subsection, is further
amended by striking ``(as adjusted under subsection (c))'' and
inserting ``(as adjusted under subsection (d))''.
(b) Additional Gratuity for Deaths Before Effective Date.--
(1) Requirement to pay additional gratuity.--
(A) In the case of a member of the Armed Forces
described in subparagraph (B), the Secretary of the
military department concerned shall pay a death
gratuity in accordance with this subsection that is in
addition to the death gratuity payable in the case of
such death under sections 1475 through 1477 of title
10, United States Code.
(B) The requirements of this subsection apply in
the case of a member of the Armed Forces who died
before the date of the enactment of this Act as a
direct result of one or more wounds, injuries, or
illnesses that--
(i) were incurred in the theater of
operations of Operation Enduring Freedom or
Operation Iraqi Freedom; or
(ii) were incurred as described in section
1413a(e)(2) of title 10, United States Code, on
or after October 7, 2001.
(2) Amount.--The amount of the additional death gratuity is
$238,000.
(3) Beneficiaries.--The beneficiary or beneficiaries who
are entitled under section 1477 of title 10, United States
Code, to receive payment of the regular military death gratuity
in the case of the death of a member referred to in paragraph
(2) shall be entitled to receive the additional death gratuity
payable in such case. If there are two or more such
beneficiaries, the portion of the total amount of the
additional death gratuity payable to a beneficiary in such case
shall be the amount that bears the same ratio to the total
amount of the additional death gratuity under paragraph (2) as
the amount of the share of the regular military death gratuity
payable to that beneficiary bears to the total amount of the
regular military death gratuity payable to all such
beneficiaries in such case.
(4) Definitions.--In this subsection:
(A) The term ``additional death gratuity'' means
the death gratuity provided under paragraph (1).
(B) The term ``regular military death gratuity'',
means a death gratuity payable under sections 1475
through 1477 of title 10, United States Code.
SEC. 3. SERVICEMEMBERS' GROUP LIFE INSURANCE ENHANCEMENTS.
(a) Increased Maximum Amount Under Servicemembers' Group Life
Insurance.--Section 1967 of title 38, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)(3)(A), by striking clause (i) and
inserting the following new clause:
``(i) In the case of a member--
``(I) $400,000 or such lesser amount as the member
may elect;
``(II) in the case of a member covered by
subsection (e), the amount provided for or elected by
the member under subclause (I) plus the additional
amount of insurance provided for the member by
subsection (e); or
``(III) in the case of a member making an election
under paragraph (2)(A) not to be insured under this
subchapter, the amount of insurance provided for the
member by subsection (e).''; and
(2) in subsection (d), by striking ``$250,000'' and
inserting ``$400,000''.
(b) Additional Amount for Members Serving in Certain Areas or
Operations.--
(1) Increased amount.--Section 1967 of such title is
further amended--
(A) by redesignating subsection (e) as subsection
(g); and
(B) by inserting after subsection (d) the following
new subsection (e):
``(e)(1) A member covered by this subsection is any member as
follows:
``(A) Any member who dies as a result of one or more
wounds, injuries, or illnesses incurred while serving in an
operation or area that the Secretary designates, in writing, as
a combat operation or a zone of combat, respectively, for
purposes of this subsection.
``(B) Any member who formerly served in an operation or
area so designated and whose death is determined (under
regulations prescribed by the Secretary of Defense) to be the
direct result of injury or illness incurred or aggravated while
so serving.
``(2) The additional amount of insurance under this subchapter that
is provided for a member by this subsection is $150,000, except that in
a case in which the amount provided for or elected by the member under
subclause (I) of subsection (a)(3)(A) exceeds $250,000, the additional
amount of insurance under this subchapter that is provided for the
member by this subsection shall be reduced to such amount as is
necessary to comply with the limitation in paragraph (3).
``(3) The total amount of insurance payable for a member under this
subchapter may not exceed $400,000.
``(4) While a member is serving in an operation or area designated
as described in paragraph (1), the cost of insurance of the member
under this subchapter that is attributable to $150,000 of insurance
coverage shall be contributed as provided in section 1969(b)(2) of this
title and may not be deducted or withheld from the member's pay.''.
(2) Funding.--Section 1969(b) of such title is amended--
(A) by inserting ``(1)'' after ``(b)''; and
(B) by adding at the end the following new
paragraph:
``(2) For each month for which a member insured under this
subchapter is serving in an operation or area designated as described
by paragraph (1)(A) of section 1967(e) of this title, there shall be
contributed from the appropriation made for active duty pay of the
uniformed service concerned an amount determined by the Secretary and
certified to the Secretary concerned to be the cost of Servicemembers'
Group Life Insurance which is traceable to the cost of providing
insurance for the member under section 1967 of this title in the amount
of $150,000.''.
(c) Conforming Amendment.--Section 1967(a)(2)(A) of such title is
amended by inserting before the period at the end the following: ``,
except for insurance provided under paragraph (3)(A)(i)(III)''.
(d) Coordination With VGLI.--Section 1977(a) of such title is
amended--
(1) by striking ``$250,000'' each place it appears and
inserting ``$400,000''; and
(2) by adding at the end of paragraph (1) the following new
sentence: ``Any additional amount of insurance provided a
member under section 1967(e) of this title may not be treated
as an amount for which Veterans' Group Life Insurance shall be
issued under this section.''.
(e) Requirements Regarding Elections of Members to Reduce or
Decline Insurance.--Section 1967(a) of such title is further amended--
(1) in paragraph (2), by adding at the end the following
new subparagraph:
``(C) Pursuant to regulations prescribed by the Secretary of
Defense, notice of an election of a member not to be insured under this
subchapter, or to be insured under this subchapter in an amount less
than the maximum amount provided under paragraph (3)(A)(i)(I), shall be
provided to the spouse of the member.''; and
(2) in paragraph (3)--
(A) in the matter preceding clause (i), by striking
``and (C)'' and inserting ``, (C), and (D)''; and
(B) by adding at the end the following new
subparagraph:
``(D) A member with a spouse may not elect not to be insured under
this subchapter, or to be insured under this subchapter in an amount
less than the maximum amount provided under subparagraph (A)(i)(I),
without the written consent of the spouse.''.
(f) Requirement Regarding Redesignation of Beneficiaries.--Section
1970 of such title is amended by adding at the end the following new
subsection:
``(j) A member with a spouse may not modify the beneficiary or
beneficiaries designated by the member under subsection (a) without the
written consent of the spouse.''.
(g) Effective Date.--This section and the amendments made by this
section shall take effect on the first day of the first month that
begins more than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act. | Honoring Every Requirement of Exemplary Service Act of 2005 or HEROES Act of 2005 - Increases from $12,000 to $100,000 the death gratuity payable to the survivors of members of the Armed Forces who die: (1) as a direct result of armed conflict; (2) while engaged in hazardous service; (3) in the performance of duty under conditions simulating war; (4) through an instrumentality of war; or (5) in an operation or area designated as a combat operation or a combat zone.
Requires the Secretary of the military department concerned to pay an additional death gratuity of $238,000 for a member of the Armed Forces who died before the date of enactment of this Act as a direct result of one or more wounds, injuries, or illnesses that were: (1) incurred in the theater of operations of Operation Enduring Freedom or Operation Iraqi Freedom; or (2) as a direct result of armed conflict, while engaged in hazardous service, in the performance of duty under conditions simulating war, or through an instrumentality of war on or after October 7, 2001.
Increases the maximum amount of life insurance coverage for a member of the armed forces under servicemembers' group life insurance. Provides for $150,000 additional life insurance with no deductible due from the member for combat-related deaths. Requires spousal approval for a member to elect not to have life insurance coverage or have less than the maximum amount allowable. | To amend titles 10 and 38, United States Code, to improve death benefits for the families of deceased members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. REFORM OF CHARITABLE CONTRIBUTIONS OF CERTAIN EASEMENTS ON
BUILDINGS IN REGISTERED HISTORIC DISTRICTS.
(a) Special Rules With Respect to Buildings in Registered Historic
Districts.--Paragraph (4) of section 170(h) of the Internal Revenue
Code of 1986 (relating to definition of conservation purpose) is
amended by redesignating subparagraph (B) as subparagraph (C) and by
inserting after subparagraph (A) the following new subparagraph:
``(B) Special rules with respect to buildings in
registered historic districts.--In the case of any
contribution of a qualified real property interest
which is a restriction with respect to the exterior of
a building described in subparagraph (C)(ii), such
contribution shall not be considered to be exclusively
for conservation purposes unless--
``(i) such interest--
``(I) includes a restriction which
preserves the entire exterior of the
building (including the front, sides,
rear, and height of the building), and
``(II) prohibits any change in the
exterior of the building which is
inconsistent with the historical
character of such exterior,
``(ii) the donor and donee enter into a
written agreement certifying, under penalty of
perjury, that the donee--
``(I) is a qualified organization
(as defined in paragraph (3)) with a
purpose of environmental protection,
land conservation, open space
preservation, or historic preservation,
and
``(II) has the resources to manage
and enforce the restriction and a
commitment to do so, and
``(iii) in the case of any contribution
made in a taxable year beginning after the date
of the enactment of this subparagraph, the
taxpayer includes with the taxpayer's return
for the taxable year of the contribution--
``(I) a qualified appraisal (within
the meaning of subsection (f)(11)(E))
of the qualified property interest,
``(II) photographs of the entire
exterior of the building, and
``(III) a description of all
restrictions on the development of the
building.''.
(b) Filing Fee for Certain Contributions.--Subsection (f) of
section 170 of such Code (relating to disallowance of deduction in
certain cases and special rules) is amended by inserting at the end the
following new paragraph:
``(13) Contributions of certain interests in buildings
located in registered historic districts.--
``(A) In general.--No deduction shall be allowed
with respect to any contribution described in
subparagraph (B) unless the taxpayer includes with the
return for the taxable year of the contribution a $500
filing fee.
``(B) Contribution described.--A contribution is
described in this subparagraph if such contribution is
a qualified conservation contribution (as defined in
subsection (h)) which is a restriction with respect to
the exterior of a building described in subsection
(h)(4)(C)(ii) and for which a deduction is claimed in
excess of the greater of--
``(i) 3 percent of the fair market value of
the building (determined immediately before
such contribution), or
``(ii) $10,000.
``(C) Dedication of fee.--Any fee collected under
this paragraph shall be used for the enforcement of the
provisions of subsection (h).''.
(c) Effective Date.--
(1) Special rules for buildings in registered historic
districts.--The amendments made by subsection (a) shall apply
to contributions made after the date of the enactment of this
Act.
(2) Filing fee.--The amendment made by subsection (b) shall
apply to contributions made 180 days after the date of the
enactment of this Act.
SEC. 2. PROVISIONS RELATING TO SUBSTANTIAL AND GROSS OVERSTATEMENTS OF
VALUATIONS OF CHARITABLE DEDUCTION PROPERTY.
(a) Substantial and Gross Overstatements of Valuations of
Charitable Deduction Property.--
(1) In general.--Section 6662 of the Internal Revenue Code
of 1986 (relating to imposition of accuracy-related penalties)
is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(i) Special Rules for Charitable Deduction Property.--In the case
of charitable deduction property (as defined in section
6664(c)(3)(A))--
``(1) the determination under subsection (e)(1)(A) as to
whether there is a substantial valuation misstatement under
chapter 1 with respect to the value of the property shall be
made by substituting `150 percent' for `200 percent', and
``(2) the determination under subsection (h)(2)(A)(i) as to
whether there is a gross valuation misstatement with respect to
the value of the property shall be made by substituting `200
percent' for `400 percent' and by substituting `150 percent'
for `200 percent' in applying subsection (e)(1)(A) for purposes
of such determination.''.
(2) Elimination of reasonable cause exception for gross
misstatements.--Section 6664(c)(2) of such Code (relating to
reasonable cause exception for underpayments) is amended by
striking ``paragraph (1) shall not apply unless'' and inserting
``paragraph (1) shall not apply. The preceding sentence shall
not apply to a substantial valuation overstatement under
chapter 1 if''.
(b) Qualified Appraisers and Appraisals.--
(1) In general.--Subparagraph (E) of section 170(f)(11) of
such Code is amended to read as follows:
``(E) Qualified appraisal and appraiser.--For
purposes of this paragraph--
``(i) Qualified appraisal.--The term
`qualified appraisal' means, with respect to
any property, an appraisal of such property
which--
``(I) is treated for purposes of
this paragraph as a qualified appraisal
under regulations or other guidance
prescribed by the Secretary, and
``(II) is conducted by a qualified
appraiser in accordance with generally
accepted appraisal standards and any
regulations or other guidance
prescribed under subclause (I).
``(ii) Qualified appraiser.--Except as
provided in clause (iii), the term `qualified
appraiser' means an individual who--
``(I) has earned an appraisal
designation from a recognized
professional appraiser organization or
has otherwise met minimum education and
experience requirements set forth in
regulations prescribed by the
Secretary,
``(II) regularly performs
appraisals for which the individual
receives compensation, and
``(III) meets such other
requirements as may be prescribed by
the Secretary in regulations or other
guidance.
``(iii) Specific appraisals.--An individual
shall not be treated as a qualified appraiser
with respect to any specific appraisal unless--
``(I) the individual demonstrates
verifiable education and experience in
valuing the type of property subject to
the appraisal, and
``(II) the individual has not been
prohibited from practicing before the
Internal Revenue Service by the
Secretary under section 330(c) of title
31, United States Code, at any time
during the 3-year period ending on the
date of the appraisal.''.
(2) Reasonable cause exception.--Subparagraphs (B) and (C)
of section 6664(c)(3) of such Code are amended to read as
follows:
``(B) Qualified appraisal.--The term `qualified
appraisal' has the meaning given such term by section
170(f)(11)(E)(i).
``(C) Qualified appraiser.--The term `qualified
appraiser' has the meaning given such term by section
170(f)(11)(E)(ii).''.
(c) Effective Dates.--
(1) Misstatement penalties.--The amendments made by
subsection (a) shall apply to returns filed after the date of
the enactment of this Act.
(2) Appraiser provisions.--The amendments made by
subsection (b) shall apply to appraisals prepared with respect
to returns or submissions filed after the date of the enactment
of this Act. | Amends the Internal Revenue Code to modify requirements for the tax deduction for charitable contributions of easements on buildings in registered historic districts to require such easements to preserve the entire exterior of the building and to prohibit any change in the exterior of the buildings which is inconsistent with the historic character of such exterior. Imposes additional reporting, appraisal, and filing fee requirements.
Revises criteria for determining substantial and gross overstatements of valuations of charitable deduction property. Eliminates the reasonable cause exception for waiving penalties for such overstatements. | To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to reform the charitable contribution deduction rules on contributions of certain easements on buildings in registered historic districts, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Continuity of Operations
Demonstration Project Act''.
SEC. 2. PURPOSES.
The purposes of this Act are--
(1) to enhance the ability of Federal agencies to manage
their personnel and to otherwise continue to operate during an
extended emergency situation;
(2) to enhance the ability of Federal employees to carry
out their duties and responsibilities from home or other sites
removed from their usual and customary workplace;
(3) to enhance flexibility in Government operations
generally; and
(4) to determine what technologies, changes in work
processes, or other measures are needed to accomplish the
foregoing, while preserving data security.
SEC. 3. CONTINUITY OF OPERATIONS DEMONSTRATION PROJECT.
(a) In General.--In order to test the preparedness of the Federal
Government to continue to operate in the event of an extended emergency
situation, the Chief Human Capital Officers Council and the Interagency
Continuity of Operations Working Group shall jointly provide for a
demonstration project under which 2 or more agencies shall perform a
representative range of Government services and operations (both
essential and nonessential) under circumstances simulating a situation
in which Federal employees are, as a result of a sudden and unexpected
contingency, required to work--
(1) from locations apart from their usual and customary
workplace, including from home and from agency-designated
facilities; and
(2) for a period of not less than 10 consecutive workdays.
(b) Other Requirements.--In carrying out the demonstration project,
the Council and the Working Group shall ensure--
(1) that appropriate mechanisms exist so that participating
agencies and employees will be able to engage in any necessary
communications, and so that appropriate oversight of employees
can be maintained, at all times;
(2) that participating employees have received appropriate
training relating to what their duties and responsibilities are
during an emergency situation and how those duties and
responsibilities are to be carried out;
(3) that participating employees have available to them or
are able to access any technologies, resources, information, or
other assistance they may require in order to carry out their
duties and responsibilities effectively and efficiently;
(4) that such project is conducted in coordination with the
earliest Governmentwide continuity of operations interagency
exercise following the date of the enactment of this Act which
is conducted by the Department of Homeland Security and as to
which the implementation of this paragraph is practicable;
(5) that, at least 3 months before such project is
implemented, all agencies that are scheduled to participate
have developed plans detailing which operations will be
performed during the simulated emergency, which employees will
perform those operations, and how those operations are to be
performed;
(6) that participation will be limited to those employees
who, irrespective of this Act, would otherwise have been
eligible to telework; and
(7) that such project will be conducted in coordination
with otherwise existing Federal teleworking policies,
requirements, and funding, so that no additional resources are
needed in order to carry out this Act.
SEC. 4. REPORT TO CONGRESS.
Not later than 12 months after the date of the enactment of this
Act, the Council and the Working Group shall submit to the Committee on
Government Reform of the House of Representatives and the Committee on
Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs of the Senate a written
evaluation of the demonstration project, including a description of the
approaches taken and lessons learned by participating agencies, and
recommendations for such legislation or administrative action as the
Council and the Working Group consider appropriate.
SEC. 5. DEFINITIONS.
For purposes of this Act--
(1) the term ``Chief Human Capital Officers Council'' or
``Council'' refers to the Chief Human Capital Officers Council,
as established by section 1303 of the Homeland Security Act of
2002 (5 U.S.C. 1401 note);
(2) the term ``Interagency Continuity of Operations Working
Group'' or ``Working Group'' refers to the Interagency
Continuity of Operations Working Group, established by the
Federal Emergency Management Agency, Department of Homeland
Security, pursuant to Federal Preparedness Circular 65, dated
June 15, 2004;
(3) the term ``Federal agency'' or ``agency'' means an
Executive agency, as defined by section 105 of title 5, United
States Code; and
(4) the term ``Federal employee'' or ``employee'' means an
individual employed in or under an agency. | Continuity of Operations Demonstration Project Act - Directs the Chief Human Capital Officers Council and the Interagency Continuity of Operations Working Group, in order to test the preparedness of the federal government to continue to operate in the event of an extended emergency situation, to jointly provide for a demonstration project under which two or more agencies shall perform a representative range of government services and operations (both essential and nonessential) under circumstances simulating a situation in which federal employees are, as a result of a sudden and unexpected contingency, required to work: (1) from locations apart from their usual and customary workplace, including from home and from agency-designated facilities; and (2) for a continuous period of not less than ten consecutive workdays.
Directs the Council, in carrying out the demonstration project, to ensure that specified requirements are met with respect to: (1) communications; (2) training relating to duties and responsibilities during an emergency situation; (3) access to technologies, information, or other assistance; (4) coordination with the earliest governmentwide continuity of operations interagency exercise; (5) plans detailing which operations will be performed, which employees will perform those operations, and how those operations are to be performed; (6) participation (limited to those employees who would otherwise have been eligible to telework); and (7) coordination with otherwise existing federal telework policies, requirements, and funding. | To provide for a demonstration project to enhance the ability of Federal agencies to continue to operate during an extended emergency situation, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Foster Opportunities for Success
Through Higher Education Reform'' or the ``FOSTER Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress finds the following:
(1) Recent studies by the Center for the Study of Social
Policy, Casey Family Programs, and the Packard Foundation
demonstrate that many of the 20,000 children aging out of
foster care each year face unique challenges as they enter the
adult world: a greater likelihood of becoming teen parents,
dependence on public assistance, participation in substance
abuse, homelessness, and involvement with the criminal justice
system compared to youth in the general population.
(2) According to a study of foster care children in
Washington State, a child who enters foster care is likely to
have poorer academic outcomes than children not in foster care,
even after controlling for a variety of factors such as
poverty.
(3) A follow-up study in Wisconsin found that 37 percent of
youth had not completed their high school education when
interviewed 12 to 18 months after discharge from foster care.
(4) A study of African American males in the Ohio foster
care system found that in the sixth grade, African American
males in foster care had significantly lower scores than 1 or
more of the 4 comparison groups (all students, all African
American students, all male students, all African American male
students).
(5) By the ninth grade, the African American males in
foster care had significantly lower scores than all of the
comparison groups.
(6) These youth in foster care are less likely to be
enrolled in college preparatory classes and are more than twice
as likely as non-foster care youth (37 percent vs. 16 percent)
to have dropped out of high school.
(7) A 2002 report issued by the Child Welfare League of
America (CWLA) found that more than 26 percent of foster
children have repeated a grade at least once since the seventh
grade; 60 percent have failed a class in the previous year;
over a third were below grade level in written language, math
and readings; foster youth have higher absentee and tardy rates
than their non-foster peers.
(8) A report from Casey Family Programs indicated that,
nationwide, fewer than 27 percent of foster youth who graduated
high school went on to college as compared to 52 percent of the
general population.
(9) A May 2002, report issued by the University of
California at Berkeley found that of more than 3200 foster care
youth who attended a community college from 1992 through 2000,
39 percent earned between 1 and 17 credits. Forty percent of
the foster care youth earned no credits. Many did not attempt
to take classes for credit, but rather were enrolled in
remedial or other non-credit classes.
SEC. 3. FOSTER CARE YOUTH OUTREACH AND HOUSING SERVICES.
Subpart 2 of part A of title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965
is amended by adding at the end the following new chapter:
``CHAPTER 4--FOSTER CARE YOUTH OUTREACH AND HOUSING SERVICES
``SEC. 408A. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE AND SUPPORT SERVICES.
``(a) Program Authorized.--From the amounts appropriated under
section 408E(a), the Secretary shall provide competitive grants to
public and private institutions of higher education to provide
technical assistance and supportive services to foster care youth who
are prospective students to prepare for, enter, and remain in such
institutions.
``(b) Authorized Services.--Funds provided under this section may
be used to provide--
``(1) academic counseling;
``(2) college financial-aid counseling; and
``(3) other appropriate support services intended to
improve the delivery of services to foster care youth.
``(c) Applications.--An institution seeking a grant under this
section shall submit an application to the Secretary. Such application
shall--
``(1) contain assurances that the applicant will--
``(A) evaluate--
``(i) the extent to which the institution's
current programs are meeting the needs of
foster care youth; and
``(ii) how the institution's outreach and
retention services can be improved;
``(B) report to the Secretary on current and
expanded services and efforts to increase the number of
foster care youth who attend the institution and remain
in school to earn a degree or certificate;
``(C) expand representation on student body
governing boards to include at least one former foster
care youth that will serve to advise the institution on
student life issues, with particular attention to the
unique barriers for foster care youth in accessing and
completing postsecondary education; and
``(D) coordinate with the State social services and
child welfare departments in order to facilitate the
outreach and technical assistance efforts for
prospective students who are foster care youth; and
``(2) contain such additional information and assurances as
the Secretary may require.
``(d) Selection of Applicants.--The Secretary shall select
institutions of higher education for the award of grants under this
section on the basis of identifying those institutions that are most
likely to be able to successfully carry out the program under this
section and serve the goal of expanding higher educational
opportunities for foster care youth.
``SEC. 408B. HOUSING FOR FOSTER CARE YOUTH.
``(a) Grants Authorized.--From the amounts appropriated under
section 408E(b), the Secretary shall provide grants to institutions of
higher education to ensure basic housing during the regular academic
school year, including interim housing during regular periods of
dormitory closing (excluding summer break), for those foster care youth
living in college dormitories.
``(b) Applications.--An institution seeking a grant under this
section shall submit an application to the Secretary containing such
information as the Secretary may require.
``(c) Selection of Applicants.--The Secretary shall select
institutions of higher education for the award of grants under this
section on the basis of identifying those institutions that are most
likely to be able to successfully carry out the program under this
section and serve the goal of expanding higher educational
opportunities for foster care youth.
``SEC. 408C. COORDINATION.
``(a) Coordination With the John H. Chafee Foster Care Independence
Program.--The Secretary shall ensure that activities under this chapter
are coordinated with programs under section 477(i) of the Social
Security Act (42 U.S.C. 6383).
``(b) Coordination With TRIO and GEARUP.--Each recipient of funds
under the programs authorized by chapters 1 and 2 of this subpart shall
identify services to foster care youth as a permissible service in
those programs, and ensure that such youth receive supportive services,
including mentoring, tutoring, and other services provided by those
programs.
``SEC. 408D. ELIGIBLE FOSTER CARE YOUTH.
``(a) In General.--An individual shall be treated as a foster care
youth eligible for services and benefits under this chapter if such
individual is--
``(1) a youth for whom the State or an entity licensed by
the State has responsibility for placement, care, or
supervision, and includes youth in foster homes, group homes,
or kinship care; or
``(2) a high school senior or student currently enrolled in
a postsecondary education program who is older than 18 years
old and is no longer living with his or her foster family, as
long as he or she was under State care until age 18.
``(b) Kinship Care.--For a youth to be eligible as receiving
kinship care, the State or an entity licensed by the State must have
intervened on the youth's behalf and a court of competent jurisdiction
must have issued a court order of dependency and the court order or the
State or the entity licensed by the State must have placed the youth in
legal kinship care. A youth who is residing with his or her relatives
in any other type of situation is not eligible as receiving kinship
care.
``SEC. 408E. AUTHORIZATION.
``(a) Technical Assistance and Outreach Services.--There are
authorized to be appropriated for grants under section 408A, such sums
as may be necessary for fiscal year 2005 and for each of the 5
succeeding fiscal years.
``(b) Housing for Foster Care Youth.--There are authorized to be
appropriated for grants under section 408B, such sums as may be
necessary for fiscal year 2005 and for each of the 5 succeeding fiscal
years.''.
SEC. 4. FAIR TREATMENT FOR FOSTER CARE YOUTH IN FINANCIAL NEED
ANALYSIS.
(a) Cost of Attendance.--Section 472 of the Higher Education Act of
1965 (20 U.S.C. 1087ll) is amended--
(1) by striking ``and'' at the end of paragraph (11);
(2) by striking the period at the end of paragraph (12) and
inserting ``; and''; and
(3) by inserting after paragraph (12) the following new
paragraph:
``(13) in the case of a foster care youth who is eligible
for services or benefits under section 408D, an additional
amount equal to 50 percent of the sum determined under the
preceding paragraphs, representing the reasonable living
additional expenses of such a youth.''.
(b) Advisory Committee on Student Financial Assistance.--Section
491(j) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1098(j)) is
amended--
(1) by striking ``and'' at the end of paragraph (4);
(2) by striking the period at the end of paragraph (5) and
inserting ``; and''; and
(3) by inserting after paragraph (5) the following new
paragraph:
``(6) examine methods for expanding access to Federal
financial aid by foster care youth who are eligible for
services or benefits under section 408D, and for simplifying
the application process for such youth.''.
(c) FAFSA Revision.--Section 483(a)(1) of the Higher Education Act
of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1090(a)(1)) is amended by inserting after the third
sentence the following new sentence: ``Such data elements shall include
an identification of whether the student is a foster care youth who is
eligible for services or benefits under section 408D.''.
(d) Assessment and Follow-Up.--Section 485(a)(1)(L) of the Higher
Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1092(a)(1)(L)) is amended by inserting
before the semicolon at the end the following: ``, and, commencing with
the 2004-2005 academic year, the retention rates of students who
voluntarily provide to the institution of higher education their status
as emancipated foster care youth''. | Foster Opportunities for Success Through Higher Education Reform - FOSTER Act - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA) to establish a program of foster care youth outreach and housing services.
Directs the Secretary of Education to make grants to institutions of higher education to provide: (1) technical assistance and supportive services to foster care youth who are prospective students to prepare for, enter, and remain in such institutions; and (2) basic housing during the regular academic school year, including interim housing during regular periods of dormitory closing other than summer break, for those foster care youth living in college dormitories. Requires program coordination with: (1) the John H. Chafee foster care independence program under the Social Security Act; and (2) TRIO and GEAR UP programs under HEA.
Revises HEA financial need analysis to provide fair treatment for foster care youth. | To amend the Higher Education Act of 1965 to improve the ability of foster care youths to attend and succeed in higher education. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Countering Illegal Firearms
Trafficking to Mexico Act''.
SEC. 2. COLLABORATION BETWEEN U.S. IMMIGRATIONS AND CUSTOMS ENFORCEMENT
AND THE BUREAU OF ALCOHOL, TOBACCO, FIREARMS, AND
EXPLOSIVES.
The President shall design and implement a strategy to improve
collaboration between U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement and the
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives in the
investigation of illegal firearm trafficking to Mexico, including
formal monitoring of the implementation of the 2009 Memorandum of
Understanding between the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and
Explosives and U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement.
SEC. 3. COMPREHENSIVE INDICATORS TO STEM ARMS TRAFFICKING TO MEXICO.
Not later than 120 days after the date of the enactment of this
Act, the Office of National Drug Control Policy shall establish
comprehensive indicators that more accurately reflect progress made in
efforts to stem arms trafficking to Mexico.
SEC. 4. FIREARMS TRAFFICKING.
(a) In General.--Chapter 44 of title 18, United States Code, is
amended by adding at the end the following:
``Sec. 932. Trafficking in firearms
``(a) Offenses.--It shall be unlawful for any person, regardless of
whether anything of value is exchanged--
``(1) to ship, transport, transfer, or otherwise dispose to
a person, 2 or more firearms in or affecting interstate or
foreign commerce, if the transferor knows or has reasonable
cause to believe that such use, carry, possession, or
disposition of the firearm would be in violation of, or would
result in a violation of any Federal, State, or local law
punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding 1 year;
``(2) to receive from a person, 2 or more firearms in or
affecting interstate or foreign commerce, if the recipient
knows or has reasonable cause to believe that such receipt
would be in violation of, or would result in a violation of any
Federal, State, or local law punishable by a term of
imprisonment exceeding 1 year;
``(3) to make a statement to a licensed importer, licensed
manufacturer, or licensed dealer relating to the purchase,
receipt, or acquisition from a licensed importer, licensed
manufacturer, or licensed dealer of 2 or more firearms that
have moved in or affected interstate or foreign commerce that--
``(A) is material to--
``(i) the identity of the actual buyer of
the firearms; or
``(ii) the intended trafficking of the
firearms; and
``(B) the person knows or has reasonable cause to
believe is false; or
``(4) to direct, promote, or facilitate conduct specified
in paragraph (1), (2), or (3).
``(b) Penalties.--
``(1) In general.--Any person who violates, or conspires to
violate, subsection (a) shall be fined under this title,
imprisoned for not more than 20 years, or both.
``(2) Organizer enhancement.--If a violation of subsection
(a) is committed by a person in concert with 5 or more other
persons with respect to whom such person occupies a position of
organizer, a supervisory position, or any other position of
management, such person may be sentenced to an additional term
of imprisonment of not more than 5 consecutive years.
``(c) Definitions.--In this section--
``(1) the term `actual buyer' means the person for whom a
firearm is being purchased, received, or acquired; and
``(2) the term `term of imprisonment exceeding 1 year' does
not include any offense classified by the applicable
jurisdiction as a misdemeanor and punishable by a term of
imprisonment of 2 years or less.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections for chapter 44 of
such title is amended by adding at the end the following:
``932. Trafficking in firearms.''.
SEC. 5. REQUIREMENT THAT FEDERAL FIREARMS LICENSEES REPORT MULTIPLE
SALES OF FIREARMS.
Section 923(g)(3)(A) of title 18, United States Code, is amended by
striking ``pistols, or revolvers, or any combination of pistols and
revolvers totalling two or more,'' and inserting ``firearms''.
SEC. 6. PUBLIC AVAILABILITY OF INFORMATION ABOUT FIREARMS SEIZED BY
MEXICO AND SUBMITTED TO THE BUREAU OF ALCOHOL, TOBACCO,
FIREARMS, AND EXPLOSIVES FOR TRACING.
Within 30 days after the beginning of each fiscal year that begins
more than 120 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives shall make public
detailed information about the type, make, model, and caliber of each
firearm seized by authorities of the Government of Mexico and submitted
to the Bureau for tracing.
SEC. 7. EFFECTIVE DATE.
This Act and the amendments made by this Act shall take effect on
the date that is 30 days after the date of the enactment of this Act. | Countering Illegal Firearms Trafficking to Mexico Act This bill amends the federal criminal code to make trafficking in firearms a stand-alone criminal offense. A person who commits or conspires to commit a gun trafficking offense is subject to criminal penalties—a prison term of up to 20 years (or up to 25 years, if the person also acted as an organizer), a fine, or both. The bill directs the President to design and implement a strategy to improve collaboration between the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) in the investigation of illegal firearms trafficking to Mexico. The Office of National Drug Control Policy must establish indicators to measure the progress of efforts to stem firearms trafficking to Mexico. The ATF must publish detailed information about each firearm seized by Mexican authorities and submitted to the ATF for tracing. | Countering Illegal Firearms Trafficking to Mexico Act |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Hurricane Katrina Fast-Track Refunds
for Working Families Act of 2005''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
(1) An estimated 1.3 million households were affected by
Hurricane Katrina, many of which were working families left
with no material belongings and minimal assets following the
storm.
(2) It will be difficult for these working families to
immediately find new employment opportunities and to restore
lost wages, thus depleting their resources for food, housing,
clothing, and other necessities.
(3) These working families can be expected to spend their
fast-tracked tax refunds on immediate necessities which will
stimulate local economic activity.
(4) These families have worked hard, earned their Child Tax
Credit and Earned Income Tax Credit refunds and should receive
them now rather than later.
SEC. 3. ADVANCE PAYMENT OF EARNED INCOME TAX CREDIT AND CHILD TAX
CREDIT FOR 2005 FOR VICTIMS OF HURRICANE KATRINA.
(a) In General.--Subchapter B of chapter 61 of the Internal Revenue
Code of 1986 (relating to rules of special application) is amended by
adding at the end the following new section:
``SEC. 6430. ADVANCE PAYMENT OF EARNED INCOME TAX CREDIT AND CHILD TAX
CREDIT FOR 2005 FOR VICTIMS OF HURRICANE KATRINA.
``(a) In General.--Each eligible taxpayer shall be treated as
having made a payment against the tax imposed by chapter 1 for the
taxpayer's last taxable year ending in 2004 in an amount equal to--
``(1) the child tax credit refund amount (if any) for such
taxable year, and
``(2) the earned income credit refund amount (if any) for
such taxable year.
``(b) Definitions.--For purposes of this section--
``(1) Eligible taxpayer.--The term `eligible taxpayer'
means any taxpayer--
``(A) who was allowed a credit under section 24
(relating to child tax credit) or section 32 (relating
to earned income credit) for the taxpayer's last
taxable year ending in 2004, and
``(B) whose address on such taxpayer's return for
such last taxable year was within an area determined by
the President to warrant individual or individual and
public assistance from the Federal Government under the
Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency
Assistance Act by reason of Hurricane Katrina.
``(2) Child tax credit refund amount.--The child tax credit
refund amount is the amount of the credit which would have been
allowed under section 24 for such last taxable year if only
qualifying children (as defined in section 24(c)) of the
taxpayer for such year who had not attained age 17 as of
December 31, 2005, were taken into account.
``(3) Earned income credit refund amount.--The earned
income credit refund amount is the amount of the credit which
would have been allowed under section 32 for such last taxable
year if--
``(A) the amount in section 32(b)(2)(B) were
$2,000, and
``(B) an individual is treated as meeting the age
requirements under section 32 only if such requirements
are met as of December 31, 2005.
``(c) Timing of Payments.--In the case of any overpayment
attributable to this section, the Secretary shall, subject to the
provisions of this title, refund or credit such overpayment as rapidly
as possible and shall ensure that adequate systems and delivery
mechanisms are in place for the prompt delivery of refunds to eligible
recepients.
``(d) Coordination With Credits.--
``(1) In general.--The amount of credit which would (but
for this subsection and section 26) be allowed under sections
24 and 32, as the case may be, for the taxpayer's first taxable
year beginning in 2005 shall be reduced (but not below zero) by
so much of the payment made to the taxpayer under this section
as is attributable to such section 24 or 32. Any failure to so
reduce the credit shall be treated as arising out of a
mathematical or clerical error and assessed according to
section 6213(b)(1).
``(2) Joint returns.--In the case of a payment under this
section with respect to a joint return, half of such payment
shall be treated as having been made to each individual filing
such return.
``(e) No Interest.--No interest shall be allowed on any overpayment
attributable to this section.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections for such subchapter
B is amended by adding at the end the following new item:
``Sec. 6430. Advance payment of earned income tax credit and child tax
credit for 2005 for victims of Hurricane
Katrina.''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall take
effect on the date of the enactment of this Act. | Hurricane Katrina Fast-Track Refunds for Working Families Act of 2005 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow an advance payment of the earned income tax credit and the child tax credit in 2005 for taxpayers in a Hurricane Katrina disaster area who received such credits for a taxable year ending in 2004. | A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide for advance payment of the earned income tax credit and the child tax credit for 2005 in order to provide needed funds to victims of Hurricane Katrina and to stimulate local economies. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Southern High Plains Groundwater
Resource Conservation Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS AND PURPOSES.
(a) Findings.--Congress makes the following findings:
(1) A reliable source of groundwater is an essential
element of the economy of the communities on the High Plains.
(2) The High Plains Aquifer and the Ogallala Aquifer are
closely related hydrogeographic structures. The High Plains
Aquifer consists largely of the Ogallala Aquifer with small
components of other geologic units.
(3) The High Plains Aquifer experienced a dramatic decline
in water table levels in the latter half of the twentieth
century. The average weighted decline in the aquifer from 1950
to 1997 was 12.6 feet (USGS Fact Sheet 124-99, Dec. 1999).
(4) The decline in water table levels is especially
pronounced in the Southern Ogallala Aquifer, reporting that
large areas in the States of Kansas, New Mexico, and Texas
experienced declines of over 100 feet in that period (USGS Fact
Sheet 124-99, Dec. 1999).
(5) The saturated thickness of the High Plains Aquifer has
declined by over 50 percent in some areas (1186 USGS Circular
27, 1999). Furthermore, the survey has reported that the
percentage of the High Plains Aquifer which has a saturated
thickness of 100 feet or more declined from 54 percent to 51
percent in the period from 1980 to 1997 (USGS Fact Sheet 124-
99, Dec. 1999).
(6) The decreased water levels in the High Plains Aquifer
coupled with higher pumping lift costs raise concerns about the
long-term sustainability of irrigated agriculture in the High
Plains. (``External Effects of Irrigators' Pumping Decisions,
High Plains Aquifer'' Alley and Schefter, American Geophysical
Union paper #7W0326; Water Resources Research, Vol. 23, No. 7
1123-1130, July 1987).
(7) Hydrological modeling by the United States Geological
Survey indicates that in the context of sustained high
groundwater use in the surrounding region, reductions in
groundwater pumping at the single farm level or at a very local
level of up to 100 square miles, have a very time limited
impact on conserving the level of the local water table, thus
creating a disincentive for individual water users to invest in
water conservation measures. (``External Effects of Irrigators'
Pumping Decisions, High Plains Aquifer'', Alley and Schefter,
American Geophysical Union, paper #7W0326; Water Resources
Research, Vol. 23, No. 7 1123-1130, July 1987).
(8) Incentives must be created for conservation of
groundwater on a regional scale, in order to achieve an
agricultural economy on the Southern High Plains that is
sustainable.
(9) For water conservation incentives to function, Federal,
State, tribal, and local water policymakers, and individual
groundwater users must have access to reliable information
concerning aquifer recharge rates, extraction rates, and water
table levels at the local and regional levels on an ongoing
basis.
(b) Purposes.--To promote groundwater conservation on the Southern
High Plains in order to extend the usable life of the Southern Ogallala
Aquifer.
SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.
For purposes of this Act:
(1) High plains aquifer.--The term ``High Plains Aquifer''
means the groundwater reserve depicted as Figure 1 in the
United States Geological Survey Professional Paper 1400-B,
titled ``Geohydrology of the High Plains Aquifer in Parts of
Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, South Dakota,
Texas, and Wyoming''.
(2) High plains.--The term ``High Plains'' means the
approximately 174,000 square miles of land surface overlying
the High Plains Aquifer in the States of New Mexico, Colorado,
Wyoming, South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas.
(3) Southern ogallala aquifer.--The term ``Southern
Ogallala Aquifer'' means that part of the High Plains Aquifer
lying below 39 degrees north latitude which underlies the
States of New Mexico, Texas, and Oklahoma, Colorado, and
Kansas.
(4) Southern high plains.--The term ``Southern High
Plains'' means the portions of the States of New Mexico, Texas,
and Oklahoma, Colorado, and Kansas which overlie the Southern
Ogallala Aquifer.
(5) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means either the
Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary of Agriculture, as
appropriate.
(6) Water conservation measure.--The term ``water
conservation measures'' means measures which enhance the
groundwater recharge rate of a given piece of land, or which
increase water use efficiencies.
SEC. 4. HYDROLOGIC MAPPING, MODELING, AND MONITORING PROGRAM.
(a) In General.--The Secretary of the Interior, working though the
United States Geological Survey, shall develop a comprehensive
hydrologic mapping, modeling, and monitoring program for the Southern
Ogallala Aquifer. The program shall include on a county-by-county
basis--
(1) a map of the hydrological configuration of the Aquifer;
and
(2) an analysis of--
(A) the current and past rate at which groundwater
is being withdrawn and recharged, and the net rate of
decrease or increase in aquifer storage;
(B) the factors controlling the rate of horizontal
migration of water within the Aquifer;
(C) the degree to which aquifer compaction caused
by pumping and recharge methods in impacting the
storage and recharge capacity of the groundwater body;
and
(D) the current and past rate of loss of saturated
thickness within the Aquifer.
(b) Annual Report.--Not later than one year after the enactment of
this Act, and annually thereafter, the Secretary shall submit a report
on the status of the Southern Ogallala Aquifer to the Committee on
Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate, the Committee on Resources
of the House of Representatives, and the Governors of the States of New
Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas, Colorado, and Kansas.
SEC. 5. GROUNDWATER CONSERVATION ASSISTANCE.
(a) Federal Assistance.--The Secretary of Agriculture, working
through the Natural Resources Conservation Service, shall establish a
groundwater conservation assistance program for Southern Ogallala
Aquifer.
(b) Design and Planning.--The Secretary shall provide financial and
technical assistance, including modeling and engineering design to
States, tribes, and counties, conservation districts, or other
political subdivisions recognized under State law, for the development
of comprehensive groundwater conservation plans within the Southern
High Plains. This assistance shall be provided on a cost-share basis
ensuring that--
(1) the Federal funding for the development of any given
plan shall not exceed 50 percent of the cost; and
(2) the Federal funding for groundwater water conservation
planning for any one county, conservation district, or similar
political subdivision recognized under State law shall not
exceed $50,000.
(c) Certification.--The Secretary shall create a certification
process for comprehensive groundwater conservation plans developed
under this program, or developed independently by States, tribes,
counties, or other political subdivisions recognized under State law.
To be certified, a plan must--
(1) cover a sufficient geographic area to provide a benefit
to the groundwater resource over at least a 20 year period;
(2) include a set of goals for water conservation; and
(3) include a process for an annual evaluation of the
plan's implementation to allow for modifications if goals are
not being met.
SEC. 6. IMPLEMENTATION ASSISTANCE.
(a) In General.--Farming operations within jurisdictions which have
a certified conservation plan in accordance with section 5(c) shall be
eligible assistance for projects described in subsection (b).
(b) Eligible Projects.--Projects eligible for assistance under
subsection (a) are as follows:
(1) Water conservation cost-share assistance.--The
Secretary, working through the Natural Resources Conservation
Service, may provide grants to individual farming operations of
up to $50,000 for implementing on farm water conservation
measures including the improvement of irrigation systems and
the purchase of new equipment. The Federal share of the water
conservation investment in any one operation be no greater than
50 percent.
(2) Irrigated land reserve.--Through the 2020 calendar
year, the Secretary shall formulate and carry out the
enrollment of lands in a groundwater conservation reserve
program through the use of multiple year contracts for
irrigated lands which would result in significant per acre
savings of groundwater resources if converted to dryland
agriculture.
(3) Conservation reserve program enhancement.--Lands
eligible for the Conservation Reserve Program established under
section 1231 of the Food Security Act of 1985 which would
result in significant per acre savings of groundwater resources
if removed from agricultural production shall be awarded 20
Conservation Reserve Program bid points, to be designated as
groundwater conservation points, in addition to any other
ratings the lands may receive.
SEC. 7. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
There are authorized to be appropriated--
(1) $5,000,000 annually through fiscal year 2020 for
hydrologic mapping, modeling, and monitoring under this Act;
(2) $5,000,000 annually through fiscal year 2020 for
groundwater conservation planning, design, and plan
certification under this Act;
(3) $30,000,000 annually through fiscal year 2020 for cost-
share assistance for on farm water conservation measures; and
(4) $30,000,000 annually through fiscal year 2020 for
enrollment of lands in an Irrigated Lands Reserve. | Authorizes and directs the Secretary of Agriculture, through the Natural Resources Conservation Service, to establish a groundwater conservation assistance program for such Aquifer. Directs the Secretary to create a groundwater conservation plan certification process. States that farms in jurisdictions with a certified plan shall be eligible for specified implementation assistance.
Authorizes appropriations. | Southern High Plains Groundwater Resource Conservation Act |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Federal Budget Structure Act of
1993''.
SEC. 2. STATEMENT OF FINDING AND PURPOSE.
(a) Statement of Finding.--Congress finds that the existing budget
obscures the distinctions between capital activities and operating
activities, and between Federal funds and trust funds so as to hinder
identifying the resources needed to meet the Government's needs.
(b) Purpose.--It is the purpose of this Act that the unified budget
present a capital budget and an operating budget, and distinguish
between Federal funds and trust funds, in order to provide better and
more relevant information on the revenues, expenses, and financing
requirements of Government programs and activities.
SEC. 3. CAPITAL AND OPERATING BUDGETS.
Title 31, United States Code, is amended by inserting after section
1105 the following new section:
``Sec. 1105a. Capital and operating budgets
``(a)(1) The budget of the United States submitted by the President
under section 1105 of this title shall be a unified budget composed of
an operating budget and a capital budget.
``(2) Operating and capital budgets shall be presented separately
for total funds, Federal funds, and trust funds.
``(b)(1) Actual, estimated, and proposed amounts shall be presented
for total funds, Federal funds, and trust funds and, at a minimum,
shall contain--
``(A) for the operating budget the following: (i) operating
revenues, (ii) operating expenses, (iii) operating surplus/
deficit before interfund transfers, (iv) interfund transfers,
and (v) operating surplus/deficit;
``(B) for the capital budget the following: (i) capital
revenues, (ii) capital investments, (iii) net capital
investments, (iv) interfund transfers, and (v) capital
financing requirements;
``(C) items not affecting funds; and
``(D) unified budget financing requirements.
``(2) The capital budget shall represent only the major activities,
projects, and programs which support the acquisition, construction,
alteration, and rehabilitation of capital assets. All other activities,
projects, and programs shall be represented in the operating budget.
``(c) In addition to the unified budget submitted by the President
as required by subsections (a) and (b) of this section, the President
shall present information in the form required by subsection (b)(1) for
accounts, agencies, and functions, to the extent applicable.
``(d) In this section--
``(1) `unified budget' means a budget in which revenues and
expenses for Federal funds and trust funds are consolidated to
display totals for the Federal Government as a whole;
``(2) `trust funds' means--
``(A) the Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance
Trust Fund,
``(B) the Federal Hospital Insurance Trust Fund,
``(C) the Civil Service Retirement and Disability
Fund,
``(D) the Military Retirement Fund,
``(E) the Federal Supplementary Medical Insurance
Trust Fund,
``(F) the Unemployment Trust Fund,
``(G) the Federal Disability Insurance Trust Fund,
and
``(H) such other funds or accounts of the
Government that the Director of the Office of
Management and Budget, in consultation with the
Comptroller General, determines should be classified as
trust funds in order to fulfill the purpose of this
section;
``(3) `Federal funds' includes all accounts of the
Government that are not trust funds;
``(4) `total funds' means Federal funds and trust funds and
represents the unified budget;
``(5) `capital assets' means physical assets and financial
assets, but does not include consumable inventories;
``(6) `physical assets' means tangible assets whose
ownership is or will be in the public domain; which typically
produce services or benefits, including for national defense
and security, for more than 2 years; and which have an initial
cost equal to or more than $100,000; such assets include, but
are not limited to--
``(A) roadways and bridges;
``(B) airports and airway facilities;
``(C) mass transportation systems;
``(D) waste water treatment and related facilities;
``(E) water resource projects;
``(F) medical facilities;
``(G) resource recovery facilities;
``(H) public structures;
``(I) space and communication facilities;
``(J) defense facilities;
``(K) major weapons platforms; and
``(L) strategic petroleum reserves and mineral
stockpiles;
``(7) `financial assets' means interests of the Federal
Government in, and claims of the Federal Government against,
foreign governments, States and their political subdivisions,
corporations, associations, and individuals and their resources
which are represented by a legal instrument (such as bonds,
debentures, notes, and other securities), less any credit
subsidy costs attributable to such financial assets;
``(8) `credit subsidy costs' means the losses incurred by
the Federal Government as a result of its direct and guaranteed
loans, including such costs as interest and default;
``(9) `consumable inventories' means tangible assets of the
Federal Government, including stockpiles, supplies, and
inventories, which typically are consumed within 2 years or
which have an initial price less than $100,000;
``(10) `operating revenues' means all receipts of the
Federal Government, other than those identified in paragraph
(16), including profits and interest earned on financial
assets;
``(11) `operating expenses' means all expenses of the
Federal Government, other than those identified in paragraph
(17), including interest payments on debts, asset consumption
charge, and credit subsidy costs;
``(12) `the operating surplus/deficit before interfund
transfers' means the difference between operating revenues and
operating expenses before interfund transfers;
``(13) `interfund transfers' means the flow of revenues
between Federal funds and trust funds accounts that are
expenses from the account making the payments and revenues to
the account receiving the payments;
``(14) `operating surplus/deficit' means the operating
surplus/deficit before interfund transfers plus or minus
interfund transfers;
``(15) `asset consumption charge' means the systematic
allocation of the original cost--historical, replacement, or
current value--of a physical asset (excluding national
monuments and land) financed by the appropriation accounts for
which the capital budget required by this section applies;
``(16) `capital revenues' means receipts of the Federal
Government derived from the repayment of principal invested in
financial assets, and taxes, collections, and receipts
dedicated by statute, for the acquisition, construction, and
rehabilitation of capital assets which relate to the
activities, functions, and programs represented by the capital
budget;
``(17) `capital investments' means expenditures of the
Federal Government, including those under grants, contracts,
and leases, which are for the acquisition, construction, and
rehabilitation of capital assets;
``(18) `net capital investments' means the amount by which
capital investments exceed the asset consumption charge;
``(19) `capital financing requirements' means net capital
investments plus or minus interfund transfers;
``(20) `items not affecting funds' means noncash outlays of
the Federal Government; and
``(21) `unified budget financing requirements' means the
total of the operating surplus/deficit and the net capital
financing requirements less items not affecting funds.''.
SEC. 4. CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.
(a) Duties of Comptroller General.--Section 1112 of title 31,
United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (c)(1) by inserting ``criteria,
principles, and standards for determining the contents of the
operating and capital budgets required under section 1105a of
this title, and'' after ``including''; and
(2) by adding at the end thereof the following new
subsection:
``(g) The Comptroller General shall review and report to the
Congress on the implementation of section 1105a of this title as the
Comptroller General deems necessary. A review by the Comptroller
General may include, but need not be limited to, determining whether
(1) the actual, estimated, and proposed appropriations, receipts, and
investments presented in the capital budget represent activities,
functions, and programs which support the acquisition, construction,
alteration, and rehabilitation of capital assets, and (2) the
classifications made by the Director of the Office of Management and
Budget under section 1105a(d)(2)(H) of this title further the purposes
of section 1105a.''.
(b) Chapter Analysis.--The analysis for chapter 11 of such title is
amended by inserting after the item relating to section 1105 the
following:
``1105a. Capital and operating budgets.''.
SEC. 5. PUBLIC WORKS FINANCING INFORMATION.
Title VII of the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965
(42 U.S.C. 3211-3226) is amended by adding at the end thereof the
following new section:
``SEC. 717. PUBLIC WORKS FINANCING INFORMATION.
``(a) Transportation Reports.--Not later than 12 months after the
date of the enactment of the Federal Budget Structure Act of 1991, and
annually thereafter, the Secretary of Transportation shall report to
the House Committee on Public Works and Transportation and the Senate
Committee on Environment and Public Works, at the account, function,
and agency levels, the actual, estimated, and proposed appropriations,
receipts, and expenditures for capital activities and operating
activities associated with the following:
``(1) roadways and bridges;
``(2) airports and airway facilities; and
``(3) mass transportation systems.
``(b) Water Pollution Reports.--Not later than 12 months after the
date of the enactment of the Federal Budget Structure Act of 1991, and
annually thereafter, the Administrator of the Environmental Protection
Agency shall report to the House Committee on Public Works and
Transportation and the Senate Committee on Environment and Public
Works, at the account and function levels, the actual, estimated, and
proposed appropriations, receipts, and expenditures for capital
activities and operating activities associated with waste water
treatment and related facilities.
``(c) Water Resources Reports.--Not later than 12 months after the
date of the enactment of the Federal Budget Structure Act of 1991, and
annually thereafter, the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil
Works shall report to the House Committee on Public Works and
Transportation and the Senate Committee on Environment and Public
Works, at the account and function levels, the actual, estimated, and
proposed appropriations, receipts, and expenditures for capital
activities and operating activities associated with water resource
projects.
``(d) Public Buildings Reports.--Not later than 12 months after the
date of the enactment of the Federal Budget Structure Act of 1991, and
annually thereafter, the Administrator of the General Services
Administration shall report to the House Committee on Public Works and
Transportation and the Senate Committee on Environment and Public
Works, at the account and function levels, the actual, estimated, and
proposed appropriations, receipts, and expenditures for capital
activities and operating activities associated with public
buildings.''. | Federal Budget Structure Act of 1993 - Amends Federal law to require that the budget the President submits to the Congress be a unified budget comprising an operating budget and a capital budget, each presented separately for total funds, Federal funds, and trust funds. Restricts the capital budget to the major activities, projects, and programs supporting the acquisition, construction, alteration, and rehabilitation of capital assets. Includes all other items in the operating budget.
Requires the following reports to specified congressional committees on capital activities and operating activities associated with: (1) roadways and bridges, airports and airway facilities, and mass transportation systems; (2) waste water treatment and related facilities; (3) water resource projects; and (4) public buildings. | Federal Budget Structure Act of 1993 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Lost Creek Land Exchange Act of
1996''.
SEC. 2. LAND EXCHANGE.
(a) In General.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the
Secretary of Agriculture (referred to in this Act as the ``Secretary'')
shall acquire by exchange certain land and interests in land owned by
R-Y Timber, Inc., its successors and assigns or affiliates (referred to
in this Act as ``R-Y''), located in the Lost Creek area and other areas
of the Deerlodge National Forest, Montana.
(b) Offer and Acceptance of Land.--
(1) Non-federal land.--If R-Y offers fee title that is
acceptable to the United States to approximately 17,567 acres
of land owned by R-Y and available for exchange, the Secretary
shall accept a warranty deed to the land.
(2) Federal land.--
(A) Conveyance.--On acceptance by the Secretary of
title to R-Y's land under paragraph (1), the Secretary
of the Interior shall convey to R-Y, subject to
reservations and valid existing rights--
(i) by patent, fee title to approximately
3,605 acres in the Deerlodge National Forest;
and
(ii) by timber deed, the right to harvest
approximately 46,628,000 board feet of timber
on certain land in the Deerlodge National
Forest, Helena National Forest, and Lewis &
Clark National Forest.
(B) Timber harvest provisions.--
(i) Practices.--Timber harvest practices
used on the national forest land described in
subparagraph (A)(ii) shall be conducted in
accordance with Montana Forestry Best
Management Practices, the Montana Streamside
Zone Management Law (Mont. Code Ann. sec. 77-5-
301 et seq.), and all other applicable laws of
the State of Montana.
(ii) Relation to planned sales.--The timber
harvest volume described in subparagraph
(A)(ii) shall be in addition to, and not
treated in any way as an offset against, the
present or future planned timber sale
quantities for the Deerlodge National Forest,
Helena National Forest, and Lewis & Clark
National Forest.
(iii) Timber designations.--
(I) Contract.--To ensure the
expeditious and efficient designation
of the timber described in subparagraph
(A)(ii), the Forest Service shall
contract with a qualified private
person agreed on by the Secretary and
R-Y to perform the field work
associated with the designations.
(II) Minimum annual designations.--
Not less than 20 percent nor more than
30 percent of the timber described in
subparagraph (A)(ii) shall be made
available by the end of each fiscal
year over a 5-year period beginning
with the first fiscal year that begins
after the date of enactment of this
Act, and R-Y shall be allowed at least
5 years after the end of each fiscal
year in which to complete the harvest
of timber designated in that fiscal
year.
(c) Title.--
(1) Review of title.--Not later than 30 days after receipt
of title documents from R-Y, the Secretary shall review the
title for the non-Federal land described in subsection (b) and
determine whether--
(A) the applicable title standards for Federal land
acquisition have been satisfied or the quality of title
is otherwise acceptable to the Secretary;
(B) all draft conveyances and closing documents
have been received and approved; and
(C) a current title commitment verifying compliance
with applicable title standards has been issued to the
Secretary.
(2) Unacceptable quality of title.--If the quality of title
does not meet Federal standards and is not otherwise acceptable
to the Secretary, the Secretary shall advise R-Y regarding
corrective actions necessary to make an affirmative
determination.
(3) Conveyance of title.--The Secretary, acting through the
Secretary of the Interior, shall effect the conveyance of land
described in subsection (b) not later than 60 days after the
Secretary has made an affirmative determination of quality of
title.
SEC. 3. GENERAL PROVISIONS.
(a) Maps and Documents.--
(1) In general.--Maps pertaining to the land described in
section 2 are subject to such minor corrections as may be
agreed upon by the Secretary and R-Y.
(2) Notification.--The Secretary shall notify the Committee
on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate and the Committee
on Resources of the House of Representatives of any corrections
made pursuant to this subsection.
(3) Public availability.--The maps and documents described
in section 2(b) (1) and (3) shall be on file and available for
public inspection in the office of the Chief of the Forest
Service.
(b) National Forest System Land.--All land conveyed to the United
States under this Act shall be added to and administered as part of the
Deerlodge National Forest in accordance with the laws pertaining to the
National Forest System.
(c) Valuation.--The values of the lands and interests in land to be
exchanged under this Act are deemed to be of approximately equal value.
(d) Hazardous Material Liability.--The United States (including its
departments, agencies, and employees) shall not be liable under the
Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act
(42 U.S.C. 9601 et seq.), the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.),
or any other Federal, State, or local law, solely as a result of the
acquisition of an interest in the Lost Creek Tract or due to
circumstances or events occurring before acquisition, including any
release or threat of release of a hazardous substance. | Lost Creek Land Exchange Act of 1996 - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to acquire certain land and interests in land owned by R-Y Timber, Inc., located in the Lost Creek area and other areas of the Deerlodge National Forest, Montana, in exchange for specified lands in the Deerlodge National Forest and the right to harvest specified amounts of timber on certain land in the Deerlodge, Helena, and Lewis and Clark National Forests.
Directs that: (1) timber harvest practices used on such National Forest lands be conducted in accordance with applicable Montana law and be in addition to the present or future planned timber sale quantities for such Forests; and (2) the Forest Service enter a contract with a qualified private person agreed on by the Secretary and R-Y to perform the field work associated with the designations.
Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) minimum annual designations of timber harvest; and (2) review, standards for quality, and conveyance of title.
Specifies that all land conveyed to the United States under this Act shall be added to and administered as part of the Deerlodge National Forest. Deems the values of the lands and interests exchanged under this Act to be of approximately equal value.
Shields the United States from liability as a result of the acquisition of an interest in the Lost Creek Tract or due to circumstances or events occurring before acquisition, including any release or threat of release of a hazardous substance. | Lost Creek Land Exchange Act of 1996 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Rural Health Innovation
Demonstration Act of 1993''.
SEC. 2. RURAL HEALTH EXTENSION NETWORKS.
Title XVII of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 300u et
seq.) is amended by adding at the end thereof the following new
section:
``SEC. 1709. RURAL HEALTH EXTENSION NETWORKS.
``(a) Grants.--The Secretary, acting through the Health Resources
and Services Administration, may award competitive grants to eligible
entities to enable such entities to facilitate the development of
networks among rural and urban health care providers to preserve and
share health care resources and enhance the quality and availability of
health care in rural areas. Such networks may be statewide or
regionalized in focus.
``(b) Eligible Entities.--To be eligible to receive a grant under
subsection (a) an entity shall--
``(1)(A) be a rural health extension network that meets the
requirements of subsection (c); or
``(B) be an Area Health Education Center Program;
``(2) prepare and submit to the Secretary an application at
such time, in such form and containing such information as the
Secretary may require; and
``(3) meets such other requirements as the Secretary
determines appropriate.
``(c) Networks.--For purposes of subsection (b)(1), a rural health
extension network shall be an association or consortium of three or
more rural health care providers, and may include one or more urban
health care provider, for the purposes of applying for a grant under
this section and using amounts received under such grant to provide the
services described in subsection (d).
``(d) Services.--
``(1) In general.--An entity that receives a grant under
subsection (a) shall use amounts received under such grant to--
``(A) provide education and community
decisionmaking support for health care providers in the
rural areas served by the network;
``(B) utilize existing health care provider
education programs, including but not limited to, the
program for area health education centers under section
781, to provide educational services to health care
providers and trainees including, but not limited to,
physicians, nurses and nursing students in the areas
served by the network;
``(C) make appropriately trained facilitators
available to health care providers located in the areas
served by the network to assist such providers in
developing cooperative approaches to health care in
such area;
``(D) facilitate linkage building through the
organization of discussion and planning groups and the
dissemination of information concerning the health care
resources where available, within the area served by
the network;
``(E) support telecommunications and consultative
projects to link rural hospitals and other health care
providers, and urban or tertiary hospitals in the areas
served by the network; or
``(F) carry out any other activity determined
appropriate by the Secretary.
``(2) Education.--In carrying out activities under
paragraph (1)(B), an entity shall support the development of an
information and resource sharing system, including elements
targeted towards high risk populations and focusing on health
promotion, to facilitate the ability of rural health care
providers to have access to needed health care information.
Such activities may include the provision of training to enable
individuals to serve as coordinators of health education
programs in rural areas.
``(3) Collection and dissemination of data.--The chief
executive officer of a State shall designate a State agency
that shall be responsible for collecting and regularly
disseminating information concerning the activities of the
rural health extension networks in that State.
``(e) Matching Requirement.--An entity that receives a grant under
subsection (a) shall make available (directly or through donations from
public or private entities), non-Federal contributions towards the
costs of the operations of the network in an amount equal to the amount
of the grant.
``(f) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be
appropriated to carry out this section, $10,000,000 for each of the
fiscal years 1994 through 1997.
``(g) Definition.--As used in this section and section 1710, the
term `rural health care providers' means health care professionals and
hospitals located in rural areas. The Secretary shall ensure that for
purposes of this definition, rural areas shall include any area that
meets any applicable Federal or State definition of rural area.
``(h) Relation to Other Laws.--
``(1) In general.--Notwithstanding any provision of the
antitrust laws, it shall not be considered a violation of the
antitrust laws for entities to develop and operate networks in
accordance with this section.
``(2) Definition.--For purposes of this subsection, the
term `antitrust laws' means--
``(A) the Act entitled `An Act to protect trade and
commerce against unlawful restraints and monopolies',
approved July 2, 1890, commonly known as the `Sherman
Act' (26 Stat. 209; chapter 647; 15 U.S.C. 1 et seq.);
``(B) the Federal Trade Commission Act, approved
September 26, 1914 (38 Stat. 717; chapter 311; 15
U.S.C. 41 et seq.);
``(C) the Act entitled `An Act to supplement
existing laws against unlawful restraints and
monopolies, and for other purposes', approved October
15, 1914, commonly known as the `Clayton Act' (38 Stat.
730; chapter 323; 15 U.S.C. 12 et seq.; 18 U.S.C. 402,
660, 3285, 3691; 29 U.S.C. 52, 53);
``(D) the Act of June 19, 1936, commonly known as
the Robinson-Patman Antidiscrimination Act (15 U.S.C.
13 et seq.); and
``(E) any State antitrust laws that would prohibit
the activities described in paragraph (1).''.
SEC. 3. RURAL MANAGED CARE COOPERATIVES.
Title XVII of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 300u et
seq.) as amended by section 2 is further amended by adding at the end
thereof the following new section:
``SEC. 1710. RURAL MANAGED CARE COOPERATIVES.
``(a) Grants.--The Secretary, acting through the Health Resources
and Services Administration, may award competitive grants to eligible
entities to enable such entities to develop and administer cooperatives
in rural areas that will establish an effective case management and
reimbursement system designed to support the economic viability of
essential public or private health services, facilities, health care
systems and health care resources in such rural areas.
``(b) Eligible Entities.--To be eligible to receive a grant under
subsection (a) an entity shall--
``(1) prepare and submit to the Secretary an application at
such time, in such form and containing such information as the
Secretary may require, including a description of the
cooperative that the entity intends to develop and operate
using grant funds; and
``(2) meet such other requirements as the Secretary
determines appropriate.
``(c) Cooperatives.--
``(1) In general.--Amounts provided under a grant awarded
under subsection (a) shall be used to establish and operate a
cooperative made up of all types of health care providers,
hospitals, primary access hospitals, other alternate rural
health care facilities, physicians, rural health clinics, rural
nurse practitioners and physician assistant practitioners,
public health departments and others located in, but not
restricted to, the rural areas to be served by the cooperative.
``(2) Board of directors.--A cooperative established under
paragraph (1) shall be administered by a board of directors
elected by the members of the cooperative, a majority of whom
shall represent rural providers from the local community and
include representatives from the local community. Such members
shall serve at the pleasure of such members.
``(3) Executive director.--The members of a cooperative
established under paragraph (1) shall elect an executive
director who shall serve as the chief operating officer of the
cooperative. The executive director shall be responsible for
conducting the day the day operation of the cooperative
including--
``(A) maintaining an accounting system for the
cooperative;
``(B) maintaining the business records of the
cooperative;
``(C) negotiating contracts with provider members
of the cooperative; and
``(D) coordinating the membership and programs of
the cooperative.
``(4) Reimbursements.--
``(A) Negotiations.--A cooperative established
under paragraph (1) shall facilitate negotiations among
member health care providers and third party payors
concerning the rates at which such providers will be
reimbursed for services provided to individuals for
which such payors may be liable.
``(B) Agreements.--Agreements reached under
subparagraph (A) shall be binding on the members of the
cooperative.
``(C) Employers.--Employer entities may become
members of a cooperative established under paragraph
(a) in order to provide, through a member third party
payor, health insurance coverage for its employees.
Deductibles shall only be charged to employees covered
under such insurance if such employees receive health
care services from a provider that is not a member of
the cooperative if similar services would have been
available from a member provider.
``(D) Malpractice insurance.--A cooperative
established under subsection (a) shall be responsible
for identifying and implementing an affordable
malpractice insurance program that shall include a
requirement that such cooperative assume responsibility
for the payment of a portion of the malpractice
insurance premium of providers members.
``(5) Managed care and practice standards.--A cooperative
established under paragraph (1) shall establish joint case
management and patient care practice standards programs that
health care providers that are members of such cooperative must
meet to be eligible to participate in agreements entered into
under paragraph (4). Such standards shall be developed by such
provider members and shall be subject to the approval of a
majority of the board of directors. Such programs shall include
cost and quality of care guidelines including a requirement
that such providers make available preadmission screening,
selective case management services, joint patient care practice
standards development and compliance and joint utilization
review.
``(6) Confidentiality.--
``(A) In general.--Patients records, records of
peer review, utilization review, and quality assurance
proceedings conducted by the cooperative should be
considered confidential and protected from release
outside of the cooperative. The provider members of the
cooperative shall be indemnified by the cooperative for
the good faith participation by such members in such
the required activities.
``(B) Quality data.--Notwithstanding any other
provision of law, quality data obtained by a hospital
or other member of a cooperative in the normal course
of the operations of the hospital or member shall be
immune from discovery regardless of whether such data
is used for purposes other than peer review or is
disclosed to other members of the cooperative involved.
``(d) Linkages.--A cooperative shall create linkages among member
health care providers, employers, and payors for the joint consultation
and formulation of the types, rates, costs, and quality of health care
provided in rural areas served by the cooperative.
``(e) Matching Requirement.--An entity that receives a grant under
subsection (a) shall make available (directly or through donations from
public or private entities), non-Federal contributions towards the
costs of the operations of the network in an amount equal to the amount
of the grant.
``(f) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be
appropriated to carry out this section, $15,000,000 for each of the
fiscal years 1994 through 1997.
``(g) Relation to Other Laws.--
``(1) In general.--Notwithstanding any provision of the
antitrust laws, it shall not be considered a violation of the
antitrust laws for entities to develop and operate cooperatives
in accordance with this section.
``(2) Definition.--For purposes of this subsection, the
term `antitrust laws' means--
``(A) the Act entitled `An Act to protect trade and
commerce against unlawful restraints and monopolies',
approved July 2, 1890, commonly known as the `Sherman
Act' (26 Stat. 209; chapter 647; 15 U.S.C. 1 et seq.);
``(B) the Federal Trade Commission Act, approved
September 26, 1914 (38 Stat. 717; chapter 311; 15
U.S.C. 41 et seq.);
``(C) the Act entitled `An Act to supplement
existing laws against unlawful restraints and
monopolies, and for other purposes', approved October
15, 1914, commonly known as the `Clayton Act' (38 Stat.
730; chapter 323; 15 U.S.C. 12 et seq.; 18 U.S.C. 402,
660, 3285, 3691; 29 U.S.C. 52, 53);
``(D) the Act of June 19, 1936, commonly known as
the Robinson-Patman Antidiscrimination Act (15 U.S.C.
13 et seq.); and
``(E) any State antitrust laws that would prohibit
the activities described in paragraph (1).''.
SEC. 4. RURAL MENTAL HEALTH OUTREACH GRANTS.
Subpart 3 of part B of title V of the Public Health Service Act (42
U.S.C. 290cc-11 et seq.) is amended by adding at the end thereof the
following new section:
``SEC. 520C. RURAL MENTAL HEALTH OUTREACH GRANTS.
``(a) In General.--The Secretary may award competitive grants to
eligible entities to enable such entities to develop and implement a
plan for mental health outreach programs in rural areas.
``(b) Eligible Entities.--To be eligible to receive a grant under
subsection (a) an entity shall--
``(1) prepare and submit to the Secretary an application at
such time, in such form and containing such information as the
Secretary may require, including a description of the
activities that the entity intends to undertake using grant
funds; and
``(2) meet such other requirements as the Secretary
determines appropriate.
``(c) Priority.--In awarding grants under subsection (a), the
Secretary shall give priority to applications that place emphasis on
mental health services for the elderly or children. Priority shall also
be given to applications that involve relationships between the
applicant and rural managed care cooperatives.
``(d) Matching Requirement.--An entity that receives a grant under
subsection (a) shall make available (directly or through donations from
public or private entities), non-Federal contributions toward the costs
of the operations of the network in an amount equal to the amount of
the grant.
``(e) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be
appropriated to carry out this section, $5,000,000 for each of the
fiscal years 1994 through 1997.''.
SEC. 5. AREA HEALTH EDUCATION CENTERS.
(a) Section 746(a) of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C.
293j(a)) is amended by adding at the end thereof the following new
paragraph:
``(4) Stipends.--
``(A) The Secretary make award grants under this
section to rural communities to enable such communities
to provide stipends to physicians, nurses, nurse
practitioners, physician assistants, and other health
professional trainees to encourage such individuals to
provide health care services in such rural communities.
In addition, the Secretary may award grants under this
section to rural communities to enable such communities
to provide stipends to physicians, nurses, nurse
practitioners, physician assistants, and other health
professionals that are practicing in rural areas to
retain such individuals in such areas.
``(B) A community that receives a grant under
subparagraph (A) shall make available (directly or
through donations from public or private entities),
non-Federal contributions toward the costs of the
operations of the network in an amount equal to the
amount of the grant.''.
(b) Reauthorization.--Section 746(i)(1)(A) of such Act (42 U.S.C.
293j(i)(1)(A)) is amended by striking out ``$25,000,000'' and all that
follows through ``1995'' and inserting in lieu thereof ``$25,000,000
for fiscal year 1993, and $42,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 1994
through 1997''. | Rural Health Innovation Demonstration Act of 1993 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize competitive grants for the development of networks among rural and urban health care providers to preserve and share health care resources and enhance the quality and availability of health care in rural areas. Allows the networks to be statewide or regional. Specifies the services for which grant amounts must be used. Authorizes appropriations.
Authorizes competitive grants to develop and administer cooperatives in rural areas that will establish an effective case management and reimbursement system designed to support the economic viability of essential public or private health services, facilities, health care systems, and health care resources. Involves the cooperative in matters such as third party reimbursement, employee health insurance, malpractice insurance, and managed care and practice standards. Authorizes appropriations.
Authorizes competitive grants to develop and implement a plan for mental health outreach programs in rural areas. Authorizes appropriations.
Authorizes grants to enable rural communities to provide stipends to physicians, nurses, physician assistants, and other health professional trainees to: (1) encourage such individuals to provide health care services in such communities; and (2) encourage such individuals who are already practicing in such communities to stay in such areas.
Authorizes appropriations to carry out provisions relating to area health education centers. | Rural Health Innovation Demonstration Act of 1993 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Choices in Child Care Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress finds the following:
(1) Currently, child care assistance for children from low-
income working families is severely underfunded, allowing only
1 in 7 eligible children to receive child care assistance for
children from birth to age 13.
(2) Funding for the Child Care and Development Block Grant
Act of 1990 has remained relatively flat for 5 years, making it
more difficult for children from eligible families to receive
child care assistance.
(3) In the majority of United States families, parents,
whether married or single, must work to provide economic
security for their families and, not the least, for the infants
newly welcomed into the families. Fifty-five percent of women
with children less than 1 year of age are part of the
workforce, while 73 percent of women with children 1 year of
age or older are in the workforce.
(4) Research shows that the quality and nature of
caretaking in the first months and years of life are critical
to a young child's subsequent brain development, social
development, and well-being. Healthy early development depends
on nurturing and responsible relationships.
(5) Research also shows that there is an extreme shortage
of quality, affordable child care for infants. Numerous studies
document lack of infant care and, in particular, affordable
care that meets basic health and safety standards, particularly
in rural areas. The current number of infant slots of licensed
child care providers can only meet 18 percent of the potential
need. The shortage is even more acute in rural areas,
especially those with a high percentage of low-wage residents.
(6) For the well-being of United States children, and for
the economic security of the families on which the children
depend, working parents should be able to provide child care
for infants themselves without undermining family economic
stability.
SEC. 3. AT-HOME INFANT CARE.
The Child Care and Development Block Grant Act of 1990 is amended
by inserting after section 658G (42 U.S.C. 9858e) the following:
``SEC. 658H. DEMONSTRATION PROJECTS TO PROVIDE AT-HOME INFANT CARE
BENEFITS.
``(a) Authority To Award Grants.--
``(1) In general.--The Secretary shall award grants to not
less than 5 and not more than 7 States to enable such States to
carry out demonstration projects to provide at-home infant care
benefits to eligible low-income families.
``(2) Indian tribes.--The Secretary may award grants to
Indian tribes under this subsection. An Indian tribe that
receives a grant under this subsection shall carry out a
demonstration project to provide at-home infant care benefits
to eligible low-income families. The Indian tribe shall carry
out the demonstration project in the same manner, and to the
same extent, as a State that receives a grant under this
subsection, except that the Secretary may modify the
requirements of this section as appropriate with respect to the
Indian tribe.
``(3) Calculation.--Any grant awarded to an Indian tribe
under paragraph (2) shall not be counted in determining the
number of grants awarded to States under paragraph (1).
``(b) Demonstration Projects.--
``(1) Application for participation and selection of
states.--
``(A) In general.--To be eligible to participate in
the program carried out under this section and receive
a grant under subsection (a) to carry out a
demonstration project, a State shall submit an
application to the Secretary at such time, in such
manner, and containing such information as the
Secretary may require.
``(B) Notice.--Not later than 90 days after the
date of enactment of Choices in Child Care Act, the
Secretary shall publish in the Federal Register a
notice of opportunity to participate in the program and
receive such a grant, specifying the contents of an
application described in subparagraph (A). The notice
shall include a timeframe for States to submit such an
application, and shall provide that all such
applications shall be submitted not later than 270 days
after such date of enactment.
``(C) Selection.--
``(i) In general.--The Secretary shall
review the applications and select the
participating States not later than 1 year
after such date of enactment.
``(ii) Criteria.--In selecting the
participating States, the Secretary shall--
``(I) seek to ensure geographic
diversity; and
``(II) give priority to States--
``(aa) whose applications
demonstrate a strong commitment
to improving the quality of
infant care and the choices
available to parents of
infants;
``(bb) with experience
relevant to the operation of
at-home infant care programs;
and
``(cc) in which there are
demonstrable shortages of
infant care.
``(2) Required certifications.--A State selected to be a
participating State shall provide certifications to the
Secretary, with respect to the demonstration project to be
carried out by the State, that--
``(A) during the period during which the State
carries out the demonstration project, the State will
not reduce expenditures for child care services below
the level of such expenditures made by the State in the
fiscal year preceding the fiscal year in which the
State began to carry out the project;
``(B) the State, in carrying out the demonstration
project--
``(i) will not give priority or preference
to--
``(I) eligible low-income families
seeking to receive at-home infant care
benefits through the demonstration
project; over
``(II) other eligible low-income
families on a waiting list for child
care assistance through another program
in the State; but
``(ii) will select a combination of
families described in clause (i)(I) and
families described in (i)(II) to receive at-
home infant care benefits;
``(C) the State will--
``(i) provide parents applying to receive
at-home infant care benefits with in- formation
on the range of options for child care
available to the parents;
``(ii) ensure that approved applicants for
at-home infant care benefits are permitted to
choose between receipt of at-home infant care
benefit subsidies, and receipt of certificates
that may be used with an eligible child care
provider for child care needed for employment;
and
``(iii) provide that a family receiving at-
home infant care benefit subsidies may exchange
the subsidies for certificates described in
clause (ii) at any time during the family's
participation in the demonstration project;
``(D) the State will develop or update, and
implement, a plan to improve the quality of infant care
in the State, and provide parent education and support
services to participants in the demonstration project;
and
``(E) the State will cooperate with information
collection and evaluations conducted by the Secretary.
``(3) Family eligibility.--
``(A) In general.--To be eligible to receive at-
home infant care benefits through a demonstration
project under this section, a family shall--
``(i) have a family income that does not
exceed the limit specified in section
658P(4)(B);
``(ii) include a child under the age of 12
months (or, at the election of the State
carrying out the demonstration project, under
the age of 24 months);
``(iii) include a parent who had a recent
work history (as determined in accordance with
the State's requirements for such a work
history) prior to application for the at-home
infant care benefits; and
``(iv) meet such other eligibility
requirements as the State may establish.
``(B) Two-parent families.--A State selected to
carry out a demonstration project under this section
shall permit 2-parent families to participate in the
project but may not limit participation in the project
to such families.
``(4) Amount of assistance.--The amount of an at-home
infant care benefit provided to an eligible low-income family
under this section for a month shall not exceed the monthly
amount obtained by applying 100 percent of the State's maximum
rate for a licensed family child care provider for full-time
infant care.
``(5) TANF assistance.--The receipt of an at-home infant
care benefit under this section shall not be considered to be
assistance for any purpose under the program of block grants to
States for temporary assistance for needy families established
under part A of title IV of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C.
601 et seq.).
``(6) Benefit not treated as income.--Notwithstanding any
other provision of law, the value of an at-home infant care
benefit shall not be treated as income for purposes of any
Federal or federally-assisted program that bases eligibility,
or the amount of benefits or services provided, on need.
``(c) Evaluation and Report to Congress.--
``(1) In general.--The Secretary shall conduct an
evaluation of the demonstration projects carried out under this
section and submit a report to Congress containing the results
of such evaluation not later than 4 years after the date of
enactment of Choices in Child Care Act.
``(2) Requirements.--In conducting the evaluation, the
Secretary shall examine the following:
``(A) Implementation experiences of the States
carrying out the demonstration projects in developing
and operating projects providing at-home infant care
benefits, including design issues and issues in
coordinating at-home infant care benefits provided
under this section with benefits provided or funded
under another provision of this Act in the State.
``(B) The characteristics of families seeking to
participate and participating in the demonstration
projects providing at-home infant care benefits funded
under this section.
``(C) The length of participation by families in
such demonstration projects and the reasons for the
families ceasing to participate in the demonstration
projects.
``(D) The prior and subsequent employment of the
participating families and the effect of the
demonstration project participation on subsequent
employment of the families.
``(E) The costs and benefits of the demonstration
projects.
``(F) The effectiveness of State efforts (including
tribal efforts) to improve the quality of infant care
during the periods in which the demonstration projects
are carried out.
``(3) Reservation of funds.--From the amount appropriated
under section 658B(b) for a fiscal year, the Secretary shall
reserve $1,000,000 for purposes of conducting the evaluation
required under this subsection.''.
SEC. 4. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS AND CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.
(a) Authorization of Appropriations.--Section 658B of the Child
Care and Development Block Grant Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 9858) is
amended--
(1) by inserting: ``(a) In General.--'' before ``There
is'';
(2) by inserting ``(other than section 658H)'' after ``this
subchapter''; and
(3) by adding at the end the following:
``(b) Demonstration Projects To Provide At-Home Infant Care
Benefits.--There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out section
658H $75,000,000 for fiscal year 2007 and each subsequent fiscal
year.''.
(b) Conforming Amendments.--
(1) Reservations.--Section 658O(a) of the Child Care and
Development Block Grant Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 9858m(a)) is
amended--
(A) in paragraph (1), by striking ``under this
subchapter'' and inserting ``under section 658B(a)'';
and
(B) in paragraph (2), by striking ``under section
658B'' and inserting ``under section 658B(a)''.
(2) Allotments.--Section 658O(b)(1) of such Act (42 U.S.C.
9858m(b)(1)) is amended by striking ``under section 658B'' and
inserting ``under section 658B(a)''. | Choices in Child Care Act - Amends the Child Care and Development Block Grant Act of 1990 to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to award grants to five to seven states for demonstration projects to provide at-home infant care benefits to low-income families. Allows grants to Indian tribes. Requires the Secretary to seek to ensure geographic diversity among participants and to give priority to states that demonstrate a commitment to improving the quality of infant care and the choices available to parents of infants, that have relevant experience, and that have a shortage of infant care.
Requires states, to participate in the demonstration project, to certify to the Secretary that the state: (1) will not reduce expenditures for child care services while carrying out the project; (2) will not give priority or preference to low-income families seeking to receive at-home infant care benefits over other families on a waiting list for child care assistance through other state programs, but will select a combination of such families; and (3) will ensure that applicants are permitted to choose between receipt of at-home care subsidies and certificates for child care needed for employment.
Sets forth eligibility requirements for families seeking assistance, including having a parent who had a recent work history prior to the application for benefits. Requires states to permit two-parent families to participate in the project, but prohibits states from limiting participation in the project to such families. | To establish demonstration projects to provide at-home infant care benefits. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Medicare Payment for Quality and
Value Act of 2003''.
SEC. 2. DEMONSTRATION PROJECTS TO IMPROVE HEALTH CARE QUALITY AND
REDUCE COSTS UNDER MEDICARE.
(a) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Demonstration project.--The term ``demonstration
project'' means a demonstration project established by the
Secretary under subsection (b)(1).
(2) Low-cost high-quality state.--The term ``low-cost high-
quality State'' means a State in the top quartile of cost and
quality efficiency as measured by the Centers for Medicare &
Medicaid Services using 1999 program data.
(3) Medicare beneficiary.--The term ``medicare
beneficiary'' means an individual who is entitled to (or
enrolled for) benefits under part A of the medicare program,
enrolled for benefits under part B of the medicare program, or
both (including an individual who is enrolled in a
Medicare+Choice plan under part C of the medicare program).
(4) Medicare program.--The term ``medicare program'' means
the health benefits program under title XVIII of the Social
Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395 et seq.).
(5) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of Health and Human Services.
(b) Demonstration Projects To Improve Health Care Quality and
Reduce Costs Under Medicare.--
(1) Establishment.--There is established a demonstration
program under which the Secretary shall establish demonstration
projects in accordance with the provisions of this section for
the purpose of improving the quality of care--
(A) provided to medicare beneficiaries with high-
volume and high-cost conditions; and
(B) for which payment is made under the medicare
program.
(2) Rewarding quality care.--Under the demonstration
projects, the Secretary shall increase payments under the
medicare program by an amount determined by the Secretary for
purposes of the demonstration projects to health care providers
(as defined by the Secretary) in low-cost high-quality States
that demonstrate adherence to quality standards identified by
the Secretary for purposes of the demonstration projects.
(c) Conduct of Demonstration Projects.--
(1) Demonstration areas.--
(A) In general.--The Secretary shall conduct
demonstration projects in low-cost high-quality States
selected on the basis of proposals submitted under
subparagraph (B). Each demonstration project shall be
conducted on a statewide basis.
(B) Proposals.--The Secretary shall accept
proposals to establish the demonstration projects from
entities that demonstrate an intent to include multiple
public and private payers and a majority of practicing
physicians in a low-cost high-quality State.
(2) Duration.--The Secretary shall complete the
demonstration projects by the date that is 5 years after the
date on which the first demonstration project is implemented.
(d) Report to Congress.--Not later than the date that is 6 months
after the date on which the demonstration projects end, the Secretary
shall submit to Congress a report on the demonstration projects
together with such recommendations for legislation or administrative
action as the Secretary determines is appropriate.
(e) Waiver of Medicare Requirements.--The Secretary shall waive
compliance with such requirements of the medicare program to the extent
and for the period the Secretary finds necessary to conduct the
demonstration projects.
(f) Funding.--
(1) Demonstration projects.--
(A) In general.--Subject to subparagraph (B) and
paragraph (2), the Secretary shall provide for the
transfer from the Federal Hospital Insurance Trust Fund
under section 1817 of the Social Security Act (42
U.S.C. 1395i) and Federal Supplementary Insurance Trust
Fund under section 1841 of such Act (42 U.S.C. 1395t),
in such proportion as the Secretary determines
appropriate, of such funds as are necessary for the
costs of carrying out the demonstration projects under
this section.
(B) Limitation.--In conducting the demonstration
projects under this section, the Secretary shall ensure
that the aggregate payments made by the Secretary under
the medicare program do not exceed the amount which the
Secretary would have paid under the medicare program if
the demonstration projects under this section were not
implemented.
(2) Evaluation and report.--There are authorized to be
appropriated such sums as are necessary for the purpose of
developing and submitting the report to Congress under
subsection (d).
SEC. 3. INSTITUTE OF MEDICINE REPORT ON PAYMENT INCENTIVES AND
PERFORMANCE UNDER THE MEDICARE+CHOICE PROGRAM.
(a) Study.--The Secretary of Health and Human Services shall enter
into an arrangement with the Institute of Medicine of the National
Academy of Sciences under which the Institute shall conduct a study on
clinical outcomes, performance, and quality of care under the
Medicare+Choice program under part C of title XVIII of the Social
Security Act.
(b) Matters Studied.--
(1) In general.--In conducting the study under subsection
(a), the Institute shall review and evaluate the public and
private sector experience related to the establishment of
performance measures and payment incentives. The review shall
include an evaluation of the success, efficiency, and utility
of structural process and performance measurements, and
different methodologies that link performance to payment
incentives. The review shall include the use of incentives--
(A) aimed at plans and their enrollees;
(B) aimed at providers and their patients;
(C) to encourage consumers to purchase based on
quality and value; and
(D) to encourage multiple purchasers, providers,
beneficiaries, and plans within a community to work
together to improve performance.
(2) Identification of options.--As part of the study, the
Institute shall identify options for providing incentives and
rewarding performance, improve quality, outcomes, and
efficiency in the delivery of programs and services under the
Medicare+Choice program, including--
(A) periodic updates of performance measurements to
continue rewarding outstanding performance and
encourage improvements;
(B) payments that vary by type of plan, such as
preferred provider organization plans and MSA plans;
(C) extension of incentives in the Medicare+Choice
program to the fee for service program under title
XVIII of the Social Security Act; and
(D) performance measures needed to implement
alternative methodologies to align payments with
performance.
(c) Report.--Not later than 18 months after the date of the
enactment of this Act, the Institute shall submit to Congress and the
Secretary a report on the study conducted under subsection (a). | Medicare Payment for Quality and Value Act of 2003 - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish demonstration projects to improve care provided to Medicare beneficiaries with high-volume and high-cost conditions and for which payment is made under Medicare. Directs the Secretary to increase payments under Medicare to health care providers in low-cost high-quality States that adhere to quality standards identified by the Secretary. Defines a low-cost high-quality State as a State meeting certain cost and quality efficiency standards.Directs the Secretary to accept proposals for projects in low-cost high-quality States from entities planning to include multiple public and private payers and a majority of practicing physicians in the State.Allows the Secretary to waive compliance with such requirements of the Medicare program to the extent and for the period necessary to conduct demonstration projects under this Act.Directs the Secretary to enter into an agreement with the Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Sciences under which the Institute shall conduct a study on clinical outcomes, performance, and quality of care under the Medicare+Choice program under the Social Security Act. | A bill to conduct statewide demonstration projects to improve health care quality and to reduce costs under the medicare program under title XVIII of the Social Security Act and to conduct a study on payment incentives and performance under the Medicare+Choice program under such title. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Pascua Yaqui Tribe Land Conveyance
Act''.
SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.
For the purposes of this Act, the following definitions apply:
(1) District.--The term ``District'' means the Tucson
Unified School District No. 1, a school district recognized as
such under the laws of the State of Arizona.
(2) Map.--The term ``Map'' means the map titled ```Pascua
Yaqui Tribe Land Conveyance Act'', dated March 14, 2016, and on
file and available for public inspection in the local office of
the Bureau of Land Management.
(3) Recreation and public purposes act.--The term
``Recreation and Public Purposes Act'' means the Act of June
14, 1926 (43 U.S.C. 869 et seq.).
(4) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of the Interior.
(5) Tribe.--The term ``Tribe'' means the Pascua Yaqui Tribe
of Arizona, a federally recognized Indian tribe.
SEC. 3. LAND TO BE HELD IN TRUST.
(a) Parcel A.--Subject to subsection (b) and to valid existing
rights, all right, title, and interest of the United States in and to
the approximately 39.65 acres of Federal lands generally depicted on
the map as ``Parcel A'' are declared to be held in trust by the United
States for the benefit of the Tribe.
(b) Effective Date.--Subsection (a) shall take effect on the day
after the date on which the District relinquishes all right, title, and
interest of the District in and to the approximately 39.65 acres of
land described in subsection (a).
SEC. 4. LANDS TO BE CONVEYED TO THE DISTRICT.
(a) Parcel B.--
(1) In general.--Subject to valid existing rights and
payment to the United States of the fair market value, the
United States shall convey to the District all right, title,
and interest of the United States in and to the approximately
13.24 acres of Federal lands generally depicted on the map as
``Parcel B''.
(2) Determination of fair market value.--The fair market
value of the property to be conveyed under paragraph (1) shall
be determined by the Secretary in accordance with the Uniform
Appraisal Standards for Federal Land Acquisitions and the
Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice.
(3) Costs of conveyance.--As a condition of the conveyance
under this subsection, all costs associated with the conveyance
shall be paid by the District.
(b) Parcel C.--
(1) In general.--If, not later than 1 year after the
completion of the appraisal required by paragraph (3), the
District submits to the Secretary an offer to acquire the
Federal reversionary interest in all of the approximately 27.5
acres of land conveyed to the District under Recreation and
Public Purposes Act and generally depicted on the map as
``Parcel C'', the Secretary shall convey to the District such
reversionary interest in the lands covered by the offer. The
Secretary shall complete the conveyance not later than 30 days
after the date of the offer.
(2) Survey.--Not later than 90 days after the date of the
enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall complete a survey of
the lands described in this subsection to determine the precise
boundaries and acreage of the lands subject to the Federal
reversionary interest.
(3) Appraisal.--Not later than 180 days after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall complete an
appraisal of the Federal reversionary interest in the lands
identified by the survey required by paragraph (2). The
appraisal shall be completed in accordance with the Uniform
Appraisal Standards for Federal Land Acquisitions and the
Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice.
(4) Consideration.--As consideration for the conveyance of
the Federal reversionary interest under this subsection, the
District shall pay to the Secretary an amount equal to the
appraised value of the Federal interest, as determined under
paragraph (3). The consideration shall be paid not later than
30 days after the date of the conveyance.
(5) Costs of conveyance.--As a condition of the conveyance
under this subsection, all costs associated with the
conveyance, including the cost of the survey required by
paragraph (2) and the appraisal required by paragraph (3),
shall be paid by the District.
SEC. 5. GAMING PROHIBITION.
The Tribe may not conduct gaming activities on lands taken into
trust pursuant to this Act, either as a matter of claimed inherent
authority, under the authority of any Federal law, including the Indian
Gaming Regulatory Act (25 U.S.C. 2701 et seq.), or under regulations
promulgated by the Secretary or the National Indian Gaming Commission.
SEC. 6. WATER RIGHTS.
(a) In General.--There shall be no Federal reserved right to
surface water or groundwater for any land taken into trust by the
United States for the benefit of the Tribe under this Act.
(b) State Water Rights.--The Tribe retains any right or claim to
water under State law for any land taken into trust by the United
States for the benefit of the Tribe under this Act.
(c) Forfeiture or Abandonment.--Any water rights that are
appurtenant to land taken into trust by the United States for the
benefit of the Tribe under this Act may not be forfeited or abandoned.
(d) Administration.--Nothing in this Act affects or modifies any
right of the Tribe or any obligation of the
United States under Public Law 95-375 (25 U.S.C. 1300f et seq.).
Passed the House of Representatives June 7, 2016.
Attest:
KAREN L. HAAS,
Clerk. | Pascua Yaqui Tribe Land Conveyance Act (Sec. 3) This bill declares that 39.65 acres of land are to be held in trust by the United States for the benefit of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe of Arizona, effective the day after the Tuscon Unified School District No. 1 relinquishes its interest in the land. (Sec. 4) The United States must convey to the school district 13.24 acres of federal land in exchange for payment of the fair market value of the land and the cost of conveyance. The school district may acquire the federal reversionary interest in 27.5 acres of district land by paying the appraised value, plus the costs of appraisal and conveyance, to the Department of the Interior. (Sec. 5) Gaming is prohibited on the land taken into trust pursuant to this bill. (Sec. 6) There are no federal reserved water rights for the land taken into trust. The tribe retains state water rights for this land. Water rights for this land may not be forfeited or abandoned. | Pascua Yaqui Tribe Land Conveyance Act |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Drivers Accelerated Interest
Deductibility Act of 2010'' or the ``Drivers AID Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress finds the following:
(1) The economic health and well-being of the United States
depends on a strong and resurgent automotive industry. Until
2008, automotive sales historically accounted for approximately
20 percent of all retail spending in the United States, and
provided the income and financial security for millions of
Americans.
(2) From June 2006 through May 2008, the seasonally
adjusted annual rate of automotive sales ranged from a high of
approximately 17,500,000 units in June 2006 to a low of
14,200,000 units in May 2008, substantially above the
13,000,000 unit seasonally adjusted annual rate generally
regarded to be the indicator of a robust automotive industry.
(3) Beginning in June 2008 and continuing through the
present, the seasonally adjusted annual rate of automotive
sales has averaged less than 10,000,000 units and has exceeded
that number in only three months and has not in any matched or
exceeded the 13,000,000 unit seasonally adjusted annual rate
threshold.
(4) The annual contributions of the automotive new vehicle
dealers industry to the national economy are substantial. In
2008, the average sales revenue for the approximately 20,000
new automobile dealers in the United States was $28,800,000 and
the total sales of all new-vehicle dealerships in the United
States was $576,000,000,000 which constituted 14.6 percent of
total retail sales in the United States.
(5) In 2008, the 1,057,500 persons employed in new-vehicle
dealerships in the United States, an average of 53 employees
per dealership, earned on average $48,963 per year, generating
a national payroll of more than $52,000,000,000 and $2,660,000
per dealership and millions more in tax revenue for State and
local governments.
(6) Because a well capitalized, financially sound dealer
network is essential to the success of every automobile
manufacturer, especially a manufacturer facing economic
challenges, preserving the viability of the new-vehicle dealer
industry further the national economic interest of the United
States.
(7) Because sales of new vehicles is highly dependent on
consumer confidence and the existence of incentives to motivate
consumers to purchase a new-vehicle, a reduction in the cost of
capital needed to finance the purchase of a new vehicle over a
period of years will have a positive effect on the viability of
the new-vehicle dealer industry, which in turn will strengthen
the automotive manufacturing industry and the national economy.
(8) Payment of nonmortgage interest payments, such as
automobile loan debt, was deductible for Federal income tax
purposes for 73 years, from the inception of the Internal
Revenue Code in 1913 until Congress ended the deduction in 1986
when the Tax Reform Act of 1986 was passed.
SEC. 3. DEDUCTION FOR INTEREST ON INDEBTEDNESS INCURRED TO ACQUIRE A
PASSENGER CAR OR LIGHT TRUCK.
(a) In General.--Paragraph (2) of section 163(h) of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by striking ``and'' at the end of
subparagraph (E), by striking the period at the end of subparagraph (F)
and inserting ``, and'', and by adding at the end the following new
subparagraph:
``(G) in the case of the acquisition of a qualified
vehicle, any qualified vehicle interest if, for the
calendar quarter preceding the date on which such
vehicle is acquired, the average national unemployment
rate for such quarter is not less than 7 percent.''.
(b) Qualified Vehicle Interest.--Paragraph (5) of section 163(h) of
the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended to read as follows:
``(5) Qualified vehicle interest.--For purposes of
paragraph (2)(G) and this paragraph--
``(A) In general.--The term `qualified vehicle
interest' means any interest which--
``(i) is properly chargeable on
indebtedness incurred in acquiring a qualified
vehicle, and
``(ii) is properly allocable to the 36-
month period described in subparagraph (B)(ii).
``(B) Limitations.--
``(i) Dollar limitation.--The amount of
interest taken into account under this
paragraph (after the application of
subparagraph (A)(ii)) with respect to a
qualified vehicle shall not exceed $5,000.
``(ii) Period limitation.--Only interest on
such indebtedness properly allocable to the 36-
month period beginning on the date such
indebtedness is incurred may be taken into
account under this paragraph.
``(C) Qualified vehicle.--
``(i) In general.--The term `qualified
vehicle' means a motor vehicle--
``(I) the original use of which
commences with the taxpayer,
``(II) which is acquired for use by
the taxpayer and not for resale,
``(III) with respect to which no
payment is made under section 1302 of
the Consumer Assistance to Recycle and
Save Act of 2009,
``(IV) which is made by a
manufacturer,
``(V) which is treated as a motor
vehicle for purposes of title II of the
Clean Air Act,
``(VI) which has a gross vehicle
weight rating of 6,000 pounds or less,
and
``(VII) which is a passenger
automobile or light truck.
``(ii) Motor vehicle.--The term `motor
vehicle' means any vehicle which is
manufactured primarily for use on public
streets, roads, and highways (not including a
vehicle operated exclusively on a rail or
rails) and which has at least 4 wheels.
``(iii) Other terms.--The terms
`automobile', `passenger automobile', `light
truck', and `manufacturer' have the meanings
given such terms in regulations prescribed by
the Administrator of the Environmental
Protection Agency for purposes of the
administration of title II of the Clean Air Act
(42 U.S.C. 7521 et seq.).
``(D) Average national unemployment rate.--The
average national unemployment rate for a calendar
quarter means the national unemployment rate means the
average of the monthly national unemployment rates for
months in the calendar quarter, as reported by the
Bureau of Labor Statistics, Department of Labor.''.
(c) Deduction Allowed in Computing Adjusted Gross Income.--
Subsection (a) of section 62 of such Code is amended by inserting
before the last sentence the following new paragraph:
``(22) Qualified vehicle interest.--The deduction allowed
by reason of section 163(h)(5).''.
(d) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply with respect to vehicles acquired on or after January 1, 2008. | Drivers Accelerated Interest Deductibility Act of 2010 or the Drivers AID Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a deduction from gross income of up to $5,000 for interest paid for the purchase of certain new automobiles or light trucks during periods when the national unemployment rate is 7% or greater. | To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow a deduction for interest paid on indebtedness incurred in connection with the purchase of a new automobile or light truck. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Law Enforcement Officers Retirement
Equity Act''.
SEC. 2. CIVIL SERVICE RETIREMENT SYSTEM.
(a) Definitions.--Section 8331 of title 5, United States Code, is
amended--
(1) by striking ``and'' at the end of paragraph (26);
(2) by striking the period at the end of paragraph (27) and
inserting a semicolon; and
(3) by adding at the end the following:
``(28) `revenue officer' means an employee of the Internal
Revenue Service, the duties of whose position are primarily the
collection of delinquent taxes and the securing of delinquent
returns, including an employee engaged in this activity who is
transferred to a supervisory or administrative position;
``(29) `customs inspector' means an employee of the United
States Customs Service, the duties of whose position are
primarily to--
``(A) enforce laws and regulations governing the
importing and exporting of merchandise;
``(B) process and control passengers and baggage;
``(C) interdict smuggled merchandise and
contraband; and
``(D) apprehend (if warranted) persons involved in
violations of customs laws,
including an employee engaged in this activity who is
transferred to a supervisory or administrative position;
``(30) `customs canine enforcement officer' means an
employee of the United States Customs Service, the duties of
whose position are primarily to work directly with a dog in an
effort to--
``(A) enforce laws and regulations governing the
importing and exporting of merchandise;
``(B) process and control passengers and baggage;
``(C) interdict smuggled merchandise and
contraband; and
``(D) apprehend (if warranted) persons involved in
violations of customs laws,
including an employee engaged in this activity who is
transferred to a supervisory or administrative position; and
``(31) `Immigration and Naturalization inspector' means an
employee of the Immigration and Naturalization Service, the
duties of whose position are primarily the controlling and
guarding of the boundaries and borders of the United States
against the illegal entry of aliens, including an employee
engaged in this activity who is transferred to a supervisory or
administrative position.''.
(b) Deductions, Contributions, and Deposits.--Section 8334 of title
5, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)(1), by striking ``a law enforcement
officer,'' and inserting ``a law enforcement officer, a revenue
officer, a customs inspector, a customs canine enforcement
officer, an Immigration and Naturalization inspector,''; and
(2) in the table in subsection (c), by striking ``and
firefighter for firefighter service.'' and inserting ``,
firefighter for firefighter service, revenue officer for
revenue officer service, customs inspector for customs
inspector service, customs canine enforcement officer for
customs canine enforcement officer service, and Immigration and
Naturalization inspector for Immigration and Naturalization
inspector service''.
(c) Mandatory Separation.--Section 8335(b) of title 5, United
States Code, is amended in the second sentence--
(1) by striking ``law enforcement officer or nuclear
materials courier'' and inserting ``law enforcement officer, a
revenue officer, a customs inspector, a customs canine
enforcement officer, an Immigration and Naturalization
inspector, or nuclear materials courier''; and
(2) by inserting ``, inspector,'' after ``that officer''.
(d) Immediate Retirement.--Section 8336(c)(1) of such title is
amended by striking ``law enforcement officer,'' and inserting ``law
enforcement officer, a revenue officer, a customs inspector, a customs
canine enforcement officer, or an Immigration and Naturalization
inspector,''.
SEC. 3. FEDERAL EMPLOYEES RETIREMENT SYSTEM.
(a) Definitions.--Section 8401 of title 5, United States Code, is
amended--
(1) by striking ``and'' at the end of paragraph (32);
(2) by striking the period at the end of paragraph (33) and
inserting a semicolon; and
(3) by adding at the end the following:
``(34) `revenue officer' means an employee of the Internal
Revenue Service, the duties of whose position are primarily the
collection of delinquent taxes and the securing of delinquent
returns, including an employee engaged in this activity who is
transferred to a supervisory or administrative position;
``(35) `customs inspector' means an employee of the United
States Customs Service, the duties of whose position are
primarily to--
``(A) enforce laws and regulations governing the
importing and exporting of merchandise;
``(B) process and control passengers and baggage;
``(C) interdict smuggled merchandise and
contraband; and
``(D) apprehend (if warranted) persons involved in
violations of customs laws,
including an employee engaged in this activity who is
transferred to a supervisory or administrative position;
``(36) `customs canine enforcement officer' means an
employee of the United States Customs Service, the duties of
whose position are primarily to work directly with a dog in an
effort to--
``(A) enforce laws and regulations governing the
importing and exporting of merchandise;
``(B) process and control passengers and baggage;
``(C) interdict smuggled merchandise and
contraband; and
``(D) apprehend (if warranted) persons involved in
violations of customs laws,
including an employee engaged in this activity who is
transferred to a supervisory or administrative position; and
``(37) `Immigration and Naturalization inspector' means an
employee of the Immigration and Naturalization Service, the
duties of whose position are primarily the controlling and
guarding of the boundaries and borders of the United States
against the illegal entry of aliens, including an employee
engaged in this activity who is transferred to a supervisory or
administrative position.''.
(b) Immediate Retirement.--Section 8412(d) of title 5, United
States Code, is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1) by striking ``firefighter,'' and
inserting ``firefighter, revenue officer, customs inspector,
customs canine enforcement officer, Immigration and
Naturalization inspector,''; and
(2) in paragraph (2) by striking ``firefighter,'' and
inserting ``firefighter, revenue officer, customs inspector,
customs canine enforcement officer, Immigration and
Naturalization inspector,''.
(c) Computation of Basic Annuity.--Section 8415(g)(2) of title 5,
United States Code, is amended in the matter following subparagraph (B)
by inserting ``revenue officer, customs inspector, customs canine
enforcement officer, Immigration and Naturalization inspector,'' after
``firefighter,''.
(d) Deductions.--Section 8422(a)(3) of title 5, United States Code,
is amended by inserting ``revenue officer, customs inspector, customs
canine enforcement officer, Immigration and Naturalization inspector,''
before ``or air traffic controller,''.
(e) Government Contributions.--Section 8423(a) of title 5, United
States Code, is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1)(B)(i) by inserting ``revenue officers,
customs inspectors, customs canine enforcement officers,
Immigration and Naturalization inspectors,'' after ``law
enforcement officers,''; and
(2) in paragraph (3)(A) by inserting ``revenue officers,
customs inspectors, customs canine enforcement officers,
Immigration and Naturalization inspectors,'' after ``law
enforcement officers,''.
(f) Mandatory Separation.--Section 8425(b) of title 5, United
States Code, is amended in the second sentence--
(1) by inserting ``, revenue officer, customs inspector,
customs canine enforcement officer, Immigration and
Naturalization inspector,'' after ``A law enforcement
officer''; and
(2) by striking ``that law enforcement officer'' and
inserting ``that officer, inspector,''.
SEC. 4. ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS.
(a) Employee Contributions.--Any individual who has served as a
revenue officer, customs inspector, customs canine enforcement officer,
or Immigration and Naturalization inspector before the effective date
of this Act, shall have such service credited and annuities determined
in accordance with the amendments made by sections 1 and 2 of this Act,
if such individual makes payment into the Civil Service Retirement and
Disability Fund of an amount, determined by the Office of Personnel
Management, which would have been deducted and withheld from the basic
pay of such individual (including interest thereon) under chapters 83
and 84 of title 5, United States Code, as if such amendments had been
in effect during the periods of such service.
(b) Agency Contributions.--No later than 90 days after a payment
made by an individual under subsection (a), the Department of the
Treasury or the Department of Justice (as the case may be) shall make a
payment into the Civil Service Retirement and Disability Fund of an
amount, determined by the Office of Personnel Management, which would
have been contributed as a Government contribution (including interest
thereon) under chapters 83 and 84 of title 5, United States Code, for
the service credited and annuities determined for such individual, as
if the amendments made by sections 1 and 2 of this Act had been in
effect during the applicable periods of service.
(c) Regulations.--The Office of Personnel Management shall
determine the amount of interest to be paid under this section and may
promulgate regulations to carry out the provisions of this Act.
SEC. 5. EFFECTIVE DATE.
The provisions of this Act and amendments made by this Act shall
take effect on the date occurring 90 days after the date of enactment
of this Act. | Law Enforcement Officers Retirement Equity Act - Amends Federal civil service law to include as Federal law enforcement officers eligible under Civil Service Retirement System and Federal Employees' Retirement System provisions for early retirement (at age 50 after 20 years of Federal service) revenue officers in the Internal Revenue Service, customs inspectors and canine enforcement officers in the U.S. Customs Service, and inspectors in the Immigration and Naturalization Service. | Law Enforcement Officers Retirement Equity Act |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Governors Island Preservation Act of
2001''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS AND PURPOSES.
(a) Findings.--Congress finds that--
(1) in August 1776, the fortifications at Governors Island,
New York, provided cover allowing George Washington's
Continental Army to escape a British onslaught during the
Battle of Long Island;
(2) the State of New York, for nominal consideration, ceded
control of Governors Island to the Federal Government in 1800
to provide for the defense of the United States;
(3) during the War of 1812, the combined firepower of
Castle Williams on Governors Island and the Southwest Battery
in Manhattan dissuaded the British from making a direct attack
on New York City, which was the largest city in and principal
seaport of the United States at the time;
(4) in 1901, 4,700,000 cubic yards of fill from the
excavation of the Lexington Avenue Subway in Manhattan were
deposited to increase the area of Governors Island from 90 to
172 acres;
(5) Governors Island played a significant role in the Civil
War, World War I, and World War II, and continued to serve the
United States Army through 1966;
(6) in 1958, the United States District Court for the
Southern District of New York formally ratified the long
possession of Governors Island by the United States through a
condemnation proceeding that required ``just compensation'' of
$1;
(7) in 1966, the Army relocated operations from Governors
Island, and the United States Coast Guard assumed control of
the Island, an action that established an integral component of
the Atlantic coast efforts of the Coast Guard for the following
30 years;
(8) the Admiral's House on Governors Island hosted the
final summit meeting between President Ronald W. Reagan and
Soviet Premier Mikhail S. Gorbachev in December 1988, where the
leaders presented each other with the Articles of Ratification
for the Intermediate Nuclear Forces Treaty;
(9) the Coast Guard ceased operations at Governors Island
in 1997, leaving 225 buildings unoccupied, unused, and exposed
to the harsh elements of New York Harbor;
(10) Castle Williams is named after Lieutenant Colonel
Jonathan Williams, who built the semi-circular ``cheesebox''
fort and later served as the first superintendent of West Point
Military Academy;
(11) the pentagonal Fort Jay, named after John Jay, is the
complement of Fort Wood on nearby Bedloe Island, which serves
as the base of the Statue of Liberty;
(12) in Presidential Proclamation No. 7402 of January 19,
2001, former President Clinton established the Governors Island
National Monument, consisting of Castle Williams and Fort Jay,
as depicted on the map entitled ``Governors Island National
Monument'' attached to the proclamation;
(13) more than 200 years of contributions to the history of
the United States could be lost if Governors Island were to
remain vacant or be sold to a private entity; and
(14) the State of New York and the city of New York have
agreed to a conceptual plan to be administered by the Governors
Island Redevelopment Corporation, a subsidiary of the Empire
State Development Corporation, that--
(A) offers what may be the only opportunity to
ensure--
(i) public access to Governors Island;
(ii) the preservation and protection of
historic structures on Governors Island for
future generations; and
(iii) the ability of local elected
officials, local community boards, and
community organizations to participate in the
redevelopment of Governors Island; and
(B) provides the public with educational,
recreational, and cultural opportunities.
(b) Purposes.--The purposes of this Act are--
(1) to provide for the protection of historic military
structures on Governors Island in New York Harbor;
(2) to provide the general public with--
(A) access to Governors Island and the Governors
Island National Monument;
(B) access to open park space and recreational
resources;
(C) access to the majestic views of New York
Harbor; and
(D) opportunities that illustrate the significant
contributions of Governors Island to the history of the
United States;
(3) to return to the people of the State of New York
property that the State of New York conveyed to the Federal
Government, for nominal consideration, to provide for the
defense of the United States; and
(4) to ensure that the Secretary retains the rights
necessary to operate the Governors Island National Monument.
SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Administrator.--The term ``Administrator'' means the
Administrator of General Services.
(2) City.--The term ``City'' means the City of New York.
(3) Corporation.--The term ``Corporation'' means Governors
Island Redevelopment Corporation, a subsidiary of the Empire
State Development Corporation governed by a board to be
appointed by the State and the City (or any successor entity).
(4) Management plan.--The term ``management plan'' means
the management plan prepared under section 4(c).
(5) Monument.--The term ``Monument'' means the Governors
Island National Monument established by Presidential
Proclamation 7402 of January 19, 2001 (66 Fed. Reg. 7855).
(6) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of the Interior.
(7) State.--The term ``State'' means the State of New York.
SEC. 4. GOVERNORS ISLAND NATIONAL MONUMENT.
(a) Transfer of Administrative Jurisdiction and Management.--
Notwithstanding section 9101 of the Balanced Budget Act of 1997 (Public
Law 105-33; 111 Stat. 670) or any other provision of law, not later
than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the
Administrator shall transfer to the Secretary, for no consideration,
administrative jurisdiction over, and management of, the Monument.
(b) Administration.--
(1) In general.--The Monument shall be administered by the
Secretary in accordance with--
(A) this Act; and
(B) laws generally applicable to units of the
National Park System, including--
(i) the Act entitled ``An Act to establish
a National Park Service, and for
other purposes'', approved August 25, 1916 (16 U.S.C. 1 et seq.); and
(ii) the Act entitled ``An Act to provide
for the preservation of historic American
sites, buildings, objects, and antiquities of
national significance, and for other
purposes'', approved August 21, 1935 (16 U.S.C.
461 et seq.).
(2) Cooperative agreements.--The Secretary, in consultation
with the Corporation, may consult, and enter into cooperative
agreements, with interested entities and individuals to provide
for the preservation, development, interpretation, and use of
the Monument.
(3) Interpretive services.--Subject to agreement of the
Corporation, the Secretary may provide interpretive services
and signage in the Governors Island National Historic Landmark
District.
(c) Management Plan.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 3 years after the date of
enactment of this Act, in consultation with the Corporation and
other appropriate public and private entities, the Secretary
shall prepare a management plan for the Monument.
(2) Applicable law.--The Secretary shall prepare the
management plan in accordance with--
(A) section 12(b) of the Act entitled ``An Act to
improve the administration of the national park system
by the Secretary of the Interior, and to clarify the
authorities applicable to the system, and for other
purposes'', approved August 18, 1970 (16 U.S.C. 1a-
7(b)); and
(B) other applicable law.
(3) Submission.--On completion of the management plan, the
Secretary shall submit the management plan to--
(A) the Committee on Resources of the House of
Representatives; and
(B) the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources
of the Senate.
(d) Reservations.--
(1) Right of access.--As a condition of the conveyance
under section 5, the Administrator shall reserve the right of
access--
(A) for the Secretary to the Monument for the
preservation, maintenance, and public enjoyment of the
Monument; and
(B) for the Secretary of Transportation for the
operation and maintenance of aids to navigation located
on Governors Island.
(2) Utilities.--The provision of and access to utilities to
the Monument shall be a condition of the conveyance under
section 5--
(A) in accordance with the public service law of
the State; and
(B) subject to an agreement between the Secretary
and the Corporation.
(3) Maintenance facility.--As a condition of the conveyance
under section 5, the Administrator shall reserve for the
Secretary any buildings that the Secretary determines necessary
for the operation and maintenance of the Monument, subject to
an agreement between the Secretary and the Corporation.
(e) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be
appropriated such sums as are necessary to carry out annual operation
and maintenance of the Monument.
SEC. 5. CONVEYANCE OF GOVERNORS ISLAND.
(a) In General.--
(1) Conveyance.--Notwithstanding section 9101 of the
Balanced Budget Act of 1997 (Public Law 105-33; 111 Stat. 670)
or any other provision of law, and except as provided in
paragraphs (2) and (3), not later than 180 days after the date
of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall convey to the
State of New York, for no consideration and for use consistent
with subsections (a)(14) and (b) of section 2, all right,
title, and interest of the United States in and to Governors
Island, to be administered by the Corporation.
(2) Limitation.--The conveyance under paragraph (1) shall
be subject to the rights of the Secretary described in section
4.
(3) Exclusion of monument.--The Monument shall not be
included in the conveyance under paragraph (1).
(b) Use and Redevelopment of Governors Island.--On completion of
the conveyance under subsection (a)(1), any use of the conveyed land
shall be consistent with subsections (a)(14) and (b) of section 2 and
in compliance with--
(1) the New York State Environmental Quality Review Act
(Sections 0101 through 0117 of the Environmental Conservation
Law of New York); and
(2) the document entitled ``Governors Island Preservation
and Design Manual''--
(A) developed by the Administrator in accordance
with--
(i) the National Historic Preservation Act
(16 U.S.C. 470 et seq.); and
(ii) applicable State and local historic
preservation law; and
(B) as approved by the Administrator, State, and
City. | Governors Island Preservation Act of 2001 - Directs the Administrator of General Services to: (1) transfer the administration and management of Governors Island National Monument to the Secretary of the Interior; and (2) convey Governors Island (with the exclusion of the Monument) to New York State.Requires: (1) the Secretary to submit a management plan for the Monument within three years; and (2) the Administrator to reserve access to the Monument for the Secretary for preservation, maintenance, and public enjoyment of such Monument and for the Secretary of Transportation for the operation and maintenance of aids to navigation located on Governors Island.Requires any use of the conveyed land of Governors Island to be consistent with specified public access, preservation, and operational objectives and to be in compliance with the New York State Environmental Quality Review Act and the Governors Island Preservation and Design Manual. | A bill to convey certain Federal properties on Governors Island, New York. |
SECTION 1. TEACHER EXCHANGE PROGRAM.
(a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``Teacher Exchange
Act of 2010''.
(b) Establishment.--The Secretary of Education may make grants to
local educational agencies to carry out teacher exchanges in which one
local educational agency sends teachers to another local educational
agency located in a different geographic region for a school year.
(c) Eligibility.--To be eligible to receive a grant under this
section, a local educational agency shall submit an application to the
Secretary certifying that such agency--
(1) has entered into a partnership with a receiving local
educational agency that is located in a different geographic
region, as determined by the Secretary, or has actively sought
such a partnership; and
(2)(A) is a high-need local educational agency; or
(B) has entered into a partnership described in paragraph
(1) with a high-need local educational agency, or has actively
sought such a partnership.
(d) Use of Funds.--The recipient of a grant under this section
shall use the grant for each of the following purposes:
(1) Carrying out a teacher exchange under which the
recipient sends teachers employed by the recipient to a
receiving local educational agency to teach or perform a
similar function at such agency as such teachers had previously
performed.
(2) Developing and implementing a plan, through the
partnership described in subsection (b), to provide
participating teachers with activities designed to promote
professional development, including--
(A) an orientation session or courses to prepare
such teachers for--
(i) the exchange experience;
(ii) the community in which the receiving
local educational agency is located and the
schools in such agency; and
(iii) the particular grade level and
curriculum assigned to the participating
teacher by the receiving local educational
agency;
(B) a mentoring program through which a
participating teacher is paired with a mentor (who is
not also a participating teacher) employed by the
receiving local educational agency who teaches in the
same grade level or subject area that the participating
teacher has been assigned to teach under the exchange;
(C) a forum for participating teachers, led by an
administrator or teacher at the receiving local
educational agency, to engage in ongoing professional
development focused on improving classroom instruction
to result in improved student outcomes, including
reading educational research, reviewing student work,
creating and reviewing formative and summative
assessments, analyzing data from student assessments,
and tracking student progress; and
(D) content-specific programs designed to support
participating teachers in teaching the specific
curriculum in place at the receiving local education
agency and at the grade level to which the
participating teacher is assigned.
(3) Reimbursing each participating teacher for travel
expenses incurred by the participating teacher while traveling
to and from the receiving local educational agency, not more
than twice per calendar year, for the purpose of participating
in a teacher exchange funded by a grant under this section.
(4) Providing housing for participating teachers while
participating in such an exchange, including cost of living
increases as necessary to provide such housing.
(5) Providing a living stipend to participating teachers
that--
(A) is added to the regular salary of such teachers
each pay period, for the duration of the exchange; and
(B) includes an annual cost-of-living adjustment.
(6) Reimbursing the receiving local educational agency for
supplies or other incidental items purchased for use by
participating teachers during such an exchange.
(e) Restriction.--The recipient of a grant under this section may
not use the grant to pay the regular salary of participating teachers
during the period of an exchange funded by a grant under this section.
(f) Conditions.--As a condition of receiving a grant under this
section, a grant recipient shall--
(1) ensure that each participating teacher in an exchange
funded under this section has at least three years of teaching
experience prior to participating in such exchange;
(2) certify that such participation shall not serve as
grounds for the grant recipient terminating the employment of a
participating teacher;
(3) ensure by contract or agreement with each participating
teacher that each teacher agrees to serve--
(A) in the receiving local educational agency for a
school year; and
(B) in the local educational agency that selected
such teacher for participation in the exchange for the
duration of the two-year period following such
participation unless the Secretary after determining
that the performance of such service poses a
significant hardship to the teacher, waives such
condition;
(4) certify that upon the failure of a participating
teacher to satisfy a condition in paragraph (2), the grant
recipient shall--
(A) recover from such teacher the amount of the
grant funds that have been remitted to or on behalf of
such teacher on a pro-rata basis (as determined by the
Secretary); and
(B) return the funds recovered under subparagraph
(A) to the Secretary not later than 60 days after the
recovery of such funds; and
(5) if the recipient has not entered into an agreement with
a receiving local educational agency by the date that is 6
months after the date of the the receipt of the grant, return
the grant to the Secretary.
(g) Selection Criteria.--In awarding grants under this section, the
Secretary of Education shall give priority to local educational
agencies that--
(1) have entered into partnerships with receiving local
educational agencies before applying for a grant under this
section;
(2) the Secretary determines would be able to provide
participating teachers with training or experience such
teachers would not receive from teaching in the local
educational agency where such teachers are employed, including
immersion in a linguistically different culture; and
(3) focus on instruction in science, math, English as a
second language, special education, or other subject areas that
have a high need for qualified teachers, as determined by the
Secretary.
(h) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) The term ``local educational agency'' has the meaning
given such term in section 9101(26) of the Elementary and
Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 7801(26)).
(2) The term ``high-need local educational agency'' means
an agency as defined in section 2102(2) of the Elementary and
Secondary Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 6602(3)).
(3) The term ``receiving local educational agency'' means a
local educational agency to which a participating teacher will
be sent for the duration of the exchange funded by a grant
under this section.
SEC. 2. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
There is authorized to be appropriated $20,000,000 for each of
fiscal years 2011 through 2016 to carry out this Act. | Teacher Exchange Act of 2010 - Authorizes the Secretary of Education to make grants to local educational agencies (LEAs) and high-need LEAs for teacher exchanges.
Requires each grantee to: (1) send teachers to a receiving LEA in a different area; (2) provide participating teachers with professional development activities, travel reimbursement, housing, and a living stipend that is added to their regular salary; and (3) reimburse the receiving LEA for supplies and other incidental items purchased for use by participating teachers.
Requires teachers who participate in an exchange to have had at least three years of teaching experience and agree to serve the receiving LEA for one school year and their own LEA for the two-year period following their participation in the exchange. | To authorize the Secretary of Education to make grants to local educational agencies to carry out teacher exchanges. |
SECTION 1. FINDINGS AND DECLARATIONS.
The Congress finds and declares that--
(1) Crime, particularly crime involving drugs and guns, is
a pervasive, nationwide problem.
(2) Problems with crime at the local level are exacerbated
by the interstate movement of drugs, funds, and criminal gangs.
(3) Firearms and ammunition, and handguns in particular,
move easily in interstate commerce, as documented in numerous
hearings in both the Judiciary Committee of the House of
Representatives and Judiciary Committee of the Senate.
(4) In fact, even before the sale of a handgun, the gun,
its component parts, ammunition, and the raw materials from
which they are made have considerably moved in interstate
commerce.
(5) While criminals freely move from State to State,
ordinary citizens may fear to travel to or through certain
parts of the country due to the concern that violent crime is
not under control, and foreigners may decline to travel in the
United States for the same reason.
(6) Just as the hardened drug kingpins begin their life in
the illicit drug culture by exposure to drugs at a young age,
violent criminals often start their criminal careers on streets
where the ready availability of guns to young people results in
the acceptability of their random use.
(7) Violent crime and the use of illicit drugs go hand-in-
hand, and attempts to control one without controlling the other
may be fruitless.
(8) Individual States and localities find it impossible to
handle the problem by themselves; even States and localities
that have made a strong effort to prevent, detect, and punish
crime find their effort unavailing due in part to the failure
or inability of other States and localities to take strong
measures.
(9) Inasmuch as illicit drug activity and related violent
crime overflow State lines and national boundaries, the
Congress has power, under the interstate commerce clause and
other provisions of the Constitution, to enact measures to
combat these problems.
(10) The Congress finds that it is necessary and
appropriate to assist the States in controlling crime by
stopping the commerce in handguns with juveniles nationwide,
and allowing the possession of handguns by juveniles only when
handguns are possessed and used for legitimate purposes under
appropriate conditions.
SEC. 2. PROHIBITION OF THE POSSESSION OF A HANDGUN OR AMMUNITION BY, OR
THE PRIVATE TRANSFER OF A HANDGUN OR AMMUNITION TO, A
JUVENILE.
(a) Definition.--Section 921(a) of title 18, United States Code, is
amended by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(29) The term `handgun' means--
``(A) a firearm that has a short stock and is designed to
be held and fired by the use of a single hand; and
``(B) any combination of parts from which a firearm
described in subparagraph (A) can be assembled.''.
(b) Offense.--Section 922 of title 18, United States Code, is
amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(s)(1) It shall be unlawful for a person to sell, deliver, or
otherwise transfer to a juvenile, or to a person who the transferor
knows or has reasonable cause to believe is a juvenile--
``(A) a handgun; or
``(B) ammunition that is suitable for use only in a
handgun.
``(2) It shall be unlawful for any person who is a juvenile to
knowingly possess--
``(A) a handgun; or
``(B) ammunition that is suitable for use only in a
handgun.
``(3) This subsection does not apply--
``(A) to a temporary transfer of a handgun or ammunition to
a juvenile, or to the possession or use of a handgun or
ammunition by a juvenile, if the handgun and ammunition are
possessed and used by the juvenile--
``(i) in the course of employment, in the course of
ranching or farming related to activities at the
residence of the juvenile (or on property used for
ranching or farming at which the juvenile, with the
permission of the property owner or lessee, is
performing activities related to the operation of the
farm or ranch), target practice, hunting, or a course
of instruction in the safe and lawful use of a handgun;
``(ii) with the prior written consent of the
juvenile's parent or guardian who is not prohibited by
Federal, State, or local law from possessing a firearm;
``(iii) with the prior written consent in the
juvenile's possession at all times when a handgun is in
the possession of the juvenile; and
``(iv) in accordance with State and local law;
``(B) during transportation by the juvenile of an unloaded
handgun in a locked container directly from the place of
transfer to a place at which an activity described in
subparagraph (A)(i) is to take place, and transportation by the
juvenile of that handgun, unloaded and in a locked container,
directly from the place at which such an activity took place to
the transferor;
``(C) to a juvenile who is a member of the Armed Forces of
the United States or the National Guard who possesses or is
armed with a handgun in the line duty;
``(D) to a transfer by inheritance of title (but not
possession) of a handgun or ammunition to a juvenile; or
``(E) to the possession of a handgun or ammunition by a
juvenile taken in defense of the juvenile or other persons
against an intruder into the residence of the juvenile or a
residence in which the juvenile is an invited guest.
``(4) A handgun or ammunition, the possession of which is
transferred to a juvenile in circumstances in which the transferor is
not in violation of this subsection shall not be subject to permanent
confiscation by the Government if its possession by the juvenile
subsequently becomes unlawful because of the conduct of the juvenile,
but shall be returned to the lawful owner when such handgun or
ammunition is no longer required by the Government for the purposes of
investigation or prosecution.
``(5) For purposes of this subsection, the term `juvenile' means a
person who is less than 18 years of age.
``(6)(A) In a prosecution of a violation of this subsection, the
court shall require the presence of a juvenile defendant's parent or
legal guardian at all proceedings.
``(B) The court may use the contempt power to enforce subparagraph
(A).
``(C) The court may excuse attendance of a parent or legal guardian
of a juvenile defendant at a proceeding in a prosecution of a violation
of this subsection for good cause shown.''.
(c) Penalties.--Section 924(a) of title 18, United State Code, is
amended--
(1) in paragraph (1) by striking ``paragraph (2) or (3)
of''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(5)(A)(i) A juvenile who violates section 922(s) shall be fined
under this title, imprisoned not more than 1 year, or both, except that
a juvenile described in clause (ii) shall be sentenced to probation on
appropriate conditions and shall not be incarcerated unless the
juvenile fails to comply with a condition of probation.
``(ii) A juvenile is described in this clause if--
``(I) the offense of which the juvenile is charged is
possession of a handgun or ammunition in violation of section
922(s)(2); and
``(II) the juvenile has not been convicted in any court of
an offense (including an offense under section 922(s) or a
similar State law, but not including any other offense
consisting of conduct that if engaged in by an adult would not
constitute an offense) or adjudicated as a juvenile delinquent
for conduct that if engaged in by an adult would constitute an
offense.
``(B) A person other than a juvenile who knowingly violates section
922(s)--
``(i) shall be fined under this title, imprisoned not more
than 1 year, or both; and
``(ii) if the person sold, delivered, or otherwise
transferred a handgun or ammunition to a juvenile knowing or
having reasonable cause to know that the juvenile intended to
carry or otherwise possess or discharge or otherwise use the
handgun or ammunition in the commission of a crime of violence,
shall be fined under this title, imprisoned not more than 10
years, or both.''.
(d) Technical Amendment of Juvenile Delinquency Provisions in Title
18, United States Code.--
(1) Section 5031.--Section 5031 of title 18, United States
Code, is amended by inserting ``or a violation by such person
of section 922(s)'' before the period at the end.
(2) Section 5032.--Section 5032 of title 18, United States
Code, is amended--
(A) in the first undesignated paragraph by
inserting ``or(s)'' after ``922(p)''; and
(B) in the fourth undesignated paragraph by
inserting ``or section 922(s) of this title,'' before
``criminal prosecution on the basis''.
(e) Technical Amendment of the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency
Prevention Act of 1974.--Section 223(a)(12)(A) of the Juvenile Justice
and Delinquency Prevention Act of 1974 (42 U.S.C. 5633(a)(12)(A)) is
amended by striking ``which do not constitute violations of valid court
orders'' and inserting ``(other than an offense that constitutes a
violation of a valid court order or a violation of section 922(s) of
title 18, United States Code, or a similar State law)''.
(f) Model Law.--The Attorney General, acting through the Director
of the National Institute for Juvenile Justice and Delinquency
Prevention, shall--
(1) evaluate existing and proposed juvenile handgun
legislation in each State;
(2) develop model juvenile handgun legislation that is
constitutional and enforceable;
(3) prepare and disseminate to State authorities the
findings made as the result of the evaluation; and
(4) report to Congress by December 31, 1994, findings and
recommendations concerning the need or appropriateness of
further action by the Federal Government.
Passed the House of Representatives November 20, 1993.
Attest:
DONNALD K. ANDERSON,
Clerk. | Amends the Federal criminal code to prohibit: (1) the sale, delivery, or transfer to a juvenile, or to a person who the transferor knows or has reasonable cause to believe is a juvenile, of a handgun or ammunition that is suitable for use only in a handgun; and (2) the possession by a juvenile of a handgun or such ammunition. Makes exceptions with respect to: (1) certain temporary transfers of a handgun or ammunition to a juvenile, or to possession or use of a handgun or ammunition by a juvenile, if the handgun and ammunition are possessed and used by the juvenile in the course of employment or ranching or farming related to activities at the juvenile's residence, target practice, hunting, or a course of instruction in the safe and lawful use of a handgun, with the prior written consent of the juvenile's parent or guardian, subject to specified requirements, and in accordance with State and local law; (2) transportation by the juvenile of an unloaded handgun in a locked container, under specified circumstances; (3) a juvenile who is a member of the U.S. armed forces or the National Guard who possesses or is armed with a handgun in the line of duty; (4) a transfer by inheritance of title (but not possession) of a handgun or ammunition to a juvenile; or (5) the possession of a handgun or ammunition by a juvenile taken in defense of the juvenile or other persons against an intruder into the residence of the juvenile or a residence in which the juvenile is an invited guest. Directs the court to require the presence of a juvenile defendant's parent or legal guardian at all proceedings for violations of this Act, except for good cause shown. Sets: (1) limits on the permanent confiscation by the Government of a handgun or ammunition from a juvenile; and (2) penalties for violations of this Act. Directs the Attorney General to: (1) evaluate existing and proposed juvenile handgun legislation in each State; (2) develop model juvenile handgun legislation that is constitutional and enforceable; (3) prepare and disseminate to State authorities the findings made as the result of the evaluation; and (4) report to the Congress regarding the need or appropriateness of further Government action. | Youth Handgun Safety Act of 1993 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Office of Ocean and Coastal Policy
Creation Act of 2003''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress finds that there is a demonstrated need for there to
be an Office of Oceans and Coastal Policy in the Executive Office of
the President.
SEC. 3. ESTABLISHMENT OF OFFICE OF OCEANS AND COASTAL POLICY.
(a) Establishment.--There is established in the Executive Office of
the President the Office of Oceans and Coastal Policy.
(b) Purpose.--The purpose of the office is to develop comprehensive
oceans and coastal policy and to advise the President on scientific,
environmental, economic, technological, and international
considerations involved in areas of national concern to ocean and
coastal policy, including the sustainable use of the Nation's ocean and
coastal resources, in order to provide for a better understanding and
knowledge of the world's oceans.
SEC. 4. DIRECTOR AND ASSOCIATE DIRECTORS.
(a) Director.--There shall be at the head of the Office a Director
of the Office of Oceans and Coastal Policy, who shall--
(1) be appointed by the President, by and with the advice
and consent of the Senate; and
(2) be compensated at a rate consistent with the
compensation of the Directors of other Offices within the
Executive Office of the President.
(b) Associate Directors.--The President may appoint not more than 2
Associate Directors of the Office of Oceans and Coastal Policy, by and
with the advice and consent of the Senate, who shall each--
(1) be compensated at a rate not to exceed the rate
provided for other Associate Directors of Offices within the
Executive Office of the President; and
(2) shall perform such functions as the Director may
prescribe.
SEC. 5. FUNCTIONS OF THE DIRECTOR.
(a) Primary Function.--The primary function of the Director is to
provide, within the Executive Office of the President, advice on the
scientific environmental, economic, technological, and international
aspects of ocean and coastal issues that require the attention at the
highest levels of the Government.
(b) Other Functions.--The Director shall--
(1) advise the President on scientific, environmental,
economic, technological, and international considerations
involved in areas of national concern relating to ocean and
coastal policy, including the sustainable use of the Nation's
ocean and coastal resources;
(2) evaluate the scale, quality, and effectiveness of the
Federal effort in management and conservation of the Nation's
oceans and coastal resources, and advise the President on
appropriate actions to take with respect to such management and
conservation;
(3) advise the President on scientific, environmental,
economic, technological, and international aspects of ocean and
coastal considerations with regard to Federal budgets, assist
the Office of Management and Budget with an annual review and
analysis of funding proposed for research and development in
budgets of all Federal agencies, and aid the Office of
Management and Budget and the agencies throughout the budget
development process;
(4) assist the Office of Management and Budget with an
annual review and analysis of funding proposed for research and
development relating to such policy in budgets of all Federal
agencies, and aid the Office of Management and Budget and
Federal agencies regarding oceans and coastal policy throughout
the budget development process;
(5) assist the President in providing general leadership
and coordination of the research and development programs of
the Federal Government relating to the oceans and coastal
concerns;
(6) coordinate the scientific, environmental, economic,
technological, and international aspects of ocean and coastal
issues with the Council on Environmental Quality, the Office of
Science and Technology, the Council of Economic Advisers, and
other offices within the Executive Office of the President; and
(7) perform such other functions and activities relating to
the oceans and coastal policy as the President may prescribe.
SEC. 6. CITIZENS ADVISORY COMMISSION ON OCEAN AND COASTAL POLICY.
(a) Establishment.--The President shall establish a Commission on
Ocean and Coastal Policy. The purpose of the Commission shall be to
advise and assist the Director of the Office of Ocean and Coastal
Policy in identifying and fostering policies to conserve and manage the
ocean and coastal environments and resources.
(b) Membership.--(1) The Commission shall consist of no less than
18 and no more than 36 members, who shall be appointed for three year
terms.
(2) The Commission shall be composed of the Director, the Chair of
the Council on Environmental Quality, the Director of the Office of
Science and Technology Policy, at least eight members to represent the
interests of the States, and representatives of various interested
stakeholders.
(3) The Director of the Office of Ocean and Coastal Policy shall
serve as the Chairman of the Commission.
(4) Each member of the Commission shall, while serving on business
of the Commission, be entitled to receive compensation at a rate not to
exceed a daily rate to be determined by the President consistent with
other Federal advisory boards. Federal and State officials serving on
the Commission and serving in their official capacity shall not receive
compensation in addition to their Federal or State salaries for their
time on the Commission. Members of the Commission may be compensated
for reasonable travel expenses while performing their duties as members
of the Commission.
(5) The Commission shall meet at least twice per year, or as
prescribed by the President. | Office of Ocean and Coastal Policy Creation Act of 2003 - Establishes in the Executive Office of the President an Office of Oceans and Coastal Policy to: (1) develop comprehensive oceans and coastal policy; and (2) advise the President on scientific, environmental, economic, technological, and international considerations involved in areas of national concern to oceans and coastal policy, including the sustainable use of resources.
Requires the President to establish a Commission on Ocean and Coastal Policy to advise and assist the presidentially appointed Director of the Office. | To establish in the Executive Office of the President the Office of Oceans and Coastal Policy. |
SECTION 1. LIMITATIONS ON BASE CLOSURE AND REALIGNMENT ACTIVITIES AND
CRITERIA FOR CERTAIN DECISIONS INVOLVING SUCH ACTIVITIES.
(a) Findings.--Congress makes the following findings:
(1) In 2012, the Department of Defense requested additional
rounds of defense base closure and realignment in 2013 and
2015.
(2) There have been five rounds of defense base closure and
realignment (BRAC) in the last 25 years (1988, 1991, 1993,
1995, and 2005).
(3) Congress has not approved additional rounds of base
closure and realignment to occur after 2005, and recognizes
that the 2005 round incurred substantial costs that will not be
offset by savings for nearly two decades.
(4) According to the Government Accountability Office,
implementation of the 2005 round of defense base closure and
realignment cost $35,100,000,000, or approximately
$14,100,000,000 more than was estimated by the 2005 Base
Closure and Realignment Commission.
(5) Furthermore, the Government Accountability Office has
determined that the 2005 round of defense base closure and
realignment will take 17 years before taxpayers realize net
savings from the round.
(6) On March 8, 2012, defending the request for additional
rounds of defense base closure and realignment in testimony
before the Committee on Armed Services of the House of
Representatives, Dr. Dorothy Robyn, Deputy Undersecretary of
Defense for Installations and Environment, asserted that the
Department of Defense would close military installations using
non-BRAC authorities, stating that ``if Congress does not
authorize additional BRAC rounds the department will be forced
to use its existing authorities to begin to realign and close
bases''.
(7) The Department of Defense may close or realign bases
only if a round of defense base closure and realignment is
carried out in compliance with sections 2687 and 993 of title
10, United States Code.
(8) Section 2687 of title 10, United States Code, contains
ambiguous language, leading the Department of Defense to pursue
significant closures and realignments without congressional
approval or an authorization for a round of defense base
closure and realignment.
(9) Sections 2687 and 993 of title 10, United States Code,
contain single action limits on reductions that are too easily
circumvented by cumulative actions.
(10) As demonstrated by BRAC and other closure and
realignment actions, base closures and realignments can have
significant effects on Department of Defense functions, current
and future operational capabilities, and on host communities
and States.
(11) Recommendations for closures and realignments should
be carried out only with the consent of Congress, which has the
constitutional responsibility to ``raise and support Armies,''
``provide and maintain a Navy,'' ``make Rules for the
Government and Regulation of the land and naval Forces,'' and
``provide for organizing, arming, and disciplining, the
Militia, and for governing such Part of them as may be employed
in the Service of the United States''.
(b) Limitations on Base Closure and Realignment Activities.--
Section 2687 of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) in paragraph (1), by striking ``at which at
least 300 civilian personnel are authorized to be
employed'';
(B) by amending paragraph (2) to read as follows:
``(2) any realignment with respect to any military
installation involving a reduction in the number of military
and civilian personnel authorized to be employed at such
military installation at the time the Secretary of Defense
notifies Congress under subsection (b) of the Secretary's
proposal to close or realign such installation by more than the
lesser of--
``(A) 100; or
``(B) 50 percent of the highest number of military
and civilian personnel assigned to such installation
during any of the previous 4 years; or''; and
(C) in paragraph (3)--
(i) by striking ``other than a military
installation referred to in clause (1) or
(2)'';
(ii) by inserting ``military or'' before
``civilian personnel''; and
(iii) by striking ``to which clause (1) or
(2)'' and inserting ``to which paragraph (1) or
(2)'';
(2) in subsection (b)--
(A) by striking ``referred to in such subsection'';
(B) in paragraph (1)--
(i) by striking ``or the Secretary of the
military department concerned'';
(ii) by redesignating subparagraphs (A) and
(B) as subparagraphs (B) and (D), respectively;
(iii) by inserting before subparagraph (B),
as redesignated by clause (ii), the following
new subparagraph:
``(A) a justification for the proposed action;'';
(iv) in subparagraph (B), as so
redesignated, by striking ``; and'' and
inserting a semicolon;
(v) by inserting after subparagraph (B), as
so redesignated, the following new
subparagraph:
``(C) a description of the alternatives
considered;'';
(vi) in clause (ii) of subparagraph (D), as
so redesignated, by striking ``; and'' and
inserting a semicolon; and
(vii) by inserting after subparagraph (D),
as so redesignated, the following new
subparagraphs:
``(E) an estimate of the number of military,
civilian, and contractor personnel affected by the
proposed action; and
``(F) a plan to provide support for affected
communities; and''; and
(C) by amending paragraph (2) to read as follows:
``(2) Congress has enacted legislation expressly
authorizing the action.'';
(3) in subsection (c)--
(A) by striking ``shall not apply to the closure''
and inserting the following: ``shall not apply--
``(1) to the closure'';
(B) by striking ``or a military emergency.'' and
inserting ``or a military emergency; or''; and
(C) by adding at the end the following new
paragraph:
``(2) to the relocation from a military installation of
personnel or functions that are required to support the
deployment of members of the armed forces, provided that such
personnel and functions are returned to the military
installation after the deployment.'';
(4) in subsection (d), by striking ``(1) After the
expiration'' and all that follows through ``(2) Nothing in this
section'' and inserting ``Nothing in this section'';
(5) in subsection (e)--
(A) in paragraph (1), by inserting ``and any public
land under Bureau of Land Management control that is
withdrawn and reserved for military training and
testing'' after ``including any leased facility'';
(B) by amending paragraph (3) to read as follows:
``(3) The term `realignment' includes any action or
combination of actions within a 4-year period that reduces or
relocates functions and military or civilian personnel
positions, but does not include a reduction in force resulting
from a reduction in military end strength levels or a reduction
in total civilian personnel levels.'';
(C) by striking paragraph (4); and
(D) by adding at the end the following new
paragraph:
``(4) The term `closure' includes any action or combination
of actions that results in the elimination of all active
functions at a military installation, the elimination of all
military and civilian personnel positions at a military
installation, or the placement of a military installation into
non-active status.''; and
(6) by adding at the end the following new subsections:
``(g) For purposes of this section, the component bases of a joint
base shall be considered as independent military installations, and not
collectively as a single military installation.
``(h) For purposes of this section, any leased space in which more
than 300 combined military and civilian personnel are housed shall be
considered to be an independent military installation, and shall not be
considered part of a larger military installation. Functions and
personnel located at a leased space may be transferred to another
leased space located within 50 miles or to the nearest military
installation located within 50 miles notwithstanding any limitations in
this section.''. | Revises provisions concerning a required congressional notification and waiting period prior to the closure or realignment of a military installation by the Department of Defense (DOD) to instead prohibit, absent specific legislative authorization, any realignment involving a reduction of the lesser of: (1) 100 or more combined military and civilian personnel, or (2) 50% of the highest number of such personnel assigned to that installation during any of the previous four years. Allows only the Secretary of Defense (under current law, either such Secretary or the Secretary of the military department concerned) to provide such notification, and to include a description of the alternatives considered, an estimate of the number of military, civilian, and contractor personnel affected, and a plan to provide support for affected communities.
Excepts from such requirements the relocation of personnel or functions required to support the deployment of members of the Armed Forces, as long as such personnel and functions are returned to the installation after the deployment.
Includes as a military installation, for purposes of such requirements: (1) any public land under Bureau of Land Management control that is withdrawn and reserved for military training and testing, and (2) any leased space in which more than 300 combined military and civilian personnel are housed. | A bill to reassert the proper role of Congress in closing or realigning military installations. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Campaign Finance Reform Act of
1997''.
SEC. 2. LIMITATION ON AMOUNT OF NON-FEDERAL MONEY CONTRIBUTED BY
NATIONAL POLITICAL PARTIES.
Section 315(a) of the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 (2
U.S.C. 441a(a)) is amended by adding at the end the following new
paragraph:
``(9)(A) In addition to the limitation on the amount of
contributions a person may make under this subsection, no person may
make any payment described in subparagraph (C) to any political
committee established and maintained by a national political party in
any calendar year in an amount which, in the aggregate, exceeds
$10,000.
``(B) For purposes of subparagraph (A), the Senatorial campaign
committee and the Congressional campaign committee of each national
political party shall each be treated as a separate political committee
established and maintained by the party.
``(C) A payment described in this subparagraph is a payment of any
gift, subscription, loan, advance, or deposit of money or anything of
value made in support of the activities of a political committee
established and maintained by a national political party or the party
(other than any payment treated as a contribution for purposes of the
limitations on contributions imposed under this subsection).''.
SEC. 3. TREATMENT OF CERTAIN COMMUNICATIONS AS INDEPENDENT
EXPENDITURES.
Section 301(17) of the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 (2
U.S.C. 431(17)) is amended to read as follows:
``(17)(A) The term `independent expenditure' means an expenditure
made by a person expressly advocating the election or defeat of a
clearly identified candidate which is made without cooperation or
consultation with any candidate, or any authorized committee or agent
of such candidate, and which is not made in concert with, or at the
request or suggestion of, any candidate, or any authorized committee or
agent of such candidate.
``(B) For purposes of subparagraph (A), a person shall be deemed to
be `expressly advocating the election or defeat of a clearly identified
candidate' if the person makes any expenditure for a communication
disseminated during the 90-day period which ends on the date of an
election which includes the name, image, or likeness of a candidate for
election for Federal office, if the person has expended an aggregate
amount equal to or greater than $10,000 for such communications during
such period, taking into account any expenditures for such
communications made by any other person who is under the direction or
control of or otherwise affiliated with the person.''.
SEC. 4. RESTRICTIONS ON SOLICITATION AND TRANSFER OF FUNDS BY
CANDIDATES AND PARTIES TO CERTAIN NONPROFIT
ORGANIZATIONS.
Title III of the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 (2 U.S.C.
431 et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following new section:
``solicitation and transfer of funds by candidates and parties to
certain nonprofit organizations
``Sec. 323. (a) Restrictions on Solicitation of Contributions by
Candidates and Officeholders.--
``(1) In general.--No individual who is a candidate for
election for Federal office or who holds Federal office may
solicit contributions to, or on behalf of, any organization
that is exempt from Federal taxation under section 501(c) of
the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 during any period for which
the individual is such a candidate or holds such office if the
organization is established, maintained, or controlled by such
individual.
``(2) Certain individuals treated as holding federal
office.--For purposes of this subsection, an individual shall
be treated as holding Federal office if such individual holds a
position described in level I of the Executive Schedule under
5312 of title 5, United States Code.
``(b) Prohibiting Solicitations for or Donations to Nonprofit
Organizations by Parties.--No national, State, district or local
committee of a political party, including the national congressional
campaign committees of a political party, any entity that is directly
or indirectly established, financed, maintained, or controlled by a
committee of a political party, any entity acting on behalf of a
committee of a political party, and any officer or agent acting on
behalf of any such party committee or entity, may solicit any funds for
or make any donations to any organization that is exempt from Federal
taxation under section 501(c) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.''.
SEC. 5. REQUIRING MONTHLY REPORTS FOR CERTAIN CANDIDATE COMMITTEES.
(a) In General.--Section 304(a)(2)(A)(iii) of the Federal Election
Campaign Act of 1971 (2 U.S.C. 434(a)(2)(A)(iii)) is amended to read as
follows:
``(iii)(I) in the case of a committee that has
reported an aggregate amount of contributions during
the year in an amount equal to or greater than $50,000,
additional monthly reports for all months in the year
other than November and December, which shall be filed
no later than the 20th day after the last day of the
month and shall be complete as of the last day of the
month, together with a year end report which shall be
filed no later than January 31 of the following
calendar year, or
``(II) in the case of any other committee,
additional quarterly reports, which shall be filed no
later than the 15th day after the last day of each
calendar quarter, and which shall be complete as of the
last day of each calendar quarter: except that the
report for the quarter ending December 31 shall be
filed no later than January 31 of the following
calendar year; and''.
(b) Requiring Committees To Make Reports Available on Internet.--
(1) In general.--Section 304(a)(11)(A) of such Act (2
U.S.C. 434(a)(11)(A)) is amended by striking the period at the
end and inserting the following: ``, except that a principal
campaign committee of a candidate filing monthly reports
pursuant to paragraph (2)(A)(iii)(I) shall file such reports by
such electronic format or method and at the time of filing
shall post such reports on the Internet at an Internet site
established by the committee.''.
(2) Internet defined.--Section 301 of such Act (2 U.S.C.
431) is amended by striking paragraph (19) and inserting the
following new paragraph:
``(19) The term `Internet' means the international computer network
of both Federal and non-Federal interoperable packet-switched data
networks.''.
SEC. 6. NONSEVERABILITY OF PROVISIONS.
If any provision of this Act or any amendment made by this Act, or
the application thereof to any person or circumstance, is held invalid,
the remaining provisions of this Act or any amendment made by this Act
shall be treated as invalid.
SEC. 7. EFFECTIVE DATE.
The amendments made by this Act shall apply with respect to amounts
contributed or expended on or after the date of the enactment of this
Act. | Campaign Finance Reform Act of 1997 - Amends the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 to: (1) set a limitation on the amount of non-Federal money that may be contributed by any person to any political committee of a national political party; (2) redefine the term "independent expenditure"; (3) restrict the solicitation of contributions by candidates and Federal officeholders to or on behalf of certain nonprofit organizations; (4) prohibit solicitations for or donations to nonprofit organizations by political parties and specified entities; and (5) revise reporting requirements to require certain principal campaign committees to file additional monthly reports electronically and make such reports available on the Internet. | Campaign Finance Reform Act of 1997 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Extremely Hazardous Materials
Transportation Security Act of 2004''.
SEC. 2. RULEMAKING.
(a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Homeland Security, in
consultation with the heads of other appropriate Federal, State, and
local government entities, security experts, representatives of the
hazardous materials shipping industry and labor unions representing
persons who work in the hazardous materials shipping industry, and
other interested persons, shall issue, after notice and opportunity for
public comment, regulations concerning the shipping of extremely
hazardous materials.
(b) Purposes of Regulations.--The regulations shall be consistent,
to the extent the Secretary determines appropriate, with and not
duplicative of other Federal regulations and international agreements
relating to the shipping of extremely hazardous materials and shall
require--
(1) physical security measures for such shipments, such as
the use of passive secondary containment of tanker valves,
additional security force personnel, and surveillance
technologies and barriers;
(2) concerned Federal, State, and local law enforcement
authorities (including, if applicable, transit, railroad, or
port authority police agencies) to be informed before an
extremely hazardous material is transported within, through, or
near an area of concern;
(3) coordination with Federal, State, and local law
enforcement authorities to create response plans for a
terrorist attack on a shipment of extremely hazardous
materials;
(4) the use of currently available technologies and systems
to ensure effective and immediate communication between
transporters of extremely hazardous materials, law enforcement
authorities and first responders;
(5) comprehensive and appropriate training in the area of
extremely hazardous materials transportation security for all
individuals who transport, load, unload, or are otherwise
involved in the shipping of extremely hazardous materials or
who would respond to an accident or incident involving a
shipment of extremely hazardous material or would have to
repair transportation equipment and facilities in the event of
such an accident or incident; and
(6) for the transportation of extremely hazardous materials
through or near an area of concern, the Secretary to determine
whether or not the transportation could be made by one or more
alternate routes at lower security risk and, if the Secretary
determines the transportation could be made by an alternate
route, the use of such alternate route, except when the
origination or destination of the shipment is located within
the area of concern.
(c) Judicial Relief.--A person (other than an individual) who
transports, loads, unloads, or is otherwise involved in the shipping of
hazardous materials and violates or fails to comply with a regulation
issued by the Secretary under this section may be subject, in a civil
action brought in United States district court, for each shipment with
respect to which the violation occurs--
(1) to an order for injunctive relief; or
(2) to a civil penalty of not more than $100,000.
(d) Administrative Penalties.--
(1) Penalty orders.--The Secretary may issue an order
imposing an administrative penalty of not more than $1,000,000
for failure by a person (other than an individual) who
transports, loads, unloads, or is otherwise involved in the
shipping of hazardous materials to comply with a regulation
issued by the Secretary under this section.
(2) Notice and hearing.--Before issuing an order described
in paragraph (1), the Secretary shall provide to the person
against whom the penalty is to be assessed--
(A) written notice of the proposed order; and
(B) the opportunity to request, not later than 30
days after the date on which the person receives the
notice, a hearing on the proposed order.
(3) Procedures.--The Secretary may issue regulations
establishing procedures for administrative hearings and
appropriate review of penalties issued under this subsection,
including necessary deadlines.
SEC. 3. WHISTLEBLOWER PROTECTION.
(a) In General.--No person involved in the shippping of extremely
hazardous materials may be discharged, demoted, suspended, threatened,
harassed, or in any other manner discriminated against because of any
lawful act done by the person--
(1) to provide information, cause information to be
provided, or otherwise assist in an investigation regarding any
conduct which the person reasonably believes constitutes a
violation of any law, rule or regulation related to the
security of shipments of extremely hazardous materials, or any
other threat to the security of shipments of extremely
hazardous materials, when the information or assistance is
provided to or the investigation is conducted by--
(A) a Federal regulatory or law enforcement agency;
(B) any Member of Congress or any committee of
Congress; or
(C) a person with supervisory authority over the
person (or such other person who has the authority to
investigate, discover, or terminate misconduct);
(2) to file, cause to be filed, testify, participate in, or
otherwise assist in a proceeding or action filed or about to be
filed relating to a violation of any law, rule or regulation
related to the security of shipments of extremely hazardous
materials or any other threat to the security of shipments of
extremely hazardous materials; or
(3) to refuse to violate or assist in the violation of any
law, rule, or regulation related to the security of shipments
of extremely hazardous materials.
(b) Enforcement Action.--
(1) In general.--A person who alleges discharge or other
discrimination by any person in violation of subsection (a) may
seek relief under subsection (c), by--
(A) filing a complaint with the Secretary of Labor;
or
(B) if the Secretary has not issued a final
decision within 180 days of the filing of the complaint
and there is no showing that such delay is due to the
bad faith of the claimant, bringing an action at law or
equity for de novo review in the appropriate district
court of the United States, which shall have
jurisdiction over such an action without regard to the
amount in controversy.
(2) Procedure.--
(A) In general.-- An action under paragraph (1)(A)
shall be governed under the rules and procedures set
forth in section 42121(b) of title 49, United States
Code.
(B) Exception.--Notification made under section
42121(b)(1) of title 49, United States Code, shall be
made to the person named in the complaint and to the
person's employer.
(C) Burdens of proof.--An action brought under
paragraph (1)(B) shall be governed by the legal burdens
of proof set forth in section 42121(b) of title 49,
United States Code.
(D) Statute of limitations.--An action under
paragraph (1) shall be commenced not later than 90 days
after the date on which the violation occurs.
(c) Remedies.--
(1) In general.--A person prevailing in any action under
subsection (b)(1) shall be entitled to all relief necessary to
make the person whole.
(2) Compensatory damages.--Relief for any action under
paragraph (1) shall include--
(A) reinstatement with the same seniority status
that the person would have had, but for the
discrimination;
(B) the amount of any back pay, with interest; and
(C) compensation for any special damages sustained
as a result of the discrimination, including litigation
costs, expert witness fees, and reasonable attorney
fees.
(d) Rights Retained by Person.--Nothing in this section shall be
deemed to diminish the rights, privileges, or remedies of any person
under any Federal or State law, or under any collective bargaining
agreement.
SEC. 4. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act, the following definitions apply:
(1) Extremely hazardous material.--The term ``extremely
hazardous material'' means--
(A) a material that is toxic by inhalation;
(B) a material that is extremely flammable;
(C) a material that is highly explosive; and
(D) any other material designated by the Secretary
to be extremely hazardous.
(2) Area of concern.--The term ``area of concern'' means an
area that the Secretary determines could pose a particular
interest to terrorists. | Extremely Hazardous Materials Transportation Security Act of 2004 - Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to issue regulations concerning the shipping of extremely hazardous materials that require: (1) physical security measures; (2) Federal, State, and local law enforcement authorities to be informed before such material is transported within, through, or near an area of concern; (3) coordination among such authorities to create response plans for a terrorist attack; (4) the use of currently available technologies and systems to ensure effective communication between material transporters, law enforcement authorities, and first responders; (5) comprehensive training for all individuals involved in the shipping of such materials; and (6) the Secretary to determine whether transportation through or near an area could be made by alternate routes at a lower security risk.
Subjects a person (other than an individual) who violates such a regulation to injunctive relief or a civil penalty of up to $100,000. Authorizes the Secretary to impose administrative penalties.
Sets forth provisions regarding whistleblower protection involving the security of shipments of such materials. | To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to issue regulations concerning the shipping of extremely hazardous materials. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Accounts Receivable Insurance
Program Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress finds the following:
(1) Small manufacturers are hurt much more than their
larger competitors when delays in payments of accounts
receivable occur. These small firms hold millions of dollars in
outstanding receivables. Especially in an economic slowdown,
many larger firms delay payments to their downstream suppliers
causing disruptions in the domestic industrial supply chain,
creating a greater need to insure payment on terms.
(2) As the number and size of accounts receivables
outstanding increases, these businesses have fewer resources to
buy raw materials, hire workers, and access adequate lines of
credit. Small manufacturers and their creditors need additional
assurance that customers will pay their accounts on reasonable
terms.
(3) Failure of payment to downstream suppliers in a
reasonable amount of time has had a significant negative impact
on the cash flow of small suppliers. The moment a lender sees
that a supplier is involved in a financially troubled industry
such as the auto industry, they move the supplier into a high
risk category or will not extend credit. Government guaranteed
account receivables insurance would allow the middle-market
companies access to credit lines they need to continue day-to-
day operations.
SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.
For the purpose of this Act the following definitions apply:
(1) Financial institution.--The term ``financial
institution'' means an establishment engaged in financial
transactions (transactions involving the creation, liquidation,
or change in ownership of financial assets) and/or in
facilitating financial transactions.
(2) Insurance institution.--The term ``insurance
institution'' means an establishment that is primarily engaged
in one of the following:
(A) Underwriting (assuming the risk, assigning
premiums, and so forth) annuities and insurance
policies.
(B) Facilitating such underwriting by selling
insurance policies, and by providing other insurance
and employee-benefit related services.
(3) Guarantee.--The term ``guarantee'' has the same meaning
as is given the term ``loan guarantee'' in section 502(3) of
the Federal Credit Reform Act of 1990 (2 U.S.C. 661a(3)).
(4) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of the Treasury.
SEC. 4. ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE INSURANCE.
(a) Establishment of Program.--There is established within the
Department of the Treasury a government-backed private accounts
receivable insurance program to assist small manufacturers in the
underwriting and guarantee of payment on terms through the insurance of
their accounts receivable.
(b) Terms and Conditions.--
(1) Guarantee.--The Secretary shall, to the extent amounts
are made available under subsection (c), insure accounts
receivable underwritten by financial or insurance institutions
for small manufacturing businesses.
(2) Application.--
(A) A small manufacturing business shall submit an
application to a financial or insurance institution for
participation in the program established under this
section at such time, in such manner, and accompanied
by such information as the Secretary may require.
(B) A financial or insurance institution shall not
deny an application solely based on a small
manufacturing business's lack of short term positive
cash flow or solely on the nature of their customers'
industry classification.
(3) Default.--If a small manufacturing business defaults on
any portion of an obligation guaranteed under paragraph (1)--
(A) the financial or insurance institution shall
have the right to demand payment of the unpaid amount
from the Secretary in exchange for payment of a fee
equal to .5 percent of such amount; and
(B) within such period as the Secretary shall
specify, the Secretary shall pay to the financial or
insurance institution the remaining balance of the
obligation, unless the Secretary determines that such
small business or institution has not taken reasonable
steps to seek collection of such obligation in a
reasonably timely manner, which steps shall include--
(i) exhausting all efforts to enforce all
terms and penalties set forth in the underlying
contract;
(ii) making successive efforts by
registered mail or other similar method on a
regular schedule; and
(iii) pursuing legal action.
(4) Limitation.--A financial or insurance institution shall
not be eligible for a guarantee under paragraph (1) if such
institution insured the accounts receivable of a small
manufacturing business for less than 80 percent of the value of
such accounts receivable insured.
(c) Funding.--Funding as may be necessary, not to exceed
$500,000,000, for the cost of guarantees under this section shall be
available to the Secretary, without further appropriation or fiscal
year limitation, for the costs of such program. All funds received by
the Secretary in connection with purchases made pursuant to paragraph
(1), including interest payments, dividend payments, and proceeds from
the sale of any financial instrument, shall be paid into the general
fund of the Treasury for reduction of the public debt.
(d) Sunset.--The Secretary may not enter into any contracts or
agreements with financial institutions to make any guarantees under
this section after December 31, 2011, or on the date that is 1 year
after the date of the enactment of this Act, whichever is later.
(e) Regulations.--Not later than 90 days after the date of the
enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall issue regulations to carry
out the purposes of this section. | Accounts Receivable Insurance Program Act - Establishes within the Treasury a government-backed private accounts receivable insurance program to assist small manufacturers in the underwriting and guarantee of payment through the insurance of their accounts receivable. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to insure (guarantee) accounts receivable underwritten by financial or insurance institutions for small manufacturing businesses and, if a small manufacturing business defaults, to pay such an institution any remaining balance of an obligation of a small manufacturing business that is covered under the insurance. Prohibits a financial or insurance institution from being eligible for a guarantee under the program if the institution insured the accounts receivable of a small manufacturing business for less than 80% of their value.
Provides program funding. Prohibits the Secretary from entering into guarantees with institutions under the program after December 31, 2011, or one year after the enactment of this Act, whichever is later. | To support and strengthen small businesses manufacturing in America, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Student Financial Aid Data Privacy
Protection Act''.
SEC. 2. NATIONAL STUDENT LOAN DATA SYSTEM.
Section 485B of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1092b)
is amended--
(1) by redesignating subsections (d) through (g) as
subsections (e) through (h), respectively;
(2) by inserting after subsection (c) the following:
``(d) Principles for Administering the Data System.--In managing
the National Student Loan Data System, the Secretary shall take actions
necessary to maintain confidence in the data system, including, at a
minimum--
``(1) ensuring that the primary purpose of access to the
data system by guaranty agencies, eligible lenders, and
eligible institutions of higher education is for legitimate
program operations, such as the need to verify the eligibility
of a student, potential student, or parent for loans under part
B, D, or E;
``(2) prohibiting nongovernmental researchers and policy
analysts from accessing personally identifiable information;
``(3) creating a disclosure form for students and potential
students that is distributed when such students complete the
common financial reporting form under section 483, and as a
part of the exit counseling process under section 485(b),
that--
``(A) informs the students that any title IV grant
or loan the students receive will be included in the
National Student Loan Data System, and instructs the
students on how to access that information;
``(B) describes the categories of individuals or
entities that may access the data relating to such
grant or loan through the data system, and for what
purposes access is allowed;
``(C) defines and explains the categories of
information included in the data system;
``(D) provides a summary of the provisions of the
Federal Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 and
other applicable Federal privacy statutes, and a
statement of the students' rights and responsibilities
with respect to such statutes;
``(E) explains the measures taken by the Department
to safeguard the students' data; and
``(F) includes other information as determined
appropriate by the Secretary;
``(4) requiring guaranty agencies, eligible lenders, and
eligible institutions of higher education that enter into an
agreement with a potential student, student, or parent of such
student regarding a loan under part B, D, or E, to inform the
student or parent that such loan shall be--
``(A) submitted to the data system; and
``(B) accessible to guaranty agencies, eligible
lenders, and eligible institutions of higher education
determined by the Secretary to be authorized users of
the data system;
``(5) regularly reviewing the data system to--
``(A) delete inactive users from the data system;
``(B) ensure that the data in the data system are
not being used for marketing purposes; and
``(C) monitor the use of the data system by
guaranty agencies and eligible lenders to determine
whether an agency or lender is accessing the records of
students in which the agency or lender has no existing
financial interest; and
``(6) developing standardized protocols for limiting access
to the data system that include--
``(A) collecting data on the usage of the data
system to monitor whether access has been or is being
used contrary to the purposes of the data system;
``(B) defining the steps necessary for determining
whether, and how, to deny or restrict access to the
data system; and
``(C) determining the steps necessary to reopen
access to the data system following a denial or
restriction of access.''; and
(3) by striking subsection (e) (as redesignated by
paragraph (1)) and inserting the following:
``(e) Reports to Congress.--
``(1) Annual report.--Not later than September 30 of each
fiscal year, the Secretary shall prepare and submit to the
appropriate committees of Congress a report describing--
``(A) the results obtained by the establishment and
operation of the National Student Loan Data System
authorized by this section;
``(B) the effectiveness of existing privacy
safeguards in protecting student and parent information
in the data system;
``(C) the success of any new authorization
protocols in more effectively preventing abuse of the
data system;
``(D) the ability of the Secretary to monitor how
the system is being used, relative to the intended
purposes of the data system; and
``(E) any protocols developed under subsection
(d)(6) during the preceding fiscal year.
``(2) Study.--
``(A) In general.--The Secretary shall conduct a
study regarding--
``(i) available mechanisms for providing
students and parents with the ability to opt in
or opt out of allowing eligible lenders to
access their records in the National Student
Loan Data System; and
``(ii) appropriate protocols for limiting
access to the data system, based on the risk
assessment required under subchapter III of
chapter 35 of title 44, United States Code.
``(B) Submission of study.--Not later than 3 years
after the date of enactment of the Student Financial
Aid Data Privacy Protection Act, the Secretary shall
prepare and submit a report on the findings of the
study to the appropriate committees of Congress.''. | Student Financial Aid Data Privacy Protection Act - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to direct the Secretary of Education to take actions necessary to maintain confidence in the National Student Loan Data System, at a minimum: (1) ensuring that guaranty agencies, lenders, and schools primarily access it for legitimate program operations; (2) prohibiting nongovernmental researchers or policy analysts from accessing personally identifiable information; (3) creating a disclosure form for actual and potential students describing the contents of, and access to, the system; (4) requiring guaranty agencies, lenders, and schools to inform borrowers of Federal Family Education Loans, Direct Loans, and Perkins Loans that such a loan will be submitted to the system and accessible to such entities; (5) regularly review the system to delete inactive users, monitor use, and ensure that data is not used for marketing purposes; and (6) developing standardized protocols for limiting access.
Requires the Secretary to study and report to Congress on: (1) mechanisms giving borrowers the option of restricting lender access to their system records; and (2) appropriate risk-based protocols for limiting access. | A bill to improve the National Student Loan Data System. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Health Insurance Claim Prompt
Payment Act of 1997''.
SEC. 2. PROMPT PAYMENT OF PROVIDER CLAIMS.
(a) Group Health Plans.--
(1) Public health service act amendments.--Subpart 2 of
part A of title XXVII of the Public Health Service Act (as
added by section 604(a) of the Newborns' and Mothers' Health
Protection Act of 1996 and amended by section 703(a) of the
Mental Health Parity Act of 1996) is amended by adding at the
end the following new section:
``SEC. 2706. STANDARDS RELATING TO PROMPT PAYMENT OF PROVIDER CLAIMS.
``(a) In General.--To the extent that a group health plan, or a
health insurance issuer offering group health insurance coverage, fails
to provide for the issue, mailing, or transmission of payment for a
clean claim within 30 calendar days after the date the plan or issuer
receives a clean claim, the plan or issuer shall provide for payment of
interest on the unpaid balance at the rate of interest and for the same
period specified in section 1842(c)(2)(C) of the Social Security Act
for purposes of part B of title XVIII of such Act.
``(b) Contract Limitations.--No provision of a contract between a
group health plan and a provider of health services, or between a
health insurance issuer and a provider of health services in relation
to provision of items and services in connection with group health
insurance coverage by the issuer, shall be given effect to the extent
it prevents the application of subsection (a). Such a provision may be
given effect to the extent it--
``(1) requires payment to be made more promptly than as
provided in subsection (a),
``(2) provides for a higher interest rate than that
provided under subsection (a), or
``(3) otherwise provides for greater sanctions or remedies
in the case of a failure by a plan or issuer to make prompt
payment on claims under the plan or under the health insurance
coverage involved.
``(c) Clean Claim Defined.--For purposes of this section, the term
`clean claim' means a claim that has no defect or impropriety
(including any lack of any required substantiating documentation) or
particular circumstance requiring special treatment that prevents
timely payment from being made on the claim under the group health plan
or health insurance coverage involved.''.
(2) ERISA amendments.--(A) Subpart B of part 7 of subtitle
B of title I of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of
1974 (as added by section 603(a) of the Newborns' and Mothers'
Health Protection Act of 1996 and amended by section 702(a) of
the Mental Health Parity Act of 1996) is amended by adding at
the end the following new section:
``SEC. 713. STANDARDS RELATING TO PROMPT PAYMENT OF PROVIDER CLAIMS.
``(a) In General.--To the extent that a group health plan, or a
health insurance issuer offering group health insurance coverage, fails
to provide for the issue, mailing, or transmission of payment for a
clean claim within 30 calendar days after the date the plan or issuer
receives a clean claim, the plan or issuer shall provide for payment of
interest on the unpaid balance at the rate of interest and for the same
period specified in section 1842(c)(2)(C) of the Social Security Act
for purposes of part B of title XVIII of such Act.
``(b) Contract Limitations.--No provision of a contract between a
group health plan and a provider of health services, or between a
health insurance issuer and a provider of health services in relation
to provision of items and services in connection with group health
insurance coverage by the issuer, shall be given effect to the extent
it prevents the application of subsection (a). Such a provision may be
given effect to the extent it--
``(1) requires payment to be made more promptly than as
provided in subsection (a),
``(2) provides for a higher interest rate than that
provided under subsection (a), or
``(3) otherwise provides for greater sanctions or remedies
in the case of a failure by a plan or issuer to make prompt
payment on claims under the plan or under the health insurance
coverage involved.
``(c) Clean Claim Defined.--For purposes of this section, the term
`clean claim' means a claim that has no defect or impropriety
(including any lack of any required substantiating documentation) or
particular circumstance requiring special treatment that prevents
timely payment from being made on the claim under the group health plan
or health insurance coverage involved.''.
(B) Section 732(a) of such Act (29 U.S.C. 1191a(a)), as
amended by section 603(b)(2) of Public Law 104-204, is amended
by striking ``section 711'' and inserting ``sections 711 and
713''.
(C) The table of contents in section 1 of such Act is
amended by inserting after the item relating to section 712 the
following new item:
``Sec. 713. Standards relating to prompt payment of provider claims.''.
(b) Individual Health Insurance.--Part B of title XXVII of the
Public Health Service Act (as added by section 605(a) of the Newborn's
and Mother's Health Protection Act of 1996) is amended by inserting
after section 2751 the following new section:
``SEC. 2752. STANDARDS RELATING TO PROMPT PAYMENT OF PROVIDER CLAIMS.
``The provisions of section 2706 shall apply to health insurance
coverage offered by a health insurance issuer in the individual market
in the same manner as it applies to health insurance coverage offered
by a health insurance issuer in connection with a group health plan in
the small or large group market.''.
(c) Effective Dates.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply with respect to payment for items and services furnished on or
after the date this is 1 year after the date of the enactment of this
Act. | Health Insurance Claim Prompt Payment Act of 1997 - Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 and the Public Health Service Act, as amended by the Newborns' and Mothers' Health Protection Act of 1996 and the Mental Health Parity Act of 1996, to: (1) require group health plans and group and individual health insurance coverage to pay interest on clean provider claims that are not paid within 30 days; and (2) establish standards relating to prompt payment of such claims. | Health Insurance Claim Prompt Payment Act of 1997 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Pharmacists Medicare Relief Act of
2006''.
SEC. 2. PROMPT PAYMENT BY PRESCRIPTION DRUG PLANS AND MA-PD PLANS UNDER
PART D.
(a) Prompt Payment by Prescription Drug Plans.--Section 1860D-12(b)
of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395w-112(b)) is amended by
adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(4) Prompt payment of clean claims.--
``(A) Prompt payment.--
``(i) In general.--Each contract entered
into with a PDP sponsor under this section with
respect to a prescription drug plan offered by
such sponsor shall provide that payment shall
be issued, mailed, or otherwise transmitted
with respect to all clean claims submitted
under this part within the applicable number of
calendar days after the date on which the claim
is received.
``(ii) Clean claim defined.--In this
paragraph, the term `clean claim' means a claim
that has no defect or impropriety (including
any lack of any required substantiating
documentation) or particular circumstance
requiring special treatment that prevents
timely payment from being made on the claim
under this part.
``(B) Applicable number of calendar days defined.--
In this paragraph, the term `applicable number of
calendar days' means--
``(i) with respect to claims submitted
electronically, 14 days; and
``(ii) with respect to claims submitted
otherwise, 30 days.
``(C) Interest payment.--If payment is not issued,
mailed, or otherwise transmitted within the applicable
number of calendar days (as defined in subparagraph
(B)) after a clean claim is received, interest shall be
paid at a rate equal to the weighted average of
interest on 3-month marketable Treasury securities
determined for such period, increased by 0.1 percentage
point for the period beginning on the day after the
required payment date and ending on the date on which
payment is made.
``(D) Procedures involving claims.--
``(i) In general.--A contract entered into
with a PDP sponsor under this section with
respect to a prescription drug plan offered by
such sponsor shall provide that, not later than
10 days after the date on which a clean claim
is submitted, the PDP sponsor shall provide the
claimant with a notice that acknowledges
receipt of the claim by such sponsor. Such
notice shall be considered to have been
provided on the date on which the notice is
mailed or electronically transferred.
``(ii) Claim deemed to be clean.--A claim
is deemed to be a clean claim if the PDP
sponsor involved does not provide notice to the
claimant of any deficiency in the claim within
10 days of the date on which the claim is
submitted.
``(iii) Claim determined to not be a clean
claim.--
``(I) In general.--If a PDP sponsor
determines that a submitted claim is
not a clean claim, the PDP sponsor
shall, not later than the end of the
period described in clause (ii), notify
the claimant of such determination.
Such notification shall specify all
defects or improprieties in the claim
and shall list all additional
information or documents necessary for
the proper processing and payment of
the claim.
``(II) Determination after
submission of additional information.--
A claim is deemed to be a clean claim
under this paragraph if the PDP sponsor
involved does not provide notice to the
claimant of any defect or impropriety
in the claim within 10 days of the date
on which additional information is
received under subclause (I).
``(III) Payment of clean portion of
a claim.--A PDP sponsor shall, as
appropriate, pay any portion of a claim
that would be a clean claim but for a
defect or impropriety in a separate
portion of the claim in accordance with
subparagraph (A).
``(iv) Obligation to pay.--A claim
submitted to a PDP sponsor that is not paid or
contested by the provider within the applicable
number of days (as defined in subparagraph (B))
shall be deemed to be a clean claim and shall
be paid by the PDP sponsor in accordance with
subparagraph (A).
``(v) Date of payment of claim.--Payment of
a clean claim under such subparagraph is
considered to have been made on the date on
which full payment is received by the provider.
``(E) Private right of action.--
``(i) In general.--Nothing in this
paragraph shall be construed to prohibit or
limit a claim or action not covered by the
subject matter of this section that any
individual or organization has against a
provider or a PDP sponsor.
``(ii) Anti-retaliation.--Consistent with
applicable Federal or State law, a PDP sponsor
shall not retaliate against an individual or
provider for exercising a right of action under
this subparagraph.''.
(b) Prompt Payment by MA-PD Plans.--Section 1857(f) of the Social
Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395w-27(f)) is amended by adding at the end
the following new paragraph:
``(3) Incorporation of certain prescription drug plan
contract requirements.--The provisions of section 1860D-
12(b)(4) shall apply to contracts with a Medicare Advantage
organization in the same manner as they apply to contracts with
a PDP sponsor offering a prescription drug plan under part
D.''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to contracts entered into or renewed on or after the date of the
enactment of this Act.
SEC. 3. RESTRICTION ON CO-BRANDING.
(a) In General.--Section 1860D-4 of the Social Security Act (42
U.S.C. 1395w-104) is amended--
(1) in subsection (b)(2)(A), by striking ``The PDP
sponsor'' and inserting ``Subject to subsection (l), the PDP
sponsor''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(l) Co-Branding Prohibited.--A card that is issued under
subsection (b)(2)(A) for use under a prescription drug plan offered by
a PDP sponsor or an MA-PD plan offered by a Medicare Advantage
organization and any marketing materials distributed with respect to
such a plan shall not display the name or brand of any pharmacy.''.
(b) Penalty.--Section 1128B of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C.
1320a-7b) is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(g) Whoever knowingly and willfully engages in co-branding
prohibited under section 1860D-4(l) with respect to a prescription drug
plan offered by a PDP sponsor under part D of title XVIII or a Medicare
Advantage plan offered by a Medicare Advantage organization under part
C of such title, shall be guilty of a felony and upon conviction
thereof shall be fined not more than $25,000 or imprisoned for not more
than five years, or both.''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to cards and marketing materials distributed on or after the date
that is 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act. | Pharmacists Medicare Relief Act of 2006 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to require prompt payment of clean claims to pharmacies by prescription drug plans (PDPs) and Medicare Advantage prescription drug plans (MA-PD Plans). Defines prompt payment as within 14 days from submission for claims submitted electronically, and within 30 days for claims submitted otherwise. Requires payment of interest, also, if a payment is not issued, mailed, or otherwise transmitted within the applicable number of calendar days.
Prohibits a Medicare prescription drug card issued by a PDP sponsor or an MA-PD plan, and any related marketing materials, from displaying the name or brand of any pharmacy (co-branding). Prescribes criminal penalties for engaging in prohibited co-branding. | To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to require the sponsor of a prescription drug plan or an organization offering an MA-PD plan to promptly pay claims submitted under part D, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Puerto Rico Karst Conservation
Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS AND PURPOSES.
(a) Findings.--Congress finds the following:
(1) In the Karst Region of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico
there are--
(A) some of the largest areas of tropical forests
in Puerto Rico, with a higher density of tree species
than any other area in the Commonwealth; and
(B) unique geological formations that are critical
to the maintenance of aquifers and watersheds that
constitute a principal water supply for much of the
Commonwealth.
(2) The Karst Region is threatened by development that, if
unchecked, could permanently damage the aquifers and cause
irreparable damage to natural and environmental assets that are
unique to the United States.
(3) The Commonwealth has 1 of the highest population
densities in the United States, which makes the protection of
the Karst Region imperative for the maintenance of the public
health and welfare of the citizens of the Commonwealth.
(4) The Karst Region--
(A) possesses extraordinary ecological diversity,
including the habitats of several endangered and
threatened species and tropical migrants; and
(B) is an area of critical value to research in
tropical forest management.
(5) Coordinated efforts at land protection by the Federal
Government and the Commonwealth are necessary to conserve the
environmentally critical Karst Region.
(b) Purposes.--The purposes of this Act are--
(1) to authorize and support conservation efforts to
acquire, manage, and protect the tropical forest areas of the
Karst Region, with particular emphasis on water quality and the
protection of the aquifers that are vital to the health and
wellbeing of the citizens of the Commonwealth; and
(2) to promote cooperation among the Commonwealth, Federal
agencies, corporations, organizations, and individuals in those
conservation efforts.
SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Commonwealth.--The term ``Commonwealth'' means the
Commonwealth of Puerto Rico.
(2) Forest legacy program.--The term ``Forest Legacy
Program'' means the program established under section 7 of the
Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act of 1978 (16 U.S.C. 2103c).
(3) Fund.--The term ``Fund'' means the Puerto Rico Karst
Conservation Fund established by section 5.
(4) Karst region.--The term ``Karst Region'' means the
areas in the Commonwealth generally depicted on the map
entitled ``Karst Region Conservation Area'' and dated March
2001, which shall be on file and available for public
inspection in--
(A) the Office of the Secretary, Puerto Rico
Department of Natural and Environmental Resources; and
(B) the Office of the Chief of the Forest Service.
(5) Land.--The term ``land'' includes land, water, and an
interest in land or water.
(6) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of Agriculture.
SEC. 4. CONSERVATION OF THE KARST REGION.
(a) Federal Cooperation and Assistance.--In furtherance of the
acquisition, protection, and management of land and forest resources in
and adjacent to the Karst Region, and in furtherance of the
implementation of related natural resource conservation strategies, the
Secretary may--
(1) make grants to and enter into contracts and cooperative
agreements with the Commonwealth, other Federal agencies,
organizations, corporations, and individuals; and
(2) use all authorities available to the Secretary,
including--
(A) the Forest and Rangeland Renewable Resources
Research Act of 1978 (16 U.S.C. 1641 et seq.);
(B) section 1472 of the National Agricultural
Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (7
U.S.C. 3318);
(C) section 12 of the Stevenson-Wydler Technology
Innovation Act of 1980 (15 U.S.C. 3710a); and
(D) the Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act of 1978
(16 U.S.C. 2101 et seq.).
(b) Funding Sources.--The activities authorized by this section may
be carried out using--
(1) amounts in the Fund;
(2) amounts in the fund established by section 4(b) of the
Forest and Rangeland Renewable Resources Research Act of 1978
(16 U.S.C. 1643(b));
(3) funds appropriated from the Land and Water Conservation
Fund;
(4) funds appropriated for the Forest Legacy Program; and
(5) any other funds made available for those activities.
(c) Management.--
(1) Principal management objectives.--Land acquired under
the authority of this section or using funds made available
under this section shall be managed in a manner to protect and
conserve the water quality and aquifers and the geological,
ecological, fish and wildlife, and other natural values of the
Karst Region.
(2) Other uses.--The resulting owner of land acquired under
the authority of this section or using funds made available
under this section shall permit public recreation and other
uses of the acquired land to the extent that the owner
determines that the recreation or other use is compatible with
the principal management objectives specified in paragraph (1).
(3) Failure to manage as required.--In any deed, grant,
contract, or cooperative agreement implementing this Act and
the Forest Legacy Program in the Commonwealth, the Secretary
may require that, if land acquired by the Commonwealth or other
cooperating entity under this Act is sold or conveyed in whole
or part, or is not managed in conformity with paragraph (1),
title to the land shall, at the discretion of the Secretary,
vest in the United States.
(4) Federally owned land.--Any federally owned land
acquired by the Secretary in the Karst Region shall be managed
by the Secretary in accordance with paragraphs (1) and (2) and
the Forest and Rangeland Renewable Resources Research Act of
1978 (16 U.S.C. 1641 et seq.).
(d) Willing Sellers.--Any land acquired by the Secretary in the
Karst Region shall be acquired only from a willing seller.
(e) Relation to Other Authorities.--Nothing in this Act--
(1) diminishes any other authority that the Secretary may
have to acquire, protect, and manage land and natural resources
in the Commonwealth; or
(2) exempts the Federal Government from Commonwealth water
laws.
SEC. 5. PUERTO RICO KARST CONSERVATION FUND.
(a) Establishment.--There is established in the Treasury an
interest bearing account to be known as the ``Puerto Rico Karst
Conservation Fund''.
(b) Credits to Funds.--There shall be credited to the Fund--
(1) amounts appropriated to the Fund;
(2) amounts donated to the Fund;
(3) amounts received by the Administrator of General
Services from the disposal of surplus real property in the
Commonwealth under subtitle I of title 40, United States Code;
and
(4) interest derived from amounts in the Fund.
(c) Use of Fund.--Amounts in the Fund shall be available to the
Secretary until expended, without further appropriation, to carry out
section 4.
SEC. 6. MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS.
(a) Donations.--
(1) Authority to accept.--The Secretary may accept
donations, including land and money, made by public and private
agencies, corporations, organizations, and individuals in
furtherance of the purposes of this Act.
(2) Treatment of donors.--The Secretary may accept
donations even if the donor conducts business with or is
regulated by the Department of Agriculture or any other Federal
agency.
(3) Treatment of donations.--A donation of land, property
and money accepted by the Secretary under the authority of this
Act shall be considered as a gift, bequest, or devise to the
United States in the same manner as provided in Public Law 95-
442 (7 U.S.C. 2269).
(b) Relation to Forest Legacy Program.--
(1) In general.--All land in the Karst Region shall be
eligible for inclusion in the Forest Legacy Program.
(2) Cost sharing.--The Secretary may credit donations made
under subsection (a) to satisfy any cost-sharing requirements
of the Forest Legacy Program.
SEC. 7. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as are necessary
to carry out this Act. | Puerto Rico Karst Conservation Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to make grants, enter contracts, and exercise specified authorities to acquire, protect, and manage land and forest resources in and adjacent to the Karst Region of Puerto Rico for the purpose of protecting and conserving the water quality and aquifers and the geological, ecological, fish and wildlife, and other natural values of the Region.
Establishes the Puerto Rico Karst Conservation Fund which shall be available to the Secretary for purposes of this Act.
Makes all lands in the Region eligible for inclusion in the Forest Legacy Program. | To protect the critical aquifers and watersheds that serve as a principal water source for the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, to protect the tropical forests of the Karst Region of the Commonwealth, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``California Coastal National Monument
Expansion Act''.
SEC. 2. PURPOSES.
(a) Findings.--Congress finds the following:
(1) Presidential Proclamation Number 7264, dated January
11, 2000 (65 Fed. Reg. 2821), designated over 20,000 islands,
rocks, and pinnacles along the approximtely 1,100-mile
California coastline as the California Coastal National
Monument to protect the biological treasures situated offshore
on thousands of unappropriated or unreserved areas of land
owned or controlled by the Federal Government within 12
nautical miles of the shoreline.
(2) Presidential Proclamation Number 9089, dated March 11,
2014 (79 Fed. Reg. 14603), expanded the boundary of the
Monument to include 1,665 acres of Federal land administered by
the Bureau of Land Management along the Northern California
coastline in Mendocino County, commonly known as the ``Point
Arena-Stornetta Unit''.
(3) The Point Arena-Stornetta Unit is the first onshore
expansion of the Monument.
(4) Numerous governmental entities, community
organizations, businesses, and individuals have made
significant contributions to maintain the unique character,
management, and preservation of the individual parcels of
Federal land along the California coast.
(b) Purposes.--The purposes of this Act are--
(1) to protect, conserve, and enhance for the benefit and
enjoyment of present and future generations the nationally
significant historical, natural, cultural, scientific,
educational, and scenic values of the Federal land along and
adjacent to the shoreline of the State of California, and for
the purposes for which the Monument was designated; and
(2) to support the land management partnerships of the
Bureau of Land Management with the State of California, local
governments, communities, and stakeholders, and to enhance the
relationships those entities have with the Bureau of Land
Management and Federal land, as appropriate.
SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Federal land.--The term ``Federal land'' means--
(A) the Federal land comprising approximately 13
acres in Humboldt County, California, identified as
``Trinidad Head'' on the map;
(B) the Federal land comprising approximately 5,780
acres in Santa Cruz County, California, identified as
``Cotoni-Coast Dairies Public Land'' on the map;
(C) the Federal land comprising approximately 20
acres in San Luis Obispo County, California, identified
as ``Piedras Blancas Light Station Outstanding Natural
Area'' on the map; and
(D) the Federal land comprising approximately 8
acres in Humboldt County, California, identified as
``Lighthouse Ranch'' on the map.
(2) Map.--The term ``map'' means the Bureau of Land
Management map entitled ``California Coastal National Monument
Addition'' and dated July 24, 2015.
(3) Monument.--The term ``Monument'' means the California
Coastal National Monument established by Presidential
Proclamation 7264.
(4) Presidential proclamation 7264.--The term
``Presidential Proclamation 7264'' means Presidential
Proclamation Number 7264, dated January 11, 2000 (65 Fed. Reg.
2821), creating the Monument.
(5) Presidential proclamation 9089.--The term
``Presidential Proclamation 9089'' means Presidential
Proclamation Number 9089, dated March 11, 2014 (79 Fed. Reg.
14603), expanding the Monument.
(6) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of the Interior.
SEC. 4. EXPANSION OF CALIFORNIA COASTAL NATIONAL MONUMENT.
(a) In General.--The boundary of the Monument is expanded to
include the Federal land.
(b) Map and Legal Description.--
(1) In general.--As soon as practicable after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall develop a map and
boundary description of the Federal land added to the Monument
by this Act.
(2) Force and effect.--The map and boundary description
developed under paragraph (1) shall have the same force and
effect as if included in this Act, except that the Secretary
may correct any minor errors in the map and boundary
descriptions.
(3) Availability of map and boundary description.--The map
and boundary description developed under paragraph (1) shall be
on file and available for public inspection in appropriate
offices of the Bureau of Land Management.
SEC. 5. ADMINISTRATION.
(a) In General.--Subject to valid existing rights and deed
restrictions in place as of the date of enactment of this Act, the
Secretary shall manage the Federal land added to the Monument by this
Act--
(1) as part of the Monument; and
(2) in accordance with Presidential Proclamations 7264 and
9089.
(b) Management Plan.--
(1) In general.--As soon as practicable after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall finalize an
amendment, or multiple amendments as applicable for the
individual Federal land areas, to the Monument management plan
for the long-term protection and management of the Federal land
added to the Monument by this Act.
(2) Requirements.--Any amendment under paragraph (1)
shall--
(A) be developed in consultation with, at a
minimum--
(i) affected State, tribal, and local
governments;
(ii) the public; and
(iii) interested Federal agencies;
(B) describe the appropriate uses and management of
the Federal land, consistent with this Act;
(C) contain individual plans and considerations
specific to each individual Federal land area;
(D) take into consideration existing uses of the
Federal land;
(E) include components regarding stewardship,
visitor services, facilities management and
maintenance, public access, traffic, public safety,
emergency services, and law enforcement;
(F) include a component regarding potential
education and interpretation activities, with
recognition of the specific character and history of
each Federal land area; and
(G) include a component regarding Native American
cultural resources management, with emphasis on the
preservation of resources within the individual Federal
land areas.
(3) Interim management.--Until the completion of the
management plan, the Secretary shall manage the Federal land in
accordance with the purposes described in section 2(b).
(c) Motorized and Mechanized Transport.--Except as needed for
emergency or authorized administrative purposes, in the Monument--
(1) motorized vehicle use shall be permitted only on
designated roads; and
(2) mechanized vehicle use shall be permitted only on roads
and trails designated for the use of those vehicles.
(d) Incorporation of Land and Interests.--
(1) Authority.--Except as provided in paragraph (3), the
Secretary may acquire non-Federal land or interests in land
within or adjacent to the Federal land added to the Monument by
this Act only through exchange, donation, or purchase from a
willing seller.
(2) Management.--Any land or interests in land within or
adjacent to the Federal land added to the Monument by this Act
acquired by the United States after the date of the enactment
of this Act shall be--
(A) added to and administered as part of the
Monument; and
(B) with respect to inclusion in the management
plan, taken into consideration through an appropriate
amendment to that plan.
(3) Exception.--An addition to the Cotoni-Coast Dairies
unit of Federal land referred to in section 3(1)(C) shall be
limited to the acreage contained within the boundary of the
Monument, as established by this Act.
(e) Existing Cooperative Management Agreements.--Any cooperative
management agreement in existence on the date of enactment of this Act
between the Federal land areas and other land management entities shall
not be affected due to the enactment of this Act.
(f) Cooperative Agreements With Local Governments and Entities.--To
better implement the management plan and to continue the successful
partnerships with local communities and land administered by the State
of California and other partners, the Secretary may enter into
cooperative agreements with the appropriate Federal, State, and local
agencies and organizations pursuant to section 307(b) of the Federal
Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (43 U.S.C. 1737(b)).
(g) Withdrawals.--Subject to valid existing rights, all Federal
land within the Monument and all land and interests in land acquired
for the Monument by the United States after the date of the enactment
of this Act are withdrawn from--
(1) all forms of entry, appropriation, or disposal under
the public land laws;
(2) location, entry, and patent under the mining laws; and
(3) operation of the mineral leasing, mineral materials,
and geothermal leasing laws.
(h) Native American Uses and Interests.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary shall, to the maximum extent
permitted by law and in consultation with affected Indian
tribes, ensure the protection of Indian sacred sites and
traditional cultural properties in the Monument and provide
access by members of Indian tribes for traditional cultural and
customary uses, consistent with Public Law 95-341 (commonly
known as the ``American Indian Religious Freedom Act''; 42
U.S.C. 1996) and Executive Order 13007 (42 U.S.C. 1996 note;
relating to Indian sacred sites).
(2) Relationship to other rights.--Notwithstanding
paragraph (1), nothing in this Act enlarges, diminishes, or
modifies the rights of any Indian tribe or Indian religious
community.
(i) Buffer Zones.--
(1) In general.--The expansion of the Monument by this Act
is not intended to lead to the establishment of protective
perimeters or buffer zones around the Federal land included in
the Monument by this Act.
(2) Activities outside monument.--The fact that activities
outside the Monument can be seen or heard within the Federal
land added to the Monument by this Act shall not, of itself,
preclude those activities or uses up to the boundary of the
Monument.
(j) Grazing.--Nothing in this Act affects the grazing of livestock
within the Federal land described in section 3(1)(C).
(k) National Landscape Conservation System.--The Secretary shall
manage the Monument as part of the National Landscape Conservation
System.
SEC. 6. ADVISORY COUNCILS.
(a) Establishment.--Not less than 180 days after the date of the
enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall establish an advisory
council for each unit of Federal land described in subparagraphs (A)
through (D) of section 3(1) within the Monument.
(b) Duties.--The advisory councils shall advise the Secretary with
respect to the preparation and implementation of the management plan
under section 5(b) (or amendments to an existing applicable management
plan) for each relevant unit of Federal land.
(c) Applicable Law.--The advisory councils shall be subject to--
(1) the Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App.);
(2) the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (43
U.S.C. 1701 et seq.); and
(3) all other applicable laws (including regulations).
(d) Members.--Each advisory council shall include 7 members, to be
appointed by the Secretary, of whom, to the maximum extent
practicable--
(1) 1 shall be appointed after taking into consideration
the recommendations of the local county board of supervisors of
the applicable unit of Federal land; and
(2) 6 shall--
(A) reside within a reasonable proximity to the
applicable unit of Federal land; and
(B) demonstrate experience that reflects--
(i) the purposes for which the Monument was
established; and
(ii) the interest of the stakeholders that
are affected by the planning and management of
the unit of Federal land, which may include
stakeholders representing private land-
ownership, Native American interests,
environmental, recreational, economic, or other
non-Federal land interests.
(e) Representation.--The Secretary shall ensure that the
memberships of the advisory councils are fairly balanced with respect
to the points of view represented, and the functions to be performed,
by each advisory council.
(f) Quorum.--
(1) In general.--Four members of an advisory council shall
constitute a quorum.
(2) Unappointed members.--The operation of an advisory
committee shall not be affected if--
(A) a member has not yet been appointed to the
advisory committee; but
(B) a quorum has been attained.
(g) Chairperson and Procedures.--Each advisory council shall--
(1) elect a chairperson from among the members of the
advisory council; and
(2) establish such rules and procedures as the advisory
council determines to be necessary or appropriate.
(h) Service Without Compensation.--The members of each advisory
council shall serve without pay.
(i) Termination.--The advisory councils shall terminate--
(1) on the date that is 2 years after the date on which the
management plan (or amendment to an existing management plan)
is officially adopted by the Secretary; or
(2) on such later date as the Secretary considers to be
appropriate.
(j) Existing Advisory Bodies.--The Secretary may elect not to
establish an advisory council for a unit of Federal land if a regularly
scheduled, organized public forum or entity exists--
(1) of which the Bureau of Land Management is an active or
leading participant; and
(2) that fulfills the duties described in subsection (b).
SEC. 7. ROCKS AND SMALL ISLANDS ALONG COAST OF ORANGE COUNTY,
CALIFORNIA.
(a) California Coastal National Monument.--The Act of February 18,
1931 (46 Stat. 1172, chapter 226), is amended by striking ``be, and the
same are hereby, temporarily reserved'' and all that follows through
``United States'' and inserting ``are part of the California Coastal
National Monument and shall be administered as part of the Monument''.
(b) Repeal of Reservation.--Section 31 of the Act of May 28, 1935
(49 Stat. 309, chapter 155), is repealed. | California Coastal National Monument Expansion Act This bill expands the boundary of the California Coastal National Monument to include specified federal lands in Humboldt, Santa Cruz, and San Luis Obispo Counties in California. The Department of the Interior shall amend the Monument management plan for the long-term protection and management of the federal land so added. Interior may acquire nonfederal land or interests within or adjacent to the added federal land only through exchange, donation, or purchase from a willing seller. Interior must ensure the protection of Indian sacred sites and traditional cultural properties in the Monument and provide access by members of Indian Tribes for traditional cultural and customary uses. The Monument shall be managed as part of the National Landscape Conservation System. Interior shall establish an advisory council for each unit of the added federal land to advise on the implementation of the management plan. Certain rocks, pinnacles, reefs, and islands in the Pacific Ocean within a mile of the coast of Orange County, California, are made part of the California Coastal National Monument, and their current temporary reservation is repealed. Likewise repealed is the lighthouse reservation with respect to the San Juan and San Mateo Rocks and the two rocks in the vicinity of Laguna Beach, off the coast of Orange County. | California Coastal National Monument Expansion Act |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Food Stamp Anti-Fraud Act of 1993''.
TITLE I--RETAIL FOOD STORES AND WHOLESALE FOOD CONCERNS
SEC. 101. USE OF APPLICATION INFORMATION.
Section 9(c) of the Food Stamp Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 2018(c)) is
amended--
(1) by designating the first sentence as paragraph (1);
(2) by designating the second and third sentences as
subparagraphs (A) and (C), respectively, of paragraph (2); and
(3) in paragraph (2)--
(A) in subparagraph (A) (as so designated), by
inserting before the period at the end the following:
``or officers or employees of Federal or State law
enforcement or investigative agencies for purposes of
administering or enforcing the provisions of this Act
or any other Federal or State law and the regulations
issued under this Act or such law'';
(B) by inserting after subparagraph (A) (as so
designated) the following new subparagraph:
``(B) An officer or employee described in subparagraph (A) who
publishes, divulges, discloses, or makes known in any manner or to any
extent not authorized by law any information obtained under the
authority granted by this subsection shall be subject to section 1905
of title 18, United States Code.''; and
(C) in subparagraph (C) (as so designated), by
striking ``Such purposes'' and inserting ``The purposes
referred to in subparagraph (A)''.
SEC. 102. PENALTIES FOR TRAFFICKING IN FOOD STAMPS.
Section 12(b)(3)(B) of the Food Stamp Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C.
2021(b)(3)(B)) is amended by striking ``(except that the amount of
civil money penalties imposed during a 2-year period may not exceed
$40,000)''.
SEC. 103. PENALTIES FOR STORES FOR TRADING FIREARMS, AMMUNITION,
EXPLOSIVES, OR CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES FOR FOOD STAMPS.
Section 12(b)(3)(C) of the Food Stamp Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C.
2021(b)(3)(C)) is amended by striking ``(except that the amount of
civil money penalties imposed during a 2-year period may not exceed
$40,000)''.
SEC. 104. USE OF TAXPAYER IDENTIFICATION NUMBERS.
(a) Social Security Account Numbers.--Clause (iii) of section
205(c)(2)(C) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 405(c)(2)(C)(iii))
(as added by section 1735(a)(3) of the Food, Agriculture, Conservation,
and Trade Act of 1990 (Public Law 101-624; 104 Stat. 3791)) is
amended--
(1) in the second sentence--
(A) by inserting after ``Department of
Agriculture'' the following: ``, or officer or employee
of a Federal or State law enforcement or investigative
agency,''; and
(B) by inserting before the period at the end the
following: ``or for the administration or enforcement
of such Act or any other Federal or State law''; and
(2) in the third sentence, by inserting before the period
at the end the following: ``or officers and employees of
Federal or State law enforcement or investigative agencies
whose duties or responsibilities require access for the
administration or enforcement of such Act or any other Federal
or State law''.
(b) Employer Identification Numbers.--Section 6109(f) of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to access to employer
identification numbers by the Secretary of Agriculture for purposes of
the Food Stamp Act of 1977) is amended--
(1) in the second sentence of paragraph (1)--
(A) by inserting after ``Secretary of Agriculture''
the following: ``, or an officer or employee of a
Federal or State law enforcement or investigative
agency,''; and
(B) by inserting before the period at the end the
following: ``or for the administration or enforcement
of such Act or any other Federal or State law''; and
(2) in the first sentence of paragraph (2), by inserting
before the period at the end the following: ``or officers and
employees of Federal or State law enforcement or investigative
agencies whose duties or responsibilities require access for
the administration or enforcement of such Act or any other
Federal or State law''.
TITLE II--MISCELLANEOUS
SEC. 201. PERMANENT DISQUALIFICATION OF RECIPIENTS FOR TRADING
FIREARMS, AMMUNITION, EXPLOSIVES, OR CONTROLLED
SUBSTANCES FOR FOOD STAMPS.
Section 6(b)(1) of the Food Stamp Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 2015(b)(1))
is amended by striking clause (iii) and inserting the following new
clause:
``(iii) permanently upon--
``(I) the third occasion of any such determination
(except as provided in subclause (II)); or
``(II) the first occasion of a finding of the
trading of firearms, ammunition, explosives, or
controlled substances (as the term is defined in
section 802 of title 21, United States Code) for
coupons.''.
SEC. 202. USE OF PENALTIES COLLECTED FROM RETAIL FOOD STORES AND
WHOLESALE FOOD CONCERNS.
Section 18 of the Food Stamp Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 2027) is amended
by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(g) Funds collected from claims against retail food stores or
wholesale food concerns under section 12 shall--
``(1) be credited to the food stamp program appropriation
account for the fiscal year in which the collection occurs, and
remain available until expended; and
``(2) be used for investigation and enforcement activities
under this Act relating to retail food stores and wholesale
food concerns.''.
TITLE III--EFFECTIVE DATES
(a) In General.--Except as provided in subsection (b), the
amendments made by this Act shall become effective and implemented not
later than 120 days after the date of issuance of final regulations by
the Secretary of Agriculture to carry out the amendments.
(b) Exceptions.--The amendments made by sections 102, 103, and 202
shall become effective on the date of enactment of this Act. | TABLE OF CONTENTS:
Title I: Retail Food Stores and Wholesale Food Concerns
Title II: Miscellaneous
Title III: Effective Dates
Food Stamp Anti-Fraud Act of 1993 -
Title I: Retail Food Stores and Wholesale Food Concerns
- Amends the Food Stamp Act of 1977 with regard to retail food stores participating in the food stamp program (program) to: (1) permit the use of application information by Federal or State enforcement authorities; and (2) repeal the limits on civil money penalties for food stamp trafficking and firearms or controlled substance trading.
Amends the Social Security Act to permit the use of social security account numbers by Federal or State enforcement authorities.
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to permit the use of employer identification numbers by Federal or State enforcement authorities.
Title II: Miscellaneous
- Amends the Food Stamp Act of 1977 to permanently disqualify a recipient food store from program participation for trading of firearms, ammunition, explosives, or controlled substances for food stamps.
States that penalties collected from retail or wholesale food concerns shall be used for related investigation and enforcement activities.
Title III: Effective Dates
- Sets forth effective dates for provisions of this Act. | Food Stamp Anti-Fraud Act of 1993 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``National Commission on State
Workers' Compensation Laws Act of 2008''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress finds the following:
(1) The full protection of American workers from job-
related injury or death requires an adequate, prompt, and
equitable system of workers' compensation as well as an
effective program of occupational health and safety regulation.
(2) The vast majority of American workers and their
families are dependent on workers' compensation for their basic
economic security in the event such workers suffer injury or
death in the course of employment.
(3) In 1972, the National Commission on State Workmen's
Compensation Laws found that the system of State workers'
compensation laws was ``inequitable and inadequate''. Since
that time, changes in reductions in State workers' compensation
laws have increased the inadequacy and inequitable levels of
workers' compensation benefits. Serious questions exist
concerning the fairness and adequacy of present workers'
compensation laws in light of the growth of the economy,
changing nature of the labor force, misclassification of
workers as independent contractors, and as leased employees, as
well as erosion of remedies for the bad faith handling and
delay in payment of benefits and medical care to workers and
their families, increases in medical knowledge, changes in the
hazards associated with various employment, new risks to health
and safety created by new technology, and increases in the
general level of wages and in the cost of living.
SEC. 3. ESTABLISHMENT OF COMMISSION.
There is established a commission to be known as the ``National
Commission on State Workers' Compensation Laws'' (hereinafter in this
Act referred to as the ``Commission'').
SEC. 4. DUTIES OF COMMISSION.
(a) In General.--The duties of the Commission shall be--
(1) to review the findings of the previous National
Commission on State Workmen's Compensation Laws and its
recommendations;
(2) to study and evaluate State workers' compensation laws
in order to determine if such laws provide an adequate, prompt,
and equitable system of compensation for injury or death
arising out of or in the course of employment; and
(3) to study and evaluate whether additional remedies
should be available to ensure prompt and good faith payment of
benefits and medical care to injured workers and their
families.
(b) Matters To Be Evaluated and Studied.--The study and evaluation
under subsection (a)(2) shall include--
(1) the amount of permanent and temporary disability
benefits and the criteria for determining the maximum
limitations of such benefits or the elimination of such maximum
limitations;
(2) a study and evaluation of State workers' compensation
laws in order to determine if, and ensure that, such laws
provide an adequate, prompt, and equitable system of
compensation and medical care for injuries or death arising out
of in the course of employment;
(3) a study of whether other adequate remedies are
available to ensure the prompt payment of benefits and to
reduce or eliminate bad faith delays in payments of benefits,
providing medical care, and discouraging misclassification of
workers as independent contractors and or leased employees to
avoid paying workers' compensation benefits;
(4) the amount and duration of medical benefits and
provisions ensuring adequate medical care and free choice of
physician;
(5) rehabilitation;
(6) standards for determining assurance of benefits caused
by aggravation or acceleration of preexisting injuries or
disease;
(7) time limits on filing claims;
(8) waiting periods;
(9) compulsory or elective coverage;
(10) administration;
(11) ensuring prompt hearings and due process evidentiary
rights in the resolution of claims;
(12) the relationship between workers' compensation on the
one hand, and old-age, disability, and survivors insurance and
other types of insurance (public or private) on the other hand;
and
(13) methods of implementing the recommendations of the
Commission.
SEC. 5. MEMBERSHIP.
(a) Number and Appointment.--The Commission shall be composed of 14
members, as follows:
(1) 1 member, appointed by the President, who shall serve
as chairman of the Commission.
(2) 1 member, appointed by the majority leader of the
Senate in consultation with the majority leader of the House of
Representatives, who shall serve as vice chairman of the
Commission.
(3) 2 members appointed by the majority leader of the House
of Representatives.
(4) 2 members appointed by the minority leader of the House
of Representatives.
(5) 2 members appointed by the majority leader of the
Senate.
(6) 2 members appointed by the minority leader of the
Senate.
(7) The Secretary of Labor, the Secretary of Commerce, the
Secretary of Health and Human Services, and the Secretary of
Education shall be ex officio members of the Commission.
(b) Affiliations.--
(1) Not more than 6 appointed members of the Commission
shall be from the same political party.
(2) There shall be at all times at least 3 members that
represent injured workers, 3 members that represent insurance
carriers or employers, and 1 member of the general public.
(c) Qualifications.--It is the sense of Congress that individuals
appointed to the Commission should be United States citizens--
(1) with significant depth of experience--
(A) as members of State workers' compensation
boards;
(B) as representatives of insurance carriers,
employers, and injured workers; and
(C) in the general fields of business and labor;
(2) who are members of the medical profession with
experience in industrial medicine or in workers' compensation
cases; and
(3) who are educators having special expertise in the field
of workers' compensation.
(d) Vacancies.--Any member appointed to fill a vacancy occurring
before the expiration of the term for which the member's predecessor
was appointed shall be appointed only for the remainder of that term. A
member may serve after the expiration of that member's term until a
successor has taken office. A vacancy in the Commission shall not
affect its powers, but shall be filled in the same manner in which the
original appointment was made.
(e) Quorum.--Eight members of the Commission shall constitute a
quorum.
(f) Meetings.--
(1) The Commission shall hold its initial meeting as soon
as practicable.
(2) After its initial meeting, the Commission shall meet
upon the call of the chairman or a majority of its members.
(g) Travel Expenses.--While away from their homes or regular places
of business in the performance of services for the Commission, members
of the Commission shall be allowed travel expenses, including per diem
in lieu of subsistence, in the same manner as persons employed
intermittently in the Government service are allowed expenses under
section 5703(b) of title 5, United States Code.
(h) Compensation.--
(1) Basic pay.--Each member of the Commission may be
compensated at a level not to exceed the daily equivalent of
the annual rate of basic pay in effect for a position at level
IV of the Executive Schedule under section 5315 of title 5,
United States Code, for each day during which that member is
engaged in the actual performance of the duties of the
Commission.
(2) Prohibition of compensation of federal employees.--
Members of the Commission who are full-time officers or
employees of the United States or Members of Congress may not
receive additional pay, allowances, or benefits by reason of
their service on the Commission.
SEC. 6. STAFF OF COMMISSION.
(a) Director.--The Chairman of the Commission, in consultation with
the vice chairman and in accordance with the rules agreed upon by the
Commission, may appoint a Director. The Director shall be paid at a
rate not to exceed the equivalent of that payable for a position at
level V of the Executive Schedule under section 5316 of title 5, United
States Code.
(b) Staff.--The Chairman, in consultation with the vice chairman
and in accordance with rules agreed upon by the Commission, may appoint
and fix the compensation of additional personnel as may be necessary to
enable the Commission to carry out its functions, without regard to the
provisions of title 5, United States Code, governing appointments in
the competitive service and without regard to the provisions of chapter
51 and subchapter III of chapter 53 of such title relating to
classification and general schedules pay rates, except that no rate of
pay fixed under this subsection may exceed the equivalent of that
payable for a position at level V of the Executive Schedule under
section 5316 of title 5, United States Code.
(c) Experts and Consultants.--The Commission is authorized to
procure the services of experts and consultants in accordance with
section 3109 of title 5, United States Code, but at rates not to exceed
the daily rate paid to a person occupying a position at level IV of the
Executive Schedule under section 5315 of title 5, United States Code.
(d) Detailees.--Any Federal Government employee may be detailed to
the Commission without reimbursement from the Commission and such
detailee shall retain the rights, status, and privileges of his or her
regular employment without interruption.
(e) Personnel as Federal Employees.--The executive director and any
personnel of the Commission who are employees of the Commission shall
be treated as employees under section 2105 of title 5, United States
Code, for purposes of chapters 63, 81, 83, 84, 85, 87, 89, and 90 of
that title. The preceding sentence shall not apply to members of the
Commission.
SEC. 7. POWERS OF THE COMMISSION.
(a) Hearings and Evidence.--The Commission, or on the authority of
the Commission, any subcommittee or member thereof, may, for the
purpose of carrying out this Act--
(1) hold hearings, take testimony, receive evidence,
administer oaths; and
(2) subject to subsection (b)(1), require, by subpoena or
otherwise, the attendance and testimony of witnesses and the
production of books, records, correspondence, memoranda, papers
and documents.
(b) Subpoena Power.--
(1) Issuance.--
(A) In general.--A subpoena may be issued under
this subsection only--
(i) by the agreement of the chairman and
the vice chairman of the Commission; or
(ii) by the affirmative vote of 6 members
of the Commission.
(B) Signature.--Subject to clause (i) of paragraph
(1)(A), subpoenas issued under this subsection may be
issued under the signature of the chairman or any
member designated by a majority of the Commission, and
may be served by any person designated by the chairman
or by a member designated by a majority of the
Commission.
(2) Failure to obey a subpoena.--
(A) In general.--In the case of contumacy or
failure to obey a subpoena issued under paragraph (1),
the United States district court for the judicial
district in which the subpoenaed person resides, is
served, or may be found, or wherever the subpoena is
returnable, may issue an order requiring such person to
appear at any designated place to testify or to produce
documentary or other evidence. Any failure to obey the
order of the court may be punished as contempt of that
court.
(B) Additional enforcement.--In the case of a
failure of any witness to comply with a subpoena or to
testify when summoned under authority of this
subsection, the Committee may, by a majority vote,
certify a statement of fact constituting such failure
to the appropriate United States attorney, who may
bring the matter before the grand jury for action,
under the same authority and procedures as if the
United States attorney had received a certification
under section 192 through 194 of title 2 of the Revised
Statutes of the United States Code.
(3) Contracting.--The Commission may, to such extent and in
such amounts as are made available in appropriation Acts, enter
into contracts to enable the Commission to discharge its duties
under this Act.
(4) Information from federal agencies.--The Commission is
authorized to secure directly from any executive department,
bureau, agency, board, commission, office, independent
establishment, or instrumentality of the Government,
information, suggestions, estimates, and statics for the
purposes of this Act. Each such department, bureau, agency,
board, commission, office, independent establishment, or
instrumentality shall, to the extent authorized by law, furnish
such information, suggestions, estimates, and statistics
directly to the Commission, upon request of the chairman of the
Commission, the chairman of any subcommittee created by a
majority of the Commission, or any member designated by a
majority of the Commission.
SEC. 8. REPORTS.
(a) Interim Reports.--The Commission may submit to the President
and Congress interim reports containing such findings, conclusions, and
recommendations for enhancements and improvements in benefit levels,
medical care, and administration of State workers' compensation
systems, for improvements in insurance practices, and for improvements
in dues process and evidentiary hearings and reduction of bad faith and
handling of delays, as have been agreed to by a majority of Commission
members.
(b) Final Reports.--Not later than 18 months after the date of the
enactment of this Act, the Commission shall submit to the President and
Congress a final report containing such findings, conclusions, and
recommendations for enhancements and improvements in benefit levels,
medical care, and administration of State workers' compensation
systems, for improvements in insurance practices, and for improvements
in due process and evidentiary hearings and reduction of bad faith
handling and delays, as have been agreed to by a majority of Commission
members.
SEC. 9. TERMINATION.
The Commission, and all the authorities of this Act, shall
terminate 19 days after the date on which the final report is submitted
under section 8(b).
SEC. 10. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATION.
There are hereby authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be
necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act. | National Commission on State Workers' Compensation Laws Act of 2008 - Establishes the National Commission on State Workers' Compensation Laws.
Requires the Commission to: (1) review the findings and recommendations of the previous National Commission on State Workmen's Compensation Laws; and (2) study and evaluate state workers' compensation laws to determine their adequacy and whether additional remedies should be available to ensure the payment of benefits and medical care. | To establish the National Commission on State Workers' Compensation Laws. |
SECTION 1. PROTECTIONS FOR CREDIT REPORTS OF MINORS.
(a) In General.--The Fair Credit Reporting Act (15 U.S.C. 1681 et
seq.) is amended by inserting after section 605B the following new
section:
``SEC. 605C. ADDITIONAL PROTECTIONS FOR CREDIT REPORTS OF MINOR
CONSUMERS.
``(a) In General.--A consumer reporting agency described in section
603(p) shall, upon request by a covered guardian of a minor consumer,
create a blocked file for the minor consumer or convert a file of the
minor consumer already in existence to a blocked file.
``(b) Requirements.--The Bureau, by rule, shall establish
procedures--
``(1) for a consumer reporting agency described in section
603(p) to properly identify the covered guardian and the minor
consumer prior to creating, converting, or unblocking a blocked
file for such minor consumer;
``(2) for such a consumer reporting agency to create a
blocked file for a minor consumer or to convert a file of a
minor consumer already in existence to a blocked file; and
``(3) consistent with subsection (c), for a covered
guardian to unblock a file.
``(c) Unblocking a File.--
``(1) In general.--A consumer reporting agency described in
section 603(p) shall unblock a blocked file upon request by a
covered guardian or on the date of the 18th birthday of the
minor consumer.
``(2) Alert statement.--An alert statement shall be
included in a file unblocked pursuant to paragraph (1) if the
minor consumer was a victim of fraud or identity theft before
the date of the 18th birthday of the minor consumer as follows:
``(A) For a file unblocked upon request by a
covered guardian, for a period of time beginning on the
date such file is unblocked and ending on the date that
is 1 year after the date of the 18th birthday of the
minor consumer.
``(B) For a file unblocked on the date of the 18th
birthday of the minor consumer, for a period of 1 year
after such date.
``(3) Duty of reseller.--With respect to information
concerning a consumer whose file contains an alert statement, a
reseller shall include such alert statement when furnishing
such information.
``(d) Fees.--
``(1) In general.--The Bureau shall determine if a fee may
be charged, and the amount of the fee charged, by a consumer
reporting agency described in section 603(p) to create,
convert, or unblock a file.
``(2) Fees prohibited.--A consumer reporting agency
described in section 603(p) may not charge a fee to a minor
consumer who was a victim of fraud or identity theft prior to
the date of the minor's 18th birthday, to create, convert, or
unblock a file.
``(e) Exceptions.--No provision of this section shall be construed
as requiring a consumer reporting agency described in section 603(p) to
prevent a Federal, State, or local law enforcement agency from
accessing a blocked file.
``(f) Definitions.--In this section the following definitions shall
apply:
``(1) Alert statement.--The term `alert statement' means a
statement that--
``(A) notifies all prospective users of a consumer
report relating to the consumer that the consumer may
be a victim of fraud, including identity theft; and
``(B) is presented in a manner that facilitates a
clear and conspicuous view of the statement described
in subparagraph (A) by any person requesting such
consumer report.
``(2) Blocked file.--The term `blocked file' means a file
of a minor consumer in which, pursuant to this section, a
consumer reporting agency--
``(A) maintains a file with the name, social
security number, date of birth, and, if applicable, any
credit information of the minor consumer;
``(B) may not provide any person with a consumer
report of the minor consumer; and
``(C) blocks the input of any information into the
file, except with permission from a covered guardian of
the minor consumer.
``(3) Covered guardian.--The term `covered guardian'
means--
``(A) the legal guardian of a minor child;
``(B) the custodian of a minor child; or
``(C) in the case of a child in foster care, the
State agency or Indian tribe or tribal organization
responsible for the child's foster care.
``(4) Minor consumer.--The term `minor consumer' means an
consumer who has not attained 18 years of age.''.
(b) Table of Contents Amendment.--The table of contents of the Fair
Credit Reporting Act (15 U.S.C. 1681 et seq.) is amended by inserting
after the item related to section 605B the following new item:
``605C. Additional protections for credit reports of minor
consumers.''. | Amends the Fair Credit Reporting Act, with respect to protections for credit reports of minor consumers, to require a consumer reporting agency, upon request by the legal guardian or custodian of a minor consumer (including the state or tribal agency responsible for a child in foster care), to either create a blocked file for the minor or convert an already existing file to blocked status. Directs the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) to: (1) establish implementing procedures, and (2) determine what fee, if any, may be charged by a consumer reporting agency to create, convert, or unblock a file. Requires a consumer reporting agency to: (1) unblock a blocked file upon request by a guardian or on the minor's 18th birthday, and (2) include an alert statement in an unblocked file if the minor consumer was a victim of fraud or identity theft before that 18th birthday. Requires a reseller who furnishes information concerning a consumer file containing an alert statement to include it when furnishing information. Prohibits a consumer reporting agency from charging a fee to create, convert, or unblock the file of a consumer who was a victim of fraud or identity theft before his or her 18th birthday. | To amend the Fair Credit Reporting Act to create protected credit reports for minors and protect the credit of minors, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Global Network for Avian Influenza
Surveillance Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress finds that--
(1) the ongoing panzootic of highly pathogenic avian
influenza strain H5N1 in Asia and Eurasia is a threat to global
human health and the global poultry industry;
(2) the HPAI virus is capable of causing massive avian die-
offs, and response can easily involve the culling of tens of
millions of domestic poultry or domestic waterfowl, resulting
in significant economic losses;
(3) the fatality rate due to infection in humans may be 30
to 50 percent or more;
(4) recent outbreaks in 2005 of H5N1 in waterfowl in
western China, Kazakhstan, Russia, Romania, and Turkey suggest
that the virus may have entered the Central Asian Flyway and
may consequently spread throughout central and southern Asia,
Europe, and Africa, as well as spanning the Arctic to reach
North America;
(5) it has long been known that wild birds are a reservoir
host for avian influenza viruses worldwide;
(6) the 1918 pandemic, the most lethal of the 3 pandemics
that killed over 40,000,000 people worldwide, was caused by an
influenza virus that initially jumped directly from birds to
humans and subsequently evolved an ability to transmit from
human-to-human;
(7) this precedent for an avian influenza virus to transmit
directly from birds to humans, then spread among humans,
significantly raises the concern about the current H5N1
influenza strain;
(8) increased surveillance, including on migratory birds,
is critical to controlling avian influenza;
(9) the capacity to proactively detect the threats could
result in significantly improved disease prediction and
prevention capabilities;
(10) international wildlife health surveillance does not
clearly fall under the jurisdiction of any Federal or
international agency;
(11) there is a continued inability to share real-time data
across the human, agricultural, wildlife, and veterinary
agencies on zoonotic threats;
(12) while surveillance at domestic poultry and domestic
waterfowl production facilities and farms is an immediate and
on-going monitoring need and is being supported through
relevant agencies, surveillance in wild bird populations that
may have been exposed to the virus has now become a critical
component to determine the spread of the virus, implement
control measures, and protect human, livestock, and wildlife
health;
(13) monitoring and surveillance of wild migratory and
resident water birds are critically important to identifying
all strains of influenza viruses in wild birds as a library of
possible genotypes, determining their role in spread of the
virus, and anticipating where outbreaks may occur to enhance
preparedness; and
(14) improving surveillance of wildlife health around the
world would close significant jurisdictional and scientific
gaps in current global influenza preparedness.
SEC. 3. PURPOSE.
The purpose of this Act is to establish a Global Network for Avian
Influenza Surveillance--
(1) to more rapidly and efficiently detect, verify, and
report on the presence of infectious diseases, such as highly
pathogenic avian influenza, in migratory birds and resident
waterfowl around the world;
(2) to use information on viral strains found during
surveillance of wild birds to better delineate any mutations in
the virus that may be detectable within wild bird populations;
(3) to use information on when and where HPAI and other
pathogens of concern are identified in migratory birds--
(A) to better guide preparedness in the United
States and around the world; and
(B) to carry out a comprehensive migratory bird
disease surveillance initiative that will provide
regions, countries, and specific locations with early
warning information that will help target resources
toward enhancement of poultry biosecurity and
surveillance, heightened public health vigilance, and
related areas;
(4) to create an open access database within which
information on HPAI and other pathogens of interest identified
in migratory birds can be shared as close to real time as
possible;
(5) to protect the health and safety of United States
citizens and officials traveling or living abroad; and
(6) to protect the economic interests of the United States
and its partners from threats to health, agriculture, and
natural resources.
SEC. 4. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Eligible organization.--The term ``eligible
organization'' means a nongovernmental wildlife conservation
organization chartered in the United States with--
(A) extensive global wildlife health experience in
tracking disease in wild birds, including free-ranging,
captive, and wild bird species;
(B) proven ability in identifying avian influenza
in wild birds; and
(C) accredited zoological facilities in the United
States.
(2) GNAIS.--The term ``GNAIS'' means the Global Network for
Avian Influenza Surveillance established under section 5(a).
(3) GNAIS partners.--The term ``GNAIS partners'' means the
partners of the GNAIS described in section 5(c).
(4) HPAI.--The term ``HPAI'' means highly pathogenic avian
influenza.
(5) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of Health and Human Services, acting--
(A) through the Influenza Branch of the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention; and
(B) in partnership with an eligible organization.
SEC. 5. GLOBAL NETWORK FOR AVIAN INFLUENZA SURVEILLANCE.
(a) Establishment.--Not later than 90 days after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall offer to enter into a
contract with 1 or more eligible organizations to establish a Global
Network for Avian Influenza Surveillance.
(b) Partners.--In administering the GNAIS, the Secretary and the
eligible organization shall collaborate with appropriate--
(1) Federal and State agency partners, including--
(A) the Department of Agriculture, acting through--
(i) the Agricultural Research Service; and
(ii) the Animal and Plant Health Inspection
Service;
(B) the Department of the Interior, acting
through--
(i) the United States Geological Survey;
and
(ii) the United States Fish and Wildlife
Service; and
(C) various State wildlife agencies in the United
States;
(2) multilateral agency partners, including--
(A) the Food and Agriculture Organization;
(B) the World Health Organization;
(C) the Office International des Epizooties, the
world animal health organization; and
(D) the World Conservation Union;
(3) conservation organizations with expertise in
international and domestic bird monitoring and surveillance;
(4) accredited colleges of veterinary medicine; and
(5) other national and international partners, as
necessary.
(c) International Surveillance.--The eligible organization, in
coordination with the Influenza Branch of the Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention, shall manage an international surveillance
program under which Federal GNAIS partners shall, and non-Federal GNAIS
partners are encouraged to--
(1) monitor and test for the presence or arrival of avian
influenza and other significant avian pathogens at important
bird areas around the world and in marketplaces with intense
trade in wild birds;
(2) use trained professionals to collect samples and other
data and send samples to appropriate diagnostic centers;
(3) use the GNAIS, in partnership with relevant agencies
and organizations, for conducting--
(A) disease surveillance activities on migratory
birds worldwide;
(B) domestic and international field investigations
on migratory birds;
(C) training and capacity-building activities
related to the relationships between human health,
domestic animal health, and wildlife health; and
(D) research on methods and approaches for
detection and enhanced surveillance of HPAI and other
pathogens in migratory birds; and
(4) send samples for avian influenza testing to certified
laboratories that--
(A) meet internationally established methods
standards;
(B) are located at--
(i) the Influenza Branch of the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention;
(ii) the Office International des
Epizooties, the world animal health
organization;
(iii) the Food and Agriculture
Organization;
(iv) National Veterinary Services
Laboratories of the Department of Agriculture;
or
(v) the Agricultural Research Service; and
(C) report the findings back to the eligible
organization and GNAIS partners.
(d) Network.--
(1) Partners.--Federal GNAIS partners shall, and non-
Federal GNAIS partners are encouraged to, transmit information
related to global distribution and characteristics of avian
influenza to the Secretary acting through the eligible
organization.
(2) Administration.--The Secretary, acting through the
eligible organization, shall--
(A) use surveillance reports and other formal and
informal sources of information to identify and
investigate local disease outbreaks of avian influenza,
in coordination with GNAIS partners;
(B) develop a long-term baseline of regional data
related to HPAI and pathogens in migratory birds for
analysis between and across sites to create a system to
identify when and where outbreaks might occur and paths
of dispersal;
(C) provide technical assistance for disease
prevention and control programs based on scientific
understanding of the relationships between wildlife
health, domestic animal health, and human health;
(D) provide analytical disease findings regularly
to the Influenza Branch of the Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention and other Federal GNAIS partners
to prevent or combat human diseases;
(E) conduct other activities as are necessary to
support the GNAIS network and GNAIS partners; and
(F) coordinate GNAIS surveillance results at the
headquarters of the eligible organization.
(e) Database.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary, acting through the eligible
organization, shall manage, map, and make available on a
database on the Internet all results and information gathered
under this Act.
(2) Requirements.--The database shall--
(A) provide geographic data on wild bird
populations and the movements of the populations and
laboratory test results; and
(B) be available for viewing by any Federal agency,
foreign country, multilateral institution,
organization, or individual.
(f) Training.--The Secretary shall request accredited colleges of
veterinary medicine and other GNAIS partners to train members of the
GNAIS network to--
(1) monitor important bird areas around the world; and
(2) test for the presence or arrival of avian influenza and
other significant avian pathogens of zoonotic concern.
SEC. 6. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this Act
$10,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2006 through 2010. | Global Network for Avian Influenza Surveillance Act - Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Influenza Branch of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to offer to enter into a contract with one or more eligible organizations to establish a Global Network for Avian Influenza Surveillance (GNAIS). Requires the eligible organization to manage an international surveillance program under which federal GNAIS partners: (1) monitor and test for the presence or arrival of avian influenza and other significant avian pathogens; (2) use trained professionals to collect samples and other data; (3) use the GNAIS for conducting disease surveillance, field investigations, training and capacity-building activities, and research; and (4) transmit information related to global distribution and characteristics of avian influenza to the Secretary.
Requires the Secretary, acting through the eligible organization, to: (1) use surveillance reports and other sources to identify and investigate local disease outbreaks of avian influenza; (2) develop a long-term baseline of regional data to identify when and where outbreaks might occur and paths of dispersal; (3) provide technical assistance for disease prevention and control programs; (4) provide analytical disease findings to the Influenza Branch of CDC and other federal GNAIS partners; and ( 5) manage, map, and make available on an Internet database all results and information gathered under this Act.
Directs the Secretary to request accredited colleges of veterinary medicine and other GNAIS partners to train members of the GNAIS network to: (1) monitor important bird areas around the world; and (2) test for the presence or arrival of avian influenza and other significant avian pathogens of zoonotic concern. | A bill to establish a global network for avian influenza surveillance among wild birds nationally and internationally to combat the growing threat of bird flu, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. MODIFICATION OF TREATMENT OF ADOPTED CHILDREN.
(a) In General.--Section 101(b)(1) of the Immigration and
Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1101(b)(1)) is amended--
(1) in subparagraph (E)(i), by striking ``a child adopted
while under the age of sixteen years if the child has been in
the legal custody of, and has resided with, the adopting parent
or parents for at least two years:'' and inserting ``a child
adopted while under the age of 18 years if the child has been
in the legal custody of, and has resided with, the adopting
parent or parents for at least two years and the adoption was
officially initiated while the child was under the age of 16
years:''; and
(2) in subparagraph (F)--
(A) in clause (i)--
(i) by striking ``child, under the age of
sixteen at the time a petition is filed in his
behalf to accord a classification as an
immediate relative under section 201(b), who''
and inserting ``child who'';
(ii) by inserting ``while under the age of
18 years'' after ``who has been adopted
abroad''; and
(iii) by striking ``the Attorney General is
satisfied that proper care will be furnished
the child if admitted to the United States:''
and inserting ``the Secretary of Homeland
Security is satisfied that proper care will be
furnished the child if admitted to the United
States and that the adoption abroad, or the
compliance with domestic preadoption
requirements, was officially initiated while
the child was under the age of 16 years:''; and
(B) in clause (ii), by striking ``except that the
child is under the age of 18 at the time a petition is
filed in his or her behalf to accord a classification
as an immediate relative under section 201(b).'' and
inserting ``except that the Secretary of Homeland
Security shall be satisfied that the adoption abroad,
or the compliance with domestic preadoption
requirements, was officially initiated while the child
was under the age of 18 years.''.
(b) Provisions Effective Upon Entry Into Force of Convention.--
(1) In general.--Section 101(b)(1)(G) of the Immigration
and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1101(b)(1)(G)) is amended--
(A) in the matter preceding clause (i)--
(i) by striking ``child, under the age of
sixteen at the time a petition is filed on the
child's behalf to accord a classification as an
immediate relative under section 201(b), who''
and inserting ``child who''; and
(ii) by inserting ``while under the age of
18 years'' after ``who has been adopted''; and
(B) in clause (i)--
(i) in subclause (IV), by striking ``and''
at the end; and
(ii) by adding at the end the following:
``(VI) in the case of a child who--
``(aa) has been adopted, the
adoption was officially initiated while
the child was under the age of 16
years; or
``(bb) has not been adopted, the
approval described in subparagraph
(V)(aa) was officially sought while the
child was under the age of 16 years;
and''.
(2) Effective date.--The amendments made by paragraph (1)
shall take effect as if included in the enactment of section
302(a) of the Intercountry Adoption Act of 2000 (Public Law
106-279).
(c) Naturalization Purposes.--Section 101(c)(1) of the Immigration
and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1101(c)(1)) is amended to read as
follows:
``(1) The term `child' means an unmarried person under 21 years of
age and includes--
``(A) a child legitimated under the law of the child's
residence or domicile, or under the law of the father's
residence or domicile, whether in the United States or
elsewhere, if such legitimation takes place before the child
reaches the age of 16 years and the child is in the legal
custody of the legitimating parent or parents at the time of
such legitimation; and
``(B) except as otherwise provided in sections 320 and 321,
a child adopted in the United States, if such adoption is
officially initiated before the child reaches the age of 16
years and the child is in the legal custody of the adopting
parent or parents at the time of such adoption.''. | Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to allow foreign children adopted while under age 18 for whom adoption proceedings were initiated while they were under the age of 16 (currently, children adopted while under age 16) to be treated as children for immigration and naturalization purposes. | To amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to modify the treatment of adopted children. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Training and Research in Urology
Act of 2003''.
SEC. 2. RESEARCH, TRAINING, AND HEALTH INFORMATION DISSEMINATION WITH
RESPECT TO UROLOGIC DISEASES.
(a) Division Director of Urology.--Section 428 of the Public Health
Service Act (42 U.S.C. 285c-2) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)(1), by striking ``and a Division
Director for Kidney, Urologic, and Hematologic Diseases'' and
inserting ``a Division Director for Urologic Diseases, and a
Division Director for Kidney and Hematologic Diseases''; and
(2) in subsection (b)--
(A) by striking ``and the Division Director for
Kidney, Urologic, and Hematologic Diseases'' and
inserting ``the Division Director for Urologic
Diseases, and the Division Director for Kidney and
Hematologic Diseases''; and
(B) by striking ``(1) carry out programs'' and all
that follows through the end and inserting the
following:
``(1) carry out programs of support for research and
training (other than training for which National Research
Service Awards may be made under section 487) in the diagnosis,
prevention, and treatment of diabetes mellitus and endocrine
and metabolic diseases, digestive diseases and nutritional
disorders, and kidney, urologic, and hematologic diseases,
including support for training in medical schools, graduate
clinical training (with particular attention to programs geared
to the needs of urology residents and fellows), graduate
training in epidemiology, epidemiology studies, clinical
trials, and interdisciplinary research programs;
``(2) establish programs of evaluation, planning, and
dissemination of knowledge related to such research and
training;
``(3) in cooperation with the urologic scientific and
patient community, develop and submit to the Congress not later
than January 1, 2006, a national urologic research plan that
identifies research needs in the various areas of urologic
diseases, including pediatrics, interstitial cystitis,
incontinence, stone disease, urinary tract infections, and
benign prostatic diseases; and
``(4) in cooperation with the urologic scientific and
patient community, review the national urologic research plan
every 3 years beginning in 2009 and submit to the Congress any
revisions or additional recommendations.''; and
(3) at the end of the section, by adding the following:
``(c) There are authorized to be appropriated $500,000 for each of
fiscal years 2004 and 2005 to carry out paragraphs (3) and (4) of
subsection (b), and such sums as may be necessary thereafter.''.
(b) Urologic Diseases Data System and Information Clearinghouse.--
Section 427 of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 285c-1) is
amended--
(1) in subsection (c), by striking the terms ``and
Urologic'' and ``and urologic'' each place either such term
appears; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(d) The Director of the Institute shall--
``(1) establish the National Urologic Diseases Data System
for the collection, storage, analysis, retrieval, and
dissemination of data derived from patient populations with
urologic diseases, including, where possible, data involving
general populations for the purpose of detection of individuals
with a risk of developing urologic diseases; and
``(2) establish the National Urologic Diseases Information
Clearinghouse to facilitate and enhance knowledge and
understanding of urologic diseases on the part of health
professionals, patients, and the public through the effective
dissemination of information.''.
(c) Strengthening the Urology Interagency Coordinating Committee.--
Section 429 of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 285c-3) is
amended--
(1) in subsection (a), by striking ``and a Kidney,
Urologic, and Hematologic Diseases Coordinating Committee'' and
inserting ``a Urologic Diseases Interagency Coordinating
Committee, and a Kidney and Hematologic Diseases Interagency
Coordinating Committee'';
(2) in subsection (b), by striking ``the Chief Medical
Director of the Veterans' Administration,'' and inserting ``the
Under Secretary for Health of the Department of Veterans
Affairs''; and
(3) by adding at the end the following:
``(d) The urology interagency coordinating committee may encourage,
conduct, or support intra- or interagency activities in urology
research, including joint training programs, joint research projects,
planning activities, and clinical trials.
``(e) For the purpose of carrying out the activities of the
Urologic Diseases Interagency Coordinating Committee, there are
authorized to be appropriated $5,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2004
through 2008, and such sums as may be necessary thereafter.''.
(d) National Urologic Diseases Advisory Board.--Section 430 of the
Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 285c-4) is amended by striking
``and the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Advisory Board'' and
inserting ``the National Urologic Diseases Advisory Board, and the
National Kidney Diseases Advisory Board''.
(e) Expansion of O'Brien Urologic Disease Research Centers.--
(1) In general.--Subsection (c) of section 431 of the
Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 285c-5(c)) is amended in
the matter preceding paragraph (1) by inserting ``There shall
be no fewer than 15 such centers focused exclusively on
research of various aspects of urologic diseases, including
pediatrics, interstitial cystitis, incontinence, stone disease,
urinary tract infections, and benign prostatic diseases.''
before ``Each center developed''.
(2) Authorization of appropriations.--Section 431 of the
Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 285c-5) is amended by
adding at the end the following:
``(f) There are authorized to be appropriated for the urologic
disease research centers described in subsection (c) $22,500,000 for
each of fiscal years 2004 through 2008, and such sums as are necessary
thereafter.''.
(3) Technical amendment.--Subsection (c) of section 431 of
the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 285c-5(c)) is amended
at the beginning of the unnumbered paragraph--
(A) by striking ``shall develop and conduct'' and
inserting ``(2) shall develop and conduct''; and
(B) by aligning the indentation of such paragraph
with the indentation of paragraphs (1), (3), and (4).
(f) Subcommittee on Urologic Diseases.--Section 432 of the Public
Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 285c-6) is amended by striking ``and a
subcommittee on kidney, urologic, and hematologic diseases'' and
inserting ``a subcommittee on urologic diseases, and a subcommittee on
kidney and hematologic diseases''.
(g) Loan Repayment to Encourage Urologists and Other Scientists to
Enter Research Careers.--Subpart 3 of part C of title IV of the Public
Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 285c et seq.) is amended by inserting
after section 434A the following:
``loan repayment program for urology research
``Sec. 434B. (a) Establishment.--Subject to subsection (b), the
Secretary shall carry out a program of entering into contracts with
appropriately qualified health professionals or other qualified
scientists under which such health professionals or scientists agree to
conduct research in the field of urology, as employees of the National
Institutes of Health or of an academic department, division, or section
of urology, in consideration of the Federal Government agreeing to
repay, for each year of such research, not more than $35,000 of the
principal and interest of the educational loans of such health
professionals or scientists.
``(b) Limitation.--The Secretary may not enter into an agreement
with a health professional or scientist pursuant to subsection (a)
unless the professional or scientist--
``(1) has a substantial amount of educational loans
relative to income; and
``(2) agrees to serve as an employee of the National
Institutes of Health or of an academic department, division, or
section of urology for purposes of the research requirement of
subsection (a) for a period of not less than 3 years.
``(c) Applicability of Certain Provisions.--Except as inconsistent
with this section, the provisions of subpart 3 of part D of title III
apply to the program established under subsection (a) in the same
manner and to the same extent as such provisions apply to the National
Health Service Corps Loan Repayment Program established under such
subpart.''.
(h) Authorization of Appropriations for Urology Research.--Subpart
3 of part C of title IV of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C.
285c et seq.) (as amended by subsection (g)) is further amended by
inserting after section 434B the following:
``authorization of appropriations for urology research
``Sec. 434C. There are authorized to be appropriated to the
Director of NIH for the purpose of carrying out intra- and interagency
activities in urology research (including training programs, joint
research projects, and joint clinical trials) $5,000,000 for each of
fiscal years 2004 through 2008, and such sums as may be necessary
thereafter. Amounts authorized to be appropriated under this section
shall be in addition to amounts otherwise available for such
purpose.''. | Training and Research in Urology Act of 2003 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to establish a Division Director for Urologic Diseases in the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (the Institute). Requires the Director of the Institute (the Director) to give particular attention to supporting research and training programs geared to the needs of urology residents and fellows. Directs the Director to submit to Congress a national urologic research plan, and to review such plan every three years.Requires the Director to establish a National Urologic Diseases Data System for collecting and disseminating data from patients with urologic diseases, and a National Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse to facilitate and enhance knowledge and understanding of urologic diseases.Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to form a Urologic Diseases Interagency Coordinating Committee to further urology research, and a National Urologic Diseases Advisory Board. Directs that of the centers developed for research in kidney and urologic diseases under the Act, at least 15 shall focus exclusively on urologic diseases.Establishes within the advisory council for the Institute a subcommittee on urologic diseases. Directs the Secretary to establish a loan repayment program for urology research, with certain provisions of the Act to apply to the new program as such provisions apply to the National Health Service Corps Loan Repayment Program. | To amend the Public Health Service Act to enhance research, training, and health information dissemination with respect to urologic diseases, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Emergency Contraception Access and
Education Act of 2014''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress makes the following findings:
(1) Each year 3,400,000 pregnancies, or one-half of all
pregnancies, in the United States are unintended, and 4 in 10
of these unintended pregnancies end in abortion.
(2) The Food and Drug Administration has declared emergency
contraception to be safe and effective in preventing unintended
pregnancy for women of reproductive potential and has approved
certain forms of emergency contraceptive for unrestricted sale
on pharmacy shelves to women of all ages.
(3) Research indicates that emergency contraception reduces
the risk of pregnancy by up to 95 percent and emergency IUD
insertion reduces the risk by 99 percent. Although more
effective the sooner it is taken, medical evidence indicates
that emergency contraception can be effective up to 5 days
after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure.
(4) Emergency contraception is a responsible means of
preventing pregnancy that works like other hormonal
contraceptives by suppressing or delaying ovulation, which
makes fertilization from unprotected intercourse unlikely if
the medication is taken within 120 hours. Emergency
contraception does not terminate an established pregnancy.
(5) Most brands of emergency contraception consist of the
same hormones found in other hormonal birth control.
(6) The percentage of sexually experienced women aged 15 to
44 in the United States who have ever used emergency
contraception increased from 4.2 percent in 2002 to 11 percent
in years 2006 through 2010.
(7) A recent study by the Guttmacher Institute demonstrates
that the rate of teen pregnancy in the United States has
reached a historic low, declining 51 percent since its peak in
1990. From 2008 to 2010, increasing proportions of women aged
18 and 19 reported becoming sexually active, yet fewer of them
got pregnant during this time period than in previous studies.
Research suggests that increasing rates of contraceptive use
may be associated with the decline in teen pregnancy.
(8) Despite an increase in use, significant disparities
exist for young, urban, minority women who lack general
knowledge about emergency contraception. In fact, 1 in 4 teens
remain completely unaware of the method and its use.
(9) Although the American College of Obstetricians and
Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that doctors routinely discuss
emergency contraception with women of reproductive age during
their clinical visits only half of obstetricians/gynecologists
offer emergency contraception to all of their patients in need
suggesting that greater provider and patient awareness and
education is needed.
(10) Nearly 1 out of 5 American women is a victim of rape.
It is estimated that 25,000 to 32,000 women become pregnant
each year as a result of rape, half of whom choose to terminate
their pregnancy. The risk of pregnancy after sexual assault has
been estimated to be 4.7 percent in adult survivors who were
not protected by some form of contraception at the time of the
attack. If used correctly, emergency contraception could help
many of these rape survivors avoid the additional trauma of
facing an unintended pregnancy.
(11) Only 18 States and the District of Columbia require
hospital emergency rooms to provide emergency contraception-
related services to survivors of sexual assault. Of those, only
13 States and the District of Columbia require hospital
emergency rooms to provide emergency contraception upon request
to survivors of sexual assault. Nine States have adopted
restrictions on emergency contraception, and six States
explicitly allow pharmacists to refuse to dispense emergency
contraception.
(12) In light of their safety and efficacy, the American
Medical Association, American Academy of Pediatrics, American
Women's Medical Association, Society for Adolescent Medicine,
and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
have endorsed more widespread availability of emergency
contraceptives.
(13) Healthy People 2020, published by the Office of
Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (ODPHP), establishes a
10-year national public health goal of increasing the
proportion of publicly funded health care providers who provide
emergency contraception to their patients, and reducing the
number of unintended pregnancies by 10 percent.
(14) Public awareness campaigns targeting women and health
care providers will help remove many of the barriers to
emergency contraception and will help bring this important
means of pregnancy prevention to women in the United States.
SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Emergency contraception.--The term ``emergency
contraception'' means a drug or device (as such terms are
defined in section 201 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic
Act (21 U.S.C. 321)), or drug regimen that--
(A) is used postcoitally;
(B) prevents pregnancy primarily by preventing or
delaying ovulation, and does not terminate an
established pregnancy; and
(C) is approved by the Food and Drug
Administration.
(2) Health care provider.--The term ``health care
provider'' means an individual who is licensed or certified
under State law to provide health care services and who is
operating within the scope of such license. Such term shall
include a pharmacist.
(3) Hospital.--The term ``hospital'' means--
(A) a hospital as defined in section 1861(e) of the
Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395x(e)); and
(B) a critical access hospital as defined in
section 1861(mm)(1) of such Act (42 U.S.C.
1395x(mm)(1)).
(4) Institution of higher education.--The term
``institution of higher education'' has the meaning given such
term in section 101(a) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20
U.S.C. 1001(a)).
(5) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of Health and Human Services.
(6) Sexual assault.--
(A) In general.--The term ``sexual assault'' means
a sexual act (as defined in subparagraphs (A) through
(C) of section 2246(2) of title 18, United States Code)
where the victim involved does not consent or lacks the
capacity to consent.
(B) Application of provisions.--The definition in
subparagraph (A) shall apply to all individuals.
SEC. 4. SURVIVORS OF SEXUAL ASSAULT; PROVISION BY HOSPITALS OF
EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION WITHOUT CHARGE.
(a) In General.--Federal funds may not be provided to a hospital
under title XVIII of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395 et seq.)
or to a State, with respect to services of a hospital, under title XIX
of such Act (42 U.S.C. 1396 et seq.), unless such hospital complies
with the conditions specified in subsection (b) in the case of--
(1) any woman who arrives at the hospital and states that
she is a victim of sexual assault, or is accompanied by someone
who states she is a victim of sexual assault; and
(2) any woman who arrives at the hospital whom hospital
personnel have reason to believe is a victim of sexual assault.
(b) Assistance for Victims.--The conditions specified in this
subsection regarding a hospital and a woman described in subsection (a)
are as follows:
(1) The hospital promptly provides the woman with medically
and factually accurate and unbiased written and oral
information about emergency contraception, including
information explaining that--
(A) emergency contraception has been approved by
the Food and Drug Administration as an over-the-counter
medication for all women without age restrictions and
is a safe and effective way to prevent pregnancy after
unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure if
taken in a timely manner;
(B) emergency contraception is more effective the
sooner it is taken; and
(C) emergency contraception does not cause an
abortion and cannot interrupt an established pregnancy.
(2) The hospital promptly offers emergency contraception to
the woman, and promptly provides such contraception to her at
the hospital on her request.
(3) The information provided pursuant to paragraph (1) is
in clear and concise language, is readily comprehensible, and
meets such conditions regarding the provision of the
information in languages other than English as the Secretary
may establish.
(4) The services described in paragraphs (1) through (3)
are not denied because of the inability of the woman or her
family to pay for the services.
(c) Effective Date; Agency Criteria.--This section shall take
effect upon the expiration of the 180-day period beginning on the date
of the enactment of this Act. Not later than 30 days prior to the
expiration of such period, the Secretary shall publish in the Federal
Register criteria for carrying out this section.
SEC. 5. EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION EDUCATION AND INFORMATION PROGRAMS.
(a) Emergency Contraception Public Education Program.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary, acting through the Director
of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, shall
develop and disseminate to the public information on emergency
contraception.
(2) Dissemination.--The Secretary may disseminate
information on emergency contraception under paragraph (1)
directly or through arrangements with health agencies,
professional and nonprofit organizations, consumer groups,
institutions of higher education, clinics, the media, and
Federal, State, and local agencies.
(3) Information.--The information on emergency
contraception disseminated under paragraph (1) shall include,
at a minimum, the most current evidence-based and evidence-
informed standards of care with respect to emergency
contraception and an explanation of the proper, use, safety,
efficacy, counseling and availability of such contraception.
(b) Emergency Contraception Information Program for Health Care
Providers.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary, acting through the
Administrator of the Health Resources and Services
Administration and in consultation with major medical and
public health organizations, shall develop and disseminate to
health care providers information on emergency contraception.
(2) Information.--The information disseminated under
paragraph (1) shall include, at a minimum--
(A) information describing the most current
evidence-based and evidence-informed standards of care,
proper use, safety, efficacy, counseling and
availability of emergency contraception;
(B) a recommendation regarding the use of such
contraception in appropriate cases;
(C) recommendation for health care providers
working in emergency rooms to consult with survivors of
sexual assault once clinically stable regarding options
for emergency contraception and to provide any
necessary follow-up care and referral services; and
(D) information explaining how to obtain copies of
the information developed under subsection (a) for
distribution to the patients of the providers.
(c) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be
appropriated to carry out this section, such sums as may be necessary
for each of the fiscal years 2014 through 2018. | Emergency Contraception Access and Education Act of 2014 - Prohibits payment to a hospital under titles XVIII (Medicare) or XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act unless the hospital promptly provides information about emergency contraception to any woman who arrives at the hospital and is stated to be, or hospital staff have reason to believe is, a victim of sexual assault. Requires the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to develop and disseminate information on emergency contraception. Directs the Administrator of the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to develop and disseminate to health care providers, including pharmacists, information on emergency contraception, including a recommendation for providers working in emergency rooms to consult with survivors of sexual assault regarding emergency contraception and provide follow-up care and referral services. | Emergency Contraception Access and Education Act of 2014 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Affordable Food and Fuel for America
Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress finds the following:
(1) The Volumetric Excise Tax Credit was created to
encourage gasoline refiners to blend domestically produced corn
ethanol into the Nation's gasoline supplies.
(2) The 54-cent temporary tariff on imported ethanol was
created to encourage the development of a domestic grain
ethanol industry.
(3) Domestic corn ethanol production has increased five-
fold since 2000 to more than 9,000,000,000 gallons of corn
ethanol produced at more than 150 facilities.
(4) Domestic corn ethanol production will soon exceed
12,000,000,000 gallons, diverting at least one-third of the
Nation's corn supply from food and feed to fuel.
(5) Federal ethanol mandates require gasoline refiners to
blend 15,000,000,000 gallons of ethanol into gasoline supplies
by 2015.
(6) The United States is now the world's largest producer
of ethanol and our domestic corn ethanol industry is no longer
in need of tax subsidies or tariffs.
(7) In combination, the rapid growth of the corn ethanol
industry and Federal ethanol mandates has made the tax credit
for corn ethanol and tariff obsolete.
(8) Scarce Federal resources should be dedicated to the
development of new and emerging sources of renewable energy,
including biomass fuels that meet environmental goals.
SEC. 3. REDUCTION OF INCOME TAX CREDIT FOR ALCOHOL USED AS A FUEL.
(a) In General.--The table in section 40(h)(2) of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by striking the last row and inserting
the following new rows:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
2009.......................... 28 cents 22 cents
2010.......................... 21 cents 16 cents
2011.......................... 16 cents 12 cents
2012.......................... 11 cents 9 cents
2013.......................... 7 cents 6 cents
2014.......................... 0 0.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(b) Conforming Amendments.--
(1) Extension of credit.--Section 40(e)(1) of such Code is
amended--
(A) by striking ``2010'' in subparagraph (A) and
inserting ``2013,'', and
(B) by striking ``2011'' in subparagraph (B) and
inserting ``2014''.
(2) Repeal of delayed reduction.--Section 40(h) of such
Code is amended by striking paragraph (3).
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to alcohol produced, and sold or used, in taxable years beginning
after the date of the enactment of this Act.
SEC. 4. REDUCTION OF EXCISE TAX CREDIT FOR ALCOHOL FUEL MIXTURES.
(a) In General.--Section 6426(b)(2)(A) of the Internal Revenue Code
of 1986 is amended by striking ``and'' at the end of clause (i), by
striking clause (ii), and by inserting after clause (i) the following
new clauses:
``(ii) in the case of calendar year 2009,
28 cents,
``(iii) in the case of calendar year 2010,
21 cents,
``(iv) in the case of calendar year 2011,
16 cents,
``(v) in the case of calendar year 2012, 11
cents,
``(vi) in the case of calendar year 2013, 7
cents, and
``(vii) in the case of calendar year 2014
and thereafter, zero cents.''.
(b) Conforming Amendments.--
(1) Section 6426(b) of such Code is amended--
(A) by striking subparagraph (C) of paragraph (2),
and
(B) by striking paragraph (6).
(2) Section 6427(e)(5)(A) of such Code is amended by
striking ``2010'' and inserting ``2013''.
(c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to fuel sold or used after the date of the enactment of this Act.
SEC. 5. REDUCTION AND ELIMINATION OF TARIFFS ON ETHANOL.
(a) Reduction of Temporary Tariff Duty on Imported Ethanol.--
(1) Calendar year 2009.--
(A) In general.--Heading 9901.00.50 of Subchapter 1
of Chapter 99 of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the
United States is amended by striking ``14.27 cents''
each place it appears and inserting ``8 cents''.
(B) Applicability.--The amendment made by
subparagraph (A) shall apply to goods entered, or
withdrawn from warehouse for consumption, on or after
January 1, 2009, and before January 1, 2010.
(C) Retroactive application.--Notwithstanding
section 514 of the Tariff Act of 1930 (19 U.S.C. 1514)
or any other provision of law, upon proper request
filed with the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection
before the 90th day after the date of the enactment of
this Act, any entry, or withdrawal from warehouse for
consumption, of any good--
(i) that was made on or after January 1,
2009 and before the date of the enactment of
this Act; and
(ii) with respect to which there would have
been a lower rate of duty if the amendment made
by this subsection applied to such entry, or
withdrawal, shall be liquidated or reliquidated
as if such amendment applied to such entry or
withdrawal.
(2) Calendar year 2010.--
(A) In general.--Such heading is amended by
striking ``14.8 cents'' each place it appears and
inserting ``6 cents''.
(B) Applicability.--The amendment made by
subparagraph (A) shall apply to goods entered, or
withdrawn from warehouse for consumption, on or after
January 1, 2010, and before January 1, 2011.
(3) Calendar year 2011.--
(A) In general.--Such heading is amended by
striking ``11.1 cents'' each place it appears and
inserting ``4 cents''.
(B) Applicability.--The amendment made by
subparagraph (A) shall apply to goods entered, or
withdrawn from warehouse for consumption, on or after
January 1, 2011, and before January 1, 2012.
(4) Calendar year 2012.--
(A) In general.--Such heading is amended by
striking ``8.5 cents'' each place it appears and
inserting ``3 cents''.
(B) Applicability.--The amendment made by
subparagraph (A) shall apply to goods entered, or
withdrawn from warehouse for consumption, on or after
January 1, 2012, and before January 1, 2013.
(5) Calendar year 2013.--
(A) In general.--Such heading is amended by
striking ``5.8 cents'' each place it appears and
inserting ``2 cents''.
(B) Applicability.--The amendment made by
subparagraph (A) shall apply to goods entered, or
withdrawn from warehouse for consumption, on or after
January 1, 2013, and before January 1, 2014.
(b) Duty-free Treatment Beginning in 2014.--
(1) Addition of alternative fuels subchapter.--Chapter 98
of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule is amended by adding at the
end the following new subchapter:
``Subchapter XXIII
Alternative Fuels
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rates of Duty
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Heading/Subheading Article Description 1
----------------------------------------------- 2
General Special
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
9823.01.01 Ethyl alcohol Free Free 20%''.
(provided for in
subheadings
2207.10.60 and
2207.20) or any
mixture containing
such ethyl alcohol
(provided for in
heading 2710 or 3824)
if such ethyl alcohol
or mixture is to be
used as a fuel or in
producing a mixture
of gasoline and
alcohol, a mixture of
a special fuel and
alcohol, or any other
mixture to be used as
fuel (including motor
fuel provided for in
subheading
2710.11.15,
2710.19.15 or
2710.19.21), or is
suitable for any such
uses.................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(2) Conforming amendments.--Subchapter I of chapter 99 of
the Harmonized Tariff Schedule is amended--
(A) by striking heading 9901.00.50; and
(B) by striking U.S. notes 2 and 3.
(3) Effective date.--The amendments made by this subsection
shall apply with respect to goods entered, or withdrawn from
warehouse for consumption, on or after January 1, 2014.
SEC. 6. SENSE OF CONGRESS.
(a) Findings.--Congress finds that--
(1) the organization ``Feeding America'' formerly known as
America's Second Harvest, issued the results of a national
study on hunger and poverty in America and found that for 1 in
8 Americans hunger is a reality, that the numbers of hungry
Americans is on the rise, and 37.3 million people lived in
poverty, including over 7.6 million families, 3.6 million
seniors, and over 13.3 million children under the age of 18;
(2) the Department of Agriculture, Economic Research
Service, found that an estimated 35.5 million Americans are
food insecure, meaning their access to enough food is limited
by a lack of money and other resources;
(3) the Center for Budget and Policy Priorities reports
that ``the current downturn is likely to cause significant
increases both in the number of Americans who are poor and the
number living in `deep poverty,' with incomes below half of the
poverty line. Because this recession is likely to be deep and
the government safety net for very poor families who lack jobs
has weakened significantly in recent years, increases in deep
poverty in this recession are likely to be severe'';
(4) World Hunger Year (WHY), a non-profit organization
which operates a national hunger hotline with funding from the
Department of Agriculture, has experienced a significant
increase in calls for food assistance or information about
where to find food, shelter, child-care, or job-finding
assistance; and
(5) the production of cellulosic and advanced biofuels in
the United States will assist the Nation in becoming less
vulnerable to foreign supplies of oil, will create a
significant number of jobs, and could achieve significant
reductions in the generation of greenhouse gas emissions as
determined by several recent studies.
(b) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that the
savings achieved under this Act should be used to combat hunger in the
United States and to develop domestic supplies of cellulosic and
advanced biofuels by being used to--
(1) increase the assistance provided for Federal nutrition
programs administered by the Secretary of Agriculture,
including school nutrition programs;
(2) provide assistance to non-profit organizations
dedicated to responding to the needs of low-income families in
the United States; and
(3) provide loan guarantees or grants to companies ready to
construct cellulosic and advanced biofuel processing facilities
in the United States. | Affordable Food and Fuel for America Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to phaseout the income and excise tax credits for alcohol-based fuels and eliminate such credits in 2014.
Amends the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States to phaseout the tariff on ethanol and provide duty free treatment of ethanol in 2014.
Expresses the sense of Congress that the savings achieved by this Act should be used to combat hunger in the United States and to develop domestic supplies of cellulosic and advanced biofuels. | To reduce and eliminate the tax credit for alcohol fuel mixtures and the tariff on imported ethanol. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``National Response to Terrorism and
Consequence Management Act of 2002''.
TITLE I--CAPACITY BUILDING FOR URBAN SEARCH AND RESCUE TASK FORCES
SEC. 101. SHORT TITLE.
This title may be cited as the ``National Urban Search and Rescue
Task Force Assistance Act of 2002''.
SEC. 102. FINDINGS AND PURPOSE.
(a) Findings.--The Congress finds that--
(1) the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
established the National Urban Search and Rescue Response
System in 1989 pursuant to requirement in the Earthquakes
Hazards Reduction Act of 1977 which directed FEMA to provide
adequate search and rescue capacity in the event of an
earthquake;
(2) once the President has issued a major disaster
declaration following a request by a governor, FEMA may
activate up to three task forces that are closest to the
disaster and additional task forces may be activated as
necessary;
(3) each task force must be able to deploy all personnel
and equipment within six hours of activation and are expected
to be able to sustain themselves for the first 72 hours of
operations;
(4) each task force must be capable of deploying at least
62 fully trained individuals, with each position staffed three
deep to ensure the availability of at least two alternatives
available in reserve for each position for a total of 186
members in each task force;
(5) task forces are supported by Incident Support Teams
which provide technical assistance to state and local emergency
managers, coordinate the activities of multiple task forces,
and provide logistical support;
(6) in fiscal year 2001, FEMA provided $7,200,000 to the
task forces for training and equipment, allocated according to
need;
(7) in fiscal year 2001, FEMA provided some $6,000,000 for
upgrading the capability of six task forces to respond to
disaster resulting from the use of weapons of mass destruction,
including the capacity to search and provide assistance in an
environment with chemical, biological, or radiological
contamination;
(8) there currently are 28 task forces throughout the
United States;
(9) since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, the
need for fully equipped and trained task forces is obvious;
(10) by noon of September 12, 2001, eight task forces were
working valiantly with the courageous New York firefighters to
address the aftermath of the terrorist attacks on the World
Trade Center, four task forces responded to the attacks on the
Pentagon, and 25 of 28 task forces were deployed over a three-
week period;
(11) each task force is currently in need of additional
training and support equipment with each task force being
deployed with some 80,000 pounds of search, rescue, and support
equipment valued at some $1,800,000;
(12) each task force is supported by some $150,000 per year
in operating costs with needs of approximately $1,500,000 to
maintain optimum operational efficiency;
(13) many task forces have inadequate transportation to
ensure a timely response to disasters, including acts of
terrorism;
(14) the cost of maintaining FEMA's Incident Support Teams
as part of the search and rescue task forces is $5,000,000 per
year;
(15) the Federal Government needs to ensure that each task
force is adequately trained and equipped to perform urban
search and rescue functions in all environments, including the
aftermath from acts of terrorism involving weapons of mass
destruction;
(16) the Federal Government needs to ensure that each task
force has adequate equipment to meet all operational needs and
staff support;
(17) the Federal Government needs to ensure that each task
force has the capability to put two full teams in the field to
meet any disaster or act of terrorism;
(18) the Federal Government needs to ensure that designated
task forces have the capability to deploy internationally to
provide search and rescue functions vital to our interests and
those of our allies; and
(19) while these task forces were originally created for
earthquake response, these highly capable task forces have an
expanding and vital role in responding to acts of terrorism,
including those involving weapons of mass destruction.
(b) Purpose.--The purpose of this act is to provide the needed
funds, equipment, and training to ensure that all urban search and
rescue task forces have the full capability to respond to all emergency
search and rescue needs arising from any disaster, including acts of
terrorism involving a weapon of mass destruction.
SEC. 103. DEFINITIONS.
For purposes of this title, the following definitions apply:
(1) The term ``Director'' shall mean the Director of the
Federal Emergency Management Agency.
(2) The term ``urban search and rescue task force'' shall
be any of the 28 urban search and rescue task forces currently
designated by FEMA.
(3) The term ``urban search and rescue equipment'' means
any equipment, determined by the Director, as necessary to
respond to any emergency, designated as a disaster by the
President of the United States, including any emergency for
which the proximate cause is a terrorist act, including
biological, nuclear/radioactive, or chemical terrorism.
SEC. 104. ASSISTANCE.
(a) Eligible Activities.--The Director may provide one or more
grants to each urban search and rescue task forces for--
(1) operational costs in excess of the funds provided under
subsection (b) of this section;
(2) the cost of all needed urban search and rescue
equipment;
(3) the cost of equipment needed to allow a task force to
operate in an environment contaminated by weapons of mass
destruction, including chemical, biological, and nuclear/
radioactive contaminants;
(4) the cost of training, including training for operating
in an environment contaminated by weapons of mass destruction,
including chemical, biological, and nuclear/radioactive
weapons;
(5) the cost of transportation;
(6) the cost of task force expansion;
(7) the cost of Incident Support Teams, including the cost
to conduct appropriate task force readiness evaluations; and
(8) the cost of making task forces capable of responding to
international disasters, including acts of terrorism.
(b) Cost of Operations.--The Director shall provide not less than
$1,500,000 for operational costs to each urban search and rescue task
force in each fiscal year.
(c) Priority for Funding.--The Director shall prioritize all
funding under this section to ensure that all urban search and rescue
task forces have the capacity, including all needed equipment and
training, to deploy two separate task forces simultaneously from each
sponsoring agency.
(d) Funding Requirements for International Search and Rescue
Teams.--The Director shall only make grants to fund subsection (a)(8)
upon a determination of need by the Director or to maintain existing
capacity, according to criteria established by the Secretary of State
in coordination with the Director.
SEC. 105. GRANT REQUIREMENTS.
The Director shall establish such requirements as necessary to
award grants under this Act.
SEC. 106. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE FOR COORDINATION.
The Director may award no more than four percent of the funds
appropriated for any fiscal year under section 109 for technical
assistance to allow urban search and rescue task forces to coordinate
with other agencies and organizations, including career and volunteer
fire departments, to meet state and local disasters, including those
resulting from acts of terrorism involving the use of a weapon of mass
destruction including chemical, biological, and nuclear/radioactive
weapons.
SEC. 107. ADDITIONAL TASK FORCES.
The Director is authorized to establish additional urban search and
rescue teams pursuant to a finding of need. No additional urban search
and resuce teams may be designated or funded until the first 28 teams
are fully funded and able to deploy simultaneously two task forces from
each sponsoring agency with all necessary equipment, training, and
transportation.
SEC. 108. PERFORMANCE OF SERVICES.
For purposes of ensuring the effectiveness of the urban search and
resuce task forces assisted under this Act, the Director may use the
authority under section 306 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief
and Emergency Assistance Act of 1988, as amended (42 U.S.C. 5149), to
incur any additional obligations as determined necessary by the
Director. Such obligations may include the cost of temporary
employment, workmen compensation, insurance, and other compensation for
work-related injuries consistent with memorandums of understanding
agreed to between the Director and the task forces.
SEC. 109. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
There is authorized to be appropriated $160,000,000 for fiscal year
2002 of which each task force is to receive not less than $1,500,000
for operational costs (including the costs of basic search and rescue
equipment).
TITLE II--PROMOTE THE CONTRIBUTION OF EQUIPMENT TO VOLUNTEER
FIREFIGHTING DEPARTMENTS
SEC. 201. SHORT TITLE.
This title may be cited as the ``Good Samaritan Volunteer
Firefighter Assistance Act of 2002''.
SEC. 202. REMOVAL OF CIVIL LIABILITY BARRIERS THAT DISCOURAGE THE
DONATION OF FIRE EQUIPMENT TO VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANIES.
(a) Liability Protection.--A person who donates fire control or
fire rescue equipment to a volunteer fire company shall not be liable
for civil damages under any State or Federal law for personal injuries,
property damage or loss, or death proximately caused by the equipment
after the donation.
(b) Exceptions.--Subsection (a) does not apply to a person if--
(1) the person's act or omission proximately causing the
injury, damage, loss, or death constitutes gross negligence or
intentional misconduct; or
(2) the person is the manufacturer of the fire control or
fire rescue equipment.
(c) Preemption.--This Act preempts the laws of any State to the
extent such laws are inconsistent with this Act, except that
notwithstanding subsection (b), this Act shall not preempt any State
law that provides additional protection from liability for a person who
donates fire control or fire rescue equipment to a volunteer fire
company.
(d) Certification of Safety by State Fire Marshal.--The State shall
designate its State Fire Marshal or equivalent person to certify the
safety and usefulness of the fire control or fire rescue equipment that
is being donated.
(e) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Person.--The term ``person'' includes any governmental
or other entity.
(2) Fire control or rescue equipment.--The term ``fire
control or fire rescue equipment'' includes any fire vehicle,
fire fighting tool, emergency medical equipment, protective
gear, fire hose, or breathing apparatus.
(3) Gross negligence.--The term ``gross negligence'' shall
mean voluntary and conscious conduct harmful to the health or
well-being of another person by a person who, at the time of
the conduct, knew that the conduct was likely to be harmful to
the health or well-being of another person.
(4) Intentional misconduct.--The term ``intentional
misconduct'' shall mean voluntary and conscious conduct harmful
to the health or well-being of another person by a person who,
at the time of the conduct, knew that the conduct was harmful
to the health or well-being of another person.
(5) State.--The term ``State'' includes the several States,
the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the
Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa,
Guam, the Virgin Islands, any other territory, or possession of
the United States, and any political subdivision of any such
State, territory, or possession.
(6) Volunteer fire company.--The term ``volunteer fire
company'' shall mean an association of individuals who provide
fire protection and other emergency services, where at least 30
percent of the individuals receive little or no compensation
compared with an entry level full-time paid individual in that
association or in the nearest such association with an entry
level full-time paid individual.
(f) Effective Date.--This Act applies only to liability for injury,
damage, loss, or death caused by equipment that, for purposes of
subsection (a), is donated on or after the date that is 30 days after
the date of the enactment of this Act.
TITLE III--ESTABLISHMENT OF COORDINATION OFFICE WITHIN THE FEDERAL
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY
SEC. 301. ESTABLISHMENT OF COORDINATION OFFICE FOR RESPONDING TO ACTS
OF TERRORISM.
(a) FEMA Office for Emergency Coordination.--The Director of the
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) shall establish or designate
an office within FEMA to coordinate the response of State and local
agencies, including fire departments, hospitals, and emergency medical
facilities, to acts of terrorism, including the capacity to provide
assistance in an environment with chemical, biological, or nuclear/
radiological contamination.
(b) Definitions.--
(1) The term ``Director'' shall mean the Director of the
Federal Emergency Management Agency.
(2) The term ``State'' shall mean each of the States of the
United States, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of
Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, the
Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and any other
territory or possession of the United States.
(c) Technical Assistance Grants.--The Director is authorized to
make grants to provide technical assistance and coordinating funding to
States to ensure that localities, fire departments, hospitals, and
other appropriate entities, as determined by the Director, have the
capacity to respond to the consequences of possible acts of terrorism,
including the capacity to provide assistance in an environment with
chemical, biological, or nuclear/radiological contamination.
(d) Fire and Safety Training Grants.--The Director shall award
grants to states to operate new and existing state fire and safety
training programs for firefighting personnel within each State.
(e) State and Local Coordination Plans To Respond to Acts of
Terrorism.--To be eligible for a technical assistance grant under
subsection (c), a State must submit a plan that--
(1) identifies an organizational hierarchy within the State
and at the local level for responding to acts of terrorism; and
(2) prioritizes State and local needs for developing the
capacity to respond to the aftermath of acts of terrorism,
including the capacity to meet these needs. This plan shall be
developed in conjunction with police departments, fire
departments, hospitals, and emergency medical facilities.
(f) Confidentiality.--The Director, in conjunction with the
Department of Justice, shall establish appropriate guidelines and
safeguards to ensure that any plans developed under subsection (e) have
adequate protections to limit the availability of information that
could put a state or locality at an additional risk of an act of
terrorism.
(g) Cooperation Between Agencies.--The Director shall establish a
task force among Federal agencies for the coordination of Federal,
State, and local resources as needed to develop a national response
plan for responding to acts of terrorism, including the capacity to
provide assistance in an environment with chemical, biological, or
nuclear/radiological contamination.
(h) Administrative Costs.--No more than five percent of any funds
made available to a State under this title may be used for
administrative costs.
(i) Authorization of Appropriations.--The Director is authorized to
use such sums as necessary from the Disaster Relief Fund to meet the
requirements of this title, including no less than $100,000,000 for
grants to support State fire and safety training programs under
subsection (d). No less than 20 percent of the funds awarded under
subsection (d) for these State fire and safety training programs shall
be used to assist fire departments with an annual budget of no more
than $25,000. | National Response to Terrorism and Consequence Management Act of 2002 - National Urban Search and Rescue Task Force Assistance Act of 2002 - Requires the Director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency to provide grants to urban search and rescue task forces for specified operational, equipment, training, and other costs. Requires the Director to prioritize funding to ensure that all task forces have the capacity to deploy two separate task forces simultaneously from each sponsoring agency.Good Samaritan Volunteer Firefighter Assistance Act of 2002 - Declares that a person who donates fire control or fire rescue equipment to a volunteer fire company shall not be liable (with exceptions) for civil damages under any State or Federal law for personal injuries, property damage or loss, or death caused by the equipment. Requires each State to designate its State Fire Marshal to certify the safety and usefulness of such equipment.Directs the Director to establish or designate an office to coordinate the responses of State and local agencies to acts of terrorism. Authorizes the Director to make grants to provide technical assistance and coordinating funding to States with State and local coordination plans to ensure that localities, fire departments, hospitals, and other appropriate entities have the capacity to respond to the consequences of possible terrorist acts. Requires the Director to: (1) award grants to States to operate fire and safety training programs for fire-fighting personnel; and (2) establish a Federal agency task force for the coordination of Federal, State, and local resources to develop a national response plan. | A bill to establish a national response to terrorism, a national urban search and rescue task force program to ensure local capability to respond to the threat and aftermath of terrorist activities and other emergencies, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Military Readiness Investigation
Board Act of 2001''.
SEC. 2. ESTABLISHMENT.
There is established a task force to be known as the ``Military
Readiness Investigation Board'' (hereafter in this Act referred to as
the ``Readiness Board'').
SEC. 3. MEMBERSHIP.
(a) Number and Appointment of Members.--(1) The Readiness Board
shall be composed of not more than 12 members, who shall be appointed
by the Secretary of Defense.
(2) In selecting persons for appointment as members of the
Readiness Board, the Secretary shall consult with the following members
of Congress:
(A) The chairmen and ranking minority members of the
Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of
Representatives.
(B) The chairmen and ranking minority members of the
Subcommittees on Defense of the Committees on Appropriations of
the Senate and the House of Representatives.
(b) Qualifications for Appointment.--(1) Members of the Readiness
Board shall be selected from among persons who are experts in analyzing
the military readiness of the Armed Forces, performing statistical
analyses, or applying best business practices that are relevant or
adaptable to readiness-related processes of the Armed Forces.
(2) A member of the Readiness Board shall have or qualify for the
security clearance or clearances appropriate for the performance of the
duties of the Readiness Board.
(3) The Secretary shall seek to appoint to membership on the
Readiness Board retired members of the Armed Forces not on active duty
and civilians in a ratio to each other that the Secretary determines
appropriate for ensuring that military and nonmilitary perspectives are
represented to a significant extent among the members of the Readiness
Board.
(c) Periods of Appointment; Vacancies.--(1) The members of the
Readiness Board shall be appointed for the life of the Readiness Board.
(2) Any vacancy on the Readiness Board shall not affect its powers,
but shall be filled in the same manner as the original appointment.
(d) Time for Initial Appointments.--The members of the Readiness
Board shall be appointed not later than 15 days after the date of the
enactment of this Act.
(e) Chairman.--The Secretary of Defense shall designate one of the
members to be the Chairman of the Readiness Board.
SEC. 4. DUTIES.
(a) In General.--It shall be the duty of the Readiness Board to
conduct a comprehensive investigation of the state of mission readiness
within all combat and combat support commands within the Armed Forces
and to report the results of the investigation to the Secretary of
Defense and to Congress.
(b) Purpose.--The investigation and report of the Board shall be
designed to provide the Secretary of Defense and Congress with an
objective baseline assessment of the current state of the mission
readiness of the Armed Forces so as to guide future appropriations and
authorizations of appropriations for the Department of Defense.
(c) Investigation.--(1) In carrying out the investigation, the
Board shall--
(A) conduct an objective evaluation of the ability of all
combat and combat support elements of the Armed Forces
currently to execute the tasks, at the levels, experienced by
the Armed Forces since the end of the Persian Gulf War and all
of the wartime missions within acceptable timelines and levels
of casualties;
(B) determine whether, and the extent to which,
definitional concepts of combat readiness have changed for
major combat units and supporting elements since 1993;
(C) determine and evaluate prevailing attitudes within the
combat and combat support commands of the Armed Forces
regarding the accuracy of the readiness levels reported for
those commands; and
(D) assess the adequacy of improvements to the readiness
reporting system used within the Department of Defense and
formulate recommendations for actions to improve the system
further, including recommendations relating to the authority of
a commander to adjust the evaluated readiness level of the
commander's unit on the basis of the commander's judgment
rather than the strict application of objective criteria.
(2) In carrying out its duties under this Act, the Readiness
Board--
(A) shall focus on the current state of readiness of the
Armed Forces, but shall also examine--
(i) the trends in readiness for the five years
preceding the year in which the Board is established;
(ii) patterns of deployment of the Armed Forces
during those five years; and
(iii) the readiness trends that are projected in
the future-years defense program submitted to Congress
in that year under section 221 of title 10, United
States Code;
(B) may consider what if any additional equipment and
supplies are needed to improve readiness, but may not consider
any issue regarding the acquisition of major weapon systems for
future use by the Armed Forces; and
(C) shall accept as being appropriate the baseline threat
assessments that are current during the conduct of the
investigation and may not examine or reassess any of the
existing levels of technological, military, or unconventional
threats that the United States and its allies may potentially
confront.
(d) Completion and Report.--(1) Not later than one year after the
date of the enactment of this Act, the Readiness Board shall complete
the investigation and submit, in a classified and an unclassified
version, a report on the results of the investigation to the Secretary
of Defense and to Congress.
(2) The report shall include detailed findings and conclusions,
together with any recommendations for legislation or for administrative
actions that the Board considers appropriate for improving the mission
readiness of the Armed Forces or for improving the evaluation and
reporting of readiness to the Secretary of Defense and to Congress.
SEC. 5. MEETINGS.
(a) Schedule.--(1) The Readiness Board shall meet at the call of
the chairman.
(2) The Readiness Board shall hold its first meeting not later than
15 days after the date on which all members have been appointed.
(b) Quorum.--A majority of the members of the Readiness Board shall
constitute a quorum, but a lesser number of members may take an action
described in section 6(a) as authorized under that section.
SEC. 6. POWERS.
(a) Investigation.--The Readiness Board may, for the purpose of
carrying out this Act, conduct interviews and surveys, hold hearings,
sit and act at times and places, take testimony, and receive evidence
to the extent that the Readiness Board considers appropriate in
carrying out its duties under section 4.
(b) Obtaining Official Data.--The Readiness Board may secure
information necessary to enable the Readiness Board to carry out its
duties directly from any Department of Defense agency, command, or unit
without approval from superior command authorities, including any
classified information commensurate with Readiness Board members'
security clearances.
(c) Administrative Support Services.--Upon the request of the
chairman of the Readiness Board, the Secretary of Defense shall provide
the Readiness Board with administrative support, office space,
transportation and security services necessary for the Readiness Board
to carry out its duties under this Act.
(d) Postal and Printing and Binding Services.--The Readiness Board
may use the United States mails and obtain printing and binding
services in the same manner and under the same conditions as other
departments and agencies of the United States.
SEC. 7. PERSONNEL AND OTHER ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS.
(a) Compensation of Members.--Each member of the Readiness Board
shall be compensated at a rate equal to the daily equivalent of the
annual rate of basic pay prescribed for level IV of the Executive
Schedule under section 5315 of title 5, United States Code, for each
day (including travel time) during which the member is engaged in the
performance of the duties of the Readiness Board.
(b) Travel.--(1) The members of the Readiness Board shall be
allowed travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of subsistence, at
rates authorized for employees of agencies under subchapter I of
chapter 57 of title 5, United States Code, while away from their homes
or regular places of business in the performance of services for the
Readiness Board.
(2) To the maximum extent practicable, the members and employees of
the Readiness Board shall travel on military aircraft, military ships,
military vehicles, or other military conveyances when travel is
necessary in the performance of a duty of the Readiness Board, except
that no such aircraft, ship, vehicle, or other conveyance may be
scheduled primarily for the transportation of any such member or
employee when the cost of commercial transportation is less expensive.
(c) Staff.--(1) The chairman of the Readiness Board may, without
regard to the civil service laws and regulations, appoint and terminate
an executive director, and a staff of not more than 12 additional
persons, if the Readiness Board determines that an executive director
and staff are necessary in order for the Readiness Board to perform its
duties effectively. The employment of an executive director shall be
subject to confirmation by the Readiness Board.
(2) The chairman may fix the compensation of the executive director
without regard to the provisions of chapter 51 and subchapter III of
chapter 53 of title 5, United States Code, relating to classification
of positions and General Schedule pay rates, except that the rate of
pay for the executive director may not exceed the rate payable for
level V of the Executive Schedule under section 5316 of such title.
(d) Detail of Federal Employees.--A Federal Government employee may
be detailed to the Readiness Board without reimbursement, and such
detail shall be without interruption or loss of civil service status or
privilege. The Secretary shall ensure that sufficient personnel are
detailed to the Readiness Board to enable the Readiness Board to carry
out its duties effectively.
(e) Additional Administrative Support.--The Secretary of Defense
shall furnish the Readiness Board any administrative and support
services requested by the Readiness Board.
(f) Gifts.--The Readiness Board may accept, use, and dispose of
gifts or donations of services or property.
(g) Funding Sources.--The compensation, travel expenses, and per
diem allowances of members and employees of the Readiness Board shall
be paid out of funds available to the Department of Defense for the
payment of compensation, travel expenses, and per diem allowances,
respectively, of civilian employees of the department. The other
expenses of the Readiness Board shall be paid out of funds available to
the Department of Defense for the payment of similar expenses incurred
by the department.
SEC. 8. TERMINATION.
(a) In General.--Subject to subsection (b), the Readiness Board
shall terminate 30 days after submitting the report under section 4(d).
(b) Temporary Continuation.--(1) To ensure ready accessibility to
informed explanation and discussion of the report and the proceedings
of the Readiness Board, the service of the Chairman of the Readiness
Board and one staff person designated by the Chairman shall continue
until the end of the sixth month that begins after the month in which
Board terminates under subsection (a).
(2) Funds available for the Readiness Board shall be available for
paying the compensation and expenses of the Chairman and the staff
member under section 7 during the period of the continued service of
the Chairman and staff member under paragraph (1). | Military Readiness Investigation Board Act of 2001 - Establishes the Military Readiness Investigation Board to conduct a comprehensive investigation of the state of mission readiness within all military combat and combatant support commands and to report investigation results to the Secretary of Defense and Congress. Requires the investigation and report to be designed to provide an objective baseline assessment of readiness to guide future appropriations and authorizations of appropriations for the Department of Defense. | A bill to establish the Military Readiness Investigation Board, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Short Term Retention for
Agricultural Workers Act of 2013''.
SEC. 2. IN GENERAL.
(a) Inclusion of Dairy or Ranch Workers.--Section 101(a)(15)(H) of
the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(15)(H)) is
amended by inserting ``labor on a dairy or ranch and'' before
``agricultural labor defined in''.
(b) Elimination of 50 Percent Rule.--Section 218(c)(3) of such Act
(8 U.S.C. 1188(c)(3)) is amended--
(1) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``(A)''; and
(2) by striking subparagraph (B).
(c) Wage Rate.--Section 218(a)(1)(B) of such Act (8 U.S.C.
1188(a)(1)(B)) is amended by striking the period at the end and
inserting ``, except that no employer shall be required to pay a wage
rate greater than the greatest of the Federal, State, and local minimum
wage rates.''.
(d) Legal Assistance From the Legal Services Corporation.--Section
218(h) of such Act (8 U.S.C. 1188(h)), as amended by subsection (g), is
further amended by adding at the end the following:
``(4)(A) The Legal Services Corporation may not provide legal
assistance for, or on behalf of, any alien, and may not provide
financial assistance to any person or entity that provides legal
assistance for, or on behalf of, any alien, unless--
``(i) the alien is present in the United States at the time
the legal assistance is provided; and
``(ii) the parties to the dispute have attempted, in good
faith, mediation or other non-binding dispute resolution of all
issues involving all such parties.
``(B) If an employer and a nonimmigrant having status under section
101(a)(15)(H)(ii)(a) have an arbitration arrangement, the Legal
Services Corporation shall respect the arbitration process and outcome.
``(C) No employer of a nonimmigrant having status under section
101(a)(15)(H)(ii)(a) shall be required to permit any recipient of a
grant or contract under section 1007 of the Legal Services Corporation
Act (42 U.S.C. 2996f), or any employee of such a recipient, to enter
upon the employer's property, unless such recipient or employee has a
pre-arranged appointment with a specific nonimmigrant having such
status.''.
(e) Length of Stay.--Section 218 of such Act (8 U.S.C. 1188) is
amended by adding at the end the following:
``(j) Length of Stay.--A STRAW worker who enters the United States
may remain in the United States for a period of not more than 11
months. The STRAW worker may not enter the United States on an
additional visa under section 101(a)(15)(H)(ii)(c) unless the STRAW
worker first returns to that worker's country of origin for a period of
not less than 1 month. A STRAW worker may enter and remain in the
United States for a total of not more than 3 years.''.
(f) Housing.--Section 218(c)(4) of such Act (8 U.S.C. 1188(c)(4))
is amended to read as follows:
``(4) Housing.--Except for STRAW workers who are reasonably
able to return to their permanent residence (either within or
outside the United States) within the same day, the employer
will provide housing to STRAW workers through one of the
following means:
``(A) Employer-owned housing in accordance with
regulations promulgated by the Secretary of
Agriculture.
``(B) Rental or public accommodations or other
substantially similar class of habitation in accordance
with regulations promulgated by the Secretary of
Agriculture.
``(C) Except where the Governor of the State has
certified that there is inadequate housing available in
the area of intended employment for migrant farm
workers and STRAW workers seeking temporary housing
while employed in agricultural work, the employer may
furnish the worker with a housing voucher in accordance
with regulations, if--
``(i) the employer has verified that
housing is available for the period during
which the work is to be performed, within a
reasonable commuting distance of the place of
employment, for the amount of the voucher
provided, and that the voucher is useable for
that housing;
``(ii) upon the request of a worker seeking
assistance in locating housing for which the
voucher will be accepted, the employer makes a
good faith effort to assist the worker in
identifying, locating and securing housing in
the area of intended employment; and
``(iii) payment for the housing is made
with a housing voucher that is only redeemable
by the housing owner or their agent.
An employer who provides housing through one of the foregoing
means shall not be deemed a housing provider under section 203
of the Migrant and Seasonal Agricultural Worker Protection Act
(29 U.S.C. 1823) by virtue of providing such housing.''.
(g) Biometric Identification Card.--The Secretary of Homeland
Security shall provide each nonimmigrant agricultural worker with an
identification card that contains--
(1) an encrypted, machine-readable, electronic
identification strip that is unique to the alien to whom the
card is issued;
(2) biometric identifiers, including fingerprints and a
digital photograph; and
(3) physical security features designed to prevent
tampering, counterfeiting, or duplication of the card for
fraudulent purposes.
(h) Trust Fund.--
(1) Establishment.--The Secretary of Agriculture shall
establish by regulation a trust fund the purpose of which is to
provide, without further appropriation, funds for the
administration and the enforcement of the program under this
section, for the cost of the cards issued under subsection (k),
for a monetary incentive for nonimmigrant agricultural workers
to return to their country of origin upon expiration of their
visas under the program, and for payment with respect to
emergency medical services furnished to nonimmigrant
agricultural workers. The Secretary of Agriculture in
consultation with the Secretary of the Treasury shall
promulgate such other regulations as may be necessary to carry
out this subsection.
(2) Payment of fica and futa amounts into trust fund.--In
the case of employment of a nonimmigrant agricultural worker--
(A) the employer shall provide for payment into the
trust fund established under paragraph (1) of the sum
of--
(i) an amount equivalent to the amount of
excise taxes which the employer would pay under
the chapter 21 of the Internal Revenue Code of
1986 with respect to such employment if it were
considered employment for the purpose of such
Act; and
(ii) an amount equivalent to (and in lieu
of) the amount of excise taxes which the
employer would otherwise pay under chapter 23
of such Code with respect to such employment;
and
(B) there shall be deducted from the wages of the
worker and paid into such trust fund an amount
equivalent to the amount of excise taxes that the
employee would pay under such chapter 21 with respect
to such employment if it were considered employment for
the purposes of such Act.
(3) Expenditures from trust fund.--
(A) Use of employer contributions for
administration.--Amounts described in paragraph (2)(A)
paid into the trust fund shall be used for the purpose
of administering and enforcing the program under this
section and for the cost of the cards issued under
subsection (k).
(B) Use of employee contributions for repayment of
employee contributions upon return to country of
origin.--Except as provided in subparagraph (C),
amounts described in paragraph (2)(B) paid into the
trust fund with respect to a nonimmigrant agricultural
worker shall, upon application by the worker at the
United States consulate nearest the worker's residence
in the country of origin, be paid to the worker if the
worker demonstrates the compliance of the worker with
the terms and conditions of the program.
(C) Use of employee contributions attributable to
hi taxes for emergency medical services for
nonimmigrant agricultural workers.--
(i) In general.--Amounts described in
paragraph (2)(B) paid into the trust fund which
relate to excise tax in section 3101(b) of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 shall be used to
provide payment with respect to emergency
medical services (as defined in clause (iii))
for nonimmigrant agricultural workers.
(ii) Administration.--The Secretary of
Agriculture shall establish rules, in
consultation with the Secretary of Health and
Human Services, with respect to the payments
under this subparagraph, including methods for
determining qualifications for payment and the
amount of payment to be made with respect to
emergency medical services.
(iii) Emergency medical services defined.--
In this subparagraph, the term ``emergency
medical services'' means those items and
services required to be provided under section
1867 of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C.
1395dd) with respect to an individual who is a
nonimmigrant agricultural worker and does not
include items and services for which coverage
under workers' compensation is required under
subsection (f)(3) with respect to the worker.
(i) Semiannual Reports to Congress.--The Secretary of Agriculture
shall report to Congress semiannually regarding the program under this
section. Each such report shall include a statement of the number of
nonimmigrant visas issued under the program, an evaluation of the
effectiveness of the program, a description of any problems related to
the enforcement of the program, and any recommendations for legislation
relating to the program.
(j) Program Name and Administrator Changed.--Section 218 of the
Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1188), as amended by this
Act, is further amended--
(1) by striking ``H-2A worker'' each place it appears and
inserting ``STRAW worker''; and
(2) by striking ``Secretary of Labor'' each place it
appears and inserting ``Secretary of Agriculture''. | Short Term Retention for Agricultural Workers Act of 2013 - Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to rename H-2A nonimmigrant temporary agricultural workers as STRAW workers. Includes dairy or ranch workers in such category. Eliminates the 50% rule requiring employers to agree to accept all qualified U.S. workers until 50% of the certified employment period has been completed. Provides that an employer shall not be required to pay a wage rate greater than the greatest of the federal, state, and local minimum wage rates. Prohibits the Legal Services Corporation from providing legal assistance for any alien and prohibits providing financial assistance to any person or entity that provides legal assistance for any alien, unless: (1) the alien is present in the United States when the legal assistance is provided, and (2) the parties to the dispute have attempted mediation or other non-binding dispute resolution of all issues. Sets forth STRAW worker provisions regarding housing and length of U.S. stay. Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security (DHS) to provide each nonimmigrant agricultural worker with an identification card that contains: (1) an encrypted, machine-readable, electronic identification strip that is unique to such alien; (2) biometric identifiers, including fingerprints and a digital photograph; and (3) physical security features designed to prevent tampering, counterfeiting, or duplication. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture (USDA) to establish a trust fund to pay for: (1) program administration and enforcement, (2) identification card costs, (3) monetary incentives for nonimmigrant agricultural workers to return to their country of origin, and (4) emergency medical services furnished to such workers. Provides for the payment of specified funds into the trust fund from employers and worker wage deductions. | Short Term Retention for Agricultural Workers Act of 2013 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Provisional Ballot Fairness in
Counting Act of 2007''.
SEC. 2. UNIFORM STANDARD FOR TREATMENT OF PROVISIONAL BALLOTS CAST AT
INCORRECT POLLING PLACES.
Section 302(a)(4) of the Help America Vote Act of 2002 (42 U.S.C.
15482(a)(4)) is amended to read as follows:
``(4) The provisional ballot of an individual who is a
registered voter in a jurisdiction in a State and who is
eligible to vote in an election for Federal office in the State
shall be counted as a vote in such an election if the
appropriate State or local election official to whom the ballot
or voter information is transmitted under paragraph (3)--
``(A) in the case of an election for electors for
President or for the office of a Senator, determines
that the individual is registered to vote in the State
in which the provisional ballot is cast; and
``(B) in the case of an election for the office of
a Member of the House of Representatives (including a
Delegate or Resident Commissioner to the Congress),
determines that the individual is registered to vote in
the Congressional district in which the provisional
ballot is cast.''.
SEC. 3. MINIMUM CONTENTS OF PROVISIONAL BALLOTS.
Section 302(a)(1) of the Help America Vote Act of 2002 (42 U.S.C.
15482(a)(1)) is amended by adding at the end the following new
sentence: ``The provisional ballot shall include (at a minimum) all
information required for the individual to cast a vote in each election
for Federal office held at the polling place.''.
SEC. 4. TREATMENT OF VOTERS WHO VOTE AFTER CLOSING OF POLLING PLACES.
Section 302(c) of the Help America Vote Act of 2002 (42 U.S.C.
15482(c)) is amended to read as follows:
``(c) Equal Treatment of Voters Who Vote After the Polls Close.--
Any individual who votes in an election for Federal office as a result
of a Federal or State court order or any other order extending the time
established for closing the polls by a State law in effect 10 days
before the date of that election shall cast the individual's ballot for
the election in the same manner, and under the same terms and
conditions, as any individual who votes in the election during the
regular hours for the operation of polling places in the State,
including the terms and conditions applicable to individuals permitted
to cast provisional ballots under this section.''.
SEC. 5. TREATMENT OF BALLOTS AFTER CASTING.
(a) Responsibility of Election Official To Notify Individual of
Determination of Eligibility of Ballot.--
(1) In general.--Section 302(a)(5) of the Help America Vote
Act of 2002 (42 U.S.C. 15482(a)(5)) is amended to read as
follows:
``(5)(A) Not later than 24 hours after determining whether
or not the vote of an individual who casts a provisional ballot
in an election will be counted in that election under this Act,
the appropriate State or local election official shall notify
the individual of the determination and (if the determination
is made that the vote will not be counted) the reasons for the
determination and the individual's right to challenge the
determination under the procedures established under
subparagraph (B).
``(B) Each State shall establish procedures, including a
free access system (such as a toll-free telephone number or an
Internet website), under which an individual who casts a
provisional ballot in an election and who is notified by the
appropriate State or local election official that the
provisional ballot cast by the individual will not be counted
as a vote in the election may challenge the determination prior
to the final tabulation of ballots in the election.
``(C) In carrying out subparagraph (B), each State shall
ensure that, in each jurisdiction of the State, an appropriate
State or local election official operates open office hours for
at least 8 hours on the day after the date of the election or
the day after the date upon which determinations are made under
subparagraph (A), during which a voter who cast a provisional
ballot in the election may contact the official and challenge
the determination under the procedures established under
subparagraph (B).''.
(2) Conforming amendment.--Section 302(a) of such Act (42
U.S.C. 15482(a)) is amended in the matter following paragraph
(5) by striking ``The appropriate State or local official'' and
all that follows through ``paragraph (5)(B).''.
(b) Prohibiting Initiation of Recount or Certification of Results
Prior to Review of Provisional Ballots Cast; Standards for
Determination of Acceptance of Provisional Ballots.--Section 302(a) of
such Act (42 U.S.C. 15482(a)) is amended by inserting after paragraph
(5) the following new paragraphs:
``(6) The chief State election official may not make any
determination regarding the applicability of any requirement
under State law to conduct a recount of the results of any
election for Federal office in the State, or certify the
results of any election for Federal office in the State, until
all of the votes cast by provisional ballot cast in the
election which are to be counted pursuant to this Act have been
counted.
``(7) In making a determination as to whether a vote cast
by an individual by provisional ballot will be counted in an
election, the chief State election official shall review not
only the official Statewide list of registered voters but any
other information which was submitted by the individual in the
process of applying to register to vote.''.
(c) Treatment of Rejected Provisional Ballot as Application for
Voter Registration.--Section 302(a) of such Act (42 U.S.C. 15482(a)),
as amended by subsection (b), is amended by inserting after paragraph
(7) the following new paragraph:
``(8) If a provisional ballot cast by an individual in an
election for Federal office is rejected on the ground that the
individual is not registered to vote in the election, the
ballot shall be treated (for purposes of this Act, the National
Voter Registration Act of 1993, and applicable State law) as an
application by the individual for voter registration in the
appropriate registrar's jurisdiction, under the same terms and
conditions applicable to applications for voter registration
under this Act, including section 303(b)(4) (relating to the
treatment of incomplete forms).''.
SEC. 6. EFFECTIVE DATE.
Section 302(d) of the Help America Vote Act of 2002 (42 U.S.C.
15482(d)) is amended to read as follows:
``(d) Effective Date.--
``(1) In general.--Except as provided in paragraph (2),
each State and jurisdiction shall be required to comply with
the requirements of this section on and after January 1, 2004.
``(2) Delayed effective date for certain provisions.--To
the extent that any provision of this section was amended by
the Provisional Ballot Fairness in Counting Act of 2007, such
provision shall apply with respect to the regularly scheduled
general election for Federal office held in November 2008 and
each succeeding election for Federal office.''. | Provisional Ballot Fairness in Counting Act of 2007 - Amends the Help America Vote Act of 2002 to revise requirements for the treatment of provisional ballots in federal elections.
Prohibits any election recount until all provisional votes have been counted. Requires the chief state election official, in determining whether to count a provisional vote, to review not only official registered voter lists but also any information an individual voter submitted during the registration process.
Requires a provisional ballot in a federal election to be treated as a voter registration application if it is rejected on the ground that the individual is not registered to vote in the election. | To amend the Help America Vote Act of 2002 to clarify the treatment of provisional ballots cast in elections for Federal office, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Medicare Diabetes Self-Management
Training Act of 2011''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress makes the following findings:
(1) Diabetes self-management training, also called diabetes
education, provides critical knowledge and skills training to
patients with diabetes, helping them manage medications,
address nutritional issues, facilitate diabetes related problem
solving, and make other critical lifestyle changes to
effectively manage their diabetes.
(2) A certified diabetes educator is a State licensed or
registered health care professional who specializes in helping
people with diabetes develop the self-management skills needed
to stay healthy and avoid costly acute complications and
emergency care, as well as debilitating secondary conditions
caused by diabetes.
(3) Diabetes self-management training has been proven
effective in helping to reduce the risks and complications of
diabetes and is a vital component of an overall diabetes
treatment regimen. Patients under the care of a certified
diabetes educator are better able to control their diabetes and
improve their health status.
(4) Lifestyle changes, such as those taught by certified
diabetes educators, directly contribute to better glycemic
control and reduced complications from diabetes. Evidence shows
that the potential for prevention of the most serious medical
complications caused by diabetes to be as high as 90 percent
(blindness), 85 percent (amputations), and 50 percent (heart
disease and stroke) with proper medical treatment and active
self-management.
(5) Despite its effectiveness in reducing diabetes related
complications and associated costs, diabetes self-management
training has been recognized by policymakers as an
underutilized Medicare benefit. Enhancing access to diabetes
self-management training programs that are taught by Certified
Diabetes Educators is an important public policy goal that can
help improve health outcomes, ensure quality, and reduce
escalating diabetes-related health costs.
SEC. 3. RECOGNITION OF CERTIFIED DIABETES EDUCATORS AS AUTHORIZED
PROVIDERS OF MEDICARE DIABETES OUTPATIENT SELF-MANAGEMENT
TRAINING SERVICES.
(a) In General.--Section 1861(qq) of the Social Security Act (42
U.S.C. 1395x(qq)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1), by striking ``by a certified provider
(as described in paragraph (2)(A)) in an outpatient setting''
and inserting ``in an outpatient setting by a certified
diabetes educator (as defined in paragraph (3)) or by a
certified provider (as described in paragraph (2)(A))''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following new paragraphs:
``(3) For purposes of paragraph (1), the term `certified diabetes
educator' means an individual who--
``(A) is licensed or registered by the State in which the
services are performed as a health care professional;
``(B) specializes in teaching individuals with diabetes to
develop the necessary skills and knowledge to manage the
individual's diabetic condition; and
``(C) is certified as a diabetes educator by a recognized
certifying body (as defined in paragraph (4)).
``(4) For purposes of paragraph (3)(C), the term `recognized
certifying body' means a certifying body for diabetes educators which
is recognized by the Secretary as authorized to grant certification of
diabetes educators for purposes of this subsection pursuant to
standards established by the Secretary.''.
(b) Treatment as a Practitioner, Including for Telehealth
Services.--Section 1842(b)(18)(C) of the such Act (42 U.S.C.
1395u(b)(18)(C)) is amended by adding at the end the following new
clause:
``(vii) A certified diabetes educator (as defined in
section 1861(qq)(3)).''.
(c) GAO Study and Report.--
(1) Study.--The Comptroller General of the United States
shall conduct a study to identify the barriers that exist for
Medicare beneficiaries with diabetes in accessing diabetes
self-management training services under the Medicare program,
including economic and geographic barriers and availability of
appropriate referrals and access to adequate and qualified
providers.
(2) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of the
enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United
States shall submit to Congress a report on the study conducted
under paragraph (1).
(d) AHRQ Development of Recommendations for Outreach Methods and
Report.--
(1) Development of recommendations.--The Director of the
Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality shall, through use
of a workshop and other appropriate means, develop a series of
recommendations on effective outreach methods to educate
primary care physicians and the public about the benefits of
diabetes self-management training in order to promote better
health outcomes for patients with diabetes.
(2) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of the
enactment of this Act, the Director of the Agency for
Healthcare Research and Quality shall submit to Congress a
report on the recommendations developed under paragraph (1).
(e) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to items and services furnished on or after January 1, 2013. | Medicare Diabetes Self-Management Training Act of 2011 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to recognize state-licensed or -registered health care professionals who are certified diabetes educators in an outpatient setting as authorized providers of Medicare diabetes outpatient self-management training services, including as part of telehealth services, under Medicare part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance).
Directs the Comptroller General to study the barriers that exist for Medicare beneficiaries with diabetes in accessing diabetes self-management training services under the Medicare program.
Directs the Director of the Agency for Health Care Research and Quality of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to develop a series of recommendations on effective outreach methods to educate primary care physicians and the public about the benefits of diabetes self-management training. | A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to improve access to diabetes self-management training by authorizing certified diabetes educators to provide diabetes self-management training services, including as part of telehealth services, under part B of the Medicare program. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as ``Department of Homeland Security
Financial Accountability Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress finds the following:
(1) Influential financial management leadership is of vital
importance to the mission success of the Department of Homeland
Security. For this reason, the Chief Financial Officer of the
Department must be a key figure in the Department's management.
(2) To provide a sound financial leadership structure, the
provisions of law enacted by the Chief Financial Officers Act of
1990 (Public Law 101-576) provide that the Chief Financial Officer
of each of the Federal executive departments is to be a
Presidential appointee who reports directly to the Secretary of
that department on financial management matters. Because the
Department of Homeland Security was only recently created, the
provisions enacted by that Act must be amended to include the
Department within these provisions.
(3) The Department of Homeland Security was created by
consolidation of 22 separate Federal agencies, each with its own
accounting and financial management system. None of these systems
was developed with a view to executing the mission of the
Department of Homeland Security to prevent terrorist attacks within
the United States, reduce the Nation's vulnerability to terrorism,
and minimize the damage and assist in the recovery from terrorist
attacks. For these reasons, a strong Chief Financial Officer is
needed within the Department both to consolidate financial
management operations, and to insure that management control
systems are comprehensively designed to achieve the mission and
execute the strategy of the Department.
(4) The provisions of law enacted by the Chief Financial
Officers Act of 1990 require agency Chief Financial Officers to
improve the financial information available to agency managers and
the Congress. Those provisions also specify that agency financial
management systems must provide for the systematic measurement of
performance. In the case of the Department of Homeland Security,
therefore, it is vitally important that management control systems
be designed with a clear view of a homeland security strategy,
including the priorities of the Department in addressing those
risks of terrorism deemed most significant based upon a
comprehensive assessment of potential threats, vulnerabilities,
criticality, and consequences. For this reason, Federal law should
be amended to clearly state the responsibilities of the Chief
Financial Officer of the Department of Homeland Security to provide
management control information, for the benefit of managers within
the Department and to help inform the Congress, that permits an
assessment of the Department's performance in executing a homeland
security strategy.
SEC. 3. CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER OF THE DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY.
(a) In General.--Section 901(b)(1) of title 31, United States Code,
is amended--
(1) by redesignating subparagraphs (G) through (P) as
subparagraphs (H) through (Q), respectively; and
(2) by inserting after subparagraph (F) the following:
``(G) The Department of Homeland Security.''.
(b) Appointment or Designation of CFO.--The President shall appoint
or designate a Chief Financial Officer of the Department of Homeland
Security under the amendment made by subsection (a) by not later than
180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act.
(c) Continued Service of Current Official.--An individual serving
as Chief Financial Officer of the Department of Homeland Security
immediately before the enactment of this Act, or another person who is
appointed to replace such an individual in an acting capacity after the
enactment of this Act, may continue to serve in that position until the
date of the confirmation or designation, as applicable (under section
901(a)(1)(B) of title 31, United States Code), of a successor under the
amendment made by subsection (a).
(d) Conforming Amendments.--
(1) Homeland security act of 2002.--The Homeland Security Act
of 2002 (Public Law 107-296) is amended--
(A) in section 103 (6 U.S.C. 113)--
(i) in subsection (d) by striking paragraph (4), and
redesignating paragraph (5) as paragraph (4);
(ii) by redesignating subsection (e) as subsection (f);
and
(iii) by inserting after subsection (d) the following:
``(e) Chief Financial Officer.--There shall be in the Department a
Chief Financial Officer, as provided in chapter 9 of title 31, United
States Code.''; and
(B) in section 702 (6 U.S.C. 342) by striking ``shall
report'' and all that follows through the period and inserting
``shall perform functions as specified in chapter 9 of title
31, United States Code, and, with respect to all such functions
and other responsibilities that may be assigned to the Chief
Financial Officer from time to time, shall also report to the
Under Secretary for Management.''.
(2) FEMA.--Section 901(b)(2) of title 31, United States Code,
is amended by striking subparagraph (B), and by redesignating
subparagraphs (C) through (H) in order as subparagraphs (B) through
(G).
SEC. 4. FUNCTIONS OF CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER OF THE DEPARTMENT OF
HOMELAND SECURITY.
(a) Performance and Accountability Reports.--Section 3516 of title
31, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(f) The Secretary of Homeland Security--
``(1) shall for each fiscal year submit a performance and
accountability report under subsection (a) that incorporates the
program performance report under section 1116 of this title for the
Department of Homeland Security;
``(2) shall include in each performance and accountability
report an audit opinion of the Department's internal controls over
its financial reporting; and
``(3) shall design and implement Department-wide management
controls that--
``(A) reflect the most recent homeland security strategy
developed pursuant to section 874(b)(2) of the Homeland
Security Act of 2002; and
``(B) permit assessment, by the Congress and by managers
within the Department, of the Department's performance in
executing such strategy.''.
(b) Implementation of Audit Opinion Requirement.--The Secretary of
Homeland Security shall include audit opinions in performance and
accountability reports under section 3516(f) of title 31, United States
Code, as amended by subsection (a), only for fiscal years after fiscal
year 2005.
(c) Assertion of Internal Controls.--The Secretary of Homeland
Security shall include in the performance and accountability report for
fiscal year 2005 submitted by the Secretary under section 3516(f) of
title 31, United States Code, an assertion of the internal controls
that apply to financial reporting by the Department of Homeland
Security.
(d) Audit Opinions of Internal Controls Over Financial Reporting by
Chief Financial Officer Agencies.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the
enactment of this Act, the Chief Financial Officers Council and the
President's Council on Integrity and Efficiency established by
Executive Order 12805 of May 11, 1992, shall jointly conduct a
study of the potential costs and benefits of requiring the agencies
listed in section 901(b) of title 31, United States Code, to obtain
audit opinions of their internal controls over their financial
reporting.
(2) Report.--Upon completion of the study under paragraph (1),
the Chief Financial Officers Council and the President's Council on
Integrity and Efficiency shall promptly submit a report on the
results of the study to the Committee on Government Reform of the
House of Representatives, the Committee on Governmental Affairs of
the Senate, and the Comptroller General of the United States.
(3) General accounting office analysis.--Not later than 90 days
after receiving the report under paragraph (2), the Comptroller
General shall perform an analysis of the information provided in
the report and report the findings of the analysis to the
committees referred to in paragraph (2).
SEC. 5. FUTURE YEARS HOMELAND SECURITY PROGRAM AND HOMELAND SECURITY
STRATEGY.
Section 874 of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 112) is
amended by striking subsection (b) and inserting the following:
``(b) Contents.--The Future Years Homeland Security Program under
subsection (a) shall--
``(1) include the same type of information, organizational
structure, and level of detail as the future years defense program
submitted to Congress by the Secretary of Defense under section 221
of title 10, United States Code;
``(2) set forth the homeland security strategy of the
Department, which shall be developed and updated as appropriate
annually by the Secretary, that was used to develop program
planning guidance for the Future Years Homeland Security Program;
and
``(3) include an explanation of how the resource allocations
included in the Future Years Homeland Security Program correlate to
the homeland security strategy set forth under paragraph (2).''.
SEC. 6. ESTABLISHMENT OF OFFICE OF PROGRAM ANALYSIS AND EVALUATION.
Section 702 of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 342) is
amended by--
(1) inserting ``(a) In General.--'' before the first sentence;
and
(2) adding at the end the following:
``(b) Program Analysis and Evaluation Function.--
``(1) Establishment of office of program analysis and
evaluation.--Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of
this subsection, the Secretary shall establish an Office of Program
Analysis and Evaluation within the Department (in this section
referred to as the `Office').
``(2) Responsibilities.--The Office shall perform the following
functions:
``(A) Analyze and evaluate plans, programs, and budgets of
the Department in relation to United States homeland security
objectives, projected threats, vulnerability assessments,
estimated costs, resource constraints, and the most recent
homeland security strategy developed pursuant to section
874(b)(2).
``(B) Develop and perform analyses and evaluations of
alternative plans, programs, personnel levels, and budget
submissions for the Department in relation to United States
homeland security objectives, projected threats, vulnerability
assessments, estimated costs, resource constraints, and the
most recent homeland security strategy developed pursuant to
section 874(b)(2).
``(C) Establish policies for, and oversee the integration
of, the planning, programming, and budgeting system of the
Department.
``(D) Review and ensure that the Department meets
performance-based budget requirements established by the Office
of Management and Budget.
``(E) Provide guidance for, and oversee the development of,
the Future Years Homeland Security Program of the Department,
as specified under section 874.
``(F) Ensure that the costs of Department programs,
including classified programs, are presented accurately and
completely.
``(G) Oversee the preparation of the annual performance
plan for the Department and the program and performance section
of the annual report on program performance for the Department,
consistent with sections 1115 and 1116, respectively, of title
31, United States Code.
``(H) Provide leadership in developing and promoting
improved analytical tools and methods for analyzing homeland
security planning and the allocation of resources.
``(I) Any other responsibilities delegated by the Secretary
consistent with an effective program analysis and evaluation
function.
``(3) Director of program analysis and evaluation.--There shall
be a Director of Program Analysis and Evaluation, who--
``(A) shall be a principal staff assistant to the Chief
Financial Officer of the Department for program analysis and
evaluation; and
``(B) shall report to an official no lower than the Chief
Financial Officer.
``(4) Reorganization.--
``(A) In general.--The Secretary may allocate or reallocate
the functions of the Office, or discontinue the Office, in
accordance with section 872(a).
``(B) Exemption from limitations.--Section 872(b) shall not
apply to any action by the Secretary under this paragraph.''.
SEC. 7. NOTIFICATION REGARDING TRANSFER OR REPROGRAMMING OF FUNDS FOR
DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY.
Section 702 of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 342) is
further amended by adding at the end the following:
``(c) Notification Regarding Transfer or Reprogramming of Funds.--
In any case in which appropriations available to the Department or any
officer of the Department are transferred or reprogrammed and notice of
such transfer or reprogramming is submitted to the Congress (including
any officer, office, or Committee of the Congress), the Chief Financial
Officer of the Department shall simultaneously submit such notice to
the Select Committee on Homeland Security (or any successor to the
jurisdiction of that committee) and the Committee on Government Reform
of the House of Representatives, and to the Committee on Governmental
Affairs of the Senate.''.
Speaker of the House of Representatives.
Vice President of the United States and
President of the Senate. | Department of Homeland Security Financial Accountability Act - (Sec. 3) Amends the Chief Financial Officer Act of 1990 and the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to direct the President to appoint a Chief Financial Officer (CFO) for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), who is to report directly to the Secretary of DHS and to the Under Secretary for Management.
Removes the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) from the list of agencies required to have a CFO.
(Sec. 4) Amends the Reports Consolidation Act of 2000 to instruct the Secretary of DHS to: (1) submit a specified performance and accountability report, including an audit opinion of DHS internal controls over its financial reporting; and (3) design and implement DHS-wide management controls that reflect the national homeland security strategy of the Homeland Security Act of 2002, and that permit assessment by Congress and DHS managers of DHS performance in executing such strategy.
Requires performance and accountability reports for fiscal years after 2005 to include an assertion of the internal controls that apply to financial reporting by the DHS.
(Sec. 5) Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to require the Future Years Homeland Security Program to: (1) include the same type of information, organizational structure, and level of detail as a certain future years defense program; (2) set forth the homeland security strategy that was used to develop program planning guidance for the Program; and (3) include an explanation of how the resource allocations included in the Program correlate to homeland security strategy.
(Sec. 6) Instructs the Secretary to establish an Office of Program Analysis and Evaluation. Creates the position of Director of Program Analysis and Evaluation.
(Sec. 7) Requires the CFO of DHS to notify simultaneously specified congressional committees whenever appropriations earmarked for DHS are either transferred or reprogrammed. | To amend title 31, United States Code, to improve the financial accountability requirements applicable to the Department of Homeland Security, to establish requirements for the Future Years Homeland Security Program of the Department, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Oil Pollution Wildlife Protection
Act''.
SEC. 2. NOTICE OF EXPLORATION AND DEVELOPMENT AND PRODUCTION PLANS.
(a) Notice of Exploration Plans.--Section 11 of the Outer
Continental Shelf Lands Act (43 U.S.C. 1340) is amended by adding at
the end the following:
``(i) Public Notice.--
``(1) The Secretary shall promptly publish notice in the
Federal Register of the receipt of any application or plan
submitted to the Secretary pursuant to this section, and make
electronically available to the public any such applications or
plans, except any information that the Secretary determines to
be proprietary.
``(2) The Secretary shall promptly publish notice in the
Federal Register of the Secretary's decision to approve, deny,
or modify any application or plan submitted to the Secretary
pursuant to this section.''.
(b) Notice of Development and Production Plans.--Section 25 of the
Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (43 U.S.C. 1351) is amended by adding
at the end the following:
``(m) Public Notice.--
``(1) The Secretary shall promptly publish notice in the
Federal Register of the receipt of any application or plan
submitted to the Secretary pursuant to this section, and make
electronically available to the public any such applications or
plans, except any information that the Secretary determines to
be proprietary.
``(2) The Secretary shall promptly publish notice in the
Federal Register of the Secretary's decision to approve, deny,
or modify any plan submitted to the Secretary pursuant to this
section.''.
SEC. 3. APPLICATION OF DEVELOPMENT AND PRODUCTION PLAN REQUIREMENTS IN
THE GULF OF MEXICO.
Section 25 of the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (43 U.S.C.
1351) is amended--
(1) by striking ``other than the Gulf of Mexico,'' each
place it appears; and
(2) by striking subsection (l).
SEC. 4. ENSURING COMPLIANCE WITH OTHER LAWS.
(a) Exploration Plans.--Section 11 of the Outer Continental Shelf
Lands Act (43 U.S.C. 1340) is further amended by adding at the end the
following:
``(j) Certification of Compliance With Other Statutes.--
``(1) In general.--The Secretary shall not approve any
exploration plan or significant revision of an exploration
plan, or grant any license or permit under this section, unless
the Secretary certifies that--
``(A) such plan, approval, permit, or license is in
compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act
(42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.), Endangered Species Act (16
U.S.C. 1531 et seq.), Marine Mammal Protection Act (16
U.S.C. 1361 et seq.), Magnuson-Stevens Fisheries
Conservation and Management Act (16 U.S.C. 1801 et
seq.), Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.),
Coastal Zone Management Act (16 U.S.C. 1451 et seq.),
and any other applicable statutes, regulations, and
legal authorities; and
``(B) all permits and other authorizations required
under such statutes, regulations, and legal authorities
have been issued for activities to be conducted under
such plan, approval, permit, or license.
``(2) Prior consultation required.--Prior to making such
certification, the Secretary shall consult with any Federal
agency that has jurisdiction by law with respect to those Acts,
regulations, and authorities.''.
(b) Development and Production Plans.--Section 25 of the Outer
Continental Shelf Lands Act (43 U.S.C. 1351) is further amended by
adding at the end the following:
``(n) Certification of Compliance With Other Statutes.--
``(1) In general.--The Secretary shall not approve any
development and production plan, or a significant revision of a
development and production plan, unless the Secretary certifies
that--
``(A) such plan, approval, permit, or license is in
compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act
(42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.), Endangered Species Act (16
U.S.C. 1531 et seq.), Marine Mammal Protection Act (16
U.S.C. 1361 et seq.), Magnuson-Stevens Fisheries
Conservation and Management Act (16 U.S.C. 1801 et
seq.), Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.),
Coastal Zone Management Act (16 U.S.C. 1451 et seq.),
and any other applicable law and regulations; and
``(B) all permits and other authorizations required
under such statutes, regulations, and legal authorities
have been issued for activities to be conducted under
such plan, approval, permit, or license.
``(2) Prior consultation required.--Prior to making such
certification, the Secretary shall consult with any Federal
agency that has jurisdiction by law with respect to those Acts
or other applicable law and regulations.''.
SEC. 5. CONSULTATION REQUIREMENTS FOR ENDANGERED SPECIES AND FISHERIES.
Section 19 of the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (43 U.S.C.
1346) is amended--
(1) by striking so much as precedes subsection (a) and
inserting the following:
``SEC. 19. CONSULTATION REQUIREMENTS.'';
and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(f) Consultation Requirements for Endangered Species and
Fisheries.--The Secretary shall treat the notice of any lease sale, and
the approval of any leasing program, exploration plan or permit,
development and production plan, or development operation coordination
document, or the significant revision of such a program, plan, permit,
or document, as an agency action requiring consultation--
``(1) with the Secretary of Commerce or of the Interior
pursuant to section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (16
U.S.C. 1536) for any listed species that occur in the proposed
area of activity; and
``(2) with the Secretary of Commerce pursuant to section
305(b) of the Magnuson-Stevens Fisheries Conservation and
Management Act (16 U.S.C. 1855(b)).''.
SEC. 6. CUMULATIVE IMPACTS ON MARINE MAMMAL SPECIES AND STOCKS AND
SUBSISTENCE USE.
Section 20 of the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (43 U.S.C.
1346) is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(g) Cumulative Impacts on Marine Mammal Species and Stocks and
Subsistence Use.--In determining, pursuant to subparagraphs (A)(i) and
(D)(i) of section 101(a)(5) of the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972
(16 U.S.C. 1371(a)(5)), whether takings from specified activities
administered under this title will have a negligible impact on a marine
mammal species or stock, and not have an unmitigable adverse impact on
the availability of such species or stock for taking for subsistence
uses, the Secretary of Commerce or Interior shall incorporate any
takings of such species or stock from any other reasonably foreseeable
activities administered under this Act.''.
SEC. 7. CITIZEN SUITS.
(a) Additional Authority To Bring Action Under Other Statutes.--
Section 23 of the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (43 U.S.C. 1349) is
amended by adding at the end the following:
``(d) Additional Authority To Bring Action Under Other Statutes.--
``(1) Authority.--In addition to remedies available under
other laws, any person may commence a civil action on the
person's own behalf, against the United States and any other
subject instrumentality or agency that is alleged to have
approved a leasing program, lease sale, exploration plan or
permit, or development and production plan, under section 18,
8, 10, or 25, respectively--
``(A) without having prepared an environmental
impact statement or environmental assessment pursuant
to section 102(2)(C) of the National Environmental
Policy Act 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4332), consulted with the
Secretary of Commerce or Secretary of the Interior
pursuant to section 7 of the Endangered Species Act
1973 (16 U.S.C. 1536), or consulted with the Secretary
of Commerce pursuant to section 305 of the Magnuson-
Stevens Fisheries Conservation and Management Act (16
U.S.C. 1855); or
``(B) without having complied with any other
provision of such statutes, the provisions of Act this
related to such statutes, or any regulation
implementing or issued under their authority of such
statutes.
``(2) Marine mammal protection act of 1972.--
``(A) In general.--In addition to remedies
available under other laws, any person may commence a
civil action on the person's own behalf to enjoin any
person who is alleged--
``(i) to have failed to obtain proper
authorization, pursuant to subparagraphs (A)
and (D) of section 101(a)(5) of the Marine
Mammal Protection Act of 1972 (16 U.S.C.
1371(a)(5)), prior to commencing an activity
that may take a marine mammal in exploration,
development, or production activities
administered under this Act; or
``(ii) to be in violation of any other
provision of the Marine Mammal Protection Act
of 1972 (16 U.S.C. 1361 et seq.), or any
regulation issued under the authority thereof,
with respect to exploration, development, or
production activities administered under this
Act.
``(B) Intervention; award of costs.--In any action
under this paragraph--
``(i) the Attorney General, at the request
of the Secretary or of the Secretary of
Commerce, may intervene on behalf of the United
States as a matter of right; and
``(ii) the court, in issuing any final
order, may award costs of litigation (including
reasonable attorney and expert witness fees) to
any party, whenever the court determines such
award is appropriate.''.
(b) Time To Bring Action.--Section 23(a) of the Outer Continental
Shelf Lands Act (43 U.S.C. 1349(a)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (2)(A)--
(A) by striking ``sixty days after the plaintiff
has given'' and inserting ``the plaintiff giving''; and
(B) by striking ``under oath''; and
(2) by striking paragraph (3) and redesignating paragraphs
(4) through (6) as paragraphs (3) through (5), respectively.
(c) Review of Approval of Leasing Program and Approval,
Modification, or Disapproval of Plans.--Section 23(c) of the Outer
Continental Shelf Lands Act (43 U.S.C. 1349(c))--
(1) in paragraph (1), by inserting after ``District of
Columbia'' the following: ``or in a United States court of
appeals for a circuit in which an affected State is located'';
(2) in paragraph (3)--
(A) by striking ``paragraphs (1) and (2)'' and
inserting ``paragraph (1)''; and
(B) by striking ``sixty'' and inserting ``90'';
(3) in paragraph (5), by striking ``involved'' and
inserting ``specified in paragraph (1)''; and
(4) in paragraph (6), by striking the sentence beginning
``The findings of the Secretary''.
(d) Nonrestriction Clause.--Nothing in this section shall restrict
any right that any person (or class of persons) may have under any
other statute or under common law to seek enforcement of such statute
or to seek any other relief (including relief against the Secretary or
other persons). | Oil Pollution Wildlife Protection Act - Amends the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (OCSLA) to direct the Secretary of Energy (DOE) to publish in the Federal Register and make electronically available to the public the Secretary's decision to approve, deny, or modify any geological and geophysical exploration, development, or production plans.
Repeals the exemption of the Gulf of Mexico from oil and gas development and production requirements for the outer Continental Shelf (OCS).
Prohibits the Secretary from approving any geological and geophysical exploration, development, or production plan, or any significant plan revision, or from granting any license or permit unless the Secretary certifies that: (1) such plan is in compliance with specified statutes, regulations, and legal authorities; and (2) all requisite authorizations have been issued for activities to be conducted under the plan.
Requires the Secretary to consult with the Secretaries of Commerce or of the Interior regarding any endangered species or fisheries that occur in the proposed area of activity.
Requires the Secretaries of Commerce or of the Interior to incorporate in environmental studies of areas or regions included in an oil and gas lease sale or other lease any takings of marine mammal species or stock from any other reasonably foreseeable activities when determining whether takings from specified OCSLA activities will have a negligible impact on a marine mammal species or stock, and not have an unmitigable adverse impact on the availability of such species or stock for taking for subsistence uses.
Permits citizen suits against the United States and any other subject instrumentality or agency that is alleged to have approved a leasing program, lease sale, exploration plan or permit, or development and production plan, without having prepared an environmental impact statement or environmental assessment, or without having complied with other related requirements.
Authorizes a person to commence a civil action on the person's own behalf to enjoin any person alleged to have failed to obtain proper authorization pursuant to the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972. | To amend the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act with regard to oversight and judicial review in connection with offshore oil production and exploration, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Investing in America's Small
Businesses Act of 2017''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
The Congress finds the following:
(1) Small businesses in underserved areas have for
generations been unable to access affordable credit.
(2) A 2013 report commissioned by the U.S. Small Business
Administration shows the major constraint limiting the growth,
expansion, and wealth creation of small firms--especially
women- and minority-owned businesses--is inadequate capital.
(3) Small businesses revitalize communities by creating
jobs, and also contribute to the local tax base, which helps
finance investments in schools, hospitals, infrastructure, and
public safety.
(4) A 2015 report from the Carsey School of Public Policy
at the University of New Hampshire found that 79 percent of
CDFI loan volume went to borrowers from underserved
populations.
(5) During the financial crisis, CDFI loan funds expanded
their activity to meet increased demand from borrowers that
could not access traditional lending. From 2006 to 2009, the
median fund deployment ratio grew 3.1 percent annually.
(6) After Superstorm Sandy, CDFIs launched disaster
recovery loan programs and reached out to affected businesses
and organizations to provide credit to help grocery stores and
social service organizations re-open to help communities in
need.
(7) A 2014 report by the Dardin School of Business at the
University of Virginia found that despite serving predominately
low-income markets, CDFI banks and credit unions had virtually
the same level of performance as mainstream financial
institutions.
SEC. 3. GRANTS TO ESTABLISH LOAN-LOSS RESERVE FUNDS FOR SMALL BUSINESS
LENDING.
(a) In General.--The Community Development Banking and Financial
Institutions Act of 1994 (12 U.S.C. 4701 et seq.) is amended by adding
at the end the following:
``SEC. 123. GRANTS TO ESTABLISH LOAN-LOSS RESERVE FUNDS FOR SMALL
BUSINESS LENDING.
``(a) Purposes.--The purposes of this section are--
``(1) to make financial assistance available from the Fund
in order to help community development financial institutions
defray the costs of operating small business loan programs, by
providing the amounts necessary for such institutions to
establish their own loan loss reserve funds to mitigate some of
the losses on such small business loan programs;
``(2) to encourage community development financial
institutions to establish and maintain small business loan
programs that would help provide borrowers access to mainstream
financial institutions and combat high cost small business
lending; and
``(3) to encourage community development financial
institutions to expand the development services they offer and
to serve new investment areas and new targeted populations.
``(b) Grants.--
``(1) Loan-loss reserve fund grants.--
``(A) In general.--The Fund shall make grants to
community development financial institutions to enable
such institutions to establish a loan-loss reserve fund
in order to defray the costs of a small business loan
program established or maintained by such institution.
``(B) Application.--A community development
financial institution that wishes to receive a grant
under this paragraph shall submit an application to the
Administrator in such form and manner and containing
such information as the Administrator may require.
``(C) Matching requirement.--A community
development financial institution shall provide non-
Federal matching funds in an amount equal to 50 percent
of the amount of any grant received under this
paragraph.
``(D) Use of funds.--Any grant amounts received by
a community development financial institution under
this paragraph--
``(i) may not be used by such institution
to provide direct loans to small businesses;
``(ii) may be used by such institution to
help recapture a portion or all of a defaulted
loan made under the small business loan program
of such institution on or after the date of the
enactment of this section; and
``(iii) may be used to designate and
utilize a fiscal agent for services normally
provided by such an agent.
``(2) Technical assistance grants.--
``(A) In general.--The Fund shall make technical
assistance grants to community development financial
institutions to create, support, or maintain a small
business loan program. Any grant amounts received under
this paragraph may be used for--
``(i) technology, staff support, staff
capacity building, and other costs associated
with establishing, supporting, or maintaining a
small business loan program; and
``(ii) establishing, supporting, or
maintaining technical assistance programs for
borrowers.
``(B) Application.--A community development
financial institution that wishes to receive a grant
under this paragraph shall submit an application to the
Administrator in such form and manner and containing
such information as the Administrator may require.
``(c) Reports.--For each fiscal year for which grants are made
under this section, the Administrator shall submit a report to the
Committee on Financial Services of the House of Representatives and the
Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs of the Senate
containing a description of the activities funded and amounts
distributed under this section for such fiscal year, as well as
measurable results of such actions.
``(d) Authorization of Appropriations.--
``(1) In general.--There are authorized to be appropriated
to the Fund $25,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2018 to 2023
to carry out this section.
``(2) Administrative costs.--There are authorized to be
appropriated to the Fund $2,000,000 for each of fiscal years
2018 to 2023 for the administrative costs of carrying out this
section.
``(e) Definitions.--For purposes of this section:
``(1) Small business.--The term `small business' has the
meaning given the term `small business concern' under section
3(a) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 632(a)).
``(2) Small business loan program.--The term `small
business loan program' means a loan program wherein a community
development financial institution offers loans to small
businesses that--
``(A) are made in amounts not exceeding $50,000;
``(B) have no pre-payment penalty; and
``(C) meet any other affordability requirements as
may be established by the Administrator.''.
(b) Conforming Amendment.--The table of contents for the Riegle
Community Development and Regulatory Improvement Act of 1994 is amended
by inserting after the item relating to section 121 the following:
``Sec. 122. Grants to establish loan-loss reserve funds.
``Sec. 123. Grants to establish loan-loss reserve funds for small
business lending.''. | Investing in America's Small Businesses Act of 2017 This bill amends the Community Development Banking and Financial Institutions Act of 1994 to require the Community Development Financial Institutions Fund to make grants to community development financial institutions for: (1) the establishment of loan-loss reserve funds to defray the costs of small business lending, and (2) related technical assistance. A community development financial institution must provide nonfederal matching funds equal to 50% of the amount of any grant received. A grantee may not use grant funds to make direct loans to small businesses. | Investing in America’s Small Businesses Act of 2017 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``FBI Reform Commission Act of 2001''.
SEC. 2. CREATION OF THE FBI REVIEW COMMISSION.
(a) Establishment.--There is established the FBI Review Commission
(in this Act referred to as the ``Commission'').
(b) Mission Statement.--
(1) In general.--The mission of the Commission shall be to
conduct a thorough, independent, and comprehensive examination
of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (in this Act referred to
as the ``FBI'').
(2) Focus.--The Commission shall focus its examination on--
(A) systemic and structural aspects of the FBI;
(B) the FBI's relationship with other law
enforcement entities; and
(C) recommendations for improving the performance
of the FBI.
(c) Membership and Administrative Provisions.--
(1) Number and appointment.--The Commission shall be
composed of 12 members of whom--
(A) 2 members shall be appointed by the Majority
Leader of the Senate;
(B) 2 members shall be appointed by the Minority
Leader of the Senate;
(C) 2 members shall be appointed by the Speaker of
the House of Representatives;
(D) 2 members shall be appointed by the Minority
Leader of the House of Representatives; and
(E) 4 members shall be appointed by the President,
including 1 who shall serve as the Chair of the
Commission.
(2) Qualifications.--Members of the Commission shall be--
(A) chosen on the basis of expertise in law
enforcement and management, integrity, impartiality,
and good judgment; and
(B) individuals who are not, at the time appointed
to the Commission, elected or appointed officers or
employees of the Federal Government.
(3) Balance.--The Commission shall reflect, to the maximum
extent possible, fair and equitable representation of various
points of view with respect to the matters to be studied by the
Commission under subsection (d)(1).
(4) Terms of appointment.--
(A) Date.--Members of the Commission shall be
appointed not later than 30 days after the date of
enactment of this Act.
(B) Terms.--Each member of the Commission shall be
appointed for the life of the Commission.
(C) Vacancies.--A vacancy in the Commission shall
not affect its powers, but shall be filled in the same
manner as the original member was appointed.
(5) Meetings.--
(A) In general.--The Commission shall meet at the
call of the Chair.
(B) Initial meeting.--Not later than 30 days after
the date on which all of the members of the Commission
have been appointed, the Commission shall hold its
first meeting.
(C) Quorum.--A majority of the members of the
Commission shall constitute a quorum, but a lesser
number of members may hold meetings.
(d) Duties.--
(1) Study.--The Commission shall complete a thorough study
and review of--
(A) the methods used by the FBI to store and
securely maintain information, including--
(i) any methods of securing information
from theft and inadvertent release;
(ii) the efficacy of information systems
used to gather and maintain information; and
(iii) any practices and procedures
governing the classification and
declassification of information;
(B) the manner in which the FBI trains and monitors
personnel, including--
(i) any methods of ensuring compliance with
relevant laws, regulations, and FBI procedures;
(ii) any methods of holding FBI agents
accountable for wrongdoing;
(iii) the treatment of FBI agents and
employees who report wrongdoing in the FBI;
(iv) any training and monitoring regarding
the handling of information; and
(v) any training and monitoring regarding
the use of deadly force;
(C) the manner in which the FBI initiates,
organizes, coordinates, and conducts investigations;
(D) the allocation of the FBI's resources and the
manner in which resource allocation decisions are made
and reviewed;
(E) the FBI's interaction with State and other
Federal law enforcement agencies;
(F) the efficacy of external and internal FBI
oversight mechanisms;
(G) the advisability of altering the FBI's current
structure and organization; and
(H) such other matters as the Commission determines
appropriate.
(2) Recommendations.--After completing the study under
paragraph (1), the Commission shall develop recommendations
regarding each matter studied, including recommendations--
(A) of any actions Congress should take to address
the Commission's findings;
(B) of any actions the FBI should take to address
the Commission's findings; and
(C) for further study, examination, or action by
Congress, the FBI, or any other relevant entity.
(3) Advice, assistance, and testimony.--To carry out the
study under paragraph (1) and to develop the recommendations
under paragraph (2), the Commission shall solicit advice,
assistance, and experts in the areas of--
(A) information security;
(B) business management and organization;
(C) Federal law enforcement agencies;
(D) State and local law enforcement;
(E) foreign and domestic intelligence; and
(F) any other areas determined relevant by the
Commission.
(4) Report.--
(A) Final report.--
(i) In general.--Not later than 9 months
after the date on which all of the members of
the Commission have been appointed, the
Commission shall submit a final report to
Congress, the FBI, and the Attorney General.
(ii) Contents.--The report under clause (i)
shall contain--
(I) a detailed statement of the
findings and conclusions of the
Commission regarding the matters
studied under paragraph (1);
(II) a detailed statement of the
recommendations developed under
paragraph (2); and
(III) any dissenting or minority
opinions of the members of the
Commission.
(B) Interim reports.--
(i) In general.--The Commission may
determine whether any matter to be studied
under paragraph (1) or any recommendation
developed under paragraph (2), shall be the
subject of an interim report to be submitted
before the submission of the final report
required under subparagraph (A).
(ii) Submission of interim reports.--Any
interim reports prepared under clause (i) shall
be submitted to--
(I) Congress;
(II) the FBI;
(III) the Attorney General; and
(IV) any other individual or
organization determined relevant by the
Commission.
(C) Accessibility.--
(i) In general.--Both the final report
required under subparagraph (A) and any interim
reports prepared under subparagraph (B), shall
be accessible to members of the general public
and to government officials to the greatest
extent possible without compromising national
security, the health or safety of an
individual, or the integrity of an ongoing
investigation.
(ii) Confidentiality.--The Commission may
designate portions of any report prepared under
this paragraph confidential to ensure national
security, the health or safety of an
individual, or the integrity of an ongoing
investigation.
(e) Powers of the Commission.--
(1) Hearings.--
(A) In general.--The Commission may hold hearings,
sit and act at times and places, take testimony, and
receive evidence as the Commission considers
appropriate to carry out this Act.
(B) Oaths and affirmations.--The Commission may
administer oaths or affirmations to witnesses appearing
before it.
(C) Rules and procedures.--The Commission may
establish rules and procedures governing its
proceedings as consistent with this Act.
(D) Accessibility.--
(i) In general.--Any hearing held by the
Commission shall be open to the public.
(ii) Closed hearings.--The Commission may
decide to close to the public any hearing when
necessary to protect national security, the
health and safety of an individual, or the
integrity of an ongoing investigation.
(2) Powers of members and agents.--Any member or agent of
the Commission may, if authorized by the Commission, take any
action this Act authorizes the Commission to take.
(3) Information from federal agencies.--
(A) In general.--The Commission may secure directly
from any Federal department or agency such information
as the Commission considers necessary to carry out this Act.
(B) Furnishing information.--Upon request of the
Chair of the Commission, the head of that department or
agency shall furnish the information under subparagraph
(A) to the Commission, unless so doing would threaten
national security, the health or safety of an
individual, or the integrity of an ongoing
investigation.
(f) Commission Personnel Matters.--
(1) Compensation of members.--Each member of the Commission
shall be compensated at a rate equal to the daily equivalent of
the annual rate of basic pay prescribed for level IV of the
Executive Schedule under section 5315 of title 5, United States
Code, for each day (including travel time) during which such
member is engaged in the performance of the duties of the
Commission.
(2) Travel expenses.--The members of the Commission shall
be allowed travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of
subsistence, at rates authorized for employees of agencies
under subchapter I of chapter 57 of title 5, United States
Code, while away from their homes or regular places of business
in the performance of services for the Commission.
(3) Administrative support services.--Upon request of the
Commission, the Administrator of General Services shall provide
to the Commission, on a reimbursable basis, the administrative
support services necessary for the Commission to carry out its
responsibilities under this Act.
(4) Staff.--
(A) In general.--The Commission may, without regard
to the provisions of title 5, United States Code,
governing appointments in the competitive service,
appoint and terminate an executive director and such
other additional personnel as may be necessary to
enable the Commission to perform its duties. The
employment of an executive director shall be subject to
confirmation by the Commission.
(B) Compensation.--The Commission may fix the
compensation of the executive director and other
personnel without regard to chapter 51, and subchapter
III of chapter 53 of title 5, United States Code,
relating to classification of positions and General
Schedule pay rates, except that the rate of pay for the
executive director and other personnel may not exceed
the rate payable for level V of the Executive Schedule
under section 5316 of title 5, United States Code.
(5) Detail of government employees.--Any Federal Government
employee may be detailed to the Commission without
reimbursement, and such detail shall be without interruption or
loss of civil service status or privilege.
(6) Procurement of temporary and intermittent services.--
The Commission may procure temporary and intermittent services
under section 3109(b) of title 5, United States Code, at rates
for individuals which do not exceed the daily equivalent of the
annual rate of basic pay prescribed for level V of the
Executive Schedule under section 5316 of title 5, United States
Code.
(g) Termination.--The Commission shall terminate 30 days after
submitting the final report required under subsection (d)(4)(A).
(h) Authorization of Appropriations.--
(1) Authorization.--There are authorized to be appropriated
such sums as may be necessary to carry out this Act.
(2) Appropriated funds to remain available.--Any funds
appropriated to carry out this Act shall remain available,
without fiscal year limitation, until expended. | FBI Reform Commission Act of 2001 - Establishes the FBI Review Commission to: (1) examine the systemic and structural aspects of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), as well as the FBI's relationship with other law enforcement entities; (2) make recommendations for improving the FBI's performance and (3) undertake related reviews and studies. | A bill to establish a commission to review the Federal Bureau of Investigation. |
SECTION 1. LIMITATION IN COST-OF-LIVING ADJUSTMENTS FOR CERTAIN
RETIREMENT SYSTEMS.
(a) Social Security.--
(1) Reduction in increases applied to higher primary
insurance amounts.--Section 215(i)(2)(A) of the Social Security
Act (42 U.S.C. 415(i)(2)(A)) is amended--
(A) by redesignating clause (iii) as clause (vii);
and
(B) in clause (ii), by striking ``The increase
shall'' in the matter following subclause (III) and all
that follows through ``Any increase'' and inserting the
following:
``(iii) With respect to the amounts described in subclauses (I) and
(III) of clause (ii), the increase shall be derived by multiplying each
of such amounts (including each of those amounts as previously
increased under this subparagraph) by the applicable increase
percentage.
``(iv) With respect to primary insurance amounts described in
subclause (II) of clause (ii), the increase shall be derived by--
``(I) multiplying each of such amounts (including each such
amount as previously increased under this subparagraph) by the
applicable increase percentage,
``(II) determining among all such amounts as increased
under subclause (I) the primary insurance amount which is at
the 30th percentile of such amounts, and
``(III) reducing each primary insurance amount as increased
under subclause (I) to the sum of such amount determined as if
there had been no reduction in such amount under this subclause
in any preceding year and the amount of the increase under
subclause (I) in the primary insurance amount described in
subclause (II).
``(v) Any amount increased under clause (iii) or clause (iv) which
is not a multiple of $0.10 shall be decreased to the next lower
multiple of $0.10.
``(vi) Any increase''.
(2) Conforming amendment.--The last sentence of section
215(a)(4) of such Act (42 U.S.C. 415(a)(4)) is amended, in
subclause (I), by striking ``clause (iii) of subsection
(i)(2)(A)'' and inserting ``clause (vii) of subsection
(i)(2)(A)''.
(3) Conforming amendments to maintain current levels of
cost-of-living adjustment under other programs.--
(A) Supplemental security income for the aged,
blind, and disabled.--Section 1617(a)(2) of the Social
Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1382f(a)(2)) is amended by
striking ``by the same percentage'' and all that
follows through ``percentage,'' and inserting the
following: ``by the applicable increase percentage
(within the meaning of section 215(i)(1)(C)) used in
determining the amount by which benefit amounts under
title II are increased for such month''.
(B) Supplementary medical insurance.--Section
1839(a)(3)(B) of such Act (42 U.S.C. 1395r(a)(3)(B)) is
amended by striking ``by a percentage'' and all that
follows through ``November 1'' and inserting the
following: ``by the applicable increase percentage
(within the meaning of section 215(i)(1)(C)) used in
determining the amount by which benefit amounts under
title II are increased for the month of December
preceding the year of the promulgation''.
(C) Certain veteran's benefits.--Section 3112 of
title 38, United States Code, is amended--
(i) in subsection (a), by striking ``by the
same percentage by which such benefit amounts
are increased'' and inserting ``by the
applicable increase percentage (within the
meaning of section 215(i)(1)(C) of such Act)
used in determining the amount by which such
benefit amounts are increased''; and
(ii) in subsection (b)(1), by striking ``by
the same percentage as the percentage by which
such benefit amounts are increased'' and
inserting ``by the applicable increase
percentage (within the meaning of section
215(i)(1)(C) of such Act) used in determining
the amount by which such benefit amounts are
increased''.
(D) Cost-of-living adjustments to limitations on
benefits and contributions under qualified plans.--
Subsection (d) of section 415 of the Internal Revenue
Code of 1986 (relating to cost-of-living adjustments)
is amended by striking ``section 215(i)(2)(A)'' and
inserting ``section 215(i)(2)(A)(iii)''.
(4) Amendment to prior applicable law.--Section 215(i)(4)
of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 415(i)(4)) is amended by
adding at the end the following new sentence: ``The Secretary
shall provide by regulation for the continued application of
this subsection as in effect in December 1978 as provided by
the preceding provisions of this paragraph and the amendments
referred to therein. Such regulations shall provide for the
application of the amendments to the preceding provisions of
this subsection made by section 2 of the COLA Limitation Act of
1995 so as to have the same effect on the corresponding
provisions of this subsection as in effect in December 1978 and
applicable in accordance with this paragraph.''.
(b) Civil Service Retirement System.--Section 8340 of title 5,
United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new
subsection:
``(h)(1) An annuity shall not be increased by reason of any
adjustment under this section by an amount which exceeds the lesser
of--
``(A) the amount that would apply if not for the provisions
of this subsection; or
``(B) the amount determined under paragraph (2)(B).
``(2) With respect to the amount described under paragraph (1)(B),
the increase under this section shall be derived by--
``(A) multiplying the amount of each annuity to which this
section applies by the applicable percentage increase under
subsection (b); and
``(B) determining among all such amounts as increased under
subparagraph (A) the annuity increase amount which is at the
30th percentile of all such amounts.
``(3) Any amount determined under paragraph (2)(B) which is not a
multiple of $0.10 shall be decreased to the next lower multiple of
$0.10.''.
(c) Federal Employees Retirement System.--Section 8462 of title 5,
United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new
subsection:
``(f)(1) An annuity shall not be increased by reason of any
adjustment under this section by an amount which exceeds the lesser
of--
``(A) the amount that would apply if not for the provisions
of this subsection; or
``(B) the amount determined under paragraph (2)(B).
``(2) With respect to the amount described under paragraph (1)(B),
the increase under this section shall be derived by--
``(A) multiplying the amount of each annuity to which this
section applies by the applicable percentage increase under
subsection (b); and
``(B) determining among all such amounts as increased under
subparagraph (A) the annuity increase amount which is at the
30th percentile of all such amounts.
``(3) Any amount determined under paragraph (2)(B) which is not a
multiple of $0.10 shall be decreased to the next lower multiple of
$0.10.''.
(d) Retired and Former Members of the Armed Forces.--
(1) In general.--Section 1401a(b) of title 10, United
States Code, is amended--
(A) in paragraph (1), by striking ``paragraphs (2)
and (3)'' and inserting ``paragraphs (2), (3), and
(5)'';
(B) by redesignating paragraph (5) as paragraph
(6); and
(C) by inserting after paragraph (4) the following
new paragraph:
``(5) Overall limitation.--
``(A) In general.--With respect to the retired pay
of a member or former member who is entitled to an
adjustment under paragraph (2) or (3), the retired pay
shall not be increased by reason of any adjustment
under such paragraph by an amount which exceeds the
lesser of--
``(i) the amount that would apply if not
for the provisions of this paragraph; or
``(ii) the amount determined under
subparagraph (B)(ii).
``(B) Amount for certain percentile.--With respect
to the amount described under subparagraph (A)(ii), the
increase under paragraph (2) or (3) shall be derived
by--
``(i) multiplying the amount of each
retired pay amount to which such paragraph
applies by the applicable percentage increase
under such paragraph; and
``(ii) determining among all such amounts
as increased under clause (i) the retired pay
increase amount which is at the 30th percentile
of all such amounts.''.
(2) Conforming amendments.--
(A) Section 1410(1) of such title is amended by
striking ``section);'' and inserting ``section),
subject to paragraph (5) of that section;''.
(B) Section 1434(e) of such title is amended by
striking ``increase.'' and inserting ``increase,
subject to the limitation described in section
1401a(b)(5) as applied to annuity amounts under this
subsection.''.
(C) Section 1451(g)(1) of such title is amended by
striking ``pay).'' and inserting ``pay), subject to the
limitation described in section 1401a(b)(5) as applied
to annuity amounts under this subsection.''.
(D) Section 1451(h)(1) of such title is amended by
striking ``increased.'' and inserting ``increased,
subject to the limitation described in section
1401a(b)(5) as applied to base amounts under this
subsection.''.
(E) Section 1457(d)(1) of such title is amended by
striking ``Plan.'' and inserting ``Plan, subject to the
limitation described in section 1401a(b)(5) as applied
to annuity amounts under this subsection.''.
(e) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply with respect to adjustments effective with months after the date
of the enactment of this Act. | Amends the Social Security Act (SSA) and other Federal law to provide for reduction in cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) applied to: (1) higher primary insurance amounts under SSA title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) (OASDI), tying OASDI COLA determinations based on applicable increase percentages to similar determinations under other specified Federal benefit programs, including the Supplemental Security Income program under SSA title XVI; and (2) annuities under the civil service and other specified retirement systems for Federal employees and members of the armed forces. | A bill to provide for limitations on certain retirement cost-of-living adjustments, and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Immigration Fraud Prevention Act of
2009''.
SEC. 2. SCHEMES TO DEFRAUD ALIENS.
(a) Amendments to Title 18.--
(1) In general.--Chapter 47 of title 18, United States
Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new
section:
``Sec. 1041. Schemes to defraud aliens
``(a) In General.--Any person who willfully and knowingly executes
a scheme or artifice, in connection with any matter that is authorized
by or arises under Federal immigration laws or any matter the offender
willfully and knowingly claims or represents is authorized by or arises
under Federal immigration laws, to--
``(1) defraud any person; or
``(2) obtain or receive money or anything else of value
from any person by means of false or fraudulent pretenses,
representations, promises,
shall be fined under this title, imprisoned not more than 5 years, or
both.
``(b) Misrepresentation.--Any person who willfully, knowingly, and
falsely represents that such person is an attorney or an accredited
representative (as that term is defined in section 1292.1 of title 8,
Code of Federal Regulations or any successor regulation to such
section) in any matter arising under Federal immigration laws shall be
fined under this title, imprisoned not more than 5 years, or both.''.
(2) Clerical amendment.--The table of sections for chapter
47 of title 18, United States Code, is amended by adding after
the item related to section 1040 the following:
``1041. Schemes to defraud aliens.''.
(b) Investigation of Schemes To Defraud Aliens.--The Attorney
General and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall use the Executive
Office of Immigration Review to detect and investigate individuals who
are in violation of section 1041 of title 18, United States Code, as
added by subsection (a)(1).
SEC. 3. NOTICE AND OUTREACH.
(a) Notice to Aliens in Immigration Proceedings.--
(1) In general.--Subparagraph (E) of section 239(a)(1) of
the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1229(a)(1)) is
amended to read as follows:
``(E)(i) The alien may be represented by counsel
and the alien will be provided--
``(I) a period of time to secure counsel
under subsection (b)(1); and
``(II) a current list of counsel prepared
under subsection (b)(2).
``(ii) A description of who may represent the alien
in the proceedings, including a notice that immigration
consultants, visa consultants, and other unauthorized
individuals may not provide that representation.''.
(2) List of disciplined practitioners.--Subsection (b) of
section 239 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C.
1229) is amended--
(A) by redesignating paragraph (3) as paragraph
(6); and
(B) by inserting after paragraph (2) the following
new paragraphs:
``(3) List of disciplined practitioners.--The Attorney
General shall provide for lists (updated no less often than
quarterly) of persons who are prohibited for providing
representation in immigration proceedings.
``(4) Foreign language materials.--The materials required
to be provided to an alien under this subsection shall be
provided in appropriate languages, including English and
Spanish.
``(5) Oral notification.--At the earliest possible
opportunity, an immigration judge shall orally advise an alien
in a removal proceeding of the information described in
paragraphs (2) and (3).''.
(b) Outreach to Immigrant Communities.--
(1) Authority to conduct.--The Attorney General, through
the Director of the Executive Office for Immigration Review,
and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall carry out a
program to educate aliens regarding who may provide legal
services and representation to aliens in immigration
proceedings through cost-effective outreach to immigrant
communities.
(2) Purpose.--The purpose of the program authorized under
paragraph (1) is to prevent aliens from being subjected to
fraud by immigration consultants, visa consultants, and other
individuals who are not authorized to provide legal services or
representation to aliens.
(3) Availability.--The Attorney General and the Secretary
of Homeland Security shall make information regarding fraud by
immigration consultants, visa consultants, and other
individuals who are not authorized to provide legal services or
representation to aliens available--
(A) at appropriate offices that provide services or
information to aliens; and
(B) through Internet websites that are--
(i) maintained by the Attorney General or
the Secretary; and
(ii) intended to provide information
regarding immigration matters to aliens.
(4) Foreign language materials.--Any educational materials
used to carry out the program authorized under paragraph (1)
shall be made available to immigrant communities in appropriate
languages, including English and Spanish. | Immigration Fraud Prevention Act of 2009 - Amends the federal criminal code to subject a person to fine, imprisonment, or both, who: (1) willfully and knowingly executes a scheme in connection with any federal immigration law-related matter to defraud a person, or to obtain money or anything else of value from a person by means of false or fraudulent pretenses, representations, or promises; or (2) willfully, knowingly, and falsely represents that such person is an attorney or an accredited representative in any federal immigration law-related matter.
Directs the Attorney General and the Secretary of Homeland Security to: (1) use the Executive Office of Immigration Review to investigate such immigration fraud crimes; and (2) educate immigrant communities about who may provide legal services and representation in immigration proceedings.
Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to require that: (1) aliens in removal proceedings be provided with a description of who may represent them, including notice that immigration consultants, visa consultants, and other unauthorized individuals may not provide such representation; and (2) the Attorney General provide for lists of persons who are prohibited from providing representation in immigration proceedings. | To amend title 18, United States Code, to provide penalties for individuals who engage in schemes to defraud aliens and for other purposes. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Nurse Training and Retention Act of
2009''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress makes the following findings:
(1) America's healthcare system depends on an adequate
supply of trained nurses to deliver quality patient care.
(2) Over the next 15 years, this shortage is expected to
grow significantly. The Health Resources and Services
Administration has projected that by 2020, there will be a
shortage of nurses in every State and that overall only 64
percent of the demand for nurses will be satisfied, with a
shortage of 1,016,900 nurses nationally.
(3) To avert such a shortage, today's network of healthcare
workers should have access to education and support from their
employers to participate in educational and training
opportunities.
(4) With the appropriate education and support, incumbent
healthcare workers and incumbent bedside nurses are untapped
sources which can meet these needs and address the nursing
shortage and provide quality care as the American population
ages.
SEC. 3. ESTABLISHMENT OF GRANT PROGRAM.
(a) Purposes.--It is the purpose of this section to authorize
grants to--
(1) address the projected shortage of nurses by funding
comprehensive programs to create a career ladder to nursing
(including Certified Nurse Assistants, Licensed Practical
Nurses, Licensed Vocational Nurses, and Registered Nurses) for
incumbent ancillary healthcare workers;
(2) increase the capacity for educating nurses by
increasing both nurse faculty and clinical opportunities
through collaborative programs between staff nurse
organizations, healthcare providers, and accredited schools of
nursing; and
(3) provide training programs through education and
training organizations jointly administered by healthcare
providers and healthcare labor organizations or other
organizations representing staff nurses and frontline
healthcare workers, working in collaboration with accredited
schools of nursing and academic institutions.
(b) Grants.--Not later than 6 months after the date of enactment of
this Act, the Secretary of Labor (referred to in this section as the
``Secretary'') shall establish a partnership grant program to award
grants to eligible entities to carry out comprehensive programs to
provide education to nurses and create a pipeline to nursing for
incumbent ancillary healthcare workers who wish to advance their
careers, and to otherwise carry out the purposes of this section.
(c) Eligible Entities.--To be eligible to receive a grant under
this section an entity shall--
(1) be--
(A) a healthcare entity that is jointly
administered by a healthcare employer and a labor union
representing the healthcare employees of the employer
and that carries out activities using labor management
training funds as provided for under section 302 of the
Labor-Management Relations Act, 1947 (18 U.S.C.
186(c)(6));
(B) an entity that operates a training program that
is jointly administered by--
(i) one or more healthcare providers or
facilities, or a trade association of
healthcare providers; and
(ii) one or more organizations which
represent the interests of direct care
healthcare workers or staff nurses and in which
the direct care healthcare workers or staff
nurses have direct input as to the leadership
of the organization; or
(C) a State training partnership program that
consists of non-profit organizations that include equal
participation from industry, including public or
private employers, and labor organizations including
joint labor-management training programs, and which may
include representatives from local governments, worker
investment agency one-stop career centers, community
based organizations, community colleges, and accredited
schools of nursing; and
(2) submit to the Secretary an application at such time, in
such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary
may require.
(d) Additional Requirements for Healthcare Employer Described in
Subsection (c).--To be eligible for a grant under this section, a
healthcare employer described in subsection (c) shall demonstrate--
(1) an established program within their facility to
encourage the retention of existing nurses;
(2) it provides wages and benefits to its nurses that are
competitive for its market or that have been collectively
bargained with a labor organization; and
(3) support for programs funded under this section through
1 or more of the following:
(A) The provision of paid leave time and continued
health coverage to incumbent healthcare workers to
allow their participation in nursing career ladder
programs, including Certified Nurse Assistants,
Licensed Practical Nurses, Licensed Vocational Nurses,
and Registered Nurses.
(B) Contributions to a joint labor-management
training fund which administers the program involved.
(C) The provision of paid release time, incentive
compensation, or continued health coverage to staff
nurses who desire to work full- or part-time in a
faculty position.
(D) The provision of paid release time for staff
nurses to enable them to obtain a Bachelor of Science
in Nursing degree, other advanced nursing degrees,
specialty training, or certification program.
(E) The payment of tuition assistance which is
managed by a joint labor-management training fund or
other jointly administered program.
(e) Other Requirements.--
(1) Matching requirement.--
(A) In general.--The Secretary may not make a grant
under this section unless the applicant involved
agrees, with respect to the costs to be incurred by the
applicant in carrying out the program under the grant,
to make available non-Federal contributions (in cash or
in kind under subparagraph (B)) toward such costs in an
amount equal to not less than $1 for each $1 of Federal
funds provided in the grant. Such contributions may be
made directly or through donations from public or
private entities, or may be provided through the cash
equivalent of paid release time provided to incumbent
worker students.
(B) Determination of amount of non-federal
contribution.--Non-Federal contributions required in
subparagraph (A) may be in cash or in kind (including
paid release time), fairly evaluated, including
equipment or services (and excluding indirect or
overhead costs). Amounts provided by the Federal
Government, or services assisted or subsidized to any
significant extent by the Federal Government, may not
be included in determining the amount of such non-
Federal contributions.
(2) Required collaboration.--Entities carrying out or
overseeing programs carried out with assistance provided under
this section shall demonstrate collaboration with accredited
schools of nursing which may include community colleges and
other academic institutions providing Associate, Bachelor's, or
advanced nursing degree programs or specialty training or
certification programs.
(f) Activities.--Amounts awarded to an entity under a grant under
this section shall be used for the following:
(1) To carry out programs that provide education and
training to establish nursing career ladders to educate
incumbent healthcare workers to become nurses (including
Certified Nurse Assistants, Licensed Practical Nurses, Licensed
Vocational Nurses, and Registered Nurses). Such programs shall
include one or more of the following:
(A) Preparing incumbent workers to return to the
classroom through English as a second language
education, GED education, pre-college counseling,
college preparation classes, and support with entry
level college classes that are a prerequisite to
nursing.
(B) Providing tuition assistance with preference
for dedicated cohort classes in community colleges,
universities, accredited schools of nursing with
supportive services including tutoring and counseling.
(C) Providing assistance in preparing for and
meeting all nursing licensure tests and requirements.
(D) Carrying out orientation and mentorship
programs that assist newly graduated nurses in
adjusting to working at the bedside to ensure their
retention post graduation, and ongoing programs to
support nurse retention.
(E) Providing stipends for release time and
continued healthcare coverage to enable incumbent
healthcare workers to participate in these programs.
(2) To carry out programs that assist nurses in obtaining
advanced degrees and completing specialty training or
certification programs and to establish incentives for nurses
to assume nurse faculty positions on a part-time or full-time
basis. Such programs shall include one or more of the
following:
(A) Increasing the pool of nurses with advanced
degrees who are interested in teaching by funding
programs that enable incumbent nurses to return to
school.
(B) Establishing incentives for advanced degree
bedside nurses who wish to teach in nursing programs so
they can obtain a leave from their bedside position to
assume a full- or part-time position as adjunct or
full-time faculty without the loss of salary or
benefits.
(C) Collaboration with accredited schools of
nursing which may include community colleges and other
academic institutions providing Associate, Bachelor's,
or advanced nursing degree programs, or specialty
training or certification programs, for nurses to carry
out innovative nursing programs which meet the needs of
bedside nursing and healthcare providers.
(g) Preference.--In awarding grants under this section the
Secretary shall give preference to programs that--
(1) provide for improving nurse retention;
(2) provide for improving the diversity of the new nurse
graduates to reflect changes in the demographics of the patient
population;
(3) provide for improving the quality of nursing education
to improve patient care and safety;
(4) have demonstrated success in upgrading incumbent
healthcare workers to become nurses or which have established
effective programs or pilots to increase nurse faculty; or
(5) are modeled after or affiliated with such programs
described in paragraph (4).
(h) Evaluation.--
(1) Program evaluations.--An entity that receives a grant
under this section shall annually evaluate, and submit to the
Secretary a report on, the activities carried out under the
grant and the outcomes of such activities. Such outcomes may
include--
(A) an increased number of incumbent workers
entering an accredited school of nursing and in the
pipeline for nursing programs;
(B) an increasing number of graduating nurses and
improved nurse graduation and licensure rates;
(C) improved nurse retention;
(D) an increase in the number of staff nurses at
the healthcare facility involved;
(E) an increase in the number of nurses with
advanced degrees in nursing;
(F) an increase in the number of nurse faculty;
(G) improved measures of patient quality (which may
include staffing ratios of nurses, patient satisfaction
rates, patient safety measures); and
(H) an increase in the diversity of new nurse
graduates relative to the patient population.
(2) General report.--Not later than 2 years after the date
of enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter, the
Secretary of Labor shall, using data and information from the
reports received under paragraph (1), submit to Congress a
report concerning the overall effectiveness of the grant
program carried out under this section.
(i) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be
appropriated to carry out this section, such sums as may be necessary. | Nurse Training and Retention Act of 2009 - Directs the Secretary of Labor to establish a partnership grant program to award matching grants to eligible entities to carry out comprehensive programs to provide education to nurses and create a pipeline to nursing for incumbent ancillary health care workers who wish to advance their careers. | To fund comprehensive programs to ensure an adequate supply of nurses. |
SECTION 1. FINDINGS AND PURPOSES.
(a) Findings._The Congress finds that_
(1) the Maurice River and its tributaries, Menantico Creek, the
Manumuskin River, and Muskee Creek, are eligible for inclusion into
the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System, the segments and their
classifications being as follows_
(A) the Maurice River, lower segment, from the United States
Geological Survey Station at Shellpile to Route 670 Bridge at
Mauricetown, approximately 7.0 miles, as a recreational river;
(B) the Maurice River, middle segment, from Route 670 Bridge
at Mauricetown to 3.6 miles upstream (at drainage ditch just
upstream of Fralinger Farm), approximately 3.8 miles as a scenic
river;
(C) the Maurice River, middle segment, from the drainage
ditch just upstream of Fralinger Farm to one-half mile upstream
from the United States Geological Survey Station at Burcham
Farm, approximately 3.1 miles, as a recreational river;
(D) the Maurice River, upper segment, from one-half mile
upstream from the United States Geological Survey Station at
Burcham Farm to the south side of the Millville sewage treatment
plant, approximately 3.6 miles, as a scenic river;
(E) the Menantico Creek, lower segment, from its confluence
with the Maurice River to the Route 55 Bridge, approximately 1.4
miles, as a recreational river;
(F) the Menantico Creek, upper segment, from the Route 55
Bridge to the base of the Impoundment at Menantico Lake,
approximately 6.5 miles, as a scenic river;
(G) the Manumuskin River, lower segment, from its confluence
with the Maurice River to 2.0 miles upstream, as a recreational
river;
(H) the Manumuskin River, upper segment, from 2.0 miles
upstream from its confluence with the Maurice River to
headwaters near Route 557, approximately 12.3 miles, as a scenic
river; and
(I) the Muskee Creek from its confluence to the Pennsylvania
Reading Seashore Line Railroad bridge, approximately 2.7 miles,
as a scenic river;
(2) a resource assessment of the Maurice River and its
tributaries, Menantico Creek, the Manumuskin River, and the Muskee
Creek shows that the area possesses numerous outstandingly
remarkable natural, cultural, scenic, and recreational resources
that are significant at the local, regional, and international
levels, including rare plant and animal species and critical
habitats for birds migrating to and from the north and south
hemispheres; and
(3) a river management plan for the river system has been
developed by the Cumberland County Department of Planning and
Development and adopted by the Maurice River Township, Commercial
Township, and the City of Millville that would meet the requirements
of section 6(c) of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, the City of
Vineland has adopted a master plan which calls for river planning
and management and is in the process of adopting zoning ordinances
to implement their plan, and Buena Vista Township in Atlantic County
has adopted a land use plan consistent with the Pinelands
Comprehensive Plan which is more restrictive than the Cumberland
County local river management plan.
(b) Purposes._The purposes of this Act are to_
(1) declare the importance and irreplaceable resource values of
the Maurice River and its tributaries to water quality, human
health, traditional economic activities, ecosystem integrity, biotic
diversity, fish and wildlife, scenic open space and recreation and
protect such values through designation of the segments as
components of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System;
(2) recognize that the Maurice River System will continue to be
threatened by major development and that land use regulations of the
individual local political jurisdictions through which the river
segments pass cannot alone provide for an adequate balance between
conservation of the river's resources and commercial and industrial
development; and
(3) recognize that segments of the Maurice River and its
tributaries additional to those designated under this Act are
eligible for potential designation at some point in the near future.
SEC. 2. DESIGNATION.
Section 3(a) of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act (16 U.S.C. 1274(a))
is amended by adding the following new paragraphs at the end thereof:
``( ) The Maurice River, Middle Segment._From Route 670 Bridge at
Mauricetown to 3.6 miles upstream (at drainage ditch just upstream of
Fralinger Farm), approximately 3.8 miles to be administered by the
Secretary of the Interior as a scenic river.
``( ) The Maurice River, Middle Segment._From the drainage ditch
just upstream of Fralinger Farm to one-half mile upstream from the
United States Geological Survey Station at Burcham Farm, approximately
3.1 miles, to be administered by the Secretary of the Interior as a
recreational river.
``( ) The Maurice River, Upper Segment._From one-half mile upstream
from the United States Geological Survey Station at Burcham Farm to the
south side of the Millville sewage treatment plant, approximately 3.6
miles, to be administered by the Secretary of the Interior as a scenic
river.
``( ) The Menantico Creek, Lower Segment._From its confluence with
the Maurice River to the Route 55 Bridge, approximately 1.4 miles, to be
administered by the Secretary of the Interior as a recreational river.
``( ) The Menantico Creek, Upper Segment._From the Route 55 Bridge
to the base of the impoundment at Menantico Lake, approximately 6.5
miles, to be administered by the Secretary of the Interior as a scenic
river.
``( ) Manumuskin River, Lower Segment._From its confluence with the
Maurice River to a point 2.0 miles upstream, to be administered by the
Secretary of the Interior as a recreational river.
``( ) Manumuskin River, Upper Segment._From a point 2.0 miles
upstream from its confluence with the Maurice River to its headwaters
near Route 557, approximately 12.3 miles, to be administered by the
Secretary of the Interior as a scenic river.
``( ) Muskee Creek, New Jersey._From its confluence with the
Maurice River to the Pennsylvania Seashore Line Railroad Bridge,
approximately 2.7 miles, to be administered by the Secretary of the
Interior as a scenic river.''.
SEC. 3. MANAGEMENT.
(a) Duties of Secretary._The Secretary of the Interior shall manage
the river segments designated as components of the National Wild and
Scenic Rivers System by this Act through cooperative agreements with the
political jurisdictions within which such segments pass, pursuant to
section 10(e) of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, and in consultation
with such jurisdictions, except that publicly-owned lands within the
boundaries of such segments shall continue to be managed by the agency
having jurisdiction over such lands.
(b) Agreements._(1) Cooperative agreements for management of the
river segments referred to in subsection (a) shall provide for the long-
term protection, preservation, and enhancement of such segments and
shall be consistent with the comprehensive management plan for such
segments to be prepared by the Secretary of the Interior pursuant to
section 3(d) of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act and with the local river
management plans prepared by appropriate local political jurisdictions
in conjunction with the Secretary of the Interior.
(2) The Secretary of the Interior, in consultation with appropriate
representatives of local political jurisdictions and the State of New
Jersey, shall review local river management plans described in paragraph
(1) to assure that their proper implementation will protect the values
for which the river segments described in section 2 were designated as
components of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System. If after such
review the Secretary determines that such plans and their implementing
local zoning ordinances meet the protection standards specified in
section 6(c) of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, then such plans shall be
deemed to constitute ``local zoning ordinances'' and each township and
other incorporated local jurisdiction covered by such plans shall be
deemed to constitute a ``village'' for the purposes of section 6(c)
(prohibiting the acquisition of lands by condemnation) of the Wild and
Scenic Rivers Act.
(3) The Secretary of the Interior shall biennially review compliance
with the local river management plans described in paragraph (1) and
shall promptly report to the Committee on Natural Resources of the
United States House of Representatives and to the Committee on Energy
and Natural Resources of the United States Senate any deviation from
such which would result in any diminution of the values for which the
river segment concerned was designated as a component of the National
Wild and Scenic Rivers System.
(c) Planning Assistance._The Secretary of the Interior may provide
planning assistance to local political subdivisions of the State of New
Jersey through which flow river segments that are designated as
components of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System, and may enter
into memoranda of understanding or cooperative agreements with officials
or agencies of the United States or the State of New Jersey to ensure
that Federal and State programs that could affect such segments are
carried out in a manner consistent with the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act
and applicable river management plans.
(d) Segment Additions._The Secretary of the Interior is encouraged
to continue to work with the local municipalities to negotiate agreement
and support for designating those segments of the Maurice River and its
tributaries which were found eligible for designation pursuant to Public
Law 100-33 and were not designated pursuant to this Act (hereinafter
referred to as ``additional eligible segments''). For a period of 3
years after the date of enactment of this Act, the provisions of the
Wild and Scenic Rivers Act applicable to segments included in section 5
of that Act shall apply to the additional eligible segments. The
Secretary of the Interior is directed to report to the appropriate
congressional committees within 3 years after the date of enactment of
this Act on the status of discussions and negotiations with the local
municipalities and on recommendations toward inclusion of additional
river segments into the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System.
(e) Appropriations._For the purposes of the segment described by
subsection (a), there are authorized to be appropriated such sums as may
be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.
Speaker of the House of Representatives.
Vice President of the United States and
President of the Senate. | Amends the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act to designate segments of the Maurice River, the Menantico Creek, the Manumuskin River, and the Muskee Creek in New Jersey as components of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System.
Requires the Secretary of the Interior to manage such segments through cooperative agreements with appropriate political jurisdictions except that publicly-owned lands within the boundaries of the segments shall be managed by the agency having jurisdiction over them.
Requires cooperative agreements for the management of the segments to provide for the long-term protection, preservation, and enhancement of the segments and to be consistent with the comprehensive management plan prepared by the Secretary and with the local river management plans prepared by appropriate local political jurisdictions in conjunction with the Secretary.
Directs the Secretary to review compliance with the local river management plans biennially and to report to specified congressional committees on any deviation which may diminish the values for which the river segment was designated. Encourages the Secretary to work with municipalities to negotiate agreement for designating additional eligible segments of the Maurice River and its tributaries. Designates the eligible segments for study as potential additions to the National Wild and Scenic Rivers system.
Authorizes appropriations. | To designate portions of the Maurice River and its tributaries in the State of New Jersey as components of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers Systems. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Clean Water Compliance and Ratepayer
Affordability Act of 2013''.
SEC. 2. INTEGRATED MUNICIPAL STORMWATER AND WASTEWATER APPROACH
FRAMEWORK.
(a) In General.--In the first 5 fiscal years beginning after the
date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Environmental
Protection Agency, in coordination with appropriate State, local, and
regional authorities, shall carry out a pilot program under which the
Administrator shall work cooperatively with and facilitate the efforts
of municipalities to develop and implement integrated plans to meet
their wastewater and stormwater obligations under the Federal Water
Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.) in a more cost-effective
and flexible manner.
(b) Framework.--The Administrator shall carry out the pilot program
in a manner that is consistent with the Integrated Municipal Stormwater
and Wastewater Approach Framework issued by the Environmental
Protection Agency, dated May 2012.
(c) Selection of Municipalities.--
(1) In general.--The Administrator, in consultation with
States that have approved National Pollutant Discharge
Elimination System programs, shall select not less than 15
municipalities to participate in the pilot program.
(2) Factors.--In selecting the municipalities, the
Administrator shall--
(A) specifically focus on--
(i) municipalities that are operating under
an administrative order, administrative consent
agreement, or judicial consent decree to comply
with the requirements of the Federal Water
Pollution Control Act;
(ii) other municipalities facing compliance
issues under the Federal Water Pollution
Control Act, in addition to the municipalities
described in clause (i); and
(iii) municipalities that are affected by
affordability constraints in planning and
implementing control measures to address wet
weather discharges from their wastewater and
stormwater facilities; and
(B) give priority to municipalities with a history
of knowledgeable, detailed, and comprehensive efforts
to develop integrated and adaptive clean water
management practices, without regard to the status of
the municipality in the process of planning or
implementing such practices.
(d) Approval of Integrated Plans.--
(1) In general.--In approving the integrated plan of a
municipality under the pilot program, the Administrator shall--
(A) account for the financial capability of the
municipality to adequately address the requirements of
the Federal Water Pollution Control Act that apply to
the municipality;
(B) prioritize the obligations of the municipality
under the Federal Water Pollution Control Act according
to the most cost-effective and environmentally
beneficial outcomes;
(C) account for the maintenance, operational, and
regulatory obligations of the municipality; and
(D) enable the municipality to implement innovative
and flexible approaches to meet the obligations of the
municipality under the Federal Water Pollution Control
Act.
(2) Use of adaptive management approaches.--
(A) Priority.--In selecting municipalities to
participate in the program, the Administrator may give
priority to a municipality that is seeking to develop
and implement an integrated plan that includes adaptive
approaches to account for changed or future uncertain
circumstances.
(B) Types of adaptive approaches.--Adaptive
approaches referred to in subparagraph (A) include, at
a minimum--
(i) the use of new innovative technical or
institutional approaches; and
(ii) the ability to adapt the integrated
plan in response to new regulatory requirements
and reductions in financial capability.
(3) Additional authorities.--In carrying out the pilot
program, the Administrator may, in full coordination and mutual
agreement with a municipality selected to participate in the
pilot program--
(A) extend the allowable national pollutant
discharge elimination system permit term under section
402 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33
U.S.C. 1342) to a maximum of 25 years, and make
corresponding changes to any associated implementation
schedule;
(B) modify the implementation terms of a consent
decree entered into by the municipality with the
Administrator pursuant to that Act; and
(C) provide additional regulatory flexibility under
the Federal Water Pollution Control Act in approving
and implementing an integrated plan that includes
adaptive approaches in order to encourage the
innovation integral to such approaches.
(e) Report to Congress.--Not later than 1 year after the date of
enactment of this Act, and each year thereafter for 5 years, the
Administrator shall transmit to Congress a report on the results of the
pilot program, including a description of the specific outcomes
expected to be achieved that will reduce the costs of complying with
the requirements of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act for
municipalities participating in the program and similarly situated
municipalities. | Clean Water Compliance and Ratepayer Affordability Act of 2013 - Requires the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to carry out a pilot program to work cooperatively with and facilitate the efforts of municipalities to develop and implement integrated plans to meet their wastewater and stormwater obligations under the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (commonly known as the Clean Water Act) in a cost-effective and flexible manner and consistent with the Integrated Municipal Stormwater and Wastewater Approach Framework issued by EPA in May 2012. Directs the Administrator, in consultation with states that have approved National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System programs, to select at least 15 municipalities to participate in the program. Sets forth selection factors, including by giving a priority to those with a history of knowledgeable, detailed, and comprehensive efforts to develop integrated and adaptive clean water management practices, without regard to the municipality's status in the process of planning or implementing them. Provides standards for approval of a municipality's integrated plan under the pilot program, including concerning financial capability, prioritization of obligations under the Clean Water Act, and the use of innovative and flexible approaches to meet obligations. Allows priority to be given to municipalities seeking to develop and implement approaches that adapt to changed or future uncertain circumstances. Provides additional authorities regarding selected municipalities concerning: (1) extension of the allowable national pollutant discharge elimination system permit term, (2) modification of implementation terms of a consent decree, and (3) additional regulatory flexibility in approving and implementing an integrated plan that includes adaptive approaches. | Clean Water Compliance and Ratepayer Affordability Act of 2013 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Critical Access and Rural Equity Act
of 2016'' or the ``CARE Act of 2016''.
SEC. 2. CLARIFYING REASONABLE COSTS FOR CRITICAL ACCESS HOSPITAL
MEDICARE PAYMENTS.
(a) Inclusion of Certain Costs as Reasonable Costs.--
(1) Inpatient critical access hospital services.--Section
1814(l) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395f(l)) is
amended by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(6) In determining payment and reasonable costs under
paragraph (1) for inpatient critical access services, the
Secretary shall recognize as allowable costs of the critical
access hospital at least the following:
``(A) Costs of services that would be considered
bona fide emergency services (as defined in section
1861(v)(1)(K)(ii)) if provided in a hospital emergency
room, including professional services and any
associated surgical on-call and standby costs.
``(B) Costs of a test or procedure performed at a
critical access hospital or an entity owned by the
critical access hospital, including a clinical
diagnostic laboratory test, mammogram (as defined in
section 354(a)(5) of the Public Health Service Act),
colonoscopy, cardiac stress test, pulmonary function
test, echocardiogram, and bone density study.
``(C) Standby and on-call costs for certified
registered nurse anesthetist services, regardless of
the number of surgical procedures requiring anesthesia
services and regardless of the number of full-time
equivalent physicians.
``(D) Costs of services provided by the critical
access hospital or satellite facility of the critical
access hospital that improve the total health of
communities, including immunization programs, health
clinics, and medical homes.
``(E) Costs of services provided by an off-campus
provider-based clinic described in section
1820(c)(2)(F) of the critical access hospital,
regardless of distance of such clinic from a hospital
or another critical access hospital.''.
(2) Outpatient critical access hospital services.--Section
1834(g) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395m(g)) is
amended by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(6) Coverage of certain additional costs as reasonable
costs.--In determining the reasonable costs of outpatient
critical access hospital services under paragraphs (1) and
(2)(A), the Secretary shall recognize as allowable the costs
described in paragraph (6) of section 1814(l).''.
(3) Conforming amendment.--Section 1861(v)(7) of the Social
Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395x(v)(7)) is amended by adding at
the end the following new subparagraph:
``(E) For provisions further describing costs recognized as
reasonable costs for inpatient and outpatient critical access
hospital services, see sections 1814(l)(6) and 1834(g)(6).''.
(b) Treatment of Provider-Based Clinics of Critical Access
Hospitals.--Section 1820(c)(2) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C.
1395i-4(c)(2)) is amended--
(1) in subparagraph (B)(i)(I), by striking ``is located''
and inserting ``subject to subparagraph (E), is located''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following new subparagraph:
``(F) Treatment of off-campus provider-based
clinics.--Subparagraph (B)(i)(I) shall not apply to an
off-campus provider-based clinic (as described in
section 485.610 of title 45 of the Code of Federal
Regulations) of a facility designated as a critical
access hospital.''.
(c) Allowing Coordination for Provision of Emergency Services.--
Section 1820(c)(2) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395i-
4(c)(2)), as amended by subsection (b), is further amended--
(1) in subparagraph (B)(ii), by striking ``makes'' and
inserting ``subject to subparagraph (G), makes''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following new subparagraph:
``(G) Allowing coordination for provision of
emergency services.--The Secretary may waive the
requirements under subparagraph (B)(ii), with respect
to a facility, if such facility--
``(i) is located not more than 15 miles of
another facility or hospital that has an
emergency department that satisfies the
requirement of subparagraph (B)(ii); and
``(ii) coordinates with such other facility
or hospital with respect to furnishing 24-hour
emergency care services described in such
subparagraph to the area served by such
facility.''.
(d) Treatment of Medicaid Provider Taxes for Critical Access
Hospital Reasonable Costs.--
(1) Inpatient critical access hospital services.--Section
1814(l) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395f(l)), as
amended by subsection (a)(1), is further amended by adding at
the end the following new paragraph:
``(7)(A) In determining payment and reasonable costs under
paragraph (1) for inpatient critical access services--
``(i) with respect to a current permissible health
care related tax imposed and paid by the critical
access hospital for a cost reporting period beginning
before the date of enactment of this paragraph, the
Secretary shall not, through recoupment or otherwise,
disallow payment to the critical access hospital under
this subsection on the basis that payments to the
critical access hospital under this subsection offset
some or all of the costs of such tax; and
``(ii) with respect to a current permissible health
care related tax imposed and paid by the critical
access hospital for a cost reporting period beginning
on or after the date of enactment of this paragraph,
the Secretary shall--
``(I) assess the percentage of individuals
entitled to benefits under this part who are
furnished inpatient critical access hospital
services at such critical access hospital
during such cost reporting period and who are
also receiving medical assistance under the
Medicaid program under title XIX during such
period; and
``(II) adjust payments under this
subsection with respect to such services
furnished during such period in a manner
specified by the Secretary based on such
percentage to take into account such tax.
``(B) For purposes of this paragraph and section
1834(g)(7), the term `current permissible health care related
tax' means a broad-based health care related tax (as defined in
paragraph (3)(B) of such section) that is in effect prior to
enactment of this paragraph and for which there is not in
effect a hold harmless provision described in paragraph (4) of
such section.''.
(2) Outpatient critical access hospital services.--Section
1834(g) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395m(g)), as
amended by subsection (a)(2), is further amended by adding at
the end the following new paragraph:
``(7) Treatment of medicaid provider taxes.--In determining
payment for outpatient critical access hospital services under
paragraphs (1) and (2), the provisions of paragraph (7) of
section 1814(l) shall apply to payment for such services under
this subsection in the same manner as such provisions apply to
payment for inpatient critical access hospital services under
section 1814(l), except that in applying subparagraph (B) of
such paragraph (7), the reference to `individuals entitled to
benefits under this part' shall be deemed a reference to
`individuals enrolled under part B'.''. | Critical Access and Rural Equity Act of 2016 or the CARE Act of 2016 This bill amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to specify that, for purposes of determining Medicare payment and reasonable costs for both inpatient and outpatient critical access hospital (CAH) services, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) shall recognize as allowable costs those related to specified emergency, diagnostic, anesthetist, community health, and off-campus clinical services. Furthermore, in determining payment and reasonable costs for both inpatient and outpatient CAH services, CMS shall not disallow payment to a CAH on the basis that such payment offsets the cost of a current permissible health care-related tax imposed on and paid by the CAH. CMS must make specified payment adjustments to account for such a tax. Generally, under current law, a facility must be located beyond a specified driving distance from another hospital or facility in order to be designated as a CAH. The bill specifies that this requirement does not apply with respect to a CAH's off-campus provider-based clinic. Current law further requires a facility to provide certain 24-hour emergency care services as a condition of designation as a CAH. The bill allows CMS to waive this requirement with respect to a facility that coordinates with a nearby facility or hospital that provides such services. | CARE Act of 2016 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Possessions and Territories Criminal
Law Clarification Act''.
SEC. 2. APPLICATION OF VARIOUS OFFENSES TO POSSESSIONS AND TERRITORIES.
(a) Sections 241 and 242 of title 18, United States Code, are each
amended by striking ``any State, Territory, or District'' and inserting
``any State, Territory, Commonwealth, Possession, or District''.
(b) Sections 793(h)(1) and 794(d)(1) of title 18, United States
Code, are each amended by adding at the end the following: ``For the
purposes of this subsection, the term `State' includes a State of the
United States, the District of Columbia, and any commonwealth,
territory, or possession of the United States.''.
(c) Section 925(a)(5) of title 18, United States Code, is amended
by striking ``For the purpose of paragraphs (3) and (4)'' and inserting
``For the purpose of paragraph (3)''.
(d) Sections 1014 and 2113(g) of title 18, United States Code, are
each amended by adding at the end the following: ``The term `State-
chartered credit union' includes a credit union chartered under the
laws of a State of the United States, the District of Columbia, or any
commonwealth, territory, or possession of the United States.''.
(e) Section 1073 of title 18, United States Code, is amended by
adding at the end of the first paragraph the following: ``For the
purposes of clause (3) of this paragraph, the term `State' includes a
State of the United States, the District of Columbia, and any
commonwealth, territory, or possession of the United States.''.
(f) Section 1715 of title 18, United States Code, is amended by
striking ``State, Territory, or District'' each place those words
appear and inserting ``State, Territory, Commonwealth, Possession, or
District''.
(g) Section 1716 of title 18, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (g)(2) by striking ``State, Territory, or
the District of Columbia'' and inserting ``State'';
(2) in subsection (g)(3) by striking ``the municipal
government of the District of Columbia or of the government of
any State or territory, or any county, city, or other political
subdivision of a State'' and inserting ``any State, or any
political subdivision of a State''; and
(3) by adding at the end the following:
``(j) For purposes of this section, the term `State' includes a
State of the United States, the District of Columbia, and any
commonwealth, territory, or possession of the United States.''.
(h) Section 1761 of title 18, United States Code, is amended by
adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(d) For the purposes of this section, the term `State' means a
State of the United States and any commonwealth, territory, or
possession of the United States.''.
(i) Section 3156(a) of title 18, United States Code, is amended--
(1) by striking ``and'' at the end of paragraph (3);
(2) by striking the period and inserting ``; and'' at the
end of paragraph (4); and
(3) by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(5) the term `State' includes a State of the United
States, the District of Columbia, and any commonwealth,
territory, or possession of the United States.''.
(j) Section 102 of the Controlled Substances Act (21 U.S.C. 802) is
amended--
(1) by amending paragraph (26) to read as follows:
``(26) The term `State' means a State of the United States,
the District of Columbia, and any commonwealth, territory, or
possession of the United States.''; and
(2) by redesignating paragraph (43), as added by section
90105(d) of the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act
of 1994, as paragraph (44).
(k) Section 1121 of title 18, United States Code, is amended by
adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(c) For the purposes of this section, the term `State' means a
State of the United States, the District of Columbia, and any
commonwealth, territory, or possession of the United States.''.
(l) Section 228(d)(2) of title 18, United States Code, is amended
by inserting ``commonwealth,'' before ``possession or territory of the
United States''.
(m) Section 1546(c) of title 18, United States Code, is amended by
adding at the end the following: ``For purposes of this section, the
term `State' means a State of the United States, the District of
Columbia, and any commonwealth, territory, or possession of the United
States.''.
(n) Section 1541 of title 18, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in the first undesignated paragraph, by striking ``or
possession''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``For purposes of this section, the term `State' means a State of
the United States, the District of Columbia, and any commonwealth,
territory, or possession of the United States.''.
(o) Section 37(c) of title 18, United States Code, is amended in
the final sentence by inserting before the period the following: ``,
and the term `State' means a State of the United States, the District
of Columbia, and any commonwealth, territory, or possession of the
United States''.
(p) Section 2281(c) of title 18, United States Code, is amended in
the final sentence by inserting before the period the following: ``,
and the term `State' means a State of the United States, the District
of Columbia, and any commonwealth, territory, or possession of the
United States''.
(q) Section 521(a) of title 18, United States Code, is amended by
adding at the end the following: ```State' means a State of the United
States, the District of Columbia, and any commonwealth, territory, or
possession of the United States.''.
SEC. 3. EFFECTIVE DATE.
This Act and the amendments made by this Act shall apply to
offenses committed on or after the date of enactment of this Act.
Passed the Senate December 14, 1995.
Attest:
KELLY D. JOHNSTON,
Secretary. | Possessions and Territories Criminal Law Clarification Act - Makes technical and conforming amendments to specify the applicability to the territories, possessions, and commonwealths of the United States and the District of Columbia of specified provisions of the Federal criminal code and the Controlled Substances Act (including provisions regarding a conspiracy against rights, the deprivation of rights under color of law, espionage, censorship, firearms exemptions, fraud or false statements to financial institutions, bank robbery or burglary, the mailing of firearms, and criminal street gangs). | Possessions and Territories Criminal Law Clarification Act |
SECTION 1. TERRITORIAL AND FREELY ASSOCIATED STATE INFRASTRUCTURE
ASSISTANCE.
Section 4(b) of Public Law 94-241 (90 Stat. 263) as added by
section 10 of Public Law 99-396 (99 Stat. 837, 841) is amended by
deleting ``until Congress otherwise provides by law.'' and inserting in
lieu thereof: ``except that, for fiscal years 1996 and thereafter,
payments to the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands pursuant
to the multi-year funding agreements contemplated under the Covenant
shall be limited to the amounts set forth in the Agreement of the
Special Representatives on Future Federal Financial Assistance of the
Northern Mariana Islands, executed on December 17, 1992 between the
special representative of the President of the United States and
special representatives of the Governor of the Northern Mariana Islands
and shall be subject to all the requirements of such Agreement with any
additional amounts otherwise made available under this section in any
fiscal year and not required to meet the schedule of payments set forth
in the Agreement to be provided as set forth in subsection (c) until
Congress otherwise provides by law.
``(c) The additional amounts referred to in subsection (b) shall be
made available to the Secretary for obligation as follows:
``(1) for fiscal year 1996, all such amounts shall be
provided for capital infrastructure projects in American Samoa;
and
``(2) for fiscal years 1997 and thereafter, all such
amounts shall be available solely for capital infrastructure
projects in Guam, the Virgin Islands, American Samoa, the
Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Republic of
Palau, the Federated States of Micronesia and the Republic of
the Marshall Islands: Provided, That, in fiscal year 1997, $3
million of such amounts shall be made available to the College
of the Northern Marianas and beginning in fiscal year 1997, and
in each year thereafter, not to exceed $3 million may be
allocated, as provided in Appropriation Acts, to the Secretary
of the Interior for use by Federal agencies or the Commonwealth
of the Northern Mariana Islands to address immigration, labor,
and law enforcement issues in the Northern Mariana Islands,
including, but not limited to detention and corrections needs.
The specific projects to be funded shall be set forth in a
five-year plan for infrastructure assistance developed by the
Secretary of the Interior in consultation with each of the
island governments and updated annually and submitted to the
Congress concurrent with the budget justifications for the
Department of the Interior. In developing and updating the five
year plan for capital infrastructure needs, the Secretary shall
indicate the highest priority projects, consider the extent to
which particular projects are part of an overall master plan,
whether such project has been reviewed by the Corps of
Engineers and any recommendations made as a result of such
review, the extent to which a set-aside for maintenance would
enhance the life of the project, the degree to which a local
cost-share requirement would be consistent with local economic
and fiscal capabilities, and may propose an incremental set-
aside, not to exceed $2 million per year, to remain available
without fiscal year limitation, as an emergency fund in the
event of natural or other disasters to supplement other
assistance in the repair, replacement, or hardening of
essential facilities: Provided further, That the cumulative
amount set aside for such emergency fund may not exceed $10
million at any time.
``(d) Within the amounts allocated for infrastructure pursuant to
this section, and subject to the specific allocations made in
subsection (c), additional contributions may be made, as set forth in
Appropriation Acts, to assist in the resettlement of Rongelap Atoll:
Provided, That the total of all contributions from any Federal source
after January 1, 1995 may not exceed $32 million and shall be
contingent upon an agreement, satisfactory to the President, that such
contributions are a full and final settlement of all obligations of the
United States to assist in the resettlement of Rongelap Atoll and that
such funds will be expended solely on resettlement activities and will
be properly audited and accounted for. In order to provide such
contributions in a timely manner, each Federal agency providing
assistance or services, or conducting activities, in the Republic of
the Marshall Islands, is authorized to make funds available, through
the Secretary of the Interior, to assist in the resettlement of
Rongelap. Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to limit the
provision of ex gratia assistance pursuant to section 105(c)(2) of the
Compact of Free Association Act of 1985 (Public Law 99-239, 99 Stat.
1770, 1792) including for individuals choosing not to resettle at
Rongelap, except that no such assistance for such individuals may be
provided until the Secretary notifies the Congress that the full amount
of all funds necessary for resettlement at Rongelap has been
provided.''.
SEC. 2. FEDERAL MINIMUM WAGE.
Effective thirty days after the date of enactment of this Act, the
minimum wage provisions, including, but not limited to, the coverage
and exemptions provisions, of section 6 of the Fair Labor Standards Act
of June 25, 1938 (52 Stat. 1062), as amended, shall apply to the
Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, except--
(a) on the effective date, the minimum wage rate applicable
to the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands shall be
$2.75 per hour;
(b) effective January 1, 1996, the minimum wage rate
applicable to the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands
shall be $3.05 per hour;
(c) effective January 1, 1997 and every January 1
thereafter, the minimum wage rate shall be raised by thirty
cents per hour or the amount necessary to raise the minimum
wage rate to the wage rate set forth in section 6(a)(1) of the
Fair Labor Standards act, whichever is less; and
(d) once the minimum wage rate is equal to the wage rate
set forth in section 6(a)(1) of the Fair Labor Standards Act,
the minimum wage rate applicable to the Commonwealth of the
Northern Mariana Islands shall thereafter be the wage rate set
forth in section 6(a)(1) of the Fair Labor Standards Act.
SEC. 3. REPORT.
The Secretary of the Interior, in consultation with the Attorney
General and Secretaries of Treasury, Labor and State, shall report to
the Congress by the March 15 following each fiscal year for which funds
are allocated pursuant to section 4(c) of Public Law 94-241 for use by
Federal agencies or the Commonwealth to address immigration, labor or
law enforcement activities. The report shall include but not be limited
to--
(1) pertinent immigration information provided by the
Immigration and Naturalization Service, including the number of
non-United States citizen contract workers in the CNMI, based
on data the Immigration and Naturalization Service may require
of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands on a
semiannual basis, or more often if deemed necessary by the
Immigration and Naturalization Service,
(2) the treatment and conditions of non-United States
citizen contract workers, including foreign government
interference with workers' ability to assert their rights under
United States law,
(3) the effect of laws of the Northern Mariana Islands on
Federal interests,
(4) the adequacy of detention facilities in the Northern
Mariana Islands,
(5) the accuracy and reliability of the computerized alien
identification and tracking system and its compatibility with
the system of the Immigration and Naturalization Service, and
(6) the reasons why Federal agencies are unable or
unwilling to fully and effectively enforce Federal laws
applicable within the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana
Islands unless such activities are funded by the Secretary of
the Interior.
SEC. 4. IMMIGRATION COOPERATION.
The Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands and the
Immigration and Naturalization Service shall cooperate in the
identification and, if necessary, exclusion or deportation from the
Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands of persons who represent
security or law enforcement risks to the Commonwealth of the Northern
Mariana Islands or the United States.
SEC. 5. CLARIFICATION OF LOCAL EMPLOYMENT IN THE MARIANAS.
(a) Section 8103(i) of title 46 of the United States Code is
amended by renumbering paragraph (3) as paragraph (4) and by adding a
new paragraph (3) as follows:
``(3) Notwithstanding any other provision of this
subsection, any alien allowed to be employed under the
immigration laws of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana
Islands (CNMI) may serve as an unlicensed seaman on a fishing,
fish processing, or fish tender vessel that is operated
exclusively from a port within the CNMI and within the
navigable waters and exclusive economic zone of the United
States surrounding the CNMI. Pursuant to 46 U.S.C. 8704, such
persons are deemed to be employed in the United States and are
considered to have the permission of the Attorney General of
the United States to accept such employment: Provided, That
paragraph (2) of this subsection shall not apply to persons
allowed to be employed under this paragraph.''.
(b) Section 8103(i)(1) of title 46 of the United States Code is
amended by deleting ``paragraph (3) of this subsection'' and inserting
in lieu thereof ``paragraph (4) of this subsection''.
SEC. 6. CLARIFICATION OF OWNERSHIP OF SUBMERGED LANDS IN THE
COMMONWEALTH OF THE NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS.
Public Law 93-435 (88 Stat. 1210), as amended, is further amended
by--
(a) striking ``Guam, the Virgin Islands'' in section 1 and
inserting in lieu thereof ``Guam, the Commonwealth of the
Northern Mariana Islands, the Virgin Islands'' each place the
words appear;
(b) striking ``Guam, American Samoa'' in section 2 and
inserting in lieu thereof ``Guam, the Commonwealth of the
Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa''; and
(c) striking ``Guam, the Virgin Islands'' in section 2 and
inserting in lieu thereof ``Guam, the Commonwealth of the
Northern Mariana Islands, the Virgin Islands.''.
With respect to the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands,
references to ``the date of enactment of this Act'' or ``date of
enactment of this subsection'' contained in Public Law 93-435, as
amended, shall mean the date of enactment of this section.
SEC. 7. ANNUAL STATE OF THE ISLANDS REPORT.
The Secretary of the Interior shall submit to the Congress,
annually, a ``State of the Islands'' report on American Samoa, Guam,
the United States Virgin Islands, the Commonwealth of the Northern
Mariana Islands, the Republic of Palau, the Republic of the Marshall
Islands, and the Federated States of Micronesia that includes basic
economic development information, data on direct and indirect Federal
assistance, local revenues and expenditures, employment and
unemployment, the adequacy of essential infrastructure and maintenance
thereof, and an assessment of local financial management and
administrative capabilities, and Federal efforts to improve those
capabilities.
SEC. 8. TECHNICAL CORRECTION.
Section 501 of Public Law 95-134 (91 Stat. 1159, 1164), as amended,
is further amended by deleting ``the Trust Territory of the Pacific
Islands,'' and inserting in lieu thereof ``the Republic of Palau, the
Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of
Micronesia,''.
Passed the Senate July 20 (legislative day, July 10), 1995.
Attest:
KELLY D. JOHNSTON,
Secretary. | Limits appropriations to the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) for FY 1996 and thereafter to amounts set forth in the Agreement of the Special Representatives on Future Federal Financial Assistance of the Northern Mariana Islands executed on December 17, 1992.
Authorizes additional appropriations for FY 1996 and thereafter for: (1) capital infrastructure projects in Guam, the Virgin Islands, American Samoa, the CNMI, the Republic of Palau, the Federated States of Micronesia, and the Republic of the Marshall Islands (including resettlement of Rongelap Atoll); (2) the College of the Northern Marianas; and (3) Federal agencies or the CNMI for immigration, labor, and law enforcement activities.
Declares that Federal minimum wage requirements shall apply to the CNMI, with specified exceptions (including an increase from $2.75 to $3.05 per hour on January 1, 1996, with thirty cents per hour annual increases thereafter).
Directs the Secretary of the Interior to report annually to the Congress on the use of funds allocated to Federal agencies or CNMI for immigration, labor, or law enforcement activities.
Requires the CNMI and the Immigration and Naturalization Service to cooperate in the identification and, if necessary, exclusion or deportation from the CNMI of persons who represent security or law enforcement risks to the CNMI or to the United States.
Amends Federal shipping law to authorize legal aliens in the CNMI to serve as unlicensed seamen on certain fishing vessels that operate from a port within the CNMI and its surrounding waters.
Sets forth provisions declaring the CNMI's ownership of submerged lands.
Directs the Secretary of the Interior to submit annually to the Congress a "State of the Islands" report on American Samoa, Guam, the Virgin Islands, the CNMI, the Republic of Palau, the Federated States of Micronesia, and the Republic of the Marshall Islands. | Insular Development Act of 1995 |
That the following sums
are hereby appropriated, out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise
appropriated, and out of applicable corporate or other revenues,
receipts, and funds, for the several departments, agencies,
corporations, and other organizational units of Government for fiscal
year 2018, and for other purposes, namely:
TITLE I
DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY
Federal Emergency Management Agency
disaster relief fund
(including transfers of funds)
For an additional amount for ``Disaster Relief Fund'' for major
disasters declared pursuant to the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief
and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5121 et seq.), $18,670,000,000,
to remain available until expended, of which $10,000,000 shall be
transferred to the Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector
General for audits and investigations related to disasters: Provided,
That the Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency shall
publish on the Agency's website not later than 5 days after an award of
a public assistance grant under section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford
Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5172) that is
in excess of $1,000,000, the specifics of each such grant award:
Provided further, That for any mission assignment or mission assignment
task order to another Federal department or agency regarding a major
disaster in excess of $1,000,000, not later than 5 days after the
issuance of such mission assignment or mission assignment task order,
the Administrator shall publish on the Agency's website the following:
the name of the impacted State, the disaster declaration for such
State, the assigned agency, the assistance requested, a description of
the disaster, the total cost estimate, and the amount obligated:
Provided further, That not later than 10 days after the last day of
each month until a mission assignment or mission assignment task order
described in the preceding proviso is completed and closed out, the
Administrator shall update any changes to the total cost estimate and
the amount obligated: Provided further, That for a disaster declaration
related to Hurricane Harvey, Hurricane Irma, or Hurricane Maria, the
Administrator shall submit to the Committees on Appropriations of the
House of Representatives and the Senate, not later than 5 days after
the first day of each month beginning after the date of enactment of
this Act, and shall publish on the Agency's website, not later than 10
days after the first day of each such month, an estimate or actual
amount, if available, for the current fiscal year of the cost of the
following categories of spending: public assistance, individual
assistance, operations, mitigation, administrative, and any other
relevant category (including emergency measures and disaster
resources): Provided further, That not later than 10 days after the
first day of each month, the Administrator shall publish on the
Agency's website the report (referred to as the Disaster Relief Monthly
Report) as required by Public Law 114-4.
Of the amounts provided in this Act for the Disaster Relief Fund,
up to $4,900,000,000 may be transferred to the Disaster Assistance
Direct Loan Program Account for the cost of direct loans as authorized
under section 417 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and
Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5184) to be used to assist local
governments in providing essential services as a result of Hurricanes
Harvey, Irma, or Maria: Provided further, That such amounts may
subsidize gross obligations for the principal amount of direct loans
not to exceed $4,900,000,000 under section 417 of the Stafford Act:
Provided further, That notwithstanding section 417 of the Stafford Act,
a territory or possession, and instrumentalities and local governments
thereof, of the United States shall be deemed to be a local government
for purposes of this paragraph: Provided further, That notwithstanding
section 417(b) of the Stafford Act, the amount of any such loan issued
to a territory or possession, and instrumentalities and local
governments thereof, may be based on the projected loss of tax and
other revenues and on projected cash outlays not previously budgeted
for a period not to exceed 180 days from the date of the major
disaster, and may exceed $5,000,000: Provided further, That
notwithstanding any other provision of law or the constitution of a
territory or possession that limits the issuance of debt, a territory
or possession, and instrumentalities and local governments thereof, may
each receive more than one loan with repayment provisions and other
terms specific to the type of lost tax and other revenues and on
projected unbudgeted cash outlays for which the loan is provided:
Provided further, That notwithstanding section 417(c)(1) of the
Stafford Act, loans to a territory or possession, and instrumentalities
and local governments thereof, may be canceled in whole or in part only
at the discretion of the Secretary of Homeland Security in consultation
with the Secretary of the Treasury: Provided further, That
notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Secretary of Homeland
Security, in consultation with the Secretary of the Treasury, shall
determine the terms, conditions, eligible uses, and timing and amount
of Federal disbursements of loans issued to a territory or possession,
and instrumentalities and local governments thereof: Provided further,
That such costs, including the cost of modifying such loans, shall be
as defined in section 502 of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 (2
U.S.C. 661a): Provided further, That FEMA may transfer up to 1.5
percent of the amount under this paragraph to the Disaster Assistance
Direct Loan Program Account for administrative expenses to carry out
under this paragraph the direct loan program, as authorized by section
417 of the Stafford Act: Provided further, That of the amount provided
under this paragraph for transfer, up to $150,000,000 may be
transferred to the Disaster Assistance Direct Loan Program Account for
the cost to lend a territory or possession of the United States that
portion of assistance for which the territory or possession is
responsible under the cost-sharing provisions of the major disaster
declaration for Hurricanes Irma or Maria, as authorized under section
319 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance
Act (42 U.S.C. 5162): Provided further, That of the amount provided
under this paragraph for transfer, up to $1,000,000 may be transferred
to the Disaster Assistance Direct Loan Program Account for
administrative expenses to carry out the Advance of Non-Federal Share
program, as authorized by section 319 of the Stafford Act.
The amount provided under this heading is designated by the
Congress as being for an emergency requirement pursuant to section
251(b)(2)(A)(i) of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control
Act of 1985.
TITLE II
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Forest Service
wildland fire management
(including transfer of funds)
For an additional amount for ``Wildland Fire Management'',
$184,500,000, to remain available through September 30, 2021, for
urgent wildland fire suppression operations: Provided, That such funds
shall be solely available to be transferred to and merged with other
appropriations accounts from which funds were previously transferred
for wildland fire suppression in fiscal year 2017 to fully repay those
amounts: Provided further, That such amount is designated by the
Congress as being for an emergency requirement pursuant to section
251(b)(2)(A)(i) of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control
Act of 1985.
flame wildfire suppression reserve fund
(including transfer of funds)
For an additional amount for ``FLAME Wildfire Suppression Reserve
Fund'', $342,000,000, to remain available through September 30, 2021,
for necessary expenses for large wildland fire suppression operations
of the Department of Agriculture and as a reserve fund for suppression
and Federal emergency response activities: Provided, That
notwithstanding the FLAME Act of 2009 (43 U.S.C. 1748a(e)), such funds
shall be solely available to be transferred to and merged with other
appropriations accounts from which funds were previously transferred
for wildland fire suppression in fiscal year 2017 to fully repay those
amounts: Provided further, That such amount is designated by the
Congress as being for an emergency requirement pursuant to section
251(b)(2)(A)(i) of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control
Act of 1985.
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
Department-Wide Programs
wildland fire management
(including transfer of funds)
For an additional amount for ``Wildland Fire Management'',
$50,000,000, to remain available until expended, for urgent wildland
fire suppression activities and funds necessary to repay any transfers
needed for these costs: Provided, That such funds may be available to
be transferred to and merged with other appropriations accounts to
fully repay amounts previously transferred for wildland fire
suppression: Provided further, That such amount is designated by the
Congress as being for an emergency requirement pursuant to section
251(b)(2)(A)(i) of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control
Act of 1985.
TITLE III
GENERAL PROVISIONS
Sec. 301. Each amount appropriated or made available by this Act
is in addition to amounts otherwise appropriated for the fiscal year
involved.
Sec. 302. No part of any appropriation contained in this Act shall
remain available for obligation beyond the current fiscal year unless
expressly so provided herein.
Sec. 303. The terms and conditions applicable to the funds
provided in this Act, including those provided by this title, shall
also apply to the funds made available in division B of Public Law 115-
56.
Sec. 304. Each amount designated in this Act by the Congress as
being for an emergency requirement pursuant to section 251(b)(2)(A)(i)
of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 shall
be available only if the President subsequently so designates all such
amounts and transmits such designations to the Congress.
Sec. 305. (a)(1) Not later than December 31, 2017, in accordance
with criteria to be established by the Director of the Office of
Management and Budget (referred to in this section as ``OMB''), each
Federal agency shall submit to OMB, the Government Accountability
Office, the respective Inspector General of each agency, and the
Committees on Appropriations of the House of Representatives and the
Senate internal control plans for funds provided by this Act and
division B of Public Law 115-56.
(2) Not later than March 31, 2018, the Government Accountability
Office shall review for the Committees on Appropriations of the House
of Representatives and the Senate the design of the internal control
plans required by paragraph (1).
(b) All programs and activities receiving funds under this Act
shall be deemed to be ``susceptible to significant improper payments''
for purposes of the Improper Payments Information Act of 2002 (31
U.S.C. 3321 note), notwithstanding section 2(a) of such Act.
(c) Funds for grants provided by this Act or division B of Public
Law 115-56 shall be expended by the grantees within the 24-month period
following the agency's obligation of funds for the grant, unless, in
accordance with guidance to be issued by the Director of OMB, the
Director waives this requirement for a particular grant program and
submits a written justification for such waiver to the Committees on
Appropriations of the House of Representatives and the Senate. In the
case of such grants, the agency shall include a term in the grant that
requires the grantee to return to the agency any funds not expended
within the 24-month period.
Sec. 306. (a) The first proviso under the heading ``Department of
Housing and Urban Development--Community Planning and Development--
Community Development Fund'' in division B of Public Law 115-56 is
amended by striking ``State or unit of general local government'' and
inserting ``State, unit of general local government, or Indian tribe
(as such term is defined in section 102 of the Housing and Community
Development Act of 1974 (42 U.S.C. 5302))''.
(b) Amounts repurposed pursuant to subsection (a) that were
previously designated by the Congress as an emergency requirement
pursuant to the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of
1985 are designated by the Congress as being for an emergency
requirement pursuant to section 251(b)(2)(A)(i) of such Act.
Sec. 307. Section 101(a)(7) of division D of Public Law 115-56 is
amended to read as follows:
``(7) The Department of the Interior, Environment, and
Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2017 (division G of Public
Law 115-31), except the language under the heading `FLAME
Wildfire Suppression Reserve Fund' in the Departments of
Agriculture and the Interior.''.
Sec. 308. (a) Notwithstanding sections 1309, 1310, and 1310a of the
National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4016-4017a) and section
15(e) of the Federal Flood Insurance Act of 1956 (42 U.S.C. 2414(e)),
and any borrowing agreement entered into between the Department of the
Treasury and the Federal Emergency Management Agency, of the
indebtedness of the Administrator under any notes or other obligations
issued pursuant to section 1309(a) of the National Flood Insurance Act
of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4016(a)) and section 15(e) of the Federal Insurance
Act of 1956 (42 U.S.C. 2414(e)) that is outstanding as of the date of
the enactment of this Act, an amount of $16,000,000,000 is hereby
canceled. To the extent of the amount canceled, the Administrator and
the National Flood Insurance Fund are relieved of all liability to the
Secretary of the Treasury under any such notes or other obligations,
including for any interest due under such notes and any other fees and
charges payable in connection with such notes, and the total amount of
notes and obligations issued by the Administrator pursuant to such
sections shall be considered to be reduced by such amount for the
purposes of the limitation on such total amount under such section
1309(a).
(b) The amount of the indebtedness canceled under subsection (a)
may be treated as public debt of the United States.
(c)(1) This section is designated as an emergency requirement
pursuant to section 4(g) of the Statutory Pay-As-You-Go Act of 2010 (2
U.S.C. 933(g)).
(2) The amount provided in this section is designated by the
Congress as being for an emergency requirement pursuant to section
251(b)(2)(A)(i) of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control
Act of 1985.
Sec. 309. Notwithstanding section 19(a)(2)(B) of the Food and
Nutrition Act of 2008 (7 U.S.C. 2028), not to exceed $1,270,000,000 of
funds made available for the contingency reserve under the heading
``Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program'' of division A of Public
Law 114-113 shall be available for the Secretary to provide a grant to
the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico for disaster nutrition assistance in
response to the Presidentially declared major disasters and
emergencies: Provided, That funds made available to Puerto Rico under
this section shall remain available for obligation by the Commonwealth
until September 30, 2019, and shall be in addition to funds otherwise
made available: Provided further, That such amount is designated by the
Congress as being for an emergency requirement pursuant to section
251(b)(2)(A)(i) of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control
Act of 1985.
Sec. 310. Notwithstanding section 2208(l)(3) of title 10, United
States Code, during fiscal year 2018, the dollar limitation on advance
billing of a customer of a working-capital fund in such section shall
not apply with respect to the advance billing of the Federal Emergency
Management Agency. In the preceding sentence, the term ``advance
billing'' has the meaning given the term in section 2208(l)(4) of title
10, United States Code.
This Act may be cited as the ``Additional Supplemental
Appropriations for Disaster Relief Requirements Act of 2017''. | Additional Supplemental Appropriations for Disaster Relief Requirements Act of 2017 This bill provides $36.5 billion in FY2018 emergency supplemental appropriations to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Department of Agriculture (USDA), and the Department of the Interior for relief and recovery efforts in response to recent hurricanes and wildfires. For FEMA, the bill provides: (1) $18.67 billion for the Disaster Relief Fund, of which up to $4.9 billion may be transferred to the Community Disaster Loan Program for direct loans to assist local governments in providing essential services as a result of Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, or Maria; and (2) $16 billion in debt relief for the National Flood Insurance Program. The bill also provides $576.5 million to the Forest Service and Interior for wildfire suppression activities. USDA may use up to $1.27 billion of funds previously provided for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly known as the food stamp program) contingency reserve to provide a grant to Puerto Rico for disaster nutrition assistance in response to the presidentially declared major disasters and emergencies. The bill designates the funds as emergency requirements. (Emergency spending is exempt from discretionary spending limits and other budget enforcement rules.) | Additional Supplemental Appropriations for Disaster Relief Requirements Act of 2017 |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Corrosion Prevention Act of 2006''.
SEC. 2. CREDIT FOR CORROSION PREVENTION AND MITIGATION MEASURES.
(a) In General.--Subpart D of part IV of subchapter A of chapter 1
of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to business-related
credits) is amended by adding at the end the following new section:
``SEC. 45N. CORROSION PREVENTION AND MITIGATION MEASURES.
``(a) In General.--For purposes of section 38, the corrosion
prevention and mitigation credit determined under this section for the
taxable year is an amount equal to 50 percent of the excess of--
``(1) qualified corrosion prevention and mitigation
expenditures with respect to qualified property, over
``(2) the amount such expenditures would have been, taking
into account amounts paid or incurred to satisfy Federal,
State, or local requirements.
``(b) Qualified Corrosion Prevention and Mitigation Expenditures.--
For purposes of this section--
``(1) In general.--The term `qualified corrosion prevention
and mitigation expenditures' means amounts paid or incurred by
the taxpayer during the taxable year for engineering design,
materials, and application and installation of corrosion
prevention and mitigation technology.
``(2) Certification may be required.--The Secretary shall
require by regulation that no amount be taken into account
under paragraph (1) for any design, material, application, or
installation unless such design, material, application, or
installation meets such certification requirements as the
Secretary shall require. Such requirements shall provide for
accreditation of certifying persons by an independent entity
with expertise in corrosion prevention and mitigation
technology.
``(3) Corrosion prevention and mitigation technology.--
Corrosion prevention and mitigation technology includes a
system comprised of at least one of the following: a corrosion-
protective coating or paint; chemical treatment; corrosion-
resistant metals; and cathodic protection. The Secretary from
time to time by regulations or other guidance modify the list
contained in the predecing sentence to reflect changes in
corrosion prevention and mitigation technology.
``(4) Qualified property.--The term `qualified property'
means property which is--
``(A) comprised primarily of a metal susceptible to
corrosion,
``(B) of a character subject to the allowance for
depreciation,
``(C) originally placed in service by the taxpayer,
and
``(D) located in the United States.
``(c) Recapture of Credit.--
``(1) In general.--If, as of the close of any taxable year,
there is a recapture event with respect to any qualified
property for which a credit was allowed under subsection (a),
the tax of the taxpayer under this chapter for such taxable
year shall be increased by an amount equal to the product of--
``(A) the applicable recapture percentage, and
``(B) the aggregate decrease in the credits allowed
under section 38 for all prior taxable years which
would have resulted if the qualified corrosion
prevention and mitigation expenditures of the taxpayer
with respect to such property had been zero.
``(2) Applicable recapture percentage.--
``(A) In general.--For purposes of this subsection,
the applicable recapture percentage shall be determined
from the following table:
``If the property ceases to be qualified property The recapture
within: percentage is:
(i) One full year after placed in service......... 100
(ii) One full year after the close of the period 80
described in clause (i)..........................
(iii) One full year after the close of the period 60
described in clause (ii).........................
(iv) One full year after the close of the period 40
described in clause (iii)........................
(v) One full year after the close of the period 20.
described in clause (iv).........................
``(B) Recapture event defined.--For purposes of
this subsection, the term `recapture event' means--
``(i) Cessation of use.--The cessation of
use of the qualified property.
``(ii) Change in ownership.--
``(I) In general.--Except as
provided in subclauses (II), the
disposition of a taxpayer's interest in
the qualified property with respect to
which the credit described in
subsection (a) was allowable.
``(II) Agreement to assume
recapture liability.--Subclause (I)
shall not apply if the person acquiring
the qualified property agrees in
writing to assume the recapture
liability of the person disposing of
the qualified property. In the event of
such an assumption, the person
acquiring the qualified property shall
be treated as the taxpayer for purposes
of assessing any recapture liability
(computed as if there had been no
change in ownership).
``(III) special rule for tax
exempt entities.--Subclause (II) shall
not apply to any tax exempt entity (as
defined in section 168(h)(2)).
``(iii) Special rules.--
``(I) Tax benefit rule.--The tax
for the taxable year shall be increased
under paragraph (1) only with respect
to credits allowed by reason of this
section which were used to reduce tax
liability. In the case of credits not
so used to reduce tax liability, the
carryforwards and carrybacks under
section 39 shall be appropriately
adjusted.
``(II) No credits against tax.--Any
increase in tax under this subsection
shall not be treated as a tax imposed
by this chapter for purposes of
determining the amount of any credit
under this chapter or for purposes of
section 55.
``(III) No recapture by reason of
casualty loss.--The increase in tax
under this subsection shall not apply
to a cessation of operation of the
property as qualified property by
reason of a casualty loss to the extent
such loss is restored by reconstruction
or replacement within a reasonable
period established by the Secretary.
``(d) Denial of Double Benefit.--For purposes of this subtitle--
``(1) Basis adjustments.--
``(A) In general.--If a credit is determined under
this section for any expenditure with respect to any
property, the increase in the basis of such property
which would (but for this subsection) result from such
expenditure shall be reduced by the amount of the
credit so allowed.
``(B) Certain dispositions.--If, during any taxable
year, there is a recapture amount determined with
respect to any property the basis of which was reduced
under subparagraph (A), the basis of such property
(immediately before the event resulting in such
recapture) shall be increased by an amount equal to
such recapture amount. For purposes of the preceding
sentence, the term `recapture amount' means any
increase in tax (or adjustment in carrybacks or
carryovers) determined under subsection (c).
``(2) Other deductions and credits.--No deduction or credit
shall be allowed under this chapter for any expense taken into
account under this section.
``(e) Regulations.--The Secretary shall prescribe such regulations
as may be appropriate to carry out this section.''.
(b) Credit Made Part of General Business Credit.--Subsection (b) of
section 38 of such Code (relating to current year business credit) is
amended by striking ``plus'' at the end of paragraph (29), by striking
the period at the end of paragraph (30) and inserting ``, plus'', and
by adding at the end thereof the following new paragraph:
``(31) Corrosion prevention and mitigation credit
determined under section 45N(a).''.
(c) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections for subpart D of
part IV of subchapter A of chapter 1 of such Code is amended by
inserting after the item relating to section 45M the following new
item:
``Sec. 45N. Corrosion prevention and mitigation measures.''.
(d) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to taxable years beginning after the date of the enactment of
this Act. | Corrosion Prevention Act of 2006 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a business-related tax credit for 50% of net expenditures for engineering design, materials, and application and installation of corrosion prevention and mitigation technology for depreciable property comprised primarily of metals susceptible to corrosion. | To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to encourage the use of corrosion prevention and mitigation measures in the construction and maintenance of business property. |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Enhancing Treasury's Anti-Terror
Tools Act''.
SEC. 2. EXAMINING THE DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY'S COUNTER-TERROR
FINANCING ROLE IN EMBASSIES.
Within 180 days of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the
Treasury shall issue a report to the Committees on Financial Services
and Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives and the Committees
on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs and Foreign Relations of the
Senate containing--
(1) a list of the United States embassies in which a full-
time Department of the Treasury attache is stationed;
(2) a list of the United States embassies at which a
Department of the Treasury attache is assigned for temporary
duty, the length of such assignments, and the reason why such
assignments are not considered to be a permanent assignments;
(3) how the Department of the Treasury's interests relating
to anti-terror finance, money laundering, and related illicit
finance issues are handled at other embassies, including a
discussion of the reporting structure by which such issues are
brought to the direct attention of the ambassador;
(4) a description of the role the Department of the
Treasury attaches play in advancing America's anti-terrorism
financing interests;
(5) a discussion of patterns, trends, or other issues
identified by Department of the Treasury attaches in the
previous year concerning anti-terror finance, money laundering,
and related illicit finance;
(6) recommendations to improve coordination between the
Department of the Treasury and foreign financial ministries of
efforts to block the financing of terror, money laundering, and
related illicit finance; and
(7) a discussion of whether the Department of the
Treasury's interests relating to anti-terror finance, money
laundering, or related illicit finance issues are thought to be
under-represented in some embassies or regions.
SEC. 3. CLARIFYING REQUIREMENTS FOR RECORDKEEPING.
(a) In General.--Section 5326 of title 31, United States Code, is
amended--
(1) in the heading of such section, by striking ``coin and
currency'';
(2) in subsection (a)--
(A) by striking ``subtitle and'' and inserting
``subtitle or to''; and
(B) in paragraph (1)(A), by striking ``United
States coins or currency (or such other monetary
instruments as the Secretary may describe in such
order)'' and inserting ``funds (as the Secretary may
describe in such order),''; and
(3) in subsection (b)--
(A) in paragraph (1)(A), by striking ``coins or
currency (or monetary instruments)'' and inserting
``funds''; and
(B) in paragraph (2), by striking ``coins or
currency (or such other monetary instruments as the
Secretary may describe in the regulation or order)''
and inserting ``funds (as the Secretary may describe in
the regulation or order)''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The table of contents for chapter 53 of
title 31, United States Code, is amended in the item relating to
section 5326 by striking ``coin and currency''.
SEC. 4. STUDY OF BUREAU STATUS.
(a) Study.--The Secretary of the Treasury shall carry out a study
on the advisability and implications of transforming the Office of
Terrorism and Financial Intelligence into a standalone bureau of the
Department of the Treasury, and the effects such a move would have on
the Department of the Treasury's efforts to stop money laundering, the
financing of terror, and related illicit finance.
(b) Report.--Within 270 days of the date of the enactment of this
Act, the Secretary of the Treasury shall issue a report to the
Committee on Financial Services and the Permanent Select Committee on
Intelligence of the House of Representatives and the Committee on
Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs and the Select Committee on
Intelligence of the Senate containing all findings and determinations
made in carrying out the study required under subsection (a).
SEC. 5. IMPROVING ANTI-TERROR FINANCE MONITORING OF FUNDS TRANSFERS.
(a) Study.--To improve the Department of the Treasury's ability to
better track cross-border fund transfers and identify potential
financing of terror or other illicit finance, the Secretary of the
Treasury shall carry out a study to assess--
(1) the potential efficacy of requiring banking regulators
to establish a pilot program to provide technical assistance to
depository institutions and credit unions that wish to provide
account services to money services businesses serving
individuals in Somalia;
(2) whether such a pilot program could be a model for
improving the ability of Americans to legitimately send funds
to their loved ones through transparent and easily monitored
channels; and
(3) the potential impact of allowing money services
businesses to share their State examinations with depository
institutions and credit unions, or if another mechanism could
be found to allow a similar exchange of information that would
give such depository institutions and credit unions a better
understanding of whether an individual money services business
is adequately meeting its anti-money laundering and counter
terror financing obligations to combat money laundering, the
financing of terror, or related illicit finance.
(b) Report.--Within 270 days of the date of the enactment of this
Act, the Secretary of the Treasury shall issue a report to the
Committees on Financial Services and Foreign Affairs of the House of
Representatives and the Committees on Banking, Housing, and Urban
Affairs and Foreign Relations of the Senate containing all findings and
determinations made in carrying out the study required under subsection
(a).
(c) Money Services Business Defined.--For purposes of this section,
the term ``money services business'' has the meaning given that term
under section 1010.100 of title 31, Code of Federal Regulations.
SEC. 6. SENSE OF CONGRESS.
It is the sense of the Congress that the Secretary of the Treasury,
acting in the Secretary's own capacity and through the Under Secretary
for Terrorism and Financial Crimes, should work with finance ministry
counterparts worldwide to spur the development within such ministries
of entities similar to the Department of the Treasury's Office of
Intelligence and Analysis to more solidly integrate the intelligence
community with anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing
efforts.
Passed the House of Representatives July 11, 2016.
Attest:
KAREN L. HAAS,
Clerk. | Enhancing Treasury's Anti-Terror Tools Act (Sec. 2) This bill instructs the Department of the Treasury to report to Congress on the employment by U.S. embassies of full-time and temporary Treasury attaches and their role in advancing U.S. anti-terrorism financing interests, including concerning: how Treasury's interests relating to anti-terror finance, money laundering, and related illicit finance issues are handled at other embassies; issues identified by Treasury attaches concerning anti-terror finance, money laundering, and related illicit finance; recommendations to improve coordination between Treasury and foreign financial ministries of efforts to block the financing of terror, money laundering, and related illicit finance; and whether Treasury's interests relating to anti-terror finance, money laundering, or related illicit finance issues are thought to be underrepresented in some embassies or regions. (Sec. 3) The bill revises Treasury's authority to issue an order imposing recordkeeping and reporting requirements upon financial institutions and nonfinancial trade or business groups in certain geographic areas regarding transactions for the payment, receipt, or transfer of U.S. coins or currency (or other monetary instruments as Treasury may describe). Such an order may include all funds, not just U.S. coins or currency, involved in such transactions. (Sec. 4) Treasury shall study: the advisability and implications of transforming the Office of Terrorism and Financial Intelligence into a stand-alone bureau of Treasury, the potential efficacy of requiring banking regulators to establish a pilot technical assistance program for depository institutions and credit unions that furnish account services to money services businesses serving individuals in Somalia and whether it could improve the ability of Americans to legitimately send funds through transparent and easily monitored channels, and the potential impact of allowing money services businesses to share their state examinations with depository institutions and credit unions. (Sec. 6) The bill expresses the sense of Congress that Treasury should work with finance ministry counterparts worldwide to spur the development of entities similar to its Office of Intelligence and Analysis to integrate the intelligence community with anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing efforts. | Enhancing Treasury's Anti-Terror Tools Act |
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Belarus Democracy Reauthorization
Act of 2008''.
SEC. 2. AMENDMENTS TO REAUTHORIZATION OF THE BELARUS DEMOCRACY ACT OF
2004.
The Belarus Democracy Act of 2004 (Public Law 109-480; 22 U.S.C.
5811 note) is amended--
(1) in section 2--
(A) in paragraph (1), by striking ``the Republic
of''; and
(B) by striking paragraphs (3) through (11) and
inserting the following new paragraphs:
``(3) The Government of Belarus has subjected thousands of
pro-democratic political activists to frequent harassment,
beatings, and jailings, particularly as a result of their
attempts to peacefully exercise their right to freedom of
assembly and association.
``(4) The Government of Belarus has attempted to maintain a
monopoly over the country's information space, targeting
independent media, including independent journalists, for
systematic reprisals and elimination, while suppressing the
right to freedom of speech and expression of those dissenting
from the regime of Aleksandr Lukashenka.
``(5) The Government of Belarus has mounted a systematic
campaign of harassment, repression, and closure of
nongovernmental organizations, including independent trade
unions and associations of entrepreneurs, and this crackdown
has created a climate of fear that inhibits the development of
civil society and social solidarity.
``(6) The Government of Belarus has increasingly subjected
leaders and members of ethnic and religious minorities to
harassment, including the imposition of heavy fines, denying
permission to meet for religious services, prosecutions, and
jail terms for activities in the practice of their faith.
``(7) The Government of Belarus has attempted to silence
dissent by persecuting human rights and pro-democracy activists
with threats, firings, expulsions, beatings and other forms of
intimidation, and restrictions on freedom of movement and
prohibition of international travel.
``(8) The President of Belarus, Aleksandr Lukashenka, has
established himself in power by orchestrating an illegal and
unconstitutional referendum that enabled him to impose a new
constitution, abolishing the duly-elected parliament, the 13th
Supreme Soviet, installing a largely powerless National
Assembly, extending his term in office, and removing applicable
term limits.
``(9) The Government of Belarus failed to make a convincing
effort to solve the cases of disappeared opposition figures
Yuri Zakharenka, Viktor Gonchar, and Anatoly Krasovsky and
journalist Dmitry Zavadsky, even though credible allegations
and evidence links top officials of the Government to these
disappearance.
``(10) In 2006, the Government of Belarus conducted
presidential elections that failed to meet standards of the
Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) for
democratic elections, and the numerous detentions and arbitrary
use of state power which accompanied the elections showed the
disregard of the Government of Belarus for the basic rights to
freedom of assembly, association, and expression, and
reinforced doubts regarding the willingness of the Government
of Belarus to tolerate political competition.
``(11) In 2008, the Government of Belarus released some
political prisoners who had been imprisoned or served
`corrective labor' sentences because of their political
activity.
``(12) Aleksandr Kozulin, an opposition leader whom the
Social Democratic Party nominated in 2006 as its candidate for
President of Belarus, remains in prison, where he continues to
serve a five and a half year term for his political activity.
``(13) The Department of State, Department of the Treasury,
and other executive branch agencies have heretofore made
effective use of this Act to promote the purposes of this Act,
as stated in section 3 of this Act.'';
(2) in section 3--
(A) in paragraph (1), by striking ``call upon'' and
inserting ``continue to call for'';
(B) in paragraphs (2) and (3)--
(i) by inserting ``continue to'' before
``support'' each place it appears; and
(ii) by striking ``the Republic of'' each
place it appears;
(C) in paragraph (4), by striking ``seek and'' and
inserting ``continue to'';
(D) in paragraph (5)--
(i) by inserting ``continue to'' before
``refuse''; and
(ii) by striking ``fatally'' and inserting
``fundamentally'';
(E) in paragraph (6)--
(i) by inserting ``continue to'' before
``refuse''; and
(ii) by striking ``and'' at the end;
(F) in paragraph (7)--
(i) by inserting ``continue to'' before
``work''; and
(ii) by striking the period at the end and
inserting ``; and''
(G) by adding at the end the following new
paragraph:
``(8) to remain open to reevaluating United States policy
toward Belarus as warranted by demonstrable progress made by
the Government of Belarus consistent with the aims of this Act
as stated in this section.'';
(3) in section 4--
(A) in subsection (a)(1), by striking ``the
Republic of'';
(B) in subsection (c)(1), by striking ``radio and
television'' and inserting ``radio, television, and
Internet''; and
(C) in subsection (d)(1), by striking ``2007 and
2008'' and inserting ``2007 through 2010'';
(4) in section 5--
(A) in the section heading, by striking ``radio and
television'' and inserting ``radio, television, and
internet'';
(B) in subsection (a), by striking ``radio and
television'' and inserting ``radio, television, and
internet''; and
(C) in subsection (b)--
(i) by inserting ``, and such sums as may
be necessary for fiscal year 2009 and each
subsequent fiscal year for Internet
broadcasting,''; and
(ii) by inserting before the period at the
end the following: ``, including broadcasting
by Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, the Voice
of America, and European Radio for Belarus and
Belsat'';
(5) in section 6--
(A) in subsection (b)--
(i) in paragraph (4), by inserting
``student activists, ethnic minority and''
before ``religious organizations''; and
(ii) in paragraph (5), by inserting before
the period at the end the following: ``and
violations of human rights'';
(6) by redesignating section 9 as section 8; and
(7) in section 8, as so redesignated--
(A) by striking paragraph (1);
(B) by redesignating paragraphs (2) and (3) as
paragraphs (1) and (2), respectively; and
(C) in paragraph (3)(B)(i), by striking ``and
prosecutors'' and inserting ``, prosecutors, and heads
of professional associations and educational
institutions''. | Belarus Democracy Reauthorization Act of 2008 - Amends the Belarus Democracy Act of 2004 to authorize assistance to promote democracy and civil society in Belarus.
Includes Internet broadcasting within the scope of increased support and funding for U.S. government and surrogate broadcasting to Belarus. Specifies that funding may be used for broadcasting by Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, the Voice of America, and European Radio for Belarus and Belsat.
Includes cessation of repression against student activists and ethnic minorities among the criteria that the government of Belarus must meet in order to end U.S. sanctions under such Act. | To amend the Belarus Democracy Act of 2004 to reauthorize that Act, and for other purposes. |
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